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Earlier this month, we marked fifty years of “rascals and scoundrels … villains and knaves” with the anniversary of Pirates of the Caribbean at Disneyland park. Let’s take a look back at some of the pirate-inspired videos we’ve shared with you through the years. Walt Disney himself shares his vision for Pirates of the Caribbean in this video from our archives. Take a voyage to see the different Pirates of the Caribbean attractions at Disney Parks around the world! Go behind the scenes to see what it takes to keep the Pirates of the Caribbean afloat. View the full article

An orchestra will perform movie music on stage during a new presentation called “The Music of Pixar Live! A Symphony of Characters” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme park. The event will be presented three times nightly beginning May 26. It will be staged at the park’s Theater of the Stars, which... View the full article

Festival season at Orlando’s theme parks continues this weekend, but one major event is winding up. Universal’s Mardi Gras celebration culminates Saturday evening with a concert by the All-American Rejects. The band, known for hits such as “Dirty Little Secret,” “GIves You Hell,” “Swing, Swing”... View the full article

Are you a Disney World Annual Passholder? Do you want a sneak peek at Pandora in Disney’s Animal Kingdom before it opens to the public? Pandora Concept Art ©Disney You’re in luck! Passholder previews just started booking this morning!! Previews are in blocks of 2 hours each from May 13-22, 2017 (the land is scheduled to officially open on May 27th). Pandora Concept Art ©Disney Head over to this link to register! You may encounter a short wait. Previews are first come, first served! Are you going to see Pandora early? Let us know in the comments below! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: News! New Restaurants Revealed for Pandora — The World of Avatar, in Disney’s Animal Kingdom News: Pandora — The World of AVATAR Opens May 27th in Disney’s Animal Kingdom News: Menu Details for Satu’li Canteen and Pongu Pongu in Pandora – The World of AVATAR View the full article

Great news for those of you anxiously counting the days until the opening of Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom on May 27 – FastPass+ reservations are now open to experience the land’s never-before-seen attractions for guests staying at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels. As you may know, Pandora – The World of Avatar will transport guests to a visually stunning world with floating mountains, bioluminescent plants and more. It’ll also feature two one-of-a-kind attractions: Avatar Flight of Passage, which will allow guests to fly on a banshee over the world of Pandora and the family friendly Na’vi River Journey, which will send guests down a mystical river hidden within a bioluminescent rainforest. Guests at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels can reserve FastPass+ selections for the two attractions up to 60 days prior to check in, beginning today. For all other guests who have pre-purchased valid park admission, reservations will be available starting 30 days prior to their visit, starting on May 27, 2017. You may select one of these two attractions in your first set of Disney FastPass+ selections, depending on availability. And beginning May 27 (through July 4), guests staying in select Walt Disney World Resort hotels will have the opportunity to experience Pandora — The World of Avatar with special nighttime Extra Magic Hours. Guests of select Walt Disney World Resort hotels with a valid theme park admission can fly on the back of a banshee, navigate a mystical river and walk under floating mountains beyond regular park hours – from 11 p.m. until 1 a.m. This benefit is in addition to the Extra Magic Hours already available to you at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. We will be sharing more updates as we put the final touches on Pandora — The World of Avatar. Keep checking the Disney Parks Blog for the latest. View the full article

When a tale as old as time comes to life on stage aboard the Disney Dream this November, guests will be immersed in some of the most imaginative elements from the new film, which just had the largest Disney Live Action opening weekend of all time. (If you haven’t already seen the film, you’re missing out!) Our brand-new musical production of “Disney Beauty & The Beast” takes audiences on a sweeping journey to discover the power of transformation through true love and courage. Here are just three of the ways our all-star creative team is drawing inspiration from the live-action film as they bring the timeless fable to life like never before… 1) In the new movie, Belle’s eccentric but lovable father, Maurice, is a music box inventor. Our stage musical uses the scenic motif of a music box to guide spectators through the story. A transformational set will take audiences on a magical journey through the music box, from Belle’s provincial French town to the Beast’s mysterious castle. 2) Complementing the score that features songs from the original animated film’s award-winning soundtrack by acclaimed composer Alan Menken and lyricist Howard Ashman, the stage show also includes two of the new songs created for the live-action film by Menken and lyricist Tim Rice, “How Does a Moment Last Forever” and “Days in the Sun.” 3) The enchanted objects are more magical than ever on screen with a fresh take and new technology. Guests aboard the Disney Dream will once again fall in love with characters like Lumiere, Mrs. Potts and Cogsworth as they are realized in an unprecedented way, using innovative puppetry and elaborate costumes to bring these characters to life in their true scale on stage. Seeing the movie in theaters will give you a glimpse at some of the ways our new production of “Disney Beauty & The Beast” celebrates the romance, adventure and magic of the live-action film, weaving in the charm and nostalgia of the award-winning animated feature. Coming up, we’ll be taking you behind the scenes to hear more from our creative team as they develop this stage show spectacular. View the full article

Disney World's ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex will celebrate its 20th anniversary on March 28, 1997. The first event at the complex was a spring training game between the Atlanta Braves and Cincinnati Reds, but it has welcomed so many other events and significant sports figures through the years. View the full article

In just a few weeks, the new fireworks show “Happily Ever After,” will debut at Magic Kingdom Park with more lasers, lights and projections than ever before – not to mention contemporary versions of popular Disney songs. And speaking of music, the show will feature a brand-new theme song titled “Happily Ever After,” a song that encourages us to dream our biggest dream possible and to never give up. The duet is sung by country music artist Angie Keilhauer and singer Jordan Fisher, whom you may recognize from the “Moana” soundtrack or the 2016-winter 2017 cast of Broadway’s “Hamilton.” Our cameras recently went behind-the-scenes at the recording session when vocals were laid down for the song to catch a “first listen.” “Happily Ever After” will debut at Magic Kingdom Park on May 12. For more information, click here. For more about “Happily Ever After,” visit the posts below: ‘Happily Ever After’ Nighttime Spectacular Will Debut at Magic Kingdom Park May 12 View the full article

#DisneyParksLIVE: Wishes Nighttime Spectacular | Walt Disney World View the full article

Tonight’s #DisneyParksLIVE stream of “Wishes” fireworks will kick off from Magic Kingdom Park in just a little bit. The live stream will begin promptly at 8:55 p.m. in the box above. Be sure to tune in on time – we’ll kick off the stream with a behind-the-scenes look at “Wishes,” followed by a full, uninterrupted showing of the fireworks spectacular. And don’t forget to stick around after the fireworks conclude. We’ll have a very special update on the soon-to-debut “Happily Ever After” fireworks spectacular to share with all of you! To get ready for the surprise, be sure to follow our @DisneyParks handle on Twitter. In the meantime, tell us in the comments section below where you’re watching from! View the full article

The live-action film “Beauty and the Beast” officially opens in theaters on March 17, and to celebrate, we’re taking a look at the Be Our Guest Restaurant in tonight’s “Disney Parks After Dark” series. This guest-favorite restaurant is located at the foot of Beast’s Castle at Magic Kingdom Park, and offers up quick-service meals during breakfast and lunch, as well as table-service dinners. The restaurant offers three different dining rooms themed in exquisite detail inspired by the film. The Grand Ballroom allows guests to dine in the Beast’s ballroom with a high ceiling and photo-worthy chandeliers. The Castle Gallery puts on display mementos of Belle and Beast’s relationship, and the West Wing offers a spooky look at the enchanted rose from the film. The restaurant’s exterior, photographed above, appears rocky and ominous – but one only has to open the door to find the treasure of beauty on the inside. Thanks to photographer Tom Bricker for the image. View the full article

Walt Disney Co. Chairman and Chief Executive Robert Iger has extended his contract by one year, underscoring the challenges the company’s board of directors has faced in finding a successor to lead Hollywood’s iconic entertainment giant. Iger, 66, previously was expected to leave the company at... View the full article

Walt Disney Co.’s chief executive has no interest in having theme park visitors strap on virtual reality headsets that block out their view and place them inside a digital world. Smaller rivals, including Knott’s Berry Farm, SeaWorld and Six Flags, have turned to such virtual reality experiences... View the full article

“Star Wars: The Last Jedi” will not be changed because of Carrie Fisher’s death. The actress, who died in December, appears throughout the next installment of the blockbuster series and won’t be replaced by a hologram, Walt Disney Co.’s top executive announced Thursday. Fisher’s unexpected death... View the full article

Planet Hollywood Observatory held its official ribbon cutting and grand opening last week in a star-studded event, which included film star Reese Witherspoon and Mickey Mouse himself. Planet Hollywood Observatory But in addition to stargazing, the recently re-imagined restaurant also offered more information about what we can expect in the future. According to the Orlando Sentinel, Planet Hollywood Observatory plans to return to its glory days, when star sightings were a little more common. Pimento Grilled Cheese “We had Britney Spears last week and have Reese Witherspoon Friday,” said Robert Earl, Planet Hollywood’s founder. “We plan to keep it up.” What does it mean, Corky?!?? We’ll have to wait and see. In the meantime, Earl also mentioned that PHO has plans in the works to offer a counter service component. While he offered no opening date, he did indicate that the path has been cleared with Disney Springs leadership. Supernova Shakes To Go? More food coming to Disney Springs?!? Where will we put it all? We’ll keep you posted about opening dates as well as what the new spot will offer. In the meantime, now we’d like to hear from you. Will you be looking forward to stargazing and counter service at Planet Hollywood Observatory? Leave a comment and let us know! 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: Planet Hollywood Observatory Now Open in Disney Springs News: Chef Guy Fieri Teams Up With Disney World’s Planet Hollywood Observatory News: Advance Dining Reservations Now Available for Planet Hollywood Observatory in Disney Springs View the full article

CELEBRATION, Fla. – Disney Cruise Line invites families to explore the culturally rich and exotic locales of the Mediterranean with one-of-a-kind Port Adventures during its 2017 European sailings. Beginning July 2017, the Disney Magic returns to the Mediterranean, treating guests to the best of Europe with favorite ports of call. Guests will explore richly diverse destinations that showcase iconic locations, enchanting cultures, tantalizing cuisine and unrivaled experiences. Disney Cruise Line Port Adventures are designed to entertain and inspire both children and adults—in true Disney fashion—many with added touches such as more scheduled breaks, complimentary snacks and fun port activity sheets for kids. Journey Through Rome with a Disney Exclusive Puppet Show for Kids Travel into the heart of the historic city of Rome where families experience the art of traditional Italian puppetry with a private puppet show performed exclusively for Disney Cruise Line guests. Located in an intimate, lovingly restored theater in the scenic Borghese Gardens, a delightful performance brings laughter and song as children enjoy the unique storytelling style of traditional Italian puppet shows. The experience invites young guests to meet the talented puppeteers that bring the hand-crafted characters to life. The city’s rich history and elaborate architecture also transports guests to the time of ancient Rome with a visit to the iconic Colosseum and the sacred Vatican City, surrounded by a mighty medieval wall. Guests can enjoy an afternoon stroll through the old cobblestone streets, practice their Italian with the locals and explore the Old City’s boutiques, restaurants and shops. Children Experience the Art of Pizza Making in Sorrento Disney Cruise Line offers an exclusive opportunity for children to become master chefs during an authentic Italian pizza making experience in Sorrento, Italy. From prepping the dough to savoring their final culinary masterpiece, children are immersed in true Italian culture during this one-of-a-kind experience. The journey continues to the nearby villages of Amalfi, Maiori or Vietri sul Mare – painting the perfect backdrop for impressive family photos. With cliffside towns and colorful architecture, the areas serve as relaxing locales for guests to experience the breathtaking views of the coast before returning to their Disney cruise ship. Create Authentic Italian Cuisine at a Tuscan Estate A delicious adult-exclusive adventure awaits fans of fine food in Tuscany, Italy, from the port of Livorno. The charming Castello del Trebbio estate, perched in the picturesque Tuscan countryside, serves as an authentic locale to learn traditional culinary techniques and prepare an authentic Italian dish. From kneading the pasta dough to creating a delicious tomato sauce from fresh Tuscan ingredients and house-made olive oil, adults will enjoy this unique Italian cooking experience. After savoring a tasty traditional pasta dish, paired with locally made wine, guests can explore rooms of the ancient castle and learn the story behind its rich history and meticulous renovation. The opportunity to cook, eat and relax – in true Italian style – makes this a savory experience for epicureans and oenophiles. Admire the Views of Sicily with a Glass of Wine On Italy’s largest island – known for its rich culture and scenic, mountainous landscapes – adult guests can experience the art of winemaking at the Alessandro di Camporeale winery in Sicily. Overlooking the panoramic rolling hills, guests are immersed in Sicilian wine culture while they discover the art and science behind wine making and indulge in some of Sicily’s most well-known wines and local cheeses. Taste Your Way Through the Old City of Rome Discover some of the Eternal City’s most authentic Italian delicacies during an all-day gastronomic adventure in Rome. From traditional specialties, such as pizza, pastas and seafood, to a taste of local Italian fare at the nearby authentic food market, Disney Cruise Line guests indulge in delicious cuisine while exploring some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Trevi Fountain and Colosseum. Discover the Scenic Paradise Views of Capri Just off the coast of Sorrento is the island paradise of Capri. With its sea blue waters and stunning views, Capri’s winding cobblestoned streets make the perfect way for guests to stroll and explore the island’s boutiques. While shopping for unique souvenirs, guests may sample the traditional limoncello digestif liqueur, made from lemons grown on the island. After enjoying an authentic Italian meal in Capri Town, guests journey up the mountain to the picturesque Anacapri and experience breathtaking views of the coastline. The Disney Magic will sail to the Mediterranean on July 28 for a 10-night cruise from Barcelona, Spain, followed by five 7-night sailings on Aug. 12, 19, 26, Sept. 2 and 9, and a 5-night cruise on Aug. 7. Details on all Disney Cruise Line shore excursions can be found on the Port Adventures section of disneycruise.com. To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can visit www.disneycruise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at 888-325-2500 or contact their travel agent. ### View the full article

CELEBRATION, Fla. – Disney Cruise Line invites families to explore culturally rich and exciting locales with Port Adventures like only Disney can do during its Europe and Norway sailings, beginning May 2017 when the Disney Magic returns to Europe for the summer. Guests exploring these ports will be treated to richly diverse destinations showcasing iconic locations, tantalizing cuisine and unrivaled experiences. To enhance guests’ experiences while at port, Disney Cruise Line Port Adventures entertain and inspire both children and adults—in true Disney fashion—with an extra dash of pixie dust. Experience the Inspiration for Disneyland at Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen, Denmark Exclusive to Disney Cruise Line, a behind-the-scenes tour invites guests to walk in the footsteps of Walt Disney and experience Tivoli Gardens as he did during his visit in 1950. The age-old amusement park inspired Walt to imagine the beginning of something grand and magical – the plans and designs for Disneyland Resort. With a variety of attractions – everything from merry-go-rounds and whimsical rides to a 100-year-old roller coaster – Tivoli Gardens inspires visitors with the beauty and enchantment that sparked the beginning of Disneyland and beyond. See the Ceremonial Necklace Worn by Princess Leia in Helsinki, Finland New to Disney Cruise Line in 2017, guests have the unique opportunity to see the ceremonial necklace worn by Princess Leia in the legendary final throne room scene in “Star Wars: Episode IV A New Hope.” Chosen by Star Wars creator George Lucas, the necklace is an iconic piece that is sure to awe Star Wars fans as they experience an up-close look at this movie history icon. Art aficionados can admire other impressive works of Finnish artist, jewelry designer and sculptor Björn Weckström as they’re greeted by the artist himself in his private residence. Encounter Brave Adventures at Edinburgh Castle in Greenock, Scotland An adventure to the medieval Edinburgh Castle gives Disney Cruise Line guests an exclusive opportunity to meet the courageous Princess Merida from the Disney-Pixar “Brave” film and feel the excitement while they interact with the fearless young heroine. While visiting the iconic Scottish landmark, nestled high atop Castle Rock with views of the Old Town, guests can tour the former royal residence and fort, dazzle at the magnificent great hall and admire the Scottish crown jewels, first used for the coronation of Mary Queen of Scots in 1543. Exclusive for Disney Cruise Line, courageous kids can join Youth Counselors from the ship for an exciting shield-decorating activity during this day-long adventure. Get a Glimpse of 18th Century Royal Luxury in St. Petersburg, Russia Guests are invited to partake in an extravagant royal ball inside Catherine Palace during the Disney Magic’s visit to St. Petersburg. Complete with a live orchestra and dances with royal courtiers, the gala offers regal festivities to all who attend. In a setting of gilded walls, hand-painted ceilings and period artwork, guests are immersed in 18th century palace life as they experience what it was like to live like royalty in 1750s Russia. Join in “Frozen” Festivities and Viking Ventures in Ålesund, Norway Disney Cruise Line guests join Anna, Elsa and Kristoff from the animated hit “Frozen” in Norway, the land that inspired their story. Disney guests are invited to revel in an exclusive Norwegian summer celebration at the Sunnmøre Open Air Museum where the festivities culminate in the grand arrival of the beloved sisters and their ice-loving companion. After being personally greeted by their “Frozen” friends, and surrounded by the idyllic beauty of Norway, guests dance to local musicians and sample tasty Norwegian specialties, including svele, a traditional sweet pancake from the region. Another Ålesund adventure exclusive to Disney Cruise Line includes a quest to a Viking village on the island of Giske, where guests head back in history to meet the village chieftain and experience the Viking world. Adventurers find themselves in the middle of daily Viking life and mingle with members of the Norse families, experiencing first-hand the traditions, authentic food and games that come with being a Viking. Guests also learn traditional Viking handiwork and put it to practice by crafting their own leather bags. Experience the Great Outdoors of Geiranger, Norway From the port of Geiranger, the crowning jewel of the Norwegian fjords, comes an experience exclusively for Disney Cruise Line guests – a visit to the Gjaera Mountain Farm where a local family provides an up-close look at daily life. Children join Disney Cruise Line youth counselors to create one-of-a-kind decorative pillows in the farm’s printing studio using handmade wooden stamps that have been passed down through the family’s many generations. Meanwhile, adults explore the farm and its microbrewery, sampling fresh brews. After building up an appetite, everyone reunites for a taste of traditional Norwegian foods produced at the farm including juices, breads, creams and cured meats. Another journey brings Disney Cruise Line guests to the Herdalsetra Mountain Farm, where on the way to a nearby scenic valley they will enjoy a spectacular view of the Geirangerfjord and the Seven Sisters waterfall made famous in Norwegian folklore. Guests tour the enchanting farm brimming with 30 farmhouses and more than 450 sprightly goats scampering around the property. They also sample the farm’s fresh cheeses including Norway’s famous brown cheese – similar to sweet fudge. Those looking for even more adventure will find it kayaking through the Geirangerfjord. Gliding over dazzling turquoise waters, guests will get an up-close look at stunning waterfalls roaring down into the fjord and the majestic mountains along the water’s edge. The Disney Magic sails to destinations throughout Europe and Norway throughout the summer. Details on all Disney Cruise Line shore excursions can be found on the Port Adventures section of disneycruise.com. To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, visit disneycruise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at 888-325-2500 or contact a travel agent. ### View the full article

With the giant kick-off of its 25th Anniversary right around the corner, Disneyland Paris is pulling out all the stops for its guests this year. As we continued to celebrate all things “Beauty and the Beast” at Disney Parks here on the blog, we wanted to bring our Disney Parks Blog readers a little touch of Paris magic. Disneyland Paris is launching a special campaign around Europe, letting people know about all the fun things to come this year, with a beautiful nod to the new hit Disney live action film “Beauty and the Beast.” Beginning on March 26, 2017, Disneyland Paris will be celebrating its 25th Anniversary. Europe’s number one tourist destination will create a buzz with brand new attractions, a reimagined and star-studded parade, sparkly new shows, and lots more surprises. I will be there updating you on things through the Blog and we’ll be sending updates through social media using the hashtag #DisneylandParis25. Stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog for updates on the celebration and the exciting new fun at Disneyland Paris. View the full article

Today’s Disney Doodle takes a look at what Rosetta, the Garden Fairy of the Disney Fairies, would do if she had the chance to visit a Disney theme park. According to the imagination of artist Ashley Taylor, Rosetta and her love of plants may draw her to Epcot – especially this time of year when the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival is on. “I love the Disney Fairies!” Ashley said. “I can easily imagine Rosetta taking care of all of the greenhouse plants in the Living with the Land attraction at Epcot.” View the full article

Mid-century Modern home was built for one of Walt Disney's 'Nine Old Men.' View the full article

What’s that, you say?! You want even MORE info about the new Satu’li Canteen coming to Animal Kingdom’s Pandora – The World of AVATAR? Satu’li Canteen Concept Art ©Disney Then we’ve got some good news for you. Because the full menu for Pandora’s fast-casual dining establishment is now available on the Disney World website! Let’s take a gander! The first thing to note is that the menu will be the same for Lunch and Dinner. Screenshot from Walt Disney World website And at the top of the list of entrees are the Satu’li Canteen Bowls. ©Disney These customizable bowls will feature Grilled Chicken or Beef, Sustainable Fish, or Crispy-Fried Tofu. Screenshot from Walt Disney World website The Cheeseburger Steamed Pod and Vegetable Steamed Curry Pod are also listed under the entrees. ©Disney Kid’s Meals and Kid’s Mickey Check Meals feature similar variations along with some safer choices like a Cheese Quesadilla and a Hot Dog Wrapped in Dough. Screenshot from Walt Disney World website Screenshot from Walt Disney World website Of course, we learned about those items – as well as the Mobile Ordering process which will debut at Satu’li Canteen — earlier this week. So let’s check out some other options on the menu. The Sides lend their own focus on “Pandora’s natural abundance” with salads, grains, a Sweet Potato Hash, and Vegetable Chips. (And in case you’re about to go google what “kamut” is like I had to do, here you go: kamut wikipedia.) Screenshot from Walt Disney World website You’ll choose between Na’vi Cheesecake and Neytiri’s Chocolate Cake for dessert! (Lumpia – a pineapple cream cheese Spring Roll dessert – will be exclusive to Pongu Pongu.) Screenshot from Walt Disney World website Among the standard beverage options, you’ll also spot the Satu’li Refresher, a mix of tropical juices with Powerade® Melon (which you can purchase in a Satu’li Canteen Souvenir Sipper). Screenshot from Walt Disney World website And adults 21-and-over can choose from a pretty decent list of specialty wines and brews (for a Counter Service restaurant, in any case). So if you missed your annual Green Beer this St. Patrick’s Day, you’ll have a chance to grab one year ‘round with Pandora Grog Ale! (So, does anyone know if they’re having these beverages created specially for Pandora? What brewery/winery is doing these? Any cast members out there have the scoop?) Screenshot from Walt Disney World website So if that’s what’s for grabs at the land’s primary restaurant, we can’t wait to see what’s on the menu at Pongu Pongu, Pandora’s drink station! Maybe we’ll soon have an idea of what that “bioluminescent frozen cocktail” is all about. And as soon as we do, we’ll let you know right here! What are YOU planning to order at Satu’li Canteen? 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: Menu Details for Satu’li Canteen and Pongu Pongu in Pandora – The World of AVATAR News: Mobile Ordering and Menu Items Coming to Pandora’s Satu’li Canteen News: Pandora — The World of AVATAR Opens May 27th in Disney’s Animal Kingdom View the full article

Walt Disney Co. Chairman and Chief Executive Robert Iger has extended his contract by one year as the company’s board of directors continues to search for his replacement. Disney announced the extension — Iger’s third since he became CEO in 2005 — Thursday morning. Iger, 66, previously was slated... View the full article

Disney VoluntEARS from the Walt Disney World Resort recently joined forces with a Central Florida community to create the 75th nationwide KaBOOM! playground – giving hundreds of local children and their families a safe play environment that cultivates healthy lifestyles and inspiration. The latest KaBOOM! playground is in the residential complex of Golden Oaks in Winter Park, Florida and it has everything you’d expect in a dream playground, including new slides, swings, rock walls, bike racks and more. The playground may have taken less than six hours to create but it’s a project that has been in the works for months. In January, a group from the Winter Park complex initially gathered and helped design the space. Then, Disney VoluntEARS brought the vision to life, transforming an empty lot into a vibrant family gathering area. It’s the 11th Disney-funded KaBOOM! Playground in Central Florida. Disney’s ongoing collaboration with KaBOOM! is part of The Walt Disney Company Healthy Living Commitment to create healthier generations by making healthy living fun and simple in the communities where Disney Cast Members live, work and play. And as many of you know, being a good corporate citizen is a time-honored Disney tradition. Through contributions, collaborations with local organizations, in-kind gifts and volunteering, Disney helps to brighten the lives of kids and families in need and strengthen communities around the world. Keep checking the Disney Parks Blog for more updates. View the full article

It’s been a wet week here in Southern California, but a little rain never spoils the fun in Mickey’s Toontown! Rain drops on the hood of your car? No problem! Just watch out for mailboxes … Wet streets give Mickey’s Toontown a lovely glow after dark, don’t you think? What’s your favorite land to visit during a rainy day at Disneyland park? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

No parent likes to say “No,” and thankfully on a Disney Cruise, you don’t have to even think about it. You’ll be surprised what’s included in the price of your cruise. Being able to easily say “Yes” will make your little ones go, “Yasss!” Be parent of the year with this list of just a few of the many things that you can say “Yes” to on a Disney Cruise: 1. Breakfast with Disney pals? Yes! Mix and mingle with beloved Disney Characters while feasting on breakfast favorites such as Mickey waffles, omelets and French toast. 2. Unlimited playtime? Yes! Children can enter magical realms themed to their favorite Disney, Marvel and Star Wars films at Disney’s Oceaneer Club, while tweens can enjoy entertainment in Edge. 3. Time to get goofy? Yes! Put a little goof in your activities and jump, skip and hop over to Goofy’s Sports Deck for an outdoor activity center featuring basketball, table tennis and even a 9-hole golf course. 4. Cool down in style? Yes! Little ones can slide, splash and play in lavish pools, fun slides and water play areas on the upper deck. 5. More ice cream? Yes! Get a sugar rush, again and again, with all-you-care-to-eat ice cream onboard and at Castaway Cay. 6. Movie time? Yes! The latest first-run feature films as well as Disney favorites screen daily in the Buena Vista Theatre. 7. Stay up past bedtime? Yes! Put on your PJ’s and go for a stroll throughout the ship or grab a hot chocolate on the upper deck’s 24-hour beverage station. So, just say “Yes” and create memories that will last a lifetime. From the moment you step on board to your last wave goodbye, Disney Cruise Line includes just about everything you and your loved ones could dream of. View the full article