Disney4me

This week’s Disney Doodle features to furry friends from the 1981 film, “The Fox and The Hound.” In it, artist Ashley Taylor imagines what these two unlikely friends would get into if they had the chance to explore a Disney theme park. According to her, the perfect place would be at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. “I love Todd and Copper from ‘The Fox and The Hound’!” she said. “It’s easy to imagine them having fun in The Boneyard play area at Animal Kingdom! Digging up as many bones as they can!” View the full article

Happily Ever After Fireworks at Magic Kingdom | Walt Disney World View the full article

Lightning McQueen and his pals in "Cars 3" raced to the top spot at the box office this weekend, pushing "Wonder Woman" into second place for the first time since it opened. Studio estimates on Sunday said Disney and Pixar's "Cars 3" opened with $53.5 million — a low for the $1 billion series.... View the full article

Happy Father’s Day to all the dads out there! We hope you’re enjoying a wonderful and relaxing weekend with the family! Now it’s time to sit back, relax, and check out the latest in Disney food news… Giant sundaes at Taste Track! We’re celebrating Dad’s Day with a huge sale at the DFB Store! Shop today and get 30% off EVERY DFB Guide in the store! Use code DadsDay at checkout! The 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival starts in August this year and you can check out all the details here and pre-order our DFB Guide to the 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival here (and get the 2016 guide FREE!). And if you want even MORE food news, we also have news on the updated menus for the 2017 Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic! We have a lot to share with you this week, so let’s jump right in… Disney Food News Mobile Order is coming to five quick service restaurants at the Magic Kingdom! Will alcohol be included in the 2018 Disney Dining Plan? It’s possible! Check out our food hack for a Mickey Ear Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich. We stopped by Kaki Gori for some cool treats in Epcot’s Japan Pavilion. A new Frozen Ever After Sparkling Dessert Party is coming to Epcot. Disney’s Dolphin Hotel is getting a new lobby bar and quick service restaurant! Taste Track in Epcot is now serving giant Ice Cream Sundaes! The Gone Mad Party with Fireworks Viewing has returned to Disney’s Grand Floridian. We reviewed all the new Summer of Heroes eats and drinks at Disney California Adventure. The Halloween and Christmas fireworks dessert parties are open for booking! We reviewed Wolfgang Puck’s Grand Cafe at Disney Springs. Check out this recipe for The Chew’s Ricotta and Zucchini Ravioli from the Epcot Food and Wine Festival. We reviewed the sweets at the Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe at Disneyland. New DFB YouTube videos have all the details on the Ultimate Funnel Cakes in Disneyland and Disney World, New Menu Items at Min and Bill’s Dockside Diner, Check out all the latest Disney Food News — even the stuff we don’t mention in posts on the blog! — on our Disney Food News Pin Board, including menu updates, restaurant closures, special events, and more! We’ve got all the latest for you, so check it out before you go. New DFB Video! Have you subscribed to the DFB YouTube Channel? We’ve got great content going up twice a week showcasing our adventures in Disney World and Disneyland! This week, we’re talking about the new menu items at Min and Bill’s Dockside Diner at Disney’s Hollywood Studios! Check it out below — and subscribe here! Deal of the Week: Save on The 2017 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining e-Book Second Edition! Do you have your DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2017 Second Edition? To celebrate this milestone — the first time we’ve shared a second edition — and to say thank you to all of our loyal DFB readers – you can order the Second Edition for 20% OFF your purchase with code SAVE2017! Why a Second Edition, You Ask? Because it’s crazy, but true — EVERYTHING continues to change so rapidly at Walt Disney World these days. So many new restaurants, kiosks, bars and lounges, menu items, and more have come online. We are constantly go go go just trying to cover it all for our Disney World food lovers out there! So we decided it was time to produce the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, 2017 Second Edition now. We update everything with every new edition, so you can be sure that you’ve got the most recent details about dining in Walt Disney World at your fingertips. You can order your copy today for 20% off the cover price – just use code SAVE2017! With a 100% money back guarantee, you have nothing to lose! DFB Reader Finds If you find a fun new food — or other edible awesomeness — in or around Disney, share a photo with us on facebook or twitter so we can add it to our DFB Reader Finds each Sunday! We LOVE visiting Sprinkles in Disney Springs and at Disneyland’s Downtown Disney! There are so many delicious treats to enjoy – but we’ll always recommend the Salted Oatmeal Cornflake Cookie and Brownie Ice Cream Sandwich with Cap’n Crunch Cereal Ice Cream. DFB reader Nic Flenn visited Sprinkles for the first time ever recently and declares that he’s now a “huge fan!” Smart guy, that Nic. ;-D We love Sprinkles, yes we do! We’re always on the lookout for fun, new drinks at Disney World and the Stow Away Mary at Epcot’s Refreshment Port is our kind of drink – a Bloody Mary garnished with Chicken Nuggets? We spotted this a few weeks ago, and DFB reader Danielle Nardi found it recently! Chicken Nuggets on a Bloody Mary? We’re all in! Do you have a favorite Disney Food find? Share your photos with us! On to the Round-Up! Mickey Fix spotted this must-have Han Solo Apron. WDW for Grownups shared some delicious watermelon drinks at Disney World! Disney Parks Blog shared some fun DIY recipes for sweet and savory snacks for Father’s Day! Buzzfeed shared a quiz testing your Disney movie knowledge based only on food. Disney Tourist Blog lets us know that Shanghai Disneyland is serving Pepsi. <–good article about more than coke/pepsi; worth a read Have a great week! We’ll see you back here tomorrow with another great Disney food review! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: Disney Food Post Round-Up: April 30, 2017 Disney Food Post Round-Up: May 28, 2017 Disney Food Post Round-up: April 2, 2017 View the full article

June 18 is National Sushi Day, and here’s where you can find your fix at Walt Disney World Resort. It’s that small ball of vinegar-flavored cooked rice with fish (usually raw) or vegetables that makes sushi, well, sushi. Rolls count too. Female sushi chefs are onstage at Tokyo Dining at the Japan Pavilion in Epcot, rolling out favorites such as the Fire Cracker Roll with tempura shrimp, a touch of jalapeño and Sriracha drizzle, or the Tropical Roll with salmon and avocado topped with fried plantain and mango-sweet chili coulis. You can be more straightforward with nigiri (raw salmon, scallops, sea bream and other fish) on a small ball of rice with a dab of wasabi. Open daily for lunch and dinner. California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort counts sushi as one of its top appetizers (or we can make a meal of it). From a California Combo Roll with jumbo lump crab, avocado, cucumber and shrimp tempura to a snazzy Truffle-Scented Tofu Roll with avocado, jicama, quinoa, crispy fingerling potatoes, silken tofu and truffle emulsion, there are six inventive rolls on the menu. Dinner daily. At Disney’s Polynesian Resort, Kona Island offers sushi for lunch and dinner in a casual setting in the upstairs lobby. We like the vegetable nigiri, six pieces of seasonal veggies on vinegar-flavored rice. Or try the Hamachi Tuna-Cilantro roll or classic California Roll with lump crab, citrus mayo, cucumber and avocado. Lunch and dinner daily. Disney Springs has two spots for sushi: Morimoto Asia and Splitsville. The chefs put on a dazzling show at the sushi bar at Morimoto Asia with favorites like the Spider Roll with tempura soft shell crab, spicy mayo, and asparagus; Eel and Avocado Roll, and the Spicy Salmon Roll. But the pièce de résistance is the Sushi and Sashimi Platter for four to six guests that includes chilled whole lobster, Alaskan king crab, oysters, shrimp, nine pieces of nigiri and 14 pieces of sashimi. Splitsville Luxury Lanes (yes, the luxury bowling lanes) has two sushi bars and offers 10 rolls – try the Ninja Crunch with fried salmon, krab, tempura crunch and salmon drizzled with spicy mayo and eel sauce. Both locations are open for lunch and dinner daily. Kimonos at the Walt Disney World Swan Hotel offers one of the largest selections of sushi at Walt Disney World Resort, with seven cooked sushi rolls and 10 raw sushi rolls. From tempura asparagus to a Cajun Roll with spicy crawfish, there’s something for every palate. Open daily for dinner (nightly karaoke too!). Where is your favorite place to get sushi at Walt Disney World Resort? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article

This week, along with some special Father’s Day stories, we shared an exciting update that one of the newest stars from Disney·Pixar’s “Cars 3” – Cruz Ramirez – is joining Lightning McQueen and Mater in Cars Land at Disney California Adventure park. Cruz will also be taking a summer road trip down to the Sunshine State, stopping in on Pixar Place at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Check out our original story for more details and then race out to catch “Cars 3” in theaters in 3D this weekend. And Disney Parks Blog readers were among the first to learn that reservations opened for the brand-new Frozen Ever After Dessert Party – the coolest dessert party with reserved seating to “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” at Epcot, delicious desserts and a special opportunity to enjoy the Frozen Ever After attraction. The Frozen Ever After Dessert Party is another exciting offering from the Enchanting Extras Collection, which allows guests to enhance their vacation with one-of-a-kind Disney experiences. Reservations are now open for dates beginning July 17 and can be made by visiting DisneyWorld.com/dine or by calling 407-WDW-DINE. Check Rachel’s original story for more details about the party. Here are some of the other stories we worked on this week. Shanghai Disney Resort Hosts Spectacular One Year Anniversary Celebration With Guests From Across China – What a celebration in Shanghai last night as Shanghai Disneyland capped an incredible first year, welcoming more than 11 million guests since its historic June 2016 opening! Shanghai Disney Resort marked its first anniversary, as floating lanterns representing good fortune for the past, present and future hovered above Shanghai Disneyland during a magical nighttime celebration at Enchanted Storybook Castle, commemorating the resort’s historic anniversary and tremendous popularity with the people of mainland China. Classics Come Back to Disneyland Park this Summer with the Return of ‘Fantasmic!,’ Rivers of America and Disneyland Railroad – This summer, iconic Disneyland park attractions make their return with the reopening of “Fantasmic!,” the Rivers of America attractions and the Disneyland Railroad. We know these classic attractions – many of which have delighted guests since the park’s opening day – are very special to Disneyland park fans, and we are excited to celebrate their return. Disneyland Paris Update: Johnny Depp Visits His New Audio-Animatronics Counterpart in Re-Imagined Attraction – Guess who made Un Visite Surprise (A Surprise Visit) to Disneyland Paris this past week? None other than Captain Jack Sparrow himself – Johnny Depp – to get a first look at the new Audio Animatronics figures being installed in the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction at Disneyland Paris. Depp explored the new scenes and even struck a pose next to the pirate he knows so well, who is hiding in a barrel, still searching for new treasures. #DisneyKids: What Kids Are Loving About Pandora – The World of Avatar – To say Disney’s new Pandora – The World of Avatar is popular, is the understatement of the summer. Guests have been lining up to experience the exotic world – and eager to introduce their kids to the world of James Cameron’s iconic film AVATAR. But the beauty of this world is that you don’t need to be an Avatar fan or a grownup to enjoy its beauty, splendor and playfulness. With its colorful landscape, awe-inspiring floating mountains and fun eats, it’s fit for explorers of all ages. Disney Legend Paige O’Hara Shares Her ‘Beauty & The Beast’ Memories at Walt Disney World Resort – More than 25 years ago, actress Paige O’Hara lent her voice to one of the most beloved Disney princesses of all time – Belle, in the 1991 film “Beauty and the Beast.” Paige, who was awarded with Disney Legend status in 2011, recently visited Magic Kingdom Park where she met up with Belle and Beast, and shared some of her favorite Disney memories with us. View the full article

We’ve picked at Pandora, vaulted past Volcano Bay and unleashed the virtual-reality version of Kraken. Is that all there is? Nope, not with Central Florida’s theme parks and attractions. Here’s a rumor-free roundup of what’s ahead, at least officially. Mine, all Mine They say: A roller coaster... View the full article

Are you as excited about the Epcot Food and Wine Festival as we are? It will be here before you know it! Summer may have just begun, but in just a couple of months — weeks, really — we’ll be kicking off the festival with strolls along World Showcase Promenade, sipping and noshing on lots of new dishes and returning favorites. And even though we’re still awaiting major details, like booking dates and a full list of events, there’s plenty that we can get started on in the way of planning. Cheers to the Epcot Food and Wine Festival! But there’s one factor you must determine before you can get to any of your other plans: what’s the time best time to visit the Epcot Food and Wine Festival? We answer below — including some things you may not have thought about. When Is the Best Time to Visit the Epcot Food and Wine Festival? There are lots of things to consider when timing of your visit to the festival. Weather, crowds, and other events are just a few. Let’s run down a couple of our recommendations that will help you to have a great visit. Visit on weekdays if possible. It’s not just out-of-town guests who enjoy the Epcot Food and Wine Festival. Lots of locals visit as well, opting mostly for the weekends. Visiting During Weekdays Means Smaller Crowds at Festival Booths It’s pretty normal to see crowds swell from Friday through Sunday with long lines at all of the festival booths, but especially favorites like Canada and France. Get started at 11:00AM — or even earlier. Whatever day you visit, plan to hit the ground running, and visit the booths as soon as they open at 11:00AM. Be There at 11:00 AM to Avoid Mammoth Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup Lines Oftentimes, the later in the day, the longer the lines. Planning ahead for which booths you’d like to visit and arriving right as they open will ensure you get to quite a few before it gets super busy. Mid-October is the Sweet Spot. Because the beginning and the end can be a bit tricky with big crowds, and there’s no hot like September Florida hot. We recommend you wait until the middle of October if at all possible. If you’re lucky, temps start to regulate a bit, and those afternoon storms begin to dry up. A Rainy Food and Wine Festival Isn’t Necessarily Awesome Avoid race weekends like the plague too, because they can get pretty busy as well. 2015 Epcot Wine and Dine Medal But as long as you follow steps 1 and 2, don’t worry too much about step 3. We know it’s not always up to you what month you can visit the festival. But starting at 11AM on a weekday will help you make huge strides toward a positive Food and Wine Festival experience! Now we’d LOVE to hear your best tips! When is your favorite time to visit the Epcot Food and Wine Festival? Leave a comment and share with us! Start Your Planning NOW! News! The DFB Guide to the 2017 Epcot Food & Wine Festival e-Book is now available for pre-order! And if you pre-order the 2017 edition, you get the 2016 edition (with TONS of great info!) for FREE!!! This 250+-page guide to the Festival offers insider tips and advice as well as all of the details you need to know to plan your best Festival visit ever. Your purchase includes several bonus items as well — including a full daily schedule of events at the Festival and a printable World Showcase Booth Menu Checklist to carry with you as you Eat around the World! Order your 2017 edition today and we’ll immediately send you the 2016 edition for FREE to get started on planning right away! Don’t miss a moment of the fun! Use code Chefs at check-out for a 20% discount! Be sure to stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for all of the latest coverage about the 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival. We’ll have the details FIRST! 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: 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Tip: How Many Days Should I Budget For the Festival? Epcot Food and Wine Festival Tip: Should I Bring My Kids to the Festival? Tips from the DFB Guide: Epcot Food and Wine Festival on a Budget View the full article

My daughter, Raven, says that her dad is like King Triton – just the right mix of ‘nice and cuddly’ and ‘strict patrol person.’ I think the true comparison is how much these fathers love their daughters. Jeff Maurer has captured this paternal love in a touching Father’s Day wallpaper. Be sure to check out the terms of use about using the wallpaper before you download it. Want to check out other designs? Visit our complete gallery of wallpapers here. Happy Father’s Day! View the full article

Earlier this week, we shared a look at the recent “Cars 3” advanced screening we held for Disney Parks Blog readers at Disney Springs here at Walt Disney World Resort. Today, we wanted to share even more photos from our fun event. Be sure to click through the Instagram gallery above. And to check out future Disney Parks Blog events, be sure to follow our Disney Parks Blog Instagram account. Will you see “Cars 3” this weekend? Tell us in the comments section below! View the full article

Baroque Architecture and Treetop Adventures in Germany | Adventures by Disney View the full article

As G.I. JoeCon returns for 2017, 250 G.I. Joe action figures are launched from the roof of a hotel building at the Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort on June 16, 2017. (Aileen Perilla/ Orlando Sentinel) View the full article

I have a wonderful father and, quite honestly, I don’t tell him that often enough. When I was a little girl it was actually my dad that stayed home with us kids. He gave us pizza for breakfast…allowed us to wear shorts during winter…often forgot to brush our hair…it was truly a blast growing up and I love him for every minute of it. What better way to say thanks to dad than to make him yummy treats? Designers turned chefs, Brittany Ungvarsky and I came up with two delicious recipes! One for sweet s’mores and one for savory snack mix. Download the step-by-step directions here. Whether your dad is a sweetie or on the salty side make sure to give him lots of love this Father’s Day! View the full article

After meeting Mater in Cars Land recently, some unsuspecting Disney California Adventure park guests got a surprise visit from Larry the Cable Guy, who voices the famous tow truck in the Disney·Pixar “Cars” films! Watch below as these lucky guests enjoy this special surprise appearance, and be sure to race into theaters to see Disney·Pixar’s “Cars 3” in 3D today! View the full article

Today is World Sea Turtle Day, and we are thrilled to introduce a very special new member of our conservation team whose amazing sense of smell is actually saving sea turtles. Meet Dory! She is a shelter-rescued pup we are training to locate rare sea turtle eggs in nests on the beach. Dory is following in the paw prints of Captain Ron, expert dog trainer Pepe Peruyero’s adorable beagle who has worked with us for the last three years. Captain Ron has helped the Animals, Science and Environment Team find nearly 100 turtle nests from three species of sea turtles at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort. While it can take our human team members 30 minutes or more to find the eggs within a large, sandy sea turtle nest, Dory can pinpoint this spot in as little as 30 seconds! Dory is already spending time on the beach detecting eggs within loggerhead sea turtle nests, and when challenged to find eggs under the massive piles of sand left by a couple of leatherback sea turtles, Dory pointed them out in mere seconds. We could not be more proud of Dory, and we know she is equally as excited to continue all the great work her buddy Captain Ron started in this important conservation mission. You can see Dory working on the beach at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort this summer (Wednesday-Saturday), and both dogs will make a special appearance at Tour de Turtles July 29! To follow Dory and her adventures, visit the Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment Facebook page. To learn more about sea turtles and Disney’s conservation work, visit DisneyAnimals.com. View the full article

Forty-five years ago, on June 17, 1972, the Main Street Electrical Parade first lit up the night at Disneyland park. It has since gone on to become the classic 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! Main Street Electrical Parade can be experienced once again where it began – Disneyland park – now through August 20. Don’t miss your chance to enjoy this classic and beloved parade! View the full article

#DisneyFamilia: Vacation Tips From Sascha Schmidt | Walt Disney World View the full article

Tomorrow the recently enhanced Disney Fantasy departs on her first-ever Southern Caribbean cruise, with back-to-back 10- and 11-night cruises from Port Canaveral. In honor of these special voyages, last week I shared highlights of sun-soaked adventures in Aruba, and today I’ll give you suggestions for fun in Curaçao. Like Aruba, the island of Curaçao is located in the Southern Caribbean Sea near the coast of Venezuela. It is a vibrant oasis famous for its beaches, pristine diving and snorkeling, rich culture and European architecture. Whether you choose to have a beach day or stretch your legs exploring other parts of the island, we have the perfect Port Adventure for your family. Here are just a few … City Walking Tour – Curaçao’s capital, Willemstad, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that features colorful Dutch buildings, museums, monuments, restaurants and shops. This guided tour takes you on an enlightening stroll through the city, including Rif Fort, Fort Amsterdam, the Queen Emma floating bridge and the picturesque floating marketplace. A highlight of the tour is a visit to the Curaçao Maritime Museum where you can discover more than 500 years of the island’s maritime history. Discover Curaçao Island Tour – This excursion also visits the Curaçao Maritime Museum, followed by exciting adventures around the island. One stop is at the spectacular Hato Caves, a dramatic collection of centuries-old grottos filled with stalactites, stalagmites and crystal-clear pools. Another destination is the Chobolobo Liqueur Factory where you can taste Blue Curacao liqueur and see how it is made. Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy magnificent views during scenic drives around the island paradise. Coastal and Country Drive – Get your camera ready! This Port Adventure showcases the beauty of Curaçao with visits to some of the area’s stunning locales, including Boca Tabla National Park, Jan Kok salt lakes and one of the island’s most beautiful beaches. You’ll also stop at Kas di Pal’I Maishi, an interactive museum where you’ll learn about life in Curacao from days past and enjoy a traditional song and dance demonstration. Check out my previous posts featuring Southern Caribbean destinations, and remember, when the ship’s in port, venture ashore! Escape to Aruba with Disney Cruise Line Enjoying Barbados with Disney Cruise Line Adventures in Martinique with Disney Cruise Line Experiencing St. Kitts with Disney Cruise Line Exploring Tortola with Disney Cruise Line View the full article

Five years ago this week, Cars Land officially opened at Disney California Adventure park. To celebrate, we are hosting two Artist Showcase events at Ramone’s House of Body Art on June 17 and 24. I recently spoke with Lisa Bergman, merchandise product developer for WonderGround Gallery in the Downtown Disney District, about the Disney-Pixar’s “Cars”-inspired artwork being showcased. “We are delighted to feature some of our WonderGround Gallery artists at Cars Land this month,” exclaimed Lisa. “Each artist will offer their own interpretation of the sights or characters found in this wonderfully immersive land. The best part about these events is our guests can meet these talented artists. These events are another fun way to celebrate an exciting month that starts with the release of Disney-Pixar’s ‘Cars 3’ in theaters on June 16.” On June 17, guests can meet Jerrod Maruyama and Joey Chou from 2 to 4 p.m. Jerrod’s work (above left) is titled, “Cutest Little Town in Carburetor County,” while Joey’s art (above right) is called, “Race Around Radiator Springs.” Jeff Granito (“Cruising to Ka-Chow”), Max Grundy (“Flomotion”), Michael Murphy (“Cozy Cone Arrival”), and Michelle Bickford will appear on June 24 from 2 to 4 p.m. Michelle will offer two pieces – “New Wheels!” (shown above) and “Cars Land Panorama” (the latter is an one-of-a-kind original piece of artwork). For all Artist Showcase events, there is a limit of two items signed per artist, per guest. We kindly ask guests do not bring personal items to be signed. Appearances are subject to time and availability and are not guaranteed. Separate admission is required to enter Disney California Adventure park. While visiting Ramone’s House of Body Art, I also invite you to check out some of the newest Cars Land and Radiator Springs Racers products. Guests will find apparel and accessories for adults and kids including a new Radiator Springs Racers logo pin. View the full article

“We’re all mad here…” But where, exactly is “here,” you ask? Why, it’s just outside Gasparilla Island Grill at the Grand Floridian Resort, which has brought back the Gone Mad Party on Wednesdays during the month of June! Gone Mad Party sign This Alice in Wonderland-themed shindig made its limited-run debut in 2016, and its return gives guests the opportunity to view the new Happily Ever After Fireworks Spectacular from the Grill’s outdoor seating area from 7:00 – 9:30 pm. Happily Ever After True, the fireworks don’t last two and a half hours , so music and dancing otherwise help to set the scene, along with whimsical furniture all the way from the west coast (originally used at the Mad T Party in Disneyland)! Mad T Party Seating While the party itself is free, drinks and eats are available for an additional charge. And with extra fun eats, you’ll want to plan accordingly for snacks and sips! Rapunzel Cupcakes for Gone Mad Party Cinderella Cupcakes for Gone Mad Party Like last year, you don’t need to be a Grand Floridian Resort guest to attend, and no reservation is required. However, this little guideline is still a good idea: it is best to call the Grand Floridian Resort ahead of time (or stop by the front desk) to ensure that the party is taking place on your visit, as it can be cancelled due to inclement weather. And you might want to show up a little early, as space is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Would you like to attend the Gone Mad Party? 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: “Gone Mad” Wishes Fireworks Party Debuts at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa News: Wishes Dessert Party Debuts at Narcoossee’s in Disney World’s Grand Floridian Resort News: Frozen Ever After Sparkling Dessert Party with Fireworks Viewing Coming to Epcot View the full article

This summer, when you head on down the highway to Disney California Adventure park, you’ll be able to meet one of the newest stars from Disney·Pixar’s “Cars 3,” Cruz Ramirez. Cruz is joining Lightning McQueen and Mater in Cars Land, starting today. She’ll also be taking a summer road trip down to the Sunshine State, stopping in on Pixar Place at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. In Disney·Pixar’s “Cars 3,” Cruz Ramirez is a top-notch technician at the Rusteze Racing Center where she’s assigned to train the team’s talented rookies. Cruz always had racing dreams of her own, but it isn’t until she meets Lightning McQueen that she realizes her passion to compete is still there. Now she’ll finally get the chance to see if she’s got what it takes to win. Race out to catch “Cars 3” in theaters in 3D today, and look for Cruz Ramirez this summer as she pays a visit to Disney California Adventure park and Disney’s Hollywood Studios! View the full article

It’s time for another visit to Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe in Disneyland Park! Jolly Holiday Entrance Jolly Holiday pays tribute to everyone’s favorite governess, Mary Poppins, and her merry band of whimsical creatures. (See the penguin on top of the sign? ) Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe Sign This bright and cheerful spot blends in perfectly with the rest of Main Street, U.S.A. A first time visitor to Disneyland might never guess that Jolly Holiday is a fairly recent addition, but even though it’s relatively new, it has quickly become one of my favorite places to visit when I’m in Disneyland. Light breakfast, lunch, and dinner options can be spotted on the menus, but the cafe’s sweet spot — pun intended — is their iconic bakery treats. Cookies, cupcakes, and other pastries beckon from the moment you step into the shop. Jolly Holiday Bakery Cases The most difficult thing about visiting Jolly Holiday is deciding what to get. Especially since so many items in that case receive seasonal makeovers! Take, for instance, this adorable springtime mini Strawberry Bundt Cake. The cake itself is vanilla, and there’s a sweet glazed topping. Pink chocolate curls and a glazed strawberry give a hint as to what’s inside. Strawberry Bundt Cake And THAT is thick strawberry filling — a lot like strawberry pie! It’s bright and tasty, with little bits of strawberry mixed in as well. It is a classic combination befitting the location. Strawberry Bundt Cake — Cross Section Another fruit-and-cake combo comes in the form of this little beauty: the Chocolate Raspberry Cupcake. Topping the chocolate cake is a healthy swirl of chocolate mousse underneath a shiny chocolate shell. Next? It’s decorated with (believe it!) MORE chocolate: curls of milk and white chocolate, two thin shavings of dark chocolate, and a sunny little bright orange chocolate disc. A plump raspberry is the finishing touch. Chocolate Raspberry Cupcake Clearly, there is a lot going on here… but there is STILL more than meets the eye. Now, the cross-section is a bit messy (the wrapper is similar to those at Be Our Guest in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, which are made by the devil and are basically impossible to remove easily), but you can see that the cupcake is filled with vanilla frosting and (I think) cherry filling. And you can at last get a glimpse of that mousse-like frosting. Chocolate Raspberry Cupcake — Inside This one may be a little busy for some, and all that chocolate was really too much for my liking. But if you’re a chocoholic, have at it. Now, you know my ability to resist anything Mickey-shaped is practically zilch, so obviously I had to have the next (gorgeous!) treat: the now iconic Raspberry Rose Mickey Macaron. From those Mickey ears to the bright red color to the artsy gold brushstroke, this Macaron is among the prettiest I’ve seen. Raspberry Rose Mickey Macaron But while the macarons and raspberries are great, the whole “rose-flavored” filling thing fell super flat with me. Honestly, it tasted like cleaning products. I KNOW some of you absolutely love this, but I just couldn’t get into it. No, it’s not that I couldn’t get into it…I could barely finish the first bite. So…proceed with caution knowing that it’s love or hate with this one. Mickey Macaron — Inside Finally, the Rainbow Sprinkles Whoopie Pie from Jolly Holiday looks like a classic whoopie pie, with the addition of fun, colorful, shimmery (and even a little fancy) rainbow sprinkles dotting the white chocolate mousse. Whoopie Pie I’m happy to say that the ratio of mousse to cake is just right. Whoopie Pie — Inside You can find whoopie pies, of course, on both costs, with an array of specialty-topped mini Whoopie Pies at Sweet Spells in Hollywood Studios and other spots. But I always appreciate how Jolly Holiday offers the classic style, with just a hint of a twist for the respective season. (The peanut butter one is still my favorite!) Just like the Blue Ribbon Bakery back in the day, I still can’t leave Jolly Holiday without picking up a classic and iconic Matterhorn Macaroon. You shouldn’t either, and here’s why: it starts with that mountainous, super moist coconut macaroon. See how it’s all golden ridges and pale valleys? Matterhorn Macaroon Next is the thick layer of white chocolate, hardened into a dense snow pack. Finally, for good, crunchy measure, there are a few sugary, snowy chunks on top. There’s sort of no way to start eating this except to take a big ol’ bite to get the view from the top and check out — plus enjoy — the chewy, buttery, sweet macaroon. Matterhorn Macaroon — Inside It’s a must-eat at Jolly Holiday. Unless, of course, you’d rather try it on top of a donut. Find out where by clicking here! Honestly, it almost doesn’t matter whether you go for the classic Matterhorn Macaroon or one of the seasonal switcheroos. Just get yourself to Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe and try a treat straight out of the bakery case. And if you happen upon a new seasonal option, be sure to give us a hashtag shoutout at #disneyfoodblog. We’d love to feature your shot on our Instagram! What’s your favorite Disneyland bakery treat? Tell us about it 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! A Spoonful of Sugar and Other Limited Time Treats Come to Disneyland’s Jolly Holiday Bakery Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe Debuts New Treats and Dishes Dining in Disneyland: Seasonal Treats at Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe View the full article

What a celebration in Shanghai last night as Shanghai Disneyland capped an incredible first year, welcoming more than 11 million guests since its historic June 2016 opening! Yesterday Shanghai Disney Resort marked its first anniversary, as floating lanterns representing good fortune for the past, present and future hovered above Shanghai Disneyland during a magical nighttime celebration at Enchanted Storybook Castle, commemorating the resort’s historic anniversary and tremendous popularity with the people of mainland China. “Shanghai Disney Resort’s first anniversary is cause for great celebration for everyone involved in bringing this spectacular dream to life,” said Bob Iger, chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney Company. “We’re grateful to the people of China for making this unique destination a tremendous success — more than 11 million guests have already visited, and we look forward to welcoming many more in the years to come.” Guests were entertained by the Mandarin version of “When You Wish Upon a Star,” as a montage of photos and videos highlighting events of the first year at Shanghai Disney Resort were projected on the façade of Enchanted Storybook Castle, as well as actual guest videos and images of magical memories from their visits to the authentically Disney, distinctly Chinese destination. Shanghai Disneyland has proved to be enormously popular with guests from mainland China and abroad, and the resort has already announced its first post-opening expansion, a new immersive land themed to the Toy Story franchise that is set to open in 2018. The innovative attractions and entertainment at Shanghai Disneyland have earned top honors from across the theme park industry over the past year, including the Themed Entertainment Association, International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, Visual Effects Society and China Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions. Shanghai Disney Resort was one of the most ambitious projects in the history of The Walt Disney Company. One year ago today, the wonder and imagination of Disney greeted the people of China in magical new ways as the gates opened to Shanghai Disneyland, a theme park like no other with the biggest, tallest castle in any Disney park, the first pirate-themed land and Disney’s most technologically advanced park to date. Shanghai Disney Resort is filled with immersive Disney storytelling, thrilling attractions, spectacular live entertainment and memory-making experiences designed to inspire and delight Chinese guests. The world-class vacation destination includes a magical theme park with six themed lands, two imaginatively designed hotels, a Disneytown shopping and dining district, and Wishing Star Park recreational area. Are you planning a trip to Shanghai Disney Resort? Let us know what you’d like to experience in the comments below. View the full article

Shanghai Disneyland welcomed more than 11 million guests in its first year of operation, the company said Friday. Disney Chairman and CEO Bob Iger was on hand Friday in China to celebrate the first anniversary of the Shanghai Disney Resort, which includes the Shanghai Disneyland theme park. "Shanghai... View the full article

There are so many incredible stories of fathers in nature – from young marmosets and tamarins who spend most of their time clinging to dad, to Asian-clawed otters that teach their pups to swim and play. Then there are the males that truly go above and beyond. Did you know that male angelfish carry their eggs inside their mouths, not eating for as many as 30 days, to protect their offspring? See the video below to learn about some truly fascinating dads, and visit DisneyAnimals.com to learn more about the animals at the Walt Disney World Resort. And Happy Father’s Day! View the full article