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Cinderella Castle is getting a makeover in 2026! Say goodbye to the current pink color scheme and hello to the classic color scheme with creams and blues. Disney recently announced the timeline for repainting Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom and how they hope to address a major issue. Cinderella Castle Beginning in January 2026, workers will start transforming Cinderella Castle. The repainting is expected to be completed later in 2026. Disney hasn’t announced a more specific completion timeline yet. If you have a trip planned to Disney World in 2026, you may be wondering what this means for those iconic pictures of the Magic Kingdom’s icon. Disney tries its best to ensure refurbishments have the least amount of impact possible on guests, but how is that going to work here? How is Disney going to keep Magic Kingdom’s icon looking picture-ready during the process? Disney has given us a bit of insight into the repainting process, but how exactly will it work? The current plan is to have all cranes lowered and out of sight by noon each day. Assuming here that workers will likely be painting from the park close until noon the next day. So, in theory, guests should be able to get decent pictures of Cinderella Castle after noon each day. But will it actually work out that way? Cinderella Castle For starters, just the logistics of removing cranes each day. Are they truly going to be moved out of the park, or will they just be lowered enough to hopefully stay out of most pictures? When Cinderella Castle was transformed to its current color palette, most of the work was done during the COVID-19 closure. When the parks began reopening, Cinderella Castle was almost complete. We did spot cranes putting on the finishing touches, but most of the repainting was done. We will be curious to see how visible or not visible the work equipment is after noon each day. Painting Cinderella Castle (2020) Also, the castle is getting a different paint color, so as work progresses, it will likely look a bit mismatched. Not the end of the world, but not the gorgeous castle we are used to seeing in photos either. Unfortunately, that will likely be a necessity. We all know that if Disney could make the transformation overnight, they would, but the repainting will take at least a few months. We think the painting will likely be done in sections, so we expect you to be able to find at least one angle of Cinderella Castle with consistent colors throughout the process. While the front view is iconic, you can also get great angles from the sides and the back! Concept art for repainting ©Disney Disney has also mentioned some changes to the shows around Cinderella Castle. There will be some minor adjustments to the “Let The Magic Begin” welcome show, Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire, and the Happily Ever After fireworks. Disney hasn’t stated exactly what these adjustments will be just yet, but it doesn’t sound like they will be super noticeable changes. Cinderella Castle 2019 Disney definitely has some magic up its sleeves, but we are definitely curious about how well they will be able to hide the process after noon each day. Of course, we will keep you updated as work begins! We are hoping the construction won’t be noticeable after noon each day, but only time will tell. We are in the parks every single day, and we always keep an eye out for the latest Disney news so that you always have the most up-to-date information. Make sure to stay tuned to DFB for more! “It’s Going Back to the Way Walt Intended” Disney Fans Are Reacting to the Changes Coming to Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW How visible do you think the castle repainting will be next year? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! View the full article

In our years of covering Disney parks, we’ve learned a few things! One thing is that Disney will constantly be changing. Another thing is that fans of the theme parks often times, overlap with book lovers! ‘Disney Adults’ by AJ Wolfe It makes sense after all. The theme parks and reading can represent fantasy, escapism, and a love for things that show us a world beyond our own. A huge majority of the DFB team falls into both camps of Disney Adult and Book Lovers, so we compiled a list of our team’s top 10 books from 2025 because we believe sharing is caring! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Before we dive in, this is just a quick reminder that not every book on this list is suitable for all ages! Some of them contain some mature themes, so be sure to double-check for any concerns you might have before passing them on to any of the young adults or kiddos in your life. This list isn’t in any particular order. Happy reading, friends! People We Meet on Vacation ©Amazon For romance lovers, People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry is it! This sweet rom-com follows best friends Poppy and Alex throughout their adult lives through a series of vacations each summer. They’re opposites in every way, but each trip brings them together for a summer of fun until they ruined everything 2 years ago. This novel is becoming a Netflix film that debuts on January 9th, 2026, so we will be booked and busy that day! Several of our team members loved this one. Shop on Amazon Onxy Storm ©Amazon If you’re a fan of BookTok (Book TikTok), then you’ve heard of Onxy Storm! This is the third book in the Empyrean Series, which kicked off with the massive hit Fourth Wing. Onyx Storm follows Violet and Xaden as the impending war begins. After 18 months at Basgiath War College, Violet knows there is no more time for lessons. The battle is close to their walls, and there’s no more time for uncertainty. Violet must journey beyond the failing Aretian wards to seek allies from unfamiliar lands while keeping a secret so big it could destroy everything. These books have been a massive success for good reason. Fans of fantasy and romance will devour this book! Shop on Amazon The Knight and the Moth ©Amazon One thing that will become increasingly clear is that our team loves a fantasy read! The Knight and the Moth by Rachel Gillig is a gothic fantasy that follows a prophetess, Sybil Delling, who receives visions from divine beings called Omens. She is part of a group called the Diviners, but as they go missing one by one, Sybil is forced to team with a heretical knight to find her friends. This book featured a touch of romance and had us itching for the next book. It was a unique, gripping read! Shop on Amazon We Used to Live Here ©Amazon For one of our editors, We Used To Live Here by Marcus Kliewer was her number one read of the year! Charlie and Eve are a young couple who flip houses, and they can’t believe the deal they just got on an old house in a picturesque neighborhood. A family comes into the home claiming they lived there for several years, but once they’re inside, inexplicable things start happening, including the family’s youngest child going missing. Charlie vanishes as Eve begins to lose her grip on reality. This book was absolutely amazing, but seriously scary! If you’re ready for something we found truly terrifying, you need to read this book. Shop on Amazon Tress of the Emerald Sea ©Amazon Brandon Sanderson is an author who’s becoming truly popular in the literary world. This book follows Tress, who’s only known a simple, quiet life on her island alongside her friend Charlie. Charlie’s father takes him on a journey to find a bride, and when disaster strikes, Tress is forced to stow away on a ship and seek the Sorceress of the deadly Midnight Sea. Our YouTube script writer, Breea, said this book is great for fans of pirates and The Princess Bride. Those two things alone landed this book on our best list! Shop on Amazon Throne of Glass ©Amazon If you haven’t read the Throne of Glass series, allow us to change your life. This book follows Celaena Sardothien, a famed assassin, after she has been captured and imprisoned. She is summoned to the castle to participate in a series of trials for the king, whom she has no love for. If she defeats twenty-three murderers, thieves, and warriors in a competition, she will be released from prison to serve as the King’s Champion and earn her freedom. This series has romance, adventure, fantastical world-building, and more throughout its series. The only thing we didn’t like about this book is how long we waited to read it! Shop on Amazon The House in the Cerulean Sea ©Amazon In this next fantasy book, Linus Baker leads a quiet, solitary life. At forty years old, he lives in a tiny house with a mean cat and old records. He works as a Case Worker at the Department in Charge of Magical Youth, but is unexpectedly summoned by Extremely Upper Management, where he’s given a curious and highly classified assignment. He has to travel to Marsyas Island Orphanage, where six dangerous children reside: a gnome, a sprite, a wyvern, an unidentifiable green blob, a were-Pomeranian, and the Antichrist. This read was enchanting, unique, and featured a writing style that ensured we couldn’t put it down. Shop on Amazon Great Big Beautiful Life ©Amazon Emily Henry made it onto our list twice! This book follows Alice Scott and Hayden Anderson as they compete to write the biography of a woman no one has seen in years. Margaret Ives is a tragic heiress, former tabloid princess, and daughter of one of the most storied (and scandalous) families of the twentieth century, who invited both writers to her home for a trial period to see which one would write her story. It becomes clear that their story could be a mystery, tragedy, or love ballad. For a large majority of our team, Emily Henry can do no wrong in her stories, and this book reiterates that! Shop on Amazon Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil ©Amazon This book is described as “a genre-defying novel about immortality and hunger,” and we couldn’t agree more. We LOVED this book that follows a story about life. How life ends, and how it starts. It’s about three different women across three different centuries: Maria in 1532 Spain, Charlotte in 1827 London, and Alice in 2019 Boston. Each of them is faced with life-altering choices about love, immortality, and revenge. It’s unlike anything else we’ve read this year! Shop on Amazon Disney Adults Disney Adults Finally, our number one read this year was (of course) Disney Adults by AJ Wolfe. This book takes a deep dive into the subculture of Disney Adults. It aims to explore the fandom within the Disney brand and explain why so many people connect with the brand that has become so beloved. It also breaks down the darker side of the “mania” that is associated with the brand. If you’re seeking knowledge on a misunderstood subculture, this book is for you. It breaks down the microcosm of modern America, highlights the value we place on magic and escapism, and seeks to understand what we deem to be “acceptable” sources of joy. On a personal note, we also couldn’t be more proud of this New York Times Best Seller novel and its author. Shop on Amazon If you’re looking for your next 2026 read, we hope you find some of these to your liking! Maybe next year we can start the official DFB Book Club together. As always, be sure to keep following DFB for more Disney finds, news, and more. View the full article

Believe it or not, it’s already almost time for another festival to grace EPCOT! EPCOT Festival of the Arts! EPCOT’s International Festival of the Holidays is about to wrap up on December 30th, and it’s been an excellent experience so far. With that said, we all know that when one EPCOT festival ends, another is getting ready to take over. Such is the case with the upcoming 2026 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts, which is set to totally transform this Disney World theme park. The upcoming EPCOT International Festival of the Arts will run from January 16th through February 23rd, 2026, and will be the FIRST EPCOT festival of 2026. Making its initial debut in 2017, this returning festival celebrates three artistic disciplines: the Culinary, Visual, and Performing Arts — all of which will reshape the way we experience EPCOT. 2025 EPCOT Festival of the Arts The Festival of the Arts will offer over 20 Food Studios and additional locations that will serve enhanced eats and drinks that are art-inspired with a focus on creative presentation. Dishes from The Deconstructed Dish Food Studio There will also be tons of Festival-exclusive opportunities, like the Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine, which gives guests the chance to sample several items at the Food Studios during the Festival. With it, guests can purchase five of the seven designated items at various food booths, receiving a stamp in their Festival Passport for each item. 2025 Colorful Cuisine Sign Upon completion, you’ll receive an ADDITIONAL — and complimentary — treat! 2025 Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine Completer Prize Other special events include live performances and acts that honor the Performing Arts. Musicians performing on the opening day of the festival! TheDisney on Broadway Concert Series is also returning and will feature performances by some Broadway stars singing some of Disney’s most beloved songs at the America Gardens Theatre in The American Adventure pavilion. Disney on Broadway You can even purchase the Disney on Broadway Concert Series Dining Packages, which allow guests to pair lunch or dinner at a participating EPCOT Table Service restaurant with guaranteed priority seating for an evening show on the same date. Same-day walk-up packages are available at Regal Eagle Smokehouse while supplies last. Bangers and Mash at Rose & Crown Festival Dining Package But the entertainment doesn’t stop there — live music will also be performed daily in CommuniCore Plaza! Nicholas Marks performing at EPCOT Additionally, the Visual Art in Performance gives guests the chance to enjoy a high-energy artist painting Disney characters live onstage “in a matter of minutes”. Artists create before your eyes! Art is the name of the game, so you’ll be able to spot plenty of exhibits and hands-on experiences, as well as tons of art pieces all over the park. Chalk Art 2025 For example, you might even happen upon some live 3D Chalk Art! Just some of the amazing chalk art at this year’s Festival of the Arts! Figment’s Brush with the Masters Scavenger Hunt will be able to turn the Festival into an interactive adventure! Brush with the Masters Upon completing the scavenger hunt, guests can return to Disney Traders, Creations Shop, or World Traveler with their completed map and receive an “artful” surprise. 2025 Figment Scavenger Hunt Prize: Stencil Set Several Disney and visiting artists will also appear at the Festival, and signing times are scheduled throughout the event. You can find the full schedule on the Walt Disney World website or through the My Disney Experience app. EPCOT Festival of the Arts New to the Festival of the Arts in 2026 will be two different Disney Lorcana Trading Card Games that guests can participate in! Per Disney: In Collection Quest, “Open Disney Lorcana booster packs and trade cards with other Guests in the Illumineer’s Lounge in the Morocco Pavilion. Once you’ve collected your 4 cards, you’ll receive a limited-edition Magical Places promo card.” In the Ink & Find Scavenger Hunt, “Discover magical, larger-than-life trading cards scattered throughout EPCOT. Find cards, match them to the special ink stickers on your map ,and you’ll receive an additional limited-edition Magical Places promo card.” ©Disney From a special Spaceship Earth lighting to special character meet-and-greets to Festival-exclusive merch, there’s still so much more happening at this Festival! CLICK HERE to learn about everything the Festival has to offer! Spaceship Earth at Night during the EPCOT Festival of the Arts We’ll be attending the Festival of the Arts and literally trying EVERYTHING, so keep it posted right here at the Disney Food Blog to get all of the latest Festival updates! Full 2026 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts Guide MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR FESTIVAL DAYS DFB's guide to the Festival of the Arts details everything you need to know to maximize your time, budget, and stomach space! Know what's worth it and what to skip with our full-photo menus of each booth, complete with DFB's Best of the Fest. It includes all the must-have information for navigating this colorful festival at Disney World, including: Booth & food photos, maps, and crawls with DFB's exclusive recommendations! The COMPLETE schedule of events (so you don't have to go hunting for all the dates!) All the details on special events, artist meet-n-greets, festival-exclusive merchandise, and more! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW MORE Festival of the Arts INFO! See the FULL LIST of Food Booths, Menus, and Photos from the Festival of the Arts Read ALL of Our Food Booth Reviews for the Festival Learn More About the Disney on Broadway Concert Series and Dining Packages Click HERE for All of the Latest News and Details About the Festival of the Arts! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the latest Festival of the Arts news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! What are you most excited to experience at the 2026 Festival of the Arts? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

We’ve got bad news for fans of baby back ribs and cheese pulls: The (amongst some) iconic Chili’s at the Orlando International Airport (MCO) is closing. Orlando International Airport Terminal C The longtime MCO staple is set to close on December 31st, according to a statement released by the airport on social media. There are several Chili’s locations near Disney World, so if you really need your fix on a trip to Orlando, you’re all set. While we’re pouring out a margarita in Chili’s, the restaurant’s closure doesn’t signal the end of dining at MCO. Far from it in fact, as a recently approved expansion of the MCO Concession Master Plan will bring more than 40 new retail and dining locations to MCO. These will arrive in phases. Phase 1 Restaurants: 4Rivers Southern Smokehouse Black Bean Deli Bobby’s Burgers by Bobby Flay BrewDog + Peet’s Coffee Cabrita Eola Wine Company Green Leaf’s Hinkley’s Fancy Meats Intercept Wine Bar Jam-Eng Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream Otto’s High Dive Maxine’s on Shine MOD Pizza Old Jailhouse Seito Sushi Smoke & Donuts BBQ SoDough Detroit Pizza Stasio’s Italian Deli Starbucks The Halal Guys The Milkhouse Tobu Villa Pizza Zaza ©Orlando International Airport Phase 2 Restaurants: Bahia Bowls Bricks & Bowls Cava Chick-fil-A Citrus Market featuring Winery and Tasting Room powered by Brewlando Crisp & Green Einstein Bros. Bagels Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers Just Love Coffee Cafe McDonald’s Naya Middle Eastern Counter & Grill Panda Express Piggza Plum Market Raising Cane’s Sambazon Shake Shack Starbucks Velvet Taco Orlando International Airport The traveler-favorite Chili’s at the Orlando International Airport is scheduled to close on December 31st as the airport’s array of dining options continues to evolve. Stay tuned to DFB for further updates on all these new options coming to MCO. Destination: Disney World! Flying To and From Orlando International Airport (MCO) Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Have you ever eaten at the MCO Chili’s? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article

It is one of the busiest times of the year at Disney World! If you are heading to Disney World to celebrate the holidays or ring in the New Year, you won’t be the only ones. While it is definitely a magical time of year at Disney World, it is also VERY crowded. We aren’t telling you to cancel your trip, but we do want you to have the right expectations. Plus, a little bit of preparation and planning ahead can go a looonngg way as you navigate the holiday crowds. Disney Springs crowds As we begin the countdown to 2026, we have a bit of a warning if you are headed to Disney Springs. This shopping, dining, and entertainment district is always popular — especially during the holidays. Parking and admission are free, so it is a great spot to have some fun without buying tickets or paying for parking. We always suggest leaving plenty of time to arrive at your destination at Disney World. While you can get almost anywhere on Disney World property with Disney Transportation, it can sometimes take a bit to get where you are going. Even if you are driving, you will want to add extra time to find parking, get through security, and reach your destination. It is especially important to give yourself extra time during the holiday season! Disney Springs While Disney Springs has quite a bit of parking, it can fill up during busy times. Disney Transportation can also get busy, and you may need to wait for the next bus or boat if lots of people are trying to travel to Disney Springs, too. You will also want to leave some time to get through security at Disney Springs and reach your destination. With crowds, it can take a bit longer to travel around Disney Springs due to the added congestion. Starting off your visit being stressed about making it somewhere on time is not fun! Disney Springs can get busy! Even restaurants at Disney Springs, like The Boathouse, are issuing warnings to guests about allowing plenty of extra time. The Boathouse recommends arriving at least 60 minutes before any reservation. You can see the status of parking lots and garages on the digital message boards along Buena Vista Drive. Since parking lots can fill up, you might also want to consider using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft. You can even reserve your Uber for the trip back ahead of time! It can get hectic in the pickup area, so reserving ahead of time can save you lots of waiting. ©The Boathouse Be prepared for Disney Springs to be extra crowded this time of year! Give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination, and don’t forget to pack a bit of extra patience. It is busy, but it is also such a magical time of the year! We are in the parks every single day and have been covering Disney World for over 15 years! We are here to make sure you have the best Disney vacation possible, so stay tuned to DFB for more. 6 Things I’ll Never Do Again in Disney Springs Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What is your favorite store at Disney Springs? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

As the holiday season gets ready to wrap up in Disney World and we get ready to ring in a brand New Year (seriously, WHERE did 2025 go, y’all?), something HUGE will be ending in EPCOT soon. 2025 EPCOT Festival of the Holidays The EPCOT Festival of the Holidays started on November 28th and will end on December 30th, which means all the food booths, special festival activities, and the Candlelight Processional will all be going away very soon. That means EPCOT is about to undergo a MASSIVE change. EPCOT will look a lot different on December 31st. Now, many of the holiday decorations will still be up, so you can enjoy them for a little while longer. However, the Candlelight Processional will come to an end, all those hidden Olafs will disappear, and the food booths will be closed. Hidden Olaf That means that CommuniCore Hall will also be a lot emptier because everything inside it will also be going away, too. So no more gingerbread Spaceship Earth! 2025 Gingerbread Spaceship Earth in CommuniCore Hall Now, you will start seeing some new things going up in EPCOT ahead of New Year’s Eve. We’ve already spotted some lighting and sound set-ups beginning to form around World Showcase. These will be used for dance parties throughout the park that you’ll only be able to enjoy on New Year’s Eve. EPCOT New Year’s Eve celebrations Then those structures will also come down, and EPCOT will look a little less exciting, at least until January 16th, when the EPCOT Festival of the Arts begins. Then you’ll see NEW food booths popping up all over the park, a new display inside Communicore Hall, and fun photo ops popping up everywhere. No lie…this is my absolute favorite EPCOT festival because there is so much to see and do and eat. Plus, the Disney on Broadway concert series is sure to satisfy every theatre nerd. 2024 Festival of the Arts So we’ll see you on January 16th, when we’ll be checking out the EPCOT Festival of the Arts to get you reviews and live updates from the festival. You’ll want to make sure you stay tuned to DFB for all that and more! These 3 EPCOT Festival Hacks Are Getting Out of Control Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Will you be visiting the EPCOT Festival of the Arts? Let us know about your favorite part of the festival in the comments! View the full article

It is almost 2026! (Seriously, where did the end of 2025 go?) Not only does that mean the start of a new year, but it also means a new week of ALDI finds. ALDI We are rounding up some of the items available at ALDI from December 31st through January 6th, 2026. You can ring in the new year with some great finds at great prices. It is time to plan for your next ALDI run! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. For starters, ALDI is stocking LOTS of active gear. Whether your New Year’s resolution is to be more active, you are looking to train for your next Disney vacation, or you just want some new active essentials, ALDI has lots to choose from. You can grab a 2-pack of sports bras for just $10. ©ALDI Plus, you can also get Memory Foam Sneakers for just $15. We have tried out ALDI’s $15 sneakers before, and while they aren’t the best shoes we have ever used, they definitely get the job done. They held up well through a long day at Disney World, and we think they are a perfect budget-friendly option or backup shoe. ©ALDI You can also stop by ALDI for these Crane Active Pullovers. They are perfect for adding some layers to your outfit, or you can just use them as a light jacket for cooler weather at Disney. Plus, for only $13, we think they are a great deal! ©ALDI You can also snag these Fitness Tights. They are just $13 each and available in three options: black flared, black metallic skinny, and black skinny. Use them for working out or for lounging around in and watching Disney movies! ©ALDI We also spotted these Softshell Jackets. They are just $20 and are perfect for layering during the winter months. ©ALDI ALDI is not stopping at attire, though! You can also stop in to grab some workout equipment to kick the new year off right. You can find a Dumbbell Set, a Kettleball Set, and a Massage Roller. ©ALDI There are also Fitness Bands and Balance Boards. ©ALDI You can also find a Pedal Exerciser and Fitness Hoop. There will also be other massage rollers, interlocking floor mats, a core slider, a stretch-and-loop set, and more. Everything is reasonably priced, so you can start getting your home gym stocked with the essentials! ©ALDI If you are hoping to get more organized in 2026, you need to stop by ALDI next week. We spotted LOTS of organization items like totes, storage boxes, and shelves. After the craziness of the holiday season, we know we could use a bit more organization in our lives! ©ALDI We also spotted this Folding Utility Cart. Not only will this be great for unloading items at home, but we also think it could be a game-changer to bring on your Disney trips. You could use it to help you bring items from your car into your hotel room! ©ALDI We also spotted some other items for your Disney trip! We love bringing our reusable straws with us to Disney World — the paper straws just don’t cut it for us. You can head over to ALDI and grab this set of adorable Curly Reusable Straws. ©ALDI And, you can also grab these sets of Glass Reusable Straws. They are available in either a clear set or a rainbow set. While you don’t need to bring reusable straws, they have really made our Disney World trips better. No more paper straws that are falling apart, and with these sets you never have to worry about hunting down a straw. ©ALDI If you love the idea of reusable straws but don’t feel like making the trip to ALDI to grab a set, you can get some on Amazon. We love these Sunseeke Silicone Reusable Straws. We LOOOVE reusable straws! The set comes with 12 colorful reusable straws, 4 carrying cases, and cleaning brushes. We always bring these with us to Disney World because they are so much nicer than paper straws. They are easy to throw in your bag, and you can grab this set for less than $15. Get these reusable straws here! Over at ALDI, you can also choose from a variety of to-go containers. These are perfect for packed lunches, and you can even bring them with you to Disney World to pack snacks or food to save a bit of money! ©ALDI We also spotted this Jump Starter at ALDI. We think this is a great item to throw in your car when you head to Disney World — or really anywhere! You never know when your car might need a jump, and there isn’t always someone around to help. This portable jump starter is ready when you need it. ©ALDI If you want some peace of mind on your road trips, but don’t feel like heading all the way to ALDI, you can also grab this Portable Jump Starter on Amazon. ©Amazon It is small and compact, but powerful enough to jump your car if you ever need it. It’s easy to use and has 10 different safety features. You can store it in your trunk so you are prepared if you ever need to jump your car. Get this jump starter here! We check out the ALDI finds each week, so you always know what deals are available! Make sure to stay tuned to DFB for more ALDI finds and deals on Disney merchandise. View the full article

The holiday season is starting to wind down in Disney World, and we’ve only got a little more time to enjoy the EPCOT Festival of the Holidays, as well as all the holiday snacks. All that’s left are the New Year’s Eve celebrations in Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and then 2026 will be here. New signs The end of the year also generally means the end of Jingle Cruise, the holiday overlay for Jungle Cruise. So this is your reminder that if you want to ride Jingle Cruise before it closes and becomes Jungle Cruise again, you’ll need to get to Magic Kingdom no later than January 2nd. According to the Disney World Calendar, the last day you’ll be able to enjoy Jingle Cruise is on January 2nd, which is actually a day later than we’ve previously seen. The holiday overlay of the ride will be open all day on the 2nd, so make sure to get to Magic Kingdom for one last holiday hurrah. ©Disney Jingle Cruise is a special holiday version of Jungle Cruise that features a fun updated queue, holiday decor, and, of course, ALL the holiday puns. If you want to experience the holiday spirit in the most fun way possible, you’ll want to make a note to ride it before it’s gone. The skippers went overboard with the decorations! Disney will then take away all the extra holiday pizazz overnight, and the original Jungle Cruise, complete with all its punny fun, will be open on January 3rd. Of course, this version of the ride is also a lot of fun, and we don’t care how many times we get introduced to “the back side of water,” we’ll never get tired of it. THE BACKSIDE OF WATER! So make a note if you’ll be visiting Disney World the first few days of January. We’ll be keeping an eye out for more Disney World updates in 2026, so you’ll want to keep following us for ALL the latest news! I Went To a Holiday Food Festival That Wasn’t at EPCOT and I Have THOUGHTS Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Do you make a note to ride Jingle Cruise when you visit Disney World for the holidays? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

Disney souvenir shopping has officially left the parks and hit our carts. ©Amazon Lately, Disney fans have been doing that dangerous thing where you hop on Amazon for one thing and somehow end up with fifteen magical extras you absolutely did not plan on buying. We’re seeing a huge surge in retro vibes, playful collectibles, and cozy Disney finds that feel nostalgic without screaming theme park merch. These are the Disney deals fans are grabbing fast right now. If you love Disney souvenirs that work just as well at home as they do in your fandom display, you’re going to want to see these. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. The Disney Villains Cookbook — 45% OFF ©Amazon This cookbook is proof that villains deserve the spotlight sometimes. It’s packed with 50 beginner friendly recipes inspired by iconic Disney baddies like Gaston and Cruella, which somehow makes cooking feel way more fun. The step by step instructions and gorgeous photos make it approachable even if your usual specialty is cereal. It also includes difficulty ratings, kitchen basics, and even an index for dietary needs, which makes this feel thoughtful and actually usable. This is one of those Disney items that ends up living on your counter because it’s just that good. View on Amazon Skillmatics Dot It Sticker Art – Disney Princess — 33% OFF ©Amazon If you’re looking for a mess free Disney activity, this one is a win. With over 500 easy-to-peel stickers, kids can create eight Disney Princess scenes without glue, scissors, or chaos. Everything is contained, which makes this perfect for travel or quiet afternoons at home. It’s also sneaky educational. Kids build fine motor skills and coordination while thinking they’re just hanging out with Moana and Cinderella. View on Amazon Melissa & Doug Sticker Wow! Disney Minnie Mouse — 27% OFF ©Amazon Sticker lovers are obsessed with this one because it turns stickers into a stamping activity. Minnie Mouse stamps her way through 24 pages of Disney-themed games, and each sticker is a surprise. There are 300 stickers included, which feels generous and very satisfying. It’s compact, mess-free, and great for travel days when you need something that holds attention longer than five minutes. Plus, it encourages creative play without screens. View on Amazon Mickey Mouse Endless Hoop Earrings — 17% OFF Mickey Mouse Endless Hoop Earrings These hoops are subtle Disney in the best way. The repeating Mickey pendants are made with cubic zirconia, so they sparkle without being over the top. They’re stylish enough for everyday wear but still feel magical if you know, you know. They’re officially licensed and make an easy gift for Disney fans who want something a little more grown up. View on Amazon Disney Adults: Exploring (And Falling In Love With) A Magical Subculture — ON SALE NOW Disney Adults Book! If you’ve ever been side-eyed for loving Disney as an adult, this book feels validating. Written by the creator of Disney Food Blog, it dives into why Disney Adults exist, why they’re misunderstood, and why their joy actually makes sense. It’s thoughtful, honest, and way more relatable than you might expect. This one feels less like fandom content and more like cultural commentary with Disney at the center. View on Amazon Disney Princess Ultimate Sticker Collection — 46% OFF ©Amazon Over 1,000 stickers are not an exaggeration here. This collection covers everyone from Snow White to Moana and is basically a dream for sticker obsessed kids. It encourages creativity while letting kids explore different Disney worlds. It’s also a great value for the amount you get, which makes it perfect for long-term play rather than a one-day activity. View on Amazon LEGO Disney and Pixar ‘Up’ House — 37% OFF ©Amazon This set is for anyone who cried during the first ten minutes of Up and never recovered. The build is detailed and challenging enough to be satisfying, with Carl, Russell, and Dug included. Once it’s built, it looks amazing on display. It’s one of those LEGO sets that works just as well for adults as it does for older kids, which is probably why it’s so popular right now. View on Amazon Mattel Disney Princess & Friends Set — 44% OFF ©Amazon This set includes five princess dolls and their adorable sidekicks, which means storytelling possibilities are endless. Each doll has removable clothing and a unique friendship print, which adds a thoughtful touch. It’s a solid choice for kids who love imaginative play and want multiple characters in one box. View on Amazon Disney Munchlings Mini Munch Displays — 31% OFF ©Amazon Munchlings are still having a moment, and these mini displays are especially fun. Each blind box includes scented figures that look like food versions of Disney characters, plus accessories. They even change color in water, which feels like bonus magic. They’re small, collectible, and oddly satisfying to display once you start collecting more than one. View on Amazon Oversized Sequins Magic Kingdom Women’s Sweatshirt — 29% OFF ©Amazon This sweatshirt is cozy but still makes a statement. The sequined Cinderella Castle silhouettes add sparkle without feeling costume-like. It’s oversized, soft, and easy to wear whether you’re heading out or staying in. This is the kind of Disney sweatshirt you throw on and instantly feel put together. View on Amazon ThinkFun Disney WordARound Trivia Game — 39% OFF ©Amazon This game is fast-paced and surprisingly competitive. Players race to read words hidden in circles and shout them out, which sounds easy until it’s not. Every card features a Disney character, which keeps things fun. It’s great for family game night and works for a wide age range. View on Amazon Ravensburger Disney Eye Found It Board Game — 27% OFF ©Amazon This cooperative game takes players through multiple Disney worlds on a massive game board. Everyone works together to find hidden objects, which makes it feel low-pressure but still engaging. It’s quick to learn, visually fun, and perfect for younger Disney fans. View on Amazon Laughing Stitch Dice Games — 30% OFF ©Amazon This game is chaotic in the best way. Stitch plays music, laughs, and gets passed around while players try not to be holding him at the wrong moment. It’s loud, silly, and guaranteed to make people laugh. It’s especially great for kids who love interactive toys with personality. View on Amazon Hasbro Gaming Clue: Disney Villains Edition Board Game — 37% OFF ©Amazon Classic Clue gets a villain makeover, and it works so well. Players solve a mystery involving stolen magic while moving through villain lairs and dealing with Chaos Cards. It’s familiar enough to jump right in but different enough to feel fresh, especially for Disney fans who love the villains just a little more than the heroes. View on Amazon We’re always on the hunt for the latest and greatest Disney souvenirs and essentials, so don’t forget to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more! View the full article

Traveling this holiday season has been wild in Orlando! Flying with Southwest It’s no secret that flying during the holiday season is crazy, but no one would expect it to be THIS crazy at the Orlando International Airport. We’re not talking about it being busy; we’re talking about the absurd amount of cancellations and delays! Christmas Day has come and gone, and now people are headed back home from their Disney World vacation or from visiting family. Or, so they thought they were going to be doing today! Orlando International Airport As of the time of reporting this, it’s not even noon, and there have been 284 delays and 35 cancellations at the Orlando International Airport! It’s an unfortunate situation and definitely not one that people traveling home after the holidays were anticipating. For the latest updates, keep an eye on your airline’s app, as that should provide the most accurate information about the status of your flight. While you wait, you can shop at the Disney Store in the airport! Storms are hitting several areas of the country, resulting in delays at airports all over. MCO Airport Security From delays and cancellations to expansion talk, the Orlando Airport has been flooded with news. MCO is about to undergo a Concession Master Plan that will be opening in phases, bringing more than 40 new retail and dining locations to MCO starting in the summer of 2026 until late 2028. ©MCO The airport will also be undergoing changes to the terminals, the tram service, the rental car lobby, and more. It’s going to be a busy time at MCO! Terminal C at MCO Planning a trip to Disney World for 2026? The agents at Small World Vacations know how to save money on your Disney Vacation! When you book your trip with Small World Vacations, their experienced agents monitor your reservation for possible future savings. They also compare discounts and figure out which one works best for your travel party, dates, resort, and touring plans. And they share expert tips and first-hand advice with you about your magical vacation. We’re always checking in on what’s going on at the Orlando Airport — and there’s a lot that’s going on. Make sure to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog so you can get the latest news and updates to make sure your travel is as easy as possible! The Orlando International Airport Announces 13 Restaurants Coming by 2027 Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Do you have any travel plans coming up? Let us know in the comments. View the full article

Bloomberg recently polled 700 industry experts, asking them a variety of questions, including one we were particularly interested in: Who will be the CEO of Disney in 2027? The Walt Disney Company Currently, Bob Iger is the CEO of The Walt Disney Company, but all eyes are on the eventual succession to a new CEO. Back in November 2022, when Bob Chapek was ousted as CEO and replaced by Bob Iger (who had previously been the CEO), it was stated that Bob Iger would serve as CEO for just 2 years. However, in July 2023, the Board of Directors unanimously voted to extend Iger’s contract through December 31st, 2026. Disney has spoken about the eventual succession quite a bit, especially during shareholder calls; however, the individual who will be replacing Iger has not been officially announced. Iger has said he has been very involved in the process. The hunt for the new CEO has been underway since 2023, and Disney has confirmed that the new CEO’s name will be revealed in early 2026. Back in October of this year, Bloomberg released a report suggesting that Disney has narrowed the search to the final two: Josh D’Amaro and Dana Walden. Josh D’Amaro is the Chairman of Disney Experiences, and Dana Walden is the Co-Chairman of Disney Entertainment. Dana Walden ©Disney Previous contenders such as ESPN head Jimmy Pitaro and Walt Disney Studios co-head Alan Bergman were considered “long shots,” according to sources within the company. Between Josh D’Amaro and Dana Walden, the report suggested that Josh D’Amaro was the clear leader. Now we are getting another look at who might be taking the reins of The Walt Disney Company in 2027. Bloomberg polled 700 industry experts to find out who they thought would be Disney’s next CEO. Bob Iger and Josh D’Amaro address media at Walt Disney Imagineering event Of the 700 respondents, 212 believed Josh D’Amaro would be next, 159 thought it would be Dana Walden, and 126 thought Bob Iger would remain CEO. Additionally, 109 thought there would be Co-CEOs, 63 thought it would be an outsider, and 39 thought it would be another Disney candidate. In the previous polls done by Bloomberg, Walden was the top answer, but that has changed in this year’s poll. ©Bloomberg The topic of who will be Disney’s next CEO has been talked about A LOT, and based on Disney’s previous comments, we will likely find out Bob Iger’s successor in early 2026. Will Josh D’Amaro or Dana Walden be taking control? Will it be someone else? Will Bob Iger get his contract extended once again? Only time will tell! Of course, we will keep you updated as we learn more about the future of The Walt Disney Company. ©Bloomberg We are always keeping an eye on the latest Disney news, so make sure to stay tuned to DFB for all the Disney happenings! 4 Critical Changes We Hope Disney World Makes in 2026 Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Who do you think will become Disney’s next CEO? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

When Disney first announced that it was building a Monsters, Inc. land in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, we were pretty excited. However, when we learned that we were FINALLY getting the roller coaster of our dreams, one based on the iconic doors scene in that movie, we were beyond thrilled. ©Disney Ever since, we’ve been following along with the development of this new land (briefly pausing, though, to mourn the closing of Muppets Courtyard). We’ve seen just how massive the new roller coaster is going to be, but now we’ve got a brand new look at construction on the new ride. Here’s another look at the concrete floor. According to @bioreconstruct: “An auger was in this site, worked right to left (in this viewpoint) to drill holes that were filled with concrete. Resulting pilings partially excavated at left. Cut to height, floor cast on top.” Again, we’re blown away by the sheer size of this attraction. ©bioreconstruct Here’s a close-up of the concrete pillars on the site. ©bioreconstruct After the concrete floor was poured, it was covered with protective plastic. You can also see workers preparing concrete forms for the next section of the floor for the ride. ©bioreconstruct Here’s another view of another part of the new Monsters, Inc. land. As you can see, Muppets Courtyard has pretty much been given a complete overhaul and looks SO different now. ©bioreconstruct Here’s a look at the former Muppet*Vision 3D Theater, set to turn into the Glob Theater (based on the concept art), which will offer a new show in the new land. You can already see some of the exterior changes that have been made. ©bioreconstruct Construction is coming right along with the new land. Disney has not yet revealed an opening timeline, but we’re keeping an eye on the progress, so be sure to keep following us to stay updated. NEW LOOK Behind the Scenes at Monsters, Inc. Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What do you think of this new land so far? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

Hey, y’all! We’ve been going to Disney World nearly every day for YEARS, and yet, there’s still one snack dilemma we just cannot wrap our minds around. If you’re new here, we at DisneyFoodBlog are Disney World food lovers to the extreme. We’re very intimately familiar with every snack option available at Disney World, and we absolutely love trying all the new food items that Disney releases at the parks. Plus, we really enjoy sharing them all with you guys! Can’t have breakfast without Mickey waffles! Giving you our honest and impartial thoughts on all the snacks so you can narrow down your must-trys is truly what brings us joy. So, as we’ve been snacking our way through Disney World to bring you all the latest info, we’ve noticed one snack in particular that is still SHOCKINGLY difficult to find at the parks, even though it’s truly an ICONIC fan favorite. We’re not really sure what to make of it, but we wanted to let you know the TWO places in all four theme parks that you can get them (because we know you’ll want to). Why are the small, fluffy Mickey waffles SO hard to find at the Disney World parks? We don’t really know why Disney hasn’t brought them to more quick-service locations in the parks, but we would absolutely love them to. We would LOVE to buy more of Mickey’s face on waffles; wouldn’t you? Mickey waffles seem like a no-brainer for a snack in the Disney World theme parks, and yet, there are only TWO places you can find them in all four parks. Everywhere else you can find them is at a Disney World Resort hotel. Churro Mickey Waffles! The first place you can grab the small, fluffy Mickey Waffles in the parks is at Fairfax Fare in Hollywood Studios. This quick-service restaurant offers a Mickey waffle platter for breakfast. For $9.79, you get three Mickey waffles served with syrup and bacon. It’s like the ultimate Disney-themed breakfast, and it’s only one of two places you can get these waffles. We don’t know if this was some kind of in-the-parks Mickey waffle experiment that failed, and now we don’t get Mickey waffles anywhere else, or what the reason is for them being here and almost NOWHERE else, but it’s pretty disappointing. Waffle platter The other location that you can get these Mickey Waffles in the parks is at The Crystal Palace in Magic Kingdom. This is a character breakfast buffet, so it’s a bit more expensive and generally requires a reservation. The buffet comes with a wide variety of breakfast items, including Mickey waffles, biscuits and gravy, pancakes, bacon, and more. Unfortunately, there is no quick-service spot in Magic Kingdom that offers Mickey waffles. Mickey waffles are available on the buffet Think about all the awesome ways Disney could serve Mickey waffles as snacks around the theme parks. We could get Mickey waffles on a stick, Mickey waffles stuffed with fried chicken on a stick (like at Café Rix at Coronado Springs Resort), churro Mickey waffles, Mickey waffles stuffed with fruit and topped with whipped cream, and more. There are seriously endless ways to offer Mickey waffles as snacks at quick-service restaurants or snack kiosks all around the parks. It’s wild that Disney hasn’t thought to capitalize on Mickey’s face in this way. Why can’t we have Chicken-Stuffed Mickey Waffles in the parks?? Granted, they did offer giant Mickey waffles at Sleepy Hollow in Magic Kingdom briefly, but these have now returned to the non-Mickey version. We do prefer the original waffle in this case. The Mickey waffles at Sleepy Hollow didn’t really lend themselves to the fun waffle sandwiches that you can make out of the original waffles and toppings there. Sleepy Hollow Mickey Waffle We’re still not really sure why Disney isn’t trying to sell more of Mickey’s face on waffles, but we’re hoping that someday there will be more availability of these iconic snacks. In the meantime, you can grab them in the parks at Fairfax Fare (Hollywood Studios) and The Crystal Palace (Magic Kingdom), along with various locations at the Disney World Resort Hotels. For a full snack guide, check out the DFB Store, and for all your latest Disney news and food reviews(!!), keep following DFB! Your 2026 Disney World Hotel Strategy Needs To CHANGE Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Would you eat Mickey waffles if they were more available in the parks? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

We are eagerly awaiting our chance to battle Emperor Zurg once again and attempt to become a Galactic Hero in Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin in Magic Kingdom. The point-and-shoot attraction is currently undergoing refurbishment, and it is expected to reopen in spring 2026. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin This popular attraction is getting quite a few changes during its refurbishment! There will be new ride vehicles, new targets, new blasters, and a new character! Walt Disney Imagineering recently shared a new look at the ride’s latest character, Buddy, and we are getting even more excited for the reopening. Mike says that Buddy is optimistic, encouraging, and as confident in our skills as she is in us. Buddy is a support bot at Star Command, and she helps us to get ready for our mission by making sure blasters are calibrated, ensuring our star cruisers are ready to go, and giving us the chance to have some target practice. ©Disney Buddy has a youthful energy that is trapped inside her big, robot body. She brings a feeling of play and excitement that you get to go on an adventure with your hero! ©Disney You can even spot a nod to the “If You Had Wings” attraction on Buddy. This attraction used to be located in the space now occupied by Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin. We always love learning about the easter eggs that Imagineers incorporate into attractions! ©Disney Buddy isn’t the only thing coming to Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin! The ride will also be getting new ride vehicles, with designs inspired by Buzz Lightyear. The vehicles will also have video monitors that provide real-time scoring updates and other features. New ride vehicle for Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin There will also be new targets. Before, the targets were static, but new technology will allow them to react and light up when you hit them. Plus, there will also be new blasters! These will be handheld blasters, so you can move around more freely. They will also include an always-on laser and come in two different colors (one for each guest in the vehicle). ©Disney We are in the Disney parks every single day, and we are always on the lookout for the newest Disney news! Whether you are planning your next Disney trip or just love seeing the newest Disney news, make sure to stay tuned to DFB. I’ve Tried Every Ride Hack in Magic Kingdom, And I’m Sharing the 3 That Work Every Time Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you excited for the changes coming to Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! View the full article

Relocations, renovations, expansions, returns and farewells: There was a lot of moving and shaking going on all year on Orlando’s arts scene. Here’s a look at what made headlines throughout 2025. JANUARY: Pictured at the entrance to the Lowndes Shakespeare Center, Jim Helsinger celebrates his 30th year with Orlando Shakes. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel) JANUARY Orlando Museum of Art found itself party to a curious lawsuit at the start of the year. The owners of artwork attributed to Jean-Michel Basquiat, which was seized by the FBI while on view at the museum in 2022, sued their insurance company over the $19.7 million claim they filed on the art. The insurer refused to pay, citing in part the doubts that the art is legitimate, and the case remains unresolved. In related news, Aaron De Groft, the museum director during the ill-fated Basquiat scandal, died at age 59 of undisclosed causes. He had been fired after the FBI raid, and later sued the museum, which in turn had sued him. Following his death, both lawsuits were dropped. In local leadership news, Jim Helsinger celebrated 30 years as artistic director of Orlando Shakes, and Orlando’s Playwrights’ Round Table, growing as an organization, named Chuck Dent as its first executive director. FEBRUARY: The Blue Man Group performs in downtown Orlando during Immerse 2025. (Patrick Connolly/Orlando Sentinel) FEBRUARY The free Immerse arts festival returned to the streets of downtown Orlando for a 10th installment after a three-year hiatus, bolstered by more financial backing from city and county government. On a far more somber note, Central Florida cultural leaders took their place on the world stage. Representatives of the Holocaust Memorial Resource and Education Center in Maitland joined dignitaries, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Britain’s King Charles III, in Poland for ceremonies marking the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz extermination camp. MARCH: Alan Jackson played to a packed Kia Center crowd during his Orlando stop on his "Last Call: One More for the Road" tour. (Rich Pope/Orlando Sentinel) MARCH Orlando Shakes hired former Orlando Ballet executive director Cheryl Collins as its new executive director, and the Melon Patch Players in Leesburg moved into a new home: The old Tropic Theatre in the heart of the Lake County city’s downtown. Meanwhile, country superstar Alan Jackson bid Orlando farewell with a rip-roaring concert at Orlando’s Kia Center on his final tour before retirement. APRIL: The “Cobalt and Citron Tower,” the centerpiece under the skylight in the Council of 101 Grand Gallery by world-renowned artist Dale Chihuly, will stay in place for the next decade. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel) APRIL The uniquely intimate Theater on the Edge reopened in its venue south of downtown after a three-year hiatus, while the music stopped at Jellyrolls dueling piano bar when Walt Disney World closed the establishment. Jellyrolls representatives spent the rest of the year looking for a new location, but haven’t announced a reopening yet. Staying put is the “Cobalt and Citron Tower,” the Dale Chihuly glass sculpture that serves as the centerpiece of Orlando Museum of Art’s atrium. The museum announced a new loan agreement with the Lowndes law firm that will keep the sculpture sparkling in Orlando for 10 more years. Orlando Gay Chorus marked 35 years of making music, while Central Florida Central Arts made interim executive director Justin Muchoney’s leadership of that musical organization official. The city of Winter Garden announced new plans for the vacant Garden Theatre that did not include a theater season, as many had hoped. And in a sign of the political climate, Orange County canceled its diversity, equity and inclusion grant program for cultural organizations. MAY: Pastor Alltalk (Thandolwethu Mamba) leads a lively call-and-response number in the Opera Orlando production of "Treemonisha." (Courtesy Ashleigh Ann Gardner via Opera Orlando) MAY After disappointing patronage for the 2024 Orlando Fringe Festival, attendance stabilized at the Loch Haven Park-based theater extravaganza, with about 55,000 festivalgoers spending $467,225 on tickets. In a joyous and jubilant production, Opera Orlando presented the Florida premiere of “Treemonisha,” a historically significant “forgotten opera” from rag king Scott Joplin that was written more than a century ago. Blue Bamboo Arts Center opened in the former Winter Park Library. And actors, singers and dancers found new roles in theme parks as Universal Orlando opened Epic Universe, with interactive character meet-and-greets and two new high-tech theatrical shows themed to “How to Train Your Dragon” and the Harry Potter “Fantastic Beasts” franchise. Not to be outdone, Walt Disney World reopened a revamped version of its “Little Mermaid” stage show and debuted a production themed to Disney villains. JUNE: Scotty Jordan performs in the courtyard at Church Street Market in downtown Orlando as a part of the DTOLive! program on June 25. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel) JUNE DTOLive, the initiative that brings free live music, art exhibits and other forms of entertainment to downtown Orlando’s public spaces, was renewed for a second year. The program, a partnership between United Arts of Central Florida and Orlando’s Downtown Development Board, provided hundreds of free performances during its first year. Orlando Museum of Art’s Council of 101 raised a record amount of money, presenting the institution with $540,000. And International Drive got a new dinner-theater show when “The Speakeasy Murder” opened for (funny) business. JULY: Orlando's Ginger Minj, the flashy alter ego of Joshua Eads, won "RuPaul's Drag Race All-Stars." (Santiago Felipe/Getty Images for MTV) JULY Ginger Minj, the drag persona of Orlando resident Joshua Eads, won the 10th season of “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars.” She would later kick off her nationwide “Hokus Pokus Live” tour here in the City Beautiful. Enzian Theater hired Wade Neal as its new executive director, and arts groups were caught by surprise as the state suddenly changed the way it distributed grant money — the first of other changes that left most cultural organizations worse off. AUGUST: Purple ducks dotted the Central Florida landscape in honor of Orlando Family Stage's centennial. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel) AUGUST Celebrating its 10th season, the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts announced a multimillion-dollar expansion onto property near its downtown campus, which could see a new theater join the existing halls. Meanwhile, also celebrating 10 years, Opera Orlando moved into a new headquarters in west Orlando. A new community choir joined the cultural landscape as Lake County Arts started up with singers rehearsing in Clermont. And purple ducks popped up around Central Florida as part of Orlando Family Stage’s centennial celebration. SEPTEMBER: Revelers dance to the beat of the drums at the fifth Latin Performing Arts Festival, presented at Maitland Art Center by Winter Park-based Open Scene in September 2025. (Courtesy Open Scene) SEPTEMBER Open Scene’s fifth Latin Performing Arts Festival, relocated to Maitland Art Center and for the first time presented for free, was hugely successful with patrons literally dancing in the streets. The historic Maitland Art Center was also in the news when it announced a major expansion, its first in more than 50 years; the project broke ground the following month. Also getting a facelift: Osceola Arts in Kissimmee, which announced it would close for a year to undergo a transformative $16 million remodel. Meanwhile, in Orlando, the Renaissance Theatre was forced out of its home when the city shut down the venue for code violations. The Ren would close out the year with performances in the former Fringe ArtSpace venue on Church Street. OCTOBER: There's quite a kerfuffle in Edward Gorey's "The Bug Book," part of "Phantasmagoria XVI: Hauntingly Whimsical Tales." (Courtesy Chris Bridges via Phantasmagoria) OCTOBER Orlando’s Phantasmagoria troupe became part of the national celebration of the centenary of writer-illustrator-designer Edward Gorey with the world premiere of a theatrical adaptation of his stories. In Winter Park, the Rollins Museum of Art broke ground on its new, much larger downtown facility. Also on the move: Capone’s Dinner & Show brought more actors to International Drive when the long-running Kissimmee theatrical attraction reopened in a new location at Dezerland Park. And Central Florida Vocal Arts called off a plan to rent space from Blue Bamboo Arts Center, forcing the organization to scale back a critical Orange County grant. Speaking of Blue Bamboo, founder Chris Cortez stepped down from the organization to focus on his health. At the Dr. Phillips Center, former board chairman Jim Pugh was honored for his visionary and dogged work in bringing the arts center to fruition, while National Geographic named the center’s much-lauded Steinmetz Hall one of the world’s most remarkable theaters. A pair of anniversaries were celebrated: Crealdé School of Art in Winter Park celebrated its golden anniversary by opening the exhibit “Crealdé at 50,” and acclaimed Orlando vocal group Voctave celebrated its 10th anniversary with a Steinmetz Hall concert. NOVEMBER: Sleuths Mystery Dinner Shows, a longtime haven for Orlando's actors, closed for good. (Orlando Sentinel file photo) NOVEMBER After 35 years of entertaining guests with madcap mysteries, Sleuths Mystery Dinner Shows staged its last whodunit on Nov 4. A pair of projects, set in Orlando, underperformed on the national stage. The movie “Christy,” about Central Florida boxer Christy Martin’s triumph over domestic abuse, struck a chord with its audiences — but was a financial flop. Broadway musical “Queen of Versailles,” telling the story of Jackie Siegel’s quest to build the country’s largest private home in Windermere, opened Nov. 9 after a Boston tryout and a month of previews in New York City — but closed Dec. 21 after just 65 performances. Closer to home, the Annie Russell Theatre at Rollins College debuted a play about famed Eatonville author Zora Neale Hurston, the Roth Jewish Community Center in southwest Orlando debuted its refreshed Pargh Event Center, and The Center debuted Q Fest, a theater and film festival celebrating Central Florida’s queer community. Two more anniversaries were marked: Timucua Arts Foundation turned 25, and Central Florida Community Arts celebrated its 15th season. DECEMBER: The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts introduced the Frontyard Holiday Festival. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel) DECEMBER The Dr. Phillips Center unveiled a free Frontyard Holiday Festival, with food, drink, movies, live performances, snow and Santa, while Opera Orlando presented free performances of its popular “All Is Calm” as a community gift. In the face of so much funding uncertainty, United Arts of Central Florida set the highest goal ever — $10 million — for the region’s most important cultural fundraiser. And in a salute to the 60th anniversary of the “Charlie Brown Christmas” TV special and Orlando Family Stage’s local and national productions of the stage adaptation, Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings proclaimed Dec. 9 “A Charlie Brown Christmas Day” locally. Artist Grady Kimsey, honored as an Art Legend of Orange County, is pictured surrounded by his work. (Courtesy r. smith) IN MEMORIAM Central Florida lost many contributors to its cultural landscape this year. Among them: Actor Yara Williams, who died in February; drag artist Chadwick Pace, known as Divine Grace, who died in April; Snap! founder and art curator Patrick Kahn, who died in April; dance pioneer and Orlando Ballet forefather Russell Sultzbach, who died in May; acclaimed artist Grady Kimsey, who died in July; playwright and food writer Joseph Hayes, who died in July; artist and arts writer Josh Garrick, who died in September; and drag artist Addison Taylor, who died in December. mpalm@orlandosentinel.com View the full article

Disney World snacks are famous for many things! Some of them are delicious and life-changing, while others are mainly for photos. Mickey Mango! As Disney World grows and changes, so do its food options! One of our favorite classic dessert spots in Disney’s Animal Kingdom has a new Mickey-shaped treat that literally stopped us in our tracks. Animal Kingdom’s food has been seriously surprising us lately! While some classic spots have closed forever, others like Zuri’s Sweet Shop still remain. Zuri’s Sweets! This shop has tons of Disney desserts like cookies, caramel apples, marshmallow wands, and more! During our recent stop by the shop, a new Mickey-shaped treat caught our eye. Look at all those treats! We tested out the Mickey Mango Coconut Bark for $5.29! Have you ever dreamed about eating your hair conditioner or bar soap that smells like coconut and other tropical fruits? That might sound insane, but we mean it! This mango coconut bark gives you the experience of what you wish that conditioner or soap would taste like in a fantasy alternate universe. Let us be clear, this is a good thing! The Mickey Mango! This might look like a bar of soap, which made us literally stop in our tracks. Our first bite reminded us of sweet cosmetic flavors. The texture was super soft and easy to bite into while still holding its shape and being firm. This was absolutely delicious! It was like a mango-flavor fudge with coconut flakes inside. It was seriously tropical, so it might not be for everyone. The coconut flavor was sweet, but it wasn’t fake or off-putting, which we have experienced in the past. The inside! While it was delicious, it might be a bit pricey for the size. If you’re an annual passholder, DVC member, or someone with a Disney discount, Zuri’s is considered a store rather than a quick service, so you can use your discounts here. This treat gave us some real childhood closure, plus it gave us another tasty Mickey-shaped treat, which we crave in the parks! How pretty! This is a nice little sweet to test out before hopping on your next safari ride. This is just one of thousands of amazing treats around Disney World, so be sure to keep following DFB for more snack and dining reviews! MEGA REVIEW: 6 NEW Snacks Just Arrived in Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and We Tried Them ALL Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Would you try this? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

I’ve been going to Disney World for decades, and I have found the restaurants I will visit over and over again each trip. However, with that, I’ve been known to make this dining mistake, and I bet you have too! Our meal at Columbia Harbour House If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably fallen into a Disney dining comfort zone without even realizing it. You find those restaurants that are reliable and delicious. Suddenly, you’re eating there every trip. But with so many incredible restaurants across Disney World, it really is worth changing things up now and then. Of course, that’s easier said than done when you have favorites you want to revisit every time. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Food Updates If Disney’s Animal Kingdom is your go-to for a midday feast, you’ve probably noticed things look a little…different lately. As of October 20, 2025, Harambe Market is officially temporarily closed. The good news? It’s coming back in early 2026 with a refreshed menu and offerings similar to what Restaurantosaurus has traditionally served. During the closure, guests can find similar offerings at Kusafiri Coffee Shop & Bakery, which has temporarily expanded its food lineup. When Harambe Market reopens, guests can expect typical theme park food like burgers and chicken tenders. This is a bummer, though, because Harambe Market was serving more unique flavors and dishes that you can’t find just anywhere in the parks. Meal from Harambe Market And about that guilt? Our reader, Pip Bx, summed it up perfectly. “I should have made an effort to eat at Harambe more often. Pandora always gets me with the bowls, pods, and AC. Now I have guilt lol.” Relatable. Chimichurri Braised Beef Noodles from Satu’li Canteen Restaurantosaurus will close on February 2nd, 2026, to make way for Pueblo Esperanza construction. Two longtime quick-service locations have already closed in Dinoland, Dino-Bite Snacks and Trilo-Bites. A few items found here have been relocated, like our beloved Buffalo Chicken Chips, which are now found at Eight Spoon Café. Buffalo Chicken Chips Hidden Dining Gems You Might Be Overlooking Even the most seasoned Disney foodies have blind spots, and some restaurants fly under the radar simply because they’re not on the main path or overshadowed by their favorite options. Here are some hidden gems in each park to help you branch out on your next visit. Magic Kingdom If comfort food is your love language and you’re in Magic Kingdom, Liberty Tree Tavern should be on your list. This table-service spot serves an all-you-care-to-enjoy feast of turkey, pot roast, roasted pork, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and that iconic Ooey Gooey Toffee Cake. It’s hearty, consistently excellent, and perfect on a long park day, but many guests skip it because it’s tucked away in Liberty Square. It’s also a great value for your money. Read about our Latest Liberty Tree Tavern Here The Patriot’s Platter Skipper Canteen is quirky, flavorful, and full of Jungle Cruise-style humor, yet many guests don’t realize how good the food is. With a menu inspired by the flavors of Asia, South America, and Africa, dishes like the “Tastes Like Chicken…Because It Is!” or the Falls Family Falafel make this one of the most unique dining experiences in the park. If you want something more adventurous than chicken nuggets, this is your spot. You Can Read Our Latest Review Here Our Skipper Canteen spread EPCOT While many EPCOT visitors sprint to San Angel Inn, they often forget about its quick-service sibling right outside. La Cantina de San Angel serves generous portions of tacos, bowls, and more. It’s fast, flavorful, and has beautiful waterside seating with views of World Showcase Lagoon. It also offers indoor seating during the daytime, which is a huge win! Read Our Last Review of La Cantina Here Taco Trio One of EPCOT’s newer additions, Shiki-Sai, is a true hidden gem. Located in the Japan Pavilion upstairs, this table-service restaurant offers a seasonally rotating menu, stunning sushi presentations, and cozy izakaya-style dining. It’s one of the most beautifully themed and highest-quality dining experiences in EPCOT, but because it’s newer and tucked upstairs, many guests still haven’t discovered it. Read our Last Review of Shiki-Sai Here! Sushi Boat Disney’s Hollywood Studios We know, quick service at Hollywood Studios has a spotty reputation. But ABC Commissary continues to be the exception. With lighter, fresher dishes (think grilled chicken salads, shrimp tacos, and a surprisingly good buffalo sandwich), this spot is reliable, spacious, and usually easier to grab a seat in than other locations. It’s the perfect escape when you need AC and something beyond burgers and pizza. See Our Thoughts on ABC Commissary Here ABC Commissary burger It’s completely normal to fall for a spot like Satu’li Canteen or Columbia Harbour House and want to return every trip, but as we know, nothing in Disney World is guaranteed to stay the same forever. Exploring new restaurants might give you a new favorite place. For more Disney dining tips, be sure to follow us at DFB! REVIEW: Why You Should Skip Disney World’s Be Our Guest Restaurant and Eat HERE Instead Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What is a restaurant that is on your list to try at Disney World, but you haven’t been able to yet? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

The new year is bringing tons of changes to Disney World — including some of its perks! Typhoon Lagoon We LOVE a good Disney World perk, and Disney World gave us a really useful hotel perk in 2025 that allows any guest staying at a Disney World resort hotel FREE ENTRY into one of Disney’s two water parks. While the perk was available year-round in 2025, that’s about to change beginning next week. Previously, the perk stated that any person staying at a Disney World hotel (and the entire party on the reservation) gets free entry into Blizzard Beach or Typhoon Lagoon ONLY on check-in day. While that’s remaining true in 2026, the perk is about to get EVEN MORE limited. Typhoon Lagoon Per Disney, the hotel/water park perk will be limited to specific summer dates ONLY. As of this writing, Disney has yet to release the eligible dates. It has teased that an announcement will come in 2026. If you’re looking to take advantage of this perk starting January 1st, 2026, you’ll be limited to said allotted summer dates. Blizzard Beach This water park perk has been controversial enough WITHOUT this limitation. The perk only allows access on check-in day — which isn’t ideal if you’ve been traveling or don’t want to jump into a Disney day before your room is even ready. Access is also subject to availability and dependent on the weather, so there’s a chance you won’t be able to take advantage of your perk if the stars don’t align. It also doesn’t help that tickets are also nontransferable, meaning you lose them on check-in day or lose them. Blizzard Beach If you’re looking to take advantage of this perk in 2026, the following hotels will grant you eligibility: Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort – A Disney Vacation Club Resort The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort Disney’s All-Star Music Resort Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village Disney’s Art of Animation Resort Disney’s Beach Club Resort Disney’s Beach Club Villas Disney’s BoardWalk Inn Disney’s BoardWalk Villas Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort Disney’s Contemporary Resort Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Disney’s Old Key West Resort Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows Disney’s Pop Century Resort Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Disney’s Yacht Club Resort Disney’s Riviera Resort The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Stitch at Typhoon Lagoon Disney perks change and are added all the time, so keep it posted right here for all the latest Disney World updates! I Finally Tried This “Secret” Disney Hotel Perk — And It’s a Game Changer How are you feeling about the water park perk changes? Share your thoughts in the comments below! View the full article

We are in the parks every single day, and along the way, we have tested out lots and lots of products. We are always on the hunt for the best Disney essentials at the best price point. Planning a Disney vacation can feel overwhelming, but we are here to help with tips and tricks, plus our tried-and-true Disney essentials. Magic Kingdom We spotted some of our favorites on sale on Amazon today, and, of course, we needed to let you know! These are items we have tested and now use on all our Disney trips. There is no better time than now to snag them for your next trip. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Our favorite Disney essentials are on sale! But not for long! Head over to Amazon today to snag some deals on some of our favorites for Disney trips. Grab this FROGG TOGGS Poncho Frogg Toggs Poncho This is our favorite poncho we have tried, and right now you can get it for less than $15. It protects you from the rain while still being more breathable than other ponchos. Plus, it fits into a travel pouch so you can easily pack it or throw it into your park bag. It is also available in a variety of colors. Get this poncho here! Get this Flat Plug Power Strip Flat Plug Power Strip Outlets are hot commodities in hotel rooms, and with the number of devices most people have these days, you are going to quickly run out of outlet space. Multiply that by multiple people, and you’ll really want a power strip. We love this flat plug power strip because it is easy to pack and gives you seven more charging spots, so you can charge all your devices. Get this power strip here! Snag this Mini Umbrella BAODINI Travel Mini Umbrella When it rains, it pours, and we don’t want you being caught in the rain without some protection. We love this mini umbrella from BAODINI. It comes in a small case and is easy to throw into your park bag. Normal umbrellas can be cumbersome to carry all day, but this one offers good protection while remaining easy to carry. Get this mini umbrella here! Get the FuelRod Max 10 FuelRod Max 10 You will likely be using your phone a lot at Disney World. You will use it to look up wait times, make Lightning Lane reservations, view the park map, check showtimes, order food, take pictures, and so much more. Having a dead phone can be frustrating, so we recommend picking up the FuelRod Max 10. We have been SO impressed by how much charge this portable battery holds, and you can even exchange it for free at the Disney World parks if it runs out of charge. You can also grab it in the parks, but it costs $80 in-park and just $75 on Amazon! Get this FuelRod here! Get the Dreamegg Portable Noise Machine Dreamegg Portable Travel White Noise Machine When you are traveling, it can sometimes be challenging to get a good night’s sleep. There are lots of different noises around you, plus you are in a different location. We always make sure we have our Dreamegg Portable Noise Machine with us. It is super compact and offers 16 soothing sounds to help you sleep. It has been a game-changer for our Disney vacations! Get this Dreamegg here! Snag these Silicone Reusable Straws We LOOOVE these reusable straws! If paper straws just don’t do it for you, we highly recommend bringing a set of reusable straws with you to the parks! This set comes with 12 straws, carrying cases, and straw cleaners, so you will be set for your trip. No more drinking out of flimsy paper straws when you have these reusable straws! Get these reusable straws here! We are constantly testing new products in the parks and keeping an eye out for savings on our favorite Disney essentials. Stay tuned to DFB for more deals on our park bag essentials! View the full article

Traveling light is a skill and a talent, one that we might not have mastered, but we’ve certainly gained some experience with. We love flying in for a quick trip to Disney World with only our carry-on, and we have a few tried-and-true bags that fit under the seat. Snoffic Carry-On Backpack Whether you’re going for a weekend trip or just really hate the extra fees that come with checking your bag, you might want to consider one of these bags to make your next travel day even easier. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. First, we have this Travel Carry-On Backpack Snoffic Carry On Backpack We like this one because we can fully unzip the front so we can place our items in and pack it up. This is so much easier than going from the top down, and the inside even has zippered pockets, pouches, and a clip to keep your clothes in place. Check It Out HERE! There’s also this Rolling Luggage Carry-On ©Amazon Carrying a backpack through the airport not your thing? This might work! Even though it has wheels and a handle, it’s meant to fit under the seat in front of you since it’s only 17 inches. It’s also 44% off right now and only weighs 5 pounds. There are different pockets inside this one, too. Check It Out HERE! We like this Spinner Hardside Suitcase, too ©Amazon This one can fit in the overhead bin and comes in some pretty cool colors, so you know which one is yours. If you can’t tell already, I love organizing my backpack, and yes, there are zippered sections and pouches. It also has a TSA-approved lock in case you decide to check your bag, and it has a handle underneath to make it easy to slide into the overhead bin. Check It Out HERE! This Two-Set Carry-On might work well for you ©Amazon It comes with two suitcases, so you can put the bigger one in the overhead bin and keep the smaller one down below so you can access your personal items. I love how the small one slides onto the handle of the big one for easy rolling through the airport. The smaller bag is a laptop pouch that folds out, and there are plenty of zippered compartments. Check It Out HERE! We love this Hardside Spinner Carry-On, as well ©Amazon First off, it comes in pink; therefore, I have no complaints. The inside even has a fun design, which I almost never see! This suitcase is meant to be durable and has an adjustable handle so you can pick just the right height, versus other ones that only have one option. I love the hook on the back by the handles, so you can hang a backpack, and the expansion zipper when you’ve bought a few too many souvenirs. Check It Out HERE! Finally, this Carry-On Hardside Luggage has a cup holder ©Amazon Need I say anything else? It’s from Wrangler, so you know it’s durable, and there’s literally a cup holder on the back to put a coffee cup (or soda cup if you’re me). I also love the color options here, like this pretty lilac. It’s 20 inches, so you can fit it into the overhead bins with ease. Check It Out HERE! Traveling is never easy, but the right suitcase sure does make life easier. Make sure you keep following Disney Food Blog for more travel tips and tricks. View the full article

There’s no shortage of snacks available at Walt Disney World. From theme park staples like pretzels and popcorn to more unique seasonal offerings, there’s something for every palate… and every budget! ©Disney If you’re heading to Walt Disney World in 2026, these are some of the best snack values you can find at the “Most Magical Place on Earth. Funnel Cakes from Epic Eats Let’s begin with these funnel cakes from Epic Eats. This Hollywood Studios snack stand offers large plain funnel cakes, as well as heavily-topped flavorful options, including Strawberry Funnel Cake, Cookies ’n Cream Funnel Cake, and Caramel-Apple Pie Funnel Cakes. Caramel-Apple Funnel Cake Each of these funnel cakes is large and filling, all for under $10. They’re also eligible as a snack credit on the Disney Dining Plan. NEW FUNNEL CAKE ALERT! Is This Hollywood Studios Snack Worth Trying? Pineapple Upside Down Cake from Aloha Isle The Pineapple Upside Down Cake at Magic Kingdom’s Aloha Isle is a deliciously filling dish that combines a pineapple upside-down cake with your choice of Dole Whip Pineapple, Dole Whip Vanilla, or a swirl on top. Pineapple Upside-down Cake from Aloha Isle Refreshements This best of both worlds combo is available for about $7.50, or a DDP snack credit. Fans Rank Pineapple Upside Down Cake Among BEST Snacks in Magic Kingdom Souvenir Popcorn Bucket Refills In recent years, souvenir popcorn buckets have become one of Disney World’s most in-demand souvenirs, with both everyday buckets and special event items becoming more detailed, inventive, and collectible. The hood opens! However, they also provide a valuable snack option. See, when you buy a bucket for its retail price, it comes with a serving of popcorn. After that, you can get refills — equivalent to a serving — for about $3.00 a refill, which is roughly half the cost of a box. They’re DDP snack credit eligible as well. EPCOT Festival Snacks During EPCOT’s various festivals, the park’s seasonal booths offer a veritable smorgasbord of food offerings. Blackened Catfish While their portions usually aren’t large enough to act as a full meal, they’re more than filling as quick bites, and a value at somewhere around the $10-$15 range. Most are eligible for DDP snack credit use. REVIEW: This EPCOT Festival of the Holidays Booth Has Done It AGAIN! Flame Tree Seasonal Pie Pop Flame Tree BBQ at Animal Kingdom offers alternating seasonal pie pops for about $6.50 that are often some of our favorites. Previous flavors have included key lime and cranberry-cherry cheesecake. It’s SO good They are eligible for DDP snack credit use as well. MEGA REVIEW: 6 NEW Snacks Just Arrived in Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and We Tried Them ALL If you’re heading to Disney World next year, be sure to keep these snack options in mind to get the most bang for your buck. Stay tuned to DFB for more on Disney’s snack offerings. 2026 Dates You Should Know If You’re a Disney World Fan Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Which of these snacks is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article

This new Disney souvenir is BEGGING us to buy it…even if our wallets vehemently disagree… ©Disney We’ve seen just about every Disney souvenir, but once in a while, one comes along that blows our socks off. While we appreciate the classics like Minnie ears and Disney pins, some Disney souvenirs are built differently. Sometimes, a souvenir comes along that costs MORE THAN A DISNEY WORLD ANNUAL PASS…and we kinda get it! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. This Buzz Lightyear Robot takes Disney souvenirs to the next level! ©Disney The Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Robotic Action Figure by Robosen is once again available online at the Disney Store website as a new offering! Designed to look like a Buzz Lightyear action figure, this figure actually comes to life with “incredible technology and engaging actions.” It even features eyes that move and a movable mouth, along with a dynamic voice! ©Disney That’s right — Buzz walks, talks, and does a whole bunch of movements! This robot features 23 built-in high-precision servo motors and 75 microchips that bring him to life. ©Disney He comes in a box designed like his rocket ship box from the Toy Story film franchise, and the set also includes a pre-installed footplate that features Andy’s signature, a blank footplate for you to add your own signature, and interchangeable hands. Of course, this expensive set also includes a charging plate and a cord so you can give Buzz the energy he needs! ©Disney We mentioned this robot is expensive and we ain’t lying. It currently costs $699 before tax and shipping online at the Disney Store. Oof… By comparison, the Disney Pixie Dust Pass costs $489 plus tax, so it’s fair to have lofty expectations for this incredible Disney souvenir. You can pick yours up today online at the Disney Store! VIEW ONLINE AT THE DISNEY STORE We’re always on the lookout for incredible Disney souvenir finds, so keep it posted right here at DFB for all the latest updates! View the full article

A trip to Disney World can feel like anything BUT a vacation. Long days, lots of walking, and so many thrills can make you feel exhausted at the end of a long day. Trust us, we know just how tired Disney tired can be. A long day at the park may not always feel like a vacation. When you’re spending your vacation at Disney World, you’ll want to pack a few days’ worth of loungewear. These sets should be things you’ll feel cozy, comfy, and relaxed in after a long day at the parks. Better yet, pack items that you would enjoy chilling in for your entire day off from the parks (because a mid-vacation chill day is always a good idea at Disney World). Luckily, we have just the loungewear sets for your next trip! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Get the Coziest Ribbed Pajama Set ©Amazon After a long day at the parks, hop into this cozy set of pajamas, turn on a chill movie, and snuggle into bed for the night. You’ll be comfortable and relaxed after hitting the parks all day long. View on Amazon This Oversized Tee and Biker Short Set Is Great for Disney World ©Amazon If you’re looking for something that’s super comfortable for a day in the parks, a lounging day, or a new pajama set, we think you’ll love this combo! It’s totally stylish enough to double as an outfit for out and about and comfy enough to be pajamas. View on Amazon We Love the Comfort and Style of This Set ©Amazon Add this set to your luggage for another great pajama set. We love the v-neck, button-down top, PLUS the pants have pockets! We’re dreaming of slipping into this set after walking 10+ miles at Magic Kingdom. View on Amazon Or, You Can Grab This Oversized Set to Lounge in ©Amazon We LOVE an oversized pajama set! How adorable and comfy does this look? It’s soft and flowy, making it a great lounging outfit. View on Amazon Don’t Forget To Pack This Outfit This Winter! ©Amazon If you need a comfortable and warm outfit for those winter nights in Florida, this sweatsuit is just the thing (yes, it does get cold in Florida!). We love it for a night in the park or a night at the hotel. Either way, you’ll be warm and cozy! View on Amazon We’re Crushing on This Comfy Set ©Amazon Another great option for a chilly Florida winter night is this relaxed-fit loungewear set. It’s totally cute enough for an outing to Disney Springs on your day off from the parks. We would also wear it lounging around our room at the end of a long day. View on Amazon And Finally, Your New Favorite Pajamas ©Amazon A relaxed-fitting tee and short set is the perfect pajama set, in our opinion. You won’t get too hot or too cold while sleeping, and you’ll wake up looking adorable, too. At the end of the night, this is exactly what we’re looking forward to getting into! View on Amazon These loungewear sets are perfect for your next Disney World vacation! Stay comfortable on your trip to the parks, even after the exhaustingly long days. We’re always on the hunt for the latest and greatest Disney souvenirs and essentials, so stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more! View the full article

Finding the PERFECT Loungefly backpack for your Disney days can be a tricky task, but, fortunately, we’re here to help! We love Loungefly! You can literally find us at the Disney Parks every single day, testing out Disney essentials — including Disney Loungefly bags! Over the years, we’ve discovered some Loungefly bags that are PERFECT for those long and demanding days, and we’re sharing some of our picks with you! From great deals that you can get right now on Amazon to exclusives available online at BoxLunch, here are some Loungefly bags that are an ideal bring-along for your next Disney vacation. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Convertible Loungefly bags give you options during a long Disney day ©Amazon This Loungefly Minnie Mouse Checkered Texture Convertible Mini Backpack & Crossbody Bag features a classic Minnie Mouse style! It’s equipped with a detachable adjustable strap so you can switch up the style on the go, a checkerboard design, a bow and ears, and even a fun little bow zipper charm. We specifically love convertible bags like this during a long day because you can switch the style to match whatever is making you feel comfortable at the time. Want a backpack and your hands free? This bag will do that. Want a more stylish purse before your dining reservation? This bag will do that as well. VIEW ON AMAZON Don’t forget this nifty Loungefly upgrade! HOYOFO Mini Backpack Organizer We’re fans of this Mini Backpack Organizer Insert, as it helps keep us neatly organized during a chaotic park day. This accessory is lightweight, waterproof, and durable. Featuring several pockets and dividers, it’s super helpful and saves us a bunch of time since we no longer need to fumble through our bag to find essential items! VIEW ON AMAZON This tote bag is cute AND practical ©Amazon Another convertible option, the Loungefly Mickey & Friends Convertible Tote and Backpack is a versatile accessory that converts to a backpack with shoulder straps and a detachable strap, while featuring a truly timeless look. The front boasts an applique featuring Mickey, Pluto, and Minnie, while the back sports Donald, Daisy, and Goofy. Totes like this are ideal for days when we need to bring A LOT of essentials to the park. Its wider, taller, and customizable features just give you a lot more room to play with. The mini backpacks are fine, but bags like this that are able to hold more provide so much value during an incredibly long park day. VIEW ON AMAZON Fairy fans need to check out this next Loungefly backpack ©Amazon The Loungefly Pixie Hollow Mini Backpack glows in the dark and features Tinkerbell and her fairy friends “as they gather around the pixie dust tree!” The bag includes a fun zipper charm and some friendly ladybugs on the back and inside print, as well. Bags like this one are simple yet still keep you on theme. There are days when we just don’t want to deal with ornamental elements that could get damaged and be cumbersome during a long park day. Bags like this keep it simple while still giving you ample Disney flair. VIEW ON AMAZON This BoxLunch exclusive is too cute! ©BoxLunch The BoxLunch exclusive Loungefly Winnie the Pooh Canvas Mini Backpack features embroidered characters from the Hundred Acre Wood, matching icons, a bee pattern on the straps and pockets, and a “hunny” pot zipper charm! We’re really digging these larger Loungefly bags that maintain that famous cutesy vibe while giving you even more room to store essentials. We also dig canvas bags like this because they give you tons of durability and breathability, so we know our essentials are safe and not weighing us down during a hot Disney day. You can currently pre-order this adorable bag online. VIEW ONLINE AT BOXLUNCH Fans of Marvel’s Wallcrawler will love this last Loungefly ©Disney This Loungefly Spider-Man Suit Mini Backpack is designed to look just like the suit of our favorite Web-Head! Whether you’re trekking through Avengers Campus or want some added Marvel flair when you’re out and about, this Loungefly is a great everyday accessory! Again, we’re prioritizing simplicity over a dramatic bag with this one, but it’s chic, effective, and looks good whether we’re at the Disney Parks or going to the movie theater to see the newest Spider-Man movie! VIEW ON AMAZON What is your favorite Loungefly backpack? Let us know in the comments, and continue to follow us here at DFB for more Disney merch tips and updates! View the full article

2026 is gonna be a SOLID YEAR to plan that Universal Orlando vacation you’ve been wanting to take! But we have a few questions – In 2026, which Islands of Adventure land could be getting DEMOLISHED? Universal’s Islands of Adventure What NEW Express Pass feature is gonna be a GAME CHANGER this new year? And what HOT TIPS and HIDDEN GEMS are gonna add even MORE value to your next visit? We’re gonna REVEAL ALL during today’s ULTIMATE GUIDE. Check out our video below: Please Don’t Do This in Disney World Are you a DFB Video subscriber? If you hit the button below, you can subscribe to our channel and catch up on ALL of our latest episodes! And stay tuned for more theme park news! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What do you think of this video? Tell us in the comments. View the full article