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As you make your way down the bustling stretch of Main Street, U.S.A., at Disneyland park you’ll find the 20th Century Music Company in a charming, Victorian storefront. Tucked between the Main Street Cinema and the Main Street Magic Shop, this cozy location offers a variety of fun, collectable items such as pins, lanyards, music soundtracks from some of your favorite Disney movies. A musical motif permeates this quaint shop. Walls are decorated with period props and details, including music sheets and instruments from this bygone American era. Intricate decor helps create an immersive shopping experience for our guests and brings the magic to life at one of our favorite shops. Main Street, U.S.A., holds a special place in the hearts of millions of Disney fans. Throughout the land, numerous windows have been dedicated to people across the Walt Disney Company who have helped make Walt’s many dreams a reality, like Imagineers, costume designers and animators. On March 11, 2010, Disney Legends Richard and Robert Sherman were honored with their own window on Main Street, U.S.A. Naturally, 20th Century Music Company was the perfect location to celebrate this iconic musical duo. The work of the melodious Sherman Brothers has been featured in our films and our theme parks including “Mary Poppins,” “The Jungle Book” and “it’s a small world.” Be sure to visit the “Two Brothers Tunemakers” on your next excursion to Disneyland park. They’ll write your tunes for a song! View the full article

Guide to Disneyland Park for First-Timers | Disney Parks Moms Panel View the full article

Calling all Disney Pin Traders! Yesterday, Shanghai Disney Resort released more than 20 new pin designs as part of its first-ever Pin Trading Fun Day, continuing a tradition that dates back to Walt Disney World Resort’s Millennium Celebration in 1999. Whether you’re a novice or an avid collector, these exclusive pins are a can’t-miss item to celebrate our newest Disney resort. Up first is our new Chinese Zodiac series with twelve Hidden Mickey Pins which are only available through cast member trading at Shanghai Disneyland. From the lovable Remy to the boisterous Tigger to the mischievous Kaa, these pins honor the twelve Disney characters you’ll find in our Garden of the Twelve Friends, each with their own unique artwork. We also unveiled a series of Pin Trading Fun Day 2017 designs including Toy Story, The Lion King, Winnie the Pooh, Alice in Wonderland, Lilo and Stitch, Mickey Mouse and other classic Disney characters. There’s even a mystery set with more Disney and Disney•Pixar favorites! We’re thrilled to bring this time-honored tradition to Shanghai ahead of the resort’s one year anniversary celebration in June, and we can’t wait to share more on what’s to come in the months ahead. Stay tuned on the Disney Parks Blog for updates from Shanghai Disney Resort. View the full article

In the film “Moana,” Hei Hei accidentally accompanies Moana on her journey across the ocean by stowing away on her boat. Throughout the film, we see hilarious moments as Hei Hei explores this new form of transportation. In this week’s Disney Doodle, artist Ashley Taylor imagines what this rooster would do if he had the chance to visit the Walt Disney World Resort. Looks like he’s found his way to another seaworthy vessel! “Hei Hei is an expert on riding boats,” Ashley said. “So it’s easy to imagine the Magic Kingdom ferry being his new favorite mode of transportation.” Check out more Disney Doodles below: Disney Doodle: Flash Visits Tomorrowland Disney Doodle: Tiana & Lottie Enjoy Disney Beignets Disney Doodle: ‘Kiss the Girl’ in Magic Kingdom Park Disney Doodle: Lumiere Visits The Haunted Mansion Disney Doodle: Mrs. Potts Bubbles With Excitement at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa View the full article

IT’S ON. The Walt Disney World’s Free Dining Offer is officially coming back and will be offered to guests for select dates in late August, September, November, and December 2017 (NOTE: There are no October dates this year, but if your check-in date is in late September, you can obviously take your stay into October). Disney World Free Dining 2017 Travel Dates Free Dining is being offered to guests ARRIVING during the dates listed below. A minimum stay of 3 nights is required and your package may not be booked for longer than 14 nights. August 21* – September 30, 2017 November 14 – November 20, 2017 November 25 – November 27, 2017 December 3 – December 23, 2017 You must book by July 7th to get the offer. *Canadian travelers and Disney Visa Cardholders may be able to book dates from August 13th. We’ll be updating the post throughout the day with details as we get them. (Please note that the offer excludes: campsites, 3-bedroom villas, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – Little Mermaid Standard Rooms, and Bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows as per Disney World’s website. Some sources are reporting more exclusions. Your mileage may vary. ) Disney Resorts If you stay at a Value or Moderate Resort, you’ll receive the Quick Service Dining plan for FREE. (Note that you can upgrade to the standard or deluxe dining plans by paying the difference in cost per night.) If you reserve a Deluxe or Deluxe Villa Resort, you will receive the standard Dining plan for FREE. (You can upgrade to the deluxe dining plan by paying the difference in cost per night). Minimum/Maximum Days You must book a minimum stay of 3 nights/maximum stay of 14 nights at a Disney-owned resort. (This is based on our calculations making trial reservations, though Disney does not specify a minimum stay this year.) You also need to purchase AT LEAST a 2-day Magic Your Way Disney World ticket with a Park Hopper AND/OR the Park Hopper Plus Option. Use this link to book! Will Free Dining Save You Money? Since Disney World’s Free Dining offer generally can’t be combined with other discounts, it’s often difficult to determine whether or not your family will save more money with a Disney World hotel room discount or with the free dining offer. We break down and compare the costs and options for several Disney World discounts, including the Free Dining offer, in our fully updated DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2017 Second Edition e-Book to help you save the most money possible. Along with over 650 pages of great Disney World dining advice, full color photos, and details, this book is a great deal. Get your DFB Guide to WDW Dining here, and speaking of saving money — use code “SAVE2017” to get 20% off today! With a full, money-back guarantee, there’s nothing to lose! Are you excited for Free Dining? 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! 2016 Disney World Free Dining Offer Now Available! News! 2015 Disney World Free Dining Offer Now Available! News! 2013 Disney World Free Dining Offer View the full article

Wow… we’re gearing up for a LOT of new experiences coming to Walt Disney World in the coming weeks. Next month, the new “Happily Ever After” nighttime spectacular will make its debut in Magic Kingdom, and Animal Kingdom will unveil an entire new LAND with Pandora — The World of AVATAR! “Happily Ever After” Concept Art ©Disney But, as always, there is plenty taking place in the here and now in Disney World, too. So, let’s take a look around the parks and resorts to find out What’s New! Animal Kingdom Check out the half-adorable, half-creepy new Panda Caramel Apple in Zuri’s Sweets Shop! (That thing really needs pupils.) Panda Caramel Apple I’m thinking this cutie is inspired by the new Disneynature film, Born in China. Also at Zuri’s, the Bulk Snacks lining the wall previously featured items like dried fruits and nuts. Those options have been replaced by the kinds of candies you’ll find in other confectioneries around Disney World. Sayonara, good-for-you stuffs. Zuri’s Bulk Options That said, there are a few Gummi items unique to Zuri’s like Flowers, Frogs, Butterflies, Turtles, Starfish, and Gooey-Filled Gummi Insects. Gooey-Filled Gummi Insects Pick up a Lotus Glow Cube in honor of Rivers of Light at the Feeding Ground Popcorn Stand, Thirsty River Bar and Trek Snacks, and various snack and ice cream carts around Asia. Lotus Glow Cube on Pink Lotus Beverage Here you see it topping the Pink Lotus from Thirsty River Bar and Trek Snacks. Imagine how fun this would look at night watching the show! Lotus Glow Cube on Pink Lotus Beverage Okay, maybe this will give you a better idea… Lotus Glow Cube In most spots, the glow cube is an additional $4 with your beverage of choice. Mr Kamal’s is now serving Mr. Kamal’s Seasoned Fries with Tzatziki Salad and Sriracha Ketchup (in place of the former Samosa). Mr. Kamal’s Menu Mr. Kamal’s Seasoned Fries Oh, and… PANDORA IS COMING!!! Bridge to Pandora — The World of AVATAR IT’S. SO. CLOSE. NOW. This bridge will allow entrance to the new Land which officially opens on May 27th!! Hollywood Studios If you’re in Hollywood Studios for Morning Extra Magic Hours as a Disney Resort guest, or starting your day at the park on a particularly heavy crowd day, you can now stop by Min and Bill’s Dockside Diner for breakfast. Min and Bill’s Dockside Diner A Breakfast Burrito is the featured item, offered along with items like Cinnamon Rolls, Bagels, and your morning cup o’ joe. A little later in the day, adult guests can also order one of the new cocktails on the menu. Min and Bill’s Menu These include the Patron Platinum Margarita, Frozen Lemonade with your choice of Bacardi Superior Rum or Dragon Berry Rum, the Kahlua and Cream Milkshake (made with chocolate or vanilla ice cream), or the one we tried: the Blue Long Island Iced Tea. Blue Long Island Iced Tea Look for a review of this — and the current lunch and dinner menu at Min & Bill’s — here soon! Eats at Min and Bill’s Dockside Diner More boozy options are available at the Oasis Canteen. Oasis Canteen A Barq’s Root Beer Float with Stoli Vanilla Vodka and a Dreamsicle Float made with Orange Juice and Stoli Vanilla Vodka are now being served. Oasis Canteen Menu The still relatively new Fast-Casual dinner service at ABC Commissary is currently offering a couple of appetizers in addition to the regular entree list. ABC Commissary Sign Look for Cheddar Jalapeño Poppers and Mediterranean Hummus as options to start your meal. Appetizers at ABC Commissary Cheddar Jalapeño Poppers You may already be familiar with Goofy’s Candy Co. Bagged Candy, which has been a park staple for years. Well, now Goofy has a little competition from a certain adorable astromech droid… BB-8 Orange Sour Balls … a Wookie… Chewie Blue Raspberry Gummies … and Kylo Ren. Cinna-Ren Cinnamon Candy And before I forget to say it, since it’s coming up soon… May the 4th Be With You!! Epcot We’re anxiously awaiting the opening of Choza de Margarita in Epcot’s Mexico Pavilion! Construction of Choza de Margarita That’s the new name for the upcoming tequileria that was previously announced as Choza Tequila. Construction of Choza de Margarita Construction of Choza de Margarita Click here to learn about updates to Epcot’s World Showcase Wine Walk, which now includes this acrylic wine glass. Acrylic Wine Glass The glass is refillable and can also be purchased for $5 even for those not participating in the Wine Walk. Acrylic Wine Glass At Kabuki Cafe in Japan, new Sake Mist flavors include Coconut Pineapple and Blackberry. Kabuki Cafe Menu Fortunately, the Blood Orange Sake Mist is still on the list. Blood Orange Sake Mist Also fortunately, the Chocolate Cherry isn’t . The Temari Sushi Combo and Futomaki Big Roll are new on the menu as well. Le Cellier is now offering a Porterhouse Steak for 2 on the menu. Le Cellier Menu It’s $119, or 4 Table Service credits on the Disney Dining Plan (a regular solo meal at Le Cellier is typically 2 credits for this Signature Restaurant). And right nearby at the Refreshment Port, the Stow Away Mary is available on a trial basis. Refreshment Port Be sure you read the garnish ingredients for this Bloody Mary carefully. Stow Away Mary sign I kind of love whoever came up with Chicken Breast Nuggets as a garnish . Magic Kingdom Happy Baseball Season, everyone!! Casey’s Corner is always the perfect place to celebrate the return of America’s National Pastime. Casey’s Corner It’s also where you’ll find the Featured Hot Dog of the Month: the Pizza Dog is topped with caramelized onions, sausage, cheese, pizza sauce, and basil. ©Disney Okay. It may not be the deeply missed old school Main Street Bakery Cinnamon Roll… Mickey Cinnamon Roll … but at least the new Cinnamon Roll at Main Street Bakery is MICKEY-SHAPED!!! And, as I mentioned earlier… we’re all getting a new evening spectacular at Magic Kingdom with “Happily Ever After,” which debuts on May 12th. Farewell “Wishes” T-shirt But in the meantime, I’d be remiss if I didn’t say, “Thank you, Jiminy.” Farewell “Wishes” Traveler Cups For ALL the wonderful, magical memories. Disney Springs Town Center Let’s give a warm welcome to the newest resident of Disney Springs. The Polite Pig has officially — and ever so politely — moved into the Town Center! The Polite Pig This modern barbecue joint features wood-smoked and grilled Southern fare, along with a unique beverage program with all drinks served on tap AND a Bourbon Bar with over 50 selections. The Southern Pig Old-Fashioned Find out our thoughts from our very first visit on the Pig’s opening day here! It’s not a trip to Disney Springs these days without checking out the current Dome Cakes at Amorette’s Patisserie. Amorette’s Patisserie Here is the lovely little Petit Spring Time Cake, which includes Champagne Mousse… among other ingredients . Petit Spring Time Cake But, still… Champagne Mousse! Petit Spring Time Cake Sign We are loving the Duo options at D-Luxe Burger which include two burgers, two drinks and fries to share. D-Luxe Burger So grab a buddy and get to gettin’! Classic Duos Menu West Side New signage has sprung up at the Candy Cauldron. Candy Cauldron Candy Cauldron Recent additions to the menu at The Dining Room at Wolfgang Puck Cafe include the Black Bean Soup, the Baby Beet Salad, and the Wolfgang Puck Chopped Salad to the Soups, Salads, and Starters. Wolfgang Puck Cafe You’ll also find Tagliatelle Primavera and Roasted Rack of Lamb under the Entrees. And the Pinkberry Martini, Coco Chanel, and White Chocolate Martini are the currently featured Cocktails. Menu for The Dining Room at Wolfgang Puck Cafe The World Showcase of Flavors Food Truck can most often be found in Exposition Park. Exposition Park Though in its earliest days, this particular Food Truck featured popular bites from the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival, these days you never quite know what you’ll find on its rotating menu. World Showcase of Flavors Food Truck Current offerings include a Chicken Cemita Sandwich, a Chilean Steak Sandwich, a Meatball Pomodoro Sandwich and a Pork Belly Ham and Cheese Sandwich. The Landing Let’s take a look at The Edison construction, where the signs have been changed to read “Opening Late 2017” (as opposed to the originally anticipated Spring opening). The Edison Construction The Edison Construction The Edison Construction At Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar, the Meatball Sliders have been replaced with Snakebite Sliders and Mac’s Pork Belly Sliders. The Shrimp Marrakesh is also new. Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar And you can now choose from different sauces with your Wu Han’s Hot Wings. Select one from Obi Wan Orange, Himalayan Zing, or Lao Che’s Revenge. Hangar Bar Menu Seasonal gelato flavors at Vivoli il Gelato include Rum Raisin, Amaretto, and Passion Fruit. Vivoli il Gelato Vivoli il Gelato Seasonal Menu Check out the new Chocolate Caramel Sundae and Waffle Bowl Sundaes (you can read all about the Nutella Brownie Sundae here). Vivoli Sundaes Menu And finally, the new Fresco Float features San Pellegrino Limonata poured over lemon and strawberry sorbet and topped with whipped cream and a strawberry. Fresco Float sign Portobello Country Italian Trattoria is closing for refurbishment starting April 24th. Portobello Restaurant Look for this Italian kitchen to reopen in the fall! (Word on the street is that Family Style service will be part of the offerings.) Marketplace DANG!!! Marketplace Snacks has totally stepped up their Dole Whip game! Marketplace Snacks in Downtown Disney First off: you can now get your Dole Whip in Float form as well as in a cup. Second: you can now SWIRL your Dole Whip with vanilla, making this the only Dole Whip location outside of Pineapple Lanai with the option to swirl. Marketplace Snacks Menu And THIRD: you can now purchase a Pineapple Rum Float. The new regional dishes at T-Rex are Pacific Rim-themed. T-Rex Restaurant Pineapple Chicken & Kalua Pork Rolls, Korean Spicy Stir-Fry Chicken and the Southeast Asian Trio make up the list. Pacific Rim Selections Meanwhile, the current regional selections at Rainforest Cafe are Caribbean-themed, with the Jamaican Rundown, Coastal Redfish and Cuban Mojo Steak & Shrimp. Caribbean Selections at Rainforest Cafe The Seasonal Salads at Earl of Sandwich are Avocado, Apple, Berry & Quinoa as well as Beet, Citrus, and Quinoa. Earl of Sandwich in Disney Springs Seasonal Salads And the Savory Crepes have returned to AristoCrepes. Crepe and AristoCrepes Kiosk Also, guests 21-and-over can now add a float of rum or vodka to their choice of beverage, one option of which is the new Frozen Lava Colada. AristoCrepes Menu Resorts BoardWalk Inn You can start your day with Rapunzel, Flynn Rider, Ariel, and Prince Eric at the Bon Voyage Adventure Breakfast! Rapunzel Flynn Rider Prince Eric Ariel This new Character Meal made its debut at Trattoria al Forno in early April. Pastry assortment at the Bon Voyage Breakfast King Triton’s Shipwreck al Forno Tower of Pancakes Read our review of this new experience here! Polynesian Village Resort Be sure to check the refrigerated cases in Captain Cook’s to find the Moana Coconut Cupcake. Moana Coconut Cupcake Fort Wilderness We’ve got a few updates from Fort Wilderness (in addition to the arrival of the Chuck Wagon Food Truck). Welcome to Fort Wilderness! Trail’s End is no longer serving an a la carte Lunch. The buffet Breakfast is still available from 7:30 am – 12:00 noon, and the buffet Dinner is served from from 4:30 – 9:30 pm. Trail’s End Brunch is served on select days from 7:30 am – 2:00 pm. And here’s a peek at the current menu for P&J’s Southern Takeout. P&J’s Southern Takeout Menu Along with a few New Offerings on the list. New Offerings at P&J’s Southern Takeout All Star Music The Contemporary isn’t the only Disney World Resort serving mammoth, made-for-two cocktails. Singing Spirits Bar This trend is starting to be seen all over Disney World, and the latest place we spotted it was the Singing Spirits Pool Bar. Made-to-Share Drinks Menu If you order a Rock Star or a Guitar Solo, it comes to you in THIS… HUGE Wine “Glass” … with two holes for straws to share! Cup Cover Aaaaaand that’s a wrap for this month’s What’s New! We’re signing off with a few sentiments we spotted at Mickey’s Pantry in Disney Springs… Sign in Mickey’s Pantry Sign in Mickey’s Pantry Sign in Mickey’s Pantry Sign in Mickey’s Pantry We’re with YOU, Pooh Bear!! Remember… Eat and Be Happy! Have you spotted something new in your own trip around the World? 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: What’s New Around Walt Disney World: February 28, 2017 What’s New Around Walt Disney World — January 23, 2017 What’s New Around Walt Disney World: October 20, 2016 View the full article

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Happy weekend! We hope you’re enjoying a couple days of rest and relaxation! Now it’s time to sit back with a cuppa tea or java, and check out the latest in Disney food news… . Cinnamon French Toast Bread Pudding at Sunshine Seasons The 2017 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival with its Outdoor Kitchens is in full bloom through the end of May, and we have all the menus and food photos for you! Don’t forget, the 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival starts in August this year! Whew!! And if you want even MORE food news, we also have news on the updated menus for the 2017 Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic! We have a lot to share with you this week, so let’s jump right in… Disney Food News We checked out grab-and-go menu at Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ Florida Kitchen! DFB was YouTube’s ‘Creator on the Rise’ this week! 38 Special is confirmed for this year’s Eat to the Beat Concert Series! Several permits have been filed for Marketplace Booths at this year’s Epcot Food and Wine Festival! The World Showcase Wine Walk now features a refillable wine glass! Goofy’s Powdered Candy is back at Walt Disney World! We talked about possible dates and details for the 2017 Free Dining offer that should be coming soon! Check out the sneak peek of specialty drinks from Pandora – The World of Avatar. We reviewed the Cinnamon French Toast Bread Pudding at Sunshine Seasons. Check out this guest review of the San Angel Inn in Epcot’s Mexico Pavilion. We review breakfast at Rancho del Zocala at Disneyland. New DFB YouTube video has all the details on How to Get Free Dining and Magic Kingdom table service restaurants you have to try! 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! 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 expecting the Free Dining Offer to come out, so we did a video all about the details! Check it out below — and subscribe here! Deal of the Week: Save on The 2017 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining e-Book Second Edition! This week we launched the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2017 Second Edition! To celebrate this milestone — the first time we’ve shared a second edition — and to say thank you to all of our loyal DFB readers – you can order the Second Edition for 20% OFF your purchase with code SAVE2017! Why a Second Edition, You Ask? Because it’s crazy, but true — EVERYTHING continues to change so rapidly at Walt Disney World these days. So many new restaurants, kiosks, bars and lounges, menu items, and more have come online. We are constantly go go go just trying to cover it all for our Disney World food lovers out there! So we decided it was time to produce the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, 2017 Second Edition now. We update everything with every new edition, so you can be sure that you’ve got the most recent details about dining in Walt Disney World at your fingertips. You can order your copy today for 20% off the cover price – just use code SAVE2017! With a 100% money back guarantee, you have nothing to lose! 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! Carthay Circle Restaurant at Disney California Adventure is a fantastic spot for dinner, and my good friend Eric Chu recently dined there as part of the World of Color dining package. He declared the Braised Short Ribs as “bomb-diggity.” “Bomb-diggity” Braised Short Ribs Boatwright’s Dining Hall at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside is one of those hidden gem locations at Disney World. And if you end up dining there you won’t be disappointed. DFB friend Amy Rhodes shared a few photos with us from her recent visit declaring the pork chops and okra “so good!” This all looks delicious! Do you have a favorite Disney Food find? Share your photos with us! On to the Round-Up! Mickey Fix spotted this fun ‘Finding Nemo’-themed coffee mug. WDW for Grownups shared their Top 5 Snacks in Epcot’s World Showcase. Oh My Disney shared a cute quiz about Disney Parks food and what it reveals about your personality. Disney Family shared a recipe for a super cute Minnie Mouse Grilled Cheese. 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: April 2, 2017 Disney Food Post Round-Up: April 9, 2017 Disney Food Post Round-Up: April 16, 2017 View the full article

Our exclusive “All in the Details” series exploring Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom continued this week with a detailed look at the land’s interactive plants and the different animals throughout the land. Pandora – The World of Avatar will open at Disney’s Animal Kingdom on May 27. Keep checking the Disney Parks Blog for more details on this new world. We also shared a first look at The Collector’s Fortress at Disney California Adventure park. The building is home to the soon-to-be-unveiled Tivan Collection, where guests will view the rare items in Taneleer Tivan’s extensive holdings, including his newest acquisitions: the Guardians of the Galaxy. Check out Erin’s original story for more details and images. And you can explore The Collector’s Fortress yourself when Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! opens May 27 at Disney California Adventure park. Here are some of the other stories we worked on this week. Frozen Summer Games Coming to Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park Starting May 26 – We’re very excited to share that the “Frozen” Summer Games will be returning to Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park starting May 26, with even more snowy, summery fun! New Star Tours Adventure Revealed at Star Wars Celebration – During Star Wars Celebration in Orlando last week, Star Wars fans got their first look at the teaser trailer for Star Wars: The Last Jedi. Fans attending a special panel discussion entitled Star Wars and Disney Parks: A Galaxy in the Making also learned that a new destination will be coming to Star Tours – The Adventures Continue at Disneyland park and Disney’s Hollywood Studios later this year featuring some of the iconic actions and locations showcased in the trailer! Classic Space Mountain Returns to Disneyland Park This Summer – Get ready to initiate power transfer in 3…2…1… when the classic Space Mountain returns to Disneyland park June 1! Tune in on May 7th for a Look at the Magic Behind Happily Ever After with the New Special – ‘Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings’ – You are cordially invited to take a behind-the-scenes look at how a dream wedding becomes a reality. Tune in on Sunday, May 7th at 8/7c on Freeform to see the premiere of the brand new television special – “Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings.” Super Heroes Arrive at Disney California Adventure Park During Summer of Heroes – It’s almost time to Hero Up! All-new epic adventures are headed to Disney California Adventure park when Summer of Heroes kicks off May 27, including the grand opening of Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! Inside the ‘Happily Ever After’ Score Recording Session – The new fireworks spectacular “Happily Ever After” is now less than a month away from debuting at Magic Kingdom Park and today we have a new behind-the-scenes look to share with you – a peek inside the recording session for the show’s score. View the full article

Sydney Devore of Lakeland and Samuel Souza Do Nascimento of Brazil triumphed in the second annual Star Wars Half Marathon -- The Dark Side at Disney World on Sunday, April 23, 2017. View the full article

In the time since Sydney Devore thought her running career was over, she taught English in South Korea, backpacked across southeast Asia and got engaged in Sweden. In the time since the Lakeland resident resumed running competitively, she set a personal best last month and shattered it Sunday morning... View the full article

Disney Parks Moms Panel Quick Tip | How to Spot Your Stroller View the full article

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Disney Parks Moms Panel Quick Tip | Arrive Early View the full article

Hey, Everyone! It’s that time of year — time for Disney to announce their FREE Disney Dining Plan offers in the U.S.! So in today’s DFB YouTube Video, we’re sharing with you our Top Tips for How to Get the Disney Dining Plan for FREE! In this video, we tell you all about the Free Dining Offer, what NOT TO MISS in the small print, and exactly how to maximize your chances of getting the offer when you book. Find out all the details in our How to Get the Free Disney Dining Video. And while you’re at it — sign up for the Disney Food Blog Newsletter, because we’ll have the information first, and we’ll pass it along to you immediately! By the way, have you subscribed to the DFB YouTube Channel? Subscribe now and you’ll never miss our most important and timely tips, just when you need them! But now, I really want to hear from you! Are you trying to score the FREE Disney Dining Plan? Tell us about it in 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: New DFB Video: Best Walt Disney World Restaurants for First Timers New DFB Video: Our Top 10 Disney Dining Tips! New DFB Video: The Disney World Mocktail Crawl! View the full article

Each April, we join together to celebrate this great planet and remind ourselves why it’s so important to take time to enjoy nature and do our part to protect it. As Earth Day approaches, we are excited to announce our 2016-2017 grants, helping us reach a milestone of more than $65 million in support to projects spanning 115 countries since the Disney Conservation Fund (DCF) was established in 1995. Here are just a few highlights from our 2016-2017 grant recipients, who together received grants totaling more than $7 million to support their efforts to protect wildlife and provide experiences that will help inspire a lifelong love for nature in young people. As part of the Increase the Time initiative, Disney is helping empower young people to create community-based solutions to big challenges facing other people, animals and the environment in 12 countries through Jane Goodall’s Roots & Shoots program; providing 16 communities with resources to improve local parks with National Recreation and Park Association’s Meet Me at the Park initiative; and encouraging kids and families to create backyard garden habitats for wildlife through the National Wildlife Federation’s Butterfly Heroes program. Additionally, as part of Disney’s Reverse the Decline efforts, we are contributing funding and expertise to protect 10 at-risk animals and providing more than 100 strategic conservation grants to support the worldwide protection of wildlife and ecosystems important to our company. This year, Disney’s support will help Panthera conduct outreach to monasteries and herders to empower local people to support the conservation of snow leopards in China, help San Diego Zoo Global protect vaquita porpoises – the most endangered marine mammal in the world – in Mexico and support the World Parrot Trust’s work to identify and protect critical habitat for Tasman parakeets in Australia. To learn more about our 2016-2017 DCF grant recipients, visit www.disney.com/conservation. With these grants, the DCF has now awarded more than $65 million to reverse the decline of wildlife and increase the time kids spend in nature. Since 1995, this support has: Helped to conserve more than 400 species around the world. Funded protection of 143,400 square miles of habitat – an area greater than 2,400 Walt Disney World Resorts. Helped provide tens of millions of kids with nature experiences. The majority of funding is provided by Disney and supplemented by guest contributions at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, The Seas and The Land at Epcot, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Vacation Club Resorts and select Walt Disney World resorts. View the full article

In honor of Earth Day, go Behind the Waves of Disney Cruise Line with Disney Channel star Jenna Ortega from the hit TV series “Stuck in the Middle.” In this final installment, Jenna discovers the many “bright” ideas Disney Cruise Line practices to conserve energy, from the design of our ships to the propulsion system that keeps the fleet on the move. At Disney Cruise Line, we’re dedicated to minimizing our impact on the environment year around and are always looking for innovative ways to increase fuel efficiency, reduce waste and promote conservation worldwide. You can learn more about Disney Cruise Line environmental efforts and check out the entire Behind the Waves video series starring Jenna Ortega here. View the full article

BB-8 Greets Guests at Disney’s Hollywood Studios | Walt Disney World View the full article

If you have fond memories of strolling through your favorite Disney World Park as a youngster (or as a not-so-youngster!), clutching a plastic tube full of flavored sweet and/or sour sugar, you might be a Goofy’s Powdered Candy fan. Goofy’s Powdered Candy While powdered candy is by no means new to Disney World (we first chatted about this sugary indulgence years ago), the current incarnation of the treat is somewhat updated. You see, around a year ago, Goofy’s Powdered Candy suddenly vanished from merchandise spots where it had been a staple for ages: place like the Main Street Confectionery, Epcot’s Mouse Gear, and the like. And then — just as suddenly — it came back on the scene to several of its previous locations (though not all… yet). Goofy’s Powdered Candy even showed up in places it hadn’t been seen before, like Zuri’s Sweets Shop in Animal Kingdom. BOOM! Powder Candy Station in Zuri’s Sweets Shop The set-up is the same: round, free-standing dispenser. Tube options of various lengths on the bottom (more on those later). Flavored sugar options circling above. Only a few things have changed: there are some updated graphics to help note the flavors, AND there are even some new tastes to try. In fact, there are as many as fourteen flavors (and so many combinations thereof!), so you might need to make multiple stops! Or, for all you parents out there who aren’t quite as delighted by the news of the return of powder candy, here’s some advance notice that you might need to steer the eyes of your little one away from the colorful, glittery beacons of sugar ;). Let’s go down the list. First up, you’ll notice that Blue Bubblegum and Birthday Cake are both designated as two of the “Sweet” options. Goofy’s Powdered Candy Flavors The other flavor family is “Sour,” with options including Green Apple and Lemonade. Goofy’s Powdered Candy Flavors For those who want to stray slightly off the beaten path, there’s Sour Peach and Sweet Rootbeer. Goofy’s Powdered Candy Flavors Ideas for mixing and matching abound as you make your way around the stand; for instance, Sweet Strawberry and Sweet Tropical Fruit would likely taste great together. Goofy’s Powdered Candy Flavors Sour Watermelon is intriguing, and Sour Wild Cherry is likely to be popular. Goofy’s Powdered Candy Flavors Sour Blue Raspberry and Sweet Cotton Candy join the mix. Goofy’s Powdered Candy Flavors And jewel-like shades of Sour Fruit Punch and Sour Grape are as fun to look at as they might be to eat. Goofy’s Powdered Candy Flavors Goofy’s Powdered Candy is a self-serve situation, so you select a tube of your choice and fill it with whatever flavors suit your fancy. On this visit, we went with a 6″ tube and filled it with three flavors: Sour Fruit Punch (that’s the blue one), Sweet Birthday Cake, and Sweet Rootbeer. Goofy’s Powdered Candy The tubes are easy to fill once you’ve completed the far more difficult task of choosing your flavors. Goofy’s Powdered Candy 6″ Tube The powdered candy texture is just right (read: the granules are very fine for ease of dissolving, so bear in mind that it can get on every inch of your clothing if you aren’t careful!). Goofy’s Powdered Candy Just as you’d expect, the powders are sweet and sugary — or just sour enough to cause you to pucker, where noted in the flavor names! But we were stoked to find that they also carried their designated flavors pretty well! Essentially, it’s like one big ‘ol customizable Pixy Stick (or Pixy Stix, to be proper, if you’re pluralizing by filling a few tubes ). Goofy’s Powdered Candy The powders do become somewhat mixed together once it’s time to tip the tube. All this means is that you’ll want to select flavors that are friendly with each other and will mix together well. Goofy’s Powdered Candy Otherwise, just tip it back and wait for the sugar rush to take over! As far as pricing goes, there are four options, delineated by tube length. Goofy’s Powdered Candy Prices You’ll note that the first three tube length options are all Disney Dining Plan snack credit options, so the 18 inch tube will best maximize your snack credit value at three times the powder of the smallest size. Divvying up a big tube among the fam can make two (or three or four) snacks out of one credit. No matter the math, though, the return of Goofy’s Powdered Candy brought a smile to my face. How about you? Don’t Miss Out on the ALL the Best Snacks Walt Disney World Has to Offer! Get four awesome e-Books bundled for 30% off the already discounted price! Limited time only… Our DFB Guide & Snacks Bundle offers: The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2017 Second Edition, PLUS The DFB Guide to Epcot Snacks, The DFB Guide to Magic Kingdom Snacks, The DFB Guide to Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom Snacks All four are being sold together — for 30% off the already hugely discounted bundle price. Use code BUNDLE17 at check out to get the discount. Our Snack Guides vibrantly display and review hundreds of Disney World snacks (!!), including classic favorites and some of our favorite under-the-radar treats and eats in the parks. Get your DFB Guide & Snacks Bundle — including the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2017 Second Edition, the DFB Guide to Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom Snacks, the DFB Guide to Epcot Snacks, and the DFB Guide to Magic Kingdom Snacks — for 25% off here. Find out more about the DFB Guide & Snack Bundle here! And with our 100% money-back guarantee, what do you have to lose? Did you love Goofy’s Powdered Candy back in the day? Let us know if you’re happy it’s back! 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: Review: Cookies and Cream Cupcake at Candy Counters in Disney World and Disneyland What’s New Around Walt Disney World: December 20, 2016 Review: Christmas Treats at Goofy’s Candy Company in Disney Springs View the full article

In the last #DisneyKids post we shared some funny thoughts from kids after they viewed the Festival of the Lion King show at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Today, we will take you to the Butterflies on the Go exhibit at the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. Watch these youngsters’ adorable reactions to the magnificent garden where more than a thousand butterflies, representing 10 species, flutter about. The exhibit is a captivating way to connect kids to nature as they explore the wondrous journey of the butterfly. The festival continues through May 29 with loads of fun for kids like the Music Garden Melodies Playground, whimsical gardens, a scavenger hunt and kid-friendly topiaries. Listen to what these kids had to say about the butterflies. Check out more videos in our #DisneyKids series: #DisneyKids: Turtle Talk with Crush at Epcot #DisneyKids: Friendly Competition at Toy Story Mania! #DisneyKids: Frozen Ever After in the Epcot Pavilion at Walt Disney World Resort #DisneyKids: ‘Festival of The Lion King’ View the full article

Watch this amazing split-screen look at a day in Magic Kingdom Park and Disneyland park, simultaneously! What does “World of Color” at Disney California Adventure park look like from 1,800 feet in the air? Find out in this video! The miniature garden railroad at the Germany Pavilion is always a must-see for me at Epcot. In this video, you can imagine riding those tiny rails yourself! View the full article

Sketches From The Park: Disney Artist Will Gay Paints Cinderella Castle View the full article

We’re in high gear here, closely monitoring all the news so that we can bring you the latest, most up to date info about the 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival! The festival will begin August 31 this year, and runs through November 13! That’s 75 days to eat, drink, and rock. Wait, what? Yep — Rock! Because the Eat to the Beat Concert Series keeps getting better and better! If you’re a newbie to the festival, we’ll bring you up to speed. Eat to the Beat features musical acts from the 70s, 80s, 90s, and 00s each year, and concerts take place most evenings of the Festival — not just during the weekends. The concerts are performed three times per evening, so you have three opportunities every night to see your favorite acts — at 5:30PM, 6:45PM, and 8:00PM. We already told you about some of the bands that we expect to see playing in the America Gardens Theatre during this year’s series. And recently, we learned that fan favorite 38 Special will be returning in 2017 once again as well! The Southern rock band will perform September 28 and 29, so mark your calendars if they are one of your favorites. © 38 Special Be sure to check out our Eat to the Beat page for all of the acts you can expect to see during the 2017 Eat to the Beat Concert Series as well as the very latest information on Eat to the Beat Dining Packages. And to stay up to date on all of the latest 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival news, subscribe to the DFB Newsletter! Start Your Planning NOW! News! The DFB Guide to the 2017 Epcot Food & Wine Festival e-Book is now available for pre-order! And if you pre-order the 2017 edition, you get the 2016 edition (with TONS of great info!) for FREE!!! This 250+-page guide to the Festival offers insider tips and advice as well as all of the details you need to know to plan your best Festival visit ever. Your purchase includes several bonus items as well — including a full daily schedule of events at the Festival and a printable World Showcase Booth Menu Checklist to carry with you as you Eat around the World! Order your 2017 edition today and we’ll immediately send you the 2016 edition for FREE to get started on planning right away! Don’t miss a moment of the fun! Use code Chefs at check-out for a 20% discount! Be sure to stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for all of the latest coverage about the 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival. We’ll have the details FIRST! Who are you looking forward to seeing during the Eat to the Beat Concert Series? Let us know in comments! 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! 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Eat to the Beat Concert Preliminary Bands Epcot Food and Wine Festival Eat to the Beat Concert Series Announced! News! 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Eat to the Beat Concert Preliminary Dates View the full article