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Just minutes ago, we unveiled exciting plans to create a new restaurant at Epcot that’ll offer amazing meals with spectacular views high above Earth – from space! The restaurant, which will be located adjacent to the park’s Mission: SPACE attraction, will invite guests to travel into space for amazing dining experiences in the stars. Walt Disney Imagineer Tom Fitzgerald shared a first look at the restaurant during the Walt Disney World Parks and Resorts presentation at D23 Expo 2017. “We know our guests love dining at Epcot – and the restaurants really are out of this world,” Tom said. “Now we’re about to create one that takes that literally.” The new space restaurant will be operated by the Patina Restaurant Group. Patina Restaurant Group operates several other restaurants at Walt Disney World including Tutto Italia and Via Napoli at Epcot and Morimoto Asia at Disney Springs. There will be much more to share about this restaurant in the future but we wanted you to be among the first to know what’s being planned. Keep checking back for more details. View the full article

Fly-Through Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge | Disney Parks View the full article

We just shared some exciting news that Tron – our highest-rated attraction at Shanghai Disneyland – is coming to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida! The new Tron attraction will sit in an entirely new area right next to the Space Mountain attraction at Magic Kingdom Park. Bob Chapek, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts, made the announcement during the Walt Disney World Parks and Resorts presentation at D23 Expo 2017. Regular Disney Parks Blog readers know that the TRON Lightcycle Power Run attraction at Shanghai Disneyland is a coaster-style attraction where riders board a train of two-wheeled Lightcycles. It offers access into the energy, lights and excitement of TRON’s high-tech universe and is one of the most thrilling adventures at any Disney park. Also, during today’s presentation, Bob said the plan is to open the Tron attraction in time for Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary in 2021. Keep checking the Disney Parks Blog for more updates on this future attraction. View the full article

Epcot fans, rejoice! Plans were just unveiled at the D23 Expo that the park will receive not one, but two new attractions inspired by popular films. First, a “Guardians of the Galaxy”-inspired attraction will be added to Future World, adhering to the original vision of Epcot’s Future World as the place to experience the excitement and adventure offered by space travel. This is an addition we’re really looking forward to, as a “Guardians of the Galaxy” attraction – Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! – debuted at Disney California Adventure park earlier this year to rave reviews from guests. Epcot’s brand new E-ticket attraction will be based on the rockin’ and action-packed world of “Guardians of the Galaxy” and is the next step in how guests can encounter these characters at the Walt Disney World Resort. Epcot just may be the perfect place for a “Guardians”-inspired attraction as you can see in the photo above – Peter Quill (aka Star Lord) actually visited Epcot as a kid! (Note: This new attraction will replace the current Universe of Energy attraction, which will close August 13, 2017). Second, a Disney•Pixar’s “Ratatouille”-inspired attraction will also be added to the France Pavilion in World Showcase. The attraction will expand the pavilion. Similar to the 4-D attraction Ratatouille: The Adventure that opened at the Walt Disney Studios Park in Paris in 2014, guests will be able to shrink to Remy’s size and scurry to safety in a dazzling chase across a kitchen with the sights, sounds and smells of Gusteau’s legendary Parisian restaurant. According to Disney leaders, both attractions will open in time for the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort in 2021. Please keep your eye on the Disney Parks Blog for updates as these attractions progress. View the full article

A new attraction featuring international icon Mickey Mouse is coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios at the Walt Disney World Resort! Details for our first Mickey-themed ride-through attraction, Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, were just unveiled during the Walt Disney Parks and Resorts presentation at D23 Expo 2017 – and we think you’re going to love it. On Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, you’ll step through the movie screen and join Mickey and his friends like never before. The attraction will put you inside the wacky and unpredictable world of a Mickey Mouse Cartoon Short where you’re the star and anything can happen. This zany out-of-control adventure features surprising twists and turns, dazzling visual effects and mind-boggling transformations that happen before your very eyes. The attraction is inspired by the Mickey Shorts that you can see on the Disney Channel. And the people who bring you the shorts at Disney Television Animation are partnering with us to help bring the attraction to life. Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway will feature a new story and a new singable attraction theme song as well as a new experience we’re calling “2 1/2 D.” No glasses required. Walt Disney Imagineer Kevin Rafferty said teams are inventing new technologies that turn the flat world of a colorful cartoon short into a “dimensional display of amazingness.” “This is one of the boldest…most impossible things I’ve ever worked on in almost 40 years of being an Imagineer. And you know what? That’s what I love about it. Well, that, and Mickey,” Kevin said. “This is not going to be a small attraction, it’s going to be game-changing.” As you plan ahead, we also wanted to let you know that in order to begin to prepare the new home of Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway at the Chinese Theatre in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, August 13, 2017 will be the final day of operation for The Great Movie Ride presented by Turner Classic Movies. Until August 13, you can still relive some of the greatest movie moments in history on the Great Movie Ride attraction. Keep checking the Disney Parks Blog for future updates on the Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway. View the full article

Just moments ago, Bob Chapek, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts, revealed the official name of the Star Wars-inspired lands that are currently under construction at the Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts, and shared details on the immersive experiences guests will be able to enjoy when the lands open in 2019. The lands, both called Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, will allow guests to visit a remote trading port on the edge of wild space, where Star Wars characters and their stories come to life – and where guests will find themselves in the middle of the action. The lands will feature two major attractions that put guests in the middle of a battle between the First Order and the Resistance. Each attraction – and even the land itself – will offer guests the chance to immerse themselves in the Star Wars universe like never before. One attraction will make you feel like you’re on a Star Destroyer inside a hangar bay. It’s an attraction built on a scale we’ve never done before. The second attraction will give guests the opportunity to fly the Millenium Falcon, piloting the ship, shooting blasters or preparing for hyperspace – all while completing a critical mission. But how you perform on the mission holds even bigger stakes: perform with skill and you may earn extra galactic credits, while bringing the ship back banged up could put you on the list of a bounty hunter. End up on Harkos’s list and you may face a problem if you show up at the local cantina! Guests will also encounter many familiar faces inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, including BB-8, Chewbacca, members of the First Order and – among many others – Rex, the troublesome pilot you may remember from the previous version of a certain Disney attraction who takes on a new role in this land as the DJ at the cantina. And speaking of the cantina, here guests will be able to try unique concoctions like blue milk. Nearby, they’ll also be able to acquire trinkets and treasures from across the galaxy. Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will open in 2019, first at the Disneyland Resort and later in the year at the Walt Disney World Resort. (No further opening dates have been announced yet.) View the full article

There are big plans for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts and we’re sharing them with Disney Parks Blog readers – LIVE – from today’s Walt Disney Parks and Resorts presentation at D23 EXPO 2017. Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman, Bob Chapek, is presenting what’s new and what’s next for resorts around the globe beginning at 3 p.m. PT / 6 p.m. ET. Guests at the special Hall D23 presentation will be the first to hear the news and we’ll be providing live updates. Keep refreshing this story for the latest. View the full article

“We wants the redhead.” So goes a familiar refrain in Disneyland's Pirates of the Caribbean, spoken by a robotic buccaneer pining for a chance to buy a wife in a scene that depicts a bridal auction. It also became a brief rallying cry Friday for the disgruntled at Disney's fan convention, the D23... View the full article

As if we needed another reason to visit Disney Springs and the much lauded Morimoto Asia, on July 29 the restaurant will host the “Craft Beers & Bites Festival”. Proceeds from the event will benefit Children’s Home Society of Central Florida, so you can get your brew and eats on and support a worthy cause! Morimoto Asia All the tasty fun is happening on the second level of Morimoto Asia. Eight Florida craft beers will be highlighted and paired with food from the restaurant’s exceptional Executive Chef Yuhi Fujinaga. Food pairings include: Crooked Can Brewing Company with Peking Duck Tacos Copper Tail Brewing Company with Morimoto Sticky Ribs Redlight Redlight Brewery with Sushi Handroll, Spicy Hamachi, and Spicy Tuna Cask & Larder with Chashu Pork Quesadilla Bowigens Beer Company with Churros with Nutella Two Henrys Brewing Company with Poke Bowl (ahi, tako, and hamachi) Hourglass Brewing with Okonomiyaki Seafood Pancake Red Cypress Brewery with Yakitori (bulgogi beef with ginger miso paste) Morimoto Asia Spare Ribs Tickets are $49.80, and the event will take place from 1PM to 4PM on July 29. The price includes unlimited beer and bites, so depending on your appetite, this could be a stellar deal. (And given the quality of the food we’ve had at Morimoto Asia, it’ll be dynamite!) Learn more about the event by clicking here. Are you a fan of brew and food pairings? Let us know about your favorite Disney pairings 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: Morimoto Asia to Host Craft Beer Dinner with Crooked Can Brewing Company on March 3 News: Sake & Shine Event with Chef Masaharu Morimoto and Chef Art Smith Coming to Disney Springs Dec. 3 News! Morimoto Asia Opens September 30 at Disney Springs View the full article

A flood of new Walt Disney World attractions, including an immersive "Star Wars"-themed resort, a "Tron" ride and Epcot enhancements, were announced Saturday. Some of the additions will be timed to the 50th anniversary of Disney World in 2021, Bob Chapek, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts,... View the full article

It’s going too far to say it’s D-Day for Walt Disney World. But Saturday is most definitely D-23 Expo Day, and announcements made during the official Disney fan club event could change the look of Central Florida’s biggest theme parks. Or not. Until we hear it come out of the mouth of Bob Chapek,... View the full article

D23 offers an early peek at Disney and Pixar's new film slate View the full article

It’s no surprise that the new attraction at Disney California Adventure park, Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!, has left guests wanting an encore ride. It’s an exciting adventure with a rocking soundtrack, stunning visual and audio effects and favorite characters from the blockbuster films and comics. For a limited time, we’re offering an exclusive perk for Disneyland Resort hotel guests: “Extra” Extra Magic Hour to enjoy Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! one hour after Disney California Adventure park closes, on select days. That means extra time to help Rocket free his friends from the clutches of The Collector’s Fortress! Guests staying at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort can enjoy “Extra” Extra Magic Hour during the following dates and times: July 23 through August 30 (Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays)*, available one hour after park closes; separate theme park admission and valid hotel key card required This “Extra” Extra Magic Hour offering is an additional bonus to staying at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort. As a registered Disneyland Resort hotel guest, you’ll not only have easy access to both Disneyland Resort theme parks, but also an early morning admission option—Extra Magic Hour*—to a designated theme park on select mornings (separate theme park admission and valid hotel key card required)! Click here to book your epic Disneyland Resort vacation today! *Both Extra Magic Hours are valid for registered Disneyland® Resort Hotel Guests (ages 3 and older) who have a valid Theme Park ticket and active hotel room key card. Extra Magic Hour is valid for admission to select attractions at either Disneyland® Park or Disney California Adventure® Park before the applicable Park opens to the general public. Check Disneyland.com for schedule of when each Park offers Extra Magic Hour. “Extra” Extra Magic Hour is valid for admission only to the designated attraction, and only on days on which Disney California Adventure® Park hosts Extra Magic Hour in the morning (currently scheduled for Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays but check Disneyland.com for schedule changes). Applicable Theme Park, days and times of operation and attraction and service availability may vary and are subject to change without notice. Subject to capacity, cancellation and other restrictions. View the full article

This year’s Epcot International Food and Wine Festival will be the biggest yet with five new marketplaces and three returning country-themed booths (and more) to explore over 75 days (Aug. 31-Nov. 13). Where to begin? Local media were invited to Epcot today to check out some of the new dishes at... View the full article

This year’s Epcot International Food and Wine Festival will be the biggest yet with five new market[laces and three returning country-themed booths (and more) to explore over 75 days (Aug. 31-Nov. 13). Where to begin? Local media were invited to Epcot today to check out some of the new dishes... View the full article

We’re LIVE today from Walt Disney World with some new details for the 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival! Earlier this week, we shared the full list of Booths and Menus, Special Events, and Booking Dates. Since then, we’ve been gathering additional information about early booking opportunities and just who can call when. Today, Disney has filled in a few more of the gaps. Let’s go! 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Booth and Menu Details, and NEW Food Photos This year, we’re excited to see five brand new booths: Active Eats, The Almond Orchard, Coastal Eats, Light Lab, and Flavors From Fire! Returning after a period away from the booth lineup, we welcome back Spain, India, Thailand, and The Cheese Studio. That means there are more booths than ever this year — 35 to mark the 35 years of Epcot. Spain booth is back! But of course, this means that we have to say goodbye to a few to make room. Gone from the booth line up in 2017 are the Desserts and Champagne, Poland, and South Korea booths. As always, you can visit our Epcot Food and Wine Festival Menu Index page for ALL the menus and links to individual booth pages showing food photos. We’ll be updating these pages throughout the festival with photos of every single food item! But today, we’re sharing MENU and BOOTH Details as well as FOOD PHOTOS from both World Showcase and Future World booths! Start Your Planning NOW! News! The DFB Guide to the 2017 Epcot Food & Wine Festival e-Book is now available! This 250+-page guide to the Festival offers insider tips and advice as well as all of the details you need to know to plan your best Festival visit ever. Your purchase includes several bonus items as well — including a full daily schedule of events at the Festival and a printable World Showcase Booth Menu Checklist to carry with you as you Eat around the World! Order your 2017 edition today. We’ll send updated editions automatically as Disney releases more details! Don’t miss a moment of the fun! Use code Chefs at check-out for a 20% discount! Be sure to stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for all of the latest coverage about the 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival. We’ll have the details FIRST! Stay tuned to the DFB YouTube Channel for our thoughts on the items below — and other Food and Wine Festival sneak peeks — early next week! Active Eats — NEW to the 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Let’s start with dessert! The Active Eats Booth offers guests foods that will keep them going all day! We are so excited to try the Sweet Avocado Crema with Strawberries, Yellow Cake, and Tortilla Streusel! Sweet Avocado Crema with Strawberries, Yellow Cake, and Tortilla Streusel Coastal Eats — NEW to the 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival The new Coastal Eats Booth will emphasize fresh seafood. Here’s a first look, including Seared Scallops with Roasted Corn and Butterbean Succotash and Chili-Chipotle Butter Sauce. Seared Scallops Epcot Food and Wine Festival Flavors from Fire — NEW to the 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival The Flavors from Fire Booth features spicy foods and dishes touched by Fire. This area also promises to be a beautiful destination, so plan to spend some quality time here. In the meantime, let’s dig into the Smoked Corn Beef with Crispy Potatoes, Pickled Onions, and Blonde Ale Beer Fondue. Flavors from Fire Smoked Corned Beef Light Lab — NEW to the 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Light Lab is another brand new offering that you’ll find in Future World — and it’s indoors!! So it’s gonna be an awesome way to beat the heat. Today, we’re getting our first taste — the T=C2: Vanilla Tonic Water and Cotton Candy. T=CC2: Vanilla Tonic Water and Cotton Candy T=CC2: Vanilla Tonic Water and Cotton Candy (FYI — everything from this booth GLOWS! So be prepared for black lights ;-D) India India returns with a slate of exotic flavors. Today, we’re sharing a first look at the menu with Madras Red Curry with Roasted Cauliflower, Baby Carrots, Chickpeas, and Basmati Rice. Madras Red Curry Spain Spain offers regional delicacies that celebrate the rich flavors of the country. A great stroll and eat starter will be the Charcuterie in a Cone with Spanish Meats, Cheeses, and Olives, finished with an Herb Vinaigrette. Charcuterie in a Cone There’s also a sweet ending with Sweet Olive Oil Cake, accompanied by Lemon Curd. Sweet Olive Oil Cake with Lemon Curd Thailand At the returning Thailand booth, you’ll find Red Hot Spicy Thai Curry Beef with Steamed Rice! Red Hot Spicy Thai Curry Cheese Studio The returning Cheese Studio is hosted by Boursin this year. Getting started on our experience with the Cheese Trio is a great way to spend today. It features a savory Profiterole topped with Boursin and Orange Apricot Jam; Smoked Salmon Pinwheel with Boursin Shallot and Chive Cheese and Everything Seasoning; and a Strawberry Macaron with Boursin Pepper Cheese. (And yep — Disney’s calling it a Macaroon. Stay tuned to see if they update the spelling to Macaron.) Cheese Trio New Zealand New Zealand offers a new drink to refresh you during your travels — a Frozen Wine Cocktail featuring Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc. It will be a great match to some of the spicier dishes. New Zealand Frozen Wine Cocktail Hawai’i Hawai’i has been a favorite of ours since it debuted, and we’re so glad Kalua Pork Slider returns this year. Joining it is a brand new dish — the Teriyaki-glazed SPAM Hash with Potatoes, Peppers and Onions, and Spicy Mayonnaise! Hawaii Teriyaki glazed SPAM Hash So… how do you think 2017 is shaping up?? New! Expanded Family Friendly Festival Offerings This year more than ever before, Epcot emphasizes that the Food and Wine Festival is fun for ALL ages — including kids! Look for an expanded offering of kid- and family-friendly attractions, foods, and activities. There’s more to come, but here’s what we know so far! Light Lab: In addition to fun drinks that light up, Light Lab will also feature merchandise and a fun area that families and kids will want to explore! Light Lab merchandise Remy’s Hide and Squeak Scavenger Hunt: The popular scavenger hunt is back in 2017 and expands with three new stops, all in Future World! It’s fun for the whole family as you spend your day exploring the Booths and all the festival has to offer. Remy Scavenger Hunt Maps Festival Center: Arguably the heart of the festival and the perfect place to start your day, the Festival Center will offer additional kid-centric activities and expanded programming. Festival Center Look for the Smiling Strawberry: Throughout this year’s Festival Passport, look for a new icon, the Smiling Strawberry, to indicate kid-friendly food and activities. Festival Merchandise There’s some seriously fun merchandise coming this year! And there’s something for every budget. Let’s take a look. Dooney and Bourke fans can expect some super cool bags just in time for Food and Wine, featuring Chef Figment! Dooney and Bourke Food and Wine Festival Bags Dooney and Bourke Food and Wine Festival Bags Dooney and Bourke Food and Wine Festival Bags Coming Soon! But Dooney fans can now add a Dooney and Bourke Food and Wine Festival exclusive MagicBand to their stash. Dooney and Bourke MagicBand But I’ll confess: I’m way more psyched about adding these Food and Wine Festival Trash Can Salt and Pepper Shakers to my collection. Food and Wine Festival Trash Can Salt and Pepper Shakers Have you ever wanted to open your beer with your ballcap? Well, now you can — Food and Wine Style! And also note that the Brews Around the World merch has received a refresh once again. Beer Opener Ballcap Epcot Food and Wine Festival Early Booking and Discount Details Are you ready for booking details for the Food and Wine Festival Special Events — including confirmed booking information?! Champagne Tasting Schedules for the 2017 Culinary Demonstrations, Beverage Seminars, and Mix It, Make It, Celebrate It! Hand On Workshops will be released next week. Stay tuned to Disney Food Blog and the DFB Newsletter! We’ll share the info as soon as we have it! But here’s the big news. While the general public can book events for the Food and Wine Festival starting on July 20th at 7AM ET, Annual Passholders, Golden Oak Residents, Tables in Wonderland Members, and DVC members will be able to book ALL events starting on July 18th at 9AM ET. Yep. Early Booking on the 18th includes ALL EVENTS. This is in contrast to only being able to book low-cost events and Party for the Senses in previous years. Also, it’s now confirmed that $2 discounts will be offered for seminars and demonstrations only, Monday through Thursday only, for Annual Passholders, Tables in Wonderland members, Golden Oak Residents, and DVC members. Cooking with Carla Hall at the festival Booking for all other events, and for the general public, will begin Thursday, July 20 at 7:00AM ET (please note: everything is subject to change). Call 407-WDW-FEST to book. ALL booking for VIP events and tickets (e.g. premium levels at the Party for the Senses) in previous years had to be booked by phone. Booking for seminars, demos, and some special events will be available at epcotfoodfestival.com. For all of the details about higher priced Special Events, including the full schedule, head over to our Special Events Page. For more information on what we know about Seminars, Demonstrations, and Mix It, Make It, Celebrate It Hands On Workshops, see our Low-Cost Events Page. Chase Is No Longer Sponsoring The Food and Wine Festival We have confirmation today that Chase is no longer the festival’s sponsor, so Chase Cardmembers will not receive early booking privileges, and there will be no special Chase Cardmember-exclusive events. Also, it looks like the Chase Lounge will not be returning to the festival this year. Party for the Senses Updates Party for the Senses receives a new focus, and for the first time, all levels of tickets will enjoy guaranteed seating. No more standing around with your plate and glass in your hand all night. Yay! Wine View Lounge Cheese Station We’ve also confirmed that the Rockin’ Burger Block Party will not return. However, Disney has noted expanded entertainment — including a dance floor — during Party for the Senses. 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 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Menus and FOOD PHOTOS 2016 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. What Epcot Food and Wine Festival Event are you looking forward to booking in 2017? Tell us what you think below in comments! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: News! 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival BOOTH MENUS, FOOD PHOTOS, and SPECIAL EVENTS Details! News! Epcot Food and Wine Festival Early Booking Details for Chase Disney Visa Cardmembers Confirmed! Food and Wine Festival Early Booking Date and Discounts For TiW and DVC Members, and Annual Passholders View the full article

One entrance is flanked by a TIE fighter representing the evil First Order. The other entryway is dressed as a Resistance encampment with a lifesize X-wing. Beyond is lush greenery contrasting with desert-like domed structures. This is the alien world of the "Star Wars"-inspired lands coming to... View the full article

One entrance is flanked by a TIE fighter representing the evil First Order. The other entryway is dressed as a Resistance encampment with a lifesize X-wing. Beyond is lush greenery contrasting with desert-like domed structures. This is the alien world of the "Star Wars"-inspired lands coming to... View the full article

One entrance is flanked by a TIE fighter representing the evil First Order. The other entryway is dressed as a Resistance encampment with a lifesize X-wing. Beyond is lush greenery contrasting with desert-like domed structures. This is the alien world of the "Star Wars"-inspired lands coming to... View the full article

Disney Legends honorees in 2017 include Oprah Winfrey, Whoopi Goldberg, Carrie Fisher, Mark Hamill, Stan Lee, Garry Marshall and “Lion King” director Julie Taymor. The awards were given at the D23 Expo 2017 in Anaheim, California. View the full article

Whoopi Goldberg loves Disney, and vice versa. The company on Friday named the Oscar-winning actress a Disney Legend at the D23 Expo: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in Anaheim, Calif. She’s a host of “The View,” which airs at 11 a.m. weekdays on Disney-owned ABC. “Disney and I go way back, since... View the full article

From traditional Disney characters to Marvel, Star Wars and more, fans came out in costume to the D23 Expo 2017 fan event in Anaheim, California. View the full article

If you are looking for a place to cool off this summer, make sure Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon tops your list. There are tons of ways to beat the heat here, but the newly opened Miss Adventure Falls is a must for families with little ones. This sopping raft ride is based on the story of Captain Mary Oceaneer, a treasure-hunting heroine who got stranded at Typhoon Lagoon many moons ago by a turbulent storm. A nifty treasure raft carries up to four guests through dark tunnels, soaking waterfalls and gentle twists and turns. Wrecked ships, ruins and artifacts the Captain gathered on her sailing adventures are displayed along the way. The two-minute journey is just the right speed for youngsters — and there’s is no height requirement or stairs. A conveyor belt magically transports you to the top of the slide. Super cool! So if your kids love to get wet, like the waterlogged kids in this video did, check out the splashtacular fun at Typhoon Lagoon this summer. View the full article

Sweet on You is one of my favorite new spots aboard the Disney Fantasy, not only for the amazing desserts but also for the super cute atmosphere that brings you into the world of Mickey and Minnie Mouse. One fun fact about the new space is that the artwork on the walls was created by the animators from the Mickey Mouse cartoon shorts. The music playing in the background makes you feel as if you’re walking into a patisserie right off the streets of Paris, so it’s fitting that this premium sweet shop serves a variety of hand-crafted desserts, including macarons. Today I’m sharing the recipe for the raspberry macarons for you to make at home. When you’re sailing on a 7-night Disney Fantasy cruise, be sure to try out the other flavors, as I can attest that each one is delicious! Raspberry Macarons Makes 20 macarons Ingredients: 1 cup powdered sugar 1 cup almond blanched flour 2/3 tbs egg whites, divided ½ tsp red food coloring 1 cup granulated sugar ½ cup purified water 1 cup raspberry jam Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 300 degrees F. 2. Combine powdered sugar and almond flour in an electric mixer until fine. Add 1/3 tbs egg whites and food coloring to make a paste in the electric mixer.Note: Make sure the egg whites are room temperature before using. 3. Boil the sugar and water in a small pot and bring to 260 degrees F. Whip 1/3 tbs egg whites. Pour the hot sugar syrup into the egg whites on the side of the bowl and whip at a high speed until thickened to form the meringue. 4. Add 1/3 of the meringue to the almond flour mixture and combine, repeating with the rest of the meringue and making sure to deflate the mixture. 5. Fill a piping bag with a round #6 tip with the mixture. Place wax paper onto a baking sheet, and pipe the mixture into ¾ inch round discs onto the sheet. Let sit for 35 minutes before baking in the oven. 6. Place the macaroons in the oven and immediately turn down the oven temperature to 285 degrees F. Bake for ten minutes and then take out of the oven to cool. 7. When cool, turn over half of the macarons and pipe raspberry jam on the flat surface. Place another macaron on top of the jam. View the full article

It isn't easy being green. But no longer being green is apparently even harder. Steve Whitmire, the puppeteer who was fired after 27 years as Kermit the Frog said Thursday he is "devastated to have failed" Muppets founder and his mentor Jim Henson. Whitmire has been with the Muppets since 1978,... View the full article