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Night of Joy Artist Spotlight: Night of Joy | Walt Disney World View the full article

So you’re thinking about taking the kids overseas. And then you start having second thoughts. Will it be too much to manage with a family and kids? Sailing the new Adventures by Disney river cruise on the Danube proved to me that you can leave the worries behind you when you travel with Disney. Nearly a third of the guests on the river cruise I recently sailed on were children, tweens or teens. All of the parents I spoke with raved about how fast their children bonded with one another. It’s something I’ve seen every time I’ve been lucky enough to join an Adventure. Kids of all ages have fun with each other. And, you know what? They even find the moms and dads sorta cool again. Say what? Exploring a foreign land just gets easier when you meet people you instantly click with. And I’ve lost count of the number of families I’ve met who regularly travel together with Adventure by Disney after meeting on earlier trips. And that river cruise experience isn’t just a “tour;” it’s an adventure that neither kids nor parents will soon forget. Yes, you’ll visit palaces and landmarks, but in a completely fun and immersive way. You don’t just visit a Viennese palace; you’ll go there and learn how to make apple strudel. You’ll enter another palace through a mysterious underground entrance that was secretly used by the royal Hapsburg family. Today Adventures by Disney guests are the only ones who get to access the palace via this secret underground passage. That’s just one example of the exclusives you’ll find on this and all the other Adventures by Disney trips. And don’t be surprised if your kids grow a new affection for the arts. Ballroom dancing is way cooler when you learn it in a breathtaking, centuries-old ballroom. Believe it or not, all the kids (and adults) in our group were also spellbound by a performance Mozart’s “The Magic Flute” done with marionettes. It was just as much fun to go behind the scenes of the theater to see how it all worked and try our hands controlling the intricate puppets. Sailing the magnificent Wachau Valley with its storybook castles, churches and villages was a highlight. Another was visiting a family apricot farm and winery where we picked fresh apricots of the trees and sampled all kinds of apricot delights. During a tour of the wine cellar, the family’s daughter treated us to an impromptu performance of an Austrian folk song. Her angelic voice soared through the cavernous brick space that offered stunning acoustics. Perhaps the most impressive part of the trip was sailing along the Budapest waterfront at night with the city’s stunning landmarks brilliantly illuminated. There was much oohing and aahing and picture taking, as you’d expect. And I wasn’t the only one who watched as a father led his daughter in an impromptu waltz across the deck inspired by the setting and the classical music that was playing. Relatively few times does life present these kinds of experiences that are at once grand, intimate, shared and magical. This joyful moment was not the only one that would bring people to tears on our sailing. That’s the power of travel with Adventures by Disney. It offers magical, unforgettable experiences for every member of the family. It changes perspectives, and it brings families closer together. That’s a pretty good vacation by anyone’s measure. View the full article

One of the perks I miss about my old newspaper job, which I left two years ago, was sitting next to the food critic, Heather, who often invited me to test drive new restaurants. When you cook like I do, that is not an offer you pass up. So when Heather recently told me to check out a new restaurant... View the full article

If there’s one time of year a plethora of pirates can be spotted on dry land, it’s during Halloween time. And from Captain Hook to Captain Jack, who knows “pirates” better than Disney Parks? If you’re planning to sport a pirate look for Halloween this year, you don’t want to miss our very first DIY Halloween makeup tutorial of the year. In it, seasoned Cosmetologist Elizabeth Marcano offers up step-by-step directions on how you can create a perfectly scurvy pirate look using just a few pieces of makeup and tools you may already have at home. Here’s what you’ll need: 1 brown blush; 1 reddish brown blush; 1 black eye pencil; 1 red lipstick (dark red for light skin tones/bright red for dark skin tones); translucent powder and a sponge. Step-by-step directions are in the tutorial below. Elizabeth will be back next week to share makeup tips perfect for a female pirate. Want more Halloween DIY tips and tricks in the meantime? Check out our previous Halloween DIY tutorials below. Tower of Terror Bellhop Makeup Tutorial “Glamorous” Haunted Mansion Makeup Tutorial Haunted Mansion Maid Makeup Tutorial Make a “Witch Minnie” Candy Apple Create Your Own Haunted Mansion Butler Costume Pumpkin Carving Tips View the full article

Labor Day is behind us and fall is in the air. This season has always been my favorite, and this year, I’ve got two new reasons to embrace autumn thanks to my friends at House of Blues. If you enjoy a nice craft brew, you do, too! “Local Brews, Local Grooves”: On Saturday, September 10, 2016, House of Blues will host the 4th rendition of this popular event, mixing FL-based musicians with breweries that call the sunshine state home. As an attendee of a previous soiree, I can attest that whether you prefer ambers or ales, pilsners or ports, you’ll find something to suit your tastes. (Me? My latest beer crush is a super hoppy IPA, but I’m always willing to expand my horizons!) Featuring 15 craft breweries, there’s a good chance you’ll find a new favorite. And with four of the hottest local bands taking the stage, the $11 general admission price will feel like a steal. Sampling tickets are $3 each for guests ages 21+ and the event will take place 4 p.m. – 10:30 p.m., one day only. Featured Breweries: Barley Mow Brewing Co., Bold City Brewery, Central 28 Beer Co., Darwin Brewing Co., First Magnitude Brewing Co., Funky Buddha Brewery, JDUBS Brewing, M.I.A. Beer Company, Motorworks Brewing, Orange Blossom Brewing Co., Orlando Brewing, Original Sin Cider, Persimmon Hollow Brewing Co., Sweetwater Brewing Co., Two Henry’s Brewing Co. Tip: Advance Purchase VIP Packages are also available for those who want a more all-inclusive experience including admission for two, ten sampling tickets and two food vouchers. Big Storm Brewery Untapped Event: One of my favorite job perks? Being the first to know about awesome events taking place at Disney Springs. I recently got advance notice that the House of Blues Patio will become a haven for fans of Big Storm Brewery on Sunday, September 25, 2016. Taking place from 1 p.m. – 5 p.m., the event will feature Big Storm tastings and beer flights, with a live musician performing on the patio stage while you sip the day away. For full details on “Local Brews, Local Grooves,” visit http://www.houseofblues.com/orlando/localbrewslocalgrooves. Check the House of Blues website in the coming weeks for more details about the Big Storm Brewery Untapped Event. If you see me at either event, be sure to say “cheers!” View the full article

On my recent family trip to Walt Disney World, we decided that a visit to the Contempo Cafe was in order. Learn About: Contempo Cafe Disney World Restaurants Because guess what? When it comes to visiting Walt Disney World for vacation, we’re like any other family: we like to mix it up with a combo of table service and counter service restaurants. It keeps things interesting, but it saves us a little money, too. And of course, it’s all for the sake of research! Besides, some of my favorite foods at Disney World can be found at counter service spots. It’s not a trip to Disney World without visits to favorites like Captain Cook’s at the Polynesian, Restaurantosaurus at Animal Kingdom, Les Halles Boulangerie Patisserie in Epcot’s France, and many others. It may not be super-themed, but in my opinion, Contempo Cafe in Disney’s Contemporary Resort holds its own against any of these. Let’s check it out. Atmosphere You may have passed Contempo Cafe dozens of times without even knowing it — especially if you’re fond of riding the monorail to Magic Kingdom (and really, who isn’t). Monorail!! It’s located right next to the wildly popular Chef Mickey’s on the Grand Canyon Concourse in Disney’s Contemporary Resort Hotel. Contempo Cafe Entrance This is a seriously open floor plan. The Concourse really is kind of a boundary-free zone. Mary Blair Mural at the Contemporary Resort, a Beautiful Backdrop for the Contempo Cafe You’ll find Chef Mickey’s to one end, the Outer Rim Lounge to the left, and shops behind you. Low walls divide the Contempo’s seating area from the walkway to Chef Mickey’s. Contempo Cafe Seating It’s an area of extremes. During the middle of the day and late in the evening when Chef Mickey’s isn’t jumpin’ and the Parks are, it can be pretty quiet. Early in the morning and at dinner time, you’ll see crowds spike, and it can get pretty loud. Seating is basic and fairly comfortable. You probably won’t linger here. But you can if you’d like. Seating — Up Close But it’s the food, and not the surroundings, that’s the draw here. Let’s check out the eats for this go ’round. Eats Gone are the kiosks that you used at the Contempo Cafe in recent years to order. They’re back to the old fashioned way of doing things these days — with menus. And people. We didn’t really notice much difference between the menu this time and the one in place during our last review, save a little bump in a few prices. And yep, you can still get the fan favorite Lobster Roll. Although I <3 the pot roast here, I opted for the Bacon Angus Cheeseburger. It comes with your choice of Cheddar, American, or Pepper Jack on a Multigrain Bun and a generous side of Fries. Bacon Angus Cheeseburger And did we mention All. That. Bacon? Bacon Angus Cheeseburger — Up Close But my husband grabbed the Beef Pot Roast! (Of which I may have snagged a few bites.) The tender braised meat is served with Green Beans, Mashed Potatoes, and lots and lots of Gravy. This is one of my all-time favorite counter service meals in Disney World. It’s like, Sunday Dinner Good. Beef Pot Roast We also decided to give a new dish a try, so we opted for the Chicken Alfredo Pasta. Choose from Penne Pasta or Whole Grain Wheat Pasta; we went with the former. It’s garnished with Parmesan Cheese, and comes with a Parmesan-Crusted Breadstick. Chicken Alfredo Pasta We had a kiddo along for the ride, and he was all about the Chicken Nuggets, which come with a choice of two side items. Our little dude went for double fruit — Apple Slices and Grapes. Kids’ Chicken Nuggets Meal This was lunch, and there was plenty more snacking left to do in our day! So we saved dessert for another time. But if you have room and love sweets, DO NOT LEAVE without trying the cupcake special of the month. We shared our thoughts on the current option, the Turtle Cupcake, recently. But they’re always changing things up here! Better yet, opt for the Peanut Butter Pie. Contempo Cafe Peanut Butter Pie If you’re anything like me, you’ll be dreaming about this one long after you return home. Overall Contempo Cafe. What can you say? I say that I’ve gotta love it. I know, it’s not crazy themed with some backstory that only Imagineers could dream up and execute. But hey, it’s got a MONORAIL zipping over your head. And speaking of the Highway in the Sky, it can get you to the Contempo! That’s one of my favorite things about the spot — it’s the perfect park getaway when you’d like to escape the Park crazy for just a little. So yep — Contempo Cafe is still a DFB favorite. And you can bet that you’ll find me here trip after trip. But now I really want to hear from you guys! Do you love Contempo Cafe as much as we do? Leave a comment and tell us what your favorites here are! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: Review: Hot Chocolate Cupcake from the Contempo Cafe at Disney’s Contemporary Resort Review: Dinner at the Contempo Cafe in Disney’s Contemporary Resort Review: Star Wars Cupcake at Contempo Cafe in Disney’s Contemporary Resort View the full article

I have a treat for fans of the Disney Kingdoms comic series. Earlier this summer, I shared details about a new comic series inspired by Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room. Today, I have a look at a variant cover and a preview of artwork from this new series that debuts this fall. This variant cover was created by Walt Disney Imagineer Jason Grandt. It features the lovable Orange Bird from Adventureland in Magic Kingdom Park. Jason also created an additional variant cover with José (as seen in this previous Disney Parks Blog article). The comic series will be presented as five unique stories that take place at the Enchanted Tiki Room which is located on an isolated island. Almost anything can happen and does on the island that is populated by talking (and singing) birds and plants and ancient Tiki gods. Stories will unfold with the arrival of new visitors to the island, and the mysteries revealed may all be connected. The “Enchanted Tiki Room” series will be written by Jon Adams. Artwork will be penciled by Horacio Domingues with cover artwork by Brian Kesinger. The Disney Kingdoms team shared with me a few pages from the new series that include a new character named Agnes and her dog Alfred. These preview pages show Agnes and Alfred entering the Enchanted Tiki Room for the first time and meeting Fritz, Pierre, Michael and Jose! After seeing this artwork, I can’t wait to read this new series! Look for the Enchanted Tiki Room series this fall in select merchandise locations at Disney Parks. View the full article

Little Ghouls and Goblins (and the not so little ones too) — take note! The annual celebration of all things Halloween, Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, has kicked off at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. And we’re excited to see a couple of brand new treats for 2016! Halloween at Disney! At Gaston’s Tavern, we’re looking forward to digging into a new cupcake — Enchanted Pumpkin Spice! Enchanted Pumpkin Spice Cupcake at Gaston’s Tavern ©Disney It’s just one of the specialty cupcakes that you can enjoy exclusively during Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party. Look for the return of other favorites, like the Chocolate Worms and Dirt Cupcake and the Spider Cupcake — this year, in Vanilla — at Main Street Bakery as well. Vanilla Spider Cupcake at Main Street Bakery ©Disney The Ghoulish Strawberry Lemonade Slushy at Friar’s Nook looks to be a great refresher for those not-so-cool Fall Florida nights. Ghoulish Strawberry Lemonade Slushy at Friar’s Nook ©Disney Other returning favorites include Candy Corn Soft Serve at Storybook Treats. Find Candy Corn Cotton Candy throughout the Park. And of course, popcorn bucket collectors can enjoy the Halloween and Vampire Mickey versions. Candy Corn Cone Candy Corn Cotton Candy ©Disney And who can resist a Handmade Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich with Halloween Cookies? Find this treat, a DFB favorite, at Sleepy Hollow Refreshments! Halloween Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich Sadly, we bid farewell to the Pumpkin Waffle Sundae at Sleepy Hollow. Here’s hoping the popular treat returns again next year. Will you be headed to Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party this year for some frightfully delicious treats? Leave a comment and tell us your favorite! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: News! Halloween Treats Return to Disney World’s Magic Kingdom for Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Sneak Peek: Special Treats Coming to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party in Disney World Review: Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Treats View the full article

As today is the final day of the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration, let’s take a look back at some of the videos we brought you here on the Disney Parks Blog throughout this special tribute to sixty years of the Happiest Place on Earth! We took you behind the scenes as the sparkling icon of the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration – Sleeping Beauty Castle – was prepared to dazzle our guests. We made a special road trip to Sacramento, Calif., as June 1, 2015, was officially declared Disneyland Day. On July 17, 2015, Disneyland park guests joined us to celebrate the 60th anniversary of opening day. We began 2016 with a dazzling three-part float in the iconic Rose Parade in Pasadena, Calif. What was your favorite part of the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

Walt Disney World has begun requiring children from 3 to 9 years old to have their fingers scanned when they enter the theme parks, just like older kids and adults. Disney said the new process will help block the use of stolen and shared tickets. Previously, kids' tickets would have been easy to... View the full article

This week’s Disney Doodle – our series in which artists imagine what Disney characters would do first if they visited a Disney theme park – focuses on what Peter Pan and Wendy would do if they set off on an adventure at Magic Kingdom Park. According to designer Ashley Taylor who created this week’s graphic, she tried to think of what Peter Pan and Wendy would have to do to prepare to spend a day at the park. “I was trying to think of characters to showcase at the Main Entrance,” she said. “I thought it would be cute to have Wendy trying to sew on Peter’s shadow so he doesn’t lose it!” View the full article

There’s just something about this photo that makes me smile. Shot at Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom Park, our photographer snapped this terrific shot just before guests arrived for another day of fun in the park. The 189-foot castle serves as the centerpiece to Magic Kingdom Park, which will celebrate its 45th anniversary in October. The castle is the home to Cinderella’s Royal Table restaurant, one of the most sought-after character dining experiences at Walt Disney World Resort, as well as Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, where kids are transformed into princesses and knights. For guests simply passing through, the castle also boasts five amazing “Cinderella”-themed mosaics that were designed by Disney Legend Dorothea Redmond. (Check out an up-close gallery of the mosaics here). What’s your favorite part of Cinderella Castle? View the full article

NOW is the TIME!!! The kids are back at school, there’s the promise of a nip of Fall in the air….and YOU’RE READY TO PLAN A DISNEY TRIP, RIGHT?!? Well, just in time, we wanted to pass some special savings onto you! Save 30% Off of Everything in the DFB Store. EVERY. THING. We are celebrating Labor Day with a little something for everyone — 30% off of EVERYTHING in the DFB Store! Just use code 30SALE at check out! We have a wide range of individual Guides and money-saving Bundles to meet your every Walt Disney World food planning need. Let’s take a closer look! DFB Guides The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining covers every single facet of Walt Disney World Dining. From restaurants, to snacks, to using the Disney Dining Plan — it’s all there, and it takes us more than 500 pages to give you all the details! And our companion Snack Guides and Special Event Guides go even deeper, providing details on virtually every snack available in the Parks of Walt Disney World. Today, we offer a full family of DFB Guides to help you plan your trip. Our Guides include: The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, 2016 Edition DFB Guide to Magic Kingdom Snacks DFB Guide to Epcot Snacks DFB Guide to Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios Snacks 2016 DFB Guide to the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival A pre-order of the 2016 DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World Holidays, with the 2015 edition available for FREE as an immediate download DFB Dining Adventures Each Guide is updated annually to ensure you have the very latest information! And today, you can receive any or all of these invaluable e-books for 30% off with code 30SALE at check out! And don’t forget to check out our Money-Saving Bundles — More Stuff for Less Dough! They’re all 30% off, too!!! (Pssst — These are 100% backed by a MONEY-BACK GUARANTEE for any reason at all! So your safe to buy!) As always, thank you SO MUCH for your support of the DFB Team! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: Pre-Holiday Deal! Save 20% Off EVERYTHING in the DFB Store TODAY! Save BIG With Our Father’s Week Sale! Last Minute Sale: Save 35% on Gifts for your Favorite Disney Fan View the full article

We officially kicked off the Halloween season at Magic Kingdom Park this weekend with the return of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. And before the first night, we shared an early look at some of the new experiences at this year’s event. Among the new additions, two of the Zootopia PD’s finest, BFFs Nick Wilde and Judy Hopps, will lead The Creepa Crew and entertain guests on Main Street, U.S.A. Visit our original story for other new experiences and details on returning favorites. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party requires a separate ticket (a party specific ticket) that can be purchased here and is available for the following dates. September – 2, 8, 11, 13, 16, 18, 20, 23, 25, 29, 30 October – 2, 4, 6, 7, 10, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 21, 23, 25, 27, 28, 30, 31 Also this week, we shared an update that the finale scene in “Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire” will feature new costumes, décor and choreography to mark the fall season. You’ll also hear an original song celebrating autumn, from the songwriting duo of Valerie Vigoda and Brendan Milburn who composed the show’s catchy tune “On This Day.” Visit Shawn’s original story for more information about the new fall finale for “Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire.” Here are some of the other stories we worked on this week. Disneyland Resort Announces 2017-2018 Ambassador Team – During a celebratory cavalcade down Main Street, U.S.A., cast members Mikey Trujillo and Alexa Garcia were introduced as the 2017-2018 Disneyland Resort Ambassador Team, representing the Resort and its 29,000 cast members. ‘Hocus Pocus’ Apparel Returns to Disney Parks Online Store from September 5-11, 2016 – “Hocus Pocus”-inspired apparel is returning to the Disney Parks online store from September 5-11, 2016. Five Ways to Celebrate the 5th Anniversary of Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa – It’s been five magical years of aloha at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa. In honor of the occasion, we’ve shared five ways to celebrate next time you’re at the resort. A Fabulous 45th: Mad Tea Party – One of Magic Kingdom Park’s original attractions that offers one of the most charming ride vehicles is Mad Tea Party. Check Into Twilight Zone Tower of Terror Before it Checks Out of Disney California Adventure Park on January 2, 2017 – For the next few months, we invite you – if you dare – for a special celebration of The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror™ leading up to its final check-out on January 2, 2017. New Bus Service Offers Direct Access to Disney Springs from Theme Parks After 4 p.m. – Disney buses now transport guests to Disney Springs from Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot, Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios starting at 4 p.m. daily. View the full article

Halloween at Magic Kingdom Park is a dream come true for photographers of any level – from professional to iPhone selfie addicts. And what amazing photo opportunities exist at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Parties! The party season returned to the park last night and will continue on select nights through October 31. Not only can guests dress in costume and enjoy trick-or-treating (as well as attractions), but there are many photo-worthy moments to capture at each party. The “Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular” brings the Sanderson Sisters back for a wickedly memorable performance. Mickey’s “Boo To You” Halloween Parade offers many can’t miss moments, including appearances by Disney characters in costume and even the Hitchhiking Ghosts themselves! The night is also capped off with an amazing fireworks show, “Happy Hallowishes” Fireworks. Is taking photos a must-do for you at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party? View the full article

Carl Guidice has loved Walt Disney World since he was a kid, but he never expected to make it his permanent address. Guidice bought a house at Golden Oak, the luxury residential community on Disney property, expecting to vacation there. He and his family were perfectly happy living on the Hawaiian... View the full article

If you’ve been hanging around here much at all, then you know that we love the Epcot Food and Wine Festival. And what’s not to love?? In 2016, we’ll have two full months to Dine Around the Promenade at Marketplace Booths, take in Special Events and Demos, and generally soak up this culinary immersion. So we focus a lot on things you Must Try! (Grown up frozen drinks!!) and things that you Can’t Miss! (Parisian Breakfast!!) But what about the “Don’ts”? With 20 years of Food and Wine Festival experience under our belts, we think we know a thing or two about having a good time at F&W. So today, allow us to share our list for the Mistakes We’d Like to Help You to Avoid as you plan your visit to this year’s Festival! Put on your stretchy pants and comfy shoes, and get your DFB Food and Wine Tray ready. Time to head in! Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute to Book Events There’s a reason that we tell you to be on the phone first thing bright and early on the day that Special Events, including Seminars and Demonstrations, open. These events sell out quickly — especially the ones featuring celebrity chefs. All isn’t lost, though, if you didn’t book the second the phone lines opened. You will be able to book some events, especially the Low-Cost daily seminars and demos, right up to the time of the event. Wine View Lounge Cheese Station at Party for the Senses Still, it’s best to plan ahead. So if you haven’t already done so, call now and square away those reservations. It’s one less thing you’ll need to worry about when you arrive. Don’t Show Up Without Knowing Which Booths You Want to Try Thirty+ Marketplace Booths…that’s a lot. A whole lot. And each Booth will feature a minimum of a couple different food items as well as an assortment of beer, wine, and cocktails that you’re probably going to want to try. Trust me when I say that your choices can become overwhelming quickly. You just may find yourself out of money, stomach space, or both, way before you get to the things that you’d really like to try. Enjoy Everything the Brazil Booth Has to Offer! Our solution? Come prepared. Be sure to study our Food and Wine Festival Menus Page for every single booth menu at a glance. To get an even better idea of what to expect, be sure to click through to each individual Booth Page (you’ll see links to each on our main booth page) to see photos of the menu items. We will continue to update these pages as the Festival gets underway, so check back often! Will You Save Room for Loaded Mac and Cheese at the Farm Fresh Booth? Even better — check out our DFB Guide to the Epcot Food and Wine Festival, which has a handy Food and Wine Menu Checklist that you can print out, fill in, and take with you to be super prepared! Don’t Avoid the Festival Because You Only Have One Day It’s true that the Festival can seem a little daunting if you only have one day to spend at Epcot. But don’t skip it for fear of all that you’ll miss! We Think Any Time You Can Be at the Epcot Food and Wine Festival is Good Time! This is another way that the DFB Guide to the Epcot Food and Wine Festival can be a sanity saver. With touring strategies for One Day, Two Days, and even Half Days (both morning and evening), we have some great tips for making the most of even a short time in Epcot. Make a Beeline for the Canada Booth So You Don’t Miss that Le Cellier Filet. It’s the Festival’s Best Seller Year After Year! Here’s one of my favorite TIPS: If you only have a short time to explore, be sure to get in line for the Marketplace Booths early before lines get long. Consider visiting extremely popular spots, like the Belgium Booth, first. All. Those. Waffles. And if at all possible, plan your visit for a weekday. Locals tend to swell the crowds more during the weekends. Don’t Skip the Festival Because You Have Kids Think that the Festival is just for adults? Think again! It’s actually a great way for the whole family, including the kiddos, to enjoy a different aspect of Disney — by exploring international foods and trying new things. Schinken Nudel (Pasta Gratin with Ham and Cheese) — A Kid Favorite To make it extra fun for the kids in your crew, get them involved in planning your strategy. Let them choose which dishes you’ll try at each Booth. Get a Festival Passport (they’re free!) and let the kids collect stamps at each booth. Don’t Forget to Get Your Passport Stamped! And older kids may even enjoy participating in a Culinary Demonstration. Older Kids Love Culinary Seminars! Here’s another great TIP from the DFB Guide: alternate rides with Food and Wine Festival events. While the grown ups in your party may find eating as entertaining as any attractions, the kiddos might not. Be sure to leave ample time for visiting with Nemo and Friends or a ride through Mexico on the Gran Fiesta Tour with the Three Caballeros. Take a Break From Tasting and Hang Out with Donald and His Amigos! Breaking up the tasting with Kidcot Stops will also keep them engaged. Don’t Underestimate How Filling Your Dine Around Will Be Unless you are a really big eater, I’d reconsider that advance dining reservation that you just booked for the evening of your visit to the Festival. Sure, each of the items is tapas-portioned. I mean, I wouldn’t expect you to feel like you’ve eaten a full meal after you enjoy an Beef Skewer and a Glass of Malbec from the Patagonia Booth. But if you plan to visit three or more of the Booths in a given timeframe, you’re probably going to be full. Grilled Beef Skewer with Chimichurri Sauce and Boniato Purée Is a Filling Option This advice should help you plan how you’ll spend your Disney Dining Plan credits as well. Knowing that you can most likely skip one of your sit-down meals during the day that you plan your Festival visit may even allow for a visit to a signature dining restaurant that requires two credits. Filet Mignon at Le Cellier Le Cellier, here we come! Ready to Plan for Your Epcot Food and Wine Festival Trip? The DFB Guide to the 2016 Epcot Food & Wine Festival e-Book is now available! This 250+-page guide to the Festival offers insider tips and advice as well as all of the details you need to know to plan your best Festival visit ever. Your purchase includes several bonus items as well — including a full daily schedule of events at the Festival and a printable World Showcase Booth Menu Checklist to carry with you as you Eat around the World! Order your 2016 edition today! Don’t miss a moment of the fun! Use code Chefs at check-out for a 20% off the cover price! But now I’d love to hear from all of our Food and Wine Expert Readers! What are the top F&W mistakes to avoid in your opinion? Share your solutions in comments below! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: Tips from the DFB Guide: 3 Reasons to Bring Your Kids to the 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Epcot Food and Wine Festival Tip: Make Your Own Custom DFB Food and Wine Fest Tray! Epcot Food and Wine Festival: Our Favorite Gluten Free Dishes for 2015 View the full article

The Disneyland Resort has called Anaheim, Calif., and the surrounding community home for more than 60 years. To celebrate and thank local residents, here are the top five ways the Disneyland Resort positively impacted the community in honor of its Diamond Celebration. Through Million Dollar Dazzle, 17 local nonprofits were surprised with $60,000 each, amounting to more than $1 million and enriching thousands of lives. The Million Dollar Dazzle Crew traveled to 12 cities to make the donations each month of the celebration. Sixty Orange County high school students were honored as “Shining Stars” as part of the inaugural Dreamers & Doers program, in recognition of their contributions to their communities. Each student received $1,000 for his or her high school. To honor the 100,000th Disney wish granted globally, Disney Parks doubled its original donation to Make-A-Wish Foundation from $1 million to $2 million, thanks to the overwhelming support of guests who shared images of themselves wearing Mickey Mouse ears using the hashtag #ShareYourEars. All summer long, Anaheim residents have enjoyed eight free Disney movie nights in local parks and surprise appearances by the “Celebrates Summer Squad” at community events. The Disneyland Resort also is hosting five Endless Summer Celebrations in Anaheim parks, which are gaining two new skate parks, a pickleball court and the refurbishment of a field for softball and soccer though a $500,000 donation from Disney. Just in time for its 61st anniversary, the Disneyland Resort announced the Happiest Class on Earth. For the next 10 years, every sixth-grade student in Anaheim elementary schools – approximately 5,000 students each year – will have the opportunity to receive a Disneyland Resort ticket and visit the Resort with their class after completing a service project. View the full article

Central Florida attractions are king of the add-on, making guests pay more for early admission, special seating for shows or getting one-on-one time with attraction experts. It's well known that Central Florida's theme parks offer special experiences, but many of the destination's secondary attractions... View the full article

Tomorrow, September 3 is the birthday of Anna Duchess of Bedford, the creator of afternoon tea—and what better way to celebrate royalty than with royal tea! By now, Disney Parks Blog readers know how much I love afternoon tea—whether it’s the Classic Afternoon Tea at Disneyland Hotel or the place where I experienced my very first afternoon tea—at Garden View Tea Room sponsored by Twinings of London at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. Recently, Afternoon Tea at Garden View Tea Room received a menu makeover, and now features the largest selection of Twinings loose-leaf teas, all of which are exclusive to Walt Disney World Resort. The stars of the new tea menu are the Twinings Signature Blends – served exclusively in the United States at the Garden View Tea Room – whether you select Perfect Afternoon, Garden Party or After Dinner Mint, you can’t go wrong. Pure Black and Flavored Black Teas, Oolong, Green and White Teas and caffeine-free Herbal Infusions are also available. Can’t decide on a tea? Our Imperial Tea Master and Certified Tea Sommelier are ready to help, in addition to all of the incredibly knowledgeable servers. On our recent visit, our server Michelle helped us select the perfect tea blends to suit our tastes. Teas are available in several ‘shires’ or packages, including The Bedfordshire Tea, The Derbyshire Tea, The Cheshire Tea, The Berkshire Tea and The Yorkshire Tea. Of course, there is a special tea available for guests age 3-9, Mrs. Potts includes tea sandwiches, a jam tart, delicate house-made pastries and a special ‘dark tea’ (chocolate milk). Reservations can be made by visiting DisneyWorld.com/dine, or by calling 407-WDW-DINE. How will you celebrate afternoon tea? Let us know in the comments below! View the full article

Halloween officially kicks off tonight at Magic Kingdom Park, with the return of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party! This year’s event will feature many spectacular returning guest favorites, including “Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade,” “Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular,” and “Happy HalloWishes” fireworks. But there are a few new additions to keep an eye out for. “Zootopia” Clawhauser Stars In This Year’s Exclusive Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom Card – This year’s exclusive card is “Clawhauser’s Tricky Treat,” and when an “apprentice” uses this card to cast a spell in the game, dozens of magical donuts appear. (Learn how you can pick up your game card in this previous blog post). “Zootopia” Nick and Judy Join The Creepa Crew – The Creepa Crew, which entertains guests waiting on Main Street, U.S.A. will be led by two of the Zootopia PD’s finest, BFFs Nick Wilde and Judy Hopps. The “Boo to You” Parade Will Give You A Sugar Rush – Vanellope von Schweetz from “Wreck It Ralph” will bring in the candy this year during the “Boo To You” parade. Spy her and her squad of dancers toward the end of the parade. As a reminder, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party requires a separate ticket (a party specific ticket) that can be purchased here and is available for the following dates. September – 2, 8, 11, 13, 16, 18, 20, 23, 25, 29, 30 October – 2, 4, 6, 7, 10, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 21, 23, 25, 27, 28, 30, 31 View the full article

RUSKIN — Someday soon, you might be able to find Disney's beloved Dory in your own aquarium — and the beautiful blue tang fish will be bred in Florida, not the Pacific Ocean. After six years of study, a team of researchers at the University of Florida, along with the Rising Tide Conservation, have... View the full article

The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort is marking this election year with a giveaway that puts the winner inside one of its presidential suites. Participants must sign up at swandolphin.com/offers/presidential by Nov. 8 -- a.k.a. Election Day. The winner will be selected by random draw. ... View the full article

Boo to you (and you and you and you) … Happy Halloween! If you know me, you know that Halloween is my absolute favorite time of the year—and it’s never complete without a spook-tacular evening at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party! Of course, my focus is on treats, not tricks, and today I’ve got a look at the creepy confections you can expect to find at this year’s party. Main Street Bakery Chocolate Worms and Dirt Cupcake Vanilla Spider Cupcake Halloween Sugar Cookie Plaza Ice Cream Parlor Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich Gaston’s Tavern Enchanted Pumpkin Spiced Cupcake Storybook Treats Candy Corn Ice Cream Cone The Friar’s Nook Ghoulish Strawberry-lemonade Slushy Throughout the Park Candy Corn Cotton Candy Vampire Mickey Popcorn Bucket Halloween Popcorn Bucket Halloween Hot Mug Poison Apple Stein What is your favorite part of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party? Let us know in the comments below! View the full article

In my earlier post about the new Adventures by Disney river cruises, you read about some of the great activities for children, adults and families. Now we’ll take a look at why a Disney river cruise might just be the most stress-free vacation you’ll ever take. Adventures by Disney is famous for taking Disney service to the next level and handling all the travel details. Don’t get me wrong … there are still important decisions you’ll have to make like “Should I have the chicken or fish tonight?” “What outfit am I going to wear today?” “Do we want to relax onboard the ship and watch beautiful Danube scenery go by or take in those same vistas on a 28-mile bike ride?” My biggest decision: Should I have another dessert? The answer to that last one is always “yes.” But those will probably be the most stressful moments of your river cruise or any other Adventures by Disney vacation. On the river cruise, you have the added luxury of only needing to unpack once. Your “hotel room” travels with you, and you’ll often sail right into the heart of a city or town or a short distance from it. On the Danube, Adventures by Disney sails aboard AmaWaterways’ brand-new, 170-passenger AmaViola. Here’s what’s really important for families to know: this ship is built with families in mind. That means several staterooms that accommodate three or four people and a select number of adjoining staterooms that sleep up to five. You won’t find that with any other river-cruise ship. You’ll also find tremendous value on the ship. I couldn’t believe there wasn’t an iron or ironing board in my stateroom, but shock turned to awe when I learned that the AmaViola offers a complimentary pressing service. Wine aficionados in our group were similarly impressed with the selection of fine regional wines that were offered complimentary at lunches and dinners. There’s also free wifi. And how’s this for a fantastic detail? Every night you can find lovely post cards in the ship’s lobby. Fill them out and hand them to the front desk. The AmaWaterways team will add postage and mail them for free. While some of these details are exclusive to the river-cruise itineraries, it’s thoughtful touches and attention to detail that always make traveling with Adventures by Disney so incredibly special. Convenience and value continues on land. Of course, all your scheduled excursions and activities are included, led by those amazing Adventure Guides and colorful local experts. Transfers are also pre-arranged and all tips and gratuities handled. It all adds up, not just in value, but in your ability to completely relax. One afternoon I got into a conversation with parents who said that with the new river-cruise itinerary and other Adventures by Disney trips include so much that as parents they’re able to say “yes” to their kids more often. Yes to another excursion, to more ice cream to more time with new-found friends – little indulgences that let parents relish treating their young ones to special moments again and again. While parents love that they can say “yes,” Junior Adventurers say “yes” to a lot more things too. Check back on the Disney Parks Blog, and I’ll tell you how an Adventures by Disney vacation can inspire kids to learn, open up and try new things. View the full article