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We might be neck-deep in the EPCOT Festival of the Holidays, but the holidays will be over before we know it, and we’ll be counting down the days to the EPCOT Festival of the Arts (which is my favorite EPCOT festival). Terralyn Lake hard at work The 2026 EPCOT Festival of the Arts starts on January 16th and runs through February 23rd, and will bring all kinds of visual arts, performing arts, and yes, culinary arts around EPCOT with artist booths, the Disney on Broadway concert series, and outdoor food kitchens. However, an experience that’s returning this year will change a little bit…the Visual Art in Performance series will be moving to Communicore Hall. The Visual Art in Performance series brings artists to a stage to create a piece of art right in front of your eyes in a matter of minutes. It’s a fun part of the festival and a really great way to see some of Disney’s best artists at work. This performance series used to be held in World Showcase Plaza, but it’s moving to Communicore Hall Plaza for the 2026 festival. ©Disney Communicore Hall will also host a walk-through exhibit: Once Upon A Stage: The Magic of Disney on Broadway. The exhibit features costumes and props from Disney stage musicals, as well as some behind-the-scenes details on how animated movies like The Lion King and Aladdin were adapted for the Broadway stage. Disney on Broadway Exhibit during the Festival of the Arts So be sure to visit Communicore Hall and Plaza during the festival so you don’t miss out! And stay tuned to DFB for more. Disney Shares SNEAK PEEK at New Souvenirs Coming to the EPCOT Festival of the Arts Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What’s your favorite part of the EPCOT Festival of the Arts? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

Transforming Cars Land From Halloween To Holidays Before Sunrise | Disney UnscriptedView the full article

We love checking out all the unique souvenirs and packaged snack options available throughout the World Showcase at EPCOT! Japan Pavilion Not only is it fun to see what other countries snack on, but it’s also a great way to immerse yourself in the culture! One of our favorite places to find exciting snacks and candy is at Mitsukoshi in the Japan Pavilion at EPCOT — and a popular snack is officially BACK! A Japanese snack has officially returned to Disney World! Hattendo Cream Buns have made their way back to the Japan Pavilion at EPCOT. These fluffy, creamy buns are served chilled with a custard center and are available in three different flavors — including one new one. via Mitsukoshi on Instagram Three flavors are currently available: Classic Custard Mellow Matcha Strawberry Cream (NEW!) via Mitsukoshi on Instagram These treats — straight from Hiroshima, Japan — will be available in limited quantities, while supplies last. You can find them in the Marketplace section of the Mitsukoshi Department Store in the Japan Pavilion at EPCOT. Mitsukoshi We love checking out Mitsukoshi for all the unique merchandise, snacks, and candy. It’s a great souvenir option for yourself or others, and bringing some candy or snacks back to your hotel room — or even back home — can be a fun way to extend your Disney World vacation even after it’s over! Fun beverages here! We’ll be on the lookout for more EPCOT and Disney World snack updates. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news and more! Check out more EPCOT news below! We Know Where Every EPCOT Fan Will Be on January 16th2 New Things EPCOT World Showcase Desperately NeedsThe Rules for Lightning Lanes Are Changing at Disney World in 2026Every Restaurant You Can Find Christmas Dinner at Disney World5 Things That’ll Make Your Ride on Cosmic Rewind in Disney World 10x Better Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Have you tried this Japanese treat at EPCOT? Let us know in the comments below! View the full article

By KELVIN CHAN, AP Business Writer Disney is investing $1 billion in OpenAI and will bring characters such as Mickey Mouse, Cinderella and Luke Skywalker to the AI company’s Sora video generation tool, in a licensing deal that the two companies announced on Thursday. Related Articles US farmers will get more money from Trump. They still have more problems A sell-off for Oracle weighs on Wall Street even as Dow jumps 400 points New president announced for Norwegian Cruise Line Car prices are going up, but how much of it is from tariffs? US jobless benefit applications jump to 236,000 last week as concerns about labor market persist At the same time, Disney went after Google, demanding the tech company stop exploiting its copyrighted characters to train its AI systems. The OpenAI agreement makes the Walt Disney Co. the first major content licensing partner for Sora, which uses generative artificial intelligence to create short videos. Under the three-year licensing deal, fans will be able to use Sora to generate and share videos based on more than 200 Disney, Marvel, Pixar and Star Wars characters. AI video generators like Sora have wowed with their ability to quickly create realistic clips based merely on text prompts. But a flood of such videos on social media, including clips depicting celebrities and deceased public figures, has raised worries about “AI slop” crowding out human-created work alongside concerns about misinformation, deepfakes and copyright. Disney and OpenAI said they are committed to responsible use of AI that protects the safety of users and the rights of creators. “This agreement shows how AI companies and creative leaders can work together responsibly to promote innovation that benefits society, respect the importance of creativity, and help works reach vast new audiences,” OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said. Disney CEO Robert Iger said the deal will “extend the reach of our storytelling through generative AI, while respecting and protecting creators and their works.” As part of the deal, some user-generated Sora videos will be made available on the Disney+ streaming service. Disney will also become a “major customer” of OpenAI and use its technology to build new products, tools, and services. It will also roll out ChatGPT for employees. Also Thursday, Disney sent Google a cease and desist letter, demanding that the tech company stop using Disney content without permission to feed and train its AI models, including its Veo video generator and Imagen and Nano Banana image generators. It has previously issued similar cease and desist letters to Meta and Character.AI and has filed litigation with NBCUniversal and Warner Bros. Discovery against AI image generator Midjourney and AI company Minimax. Disney accused Google of “infringing Disney’s copyrights on a massive scale,” according to a copy of the letter dated Dec. 10 seen by The Associated Press. The letter included examples that it says Google’s AI systems easily generated, such as characters from Star Wars, The Simpsons, Deadpool and The Lion King. Google has also been “intentionally amplifying” the problem by making the infringing content available across its many channels including YouTube, Disney said. Disney said Google hasn’t taken any measures to mitigate the problem even though it has been raising the concerns for months. “Google’s mass infringement of Disney’s copyrighted works must stop,” the letter said. Google did not respond immediately to a request for comment. View the full article

Okay, so we all probably signed up for Disney+ because we want to have access to all our favorite Disney movies and TV shows, right? Plus all that great Star Wars and Marvel content, including shows you’ll only find on Disney+ (like the Emmy award-winning Andor). ©Disney But you might know that your Disney+ account can score you so much more than isn’t on your TV screen. You can get discounted Disney World tickets, discounts on merchandise, access to exclusive giveaways and contests, and so much more. Well, now Disney+ is doing 12 days of Disney+ perks, and the most recent will get you discounted movie tickets. The most recent Disney+ perk will get you $10 off a movie ticket through Fandango to see Avatar: Fire and Ash, which arrives in theaters on December 19th. All you have to do is visit the Disney+ perks page, log in with your Disney account that’s associated with your Disney+ subscription, and click on “Learn More” under the offer. ©Disney You can also enter to win FREE tickets for your whole family to see Disney On Ice to the show of your choice. So be sure to check that one out, too. ©Disney There are also two more days of Disney+ perks coming, so you’ll want to keep an eye on that page. You’ll soon be able to get a perk for Marvel Unlimited, as well as a perk for the Official VIP Walt Disney Studios Tour. We’ll be keeping an eye on those to see what they turn up. In the meantime, you can still take advantage of the previous 12 Days of Perks, so be sure to check them all out. Stay tuned to DFB for more. Every NEW Movie and TV Show You Can Watch on Disney+ This December Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you a Disney+ subscriber? Do you take advantage of the perks? Let us know how in the comments! View the full article

Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary festivities have been in full swing for a while now, and the original Disney park has been celebrating with a new attraction, limited-time snacks, and more. ©McDonald’s And by “more,” we mean a Happy Meal Toy collaboration with McDonald’s, of course! The new toys recently hit participating McDonald’s stores nationwide, and we’re sharing a look at all 70 toys currently available! Disney fans — RUN to McDonald’s for these new Disneyland 70th Anniversary Happy Meal Toys! There are over 70 different characters available, depending on which McDonald’s you visit, and we’re bringing you a look at every single one. ©McDonald’s Snow White Tow Mater R2D2 Pluto Ahsoka Tano Tinker Bell Kylo Ren Timon Miguel Mufasa Lilo Jack Jack ©McDonald’s Maleficent Iron Man Green Alien Dumbo Tiana Crush Minnie Golden 70th Sleeping Beauty Castle Mickey 70th Sleeping Beauty Castle Sleeping Beauty Darth Vader ©McDonald’s BB-8 Nebula Nick Wilde Judy Hopps Boo Chip ‘n’ Dale Dory Mirabel Sulley Cruella de Vil ©McDonald’s FroZone Evil Queen Nemo Hatbox Ghost Rapunzel Thanos Stormtrooper Clarabelle Cow Simba Rex Okoye Olaf ©McDonald’s Daisy Duck Stitch Elsa Moana Black Widow Groot Chewbacca Isabela Anna Black Panther Boba Fett Ariel ©McDonald’s Baymax Bing-Bong Goofy Mike Wazowski Mr. Incredible Princess Leia Beast Lightning McQueen Flounder Sadness Anxiety Donald Duck ©McDonald’s If you need us, we’ll be hitting the drive-thru to try and snag as many of these Happy Meal Toys as we can! We’ll be on the lookout for the latest Disney updates you need to know about. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more. Where To Find the Cheapest Fast Food in Disney World Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Will you be grabbing any of the 70th Anniversary Happy Meal Toys from McDonald’s? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article

EPCOT’s World Showcase is arguably the most beloved area in Disney World, as millions of guests each year visit the recreations of countries from around the world, each of which offers authentic architecture, design, souvenirs, food, and drinks from the country represented. The only issue? It’s barely changed in the last 4 decades. Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure in the France Pavilion I’ve been visiting EPCOT for over 30 years, and the World Showcase hasn’t added a single new country during that time. In fact, a new country hasn’t been added to the World Showcase since Norway in 1988. While that hasn’t necessarily hurt World Showcase’s popularity, there’s no denying the area could use some newness. New Countries As mentioned, EPCOT hasn’t added a new country since Norway in 1988. In fact, the park has only added two countries overall since the park opened in 1982, with the Kingdom of Morocco being the other in 1984. Now, that’s not to say Disney hasn’t tried. Over the years, several counties have been teased and announced, including: Some of these scrapped nations include: A Costa Rica Pavilion featuring a large greenhouse filled with tropical plants and birds. The Equatorial Africa Pavilion, which would have been built around a 60-foot treehouse, and the “Heartbeat of Africa” live show. Remnants of this planned area can still be seen in the Outpost between China and Germany. An Iran Pavilion would have featured a dark ride exploring different parts of Persian history and a shopping area based on a bazaar. All Plans were scrapped after the Iranian Revolution. An Israel Pavilion was advertised on billboards when Epcot opened, and would have recreated ancient Jerusalem, featuring a courtyard stage and open-air restaurant. The concept was scrapped due to budget problems and security issues. A Puerto Rico Pavilion was once planned for EPCOT’s ill-fated “Phase II” expansion. A Soviet Union or Russian-themed pavilion was planned for the projected “Phase II.” It would have been based on the Moscow Kremlin and dominated by a replica of St. Basil’s Cathedral. A Spain Pavilion was advertised on billboards in the mid-1980s, with a design blending elements of Barcelona and Madrid. It was planned to feature a boat ride, a film on Spanish history, and a restaurant. A Switzerland Pavilion intended to bring a Matterhorn Bobsleds-style ride to EPCOT was slotted into plans at one point. A United Arab Emirates Pavilion was planned to feature a magic carpet ride attraction and a show detailing the cultural and scientific achievements of the Middle East. A planned Venezuela Pavilion would have replicated a waterfall, a high-rise built into a cliff, and an aerial tram ride. While any of those counties — or other highly desired ones like Egypt, Greece, India, or Australia — would feel like a massive breath of fresh air for EPCOT, an addition of this scale seems unlikely. Disney is committed to almost exclusively basing new attractions and expansions on preexisting intellectual property. It seems unlikely that they would commit to a more traditional and “realistic” World Showcase pavilion any time soon. Norway Pavilion New Rides Even if new countries are seemingly out of the question, World Showcase would also benefit from some new rides. Currently, there are only 3 across the 11 themed pavilions: Gran Fiesta Tour in Mexico, Frozen Ever After in Mexico, and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure in France. And when in reality, the only one of those rides that can truly be described as even close to “new” is Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, which opened in 2021. Gran Fiesta Tour and Frozen Ever After are rethemed versions of El Rio Del Tiempo (opened in 1982) and Maelstrom (which opened in 1989), respectively. Frozen Ever After Much like the aforementioned country pavilions, numerous rides have been planned for World Showcase over the years. These include the cut-so-late-in-construction that the show building was partially constructed Rhine River Cruise in Germany, a Mount Fuji roller coaster in Japan, and the announced-but-canceled-by-Covid -by-Covid Mary Poppins attraction in the U.K. ©Disney Given the template set by Frozen Ever After and Remy’s, any new ride addition to World Showcase would likely be IP-based, but that still leaves Disney with many options, including potentially reviving the Poppins concept or Alice in Wonderland in the U.K., or a Mulan attraction in China, just to name a few. ©Disney While the World Showcase is still beloved, there’s no denying that the iconic part of EPCOT could use some new blood. Stay tuned to DFB for more on Walt Disney World. These Disney Adult EPCOT Hacks Are Getting Out of Control Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What would you like to see added to World Showcase? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article

Disney has released the points charts for 2027 Disney Vacation Club (DVC) stays! Polynesian Village Bungalows Disney Vacation Club Members receive a yearly allotment of Vacation Points (after buying into the program) based on “the size of the real estate interest” of their “Home” Disney Vacation Club Resort. Members can then use their Vacation Points to book their vacations! If you’re a DVC Member — or are thinking about joining — here’s what you need to know about the 2027 points charts. DVC Memberships offer the following: As Disney shares, Members can “Vacation when, where, and how often you want!” Members stay at Disney Vacation Club accommodations in Disney destinations. Members enjoy additional access to vacation destinations around the globe as part of the World Collection. Members can take advantage of savings on things like theme park admission, special event tickets, Disney dining, and parks merchandise, as well as invitations to special Member-only events, such as Moonlight Magic! Bay Lake Tower at the Contemporary Resort DVC Members can use their Points at a large number of Disney Resorts and destinations, including certain resorts at Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney’s Vero Beach Resort, Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort, Disney’s Aulani Resort, and multiple international Disney hotels as well. Disney’s BoardWalk Inn If you’re interested in joining the program, you can find the current starting price on disneyvacationclub.com, and you can also call (800) 500-3990 to receive a quote. Note that Closing Costs and Annual Dues apply for Membership. Disney’s Aulani Resort For more in-depth information on Disney Vacation Club, click here! Let’s check out those 2027 points charts. Note: Some charts may be hard to read — click on the image to enlarge and open in a new tab. Disney’s Aulani Resort, Ko Olina, Hawai’i ©Disney Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort ©Disney Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge ©Disney The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort ©Disney Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge ©Disney Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas ©Disney Disney’s Beach Club Villas ©Disney ©Disney Disney’s Boardwalk Villas ©Disney Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort ©Disney Disney’s Old Key West Resort ©Disney Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows ©Disney Disney’s Riviera Resort ©Disney Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa ©Disney Disney’s Vero Beach Resort ©Disney The Villas at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa ©Disney The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa ©Disney The Villas at Disneyland Hotel ©Disney We’ll be on the lookout for more Disney Vacation Club news you need to know about. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest updates and more! Learn more about Disney Vacation Club right here! DON'T DO IT ALONE! Our favorite people over at Small World Vacations are ready to help you save time, headaches, and best of all, money, when you book your Disney trip or cruise. Their agents compare current offers to find the best deal for you -- they've literally saved their guests millions of dollars since 1996. Plus, their services are 100% FREE FOR YOU! (They're DFB's recommended travel agency, and you can see why here!) So book that trip now, then sit back and enjoy planning your Disney World Trip with a DFB-approved expert! Click here for a no obligation price quote today, and let them know DFB sent you GET MORE INFO Are you a Disney Vacation Club Member? Let us know in the comments below! View the full article

It’s not always fun to get to Disneyland only to discover your favorite ride is closed for refurbishment. However, the good news is that we usually have a little advance notice when that happens. It isn’t often enough of a notice to reschedule our trips, but at least it prepares us for the disappointment, right? Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance at Disneyland The early months of the year are usually PRIME time for ride refurbishments in Disneyland. So if you’re visiting then, you’ll want to be aware of which rides are closed. If you’re planning on visiting the park during that time, particularly Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, you’ll want to know about this ride closure: Rise of the Resistance will be closed as of January 20th. According to the Disneyland calendar, Rise of the Resistance will be closed on January 20th and will remain closed at least the rest of the week (which is as long as the calendar runs at the time of writing). This is probably for some scheduled ride maintenance (and honestly, if you’ve ever been on Rise of the Resistance, you’ll understand that this high tech ride that goes down often needs a LOT of maintenance to keep it up and running). ©Disney Disney has not revealed a reopening date for the ride, but we’ll be keeping an eye out for it. In the meantime, you’ll still be able to ride Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, as well as enjoy the rest of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, like being ordered around by Stormtroopers, meeting Kylo Ren, saying hello to Grogu, and eating all the ronto wraps you want. Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run We’ll keep an eye out for more park closures, so stay tuned to DFB for more. Why January 5th is a HUGE Day at Disneyland Resort  DON'T DO IT ALONE! Our favorite people over at Small World Vacations are ready to help you save time, headaches, and best of all, money, when you book your Disney trip or cruise. Their agents compare current offers to find the best deal for you -- they've literally saved their guests millions of dollars since 1996. Plus, their services are 100% FREE FOR YOU! (They're DFB's recommended travel agency, and you can see why here!) So book that trip now, then sit back and enjoy planning your Disney World Trip with a DFB-approved expert! Click here for a no obligation price quote today, and let them know DFB sent you GET MORE INFO Will this closure affect your upcoming Disneyland trip? Let us know in the comments! View the full article

Disney Springs really SURPRISED us in 2025 — and it’s getting ready to shake up our future vacations in 2026 too! Disney Springs So get ready to learn EVERYTHING you need to know about this shopping district (that goes WAY beyond your WILDEST expectations). Check out our video below: The ULTIMATE Guide to Disney Springs in 2026 Are you a DFB Video subscriber? If you hit the button below, you can subscribe to our channel and catch up on ALL of our latest episodes! And stay tuned for more theme park news! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What do you think of this video? Tell us in the comments. View the full article

Disney giveth, and Disney taketh away. And, sometimes, Disney giveth again — though in this case, it’s technically not Disney that’s bringing back our FAVORITE new dessert. Deep Fried Hawaiian Rolls Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs at Disney’s BoardWalk is a haven for innovative eats, and their Deep Fried Hawaiian Rolls have quickly skyrocketed to the top of our list. After debuting this summer as a limited-time item, they were taken off the menu, much to our chagrin. But — that’s all changing because this delicious new dessert is returning to Blue Ribbon! That’s right, the Deep Fried Hawaiian Rolls are returning to Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs on December 12th! Blue Ribbon took to Instagram to announce the news, which is typically where they share new menu updates. SO good In case you’re unfamiliar, these golden pillows of delight are fried Hawaiian rolls covered in cinnamon and sugar and sweetened condensed milk. When they originally debuted, they were $10 for an order, which is one of the cheaper menu items at Blue Ribbon. Ooey and gooey goodness The rolls are super fluffy, plus the whole thing is just hot and gooey and sugary. The condensed milk makes it sort of like an icing — this is the very thing to satisfy your sweet tooth. We’ll also say that it’s one of the BEST desserts on the BoardWalk — and maybe even in all of Disney World. They’re also shareable, but you might not want to share these — they’re THAT good. Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs If you spot us at Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs eating this dessert multiple times per week…keep it to yourself. Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs WE KNOW – there are SO many great snacks at Disney World! How do you choose (we don’t want to choose, but will blow our budget on Day 1 otherwise)? We’ve got you covered! We have reviewed nearly EVERY snack available at Disney World, and we’ve written a series of DFB Guides about them! Check out our DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining + Snacks Bundle for all the details you need to plan your snackin’ and spending. You can even download them to your smartphone – it’ll be like we’re right there with you in the parks! DFB Guide We’ll be on the lookout for more snack updates you need to know about from Disney World. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news and more. Check out our full review of the Deep Fried Hawaiian Rolls here! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Have you tried the Deep Fried Hawaiian Roll at Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article

I’ve been going to Disney World for decades, and the one thing I can promise you is that things change every year, and we are always finding new ways to maximize our time in the parks! Tower of Terror Disney World’s Lightning Lane system is constantly evolving, and with major ride closures and refurbishments on the horizon, 2026 will require a fresh approach. Strategies that worked in 2024 or 2025 may no longer guarantee smooth sailing. Tier lists are shifting, wait times are fluctuating, and some parks might not even make Multi Passes essential. Whether this is your first visit or you’re a Lightning Lane pro, it’s time to rethink your game plan for Lightning Lanes. Animal Kingdom Isn’t Worth the Multi Pass Disney’s Animal Kingdom will offer fewer Lightning Lane options in 2026 once DINOSAUR permanently closes on February 2nd. With one less major attraction in the lineup, the Multi Pass becomes much harder to justify here, as there are simply not enough rides to make the add-on worth the cost for most guests. However, Flight of Passage remains a standout, and waits can still soar well over an hour. That makes the Single Pass absolutely worth purchasing if this ride is on your must-do list. Disney’s Animal Kingdom The good news? You can still accomplish a LOT at this park without a Multi Pass. Early Entry gives you a huge advantage for tackling Expedition Everest or Na’vi River Journey with short waits, and Animal Kingdom tends to quiet down in the evenings, making nighttime visits another great way to breeze through the remaining attractions. If you really want to use Lightning Lane Multi Pass here, we suggest park hopping afterwards, that way you are able to maximize the use of Lightning Lane for your day! Why Disney Adults Keep Booking the WRONG Lightning Lanes Tree of Life in Disney’s Animal Kingdom EPCOT Is Now Worth Lightning Lane EPCOT will become a Multi Pass park in 2026. With three extremely popular Tier 1 attractions: Test Track, Frozen Ever After, and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, which are all drawing long waits, it’s now much harder to see everything without Lightning Lane help. Earlier in 2025, when Test Track was temporarily closed for refurbishment, Multi Pass wasn’t quite as essential. But now that it’s reopening and the full Tier 1 lineup is back in action, competition is fierce. What I Wish I Had Known Before Riding Test Track in EPCOT Test Track! If your goal is to experience more than one (or all!) of these headliners, the Multi Pass will save you hours of waiting and help you structure your EPCOT day more efficiently. You can still rope drop one attraction if you’re skipping Multi Pass. We recommend Remy’s if you’re entering from the International Gateway, and Test Track if you’re coming from the front. Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure One of the Toughest Lightning Lanes to Grab is Going to Be Even More Rare If you thought Slinky Dog Dash was already difficult to book, get ready because it’s about to become one of the rarest Lightning Lanes at Disney World. Disney’s Hollywood Studios has a lot of construction on the horizon, and with Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster expected to close for its major re-theme before Summer 2026, guests will have one fewer Tier 1 attraction to choose from. Anytime that happens, the remaining Tier 1 options get overwhelmed, and Slinky Dog Dash becomes the top prize. The Disney World Changes We’re DREADING in 2026 Slinky Dog Dash This means competition will be tougher than ever. If Slinky Dog Dash is a must for your group, you’ll want to prioritize this when booking your advance Lightning Lanes. If you miss it, rope dropping the ride remains your best backup strategy. Slinky Dog Dash Be Ready to Change Your Plans With so many refurbishments, temporary closures, and reopenings happening throughout 2026, you’ll want to stay flexible when it comes to your Lightning Lane strategy. Anytime a major attraction closes, even briefly, Disney might reshuffle the Lightning Lane tiers. That can completely change which rides book up fastest, which are worth prioritizing, and how valuable certain Multi Pass selections are. Lightning Lane at Peter Pan’s Flight Even if you’ve visited in the last year or two, the 2026 tier lineup may look very different from what you’re used to. The best way to stay ahead is to check refurbishment calendars regularly and keep an eye on reopening announcements. And of course, keep following DFB, we’ll track every tier update, ride closure, and strategy shift so you can adjust your game plan before you ever tap into the parks. Cinderella Castle At DisneyFoodBlog, we’ll continue sharing tips, updates, and strategies to help you spend less time waiting and more time enjoying the magic. Follow us for the latest Disney news as we head into 2026, because it’s shaping up to be an exciting year! 5 Most Critical Months for Disney World Fans in 2026 Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What is a Lightning Lane hack you use that more people should know about? Tell us in the comments below! View the full article

Goofy needs to know: which holiday sweater sleighs? 🛷✨ #DisneyHolidays #WaltDisneyWorldView the full article

The Walt Disney Company and OpenAI have reached a deal for Disney to become “the first major content licensing partner on Sora,” OpenAI’s generative AI short-form video platform. Mickey’s got some competition As part of the three-year licensing agreement, Sora will “generate short, user-prompted social videos that can be viewed and shared by fans.” More than 200 Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars characters will be featured on the platform, including a selection of fan-inspired Sora short-form videos available to stream on Disney+. ©Disney x OpenAI Disney will become a major customer of OpenAI, using its Application Programming Interface (API) to build new products, tools, and experiences, including for Disney+ and ChatGPT for Disney employees. As part of the agreement, Disney will make a $1 billion equity investment in OpenAI and receive warrants to purchase additional equity. Goofy Additionally, ChatGPT Images will be able to turn prompts into fully generated images in seconds using the same intellectual property. The agreement does not include any talent likenesses or voices, however. Disney shared that as part of the agreement, Disney and OpenAI are “affirming a shared commitment to the responsible use of AI that protects user safety and the rights of creators.” The deal is subject to negotiation of definitive agreements, required corporate and board approvals, and customary closing conditions. ©Disney x OpenAI “Technological innovation has continually shaped the evolution of entertainment, bringing with it new ways to create and share great stories with the world,” said Bob Iger, Disney CEO. “The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence marks an important moment for our industry, and through this collaboration with OpenAI, we will thoughtfully and responsibly extend the reach of our storytelling through generative AI, while respecting and protecting creators and their works. Bringing together Disney’s iconic stories and characters with OpenAI’s groundbreaking technology puts imagination and creativity directly into the hands of Disney fans in ways we’ve never seen before, giving them richer and more personal ways to connect with the Disney characters and stories they love.” ©Disney “Disney is the global gold standard for storytelling, and we’re excited to partner to allow Sora and ChatGPT Images to expand the way people create and experience great content,” Sam Altman, co-founder and CEO of OpenAI, stated. “This agreement shows how AI companies and creative leaders can work together responsibly to promote innovation that benefits society, respect the importance of creativity, and help works reach vast new audiences.” ©Disney x OpenAI Fans will be able to watch curated selections of Sora-generated videos on Disney+, while Disney will use OpenAI’s models to power new experiences for subscribers. Sora and ChatGPT Images are expected to start generating fan-inspired videos in early 2026. Characters included in the new deal include: Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Lilo, Stitch, Ariel, Belle, Beast, Cinderella, Baymax, Simba, Mufasa, as well as characters from the worlds of Encanto, Frozen, Inside Out, Moana, Monsters Inc., Toy Story, Up, Zootopia, and many more; plus iconic animated or illustrated versions of Marvel and Lucasfilm characters like Black Panther, Captain America, Deadpool, Groot, Iron Man, Loki, Thor, Thanos, Darth Vader, Han Solo, Luke Skywalker, Leia, the Mandalorian, Stormtroopers, Yoda, and more. Hollywood Studios We’ll be on the lookout for additional updates about this partnership. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news and more. Will Disney’s New AI Project Make Things BETTER or WORSE? Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What do you think of this new partnership? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article

In between the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping, chilly football games, and plenty of late-night outings to check out Christmas lights in your neighborhood, be sure to stay as hydrated as possible and keep a trusty water bottle at your side for whatever comes next this holiday season. Everyone needs a favorite water bottle to call their own and showcase their personality, making this a huge holiday hit year after year when Christmas shopping for family and friends. Ready to gift a water bottle to the daring hiker, dedicated snowboarder, or Disney-loving marathoner in your life? Find the latest and most trendy Disney-inspired water bottles below, with plenty of options across some of Disney’s most recognizable brands and characters. Quench Your Thirst with Stylish Disney Water Bottles Owala Disney Princess FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Straw from Amazon Looking to meet the moment and secure a trendy Owala water bottle for you or your loved ones this Christmas? With this 24 oz. water bottle featuring a protective push-to-open lid and inspired by Rapunzel from Disney’s Tangled, find an ideal sipper that will be a part of your must-bring items on your next vacation to the Disney Parks. SHOP NOW Mickey Mouse Icon Back to Life Sport Bottle by lululemon Looking for a trendy, useful companion for your next weekend hike or afternoon Pilates class? This double-wall steel water bottle from lululemon keeps its contents cold and fresh with a leak-proof lid and a slip-free texture, keeping you in great company for future adventures full of hydration no matter where you are. SHOP NOW Mickey Mouse and Friends Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Built-In Straw from Disney Store Featuring Minnie Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and some of their pals having fun in their pajamas, this stainless steel water bottle comes with a built-in flip-up straw and is a cute and convenient way to keep hydrated during the day, at night, or while on the go. Looking for even more pajama party fun? Check out our 2025 pajama gift guide for the latest nighttime styles and matching family sets to complete your Christmas list. SHOP NOW Mickey Mouse 21 Oz. Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Carabiner from Disney Store In between bites of hot dogs, pretzels, and ice cream while visiting the parks, quench your thirst and stay hydrated with the smile and shine of this stainless steel sport bottle. With a refillable canteen for on-the-go refreshment and a Mickey Mouse icon carabiner to clip onto all your favorite accessories, this water bottle is a perfect gift to place under the tree for any dedicated Disney fan. SHOP NOW Spider-Man Water Bottle with Flip-Up Straw from Disney Store When you’re thirsty, it’s this Spider-Man water bottle to the rescue! This heroic water bottle features a convenient wide mouth, screw-top lid, and a flip-up straw, making sure that you stay hydrated on the fly, at home, or while saving the day. SHOP NOW Disney Princess Go Cup XL from Corkcicle Staying hydrated before hustling through city streets, hiking a mountain, or stunting on the runway in your fashionable best? Choose from five designs (Disney’s Ariel, Belle, Moana, Snow White, and Tiana) with this 30 oz. Disney Princess Go Cup, and stay refreshed on the move no matter where you adventure. Shop this water bottle right now and be ready to shine bright this holiday season. SHOP NOW Monsters, Inc. Scream Canister 16 Oz. Water Bottle from Disney Store Hit the Scare Floor and enjoy a cold drink and chilling screams with this specially designed water bottle inspired by the Scream Canisters from Disney and Pixar’s Monsters, Inc. Twist open the lid and this replica water bottle will release the “unrefined screams” stored up by the Scarers in the film — this is the fashionable, Pixar-inspired water bottle you’ve been looking for to compliment your next trip to Magic Kingdom! SHOP NOW Darth Vader Lightsaber Hilt Light-Up Water Bottle – Star Wars from Disney Store For the dedicated Star Wars fan battling a strong thirst for hydration, stay refreshed in style with this water bottle inspired by Darth Vader’s legendary lightsaber hilt. This spectacular sipper includes a light-up translucent red spout and authentic lightsaber sounds, as well as a flip-up lid angled just like Darth Vader’s hilt. Impressive, most impressive. SHOP NOW Chewbacca Stainless Steel Water Bottle and Cooler Tote – Star Wars from Disney Store A furry, fashion statement for any Wookiee fan during the holidays, suit up with a Chewbacca cooler tote, designed to hold the included Star Wars-inspired 24 oz. water bottle and keep it cool on any planet in the galaxy. With an expandable opening for a secure fit and an adjustable shoulder strap, this versatile Star Wars-inspired drink carrier is a must-have for Star Wars fans on your gifting list this Christmas. SHOP NOW Jack Skellington Stainless Steel Water Bottle and Cooler Tote – The Nightmare Before Christmas from Disney Store What’s this? Add style to every sip with this Jack Skellington stainless steel water bottle and cooler tote on DisneyStore.com, inspired by the Pumpkin King’s iconic Halloween suit. Complete with a fashionable bat tie and an accompanying water bottle that hold 24 ounces and features several of Jack Skellington’s expressions, you’ll be carrying this set to all your favorite holidays parties (during this Christmas and next Halloween) for years to come. SHOP NOW Having a Disney water bottle by your side is a must while traveling to your next Disney destination or watching a classic animated film at home, so be sure to check out our options above to add to your Christmas list. Be sure to check out what we’ve released so far on the Disney Parks Blog, from fashionable beauty products to Star Wars finds. The season of giving is still happening as we head closer and closer to Christmas – what are you looking forward to gifting to your best friends and closest family members? 2025 Gift Guide: Disney Stocking Stuffers to Make Spirits Bright READ MORE 2025 Gift Guide: Battle and Swing with Disney Action Figures READ MORE 2025 Gift Guide: Disney Store Home Essentials for Holiday Hosts READ MORE The post 2025 Gift Guide: Sip and Showcase the Latest Disney Water Bottles appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

Brian Bacica has been appointed as park president for Legoland Florida Resort, which includes its namesake Winter Haven theme park, water park, Peppa Pig Theme Park, Sea Life Florida Aquarium and a handful of hotel properties. Bacica’s most recent position was president of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay theme park, a role he assumed in July. Before that he was president of Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey for two years. “Legoland Florida Resort is entering an incredibly exciting period of expansion and innovation, and I’m honored to lead the team as we deliver on some highly anticipated park updates,” Bacica said in a news release. Before Legoland, Brian Bacica was president of Busch Gardents Tampa Bay and Six Flags Great Adventure theme parks. (Kurt Nelson/Innovative Images) In February, the theme park plans to introduce Galacticoaster, an indoor, family-friendly roller coaster. It’s part of a $90 million plan by owner Merlin Entertainments Group that includes a similar ride at Legoland California. “With major investments like Galacticoaster on the horizon, we have an extraordinary opportunity to build new experiences that spark imagination, strengthen family connections and elevate Central Florida as a must-visit destination for families,” Bacica said. Bacica’s background also includes executive stints with Universal Orlando, Universal Studios Hollywood and Disneyland Resort in California. At Legoland, he succeeds Franceen Gonzales, who left the company in July after serving as the park’s president for 13 months. dbevil@orlandosentinel.com View the full article

Did you know that not all Pirates of the Caribbean attractions in Disney Parks are made the same? It’s true — they’re all different! Pirates of the Caribbean We’ve ridden the versions in Disney World and Disneyland more times than we can count, but that meant we were totally invested in how different the Disneyland Paris version of the ride would be when we recently got to visit the park. What you may not realize is how different this version of the attraction really is! While you can watch a ride through online to see the changes, it’s super cool to be ON the ride and realizing “wait, a minute, this doesn’t normally look like that in Disney World/Disneyland!” Beginning before the ride even starts, the queue has a very similar vibe to what you’ll find in Disney World and Disneyland, but the Disneyland Paris queue plays Pirates of the Caribbean movie music, and it’s not just the main theme — you’ll want to listen closely to hear niche songs from the score! You’ll also notice throughout the attraction that, since you’re in Paris, the ride itself is in a mix of English and French. ©Disney As for the beginning of the ride, the Disneyland Paris version also looks VERY different. You don’t start out in a cave; instead you’re out on “open waters” with land on your right. First, you’ll see trees, then shipwrecks. The restaurant is to your left, which means that yes, you’ll ride right through, just like over in Disneyland. You can get great views of Pirates of the Caribbean in Blue Bayou at Disneyland In Disneyland Paris, you’ll also find the Davy Jones mist screen projection on a lift hill at the beginning, whereas our lift hill is at the end, and there’s no Davy Jones for us at Disney World anymore. We LOVED the organ music played at this point in the ride, though — it was probably one of our favorite parts! You’ll then travel through more sequences of dead pirates, which isn’t all that different, but you’ll see that the dog with the key is earlier in this attraction than in Disney World’s. Time to hop on the ride! If you’re a big fan of Pirate Redd from the Disney World and Disneyland versions, she IS in the Disneyland Paris version of the ride, but as a much simpler animatronic, and she doesn’t speak at all. Once you head down the hill, you’ll also notice that the pirate captaining the ship shooting at Tortuga isn’t Barbossa; it’s just a random pirate. You also won’t find that first animatronic of Jack peering around the barrels. Deeper into the ride Some of the other super unique details that we loved were the pirate swinging on a rope at the beginning of the ride (SUPER neat!), and in that classic scene where the women are chasing the pirates, you’ll notice two animatronics sword fighting, which is pretty impressive. Towards the end of the ride, lightning strikes, and you watch Barbossa turn from human to skeleton, and you’ll notice that the end scene looks a little different — while Jack Sparrow IS still at the end, he sits in a different type of treasure room than what we see in Disney World. We loved this edition of the ride You’ll also find that the Disneyland Paris version of Pirates of the Caribbean is two minutes longer than the other versions! This is because the ride has some of the cave and pirate remains scenes in Disneyland, but they’re at the end of the ride instead of the beginning. While we love all versions of this iconic ride, we will say that the Disneyland Paris version seemed a little more intense, so if that’s what you’re looking for, you may enjoy this one the most. More Recent Disneyland Paris News! What Makes Pirates of the Caribbean at Disneyland Paris Special? You’d Be Surprised!The Ride Change I Wasn’t Expecting in Disneyland ParisThe Three BIGGEST Disney Announcements You Missed This Week!Disney Is Opening 11 New Rides in 2026. Here’s the Full ListREVIEW: Starbucks in Paris Is WAY Different Than You Might Think Be sure to stay tuned to DFB for all the latest Disney news, tips, and information from all the different parks across the world to help you plan your vacation! FIRST LOOK at Disney’s NEW Tangled Ride, Princess Restaurant, and MORE DON'T DO IT ALONE! Our favorite people over at Small World Vacations are ready to help you save time, headaches, and best of all, money, when you book your Disney trip or cruise. Their agents compare current offers to find the best deal for you -- they've literally saved their guests millions of dollars since 1996. Plus, their services are 100% FREE FOR YOU! (They're DFB's recommended travel agency, and you can see why here!) So book that trip now, then sit back and enjoy planning your Disney World Trip with a DFB-approved expert! Click here for a no obligation price quote today, and let them know DFB sent you GET MORE INFO Which version of Pirates of the Caribbean do you love the most? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

If you’ve been with grandparents in the parks, you know they do not mess around when it comes to comfort. ©Amazon They are prepared, they know their limits, and they absolutely know what shoes can survive rope-drop-to-fireworks days. Because let’s be honest. Nothing derails a magical vacation faster than blistered heels and aching arches. We rounded up the shoes that Disney grandparents are swearing by for 2026 trips. Even better, you can find them all on Amazon. If you’re planning a multi-park marathon or just want footwear that will keep up with you, these are the pairs everyone is talking about. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. On Men’s Cloud 6 Sneakers ©Amazon These Cloud 6 sneakers are a top pick for anyone who wants that soft, cushioned, “walking on air” feeling. Grandparents love the breathable mesh upper because it keeps their feet cool all day long in the Florida heat. The updated outsole gives you better grip and stability on slick walkways after a surprise afternoon downpour, and the Speedboard offers great torsional support for long park days. If you want a premium walking experience that still feels lightweight, this is the pair to consider. View on Amazon Allbirds Women’s Tree Runner ©Amazon If you’re worried about sweaty feet during hot park days, the Tree Runners are the breezy, cool option grandparents rave about. The silky-smooth upper keeps feet dry, and the cushioned midsole makes these easy to wear from the moment you pull them out of the box. They are machine washable, which is great when you’re dealing with theme park grime, and they transition perfectly from the parks to travel days. Just keep in mind that they run in whole sizes only, so size up if you’re in between. View on Amazon Hoka Mens Clifton 10 We love a good pair of shoes The Clifton line has been a long-time favorite for comfort-focused walkers, and this newest version adds even more plush cushioning. The breathable jacquard upper keeps feet comfortable in the heat, and the added heel-to-toe drop creates a smoother stride for long walking days. These are great for grandparents who want something ultralight but supportive, especially if they deal with foot fatigue after several hours. View on Amazon Brooks Women’s Ghost 17 Neutral Running Shoe Brooks Ghost This is one of the most consistently recommended walking shoes on the market. The Ghost 17 offers soft, dynamic cushioning with nitrogen-infused midsole foam that makes long walking days feel easier. The breathable mesh upper keeps air flowing, and the flex grooves in the midsole give you smooth heel-to-toe transitions. Grandparents love the support, especially for long-distance walking, and this shoe is even approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association. View on Amazon Skechers Men’s Max Cushioning Endeavour Sneaker ©Amazon If you want soft cushioning without the higher price tag of premium running shoes, this Skechers pair is a winner. The Air-Cooled Goga Mat insole feels great underfoot, and the Ultra Light midsole softens impact during long hours of walking. The Natural Rocker Technology helps reduce strain when you’re covering a lot of ground. These are well-loved for being easy to wear right away without a break-in period. View on Amazon Nike Women’s Motiva ©Amazon If you’re a walker rather than a runner, the Nike Motiva is designed specifically with you in mind. These shoes have a tall foam stack that absorbs impact and a roomy toe box that helps prevent rubbing and pressure on long days. The exaggerated rocker makes each step feel smoother, which grandparents especially appreciate when trekking across EPCOT or up and down Main Street all day. View on Amazon Ryka Women’s Devotion X Walking Shoe ©Amazon This shoe balances comfort, support, and just the right amount of style. It is a favorite for long walking days, and it is APMA-approved for promoting good foot health. The RE-ZORB cushioning absorbs shock incredibly well, and the built-up midfoot support helps reduce fatigue. Grandparents love that this shoe feels stable and supportive but not overly bulky, making it a great choice for travel as well. View on Amazon Reebok Unisex-Adult DMX Comfort + ©Amazon If you are looking for a reliable value pick, these Reebok sneakers offer breathable comfort and solid support at a lower price point. They are lightweight, flexible, and stable enough for long days in the parks. Grandparents like that they transition easily from casual walking to travel days, and they offer a stylish look without sacrificing comfort. View on Amazon Easy Spirit Women’s Romy Sneaker ©Amazon This pair is perfect for anyone who wants immediate comfort. The padded lining and cushioned insole give you all-day softness, and the flexible rubber sole makes walking effortless. Grandparents love that these require virtually no break-in time, so you can wear them straight to the parks. They are lightweight, supportive, and very easy to match with everyday outfits. View on Amazon On Men’s Cloudtilt Sneakers ©Amazon If you want top-tier cushioning and support, the Cloudtilt is a strong contender. The CloudTec Phase technology delivers a soft, supportive feel with each step, and the shoe uses recycled materials for a more sustainable option. Grandparents like these for multi-park days or vacations with a lot of walking because they stay comfortable for hours without feeling heavy. View on Amazon We’re always on the hunt for the latest and greatest Disney souvenirs and essentials, so don’t forget to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more! View the full article

Disney fans love a good Loungefly moment and honestly so do we. We love Loungefly bags! These mini backpacks have become the unofficial uniform of Disney adults everywhere, and when they go on sale, it feels like the planets have aligned. Right now, several Loungefly bags are up to 50% off on Amazon, and some of these styles almost never get marked down this much. If you have a park trip coming up or just love building your collection, this is your sign to pounce before the good ones disappear. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Loungefly Disney Minnie Floral and Lace Mini Backpack — 50% OFF ©Amazon This one is for the cottagecore girlies and anyone who loves Minnie in full bloom. The circular shape makes it stand out right away, and the floral detailing is even prettier in person. That embroidered rose border looks like it belongs in a vintage Minnie short, and the lace accents add such a soft touch. Minnie, holding her little bouquet, is just adorable. If your style leans sweet and feminine, this is the bag you want to snag while it is on sale. View on SALE Loungefly Mickey & Friends Convertible Backpack & Tote Bag — 33% OFF ©Amazon A two-in-one Loungefly on sale is the definition of a win. This bag flips between a roomy tote and a backpack, which makes it perfect for park days when you want options. The front circular design features Mickey, Minnie, and Pluto surrounded by starburst details, and the back shows Donald, Daisy, and Pluto, too. It feels classic and colorful without being too loud. If you want something versatile for Disney trips, travel days, or even work, this is the deal you should not sleep on. View on SALE Loungefly Mickey & Friends Figural Hot Air Balloon Backpack — 33% OFF ©Amazon If you love unique shapes, this one is such a find. The whole backpack is designed like a hot air balloon floating through the sky, and it features Mickey, Minnie, Pluto, Goofy, and Donald all packed into the basket, ready for an adventure. The pearlescent faux leather makes it feel extra special, and it is such a fun summer bag for park hopping or vacations. These figural Loungefly styles tend to sell out fast whenever they hit a good price, so definitely grab it while it is discounted. View on SALE — SELLING OUT FAST Loungefly Minnie Mouse Bow Faux Leather Mini Backpack — 23% OFF ©Amazon You really cannot go wrong with the classic Minnie bow design. This black faux leather bag goes with every outfit, and those little Mickey-shaped studs on the quilted front pocket are such a cute detail. The big red bow and ears are iconic without being too over the top. If you are new to Loungefly or want a reliable everyday Disney bag, this is the safest pick, and being on sale makes it even better. View on SALE Loungefly Mickey & Friends Classic Ear Holder Mini Backpack Combo ©Amazon If you love bringing your favorite mouse ears to the parks, this bag is about to make your life so much easier. The front drop pocket has a spot designed specifically to store an ear headband, and the puffed ears and detachable bow on the outside make it look like a wearable display piece. The character print inside is adorable and surprisingly spacious. This is one of those bags that solves a real park problem, so when it is discounted, it goes fast. View on SALE — SELLING OUT FAST Loungefly Disney Minnie Mouse Pumpkin Mini Backpack — 50% OFF ©Amazon Spooky, cute fans, this one is for you. Minnie, peeking from behind a pumpkin-shaped candy bowl, is already adorable, but then Loungefly went ahead and made it glow in the dark. The pumpkin and candy corn pattern covers the whole bag and feels perfect for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, or honestly, any fall outfit. Seasonal bags always fly off the shelves when they hit sale prices, so if you want it, grab it now. View on SALE — SELLING OUT FAST Loungefly Disney Lion King Mini Backpack — 35% OFF ©Amazon This Lion King design is a total standout. It captures the big sing-along moment with bright colors and even has movable ostrich wings for extra flair. Between the nostalgia factor and the fun details, this is the kind of Loungefly that becomes a conversation starter in the parks. Since it’s on sale, it is a great time to add it to your collection. View on SALE Loungefly Disney Atlantis Kida Mini Backpack ©Amazon Atlantis fans know how rare it is to find merch from this movie, which makes this sale feel even more exciting. Kida is featured on the front, and her glowing necklace detail looks amazing in low light. The side panel designs based on the Heart of Atlantis symbols look so good, too. If you love the movie or collect harder-to-find Loungefly styles, this is a must-grab while it is discounted. View on SALE Loungefly Cinderella 75th Anniversary Pink Bow Mini Backpack ©Amazon This bag is pure fairy tale energy. The pink satin looks like it was lifted right from Cinderella’s dress, and the layered bows give it such a special touch. It feels elegant without being too fragile to use at the parks. If you want something that feels dressed up for a special Disney day, this is one of the prettiest Loungefly styles on sale right now. View on SALE — SELLING OUT FAST We’re always on the hunt for the latest and greatest Disney souvenirs and essentials, so don’t forget to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more! View the full article

Each December, Walt Disney World Resort transforms into a place of healing, hope, and celebration for hundreds of families who have lost loved ones in military service or as first responders during the annual “Snowball Express” program, which is organized through the Gary Sinise Foundation. The program brings together the children and families of fallen heroes for a five-day healing retreat filled with connection, remembrance, and the magic of Disney. Since its inception in 2006, “Snowball Express” has grown into a powerful tradition, offering comfort and joy to families who have sacrificed so much for our nation. Participants at the “Snowball Express” at Walt Disney World Resort on December 9, 2025. Since 2018, more than 23,000 children of fallen military heroes, fallen first responders, and their surviving parent or guardian have participated in the healing retreat at Disney World. The annual retreat, held over two weeks this year, provides families the opportunity to forge new friendships and create special memories together with many meaningful activities for the families to enjoy. Some of those activities include exclusive early access to Magic Kingdom before the public and the “Walk of Gratitude” down Main Street U.S.A. at daybreak. Nearly 1,000 Disney VoluntEARS — many of them military veterans — line the route to cheer the families on as they proceed to Cinderella Castle for a heartfelt ceremony where notes to fallen heroes are placed in a magical cauldron and sent to heaven for them to read with the help of some Disney magic. Gary Sinise speaks at the “Snowball Express” program at Walt Disney World Resort. To better understand the heart and impact of “Snowball Express,” we sat down with Gary Sinise, founder of the Gary Sinise Foundation, acclaimed philanthropist and actor, best known for his Oscar-nominated portrayal of Lt. Dan Taylor in Forrest Gump. His vision and dedication have transformed this program into a lifeline of hope for so many families of fallen heroes. Can you talk about the origins of “Snowball Express?” During the Iraq war, U.S. Army Private First-Class Jesse Givens gave his life for our country and left a letter [to his wife] saying, “if anything happens to me, take the kids to Disneyland.” And that was the snowflake that started this snowball rolling. And then it turned into a great effort in that first year, and that effort has continued for 20 years now and helped a lot of young children through very, very difficult times. [Private Givens] wanted to help his children through a difficult time by going to a happy place and letting them remember that he was right there with them, and that’s the way it is for every single family. Families stand in front of Cinderella Castle during a heartfelt ceremony where notes to fallen heroes are placed in a magical cauldron and sent to heaven for them to read with the help of some Disney magic. It’s like they bring their loved one with them and they spend time there and they’re showing their loved one, their fallen hero, that they’re doing okay. And that’s what we want for every single family that struggles and suffers in service to our country. We want them to be okay. And I started thinking about this quote from Calvin Coolidge that we use at the Gary Sinise Foundation, it’s even up on the wall: “the nation, which forgets its defenders, will itself be forgotten.” Disney VoluntEARS — many of them military veterans — line the route on Main Street U.S.A. to cheer the families during the “Walk of Gratitude.” How did the Gary Sinise Foundation get involved with “Snowball Express?” I was contacted by the people that organized [the first program in 2006]. They wanted me to know that they had done this event and said, “Boy, wouldn’t it be great if I got involved.” So in 2007, I brought my band [Gary Sinise & the Lt. Dan Band] down to Anaheim and we set up at the Grove and brought all the kids into the Grove that had lost a parent. They’re grieving children, so let’s give them a great time tonight. Let’s just lift them up and make sure that we just wrap our arms around them, give them a lot of love. What led Disney to become part of this initiative? I remember going to Disney in LA and having a meeting with Bob Iger and telling him about “Snowball Express,” and pitching the idea that we would love to bring this event to Disney World. But of course, we’re talking about over a thousand kids and all these volunteers. I mean, it was a massive event. So of course, we had to have Disney really endorse it, embrace it, and become a part of it. He saw I was very passionate about trying to just tell how important this was to the kids and what it was doing for the kids. Well, of course, that’s Disney’s thing, right? Happy kids is Disney’s thing — it’s in their wheelhouse. So, it made a lot of sense. And when Bob said green light, a lot of things started to roll. In 2018, we launched our first event at Disney World. And it’s grown ever since, and now it’s a massive program. Participants at the “Snowball Express” at Walt Disney World Resort on December 9, 2025. It’s not just a trip to Walt Disney World — it’s a healing retreat and a chance to build community. That’s the whole point of “Snowball.” It was always that. Yeah, let’s have some fun. But let’s put these kids together with other kids who are going through the same thing… show them they’re not alone in what they’re going through. And that’s the best part about it. That’s the most helpful part about “Snowball.” The folks at Disney really started to see what this was and what it was doing, and what the possibilities were — to make it better, more fun, more magical, all the wonderful Disney things. And so, as time has gone on each year, we have felt like we’ve had more and more support, more and more creative ideas coming at us, more and more fun things to do. Is there a moment you look forward to the most each year, or that’s most meaningful to you? It’s all about just happy kids to me. The “Walk of Gratitude,” is one of the most significant parts of the event, for the kids to walk down Main Street U.S.A. to all the cheering people that got up in the middle of the night and came over to support the kids, that’s very moving. I love being up there with Mickey Mouse and talking to the kids and then firing off the fireworks and letting them play. Disney VoluntEARS — many of them military veterans — line the route on Main Street U.S.A. to cheer the families during the “Walk of Gratitude.” I would watch the kids grow up in front of me. A lot of them would come and stand right in front of me every year. They’d get their special spot at the concert, and they would stand in front of me and with the t-shirt on with their fallen hero on it, and each year they would get a little bit older, a little bit bigger, and I would watch them and I’d look at them. That’s always been very, very special. The post Gary Sinise Discusses the Gary Sinise Foundation’s “Snowball Express” at Walt Disney World Resort: Honoring Families of Fallen Heroes appeared first on Disney Experiences. View the full article

We know we don’t talk about it a lot, but a lot of people come to Disney World not just for the theme parks and great food (which is basically our reasons for visiting), but for something else: golf. ©Disney Disney World’s three championship golf courses and nine-hole walking layout bring tons of people to the resort so they can get their golf in Disney fashion for an experience that might be just a bit more magical than other golf courses around the world. Well, Disney was recently recognized for its golf courses because the National Golf Course Owners Association (NGCOA) has chosen Disney World Golf as its 2026 Resort Golf Course of the Year. Disney recently revealed that its resort golf courses, which are operated by Arnold Palmer Golf Management, were named by the NGCOA as its 2026 Resort Golf Course of the year. The NGCOA is a non-profit organization that’s “the leading authority on the business of golf course ownership and management.” It represents thousands of courses across the U.S. ©Disney Walt Disney World Golf will be officially recognized by the organization at the NGCOA Golf Business Conference, which will take place January 19th through 21st in Orlando, Florida. “Walt Disney World Golf represents the pinnacle of resort-level golf experiences, establishing a benchmark for service, design, and industry leadership,” says Cathy Harbin, President of the NGCOA Board of Directors. “The APGM team members at Walt Disney World Resort are passionate about our industry, providing first-class experiences and inspiring others. It is a privilege to recognize their dedication to golf and shine a spotlight on their achievements.” ©Disney Disney recently launched a major project to overseed all four of its courses for the first time in 10 years. The company also recently introduced a new premium golf cart fleet that is now available on all three 18-hole courses. The new carts have a fob-based system, high-resolution LED multifunction displays, upgraded alloy wheels, USB ports for charging mobile devices, and more. Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course also recently underwent a huge renovation and now has “new teeing grounds, redesigned greenside and fairway bunkers, and newly re-contoured Bermuda grass greens.” There’s also a Mickey Mouse-themed bunker on hole 6, and all 18 holes have a Disney-themed name based on classic Disney movies. Golf Balls Stay tuned to DFB for more. Here’s How Walt Disney World Is Making Its Golf Courses Safe for Guests Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Have you ever golfed at Disney World? Share your experience with us in the comments! View the full article

Listen, I love Disney World rides with my whole heart. I don’t care where I sit as long as I get to fully experience the ride, but there are also some seats that just aren’t as good as others. We’re not talking about the front versus the back on Big Thunder Mountain Railroad or on Cosmic Rewind, but on Smugglers Run. New missions will be added to Millennium Falcon: Smugglers run in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort featuring the Mandalorian and Grogu. If you didn’t know, Smugglers Run is getting an update on May 22nd at both Disney World and Disneyland, and with that comes a change to the engineer seat. There are three seats on Smugglers Run you can get: the pilot, gunner, or engineer, and if we’re being honest, the pilot is the best seat, where you’re literally flying the Millennium Falcon. That’s a dream come true for most of us! ©Disney Not saying the gunners and engineers aren’t important, but they don’t have all the buttons, control, and powers as the pilot. The gunners help protect your ship, and the engineer helps repair damage, but now the engineer will be able to pick the crew’s destination. ©Disney New storylines are being added or updated, but the biggest one is one for The Mandalorian and Grogu movie, where you’ll be able to interact with Mando and Grogu. Eek! The engineer will also be able to communicate with Grogu during the mission. Death Star ruins on the new version of Smuggler’s Run ©Disney In the new storyline, Hondo Ohnaka “has gotten wind of a deal going down on Tatooine between ex-Imperial officers and a band of pirates. There’s a generous bounty for their capture, so you’ll borrow the iconic ship and team up with Mando and Grogu to track them down and explore the galaxy.” Tatooine on the new version of Smuggler’s Run ©Disney This isn’t the first time Disney has listened to guest ideas and implemented them into the ride. We recently saw Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure at EPCOT switch from 3D to 2D, along with different audio and scent upgrades. Smugglers Run is also updating its visuals, which we’re looking forward to seeing. Make sure you have May 22nd circled in your calendar if you’re a Star Wars fan, as this change comes to Disneyland and Disney World at the same time. Make sure you keep following Disney Food Blog for more. ALL THE NEW RIDES AND ATTRACTIONS AT DISNEY WORLD IN 2026 AND BEYOND Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you excited for these changes? Tell us in the comments. View the full article

If your Disney vacation plans involved water slides and lazy rivers, we’ve got news — and you might be grabbing for a sweatshirt instead of a swimsuit. Typhoon Lagoon There’s nothing better than escaping the chilly temps back home and heading to Disney World for some holiday magic filled with sunshine, palm trees, and festive fun. But even the “Most Magical Place on Earth” isn’t completely immune to a winter cold snap. With cooler weather rolling into Central Florida this week, you may need to adjust your plans a bit, because the drop in temperature is bringing some unexpected changes to Disney World’s park schedule. If you were hoping for a splash-filled Disney World vacation this week, you may need to adjust your plans. Disney World’s seasonally open water park — Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon — is scheduled to temporarily close on December 11th and 12th as colder temperatures move into Central Florida. Theming is everything at Disney! While chilly weather isn’t exactly what most people picture when they think of Orlando, cold fronts do occasionally sweep through this time of year, and when temperatures drop too low, Disney pulls the plug on water park operations for our comfort and safety. Blizzard Beach These weather-related closures aren’t unusual during the winter months, especially when daytime highs dip below what Disney considers ideal for water-based fun. Even though many of the attractions feature heated water, gusty winds, and cooler air temperatures can still make the overall experience less enjoyable — especially for families with young children. Rather than having guests brave the cold in swimsuits, Disney opts to close the parks until conditions improve. Typhoon Lagoon As always, closures like these are subject to change depending on how the weather system develops. Disney typically updates water park operating schedules daily during cooler months, so it’s best to keep an eye on your My Disney Experience app for the most up-to-date information. If warmer temperatures return quickly, the parks may reopen just as fast — but for now, plan as though they’ll remain closed on the 11th and 12th. Typhoon Lagoon But don’t sweat it (HA)! While both of these parks will be closed on December 11th and 12th, if you’re visiting Disney World during this time, there’s still plenty of other options to fill your day. If you were hoping for a water-focused experience, many of the hotel pools remain open year-round and are heated (though their operating hours can occasionally be affected by extreme temperatures). Otherwise, this may be the perfect opportunity to explore the theme parks, catch up on indoor attractions, enjoy your resort amenities, or take advantage of holiday offerings around Disney World. Typhoon Lagoon With Florida weather being as unpredictable as ever, the sunshine usually comes back before long. Until then, bundle up, enjoy the cooler air, and make the most of your time in the parks! And don’t forget to check back here for the latest Disney World news, changes, and more as they’re announced. Disney World Hotel Bathrooms Just Got a MAJOR Upgrade Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are Disney World’s hotel pools and water parks during your winter months a total must-do or complete skip for you? Tell us why or why not in the comments! View the full article

2025 Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade returns on December 25, 2025, airing on ABC at 10:00 a.m. EST and streaming starting at 11:00 a.m. EST on Disney+, Hulu, and the Disney YouTube channel through January 4, 2026. Star-studded performances from Gwen Stefani, Coco Jones, Iam Tongi, Lady A, Nicole Scherzinger, Mariah the Scientist, and Bebe Rexha from iconic Disney locations. Hosted by Alfonso Ribeiro and Ginnifer Goodwin, with Maia Kealoha as parade correspondent, continuing a tradition that began in 1983. For generations, the Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade has been more than just a show. It’s a cherished holiday tradition for families across the country. From cozy living rooms to festive gatherings, millions (including my family) tune in each Christmas morning to experience the magic of Disney, the joy of music, and the wonder of the season. It’s a moment where holiday memories are made, year after year. This Christmas, we’re stuffing even more tinsel into the holiday with an incredible lineup of performances, breathtaking floats, and beloved Disney characters. Plus, for the first time at Magic Kingdom Park, the Disney Villains we love to loathe are taking over on Christmas morning with their own section of the parade. Where to See the Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade The parade airs Christmas morning at 10:00 a.m. EST/9:00 a.m. CST/5:00 a.m. MST/5:00 a.m. PST on ABC and streams on Disney+, Hulu, and the Disney YouTube channel at 11:00 a.m. EST/8:00 a.m. PST, so you can celebrate wherever you and your loved ones gather. If you miss it Christmas morning, you can stream the special through January 4, 2026. See These Celebrities During the Parade We’re thrilled to welcome back Alfonso Ribeiro for his second year as host of the Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade. Known for his infectious energy and warm personality, Alfonso brings the perfect mix of fun and holiday cheer to the celebration. Joining him for the first time is Ginnifer Goodwin, the voice of everyone’s favorite bunny cop in Disney’s Zootopia 2, whose Disney roots and love for storytelling make her an ideal co-host for this magical tradition. And keeping the excitement rolling from the parade route is Maia Kealoha, who stars as Lilo in the Disney live-action film Lilo and Stitch, sharing all the festive moments as our parade correspondent. Here’s who else will be spreading holiday cheer from Disney destinations around the world: Gwen Stefani – “White Christmas” from Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland Resort Coco Jones – “This Christmas” from Millennium Falcon at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Iam Tongi – “The Christmas Song” from Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina Hawai‘i Lady A – “Winter Wonderland” from World Celebration Gardens at EPCOT Nicole Scherzinger – “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” from Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland Resort Mariah the Scientist – “Please Come Home for Christmas” from Tree of Life at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park Bebe Rexha – “Last Christmas” from Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom Park Plus, don’t miss the dazzling parade down Main Street, U.S.A., at Magic Kingdom featuring festive floats, beloved Disney characters, and a sprinkle of pixie dust to make your holiday truly magical. 42 Years of the Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade The parade first aired in 1983 as a way to bring the enchantment of Disney Parks into homes during the holidays. What began as a simple broadcast of festive floats and beloved characters has grown into a spectacular celebration featuring world-class performances, dazzling visuals, and heartwarming moments that families look forward to every year. Speaking of heartwarming moments, I always love seeing the magic of Disney shared with families, and this year three families were surprised with trips to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and aboard Disney Cruise Line. Plus, grab your tissues for a touching story recognizing a Walt Disney World cast member for the positive difference they make in the world. As we all gather with our families to watch the special, we’ll also get a glimpse of what’s coming next at The Walt Disney Company. Disney fans will be happy to catch sneak peeks of Disney and Pixar’s all-new movie Hoppers AND the highly anticipated live-action Moana, both releasing next year. Mark your calendars for December 25 and join us for this beloved tradition that brings families together in the most magical way. Oh, and don’t forget to join the conversation @ABC and @DisneyParks. Disney Holiday Special Brings Star-Studded Performances READ MORE A Very Jonas Christmas at Disney READ MORE 2025 Candlelight Processional Narrators Star-Studded Lineup READ MORE The post Details Announced for the 2025 Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

Celebrating Christmas at Disney World is one of the most magical experiences, and you don’t need to bring anything from home to make it happen. Disney supplies the trees, ornaments, wreaths, and more, but wait. What about Christmas dinner? The Patriot’s Platter If your family is anything like mine, Christmas dinner is important. Some of us look forward to it all year round and have certain requirements that we can’t live without (cough, cough, mashed potatoes). Lucky for you, Disney has tons of dinners all across the property, and we’re sharing some of them with you here so you can still have your traditional Christmas dinner. Before we get too into it, we have a master list of where you can find holiday-style dinners during Christmas. We update this regularly when dinners are announced, so make sure you check it out! You’ll also want to snag a reservation for these spots because they’re going to be busy. FULL LIST OF CHRISTMAS DINNER ACROSS DISNEY WORLD Let’s talk about Magic Kingdom first. There are quite a few places that you can eat classic food, and then hop outside to watch Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, too. Liberty Tree Tavern That turkey, though All year round, you can grab Thanksgiving food at this Liberty Square restaurant. It’s all-you-care-to-enjoy, so you can grab seconds or thirds of all of your favorites. There are items like pot toast, turkey breast, pork, mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables, mac and cheese, and stuffing. The Diamond Horseshoe Food at Diamond Horseshoe in Magic Kingdom Another Liberty Square spot that has it all year round! It’s also all-you-care-to-enjoy and has a very similar menu to Liberty Tree Tavern. Plaza Restaurant The Plaza Restaurant There’s a special holiday-season menu available through January 3rd. You can grab favorites like Holiday Beef Pot Roast, Holiday Turkey Meatloaf, Pistachio and Cherry Cheesecake, and Holiday Cosmopolitan. Now onto EPCOT! You can dine at the EPCOT Festival of the Holidays, where there are food booths set up for different holiday traditions, which is a fun twist on the classics. There’s a restaurant that has a more classic menu, too. Garden Grill Garden Grill At Garden Grill, you can grab traditional holiday-style items in all-you-care-to-enjoy style all year round. It’s also a character dining meal where you can meet Pluto, Mickey, and Chip ‘n Dale, for even more holiday fun. There are items like roasted chicken, mac and cheese, and creamy mashed potatoes. Let’s head to Hollywood Studios! Hollywood & Vine You’ll get to see Mickey in his holiday outfit! At Hollywood & Vine, you can head to the buffet to try carved turkey breast, mashed potatoes, cornbread stuffing, gravy, and cranberry orange relish. The best part is that it’s a character dining experience where the characters are in their holiday attire. So fun! In the past, we’ve found that many Disney World table-service restaurants offer a turkey or pork entrée on Christmas Day, even if it’s not officially listed on the menu, so don’t forget to ask. There are also some holiday dinners at the resorts, which you can check out here. In the meantime, make sure you keep following Disney Food Blog for more! FULL GUIDE TO THE HOLIDAY SEASON IN DISNEY WORLD Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you eating Christmas dinner at Disney World? Tell us in the comments. View the full article