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Latina Magazine Blogger Paula Bendfeldt-Diaz Visits Disney's Animal Kingdom View the full article

How much do I love DFB readers? SOOOOO much. Today I got a message from a DFB reader who has eaten nearly everything at Pandora so far during cast member previews, and sent us a ton of really great shots as well as her thoughts on what’s great and what to miss. Floating mountains in Pandora! For those who aren’t sure what we’re talking about, Pandora — The World of Avatar, is a new land opening later this month in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Cast member previews are running right now, and we’re super excited to see the menu items from Satu’li Canteen (the land’s new quick-service location) as they’re served (and not a la Disney promotional pics). Let’s take a look! And stay tuned at the bottom of this post for our Eat This, Not That Recommendation List! Satu’li Canteen Eats You’ll find that Satu’li Canteen eats are designed to be a bit healthier-for-you than stereotypical theme park fare. (Here’s the Satu’li Full Menu.) A big section of the menu is devoted to “bowls.” Here’s what our contributor says about these: “You choose three things: your protein, your base, and your sauce. Protein choices are thinly sliced roast beef, chicken, chili spice crispy tofu, or sustainable fish.” “Currently the fish is always mahi-mahi. There are four base options, they are: Romaine kale salad, quinoa with vegetables salad, rice grain blend and red and sweet potato hash. The sauce options are a creamy herb dressing, blackened onion chimichurri, or black bean vinaigrette.” Screenshot from Walt Disney World website “The entrée options are really good. The bowls are delicious and a much healthier option than normal, which is nice. The tofu is good, but a little bland. The fish is good, but there have been a few times that it has either been really dry or fishy tasting.” The Sustainable Fish over Quinoa with Vegetables with a Creamy Herb Dressing. “The creamy herb dressing is so far my favorite, but I have not tried the black bean vinaigrette yet.” Sustainable Fish with Quinoa and Vegetable Salad and Creamy Herb Dressing Here’s another Sustainable Fish option with a base of Red and Sweet Potato Hash served with Creamy Herb Dressing. “The red and sweet potato hash is delicious. I was worried that it would be too sweet, but the two potato types really balance each other out.” Sustainable Fish option with a base of Red and Sweet Potato Hash served with Creamy Herb Dressing This bowl has Beef over Kale and Romaine salad with Charred Onion Chimichurri Dressing. Our contributor said: “The Romaine kale salad has some quinoa mixed in, but was overall somewhat disappointing.” Beef over Kale and Romaine salad with Charred Onion Chimichurri Dressing Next on the entree list are some “pods.” Here you can choose from the Vegetable Steamed Curry Pod, or these — The Cheeseburger Steam Pods, which are probably one of the most anticipated eats on the menu. These are stuffed with ground beef, mustard, ketchup, pickle, and cheddar cheese. Our contributor said: “The cheeseburger steam pod is absolutely delicious. I have not tried the vegetable curry one as I have heard nothing but really bad reviews of it.” Cheeseburger Pods Desserts are definitely Avatar-themed. Neytiri’s Chocolate Cake has a crunchy cookie layer and banana topping. Our contributor said: “They did not disappoint with the desserts. The blueberry cheesecake is very good, but my absolute favorite is the chocolate cake, which is actually more of a dark chocolate mousse and has a delicious banana cream on top.” Chocolate Cake The Na’vi Cheesecake is blueberry flavored with a passion fruit curd. Na’vi Cheesecake There’s a full menu of drink options as well — both alcoholic and non. Here’s what our contributor said about these: “I like that there are so many unique drink choices. The [non-alcoholic] Pandoran Sunrise, which is described as a mix of melon Powerade with tropical fruit juices, is awful.” Pandoran Sunrise “There are two unique beer choices: the Hawkes Grogg Ale and a Mo’ara High Country Ale. I love that the Hawkes Grogg Ale is green! The Mo’ara High Country Ale is pictured as green on the menu board, but disappointingly is actually brown.” The Hawkes Grog Ale (a new name from when the menu was first published) is a green-colored draft beer with fruity apricot an peach flavors. And the Dreamwalker Sangria is a white sangria colored blue with a little Blue Curacao. Hawkes Grog Ale and Dreamwalker Sangria Eat This, Not That Based on the experiences of our readers and contributors, here’s our recommendation list for Pandora: EAT THIS: When choosing your bowl, go with the Beef or Sustainable Fish, and choose the Red and Sweet Potato Hash. Either dessert seems like a good option. Cheeseburger Pods are a YES. NOT THAT: Avoid the Kale base in the bowls. Vegetable Curry Pods are getting bad reviews. Pandoran Sunrise is a NO. Thanks again to our friend for sending these along! It’s so much fun to get another sneak peek into the restaurants in Pandora. We’re looking forward to reporting live next weekend with even more Eat This, Not That for ya! Stay tuned! What are you hoping to try in Pandora? 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: Sneak Peek: Photos from Inside Disney’s Pandora – The World of Avatar News: Pandora — The World of AVATAR Opens May 27th in Disney’s Animal Kingdom News! New Restaurants Revealed for Pandora — The World of Avatar, in Disney’s Animal Kingdom View the full article

The Summer 2017 issue of Disney twenty-three, opens up Pandora – The World of Avatar in new, dazzling ways. The publication, available exclusively to D23 Gold Members, includes interviews with Imagineer Joe Rodhe, Avatar director James Cameron, Avatar Producer Jon Landau, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Bob Chapek, and more, offering a look into the remarkable craftsmanship and exquisite detail that has gone into creating this new land at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, which opens on May 27. “We didn’t build sets of all this stuff when we made the movie. It was all in a computer,” James Cameron remarked in an exclusive interview with Disney twenty-three. “So, to be able to walk around it in full-scale? It’s unfathomable. We’re literally on Pandora! I’m on Pandora! It was a pinch-me moment to ensure I was really awake and actually in the world we had created.” Plus, all D23 Gold Members will receive a Na’vi translator card featuring the Shaman of Songs, the character featured on the attraction Na’vi River Journey. This card is a collectible on its own and, when used with the Na’vi language translator device (available at Pandora this summer), will tell the guest how to say the words in the Na’vi language. View the full article

This week some of the most compelling images we shared on the Disney Parks Blog were of these colorful banshees that guests will find when Pandora – The World of Avatar opens on May 27. At the Rookery inside Windtraders, a Naturalist from Alpha Centauri Expeditions will assist a guest with choosing a banshee from among 10 different styles. Each interactive banshee includes three ranges of motion – mouth, head, and wings – that are controlled by hand. Guests can either display a banshee on their shoulder or cradle them in their arms. For more details about the development of Windtrader’s beautiful banshees, check out Steven Miller’s original blog post. View the full article

Disney World Counter Service locations typically offer a few standard desserts. Learn About: Liberty Inn Epcot Restaurants Disney World Restaurants You may be familiar… at places like Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe and Pinocchio Village Haus in Magic Kingdom you’ll often find Chocolate Cake on the dessert menu. Over in Hollywood Studios, Fairfax Fare, Backlot Express, and more serve a Chocolate Mousse. Chocolate Mousse is an Animal Kingdom Counter Service dessert staple, too, at Yak & Yeti Local Foods Cafe. They’re all fine, if not particularly remarkable. (Okay, we DO dig that Chocolate Cake). But there is another Counter Service dessert that you’ll only find in one spot. Oddly, it’s found in a place not exactly known for unique choices: Epcot’s Liberty Inn, located in the the American Adventure Pavilion. You know the drill: Liberty Inn is the place to go if you (or your kiddos in tow) want simple classics like Burgers, Chicken Breast Nuggets, and the like — plenty of fried food to fuel your continued continental adventure. Liberty Inn Sign But we’re here today to put the spotlight once more on an item that is surprisingly unique to Liberty Inn: the Warm Peach Cobbler. Liberty Inn Menu This option is served with a bit of history. You’ll see under the menu listing that the Cobbler is “inspired by Mrs. Fisher’s Cookbook of the Kinsey Collection.” The American Heritage Gallery (also located in the Pavilion) hosts the Kinsey Collection, an exhibit of African-American art and history. And Mrs. Fisher’s Cookbook is the oldest known African-American cookbook, published in 1881. Warm Peach Cobbler at Liberty Inn Some items designated as Cobbler are topped with a biscuit topper or something resembling a bread crust (a la the Seasonal Cobbler at Columbia Harbour House). Here, though, you get a good old-fashioned crumble. Which just so happens to be my favorite kind. Liberty Inn Peach Cobbler That dark brown color and considerable texture signal the richness of flavor of the crumble (you can literally see the sweet spices tucked in with the oats and bits of brown sugar). Which brings to mind the question: Is it possible to order just a big tray of crumble? Warm Peach Cobbler from Liberty Inn No? Well, that’s okay, because underneath that top layer are plenty of juicy peaches. Peach Cobbler at Liberty Inn Peach Cobbler at Liberty Inn I’d say the dish has changed a teeny bit from when we tried the Warm Peach Cobbler a few years ago. There seems to be even more of that crumble topping (hooray!), but I also think it’s a little less buttery and gooey (awww). Still, it’s retained that close-to-homemade quality at counter service convenience. More than anything, I’m glad that the Warm Peach Cobbler returned to the menu at Liberty Inn. This spot has made strides in the past to offer more variety with dishes representing various regions of America, but as of late it seems to be playing it safe again. So having a little slice — or ramekin! — of American history is a good thing to have in the American Adventure Pavilion. Don’t Miss Out on the ALL the Best Snacks Walt Disney World Has to Offer! Get four awesome e-Books bundled for 30% off the already discounted price! Limited time only… Our DFB Guide & Snacks Bundle offers: The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2017 Second Edition, PLUS The DFB Guide to Epcot Snacks, The DFB Guide to Magic Kingdom Snacks, The DFB Guide to Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom Snacks All four are being sold together — for 30% off the already hugely discounted bundle price. Use code BUNDLE17 at check out to get the discount. Our Snack Guides vibrantly display and review hundreds of Disney World snacks (!!), including classic favorites and some of our favorite under-the-radar treats and eats in the parks. Get your DFB Guide & Snacks Bundle — including the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2017 Second Edition, the DFB Guide to Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom Snacks, the DFB Guide to Epcot Snacks, and the DFB Guide to Magic Kingdom Snacks — for 25% off here. Find out more about the DFB Guide & Snack Bundle here! And with our 100% money-back guarantee, what do you have to lose? Just looking for all the Snacks in Epcot? Then check out our DFB Guide to Epcot Snacks, newly updated for your 2017-18 trip! With over 400 Epcot snacks, and over 60 NEW snacks, you’ll always be in the know! And for a limited time only, we are offering the Guide for 25% off! To secure the discount, use code EPCOT17 at check-out. Is Liberty Inn on your list of World Showcase stops? Let us know in the comments! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: NEW! Peach Cobbler at Epcot’s Liberty Inn Review: Warm Apple Crisp from Sunshine Seasons in Epcot’s Land Pavilion Review: New Cookies n’ Cream Funnel Cake in Epcot’s American Adventure Pavilion View the full article

Mothers (and the families who love them) find lots of ways to enjoy Mother’s Day at Downtown Disney District and the hotels of the Disneyland Resort, with brunch, special dinners and gift items including jewelry, apparel and, yes, customized toy race cars. On Saturday and Sunday, May 13 and 14, RideMakerz in Downtown Disney District offers the chance to build Mother’s Day memories with a special offer: Build any ride and build a second ride for free. PANDORA features a PANDORA Tree of Hearts Limited Edition Bangle Gift Set in addition to some special Mother’s Day bracelets and charms. The California Limited cart has a Buy One Get One Free jewelry offer on handmade California jewelry May 13 and 14, plus a bargain Mother’s Day Bundle: one necklace and one t-shirt. Chapel Hats offers 15 percent off any single item on Mother’s Day, May 14. Catal offers regular Sunday brunch on Sunday, May 14. The prix-fixe brunch offers a selection of starters, a choice of entrees from a selection that includes Lobster Benedict, Short Rib Hash, Suckling Pig and others, and a choice of dessert. Speaking of dessert, Kayla’s Cake cart offers a floral wristlet and macaroon bundle for Mother’s Day. If Mom prefers dining with character(s), there’s an all-day Mother’s Day character buffet in Goofy’s Kitchen at the Disneyland Hotel. View the full article

Celebrating milestones at Walt Disney World Resort is always magical. My family has shared countless birthdays and anniversaries at the parks — and one emotional outing to Magic Kingdom Park just before taking my daughter to college. Yes, I cried. It’s sort of the same when your little one is just about to start kindergarten. You realize how fast they are growing up, and life as you know it will never be the same. Pretty soon there’s homework and school calendars, and a lot less flexibility with vacations. Last year, Disney created a cool concept called Kindermoons. It gives families a special reason to celebrate the years before their child starts school with a family trip to Walt Disney World Resort. Such a great way to create magical memories. Plus, the magic and wonder of fairytales, princesses and characters is so very real with preschoolers. Watch as 4-year-old Max reveals awe and wonder during his Kindermoon to Walt Disney World Resort! View the full article

In honor of Cinco de Mayo, today I want to tell you how you and your family can discover the culture, beauty and cuisine of Cozumel, Mexico, while sailing to the Western Caribbean with Disney Cruise Line. You can enjoy the picturesque views of the island, located off the eastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, and create unforgettable memories while experiencing the unique cultural traditions with some of my favorite Port Adventures ashore. Paint Your Own Alebrije – One of the newest experiences in Mexico offers the chance to create your very own alebrije – a brightly colored Mexican folk art sculpture made popular in the early 1930s. Explore the Museum of Popular Arts inside Discover Mexico Park and see the collection of exotic alebrije creations for a glimpse of traditional Mexican culture and a little artistic inspiration. Your family will be immersed in Mexican tradition as you create your very own mythical creature – a perfect souvenir to take home – with the help of skilled Mexican alebrije artists. Turtle Snorkel and Mystic River – Dive into an underwater adventure and discover the unique formations and exotic sea life found in Riviera Maya. Experience the mystery of the Mystical Underground River and see the impressive rock formations developed over thousands of years. This unique Mexican locale will give you a glimpse of true natural beauty and Mayan culture. During this fun Port Adventure you will also enjoy the clear tropical waters of Tulum as you swim with tropical fish, explore colorful reef and dive with magnificent green sea turtles in their natural habitat. Chocolate Seaside Workshop, Tasting and Wine Pairing – Chocolate and wine. Need I say more? Satisfy your inner foodie and wine connoisseur with this adult-exclusive Port Adventure at beautiful Stingray Beach. Learn the ancient traditions of Aztec and Mayan chocolate making, create your very own chocolate bar using age-old techniques, and taste a variety of chocolate creations typical to Mexican culture. The best part? Your chocolate experience will be perfectly paired with wine as you enjoy the picturesque views of the Caribbean Sea. Salsa and Salsa – Find your rhythm and master your culinary skills with this exciting salsa making (and salsa dancing) experience. Join dancing chef instructors for an eventful cooking class where you’ll learn the art of making various Mexican salsas and traditional margaritas. Snack on your culinary creations with tasty cheese quesadillas and other traditional foods, and enjoy an assortment of drinks, including all-you-can-drink lime and strawberry margaritas. But the fun doesn’t end there. Join the dancing chefs one last time for a fun salsa dancing class before heading back to the ship. All this and more is offered on the island of Cozumel during 7-night Western Caribbean sailings aboard the Disney Fantasy (including Star Wars Day at Sea sailings!) and select 5-night Marvel Day at Sea sailings from Miami aboard the Disney Magic. Remember, when the ship’s in port, venture ashore! View the full article

Creators Ready ‘Happily Ever After’ for Debut at Magic Kingdom Park View the full article

Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. Skipper Canteen offers some appropriately exotic eats in the Adventureland section of Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. Dishes are inspired by Asian, Latin American, and African cuisines and can be paired with beer and wine, a new feature for this restaurant. A ticket... View the full article

In the coming weeks, Guests visiting Disney Parks will be able to preview scenes from Disney•Pixar’s “Cars 3” in sneak peeks planned for Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts. At Disney California Adventure park, the preview of “Cars 3” will be presented in 3D with special in-theater effects at the Bug’s Life Theater, starting May 12. Beginning May 26, Guests at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will get to see this advance look at a segment from the film as part of the One Man’s Dream attraction, where artwork and maquettes from the production will also be on display. Blindsided by a new generation of blazing-fast racers, the legendary Lightning McQueen (voice of Owen Wilson) is suddenly pushed out of the sport he loves. To get back in the game, he will need the help of an eager young race technician, Cruz Ramirez (voice of Cristela Alonzo), with her own plan to win, plus inspiration from the late Fabulous Hudson Hornet and a few unexpected turns. Proving that #95 isn’t through yet will test the heart of a champion on Piston Cup Racing’s biggest stage! Disney•Pixar’s “Cars 3” is directed by Brian Fee (storyboard artist “Cars,” “Cars 2“), produced by Kevin Reher (“A Bug’s Life,” “La Luna” short) and co-produced by Andrea Warren (“LAVA” short). Here’s a look at the latest trailer for the film: Plan to catch our sneak peek from the film starting May 12 at Disney California Adventure Park and May 26 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and you can get up to speed with all of “Cars 3” when the film cruises into theaters in 3D on June 16. View the full article

It may be a little hard to mind your manners at The Polite Pig in Disney Springs once you catch sight of the food. At least, that’s how I felt during a recent visit hosted by the proprietors for media. This fast-casual eatery is from The Swine Family. James Petrakis of Winter Park’s The Ravenous... View the full article

We’ve got some delicious food news from Disneyland Resort! Paradise Garden Grill at Disney California Adventure recently added two new deep fried foods-on-a-stick to its menu! Paradise Garden Grill Menu Two new items are : Chicken & Waffles Skewer and Crispy Battered Corn on the Cob. Our Dining in Disneyland pal Heather Sievers checked out the menu and shared the deep fried goodness with us! (Oh, and FYI, the menu at Paradise Garden Grill is where you’ll also find your favorite fried foods during the refurb of Corn Dog Castle, including Hot-Link Corn Dog, Corn Dogs, and Cheese on a Stick!) First up: the Crispy Battered Corn on the Cob. Batter Fried Corn on the Cob at Paradise Garden Grill It’s an ear of sweet corn, dipped in a seasoned batter and deep fried, and served with cilantro-lime mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese! It’s so crazy good! Crispy Battered Corn on the Cob Yep; you must try this. Go there now and get it. Now. Next up: the Chicken & Waffles Skewer. Looking at the photo you might be thinking “where’s the waffle?” Chicken & Waffle Skewer It’s ON the chicken! The Chicken & Waffles Skewer is a waffle-battered chicken breast that’s deep fried and served with a maple, bacon, and sage dipping sauce. How could it not be delicious with that sweet and savory flavor combo? Deep fried deliciousness! So there are your weekend plans, Disneylanders!! @ us on insta and let us know you tried ‘em! Have you tried these new menu items? Leave us 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: Review: Paradise Garden Grill in Disney California Adventure News: Booth Menu Details for Lunar New Year in Disney California Adventure New Disney California Adventure Paradise Pier Dining Concept Art View the full article

Did you know that today is National Space Day? This day celebrates extraordinary achievements and opportunities in the exploration and use of space. Here are five ways you can mark this special day at Walt Disney World Resort today! 1. Play astronaut onboard Mission: SPACE at Epcot Experience what it’s like to travel on a space shuttle with this thrilling attraction that takes you through authentic NASA-style training before you board a vessel for a mission to Mars. 2. Blast off Space Mountain at Magic Kingdom Park Zoom out of this world and into the cosmos in rocket-shaped vehicles. You’ll travel through space, ascending a 180-foot high mountain and then shooting past stars and satellites. 3. Explore Spaceship Earth at Epcot Take a leisurely Omnimover-style ride on the inside this iconic geosphere and travel to the past, present and future, exploring landmark moments in history, including the televised broadcast of the moon landing and beyond. 4. Take Aim on Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin at Magic Kingdom Park Help Buzz Lightyear defeat the villainous Zurg in this interplanetary shooting-gallery style game where you can compete with your seatmate to see who can rack up the most points. 5. Jump to hyperspace onboard Star Tours – The Adventures Continue at Disney’s Hollywood Studios This 3-D, motion-simulated space flight will transport you to some of the most iconic destinations in the Star Wars galaxy. Along with C-3PO and R2-D2, you’ll tour new worlds each time you set out on this exciting voyage. View the full article

For a limited time, a sneak peek of Disney·Pixar’s “Cars 3” is being presented as part of the One Man’s Dream attraction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and in the Bug’s Life Theater at Disney California Adventure park, where it can be seen in 3D with special in-theater effects. Blindsided by a new generation of blazing-fast racers, the legendary Lightning McQueen is suddenly pushed out of the sport he loves. To get back in the game, he will need the help of an eager young race technician, Cruz Ramirez, with her own plan to win, plus inspiration from the late Fabulous Hudson Hornet and a few unexpected turns. Proving that #95 isn’t through yet will test the heart of a champion on Piston Cup Racing’s biggest stage! This special preview from Disney·Pixar’s “Cars 3” is available at Disney Parks for a limited time through June 25. Disney·Pixar’s “Cars 3” cruises into theaters in 3D on June 16, 2017. View the full article

We recently introduced you to Rocket and his pals, the Guardians of the Galaxy, who are all coming to Disney California Adventure park this summer when Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! opens May 27. Today we want to share a bit more about the characters from the blockbuster “Guardians of the Galaxy” film, animated series and comics – getting you ready to blast straight into the story on their new attraction! Meet Star-Lord A headstrong intergalactic adventurer, Star-Lord (aka Peter Quill) was taken from his Earthly home at a young age, growing up in outer space alongside the pirate-like Ravagers. As the intrepid Star-Lord, Quill travels the cosmos in his spaceship, the Milano, seeking his fortune. Equipped with a high-tech blaster and a mix-tape of music from home, Star-Lord leads an unlikely team of interstellar misfits–the Guardians of the Galaxy–in their attempts to do a little good, a little bad, or a little of both. Meet Groot A tree-like creature of few words, Groot formed a bond with the creature known as Rocket. Joining the Guardians of the Galaxy, Groot and his best friend Rocket travel through space getting into trouble wherever they go. Extremely powerful and resilient, Groot has the power of regeneration, allowing him to re-grow limbs and even his entire form very quickly. Meet Gamora A daughter of the evil Thanos, Gamora sought to escape her violent past and build a new life free from her prior sins. When an unlikely twist of fate caused her to join the Guardians, the one-time Most Dangerous Woman in the Galaxy found her skills put to a better use saving countless lives. Meet Drax the Destroyer Drax is a headstrong warrior whose reputation as The Destroyer is both feared and respected throughout the sector. Despite his formidable outward appearance, the fierce fighter’s lust for battle conceals a compassionate heart. Though once scarred by the loss of his family, the peculiar Drax has found a new home with his equally eccentric allies in the Guardians of the Galaxy. Come face-to-face with the Guardians of the Galaxy this summer, at Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! Deep inside his fortress-like collection, the mysterious Taneleer Tivan (aka The Collector) has the Guardians of the Galaxy on display as his newest acquisitions. Unbeknownst to their captor, Rocket has escaped and is enlisting the Collector’s VIP guests for help. Guests board a gantry lift, which launches them into a chaotic and hilarious adventure as they join Rocket in an attempt to break his fellow Guardians out of captivity. After breaking out of the Collector’s Fortress, you may run into Star-Lord and Gamora on their way to escape aboard the Milano, with Star-Lord stopping to fire up his old-school boom box and get a dance party started. And for the first time, citizens of Earth will have the chance to meet Groot! Keep an eye on the Disney Parks Blog to learn more about the Guardians of the Galaxy, and don’t miss Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! and Summer of Heroes, beginning May 27 at Disney California Adventure park, and “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2” in theaters in 3D now! View the full article

Walt Disney World is set to retire “Wishes” and bring “Happily Ever After” to the Magic Kingdom with the latest technological bells and whistles as well as a motivational new song. The Disney Parks Blog released a video showing what visitors to the park can expect to see and hear when the show... View the full article

Walt Disney World is set to retire “Wishes” and bring “Happily Ever After” to the Magic Kingdom with the latest technological bells and whistles as well as a motivational new song. The Disney Parks Blog released a video showing what visitors to the park can expect to see and hear when the show... View the full article

Walt Disney World is set to debut its new evening fireworks and castle projection extravaganza “Happily Ever After” at the Magic Kingdom on May 12. View the full article

Rugged Adventures & Natural Wonders in Iceland on a Disney Cruise View the full article

Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge opens this summer. But another new addition to the Resort, Geyser Point Bar & Grill, is already serving guests. This waterfront eatery has become a new favorite of mine, and it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a cold drink and delicious culinary items inspired by America’s Pacific Northwest. The restaurant serves up quick service entrees, as well as table service small plates and beverages, in a rustically elegant setting. Take a look at just some of the delicious eats available at Geyser Point Bar & Grill in this video! Stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog in the weeks to come for more first looks into the newest Disney Vacation Club Resort, Copper Creek Villas & Cabins, which is scheduled to open July 17! View the full article

The weather has officially reached the 90-degree mark in Central Florida, and there’s nothing more enjoyable as a summertime dessert than sweet, cool Tres Leches Cake. This delicious recipe was developed by the culinary team at Epcot as part of the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, and we’re sharing it just in time to celebrate Cinco de Mayo on May 5. TRES LECHES CAKE Makes 10-inch cake CAKE 1 1/2 cups pastry flour 2 tablespoons baking powder 8 large eggs, yolks and whites separated 1 cup sugar, divided 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar Whipped cream, toasted coconut, for topping SYRUP 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk 1 cup heavy cream 1 1/2 cups coconut milk or evaporated milk 1/4 cup white rum GUAVA SAUCE 8 ounces guava paste 1 cup warm water FOR CAKE: 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour 10-inch cake pan and set aside. 2. Sift together flour and baking powder in a small mixing bowl. 3. Place egg yolks and 1/2 cup sugar in bowl of standing mixer with wire whisk. Whip on high speed to thick, light ribbon stage. 4. Remove from mixer, pour liquid into large mixing bowl and set aside. Clean bowl of standing mixer. 5. Place egg whites in bowl of standing mixer with wire whisk and beat until foamy. Add cream of tartar and remaining 1/2 cup sugar. Whip on medium speed until whites are glossy and stiff, but not dry. 6. Remove bowl from mixer and fold one-third of egg whites into whipped egg yolks. Repeat until all egg whites are incorporated. 7. Sprinkle one-third of sifted flour over batter and fold in. Repeat until all flour is incorporated. Pour into prepared cake pan and bake until golden brown and spongy, about 30 minutes. 8. Remove cake from oven and place pan on wire rack. Soak with syrup while cake is warm, repeating until cake is thoroughly saturated. 9. Ice cooled cake with whipped cream. Sprinkle with coconut and drizzle guava paste. Refrigerate until ready to serve. FOR SYRUP: 1. Mix all ingredients in medium bowl. FOR GUAVA SAUCE: 1. Place guava paste in bowl of standing mixture fitted with paddle attachment. Beat on low speed to break down guava paste, increasing speed if necessary. Slowly add warm water until sauce is thin enough to drizzle. This recipe has been converted from a larger quantity in the restaurant kitchens. The flavor profile may vary from the restaurant’s version. All recipes are the property of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts U.S., Inc., and may not be reproduced without express permission. ©Disney View the full article

Few parts of a Walt Disney World Resort vacation are more memorable than standing before Cinderella Castle to watch nighttime fireworks with your family or friends. Starting May 12, “Happily Ever After” will take its place in Disney Park history to become the third regular nighttime fireworks show to debut ever at Magic Kingdom Park. As we’ve shared over the past few months, this new spectacular will combine the latest in fireworks, pyrotechnics, lasers, hand-drawn animation, original music, a new theme song and much more. All of these elements will work together to tell a heart-tugging story about the importance of chasing your dreams, no matter what, and finding your happily ever after. Our cameras were on-hand this week as the team launched one of the first run-throughs of the show in preparation for the May 12 debut. Check out the video above for a sneak peek. For more on the music, animation and projections used in the show, check out our list of behind-the-scenes looks below. Singers Jordan Fisher & Angie Keilhauer Share Their ‘Dream’ Recording The ‘Happily Ever After’ Theme Song Inside the ‘Happily Ever After’ Score Recording Session ‘Happily Ever After’ To Feature The Most Advanced Projection Mapping Tech Yet Behind the Scenes: Animators Give a Sneak Peek at ‘Happily Ever After’ ‘Happily Ever After’ Nighttime Spectacular Will Debut at Magic Kingdom Park May 12 First Listen: Sneak a Peek at Our ‘Happily Ever After’ Theme Song Take A Behind-the-Scenes Look At The Making Of ‘Happily Ever After’ View the full article

Highlights from the First-Ever Adventures by Disney Rhine River Cruise View the full article

Tonight’s “Disney Parks After Dark” image was snapped at Disneyland Paris. Here you see the park’s castle, the lovely Le Château de la Belle au Bois Dormant, lit up at night. Now in the midst of the park’s 25th anniversary celebration, several new experiences have just debuted, including two new shows – Mickey Presents “Happy Anniversary Disneyland Paris” and The Starlit Princess Waltz – plus Disney Stars on Parade, Disney Illuminations nighttime spectacular, and much more. For more details on the park’s milestone celebration, check out this previous blog post. View the full article