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New on Blu-ray “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2” (Disney/Buena Vista DVD, $26.99; Blu-ray, $39.99; 4K, $44.98; also available on VOD) The interstellar superheroics of the original “Guardians of the Galaxy” become even brighter and zippier in the sequel, which puts Chris Pratt’s Peter “Star-Lord”... View the full article

WOW! Just two weeks ago we broke the news that Vanilla Dole Whip had returned to Aloha Isle. Learn About: Sunshine Tree Terrace Magic Kingdom Disney World Restaurants And now we’ve got MORE news regarding another Adventureland iconic snack… It’s the Citrus Swirl from Sunshine Tree Terrace! The tart orange slush (like frozen OJ) swirled with vanilla soft serve just got a MAJOR update. Because you can now get a Citrus Swirl Orange Float! Citrus Swirl Orange Float Here’s the deal: you won’t even see this on the Sunshine Tree Terrace menu… yet. Sunshine Tree Terrace Menu But it IS on the official Disney World online menus. Sunshine Tree Terrace Online Menu And you’ll notice — as you can tell in these pictures — that the Citrus Swirl Orange Float is the Citrus Swirl floating in a glass of bubbly orange soda. Citrus Swirl Orange Float So it’s an extra ORANGE BLAST from my friend and yours… the Little Orange Bird! Little Orange Bird Plush Now THIS is Florida in a glass, for sure! And remember… you can request it TODAY even though it’s not on the menu yet! Citrus Swirl Orange Float Cheers from Adventureland! Will you be ordering a Citrus Swirl Orange Float? 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: Snack Series: Citrus Swirl at Magic Kingdom’s Sunshine Tree Terrace Snack Series: Orange Bird Souvenir Cup at Sunshine Tree Terrace Secret Menu: Disney World Citrus Swirl…JUST THE CITRUS!!!! View the full article

There’s nothing more exciting than seeing a plan come together, but when it begins as a wish or a dream, and then becomes a reality? Well, that’s what we call MAGIC! Over the years, Disney PhotoPass Service has grown from a small, relatively unknown service at the Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort, to the present-day experience offered at Disney Parks & Resorts around the world. We’ve got thousands of Photographers working around the clock in six different time zones, capturing tens of millions of your treasured Disney memories. So, let’s take a quick look at what’s happening around the world for PhotoPass: Tomorrow, August 19, brings the return of Disney PhotoPass Day at Walt Disney World Resort—and the expansion of the celebration to Disneyland Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland and Shanghai Disneyland. It’s a celebration of photos, with each park offering a variety of unique and exclusive photo opportunities. And, as we announced earlier this week, each park will feature exciting opportunities to meet your favorite Disney Princesses as part of our “Dream Big, Princess” campaign. Feeling the inspiration, but can’t make it to one of our Disney PhotoPass Day events? Not to worry—help bring the hopes and dreams of women around the world to focus when you share or like any public post of a photo using #DreamBigPrincess on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. From August 15-October 11, 2017, Disney Worldwide Services will donate US $1 for a minimum donation of US $500,000 and a maximum of US $1 million. For our friends near the Disneyland Resort, time’s-a-wasting for your chance to experience our Summer of Heroes before it ends September 9! Discover your inner hero when you meet some of your favorites face-to-face! Don’t miss your chance to spot the Reclusive Black Widow, hang with Spider-Man or stand with Captain America. And now, capturing your Disneyland Resort memories with PhotoPass is even easier than ever, with a MaxPass purchase or upgrade. MaxPass entitles you to unlimited digital PhotoPass photos for either a day, or the lifetime of your qualified Annual Passport. Click here for more info on how to capture your best PhotoPass photos and Maximize your Visit with Disney MaxPass. And, check out how our partners at Tokyo Disney Sea have taken photo props to a whole new level, as they wrap up their Disney Pirates Summer on August 31st. Aye, tales there be plenty in this cursed place…sail on over and capture your favorite memory before time runs out! So, no excuses…hop on a bus, take a plane, jump in that ferry or drive over to your favorite Disney Park to create and capture your favorite PhotoPass memories. Don’t forget to tag us at #DisneyPhotoPass so we can follow along! View the full article

Here’s a rare glimpse of the “Remember … Dreams Come True” fireworks spectacular from the Fireworks Factory in Mickey’s Toontown at Disneyland park. Consult your guide map for Mickey’s Toontown operating hours. View the full article

Walt Disney World was buzzing yesterday while thousands descended upon Disney Springs to audition to become the next American Idol. Idol-winners Jordin Sparks, Kris Allen and Ruben Studdard made a special appearance and greeted lucky audition participants during the kickoff celebration of the search for America’s next superstar. If you didn’t make it don’t worry because you still have plenty of audition options. You can become a part of Idol history by auditioning via the American Idol pop-up audition kiosk, now at the Marketplace stalls right here at Disney Springs through mid-September. During regular Disney Springs operating hours, visitors can create and submit their very own audition video at the kiosk. The Idol Bus tour continues through September 14th hitting Boston, Chicago, Pittsburgh, Denver, Louisville and many more. To see the full list of Idol bus stops and to audition online visit americanidol.com. Click the video below to see the excitement from the auditions at Disney Springs. All singers must be at least 15 years old to audition. To pre-register and for additional details, full eligibility requirements, submission forms, and terms and conditions, visit americanidol.com. View the full article

With winners in all 50 states and more than 75 countries, each year Wine Spectator magazine honors restaurants with outstanding dedication to wine. Eight Disney restaurants are among the 2017 honorees, noted for “elevating wine selection and service around the world and encouraging strong programs that complement a variety of cuisines, settings and prices.” Three restaurants won the “Best of Award of Excellence,” honoring wine programs that “take their commitment a step further, wine lists that display excellent breadth across multiple regions and/or significant vertical depth of top wines, along with superior presentation.” 1. Napa Rose at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa 2. Shula’s Steak House at the Walt Disney World Dolphin 3. Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Five restaurants won the “Award of Excellence,” recognizing restaurants whose wine lists feature a “well-chosen assortment of quality producers along with a thematic match to the menu in both price and style.” 1. Cítricos at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa 2. Flying Fish at Disney’s BoardWalk Resort 3. Il Mulino New York Trattoria at the Walt Disney World Swan 4. Narcoossee’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa 5. Todd English’s bluezoo at the Walt Disney World Dolphin Since 1997, more than 1,400 Walt Disney Parks and Resorts cast members have been accredited with a sommelier diploma through the Court of Master Sommeliers Americas – with 9 receiving the Advanced Sommelier Diploma and 3 receiving the highest honor of Master Sommelier. View the full article

Get set for a magical Pixar weekend of fun-filled runs as the Disneyland Resort from August 31-September 3. Guests attending this exciting weekend will find a variety of commemorative products created especially for the event. I recently spoke with Mary Myers, Merchandise Product Developer for runDisney events, who told me participants will find both beloved favorites and a few new options to remember their races. “We had fun developing products for the Pixar-themed event this year,” explained Mary. “We included characters from ‘Toy Story,’ ‘Monsters, Inc.,’ and ‘The Incredibles’ in the artwork, which is something we haven’t previously featured at a runDisney event. Guests will find popular returning items such as ‘I Did It’ shirts, pins, and car magnets. We are also introducing several new things including Tervis drinkware and a Pixar-themed runDisney medal holder.” Guests will find a logo assortment for the overall race weekend which includes apparel, a hat, drinkware and pins. Mary also told me the black zip jacket, a pre-order item, will also be available at the event for those guests who may have missed it. Buzz Lightyear, Woody, and Jesse from “Toy Story” are showcased on products for the Disneyland Half Marathon. Products will include shirts, a zip jacket, car magnet, and pins. The back of the tank top has a fun nod to a popular phrase uttered by the Little Green Men. The Disneyland 5K items will feature Mrs. And Mr. Incredible and their family, while favorite scarers from Monstropolis, Mike and Sulley, will be found on Disneyland 10K products. Look for apparel, pins, and magnets. This year also marks the 5th Anniversary of the Disneyland Double Dare, the ultimate challenge that combines the 10K on Saturday with the Half Marathon on Sunday. Select items created for this races will include a 5th Anniversary logo found in the artwork. Finally, we will continue the series of commemorative shoe ornaments inspired by various runDisney events. This new ornament includes a nod to Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland park. Look for these items and more at the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo in the Disneyland Hotel Exhibit Hall during the following dates and times: August 31 – 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. September 1 – Noon – 8 p.m. September 2 – 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. View the full article

We’re used to seeing our favorite Disney characters in parades, at meet-and-greets, and at Character Meals. Mickey Mouse at Garden Grill But seeing them ON OUR DRINKS is something new! Mickey Mouse!! The Joffrey’s Tea Traders Cafe in Disney Springs is where you can find MICKEY MOUSE right on top of your coffee! Mickey Mouse-topped Frozen Cappuccino OR Minnie! You can even get the Disney Springs logo, if you’d like. (but why?) Above you see Mickey gracing the top of a Frozen Cappuccino, but you can get the character toppers “printed” by the machine on nearly any hot or cold Joffrey’s coffee drink of your choice. Joffrey’s Tea Trader’s Cafe Close-up on Machine Be sure to ask the baristas first about your character topping, though! This is a BRAND NEW option, so the process is still new! Another small note: you’ll want to pass on the whipped cream, because the characters look best on a flat top. Mickey Mouse-topped Frozen Cappuccino At this point, we believe character options for beverages are ONLY available at the Disney Springs Joffrey’s, Tea Traders. So head to Disney Springs, and be sure to have your camera ready… Mickey Mouse-topped Frozen Cappuccino … for a little coffee with CHARACTER! Will you be grabbing some Mickey-topped coffee in Disney Springs? 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: DFB Tip: How to Score a Discount on Joffrey’s Coffee and Tea in Disney World News: Disney World Joffrey’s Kiosks Serving Coffee for a Dollar on September 29th for National Coffee Day News: Celebrate Mickey Mouse’s Birthday with Special Treats at Walt Disney World and Disneyland! View the full article

There is just never a dull moment when it comes to bringing you the latest 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival news. Today, we’ve learned that there have been major updates to three of the festival’s Marketplace Booth Menus. If you’re not familiar with the way that the festival works, the Marketplace Booths are the small kiosks that serve the special food and drink items throughout Epcot during the festival. For many folks, these booths ARE the festival — and in 2017, you’ll be able to make stops at 35 booths total, to mark the 35th anniversary of Epcot. So, what’s changing? Let’s take a closer look. Mexico One of the festival’s most popular booths, Mexico has rolled out an entirely updated beverage menu. Mexico Marketplace Booth Previously, they had planned to serve the following: Prickly Pear Margarita Classic Pomegranate Margarita Mexican-style Sangria Pacifico Lager with Floater Mexican Sangria But that menu has changed a bit: Spicy Apple Margarita Classic Lime Margarita Mexican-style Sangria Corona Draft Beer with Floater Mexican Mule There’s some cool stuff there! Raise your hand if you’re intrigued by the sounds of the Spicy Apple Margarita! We recently had a chance to try the Mexican Mule at La Cava del Tequila, and it’s awesome, too. Mexican Mule With tequila in place of the traditional vodka, you get those wonderful flavors paired with the zip of ginger beer. Almond Orchard New-for-2017 booth Almond Orchard is also upping its game. Previously, the only food item here was the Banana Almond Sundae layered with Fresh Berries and topped with Dark Chocolate and Blueberry Almonds. While we enjoyed tasting it at the previews, we couldn’t help but wonder if it was worthy of a whole booth. The Banana Almond Soft Serve Sundae at Almond Orchard Booth But now, that sundae has company on the Food Team. Here are the new dishes they’re rolling out: Cauliflower Risotto with Pulled Chicken, Artichokes, Spinach and Parmesan Cheese and Aged Balsamic Fire-roasted Tomato Hummus topped with Blue Diamond Salt & Vinegar Almonds and served with Blue Diamond Nut Thins® Banana Almond Soft-serve Sundae with Fresh Berries and Crunchy Chocolate Oats (<— “Crunchy Chocolate Oats.” Sign me up.) And while you can still get your fill of high-end Champagne at Almond Orchard, the previously planned Cold Brew Coffee with Almond Milk Foam has been replaced with a non-alcoholic Strawberry Smoothie made with Blue Diamond Almond Breeze® Almondmilk. Hooray! Another option for the kiddos (and we’re hoping vegans too!). Start Your Planning NOW! News! The DFB Guide to the 2017 Epcot Food & Wine Festival e-Book is now available to order! 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. We cover every single World Showcase Booth, and include full-color photos for most of the food items being offered at this year’s festival! 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! 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! Italy Another festival favorite, Italy, has also undergone a major menu transformation. Italy Booth The planned menu previously announced was: Crispy Calamari with Spicy Pomodoro Sauce Costoletta di Agnello alla Marchigiana: Braised T-Bone Lamp Chops and Potatoes with Vidalia Onions, Thyme, Bay Leaf and Lamb Jus Absolut Penne: Vodka Sauce with Shrimp Cannoli al Cioccolato: Chocolate-covered Cannoli filled with Sweet Ricotta, Chocolate and Candied Fruit It’s now been replaced with: Crispy Calamari with Spicy Pomodoro Sauce Spezzatino con Polenta: Beef Stew with Parmesan Creamy Polenta Cannoli al Cioccolato: Chocolate-covered Cannoli filled with Sweet Ricotta, Chocolate and Candied Fruit Spezzatino alla Toscana con Polenta from the 2016 Italy Booth So, while we were excited that Italy was really stepping up its game this year…womp womp. We’re back to two items we’ve had at previous festivals and some calamari. Which is good, but not exciting. (And here’s a TIP: you can still find a “lamb T-bone” at the Australia booth.) Finally, we’re also noticing that Farm Fresh has added a cider flight. And with interesting options such as Two Henrys Elderberry Cream Hard Cider and Gumption Citrus Freak Hard Cider, we’re pretty excited to see this. See? This is why we tell you guys to stay tuned. New Food Photos! But we’re also getting a first glimpse of a few more of the dishes that we can expect to see during our tour of the booths on opening day. Don’t forget to stay tuned: Disney Food Blog will be on the ground August 31, bringing you more photos of actual dishes the day the festival opens! In the meantime, we’ll share the Disney photos. We’re pretty excited to try the dishes! We’ll be stopping at Farm Fresh for sure to sample the Crispy Chicken with Griddled Cornbread and Red Eye Gravy. Crispy Chicken with Griddled Cornbread and Red Eye Gravy © Disney Next, we’ll head over to Hawai’i to try LOTS of new things. We’ve already shared with you how much we loved the Teriyaki-glazed SPAM® Hash with Potatoes, Peppers and Onions and Spicy Mayonnaise. But we’re also looking forward to trying the Tuna Tataki as well as the Passion Fruit Cheesecake with Toasted Macadamia Nuts. Tuna Tataki© Disney Passion Fruit Cheesecake © Disney Fans of the Bread Service at Sanaa will no doubt flock to the Warm Indian Bread with Pickled Garlic, Mango Salsa and Coriander Pesto Dips. Find it at the India Booth. Indian Breads © Disney And finally, we know that lovers of Spanish cuisine will be anxious to try Spain’s Paella. Paella © Disney It’s almost here, you guys! Want More Epcot Food and Wine Festival Info? We’ll have all the coverage and information you need right here on Disney Food Blog! 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Index 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Booth and Menu Index 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Special Events 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Low-Cost Seminars and Demonstrations 2017 Eat to the Beat Concert Schedule Epcot Food and Wine Festival Fans Facebook Page 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Wine and Dine Half Marathon 2017 Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic Food and Wine Festival 101 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Gluten Free Items How to Book Epcot Food & Wine Festival Events To book all special events and demonstrations, call 407-WDW-FEST (939-3378) starting July 20 at 7:00AM ET. Culinary Demonstrations and Beverage Seminars and general admission for some special events may be bookable online at www.epcotfoodfestival.com as well as by phone. Tables in Wonderland members, Annual Passholders, Disney Vacation Club Members, and Golden Oak Residents are eligible for a $2 discount (per person, per event) for beverage and seminars and culinary demos taking place Mon-Thurs during the festival. Members of these groups can also book all Special Events early on July 18th beginning at 9:00AM ET. Discounts are by phone only at 407-WDW-FEST (939-3378). Stay tuned to DisneyFoodBlog.com and the Disney Food Blog Newsletter for details. Chase Disney Visa Cardholders will not have early access to booking. Are you looking forward to checking out these new additions to the Epcot Food and Wine Festival? 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! Epcot Food and Wine Festival 2017 Dates!! News! 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival BOOTH MENUS, FOOD PHOTOS, and SPECIAL EVENTS Details! News: Gluten Free Eats at the 2017 International Food and Wine Festival at Epcot! View the full article

We’re continuing our celebration of summer fun here on the Disney Parks Blog with a special #DisneyParksLIVE stream of “Rivers of Light” on Tuesday, August 22. In case you haven’t seen this amazing nighttime show at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, “Rivers of Light” celebrates animals and nature by combining floating set pieces, lanterns, a soaring musical score, fountains and more. The show’s storytellers “narrate” this emotionally moving show through a combination of dance, music, song and shadow puppetry. Our live stream of “Rivers of Light” will begin Tuesday, August 22 at 8:40 p.m. EDT. A fresh blog post with the live video will appear at the top of the Disney Parks Blog Tuesday night right before the show. And as always, to follow along on Twitter, use the hashtags #DisneyParksLIVE. View the full article

Oh, BOY… If you’re going to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party this year, there are even more extra TREATS than ever before in store for you!! Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party In addition to trick-or-treating spots all over Magic Kingdom, extra special snacks will be available for purchase around the park throughout the party. ©Disney !!!! Yeah, we’ll be telling you where you can get your hands on THAT awesomeness VERY soon. First things first, though… a few spooky snacks will be available in the Magic Kingdom ALL DAY, no matter whether you’re attending the Party or not! ALL DAY TREATS The Main Street Bakery will give the Mickey-shaped Cinnamon Roll a seasonal makeover. ©Disney Also look for a Mickey Halloween Cupcake, which will have a chocolate cake base filled with purple marshmallow fluff and topped with orange vanilla buttercream and a white chocolate scarecrow Mickey. AND Plaza Ice Cream Parlor will start selling PUMPKIN Ice Cream for the fall! PARTY EXCLUSIVE SNACKS Now, the rest of these snacks are only available for Party guests. Let’s conjure them up now! Haunted Mansion Dessert Hunt So, back to the amazing Haunted Mansion Desserts pictured above… in fact, let’s show them again, shall we? Because this is seriously awesome. ©Disney Now, how do you get them? You’ll have to make FOUR stops to collect — and taste! — them all! Aloha Isle will feature a chocolate tart filled with chocolate ganache and topped with Oreo panna cotta and a white chocolate Haunted Mansion-inspired portrait. Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies will serve a chocolate tart filled with raspberry compote and topped with white chocolate mousse and a Haunted Mansion-inspired white chocolate portrait. Liberty Square Market will conjure up a chocolate tart filled with chocolate ganache and topped with peanut butter icing and a Haunted Mansion-inspired white chocolate portrait. And Storybook Treats will serve the chocolate tart filled with lemon curd, strawberry compote and topped with strawberry mousse and a Haunted Mansion-inspired white chocolate portrait. Gaston’s Tavern Totally sweet, right? But that’s not all…. Find the Pumpkin Cheesecake Dome at Gaston’s Tavern! ©Disney This one boasts a graham cracker streusel base, orange white chocolate glaze and a white chocolate Mickey. Sleepy Hollow Skulls up, Jack Skellington fans! You’ll find the Jack Skellington Dessert at Sleepy Hollow! ©Disney It’s made of vanilla panna cotta, chocolate cake, vanilla buttercream, white chocolate and dark chocolate crisp pearls, dark chocolate curls and a white chocolate Jack Skellington. HOORAY!! The Pumpkin Waffles are coming back to Sleepy Hollow, too! Only this time, the dish is improved by not just any old waffles. Its a Pumpkin MICKEY WAFFLE Sundae this year! ©Disney They’re complete with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, sprinkles, and caramel sauce like before. Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn & Cafe It’s “Boo to you!” with the Worms and Dirt Gravestone you’ll find at Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn & Cafe. ©Disney Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies There’s a location change for the Candy Corn Ice Cream this year. Find it at Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies in Tomorrowland (instead of Storybook Treats). Outdoor Carts Finally, outdoor carts and kiosks all over the park will offer Chocolate Rice Crispy Treats and Vampire Mickey Brownies. ©Disney Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party kicks off August 25th, and DFB will be there on the 29th! Be sure to follow us on facebook and instagram for all the live stream details! Are you going to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party 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: Sneak Peek: Special Treats Coming to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party in Disney World News! Halloween Treats Return to Disney World’s Magic Kingdom for Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Exclusive Treats Return to Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party in Disney World View the full article

Halloween kicks off early this year in Magic Kingdom Park, with Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party on select evenings beginning Aug. 25, fun-filled evening with trick-or-treating throughout the park, eerie entertainment and Disney characters that go bump in the night. But it’s more than a dozen specially created treats – some available only during the parties, some all day in Magic Kingdom Park – that are most delectable (and Instagrammable). Here’s the sweet rundown: New treats offered all day, every day, beginning Aug. 25-Nov. 1 Stop in the Main Street Bakery for a bright orange Mickey Halloween Cupcake with chocolate cake filled with purple marshmallow fluff topped with orange vanilla buttercream, sprinkles and a white chocolate scarecrow Mickey. The Mickey-shaped Cinnamon Roll takes on a spooky twist with orange icing and a chocolate spider web. Plaza Ice Cream Parlor will scoop up pumpkin-flavored ice cream. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Treats (party nights only): Pumpkin Cheesecake Dome with a graham cracker streusel base, orange white chocolate glaze and a white chocolate Mickey can be found at Main Street Bakery and Gaston’s Tavern. Jack Skellington gets his own dessert at Sleepy Hollow in Liberty Square – a vanilla panna cotta, chocolate cake, vanilla buttercream, white chocolate and dark chocolate crisp pearls, dark chocolate curls and a white chocolate Jack Skellington. The artistic Haunted Mansion Desserts – each with a different flavor and themed chocolate accent – can be tracked down at: Aloha Isle – chocolate tart filled with chocolate ganache and topped with Oreo panna cotta and a white chocolate Haunted Mansion-inspired portrait. Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies – chocolate tart filled with raspberry compote and topped with white chocolate mousse and a Haunted Mansion-inspired white chocolate portrait. Liberty Square Market – chocolate tart filled with chocolate ganache and topped with peanut butter icing and a Haunted Mansion-inspired white chocolate portrait. Storybook Treats – chocolate tart filled with lemon curd, strawberry compote and topped with strawberry mousse and a Haunted Mansion-inspired white chocolate portrait. A Pumpkin Mickey Waffle with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, sprinkles and caramel sauce will be offered at Sleepy Hollow. Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Café will offer Worms and Dirt, a chocolate gravestone with chocolate cake and chocolate mousse with a chocolate glaze topped with Oreo crumbs, and gummy candy. Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies in Tomorrowland will dish up Candy Corn Ice Cream. Grab Chocolate Crisped Rice Treats and Vampire Mickey Brownies at various outdoor vending and kiosks throughout the Magic Kingdom Park. For tickets, party details and official costume rules, click here. Dates are Aug. 25 and 29; Sept. 1, 7, 10, 12, 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 26 and 29; Oct. 1, 3, 5, 6, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22, 24, 26, 27, 29 and 31, and Nov. 1. View the full article

We love a little intrigue as much as the next person, but nothing beats finding out about a secret thing, right? And so today, we’re talking about Disney Food Secrets in our latest DFB Video. But here’s the cool part: we’re uncovered quite a few, so this is Part 1 in a two part series! Sprinkles! For instance, did you know that you can use your third party rewards, like Sprinkles Perks, at Disney? You totally can! And those buttons for your birthday or anniversary that you can get at Guest Services are more than just super cute accessories. That can score you extra magic during your time around the parks and resorts. Find out all of our tips and tricks by watching our latest DFB Video. Did you love this video? Yay! Then PLEASE head over to the DFB YouTube Channel and watch all of our videos. And have you subscribed yet? Subscribe by clicking on the button below, and you’ll never miss a single episode! So check out the video and then let us know: what’s your favorite free stuff at Disney? Let us know by commenting! 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: How To Get FREE DINING in Disney World! (And the Small Print You NEED to Know.) New DFB Video: Our Top 10 Disney Dining Tips! New Video: 10 FREE Things to Do in Walt Disney World! View the full article

Hey Guys! We’re back with another DFB Video today, and we’re getting down to the serious business of what you MUST eat in Disneyland — Part 1! Monte Cristo Sandwich at Cafe Orleans Yep — there is so much good stuff in Disneyland that we had to split this one into two episodes, or we’d all run the risk of overstimulation! In this first video, we’ll start you off at River Belle Terrace. This classic spot has been around for ages, but these days, it’s table service. And it’s also the home of some secret menu items: Loaded Tots! You Guys. I promise. You need these in your life. But THEN, we head to Cafe Orleans, where I share my favorite picks from that classic menu! Learn all about them, plus other wonderful foods that you MUST eat in Disneyland in Part 1 of our video series! 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 watch the video and then let us know which MUST Eat Disneyland Foods you can’t wait to try! 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: Cafe Orleans in Disneyland New DFB Video: Best and Worst Disneyland Park Sit-Down Restaurants! New DFB Video: Stage Door Cafe in Disneyland’s Frontierland — A Hidden Gem! View the full article

A few weeks ago, we received the news that BaseLine Tap House will be opening this fall in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. ©Disney This new spot will serve up California beers, wines, and ciders along with a few small bites in what will be the Grand Avenue section of the park. And the offerings are fitting since Grand Avenue will be a celebration of downtown Los Angeles, complete with facades representing retail locations such as a music shop, loft apartments, and a tailor, among others. Of course, this will bring to mind the shop and restaurant facades that previously made up this section of the park when it was known as the Streets of America. Streets of America And as a matter of fact, Grand Avenue will combine a portion of the Street of America with the space currently designated as Muppets Courtyard. There, the two restaurants in this area — PizzeRizzo and Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italian — and the surrounding shops will all become a part of what will be Grand Park; essentially, an “urban square” off of Grand Avenue. PizzeRizzo — The City’s Top Rated Pizza One of the first changes you can spot already is that the Muppets Theater — home to MuppetVision 3D — is now known as Grand Arts Theater. Muppet Courtyard It’s coming this fall, y’all… which isn’t very far away at all! We’ll look forward to reporting to you from Grand Avenue — and Grand Park! — soon! Are you excited to check out Grand Avenue and Grand Park? 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: BaseLine Tap House and Grand Avenue Opening This Fall in Hollywood Studios News: Muppets Courtyard is Officially Official…for now…at Disney’s Hollywood Studios News: PizzeRizzo Officially Announced for Disney’s Hollywood Studios View the full article

With school back in session, it’s the perfect time to share our latest Disney-inspired bento box tutorial. Today, Disney Parks Blog reader and fan Mike Kravanis is at the Copper Creek Villas and Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge creating a special Humphrey the Bear bento box. To create Humphrey, dark brown rice and soy sauce-soaked tan rice are first added to the bento box. Details of his face are then made from a nori seaweed sheet and white American cheese. Black olives are also added to create a perfect bear nose. Check out our video for detailed step-by-step instructions. Keep your eye on the Disney Parks Blog for more Disney-inspired bento box tutorials in upcoming weeks. View the full article

“American Idol” started a new season Thursday with sweltering auditions in Disney Springs, but the show found guitar- and keyboard-toting hopefuls who could stand the heat. “I’m impressed by the turnout, and I’m impressed by what we’re seeing,” said senior supervising producer Patrick Lynn. “I... View the full article

In our Disney Doodles series, different Disney artists take turns imaging what different Disney characters would do or see first if they had the chance to visit a Disney Park. In today’s Doodle, artist Ashley Taylor imagines what the Centaurettes from “Fantasia” would do if they had the chance to visit a Disney Park. According to Ashley, there’s an obvious stop for them – Fantasia Gardens & Miniature Golf. “The Centaurettes from ‘Fantasia’ love to relax and enjoy each other’s company,” Ashley said. “The Fantasia Gardens mini golf is the perfect place for them to enjoy a night under the stars!” View the full article

Just a few weeks ago, we welcomed Walt Disney World Resort guests and Disney Vacation Club Members to Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. This new resort offers five unique accommodation types, including Deluxe Studios, 1- and 2-Bedroom Villas, unique waterfront Cascade Cabins and spectacular 3-Bedroom Grand Villas. Sleeping up to 12 people, these rustically elegant Grand Villas feature spacious dining and living areas, full kitchens, three bedrooms, three full bathrooms and much more! Check them out for yourself in this video: Now that Copper Creek Villas & Cabins is open, when are you planning your first visit? View the full article

Cruising With Dad: How I Treated My Wife Like a Queen | Disney Cruise Line View the full article

A whole new way to enjoy the Fantasmic! Nighttime Spectacular is coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios! Fantasmic! Boat The Fantasmic! Dessert & VIP Viewing Experience is now available for booking for dates starting September 8th. How will it work? Guests simply arrive at the Fantasmic theater prior to the evening’s first performance and pick up a package of snacks inspired by the show. Savory and sweet treats in the box for adults will include chocolate-dipped strawberries, cheesecake, a chocolate cupcake, apple crisp, and California trail mix. ©Disney The box for kids will include confetti popcorn, make-your-own “Worms and Dirt,” grapes, and a vanilla cake bite featuring Sorcerer Mickey! Guests will also receive a specialty drink served in a souvenir light-up cup (those 21-and-over will have the option of an alcoholic beverage). After picking up the snack package and drinks, guests will receive a special light-up credential and be led to a VIP reserved seating area for Fantasmic!, to enjoy the snacks, sips, and the show all together! Please note: for evenings with two showings of Fantasmic, the Dessert & VIP Viewing Experience will only be available for the 1st show. Mickey in Fantasmic! The price is $39.00 for adults, and $19.00 for children ages 3 to 9 (including tax). Interested guests may book via the Disney World website or by calling (407) 939-3463. Walk-ins will also be welcome; however, it is anticipated that the Dessert & VIP Viewing Experience will fill quickly, so booking in advance is highly recommended. Would you be interested in booking the Fantasmic! Dessert & VIP Viewing Experience? 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: Tables in Wonderland May Event: Fantasmic! Dessert Party at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Guest Review: Disneyland’s Fantasmic! Premium Viewing Dessert Package News: Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! Holiday Spectacular and Dessert Party Coming to Hollywood Studios View the full article

Walt Disney World has shared more information about yet another new area springing up at Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme park. The Muppets Courtyard and other nearby structures will be the base for the newly dubbed Grand Avenue. Walt Disney Imagineering has been called upon to create an area... View the full article

As many Disney parks fans are aware, two new lands – Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land – are currently under construction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. But today we’re sharing a look at another area of the park that’s undergoing its own transformation. Muppets Courtyard, along with a portion of the former Streets of America, is being re-imagined by Walt Disney Imagineering to become a new area called Grand Avenue. Inspired by the revitalization and the vibrant culture of present-day downtown Los Angeles, Grand Avenue is where vintage office buildings and warehouses are being converted to exciting new uses. Guests will soon see facades for “merchants” appearing in this area for a music shop, loft apartments, a tailor and more, with each window on the street featuring charming displays. A highlight of Grand Avenue is sure to be BaseLine Tap House, which takes over a former F&B location. This new corner pub will feature California beers and wines along with a selection of small bites. (Read more on BaseLine Tap House in this post by Pam Brandon). The current Muppets Courtyard will become Grand Park, an urban square off Grand Avenue surrounded by shops and restaurants like PizzeRizzo and Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano. Guests can already see changes in the area, with the Muppets theater being renamed “Grand Arts Theatre” and boasting a brand-new marquee. But, not to worry – Kermit, Miss Piggy and the gang continue to star in their hilarious and irreverent “Muppet*Vision 3D” show. Grand Avenue will be opening to guests this fall. Stay tuned to Disney Parks Blog for future updates. View the full article

With Membership Magic Ever After generating a flood of Member-experience headlines in 2017, one could liken the process of consuming those headlines to drinking from the proverbial fire hose. So with about two thirds of this newsworthy year now behind us, I thought it might be helpful to take a breath and recap some 2017’s most impactful news while there’s still time to take advantage of these enhancements to the Member experience. Member Lounge: Launched in 2016 as part of our Disney Vacation Club celebration of “25 years and beyond,” the Member Lounge on the second floor of the Imagination! Pavilion at Epcot became an instant hit, welcoming more than 180,000 Members and special guests to this secluded (and delightfully air-conditioned) space during its first year. The lounge’s popularity prompted its extended operation in 2017, and I’m pleased to report that it’s currently scheduled to remain open throughout 2018. Stop by the lounge (entering through the Imagination! Pavilion’s merchandise shop) between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. daily to enjoy comfortable seating areas, complimentary soft drinks, Wi-Fi service, device-charging stations, computers with printers, a children’s play area, access to Member Service Advisors and more. Enhanced Member Services: Members continue to enjoy the new option of updating an existing reservation by directly contacting the same Member Service Advisor who helped book that reservation in the first place. And, beginning Sept. 10, Member Services will expand its operating hours to 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Eastern on weekdays (currently 9 a.m.-7:30 p.m.) and 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Eastern (previously 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.) on weekends. Member Events: Complimentary after-hours parties that turned Disney Parks into personal playgrounds for Members and special Guests in 2016 continued this year. Disney Vacation Club Moonlight Magic events kicked off this spring with parties at Magic Kingdom Park and this summer at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park. This year’s remaining Moonlight Magic slate includes already-booked-to-capacity parties at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park and yet-to-be-booked parties at Disneyland Park (Nov. 15) and Epcot (Dec. 4 and 11). A variety of specially ticketed seasonal events, meanwhile, have allowed Members to celebrate everything from Mother’s Day and Father’s Day to New Year’s Day and Independence Day in distinctive fashion. Upcoming ticketed events at or near Disney Vacation Club Resorts include Halloween parties and winter-holiday dinners, while additional holiday offerings include discounted tickets for select nights of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom Park. This year’s sold-out Disney Vacation Club Member Cruise (sailing Aug. 26-Sept. 2) will sail for the first time aboard the Disney Fantasy with the event’s first Eastern Caribbean itinerary, while the 2018 voyage will sail for the first time in the heart of summer (July 23-27, 2018). At the time of this posting, a limited number of staterooms remain available for the 2018 Member Cruise. Ticket Offers: Members still have time to take advantage of two special Walt Disney World ticket offers, including a discount of at least 25 percent off the purchase of a Disney Platinum Plus Annual Pass and a 7-Day Magic Your Way Ticket for the price of a 5-Day ticket. Both offers are available for purchase through Jan. 3, 2018. Waived RCI fees: Members looking to travel the world may continue to book RCI Resort reservations without paying the $95 reservation fee by making reservations between now and the Dec. 31, regardless of travel date. Visit disneyvacationclub.com to learn more about Member offerings available as part of Membership Magic Ever After, including reservation and purchase details where applicable. In the meantime, what has been your favorite Membership Magic Ever After offering, and what are you excited to experience next? You should not purchase a real estate interest in a Disney Vacation Club Resort in reliance upon the continued availability of these Membership enhancements. Some, such as discounts, offers, and special events, known as Membership Extras, are incidental benefits and are subject to change or termination without notice and cannot be combined with other offers; some require a fee. New Members after April 4, 2016 who do not purchase their ownership interest directly from Disney will not have access to Membership Extras. View the full article

There’s a sweet new way to take in the spectacular sights and sounds of Fantasmic! at Disney’s Hollywood Studios—the new Fantasmic! Dessert & VIP Viewing Experience package. Guests will check-in and pick up a delicious snack box, which features a mix of sweet and savory items, at the Fantasmic! theater prior to show time. A special light-up credential will allow Fantasmic! Dessert & VIP Viewing Experience guests to enter the special reserved viewing area. The adult box features chocolate-covered strawberries, cheesecake, a chocolate cupcake, apple crisp, California trail mix and cheese and crackers. Kids will enjoy chocolate pudding with crushed chocolate cookies and gummy worms, confetti popcorn, grapes and a vanilla cake bite which features the star of Fantasmic! — Sorcerer Mickey. Guests will also receive a bottle of water and a specialty alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage in a light-up keepsake Fantasmic! cup. The Fantasmic! Dessert & VIP Viewing Experience is another great offering from the Enchanting Extras Collection, which allows guests to enhance their Walt Disney World Resort vacation. Cost is $39 for adults and $19 for children ages 3-9. Reservations can be made by visiting DisneyWorld.com/dining or by calling 407-WDW-DINE. View the full article