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Oh. My. Goodness! I have something that I have been absolutely ITCHING to share! And it’s something YOU can totally enjoy whether or not you are in Disneyland or Disney World. Because this amazing artwork by Donna Yan will help you celebrate many of YOUR favorite iconic Disney foods from your own home! Donna Yan’s prints are, in her words, “Cute Food Art Inspired by My Travels.” And while those travels primarily take her to Disneyland, Hawaii, and Japan, Disney World frequenters will find plenty to adore here, too. For instance, these too-cute-for-words Mickey Premium Ice Cream Bars can be appreciated on both coasts! Donna Yan Artwork Same with the Dole Whip print . Donna Yan Artwork And the Mickey Krispy Treat and Hot Cocoa. Donna Yan Artwork And just STOP with the Mickey and Minnie Caramel Apples!!! Donna Yan Artwork Some pieces are specific to Disneyland, so Mickey-shaped Beignet and Mint Julep devotees may especially appreciate this one. Donna Yan Artwork Ditto the Bengal Barbecue Beef Skewer with Zulu Sauce and Scallion . It’s only the CUTEST SCALLION I’ve ever seen! Donna Yan Artwork Neverland Tea and Mickey’s Fun Wheel is a tribute to the Secret Drink Menu at Cove Bar. (And look… he’s PROPOSING!) Donna Yan Artwork It is really, really hard to pick a favorite, but let me just say that the Chowder Bread Bowl is DRESSED UP IN A HAUNTED MANSION CAST MEMBER COSTUME!!! (As is his accompanying beverage!) Donna Yan Artwork Weren’t we JUST TALKING about the famous Disneyland Pickles?!? Donna Yan Artwork And when am I not talking about the Matterhorn Macaroon? Donna Yan Artwork Let’s get back to some dual-coast treats, like the Mickey Pretzel, who comes complete with his own PLASTIC CHEESE SAUCE!!!! Donna Yan Artwork A Turkey Leg and Corn on the Cob go together like Chip and Dale over in Disneyland! Donna Yan Artwork I have no words for the First Order Burger and Fries print! Donna Yan Artwork Okay, there are SO many more prints than what I can show you here, but I can’t resist just a couple more. I’m going with the Fried Chicken at Plaza Inn… Donna Yan Artwork …. And Mickey’s Ice Cream Sandwiches, enjoying their own lollipops, cotton candy, Dole Whip, and Mickey Pretzel! (They clearly do Disney like I do Disney.) Donna Yan Artwork Like I said… there are SO many more. You can check out the full selection of prints — including other collections — here. And if you’d like to invite some of these food friends to come home with you, it’s easy! Click on your favorite image (good luck narrowing it down ), and select Full Details to see an enlarged image, or Purchase to find sizes with pricing. Donna Yan Artwork Screenshot Upon selecting your preferred size, you can also choose to Frame It, so you’re all set when your Cute Food Friends arrive with a ready-to-hang frame, with customizable matting should you choose. (Selecting Frame It will lead you to pricing options.) Customized Frame The best part? These sweeties really aren’t too pricey, so you can get as many as you want!! So… which one would YOU pick ? Is YOUR favorite Disney food featured in Donna Yan’s artwork? 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: New Merch: Iconic Disney Food T-Shirts Guest Review: Cross-Country Disney Day — Iconic Treats from Six Disney Parks in One Day Spotted: Super Fun T-Shirts Celebrating Disney Snacks View the full article

Summertime may be running out for most of us, but at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, summer is extended to December! If you’re wishing for a Hawaiian vacation, Aulani Resort might be just what you’re looking for. With so much included in your stay, like seven acres of water fun, world-class Disney entertainment, a supervised kids’ club for children ages 3-12 and so much more, you’ll never want to leave! Aulani Mahalo Season is the perfect time to book your visit to Aulani Resort! Book now and save up to 30 percent on stays of five or more consecutive nights and up to 25 percent on four consecutive-night stays. This special offer is available on select nights between August 20 and December 21, 2017 (excluding November 20–23, 2017). Available for booking now through October 24, 2017. Click here to book your Hawaiian vacation today and relish the splendor of an extended summer! Savings based on the non-discounted rate for the same room. The number of rooms allocated for this offer may be limited. Limit two (2) rooms per reservation. Excludes suites and 3-bedroom Grand Villas. Additional charges may apply if more than two (2) adults per room. View the full article

A sweet way to end the day in Magic Kingdom Park just got sweeter, with new desserts and a second location for viewing the Magic Kingdom Park “Happily Ever After” fireworks spectacular. Based on your preference, you can choose from two viewing areas: Plaza Garden Viewing (if you want to better see the castle projections) and Tomorrowland Terrace (where there’s reserved seating). And those new desserts! Here’s a peek at the 10, all but two are new: A Villains Chocolate Cupcake inspired by Ursula with purple buttercream and chocolate crispy pearls. Pineapple Delight is a Dole Whip-inspired treat, light and fresh with whipped pineapple panna cotta with pineapple compote and a fresh pineapple spear. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries – dark chocolate, of course, are back. Chocolate Marshmallow Tart salutes Frontierland with a reimagined s’more: a graham cracker tart with chocolate custard topped with marshmallow meringue and a chocolate bar. Macarons, a sweet nod to Gaston’s Tavern in Fantasyland in flavors such as pistachio, raspberry, lemon, chocolate, coffee and vanilla. The bold Cheesecake Brownie Bite is in honor of the heroes in “Happily Ever After,” with a brownie topped with chocolate chip cheesecake and whipped cream. Add a drizzle of chocolate and more chocolate chips. This one is a repeat and guest favorite. Strawberry Tart inspiration comes from Main Street, U.S.A., an all-American dessert with a vanilla tart shell filled with lemon curd and raspberry sauce. Add a little strawberry mousse, strawberry crisp pearls and a little whipped cream with a fresh berry. The “Happily Ever After” Cupcake is the signature dessert – red velvet cake with yellow buttercream icing. Perfect for Instagramming with a “Happily Ever After” chocolate garnish. Chocolate Almond Cake features raspberry sauce in the center and a fresh raspberry on top. And Mickey is the muse for the Oreo Mickey Treat, whipped Oreo panna cotta topped with two chocolate ears and sprinkled with chocolate pearls on top of an Oreo. For reservations, go to www.DisneyWorld.com/dining or call 407-WDW-DINE. Cost is $59 for Plaza Garden viewing ($35 ages 3 to 9); Tomorrowland Terrace is $79, $47 ages 3 to 9. Both include tax but not gratuity. Separate Magic Kingdom Park admission is required. The fireworks experience may be changed or canceled without prior notice. View the full article

Online Check-In on My Disney Experience App | Walt Disney World View the full article

We’ve sure been doing some talking about Epcot lately, what with the 2017 International Food and Wine Festival starting in less than a month (!!!) and some sneaky peeks happening over the past few weeks. Learn About: La Cava del Tequila Epcot Restaurants Disney World Restaurants But lest we get lost in a sea of future Marketplace Booths, there is plenty happening in the here and now, too. And one of the places it’s ALWAYS happening is La Cava del Tequila inside the Mexico Pavilion of World Showcase. This cave full of liquor features one of my absolute favorites with the Avocado Margarita, which remains near the top of my Drinking Around the World list. It’s creamy, surprisingly refreshing, and fully satisfying on a hot day. But if you’re looking to stray outside the list of tried and true favorites, with over 70 types of tequila you can easily find something new-to-you! So let’s head on down to La Cava, inside the Mexico pyramid. And remember, you can queue up to grab your drinks To-Go; or you can wait for a table to open up at this cozy little spot. Entrance into La Cava del Tequila But if you do choose to sit a spell, you can’t beat the atmosphere. Low lighting, lots of stone and brick work, beautiful murals showcasing the tequila-making process, and carved chairs help this place feel right at home in the beautiful Pavilion while still having a vibe unique to anywhere else in Disney World. It’s a great little getaway. Seating in La Cava On my most recent visit, I veered outside my norm to try a few new drinks (though I couldn’t resist one of my favorite standby snacks in all of Epcot, which you’ll see soon). Listed right under the Avocado Margarita, you’ll also see a couple of Specialty Drinks on the menu. La Cava del Tequila Menu The Gin Agua Fresca is a beautiful drink. It’s comprised of Gin Gracias a Dios, Agua de Jamaica, Pamplemousse Liquor, Pomegranate Liqueur, fresh Lime Juice, and Agave. The glass should be rimmed with Hibiscus Salt (I think they accidentally rimmed this one with tajin on our visit…which gave the drink a too-smokey flavor for me). Gin Agua Fresca The pomegranate liquor lends the drink its jewel-toned color, while the combination of strong liquors, pamplemousse, and fresh lime juice add some zing. Again, this was a little smokey for my tastes due to the tajin, but a hibiscus rim should be less so. Regardless, this is worth getting. It’s fun and unique. The Mexican Mule is a unique combination of flavors that adheres to the spirit of a classic Moscow Mule. Fresh Lime Juice, Ginger Beer, and Mole Bitters are mixed with Ancho Reyes Liqueur and Mezcal Zignum Reposado standing in for the traditional vodka. Mexican Mule The strength of the tequila definitely comes through here, but you still experience the spicy ginger beer as with a typical Mule. I also dove into a couple of new drinks not highlighted on the Specialty Drinks menu. La Cava del Tequila The Negroni is a sophisticated drink traditionally comprised of Gin, Vermouth, and Campari. But here at La Cava, their version combines Mezcal Zignum Reposado, Aperol, and Cynar (an artichoke liquor). Negroni It’s got a strong finish and a slightly bitter and smoky taste, making it a bit more adventurous than some of the other options. But it’s a twist on a classic, and if you’re a negroni fan you’ve gotta try it. I enjoyed it more than other negronis I’ve tried. The current Paloma is a reboot of the previous version, so I was interested to try the newest incarnation. It’s traditionally a combination of Tequila (naturally!) and Grapefruit. But of course La Cava steps it up, including Mezcal Ilegal Blanco, Combier Pamplemousse liquor, Fresh Lime, and Agave Nectar. Plus the Tajin half-rim! Updated Paloma This one is fruity and tart and we all absolutely loved it. It’s essentially a margarita, so if you’re a marg fan, this one’s for you. And, of course, here’s that snack I mentioned earlier. Among all the new drinks I tried, I just can’t grab a seat and not top the table with a bowl of my favorite Chips and Queso in the World! Queso and Chips While La Cava is clearly — and understandably — known for tequila, it’s not a visit for me without the warm, gooey, jalapeno-spiced cheesy heaven in a bowl. La Cava del Tequila will always be among our must-visit watering holes in Walt Disney World. And even though we’re jonesing to try Choza de Margarita (the Mexico Pavilion’s soon-to-open — we hope! — outdoor margarita bar), you’ll always find us stepping up and getting cozy inside La Cava. Do you have a favorite La Cava beverage? Let us know in the 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: Review: La Cava del Tequila in Epcot’s Mexico Pavilion Review: New Arrivals at La Cava del Tequila in Epcot’s Mexico Pavilion Review: Maelstrom and Tamarind Margaritas at La Cava del Tequila in Epcot’s Mexico Pavilion View the full article

During the recent D23 Expo, attendees were given the first look at the model of the new Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge land, which is currently under construction at both the Disneyland and the Walt Disney World Resort. The model was the first look at the new Star Wars-inspired land that will transport guests to a remote trading port and one of the last stops before Wild Space. Once the land opens in 2019, visiting guests will be able to indulge in adventure at two signature attractions: one that lets guests take the controls of Millennium Falcon on a customized secret mission, and an epic Star Wars adventure that puts guests in the middle of a climactic battle between the First Order and the Resistance. Check out the video above to hear what D23 attendees are excited about Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. View the full article

We just wrapped Christmas in July, but did you know that you can celebrate the holidays any day of the year at Walt Disney World Resort? Well, you can! Especially when it comes to holiday shopping! We have several stores around the resort where you and your familia can find ornaments, stockings, décor and even clothing, all themed to the holidays. My favorite is It’s a Wonderful Shop at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Here you can find art, collectibles and all sorts of gifts with a festive theme and a hint of Old Hollywood glamour. If you are at Magic Kingdom Park, you must visit the Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe right in Liberty Square, where you can ‘shoppe’ for your favorite Disney ornament. And over at Epcot, you can find unique hand-made crystal ornaments at Die Weihnachts Ecke at the Germany pavilion. Literally “the Christmas corner,” this store is a great place to learn about the famous ‘pickle’ ornament and other German Christmas traditions. One of the most popular holiday stores is Disney’s Days of Christmas at Disney Springs Marketplace. I remember having an ornament engraved there to commemorate my son’s first Christmas. What is your favorite Disney Christmas store? View the full article

Cruising With Dad: How I Had the Time of My Life on a Disney Cruise View the full article

Walk into any store this time of year, and you are likely to hear the sounds of excited kids going through racks of school supplies trying to find that perfect backpack, notebook or eraser. Yes, back-to-school season is once again upon us! Every child should be able to start the first day of school feeling confident they have the tools they need to succeed. But for many, basic school supplies are considered a luxury. To help make sure children in our local homeport community near Port Canaveral get off to a good start, Disney Cruise Line teamed up with the Brevard School Foundation Supply Zone for Teachers to participate in the 15th annual “Back to School Giveaway Event.” This week-long campaign provided more than 2,000 deserving children with new back-to-school essentials. “This event wouldn’t be possible without our community partners,” said Elizabeth Schreiber, Program Manager at the Supply Zone for Teachers. “We need volunteers who can help us pack these backpacks, pack the lunches and man the tables on the day of the event. And, thanks to Disney Cruise Line, we are able to accomplish this.” Over the course of two days, crew members from the Disney Dream and cast members from our Port Canaveral team volunteered their time to sort thousands of school supplies and prepare student lunches leading up to the Supply Zone for Teacher’s main event. Cindy Todisco, Disney Cruise Line Embarkation Coordinator shared that she regularly participates in Disney VoluntEARS activities, but this particular event was very personal to her since she has school-aged grandchildren. “For me, this is a way to give back for everything that my children received in school,” said Cindy. As children and families filed into the school gym to collect their supplies this past Saturday, crew members from the Disney Fantasy were on hand to staff a library section – a special new addition to the event this year. The crew members shared their own love for reading by helping the children select books that they could take home. This is just one of many ways Disney Cruise Line cast and crew members support the Supply Zone for Teachers. Disney VoluntEARS regularly assist the organization with operational needs, ensuring both teachers and students in Brevard County are set up for success, not just during the back to school season, but all year long. View the full article

Have you ever wanted to go backstage to see just how the magic is brought to life here at Walt Disney World Resort? On the Walt Disney World Resort Backstage Magic Tour, you can do just that, and enjoy a one-of-a-kind VIP look at the inner workings on an amazing 7-hour journey through The Most Magical Place on Earth. Here are my four favorite experiences you’ll enjoy on the Backstage Magic tour: 1. Step back in time as you peek behind the curtains at The American Adventure, where you’ll learn how engineering and artistry come together to create this truly historic show. 2. Unravel the secrets behind creating the dazzling costumes for Disney Characters, as well as show and parade performers, at Walt Disney World Resort’s own Creative Costuming department. 3. From the smallest details to the most ornate sets, get an up-close look at the unparalleled talent and craftsmanship at work in the Walt Disney World Central Shops. 4. Last, but definitely not least, you can navigate the legendary underground tunnels or “utilidors” used by Cast Members located beneath Magic Kingdom Park. Backstage Magic isn’t the only tour that gives you an inside look at popular Walt Disney World locales. Later this year, you can embark on the Gardens of the World Tour during the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, or even learn how wintery fun comes to life in the theme parks on both the Disney’s Yuletide Fantasy and Holiday D-Lights tours. Which of these behind-the-scenes tours are you most excited to experience? View the full article

Over the weekend, Global Tiger Day (July 29) was celebrated worldwide with much care and attention toward some of the most popular big cats. Disney joined in on the festivities as we are involved in efforts to save critically endangered Sumatran tigers to ensure the species will survive for generations to come. With fewer than 500 Sumatran tigers left in the wild, the Disney Conservation Fund (DCF) is working with partners such as the Wildlife Conservation Society on its Reverse the Decline initiative, which aims to increase the wild population of Sumatran tigers by 25 percent in the next decade. To date, DCF has provided nearly $2.5 million to protect tigers and their habitats. At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, guests can see two majestic Sumatran tigers in our care, Sohni and Malosi, along the Maharajah Jungle Trek. The pair have been actively breeding, and we are delighted to announce that Sohni is pregnant. We are expecting the first Sumatran tiger cubs to be born sometime in August. Sohni and her mate Malosi were chosen to breed through the Species Survival Plan (SSP), which is overseen by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The SSP ensures responsible breeding of critically endangered species, such as Sumatran tigers, so they will have healthy, genetically diverse populations for years to come. We look forward to sharing more news in the near future about this exciting milestone for the park, Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment team and the conservation efforts surrounding this species. In the meantime, visit DisneyAnimals.com to learn more about tigers and how you can help support them in the wild. Guests at Disney’s Animal Kingdom also can take part in Connect to Protect, a new mobile adventure that invites guests to participate in conservation ‘missions’ with a digital scientist while exploring Pandora and helping protect the habits of at-risk animals here on Earth, including Sumatran tigers. View the full article

Sabrina Carpenter turned 18 this year, but the Disney Channel star thinks adulthood is just a technicality. “I’ve felt like I was an adult when I was 10 years old,” said the Pennsylvania native. “I think, for me, it’s just a matter of continuing to work hard and pursue my dreams. It shouldn’t matter... View the full article

Each year, senior event manager Al Nassar and his team help coordinate more than 1,500 events across the Disneyland Resort and off property, as well – including D23 Expo, Mickey’s Halloween Party, Candlelight Processional and many more. Beginning with coordinating event logistics and ending with event day, Al is working up to 12 months in advance, on 10 events at a time. Learn more about Al’s role in this episode of “Every Role a Starring Role.” View the full article

For cooks and chefs looking for jobs, Disney is offering new incentives. The company recently increased its signing bonus from $500 to $1,000 or $1,500 for new full-time and part-time employees in the culinary department, according to Disney. “We offer them periodically and adjust incentives based... View the full article

Main Street Electrical Parade is nearing the end of its limited-time run at Disneyland park! Don’t miss your chance to experience this beloved parade in the place it began – Main Street, U.S.A., at Disneyland park – now through August 20. Since its first performance at Disneyland park 45 years ago, Main Street Electrical Parade has become the iconic Disney Parks nighttime parade, even traveling across the country to delight guests at Walt Disney World Resort. Take a look through the years of the parade in the video below! See Main Street Electrical Parade once more at Disneyland park, now through August 20! View the full article

This past Father’s Day, parenting blogger Charlie Capen put a Disney cruise to the test. Charlie, his wife and their two boys set out on a five-night voyage from Florida to the Bahamas. With all of the cool stuff to do onboard the Disney Dream – plus two full days at our private island paradise, Castaway Cay – Charlie shares that this vacation wasn’t just for his sons. It was for him and his wife, too. Check out what he had to say in this video… Stay tuned to see how Charlie’s Disney cruise gave him the opportunity to be a superhero to his kids and treat his wife like a queen. View the full article

Heads up, Tables in Wonderland Members! Remember a couple weeks ago when it was announced that Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members would receive an increased discount at select Disney World restaurants? Well, that good news now extends to you, too! Tables in Wonderland members are now eligible for the same increased discount. Flying Fish If you visit any of the locations listed below during the dinner meal timeframe BEFORE 6:30 pm or AFTER 8:30 pm, you will receive a 30% discount as opposed to the original 20% now through September 30, 2017! Animal Kingdom Lodge Jiko Boardwalk Inn Flying Fish Contemporary Resort The Wave… of American Flavors Grand Floridian Resort Citricos Old Key West Resort Olivia’s Cafe Port Orleans Resort — Riverside Boatwright’s Dining Hall Saratoga Springs Resort The Turf Club Bar & Grill Wilderness Lodge Artist Point Yacht Club Resort Captain’s Grille And remember, as always, the Tables in Wonderland discount (unlike the Annual Passholder discount) is good towards alcoholic beverages as well. Enjoy! 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: Disney World Annual Passholders Increased Dining Discount Through Sept. 30th News: Changes to Tables in Wonderland Dining Discount Program in Walt Disney World Tables in Wonderland Events: La Nouba Discount and The Wave Discovery Beer Dinner View the full article

Theme-park goers often appreciate the details that go into making an attraction feel complete or real. What many fans might not pick up on is how many of those details are anchored in fine arts. “We see a lot about the business of theme parks and the decisions that go into getting them built,”... View the full article

Mobile Order has arrived at Epcot! Learn About: Electric Umbrella Epcot Restaurants Disney World Restaurants Mobile Order is the still relatively new process that allows guests – via the My Disney Experience app – to pre-order and pre-pay for meals at select Counter Service locations around Disney World. This enables guests to bypass the ordering queue at their selected restaurant and go straight to pick up their food upon arrival! (You can learn about how the entire process works from start to finish here) Animal Kingdom was the first park to utilize Mobile Order, and it is currently offered in four locations: Flame Tree Barbecue, Pizzafari, Restaurantosaurus, and Satu’li Canteen. Next up was Magic Kingdom, where Columbia Harbour House, Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café, Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Café, Pinocchio Village Haus, and Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant now all offer Mobile Order. One location so far in Disney Springs offers the service: D-Luxe Burger. Mobile Order Pickup Sign at D-Luxe Burger And as of today, Epcot is now represented, too, as Future World’s Electric Umbrella is the latest location added for Mobile Order. Select Restaurant List (Partial) on Mobile Order With the sheer amount of Counter Service options located in Epcot in both Future World and all over World Showcase, we’re definitely curious to see which restaurants are selected to utilize the service. And, of course, Hollywood Studios can’t be too far behind in joining the lineup. If you are curious to learn more about Mobile Order, or view a list of all participating locations, be sure to head over to our Mobile Order page! Have you tried Mobile Order yet? If so, what did you think? 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: Mobile Order On the Way to Five Magic Kingdom Counter Service Restaurants How-To and Step by Step: Mobile Order Process Debuts at Satu’li Canteen in Animal Kingdom’s Pandora Review: New Macaroni and Cheese Burger at Epcot’s Electric Umbrella View the full article

Slinky Dog Dash Track Completed in Toy Story Land | Disney's Hollywood Studios View the full article

The Great Movie Ride at Disney’s Hollywood Studios has been a long-time favorite attraction for many Disney Parks guests over the years, which is why our team wanted to honor this attraction and the memories it has given so many before it closes permanently on August 13. Upon arrival at the attraction, our 200 guests were surprised with the news that they weren’t going to “ride” through The Great Movie Ride – instead, they would be walking through the attraction and enjoying a themed dessert party in the “Oz” scene. Their “walk” through The Great Movie Ride enabled our guests to view Audio-Animatronics figures up-close, take photos and video in their favorite scenes, and most importantly, make unforgettable memories. They also got to meet some new characters who brought some of the attraction’s scenes to life that night, and enjoyed some Hollywood-themed photo ops at the end. For a full look inside the event, be sure to check out the video above. For more photos, take a peek at our photo gallery on the Disney Parks Blog Facebook page. View the full article

How many times have you wished you could step into the magic of Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast“? At Enchanted Tales with Belle at Magic Kingdom Park, you can go on a journey with some of your favorite characters from the movie! Begin your adventure into the “tale as old as time” by wandering through Maurice’s Cottage before being transported to Beast’s Castle through a special portal. There you’ll be invited by Madame Wardrobe to surprise Belle by playing a part in reenacting how she met the Beast. Don’t be weary of participating – you’ll get a little help and direction from Lumiere! Whether you play the role of a knight, the Beast or an enchanted object, a Disney PhotoPass photographer will be there to capture every moment as you help retell this heartwarming tale with Belle before she heads off to meet Beast for dinner. Don’t forget to bring home your photos from this magical encounter – with Memory Maker, you’ll get digital downloads of all your Disney PhotoPass vacation photos and videos for one price! View the full article

Today we have an exciting milestone to share with you straight from the Toy Story Land construction site at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The final piece of track was recently installed on Slinky Dog Dash, a family coaster that will debut as one of the land’s two new attractions when Toy Story Land opens in summer 2018. Our friends at Walt Disney Imagineering just shared this photo, which was snapped just as the final piece of red track was lowered into place. In Toy Story Land, guests will shrink to the size of a toy and explore the world of Andy’s backyard. Fitting with the theme, Slinky Dog Dash will appear to be a coaster track that Andy has built all over his backyard using his Mega Coaster Play Kit – as well as some of his other favorite toys. Check out the video above to hear what our Imagineers have to say about this milestone. And don’t forget to stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog for more information on what to expect from Toy Story Land in summer 2018. View the full article

Hey, fans of ABC’s daytime cooking show, The Chew! NOW’s the time to join the Wait List for the chance to receive FREE TICKETS to watch The Chew film the show LIVE at the 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival! The Food and Wine Festival kicks off on August 31st, and The Chew joins the scene starting October 4th. Five shows will be filmed in total, with two shows on Wednesday, October 4th, two on Thursday, October 5th, and one on Friday, October 6th. How To Join the Wait List In order to join the Wait List, start by visiting the Home Calendar for 1iota, the Free Tickets hosting site. The link provided will send you to the following view: 1iota Home Page Screenshot Next, either scroll through the Calendar dates until you arrive at your preferred date of October 4, 5, or 6 OR use the Choose a Location button to select shows filming in Orlando, FL. Epcot Taping Schedule Screenshot Finally, just hit that Orange Join Waitlist Button to begin the registration process! Selected Showtime screenshot You can register for up to 4 tickets for your preferred show date and time. Start of the Registration Process screenshot GOOD LUCK!! 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. 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! Are you going to join the Wait List for tickets to see The Chew filming live at Epcot? 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: Win a Trip to the Epcot Food and Wine Festival from The Chew! Plus — How to Get Tickets to the Live Taping! News! Tickets Released for Live Tapings of The Chew at Epcot News! “The CHEW” Taping Schedule and New Booth for Epcot Food and Wine Festival! View the full article

Ready to create a little culinary MAGIC? Learn About: Amorette's Patisserie Downtown Disney Disney World Restaurants Because THAT’S the goal for participants in the Cake Decorating Experience at Amorette’s Patisserie, the Disney owned-and-operated bakery in Disney Springs. From the get-go (it has been open for just over a year), Amorette’s Patisserie has been known for offering a feast for the eye as well as the palate, creating miniature works of art in the form of pastries, cookies, and cakes. Guests visiting Amorette’s have also spied Character Dome Cakes among the treats. These signature creations feature the associated colors and costume features of beloved characters like Goofy, Donald, Minnie, and Pluto. But perhaps none are as recognizable as the Main Mouse himself: Mickey! In fact, registered participants in the Cake Decorating Experience at Amorette’s Patisserie get to learn how to decorate a Mickey Mouse Dome Cake of their very own in a hands-on, small group setting limited to twelve guests. And we’d like to share with you our experience at the class today! Amorette’s Patisserie The Cake Decorating Experience The 90-minute class started bright and early at 9:00 am in the Amorette’s Patisserie show kitchen. (The store itself doesn’t typically open until 11:00 am or 12:00 noon each day, so the class takes place prior to opening.) Amorette’s Patisserie Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are included with the class price, and we were asked to place our drink request upon entering, choosing from coffee (hot or cold brew), hot tea, a latte or cappuccino, orange juice, milk, a mimosa, or a bellini. Here’s my gorgeous Mimosa! Mimosa Next, we all made our way to the tables and chairs, set up in a semi circle to observe the instructors at the table in the front. Class setup Instructors Upon each table were name cards, gloves, a cake spinner, and painting brushes, along with some of the edible components we’d later be placing on the cakes. Table setup These included Mickey’s ears, buttons, and tail (made of chocolate and fondant). Decorating pieces We also had a few bites of the Signature Petite Cake to enjoy with a bit of Italian buttercream for dipping. Signature Petite Cake Sample Sample Cake and Buttercream Icing Freshly warmed washcloths completed the setup. Table setup After settling in, our Pastry Chef instructors – Misha and Mady – introduced themselves, and began by sharing some interesting information with us regarding the process of creating cakes at Amorette’s. Mady and Misha Did you know that creating a dome cake at Amorette’s is a THREE DAY process? Each cake is baked separately to make the layers very precise and intentional. Icing is applied to cakes while they’re still frozen, so the pastry chefs need to work very quickly. While the decorating process itself is intense, personal anecdotes from Misha and Mady put us at ease when it came to the thought of trying the cake decorating process for ourselves (there may have even been a few cake-dropping tales shared !) Mady and Misha Having learned that even these talented pastry chefs make a mistake now and then, I was a little less nervous and more comfortable as we began the Step By Step cake decorating process with our own hands under Misha and Mady’s instruction! Step by Step Process Step One We each received our own dome cake to decorate as additional Cast Members joined in to assist those of us in the class as well. Dome Cake Step Two We received the bright Red Mirror Glaze for Mickey’s base (made from gelatin, chocolate, and condensed milk). Red Mirror Glaze Our instructors showed us how to pour it over the cake to cover completely. Covered Cake After this step, the cakes were removed to be refrigerated. Step Three We painted Mickey’s two signature buttons in yellow. Yellow Bowl and Brush Buttons in Progress Step Four We then used the black coloring to paint Mickey’s familiar ears. Mickey’s ear pre-color These are placed on sticks for easy insertion into the cake. Painting Mickey’s ear Mickey’s Complete Ear Step Five Time to paint Mickey’s tail, likewise! Mickey’s Tail Step Six Buttons, ears, and tail are set aside to dry slightly. Drying Decorative Pieces Step Seven Our cakes were brought back to us for another layer of mirror glaze (they received three layers in total). More Red Mirror Glaze Another layer of glaze on cake The cakes then needed some more refrigeration time, so while we waited we were treated to some Hot Chocolate Ganache! Hot Chocolate Ganache Step Eight Our cakes came out once more, and we then transferred them VERY CAREFULLY to their paper platters. Transfer of the Cake And may I say… “WHEW!” Safely Transferred Cake Step Nine We then rolled fondant along the base using the roll and the cake spinner. Rolled Fondant Applying Fondant Roll Fondant Roll Applied Step Ten Time to insert those ears and Mickey’s tail! Almost Mickey Step Eleven And using a very tiny amount of water, we attached the two yellow buttons as well. MICKEY CAKE!!! (I’d like to insert an optional step, and that’s… BASK IN THE GLORY!!!) Step Twelve We were then individually invited to the instructor’s table to write our names (or any name we wanted) onto the back of the cakes with yellow icing. Ready for the Finishing Touch If this makes you a wee bit nervous, the Pastry Chefs are happy to write yours for you . DFB MICKEY MASTERPIECE Step Thirteen All of our cakes were set in display cases to dry completely, and the Pastry Chefs welcomed any questions during this time. Cakes Set To Dry Step Fourteen Upon drying, our cakes were packaged, bagged up, and we were all on our way with our very own creation! Packaged Mickey Cake… ready for Safe Transport! So, you do indeed get to have your cake AND EAT IT, TOO, as the saying goes! By the way, if you have plans to hit up the parks or more of Disney Springs right after the class, no worries. Amorette’s will hold your cake creation for pickup until later in the day. Before we wrap, here are a few more details! Class Information The price of the Cake Decorating Experience is $129 (plus tax). The cost covers up to 2 guests decorating one cake (again, class size is limited to twelve). As a point of reference, full size dome character cakes sell for $55.00. Currently, the class is available for booking on Sunday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings via the Disney World website through August 25th. However, the experience was already extended once beyond its initial Spring run, so there is reason to hope it may be offered again in the future. While transportation from the Resorts to Disney Springs typically does not start until later in the morning, it can be provided at 8:00 am for class participants staying in a Disney Resort to ensure guests will be in time for the 9:00 am start. Again, interested guests can book the experience online via the Disney World website. Overall At the current price tag, the Cake Decorating Experience at Amorette’s Patisserie is definitely a splurge for a special occasion (our class included a couple on their honeymoon as well as a mother decorating a cake for her daughter’s birthday, which was awesome). That said, it is certainly a memorable and unique experience. The kind attention and helpfulness from all of the Cast Members was above and beyond – they definitely made an effort to make sure each of us had a great time. And thanks to the small class size, things never felt rushed. Finally, walking away with my very own Amorette’s creation that I personally decorated gave this experience something unlike anything else at Disney World. I felt pretty darn proud of my beautiful cake, if I do say so myself! For any hopeful culinary masters on the rise, the Cake Decorating Experience at Amorette’s Patisserie can be a unique, fun, and tasty mini adventure within your Disney World vacation! Would you like to participate in the Cake Decorating Experience at Amorette’s? 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: Amorette’s Cake Decorating Experience in Disney Springs Now Available For Booking News: Amorette’s to Host Cake Decorating Classes in Disney Springs Review: Fall Petit Cake and Mickey Pumpkin Cake from Amorette’s Patisserie in Disney Springs View the full article