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Recently, Erin Glover shared some of the exciting new experiences coming to the Lunar New Year Celebration, Jan. 20 through Feb. 5 at Disney California Adventure park, including expanded food and beverage offerings. Today, I’m excited to share a foodie’s guide to the celebration – with a full listing of all the delicious, authentic eats from Marketplaces inspired by three Asian countries! Korea Kimchi Bokkeumbap – Kimchi-vegetable fried rice Yachae Mandu – Steamed vegetable dumplings with sesame-garlic soy sauce Yasik – Sweet rice and dried fruit cake Banana Milk (non-alcoholic) Black Beer Stout Hite Pale Lager China Xiao Long Bao – Pork soup dumplings with black vinegar and ginger Luo Bo Gao – Turnip cake with sausage and oyster sauce Egg Tart Passion Fruit Green Iced Tea with Lychee Popping Pearls (non-alcoholic) Tsingtao Lager Vietnam Bang Chung – Sticky rice cake with pork Chao Tom Voi Nuoc Cham Chua Ngot – Sugar cane shrimp skewer with sweet and sour sauce Purple Sweet Potato Macaron Ca Phe Da – Vietnamese iced coffee Paradise Garden Grill Japchae – Stir-fried vegetables and noodles with tofu Galbi – Grilled beef short rib with steamed rice and kimchi Cach Chien Ca Gion Ngon – Whole crispy tilapia with chili-lime vinaigrette and steamed rice Pho – Beef Noodle Soup Mango Pudding Banh Khoai Mi Nuong – Cassava-coconut cake Almond Milk Tea with Fruit Jellies (non-alcoholic) Max Beer Lager Lunar New Year Celebration runs from Jan. 20 through Feb. 5 at Disney California Adventure park. View the full article

Behind the Scenes Look at ABC’s 'The View' | Walt Disney World View the full article

Casey’s Corner: home of baseball memorabilia, intermittent ragtime jazz performances, and, of course, our go-to Disney hot dogs. Learn About: San Angel Inn Restaurante Epcot Restaurants Disney World Restaurants It’s a familiar stop for most visitors to the Magic Kingdom. For some, it is a must-stop, the craving for salty dog and cushiony bun too strong to resist (and who needs to resist while on vacation?). We first told you about Casey’s new plans for a rotating menu of featured dogs a few weeks ago. Now, we’re back with a review of this month’s specialty: the Mac and Cheese Hot Dog. This specialty doggy can be found in numerous places around Disney World from time to time. We’ll never forget when we first spotted it, toting Truffle Oil, way back in 2012 in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Since then, we’ve also found it at Animal Kingdom’s Restaurantosaurus and Friar’s Nook in Magic Kingdom; and a Mac and Cheese Burger was spotted at Epcot’s Electric Umbrella. Mac and Cheese Hot Dog And we have to say that in so many ways, this particular one is a recipe for addiction: Casey’s famous hot dog smothered in mac and cheese and sprinkled with a healthy dose of bacon? That’s gotta be the epitome, right? Did we mention the healthy dose of bacon? This dog sports plenty. Mac and Cheese Dog Bacon Close-Up Under that bacon we found a heaping pile of ooey, gooey, cheesy elbow mac goodness. The mac on these dogs can vary depending on the batch, apparently. We’ve seen dryer mac than this, but it was super gooey on our visit to Casey’s. Mac and Cheese Dog But, friends, don’t forget the fork. This one requires serious utensils and napkinage. Mac and Cheese Dog Close-Up This is partially due to the abundance of delicious toppings, but also due in part to the roll. The regular size Mac and Cheese Dog, which we tried, is served on a potato roll, and it simply wasn’t a match for the weight of all that mac and cheese. Mac and Cheese Dog Close-Up The Mac and Cheese Hot Dog is available in a foot-long version as well, which is served on a traditional roll. We preferred the potato roll, which has a slight sweetness that balanced out the saltiness of the other components. The regular Mac and Cheese Hot Dog meal comes with a generous serving of fries, plated separately. Note that Casey’s fries are getting skinnier and skinnier — think McDonald’s — than you’ll find at several other Counter Service spots. (This is also the case at Yak and Yeti Counter Service in Animal Kingdom.) Mac and Cheese Hot Dog with Fries The only drawback of the Mac and Cheese Hot Dog is that all of those rich toppings make it almost too much for one person to enjoy. At $10.79 for the regular meal and $12.99 for the foot-long version, this one could easily be shared. (But we have faith in you.) Are you as excited as we are to see what Casey’s will come up with on their rotating menu? 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: Corn Dog Nugget Meal Now Available at Casey’s Corner in Disney World News: Rotating Specialty Hot Dogs and MORE on Updated Casey’s Corner Menu Review: Casey’s Corner View the full article

We are celebrating the return of some familiar faces in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Kangaroos, lesser flamingos and now lappet-faced vultures have returned to their habitats at the Tree of Life, after being relocated during construction. To see these animals and more head to Disney’s Animal Kingdom for a day of exploration on the recently re-opened Discovery Island Trails. Here is a glimpse at some of the animals you may find on your adventure. In front of the Tree of Life, you may see red kangaroos, lesser flamingos, white storks and lappet-faced vultures. Try to spot the red kangaroos jumping; they can leap up to 25 feet in a single bound! Find the Wilderness Explorer Troop Leader near the lesser flamingos to earn your Flamingo Badge. Look for the long orange legs of the white stork that help it wade in water to catch fish. Lappet-faced vultures can have a wingspan of up to nine feet. See if you can spot them displaying their wings. Near the Wilderness Explorer Club House, you may find ring-tailed lemurs hiding in the foliage. Visit the ring-tailed lemurs early to try and spot them “sunning” or warming up on cool mornings. They do this in a yoga-like gesture with their arms resting on their knees facing toward the sun. Behind the Tree of Life, see if you can spot the African crested porcupines, saddle-billed stork and Burmese black tortoises. Take a look at the quills of the African crested porcupines; they can grow up to 13 inches long. Listen for the saddle-billed stork communicating by rattling its bill. Burmese black tortoises are great to observe if you have young photographers as they have slow, deliberate movements. As you circle the tree discovering the animals that surround it, spend some time looking at the tree itself to see if you can spot the animals you have seen in the more than 300 animal carvings, and make sure to stay as the sun sets to see the animal spirits in the tree awaken approximately every 10 minutes. View the full article

Award-winning actress, author, director, and producer Drew Barrymore stopped by Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom Park for a royal appointment with Cinderella herself. Drew was visiting Walt Disney World Resort on vacation with her family and friends. Thanks to photographer David Roark for the great photo! View the full article

If you’re like me, your New Year’s resolutions are often forgotten come February (I swear, THIS will be the year I finally get my office organized). So why not set a goal that you’d actually enjoy accomplishing? My suggestion: Resolve to see more of the world with your loved ones in 2017. How motivating would that goal be? And to make it even easier, Adventures by Disney can help by offering pre-planned trips to more than 30 destinations across six continents! My travel goal for 2017 is to see more of America. While Adventures by Disney offers vacation options all across this great nation, there are two destinations in particular that I’m eyeing: Montana Glamping under the stars at night then exploring Yellowstone National Park by day? I’m totally “in” (and it fulfills another resolution I have to be more outdoorsy, but it still maintains the comforts of home). On the Montana vacation you also stay at a Dude Ranch, zipline through Big Sky country, go whitewater rafting and more. It’s just the right amount of rugged to earn me bragging rights without leaving me sore! Arizona & Utah Confession time: I have never been to the Grand Canyon. This has been a destination on my “must” list for some time. If it is for you as well, a Grand Canyon tour with Adventures by Disney is definitely the way to go. You’ll also visit Arches National Park, explore the mesas of Monument Valley and more. It’s sure to be unforgettable. If you’re looking for something more far-flung, resolving to travel to Europe is always a winner. From exploring the fjords of Norway to kayaking in the Greek isles to dancing the flamenco in Spain and beyond, there is so much beauty to behold on this continent. But if it’s your first trip abroad, or you’re looking to knock some “must sees” off your travel wish list, here are my suggestions: Italy Italy is a country that I’ll never grow tired of exploring. Adventures by Disney offers three different land trips that explore this culinary wonderland, but the classic destinations of Rome, Tuscany and Venice are always a great choice. Want to explore the famed Sistine Chapel after hours on a private tour? You got it. Attend an authentic pasta-making class at a Tuscan farm, sail through Venice on a gondola and more. Mama Mia, sign me up! England and France Scones and tea. Windsor Castle. The Eiffel Tower. Notre Dame Cathedral. What’s not to love about a trip to these iconic locales? Plus, on an Adventures by Disney England and France vacation you’ll tour the famous Louvre Museum; and while you’re admiring the Mona Lisa, the Junior Adventurers will take part in an interactive scavenger hunt. This is truly a trip that offers the best of two worlds. Of course you can set your sights even higher and resolve to climb the Great Wall of China, snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef, marvel at Machu Picchu or set off on an African safari. And Adventures by Disney can help you reach those goals as well! But whatever destination you choose, committing to making long-lasting travel memories with the people you hold most dear is a resolution you’ll never regret. View the full article

Love is in the air! Valentine’s Day is coming up and if you’re lucky enough to be spending a love-filled day at Walt Disney World, there are a few special dining options available! True Love Week starts in Disney Parks tomorrow! Artist Point, the Signature Dining restaurant at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, will feature a Sweetheart Dinner Menu on February 14. The dinner includes five courses and is $75 per person. Diners can add a wine pairing for $25. Reservations for the Sweetheart Dinner can be made online or by calling 407-WDW-DINE. Smoked Portobello Bisque at Artist Point If your Valentine’s Day dinner plans include a meal at Jiko, the Signature Dining restaurant at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, you can enjoy a special Valentine’s Day dessert. Jiko Interior Other romantic spots for that perfect Valentine’s Day dinner this year include the Hollywood Brown Derby, where you can enjoy a mini dessert trio, or maybe the reimagined Flying Fish. And, Tiffins at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is the perfect spot for a candlelight dinner for two! (Just maybe…um…skip the fish eyes.) South American Ganache at Tiffins Reservations for Valentine’s Day dinner at these restaurants and more can be made online or by calling 407-WDW-DINE Where would you dine on Valentine’s Day at Disney World? 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: Disney World and Disneyland Dining for Valentine’s Day DFB Reader Questions Answered: Best Restaurants to Celebrate a Grown-Up Birthday at Walt Disney World Valentine’s Day Dining Options in Disneyland and Disney World View the full article

“Ever After” continues “after hours” in 2017 as Disney Vacation Club presents 11 “Moonlight Magic” events for Members and special guests as part of “Membership Magic Ever After.” These complimentary, after-hours events at Disney Parks feature shorter-than-usual wait times at some of the parks’ most popular attractions, special entertainment and character appearances, complimentary treats and more. I’m not sure which rare sight I enjoy most at these parties: characters in unexpected places or ensembles, families moving through attraction queues like they’re powerwalking a 5K or kids waiting in line for free ice cream … while eating a previous helping of free ice cream (and by “kids” I mean everyone). This year’s bi-coastal event schedule includes “Moonlight Magic” events at Magic Kingdom Park (Feb. 24 and March 3), Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park (June 22 and 28, and July 5 and 13), Disney’s Animal Kingdom (Sept. 6 and 13), Disneyland park in California (Nov. 15) and Epcot (Dec. 4 and 11). (It’s worth noting that the Moonlight Magic events at Epcot replace the previously offered “Merry Member Mixer” gatherings as part of an effort to broaden the experience, accommodate more Members and remove the requirement of paid theme park admission.) To access the latest details about these and other Member events, including reservation information, visit disneyvacationclub.com/everafter. This promotional material is a timeshare solicitation and is not an offer in any jurisdiction where the timeshare is not registered. See important timeshare disclosures. 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. Some elements of Membership Magic are incidental benefits, which 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 and may only be available to Members at various times. 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. Theme Park admission is not part of Membership. View the full article

The visual, culinary and performance arts come together in distinctively Disney fashion during the Epcot International Festival of the Arts, and Disney Vacation Club Members and special guests are making artful use of “Membership Extras” while enjoying a day at Epcot. The first-of-its kind festival, which kicked off on Jan. 13, fills the Park with colorful gallery exhibits and photo ops, food studios designed to please both palates and palettes (as someone who often confuses those words, I love a post that lets me use both) and plenty of live entertainment. For many guests, the festival is an opportunity to not just appreciate the arts but participate, as interactive workshops invite festival goers to try their hand at everything from drawing and watercolor painting to calligraphy and floral arranging. Disney Vacation Club Members enjoy a 15 percent discount off each workshop’s regular price of $39 plus tax. Members may call Member Services to learn more about available workshops and to make discounted reservations. Members purchasing commemorative festival merchandise at the park, meanwhile, are doing so while taking advantage of their recently enhanced merchandise discount at select Disney-owned-and-operated Walt Disney World merchandise shops (previously a 10 percent discount, now doubled to 20 percent). The Epcot International Festival of the Arts takes place Friday-Monday through Feb. 20. This promotional material is a timeshare solicitation and is not an offer in any jurisdiction where the timeshare is not registered. See important timeshare disclosures. 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 vacation options in the Disney and Concierge Collections, 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. Disney and Concierge Collections options are not available for ownership interests not purchased directly from Disney Vacation Development, Inc. after March 21, 2011, and, 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

Celebrate the return of the beloved Main Street Electrical Parade to Disneyland park with an assortment of commemorative products. This encore performance of the parade will run nightly until June 18 – that’s 45 years after it first lit up Main Street, U.S.A., in 1972. Here’s a look at what products guests will find during this special, limited-time celebration. Adults and kids can relive favorite moments with graphic apparel that includes iconic images from the parade. We will also introduce an animated glow headband with images of Mickey Mouse in the light-up ears. There will be two pins celebrating the parade – a limited release logo pin, and a limited edition pin created especially for Disneyland Resort Annual Passholders. The latter pin will have an edition size of 2,000 (a valid Disneyland Resort Annual Passport must be presented purchase). Finally, guests should look for a hand-painted Ink & Paint cel titled, “Mickey’s Dragon.” This new piece is limited to an edition size of 350 and will be available in a variety of formats including unframed, framed, framed with pin, and framed with postcard and pin. The specially designed limited edition pin (edition size 300) is only available with framed formats, while supplies last. You can see artwork for the pin in the upper left corner of the image shown above. Select items will be released in Emporium and Disney Showcase on Main Street, U.S.A., inside Disneyland park on Jan. 19 during the special, after-hours premiere ticketed event. The Ink & Paint cel will be released at Disneyana shop also on Jan. 19. If you are unable to visit Disneyland Resort, we will have a limited number of cels available for purchase online here, while supplies last. Applicable tax and shipping fees apply; discounts are available on the framing only. On Jan. 20, additional locations, such as World of Disney in Downtown Disney District, will carry select Main Street Electrical Parade products. Stay tuned to Disney Parks Blog for additional details about new artwork from Jerrod Maruyama releasing this spring at WonderGround Gallery in Downtown Disney District. You can get a sneak preview of the artwork in a recent Disney Parks Blog Unboxed article here. View the full article

As Disneyland Paris gears up for its 25th anniversary celebration this March, Star Wars fans everywhere can enjoy a glimpse of limited-time magic during the Season of the Force celebration now open at Walt Disney Studios Park. Guests can witness the First Order March led by Captain Phasma herself and spot a number of iconic characters from the saga during the epic daytime show, Star Wars: A Galaxy Far, Far Away. But step aside or risk coming face-to-face with Stormtrooper Patrols roaming the grounds throughout the day. Young Padawans, ages 7 to 12, can hone their knowledge of the Force under skillful instruction from Jedi Masters, then walk side-by-side with heroes from the saga during Jedi Training Academy. Under the cover of night, the Hollywood Tower Hotel transforms into a spectacle of light and sound with projections, special effects and more during Star Wars: A Galactic Celebration, including glimpses from the new film, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. Be sure to catch all of your favorite characters during this immersive Star Wars celebration at Disneyland Paris until March 26. And may the Force be with you! View the full article

With 2017 Pro Bowl Week at Walt Disney World Resort happening next week, Mickey Mouse and Goofy are trying everything they can to make the Pro Bowl team. This week we spotted them at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex working out with some of the NFL players who regularly train there with renowned trainer Tom Shaw. From what we saw, it looked like they were having fun, but they’re going to need a lot more work in order to make the team. Check out this short clip on their workout with Shaw and his NFL guys at the ESPN sports complex, which will be the primary hub for all Pro Bowl Week activities starting Jan. 25. Keep checking back to the Disney Parks Blog for more updates. And be sure to vote on the blog for Mickey or Goofy to be added to one of the Pro Bowl teams. You never know. They just might make it! Vote for Mickey or Goofy for the NFL Pro Bowl in Orlando Also, to stay on top of all of the official Pro Bowl happenings, fans can follow along at www.ProBowl.com and buy tickets at www.NFL.com/probowlonsale. View the full article

Look toward the friendly skies of Disney Springs and you just might spy something new in the air: the familiar Characters in Flight balloon outfitted with a fresh design that complements the recently transformed property. The balloon is updated every four years or so, giving the team the opportunity for a new look. I had the chance to connect with Matthieu Gobbi, General Manager for Aerophile (the group responsible for operating the balloon), who shed some light on the update, sharing “the new balloon envelope was inspired by the springs and the element of water – it’s very coherent, as the balloon floats in the air, then lands on the water of Lake Buena Vista.” Indeed, the color palette, with soothing blues and a scrolling pattern that makes me think of gentle ripples in the water, fits seamlessly with the overall aesthetic of Disney Springs. Though the balloon exterior may have gotten a makeover, the experience of taking a flight up to 400 feet in the air remains unchanged. (Having taken a few flights myself, I know how exhilarating it is – and how incredible the views are … if you haven’t done it yet, I’d highly recommend it!) Ready to fly? Adult pricing is $20 per person and children (ages 3-8) are $15 each. Tip: visit before 10:00 a.m. and tickets are only $10 per person, regardless of age. The location opens daily at 8:30 a.m., weather permitting, and wait times are typically shorter earlier in the day. If you’ve had the chance to experience a flight, please tell me in the comments below – I’d love to know what you enjoyed most! View the full article

Walt Disney Co. Chief Executive Officer Bob Iger's compensation dipped in 2016. Iger made $43.9 million last year. In 2015 he made $44.9 million. Disney said Iger's pay declined because company growth was not as strong as in fiscal 2015. Iger's compensation includes a base salary of $2.5 million... View the full article

Did you know that tomorrow, January 18, is Winnie the Pooh Day? We’re celebrating this willy, nilly, silly old bear a day early with a special quiz just about him. Tell us what your score was in the comments. Good luck! .quiz-container#wp-quiz-183242{ background-color:#f0f8fb; color:#565656; border-color:#dce4e7; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-183242 .quiz-section h1{ color:#8bb428; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-183242 .quiz-title{ color:#10628b; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-183242 .quiz-header-image{ text-align:right; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-183242 .quiz-section{ border-color:#ffffff; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-183242 .quiz-details, .quiz-container#wp-quiz-183242 .quiz-results, .quiz-container#wp-quiz-183242 .quiz-embed{ border-color:#dce4e7; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-183242 .quiz-result{ background-color:#dce4e7; } How Much Do You Know About Winnie the Pooh? What was the name of the author who brought Winnie the Pooh to life? P.L. Travers E. H. Shepard A.A. Milne Lewis Carroll Who wrote the “Winnie the Pooh” song? The Sherman Brothers Walt Disney Joel Hirschhorn Carol Connors What year was “The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh” film released? 1957 1967 1977 1987 The Winnie the Pooh-themed attractions at both the Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort have the same name. What is it? A Blustery Day in the Hundred Acre Wood The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh Honey Pot Spin Pooh’s Honey Hunt At which Walt Disney World Resort dining location can you feast with Winnie the Pooh and his pals? Crystal Palace at Magic Kingdom Park Citricos at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Be Our Guest at Magic Kingdom Park Grand Floridian Cafe at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Embed Quiz on Your Website Embed Code <div class="wp-quiz" data-quiz-id="183242" 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

Runners raced at light speed through Disneyland Resort at the Star Wars Half Marathon – The Light Side this past weekend. The Force was one with participants in the Star Wars 5K, Star Wars 10K and Star Wars Half Marathon. Those brave enough even endured the Star Wars Rebel Challenge conquering the 10K and Half Marathon in one weekend! Fans wore various Star Wars costumes as they raced through Disneyland park and Disney California Adventure park, such as Luke Skywalker, X-wing pilots, Rey, and BB-8. This will be a weekend to remember. Check out some of our favorite looks here: Will you join the Dark Side with us in April at Walt Disney World Resort? Spots are still available to run during the Star Wars Half Marathon – The Dark Side. We would love to see your outfits! Share your Star Wars-inspired looks with us using the hashtag #StarWarsHalf! Follow runDisney on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram. To learn more about runDisney events, please visit http://rundisney.mydisneyresorts.com. View the full article

Disney Springs | Walt Disney World Resort View the full article

Disney Cruise Line guests can enjoy the return of the popular Star Wars Day at Sea on the Disney Fantasy. Each special sailing features a full day of dark side and light side fun, including official appearances of Star Wars characters, Jedi training for kids, a deck party and fireworks, and unique food and beverage offerings. Today I have a look at the commemorative merchandise guests may find during these special 15 sailings from early January through mid-April 2017 from Port Canaveral. This year, the limited time Disney Fantasy sailings are expanding to both eastern and western Caribbean 7-night itineraries. We have created Ports of Call shirts along with limited edition logo pins for the respective itineraries. We will also release a new Star Wars Day at Sea nametag which guests can personalize by having their names written in Aurebesh, one of the alphabets used in the Star Wars galaxy. You may recall seeing similarly designed nametags released at Disney Parks in December. Other apparel items will include both short and long-sleeve shirts for adults and kids. Guests will also find logo products such as a tote bag, mug, TERVIS tumbler, ornament, car magnet, and lanyard. Finally, we will have a variety of collectible Disney pins. Guests will find a limited release logo pin along with three limited edition pins, each with an edition size of 2,500. There will be four additional Star Wars character pins presented as miniature replica portholes. Each pin will have an edition size of 2,500. The pins will be sold individually or as a limited edition boxed set that contains a hinged completer pin (edition size 500). View the full article

I’m a firm believer that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and luckily delicious new quick-service breakfast offerings will be making their debut at Magic Kingdom Park in the coming weeks. Batter up! Casey’s Corner will be serving muffins, bagels and a croissant donut. Those searching for a more savory, brunch-like option will enjoy corn dog nuggets and the hash brown dog. Also on Main Street U.S.A., Plaza Ice Cream Parlor will serve Mickey waffles, Kelloggs cereal and donuts. For a sweet twist on breakfast, try the donut sundae, a donut topped with your favorite flavor of hand-scooped Edy’s ice cream, hot fudge, apple, whipped cream, peanut butter chips, chocolate chips and of course, a cherry. Sleepy Hollow has been one of my favorite breakfast stops for as long as I can remember. I love getting a hot, freshly-made waffle topped with strawberries and whipped cream and taking a moment to enjoy it in the seating area that overlooks Cinderella Castle. However, the new egg, ham and tomato waffle sandwich which will arrive later this month may become my new go-to. The fruit and chocolate-hazelnut waffle sandwich is also available, in case you prefer a sweet breakfast to a savory one. Where is your favorite place to grab breakfast in Magic Kingdom Park? Let us know in the comments below! View the full article

OK, where my Disney World veterans at?!? This one is for you guys — my compadres who have known and loved Disney for decades…and who know exactly what I’m talking about when I mention…“BEVERLY.” Club Cool Flavors – click for larger version You either love it…or you REALLY, REALLY HATE IT! That’s the dealio when it comes to Beverly, a carbonated drink popular in Italy (or so they say) made by the Coca-Cola company. Having their friends and family try the super-bitter Beverly at Epcot’s Club Cool has been a sneaky trick that long-time Disney World fans have played for years. But now? Poor Beverly is getting her own! The Coca-Cola Rooftop Bar in Disney Springs is quickly earning a reputation for interesting adult beverages. And a recent addition to the menu features none other than the much-maligned Beverly. This, my friends, is Beverly’s Revenge. Beverly’s Revenge If you’re thinking “What a great name for an alcoholic drink!”, we agree. And we have to think perhaps Beverly is seeking said revenge by partnering the bitter soda with heavy doses of both Hendrick’s Gin and Solerno Blood Orange Liqueur. Beverly’s Revenge The combination is a bit of an odd color, but the addition of bright mint and a fun straw make this drink festive. And while we love the idea of the Blood Orange Liqueur…it didn’t really help. We weren’t able to taste it at all! Rather, Beverly’s Revenge tastes strongly of gin and black licorice. Beverly’s Revenge Like other cocktails we’ve tried at the Coca-Cola Store, this one was strong and heavily poured. Clearly there was an abundance of gin, which, if it’s a liquor you like, may be an attractive quality. For us, it was a little off-putting. Bottom line? We felt about this the way we feel about Beverly in general: “No thanks.” But we know that some of you love it! So, my dear, brave friends, have at it!! Beverly’s Revenge Menu Beverly’s Revenge comes in at $13.00, which is a pretty standard price for drink menus around the World. And, FYI, alcohol/cocktails are now being served at the Coca-Cola Store starting at 1:00 p.m. Which side of the Beverly debate are you on? Tell us 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: The Coca-Cola Rooftop Beverage Bar in Disney Springs New DFB Video: A Tour of the Coca-Cola Rooftop Bar at Disney Springs News: Coca-Cola Store Orlando Opens July 2nd at Disney Springs View the full article

Hey! We’re coming to you from the DFB YouTube Channel today with a visit to one of the Happiest of Happiest Places on Earth — Beaches and Cream! And if you’re hungry, and you love ice cream, then you know that there’s one thing you’ve gotta try on your Disney Bucket List: the Kitchen Sink Sundae! There are three different varieties to choose from if a Kitchen Sink Sundae is your objective. The Classic offers endless variety of toppings and ice cream flavors, while the Neapolitan version offers all of the toppings, but restricts the ice cream flavors to Vanilla, Chocolate, and Strawberry. But wait! There’s more! Because the Chocolate Lover’s Kitchen Sink is a chocolate dream come true. Find out all the details in our DFB Kitchen Sink Video! By the way, have you subscribed? If not, there’s never been a better time! Subscribe to the DFB YouTube Page, and you’ll never miss all the fun, as we bring you an insider’s view to all of the delicious Disney treats and eats! But now, I really want to hear from you! Have you ever experienced the Kitchen Sink Sundae? Tell us about it in comments below! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: The Beaches and Cream “Kitchen Sink Kit” #OnTheList: The Kitchen Sink Sundae — and Chocolate Lovers’ Kitchen Sink! — at Beaches and Cream A Kitchen Sink Sundae With No Calories! Really! View the full article

Spring has definitely sprung at Walt Disney World Resort with the newest spring event, Epcot International Festival of the Arts, in full swing. This new festival celebrates artists of all types including food, arts and entertainment, but it isn’t the only new spring adventure that awaits. The Disney Parks Moms Panelists have some helpful tips for you when deciding which spring activities to experience this season. Another fan favorite festival, Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, kicks off on March 1st, and Jodie H. recommends a family friendly scavenger hunt to locate all the special topiaries shaped like your favorite Disney friends. Also, check out the Garden Rocks Concert Series and, if you are a foodie like Jackie P., she recommends setting yourself a budget when trying the fresh flavors of spring at the Outdoor Kitchens. Spring is also the perfect time to check out Disney Water Parks. Anne B. explains all the kid-friendly offerings at Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park including Ski Patrol Training Camp and Tike’s Peak. Plus, don’t miss out on Miss Adventure Falls, a family raft ride, coming soon to Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park. It is the longest ride in the history of Disney Water Parks! The Disney Parks Moms Panelists also suggest checking out the new Disney After Hours and Star Wars Guided Tour experiences or spending some time at Disney Springs for food, entertainment and shopping to add to your spring fling. For more tips or to ask questions about planning your upcoming Spring Disney vacation, be sure to visit DisneyParksMomsPanel.com for a personalized response from our knowledgeable panel and follow #DisneyEarlySpring for updates on Spring happenings at Walt Disney World Resort. View the full article

This week’s Disney Doodle focuses on Alice from the 1951 film “Alice In Wonderland” questions what Alice would do, should she have time to visit one of our Walt Disney World Resort Hotels. In the film, the occupants of a lovely Wonderland flower garden mistake Alice for a flower herself. They also foreshadow that a flower similar to Alice, although red and with thorns on her head, has been this way, hinting that the villainous Red Queen may be ahead. According to artist Ashley Taylor, it makes sense that Alice would want the scoop from some of the loveliest flowers on Walt Disney World property, those at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. “The outside of the Polynesian Resort is so beautiful! I’ve always loved the tropical flowers that surround it,” she said. “It’s easy to imagine Alice spending time talking to those flowers.” View the full article

Planet Hollywood Observatory intends to make its long-awaited debut next week. While it doesn't have an exact opening date, an employee at the restaurant said it is taking reservations for as early as Jan. 22. The restaurant has been closed for nearly a year for a complete revamp, transforming... View the full article

We’ve just wrapped up our first visit to the inaugural Festival of the Arts in Epcot! And we can promise you one thing — It will NOT be our last. This celebration of the Arts — with a focus on the disciplines of Culinary, Visual, and Performing Arts — will take place Fridays through Mondays from now until February 20th. This brand new festival offers guests opportunities to SEE works of art on display at exhibits and galleries featuring works by Disney artists, HEAR live music performed by local high schools and universities as well as Broadway talent, and TASTE dishes and drinks at the Festival’s Food Studios! We spent opening day at the Festival and we were bowled over by the experience. While DFB was there primarily to explore the food, we also enjoyed the many other examples of artistic talent, ranging from spontaneous displays of sidewalk chalk art, to an incredible musical performance by Disney on Broadway actors and singers Ashley Brown and Josh Strickland. Ashley Brown Performing During Epcot Festival of the Arts Walking Chalk Gallery at Epcot Festival of the Arts But what about the food? So glad you asked! We spent the day sampling our way through the festival’s food offerings at Food Studios as well as other spots around World Showcase. We must tell you, though — this was some of the best food, and some of the most beautiful dishes, that we have ever seen come out of Disney kitchens. Truly, some of what we tasted on the Promenades rivals what we’ve seen at Disney signature dining spots in terms of presentation and flavor. Everything we tried was good. So. Much. Yum. BUT — we have to share one little detail with you: if you visit the Booths, you WILL wait for your food. This is by design. The dishes are multi-dimensional, and guests are meant to take in the smells and sights of what goes into creating these edible masterpieces. Also — as was the case with the Holidays Around the World booths — these portions were, for the most part, HUGE. Many of the plates could easily have served as meals. Applying the Finishing Touch at The Artist’s Table Food Studio Remember to visit our Festival of the Arts Page for pictures of every food item, PLUS prices and Disney Dining Plan Snack Credit info! But now let’s get to our BEST OF THE FEST picks from the Inaugural Epcot Festival of the Arts! Best of the Fest! Here’s what you CAN. NOT. MISS. at Festival of the Arts in Epcot! Braised Beef Short Rib at Cuisine Classique Cuisine Classique celebrates the art of braising. Here, we were blown away by the Braised Beef with Parsnip Purée, Broccolini, Baby Tomatoes and Aged Balsamic. Braised Beef Short Rib The Beef Short Rib was fork tender. No, scratch that. The Beef Short Rib was plastic fork tender. And yet, it maintained a ideal texture and flavor. But the dish also won our rave reviews for the silky, full flavored Parsnip Puree. It was so rich and a wonderful substitution for potato, the starch that you would sort of expect here. We couldn’t stop eating this one. Port Wine Poached Pear at Cuisine Classique I’m a sucker for Poached Pears. So I was pretty psyched to try the Port Wine Poached Pear with Vanilla Panna Cotta and Pistachio Crumbs at Cuisine Classique. Poached Pear with Vanilla Panna Cotta and Pistachio Crumbs The tiny Seckel Pear was bursting with flavor from the Port Wine and Warm Spices. And yet, the texture was perfect — soft without being mushy. The Vanilla Panna Cotta was rich and creamy with no discernible sweetness on its own. By itself, I wasn’t sure what to make of it, but it was the perfect foil to the pear. I want to stare at this, and then eat it, again and again. Artist Palette Jumbo Chocolate Chip Cookie at Decadent Delights Some of our choices may seem a little less gourmet. That’s because if ever food at an Epcot Festival should win on the criteria of style alone, it’s this one. And the Artist Palette Jumbo Chocolate Chip Cookie at Decadent Delights takes one of our top spots. Artist Palette Jumbo Chocolate Chip Cookie Right. So, basically, it’s a big ol’ Chocolate Chip Cookie. But it’s yummy and pretty, and we think the kids are gonna love it for those two reasons alone. You can also find this winner at The Artist’s Table. Cobb Salad at E=AT² Looking for a Salad? Then head to E=AT² and try the Cobb Salad with Smoked Duck Breast, Avocado Mousse, Nueske’s Applewood Smoked Bacon, and Blue Cheese. This booth features deconstructed dishes, which is why this looks less salad-y than you’d expect. Cobb Salad at E=AT² Now, who eats Cobb Salad for the lettuce?? Right. You’re like me, and you eat it for the Bacon, the Egg, the Avocado, and the Blue Cheese. That’s all you get here, without any of those pesky greens to get in the way. #WIN. Wild Mushroom Risotto at Masterpiece Kitchen Masterpiece Kitchen utilizes “masterpiece ingredients” in delicious ways. One of our favorite dishes here is the Wild Mushroom Risotto with Aged Parmesan, Truffle Shavings, and Zinfandel Reduction. Wild Mushroom Risotto The creamy Risotto — perfect by the way, with no crunchy bits of underdone rice — was full flavored with a good balance of seasoning. This was another item that we finished completely, despite the fact that we were far from hungry thanks to all the great dishes. (And yes. That’s a raindrop. See just how much we love you guys?) Charcuterie Palette at Masterpiece Kitchen But the star of The Masterpiece Kitchen, without question, is the Charcuterie Palette. The combo of Cured Meats, Nueske’s Smoked Duck Breast, and Cheese blew us away in terms of presentation and ingredients. Charcuterie Palette With Artisan Sausages and Smoked Duck Breast, plus large servings of Pate and Cheeses, this was absolutely ample enough to share. Only, I really didn’t want to, especially when it came to the large serving of Blue Cheese dripping with Honey and a bit of Honeycomb. Our only complaint? As is usually the case with Disney Charcuterie and Cheese Plates, we needed more toast. Classic Sidecar with Chocolate Twist at Masterpiece Kitchen We’re not finished at Masterpiece Kitchen quite yet! The spot was also home to our first beverage recommendation — the Classic Sidecar with Chocolate Twist. We are all about reboots of classic beverages around here, and this combo of Brandy and Orange Liqueur took our breath away, but went down easy. Classic Sidecar with a Chocolate Twist Normally the cocktail is garnished with an orange twist, but the White Chocolate Curl was an appropriately whimsical touch. Trio of Savory Croissant Doughnuts at Painter’s Palate They had us with the words Croissant Doughnuts. But this savory version takes the dish in an entirely new direction. Here, the Croissant Doughnuts act as sandwich bread for savory fillings: Chicken Mousse with Fresh Herbs and Everything Bagel Seasoning; Whipped Herb Cream Cheese with Sea Salt; and Spicy Tuna with Sriracha Mayonnaise and Sesame Seeds. Trio of Savory Croissant Doughnuts I think these could seriously catch on. They’re like bagels, only a gajillion times better. Miniature Chocolate Art Painting with Chocolate Easel Epcot takes Art as Food the extra step in a series of actual paintings. But the the medium here is as delicious as it is beautiful: Chocolate. Mary Blair White Chocolate Art Painting with Chocolate Easel There are several of these miniature masterpieces to choose from, including the Mary Blair version above. We also spied Mickey Mouse and Figment. A confession: this is one recommendation that we’re making without tasting. Mickey and Pluto Chocolate Painting For the first time ever, we truly found something too pretty to eat. Find the mini masterpieces at E=AT² (Figment is available at this stop), Painter’s Palate (where we found the Mary Blair painting), and Masterpiece Kitchen (home of the Mickey painting). Almond Frangipane Cake Layered with Raspberry Jam and Chocolate at Pop Eats You wouldn’t think a layer cake would rate a mention. But when your cake looks more like a Piet Mondrian painting than a dessert, you’ve got something special on your hands. The Almond Frangipane Cake layered with Raspberry Jam and Chocolate from Pop Eats made a big, bold impression on us in terms of both taste and serving size. Almond Frangipane Cake layered with Raspberry Jam and Chocolate While you can’t go wrong with the Almond-Raspberry-Chocolate combo, the sheer size of this one made it a great value. I’m super hoping for a Disney video on this one so we can all make it at home. Cloudem Silver Sparkling Wine at Pop Eats Often, we don’t spend a lot of time sharing basic photos of wine or beer. Because, after all, wine and beer mostly looks like, well, wine and beer. Unless you’re talking about Cloudem. Look, I’ve googled this stuff, and I still can’t get a handle on what it actually is, other than it’s a sparking wine from Spain. And it’s mesmerizing. Cloudem Silver Sparkling Wine See that little swirl at the bottom or the glass? This drink actually has silver shimmers in it. And we couldn’t stop standing there, staring at it. So if you saw two girls oohing and ahhing over a glass of this stuff, it was probably us. We defy you not to do the same. Oh, the taste? It’s fine. Sweet and bubbly, like, say, a Chenin Blanc or a Moscato, with slightly more body. Not my favorite drink in terms of taste. But seriously. It was worth the price just to look at it. (And I still got to drink it with my cake. So there’s that, too.) Popping Bubbles Cocktail at Pop Eats Pop Eats definitely had the corner on grown up fun food and drink. Another beverage we can recommend is the Popping Bubbles Cocktail. To prepare this one, the Cast Member scooped the Popping Bubbles — similar to what we’ve enjoyed in Popping Bubbles Tea — into the square-shaped tulip flute. She then filled the glass with a dry Sparkling Wine. Popping Bubbles Cocktail While the CM didn’t know for sure the flavor of the bubbles, they tasted like Strawberry to us. We were offered a straw, but decided to just wing it. This was so much fun that it was easily our favorite drink of the day. Callebaut Belgian Sipping Chocolate Flight at The Artist’s Table You know that we’re super big fans of the Ghirardelli Drinking Chocolate during the Epcot Food and Wine Festival. Well, what would you say if I told you that you can get that same treat — times three — during the Festival of the Arts? We’re talking about the Callebaut Belgian Sipping Chocolate Flight at The Artist’s Table. Callebaut Belgian Sipping Chocolate Flight Rich. Thick. Decadent. Basically, take three chocolate bars — White, Milk, and Dark — and melt them down. Then drink them. And you’ll have the gist. The cups don’t seem that large, but trust me — you’re going to want to share these. So bring a friend. But whatever you do, don’t miss them. Flank Steak Guarache at El Arista Hambriento When the Festival debuted, it actually only included seven official booths. But the Mexico Pavilion apparently wanted to get in on the action as well, and so El Arista Hambriento — The Hungry Artist — was born. And we’re so glad, because it is home to one of the best dishes of the Festival, the Flank Steak Guarache. Huarache: Flank Steak Guarache The huge serving of Flank Steak sits atop a base of Fried Masa, and is served with Black Beans, Salsa de Chile de Arbol, Frisee Lettuce, Queso Fresco, Red Cabbage, Shredded Carrots, and Chipotle Mayo. There was so much flavor here! And the Arbol Chile Salsa gives the dish a good amount of heat. We could go on and on! But hopefully, you’ve enjoyed some detail about a few of our favorite dishes from the first ever Epcot Festival of the Arts! Remember to visit our Festival of the Arts Page for pictures of every food item, PLUS prices and Disney Dining Plan Snack Credit info! But now, we’d really love to hear from you! Which items would you most like to try at Epcot’s Festival of the Arts? 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: Sneak Peek: FULL MENUS Now Available for Epcot Festival of the Arts! News! ALL FOOD PHOTOS from the Epcot Festival of the Arts Booths Now Available!! First Look: Food Photos From the Epcot International Festival of the Arts View the full article