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Nearly five months after announcing plans to build a Planet Hollywood Resort near Disney, developers filed plans with Orange County on Wednesday to construct the new hotel. The project, formally called the ph Premier Hotel & Spa Orlando, includes construction of a 548-room hotel on about 14 acres... View the full article

Walt Disney’s fascination with animals—both real and imagined—and the role that animals play in Disney storytelling is the basis for an inspiring legacy that continues today. A fantastic example is the all-new live-action epic adventure “The Jungle Book,” available on Digital HD and Disney Movies Anywhere today and Blu-Ray™ August 30. “The Jungle Book” seamlessly blends live-action with photorealistic computer-generated imagery (CGI) animals and environments, using up-to-the-minute technology and storytelling techniques to immerse audiences in an enchanting and lush world. In fact, more than 60 CG animal species were created from scratch for the film, including the iconic characters that take center stage—Baloo, Bagheera, Kaa, Shere Khan and Mowgli’s wolf family—plus hundreds of primates, including King Louie and the Bander- log—the army of monkeys populating the Seeonee jungle. New programs were built to simulate muscles, skin and fur, while artists strived to include even the subtlest behaviors from real-life animals to ensure believability. Check out this video for more fun facts about our furry, feathered and other animal friends featured in the film. Another great way to learn about many of the animals seen in the film is to check out “The Jungle Book” activity packet and animal facts booklet. These amazing materials, developed by the Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment Education team, include an animal glossary with interesting information on the iconic species seen on screen as well as fun family games and crafts inspired by nature and wildlife conservation. “The Jungle Book” activity packet and animal facts booklet – excellent resources that I hope will enhance your family’s viewing experience – are available to download at Disney.com/TheJungleBook. For more information about many different animals, including those that inspired some of the characters in the film, please visit DisneyAnimals.com. View the full article

In August of 1956, a new way to travel down Main Street, U.S.A. was introduced at Disneyland park — aboard a two-story open-air bus. The Disneyland Omnibus is inspired by the tour buses of New York’s Fifth Avenue during the 1920s and the open-topped vintage vehicles of Travel Town at Griffith Park in Los Angeles. Complete with a narrated tour of one of the most traveled streets in the world, the the Disneyland Omnibus provides guests one of the most leisurely (and elevated) ways to experience Disneyland park. A second bus was added in 1957, and 25 years later it made its way to the World Showcase at Epcot at the Walt Disney World Resort. You can board the Omnibus in Town Square or at Sleeping Beauty Castle. View the full article

The countdown is ON! We are just WEEKS away from the beginning of the 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival — and I know you’re as excited as we are!! While we love Special Events and the Festival Seminars and Demonstrations, our favorite way to spend a Food and Wine Festival Day is Eating — and Drinking — Our Way Around the World at the Marketplace Booths. And while the plethora of beer and wine choices are always awesome, we have a soft spot for the inventive and delicious Grown Up Slushies that the drink team comes up with! We love these so much that they’ve made it #OnTheList as some of our favorite must-have Disney treats. This year, we’ve already spied several that we think you MUST try if you haven’t already. But we’ve also seen a couple new options that we’re anxious to sample ASAP! And then there are a few old favorites that deserve your time and attention if you get around to them. Let’s head out for some refreshment, adult-style, with All the Frozen Grown Up Drinks Ya Gotta Try at the Epcot Food and Wine Festival! La Passion Martini Slush and Frozen Daiquiri Ice Pop at the France Booth If you plan to make a serious study of Grown Up Slushies in Epcot, then the France Pavilion has to be the first stop on your list. While the Grand Marnier and Grey Goose Slushies are perennial favorites available year around, there’s always something special to try at the Epcot Food and Wine Festival. This year, the La Passion Martini Slush, a vibrant red mix of Vodka, Grey Goose Le Citron Vodka, Cranberry, and Passion Fruit Juice returns once more. La Passion Martini Slush In recent years, France has given us another delightful twist on a childhood favorite: Frozen Grown Up Push Pops! They love to play with the flavors here, and in 2016 we’ll be trying the Frozen Daiquiri Ice Pop, a combo of Strawberry Puree with French Caribbean Rhum Clément. I can’t wait! Frozen Szarlotka Apple Pie featuring Zubrowka Bison Grass Vodka at the Poland Booth A few years back, the Frozen Szarlotka debuted at the Poland Booth. Basically, this was Apple Juice + Vodka, frozen. Done. Nothing particularly special. But then, in 2015, this happened… Frozen Szarlotka (Apple Pie) — Version Added During the 2015 Epcot Food and Wine Festival …and the drink morphed into something that looked and tasted a whole heck of a lot more like a Boozy Frozen Apple Pie. With an icey consistency, Apple Pie Filling inside, and plentiful Streusel on top, this was one of the best reincarnations that a food-slash-drink ever underwent. Here’s hoping that this is the version that comes back in 2016! Hard Soda Floats at the Desserts and Champagne Booth Hard Soda Floats are taking Walt Disney World by storm. We’ve seen Grown Up Root Beer Floats in both Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. And who can forget the incredible options at Beaches and Cream?!? And this year, the Festival is getting in on the fun, too. You know the Desserts and Champagne Booth? Well, it looks like all of the plated desserts this year are making way for Floats instead! Choose alcoholic versions made with Vanilla Soft Serve and Best Damn Hard Root Beer, Sprecher Hard Cherry Cola, or Sprecher Hard Orange Cream Soda. Hard Root Beer Float Guests who prefer their floats on the “soft” side (read: no alcohol) can choose from Coca-Cola®, Grape Fanta®, or Strawberry Fanta for their Floats. “But Wait! There’s More!” Frozen Drinks Are you kidding me?? The Ireland Booth will feature two versions of a Twinings® Pumpkin Frozen Chai Tea treat — a Frozen Cocktail with Caramel Vodka as well as a Frozen Shake that will be non-alcoholic! I know. Nothing about this is Irish. But seriously. Frozen Pumpkin Chai Cocktail. How can you not?? Will It Be As Good as Joffrey’s Frozen Chai? We Hope So!! We’re super psyched to see the return of another favorite from a few years back — the Frozen Mojito! Find it at the Islands of the Caribbean Booth. No joke, you guys; this is SO GOOD. Frozen Mojito I’ve always loved the Italian Margarita that comes and goes from the menu at Via Napoli. In 2016, it’s returning to the Italy Booth for the Food and Wine Festival, with a slight tweak: expect this one to feature Tequila and Limoncello, rather than Grappa and Limoncello. Italian Margarita The South Korea Booth will also once again offer the popular Soju Fruit Slushy featuring Jinro Chamisul Soju. Chung Ha Soju Fruit Slushy And over at Refreshment Cool Post, look for the return of the Frozen Brown Elephant and Mango Starr. Frozen Brown Elephant Mango Starr But here’s a little secret: You can pretty much enjoy these two most of the year. Read our reviews here! It’s gonna be hot out there, Guys! So be sure to grab an icy drink or three to keep your cool as you enjoy all the Festival has to offer! 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! Which Grown Up Frozen Drinks will you be trying at the 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival? Leave a comment and tell us what looks best to you! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: Epcot Food and Wine Festival Recipe: Frozen Szarlotka from the Poland Booth Tips from the DFB Guide: 3 Reasons to Bring Your Kids to the 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Epcot Food and Wine Festival Review: Apple Ice Wine Mixology Seminar View the full article

If you are visiting Walt Disney World Resort in September, look for these special merchandise events at Disney Springs Marketplace and Epcot. Disney Springs September 7-11 – Artist David Doss returns to The Art of Disney at Disney Springs Marketplace. He will be meeting with guests and signing artwork from 1:00 p.m. to 9 p.m. each day. September 8-26 –Representatives from Precious Moments will be showcasing their newest Precious Moments dolls at Marketplace Fun Finds in Disney Springs Marketplace. September 10 – Artist Jasmine Becket-Griffith returns to WonderGround Gallery inside the Marketplace Co-Op from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. September 14-18 – Artist Greg McCullough returns to The Art of Disney in August. He will be meeting with guests and signing artwork from 1:00 p.m. to 8 p.m. each day. He will also be at the location from September 28 to October 2. September 22-25 – Guests can meet artist William Silvers in The Art of Disney from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. each day. Epcot September 1-5 – Guests can check out the latest Yardley fragrance and beauty products and meet representatives from 12 noon to 7:00 p.m., each day at The Queen’s Table in United Kingdom Pavilion. We will be offering bottle painting and personalization on September 14-18. September 1-5 – Artist Greg McCullough returns to The Art of Disney in Future World. He will be meeting with guests and signing artwork from 1:00 p.m. to 8 p.m. each day. September 14-18 – Guests can meet artist Larry Dotson in The Art of Disney in Future World from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. each day. September 21-25 – Learn more about fragrances and cosmetics by Givenchy in the Plume et Palette shop at France Pavilion in World Showcase. September 30 – Guests can meet representatives from Kit Heath at The Queen’s Table in the United Kingdom Pavilion at World Showcase from 12 noon to 7:00 p.m. For additional details about select events at the Walt Disney World Resort, please visit DisneyParksMerchandise.com. View the full article

Flan is one of the more traditional desserts for Hispanic families, and to celebrate the recent National Flan Day, we reached out to our own Chef Yoly Colón to share her favorite recipe with us. Chef Yoly, Epcot’s Pastry Chef, developed this recipe for the flan that was served at the Dominican Republic Marketplace at Epcot International Food & Wine Festival back in 2015. Flan Serves 8 INGREDIENTS: Caramel 1 cup white sugar 1/4 cup water Custard 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk 1 cup whole milk 2 eggs 4 egg yolks 1 teaspoon vanilla extract FOR CARAMEL: 1. Combine sugar and water in a medium saucepan. Gently swirl pan to combine, do not stir with a spoon or whisk. 2. Cook without stirring over medium-high heat for 6 to 10 minutes, or until syrup turns deep amber. 3. Quickly pour caramel into an 8-inch round metal or glass cake pan, tilting to evenly coat bottom. Set aside. FOR FLAN: 1. Preheat oven to 300°F. 2. Combine sweetened condensed milk, milk, eggs, egg yolks and vanilla in a large mixing bowl. Whisk for 2 minutes. 3. Grease sides of pan with caramel with non-stick cooking spray. 4. Carefully pour in milk and egg mixture and place cake pan in a 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Add enough hot water to come one-third up sides of baking dish. 5. Bake 1 hour or until set. Remove from oven and carefully remove flan from water bath. Cool for 1 hour on wire rack, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving. To unmold, run a knife around the edge and invert onto serving plate. Hope you enjoy it as much as we do! Qué rico! View the full article

We know the songs that will be in the new "Frozen" musical coming to the Disney Wonder cruise ship this fall, but it's the technology Disney Cruise Line hopes will set it apart. While remarkable puppetry isn't new to the cruise line's on-board productions, "Frozen: A Musical Spectacular" will have... View the full article

Adapting the Magic of ‘Frozen’ to the Stage | Disney Cruise Line View the full article

I’m sure you’ve heard the buzz by now that when we debut the new enhancements to the Disney Wonder this fall, we’re also premiering a brand-new stage show in the Walt Disney Theatre. “Frozen, A Musical Spectacular” is based on the Walt Disney Animation Studios “Frozen,” which is the number one animated feature of all time. So what does it take to turn a blockbuster into a stage musical spectacular? We assembled a team of distinguished creative talent with Broadway credits and theatrical accolades, who you’ll hear from in this video on the making of “Frozen, A Musical Spectacular.” Take a look… Aboard the Disney Wonder the 977-seat Walt Disney Theatre provides the perfect setting to immerse audiences in the kingdom of Arendelle and showcase the film’s renowned score. Songs like “For the First Time in Forever” and “Love is an Open Door” will be expanded into ensemble pieces, and the film’s wintry wizardry will be realized in lavish production numbers of “In Summer” and “Fixer Upper.” The production features the popular music and lyrics by the creators of the “Frozen” film score, Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, and is adapted from the screenplay by four-time Tony Award nominee Chad Beguelin (“Gotta Dance,” “Aladdin,” “The Wedding Singer,” “Elf”). Tell me, what excites you most about seeing this incredible story come to life onboard the Disney Wonder? View the full article

Time for another update on some of our Night of Joy 2016 artists. Casting Crowns, a Night of Joy favorite, has had a HUGE year this year and it’s only getting bigger. They have a gigantic new album coming out this year called “The Very Next Thing” and a fall tour kicking off right after Night of Joy Sept. 22nd and goes through Dec 4th. According to the Band, “The Very Next Thing” is a collection of intimate songs as well as upbeat, fresh sounding tracks with impactful lyrics centered around identifying and acting on what’s right next to you. If you haven’t heard the new single, “One Step Away,” it’s spectacular! We caught up with the CC crew recently as they flew through Central Florida to chat with them about Night of Joy memories and this year’s event at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. This year, Night of Joy guests will have more options than ever with two nights of Contemporary Christian music, ample seating at indoor and outdoor venues, amazing performances on multiple stages, including Champion Stadium, and opportunities for fellowship and fun. We also have ticket options that allow you to maximize your park time doing rides and then maximize your concerts and time together at night – plus you pick your park! Here are the details: A single-night, concert only ticket for Friday, September 9 – $39 plus tax (in advance); $45 the day of the show (if available). A single-night concert and one-day Disney theme park ticket (valid for one of the four Walt Disney World Resort theme parks) for Saturday, September 10 – $99 plus tax (in advance); $114 plus tax the day of the show (if available).* A two-night concert ticket (which includes both nights’ concerts and one-day Disney theme park ticket (valid for one of the four Walt Disney World Resort theme parks) – $119 plus tax (in advance).* And, if that weren’t enough, guests who purchase the two-day ticket on or before August 9, 2016 will also receive one (1) admission to their choice of Disney’s Blizzard Beach or Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon valid from September 6 – September 12, 2016. I also wanted to update you on some specifics in regards to transportation for the event. Walt Disney World Resort guests attending Night of Joy may enjoy transportation to ESPN Complex from all four theme parks (Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom), Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, and Disney’s Pop Century Resort from 4:30 p.m. until 7 p.m. Throughout the event and upon its conclusion, we will continue to offer transportation from ESPN Complex to all Walt Disney World Resort Hotels. Guests attending Disney Night of Joy but staying off property are encouraged to use their personal transportation to travel to and from ESPN Complex. Additional group discounts and premium seating options also are available. For more information, check out nightofjoy.com and stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog for updates on entertainment and events. * The one-day Disney theme park ticket is only valid for Saturday, Sept 10. View the full article

This year, Raglan Road celebrates the 5th Anniversary of their “Great Irish Hooley” with craft beer, cool cocktails, authentic Irish food, and, perhaps most impressive, a brand-new “Rhythms of Raglan” show—a 90-minute live spectacle of music and dance, produced in Ireland and directed by David Hayes of “Riverdance” and “The Voice: Ireland Edition” and choreographed in part by Michael Donnellan, famous for his work in “Lord of the Dance.” Taking place September 2-5, 2016 over the long Labor Day Weekend, this music-festival-meets-festive-food soiree mixes authentic Irish entertainment with some of the best bites and sips this side of the Emerald Isle. (Seriously. Have you ever had the fish and chips at Raglan Road? And don’t even get me started on their Bailey’s Shake!) The fun begins at noon on Friday, September 2nd and runs through last call the following Monday. With a day-to-night lineup that includes a nice mix of family-friendly offerings and late-night performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Below, a few of the acts I’m most excited for, with descriptions coming straight from the source at Raglan Road: Screaming Orphans – Four talented sisters from Bundoran in County Donegal, Ireland, combine original pop/rock music with the Ceili (kay-lee) traditional music of their family roots. Their dynamic show has taken the festival circuit by storm. Jake Richardson – Jake is a singer-songwriter and musician from Dublin whose passion for music inspires audiences as he entertains with unique vocals and catchy songs. Flat Out – Flat Out is an award winning four-piece band from the West of Ireland that plays an exciting mix of folk, traditional, pop and New World music. Band members are all multi-instrumentalists combining Irish harp, guitar, fiddle, tin whistle, flute, button accordion, bodhran. They play fresh original music along with funky cover music and have been playing and travelling the world since 2013. Marianne Fraser Band – Marianne is one of the most sought after guitarists and songwriters on the Irish music scene who is ably supported by Danny Hunter on fiddle and Ali Levack on whistles and pipes. The band performs a high-energy mix of traditional and modern tunes along with Marianne’s own compositions. Swingin’ On the Gate – This four-piece band of multi-instrumentalists with roots in legendary Lisdoonvarna in Co. Clare have serious crossover credentials and musical pedigree including traditional and classical training. They are multiple medal winners at Fleadhs music competitions and have toured in Italy, Switzerland and the United States. The Raglan Roots Coalition – 10 years down the road, Raglan felt it was time to shake its boogie – Roots style, with this new Irish house band. Think soul-rocking Celtic bluegrass with some hip-swingin’, knee-shakin’ funky roots beats. The High Road – These young, traditional Irish musicians met in University in Ireland. A predominately Irish traditional group, they also play British folk, blues and soul, and their combined talents provide for a vibrant, exciting live show of music and song. Cooney & Ryan – One of the finest traditional Irish music duos around, these accomplished, energetic musicians often invite the crowd to sing along. The Raglan Road Irish Dancers – Plucked from the cast and stages of the world’s greatest Irish dance shows, the Raglan Road Dancers perform throughout the long Hooley weekend. You can even learn some traditional Irish dance steps – no experience necessary! Make plans now to make The Great Irish Hooley part of your Labor Day Weekend – and be sure to catch The Rythms of Raglan show, taking place at 4 p.m. Sept. 2, and at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Sept. 3, 4 and 5. (Tip: pencil in extra time for Celtic face-painting, happening Saturday through Monday!) For the full entertainment schedule, visit www.raglanload.com and www.greatirishhooley.com closer to the event. With our Disney Springs Grand Opening Summer Celebration wrapping up on September 5th, Labor Day Weekend is the perfect time to experience all that’s new, and celebrate a tradition that’s 5-years in the making. Whether it’s food, drink or just plain fun you’re most excited for, I hope you get the chance to join in the festivities! View the full article

The Amazon rainforest basin offers unparalleled biodiversity. Black caimans, toucans, monkeys, bats, river turtles, sloths and thousands of other animals call the Ecuadorian Amazon their home. On the Adventures by Disney Ecuador: Amazon and Galapagos Islands vacation you can get in touch with the natural wonders of this region in style – aboard a private river cruise ship. Sail aboard the Anakonda, winner of the 2016 World Travel Award as South America’s Leading Boutique Cruise, which serves as your comfortable home base for four nights as you explore an Amazon tributary, the Napo River, on a rainforest trek, canoe exploration, canopy tower walk, stargazing and bird watching journeys, and more. See rare wildlife on exciting expeditions, then relax in style while lounging on the ship’s decks and soaking in the whirlpool spa. On this Adventures by Disney trip you’ll also journey to the Galapagos Islands, explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Quito and throughout Ecuador, savor a local cooking class, and delight in other once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Check out the full itinerary on AdventuresbyDisney.com! View the full article

With the Halloween season returning to Disney Parks, guests will now find a frightfully fun assortment of products created by Disney Parks Merchandise. I recently visited World of Disney at Disney Springs to discover what treats are in store for this Spooktacular time of year. This year’s Halloween collection features a fresh look created by Disney Design Group artists. The art team created a massive style guide with textures, backgrounds, character designs and more that the merchandising team used to create products. My favorite elements from this year’s style guide are character posters inspired by horror movies from the 1950s. Each poster features characters dressed in costumes that match themed lands found at Disney Parks. You’ll find these character designs and movie posters used on select items. For guests wanting to add a splash of Halloween to their home, the seasonal team introduced several new items this year. They include a wooden, pumpkin-shaped sign with Mickey Mouse dressed as a vampire, and a contemporary-styled tin Jack O’Lantern that can hold an artificial candle. Guests will also find a coffee mug, a dessert plate, and a large Melamine bowl that’s perfect for holding Halloween treats. New seasonal apparel was also released for adults and kids. Guests will find several graphic tees including my favorite, a Raglan tee with the Hitchhiking Ghosts from The Haunted Mansion attraction. I’m also in love with new colorful socks with pumpkin designs. Women will find a new zip hoodie and a costume tee that comes with a cape. Girls will have two Minnie Mouse tees while boys will find a new vampire Mickey Mouse baseball cap. Other items in this year’s collection include Disney pins, plush, pre-packaged candy, light-up necklaces and more. Below you’ll find several photos of items that caught my eye. Look for these items in select merchandise locations at Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts. Guests may also have select products shipped directly home using the free Shop Disney Parks app. Finally, you can find items on our Disney Parks online store by visiting DisneyStore.com/Halloween. Trick-or-Treat! View the full article

Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort is just around the corner, and I’ve got your first look at this year’s Haunted Mansion Holiday gingerbread house. Gingerbread houses have graced the ballroom scene of Haunted Mansion Holiday for the past 15 years, and this year’s creation consists of: 200 pounds gingerbread 200 pounds powdered sugar 4 gallons egg whites 1 gallon lemon juice 50 pounds fondant 1/3 pound glitter As you can see, the house is inspired by one of our favorite Halloween Town residents, Sally, from “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.” “The whole structure has been cobbled and stitched together from other different gingerbread houses and treats,” says Tim Wollweber, Associate Art Director for Disney Parks, who designed this year’s house. “But it appears that sometime during the house’s construction, a gingerbread ghoul was entombed! Apparently he’s eager to sew himself up inside – much like another mansion graveyard ghoul you’ve probably seen.” Are you excited to see the finished masterpiece? Be sure to keep an eye out for this creepy confection in Haunted Mansion Holiday! View the full article

Remember the return of the Chocolate-Covered Peanut Butter Sandwich I happened upon at Pooh Corner in Disneyland recently? If not, take a moment to click this link and gaze upon the wonder of it, then meet me right back here. Okay, ready? Now, right next to it in the bakery case was another chocolate-covered treat: the Mickey S’more. Peanut Butter Sandwich and Mickey S’more in Pooh Corner case And just like its neighbor, the Peanut Butter Sandwich, after being discontinued for a few months, the S’more has received a bit of a makeover. Don’t worry: all the standard ingredients that make a S’more are still there. Graham cracker on the bottom? Check. Layer of fluffy marshmallow? Check. Chocolate surrounding the entire thing? Check! Mickey S’more But take a look inside: though nothing was removed, there HAS been an addition. It’s that layer of FUDGE you now see between the graham and marshmallow layers! Mickey S’more cross-section Here’s the previous version. See the difference? Previous S’mores Cross Section Sometimes I’m not big on change (for instance, when they removed my Chocolate-Covered Peanut Butter Sandwich from the bakery cases. It’s thankfully back for a trial run and will hopefully pass the test). In this case, though, I’m all for it! I did enjoy the old version of the Chocolate-covered S’more, but how can added fudge not be a win? Stay tuned for more chocolate-covered goodness coming to you from the Happiest Place on Earth! We’ll see you back here real soon… What do you think of the changes to the S’more? 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: Chocolate-Covered Peanut Butter Sandwich Returns to Disneyland for a Trial Run Chocolate-Covered Peanut Butter Sandwich Battle of the Disney Chocolate-Covered Sandwiches View the full article

It's that time of year again, Disney fans. The time of year when Jack Skellington and his ragtag team of monsters and creatures, the ones who accidentally ruin Christmas, come out to play at Walt Disney World. With the spooky season returning, Disney leaders have created new products to celebrate... View the full article

Continuing our series of quizzes focused on Magic Kingdom Park attractions that debuted on the parks’ opening day in 1971, we’ve got the cuddly, country-western celebration known as the Country Bear Jamboree! Hilarious hillbilly bears take center stage in this musical revue. Country Bear Jamboree is especially endearing, as it is one of the very last attractions that Walt Disney himself personally helped develop. .quiz-container#wp-quiz-176734{ background-color:#f0f8fb; color:#565656; border-color:#dce4e7; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-176734 .quiz-section h1{ color:#8bb428; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-176734 .quiz-title{ color:#10628b; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-176734 .quiz-header-image{ text-align:right; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-176734 .quiz-section{ border-color:#ffffff; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-176734 .quiz-details, .quiz-container#wp-quiz-176734 .quiz-results, .quiz-container#wp-quiz-176734 .quiz-embed{ border-color:#dce4e7; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-176734 .quiz-result{ background-color:#dce4e7; } Country Bear Jamboree at Magic Kingdom Park How many Audio-Animatronic bears entertain you during the Country Bear Jamboree? 15 18 22 Who is the founder of the Country Bear Jamboree? Papa W. Bear Sid M. Grizzley Ursus H. Bear Grizzly Hall—where the show is performed—is located in which land in Magic Kingdom Park? Frontierland Adventureland Liberty Square What are the names of these triplets? Becky, Brenda and Bridget Bunny, Bubbles and Beulah Beth, Barbara and Bell What are the names of these two members of the Country Bear Jamboree? Tennessee and Zeke Kansas City and Oswald Henry and Big Al Embed Quiz on Your Website Embed Code <div class="wp-quiz" data-quiz-id="176734" 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

Did someone say “hootenanny”? It must have been Disney artist Brittany Ungvasrsky! We couldn’t get her to stop dancing around the office while creating these Country Bear Jamboree wallpapers. They showcase Fred and Teddy, two of the best “Grizzly Hall” has to offer. Now get to downloadin’ but beware, they’ll put dance in your pants! Be sure to check out the terms of use about using the wallpaper before you download it. Want to browse other wallpapers in this series? Check out the list below. 45th Anniversary Wallpaper: The Walt Disney World Railroad 45th Anniversary Wallpaper: Swiss Family Treehouse 45th Anniversary Wallpaper: Dumbo the Flying Elephant 45th Anniversary Wallpaper: The Jungle Cruise 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 The Country Bear Jamboree. Howdy, folks! This week’s look back at a Magic Kingdom Park opening-day attraction focuses on the toe-tapping Country Bear Jamboree. Located in Grizzly Hall in the Frontierland section of the park, the Country Bear cast of 18 have put on a spirited country revue for more than four decades. The 15-minute show features country music performances from The Five Bear Rugs, the loveable Trixie, Liver Lips McGrowl, the hilariously terrified Big Al, and many more. When it comes to Disney history, this attraction really does “have a lot to give.” First, Disney Animator/Imagineer and Disney Legend Marc Davis (think Pirates of the Caribbean and “it’s a small world”) produced some of the first sketches of the show’s bears. And if you listen closely, the voice of show host Henry may sound a bit familiar. That’s because he was voiced by actor Peter Renaday, who also voiced characters in Hall of Presidents, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, Snow White’s Scary Adventures and more. When the attraction opened in 1971, an official Country Bear Jamboree record album was released (and is currently available on iTunes). It offered songs inspired by the show but even more interesting to Disney fans – the album jacket offered detailed descriptions of each bear’s backstory. For example, “Swingin” Teddi Barra was “discovered” in a soda fountain outside of Gentry, Arkansas; Henry is a former football player for the Goose Creek Bruins; and Big Al was a “resident bard and balladeer in the swamp before Walt Disney World was built.” Who knew! View the full article

We have a little news that might brighten your day if Le Cellier Steakhouse in Epcot’s Canada Pavilion is a favorite stop of yours. Joffrey’s has added Le Cellier Blend to its Disney Parks and Resorts Specialty Coffees Collection! Pretend You’re Here! — With Le Cellier Blend from Joffrey’s Joffrey’s Coffee and Tea Company, based in Tampa, is the official specialty coffee provider for Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and Disney Vacation Club resorts. In addition to the tempting coffee kiosks that they run throughout the Parks and Resorts, they also have a whole Disney Parks and Resorts Specialty Coffee Collection. You can purchase the coffee blends within Disney Resorts or from the comfort of your own home via Joffrey’s website. But what about the Le Cellier Blend? We’re intrigued, too. Joffrey’s offers these tasting notes: Created exclusively for Le Cellier Steakhouse, our roastmaster created this dark roasted blend of coffee using beans from Central & South America. It offers pleasing notes of citrus with sweet caramel-brown sugar and a slight smoky finish, it’s a must try at Le Cellier Steakhouse and at home. Sounds like the perfect cup to enjoy with the flavors of Le Cellier’s desserts, like the killer Maple Crème Brûlée. Wait! — I have an idea. Make a batch with this recipe, and brew up a carafe of Le Cellier Blend to go with it for the perfect treat! And then invite me over. But in the meantime, I really want to hear from you! Are you excited about the addition of Le Cellier Blend to Joffrey’s Disney Parks and Resorts Specialty Coffee Collection? Leave a comment below and let us know! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: News! Joffrey’s Coffee Named As Official Disney Coffee Provider Review: Cupid’s Kiss Latte at Joffrey’s Coffee Kiosks in Disney World News: Win a Trip to Walt Disney World with the Joffrey’s ‘Magic in Your Mug’ Sweepstakes! View the full article

As the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration summer finale continues for a few more weeks, I wanted to look back at some of the most popular items from this dazzling event. We first revealed artwork for this milestone anniversary celebration in January 2015. The ‘Character’ collection focused on characters, attractions, and the rich history of the resort. With its sparkling blue and silver hues, the “Castle” collection featured Sleeping Beauty Castle, glistening with magical diamond dust. The stunning “Diamond” collection included black, gray and silver tones that were simple, classic and elegant. Finally, the “Decades” collection looked back at milestones from the previous six decades that made the Disneyland Resort what it is today. In March 2015, we gave Disney Parks Blog readers a first look at some of the commemorative products created for the celebration. More than 500 merchandise items were created for celebration, including apparel, accessories, headwear, home décor, souvenirs, toys, pins, D-Tech, collectibles and more. Which products were most popular with our guests? I spoke with the planning team who shared with me the top items from this celebration. Popular items included the sparkling headband, a special Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration ear hat, an open edition logo pin, an autograph book, and apparel for women and men. Guests also loved the new Made with Magic ear hat that interacted with select nighttime spectaculars at the Disneyland Resort. Two of the top items included Disneyland Diamond Celebration charms by PANDORA Jewelry. These charms will be retired once the celebration concludes. I’m glad my fiancée picked these up when we visited for her milestone birthday. They were a nice way to remember our trip together. Speaking of memories, I have so many from that trip last December. We had fun “scaling up the fun” at the unique Matterhorn photo opportunity in Fantasyland. I also loved seeing Sleeping Beauty Castle shimmering at night. If you have a favorite merchandise item or memory from your visit, please share in the comments below. Don’t forget, the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration will continue to dazzle guests through September 5, 2016. View the full article

Vacation is often a time for indulgence, so Disney dessert recipes are among the most requested, and the new “Delicious Disney Sweet Treats” cookbook features 40 irresistible recipes from the pastry chefs at Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa and Disney Cruise Line. The book includes elegant sweets such as the madeleines from Chefs de France at the France pavilion at Epcot, the Warm Apple Butter Cake from Steakhouse 55 at the Disneyland hotel and the Mom’s Favorite Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer Cake from 50’s Prime Time Café at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. (Our favorite is the Chocolate Pudding Cake from California Grill.) Each recipe has been tested in a home kitchen to make it easier to re-create a vacation favorite. Now you can make your favorite desserts any time of the year! Madeleines from Chefs de France at Epcot Makes 20 small cakes INGREDIENTS: 8 tablespoons butter 3 large eggs 3/4 cup sugar 1/4 cup whole milk 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Zest of 1 orange Pinch salt 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour, sifted, plus more for dusting pan 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder DIRECTIONS: 1. Melt butter over low heat in a small saucepan. Separate out one tablespoon melted butter and use to lightly brush Madeleine molds, then dust with flour, shaking off excess. Refrigerate pan. Keep leftover butter at room temperature. 2. Beat eggs and sugar with an electric mixer in a large bowl just to blend. Beat in milk, vanilla, orange zest, and salt. 3. Add flour and baking powder with a spatula just until combined. Gradually add cooled melted butter in a steady stream, beating just until blended. 4. Refrigerate at least 2 hours (you can make the day before). 5. When ready to serve, preheat oven to 475°F. Fill each indentation in pan with 1 tablespoon of mix. Place in oven and reduce heat to 375°F. Bake 10 to 12 minutes, or until golden around the edges and puffed. Cool 5 minutes. Gently remove from pan and serve immediately. Repeat process, buttering and flouring pan before each batch. View the full article

With the Halloween season returning to Disney Parks, we recently introduced several new products celebrating “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas”. The Disney Parks Merchandise team typically releases new items inspired by this film in the fall. Here is a summary of items you may find during your next visit. Guests will find apparel for women including a Raglan shirt, a tank top, and, my favorite, a zip hoodie with a unique image of Jack Skellington and Sally. For girls, look for an adorable long sleeve shirt and a hooded fleece. We also have new baseball caps for women and men. Other accessories include fingerless gloves, a Jack Skellington knit beanie, and a scarf. For men, look for stylish short and long-sleeved apparel featuring Jack Skellington. Boys will have a few options such as a zip hoodie and several t-shirts. There is even a fun outfit for toddlers. Guests who love to collect or trade pins will find new open edition pins and trading accessories. There is also a mystery pin set inspired by Disney ear hat ornaments of characters from the film. These items will be released in select locations throughout Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts. You may be able to have select items shipped directly to your home using the free Shop Disney Parks mobile app. To download, please visit DisneyWorld.com/Shop. Finally, look for select products on our Disney Parks online store. View the full article

Hong Kong Disneyland bounced back in the third quarter, despite the recent opening of the Shanghai Disney Resort and despite recent losses. But local tourism insiders call for an accelerated development of the second phase of the Hong Kong park so that it can maintain a competitive edge. Speaking... View the full article

Welcome to the DisneySea AquaSphere Plaza at Tokyo DisneySea! This plaza, which appears at the entrance to Tokyo DisneySea, is a favorite photo spot among park guests. Not only is the nautical theming and architecture amazing, but Disney characters are also known to drop by in the daytime for photos with guests. View the full article