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I’m writing today aboard a gleaming ship that took off this afternoon from Florida’s Space Coast. No, not that kind of ship. Elon Musk has yet to extend that invitation. I’m on the Disney Fantasy for the 2017 Disney Vacation Club Member Cruise, a voyage filled with firsts. If you’ve read any of my Member Cruise posts in previous years, you know that this event dramatically elevates the already spectacular Disney Cruise Line experience with daily in-room gifts, a broad slate of special entertainment, custom décor and that special kind of magic that happens whenever Members gather. It’s among the best examples of what’s known around the neighborhood as Membership Magic Ever After. While this year’s voyage delivers those staples in spades, it also goes where no Member Cruise has gone before. We’re embarking on the first Member Cruise aboard this stunning ship, the first Member Cruise to feature an Eastern Caribbean itinerary, the first Member Cruise for many of our guest presenters (from stage and screen actor Richard Kind and celebrated Pixar producer Darla K. Anderson to Walt Disney Imagineer Luc Mayrand and Jerry Bruckheimer Films’ Michael Singer, just to name a few) and the first to feature an entire “event within the event.” Our unprecedented Member Cruise Film Festival, taking place through Monday, balances a curated collection of nearly 20 films (from future releases and current hits to beloved classics and insightful documentaries) with insider presentations, interactive experiences and spectacular deck parties. I’d compare it to festivals like Sundance and Cannes, but neither of those have 360-degree ocean views! We began the festival tonight on a high “note” as legendary filmmaker Don Hahn (Beauty and the Beast, The Lion King) took the Walt Disney Theatre stage to introduce his toe-tapping film Richard M. Sherman: Songs of a Lifetime, joyfully celebrating the musical library of the legendary songwriting Sherman Brothers. Don’s introduction included an upbeat tribute to the late Disney Legend Marty Sklar, a Member Cruise favorite and a longtime friend to Disney Vacation Club. During the next two days, presentations, films and experiences will immerse Members in the colorful, musical world of Pixar Animation Studios’ Coco, return to Arendelle for Olaf’s Frozen Adventure, reveal the truth about life as a working actor, honor the lives and legacies of Disney Legends, mark milestone anniversaries of beloved classics, add exclusive bonus material to the latest hits from the Disney family of studios, unleash the talents of Disney artists in the ship’s atrium and more. While the Member Cruise Film Festival would, on its own, represent the biggest lineup of shows and experiences in Member Cruise history, it’s merely our first course. From there, we visit three ports of call and enjoy a second slate of special entertainment. I’ll be back in touch at the end of the voyage to recap entertainment beyond the film festival. View the full article

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Celebrates Birth of Sumatran Tiger Cubs View the full article

Today we’re celebrating all-things “Disney Dogs,” and in honor of the upcoming release of Disney•Pixar’s “Coco,” we have a special look at the next Disney pup you’re likely to fall in love with – Dante. This video, which was shared with us from our friends at Pixar and The Walt Disney Studios, follows a real-life xolo (aka a Mexican hairless dog) as he explores Pixar Animation Studios in Emeryville, California, where he made friends, had lunch, “played catch” with the studio’s signature Luxo Ball, and even met “Coco” Director Lee Unkrich. In the film “Coco,” Dante serves as the four-legged sidekick to Miguel (Anthony Gonzalez), a young boy who dreams of becoming an accomplished musician like his idol, Ernesto de la Cruz (Benjamin Bratt). Desperate to prove his talent, Miguel and Dante find themselves in the stunning and colorful Land of the Dead following a mysterious chain of events. Along the way, Miguel meets charming Hector (Gael García Bernal), and together, they set off on an extraordinary journey to unlock the real story behind Miguel’s family history. Disney•Pixar’s “Coco” opens November 22. View the full article

Emmy, Golden Globe and SAG award-winning actress Claire Danes made sure to take advantage of these final “dog days of summer” by heading to the Walt Disney World for some fun with her favorite Disney dog, Goofy! Claire, along with family and friends, spent a few days enjoying Walt Disney World theme parks. Some of her favorites included Pandora – The World of Avatar and meeting Disney characters. Check out the video to Claire and Goofy have a blast on their favorite roller coaster! Special thanks to Matt Stroshane for the photo. View the full article

Living in Florida we learn to enjoy the “dog days of summer” – the hottest days of this sunny season. Why not celebrate with a fun wallpaper? Our designer, Kenzie Schmaltz, had some fun featuring Rolly from “101 Dalmations” because, according to Kenzie, “There’s nothing cuter than a happy puppy!” Be sure to check out the terms of use about using the wallpaper before you download it. And check out our complete gallery of wallpapers on our special page. View the full article

National Dog Day is celebrated on August 26. Being a dog owner, I can’t wait to spend the day pampering my long-haired Chihuahua Yodie. At Disney Parks, we offer a variety of dog-themed products perfect for dog lovers and their four-legged friends. Here is a brief look at some of my favorite items from Disney Parks Merchandise. Disney Tails, a line of pet products with a splash of Disney character, was expanded earlier this year to include items for smaller pets. Today, guests will find leads, headbands, collars, comfort harnesses, and pet bowls. Many of these items have nods to Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse. “These items are a fun way guests can share their love of Disney with their furry family members,” explained Kevin-Michael Lezotte, merchandise product developer for the Disney Tails line. “I loved developing these products as they are things I would use with my dog Haji.” Mickey’s faithful dog Pluto is featured on a variety of products including hats, home décor, accessories, ornaments, toys, plush and more. Pluto even gets his own individual open edition pin in this year’s Halloween collection. Finally, I have a special treat on this day that celebrates dogs. The accessories team at Disney Parks Merchandise gave me a sneak preview of a new Dooney & Bourke pattern featuring Disney Dogs (you may recall we released a similar Disney Cats collection last year. Look for this pattern on a new handbag collection arriving in late November. Guests will find these items in select locations at Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts. You may also find select items on DisneyStore.com as well as the Shop Disney Parks app. View the full article

No matter how you vacation at Walt Disney World, the primary goal is always the same: to make memories that you can cherish and share for a lifetime. And with hundreds of attractions, shows, and experiences to try, there’s no shortage of ways to make those memories. Hello from Disney World! But one of our favorite ways to make new and lasting memories is by enjoying special dining experiences in the World. So if you’re officially planning your next vacay (or just daydreaming, as you should!), here are five unique and special dining experiences sure to leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Dine Above the World Anyone can sit at ground level and enjoy some tasty Fish and Chips or a tray of Chicken Nuggets, but if you want to elevate your dining, you gotta get above the World. And thanks to some thoughtfully placed restaurants, you can do that with ease! View of Fireworks from California Grill California Grill is the spot for those who want a classy, memorable dinner — with all eyes on Cinderella Castle. Sonoma Goat Cheese Ravioli Snag an Advance Dining Reservation (ADR, moving forward) for just the right time, and you’ll get to see Magic Kingdom’s nighttime spectacular, Happily Ever After, from California Grill’s balcony. But what if you didn’t land that coveted show time reservation? Then just bring in your receipt from earlier in the evening, and show it to the Cast Members at the restaurant’s check-in desk on the second floor of the Contemporary. California Grill Sign They’ll allow your party to re-enter California Grill, where you can watch the spectacular show from the restaurant’s observation deck. If you’re looking for something a little less formal — but still with a view from above — consider ‘Ohana. Dinner at ‘Ohana offers All-You-Care-To-Eat family-style service with Hawaiian flair in the Polynesian Village Resort. ‘Ohana Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce And if you can nab an ADR for the evening’s fireworks time, go for it! And here’s the trick: you’ll want to request a window seat when you check in. But really, the view is beautiful any time of day (even if you’re there in the morning for the Best Friends Breakfast with Lilo and Stitch)! View from ‘Ohana The Magic Kingdom Resorts don’t have the only sky-high claim to fame. The World Showcase offers options for dining above the World at Epcot. The Japan Pavilion is where you’ll find Tokyo Dining, offering a lovely Lagoon view in the middle of the day, or the chance to enjoy IllumiNations right from your seat inside the restaurant at night. (But note — sometimes the view of the fireworks here is compromised by people standing on the walkway outside.) View of World Showcase Lagoon Eat Like — and With! — Royalty I’m hard pressed to think of a more quintessential experience at Disney World than interacting with Princesses and Princes (unless it’s meeting the Mouse himself). No matter what your age, meeting Disney Royalty is always a memorable experience, and several dining options offer that opportunity. Rapunzel The signature experience, of course, is dining at Cinderella’s Royal Table, located right inside Cinderella Castle in the Magic Kingdom. High stone arches, colorful royal flags and crests, and stunning stained glass windows set the scene for you and your Royal Hostesses. Cinderella’s Royal Table Dining Room In addition to eating in an actual castle, you’ll also meet several of Disney’s most iconic princesses. Cinderella herself greets her guests in the lobby, and four additional Royal Highnesses meander through the dining room during your meal. Cinderella greets guests in her castle But the Princesses are not limited to Cinderella Castle. Akershus Royal Banquet Hall in Epcot’s Norway Pavilion also offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner with Disney Princesses. Belle is your gracious hostess, and again, even more Princesses visit tables throughout the meal. Belle at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall And we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention the new Bon Voyage Adventure Character Breakfast at Trattoria al Forno on Disney’s Boardwalk. Featuring beloved Disney couples, this is where a couple of Disney Princes get to come out to play, too! Prince Eric Diners nosh on foods themed to Tangled and The Little Mermaid while meeting Rapunzel and Flynn Rider along with Ariel and Prince Eric. Pastry assortment We did mention Flynn Rider, didn’t we? Well, just in case… Flynn Rider (FYI, Cinderella and her Prince Charming also pop up at 1900 Park Fare in Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort for dinner.) Check out your full list of options for Character Dining here. Dine with an Imagineer Did you know that guests 14 and older can Dine with an Imagineer?! Select either The Hollywood Brown Derby in Hollywood Studios or Citricos at the Grand Floridian for your four-course meal. Citricos The real treat, though, is the conversation you and your small group of diners (you’ll all fit around one table!) will get to have with a Disney Imagineer. This is like actual, human Disney royalty, folks! And it can literally only happen at Disney World. A similar small group experience is also available at Sanaa, but with an Animal Kingdom Lodge twist. Sanaa Dine with an Animal Specialist gives guests the chance to learn about the care, research, and conservation efforts for the 200 plus animals that call Animal Kingdom Lodge their home. And speaking of Sanaa… Eat Among New Friends If you or your loved ones are more interested in creatures of the non-human variety, there are several options for dining in the World — with a side of feathers, fur, or fins! The first option is once again at Sanaa. Sanaa features Indian and African- inspired flavors, and — for diners with a window view — the opportunity to dine near animal friends. Sanaa Potjie It’s a relaxing environment with terrific food, warm cultural ambiance, and, perhaps, a crane, giraffe, or zebra right in view. Watch the Wildlife as You Dine at Sanaa For something a little more off the beaten path, sign up for the Wild Africa Trek. This splurge-that’s-worth-it experience takes guests on a three-hour trek through Animal Kingdom’s Kilimanjaro Safari. The trails wind through the different animal environments, letting you get a close-up view of the animal friends you usually only see from a ride vehicle. View from Wild Africa Trek You’ll traverse a rope bridge over lazy crocodiles, spy on hippos as they stay cool in their pool, and enjoy a meal in a boma smack in the middle of the Savanna. But if you prefer creatures of the deep, make an ADR at Coral Reef Restaurant in Epcot’s The Seas with Nemo and Friends Pavilion. Here all tables face a massive saltwater tank, where your dinner companions are sea turtles, sharks, tropical fish, and stingrays! Aquarium view The menu is inspired by the sea, but there are plenty of options for guests who hold to the mantra that “fish are friends, not food!” Grilled New York Strip Steak Enjoy Dinner and a Show The classic combo of dinner-and-a-show is timeless, and at Disney World, the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue at Fort Wilderness Campground has been a guest favorite for over FORTY YEARS running! The Pioneer Hall Players This rootin’, tootin’ extravaganza features old fashioned dancin’, laughin’, and singin’, along with All-You-Care-To-Enjoy country vittles. Yeehaw! Hoop Dee Doo Review goodies Or you can make your way to Disney’s Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show at Polynesian Village Resort. This luau features fire dancing, hula, and Hawaiian music, along with a taste of the Islands with another All-You-Care-to-Enjoy meal. Spirit of Aloha Dancers If you have wee little ones in tow, you might want to consider Mickey’s Backyard BBQ. Mickey’s Backyard BBQ sign Also located at Fort Wilderness, this musical variety show featuring Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, and Chip and Dale puts the focus on the kiddos, and photos and autographs are part of the experience along with all the fixins’ of a traditional BBQ (we’re talking burgers, hot dogs, corn on the cob, and much more!). Have Dinner with a side of Attitude Okay, yeah, so this is actually Number Six. Consider it a bonus, since there are so many ways to have a memorable dining experience in Disney World! In case the teenagers in your traveling party don’t give you enough ‘tude, Disney’s got you covered. Flip Card –Green ” Jump and Play” Side Whispering Canyon Cafe is home to totally-in-character waitstaff who go overboard on the straws (get ready to have a few thrown right at’cha), ketchup, and occasionally serve up sodas the size of a small child. (For a better idea, check out our review here.) Someone Asked for Ketchup . . . It’s all part of the rowdy fun you’ll experience at this lively restaurant at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, where skillets of grub will stick to your ribs, along with the laughter. All You Care to Enjoy Skillet If you want to step back in time to the era of June Cleaver, make your reservation for 50s Prime Time Cafe. The waiters here are “aunts,” “uncles,” and “cousins,” and remember: you’re dining in their kitchen. So, it’s elbows off the table — and be sure to eat your veggies! Cast Members Comfort food options include Aunt Liz’s Golden Fried Chicken and Mom’s Old Fashioned Pot Roast, and you’re likely to get a scolding or two while partaking of the meal. And you’ll love every second of it! Aunt Liz’s Golden Fried Chicken So, there you have it! Just a handful of the many ways you can make Disney Dining Memories at Walt Disney World. We don’t recommend trying to fit all of these in during one vacation… so you’ll just have to come back over and over and over again. What’s your favorite Disney Dining memory? Tell us all about it in the comments below! 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: News: New Dining Discounts for Disney World Annual Passholders for 45th Anniversary Year Dining in Disney World With Kids, Part 2: Suggestions from the WDW Moms Panel The Most Popular Disney World Restaurants (And Alternatives When They’re Full) View the full article

YAY!!! Our Cute Food Art friend Donna Yan has a whole new series… and this one is dedicated to Disney World snacks! If you’ve been following along with the Cute Food Art series, then you’ve already enjoyed seeing Donna’s adorable, playful artwork featuring iconic Disney snacks. While you can find a lot of these snacks in both Disney World and Disneyland, there are many west coast-specific prints to check out in honor of some Disneyland favorites. The Disney World series likewise features some snacks you can only find in Disney World, starting with the Master’s Cupcake and Lemon-Raspberry Cream Puff — exclusive treats at Be Our Guest Restaurant! Belle’s books, Mrs. Potts, and Chip make cameo appearances, along with what I can only assume is an Enchanted Rose. Corn Dog Nuggets from Casey’s Corner are diving in to little teeny dishes of ketchup and mustard! Although, I like to think that one of those little yellow cups is full of Plastic Cheese! Just look at the variety of Mickey Ears topping all those little Nuggets! Oh, how I love this one… it’s an Iced Coffee and the BIG OL’ DONUT from Joffrey’s!!! While you can find Dole Whips on both coasts (thankfully!) this one is duking it out — while smiling, of course — with a Disney World Citrus Swirl! Which one wins for you? The gang’s all here with the Epcot Gourmet Popcorn print: Cheddar Cheese, Buffalo Bleu Cheese, and Sour Cream and Chive! You can find the Mickey Mousse Cake and Hot Chocolate Ganache at Amorette’s Patisserie in Disney Springs. You can check out the full selection of prints — including other collections — here. Just click on your image of choice, and select Full Details to see an enlarged image, or Purchase to find sizes with pricing (prints start around $7). Upon selecting your preferred size, you can also choose to Frame It to receive your prints ready-to-hang, with customizable matting should you choose. (Selecting Frame It will lead you to pricing options.) Customized Frame What’s YOUR favorite Disney World print ? Let us know which print you would choose 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: More Cute Disney Food Art! Halloween Edition You’re Going to Love This! “Cute Food Art” Featuring Iconic Disney Snacks! My Favorite Food Kiosks at Walt Disney World! What Are Yours? View the full article

We’re less than a week away from the Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend presented by Cigna and for the first time, this year’s events are celebrating Pixar! Get the ball rolling on your race-day outfit with this Pixar-inspired look. Taking influence from the theme of this year’s Disneyland Double Dare, roll on through to the finish line with this running outfit, inspired by one of Pixar’s original animated shorts, “Luxo Jr.” Featuring a classic ensemble of apparel from Champion and matching shoes from New Balance, add a final element of a handmade ‘star’ to complete the fun look. Take a look below for quick instructions on how to make your own Luxo Jr.–inspired outfit: Be sure to celebrate your own personal victory by adding your Disneyland Double Dare medal! Which Pixar character is inspiring your running style for the weekend? Let us know using the hashtag #DisneylandHalf on our social media channels! To learn more about other runDisney events, visit us here. Twitter: @runDisney Instagram: @runDisney Facebook: @runDisney
 YouTube: @runDisney View the full article

Disney MaxPass is now available at the Disneyland Resort! You probably already know that this new digital tool helps you maximize your day’s experience with unlimited Disney PhotoPass downloads and the convenience of mobile Disney FASTPASS through the Disneyland App. But did you also know … Guests who have tried it … love it! Check out these videos from popular YouTubers MrCheesyPop and Thingamavlogs to hear what they have to say about using Disney MaxPass. If you did not purchase theme park admission through the Disneyland App, it’s easy to add Disney MaxPass to your park ticket. You can purchase Disney MaxPass in the Disneyland App and connect it to your ticket by scanning the barcode on the back. Disney MaxPass includes unlimited Photopass downloads for the day! This includes magic shots, attraction photos and select Character dining photos. You can make your next Disney FASTPASS reservation even quicker with Disney MaxPass! As soon as your mobile Disney FASTPASS barcode has been scanned at an attraction, you can immediately reserve another attraction. Disneyland Resort Annual Passholders have the option of purchasing Disney MaxPass for the life of their current passport for $75. Signature Plus passholders will receive Disney MaxPass at no additional cost, as part of their annual passport entitlement. Try Disney MaxPass on your next visit to the Disneyland Resort! Guests are strongly advised to check the day’s FASTPASS ticket availability and other Park details before purchasing Disney MaxPass or using a Park ticket with Disney MaxPass as FASTPASS tickets for your preferred attractions may not be available at the time of purchase or use. FASTPASS tickets are limited and availability is not guaranteed. FASTPASS tickets may be obtained only while you are in the Parks and may not be available for entertainment through Disney MaxPass. An experience that does not have Disney FASTPASS availability at a kiosk will not be available using Disney MaxPass. The Disney MaxPass benefit will expire at the end of the day or when the Passport it is associated with expires, as applicable. Disney MaxPass is nonrefundable, nontransferable, may not be redeemed for cash and is subject to other restrictions. Price, terms, entitlements, attractions and entertainment are subject to change or cancellation without notice. Passholders who purchase the Disney MaxPass benefit may not use the value of any separate ticket media toward the purchase price of Disney MaxPass. Disney PhotoPass service is subject to the PhotoPass terms found in https://disneyland.disney.go.com/photopass-terms-conditions/. Online registration required. Disney PhotoPass Photos captured during the day your Disney MaxPass is used or during the validity dates of your Passport, as applicable, must be linked to your Disney account and may be downloaded pursuant to the expiration policy at https://disneyland.disney.go.com/photopass-expiration-policy/. Not responsible for missing, lost or damaged photos. Downloads are restricted to personal use by Disney account holder only and may not be used for a commercial purpose. Subject to restrictions and change without notice. Message, data and roaming rates may apply for the Disneyland app. Availability subject to handset limitations and features may vary by handset or service provider. Coverage and app stores not available everywhere. If you’re under 18, get your parents’ permission first. View the full article

First Look at The Beast in 'Beauty and the Beast' | Disney Cruise Line View the full article

When you’re having fun in the Disney parks, finding a healthful snack is easy with plenty of on-the-go snacks, from frozen fruit bars to fresh fruits and veggies. Some of our favorite go-to bites in the Walt Disney World parks: hummus with veggies and fresh fruit at the Gardens Kiosk at Disney’s Animal Kingdom; the carrot and celery sticks (with a little Ranch dressing) at Anaheim Produce at Disney’s Hollywood Studios; edamame at Kabuki Café at the Japan pavilion at Epcot, and fresh-cut pineapple spears at Aloha Isle in Adventureland in Magic Kingdom Park. And now it’s that time of year when little ones head back to school and parents are challenged with creatively and nutritiously feeding the family. We asked Cheryl Dolven, the manager of Food & Beverage Health & Wellness for Disney Parks and Resorts who also is a registered dietician for some tips. What’s a good go-to breakfast on the run? Smoothies or parfaits can be a great grab-and-go options as are breakfast sandwiches. There are some healthy, frozen ready-made options, but if you keep the right ingredients on hand these are quick and easy to assemble yourself. And for lunch boxes, what are some healthful nibbles to include? Ideally each lunch will include a fruit, a vegetable and a healthy protein source. Bento box-style lunch boxes are popular right now, making it easy to build a fun lunch each day with healthy components. Making homemade banana or zucchini bread or a healthy oatmeal raisin cookie is a nice way to serve up nutritious options that also are delicious. Kids usually arrive home hungry after school, what’s an ideal snack to have on hand? The key is the word “snack,” which is different than a “treat.” The ideal after school snack will provide nutrients that growing kids need. Foods like cookies, candy and soda are treats, not snacks. The ideal snack will have some carbohydrates and some protein. Snack time is an ideal time to get fruit and vegetables into little bodies – and what could be easier? Fruits and vegetables are the original fast food. Slice an apple, wash some berries, peel a banana, cut up a cucumber. Then pair the fruit or vegetable with a source of protein. For example, serve the berries with Greek yogurt or the cucumber with hummus. For older kids who can grab snacks on their own, you can create a “help yourself shelf” in your pantry or refrigerator. Keep “green light snacks” visible and accessible in this spot and “treats” out of sight and out of mind. For younger kids, you can add some creativity to make fruits and vegetables more appealing. Core an apple and stuff it with peanut butter mixed with and mini chocolate chips or thread fruit and cheese on skewers. View the full article

Calling all coffee and tea lovers – Tea Traders Café by Joffrey’s located in The Landing at Disney Springs debuted an awesome new offering last week. We present to you, Disney-character inspired coffee art. These delicious drinks are made possible with Joffrey’s new “Ripple Maker;” a brand-new, state of the art machine that uses proprietary technology to print edible toner (made of coffee dust) onto the top of any foamy beverage. The “Ripple Maker” machine takes about 20 second to print, and is the first and only location at Walt Disney World Resort using this special technology. Attendees of the D23 Expo in July were teased this new offering, which has now made its way to Disney Springs. Currently, 4 images can be printed onto your beverage – the Joffrey’s logo, the Disney Springs logo, our pal Mickey Mouse, and his best gal Minnie Mouse. Which one will you get? Be sure to share your first “Ripple Maker” experience at Tea Traders Café by Joffrey’s with us on Instagram and tag @DisneySprings and @JoffreysCoffeeandtea. View the full article

When our incredible new production of “Beauty and the Beast” debuts aboard the Disney Dream this November, audiences will be blown away by the portrayal of The Beast. In this next making-of video, go behind the scenes to see how our creative team is bringing to life a unique interpretation of this complex character. Check it out… Keep following along on the Disney Parks Blog as we go behind the curtain of a tale as old as time, and check out my past posts to learn more about this amazing new production-in-the-making: Dressing a Tale as Old as Time: An Exclusive Interview with the Costume Designer of Disney Cruise Line’s ‘Beauty and the Beast’ Opening the Music Box of “Beauty and the Beast” Aboard the Disney Dream Behind the Scenes of the New ‘Beauty and the Beast’ Musical Coming to the Disney Dream View the full article

Actor Matt Bomer is recognizable with his shirt off, thanks to the "Magic Mike" movie franchise. Now, Bomer will play a different role — surely with clothes on — as he retells the story of the birth of Christ. Bomer, also known for the “White Collar” television show, is one of the celebrities announced... View the full article

Labor Day and autumn may be right around the corner, but there’s one place where it’s (almost) always SUMMER… TYPHOON LAGOON! Typhoon Lagoon SURF’S UP! Wave Conditions And if you’re spending all day slidin’, splishin’, and splashin’, then you’re gonna need some of THIS… Food, Spirits, and Snacks … so you don’t end up feeling like THIS: Shipwrecked! And that’s where Typhoon Tilly’s and the Snack Shack — along with Typhoon Lagoon’s other Counter Service and snack kiosks — come in! Typhoon Tilly’s and Snack Shack Typhoon Tilly’s and Snack Shack sign You’ll find all sorts of options around the park, lining Castaway Creek and the Typhoon Lagoon Surf Pool, including Lowtide Lou’s, Let’s Go Slurpin’, and Leaning Palms. Counter Service Options in Typhoon Lagoon But Typhoon Tilly’s and the Snack Shack are in an especially popular area of the park, as they’re not too terribly far from the still-new Miss Adventure Falls attraction. Typhoon Tilly’s These two separate counters are housed side by side in one shared structure, but you’ll want to stop by both areas to check out the different offerings. Typhoon Tilly’s sign Typhoon Tilly’s focus is on full meals, with a couple of desserts thrown in for good measure (or to round out your Disney Dining Plan Quick Service credit). Typhoon Tilly’s Menu In keeping with the whole nautical theme of the area, seafood features more prominently than your typical Counter Service spot, with Fish and Shrimp Baskets (or a combo of both) listed alongside a Chicken Wrap, Turkey Sandwich, and Pork Sandwich. The Snack Shack next door has a couple of entrees of its own, too. Snack Shack These include the Shrimp Wrecked Salad, Buffalo Chicken Sandwich, and Tuna Sandwich. Snack Shack Menu And the Everything-on-a-Waffle craze has hit Snack Shake, too. Waffle Menu But the main difference is that the Snack Shack also carries a couple of cocktails (perfectly beachy Pina Coladas and Strawberry Margaritas) and plenty of ICE CREAM, including the Disney Water Park ice cream staple: the Sand Pail, which we’ll be checking out shortly! Close-up on Ice Cream and Desserts But first, a bite from Typhoon Tilly’s. Maybe it was the seafaring vibe of the area where Typhoon Tilly’s sits, but we couldn’t resist the Fish Basket. Fish Basket It comes with two battered fish pieces and french fries. Of course, the Fish Basket features your typical Counter Service thin cut fries, which are fine, but keeps it out of the realm of being a more traditional, proper fish & chips dish. (To be fair, they don’t call it that, so I guess I can’t be too picky ). Fish Basket But the fish pieces are are nicely battered to a crisp, golden brown, and though they’re on the smaller side compared to the fish pieces at Epcot’s Yorkshire County Fish Shop, the portion is still solid, and the fish is really tasty. Batter Closeup Not much more to say other than it’s just one of those hit-the-spot meals, especially when you work up a swim-induced hunger. My friend and I shared the meal, though, because we knew we needed to save some SERIOUS room. That’s because we simply had to try to tackle the SAND PAIL from the Snack Shack. The Sand Pail The Sand Pail is the Disney Water Parks take on a shareable sundae — not as large as the famous Kitchen Sink, but memorable in its own right due to the size, the mix-ins and the fact that it’s served in — what else? — a Sand Pail, complete with a “spoon” shovel! Shovel Spoon At Blizzard Beach, you’ll find it at Lottawatta Lodge and I.C. Expeditions, and you can also find it at Happy Landings in Typhoon Lagoon. The Sand Pail is packed with chocolate and vanilla soft-serve ice cream, waffle cone pieces, oreo cookie pieces, hot fudge and caramel sauce all topped with whipped cream, sprinkles, and a cherry. The entire top is whipped cream, which is good because even in August heat this helped the whole thing make it to the table without melting immediately. Toppings But, since the Sand Pail is filled with soft-serve ice cream instead of hard-scooped, the melting game is STRONG once you dig in. We were still able to discover oodles of waffle cone bits and chocolate cookie pieces inside. Waffle Cone Pieces Oreo Cookie Bits But the whole thing became Ice Cream Soup pretty quickly! Ice Cream Soup Still, all the fun and flavor of a traditional ice cream sundae was there. But it really was WAY too much for the two of us — at first glance, it doesn’t seem too huge, but there is a LOT packed in there. If your goal is finishing, I think I recommend a group of four (at the very least three) to take it on. That said, it was definitely fun to take part in a Disney Water Parks tradition! If you decide to catch a wave or two yourself, here’s hoping you have a great time on your trip to Typhoon Lagoon! What dish do you like to grab during a day in the Disney Water Parks? 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: Disney Food for Families: An Ode to the Sand Bucket Snack Series: “Ice Cream Sundae” Cupcake at Main Street Bakery News and Review: 24 oz. Seven Seas Lagoon Cocktail Debuts Disney’s Contemporary Resort View the full article

Two brand new narrators and two returning narrators have been added to the list for the 2017 Epcot Candlelight Processional! ©Disney Warwick Davis from Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi (Wicket!) and Willow, and Matt Bomer from White Collar and The Last Tycoon will be joining the Processional for the first time. And returning to the Processional will be Whoopi Goldberg (honored as a Disney Legend this year) and Chandra Wilson form Grey’s Anatomy. Candlelight Processional Narrators for some dates are still To Be Announced, but here is the current list: TBD: November 24 to 26, 2017 Matt Bomer: November 27 to 28, 2017 TBD: November 29 to 30, 2017 Whoopi Goldberg: December 1 to 3, 2017 Pat Sajak: December 4 to 5, 2017 TBD: December 6 to 8, 2017 TBD: December 9 to 11, 2017 Warwick Davis: December 12 to 14, 2017 Trace Adkins: December 15 to 17, 2017 Neil Patrick Harris: December 18 to 21, 2017 CCH Pounder: December 22 to 24, 2017 Jaci Velazquez: December 25 to 27, 2017 Chandra Wilson: December 28 to 30, 2017 Don’t forget! You can still reserve your Candlelight Processional Dining Package! See the full list of restaurants with pricing here! Holiday Disney Trip Planning? Pre-Order the DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World® Holidays 2017 to Jump Start Your Fun! The DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World® Holidays 2017 is a one-of-a-kind resource that will help you get the most out of your holiday vacation at Walt Disney World. We’ll guide you through all the special events, activities, and dining so that you can get the biggest bang for your buck! Yep — Our Holiday Guide covers everything Disney holiday-related — not just the food! And if you pre-order the 2017 Guide now, we will send you an instant download of the 2016 Guide so that you can start your planning right away! Then, you will automatically receive the 2017 Guide as soon as it’s published the Fall! As a special thank you to our readers for pre-ordering the DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World® Holidays 2017, we are also offering a discount. Enter discount code PreHoliday at check out, and receive 20% off the list price of $14.95! That’s both the 2016 Guide and the 2017 Guide for $11.95! Two for the price of one! Are you looking forward to the Candlelight Processional this year? 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: News! 2015 Candlelight Processional NARRATORS and Booking Available! News: 2014 Disney World Candlelight Processional Narrators News! 2017 Disney World Candlelight Processional Narrators and Dining Packages Announced View the full article

Week 1 Highlights | 30 Stays in 30 Days | Walt Disney World View the full article

More BIG news to share from the 2017 Candlelight Processional at Epcot. Our maestros of Christmas cheer have been working overtime to secure two new celebrity narrators – and two returning favorites for the holiday celebration. New to this year’s lineup include Matt Bomer (“White Collar,” “The Last Tycoon,”) and Star Wars fan favorite Warwick Davis, who played Wicket the Ewok in “Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi.” And returning this year are everyone’s favorite hard-driving Dr. Bailey from “Grey’s Anatomy,” Chandra Wilson – and newly-named Disney Legend Whoopi Goldberg, co-host of ABC’s “The View.” The Candlelight Processional presents the traditional story of Christmas in truly spectacular fashion – with a celebrity narrator, a 50-piece orchestra and a mass choir. Newcomers to the celebrity narrator spotlight this year include Daytime Television Legend Pat Sajak and TV star CCH Pounder, who was recently at Disney’s Animal Kingdom for the grand opening of Pandora – The World of Avatar. Returning favorites include television, film and stage superstar Neil Patrick Harris, country megastar Trace Adkins and Contemporary Christian music artist Jaci Velasquez. Here are the narrators confirmed so far:* Nov. 24- 26 – To Be Announced Nov. 27-28 – Matt Bomer Nov. 29 – 30 – To Be Announced Dec. 1-3 – Whoopi Goldberg Dec. 4-5 – Pat Sajak Dec. 6-11 – To Be Announced Dec. 12-14 – Warwick Davis Dec. 15-17 – Trace Adkins Dec. 18-21 – Neil Patrick Harris Dec. 22-24 – CCH Pounder Dec. 25-27 – Jaci Velasquez Dec. 28-30 – Chandra Wilson The processional is performed three times per night (5:00, 6:45 and 8:15 p.m.) during the holiday season at the America Gardens Theatre. These packages, available on select nights, include a delicious meal and a guaranteed seat for one of the Candlelight Processional performances. Availability is limited. As with last year, in addition to lunch and dinner packages, breakfast options are available at some favorite restaurants in and near Epcot again this year like Akershus Royal Banquet Hall and The Garden Grill. Breakfast, lunch and dinner options are also available this year at Captain’s Grille at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort,** with breakfast and dinner options being offered at Trattoria Al Forno at Disney’s BoardWalk. Candlelight Dining Packages for breakfast start at $35 plus tax per person for adults and $21 plus tax per person for children, ages 3-9. Candlelight Dining Packages for lunch and dinner start at $44 plus tax per person for adults and $15.50 plus tax per person for children, ages 3-9. Epcot provides an extravaganza of holiday entertainment, merchandise, food, beverages and festivities where guests can celebrate at Epcot throughout the holiday season. Time-honored traditions come alive through the sights and sounds of the countries of World Showcase, and live performances enliven the park throughout the day. Click here to book Candlelight Processional dining packages or to find out more information, call 407-WDW-DINE (407-939-3463). Keep checking the Disney Parks Blog for updates on holidays and Candlelight narrators. *Narrators and entertainment are subject to change without notice. Epcot admission is required and not included in the dining package price. ** (NOTE: Captain’s Grille is currently under refurbishment. Candlelight Packages will be available once it reopens.) View the full article

Halloween has officially returned to Magic Kingdom Park, with the first Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party kicking off tonight! This year, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Parties will be held on 32 nights throughout the fall season and will feature all kinds of fun frights. Many guests favorites are returning, including the Mickey’s “Boo-to-You” Halloween Parade, the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular, and Happy HalloWishes Fireworks Spectacular. Plus, partygoers of all ages can dress in costume (guidelines here), trick-or-treat throughout the park and experience dozens of attractions. Don’t forget, the parties also offer guests opportunities to grab event-exclusive merchandise and a special Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom card. As a reminder, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party requires a separate ticket (a party specific ticket) that can be purchased here and is available for the following dates. August 25, 29 September 1, 7, 10, 12, 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 26, 29 October 1, 3, 5, 6, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22, 24, 26, 27, 29, 31 November 1 What’s your favorite part of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party? Tell us in the comments section below. View the full article

Something 'Haunted' This Way Comes ... | Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party View the full article

In this week’s “Disney Parks After Dark” series, we’re switching it up and offering a video look inside Magic Kingdom Park after hours that only we could dare to get. The first Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party of the season will officially return tomorrow night, but it appears some of the residents of the Haunted Mansion have been preparing to step out in Mickey’s “Boo-to-You” Parade. We caught them practicing on Main Street, U.S.A. at the witching hour of midnight, of course. Check out the video above to watch the Gravediggers perfect their spine-tingling delights. Learn more about Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party or buy tickets now by clicking here. View the full article

Rocket needs your help to #SaveGroot at Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark — part of the expansion of Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort to Disney California Adventure park! Your adventure picks up moments after the events of the popular Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! attraction. The Guardians have successfully escaped The Collector’s Fortress, but they have accidentally left Groot behind! Rocket enlists you to distract the creatures that have been released so he can find and rescue his little buddy. While The Collector’s ever-resourceful assistant, Apheta, may try to assure you that it is all just a momentary setback, we advise you to proceed with caution! Once the sun sets each evening during Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort, Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! will transform into Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark. Music continues to be at the heart of the experience, and an all-new song, “Monsters After Dark,” was created especially for this attraction by Tyler Bates, composer of the “Guardians of the Galaxy” films. Help #SaveGroot at Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark, only during Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort, September 15-October 31! View the full article

Hey Guys! In today’s DFB Video, we’re giving you a little rundown of some of the most highly anticipated restaurants coming to Walt Disney World in the next few years! The Edison Complex at Disney Springs And SURE — that means waiting for spots like Galaxy’s Edge (the highly anticipated Star Wars-themed land) to open. But that’s, like, years away. And you don’t have to waiting anywhere near that long for the first spot to open. The Edison at Disney Springs is actually scheduled to debut later in 2017! Wanna know all the details? Then check out our latest video below! 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! What Disney World restaurant are you most looking forward to in the near future? Leave a comment and share what you’re excited about! 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: New DFB Video: Best Walt Disney World Restaurants for First Timers New Video: Best Disney World Restaurants for the Whole Family! New Video: BIG Disney World Dining Mistakes (We Don’t Want You to Make!) View the full article

With just a few more weeks left in summer, there is so much to do and see at the Disneyland Resort before the season ends. Take a look! What has been your summertime favorite at the Disneyland Resort this year? Tell us in the comments! View the full article