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Disney Parks Moms Panel Quick Tip | Top Priorities View the full article

Walt Disney World is joining the Club 33 crowd. Versions of the high-end establishment will open in each of the four WDW theme parks by this fall, Disney confirmed. The first Club 33 debuted at Disneyland 50 years ago and has a reputation for being exclusive and, as one might guess, expensive.... View the full article

Saturday, April 22 is Earth Day, and what better way to celebrate than by joining Party for the Planet at Disney’s Animal Kingdom? During the weekend-long celebration April 21-23, you can enjoy interactive activities throughout the park – and Disney PhotoPass Service will be there to capture all of your memories. Take a look at just a few of the special photo opportunities you can unearth while you party for the planet. “Born In China” Magic Shot Released April 21 (just in time for Earth Day) is the new film Disneynature “Born in China,” which takes moviegoers on a stunning journey into the wilds of China. Disney PhotoPass Service is excited to celebrate this film with a special Magic Shot that you’ll find when you venture into Asia. Just ask a PhotoPass photographer to set up the shot. Disneynature “Born in China” opens in U.S. theaters April 21. Photo Frame Prop With this event-exclusive PhotoPass frame, you can add some extra fun to your photos. This frame will be available in front of the Tree of Life. Earth Day Digital Sticker Add a finishing touch to your PhotoPass photos taken during the event with this Earth Day digital sticker. Visit MyDisneyPhotoPass.com to add this and other digital stickers and borders to your photos. Want all of your photos from Party for the Planet? Purchase Memory Maker for unlimited digital downloads of all your Walt Disney World vacation photos for one price. You can continue the fun at home, too. Learn more about the animals featured in Disneynature “Born in China” by downloading the free activity packet. Also, be sure you see the film in theaters during its first week of release, as Disneynature, through the Disney Conservation Fund, will make a contribution to the World Wildlife Fund to help protect wild pandas and snow leopards for each moviegoer who sees the film April 21-27. Memory Maker includes photos taken during the Memory Maker window and linked to the Memory Maker guest’s Disney account. A MagicBand is required to receive certain attraction photos and other digital content. Photos and other digital content will expire pursuant to the expiration policy. Valid theme park admission required for certain photo locations. Memory Maker is subject to Memory Maker terms and, if applicable, Family & Friends terms. Not responsible for missing, lost or damaged photos. View the full article

My fellow author Aubrey Hang recently shared galaxy-inspired looks for the upcoming runDisney Star Wars Half Marathon – The Dark Side which returns to Walt Disney World Resort this weekend, April 20-23. In addition to Aubrey’s great outfit ideas, the Disney Parks Merchandise team is releasing commemorative products celebrating this weekend filled with galactic fun and fantastic runs. I spoke with Mary Myers, event merchandise product developer, who gave me a sneak preview of products guests will find this year. “Guests will feel the power of the dark side with this year’s assortment [laughs],” exclaimed Mary. “I loved building off the success of last year’s inaugural race merchandise. We brought back fan favorites like car magnets and pins that look like miniature medals from the races. New this year is an overall event weekend shirt that has a silver chrome treatment used on the lettering and graphics. It really makes the shirt shine like stars from a galaxy far, far away.” In this year’s assortment, Mary included some of the most iconic Star Wars characters including Darth Vader, stormtroopers, or Kylo Ren. Select items are available for guests participating in the Star Wars Half Marathon – The Dark Side, Star Wars 10K, Star Wars 5K, and the runDisney Kids Races. Guests will also find event merchandise for those participating in the Star Wars Dark Side Challenge (combining the Star Wars 10K and Half Marathon), or the Kessel Run Challenge for runners who ran both the Star Wars Half Marathon – The Light Side and the Star Wars Half Marathon – The Dark Side. “We love including nods to classic dialogue from the Star Wars Galaxy that fans will immediately recognize,” explained Mary. “This year, guests will find a quote from Han Solo on select Kessel Run Challenge items. My favorite item is the running pants with a Luke Skywalker-inspired tagline, ‘The Force runs in my family.’ These products are a fun way for guests to share their passion for Star Wars beyond race weekend.” Finally, we are releasing three new Dooney & Bourke handbags created especially for this event. The combination of the red and black Star Wars character graphics is stunning to see in person. Two of the handbags will include a commemorative logo hangtag. Look for these and other commemorative products during the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. The Expo will be open during the following times: Thursday, April 20 – 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Friday, April 21 – 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Saturday, April 22 – 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. View the full article

Interview With Roy Conli | Disneynature - Born in China View the full article

Today is the last day we’ll transport Disney cruisers to “a galaxy far, far away” for an entire day of fun – in 2017, that is. We’re so excited to be bringing back Star Wars Day at Sea in 2018 for another season of out-of-this-world adventures! Over the past four months, guests aboard the Disney Fantasy have discovered the Force by hanging out with Jedi, Wookiees, droids, Stormtroopers and other iconic characters from the Star Wars saga during the epic day at sea on their Caribbean cruise. Now, you’re invited again to join us in 2018 when the day-long celebration returns to 15 special Disney Fantasy sailings from January through April. For a glimpse at what you can expect, take a look back at my previous posts. See you there! Embrace Your Star Wars Side Aboard Star Wars Day at Sea The Force Grows Stronger Aboard Star Wars Day at Sea 2017 Out-Of-This-Galaxy Experiences Aboard Star Wars Day at Sea View the full article

Get ready to initiate power transfer in 3…2…1… when the classic Space Mountain returns to Disneyland park June 1! Just days after we mark the 40th anniversary of this Tomorrowland favorite, space travelers will blast off once again for their intergalactic adventure. A variation of a concept Walt Disney developed in the 1960s, Space Mountain first opened at Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort in 1975, and construction on Space Mountain at Disneyland park began soon after. The attraction went on to become a guest favorite, seeing special themed versions such as Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy and Hyperspace Mountain. You are clear for launch starting June 1 with the return of Space Mountain at Disneyland park! View the full article

Throughout the past few months, a mysterious new presence has been emerging at Disney California Adventure park, and today we have your first look at The Collector’s Fortress. This enigmatic building is home to the soon-to-be-unveiled Tivan Collection, where guests will view the rare items in Taneleer Tivan’s extensive holdings, including his newest acquisitions: the Guardians of the Galaxy. The fortress shimmers with colorful and sparkling details; pipes cross and climb the exterior, carrying the organic matter the Tivan Group has mined to power the massive generator that powers the entire building, keeping every cage locked and the valuable collection secure. Rising and falling gantry lifts peek out of doors exposed through the corroded, burnt metal, and it even looks as if the structure may have taken laser fire and blasts. Has someone tried to attack the facility? Explore The Collector’s Fortress yourself when Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! opens May 27 at Disney California Adventure park. View the full article

Populating Pandora - The World of Avatar With Plants & Animals View the full article

Perhaps no Disney character loves flying and adventure more than Peter Pan. In today’s Disney Doodle, artist Ashley Taylor imagines what Peter would do first if he had the chance to visit Epcot. “I love riding Soarin’ Around the World,” she said. “It’s easy to picture Peter Pan flying over the various landmarks, just as he flew past Big Ben in the movie!” What attractions do you think his friends Tinker Bell, Wendy, John and Michael would explore? Check out our past Doodles to find out. Disney Doodle: The Darling Family Tests Out Rose & Crown Dining Room Disney Doodle: Peter Pan & Wendy Prep for a Day at the Park Disney Doodle: Peter Pan & Tinker Bell Decorate Magic Kingdom Park View the full article

Step inside Epcot’s Mexico pavilion with guest author Rebecca Dolan! Let’s check out her lunch review of San Angel Inn. Learn About: San Angel Inn Restaurante Epcot Restaurants Disney World Restaurants If the thought of eating Mexican food at an amusement park brings up images of overstuffed burritos, taco salads, and plastic-cheese nachos, you’re not alone. And while Disney does those things (and does them well), when dining in Epcot you can expect more authentic options. The Mexico Pavilion is home to two full-service restaurants, San Angel Inn and La Hacienda de San Angel. Today we’re heading deep inside the pyramid for lunch at San Angel Inn. This spot has been hot and cold for us in the past. On some visits, it’s wonderful; on others, there’s a lot left to be desired. So I’m excited to see how Rebecca got on in one of Epcot’s legacy restaurants! Atmosphere Once inside the pyramid you’ll step into a town square, where a fiesta is being held under a twilight sky. Entering the town square There are stores, street vendors, a tequila bar, and the Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros boat ride. Restaurant entrance To the back of the plaza, overlooking the river and in the shadow of a volcano, is the restaurant. Restaurant seating The restaurant itself looks like a riverside terrace, where boats from the Gran Fiesta Tour float by. It may not actually be open-air dining, but the landscaping and the dim lighting overhead really do give the illusion of eating outside. Restaurant “view” That dim lighting does present a bit of a problem, though, as it’s barely enough to see, and the table lanterns aren’t of much help. It’s just a little dim in here You may want to make like my dining companions and use your mobile phones to illuminate your menus. Eats Like I said before, the food in here is the real deal. You won’t find anything like crispy tacos, bright orange queso dip, or deep-fried chimichangas – things that are really Tex-Mex staples rather than authentic Mexican fare. Instead you can find dishes like Mole Poblano, Tostadas de Tinga, Quesadillas Rebozadas, and Tlacoyos de Chilorio. San Angel Menu San Angel Menu After guests are seated, they are greeted with a basket of chips and a duo of salsas. (Yes, a bit of an American touch.) The red salsa is smoky and spicy, while the green tomatillo salsa is better for those who like it mild. Chips and salsa On my visit, my dining companions and I also started with an order of Queso Fundido. Unlike the aforementioned orange queso dip, this is a white squeaky cheese that gets soft and gooey without completely melting. The generous portion of cheese was topped with chorizo, peppers, and onions, and served with soft flour tortillas for scooping. Queso Fundido Most of the flavor comes from the meat, so if you’re vegetarian and forgoing it, try adding some of the salsa. It actually goes quite nicely. For the main course, I branched out from my usual and ordered Camarones a la Diabla, roasted shrimp served with poblano rice, yuca puree, and cascabel chile sauce. The shrimp weren’t skimpy and the rice had a good flavor, though it was a tad on the dry side. I would have liked a bit more of the smoky sweet chile sauce to add some moisture, and because I enjoyed it. Know that the vegetables are more of a garnish, in case you were expecting them as a side. Camarones a la Diabla The Carne Asada was also a solid dish, one that we order here often. The steak was just steak, but it was cooked perfectly as usual. Likewise, the enchilada was about what you’d expect, stuffed with cheese and topped with red chile sauce, and it was the perfect size for a little something extra on the side. My one tip is to eat it before the cheese gets cold and hard. Carne Asada The red rice here edged out the poblano rice in terms of flavor, and the beans were nice and tender. There was a hefty scoop of guac on the side, too, which was great with some of the tortilla chips. We unfortunately hit a misstep with the third entrée, a family favorite that we come back to San Angel Inn specifically to eat. The Pollo a las Rajas is a chicken breast served atop the poblano rice and covered with peppers, onions, and cream sauce, with a touch of cilantro oil and cheese. It doesn’t sound like anything remarkable, but there’s something about that cream sauce and veggies that makes the poblano rice sing. Pollo a las Rajas When the first dish was brought out, my companion bit into the chicken and found that it felt and tasted completely undercooked. We sent it back, and though the replacement looked perfectly fine, I bit into it and was unable to eat it for the same reasons. We sent it back again and the waitress mentioned that a number of those dishes had been sent back that day. Instead of ordering and waiting for something for the third time, we just all moved on to dessert. While I do love San Angel Inn, I’ve never been into its dessert menu. To me there’s nothing really exciting on it. But, craving something sweet, we made two choices. Pastel de Queso con Cajeta The Pastel de Queso con Cajeta was your everyday cheesecake topped with caramel sauce, and the Mousse de Chocolate was a pretty standard chocolate mousse, topped with whipped cream and almond brittle. Mousse de Chocolate There was a division at our table as to whether or not the chocolate chips that were incorporated into the mousse were overkill or not. For the record, I’m not a huge chocolate lover, but I enjoyed having them in there. They gave it some added texture. Overall Despite the issue with the chicken, I still very much recommend San Angel Inn. Even if I had to take that dish out of my rotation of Disney dining favorites, I’d still go back. Maybe not everything on the menu is something to get super excited about, but the food is consistently good, and the majority of our meal on this visit didn’t disappoint. Besides, not only are you going to get a good meal, but you’ll also get to dine in one of Disney World’s most unique spots. It’s worth a try for the atmosphere alone – even if you just get chips, queso, and margaritas. What dishes do you enjoy at San Angel Inn? Would you give San Angel a try on your next Epcot visit? Chime in; the comments are right 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: Review: San Angel Inn in Epcot’s Mexico Pavilion Review: La Hacienda de San Angel in Epcot’s Mexico Pavilion Review: La Hacienda de San Angel in Epcot’s Mexico Pavilion, Walt Disney World View the full article

Experiencing Europe as a Family With Disney Cruise Line View the full article

Our friends at Disney Springs have created a new way for Disney Vacation Club Members to enjoy a little special treatment during their Walt Disney World Resort vacations. Beginning in May and continuing throughout 2017, a different Disney Springs proprietor each Wednesday will open early (9-10 a.m.) to Members and their guests, while also making a special offer available during these early hours and for the remainder of the shop’s operating day. Kate Spade New York – home to iconic handbags, clothing, jewelry, shoes, décor and gifts – will kick things off on May 3, opening to Members and their guests at 9 a.m. and offering a special 15 percent Member discount throughout the day on select merchandise. Other stores on the upcoming slate include PANDORA Jewelry, Origins, Basin, Vera Bradley, UGG, Sephora, L’Occitane en Provence, American Threads, Sugarboo & Co and Edward Beiner. Note that special offers from participating shops may vary, from discounts to complimentary customization services to free gifts with purchase. Special offers, proprietors and discounts may be modified or withdrawn at any time without notice. Click here for the latest schedule of participants. Happy shopping! You should not purchase or add on a real estate interest in a Disney Vacation Club Resort in reliance upon the continued availability or renewal or extension of these offers. These offers may only be available to Members at various times and may or may not be renewed or extended. Membership Extras, such as certain discounts, offers, and special events are incidental benefits. These incidental benefits are subject to change or termination without notice, may require the payment of a fee and cannot be combined with any other offers or promotions. Membership Extras are also subject to availability and block–out dates may apply, including high periods of demand such as Christmas and New Year’s Day. To receive any Membership Extras, purchasers must present a valid Disney Vacation Club Membership Card along with a corresponding valid photo ID. Effective April 4, 2016, Members who do not purchase an ownership interest directly from Disney Vacation Development Inc. will not have access to Membership Extras. View the full article

This summer and next, the Disney Magic is treating families to the best of Europe with favorite ports of call throughout Northern Europe, Norway, Iceland, the British Isles and the Mediterranean. Arny has been telling you about our one-of-a-kind Port Adventures, which give your family the chance to enjoy richly diverse destinations, enchanting cultures and tantalizing cuisine. Now, hear from some of our guests as they share about their unrivaled experiences while cruising aboard the Disney Magic in Europe. Whether you’re parents traveling with little cruisers, sisters cruising with your multigenerational family or a mother making new memories with her grown children, I’m confident you’ll be saying the same things after your family’s first voyage with Disney in Europe. If you’ve already sailed Europe with us, let us know in the comments what made it an unforgettable experience for your family. View the full article

The westward expansion of the United States is reflected in the latest Disney Vacation Club offering, right down to the railroad spike repurposed as a coat hook. The look of the Copper Creek Villas & Cabins, under construction at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, mixes Pacific Northwest atmosphere with... View the full article

You know that feeling when you’ve rope-dropped Soarin’ Around the World… but in order to do that, you had to skip breakfast? Learn About: Sunshine Seasons Epcot Restaurants Disney World Restaurants Yeah, that feeling is hunger. And we’ve got just the thing to help you muster your strength for the rest of your day. It’s a little thing we call Cinnamon French Toast Bread Pudding. Actually, that’s not just us. That’s what the friendly folks at Sunshine Seasons in the Land Pavilion at Epcot call it, too . You know Sunshine Seasons as the conveniently located food court with fresh and unusual-by-theme-park-standards grub. We like to keep a close eye on the menus and pastry cases here because it seems like new things are always popping up. Sunshine Seasons sign Before the Soarin’ refurb, it used to be home to a Croissant Berry Bread Pudding for breakfast. But that’s since been replaced by the Cinnamon French Toast Bread Pudding. Sunshine Seasons Breakfast Menu It was more than high time to check it out. The Cinnamon French Toast Bread Pudding is available during breakfast hours (until 11AM), and, like the Croissant Berry Bread Pudding before it, it’s a twist on a traditional breakfast favorite. It’s worth noting that what we received looks quite different from the picture on the menu, but we’re not unaccustomed to that. Cinnamon French Toast Bread Pudding What you see above (and throughout this post) is what you get. Rather than two large pieces of French Toast, we received a smaller, but very dense, bread pudding with a large serving side of bacon. Side of Bacon The bacon, of course, is standard… which is great news because BACON. We were more interested, though, in the Cinnamon French Toast Bread Pudding. Cinnamon French Toast Bread Pudding So, how is it? The crispy top layer delivers the French Toast vibes you’d expect, along with the dusting of powdered sugar. Cinnamon French Toast Bread Pudding The bulk of the bread pudding is a spongy French Toast — definitely more of the texture one expects from bread pudding. Honestly, it might be a little too spongy, so if texture is an issue for you, keep that in mind. But the richness of the bread pudding and that strong cinnamon flavor make this a unique breakfast option (and perhaps a welcome detour from scrambled eggs). Cinnamon French Toast Bread Pudding At $6.99, this is a decent breakfast option, particularly if you’re looking for something a little different. And remember, with everything from your traditional breakfast platter to a bakery case chock full of muffins, croissants, and cupcakes (which is a perfectly reasonable option when you’re on vacation!), Sunshine Seasons is a convenient breakfast stop with — even more importantly — something to please every member of the family… regardless of whether or not you partake before or after you Soar Around the World. 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. Are you a breakfast-in-the-park person or a breakfast-before-the-bus person? 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: Croissant Berry Bread Pudding at Sunshine Seasons in Epcot’s Land Pavilion Review: French Toast Bread Pudding at the Beach Club Marketplace Snack Series: Key Lime Tart at Epcot’s Sunshine Seasons View the full article

Princess Elena of Avalor, Disney’s first princess influenced by Latin cultures, has become an inspiration for all. She has also inspired magical transformations at our Bibbidi Bobbibi Boutiques! The Fairy Godmothers-in-Training are in charge of making wishes come true at two Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique locations at Walt Disney World Resort: Disney Springs and Magic Kingdom Park. Both locations have Princess Elena’s dress, crown, shoes and more, perfect for a royal head-to-toe transformation! They will pamper and primp little guests transforming them into their dream fairytale character, ready to live a magical adventure. Then they can even visit their favorite princesses and characters at the Walt Disney World Resort theme parks. Watch this video as a little girl transforms into her favorite princess at the Disney Springs boutique, located next to Once Upon a Toy in Disney Springs Marketplace. Her second wish is to meet Elena, and by the magic of Disney, she gets to do so at Magic Kingdom’s Princess Fairytale Hall! Click here for more information on Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique at Disney Springs. View the full article

It’s almost time to Hero Up! All-new epic adventures are headed to Disney California Adventure park when Summer of Heroes kicks off May 27, including the grand opening of Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! This new adventure blasts you straight into the “Guardians of the Galaxy” story for the first time ever, alongside characters from the blockbuster films and comics. Get a peek at what’s in store with this epic new television spot! Summer of Heroes will launch new, year-round experiences: Guardians of the Galaxy: Awesome Dance Off! – Don’t be surprised if you run into the Guardians of the Galaxy on their way to the Milano, with Star-Lord firing up his old-school boom box to get the party started. Gamora may prefer to stand back and observe, but everyone else is bound to get in the groove and show off their moves during this awesome rock ‘n’ roll bash! Super Hero Encounters – For the first time, citizens of Earth will come face-to-face with Groot, one of the Guardians of the Galaxy! You can also step up to meet the First Avenger, Captain America, along with everyone’s favorite web slinger, your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man. And for a limited time, step up to the challenge with these new adventures during Summer of Heroes: Avengers Training Initiative – Black Widow and Hawkeye assemble young recruits for a series of tests to see if they have what it takes to join the ranks of the Avengers. Heroic Encounter: Black Widow – Black Widow will arrive on the scene several times throughout the day in an armored Avengers vehicle for her heroic encounter with park guests. Grab a Piece (or Bite) of the Action – All that heroism making you hungry? Want a token as proof of your adventures when you get home? Special themed merchandise and food will be available throughout Hollywood Land. Hero Up during Summer of Heroes – May 27 through September 10 – and blast into the “Guardians of the Galaxy” story with Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! – opening May 27 – all at Disney California Adventure park! Entertainment and attractions are subject to change without notice. Please check show guides. View the full article

Just in case you’re unaware… Pandora — The World of AVATAR is COMING SOON!!! Bridge to Pandora — The World of AVATAR Opening in Animal Kingdom on May 27th, this new land will, of course, feature new dining and drinking establishments along with its highly anticipated attractions: Avatar Flight of Passage and Na’vi River Journey. And today, we’ve got a little sneak peek at some of the specialty drinks that will be served exclusively to thirsty travelers visiting Pandora. Pongu Pongu Concept Art ©Disney Let’s start with Pongu Pongu, the drink station run by an ex-pat who fell in love with Pandora and chose never to leave! One of the non-alcoholic options on the menu will be the frozen Night Blossom, a mix of limeade combined with apple and desert pear flavors finished off with passion fruit boba balls (which we’re guessing is the popping boba, since Disney doesn’t often use the tapioca boba). ©Disney The Mo’ara Frozen Margarita — for adults only — will feature Sauza Conmemorartivo Anejo Tequila mixed with strawberry and blood orange flavors. The topper here is strawberry boba balls. Both this and the Night Blossom will be available for purchase with or without a souvenir Pongu Pongu mug with a glow cube. The main dining establishment for the land is Satu’li Canteen. ©Disney Satu’li Canteen Concept Art ©Disney This fast-casual eatery will serve up the Pandoran Sunrise — a non-alcoholic combo of Powerade Melon and tropical juices, which will be available for purchase with or without the souvenir Satu’li Canteen Flute Flask. ©Disney Wine drinkers will be interested to learn about Banshee. This wine from a small Napa Valley winery will be served by the glass, with a Chardonnay and Pinot Noir offering. Dreamwalker Sangria will be distinguished by its blue hue from a splash of Blue Curacao. Two ales will be available for beer drinkers: Hawkes’ Grog Ale (with fruity hops) and Mo’ara High Country Ale (a malty amber). These brews will also be on tap at Pongu Pongu. So, get ready to wet your whistle in Pandora — The World of AVATAR! Which drink would you choose? Are you excited to hear more about Pandora and its dining options? Please let us know with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: News: Menu Details for Satu’li Canteen and Pongu Pongu in Pandora – The World of AVATAR Sneak Peek: Menu Item From Pongu Pongu in Animal Kingdom’s Pandora News: Full Menu for Satu’li Canteen in Animal Kingdom’s Pandora View the full article

Advanced Projection Mapping Tech Coming to ‘Happily Ever After’ View the full article

To celebrate the magic of nature and our commitment to conservation, Disney’s Animal Kingdom will host its first three-day Party for the Planet celebration – April 21-23. Here are some tips if you are planning to Party for the Planet this weekend: Pick up a Party for the Planet Times Guide when you enter the park to help you plan the day. Choose how you will “see nature” and tell the story of your day at the park. In the Oasis, select one of 10 different animal cut-outs (while supplies last) to enhance your experience while raising awareness of the animals Disney Conservation Fund is helping protect through our Reverse the Decline, Increase the Time initiative. Be sure to share your photos on social media using #DisneyAnimals! Along Maharajah Jungle Trek in Asia, take part in an activity focused on snow leopards, one of the amazing animals featured in Disneynature “Born in China.” You can also pick up a free activity packet (while supplies last) based on the film. We’re posting this activity below if you want to get a head start! Disney PhotoPass photographers will create a special Magic Shot image based on “Born in China” and will have fun Earth Day props you can use to enhance your photos. Treat yourself to a specialty Party for the Planet chocolate cupcake with chocolate mousse filling and buttercream icing at Creature Comforts and Isle of Java in Discovery Island or panda-themed cookies and candy apples at Zuri’s Sweets Shop in Africa. Shop special vendors in Discovery Island and Africa who are here for our Earth Day celebrations. Be sure to arrive at “Flights of Wonder” early for special conservation-themed pre-shows and opportunities to meet a Disney veterinarian. Show your animal side with face painters and caricature artists at Conservation Station. Embrace the adventure! There are more than two dozen other family-friendly experiences and special interactions with our animal care experts and education instructors planned throughout the park, so relax, celebrate nature and enjoy Disney’s Animal Kingdom! View the full article

You are cordially invited to take a behind-the-scenes look at how a dream wedding becomes a reality. Tune in on Sunday, May 7th at 8/7c on Freeform to see the premiere of the brand new television special – “Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings.” With the help of hosts, Ben Higgins and Lauren Bushnell from ABC’s The Bachelor, we’ll follow one secret proposal and three couples on their way down the aisle. Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons helps celebrate magical moments and offers something for everyone, from engagements and honeymoons to vow renewals and of course, weddings. For over 25 years, we have been making dreams come true at the Disney Parks and destinations around the globe! Watch ‘Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings’ – the new television special on Freeform May 7th at 8/7c Ever wonder what goes into a wedding with Disney? Check out the 90 minute special all about Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings airing Sunday, May 7th on Freeform at 8/7c! You will see all the magic that goes into a wedding and a proposal as we follow four couples on their big days. Hosted by Ben Higgins and Lauren Bushnell from ABC’s The Bachelor, this special will take you to three iconic Disney Destinations to showcase just some of the amazing offerings from Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons. From a small island ceremony to an all-out celebration in front of a castle, there is something for everyone. Taylor and Tyler will say their “I Do’s” in the American Adventure Rotunda in Epcot surrounded by beautiful holiday décor. Carolina and Isaiah exchange vows on Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island in the Bahamas! Greg proposes to Melanie in Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and finally, Eric and Ruby tie the knot right in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle in the park that started it all – Disneyland park. Share in all the joy, emotion, and love with these couples on their journey to happily ever after. View the full article

Food and beverage is part of the storytelling at Pandora—The World of Avatar, and the Disney beverage team put together a fun, creative menu of libations. To match the “pods” (bao buns) and bowls at Satu’li Canteen, the Pandoran Sunrise is a non-alcoholic mix of tropical Juices blended with Powerade Melon – you can get in the souvenir Satu’li Canteen Flute Flask. Wine by the glass is Banshee, a small Napa Valley winery with a serendipitous name (guests fly on the back of a mountain banshee on the exciting Avatar Flight of Passage experience). A Banshee Chardonnay and Banshee Pinot Noir are on the menu by the glass. And there’s a refreshing Dreamwalker Sangria with a splash Blue Curaçao. Two ales round out the beverage menu: Hawkes’ Grog Ale with a fruity hop character (a taste of apricot and peach, a hint of wheat on the finish), and Mo’ara High Country Ale, a malty amber ale with the aroma of herbal spice hops and tastes of caramel, toffee, and nuts. Next door at the Pongu Pongu walk-up window, the Night Blossom frozen drink is a non-alcoholic mixture of limeade with apple and desert pear flavors topped with passion fruit boba balls (you can get in a souvenir Pongu Pongu mug with a glow cube). The Mo’ara Frozen Margarita is another frozen drink with Sauza Conmemorativo Añejo Tequila with strawberry and blood orange flavor topped with strawberry boba balls (also available in a souvenir mug). Both the Hawkes’ Grog Ale and the Mo’ara High Country Ale are on tap here too, with the option of the souvenir mug. Countdown is on to the May opening! View the full article

It’s that time of year again – time to start placing your bets on when the 2017 Free Disney Dining Plan will be announced. We all know how popular free dining has become in recent years and we’re betting that this year won’t be any different! Mickey Waffles! If you’re not familiar, the Disney free dining offer includes a free Disney Dining Plan with the purchase of a Walt Disney World Resort hotel and ticket package. The “free” part of the name pulls you in, just remember that you’ll be paying full price for your resort hotel room when you book free dining. In the past, free dining was announced for less crowded (non-peak) times during the year – late summer, early fall, and early winter (before the holiday season). But let’s be honest, there’s really no such thing as a non-peak season anymore. So we’re expecting this year’s free Disney Dining dates will include more summer dates, in addition to the usual fall and early-winter (non-holiday) dates. Current RUMORED check-in dates include mid-August through September, the second half of November (excluding Thanksgiving week), and most of December up to the holiday week. Grilled Beef Sirloin Steak at Sanaa Other rumors swirling around this year’s Free Dining release include the minimum stay being bumped to 4 nights versus 3 nights from past years. Belle and Beast Life Size Music Box at Be Our Guest Restaurant How to Get Disney Free Dining The key to planning around the Disney Dining Plan dates is to book as soon as the offer is released. There is always a limited number of rooms available during free dining and if recent years are any indication, they’ll go very quickly. We anticipate 2017 Dining Plan information will be released this spring, perhaps as early as next week. In years past the dates have been announced in late April or early May, but anything can happen. So stay tuned to DFB and the DFB Newsletter for details as soon as we have them. The Disney Dining Plan can be a good deal, but we always recommend crunching the numbers, especially when “free” dining is involved. Check out our DFB Guide to Walt Disney Dining for a full chapter on whether it makes sense for your family. If you want to stay on top of the Dining Plan info and release dates, sign up for our newsletter! We’ll let you know as soon as the the dates are released for free dining. Are you planning on booking free dining this year? 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: News! 2014 Disney World Free Dining Offer Details News: 2017 Disney World Free Dining Offer for UK Residents; And Disney Dining Plan Changes for 2017 News: Disney World Free Dining Plan Offer May Be Coming Soon View the full article

As you may have seen in an earlier post, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa at the Disneyland Resort is currently undergoing an exciting hotel-wide renovation. As the first phase of hotel rooms are completed and guests are starting to experience some of the new magic, we thought it was the perfect opportunity to share the details found in our newly reimagined guest rooms. The headboards are made of quarter-sawn oak, a hallmark of Craftsman design, which frame a blossoming orange tree mural overhead—with mischievous Chip n’ Dale playing in the branches. When guests open the sleeper bed (available in select rooms), artwork of Bambi, along with other woodland creatures, bid them goodnight. California-inspired artwork dot the room walls, including original designs of orange crate labels paying homage to Disney history. For example, Dominguez Grove Oranges is named for the family of Ron Dominguez, the owners of the property that Disneyland would be built on. Also, Silver Lake Brand Citrus is named for the Los Angeles neighborhood that was home to Walt Disney’s Hyperion Street Animation Studio. Countertops of the room’s desk, dresser and coffee station incorporate pieces of green glass from wine bottles, creating a beautiful, unique surface. Above the coffee bar, textured copper detailing adds depth to the aesthetic of the room while enforcing the Craftsman story. Copper was one of the most common metals used during early Arts and Crafts designs, especially in Pasadena homes by Greene and Greene. Lastly, all rooms are powered with the latest technological features and premium amenities, including 55-inch smart TVs, Keurig coffee makers and built-in USB chargers. When is your next visit to Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa? View the full article