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Did you know that The Happiest Place on Earth and the Most Magical Place on Earth are also popular field trip destinations for students? Imagine bringing students to a Disney park to experience the real-life application of their classroom lessons. Disney Youth Programs engages young minds and celebrates their achievements using lessons and insights from The Walt Disney Company as the inspiration. Disney Youth Programs offers student groups performance, education, field-trip and celebration opportunities at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. Programs are available to schools and student groups ranging from kindergarten to college. Since 1955, Disney Performing Arts has provided performance opportunities to give students a chance to play, sing and dance in the spotlight. In our workshops, students can hone their skills under the guidance of an entertainment professional. Festival Disney offers band, orchestra, and choral ensembles the chance to compete in a Disney-produced music festival. Areas of interest include instrumental, vocal, dance, theatre, special events and competitions and festivals. In addition to the many Arts opportunities available to groups, Disney Youth Education Series allows students to see how the concepts they are learning in the classroom create the magic at Disney Parks. From physics to cultural studies to leadership, each unique program emphasizes the importance of teamwork and critical thinking skills while giving students a one-of-a-kind learning experience that blends the magic of Disney with key educational content. What do you get when you combine dance parties and your favorite Disney attractions? Disneyland Grad Nite at Disneyland Resort in California and Disney Grad Nite H2O at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida! These unique events are exclusive high school graduation celebrations offered on both coasts to give students a once-in-a-lifetime party experience in a Disney Park. View the full article

The next time you go to the Epcot International Festival of the Arts, be sure to stop at El Artista Hambriento (The Hungry Artist) Food Studio near the Mexico Pavilion. The Studio features delicious Mexican-inspired dishes that include the popular Huarache (grilled corn dough topped with flank steak, black beans, salsa de chile de árbol, frisee lettuce, shredded carrots, red cabbage and queso fresco with a drizzle of chipotle mayonnaise). You can also try the Choriqueso: two tortillas with chorizo, Chihuahua cheese, poblano, red and green peppers garnished with micro cilantro. ¡Delicioso! For drinks, you can enjoy two types of margaritas on the rocks, one with passion fruit and coconut and the other with mandarin and ginger. Both are very refrescantes! And if you are looking for a beer, you can order a Bohemia pilsner and add a Kahlua floater. Epcot International Festival of the Arts takes place every weekend (Friday through Monday) through Feb. 20. The festival is included with regular admission. View the full article

If you can’t get a membership to Disneyland’s uber-exclusive Club 33, the House of Mouse is dangling another swanky dining option: 21 Royal. The name refers to the address in New Orleans Square, above the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction, where the park has expanded a private apartment to include... View the full article

This year is already shaping up to be a big one at the Disneyland Resort with the return of the Main Street Electrical Parade at Disneyland park and the popular Lunar New Year celebration at Disney California Adventure park. And there’s so much more ahead! Take a look … What are you most excited for at the Disneyland Resort in 2017? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

Today we’re adventuring to the top of the world, (or at least the top of Walt Disney World!) and seeing how well you know Expedition Everest at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Are you an Expedition Everest expert? Tell us in the comments! .quiz-container#wp-quiz-183729{ background-color:#f0f8fb; color:#565656; border-color:#dce4e7; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-183729 .quiz-section h1{ color:#8bb428; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-183729 .quiz-title{ color:#10628b; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-183729 .quiz-header-image{ text-align:right; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-183729 .quiz-section{ border-color:#ffffff; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-183729 .quiz-details, .quiz-container#wp-quiz-183729 .quiz-results, .quiz-container#wp-quiz-183729 .quiz-embed{ border-color:#dce4e7; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-183729 .quiz-result{ background-color:#dce4e7; } QUIZ: How Much Do You Know About Expedition Everest at Disney’s Animal Kingdom? As you journey aboard a runaway train on Expedition Everest, which mountains are you going through? The Swiss Alps The Himalaya Mountains The Rocky Mountains The Andes Expedition Everest is the tallest attraction at Walt Disney World Resort. How tall is it? Just under 100 feet tall Just over 100 feet tall Just under 200 feet tall Over 200 feet tall Modeled after an aging, steam-engine tea train, how many passengers can fit in each train? 44 34 24 14 How large is the largest drop that you encounter on Expedition Everest? 60 feet 70 feet 80 feet 90 feet The carvings of animals on door knockers in the queue include all of the following EXCEPT: Yaks Goats Horses Lions Embed Quiz on Your Website Embed Code <div class="wp-quiz" data-quiz-id="183729" data-site-url="https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog"></div> <script type="text/javascript" src="https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/wp-content/plugins/wp-quizzes/js/embed.js"></script>Copy and paste above embed code where you would like the quiz to appear on your website. View the full article

Minnie Mouse has been hosting some pretty fun dinner parties at Hollywood and Vine Restaurant in Hollywood Studios for a while now. Learn About: Hollywood and Vine Restaurant Disney's Hollywood Studios Disney World Restaurants Minnie’s Seasonal Dine kicked off in November of 2015. This Character Meal gives guests the chance to enjoy dinner — with themes changing according to the time of year — with Minnie, Mickey, Daisy, Donald, and Goofy. And soon, there will be even more opportunities to join Minnie and the gang for some festive fun. Because, starting May 14, 2017, Minnie’s Seasonal Dine will be offered for lunch as well as dinner! (Advance Dining Reservations are anticipated to open February 1st for this experience). Minnie’s Holiday Dine Currently, lunch at Hollywood and Vine features Disney Junior Play ’n Dine with Disney Junior characters such as Jake from Jake and the Neverland Pirates, Sofia the First, Doc McStuffins, and Handy Manny. Jake from Jake and the Neverland Pirates Disney Junior Play ‘n Dine will continue to be available for breakfast after the lunch change comes to Hollywood and Vine on May 14th. What do you think of the Character Meal changes coming to Hollywood and Vine? 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! Minnie’s Seasonal Dine Coming to Hollywood & Vine for Year-Round Celebrations Sofia the First and Doc McStuffins Join Play ‘n Dine at Hollywood and Vine! Rumor: Minnie’s Holiday & Dine Dinner Coming to Hollywood & Vine? View the full article

Gourmet Candy treats inspired by Main Street Electrical Parade have arrived at Disneyland park to celebrate the return of the nighttime parade! Be sure to look for (almost) too-cute-to-eat ladybug crisp treat and snail cake pop (vanilla, chocolate, red velvet). Marshmallow wands inspired by the Cheshire Cat and a caterpillar are also available. Black Forrest Gourmet Candy will be returning to candy kitchens across Disneyland Resort for the month of February. A tart green apple is covered in creamy caramel before being dipped in dark chocolate, coated in roasted almonds and topped with Maraschino cherries before being drizzled with milk chocolate. Find this sweet treat beginning February 1 at Candy Palace in Disneyland park; Trolley Treats in Disney California Adventure park; and Marceline’s Confectionary in the Downtown Disney District. Additional dates have been added for the popular Highway in the Sky Dine-Around, a progressive dinner featuring five courses at different stops along the monorail at Walt Disney World Resort! Dates are now open, every Tuesday-Saturday through March 11. Reservations can be made by visiting DisneyWorld.com/dining. Beginning May 14, Minnie’s Seasonal Dine at Hollywood & Vine at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will expand to lunch (11:20-3 p.m.) and dinner (3:30 to close). Breakfast will continue to feature Disney Junior Play ‘n’ Dine friends from 8-10:20 a.m. What’s more romantic than a burgers and milkshake date? I can’t think of anything either. D-Luxe Burger at Disney Springs will be offering a new seasonal Chocolate Strawberry Milkshake – inspired by chocolate-covered strawberries! The new shake will be available beginning February 1. Visiting Magic Kingdom Park? Be sure to check out the newest flavor of popcorn, Maple, available only at the Frontierland Popcorn Cart. Cape May Café at Disney’s Beach Club Resort will offer a Character Brunch for Easter and Mother’s Day. Minnie and pals will be dressed up in their beachy best with delicious eats such as frittatas, hand-carved glazed ham, creamy cheddar grits and more. Ample Hills Creamery at Disney’s BoardWalk is offering a limited edition flavor inspired by ABC’s Emmy-award winning television show, “The View” in celebration of the 20th anniversary. The flavor features a chocolate marshmallow ice cream, ooey gooey butter cake, brownies and cookie pieces. View the full article

Disneyland Resort Executive Chef Jeremiah Balogh oversees restaurant kitchens throughout Disney California Adventure park and trains cast members to prepare new recipes, including the special food offerings at the Lunar New Year celebration. Jeremiah and the culinary team developed authentic Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese dishes in collaboration with the local community and COMPASS, a cast member diversity resource group that builds Asian and Pacific Islander cultural awareness. Learn more about Jeremiah and the Lunar New Year celebration in this “Every Role a Starring Role!” View the full article

“Tangled,” the 2010 Disney animated film, will become a Disney Channel series, and Orlando’s Mandy Moore will return to give voice to Rapunzel. The story will be set between "Tangled" and the short film "Tangled Ever After." The plot resumes with “Tangled Before Ever After,” a Disney Channel Original... View the full article

Each year, finalists from colleges across the United States arrive at Walt Disney Imagineering headquarters in Glendale, California, for the chance to showcase their engineering, technical and artistic skills, as well as an opportunity to interview for a coveted spot dreaming up the future of Disney Parks. The annual Imaginations Design Competition is known for seeking out the next generation of Disney Imagineers, with some students landing internships or full-time positions. Out of the more than 330 project submissions this year, six teams were selected to visit the Glendale campus last week to compete and get a behind-the-scenes look at where Disney magic is created. The challenge? Apply the same design principles used in Disney parks and resorts to design hypothetical outdoor spaces for a college campus. While not intended to be built by Disney, the projects allow students to demonstrate their skills and abilities in a creative exercise designed to showcase the types of challenges Imagineers face each day. Imagineers who are alumni of the program mentor each finalist team to refine their project, and a panel of Imagineers evaluates each project for its mastery and collaboration. This year’s first place winners – Joshua Kurnia, Cristina Diaz and Alexander Doppenberg – hail from Iowa State University, walking away with a $1,000 grant for their school. Their “Hourglass” project envisioned a space shaped like a giant hourglass on its side, integrated with nature map projection and heated benches designed for guest relaxation. Congratulations to all of our competitors, and to the hundreds of students who have participated in Imaginations since its inception in 1991. View the full article

Years before I became the Marketing Manager for Downtown Disney, I had the pleasure of working as part of the team at Disney’s Yellow Shoes Creative Group, the in-house agency for Walt Disney World Resort. I was thrilled when I got the chance to catch up with some of my former colleagues, who recently created one of my favorite Disney Springs videos to date. Haven’t seen it yet? Take a minute to watch below, then read on to get the behind-the-scenes scoop on how it came together. One of the first things that struck me was the music. Account Manager, Matt Ryan, confessed that music was an essential element in telling the story of Disney Springs: “This song, ‘Over Your Shoulder’ is an original tune by Evan Taylor Jones, a musician who performs regularly at Disney Springs. The track has an energy and vibe that matches the personality of the property and it tracks well with the stop-motion action we captured. Many of our guests are surprised to learn that there’s so much fantastic live music here, which is just another reason why Disney Springs is such a great place to be.” The venues featured here include some of the newest additions: Lacoste, Sprinkles Cupcakes, Tommy Bahama, Volcom and Jock Lindsey’s Hanger Bar, to name just a few, so it’s fitting that the style of the video feels fresh and unexpected. Copywriter John McCall agrees, sharing “When guests visit Disney Springs for the first time, it’s inevitable to hear ‘Wow! I didn’t know it looked like this now.’ It’s a fun, fresh place that always offers something unexpected. This stop-motion video technique let us highlight several offerings in a short amount of time, giving it a high-quality look but with an added element of fun.” To experience the fun for yourself, visit Disney Springs during your next Walt Disney World vacation. Most locations open daily at 10 a.m. and some restaurants are open as late at 2 a.m., especially on weekends. For your best shot at catching a performance by Evan Taylor Jones, check out the Market Stalls in Town Center, the patio bars at Chef Art Smith’s Homecoming, Splitsville Luxury Lanes and House of Blues, or the performance space near D-Luxe Burger. As John McCall reminded me, “At Disney Springs, it literally IS just ‘over your shoulder!’” Which venues would you like to see featured in future videos? Please share in the comments below – I’d love to know! View the full article

Happy New Year, Friends! I hope that your 2017 is off to an excellent start and that you’re planning your next trip to Disney Parks for sometime this year! Happy 2017! As has been the case for the last few years, Disney has promised some big doin’s coming our way during the calendar year. And oh, well, sure. The entire universe is poised on the edge of its collective seat, awaiting some indication of when Star Wars Land and Toy Story Land will spring to life. BUT — even though we really don’t expect to hear of openings on those fronts in 2017, there’s still PLENTY to look forward to! Like what? Glad you asked! Let’s take a look at the Top Five Can’t-Miss Eating Experiences that you can expect to see debut in Disney Parks in 2017. Choza Tequila We shared your heartbreak when we had to post a story about the closing of the Margarita Stand in Epcot’s Mexico Pavilion. I mean, seriously. We all have Margarita Stand memories. Or…maybe not so much “memories,” but things our friends told us happened after a visit to the Margarita Stand. Former Mexico Margarita Stand After all, the spot had been supplying us with tasty vehicles for our tequila delivery since the days of big hair, neon, and Walkmans. How in the world were we supposed to go on without it? Adios, Fiesta Margarita! Thankfully, the group that runs all of the food and beverage outlets in the Pavilion had a crafty trick up their sleeve. Pretty soon, we saw construction walls go up — and we knew something wonderfully tequila-esque must be happening. Construction Walls by the Mexico Pavilion And sure enough — the new year started with a bang as Disney finally announced what we had already figured out: a new outdoor bar would be coming soon to this corner of World Showcase! Choza Tequila Bar will serve handcrafted Margaritas as well as eats! Look for the line up to include Tacos, Empanadas, Chips, and fresh Guacamole. Choza Tequila is Coming Soon to Epcot! We can’t wait! Look for the opening in the first quarter of 2017. New Festivals at Epcot and Disney California Adventure What started as a little festival to draw in crowds during the slow months has turned into practically a year-round state of affairs. For more than 20 years now, Epcot has been celebrating international flavors with the Epcot Food and Wine Festival. It was clear they had a great thing on their hands as the popularity of the annual event continued to increase each year. Epcot Food and Wine Festival Then, 10 years ago, Disney California Adventure followed suit and began offering their own Food and Wine Festival. That event was interrupted for a few years during DCA’s mammoth facelift, but returned in 2016 to the cheers of many (including us). Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival Along the way, Epcot tested more food during other Festivals, like the Flower and Garden Festival in the Spring and Holidays Around the World during the Winter months. The added food stops were a success. After all, with the hot farm to table trend and the comforting tastes of holiday tradition, what could be more natural? Cheese Fondue from Alpine Haus at Holidays Around the World And Walt Disney World wasn’t alone in adding a holiday-themed festival to the mix. Disney California Adventure offered the Festival of Holidays, which combined an extra dose of festive fun, both in terms of entertainment and food. (But we were there for the food, of course. ;-D) In fact, I’m dreaming of that Sweet Potato Pie as I write… Sweet Potato Pie at Festival of Holidays in Disney California Adventure In 2017, it seems that Disney is going full throttle with the concept of making both Epcot and Disney California Adventure nearly Year-Round Festival Destinations. Epcot kicked off the year with what they’re already calling the Inaugural Festival of the Arts. We’re betting that their word choice portends the event becoming an annual staple. Festival of the Arts Charcuterie Palette at The Masterpiece Kitchen Food Studio And while Disneyland has long honored the celebration of Lunar New Year and the cultures that celebrate the annual tradition, they turned the event into a mini festival of its own, complete with — you guessed it — food booths. Lunar New Year at Disney California Adventure Whether you find yourself on the East or West Coast Disney outposts, and pretty much regardless of season, it looks like you’ll have a Festival to celebrate — and lots of good eats and drinks to indulge in as you enjoy the experience. Even More Disney Springs Hot Spots You might think that, with more than a dozen restaurant openings over the last couple of years, Disney Springs would be complete. Well, hang on there. Because they aren’t quite finished yet. Disney Springs While we’re certainly enjoying our fair share of Fried Chicken at Homecoming, Burgers at D-Luxe, and Cupcakes at Sprinkles, there’s even more in store! Two spots that have been around for a very long time — Fulton’s Crab House and Planet Hollywood — are re-opening with completely new concepts. Paddlefish: Fulton’s morphs into Paddlefish this week, and offers an upscale take on seafood, chops, and steaks in a sleek, yacht-inspired setting. Lobster Roll ©Paddlefish Personally, I’m looking forward to what promises to be an incredible rooftop bar! Planet Hollywood Observatory: Planet Hollywood, in all its cheesy 90s glory, is also being rebirthed as Planet Hollywood Observatory. Look for subdued decor with an emphasis on stargazing where the theming is concerned. Planet Hollywood Observatory The menu runs the gamut of American classics, but we are looking forward to trying the Burgers and Sandwiches crafted exclusively for the spot by Rocker Chef Dude Guy Fieri this week! The Supernova Milkshakes have certainly piqued our interest as well. Supernova Shakes But there are plenty of brand New Kids on the Block too! The Edison: While new announcements have dominated the Disney Springs airwaves lately, we’re still anxiously awaiting the unveiling of The Edison. Located directly across from STK in The Landing, this “Industrial Gothic” restaurant and lounge promises to be a hotspot once completed. The Edison is Coming Along! Modeled after the original location in Los Angeles, we’re hoping that the Disney Springs location offers fun special events like its L.A. sister! The Polite Pig: Outside of the Big Purple Gates, Orlando is home to an up and coming hot food scene, and one of the most popular spots in town is The Ravenous Pig. And now the same team is poised to open The Polite Pig at Disney Springs. The Polite Pig Look for Florida cuisine featuring wood-fired smoked and grilled items at this lunch and dinner spot. A fresh approach to their beverage program will include a full menu of drinks served on tap — including soda, beer, wine, and even cocktails! Wine Bar George: We first told you about Wine Bar George more than a year ago, and recently, the project finally broke ground. Wine Bar George is a concept by Master Sommelier George Miliotes. Disney food fans might remember Miliotes from his California Grill days; he served as the signature restaurant’s sommelier in the 1990s. After a stint with Orlando-based Darden Restaurants, it appears that Miliotes is coming back to his Disney roots. Artist rendering of Wine Bar George ©Disney The wine bar will feature 210-seats and will resemble a “winemaker’s home estate”. The menu will offer small plates and more than 100 wines available by the glass and bottle. Look for the bar, adjacent to Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant, to open in the Fall. New Wilderness Lodge Restaurants Wilderness Lodge Resort has been a favorite stop of mine for a long time. While our most recent meals at signature spot Artist Point haven’t been all that memorable, Whispering Canyon Cafe serves up hearty, good-tasting food in a fun atmosphere. And Territory Lounge is just about my favorite spot for some fabulous Pub Grub. Caprese Flatbread at Territory Lounge It’s been a while since we’ve reported on anything new here, but that’s about to change in 2017! Geyser Point Bar and Grill, a new table service location, is set to open this year. At first, Disney reported that the new restaurant would open for the summer. But we’ve recently confirmed that it will actually open in February! Artist rendering of Geyser Point Bar & Grill ©Disney And while we’ve yet to learn a name, we’re also looking forward to a brand new counter service location as well. If it’s anything like the Wilderness Lodge’s existing counter service location, Roaring Fork, we are confident that it will be a great stop for quick bites. Does This Mean More Places to Get Strawberry and Bananas Foster Waffles?! Both restaurants are part of the DVC expansion at Wilderness Lodge. Look for the new DVC Resort, Copper Creek Villas and Cabins and the newly re-christened Boulder Ridge Cove pool area to open as well in 2017. Rivers of Light, Pandora — The World of Avatar We wrap up our list of coming Disney Food Attractions by shining a light once more on Disney’s Animal Kingdom. The park has been steadily undergoing changes for the last few years. Entire new areas have been added to Harambe Village, including several new counter service eateries in Harambe Market. And last year marked the arrival of signature dining in Disney’s wildest park as Tiffins Restaurant and Nomad Lounge began serving guests. Wanjohi Refreshment at Harambe Market While we’re still anxiously awaiting the Rivers of Light nighttime spectacular, there’s something even bigger on the horizon: the opening of Pandora — The World of Avatar. Pandora Concept Art ©Disney The entirely new land will be located beyond the area occupied by Tiffins and Nomad. In fact, you’ll be able to enjoy views of the new area from Nomad’s beautiful outdoor seating area. While we certainly look forward to experiencing the attractions that will call Pandora home, we’re looking forward to the food even more! Satu’li Canteen Concept Art ©Disney A new restaurant, Satu’li Canteen, will serve as the area’s main eatery. While we’re still awaiting word whether the spot will be counter service or table service, we are excited to learn more about the flavors that will represent this wholly unique land. Also joining the food line up will be a kiosk called Pongu Pongu, which will serve up exotic drinks. Pongu Pongu Concept Art ©Disney We can’t wait to see how they bring this exotic world to life! And that’s a wrap on what we can expect to see this year in terms of new food spots around Disney World. We know there will be more though — so stay tuned! 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! Now, I can’t wait to hear from all of you! What new food attraction are you most looking forward to in 2017? Leave a comment and tell us what looks good to you! 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: What’s New Around Walt Disney World — January 23, 2017 Confirmed: Wine Bar George by George Miliotes Coming to Disney Springs in Fall 2017 News: Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival Returning to Disneyland Resort in 2017! View the full article

On April 8, Disney Vacation Club Members and special guests will depart Basel, Switzerland for the inaugural Adventures by Disney Rhine River Cruise, visiting six destinations in four countries (Switzerland, France, Germany and the Netherlands) over eight days and seven nights. In describing this exclusive sailing, the winter 2016 edition of Disney Files Magazine noted that the voyage will feature daily gifts and a special Disney-insider host whose stories will connect the itinerary’s destinations to the Disney legacy. As we’ve since been given the green light to share more details, I’m pleased to share that onboard gifts will go beyond the collectible pins typically distributed on board these voyages, with everything from a custom travel bag to German Rudesheim Pottery appearing in staterooms. Among the lineup’s most distinguished gifts is a slate cheese board set complete with knives crafted in the time-honored tradition of France’s legendary Laguiole knife makers. Other gifts will share the flavors of the region, with plans calling for stateroom deliveries of everything from spicy French mustard to sweet Dutch Stroopwafels. An added bonus arrives after the cruise, as a personally signed work of Disney fine art ships to voyagers’ homes. Distinctively displayed on a framed, ceramic tile and not yet available for purchase in galleries, this limited-edition work of art celebrates the 1991 Disney-animated classic Beauty and the Beast, one of many Disney films to draw inspiration from the region explored on this voyage. The art arrives as the live-adaptation of Beauty and the Beast attracts new generations of fans to the timeless tale. I’m equally pleased to report that the cruise’s “insider host” is someone who knows more about the Disney legacy than just about anyone in our heritage-embracing company: Walt Disney Archives Director Becky Cline. A wellspring of Disney knowledge and one of the kindest people you’ll ever meet, Becky will share insights exploring the many ways Disney storytellers have drawn inspiration from the region. When voyagers aren’t visiting with Becky or admiring the bounty collecting in their staterooms, they’ll experience a wide variety of activities both on board the ship and in port, all thoughtfully led by the dedicated Adventure Guides who take care of the details throughout the trip. Staterooms remain available for this sailing, which is detailed further in the Adventures by Disney section of disneyvacationclub.com (Plan Vacations tab, Points & Destinations, Disney Collection.). Call Member Services to book your adventure. 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

My relatives recently welcomed a new baby boy to their family. To celebrate his arrival, I sent several Disney gifts from Walt Disney World Resort. My children are older now, so I had not been shopping for little ones for a while. I was, however, delighted to find numerous adorable items from Disney Parks. If you are looking for baby gift ideas, here are several of my favorite products. I visited World of Disney at Disney Springs Marketplace as it’s the largest merchandise shop at Walt Disney World Resort. I found an entire room dedicated to baby items. Many of the larger merchandise shops at Disneyland or Walt Disney World Resorts have similar areas. The products were assorted by Disney characters including Minnie Mouse, Mickey Mouse, Pluto, Donald Duck, and Winnie the Pooh and friends. I loved the many apparel options including bodysuits with Thumper and Simba (Disneyland Resort versions are also available); a Donald Duck bodysuit with matching hat; and an outfit covered with Disney characters as babies. There was an entire selection of novelty socks which matching hair accessories. I also found products with characters from Walt Disney’s “Bambi” including shoes and apparel. I thought the “Welcome Home Gift Set” was a perfect option as it contains a romper one piece, hat, bib, and mini bean plush of Bambi. In addition to apparel, I sent my relatives a Duffy the Disney Bear plush and storybook. We also carry several products featuring Duffy’s friend ShellieMay. Look for these items and more in select merchandise locations throughout Disney Parks. You may also find a selection of Disney Baby products on DisneyStore.com or via the Shop Disney Parks app. View the full article

DisneyQuest’s last day of operation at Walt Disney World will be July 2. The five-story center with video and virtual games at Disney Springs was originally supposed to close last year but was given a temporary reprieve. The NBA Experience, which will include high-tech experiences, a restaurant... View the full article

Our multi-year transformation of Disney Springs is continuing, and as you know, we’re bringing new experiences to the West Side Neighborhood, including The NBA Experience at Walt Disney World Resort. Today, we wanted to share an update that to make way for this basketball-themed experience, the West Side area will be undergoing changes – beginning with the closure of DisneyQuest on July 3, 2017. Until July 3, DisneyQuest will continue to offer a great interactive experience for all guests. Disney fans of classic arcade game favorites and virtual worlds featured at the indoor theme park are invited to come out and enjoy the experiences. As we’ve previously shared, The NBA Experience at Walt Disney World Resort will be a one-of-a-kind basketball-themed experience featuring hands-on activities that put guests of all ages right in the middle of NBA game action. There will be immersive NBA video productions and numerous interactive experiences, as well as a restaurant and a retail store. Keep checking the Disney Parks Blog for more updates on The NBA Experience at Walt Disney World Resort and the continuing transformation of Disney Springs. View the full article

Now during our Lunar New Year celebration, Disney California Adventure park guests are enjoying “Hurry Home,” a special show just before nightly performances of “World of Color.” The now-classic Disney Park nighttime spectacular has seen many changes since its debut in 2010. Let’s take a look back at some of our favorite “World of Color” videos. Just after the show’s debut, 2010 Disneyland Resort Ambassador Danielle DuBois took us behind the scenes of this technological marvel. One of my favorite “World of Color” videos, this footage was shot from a fixed-wing aircraft at approximately 1,800 feet above Disney California Adventure park. Another unique look at “World of Color” came from our slow-motion camera! Don’t miss “Hurry Home,” showing nightly just before “World of Color,” now through Feb. 5. View the full article

Walt Disney World has apparently renamed the raft ride it plans to open at Typhoon Lagoon. The ride is set to debut in the spring as “Miss Adventure Falls,” having originally debuted as “Miss Fortune Falls.” A Disney spokeswoman said the new name better reflects the attraction’s back story, which... View the full article

This week’s morning photo comes to us from the Gardens of Imagination at Shanghai Disneyland, where Mickey Mouse leads a special drum ceremony at the start of each day in honor of Chinese New Year. Did you know that sound is said to drive away back luck in favor of fortune? You’ll find this good luck charm at Storytellers Statue every morning of the celebration. View the full article

In honor of awards season, which is in full swing in Hollywood, Disney Parks Moms Panel is handing out its own prestigious awards. We enlisted the help of over 130 of our alumni and current panelists to select their favorites in a variety of categories. The votes are in and over the next four weeks, we will reveal their picks for favorites at Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, and Disney Cruise Line. Walt Disney World Resort offers something for everyone, and everyone has their favorite things to do taste and see while visiting. The moms, dads and grandparents of the Disney Parks Moms Panel share a few of their favorites in this week’s Disney Parks Moms Panel Awards. Category: Favorite Character Meet & Greet Location Epcot Character Spot rose to the top for favorite character meet & greet location. Guests can meet Mickey & friends, Baymax from Big Hero 6, and Joy & Sadness from Disney∙Pixar’s “Inside Out.” Town Square Theater at Magic Kingdom Park, Princess Fairytale Hall at Magic Kingdom Park and Star Wars Launch Bay at Disney’s Hollywood Studios were also amongst the top five favorites. Jen R. recommends using the My Disney Experience app to find the best place to meet your favorite Disney friends. Category: Favorite Snack And the favorite is … Dole Whips. It was a tight contest between Dole Whips and Mickey Premium Bars, but in the end the tropical flavors of the Dole Whip were the favorite of the Disney Parks Moms Panelists. The classic churro, cronuts at Epcot and the fresh fruit waffle sandwich at Sleepy Hollow in Magic Kingdom Park were also among the panelists’ favorite treats. Category: Favorite Show With so many musical spectaculars to choose from, picking a favorite was tough, but Festival of the Lion King was chosen as the panel’s favorite show at Walt Disney World Resort. Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s Finding Nemo – The Musical and Flights of Wonder also received honorable mentions. Disney’s Animal Kingdom now comes alive at night with Tree of Life Awakenings, Discovery Island Carnivale, and night time safaris, a favorite of Donyell R. and her family. More excitement is coming soon to Disney’s Animal Kingdom with the opening of Pandora-The World of Avatar this summer. Category: Disney Springs Activity Hands down, shopping was the favorite thing to do at Disney Springs. Other favorite activities include dining at one of the many restaurants, catching a movie at AMC Theaters, bowling at Splitsville Luxury Lanes, or experiencing La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil. The Disney Parks Moms Panelists recommend spending a day at Disney Springs while visiting Walt Disney World Resort to experience all this newly enhanced shopping, dining and entertainment district has to offer. The Disney Parks Moms Panel Awards continue next week with more Walt Disney World Resort favorites. In the meantime, let us know your favorites from this week’s categories in the comments below. You can also visit DisneyParksMomsPanel.com for more tips or to ask questions about planning your upcoming Disney Vacation. For more awards season excitement be sure to tune into The Oscars® Live Oscar Sunday, February 26 7e|4p on ABC. View the full article

Happy Monday! This week’s “Disney Doodle,” by artist Ashley Taylor imagines what the Blue Fairy from “Pinocchio” would do if she had the chance to visit a Walt Disney World Resort theme park. In the film, she rewards Jiminy Cricket with a gold badge for his help in guiding Pinocchio’s brave and selfless behavior. That moment in the film inspired today’s Doodle: “The Blue Fairy recognizes Jiminy as Pinocchio’s conscience by giving him a solid gold badge,” Ashley said. “So I can easily see her being the one to hand out celebration buttons to everyone entering the Magic Kingdom!” View the full article

We are headed into The Land Pavilion in Walt Disney World’s Epcot today for one of our favorite character meals at Garden Grill Restaurant! Learn About: Garden Grill Restaurant Epcot Restaurants Disney World Restaurants This spot may feel a little dated in a way…but we prefer to think of it as retro. Disney’s (Orlando’s!!) only rotating restaurant is still tops for the coolness factor of the, you know, rotation. I can remember going to this restaurant when I was a little kid — it was fancy-pants back then (with sculpted Mickey butter!), but the nostalgia factor is high here for Epcot babies. Add in some pretty delicious food, and you’re doing even better. AND then — characters! Even Mickey! So it’s probably sort of easy to see why we like it. Recently, our Dining in Disneyland expert and friend of DFB Heather Sievers travelled to Walt Disney World for a visit. Among their many culinary adventures, her family opted to visit Garden Grill Restaurant for breakfast one morning. Let’s tag along and see how it went! Atmosphere Garden Grill Restaurant is located within The Land Pavilion in Epcot’s Future World West. The Land Pavilion This building is a serious multitasker. You’ll find three different attractions housed here: Soarin, Living with the Land, and The Circle of Life. All have different entrances, which are accessible as you travel down ramps circling either side of the round building’s perimeter. The Land Ceiling and Its Pretty Balloons In addition to the attractions, there are also two restaurants. While Sunshine Seasons occupies the ground floor (and offers up some of our favorite Disney World counter service eats), Garden Grill is located on the pavilion’s second floor. Garden Grill Sign Step back a bit and watch closely, and you can see the restaurant slowly rotating as diners enjoy their meals while interacting with characters. Garden Grill Wide View You can get a feel for what the restaurant offers just by glancing at the sign. Chip ‘N Dale’s Harvest Feast is an all you care to enjoy meal that you can book for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Entrance with Menu and Information We’ll take a closer look at the menu in a minute. In the meantime, let’s have a look around. Tables are arranged in stadium seating on two rows around the restaurant, and one is slightly higher than the other. Tables on the top tier are your garden variety rectangular tables, like this one. Table and Seating Lower tables are actually curved booths with a front row seat to the passing landscape. Booth Seating Facing The Land Attraction You may also notice a familiar “face” when you are seated! Ah, those clever Cast Members. Always makin’ the magic. Plate and Bowl Mickey! So — back to that whole rotating thing. What exactly are guests looking at as they dine? An ever changing landscape, thanks to the Living with the Land attraction below. Garden Grill Mural As you rotate — a journey that takes about an hour — you’ll see a Farmhouse Scene as well as Desert and Rainforest habitats. Farmhouse Scene in Living with the Land Rainforest Living with the Land as seen from Garden Grill Transition from Rainforest to Desert And that takes us to Garden Grill’s second claim to fame — Characters! The feast is hosted by mischevious (and completely adorable) chipmunks, Chip ‘n Dale. Chip Dale But they’ve also brought a few other friends to the party! Guests can also catch a photo with Pluto. Pluto And Mickey is on board as well! How much do we LOVE his farmer togs?!? Mickey Mouse And that brings me to the third reason you go to Garden Grill: the Food. Let’s have a look. Eats Character Meal experiences vary at Walt Disney World. Some restaurants offer buffets, while others are plated, or all-you-care-to-enjoy meals. Garden Grill offers the latter. While this was a breakfast visit, you can also see an in-depth look at dinner (which is so SO good) in our review here. (Note that they’ve switched out the fish for sausage these days.) Menu and Information — Up Close Here’s a closer look at the offerings. It’s also interesting to note that, while non-alcoholic beverages are included with your meal, you can also add a Mimosa or Bloody Mary. And did you notice the menu note that Disney now offers cage-free eggs? Menu — Click to Enlarge To punctuate that “Down on the Farm” feelin’, beverages come in Mason Jars. Beverages — Water and Juice, Served in Jars And yay! POG Juice! This favorite drink — a combo of Passion Fruit, Orange, and Guava — goes by many names around Disney. So if you enjoy Jungle Juice at Animal Kingdom or Lilikoi Juice at the Polynesian, then get this. It’s the same thing. POG Juice and Menu Details Soon after the drinks arrived, the food started rolling in. Keep in mind the group was four strong, so that helps you to see what portions sizes looked like for a party of this size. But also remember that you can always get more of anything you’d like. Fresh Fruit with Sticky Bun Bake They started with a beautiful and healthy Fruit Salad, full of Melon, Grapes, and Berries. Fresh Fruit — Up Close Yay for healthy! Because then, you get to dig into THIS. Check out the glorious Chip’s Sticky Bun Bake. Yes. I said “Sticky Bun Bake.” Who doesn’t want to eat that? Chip’s Sticky Bun Bake The gooey pull-apart treat arrives warm to your table, and provides plenty of sweet carbs to fuel you for a full day of Disney fun. And if you can’t wait to have your own, then check out our Sticky Bun Bake Recipe and make it at home! Chip’s Sticky Bun Bake — Up Close But stand by, because more food is coming! In fact, get ready for the main event: the Breakfast Family Skillet! Family Skillet This iron skillet contains all of the ingredients to make for a GREAT breakfast. Top of the list: Mickey Waffles! In this shot, you can also see hearty helpings of Bacon and Scrambled Eggs. And oh, hey, that little ramekin? Warm Chocolate Hazelnut Sauce. Now, that’s supposed to be for your waffles. But you’re gonna see in a minute that there are LOTS of uses for it. You’re gonna need more of that stuff. I promise. Mickey Waffles, Bacon, and Scrambled Eggs — Up Close To the right, you’ll see Tater Tots (!!!!!!!) and Link Sausage. Tater Tots and Sausage — Up Close And here’s a look at Heather’s plate — complete with a side of requested-and-granted Salsa! My Plate So, back to the Warm Chocolate Hazelnut Sauce. Heather managed to leave it in the center of the skillet — you’re welcome, Heather’s family — but it came in handy for all kinds of dippin’ needs. Time to get our Sweet Salty craving out of the way. Tater Tots + Nutella. Who knew?? (Can we just call it Nutella for a while, please?) That sounds awesome!! Dipping My Tater Tots in Warm Chocolate Hazelnut Sauce But then — BACON + Nutella. YESSSSS. Dipping My Bacon in the Warm Chocolate Hazelnut Sauce They had their fill, and then some. And then they were off to enjoy a great day in Epcot. Overall Garden Grill remains a universal DFB Favorite. It’s such a great sum of its total parts. I mean, you have a Rotating Restaurant (big coolness points), EPCOT Center-level nostalgia, plus Characters, PLUS tasty food! I mean, they had us at the POG Juice and Chip’s Sticky Bun Bake. But that skillet tooo? Yes, please. And actually, the price is decent. You know, we’re big believers in making breakfast your main meal to save time and money. And when you can do that, plus interact with characters, you’re crossing several things off your Disney bucket list at once. If you haven’t before, go ahead and take a chance on Garden Grill Restaurant. I think you’ll enjoy it. Now, we’d love to hear from you! Is Garden Grill Restaurant one of your favorite stops in Walt Disney World? Leave 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: Chip N’ Dale’s NEW Harvest Feast Breakfast at Epcot’s Garden Grill Disney Recipe: Chip’s Sticky Bun Bake from Epcot’s Garden Grill Review: Dinner at Garden Grill Restaurant in Disney World’s Epcot View the full article

This week, we shared several updates from Disney Springs, including an opening date for the new Paddlefish restaurant, bar and special events venue. Paddlefish features a seafood-centric menu, featuring delectable Maine lobster, King and Snow crabs and a selection of fresh fish including sea bass, catfish and salmon. Check out Pam’s original story to learn more. Also, the Walt Disney World Resort hosted a special Pro Bowl parade at Magic Kingdom Park to kick off the weekend. The celebration included NFL athletes, Disney characters and several community groups, including kids and families from Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida and the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors! Darrell has more in his original story. Here are some of the other stories we worked on this week. Disney Cruise Line Expands Marvel Day at Sea to Select Disney Magic Sailings from Miami in 2018 – In 2018, you can celebrate Marvel Day at Sea on the Disney Magic during eight special voyages from Miami departing January through April. The new Marvel Day at Sea voyages from Miami follow the premiere of the epic event on seven special sailings from New York City in the fall of 2017. Enjoy a Special Hotel Offer at the Disneyland Resort – Guests heading to the Disneyland Resort in the next few months will be delighted to welcome back the beloved Main Street Electrical Parade at Disneyland park for a limited time. For those wishing to stay in the middle of the magic, the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort are not only convenient options, but they’re also treasured Disney experiences. Love Is in the Air with Valentine’s Day-Inspired Gifts from Disney Parks – With Valentine’s Day less than a month away, we’ve gathered several of our favorite products from Disney Parks for couples wanting to celebrate their love. Behind the Scenes of ‘Hurry Home – Lunar New Year Celebration’ at Disney California Adventure Park – Each night, as part of our expanded Lunar New Year celebration at Disney California Adventure park, you can enjoy a special show just before performances of “World of Color.” Entitled “Hurry Home,” this six-minute tale follows the journey of a Little Lantern returning home for the annual celebration of good luck and fortune. Paint With a Disney Artist, See New Broadway Stars: Week 3 of Epcot International Festival of the Arts – While we love sipping and tasting our way around World Showcase Promenade, there’s so much beyond the incredible culinary treats – every weekend, Fridays through Mondays through Feb. 20, new visual and performing artists keep us coming back. February 2017 Disneyland Resort Merchandise Events – Join us at Disneyland Resort for several merchandise special events taking place in February 2017. View the full article

This is for all of you DIY Disney Food Lovers out there! Recently, DFB team member, Tina, attended The Artistry of Amorette’s Patisserie workshop, part of the Epcot Festival of the Arts. Festival of the Arts The brand new festival is currently underway, and guests can enjoy immersion in the arts each Friday through Monday, now through February 20. (We’ll have a review of the event for you soon.) While Tina was there, she learned of a brand new opportunity for learning coming soon to Amorette’s — Cake Decorating Classes! Minnie Dome Cake from Amorette’s Patisserie Jade Bowser, the chef who conducted the workshop, said that guests will soon have the opportunity to attend classes to learn how to decorate the Patisseries’s signature dome cakes. Chef Jade Bowser, Amorette’s Patisserie at Disney Springs Ornament Dome Cake You better believe that we signed up for more information — and we can’t wait to share it with you as soon as it becomes available! In the meantime, we can’t wait to hear from you — would you like to attend a class at Amorette’s to learn how to create their signature dome cakes? Leave a comment and let us know what you think! 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: Fall Petit Cake and Mickey Pumpkin Cake from Amorette’s Patisserie in Disney Springs Review: NEW Mickey Mousse and Snowball Cake Amorette’s Patisserie in Disney Springs News: New Family Cooking Classes Coming to Walt Disney World View the full article

This week, Magic Kingdom Park – and a bevy of football fans – celebrated the NFL players who are set to participate in tomorrow’s Pro Bowl. Denver Broncos receivers Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders, Carolina Panthers tight end Greg Olsen, Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Ryan Shazier and Tennessee Titans tight end Delanie Walker appeared in a special football-themed parade at the park on Friday, January 27. The players were joined by Mickey Mouse and his pals, NFL cheerleaders and other special guests for their ride down Main Street, U.S.A. View the full article