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With the new year comes new attractions — eventually. The theme parks haven’t shared specific opening dates yet, but here’s a look at big projects expected to come to fruition in 2018, with a general idea of when to look for them in operation. • Infinity Falls, SeaWorld Orlando, spring: The attraction... View the full article

Big things broke onto Orlando’s attractions scene in 2017. Here are 10 memorable moments when I was happy to live where people want to play. • The premiere of Fun Spot’s Mine Blower roller coaster. The Kissimmee ride packs a lot of air time into a little space. Mind. Blown. • My first ride on Krakatau... View the full article

Throughout this month, our Disney Doodles series has focused on what different Disney characters would do or see if they had the chance to visit a Walt Disney World Resort theme park – during the holiday season. From Jack Skellington decorating Main Street, U.S.A., to Meeko enjoying gingerbread treats, Disney characters sure had fun in our Disney Doodle series this month. Check out the gallery above for a roundup of all the holiday Doodles we’ve shared this month. View the full article

Today, No. 2 Oklahoma Sooners and No. 3 Georgia Bulldogs made their first stop on the way to the 2018 College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Rose Bowl Game presented by Northwestern Mutual in Pasadena, Calif., with a traditional visit to the Disneyland Resort! Before meeting on the field for the first time ever, the teams met earlier today for their first official pregame appearance, in a ceremony at Disney California Adventure park, hosted by former all-pro and host of ESPN SportsNation, Marcellus Wiley. During the ceremony, Oklahoma head coach Lincoln Riley and Georgia head coach Kirby Smart were welcomed by Disney California Adventure Vice President Patrick Finnegan in front of the rocking new attraction, Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! along with Tournament of Roses President Lance Tibbet. Representing the University of Oklahoma were tight end Mark Andrews, offensive lineman Orlando Brown, defensive end Ogbonnia Okoronkwo and defensive back Steven Parker. Representing the University of Georgia were running backs Nick Chubb and Sony Michel, offensive lineman Isaiah Wynn and linebacker Roquan Smith. After the ceremony, players and coaches from each team experienced Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! and went on to enjoy even more Disneyland Resort fun. The teams will face off in the 104th Rose Bowl Game on Monday, Jan. 1, 2018. Oklahoma finished the regular season with a record of 12-1 and claimed the Big 12 Conference title, while Georgia defeated Auburn to win the SEC Championship, also finishing with a 12-1 record. View the full article

The Most Magical Place on Earth was decked out for the Holidays and was the setting for an extra special Christmas morning celebration! Un Nuevo Día, the top-rated Hispanic morning show, hosted its very first Disney Christmas television special from Magic Kingdom Park last Monday, December 25th, and it was truly a fun-filled fiesta! No gift was left unwrapped as hosts Adamari Lopez, Ana Maria Canseco, Rashel Diaz, Mauricio Mancera and Daniel Sarcos celebrated Christmas Day in true Disney fashion. The three-hour show included everything from family games, Disney friends and even a special visit from Santa himself! It was a coast-to-coast party, with special segments straight from Disneyland Resort in California that helped kick off the New Year among the Hispanic community. Surprises included guest appearances and performances by Mexican singer and actress Danna Paola, who voiced Rapunzel in the Spanish version of “Tangled”. Danna Paola was eager to pose with her rose gold Minnie Mouse ears! All of us at Disney Familia were delighted to welcome our friends from Un Nuevo Día! What was your favorite part of the show? View the full article

The annual gingerbread house competition on our ships has become one of our favorite holiday traditions at Disney Cruise Line. The pastry, bakery chefs and deck teams on each ship take pride in designing and decorating the oversized gingerbread house that greets guests when they walk into the atrium to begin their Very Merrytime Cruise. If you’ve been on one of these cruises, you know you can often smell the gingerbread house before you even see it! So, which ship’s gingerbread house took the prize this year? I’m pleased to congratulate the team on the Disney Wonder for their over-the-top creativity! Check out their masterpiece … Disney Wonder The gingerbread house on each ship is made with approximately 650 pounds of gingerbread dough, 220 pounds of icing sugar and 5,250 gingerbread bricks. That’s all in addition to pounds of candies, cookies and other fun decorations that make it unique. Of course, the teams on the Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy and Disney Magic also deserve a special kudos for their hard work and imagination. Take a look at their work, and may it inspire you as you make gingerbread houses with your family this holiday season. Disney Dream Disney Fantasy Disney Magic View the full article

We all love decking the halls for the holidays (okay, maybe not all of us… but many of us!). But taking all the decorations down? Admittedly, it’s nowhere near as fun. But none of us are alone. The decorations have to come down at Disney World, too. And every year, one of the first things to come down is the Grand Floridian Gingerbread House. 2017 Grand Floridian Gingerbread House Yep, while many of the Christmas trees and wreaths stick around for a few days into the New Year, the Grand Floridian Gingerbread House’s last day of operation is January 1st. So what happens when the Gingerbread House is taken down? Gingerbread House Facts First the gingerbread shingles are removed from the sets (there are 5,089 of them on the Grand Floridian Gingerbread House). Gingerbread House Presentation The sugar remains on the sets, and isn’t power washed off until the sets are taken to the Disney Tree Farm. Gingerbread House Presentation Bees then come down and eat the sugar throughout the winter months when it’s more difficult for the bees to find sources of food. Gingerbread House Presentation Gingerbread House Presentation In turn, the bees pollinate many of the flowers and other growing things you’ll see in Disney World on a future trip! You can see it all in action in this Disney Parks Channel YouTube video. So, though it’s a little sad to see all the decoration come down, this just makes us even more excited to celebrate the 20th year of the tradition of the Grand Floridian Gingerbread House in 2018! Gingerbread House Presentation Did you have a great Disney moment over the holidays? Please let us know about it with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: Grand Floridian Resort Gingerbread House News and Review: The 2017 Grand Floridian Gingerbread House — with So. Many. Treats. 2014 Grand Floridian Gingerbread House and Beach Club Gingerbread Treats View the full article

We are all delighted that our guests are getting an opportunity to observe the Sumatran tiger cubs at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and marvel at their curiosity and playfulness. Following the recommendation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan, our team began about three years of planning for these cubs. Because there are fewer than 500 Sumatran tigers left in the wild, it’s important that we manage a population within AZA-accredited institutions to ensure they don’t become extinct in the wild. Unfortunately, extinction is a real possibility – even within our own lifetimes. We hope you will be inspired by the stories of these tigers and want to support them in the wild, too. To learn more about tigers and how you can help reverse the decline of these animals, visit DisneyAnimals.com. View the full article

New Year’s Eve is fast approaching and our team is ready to ring the new year in right – with YOU, live from Magic Kingdom Park! Our next #DisneyParksLIVE stream will take place New Year’s Eve. The fun begins at 11:45 p.m., when we’ll begin the countdown to 2018 with a special performance of “Fantasy in the Sky” fireworks live from Magic Kingdom Park. Where in the world will you watch the show from? Tell us in the comments section below or share it with us on Twitter with the hashtag #DisneyParksLIVE. View the full article

It may be the day after Christmas, but there is still time to enjoy Holidays at the Disneyland Resort! The scent of gingerbread, peppermint and evergreens fill the air. Klezmer music, Christmas carols, twinkling lights and seasonal parades create a festive atmosphere. New holiday overlays at some of your favorite Disney attractions reinvigorate the experience. There are so many ways to celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and the simple joy of family at the Happiest Place on Earth. Here are some pictures I made during recent walks. Some of my favorite holiday experiences: “Believe … in Holiday Magic” fireworks and snowfall at Disneyland park “A Christmas Fantasy” Parade at Disneyland park The 60-foot-tall Christmas tree in Town Square at Disneyland park Haunted Mansion Holiday at Disneyland park Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle at Disneyland park “it’s a small world” Holiday at Disneyland park The “Holiday Time at Disneyland” tour (reservations required and additional fees apply) Mater’s Jingle Jamboree (especially the new Hanukkah song) at Disney California Adventure park Luigi’s Joy to the Whirl at Disney California Adventure park The Festival Foods Marketplace at Disney California Adventure park Holiday Sunset Concerts at Disney California Adventure park Disney ¡Viva Navidad! Street Party at Disney California Adventure park “World of Color – Season of Light” at Disney California Adventure park The Coco Sneak Peek at Disney California Adventure park Gingerbread house at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa New holiday décor at Downtown Disney District Don’t miss out! Come experience Holidays at the Disneyland Resort through January 7. View the full article

Each year, thousands of guests visit Walt Disney World Resort for New Year’s Eve. This year’s offerings include special dining extravaganzas, luminous fireworks and New Year’s Eve dance parties throughout Walt Disney World Resort. Here’s how you can ring in the new year – this year – at our parks. Magic Kingdom Park Fantasy in the Sky Fireworks ­– Guests will ring in the New Year in front of Cinderella Castle with the cherished fireworks show on both Dec. 30 and 31, beginning at 11:50 p.m. (An additional showing – perfect for young kiddos – will light up the sky both nights earlier in the evening at 6:30 p.m.). New Year’s Celebration Dance Parties in Frontierland & Tomorrowland – Put on your dancing shoes and boot-scoot with a hoppin’ beat ‘til midnight in Frontierland. Or jump start the New Year with an upbeat get-together in Tomorrowland, blasting into 2018 with futuristic tunes. Magic Kingdom Park hours on Dec. 30 and 31, 2017 are 8 a.m. to 1 a.m. Epcot New Year’s Countdown Fireworks – Say “au revoir” to 2017 around World Showcase as dazzling fireworks light up the sky to welcome 2018 in a booming big way. This spectacular is held only on December 31, beginning at 11:40 p.m. New Year’s Eve Parties – A DJ dance party will have guests dancing and grooving “around the world” with special entertainment at the America Garden Stage, Future World Fountain Stage and other areas throughout the park. Just for New Year’s Eve, you can move to your own beat with music playing in your headphones at the “Silent Groove” dance party that will take place at Future World Center. New Year’s Eve Buffet Dinner – Celebrate with a lavish buffet of savory foods and decadent desserts at this ticketed buffet dinner in World Showplace. For reservations, visit disneyworld.com/holidays or call (407) WDW-DINE (3463). Epcot park hours on Dec. 31, 2017 are 9 a.m. to 1 a.m. Disney’s Hollywood Studios New Year’s Eve Dance Party – Starting at 7 p.m., guests can join in on a DJ dance party in front of the Chinese Theatre, which will come alive with special projections. The nighttime holiday show Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! will take place at 8 p.m., and finally, guests can ring in the new year at midnight with a showing of Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular. Disney’s Hollywood Studios park hours on Dec. 31, 2017 are 9 a.m. to midnight. View the full article

Hello, friends! We’re back with another DFB Video today, and we’re checking out the best Disney World sit down restaurants for kids! Dine in a Convertible at Sci-Fi Now, a lot of people think that Disney World is just for kids… but we know the truth: Disney World is for kids and all of us kids at heart! Still, there are some dining experiences that parents especially will want to know about, as we think these are some top picks for those traveling with kiddos! Sure, we will discuss some character dining options, but we’ll also share some under-the-radar spots which those planning a trip with children might not consider at first glance. So join us to explore some of the best sit down dining for kids at Disney World! And if you love this video, there’s plenty more for you to enjoy over on our DFB YouTube Channel! By the way, have you subscribed yet? If you hit the button below, you can subscribe to the channel and never miss a single episode! So check out the video and then let us know: What is your (or your kid’s!) top choice for sit down dining in Disney World? Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: DFB Video: Best Disney World Restaurants for Vegan and Vegetarian Food DFB Video: Best to Worst Disney World Two-Credit Restaurants DFB Video: All the Mac and Cheese in Walt Disney World! View the full article

Thanks to the millions of Disney fans who took part in this year’s #ShareYourEars campaign over the holidays, Disney Parks will once again double its original donation to Make-A-Wish® from $1 million to $2 million, which will help grant the wishes of children with critical illnesses and their families around the world. We saw so many fun, silly, wacky, creative, festive Mickey Mouse Ear photos pour in from the far corners of the globe these past few weeks, and it’s been truly inspiring to watch. Every year, nearly 9,000 Disney-related wishes are granted worldwide with Make-A-Wish, and with your support we can make even more happiness come true in the years to come. Thank you all for believing in the life-changing power of a wish come true! Happy holidays from all of us to you. View the full article

Now that the gifts have been unwrapped, it’s time to start thinking about your 2018 Walt Disney World vacation! And we can help – our BIGGEST sale of the year is back for a limited time encore! Right now we have a huge sale happening at the DFB Store – and you can save BIG! THIS IS OUR BEST SALE OF THE YEAR! Right now you can save 50% off EVERYTHING at the DFB Store – all the DFB Guides and Gift Certificates – including the Everything Bundle! This popular bundle includes ALL of our DFB Guides including the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, the DFB Guide to the Epcot Food and Wine Festival, and all of our Snack Guides! The Everything Bundle is already discounted, and today you can get even bigger savings with promo code DFB50! If you forgot someone on your holiday shopping list? We can help with that too! We also have Gift Certificates! It’s super easy – just purchase the Gift Certificate, print it off (or email it), and viola! Instant present for your Disney lovin’ friend or family member! So don’t wait! This amazing deal won’t last long. Everything at the DFB Store is 50% off right now for a LIMITED TIME! Remember to use promo code DFB50! As always, we thank you for your support of Disney Food Blog. Happy New Year! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: BIGGEST Sale of the Year: 50% off Everything at the DFB Store! Our BIGGEST SALE OF THE YEAR on Disney Travel Guides! DFB Cyber Week Sale – 50% off Everything at the DFB Store View the full article

This year was filled with many creative and innovative merchandise products created especially for Disney Parks. From connecting with colorful banshees at Pandora – The World of Avatar to making outfits sparkle with a splash of rose gold, these items immersed guests in their in-park experiences like never before. Here’s a look at popular products from 2017 that created a lifetime of wonderful memories for guests. Connect with a Banshee at The Rookery in Windtraders The interactive banshees from Pandora – The World of Avatar continue to be an out-of-this-world hit! Recently recognized by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) as the Judges’ Choice for Games and Merchandise Excellence, guests can select from among 10 unique styles at the Rookery inside Windtraders. Each banshee contains authentic sounds and includes three ranges of motion – mouth, head, and wings – that are controlled by hand. Create & Personalize Your Own Avatar Action Figure at ACE Avatar Maker Inspired by the exhilarating Avatar – Flight of Passage attraction, guests can create and personalize a unique avatar action figure inside Windtraders. Using state-of-the-art facial scanners, guests are free to select their avatar’s eye color, facial striping pattern, hairstyle and more. Minutes later, they depart with a poseable action figure presented in specially designed packaging. “We thought guests would love to see what they look like as a human/Na’vi hybrid,” explained merchandiser Cody Hampton. The Dress Shop Celebrates Disney Parks with Whimsical Apparel and Accessories Designed for guests who want to emulate their favorite Disney characters or theme park attractions, The Dress Shop collection arrived at Disney Parks this past spring to rave reviews. “The dress styles are classic in design and contain incredible little details,” said merchandiser Donna Sorrow. “All the styles have modern fits which make them wonderful outfits to wear when visiting Disney Parks.” Outfits and accessories include nods to Disney attractions and characters such as Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room, The Haunted Mansion, Orange Bird and Minnie Mouse. Made with Magic 3.0: Connected Ear Hats Guests can now enjoy the magic of Disney Parks at home with the release of the Bluetooth enabled Made with Magic: 3.0 Connected Ear Hat. Guests can change the color and speed of the strobe effect on the hat’s ears by using the in-app Color Remote on the Shop Disney Parks app. The app also syncs the hat to light up and flash to the beat during special television broadcasts. A Headband For Every Season A beloved Disney vacation souvenir, Mouse Ear headwear sported some new looks in 2017 with different colors, fabrics, or features. The popular rose gold headband became an overnight sensation as this trendy color was added to the iconic Minnie Mouse sequined headband. Guests could also mix and match bows resembling favorite Disney characters with the interchangeable bow collection. Look for these products in select locations at Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts. Guests may also find select products on Shop Disney Parks or via ShopDisney.com. View the full article

Walt Disney World Resort offers many magical choices for your little one, but perhaps the most magical place just might be Magic Kingdom Park. Join Disney Parks Moms Panelist, Lindsey P., as she highlights some of the most amazing attractions for you and your kiddos! Ready now to take on your preschooler on Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin or enjoy an undersea adventure with your princess or prince at Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid? Planning these magical memories is only a click away and the Disney Parks Moms Panelists are here to help! For more tips on planning a magical vacation with your preschooler, or to ask questions about planning your next Disney vacation, be sure to visit DisneyParksMomsPanel.com for a personalized response from our knowledgeable panel. View the full article

In our Disney Doodles blog series, our team of Disney artists imagine what a character would do or see first if they had the chance to visit a Disney park. Today’s Doodle was inspired by the fairies in the 1940’s film “Fantasia” who celebrate the season in a frosty garden by skating on a newly frozen pond. According to Ashley, the fairies would love Main Street, U.S.A., at Magic Kingdom Park this time of year. “Whenever I’m walking down Main Street at Christmastime, I am fully emerged in the holiday music and decorations,” she said. “It’s easy to imagine the winter fairies from Fantasia conducting the heavenly sounds from the sky!” View the full article

Pizza by the slice — and more! — is, at long last, available in Disney Springs thanks to the arrival of Pizza Ponte! Learn About: Pizza Ponte Downtown Disney Disney World Restaurants As one third of a trio of eateries in Disney Springs, Pizza Ponte provides a fast-casual option for guests hoping to try out the Italian cuisine offered by this new group of restaurants headed by the Patina Restaurant Group. Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante (a table service restaurant) and Enzo’s Hideaway Tunnel Bar will make up the other components of the group when they open in coming weeks. By the name, you obviously know that the headliner item is PIZZA — more specifically, Sicilian pizza served by the slice. But sandwiches, pastries, and espresso also make up the menu. But I’ve said the word “pizza” enough by now that I’m sure everyone’s more than ready to dig into a slice, so let’s start our tour now! Atmosphere Pizza Ponte is the starting point of the greater story of the business ventures of Maria and Enzo. You’ll find the new locations in The Landing, with nearest landmarks being STK Orlando and Paradiso 37 (and, of course, the VERY soon-to-be-open Edison). Walkway to Maria & Enzo’s, Enzo’s Hideaway, Pizza Ponte, and The Edison In fact, you’ll enter Pizza Ponte under the sign for Maria and Enzo’s Ristorante, under the simple label of “Pizzeria.” Maris & Enzo’s Ristorante sign You see, Pizza Ponte — like Maria & Enzo’s and Enzo’s Hideaway Tunnel Bar — is located in what was formerly the Air Terminal for Disney Springs in the 1930s, according to story. Entrance into Pizza Ponte Maria and Enzo — an immigrant couple from Italy — ran a bakery in the terminal’s lobby. Maria & Enzo’s family pictures in Pizza Ponte Maria & Enzo’s family pictures in Pizza Ponte After the Air Terminal closed, they opened Pizza Ponte. The pizza-by-the-slice shop was so successful in the town of Disney Springs that Maria and Enzo were able to purchase the closed terminal, allowing them to open Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante and a formerly hidden network of tunnels from the Prohibition-era that is now known as Enzo’s Hideaway Tunnel Bar. Enzo’s Hideaway Tunnel Bar and Restaurant Elements of the story can be seen in the simple, clean design where the curved walls and windows echo the Art Deco style of the terminal. Pizza Ponte Indoor Seating Pizza Ponte Seating and Line You even get a feel for the era by looking at the cool Cast Member costumes, complete with fedora-style hats. I love these! Cast Members at the Pizza Counter This also gives me a chance to say that the Cast Members themselves provided such a terrific part of the atmosphere, too. They were friendly, enthusiastic, and more than willing to answer questions. It was also impressive how well organized they were on this, the very first weekend of service. Let’s face it: any sign saying “Pizzeria” always brings in a line, even for a brand new spot. And they handled everything with promptness and courtesy. You can see the cast at work behind the pizza counter, and also next to the pizza ovens busily churning out pie after pie. Pizza Counter and Pizza Oven And you can check out the sandwich station with ingredients on display next to the carving machine getting ready to cut fresh slices of meat for the shop’s hand-crafted sandwiches. Sandwich Assembly Area Sandwich Assembly Area Carving Machine The cafeteria-style line ends with a huge bakery case displaying those sandwiches along with a pretty large selection of desserts. Bakery Case You can carry any of those goodies to one of the indoor seats we saw earlier, or to the smaller areas of seating just outside. Outdoor Seating Outdoor Seating But we’ve gotta pick up those goodies first, so let’s head right back in! Eats Pizza Ponte specializes in Sicilian Pizza by the slice, but you’ll also find Italian sandwiches, pastries and desserts, and espresso on the menu. In its first week, the spot is opening at 11AM for lunch, but within the next week they plan to start opening at 8AM daily to serve Italian breakfasts of pastries and specialty coffee. But let’s check out the headliner first: PIZZA! Pizza Menu Currently you’ll find five square pizza options on the menu, starting with Tomato with mozzarella and basil. Tomato Pizza The Four Cheese Pizza — prepared without sauce — is for serious cheese lovers. Four Cheese Pizza Forest Mushrooms is next on the list, above Spicy Salame. Forest Mushrooms Pizza And here is a sneak peek at my slice of Porchetta (topped with pancetta, hot peppers, and onion) before we dig into it later in the post. Slice of Porchetta But even though you’ll receive a paper menu upon walking into Pizza Ponte, you’ll still want to peruse the counter before making your choice, because there are more options than what is listed on the menu. On our visit, these included the Cauliflower Pizza, and Zucchini Pizza. Cauliflower Zucchini and Cheese There was also Pepperoni available, which was going fast. (I’m sure it’s a popular option for the kiddos… and us adults, too!) Pepperoni Pizza I have a feeling that they have some fun in the kitchen creating new options, so be sure to check out everything when you visit! That includes The Big Roman — the only triangle-slice pizza, which was Cheese on my visit (listed as the Chef’s Daily Special Pizza on the menu). The Big Roman I don’t think this picture quite captures just how HUGE the slices are of The Big Roman Pizza. It well earns its name, and it’s on the top of my list for my next visit, no matter what’s on it that day. But we’re not done yet! Not even close… let’s check out the Sandwich menu. Sandwiches These hand-crafted sandwiches are all served on Roman pizza bread, including the Tonno (Sicilian tuna), the Pomodoro, and the Prosciutto di Parma. Sandwiches Also on the shelf are the Ponte Sandwich (with parma ham cotto, stracchino cheese, and pickled vegetables), the Finocchiona (salami, diced carrots, and artichokes), and the Muffuletta. Ponte sandwich Finocchiona Sandwich Muffuletta Sandwich In the same case (not listed on the menu) is a selection of salads like Chicken Caesar, Antipasti, Mistacanza, and Frutti di Mare. Salads These sit next to the opposite of salad… DESSERTS ! Dessert and Pastry Menu Cruffin, and Tiramisu, and Cannoli… Oh, My! Cruffin Tiramisu Cannoli You may think your choice is easy… think again. The Parfait choices include Limoncello, Pistachio and Mascarpone, and Nutella. Pistachio and Mascarpone Parfaits and Limoncello Parfaits Nutella Parfaits The Baba are orange liqueur-soaked cakes. Baba Smaller treats include Biscotti, Thumbprint Jelly Cookies, and Chocolate Truffles. Biscotti, Thumbprint Cookies, and Chocolate Truffles And once more you’ll spy items not listed on the menu like Croissants. Chocolate Croissants Croissants Of course, you can pair any of those with a specialty espresso drink. Coffee Menu Other beverages available include beer (Crooked Can and Goose Island, currently), wine (a pinot grigio or chianti), Coca-cola drinks and a selection of bottled Italian sips. Bottled Beverages Some Italian packaged goods are available, like Amaretti Del Chiostro cookies. Amaretti Even Panettone was at the ready for the holidays. Panettone Seriously, there is a TON packed into this small shop! I knew going in I wanted some serious pizza, but which slice to choose? It’s tough to decide once you’re in there, but fortunately I got some advice from the Chef, who is from Italy. You know what else here is from Italy? The flour used to make the pizza crust — it’s imported, just like the pizza in Epcot’s Via Napoli. The water is imported, too. The philosophy being that great pizza starts with a truly great crust… and regular flour and Florida’s water just isn’t gonna cut it. Anyway, the Chef told me his favorite is the Prochetta, topped with B&G Hot Peppers, onion, and pancetta (like the Four Cheese Pizza, it’s without sauce). Slice of Porchetta He gave me fair warning that it is spicy with those peppers… which is something I always love to hear. But let’s start with that crust. Crust on Porchetta Pizza It’s perfectly golden and bubbly, with a lovely crunch surrounding the soft bread. It’s a terrific base for those toppings, which include a paper thin slice of pancetta, lending to the savory flavors without being too salty of an addition on top of the cheese. Pancetta But my favorite part was the heat from the peppers, which continued to build the more I ate. No two ways about it: this was just a great slice of pizza. It’s also quite substantial, thanks to that thick crust and plentiful cheese. Once slice should do the trick… until you’re ready to walk back up to the desserts . Nosh or Not? You may want to visit Pizza Ponte if: You LOVE the idea of pizza by the slice when you’re traveling with a group (thereby avoiding arguments over what toppings you can all agree on for a whole pizza). You want to check out a slice of the cuisine that this new trio of Italian restaurants has to offer, but prefer to do so in a fast-casual setting (as opposed to the bar and table service options). You like a good slice of pizza… PERIOD. You may want to skip Pizza Ponte if: You’re already planning to check out Enzo’s Tunnel Bar or Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante once they open to try out something from the new trio that way. You prefer thin crust over thick for your pizza (in which case, Via Napoli is your best bet). Umm… I can’t think of another reason. You can walk out of here having enjoyed some really yummy pizza for seven bucks. Done. Overall Some details! Pizza Ponte is not currently accepting the Disney Dining Plan; however, that is not unusual in non Disney-owned locations in Disney Springs during their opening phase, and a Cast Member confirmed they should be able to accept Counter Service credits in the coming weeks. Current operating hours are 11AM to Midnight, but within the next week or so they will start offering breakfast daily (pastries and coffee) beginning at 8AM daily. My, how the pizza landscape in Disney World has changed! It really wasn’t all that long ago when Disney guests were mostly limited to Counter Service pizza in the parks and resorts. (I’ll spare you my thoughts on that now, but if you really want the whole truth, you can read all about it here.) Now we have Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza, Via Napoli, and you can add Pizza Ponte to the list of spots where you can get truly good — and even great — pizza in Disney World. The more, the merrier, I say! Of course, this isn’t the last time you’ll be seeing us in this neck of the Disney Springs woods. After all, we have a few more spots to check out… Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante Enzo’s Hideaway Tunnel Bar and Restaurant The Edison … REAL SOON. So, stay tuned . Would you like to grab a slice of pizza at Pizza Ponte? Please let us know with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: First Look!: Pizza Ponte in Disney Springs Now Open! Confirmed: Maria & Enzo’s — Plus Pizza Ponte and Enzo’s Hideaway — Coming to The Edison Complex in Disney Springs INSIDE the Edison and MORE — Opening SOON at Disney World! View the full article

Happy Christmas Eve! We hope you’re having a wonderful holiday weekend with your family and friends! It’s time to kick back, relax with some Egg Nog (if that’s your style) and catch up on the latest food news! Wolf Paw The 2017 Epcot Festival of the Holidays is still happening and we have all the booth menus and FOOD PICTURES for EVERY Booth! The Festival of Holidays at Disney California Adventure is happening, too, and we have all the details, including all the booth menus and food photos! And, it’s time to pre-order the 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining! Use code BONUS30 at check-out to get 30% off the cover price and get the current edition for FREE immediately! We have a lot to share with you this week, so let’s jump right in… Disney Food News We reviewed Chip ‘n Dale’s Harvest Feast at Garden Grill in Epcot. We shared some awesome Disney gifts for the holidays! Check out the sale on the pre-order of the 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining! Rapunzel’s Royal Table is coming to the Disney Magic. Tiffins has debuted new prix fixe menus! The Garden Rocks Concerts were announced for the 2018 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival! Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels to offer dining coupon passports in 2018. The price of Disney’s Refillable Mugs has increased! Select Disney World restaurants are now available to reserve on OpenTable! Star Wars ice cream is coming to Ample Hills Creamery at Disney’s BoardWalk! The dates have been announced for the 2018 Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival. New DFB YouTube videos: Hidden Gem Dining Spots in Disneyland and Food Tour of Magic Kingdom’s Adventureland. Check out all the latest Disney Food News — even the stuff we don’t mention in posts on the blog! — on our Disney Food News Pin Board, including menu updates, restaurant closures, special events, and more! We’ve got all the latest for you, so check it out before you go. New DFB Video: Food Tour of the Magic Kingdom’s Adventureland Have you subscribed to the DFB YouTube Channel? We’ve got great content going up twice a week showcasing our adventures in Disney World and Disneyland! This week, we’re sharing our latest video – a Food Tour of the Magic Kingdom’s Adventureland! Check it out — and don’t forget to subscribe here. Deal of the Week: Pre-Order the 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining It’s time to pre-order the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2018 e-book! Pre-Order the 2018 Guide today with code BONUS30 to get this special deal!! 1. 30% OFF your pre-order purchase! And… 2. The updated 2017 2nd Edition of the Guide immediately for FREE. Just use code WDW2018 at checkout! (We’ll send the 2018 Edition directly to your inbox as soon as it’s published after the New Year.) Just like all DFB pre-order deals — when you pre-order your DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining e-Book, 2018 Edition today for 30% off the cover price, you’ll also get our 2017 Edition immediately for FREE, so you can start planning TODAY! With over 600 pages of full-color photos, tips on the best restaurants, an ENTIRE chapter on snacks — including the best snack credit values throughout the parks and resorts — and a full break-down of whether the Disney Dining Plan is worth it for your family, now’s the time to get started! What’s in the DFB Guide? The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, 2018 Edition is full to overflowing with tools and features to make your trip go smoothly, including: A 5-Step Strategy for Disney Dining Planning, covering everything you need to know from budgeting and booking to kids’ meals, dining discounts, and fireworks. A comprehensive and in-depth look at EVERY Disney World restaurant, kiosk, bar, and lounge, including our personal tips to ensure a positive and stress-free dining experience. Four free, downloadable worksheets for planning your trip. These worksheets are designed to help you execute all the steps of planning the perfect Disney dining experience. And they’re reusable for all of your future trips! Seven sample one-day dining itineraries for a head-start on planning. A comprehensive index of bars and lounges WITH reviews. An often under-appreciated option for both dining and entertainment, the e-Book devotes a whole index to the topic. The ability to be read on your mobile device or computer! It’s fully portable right in your pocket! DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Sample Page We put a ton of time and effort (and research) into ensuring that we are sharing with you the most relevant, up to date Disney Food Information that’s available. We do this so that you can plan your own Disney visit with confidence, and have the trip of a lifetime, every time. You can pre-order your copy today for 30% off the cover price and get the 2017 2nd Edition immediately for FREE!! Just use code BONUS30! The 2018 Edition will be emailed to you as soon as it’s published in early 2018. DFB Reader Finds If you find a fun new food — or other edible awesomeness — in or around Disney, share a photo with us on facebook or twitter so we can add it to our DFB Reader Finds each Sunday. Tiffins at Disney’s Animal Kingdom has debuted two new prix fixe menus and DFB reader Elizabeth Rasmussen says she loved the Braised Wagyu Pozole on her visit. Looks delicious! New prix fixe menu at Tiffins! Here at the DFB we love Via Napoli in Epcot’s Italty Pavilion! DFB fan Ian Benson recently dined there and said “Great recommendation! Thanks AJ!” Suddenly, we want pizza! Do you have a favorite Disney Food find? Share your photos with us! On to the Round-Up! Mickey Fix shared tips on how to make Mickey Waffles at home! WDW for Grownups shared great breakfasts under $10 at Disney World! Disney Parks Blog shared a video on making a Porg-themed Bento Box! Disney Family shared a recipe for Star Wars Porg Cookies! Have a great week! We’ll see you back here tomorrow with another great Disney food review! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: Disney Food Post Round-Up: December 3, 2017 Disney Food Post Round-Up: December 10, 2017 Disney Food Post Round-up: December 17, 2017 View the full article

Earlier this week, we shared a lovely performance by Voices of Liberty, who sang “Joy To The World.” The group is back on this lovely Christmas Eve to share another performance with you – their rendition of “Silent Night.” Check out the video above for their latest performance – and have a very Merry Christmas. View the full article

Just in time for the crazy busy holiday rush in Disney World, Pizza Ponte has opened to guests in Disney Springs! Pizza Ponte is one of three Italian eateries connected by setting and story getting set to make their official debuts in Disney Springs. This fast-casual spot (no Advance Dining Reservation required) will be joined shortly by Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante and Enzo’s Hideaway Tunnel Bar, with all spots expected to be fully operational in January. cannoli at Pizza Ponte! Sicilian pizza served by the slice is the headliner at Pizza Ponte (for $7 a slice), and it’s accompanied by hand-crafted sandwiches on Roman pizza bread and a large variety of desserts including Cannoli and Mascarpone Cheesecake. Starting in 2018, Pizza Ponte will open at 8AM daily and offer an Italian quick service breakfast including coffee and pastries. DFB was at Pizza Ponte TODAY to get you a first look! Stay tuned for our full review coming soon, but in the meantime, let’s take a look around! Maria and Enzo’s Italian Trio at Disney Springs Inside, Pizza Ponte is clean and modern looking — befitting the airline terminal in which it originated. Pizza Ponte Seating and Line Pizza Ponte Seating There are a few black and whites on the wall to show the Italian family history. I think that’s Maria and Enzo there at the top. Pizza Ponte Decor Elements Food is served Cafeteria-style — you go along the line and choose what you like. There are several pizza options featured — both square and triangle (think Sbarro’s) styles. Pizza Menu pancetta Mushroom Four Cheese Pizza Cucumber and Cheese Cauliflower Triangle Pizza Sandwiches Finocchiona Sandwich Salami sandwich Ponte sandwich Desserts and pastries look fresh and authentic. Dessert and Pastry Menu Coffees cannoli cruffin Baba Chocolate croissant plain croissant (there’s not really any stawberry in it) Overall, we really enjoyed the porchetta pizza we tried — with hot peppers and onions! The crust was perfect and flavors were good. Stay tuned for our full review coming soon! Porchetta Pizza — Pancetta, hot peppers, onions Porchetta pizza — pancetta, hot peppers, onions With the busiest weeks of the year upon Disney World, we imagine Pizza Ponte is already a very welcome addition to Disney Springs. And we can’t wait to bring you details on our visit soon! Don’t Miss Out on Any Disney Fun OR Brand New Restaurants! The 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, is now available for Pre-Order! With more than 650 pages, the 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 20+ years of visits. We’ve done the research for you, so you’ll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family’s needs! With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis (and how to get FREE dining); and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you’ll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet. Click here to pre-order your copy of the 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2018 to save 25% today! But there’s MORE! Just like all DFB pre-order deals — when you pre-order your DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining e-Book, 2018 Edition today for 25% off the cover price, you’ll also get our fully updated 2017 Edition immediately for FREE immediately, so you can start planning TODAY! Use code WDW2018 at check-out for a 25% off the cover price, AND get the 2017 edition for free! Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose. Are you hoping to visit Pizza Ponte soon? Please let us know with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: Confirmed: Maria & Enzo’s — Plus Pizza Ponte and Enzo’s Hideaway — Coming to The Edison Complex in Disney Springs A Hard Hat Tour Inside The Edison, Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante, Enzo’s Hideaway, and Pizza Ponte! INSIDE the Edison and MORE — Opening SOON at Disney World! View the full article

This year, we’re sharing a blog holiday favorite – our traditional Disney Parks Yule log video – a day earlier than usual. So, kick back and enjoy a crackling fire with some great music in HD. And if this is your first Disney Parks Blog Yule log, be sure to keep an eye out for a special guest! View the full article

Merry Christmas, everyone! In just two more days, we’ll be surrounded by loved ones, opening presents around the Christmas tree and watching the “Disney Parks Magical Christmas Celebration.” The star-studded showcase of seasonal sights, performances and traditions, including the beloved Christmas day parade, airs December 25 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. EST; 9-11 a.m. CST/MST/PST on ABC! Emmy-Award winner Julianne Hough and multiplatinum recording artist and television personality Nick Lachey will take viewers on a magical ride down Main Street, U.S.A. at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and beyond. Sports star and commentator Jesse Palmer joins as co-host from Disneyland park in California where beloved Disney characters will take the helm of the most joyous parade of the season. Adding extra holiday sparkle to the Christmas day lineup, Sean Giambrone from ABC’s “The Goldbergs” and Olivia Rodrigo from Disney Channel’s “Bizaardvark” join the festivities as parade commentators. ‘Christmas Celebration’ Holiday Tunes Spread Spirit of the Season! Musical performances will be sure to inspire harmonious family gatherings and singalongs! Idina Menzel will perform the captivating Disney classic, “When You Wish Upon a Star” from Disneyland park. Ciara will sing “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” from Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort. Darius Rucker will sing “Candy Cane Christmas” from Disney’s Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort. Fifth Harmony will take viewers on a magical “Sleigh Ride” from Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort. Fitz and the Tantrums will perform the popular Christmas hit “Last Christmas” from Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort. Jason Derulo will sing “This Christmas” from Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland park. Lea Michele will sing the holiday favorite “Let It Snow” from Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland Resort. “Descendants 2” star Sofia Carson will perform on the Cinderella Castle stage at Walt Disney World Resort. 98° will heat things up from Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort with their new song, “Season of Love,” from “Let It Snow,” their first full-length Christmas album in 18 years. Broadway’s Telly Leung and Arielle Jacobs, of the stage hit “Aladdin,” will take over Disney’s Hollywood Studios for a romantic performance of the Oscar-winning classic, “A Whole New World.” Rounding out the Christmas festivities, the cast of the new digital variety program, “Club Mickey Mouse,” will shine a spotlight on Main Street, U.S.A. at Disneyland park. Viewers Blast Off ‘To Infinity and Beyond!” Feel ‘the Force’ and More During the show, viewers will ride along for a sneak peek at the new Toy Story Land opening in summer in 2018 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort. The stars of a galaxy far, far away will shine brightly Christmas morning as viewers also get a preview of the Star Wars-themed land, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, opening at both Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and at Disneyland park in California in 2019. Disney’s star couple, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, will get in on the holiday action when viewers learn about the new Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, also planned to open at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in the near future. And, viewers will also learn more about Pixar Fest, the biggest theme park celebration of stories and characters from Pixar Animation Studios, opening at the Disneyland Resort April 13, 2018. Be sure to make your calendars for the biggest Christmas party of the year and join the conversation online with #DisneyChristmasCelebration “Disney Parks Magical Christmas Celebration” airs December 25, 2017, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. EST; 9-11 a.m. CST/MST/PST on ABC and available online on abc.com. View the full article

The countdown hits zero, the big ball drops, Baby New Year appears and that puts a bow on the holiday season in most places. But Central Florida’s theme parks and attractions keep the festivities in the forefront in an effort to entertain extended-holiday visitors, lure locals and keep themselves... View the full article

You may have experienced – or read about on the Disney Parks Blog – The Veranda, the new concierge lounge at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. The lounge is available to club-level guests of the hotel, featuring exceptional service by concierges like Anthony Truong. In this episode of “Every Role a Starring Role,” see how Anthony creates a magical guest experience in The Veranda. With refreshments throughout the day and a beautiful view of the Disneyland park fireworks at night, the lounge is part of the new magic that awaits guests at the recently refurbished Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. View the full article