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One of my favorite experiences during the Epcot International Festival of the Arts has been taking family and friends to see the extremely talented performers in the Disney on Broadway Concert Series. The concerts showcase some of Broadway’s biggest and brightest stars singing hit songs from Disney on Broadway musicals each festival weekend. Two of those stars, Kerry Butler and Kevin Massey, perform this weekend and we got to know these performing artists a bit better with this quick Q&A session in our #ArtfulEpcot series this week! Did you always dream of being on Broadway? What has been the best part of having that dream come true? Kerry: I dreamed of being on Broadway since I was 9 and saw “Annie.” I never forget how fortunate I am. I get paid to do what I love. I’ve been so lucky, last year I did my tenth Broadway show. You become a family with the cast, it’s really a great job! Kevin: I think I thought it would be really cool to be on Broadway, but it was not always my dream. I thought I was going to be a doctor, even through college. But, somehow I got sidetracked…and I’m so glad I did! Being a part of this business brings you in constant contact with some of the most incredible people in the world. Everyone is passionate and so good at what they do. I met my wife because we worked together (and I married her every night onstage), so it has worked out pretty well! You also get to travel around the world and even to Walt Disney World! Being on Broadway is a special gift and honor that I never take for granted. Which Disney song is your favorite to sing? Kerry: In this concert series it’s “A Whole New World.” In general, it’s “Part of Your World.” Ariel is my favorite Disney Princess. Kevin: I like singing “Out There” from The Hunchback of Notre Dame, but I have to say that “Proud of your Boy” has been a joy to sing too. Alan Menken knows how to write incredible songs for both male and female characters. His songs soar! What has been it been like to perform classic Disney songs at Walt Disney World Resort? Kerry: It has been truly magical. I am a HUGE Disney fan. I go to Walt Disney World all the time. I’ve seen many shows at Epcot, and it’s been a dream to perform here. Kevin: It’s incredible to be able to share so many of Epcot guests’ favorite songs with them and introduce some new songs to them as well. Walt Disney World is such a magical place, and it’s so cool to be a part of that magic! What advice would you give to aspiring singers and/or Broadway performers? Kerry: I always say the people who can take rejection are the ones who can make it. You usually get rejected at least once a day, the key is to not take it personally. Kevin: I always say, if it’s what you love, keep at it! Train as hard as you can, always be prepared, say yes to as much as you can and be nice to everyone! If you do all those things, then you set yourself up for success. Then you walk through the doors that open and see where they lead. Be sure to catch Kerry and Kevin perform at the festival this weekend at 5:30 p.m., 6:45 p.m. and 8 p.m. Friday through Monday at the America Gardens Theatre! View the full article

Tonight’s “Disney Parks After Dark” image was snapped in the Morocco Pavilion at Epcot. The pavilion, which opened its doors at the park in 1984, offers Moroccan cuisine and belly dancing entertainment at Restaurant Marrakesh and tapas and lake-front dining at Spice Road Table. This show was taken inside the pavilion’s bazaar, which is chock full of unique treasures, like fezzes, Moroccan hanging lanterns, belly dancer scarves and much more. View the full article

There’s plenty of buzz around the new Epcot International Festival of the Arts, a lively way to spend a weekend (Fridays through Mondays) around beautiful World Showcase Promenade and in Future World at Epcot. This festival is for all ages, and guests are getting a real kick out of the ingenious “immersive photo stops” featuring famous paintings that let you step in and play a part: scream along with Edvard Munch (in his famous “The Scream”), cross the Delaware River with Gen. George Washington (via a rendition of artist Emanuel Gottlieb Leutze’s painting), or join in artist Claude Monet’s “Garden Picnic.” Now that’s a clever souvenir! Returning this weekend to the America Gardens Theatre are Broadway superstars Kerry Butler (who played Belle in “Beauty and the Beast” on Broadway) and Kevin Massey (“Tarzan” on Broadway) – lighting up the outdoor stage with songs from Disney’s “Aladdin,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “Newsies” and “Tarzan.” If you want to try your hand at animation, head to the Animation Academy in Innoventions East for a free, fun and informative drawing class with a Disney artist. And if you prefer a shorter gig with a paintbrush, spend a little time at the giant color-by-number wall murals each weekend near Showcase Plaza – lots of guests join the fun to create this communal masterpiece as they begin their circle around World Showcase Promenade. For little ones, the Kidcot Fun Stops encourage artistry with short projects to take home. Or the whole family can join in the art-filled scavenger hunt, “Figment’s Brush with the Masters,” featuring that adorable purple dragon in famous works of art. Purchase a scavenger hunt map at Pin Central, Disney Traders or World Traveler shops. A little more serious are the origami and anime drawing classes from 1:30-3:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at the Garden Deck in the Japan Pavilion. There’s plenty more – check out the interactive workshops and seminars at Disneyworld.com/artfulepcot. And while you’re immersed in all the fun, make sure to save time to see the amazing live performance artists in Future World at the Fountain Stage, as well as the Living Statues, performing throughout the day. (Watch closely, you might get a little wave!) Check the Times Guide for performance times! View the full article

Oh my WORD there’s so much great Disney news this week! And today is no slouch! March 1st will herald the official arrival of SPRING to Disney World with the kickoff of the 2017 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival, running through May 29th! And we’ve got some serious scoop for you!! Flower and Garden Festival Passport We have the FULL LIST of Booths and Menus for the event’s Outdoor Kitchens (including two BRAND NEW BOOTHS!), the Garden Rocks Concert Series Lineup (with Dining Packages available for the first time this year!), and more to tell you about! So, let’s waste no time… Epcot Flower and Garden Festival Food Booths The Outdoor Kitchens (similar to the Food and Wine Festival’s Marketplace Booths, but with an emphasis on spring’s fresh-from-the-garden flavors) at the Flower and Garden Festival will number a record fifteen this year! Florida Fresh Booth Along with returning flavor-ites (okay, straight up — “flavorites” was a typo, but I kinda dig it!) like The Smokehouse, Florida Fresh, Fleur de Lys, and Pineapple Promenade are two newcomers: Northern Bloom, a tribute to Canada, and The Berry Basket, where it’s all in the name! Kir Imperial and Alsatian Tart from Fleur de Lys Outdoor Kitchen Northern Bloom will feature all-new dishes like Seared Scallops with French Green Beans, Butter Potatoes, Brown Butter Vinaigrette and Applewood Smoked Bacon, a Naomi Bar Trifle, and Maple Shakes (one version made with Crown Royal!). The Berry Basket will offer up, among other items, a Lamb Chop with Quinoa Salad and Blackberry Gastrique, and Warm Wild Berry Buckle with Pepperberry Sorbet/Ice Cream. See FULL BOOTH MENUS at our Flower and Garden Festival Menu Page HERE! Garden Rocks Concert Series and Dining Packages The line-up has also been revealed for the Garden Rocks Concert Series for the 2017 International Epcot Flower & Garden Festival! And for the first time, Dining Packages are also available for booking with this Spring’s concert series. As with the Eat to the Beat Concert Series for the Epcot Food and Wine Festival, Dining Packages offer guests the opportunity to have breakfast, lunch, or dinner at an Epcot restaurant and enjoy reserved seating for one of the evening performances. Of course, you’ll want to check out who is performing during your Flower & Garden Festival visit first! Here’s the schedule: March 3-4 – Jon Secada – “Just Another Day” March 5-6 – Dennis DeYoung – The Music of STYX – “Grand Illusion” March 10-13 – Pointer Sisters – “I’m So Excited” March 17-18 – Simple Plan – “Welcome to My Life” – NEW March 19-20 – Plain White T’s – “Hey There Delilah” March 24-27 – Night Ranger – “Sister Christian“ March 31-April 3 – Little River Band – “Reminiscing” April 7-10 – Blood, Sweat & Tears featuring Bo Bice – “Spinning Wheel” April 14-17 – Gin Blossoms – “Hey Jealousy” April 21-24 – The Orchestra starring former members of ELO – “Evil Woman” April 28-29 – Exposé – “Point of No Return” – NEW April 30-May 1 – Berlin featuring Terri Nunn – “Take My Breath Away” – NEW May 5-8 – STARSHIP starring Mickey Thomas – “We Built This City” May 12-15 – The Guess Who – “American Woman” May 19-22 – Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone – “I’m Henry VIII, I Am” May 26-29 – The Spinners – “Working My Way Back To You” Showtimes are 5:30 pm, 6:45 pm, and 8:00 pm in the America Gardens Theater. Dining Packages will be available for booking starting TOMORROW, February 3rd. We are still awaiting information on participating restaurants and prices for the Dining Package, and will update our 2017 Flower and Garden Festival Garden Rocks Concerts and Dining Package Page as soon as we have more information! In the meantime, refer to our Eat to the Beat Concert Series Page to get an idea of the restaurants that may participate! More Festival Fun Oh… along with ALL THE FOOD, there’s also some flowers and gardening involved in the Festival, too . One major highlight of the Festival is always the Disney-themed topiaries lining all areas of the park, numbering over 100 this year (look for a Three Caballeros topiary and a Belle topiary among the new additions)! Donald Duck Topiary Green Thumbs — and those aspiring — will enjoy special exhibits such as Geranium Grandeur and the Bonsai Collection in the Japan Pavilion, as well as garden-themed tours like Gardens of the World and demonstrations from visiting gardening experts in the Festival Center. Ahhh, Epcot in the Spring. And the kiddos — and kids at heart! — haven’t been forgotten with experiences including the Music Garden Melodies Playground, the Butterflies on the Go exhibit, and more. The Flower and Garden Festival is fast-approaching, my friends! So mark your calendars for March 1 – May 29th. Start your planning by visiting our 2017 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival Page for all the latest details on our favorite Spring event in Disney World! What are YOU most excited about for this year’s Flower and Garden Festival? 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! New Botanas Botánico Outdoor Kitchen Debuts at Epcot Flower and Garden Festival, Plus Garden Rocks Concert Line Up News: 2017 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival Introduces Two New Booths News! 2015 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival FULL Food Menus! View the full article

What’s that? You’ve never heard of the Nachos Rio Grande Challenge at Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom? Learn About: Pecos Bill’s Tall Tale Inn and Cafe Magic Kingdom Disney World Restaurants Yeah, don’t feel bad. ‘Cause I’d never heard of it either until just a couple of weeks ago! ;-D But I was so excited when one of our readers asked about the “giant nachos” at Pecos Bill’s. And I was even more excited when I headed over to check them out! (Luckily, they just started these a couple of months ago, and they weren’t publicized anywhere…so I can sort of forgive myself that I didn’t know about them til now.) As is the case with other “challenges” around Disney World — like the Kitchen Sink Sundae at Beaches and Cream — this one is pricey…and meant to enjoy with a crowd! And I was so excited to find an awesome family to share them with me on my visit! There’s a lot of hoopla that accompanies ordering the Nachos Rio Grande, and I wanted you to see it firsthand! Check it out!! OK, the video shows EVERYTHING (so go watch it! And subscribe to our channel! ;-D), but here’s the gist! To get the Nachos Rio Grande, you need to arrive between 3 and 6PM at Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe in Magic Kingdom’s Frontierland. Let a cast member know you’d like to order the secret Nachos, and the whole restaurant will start buzzing with excitement! I quickly found out that the Nachos serve 6-8 people — or MORE — and the order brings with it a whole “VIP experience” at Pecos Bill’s. Cast Members ready to get the party started for the Nachos Rio Grande! After you order (and pay the astronomical $90 price tag — yeah, you REALLY have to want some big nachos to pay that much), cast members will don their special cowboy hats and escort you back to a reserved table set with pioneer-style tin plates and checkered napkins. Reserved Table at Pecos Bill’s for those tackling the Nachos Rio Grande Challenge! Once seated, cast members will bring in pitchers of your chosen drinks (non-alcoholic of course), and then the fun begins! Very soon, the WHOLE RESTAURANT (yeah — that’s no joke — it’s pretty much every cast member in the place) walks from the kitchen to your table in a huge parade processional of ringing cowbells and cheers! It’s a serious spectacle, and so much fun! (The best part is — they seem to be having just as much fun as you are!) The huge Nachos are brought your VIP table in a mini covered wagon along with big tins of green and red salsa, and queso. Nachos Rio Grande set up As you can see, the nachos are HUGE! Thankfully, on my visit I had a team of volunteer eaters helping me out!! Nachos Rio Grande Once you’ve conquered the Nachos Rio Grande challenge, eaters are treated to a fun ceremony featuring the Pecos Bill Code of the West, an official certificate, and cowboy hats and sheriff badges for everyone in the party. The $90 price tag is high (if you’re feeding 8 people, it works out to about $11.25 per person), but the VIP treatment (cast members are available to get anything you need throughout the meal, so it’s kind of like a table-service experience in a counter-service restaurant) and fun experience is very unique and one of a kind. The nachos aren’t bad, either! ;-D Typical counter service fare, but still a good meal for the family. Want more great scoops, tips, and Disney dining info?? Subscribe to our DFB YouTube Channel today, and never miss a single DFB food and drink adventure! We’re not sure how long the Nachos Rio Grande Challenge will be available at Pecos Bill’s, and it’s definitely a SECRET menu item. But if you’ve got a crowd at the Magic Kingdom, it’s worth considering! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: News: New Menu Coming to Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe in Disney World New Menu Item at WDW’s Pecos Bill’s Tall Tale Inn & Cafe News: Burgers (Well, One) Back on the Menu at Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe View the full article

One of the highlights of this year’s Lunar New Year celebration at Disney California Adventure park is “Hurry Home,” a delightful, six-minute pre-show presented just before each evening’s performance of “World of Color.” “Hurry Home” follows the journey of a Little Lantern character, returning home for the annual celebration of good luck and fortune. The short is accompanied by a stirring, musical score, created by Academy Award-winning composer Tan Dun (“Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon”). Today, Creative Entertainment Producer Jennifer Magill shares some of her favorite moments from “Hurry Home.” You can still catch “Hurry Home” this weekend. The Lunar New Year celebration at Disney California Adventure park continues through February 5. View the full article

Character meals — where you go to a restaurant and are entertained by Disney characters visiting your table and signing autographs — are pretty much a Disney right of passage for any disney fan. So we’re super jazzed about the news that a new character breakfast is coming this spring to Trattoria al Forno on Disney World’s BoardWalk! Trattoria al Forno at Disney’s BoardWalk This new character breakfast is a “bon voyage” celebration with Disney royal couples from films including Tangled and The Little Mermaid. That’s right…it looks like Rapunzel and Flynn Rider are finally getting a character breakfast!! Rapunzel and Flynn Rider will be part of the new character breakfast ©Disney As you enjoy breakfast you’ll be encouraged to “sure to share the tales of your own hopes and dreams” or maybe tell a tale about one of your great adventures. This new character meal is being touted as a “unique” offering by Disney, so we’re kind of excited to see what it’s all about! And the location is great. Trattoria al Forno is within walking distance of Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, so it’s a great place to start your day! (Plus, they have this SUPER awesome waffle entree topped with sweet mascarpone cheese! Heaven!) Trattoria al Forno Waffles with Mascarpone Cheese The Trattoria al Forno character breakfast is slated to begin this spring. We’re still waiting for details on Advance Dining Reservations and menu offerings. Stay tuned! Are you excited about this new character breakfast? 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: Sneak Peek and Review: Trattoria al Forno Breakfast at Disney’s BoardWalk News: Opening Day, Reservation Date, and Menu for Trattoria al Forno on Disney’s BoardWalk First Look! Trattoria al Forno to Replace Kouzzina by Cat Cora on Disney World’s BoardWalk View the full article

#DisneyParksLIVE: Sneak Peek at Frozen, A Musical Spectacular | Disney Cruise Line View the full article

In just a few minutes, you will be immersed in the world of Arendelle during a special sneak peek of “Frozen, A Musical Spectacular,” live from the Disney Wonder. Join us right here on the Disney Parks Blog in just a few minutes! The #DisneyParksLIVE stream will begin at 10:50 a.m. EST. In the meantime, follow along on Twitter using the hashtags #DisneyParksLIVE and #DisneyCruise. Where are you watching from? Tell us in the comments section below. View the full article

Garden Rocks, the concert series tied to the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, will feature first-timers Expose, Berlin and Simple Plan, Walt Disney World has announced. Those groups are part of 16 acts participating in the 2017 version of the event, which begins March 1. The performers... View the full article

Once again the America Gardens Theatre will come alive with some of the best music from the 1960s, ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s as the 2017 Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival presents the “Garden Rocks” concert series. And, for the first time this year performances are scheduled not just Friday through Sunday, but every Monday, too! One of the hallmarks of the Festival, “Garden Rocks,” brings your favorite stars from the rock and pop history to Epcot. Returning favorites like Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone and The Spinners join brand new artists like Berlin featuring Terri Nunn. Being a child of the ‘80s, I’ve put them on the top of my “hit list” for this year’s festival. Poised to be one of the best ever, this year’s line-up shakes out like this: March 3-4 – Jon Secada – “Just Another Day” March 5-6 – Dennis DeYoung – The Music of STYX – “Grand Illusion” March 10-13 – Pointer Sisters – “I’m So Excited” March 17-18 – Simple Plan – “Welcome to My Life” – NEW March 19-20 – Plain White T’s – “Hey There Delilah” March 24-27 – Night Ranger – “Sister Christian“ March 31-April 3 – Little River Band – “Reminiscing” April 7-10 – Blood, Sweat & Tears featuring Bo Bice – “Spinning Wheel” April 14-17 – Gin Blossoms – “Hey Jealousy” April 21-24 – The Orchestra starring former members of ELO – “Evil Woman” April 28-29 – Exposé – “Point of No Return” – NEW April 30-May 1 – Berlin featuring Terri Nunn – “Take My Breath Away” – NEW May 5-8 – STARSHIP starring Mickey Thomas – “We Built This City” May 12-15 – The Guess Who – “American Woman” May 19-22 – Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone – “I’m Henry VIII, I Am” May 26-29 – The Spinners – “Working My Way Back To You” “Garden Rocks” concert performances are held each Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday of the Festival. Show times are at 5:30 p.m., 6:45 p.m. & 8 p.m. each night. Concerts are included with regular park admission to Epcot. For more information on the Festival, check out epcotinspring.com. And keep checking back to the Disney Parks Blog for updates throughout the Festival. View the full article

There’s cause for celebration today as Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside marks its 25th anniversary! This picturesque resort boasts 2,048 rooms in three-story southern style mansions and two-story rustic bayou dwellings. You can even choose to stay in one of the Royal Guest Rooms, which are specially-themed and immerse you in favorite Disney fairytales such as “The Princess and the Frog,” “Aladdin,” and “Beauty and the Beast.” When the resort opened on February 2, 1992, it was named Disney’s Dixie Landings Resort. Although the name has changed, the resort has always be known for its charming waterfront walkways, Southern-style specialities at both Riverside Mill food court and Boatwright’s Dining Hall and extensive recreation options like horse-drawn carriage rides, pools, bike rentals and more. One of my favorite features of this resort is being able to take a leisurely riverboat ride to and from Disney Springs, or a short walk along the Sassagoula River to visit the sister resort, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter. Tell us about some of your favorite memories from your stays at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside through the years! View the full article

Today’s Disney Doodle asks the question what would Snow White do if she had the chance to enjoy a Disney theme park all on her own? In the beginning of the 1937 film “Snow White,” our original Disney Princess makes a wish at a wishing well, hoping her true love would find her. This moment in her story inspired artist Ashley Taylor to imagine Snow White heading to the Germany pavilion at Epcot to make just a few more wishes. “I love Snow White’s wishing well in the Germany Pavilion,” Ashley said. “It was easy to picture Snow White wishing for her prince to come.” View the full article

The 2017 Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival kicks off NEXT MONTH! Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival While last year’s Festival ran on weekends only, this year’s Disneyland Resort event will run daily from March 10 – April 16, 2017. And TODAY is the time to really start planning, because booking is now open for the Festival’s Ticketed Events! And with even more dates to enjoy, there are more events this year! Let’s take a quick look at the options… Special Events This year’s Special Events will include the return of Sweet Sundays with chefs such as Keegan Gerhard, Duff Goldman, and Emily Ellyn. And the In the Kitchen With… series featuring celebrity chefs including Cat Cora, Guy Fieri, Robert Irvine, G. Garvin, Jet Tila, and Graham Elliot are complete with a brief autograph session! Keegan Gerhard will be a part of Sweet Sundays Additional options include two four-course, prix fixe pairing dinner series with the Wine Maker Dinners and Brew Master Beer Dinners. Visit our Special Events Page to find all the details! Low-Cost Seminars and Demonstrations Low-cost Seminars and Demonstrations range from $10 to $20 to attend, and there are three varieties to choose from! Wine Education and Tasting, Beer and Spirits Education and Tasting, and Culinary Demonstrations will run daily throughout the Festival. Rimbach Gewürztraminer from the 2016 Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival Click here to visit our Low-Cost Seminars and Demonstrations Page! More to Come Of course, we are eagerly awaiting more information on the Festival Marketplace Booths, which will feature California cuisine and number over a dozen this year (quite a leap from last year’s eight)! The Vineyard Booth 2016 Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival Additionally, we are anticipating information regarding the Lifestyle Seminars and Junior Chef cooking experiences still on the way. So be sure to visit our 2017 Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival Page to stay up-to-date on all the details and FUN! Are you making plans to attend the 2017 Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival? 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: Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival Returning to Disneyland Resort in 2017! News! Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival Returns in April 2016 News: Booking Available for New World of Color Dessert Party in Disney California Adventure View the full article

We’re in the final week of our fantastic Lunar New Year celebration at Disney California Adventure park, and today David Duffy, Director of Creative Entertainment for Disneyland Resort, gives us a look at everything the celebration has to offer. Throughout the day you can enjoy an impressive array of authentic live performances, visit with Disney characters dressed in traditional attire, take in the Happy Lunar New Year Procession featuring Mulan and Mushu, marvel at the “Hurry Home” pre-show to “World of Color,” and so much more! You have just a few days left to experience the Lunar New Year celebration at Disney California Adventure park. This year’s celebration wraps up on Sunday, Feb. 5. View the full article

Ooh, y’all, have we got some news for you in the world of Magic Kingdom seasonal desserts! These are the desserts that come and go as the seasons progress, causing us both joy (Yea! New flavors!) and heartache (No! I have to wait another year for my favorite pumpkin everything!). In this case, we are rejoicing because Red Velvet Cake is now available in the Magic Kingdom! Friars Nook Red Velvet Cake We found ours at Friar’s Nook, but it’s also available as a dessert item at Pecos Bill’s. At Friar’s Nook, we’re pretty used to seeing these seasonal delights come and go, so we can’t promise this beauty will be available forever. But for now, it’s fantastic. We love that these cakes come with a plastic lid because they make a great stowaway to snack on throughout the day. Friar’s Nook Red Velvet Cake Like the Triple Chocolate Cake with Mickey sprinkles we find almost everywhere at Disney World, the Red Velvet Cake is a circular piece of cake slathered with icing. Friar’s Nook Red Velvet Cake The frosting, as per traditional red velvet concoctions, is cream cheese. And there is a TON of it here. Friar’s Nook Red Velvet Cake Cream Cheese Frosting In case that wasn’t enticing enough, the cream cheese icing melts into the cake a bit, making it extra moist and gooey. So, so awesome. Friar’s Nook Red Velvet Cake Atop the cream cheese icing, you’ll find teeny, tiny cake “flakes” that really show off that red color. Friar’s Nook Red Velvet Cake This cake is a total win, folks. It costs $4.29 or a Disney Dining Plan snack credit, but the freshness and texture were spot on perfection. Don’t Miss Out on ALL the Magic Kingdom Snacks! The DFB Guide to Magic Kingdom Snacks is newly updated for your 2017-18 Walt Disney World Trip! With more than 2oo color photos of our favorite Magic Kingdom Snacks, the DFB Guide to Magic Kingdom Snacks is guaranteed to help you find the best snacks and treats (even mini-meals!) for your family while visiting the Magic Kingdom, or your money back! After all, we all know that treats at the Magic Kingdom are just as nostalgic as our first flight on Dumbo! Know what you’re getting BEFORE using a precious snack credit or spending limited vacation dollars. Whether you want sweet, salty, crunchy, healthy, or something in between, The DFB Guide to Magic Kingdom Snacks e-Book tells you where to find a snack to match your craving! To thank you for your support of the blog, we’re offering the Guide for 25% off its purchase price for a limited time! Order your copy now. To secure the discount, use code SNACKS17 at the check-out. Do you seek out seasonal treats when you’re in the parks? 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: Review: Pot Roast Macaroni and Cheese at Friar’s Nook in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Review: The Friar’s Nook in Magic Kingdom’s Fantasyland Review: New Barbeque Chicken Macaroni and Cheese at Friar’s Nook in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom View the full article

An all-new character dining experience will debut this spring at Disney’s BoardWalk, with appearances by adventurous royal couples from beloved Disney films! A delicious breakfast awaits you at Trattoria al Forno, as you get ready to set out for a day of endless magic at Walt Disney World Resort. It’s a hearty “bon voyage” celebration, featuring popular characters from favorite Disney stories like “Tangled” or “The Little Mermaid.” During your visit, be sure to share the tales of your own hopes and dreams, the adventures you’ve had… and those still to come with our favorite princess or prince! This unique, new character breakfast is slated to begin in late spring. Keep checking the Disney Parks Blog – we’ll be sharing more details, including the opening date, when you can make reservations, and menu offerings! View the full article

February has arrived and many couples are already making their Valentine’s Day plans. Perhaps you’re thinking of popping “the question” (or you already have) and you’re exploring romantic honeymoon destinations. If so, nothing could be more picturesque than a dreamy cruise through Europe with Adventures by Disney! Adventures by Disney river cruising makes traveling through the heart of Europe for your honeymoon easy. Carefully curated experiences allow you to see some of the most romantic, beautiful cities and towns throughout Europe in an immersive, hassle-free way. Imagine sipping coffee each morning while taking in the sights of Vienna from your own window, or visit sites made famous from the movie “The Sound of Music” in Salzburg. Explore castles, dine in centuries-old restaurants, sip the local wines, stroll through quaint villages and so much more. Planning a wedding takes months, sometimes years, of work. But planning your honeymoon is nearly effortless when you book an Adventures by Disney river cruise. Adventures by Disney handles all the planning for you, so all you need to worry about is savoring this time together as a couple. Best of all, Adventures by Disney river cruising is an all-inclusive experience. Daily excursions, food, gratuities and more are all included in the price of your cruise. And Adventures by Disney handles all the travel logistics as well, making for a completely seamless experience from start to finish. I personally traveled with Adventures by Disney for my own honeymoon and it was an amazing experience. So amazing that my husband and I recently celebrated our fifth anniversary by sailing along the Danube with Adventures by Disney (that’s right, it’s also a trip that’s perfect for anniversaries and other special occasions), and made new unforgettable memories. What could be more romantic than holding hands while ice-skating in Vienna (even if the hand holding was totally necessary in order to prevent me from falling down)? Imagine falling in love with European architecture, food, museums … and falling even more in love with each other on this romantic vacation. Plus, if you book a trip by March 4 you can even save $500 off per adult (or $1,000 off kids and teens if you want to bring the kiddos along) for summer 2017 Danube river cruises! The $1,000 per child and teen discount and the $500 per adult discount may not be combined. Discount is taken from the non-discounted prevailing River Cruise Package price as quoted on AdventuresByDisney.com on date of booking (“Regular Rate”). Guests 11 years of age and younger at time of travel will receive the $1,000 discount off the child rate. Guests 12 – 19 years of age at time of travel will receive the $1,000 discount off of the adult rate. Regular Rates vary by departure date. Offer not valid for Suites. Lead Guest of the booking party must travel on the Package booked. Valid for new bookings only. Bookings must be made through Adventures by Disney Travel Services, Inc. Discount not applicable toward deposit. Packages subject to availability. Cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion. Subject to change without notice. See AdventuresbyDisney.com for additional Terms and Conditions. View the full article

The BIG GAME is almost here! We’re talking Super Bowl LI, which takes place this Sunday!! There’s only one little problem, though: you’re in Walt Disney World. Now, normally, that would be all kinds of awesome. But when the New England Patriots clash with the Atlanta Falcons this weekend, we’re betting that there will be lots of you looking to find a TV in time to catch the match. But where? Lucky for you, we’re huge football fans too! So we’ve done our research to figure out where the best places to catch the Super Bowl — or any big game, really — are throughout Walt Disney World. And today, we’re here to share them with YOU, just in time for kickoff! They come to you courtesy of the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining. And if you like what you see, check out our Pre-Order of the 2017 Guide, Second Edition deal: pre-order our latest edition, and get the current edition for FREE, as an immediate download! The Impossible: ESPN Club at Disney’s BoardWalk So…here’s the deal. You were planning to head over to Disney’s BoardWalk suuuuper early, and stake out a spot at the bar to watch the Big Game at ESPN Club. ESPN Club Um, here’s the bad news. Don’t bother. Seating at this ultimate sports bar (yep, there are even TVs in the bathroom) is at such a premium that they aren’t even accepting walk ups. For the Super Bowl, it’s all premium reserved seating, which comes with a cover of $100 per person. The upside to that is that you basically just need to spend that much in food and drink. Which…let’s face it. This is a bar. In Disney. It’s really not that hard. ESPN Pub Nachos If this is your Football Viewing Dream Come True, keep checking back with (407) WDW-DINE (407-939-3463) for a cancellation. But we figure the best advice we can give you is a really solid back up plan. To that end, let’s explore a few other options that you might not have thought about. The Back Up Plan: ESPN Wide World of Sports Grill Yes, Virginia, there is another ESPN-branded spot on Disney property. You’ll find it at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex If you’re a cheer mom, or you’ve competed in a runDisney race, or you’ve attended Atlanta Braves Spring Training, then you might already be familiar with the WWoS complex. In addition to lots of sports facilities, the complex is also home to the ESPN Wide World of Sports Grill. ESPN Grill The spot is quick service and doesn’t offer advance dining reservations, and is only open when events are taking place. But we have confirmed that the restaurant will be open on Super Bowl Sunday, and will be televising the game. Patio Seating — With TV! Dine on game day favorites like wings and enjoy a beer or a drink from the full bar. And with TVs in both the restaurant and on the patio, there won’t be a bad seat in the house! (Check out our review for even more pics and details.) Back Up Back Up Plan: Disney’s All Star Sports Resort Want to watch the Super Bowl with a couple hundred of your new best friends? Then head to End Zone Food Court at Disney’s All Star Sports Resort. End Zone Food Court Entrance View the game on a large projector and dine on game day favorites, like Chicken Wings and Pizza. Just show up — no reservations required! The Up Scale: Shula’s Steak House Another option is to combine your game day viewing with a little luxury. If this sounds good to you, head to Shula’s Steak House at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort. Shula’s Football Decor This opulent man-cave — you’re surrounded with dark wood and enlarged pics of the Miami Dolphins’ 1972 Perfect Season — is a fantastic spot to enjoy big steaks and hearty sides. But on Super Bowl Sunday, you can have your steak while taking in the action! Cowboy Ribeye at Shula’s Shula’s plans to show the game, and the super cool thing — there’s no cover charge. Just book your advance dining reservation, pick out your steak, and enjoy the game. The Laid Back: Your Favorite Resort Lounge Of course, it comes down to the kind of sports watcher you are. If you like the camaraderie of fellow fans, but you don’t want to be in a big group, consider watching the game in your favorite resort lounge. Our favorites include the Crew’s Cup Lounge at the Yacht Club, Territory Lounge at the Wilderness Lodge, or the Tambu Lounge at the Polynesian Village Resort! Comfy Chairs and the Framed Flatscreen at Territory Lounge Personally, I can’t think of a better way to watch the game than with a Lapu Lapu in hand from Tambu, or a pot of Fondue and a Riesling at Territory Lounge! Lapu Lapu Fondue at Territory Lounge During the Game? Yes Please! Of course, a beer would always work, too. The Obvious: Your Disney Resort Room If you’re anything like some of our DFB Staffers, then you’re more about the game than the party (yeah — we’re a bunch of introverts). In that case, don’t forget the perfect place to catch the game — your resort room! A Quiet Place to Watch the Game: Your Room! Order a burger or pizza from room service, or grab it take out from your resort’s counter service spot. Watching from the comfort of your room means no one talking over the best plays — or the best commercials. Pop Century’s “Peace of Pizza” Delivery Menu! So if you find yourself at Walt Disney World with the Super Bowl looming, no worries! There are plenty of places to catch the game. Whether you crave camaraderie and multiple TVs, or a solitary experience with a few beers and pizza, you have plenty of options for viewing football’s biggest game. Honorable Mention — Disney Springs We happened to be in the Disney Springs area and popped into a few spots to inquire if the game would be shown. We found out that Splitsville will definitely be televising it with sound! Seating is first come, first served. So get there early. Upstairs Bar in Splitsville Orlando The BOATHOUSE also plans to show the game, but be forewarned — there is no sound on the TVs there. Bar Seating. And Silent Football. So it’s all action, without the benefit of the play by play. (Hey…that sounds pretty awesome, actually.) Don’t Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! The DFB Guide is Two for One! The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, Second Edition, is available for pre-order! With more than 600 pages, The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 20+ years of visits. We’ve done the research for you, so you’ll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family’s needs! With sample dining itineraries, plus our “Disney Dining at a Glance” section, featuring “Where Can I Find?” options, you’ll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet. Click here to pre-order your copy of The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining E-book, Second Edition — and get the First Edition of the 2017 guide absolutely free!!! Use code SAVE2017 for a 20% discount for a limited time! Use code SAVE2017 at check-out for a 20% off the cover price! What’s your favorite spot for catching a big game while at Walt Disney World? Leave a comment and share your tips with us! 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: Super Bowl Eats in Disney World Tips From the DFB Guide: Our Top 3 Tips for Late Night Disney World Dining Tips from the DFB Guide: Fun, Free Holiday Activities in Walt Disney World View the full article

The #DisneyParksLIVE stream series is going nautical with a special broadcast, live from the Disney Wonder. Join us for a special peek at “Frozen, A Musical Spectacular,” the latest Broadway-style musical by Disney Cruise Line. The new show features an innovative combination of traditional theatrical techniques, modern technology and classic Disney whimsy. The live broadcast begins at 10:50 a.m. on Thursday, February 2, right here on the Disney Parks Blog. A fresh blog post will appear at the top of the blog at that time for viewing. To follow along on Twitter, use the hashtags #DisneyParksLIVE and #DisneyCruise. View the full article

When the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival returns March 10 through April 16, 2017, the festival will host hundreds of events, seminars and demonstrations. Today, I’m sharing the current schedule of the superstar chefs, wineries and breweries that will be partaking in the 2017 premium events. The popular “In the Kitchen with…” series debuts for the 2017 Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival. See your favorite celebrity chefs Guy Fieri, Robert Irvine, Cat Cora, G. Garvin, Graham Elliot and Jet Tila demonstrate their skills in the kitchen, try a tasting menu created by the chef and even get an autograph! Cost is $99 per person, plus tax and gratuity. The popular Sweet Sundays events are back! Join celebrity pastry chefs Duff Goldman, Emily Ellyn and Keegan Gerhard as they show how to make some of their delectable desserts. Cost is $79 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Winemaker Dinners highlight wines from California vintners Duckhorn Vineyards and Flora Springs Winery, with a four-course meal carefully selected to enhance the flavor of the wine. While you dine, enjoy insights and inspiration behind the pairings by a knowledgeable winemaker. Cost is $150 per person, plus tax and gratuity. A special Winemaker Dinner featuring Disney Family of Wines includes Fess Parker Winery, GoGi Wines, Lasseter Family Winery and Silverado Vineyards. The wineries at this event each have a special connection to the Disney legacy. Cost is $200 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Beer lovers, rejoice! New to this year’s festival, Brewmaster Beer Dinners feature prix fixe dinners where hand-selected beers from California-based breweries will be paired and served with a four-course specialty menu prepared by Disney chefs. Knowledgeable brewmasters present each beer and describe the chef’s inspiration for the pairing. Cost is $150 per person, plus tax and gratuity. There are plenty of other ways to take part in the 2017 Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival! Learn cooking techniques and get sample tastings during informative Culinary Demonstrations by talented local, visiting and Disneyland Resort chefs. Quench your thirst for knowledge with engaging Beverage Seminars, which feature informative, guided tastings of wine, beer or spirits. There’s fun for the whole family! Kids ages 3-11 can partake in the return of a complimentary, hands-on experience called Jr. Chef, which will take place daily. Events taking place March 10 through April 1 are now available to book, and reservations will continue to become available 60 days prior to each event’s date. To view a full listing of Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival events or to make reservations visit Disneyland.com/FoodAndWine. Separate admission to Disney California Adventure park is required and is not included with the cost of signature events. Space is limited for all ticketed events; advance reservations are recommended. Full payment may be due at time of booking, and cancellation fees may apply. No refunds, credit or date or time changes. Guests must be 21 years of age or over to consume alcohol; valid photo ID required. Events and demonstrations are subject to change or cancellation without notice. View the full article

Disney’s live-action “Beauty and the Beast” comes to theaters on March 17, but until then you can enjoy the longest trailer yet for the film. The 2 1/2-minute trailer is the third look at the film based on the 1991 animated classic, this one starring Emma Watson as Belle. The latest trailer gives... View the full article

An online petition has been started asking Walt Disney World to keep the Donald Trump animatronic figure silent when it debuts at the Hall of Presidents. ”Donald Trump ran a Presidential campaign on hateful speech, misogyny, racism and xenophobia,” says the online petition on change.org. “The Magic... View the full article

Canadian Residents : 25% Off Select Walt Disney World Theme Park Tickets View the full article

Épargnez 25% sur des billets résidents canadiens seulement View the full article