Disney4me

Today, we’re happy to share that our next #DisneyParksLIVE stream will take place July 18 from Disney’s Hollywood Studios, where guests are loving the new “Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular” fireworks show. The spectacular is the next generation of Star Wars-themed fireworks shows for the park. “Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular,” dazzles with new themed fireworks, lasers, special effects and video projections of iconic characters and scenes from the complete saga, all set to the unforgettable score of the film series. Our live stream of this new show will begin at 9:20 p.m. ET. Join us minutes before the fireworks start to learn more about how the show was designed from the creators themselves! (A fresh blog post containing the live stream feed will be ready and waiting at the top of the blog on July 18). Will you tune in? View the full article

The spookiest time of the year is almost here! Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort returns September 9 through October 31, bringing with it 17 nights of Mickey’s Halloween Party as well as seasonal favorites like Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy and Haunted Mansion Holiday. Mickey’s Halloween Party guests can enjoy trick-or-treating, the exclusive “Halloween Screams” fireworks and more. And new this year, the Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow (from Disney’s animated feature, “The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad”) will make his spooky ride through the heart of Disneyland park each night of the party! Be sure to purchase your Mickey’s Halloween Party tickets early and mark your calendars for the following dates: July 21: Tickets on sale to Disneyland Resort Annual Passholders, Disney Rewards Visa card holders and Disney Vacation Club members July 28: Tickets on sale to general public Mickey’s Halloween Party 2016 dates: Friday, Sept. 23; Monday, Sept. 26; Wednesday, Sept. 28; Friday, Sept. 30; Monday, Oct. 3; Wednesday, Oct. 5; Friday, Oct. 7; Monday, Oct. 10; Wednesday, Oct. 12; Friday, Oct. 14; Monday, Oct. 17; Wednesday, Oct. 19; Friday, Oct. 21; Monday, Oct. 24; Wednesday, Oct. 26; Saturday, Oct. 29; and Monday, Oct. 31 Parking is not included in the ticket price and parking fees will apply. Mickey’s Halloween Party is a nonsmoking event. Smoking will be permitted in designated areas outside Disneyland Park in the Main Entrance Plaza. Mickey’s Halloween Party tickets are subject to availability and are valid only for specific event dates and hours. Space is limited and event dates may sell out. Limit eight (8) tickets per person, per event date. Tickets are nonrefundable and may not be resold. Tickets are not required for Guests ages 2 and under. Costumes subject to Disney guidelines and should not be obstructive or offensive. Parking is not included. Subject to restrictions and change without notice. Entertainment may be cancelled due to inclement weather or otherwise. View the full article

Look at this stuff. Isn't it neat? "The Little Mermaid" emojis are just the beginning for the new Disney Emoji Blitz, a matching game for smartphones similar to Bejeweled, but there may be an added twist -- you can use the game to collect more than 400 Disney and Pixar character emojis for use... View the full article

This just in! We have potential updates to early booking for events during the 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival for two populations of Disney fans! As you know, booking for all Epcot Food and Wine Festival Events for the General Public opens on July 21st at 7AM ET. But most years, if you’re a Disney World Annual Passholder, Disney Vacation Club Member, Tables in Wonderland, or Golden Oak Resident, you’ll get to book Festival Center events (seminars and demos primarily) a few days early. This year, that early date falls on July 19th! And today, we’ve gotten some good news for yet another group of Disney lovers… Chase Disney Visa Cardholders Early Booking Date for Epcot Food and Wine Festival Yay! We’ve now heard that Chase Disney Visa Cardmembers will again be able to book events early this year as well! The phone lines are slated to open for this group on July 19 at 9AM! So if you have a Disney Visa, start planning, because next Tuesday is YOUR DAY! While Disney hasn’t fully clarified what will be eligible for booking on the early day, the events are most likely the Low-Cost Culinary Demonstrations and Beverage Seminars that take place at Festival Center. There may be some Special Events as well. Remember, this info is always subject to change. There are so many moving parts with the Festival, so things DO change from time to time. But since this information falls in line with what has happened in previous years, we’re pretty confident in reporting that it will be the case. But that’s not all the interesting early booking news we have today! Disney World Annual Passholders Early…EARLY Booking Date? So…Disney World Annual Passholders may be able to book some events for the festival on July 18th. But…probably not. I’ll explain. We were pretty confident that July 19th was the early booking date for ALL specialty groups this year. THEN we started getting emails and notifications from our readers about an earlier booking date for Annual Passholders. So we investigated, and here’s what we found: According to PassholderCalendar.com (an official Annual Passholder website that I found through the Mickey Monitor, which is the official Annual Passholder publication), early booking for Annual Passholders who are booking seminars will be open on July 18. According to this Official Disney Website, Annual Passholders May Be Able to Book Even Earlier And two days ago, Disney World Annual Passholders got their Passholder email that clearly stated that early booking for the events would be on…July 18th! So after a very long, very frustrating call with Disney World Passholder Guest Services (I’m sure you can all relate), I came away with the cast member telling me that “Both dates have been announced by official sources and we don’t have any more information; you’ll just have to call on the 18th and see if you can book events, and if not, then call on the 19th.” Super helpful, right? So, here’s my take from all this: 1. I take my job WAY too seriously. 2. The Disney contacts that I trust the most have told me that July 19th is the early booking date for Annual Passholders. 3. I’m guessing the Annual Passholder publications and emails have made a mistake. Like I said, lots of moving parts, and it’s possible that the 18th was the original early booking date and it was then changed to the 19th, but the Annual Passholder information had already been set into motion at that point. 4. I’m still going to call on the 18th…just in case. 5. Errthing is subject to change all the time always forever. So, there you have it. It’s my job to make sure YOU know all of the potentials and possibilities, so I’m doing that. And I’m also sharing with you just a teensy bit of the crazy that goes into gathering information about the Epcot Food and Wine Festival (believe me, from April through July my mental state is pretty much anticipation lined with frustration). Let me know what YOU find out! ;-D 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 for pre-order! 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 and we’ll immediately send you the 2015 edition for FREE to get started on planning right away! Don’t miss a moment of the fun! Use code Chefs at check-out for a 20% off the cover price! But now, I want to hear from you! What events are you most excited about booking during the 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival? Leave a comment and share with us! 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 & Wine Festival Discounts and Early Booking Date Announced 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival News! Details on Booths, Menus, Special Events, Booking Dates, and More News! Epcot Food and Wine Festival Early Booking Details for Chase Disney Visa Cardmembers View the full article

We’re here for a FIRST LOOK at Homecoming: Florida Kitchen and Southern Shine! Learn About: Homecoming Florida Kitchen and Southern Shine Downtown Disney Disney World Restaurants Newly open in the Town Center of Disney Springs (yesterday was Opening Day), Homecoming is the latest venue opened by a Celebrity Chef in Disney World. While the restaurants backed by Chef Morimoto (Morimoto Asia) and Rick Bayless (Frontera Cocina) make up other terrific recent additions to Disney World’s shopping and dining district, Homecoming is especially significant to Disney World and Florida as Chef Art Smith has strong connections to both. Hailing from Jasper, Florida, Chef Smith is also a former Disney Cast Member via the Disney College Program! So, as you can imagine, even though Chef Smith heads up restaurants in other areas of the country, the name Homecoming has an extra special meaning. Homecoming sign We’ll be back with our full review of this new spot next week, but in the meantime, we couldn’t resist sharing this FIRST LOOK with you. Oh, and just look who dropped by to say, “Welcome!” Chef Art Smith on Opening Day! (If only I had asked him where he got that awesome shirt! But we DID get another special souvenir… you’ve got to read on, though, to find out about it!) Atmosphere Not only does the name “Homecoming” reflect Chef Smith’s Florida roots — even the design of the restaurant itself is something of a tribute to the Sunshine State. Homecoming Lots of windows bring in plenty of Florida sunshine, making the large indoor seating area (with Florida cypress used throughout) bright and cheerful. Indoor Seating The Floridian theme extends to much of the artwork in and around the building. And it’s worth noting that the murals were created by an artist from Tampa. Homecoming Mural The Shine Bar has its own entryway to the left of the main entrance. Shine Bar Both the walk-up bar and the seating area on the wraparound porch are covered, and offer some fantastic waterfront views. Shine Bar You can also access the beautiful porch from the inside of the main area of the restaurant. Porch While sleek has been the name of the game in many new locations in Disney Springs, the look and feel at Homecoming is welcoming and charming, while retaining a modern aesthetic. Now that we’ve taken a quick look around, let’s check out the menu… Eats It’s not just Southern fare at Homecoming… it’s Chef Smith’s take on Florida fare, too (click the menu image below to enlarge)! Church Lady Deviled Eggs and Bee Haven Bay Fried Green Tomatoes are among the strong list of Starters (and I’m already partial to the Bunch of Puppies — there are nowhere near enough Hushpuppies in Disney World, and these are made with pimento cheese!). Homecoming Menu — click to enlarge There’s a nice selection of Sandwiches and Salads alongside the Main Plates (which is where you’ll spy Art’s Fabulous Fried Chicken!), allowing for a decent variety of price options. And did you see those Sides? Items like KC Greens (kale and collards), Momma’s Mac and Cheese, and Cheddar-Cheese Drop Biscuits are all up for grabs. Of course, you’ll need to wash it all down (click the image below to enlarge)! Draft Beer is available along with Cans & Bottles, and altogether four Florida breweries are represented. These are offered alongside Wines and a whole slew of “Crafty Moonshine & Resort Cocktails” which come together to make a pretty huge Drink Menu. Homecoming Drink Menu — click to enlarge And the Chef probably wouldn’t want you to leave without a little Dessert ;). Chef Art’s signature Shine Cake, Hummingbird Cake, and mini Orange-Sugar Doughnuts are a few of the options. And, of course, Key Lime Pie. Dessert Menu Again, we’ll be back with our full review next week, but here’s just a little glimpse of what we tried, starting with The Local cocktail: coconut rum, lime, and simple syrup with a pineapple and coconut garnish. The Local Our starters included the Jasper Board (an assortment of pimento cheese, smoked sausage, shaved ham, bread and butter pickles, and candied pecans). Jasper Board And how about a batch of those Church Lady Deviled Eggs? Church Lady Deviled Eggs And, yeah — we just HAD to… Here’s the Fried Chicken & Doughnuts (it’s served with a side of the KC Greens)! Fried Chicken & Doughnuts The Fried Chicken is buttermilk-brined for 24 hours. Fried Chicken & Doughnuts But the fare doesn’t end there… Momma’s Mac and Cheese and the Iron Skillet Sweet Potatoes with Caramelized Cane Sugar were our substantial Sides. Momma’s Mac and Cheese Iron Skillet Sweet Potatoes As an aside… I just love the doilies under the side dishes! Momma’s Mac and Cheese Our desserts were served up with a couple of stories… Shine Cake and Hummingbird Cake First, we tried the Hummingbird Cake. Chef Smith first made this pineapple-banana cake with cream cheese frosting for Maya Angelou’s 75th birthday. Then he made it again for Lady Gaga’s 25th. Hummingbird Cake Chef Art’s signature Shine Cake is for adults only… this Butter Cake is soaked with – are you ready for this? — Moonshine Syrup! Shine Cake Before we wrap up our sneak peek here, I’ve got a little tale to tell… on Opening Day, Chef Art Smith was kindly stopping at tables to say hello and chat. I mentioned how much I enjoyed the homemade Hot Sauce that sits on the tables, and asked if it might be for sale (because if it was, I would TOTALLY buy it. This stuff ROCKS). Bottle of Homemade Hot Sauce I couldn’t believe what happened next. That bottle you see above? The Chef himself brought it to me to keep! Talk about being made to feel right at home… Overall Before we go, there is an anomaly with the rollout of reservations for Homecoming that we’d like you to know about. During these opening weeks, this Table Service location will be available only to walk-up guests. Advance Dining Reservations, however, will be available via the Disney World reservation system beginning later this month for dates beginning on August 15th. And Homecoming is One Table Service Credit on the Disney Dining Plan. We are VERY happy to say “Welcome” — or “Welcome HOME,” rather — to Chef Art Smith and Homecoming! We’re looking forward to sharing much more with you soon when we present you with our full review of the newest eatery in Disney Springs. In the meantime, though, we’ll leave you with this: it’s a pretty neat and uplifting thing to have a restaurant dedicated to celebrating the Sunshine State — no matter if its a place you call home all the time, or simply when you pay a visit to Disney World. After all, there’s a lot that’s worth celebrating here. Contributing to this post: Tina, Wendy, and AJ Are you excited to pay a visit to Homecoming? 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: Menu Sneak Peek for Homecoming: Florida Kitchen and Southern Shine by Chef Art Smith Homecoming: Florida Kitchen and Shine Bar, Coming Soon to Disney Springs News! Homecoming by Chef Art Smith to Open on July 12th in Disney Springs View the full article

In keeping with Walt Disney’s long tradition of embracing a commitment to conservation, Disney cast members from around the world are using their unique skills to champion wildlife conservation at the Shanghai Disney Resort. As part of the design of the resort, Walt Disney Imagineering created Wishing Star Park, a 100-acre lake with restored wetlands along the shoreline and more than one and a half miles of pathways through open woodlands and shrublands along the lake’s edge. These habitats are providing homes for native birds and butterflies in an otherwise highly developed landscape. To study how Wishing Star Park is benefiting wildlife, cast members in Shanghai teamed up with the Conservation Team in Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment department last July by working with bird experts from Shanghai Wildlife Conservation Association to design and implement a monthly bird-monitoring program around the lake. During the past year, 46 species have been found at Wishing Star Park, including species of conservation concern and many migratory species that depend on places like Wishing Star Park for a safe place to rest and refuel on their long-distance journeys. That’s fantastic news because before Wishing Star Park was established, there was little habitat for wildlife in the area! To further help nurture Shanghai’s birdlife last year, the team added nest boxes to provide birds with a safe place to raise a family. Engineering Services cast members from Disney’s Animal Kingdom crafted three different styles of nest boxes to give birds a few different options. After a trip halfway around the world from Orlando to Shanghai, the houses were installed last December. Cast from Citizenship and Community Relations and Horticulture teams joined forces to attach the 12 nest boxes to trees and ready them for the birds. It has been an amazing year for wildlife at the Shanghai Disney Resort, and now that the park has opened our guests can enjoy the magic of Wishing Star Park as well! We will check in on the conservation efforts of Wishing Star Park again soon! View the full article

What you miss when Disney plans your vacation View the full article

From scrumptious Hawaiian food to fresh ocean breezes, Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, is truly a multi-sensory experience. Here are a few unexpected ways to awaken your senses at the Aulani Resort: Hear: One of my favorite surprises can be found in our elevators! When taking a ride up or down—if you listen closely—you’ll hear many classic Disney songs being sung in Hawaiian. See: I love searching for Menehune, the legendary “little people” of Hawai`i. Most Menehune are often hiding at a level where only the smallest guests can easily find them, so keep an eye out. You’ll probably see them when you least expect it! Taste: At Aulani’s very own shave ice stand, Papalua Shave Ice, choose from a variety of base ingredients and flavors, including pineapple, coconut and lilikoi. It not only tastes delicious, but it also makes for a colorful, picture-perfect snack to share with your Instagram fans! Smell: As you walk through the corridor to Laniwai Spa, you’ll instantly notice a change in the air. Fresh, invigorating scents of maile, plumeria, pikake and mango will tickle your nose and draw you into the world-class spa. Touch: For kids exploring Aunty’s Beach House, I recommend checking out the interactive touch tables like Konane, or Hawaiian Checkers. Created especially for Aulani, these interactive games guarantee a fun-filled time, while learning a little bit about Hawaiian culture. And because it’s Aulani Mahalo Season, it makes perfect sense that the more nights you stay with us, the more you’ll save! Book now through September 26, 2016, and you’ll save 30 percent on stays of five or more consecutive nights or 25 percent on stays of four consecutive nights. Plus, if you upgrade to a premium view room, you’ll receive a free meal at Ulu Café per person per day of your stay. The special offer is valid for most vacations August 21 through December 19, 2016. Visit www.DisneyAulani.com or call 866-443-4763 for more information.* Come awaken your senses at Aulani Resort! *Offer not valid for travel between 11/19/2016 – 11/24/2016. Savings based on the non-discounted rate for same room. The number of rooms allocated for this offer may be limited. Premium View package includes one daily meal (breakfast, lunch, or dinner) for each guest (ages 3+) on the reservation per night of your package stay. Meal is only redeemable at ‘Ulu Cafe during normal operating hours and includes one entree and one non-specialty beverage. Meal entitlements and Resort Credits may not be redeemed for cash in whole or in part, sold separately, transferred or refunded, and expire at 11:59 pm on package departure date. Limit 2 rooms per reservation. Excludes suites and 3-Bedroom Grand Villas. Additional charges may apply if more than 2 adults per room. Cannot be combined with other discounts or promotions. Advance reservations required. View the full article

Sunny southern Italy is one of the amazing destinations on our Mediterranean cruises this summer. The Disney Magic calls on either Naples or Salerno in the Campania region, giving cruisers the opportunity to visit storied spots such as Positano, the Amalfi Coast and the lost city of Pompeii. Here are just a few of the family-friendly Port Adventures you can enjoy in these ports … Mt. Vesuvius By 4×4, Hike, Wine Tasting & Pompeii – Seize the day on this adventure-filled excursion! You’ll go off the beaten path of Vesuvius National Park aboard a 4×4 vehicle, arriving at 3,000 feet above sea level to begin your hike to the volcano’s enormous crater. Next you’ll visit a nearby winery, which produces the famous Lacryma Christi wine from Mt. Vesuvius. There you’ll sample wine, pasta, bruschetta, cheese and salami. Your day concludes with a guided tour of the excavated Roman city of Pompeii where you’ll explore the city’s baths, villas, theaters and wrestling grounds. What a way to “carpe diem!” Stunning Sorrento and Amalfi Coast Drive with Youth Activity – Your adventure begins with a scenic drive along the Amalfi Coast to the seaside town of Sorrento. Here children will enjoy a pizza-making lesson at a restaurant with Disney Cruise Line Youth Counselors while parents have time on their own. Take a guided walking tour of the historic city center or explore the Corso Italia neighborhood before meeting up with the kids for an authentic Italian lunch. Then, soak up the views on windy roads through the villages of Amalfi, Maiori or Vietri sul Mare, and enjoy time to explore historic sites, shops and cafés. Amalfi by Boat & the Splendor of Sorrento – Another great way to enjoy the breathtaking Amalfi Coast is by boat. While sailing Italy’s most famous coastline, you’ll drop anchor in the town of Amalfi for free time and a guided tour through the cobblestoned streets of this charming “white village.” After the relaxing cruise, enjoy the beautiful drive to Sorrento for an authentic Italian lunch. You have the option of joining a walking tour or exploring the historical town on your own. A visit to the Correale Museum is a must to admire antique furniture, porcelain and Neapolitan paintings. Next up, we’ll take a look at family-friendly adventures in Rome. Remember, when the ship’s in port, venture ashore! View the full article

In a galaxy not so far, far away, a spectacular dessert party has gotten even better! At the Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular Dessert Party at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, guests can experience out-of-this-world desserts and drinks inside Star Wars Launch Bay. Become immersed in the Star Wars universe with photo opportunities, exciting exhibits and thrilling character encounters. After enjoying an assortment of sweets — including themed cupcakes, cookies and brownies and a selection of savory snacks including cheese and flatbread and dip (as well as alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages) — you will be escorted to a VIP viewing area for the Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular. Dessert party check-in will take place in front of Star Wars Launch Bay, located in the Animation Courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Check in begins at 7:30 p.m., and guests are able to enter the party at 8:15 p.m. Cost is $69 for adults, $39 for children age 3-9. Admission to Disney’s Hollywood Studios is required to attend, and is not included in the price of Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular Dessert Party. Reservations can be made by visiting DisneyWorld.com/dine or by calling 407-WDW-DINE. The Force is strong with this special event the whole family will love! View the full article

Remember a few months ago when Disney released a new Early Morning Magic option for early birds at Magic Kingdom? Here’s the basic gist: purchase of a limited-entry special ticket event — in addition to regular park admission — allows guests to enter the park early and ride a few in-demand attractions before the park’s regular opening and enjoy an included breakfast to boot. Well, it appears a similar event is coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. AT-AT outside of Star Tours attraction at Hollywood Studios Early Morning Magic participants will have the chance to enjoy Star Tours and Toy Story Mania, as well as participate in Meet and Greets with Mickey and Minnie, Woody and Buzz, and Olaf. The event runs from 7:45 am to 10:00 am on select Mondays and Wednesdays, and is currently bookable via the Disney World website (or by calling 407-827-7350) for dates beginning August 1st through the end of September 2016. Just like Magic Kingdom’s early morning event, breakfast will be included as part of the experience. ABC Commissary will be the host of this all-you-care-to-eat experience from 8:00 – 10:00 am. ABC Commissary Entrance The buffet will include items like freshly baked Pastries, Scrambled Eggs, Spinach and Mushroom Frittata, Bacon and Pork Sausage, Cheesy Potatoes, Puffed French Toast, Muesli, Fruits and Berries, and beverages such as coffee, tea, milk, and chilled fruit juices. Early Morning Magic at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is available with the purchase of a separate ticket (in addition to regular park admission, which is also required). The cost for the extra event is $69 per adult, and $59 for children ages 3 to 9 (not including tax). Please note that, according to the Disney World website, “At approximately 9:00 AM, the theme park will open to Guests with regular theme park admission tickets and event-only attraction access will end.” With increased demand at Epcot for new experiences like Soarin’ Around the World and Frozen Ever After, we can’t help but wonder if that park is next for an Early Morning Magic Event? We’ll be keeping an eye out, and will keep you posted here. Would you participate in an Early Morning Magic event at a Disney World park? 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: Disney’s Early Morning Magic Event Now Available for Booking News: Club Villain Dance and Dine Event Coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios News and Sneak Peek: Special Food and Beverages Coming to the Villains Unleashed Event at Disney’s Hollywood Studios View the full article

Get ready for a treat when you dive into a plate of Art’s Fabulous Fried Chicken at Chef Art’s Homecoming, now open at Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort. We’ve already tried that famous chicken from celebrity Chef Art Smith and give it two thumbs up – along with the shrimp and grits, fried catfish, sweet collards and a slice of divine chocolate pecan pie. If it’s an especially hot summer day, start with a sip of The Local, a coconut water rum cocktail with the fresh sweetness of fresh lime juice, simple syrup and fresh pineapple. We’re heading back to try Addie Mae’s Chicken & Dumpling soup, the Tarpon Springs Greek Salad, Church Lady Deviled Eggs and other homespun treats. It’s a menu of classics, from Momma’s Mac n Cheese to Anna Maria Fish Dip – a little something for every taste, thoughtfully composed by Chef Smith, a two-time James Beard Foundation winner. (Take a look at the video with Chef Smith and Disney Parks Blog author Darcy Clark.) Chef Art Smith, a native of Jasper, Fla., (and former cast member in the Disney College Program), gives guests a taste of classic Florida fare. The interior takes the “Homecoming Florida” theme to beautiful heights with the cocktail bar and two large tables crafted from reclaimed Florida camphor and eucalyptus. There’s Florida cypress through the interior, creating a warm, airy look that brings the outdoors in. Even the zinc tabletops were made in the Sunshine State. Favorite artwork includes oversized murals inside and out by Tampa’s Matt Callahan, and a photo of local farmer Hank Scott and his dad at their Long & Scott Farms in nearby Zellwood. After dinner, stroll through the beautiful new retails shops at Disney Springs. Reservations open July 21, and can be made by calling 407-WDW-DINE. View the full article

The 61st anniversary of the Happiest Place on Earth is coming up this weekend, and it’s the perfect time to look back on the Disneyland park attractions that have remained guest favorites since 1955. Some of these classics debuted on opening day itself, while others followed in the months after. Walt Disney’s original Magic Kingdom has changed quite a bit through the years – some attractions have evolved with new technology, others have gone to make room for new experiences and some have stayed almost the same as they were 61 years ago. We recently headed out to Fantasyland to ask our guests to share their favorite memories from the original attractions that opened in the year 1955. We just touched on a few of the opening-year attractions in the video … can you name them all? Give it a shot in the comments! View the full article

Cheers! The new Coca-Cola Store at Disney Springs will begin its adult-beverage service today at 4 p.m. The store will sell select Coke-inspired alcoholic beverages daily at its open-air rooftop bar. There will be standard ones such as rum and Coke and Jack and Coke, but additional, more exotic... View the full article

Walt Disney World is expanding its early morning admission program to Disney's Hollywood Studios theme park beginning Aug. 1, the company announced Tuesday. On select dates, a limited number of visitors can participate in Disney Early Morning Magic, which starts at 7:45 a.m. Available attractions... View the full article

Earlier this year, Disney Early Morning Magic launched at Magic Kingdom Park to give eager guests the opportunity to be among the first to experience theme park attractions and breakfast inside the park. Today we’re happy to share that not only has Disney Early Morning Magic been extended through September 30, 2016, for Magic Kingdom Park, but Disney’s Hollywood Studios will soon offer Disney Early Morning Magic as well! Beginning August 1, a select number of guests can experience Disney Early Morning Magic at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Beginning at 7:45 a.m., guests can enter the park and experience Star Tours – The Adventures Continue, Toy Story Mania!, Pixar Place character greetings (with Woody and Buzz), and Mickey and Minnie on Commissary Lane and Olaf at Celebrity Spotlight. Guests can also partake in an all-you-care-to-enjoy breakfast at ABC Commissary from 8-10 a.m. Guests can begin booking Disney Early Morning Magic for Disney’s Hollywood Studios starting today. The number of tickets available for each morning is limited, so visit DisneyWorld.com/EarlyMorningMagic to reserve or call 407-827-7350 for more information. (Please note that a theme park ticket is required in addition to the Disney Early Morning Magic ticket. Disney Early Morning Magic is also a separate experience than Extra Magic Hours, which are held on different dates). View the full article

Even though we are in the middle of summer (and what a hot summer it is), it’s never too early to start planning your next vacaciones familiares! And at Walt Disney World Resort you will find that late summer and early fall is the perfect time of year to enjoy our theme parks juntos! You and your family can experience all of the new attractions and special events with a package that includes 4-day/4-night stay in a standard room at one of Disney’s All Star Resort hotels and 4-day Magic Your Way base tickets for just $1,850 for a family of 4*. You can book this offer through August 31, 2016 for stays most Sunday through Thursday nights from August 1 through November 5, 2016. Click here for more details and to book today! *Sample package prices based on 2 adults, 1 junior (ages 10 to 17) and 1 child (ages 3 to 9). The number of packages allocated for this offer is limited. Tickets are valid for one theme park per day and must be used within 14 days of first use. All guests in the same room must be on the same package. View the full article

In today’s Disney Doodle, artist Ashley Taylor depicts what Sebastian from “The Little Mermaid” might do first if he headed into a Disney theme park. In the film “The Little Mermaid,” Sebastian is the musical maestro who leads other sea creatures in songs and “mood music.” So, he’d likely be lured to lead the first musical group he saw at a Disney Park, like The Dapper Dans at Magic Kingdom Park. View the full article

We are so excited to share big news with you today! We have more information about the 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival, which takes place for a FULL 2 months this year — September 14-November 14, 2016! And today, full Eat to the Beat Concert line-up is here!!! There are lots of exciting returning acts like Big Bad VooDoo Daddy, Starship, and Boyz II Men. But we always look forward to learning about new acts as well! This year, Wang Chung, the Plain White T’s, Soul Asylum, Toad the Wet Sprocket, The Bo Deans, and more bring new life to the party! Here’s the full list. Don’t forget to check out our 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival page for all the latest details on the festival! 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Eat to the Beat Concert Line-Up Wang Chung — NEW! – September 14-15 Starship — September 16-18 Air Supply – September 19-20 The Bo Deans — NEW! September 21-23 Fuel – September 24-25 Sugar Ray — September 26-28 Los Lobos — September 29-30 David Cook — October 1-2 Wilson Phillips — October 3-4 Blues Traveler – October 5-6 Plain White T’s — NEW! – October 7-9 38 Special — October 10-11 Jeffrey Osbourne – NEW! October 12-13 Tiffany — October 14-16 Dennis DeYoung and the Music of Styx — October 17-19 Christopher Cross – October 20-21 Toad the Wet Sprocket — NEW! — October 22-23 Chaka khan — October 24-25 Billy Ocean — October 26-27 Living Colour -- NEW! October 28-29 Hanson — October 30-November 1 Soul Asylum — NEW! — November 2-3 Delta Rae — NEW! — November 4-6 Boyz II Men — November 7-9 Sister Hazel — November 10-11 Big Bad Voodoo Daddy — November 12-14 Big Bad Voodoo Daddy Performing at Eat to the Beat Eat to the Beat concerts are free with Epcot admission throughout the festival. You can catch up to three shows per night at at 5:30 PM, 6:45 PM and 8:00 PM in the America Gardens Theater, located in the America Pavilion. Check out our Eat to the Beat Concert page for details and times. 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 for pre-order! 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 and we’ll immediately send you the 2015 edition for FREE to get started on planning right away! Don’t miss a moment of the fun! Use code Chefs at check-out for a 20% off the cover price! 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Index 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Booth and Menu Index 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Special Events 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Low-Cost Seminars and Demonstrations 2016 Eat to the Beat Concert Schedule Epcot Food and Wine Festival Fans Facebook Page 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Wine and Dine Half Marathon 2016 Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic Food and Wine Festival 101 2015 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Menus and FOOD PHOTOS 2015 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Gluten Free Items How to Book Epcot Food & Wine Festival Events To book all special events and demonstrations, call 407-WDW-FEST (939-3378). Culinary Demonstrations, Beverage Seminars, Mixology Seminars, and general admission for some special events will be bookable online at www.epcotfoodfestival.com as well as by phone starting July 21st, 2016 at 7AM ET. Tables in Wonderland members, Annual Passholders, Disney Vacation Club Members, and Golden Oak Residents are eligible for a $2 discount (per person, per event) for beverage seminars, culinary demos, and Mix it Make it Events taking place Mon-Thurs during the festival. Discounts are by phone only at 407-WDW-FEST (939-3378). These affinity groups may book seminars and demos starting July 19th at 9AM ET. Stay tuned to DisneyFoodBlog.com and the Disney Food Blog Newsletter for details. Chase Disney Visa Cardholders may be able to book select special events, demos, and seminars early. A limited number of seats would be available for the TBD booking date. Is YOUR favorite group or singer performing during the 2016 Eat to the Beat Concert Series? Let us know who you’ll be lining up to see this year! 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! 2015 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Eat to the Beat Concert Schedule! News and Rumors: Epcot Food and Wine Festival Eat to the Beat Schedule To Date News! 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Eat to the Beat Concert Preliminary Dates View the full article

Shanghai Disneyland is now officially open, and guests are enjoying the park’s six amazing themed lands. It’s the perfect day to continue our land-by-land tour with that Disney Parks classic, Fantasyland. Inspired by Disney’s animated films, this is the largest of all the lands in Shanghai Disneyland and home to the majestic Enchanted Storybook Castle. The castle overlooks a storybook village and an enchanted forest where exciting attractions immerse guests in beloved stories. Voyage to the Crystal Grotto is an enchanting excursion that travels the waters of Fantasyland. Fountains and sculptures line the water’s edge, celebrating classic tales like “Mulan,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “Fantasia,” “Tangled,” “Aladdin” and “The Little Mermaid.” At the journey’s end, guests glide beneath Enchanted Storybook Castle an underground chamber in which magical crystals come to life, covering the walls with moving light and color. In the Hundred Acre Wood section of Fantasyland, Hunny Pot Spin is a delightful family attraction where guests ride inside whirling honey pots – in honor of Winnie the Pooh’s favorite food. Beneath a canopy strung with honey-dripping hives, friendly bees hum the “Winnie the Pooh” song as guests twirl in their honey pots, labeled in English and Chinese. Designed especially for Shanghai Disneyland, Alice in Wonderland Maze is the first attraction in a Disney park themed to Tim Burton’s live-action film, “Alice in Wonderland.” In this new experience, guests choose their own path as they wind through the whimsical world of Wonderland on their way to the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. Along the way, they may encounter the Cheshire Cat, the Bandersnatch and sculptures of characters, including the temperamental Red Queen. We conclude our journey through Shanghai Disneyland with Tomorrowland, so check back soon! View the full article

Are YOU as excited about the impending arrival of Homecoming: Florida Kitchen and Southern Shine as we are?! Coming Soon — Homecoming: Florida Kitchen and Shine Bar Well, it looks like we’ll all get our chance to welcome Chef Art Smith’s newest restaurant to Disney Springs VERY soon… as in TOMORROW, July 12th!! The announcement was officially made on the Homecoming Facebook Page. @Homecoming Facebook Page WESH.com also broke the news about the July 12th opening — starting for lunch at 11:00 am, by the way — via Orlando My Way. (You can watch a short but sweet video interview and get a glimpse at the restaurant as well on wesh.com!) Reservations are not available at this time, but they will be available through the Walt Disney World reservation system beginning July 15th for dates beginning August 15th. For the immediate future (July 12 – August 14th), walking in and making yourself at HOME (see what I did there? ) will be the only way to go! Now… who’s ready for some FRIED CHICKEN?! I know I am… Hope to see you there!! Are you eager to visit Homecoming by Chef Art Smith? 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: Menu Sneak Peek for Homecoming: Florida Kitchen and Southern Shine by Chef Art Smith News: Chef Art Smith Restaurant in Disney Springs Confirmed Homecoming: Florida Kitchen and Shine Bar, Coming Soon to Disney Springs View the full article

Chef Art Smith cocked his ear to listen to music floating in from the surrounding Disney Springs complex onto the porch of his newest restaurant, Homecoming Florida Kitchen Southern Shine. The tunes didn't fit in with his Florida-focused spot, opening Tuesday. "I'm being a little bit Mr. Disney... View the full article

In just a few minutes, we’ll present our next #DisneyParksLIVE stream of the brand new stage show, “Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire,” live from Magic Kingdom Park. Our live stream will begin at 4:10 p.m. ET. Join us minutes before the show starts to learn more about how new shows and entertainment are created for Walt Disney World Resort! Tell us – where are you watching from? View the full article

There will be 26 different acts performing at Eat to the Beat concert series during the 2016 edition of the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, Walt Disney World announced Monday. Eight of the performers will be new to the event, including Wang Chung -- the "Everybody Have Fun Tonight" guys... View the full article

While new flavors will dance on your taste buds during the 21st Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, new music will have you dancing at your America Garden Theatre seats. Eight new acts join the Eat to the Beat concert series this fall. Festival newbie Wang Chung kicks off the first two nights (these guys performed at my Walt Disney World Grad Night many moons ago). The other festival first-timers include BoDeans, Plain White T’s, Jeffrey Osborne, Toad the Wet Sprocket, Living Colour, Soul Asylum and Delta Rae. Wow – what a variety! Here’s a look at the full lineup: Sept. 14-15 – Wang Chung NEW! “Everybody Have Fun Tonight” Sept. 16-18 – STARSHIP featuring Mickey Thomas “We Built This City” Sept. 19-20 – Air Supply “All Out of Love” Sept. 21-23 – BoDeans NEW! “Closer to Free” Sept. 24-25 – Fuel “Hemorrhage (In My Hands)” Sept. 26-28 – Sugar Ray “Fly” Sept. 29-30 – Los Lobos “La Bamba” Oct. 1-2 – David Cook “Light On” Oct. 3-4 – Wilson Phillips “Hold On” Oct. 5-6 – Blues Traveler “Run-Around” Oct. 7-9 – Plain White T’s NEW! “Hey There Delilah” Oct. 10-11 – 38 Special “Hold On Loosely” Oct. 12-13 – Jeffrey Osborne NEW! “On the Wings of Love” Oct. 14-16 – Tiffany “I Think We’re Alone Now” Oct. 17-19 – Dennis DeYoung: The Music of Styx “Lady” Oct. 20-21 – Christopher Cross “Sailing” Oct. 22-23 – Toad The Wet Sprocket NEW! “Walk on the Ocean” Oct. 24-25 – Chaka Khan “I Feel for You” Oct. 26-27 – Billy Ocean “Caribbean Queen” Oct. 28-29 – Living Colour NEW! “Cult of Personality” Oct. 30-Nov. 1 – Hanson “Get the Girl Back” Nov. 2-3 – Soul Asylum NEW! “Runaway Train” Nov. 4-6 – Delta Rae NEW! “Bottom of the River” Nov. 7-9 – Boyz II Men “Motownphilly” Nov. 10-11 – Sister Hazel “All For You” Nov. 12-14 – Big Bad Voodoo Daddy “Go Daddy-O” Performances are 5:30, 6:45 and 8:00 p.m. daily, and included in Epcot admission. (Lineup is subject to change; songs listed are for artist recognition only and may not be included in the concert play list.) The 2016 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival runs September 14-November 14 at Walt Disney World Resort. Who are you excited to see? View the full article