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If you’re visiting Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, during the month of July and you love to shop, you’re in luck! For the past several months, we’ve been hosting trunk shows and pop-up shops featuring several Hawaii-based companies – and the month of July will bring you even more, with something happening every weekend in the Na Haku Pavilion, across from Kalepa’s Store! July 1-3: Representatives from Maui Divers will be on hand to help you “Pick A Pearl.” What does that mean, exactly? First, you select an oyster, then – the magic moment – the oyster is opened right in front of you and a luminescent jewel emerges! Take it home with you as is, or create your own style with a selection of pearl mountings recommended by Maui Diver representatives. Take part in this special showcase from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. each day. July 16: Taste freshly baked premium shortbread cookies that are hand-dipped in chocolate, made by Honolulu Cookie Company. Meet representatives and take part in a special dipping event from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. July 22-23: Look for an appearance by Jeff Granito, a featured Disney artist who will be on hand for a special artist showcase and signing of some of his latest pieces, among other fan favorites, on Friday, July 22, from 3 to 7 p.m., and Saturday, July 23, from 9 a.m. to noon. July 29-30: Meet representatives from Kahulale‘a who will be on hand to share stories of how they fashion vintage Hawaiian wear into modern day accessories. The timeless designs, as well as the look and feel of the fabric, will remind you of special moments you’ve treasured over the years and inspire you to create new stories with your own Kahulale‘a accessories. Find the look that suits you best on Friday, July 29, from 3 to 7 p.m., and Saturday, July 30, from 9 a.m. to noon. Will you have you a chance to check out any of these exciting artisans? View the full article

Our tour of Shanghai Disneyland continues today as we brave the wild jungles of Adventure Isle! Excitement awaits guests in this new land, exclusive to Shanghai Disneyland. At its center is Roaring Mountain, which legends says echoes with the roars of a mysterious reptilian creature just waiting to be discovered. At the base of Roaring Mountain, guests are invited to prove themselves as true adventurers and blaze their own trails at Camp Discovery. They may choose to travel across time and space in Soaring Over the Horizon, or embark on the thrilling rafting adventure Roaring Rapids, straight through the heart of Adventure Isle. Also found in Adventure Isle, “Tarzan: Call of the Jungle” is an original production performed in Mandarin. It’s a high-energy, musical retelling of the classic story and features the iconic score from the animated Disney feature film, “Tarzan,” with a fusion of theatrics and Chinese acrobatics. Ready for more adventure? Check back soon as we continue our Shanghai Disneyland tour with Treasure Cove! View the full article

Today we celebrated a special milestone on our Disney Parks Blog Instagram account – 101,000 followers! We celebrated the moment there by sharing a special Disney Doodle that focuses on, who else but the 101 dalmatians. No doubt if these pups ever left their “dalmatian plantation,” they’d stick together as a pack when visiting Magic Kingdom Park. View the full article

If you are celebrating Independence Day at the Disneyland Resort, don’t miss out on special, all-American entertainment including the patriotic performances of the United States 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing Band from Miramar, California. Disneyland park – Following the “Disneyland Forever” fireworks spectacular at 9:30 p.m. will be a patriotic, pyrotechnic grand finale. And, be sure to catch the United States 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing Band earlier in the day at the following times and locations: 4:00 p.m. – Flag Retreat Ceremony in Town Square 4:20 p.m. – Pre-parade, immediately following the Flag Retreat Ceremony 7:00 p.m. – Fourth of July Concert at Fantasyland Theater Disney California Adventure park – A Fourth of July-themed pyrotechnic water display will be featured before the 9:00 p.m. and 10:15 p.m. showings of “World of Color.” Downtown Disney District – The breakout rock band of the United States 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing Band will perform on the Downtown Disney District main stage at 11:30 a.m. In the local community, Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and other Disney friends will participate in the Huntington Beach Fourth of July parade, also broadcast live locally on KABC. And, in Anaheim, more Disney characters will take part in their local parade. View the full article

As summertime returns, I’m continuing my series of articles about stylish accessories found at Disney Parks. Living in Florida since 1998, I’ve learned that a hat is an essential summer item. The great news is there are many choices available! Here is a look at some of my favorite designs you may see during your next visit to Disney Parks. The headware team at Disney Parks Merchandise told me we have hundreds of hats available (the Shop Disney Parks app currently lists more than 580 caps, headbands or ear hats). One of the best places to find those many options is the newly expanded World of Disney in Disney Springs Marketplace. The team wasn’t kidding as I found many hats for women, men and kids while wandering throughout the entire shop. Some of my favorite hats are from the recent Twenty Eight & Main men’s collection, which give nods to classic Disney Parks attractions like Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride or 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. While I spotted many baseball caps, I also found a handful of visors. For those guests who love anything from a galaxy far, far away, we have several Star Wars-themed hats. Look for hats inspired by characters such as Boba Fett, R2-D2 and others. For younger guests, we have Disney character hats featuring Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy. After visiting World of Disney, I stopped by Tren-D in Disney Springs Marketplace where I found several stylish options for women. Finally, I made my way over to Disney’s Animal Kingdom to enjoy a sunset ride on Kilimanjaro Safaris. The nearby Mombasa Marketplace had a variety of sunhats and safari hats available. I located the perfect one for my African adventure! Look for these hats and more in select locations at Disney Parks. You may also find a selection of hats on our Disney Parks online store or an even larger selection available on the Shop Disney Parks mobile app. I’d love to see your summertime Disney Parks style. Just add #StyleHappensHere to your posts on social media. View the full article

Got plans for the Fourth of July? Today, we’re happy to share that our next #DisneyParksLIVE stream will take place July 4 from Magic Kingdom Park. Our live stream of the park’s special “Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky” fireworks will begin at 8:50 p.m. ET. Join us minutes before the fireworks start to learn more about firework spectaculars at Walt Disney World Resort. (A fresh blog post containing the live stream feed will be ready and waiting at the top of the blog on July 4.) Will you tune in? View the full article

As part of my monthly World Showcase shopping series, I recently visited a pavilion that’s dear to my heart – The American Adventure. For most of 2003, I served as an attraction manager at the pavilion, which has one of the best shows in all of Walt Disney World Resort. During my visit, I stopped by Heritage Manor Gifts to see the newest patriotic goods. Heritage Manor Gifts opened at The American Adventure in 1985. You can see the original pavilion prior to the shop opening in this Disney Park Blog article. Today, the location is home to a variety of gifts in shades of red, white and blue. There is also a cart along World Showcase promenade that offers a handful of products including Disney pins. Inside the shop, I found apparel and accessories for adults including shirts, tote bags and jewelry. I love the necklaces and earrings that use one-cent coins in the designs. Guests may also find a copy of “The Kinsey Collection: Shared Treasures of Bernard and Shirley Kinsey – Where Art and History Intersect,” a 198-page book telling the story of the African American experience from 1632-present. The book is the perfect complement to the exhibit of rare art, unique artifacts, and documents currently found in the American Heritage Gallery, “Re-Discovering America: Family Treasures from the Kinsey Collection.” One of my favorite items in the shop is a woven tapestry with Mickey Mouse, Goofy and Donald Duck. The artwork is reminiscent of America on Parade, the special American Bicentennial parade held at Disney Parks from 1975 to 1976. You may be able to order select items from this shop using the free Shop Disney Parks mobile app. To download, please visit DisneyWorld.com/Shop. Here are images of additional items I found including popular Tervis tumblers, magnets, Alex & Ani bracelets and more. View the full article

It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for… if you LOVE grabbing lots and lots of POPCORN at Disney World, that is! Refillable Popcorn Bucket at Epcot A Refillable Popcorn Bucket is now available at Disney World parks! As for the main four parks, each has its own themed popcorn bucket like the one from Epcot you see above. However, Cast Members at Popcorn Stands at different parks should have access to a printout showing what each park’s bucket looks like so they know it’s one of the refill buckets. This allows guests to purchase a bucket at Epcot, for instance, then hop on over to, say, Animal Kingdom and get refills for $1.50 a POP at any location that sells hot and freshly popped popcorn. Future World Popcorn Stand Menu There are some conflicting reports, though, about the full scoop regarding the availability of refills. The Cast Member we spoke with said that refills were available at any park at any time for as long as the refill price exists on the menu. However, a follower on the DFB Instagram page commented that there was a sign at Magic Kingdom popcorn carts stating that the refills are available for same day of purchase only. We’ll keep you posted here as we find out more! Closeup on Menu The Cast Member we spoke with also said there was currently no expiration date for the refill price, but rumor has it that the Refillable Popcorn Program will only be available through September 1st. So get poppin’ — umm, I mean hoppin’ — to a Disney World Popcorn Cart as soon as you can to grab yours! Will you be purchasing a Refillable Popcorn Bucket this summer? 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! Seven Dwarfs Mine Train Souvenir Popcorn Bucket at Disney World’s Magic Kingdom News: Light-Up Lotus Popcorn Bucket Coming to Animal Kingdom and Updated Anniversary Buckets in Disneyland New! Souvenir Dumbo Popcorn Container in Disney World View the full article

CELEBRATION, Fla. – This holiday season, give a gift that’s both nautical and nice: a cruise on the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream or Disney Fantasy, all decked out with holiday cheer. Starting early November, Disney Cruise Line adds sparkle to each ship during Very Merrytime Cruises, with traditional “turkey day” fanfare, Christmas feasts, “snow flurries” and New Year’s Eve galas. But the best part might just be relaxing on deck instead of shoveling snow. During these voyages through the new year, special stem-to-stern holiday events include: “Mickey’s Tree-Lighting Magic” in the atrium lobby on the first night of the cruise, where Disney characters lead holiday carols and the lighting of the glittering, three-deck-tall tree. “Santa’s Winter Wonderland Ball” in the atrium lobby, where Disney cruisers welcome the guests of honor, Santa and Mrs. Claus, with a grand celebration featuring Broadway-style entertainment, favorite Disney characters and classic holiday tunes. This evening of enchantment is made complete when a special pair of royal sisters joins the party and causes a flurry of “frozen” fun as a magical snowfall overtakes the atrium. Dickens-inspired carolers carrying the spirit of the holidays throughout the ship while singing holiday classics, sometimes with the help of favorite Disney friends. At the end of the cruise, children will have the opportunity to join the carolers onstage for a special farewell show. Family holiday activities including building gingerbread houses and meeting Santa Claus. Youth holiday crafts such as decorating stockings and gingerbread men cookies, making holiday cards and creating holiday animation cells. “Deck the Deck Holiday Party,” a tropical celebration with Disney friends leading games such as hula hooping and limbo under oversized candy canes, along with dances for the whole family like the “Yuletide Slide” and a conga line around the pool. A special holiday edition of the cheerful farewell celebration on the final night of the cruise, with beloved Disney characters and the ship’s crew in an engaging musical finale led by Mickey Mouse. On Thanksgiving Day, guests will enjoy a bountiful Thanksgiving Day feast and visits from Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse dressed in traditional Thanksgiving attire. Also during the special Thanksgiving voyages, NFL football games will be broadcast live on the ships’ outdoor, jumbo LED screens – Funnel Vision – located near the family pool. Christmas morning at the atrium lobby tree Santa Claus and his helpers will have a surprise for all the kids, and guests will delight in a special musical performance from the children. A traditional Christmas Dinner will be served that night in the dining rooms. Christmas services will be held on Christmas Day with a midnight mass on Christmas Eve. Hanukkah services will be held each day, Dec. 24 to Jan. 1. When the ships stop at Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay, during the holidays, the celebration continues with “snow flurries,” a decked-out Christmas tree, Disney character meet-and-greets and holiday island music. For an extra sprinkle of holiday joy, special amenities are available for stateroom delivery. Purchased in advance of sailing, these include holiday-themed gift packages and treat baskets and even mini Christmas trees decorated with ornaments, red berries, mini carnations and a bow topper. Plus, during the holiday cruises, the Disney Cruise Line holiday merchandise collection and ever-popular Disney Cruise Line ornaments will be available in the gift shops. To ring in 2017, voyages during the holiday include a special New Year’s Eve party, complete with music, sparkling wine in commemorative flutes and a midnight countdown. To celebrate the holidays, the Disney Magic sails four- and five- night Bahamian cruises, five-, six- and seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruises, and seven-night Western Caribbean cruises departing Nov. 5 to Dec. 23; the Disney Wonder sails four- and seven-night Western Caribbean cruises, and seven-night Bahamian cruises departing from Nov. 10 to Dec. 23; the Disney Dream sails three- and four-night Bahamian cruises departing from Nov. 7 to Dec. 22; and the Disney Fantasy sails seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises departing from Nov. 19 to Dec. 24. To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, visit disneycruise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at 888-325-2500 or contact a travel agent. View the full article

CELEBRATION, Fla. – Disney Cruise Line will treat guests sailing this fall to a wickedly good time as the ships transform into a ghoulish wonderland filled with frightfully fun events and activities, special decorations, unique menu items in the restaurants and themed parties. In 2016, Halloween on the High Seas takes place on most voyages aboard the Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy and Disney Magic from September through October. This extra-spooky celebration features Halloween-themed parties, lively entertainment and elaborate décor, including The Pumpkin Tree, which magically transforms throughout the cruise. Other special experiences include: Mickey’s Mouse-querade Party, a celebration with games, dancing and lots of candy! Beloved Disney characters, wearing special Halloween costumes just for the occasion, will join guests for this fun-filled costume party. A Nightmare Before Christmas—Sing and Scream, an interactive movie experience where guests are part of the action, followed by a meet-and-greet with Jack Skellington and Sally. Haunted Stories of the Sea, where the bravest cruisers gather under the stars to hear some true—or not so true—tales of the sea told by a mysterious sea captain storyteller. Creepy Cabaret, Halloween-themed music performed live in the atrium by a band of ghostly musicians. Halloween Isn’t Just For Kids: For adults, the nighttime entertainment district becomes the ghoulish setting for a costume contest and a Villainous Takeover on the dance floor. Spooky Movies: To get guests into the spirit of the season, Halloween-themed movies will be shown on Funnel Vision by the family pool and in staterooms. Ghoulish Delights: Disney Cruise Line chefs have conjured some very special treats for Halloween, including chocolate cake with pumpkin filling, spider cakes and “Spooky Juice.” More spooky fun includes mask-making and a ghostly takeover of ship announcements! To celebrate Halloween, the Disney Dream sails three- and four-night Bahamian cruises departing Sept. 2 to Oct. 31; the Disney Fantasy sails seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises departing Sept. 3 to Oct. 29; and the Disney Magic sails five-night Canadian Coast cruises, and seven- and eight-night Bahamian cruises departing Oct. 2 to Oct. 29. To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, visit disneycruise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at 888-325-2500 or contact a travel agent. View the full article

The winners of another round of TripAdvisor's Traveler's Choice awards were announced Tuesday and Orlando amusement parks and water parks earned top marks. To determine the winners, TripAdvisor researchers analyzed the quality and quantity of user reviews for each attraction during a 12-month period. ... View the full article

Are you visiting Walt Disney World Resort in July? If so, here are some special artist showcases and events taking place that you don’t want to miss. Disney Springs July 6 – 9: Meet artist David E. Doss, who will be appearing at Art of Disney in Disney Springs Marketplace from 1 – 9 p.m., each day. Learn more. July 8 – 10: Artist Sydney Hanson will be on hand for a special appearance and signing of some of her newest releases, July 8 – 9 from 5 – 8 p.m. each day, and July 10 from Noon – 3 p.m. in WonderGround Gallery at Marketplace Co-Op in Disney Springs Marketplace. Learn more. June 29 – July 5 and July 20 – 24: Artist Greg McCullough returns to Art of Disney in Disney Springs Marketplace with special appearances and signings from 1 – 8 p.m., each day. Learn more. July 23: Meet Dooney & Bourke Creative Director, Ian Ray, who will be on hand for a special appearance and signing of two new spectacular collections, Love Birds and Small World, among other items from 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at Cherry Tree Lane at Marketplace Co-Op in Disney Springs Marketplace. Learn more. Epcot Meet renowned international artist Larry Dotson from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m., each day at the following locations and add some of his latest pieces to your collection. Learn more. June 30 – July 4 – Art of Disney, Epcot July 8 – 10 – Puffin’s Roost, Norway Pavilion July 21 – 24 – Art of Disney, Epcot July 28 – 31 – Art of Disney, Epcot July 7 – 8: Meet Kit Heath representative Mary Finnegan from 2- 7 p.m. and learn more about the beautiful, classic and contemporary British Jewelry Designer and the stunning sterling silver jewelry designs available at The Queen’s Table in the United Kingdom Pavilion at World Showcase. Learn more. July 12 – 15: Fragrance designer Geir Ness will be on hand for special appearances as he showcases the latest from his Laila fragrance and beauty collection. Meet Geir from Noon – 6 p.m., each day, at Puffin’s Roost in the Norway Pavilion. Learn more. July 13 – 16: As you travel around World Showcase, be sure to make a quick stop at La Signature in the France Pavilion where you’ll find the latest releases in fragrances and cosmetics from Guerlain. Reminder: Tickets to this year’s Disney Pin Celebration 2016 Pixar Party Event taking place August 26 – 27, are still available but are going fast. Don’t miss out! Learn more. Which event are you looking forward to? View the full article

Have you tried the “Pirate’s Adventure ~ Treasures of the Seven Seas” interactive quest at Magic Kingdom Park? It’s a must-do for my son, who loves grabbing a treasure map at Pirate Headquarters and heading out to follow in Captain Jack’s footsteps throughout Adventureland. In case you aren’t familiar with the quest, “Pirate’s Adventure ~ Treasures of the Seven Seas” is a complimentary game that turns you into one of Captain Jack’s pirate recruits and lets you embark on one of five different pirate raids throughout Adventureland. The task is to demonstrate your pirate skills by collecting valuable treasures and fend off some of Captain Jack’s foes, including Captain Barbossa and the Royal Navy. Guests are welcome to complete multiple pirate raids if they wish. But pirate fans, “Pirate’s Adventure ~ Treasures of the Seven Seas” has just gotten better! Now when guests complete a pirate raid, they can head back to Pirate Headquarters to receive a Collector Card as their reward. There are five Collector Cards to aim for, one for each raid. And an additional card will be given to guests who complete all five raids. For a look inside the experience, check out the video above. View the full article

‘Finding Dory’ Meet-Up | Walt Disney World View the full article

This summer we debuted a brand-new way for Disney cruisers to enjoy the spectacular scenery of Tracy Arm Fjord during our Alaska voyages. Our day spent cruising through the 30-mile-long fjord is an unforgettable experience aboard the Disney Wonder, and now we’re giving you the exclusive opportunity to set out on a catamaran for a unique perspective of this ice-carved wonderland. On this Port Adventure, Tracy Arm Fjord and Glacier Explorer, your 3-hour journey on a catamaran allows for close-up views of the towering granite walls, plunging waterfalls, floating icebergs and calving glaciers. You’ll cruise the full length of the fjord – hugging the base of cliffs that rise 4,000 feet above the glacial blue waters – as a naturalist shares a wealth of information and helps spot the abundant wildlife such as seals, bald eagles, brown bears, mountain goats and whales. Once you reach the majestic Sawyer glaciers at the end of the fjord, your captain is able to maneuver the vessel even closer. During an extended drift near the glacier’s face, you’ll hear and feel the rumblings of what is known as “white thunder,” as immense spires of ice break from the glacier and crash into the sea. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is simply incredible! No matter what, your day spent cruising through Tracy Arm Fjord is sure to be one you’ll never forget. For those who have already joined us in Alaska, what was the highlight for you? View the full article

For the past few weeks, we’ve been sharing looks inside the three different “gallery” rooms of the new Tiffins restaurant at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. The restaurant, which just opened its doors on Discovery Island on May 27, serves up an amazing selection of international cuisine for both lunch and dinner. But Tiffins is so much more than a great place to dine. According to Imagineer Joe Rohde, the restaurant’s theming is all about “the travel and adventure” that led to the creation of Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Actual photos and sketches that the research team made during their travels around the world in the planning of the park were used to inspire original artwork that decorate each of the three “art galleries” that Tiffins guests dine in. To learn more about the backstory of the restaurant, check out the video above. View the full article

We’re coming to you today from Kabuki Cafe! Learn About: Kabuki Cafe Epcot Restaurants Disney World Restaurants This pretty but understated snack stand in Epcot’s beautiful Japan Pavilion is easy to pass by, unless you know about Kakigori — the Japanese Shaved Ice that is Kabuki Cafe’s star treat (it’s also a spot to grab a super quick Sushi snack for your Showcase stroll). Fans of Kakigori know that the Shaved Ice typically comes in your choice of fruit flavors like Strawberry, Melon, Cherry, or Tangerine (or you can try ‘em all with the Rainbow option). You can get it with or without the Sweet Milk Topping, but that’s about the only twist available to this classic icy cold snack. Until now… thanks to the addition of Sake Mists to the menu! Kabuki Cafe Unlike the regular Kakigori, these drinks — as you’ve likely deduced from the name — are for adults only. They pair the Shaved Ice with alcohol, and Blood Orange, Chocolate Cherry, and Coffee are your flavor choices. Kabuki Cafe menu We got the Blood Orange and the Chocolate Cherry, but the process is the same for all three versions of the Mists. The mixture that is poured over the ice is pre-mixed, as opposed to a free poured sake floater added with the syrups. Blood Orange and Chocolate Cherry Sake Mists I loved the Blood Orange Sake Mist, and I’m not even that big into sake, typically! Blood Orange Sake Mist The sweet-and-slightly-tart orange worked really well with the dry taste of the sake. Blood Orange Sake Mist The Chocolate Cherry Sake Mist, on the other hand, was definitely not a hit. It tasted VERY syrupy, and I didn’t think the chocolate translated well into a beverage syrup. Add to that the cherry flavor, which had the effect of making the already not great chocolate taste more like a kid’s cough medicine. Chocolate Cherry Sake Mist I’d say stick with the more typical fruity version offered here, and if you enjoy sake — or Kakigori — you might find this to be an extra fun treat… if you’re 21 or over, that is . At any rate, it’s kind of fun to see them changing things up at Kabuki Cafe. And if you’re looking for a new drink from Japan for your next Drinking Around the World tour, the Sake Mist could be a great new candidate! Would you like to try a Sake Mist? 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: New! Sushi Menu Items at Kabuki Cafe in Epcot’s Japan Pavilion First Look! Epcot’s Kabuki Cafe and Menu Review: Snacks at Epcot’s Kabuki Cafe View the full article

The Disney Theme Park Merchandise event team has some very special artist appearances scheduled for the month of July. Here are a few you do not want to miss! Disneyland park July 1-4: Precious Moments doll designer Linda Rick will be on hand for the release of her patriotic themed collection, among other fan favorites, from noon to 10 p.m. each day at China Closet. Learn more here. July 9: Disney Legend and Chief Archivist Emeritus of The Walt Disney Archives, Dave Smith, will be on hand for a special appearance and signing of his book, “Disney Facts Revealed: Answers to Fans’ Curious Questions,” at Disneyana on Main Street, U.S.A. from 9 to 11 a.m. Learn more here. July 9-10: Stop by Star Wars Launch Bay in Tomorrowland and see the latest releases from ACME Archives artist Mike Kungl, who will appear from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Learn more here. Downtown Disney District July 8-10: Artist Jasmine Becket-Griffith will take over WonderGround Gallery from top to bottom as we celebrate the release of her newest pieces, among other fan favorites. Look for special appearances from 1 to 9 p.m. daily. Learn more here. July 9: Take time to meet Disney Legend and Chief Archivist Emeritus of The Walt Disney Archives, Dave Smith, who will appear at World of Disney Store to sign his book, “Disney Facts Revealed: Answers to Fans’ Curious Questions,” from 1 to 3 p.m. Learn more here. July 16: Join us for a an artist showcase at WonderGround Gallery as we celebrate the release of new works by Ben Burch, Martin Hsu and Whitney Pollett from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Learn more here. Artist in Residence: Appearing at WonderGround Gallery throughout the month is artist Martin Hsu. Look for artist showcases on July 2, 3, 16, 17, 30 and 31 from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Learn more here. Which event or artist showcase are you the most excited to attend? View the full article

Cádiz, Spain, is a port of call on our 7-night journey from Dover, England, to Barcelona when we travel from Northern Europe to the Mediterranean later this summer. The 3,000-year-old city is located in the Andalusia region of Spain and your gateway for discovering stunning Moorish architecture, bullfighting, flamenco dancing and sherry making. Càdiz Walking Tour – Step back in time on a walking tour of historic Càdiz and marvel at the charm, architecture and ruins of one of the world’s oldest cities. Filled with a maze of ancient streets dating back to Medieval times, there’s no better way to explore the city than by foot. Highlights of your tour include colorful plazas and gardens, a grand Baroque cathedral and Torre Tavira, the tallest and most significant of the city´s 160 ancient watch towers. Jerez Horse and Sherry Experience – Your adventure begins in the rolling countryside with a spectacular horse show at a stud farm that houses the world’s most important reserve of the Carthusian lineage of Andalusian horses. Then, after a sightseeing drive through the ruins of old Asta Regia, your next stop is in Jerez at one of the most famous wine cellars in the area. Here you’ll learn the steps to making sherry and sample different vintages from the region. White Villages – This journey also takes you into the charming Andalusian countryside. First you’ll visit the hillside village of Medina Sidonia, marked by narrow cobblestone streets and Arab and Roman ruins. Next stop is the southern town of Arcos de la Frontera, one of the most picturesque white-washed villages of Spain. Following a tour of the town, you’ll stop for refreshments at the beautiful Parador Casa del Corregidor, a former 18th-century palace turned dazzling restaurant. Barcelona is the next port I’ll showcase, kicking off a new series featuring destinations on our Mediterranean cruises. Remember, when the ship’s in port, venture ashore! View the full article

Shanghai Disney Resort is our most technologically advanced resort to date. While guests may not see the technology – such as complex programming or advanced projection systems – in action, its innovative application takes them into exciting worlds where they become part of the action like never before. Let’s take a look at some of the amazing innovations guests will find at Shanghai Disney Resort. 1. TRON Lightcycle Power Run has a sleek, innovative vehicle design that combines onboard audio and lighting to give guests the feeling of speeding through the Grid on two-wheeled Lightcycle. 2. Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure is the most advanced version of this classic Disney attraction to date. It employs a new ride system where the boats are controlled magnetically and can spin or turn and even go backward. The integration of the visual media, with show lighting, sets and audio, make it one of the most complex attractions ever designed by Walt Disney Imagineering, and the latest advances in Disney’s Audio-Animatronics technology brings lifelike realism to the Captain Jack Sparrow and Davy Jones figures featured on the attraction. 3. Peter Pan’s Flight utilizes a new suspended ride system in addition to special effects and digital media which allow families to experience the thrill of soaring over Never Land in a pirate ship like never before. 4. Soaring Over the Horizon utilizes high-definition, laser-projected footage shot by a groundbreaking, first-of-its-kind camera system that captured the large-format images from vistas around the globe. The system broadcasts the highest resolution imagery currently in use in the world. 5. Buzz Lightyear Planet Rescue features newly designed Space Cruiser vehicles and a newly enhanced interactive targeting system which is more reactive and allows guests to better understand when their blaster has come into contact with its intended target. 6. Stitch Encounter showcases Disney’s latest advances in real-time animation. Through digital projection and sophisticated, voice-activated animation, guests have a new way to talk with Stitch, the lovable alien from Disney’s animated film, “Lilo & Stitch.” 7. Voyage to the Crystal Grotto is the only attraction in any Disney park on which guests ride through the park’s castle. In the attraction’s climactic scene, state-of-the-art projection mapping and scenic illusions bring the magic of the crystal to life before guests’ eyes. 8. “Once Upon A Time” Adventure inside Enchanted Storybook Castle brings the story of “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” to life through a first-of-its-kind, interactive walkthrough experience, combining computer generated imagery, digital media, special effects, projections, scenic illusions and motion-tracking technology which allow the guests to become active participants in the story alongside Snow White. 9. “Eye of the Storm – Captain Jack’s Stunt Spectacular” at El Teatro Fandango features an exciting climactic moment never before achieved in any indoor theatrical performance. For the first time anywhere, stunt performers will battle each other in mid-air, held up only by the swirling force of a wind tunnel. 10. “Ignite the Dream: A Nighttime Spectacular of Magic and Light” uses the latest advancements in projection mapping on Disney’s largest castle in the world. We’re excited to show these innovative new experiences to our guests when Shanghai Disney Resort opens June 16! View the full article

Today, we have more great news to share about the 2016 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, that runs September 14 – November 24. Let’s start with the stellar lineup of celebrity chefs who will cook and entertain throughout the 62-day festival — Geoffrey Zakarian, Maneet Chauhan, Duff Goldman, Elliott Farmer, Masaharu Morimoto and Graham Elliot are the newcomers for 2016, joining longtime favorites including Robert Irvine, Cat Cora, Norman Van Aken, Elizabeth Falkner, Buddy Valastro and Jamie Deen. And, yes, ABC’s “The Chew” is back for a week of taping their Emmy Award-winning show! For the very first time, we’re expanding the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival experience to some of the Walt Disney World Resort? hotels, with four new fabulous dining experiences that are both intimate and interactive: “Brunch with a Twist at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa” — a sumptuous 5-star, 5-course meal prepared by the resort’s award-winning chefs “The Secrets of Flavor at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort” — a three-course lunch that gives guests a ‘sensory-food connection’ at Yachtsman Steakhouse “Culinary Adventures with a Master Chef” at Disney’s Contemporary Resort — a hands-on chef’s table experience in a professional working kitchen “Behind the Scenes at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto” at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort — an entertaining tour of the whimsical Trader Sam’s, followed by lunch and a special mixology session Keep checking the Disney Parks Blog for updates about when you can begin making reservations for these festival experiences and more. And with 39 new or re-imagined marketplace dishes and 47 new cocktails, beers, wines and ciders on the menu for this year’s festival, there will be a lot to choose from. Here are a few of our favorite new dishes from some of the more than 30 Festival Marketplaces that Epcot guests can experience this fall: elegant seared scallop with truffled celery root puree, Brussels sprouts and mushrooms at Wine & Dine Studio; the mojo pork with black beans and rice at Islands of the Caribbean (and the divine quesitos are there too!); loaded Greek “nachos” at the Greece Marketplace, and our favorite: peanut butter and white chocolate mousse from The Chew Collective. Visit epcotfoodfestival.com for more details on all of the festival’s events. View the full article

I love collecting books about Disney Parks. You may recall previous Disney Parks Blog articles about two recent favorites – Poster Art of the Disney Parks and the Magic Kingdom Storybook. Today, I’m adding another book to my “favorite” column – a children’s book about the Haunted Mansion attraction. This book is part of a new series from Disney Publishing called “Disney Parks Presents.” I recently spoke with Eric Geron, Associate Editor with Disney Publishing, about this new series that he dreamed up. “Disney Parks Presents is a series of picture books with CDs and original artwork based on beloved Disney Parks rides and attractions,” explained Eric. “The books are a fantastic way for readers to relive classic Disney attractions from the comfort of their own homes or to experience them for the very first time.” The Haunted Mansion is the first Disney Parks attraction featured in the Disney Parks Presents series. On the inside cover, readers will find a CD containing a uniquely created 5-minute and 32-second musical tour through the attraction. The track includes the classic “Grim Grinning Ghosts” song by Buddy Baker and Xavier Atencio that inspired the book. Illustrations for the 32 page book were created by James Gilleard, an artist from London, England. Eric said the art department loved his “retro, cool vibe” that complemented the overall silly and spooky tone of the book. I selected a handful of illustrations I love for the image above. The clock striking 13 is one of my favorite attraction scenes, so I was glad to see it included. I was also delighted to find the Hatbox Ghost on one of the pages. I asked Eric about his favorite scene in the book. “I love the scene from the ballroom where the ghost is blowing out birthday cake candles,” replied Eric. “If you look carefully, you’ll even spot a hidden Mickey on the table that’s similar to one seen in the attraction.” Future “Disney Parks Presents” books will feature attractions such as Pirates of the Caribbean and the world famous Jungle Cruise, each with its own unique art style. Look for “Disney Parks Presents: The Haunted Mansion” in select merchandise locations this summer at Disney Parks or at other favorite retailers nationwide. View the full article

Back in March, I shared my favorite warm eats for cool days, and now in June with temperatures on the rise, it’s the perfect time to share my favorite picks for light, refreshing meals and snacks. Here’s a guide to Disneyland Resort dishes that are perfect for summertime. Disneyland park Picnic Salad, Hungry Bear Restaurant – My favorite refreshing summertime salad with turkey breast, strawberries, feta, cranberries, roasted almonds and jicama. Try the Turkey Caesar Wrap if you’re looking for lunch on the go. Corn on the Cob, Edelweiss Snacks – Choose traditional buttered corn on the cob or the zesty chili-lime variety. Either way, you can’t go wrong with grilled corn in the summer. Baked Fish Tacos, Rancho del Zocalo – Topped with cool cabbage slaw and chipotle-ranch, these baked fish tacos are a light summertime staple. Crispy Chicken Mixed Green Salad, The Golden Horseshoe – Kick up your feet in the cool air conditioning and take in a live performance by Laughing Stock Co. If you’re not looking for a full meal, try one of the sundaes or an ice cream float. Mint Julep, Mint Julep Bar – Quench your thirst in New Orleans Square with this southern-inspired beverage that’s a Disneyland classic. Don’t forget the Mickey-shaped beignets, too! Disney California Adventure park Edamame, Lucky Fortune Cookery – Served slightly chilled and lightly salted, edamame is a great snack on the go that won’t weigh you down. We also love the fresh mango slices! Salads in Sourdough Bread Bowls, Pacific Wharf Café – Choose from the Chinese Chicken Salad with diced chicken, fresh greens, wontons, almonds, carrots, sesame seeds and scallions in a soy-ginger dressing, or try the Chicken, Apple & Walnut Salad with tender chicken breast, crisp apples, celery and walnuts in a honey-lemon dressing served on fresh greens. Vietnamese Twice-Cooked Beef Taco, Carthay Circle Lounge – These delicious tacos are topped with a refreshingly cool pineapple-mint salsa. Extra credit if you order the Sample of Ice Cream Macaron Sandwiches for dessert! Smoothies, Schmoozies – My personal favorite is Mango Madness with mangos, peaches, banana and low-fat yogurt blended with orange, pineapple, guava and passion fruit juice. Cool drinks from Cozy Cone Motel – You’ll stay cool cruising down Route 66 with Redd’s Apple Freeze, Fillmore’s Fuelin’ Groovy Lemonade, Ramone’s “Pear of Dice” Soda, Doc’s Wild Grape Tonic or a “Route” Beer Float! Disneyland Hotel Ahi Poke, Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar – Tuck into this tropical hideaway (you lucky people you) and enjoy Ahi Poke with sushi-grade Ahi, avocado, wasabi yuzu, sriracha aioli and wonton chips with a refreshing, tropical beverage. Also perfect for sunny California days on the Trader Sam’s patio are the Shrimp Tacos and Chicken Lettuce Wraps. Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa Seafood Cocktail, Hearthstone Lounge – This cool appetizer for a cozy watering hole features chilled shrimp, avocado, tomatoes, red onions and cucumbers in cocktail sauce. Chicken or Beef Nachos, White Water Snacks – Piled high with guacamole, sour cream, jalapeños and salsa, share them as a snack or have your own as a meal. What’s your favorite thing to eat during the dog days of summer? Let us know in the comments below! View the full article

iNSIDE Disney Parks - Episode 3 | Awaken Summer View the full article

A few weeks ago, I shared a Disney Parks Blog Unboxed video about new Dooney & Bourke items coming this summer to Disney Parks. Today, I have additional information about the release party that will be held on Saturday, July 23 at Cherry Tree Lane inside the Marketplace Co-Op at Disney Springs. At this event, we are releasing two new collections including handbags inspired by the classic Disney Parks attraction, “it’s a small world.” The four silhouettes in this collection will include a Shopper Tote, a Pouchette, a Wallet and a Wristlet. The second collection, called “Lovebirds,” will include a Shopper Tote and a Letter Carrier. For the first time, we will introduce four limited edition retail MagicBands containing Dooney & Bourke-inspired designs. Each MagicBand will have an edition size of 1,500, and each MagicBand will contain a specially designed slider with the Dooney & Bourke logo. The MagicBands will be packaged in decorative boxes. Finally, guests attending this release party will have an opportunity to meet Ian Ray, Creative Director for Dooney & Bourke. He will be appearing at Cherry Tree Lane from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. that day. For guests at Disneyland Resort, look for the “it’s a small world” and the “Lovebirds” collections in select merchandise locations after this event. Guests may also find select items on the Disney Parks online store or using the Shop Disney Parks mobile app. To download the free mobile app, please visit DisneyWorld.com/Shop. View the full article