Disney4me

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

We are back at Wilderness Lodge’s Whispering Canyon Cafe, and this time it’s just for dessert! It seems like we were just visiting this favorite fun spot of ours for dinner but after hearing rumors about a new GIGANTIC dessert we had to make our way back… . Making its sort-of debut is the…drumroll please…10-Gallon Challenge! Ten Gallon Challenge! Why sort-of? This item hasn’t made the official menu yet and will most likely be in a testing phase for the next few months. But don’t let that stop your party from ordering it for now. Just consider it to be a secret menu item! I do recommend having some extra people at your table, though, because this thing is huge! Its current name is the 10-Gallon Challenge, but of course it isn’t actually 10 gallons. It gets it’s name from the ten-gallon cowboy hat, which happens to be what the dessert is served in. Or at least a plastic version. 10-Gallon Challenge So what all is in this? Let’s start from the bottom and work our way up! In the sundae you’ll find: Scoops of vanilla, chocolate, strawberry and mint-chocolate chip ice cream Pineapple sauce, strawberry sauce, some caramel sauce A whole slice of apple pie Two cupcakes: one vanilla and one chocolate An entire layer of whipped cream Two huge chocolate brownies Two Mickey Mouse shaped sugar cookies with dipped chocolate ears One banana cut in half Two Oreos Four toasted marshmallows Two pieces of chocolate covered bacon (WUT?!?!) Cherries Bottom of the 10-Gallon Challenge Crazy-town. 10-Gallon Challenge So now that we know what all is in it, let’s go over my favorite parts. The brownies (which may seem like a safe choice since ice cream and brownies always go together) were super soft and really rich and delicious. I also loved the skewer of marshmallows (and loved even more since they were actually toasted)! And of course the pieces of chocolate covered bacon. These had a LOT of chocolate on them, but I could still taste the saltiness of the bacon. Chocolate Covered Bacon I really wish I could say the slice of apple pie was my favorite, since that was the piece I was probably looking forward to the most. But sadly it was on the very bottom, so by the time I reached it the slice was so soggy that is just tasted more like apple ice cream. But overall everything else surprisingly remained pretty well intact! Overall A couple of things I learned now that I’ve gotten to try this: as soon as your server puts this down on the table, I would start removing the easily accessible items and putting them on a separate plate. This includes the cookies, brownies, and bacon. That way everyone can have a little bit of everything on their own plates and they won’t get too soft and soggy from the whipped cream and ice cream. Also, the mint chocolate chip ice cream was NOT the best mix with all of the other flavors. I would totally recommend requesting an extra scoop of one of the other flavors. Or maybe get the mint chocolate chip in a separate dish so that those who want it can take a spoonful and add it to their own bowl. And I would recommend having — at the very least — four people enjoy this with you. (In terms of big dessert items, I thought this one offered something that everyone will enjoy!) The other tables got a kick out of seeing this delivered to my table. And Whispering Canyon is such a fun and loud atmosphere that something crazy like this seems to fit right in! I loved the elements that made it unique to the Whispering Canyon motif including the apple pie, marshmallows, and bacon; and for the $27.00 price tag (comparable to the Beaches and Cream Kitchen Sink at $29.00) you are able to feed plenty of people while enjoying a one of a kind dessert. But remember — this is in a testing phase right now so you won’t see it on the menu. Ask your server if it’s still available on your visit. Would you be up to trying the 10-Gallon Challenge? Let us know your thoughts in the 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: Review: New Lunch Menu at Whispering Canyon Cafe in Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Review: Whispering Canyon Cafe at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort Review: Whispering Canyon Cafe at Wilderness Lodge View the full article

Check out how peaceful Splash Mountain looks in this week’s “After Dark” image. The sun is still setting at Magic Kingdom Park, although the fun will continue late into the night. The attraction, which will mark its 24th anniversary at Walt Disney World Resort this fall, allows guests to board log-flume vehicles and explore the fun of Chick-A-Pin Hill, following Br’er Rabbit to his “laughing place.” Have you experienced this attraction at night? Which do you prefer, day or night? View the full article

Today, 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. After a rigorous interview and selection process, Mikey and Alexa were selected to continue the tradition Walt Disney started in 1965 as support for public appearances, interviews and other special requests. The Ambassadors will spend two full years bringing the magic of the Disneyland Resort into the community and beyond as emissaries of goodwill. Also included in their full-time roles, the pair will represent the Resort at a variety of events, such as VoluntEARS activities, cast recognition ceremonies and special promotions, in addition to serving as Disneyland Resort spokespersons and hosting dignitaries and VIPs. Mikey began his career at the Disneyland Resort in 2012, and is now a Guest Relations Host and VIP Tour Guide. He has served many local charities and organizations as a part of Disney VoluntEARS, including Giving Children Hope and the Orange County Food Bank. He resides in Anaheim, Calif., and enjoys drawing in his spare time. Alexa began her Disney career in 2009, and is now a Guest Service Specialist at The Walt Disney Travel Company. A graduate of Loyola Marymount University, where she earned her degree in Communications Studies and Studio Arts, Garcia actively volunteered during her college career with many local nonprofits. She lives in Camarillo, Calif., and actively serves with Disney VoluntEARS. Congratulations, Mikey and Alexa! View the full article

For many guests, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is a highlight of a visit to Magic Kingdom Park during the fall. The party’s characters, fireworks – not to mention you and your family in costume – makes for some great photo opportunities. During each party, Disney PhotoPass offers special themed photo stops in select locations that you won’t want to miss. Here’s a sneak peek of the Magic Shots and Animated Magic Shots available only during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party… There’s no need to go all the way to Sleepy Hollow to get this spooky shot. During the party, visit the Disney PhotoPass photographer at the Main Entrance of Magic Kingdom Park to get this party-exclusive shot. A Grim Grinning Ghost comes out to socialize at the hearse in front of the Haunted Mansion. An adorable pumpkin patch welcomes guests to the park entrance during this time of year. A Disney PhotoPass Photographer is ready and waiting in Town Square to help you get this shot. The spooks are coming out for a swinging wake! Visit a Disney PhotoPass Photographer on Main Street, U.S.A. for this ghoulish delight. Remember, you can view Animated Magic Shots in your account before they expire, but you must have an active Memory Maker or Memory Maker One Day entitlement to download and share them online. View the full article

I’m thrilled to announce the return of “Hocus Pocus”-inspired apparel to the Disney Parks online store. These limited release items will be offered from September 5-11, 2016 at DisneyStore.com/ParkEvents. Last year, we introduced three costume T-shirts that resemble the Sanderson Sisters’ outfits. Disney Design Group artist Richard Terpstra used high-resolution images of the actual dresses from the live-action film to design the T-shirts. This year, we are releasing those T-shirts again for guests who may have missed them. Please note that this year’s styles are printed on T-shirts with a more generous fit than last year’s T-shirts. For the first time, we are introducing a costume T-shirt inspired by the character William “Billy” Butcherson. Finally, we will offer a new graphic T-shirt and hooded sweatshirt with artwork created by Disney Design Group artist Cortney Williams. The artwork features dialogue and iconic elements from the film. These apparel items will only be released via the online store for a limited time. Please allow 3-5 weeks for delivery. We will, however, have additional items inspired the Sanderson Sisters and the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular Show at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party in Magic Kingdom Park. See this Disney Parks Blog Unboxed video for a preview. View the full article

As we eagerly count down the days until the start of the 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival, we’re already making our list of all the things we have to eat! (And speaking of counting down — check out our Countdown Sale!!) This year’s Festival – which runs from September 14 until November 14 – features some tried-and-true favorite Marketplace Booths and some new booths! Today we’re going to check out two of the new booths: THE CHEW Collective and Islands of the Caribbean! Last year marked the first appearance of booths inspired by ABC’s ‘The Chew’ with the debut of Chew Lab and Sustainable Chew. This year guests can check out the all-new THE CHEW Collective. THE CHEW Collective Marketplace Booth You’ll find THE CHEW Collective in the Next Eats section of Future World. You don’t want to miss this marketplace booth! The 2015 Sustainable Chew Booth; 2016 will feature THE CHEW Collective 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival THE CHEW Collective Booth Menu Food: Ricotta and Zucchini Ravioli with Rustic Tomato Sauce Grilled Beef Skewer with Romaine, Apricots, and Feta Cheese Peanut Butter and White Chocolate Mousse with a Caramel Drizzle Beverages: Festival Chardonnay, CA Festival Cabernet Sauvignon, CA The Ricotta and Zucchini Ravioli with Rustic Tomato Sauce returns this year after debuting at the Sustainable Chew booth last year. It’s still delicious! Ricotta and Zucchini Ravioli with Tomato Sauce Also on the menu this year is a Grilled Beef Skewer with Romaine, Apricots, and Feta Cheese. We had a chance to sample this dish and it’s one you don’t want to miss. Grilled Beef Skewer with Romaine, Apricots, and Feta Cheese You’ll want to save room for dessert at THE CHEW Collective – Peanut Butter and White Chocolate Mousse with a Caramel Drizzle! Peanut Butter and White Chocolate Mousse with a Caramel Drizzle Last year’s festival welcomed the Dominican Republic booth and this year’s Caribbean presence will be at the tweaked-a-little-bit-from-a-past-year’s Islands of the Caribbean. 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! Islands of the Caribbean Marketplace Booth We can’t wait to check out the Caribbean flavors on the menu at Islands of the Caribbean! There have been Caribbean booths at festivals in the past, and this one looks to be very similar — even bringing back an old favorite, the Frozen Mojito! 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Islands of the Caribbean Booth Menu Food: Mojo Pork with Black Beans, Cilantro Rice, and Pickled Red Onions Quesito: Puff Pastry with Sweetened Cream Cheese and Guava Sauce Jamaican Beef Patty Pescado con Coco: Seared Grouper, Pigeon Peas and Rice with Coconut Sauce Beverages: Presidente Pilsner Frozen Mojito Caribbean Sangria Sometimes you have to start with dessert first and you don’t want to miss the Quesito – a Puff Pastry with Sweetened Cream Cheese and Guava Sauce! Quesito: Puff Pastry with Sweetened Cream Cheese and Guava Sauce The entrees at Islands of the Caribbean include Mojo Pork with Black Beans, Cilantro Rice, and Pickled Red Onions. Mojo Pork with Black Beans Cilantro Rice and Pickled Red Onions You’ll also find the Pescao con Coco: Seared Grouper, Pigeon Peas and Rice with Coconut Sauce! This dish was also featured at the Dominican Republic Marketplace Booth in 2015! Pescado don Coco – Seared Grouper, Pigeon Peas, and Rice with Coconut Sauce Stay cool with the returning Frozen Mojito, which we love! Frozen Mojito We can’t wait to check out THE CHEW Collective and Islands of the Caribbean at this year’s Epcot Food and Wine Festival. September 14 can’t get here soon enough! 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Index 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Booth and Menu Index 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Special Events 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Low-Cost Seminars and Demonstrations 2016 Eat to the Beat Concert Schedule Epcot Food and Wine Festival Fans Facebook Page 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Wine and Dine Half Marathon 2016 Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic Food and Wine Festival 101 2015 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Menus and FOOD PHOTOS 2015 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Gluten Free Items How to Book Epcot Food & Wine Festival Events To book all special events and demonstrations, call 407-WDW-FEST (939-3378) starting July 21. Join the Disney Food Blog Newsletter to find out as soon as we do about details and booking dates! Culinary Demonstrations and Beverage Seminars and general admission for some special events may be bookable online at www.epcotfoodfestival.com as well as by phone. Tables in Wonderland members, Annual Passholders, Disney Vacation Club Members, and Golden Oak Residents will be eligible for a $2 discount (per person, per event) for beverage and seminars and culinary demos taking place Mon-Thurs during the festival. These members will be able to book seminars and demos July 19th at 9AM. Discounts are by phone only at 407-WDW-FEST (939-3378). Stay tuned to DisneyFoodBlog.com and the Disney Food Blog Newsletter for details. Chase Disney Visa Cardholders can book select special events, demos, and seminars on July 19th as well. A limited number of seats are available for the booking date. What are you looking forward to trying at THE CHEW Collective and Islands of the Caribbean? Let us know in the comments! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: News! Cast of ABC’s ‘The Chew’ Returns for the 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival PLUS Menu Updates! 2015 Food and Wine Festival Booth Preview: Sustainable Chew and Chew Lab Marketplaces Epcot Food and Wine Festival Food Pictures: Hawaii and Caribbean Islands Booths View the full article

If you’re like me, hearing certain songs brings you right back to special memories. That’s why I’m so excited about the brand-new Disney Cruise Line playlist added to Spotify. The next best thing to going on a Disney cruise is recalling the incredible memories you made together as a family during your last Disney Cruise Line vacation. And what better way to do that than by listening to classic songs from Disney films? The complimentary Disney Cruise Line Playlist on Spotify is a comprehensive collection representing some of the most iconic hits from Disney’s musical legacy. It includes both timeless tunes and modern reworkings of old favorites by contemporary artists. There’s no doubt you heard many of these songs on your Disney cruise in our stage shows and deck parties – or just walking down the hallway! Listening to this playlist is sure to put a smile on your face—and keep you whistling while you work. You just need to have or create a Spotify account to enjoy it. I hope you like it as much as I do! View the full article

In the 1990 film, “The Rescuers Down Under,” Bernard, Bianca and their new feathered friend Wilbur fly all the way to Australia to attempt a rescue mission for a boy kidnapped while protecting an eagle from a poacher. No doubt these friends would want to see the great conservation work that goes on at Disney’s Animal Kingdom – and what better attraction to experience that than the Kilimanjaro Safaris? View the full article

WHAT: Raglan Road ups its all-things-Emerald-Isle game this weekend with the Great Irish Hooley, a day-and-night festival celebrating the music, dance and food of its homeland. Among the performers on the three stages of the Disney Springs restaurant and pub will be Screaming Orphans (pictured),... View the full article

Sometimes, nothing but a nice cuppa will do. And even when you’re on vacation (which is, of course, supposed to be all about relaxing), an escape into a soothing cup of tea can be a welcome change of pace. And that’s true regardless of weather, don’t you think? After all, serious tea drinkers don’t mind raising a cup, even in Florida heat and humidity. Are you looking to try something new or to celebrate the ritual of something familiar and comforting? Either way, we have suggestions for finding a really good cup of tea throughout the Walt Disney World Resort. Come with us as we share some of our favorites. Joffrey’s Tea Traders Cafe Just like coffee, tea is finding a larger and more sophisticated fan base everyday. But whether you’re a lifelong lover of tea, or you’re just learning your way around it, Joffrey’s Tea Traders Cafe at Disney Springs is a welcome stop on your list of places to explore this storied beverage. Inside Tea Traders Cafe If it has anything at all to do with quality tea, you’ll find it at this boutique in Disney Springs. Trained Teasmiths will ask you questions about your tastes and preferences before blending up something just right for you. Blending Tea at Joffrey’s Tea Traders Cafe Or if you love the majestic tradition of tea as seen through different cultures, stick around for the Gong Fu Cha demonstration, a traditional Chinese ritual tea ceremony. Gong Fu Cha Demo Sign Gong Fu Cha Demonstration Prefer something creamy? Check out their handcrafted tea lattes. Chai Latte Made Just for Me! The thing that sets Tea Trader’s Cafe apart is, well, everything. Normally, when we think of a place to go for tea, it’s a tea room with pots of tea, pastries, and sandwiches. This lighter approach that focuses almost solely on the beverage itself is exhilarating and a fascinating to a tea lover like me. Citrus Sorbet Tea (But no worries…if you’re hungry, they have a great assortment of nibbles that are flavored and/or inspired by the drink itself.) Garden View Lounge On the other hand, if you’re looking for more than just a cup of tea, then head to the Garden View Lounge at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, where you can indulge in a proper afternoon tea service. Afternoon Tea at the Grand Floridian Tea at the Garden View Lounge has always been enjoyable, but in the past few years, its popularity has grown by leaps and bounds. That’s made this afternoon dining experience quite a hot ticket when it comes to scoring your Walt Disney World advance dining reservations. Here, you’ll dine on traditional tea sandwiches as well as other fare, and you can look forward to tempting sweets and pastries as well. Pate and Cheese Pate a Choux Swan and Pistachio Cake Tea is brewed by the potful and is looseleaf, thus making for some cozy theatre as you pour out each cup. There are lots of different blends to choose from. Whether you prefer black teas, green teas, or herbals, you’re sure to find something you’ll enjoy. Children aren’t left out, either. If your kiddos aren’t quite ready for the real stuff, they can indulge in a pot of “Dark Tea” — aka Chocolate Milk. Pouring Tea and Special “Dark Tea” It’s a lovely experience and the perfect way to unwind during an afternoon at Disney. Anandapur Royal Tea Company Looking for a nice cuppa in the Parks? Your best bet is Anandapur Royal Tea Company. Joffrey’s Anandapur Royal Tea Shop Located in the Asia section of Animal Kingdom, this unassuming little kiosk is a great stop on your trek through the wilds of the Park. While I can always go for a Frozen Chai on a hot day, I love their impressive list of hot tea options as well. New Hot Teas at Royal Anandapur Tea Company When I’m in Animal Kingdom for an early morning visit, you’ll always find me at Anandapur Royal Tea Company. It’s especially peaceful first thing in the morning, before the crowds trickle back to that part of the Park. An Early Morning Cup of Tea Ah — now I want a cup of tea! If you’re a tea drinker, then we hope we’ve inspired you to seek out an extra special cup during your next visit to Disney. Starting your day off right, taking an invigorating afternoon break, or winding down with a cup of relaxation…whatever you’re after, I’m confident you’ll find your tea needs answered at one of these spots. For even more information about the best spots to enjoy all different kinds of tea, check out our page dedicated to Tea at Walt Disney World! Ready for All of Our Best Tips? We’ve got TONS of Disney World Dining Tips — including some great places to enjoy an invigorating cup of tea — in our big, bold 2016 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining! With more than 530 pages, The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 20+ years of visits. We’ve done the research for you, so you’ll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family’s needs! With sample dining itineraries, plus our “Disney Dining at a Glance” section, featuring “Where Can I Find?” options, you’ll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet. Click here to get your copy of The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining E-book — and use code HAPPYPLACE for an extra $4 discount for a limited time! But let’s hear from all of you now! What’s your favorite spot to enjoy a great cup of hot tea when you’re visiting Walt Disney World? 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: Tips from the DFB Guide: The Best Spots for Coffee and Tea in Walt Disney World Best Places for Pressed Pot Coffee in Walt Disney World News: Win a Trip to Walt Disney World with the Joffrey’s ‘Magic in Your Mug’ Sweepstakes! View the full article

Last week, we were honored to have with us representatives from the Ninth and Tenth Cavalry Association of the Buffalo Soldiers. The Disneyland Resort and SALUTE, a cast member-led diversity resource group that enhances the guest and cast experience by providing a perspective of men and women who have served in the military, held a special flag retreat ceremony to recognize them. The United States Army Buffalo Soldiers are proudly commemorating a heritage of 150 years since they were formed by an act of Congress in 1866 to guard and protect our nation. Honorees at the flag retreat ceremony included veterans from World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. The Orange County Black Chamber of Commerce also honored the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum at a banquet at the Disneyland Hotel. Hats off to the Buffalo Soldiers! View the full article

It will be here before you know it! We are just TWO WEEKS away from the start of the 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival! But it’s not too late for you to take advantage of some special savings on the DFB Guides… We have so much fun providing you with all there is to know about Disney Food. Because there’s one thing we’re passionate about: making sure that you enjoy the best Disney trip ever, every time. And that’s especially important when it comes to the Epcot Food and Wine Festival. With so much to do, see, eat, and drink, it can be hard to keep it all straight! And that’s where we come in. So as we continue to countdown to opening day, we are happy to bring you special deals on some of our most popular DFB Guides and Bundles. DFB Guide to the 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival e-Book SAVINGS The DFB Guide to the 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival was written to give you everything you need to know about the Epcot Food and Wine Festival in one handy volume — and we mean EVERYTHING! With more than 250 pages and tons of bonus items, it offers all of the information that you need to make the most of your Festival visit. Learn more about the DFB Guide to the 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival here. And during our Countdown to the Festival Sale, we’re offering this popular DFB Guide for 30% off! Just use code COUNTDOWN at the checkout to save on this important DFB Guide. This guide includes customized bonus items that surpass any other Food & Wine Festival coverage that’s out there. These include: A full, daily schedule of events for every day of the festival — this is the only place you’ll find this schedule anywhere! A printable World Showcase Booth Menu Checklist that you can use to plan, then easily bring with you to the festival Themed World Showcase booth crawls, including “Fun Eats for the Kids,” the “Comfort Food Crawl,” the “Heat Seekers Crawl,” the “Grown-Up Frozen Drinks Crawl,” and so many more! Food and Wine Festival customized Touring Strategies for One Day visits, Budget-Conscious visits, and even one to celebrate the TV Show The Chew! A chapter dedicated to all “New for 2016″ events, menu items, booths Full food, wine, beer, winery, cocktail, and chef indexes, including dates and locations of where you can find your favorites Epcot Food and Wine Festival recipes Top tips on how to use MyMagic+ and the Disney Dining Plan at the Epcot Food and Wine Festival And so much more! DFB Guide to the 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival sample pages Disney World veterans and guests who are new to the Festival alike will appreciate knowing what they are getting before spending time and vacation dollars. Whether you want to sample wine, enjoy a craft beer, taste test an exotic dish, or find the best dessert, the DFB Guide to the 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival will help you discover the strategy that is exactly right for you. USE CODE COUNTDOWN FOR 30% OFF! DFB Food and Wine Bundle SAVINGS Here’s your chance to enjoy great savings on the two guides you need the most for your visit — the Food and Wine Bundle! Bundle for savings! You automatically get a HUGE discount on our 537-page DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2016 and the DFB Guide to the 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival in this bundle. But to celebrate our Countdown to the Festival, enjoy an additional 10% off the whole bundle! Just use code FOODWINE17 to enjoy this discount! This Food and Wine Bundle offers all of our insider tips and tricks for the Festival as well as the rest of your Disney World visit. You’ll be ready for whatever comes your way during your Fall trip to Walt Disney World with the DFB Food and Wine Bundle! USE CODE FOODWINE17 FOR an EXTRA 10% OFF! Ready To Take On The Go As always, we’ve made all of these e-Book guides instantly downloadable and easy to install on all of your mobile devices. Take them with you into the parks for easy access to all the info you need, when you need it, without carrying along a bulky guidebook! So take advantage of these great deals this week, and stay tuned next week to see what other great discounts we introduce as we continue to Countdown to the Festival! Remember, with a 100% money-back guarantee on all of our guides, you have nothing to lose! Want More Epcot Food and Wine Festival Info? We have all the coverage and information you need right here on Disney Food Blog! Here’s what we know so far… 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Index 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Booth and Menu Index 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Special Events 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Low-Cost Seminars and Demonstrations 2016 Eat to the Beat Concert Schedule Epcot Food and Wine Festival Fans Facebook Page 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Wine and Dine Half Marathon 2016 Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic Food and Wine Festival 101 2015 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Menus and FOOD PHOTOS 2015 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Gluten Free Items How to Book Epcot Food & Wine Festival Events To book all special events and demonstrations, call 407-WDW-FEST (939-3378) starting July 21. Join the Disney Food Blog Newsletter to find out as soon as we do about details and booking dates! Culinary Demonstrations and Beverage Seminars and general admission for some special events may be bookable online at www.epcotfoodfestival.com as well as by phone. Tables in Wonderland members, Annual Passholders, Disney Vacation Club Members, and Golden Oak Residents will be eligible for a $2 discount (per person, per event) for beverage and seminars and culinary demos taking place Mon-Thurs during the festival. These members will be able to book seminars and demos July 19th at 9AM. (Note: According to an official Disney World Annual Passholder website and email, booking for low-cost demonstrations begins for Annual Passholders ONLY on July 18th. We can find no other confirmation of this date, but we wanted to be sure you were aware of all possibilities!) Discounts are by phone only at 407-WDW-FEST (939-3378). Stay tuned to DisneyFoodBlog.com and the Disney Food Blog Newsletter for details. Chase Disney Visa Cardholders can book select special events, demos, and seminars on July 19th as well. A limited number of seats are available for the booking date. Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: The “Countdown to the Epcot Food & Wine Festival!” Sale Countdown to the Epcot Food & Wine Festival: Opening Week Sale! The DFB Guide to the 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival e-Book is HERE! View the full article

Peanut Butter and Pretzel gourmet treats are back! One of my favorite combinations, I’ve been waiting for this particular treat to return. If you have, too, mark your calendars—starting September 1, you’ll find them at candy kitchens throughout the Disneyland Resort. Our gourmet apple is enrobed in caramel and sweet milk chocolate and is covered with crunchy, salty, bite-size pretzels, finished with a creamy peanut butter and milk chocolate drizzle. The crispy treat is equally delicious, and made almost identically, just without the caramel. Looking for this sweet and salty treat? Be sure to visit Candy Palace on Main Street, U.S.A., and Hunny Spot in Critter Country in Disneyland park; Trolley Treats in Disney California Adventure park; and Marceline’s Confectionery in the Downtown Disney District throughout the month of September. View the full article

Since we announced that Princess Elena was making her debut at Walt Disney World Resort, the excitement over her arrival was overwhelming. As you know, Elena of Avalor has been very happy to travel to a new kingdom and meet the resident royalty, including Cinderella and Prince Charming that welcome her at Magic Kingdom Park every day. And Elena wears a very special gown for the occasion: the exact dress she wore when she was announced Crown Princess of Avalor! I’m pretty sure you want details on that beautiful dress … as did I! Elena’s gown is made from 14 yards of crimson Avaloran satin. It’s embroidered with more than 900 flowers that represent her kingdom and family. The beautiful crown Elena wears holds 222 dazzling jewels. This dress is truly one of a kind, but so is the daring princess wearing it. Who says you can’t dress up for aventuras? View the full article

Goodbye, creepy Hollywood Tower Hotel elevator. The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, a scary, free-fall haunt that opened at Disney’s California Adventure Park in 2004, will close permanently Jan. 2. But not without one last Halloween trick (or is it a treat?). Starting Sept. 9, the Tower takes... View the full article

I journeyed to Germany Pavilion in World Showcase for this month’s article about unique shopping opportunities found at Epcot. I’ve visited this pavilion numerous times throughout the years as both a guest and a Cast Member. It was on this trip that I marveled at the architectural beauty of this incredibly detailed pavilion. The architecture found in Germany Pavilion contains a mix of styles from various German regions. From quaint wooden cottages to a replica medieval castle, all the shops face a spacious Platz, or town square. In the center of the square, guests find a clock tower and a replica statue of St. George and the Dragon that is reminiscent of a statue found in Rothenburg, Germany. At the back of the pavilion, you will find the Biergarten Restaurant where Oktoberfest is celebrated all year long with authentic German cuisine and lively entertainment (two words – pretzel bread!). I spent nearly two hours taking photos while meandering through the interconnected shops. Germany Pavilion has eight different shops including the holiday-themed Die Weihnachts Ecke shop; Stein Haus (drinkware and home décor); Weinkeller (wine shop); and Das Kaufhaus, which carries soccer apparel and accessories. Each shop is filled with wonderful Germany-inspired treasures. There was no shortage of apparel and other items created especially for Disney Parks. These items include graphic tees with Disney Characters, Disney ear hats, Tervis tumblers, or collectible steins inspired by the pavilion. Other items I found include decorative clocks, Hummel figurines, personalized drinkware, Steiff plush bears, authentic Bavarian style mustard, and numerous seasonal ornaments. One of my favorite stops is Karamell-Küche (or Caramel Kitchen). Presented by Werther’s Original, this shop along World Showcase promenade is filled with delicious caramel-themed treats. My favorite is the freshly made caramel popcorn. You can read about this shop in this article from April 2016. Guests can find select items from this pavilion using the free Shop Disney Parks mobile app. To download, please visit DisneyWorld.com/Shop. Below are several additional images I took during my visit: View the full article

Butterflies have always intrigued me with their bright colors and unique patterns. Butterflies are one of the 10 at-risk animals that the Disney Conservation Fund and Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment team is protecting through its “Reverse the Decline, Increase the Time” initiative. Unlike many of the “Reverse the Decline” species, you can spot butterflies in your own backyard. They are found on every continent except Antarctica, and there are around 20,000 species! Butterflies face many dangers, from weather patterns to habitat loss, and many species, like the Atala butterfly, are on the brink of extinction. The Atala butterfly is an example of how unsustainable agriculture can cause habitat loss and the disappearance of native species. This butterfly can only lay its eggs on a single species of native plant, the Coontie palm, and when that plant became rare in the wild due to overharvesting, the butterfly disappeared as well. A breeding program is now in place to make sure the Atala butterfly will be around for years to come! To kick it off, Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment cast members raised Atala butterflies at their desks. Twenty-seven cast members received terrariums and watched as the little caterpillars turned into butterflies. Around 100 butterflies were raised and then taken to Disney’s Vero Beach Resort for guests to release in a restored habitat. To date, guests have released about 260 butterflies at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort, and the butterflies have now formed a breeding population in the restored habitat. Another way our cast members are getting involved is through butterfly surveys. Some species of butterflies are so rare that we don’t know how many butterflies are left in the wild or what their current range is. Gathering this information is critical to reversing their population declines. This year, we played an active role in gather data on several species, including the elusive Dukes’ Skipper butterfly. This butterfly is native to Central Florida and has been seen less frequently since the 1990s. Just like our cast members, you can help ‘Reverse the Decline’ of butterflies by taking the following steps: Create a butterfly garden filled with plants that native species enjoy. Once you learn what types of butterflies visit your garden, research what plants they lay their eggs on, and add them to your garden! If you see caterpillars in your garden, make sure you don’t spray them with pesticides! They may chew on your plants a bit, but the plants will grow back and you will be helping populate the world with beautiful butterflies. Reduce food waste by composting to fertilize your garden. On your next visit to Walt Disney World Resort, stop by the butterfly gardens located at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground, Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, or at Rafiki’s Planet Watch in Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and see how many butterflies you can spot! For more information about butterflies and many other animals, visit DisneyAnimals.com. View the full article

Rise and Shine, my friends… It’s time for breakfast in Disney Springs! Learn About: The Daily Poutine Downtown Disney Disney World Restaurants What? You don’t particularly think of Disney Springs as a breakfast destination? Granted, when I think of dining in Disney Springs, my mind immediately jumps to a lot of great spots to grab some dinner and take in some of the revitalized nighttime atmosphere in the area since its transformation from Downtown Disney. In fact, some spots like Morimoto Asia are even focusing on the night owls with menus dedicated specifically to Late Night Dining. But with all the new additions over the past year or so, Disney Springs is becoming a place where you really can spend a huge chunk of a day if you enjoy strolling around and shopping or taking in some of the outdoor entertainment. So guess who’s got you covered for some earlier-morning eats? The Daily Poutine! The Daily Poutine Not exactly what you were expecting? I mean, what could a kiosk that focuses on the classic Canadian dish of Poutine (French Fries, beef Poutine gravy, and white cheddar cheese curds) possibly have to offer for breakfast? Well, let’s not forget… The Daily Poutine also serves three variations on the traditional version. And to those, we can add one more: the new All-Day Breakfast Poutine! All-Day Breakfast Poutine sign Yep, it’s served all day. So whether you’re on the hunt for Breakfast or Brinner in Disney Springs, you’re all set at The Daily Poutine. But instead of French Fries, the Breakfast Poutine is served with a base of Fried Potato Puffs (TOTS!!!) topped with Sausage Gravy, Cheddar Cheese Curds, and a Fried Egg. Pretty much the only thing it shares in common with the Classic Poutine is the inclusion of white cheddar cheese curds. All-Day Breakfast Poutine Let’s start with the base — the Potato Puffs are well-seasoned with salt and also have a really nice crunch, especially when you consider all the gravy poured on top. I was happy to see plenty of each ingredient throughout the whole mix… including those cheese curds! Potato Puff and Cheese Curd That Sausage Gravy, by the way, is packed with flavor thanks to plenty of black pepper and sausage pieces throughout. Sausage Gravy I was pleasantly surprised with how well-prepared my fried egg was, served a little on the runny side and topped with chives. But if you like your egg on the hard side, just say the word to the Cast Members who can cook the eggs a little more to meet preferences. Fried Egg Oh, and they also mentioned that you can sub out the Potato Puffs for French Fries if you want something closer to the Classic Poutine experience… only with a start-of-the-day twist. Now, I may be biased because I could eat breakfast foods all day, every day. But this was just seriously awesome. A nice amount of flavorful food, and another fun variation on the original! So, remember, you can now add The Daily Poutine to the list of places you can find some breakfast in Disney Springs — a list that already includes spots like Earl of Sandwich, Erin McKenna’s Bakery NYC (try the Donuts!!), the West Side Starbucks (with a smaller array of items at the Marketplace Starbucks as well), and Wolfgang Puck Express (Marketplace). Note that opening times of these spots can vary, with some opening as early as 9:00 am and others around 10:00 am. (It looks like, in the opening days for this dish, The Daily Poutine has been opening at 9:00 am instead of its typical 10:00 am to see how things go). So there’s no need to go without the Most Important Meal of the Day in Disney Springs… no matter what time you start it . Do you have a favorite spot for breakfast in Disney Springs? Please let us know with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: First Look and Review: The Daily Poutine in Disney Springs News! “The Daily Poutine” Coming to Disney Springs in Walt Disney World News! Menus and Opening Dates for Aristocrepes, B.B. Wolf’s, and The Daily Poutine in Disney Springs View the full article

It’s hard to believe that Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, turns five this week. It’s been five magical years of aloha, and we look forward to welcoming more guests in the years that follow. In honor of the occasion, here are five ways to celebrate next time you’re at the resort: 1. Celebrate with favorite Disney friends. As you stroll the Waikolohe Valley, you may encounter a few new faces. Joining the Aulani Resort ‘ohana are Duffy’s friend ShellieMay, Pluto and Daisy Duck. Say hello, and of course, snap a photo with them! 2. Celebrate with a tropical treat. Hawaiian temperatures are perfect for an icy cold treat. Our pineapple soft serve, available at the Lava Shack, might just be what you’re looking for in the afternoon. Choose between pineapple, vanilla or swirl—a delightful combination of both flavors! 3. Celebrate in our water oasis. As you make your way to the top of Pu‘u Kilo, peer out over the beautiful Waikolohe Valley below. Then, opt to get back down through Tubestone Curl. The best part of this water slide adventure is the end, which launches you into the Waikolohe Stream—also known as our lazy river. 4. Celebrate over dinner. Watch the sun set over the Ko Olina lagoon as you dine at ‘AMA‘AMA, the resort’s signature restaurant. For special occasions, the chefs recommend starting with the ‘AMA‘AMA Seafood Platter—a delightful selection of crab legs, jumbo shrimp, oysters and ceviche. 5. Celebrate with a lei. As a symbol of love and aloha, the lei is a perfect gift for celebrations or everyday appreciation. Learn how to string together your very own lei in the resort’s Pau Hana Room or Aunty’s Beach House. How will you celebrate the 5th anniversary of Aulani Resort? View the full article

Continuing our series of quizzes focused on Magic Kingdom Park attractions that debuted on the park’s opening day, we’re looking at the fun and colorful Mad Tea Party. How well do you know this attraction? Put your knowledge to the test below. .quiz-container#wp-quiz-164011{ background-color:#f0f8fb; color:#565656; border-color:#dce4e7; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-164011 .quiz-section h1{ color:#8bb428; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-164011 .quiz-title{ color:#10628b; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-164011 .quiz-header-image{ text-align:right; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-164011 .quiz-section{ border-color:#ffffff; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-164011 .quiz-details, .quiz-container#wp-quiz-164011 .quiz-results, .quiz-container#wp-quiz-164011 .quiz-embed{ border-color:#dce4e7; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-164011 .quiz-result{ background-color:#dce4e7; } Mad Tea Party at Magic Kingdom Park Who periodically pops out of the oversized tea pot in the middle of the attraction? Mad Hatter Dormouse White Rabbit What special occasion do you celebrate on Mad Tea Party? Your birthday Your anniversary Your ''un-birthday'' Which color tea cup is NOT an option on Mad Tea Party? White Yellow Blue Which Disney Resort does not have an incarnation of the Mad Tea Party attraction? Disneyland Paris Resort Tokyo Disney Resort Shanghai Disney Resort Share your score: Embed Quiz on Your Website Embed Code <div class="wp-quiz" data-quiz-id="164011" data-site-url="http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog"></div> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/wp-content/plugins/wp-quizzes/js/embed.js"></script>Copy and paste above embed code where you would like the quiz to appear on your website. View the full article

This week the Disney Parks Blog is celebrating Mad Tea Party, one of Magic Kingdom Park’s original attractions. To help celebrate, Disney artist Brittany Ungvarsky poured all of the color, wackiness and fun of the Mad Hatter’s party into this custom wallpaper. I have a feeling a little caffeine might have been involved, too. Enjoy! Be sure to check out the terms of use about using the wallpaper before you download it. Want to check out other designs? Visit our complete gallery of wallpapers here. View the full article

As Magic Kingdom Park’s 45th anniversary approaches this fall, this new weekly series will take a look at one of the park’s opening day attractions that can still be enjoyed today. This week, we’ll focus on Mad Tea Party. One of Magic Kingdom Park’s original attractions that I’ve always thought offered one of the most charming ride vehicles is Mad Tea Party. Inspired by the Mad Hatter’s tea party in the 1951 Disney film “Alice In Wonderland,” guests board one of 18 over-sized tea cups that spin across a turntable to merry music, with the guests controlling the speed (and direction of the spin) using their hands. Characters from the film, Alice and White Rabbit, have been known to greet guests nearby the attraction upon occasion. (Check the My Disney Experience App on your next visit for times/locations). Is this a must-do attraction for you at Magic Kingdom Park? View the full article

Disneylanders, take note… The Disneyland Resort may be getting its very own Sprinkles! Sprinkles Sign According to wdwinfo.com, a permit has been filed for a Sprinkles in Downtown Disney. In case you’ve missed what all the fuss is about , not only was Sprinkles dubbed the “world’s first cupcake bakery” by the Food Network when it first opened in 2005, but it’s also been quite the hit in Disney World since its Disney Springs location opened this past May. Sprinkles in Disney Springs Guests have been lining up for the famous Sprinkles cupcakes, ice cream, and baked treats ever since! Sprinkles Cupcakes! Of course, if you’re on the west coast you probably don’t need a refresher course on Sprinkles, seeing as the very first home to Sprinkles was in Beverly Hills, California. If this comes to pass, I’m calling this VERY good news for Disneyland! How about you ? Would you be excited to see a Sprinkles location in Disneyland? Please let us know with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: News and Tip! How to Get a Free Sprinkles Cupcake in Disney World! Rumor! Starbucks and Earl of Sandwich May Come to Disneyland’s Downtown Disney News! The Edison, Sprinkles Cupcakes, and More Coming to Disney Springs View the full article

Wow! It is amazing to think of all the new stuff happening in the world of Disney Food right now! With new signature dining options at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, plus more excitement to come when Rivers of Light debuts, we’re on high alert. And Pandora, The World of Avatar is just around the corner… And there has been a dizzying amount of activity at Disney Springs, with so many new openings. And with the relaunch of Planet Hollywood Observatory and Paddlefish, plus The Edison coming soon, there’s more to come. And please — don’t even get me started about our watch for news out of Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Star Wars? Toy Story? Can’t wait! So there’s never been a better — or more important — time for dedicated Disney Food Fans to be clued in to the very best source for all of your Disney Food News. And that’s why you should join the DFB Newsletter today! But I’m a daily DFB Reader!! What could I possibly be missing in the DFB Newsletter? Lots! It’s simple: there’s SO much happening at Disney. And sometimes, especially when it comes to breaking news like Free Dining Offers or Brand New Restaurants or Special Events, it’s important to get the news as soon as possible. And that’s where the DFB Newsletter comes in. Covering all that’s happening at all of the Disney Parks is a big assignment. So we offer even more Disney Food News to you via our Newsletter. There’s no seeking out the news, because we deliver it straight to your inbox! If you love Disney Food, then you’ll definitely want to check out our Newsletter. We’ll send it to you brimming with all kinds of exclusive content and tons of full-color photographs. And when there’s something super special to report, we bring the news to you! PizzeRizzo Coming Soon to Disney’s Hollywood Studios! Our Newsletter community is also the first to hear announcements of special offers and events, like DFB Guide Discounts and Snack Attack announcements. Join today for FREE and you’ll receive an email from me welcoming you onboard. Then stay tuned for more DFB goodies! 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: Summer is HERE — Join the DFB Newsletter to Stay Up to Date on Disney Food News for Your Trip! Don’t Miss a Moment of the Disney Food Fun — Join the DFB Newsletter Today! Join the DFB Newsletter for All the Breaking News First! View the full article