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We’re excited to bring you new menu items at an open-every-once-in-a-while favorite — Tomorrowland Terrace at Disney’s Magic Kingdom! Learn About: San Angel Inn Restaurante Epcot Restaurants Disney World Restaurants This counter-service restaurant is open seasonally during the busiest times, so you might not have eaten here; but we’re sure you’ve passed by it on your shortcut from Main Street to Tomorrowland! We love this outdoor restaurant for its ample, covered seating and menu that can please any crowd. The menu has always been a mixture of hard-to-find counter-service dishes (like pasta!) and classic American items that will make even the pickiest eaters happy. Sadly, the pasta is gone, but we’re happy to report that the new items keep the balance of ordinary and out of this world! Entering Tomorrowland Terrace! Since we don’t get to talk about Tomorrowland Terrace often, let’s explore the location a little more… Atmosphere Wedged in the area between Main Street and Tomorrowland, the Terrace spans three levels of outdoor seating along the walkway. The lowest level has a beautiful view of Cinderella Castle! Can you spot the castle from this upper-level seat? The seating isn’t luxurious, but there is plenty of it, which is why Tomorrowland Terrace is such a convenient choice for peak season dining! Families will also love that there are two (!!) nearby restrooms and water fountains. Second and lower level seating You’ll order and pick up your food at one of the kiosks — the convenient bathrooms and water fountains we mentioned are to the left of the kiosks. Ordering kiosks at Tomorrowland Terrace So, as you can see, the decor isn’t special, and unfortunately the seating is largely covered but outdoors, so it can get warm. But if you’re in a packed park and starving, this is a good option if you don’t want to battle the crowds at Cosmic Rays, Pecos Bill’s, or the other, smaller restaurants. Eats Let’s check out what’s NEW!!!! The recent additions are the Spicy Chicken Sandwich, Pulled Pork Bahn Mi Sandwich, Smoked Sausage Sandwich, Rocky Road Brownie and Coconut Tres Leches. Yum! Tomorrowland Terrace Menu 1 — click to enlarge And now for desserts… Tomorrowland Terrace Menu 2 — click to enlarge The new Spicy Chicken Sandwich is the most standard of the new items. The chicken breast was large and had some great seasoning. The lettuce and tomato were served on the side (another plus for picky eaters) and a large portion of fries came in a paper boat. Spicy Chicken Sandwich and fries The menu notes that it comes on a sesame seed bun (mine did not) but the cast member said that they hadn’t seen the sesame seed buns yet. That said, I was there within the first few days of the restaurant being open this season, so the sesame seed buns might be there by now. However, I still really enjoyed the bread, and there was a lot of it so the sandwich never got soggy. Spicy Chicken Sandwich (substitute?) Bun The sandwich was topped with pepper jack cheese that was melted onto the bun, and a yummy spicy mayo on the chicken! Basically, this will remind some of you of the Buffalo Chicken Sandwich at Studio Catering Co in Disney’s Hollywood Studios back in the day. Melty Cheeeeeeeeze! This was a great option. If anything, people who love spicy food will probably wish there was a little more heat; but it’s a good option for all but the most spice-averse. Even in the hot weather it was still very enjoyable! The Pulled Pork Banh Mi Sandwich is a stroll down Memory Lane reminding us of Tomorrowland Terrace’s early days of Asian-inspired cuisine. It’s pretty similar to the traditional Vietnamese sandwich with pulled pork, pickled carrots, cabbage, shredded lettuce and Sriracha aioli drizzled on top. Pulled Pork Bahn Mi packed with toppings! The roll itself was thick, and there really could have been more pork to match all that bread in my opinion. The Sriracha aioli wasn’t actually too spicy, but it tasted amazing — we think it would’ve been perfect mixed in with the pork since the meat was slightly dry! Cross section! This one was served with crispy house made chips on the side in a paper boat — yum! House made chip boat We loved all of the flavors together, and it’s a fun quick-service option to have! But the dry meat means we’d probably go for one of the other choices on the menu before ordering this one again. Up next is another unusual but tasty addition: the Smoked Sausage Sandwich! A smoked polish sausage with roasted onions and grain mustard drizzled on top is served on the same roll as the Pulled Pork Banh Mi Sandwich. Also like the Bhan Mi, it’s served with a boat of house made chips. This may remind some of the now-missing sausage that used to be found at Casey’s Corner across Main Street. Smoked Sausage Sandwich with House Made Chips The sausage itself could’ve been larger. The bread kind of stole the show since the roll was so large. But the sausage had great smokiness, so it was impressive in and of itself. No shortage of bread on this sandwich! The grain mustard tasted great with the smokiness of the sausage, and the roasted flavor of the onions really popped! It doesn’t look half bad either… Have you ever seen mustard so pretty? Once again with this one — the flavors were well done, but the meat portion needed to be larger. The real MVP here is the dessert! The Rocky Road Brownie was served warm with a brownie, chocolate sauce, chocolate chips, marshmallows and walnuts. Rocky Road Brownie The brownie is actually larger than it looks in the cup and has…wait for it…a fudge center!!! A fudge center is always good in our opinion So basically, 0ur thoughts were…SO much yes. It is rich and warm and the perfect portion — and we haven’t seen this anywhere else. Last, but certainly not least, is the Coconut Tres Leches. The coconut is a tasty variation of a traditional Latin treat. It’s a square cut of super-fluffy cake served chilled with whipped cream on top of sweetened milk. Coconut Tres Leches Once you take it out of its dish you see there is actually a nice amount of the milk sauce on the bottom. Close up of Coconut Tres Leches mmm…. This is probably the freshest tasting baked dessert I’ve tried at a quick-service spot. The chilled temperature and subtle fruit flavors will be a refreshing treat after watching a parade on Main Street! Overall The menu had a nice selection of both safe options and more unique options — especially for a quick-service restaurant! Everything was delicious, well made, and the breads were very fresh. Of course, the desserts were hands down the best quick-service desserts we’ve tried. Cast members predict Tomorrowland Terrace will be open for the remainder of the summer, and we hope you get a chance to try this one out! Are you headed to Tomorrowland Terrace anytime soon? Whatcha gonna eat?!? Let us know in the comments below! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: News! Tomorrowland Terrace Breakfast Menu in Magic Kingdom (Now Serving Beignets?!) Review: Disneyland’s Tomorrowland Terrace Review: Tomorrowland Terrace Breakfast View the full article

This week on the Disney Parks Blog, we shared a look at the Fourth of July fun guests can have at Disney Parks. Of course, there’s one bit of fun that stands out above all the rest on this holiday – fireworks. Whether you’re heading out to Magic Kingdom Park to see “Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky” for yourself or will tune into our live stream of the show on July 4 at 8:50 p.m., take a sneak peek above. For more on what’s going on at Disney Parks for Fourth of July this year, check out this special episode of “Inside Disney Parks.” View the full article

We were so excited to fly at the newly debuted Soarin’ Around the World at Epcot! Soarin’ Around the World at Epcot But the accompanying news out of Sunshine Seasons next door to Soarin’ is fun as well! Sunshine Seasons This favorite Counter Service spot is welcoming back its headliner attraction with a couple of special treats to mark the occasion. Welcome back, Soarin’! We spotted the Soarin’ Orange Cupcake when the attraction reopened in mid-May (it was open for about a month in its classic version before the new film hit the scene). The little chocolate Soarin’ sign has been removed, but it’s still called the Soarin’ Cupcake, and features the flavor that I think we all most associate with the ride from when it was Soarin’ Over California (albeit, just via fragrance in the previous version’s Orange Grove scene): ORANGE! Soarin’ Orange Cupcake The flavor profile is simple: a vanilla cupcake topped with buttercream icing, with a small amount of orange-flavored filling inside. My favorite detail might be the sky blue part of the frosting, also appropriate for the attraction, with its sugar crystals adding a bit of crunch to an otherwise basic cupcake. Inside the Soarin’ Cupcake The white chocolate Soarin’ logo now appears on the newer addition to the bakery case: the Soarin’ Panna Cotta! Soarin’ Panna Cotta Orange is again the featured flavor topping a layer of rich and creamy (and not overly sweet) vanilla bean. A thin bottom layer of cake completes the dessert. Soarin’ Panna Cotta Soarin’ Panna Cotta We’re not sure how long these snacks will be around, so grab ‘em while you can. And be sure to say hello again to THIS guy while you’re at it! Welcome back, Patrick! Hey, Patrick, ol’ pal… it’s great to have ya back! As always, thanks for SOARIN’ with us here at the DFB! Are you excited for the return of Soarin’? 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: Guest Review: Orange Cupcake at Sunshine Seasons in Epcot Review: Sunshine Seasons at Epcot’s The Land Pavilion Snack Series: Key Lime Tart at Epcot’s Sunshine Seasons View the full article

Just when you thought they couldn’t possibly fit one more thing at Disney Springs, we’ve got news of another grand opening happening TOMORROW, July 2! ©Disney The Coca-Cola Store Orlando officially opens tomorrow, giving guests the chance to experience the world’s most iconic beverage brand in the comfort of an “immersive retail destination.” Sounds pretty cool, right? The spot is inspired by a 1920s-era bottling plant, in keeping with the historic vibe of Disney Springs – the entryway even pays homage to the iconic Coca-Cola green glass bottle. Once inside the shop you’ll want to look up and check out the 30-foot-wide blown-glass chandelier crafted from re-purposed Coca-Cola bottles. Oh and did we mention there’s a rooftop bar? Oh yeah! Up at the bar you can enjoy an ice cold Coca-Cola or even get a bit adventurous and try a Coca-Cola brand from around the world. You know, like everyone’s favorite, Beverly, from Italy! Coca-Cola products from around the world! The rooftop bar is also serving up frozen beverages and more than 100 drink choices from the Freestyle machine. Adult beverages will be available in the evening. You’ll find a wide array of cool Coca-Cola merch at the store – and it’s only one of three retail locations operated by Coca Cola in the country! And starting in August guests will have a chance to meet the Coca Cola Polar Bear! Get your camera ready. Are you excited to check out the new Coca-Cola Store Orlando? Let us know in the comments! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: News: World of Coca-Cola Coming to Disney Springs News! Disney Café Opens at Harrods Department Store in London for the Holidays News! A Cupcake ATM and MORE Coming to Disney Springs in Disney World View the full article

We have some more exciting news about special events at the 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival! Today’s we have details on an exclusive event just for D23 Gold Members! The Sip & Scream event is returning to the Food and Wine Festival this year, combining Halloween fun with Festival food and more. This year’s D23 Sip & Scream event takes place on October 5, and includes the opportunity to attend a morning or afternoon taping of ABC’s The Chew. The show’s co-hosts Mario Batali, Michael Symon, Carla Hall, Clinton Kelly, and Daphne Oz will share recipes and Festival surprises with the audience. The Cast of The Chew at the 2015 Rockin’ Burger Block Party Sip & Scream attendees will also get a $25 gift card to check out the eats and drinks at the Festival Marketplaces, including three dishes from The Chew Collective – Grilled Beef Skewer with Romaine, Apricots, and Feta Cheese; Ricotta and Zucchini Ravioli with Rustic Tomato Sauce; and Peanut Butter and White Chocolate Mousse with a Caramel Drizzle! The Chew Collective’s Grilled Beef Skewer with Romaine, Apricots, and Feta Cheese But wait! There’s more! The Sip & Scream continues with an “exclusive presentation” in World Showcase AND reserved seating at that evening’s Eat to the Beat Concert at the America Gardens Theater. Following the concert, the event culminates with a Halloween-themed dessert reception at Isle de France (an outdoor event space in Epcot’s World Showcase) where guests will enjoy spooky desserts and VIP viewing of IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth. And when the clock strikes midnight, guests can head over to Disney’s Hollywood Studios for the D23 Behind-the-Scenes Experience: A Midnight Soiree at the Tower of Terror! (Note that the Tower of Terror experience is an extra cost.) 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! The D23 Sip & Scream costs $125 per person (plus a $5 processing fee). The event is open to D23 Gold Members and their families. Members can reserve a ticket for themselves and 1 family member. Tickets go on sale July 11 at 10 a.m. PT at the D23 website. Each Sip & Scream guest will receive a copy of The Chew cookbook, and a $25 Disney Gift Card. The Tower of Terror Midnight Soiree is a separate D23 event and the cost is $245 per person (plus a $5 processing fee). That event includes a behind-the-scenes experience at the attraction followed by a midnight soiree featuring themed food and entertainment. Tickets for this event go on sale July 11 at 12 p.m. PT at the D23 website. 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). Join the Disney Food Blog Newsletter to find out as soon as we do about more details! Booking begins July 21. Booking opens for Tables in Wonderland members, Annual Passholders, Disney Vacation Club members, and Golden Oak residents July 19. Culinary Demonstrations, Beverage Seminars, and general admission for some special events will be bookable online at www.epcotfoodfestival.com as well as by phone. Tables in Wonderland members, Annual Passholders, Disney Vacation Club Members, and Golden Oak Residents will be eligible for a discount (per person, per event) for beverage seminars and culinary demos taking place Mon-Thurs during the festival. Discounts are by phone only at 407-WDW-FEST (939-3378). 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. Are you making plans to attend the D23 Sip and Scream at this year’s Epcot Food and Wine Festival? Let us know in the comments! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: News! Cast of ABC’s ‘The Chew’ Returns for the 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival PLUS Menu Updates! News! Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival Returns in April 2016 News! 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Offers 2 Full Months of Delicious This Year! View the full article

One of the many wonderful things about little ones is their ability to be immersed in play. Now you can get in on the action with them when you and your kiddo ride Toy Story Mania! at Disney’s Hollywood Studios together. With no height requirement and family-friendly games featuring everyone’s favorite Toy Story characters, this ride is awesome fun for all ages. You and your preschooler will don cool 3D glasses, and surely be laughing and high-fiving in no time! But don’t take my word for it – we asked some of our youngest guests to tell us all about their experience on the attraction. Check it out! View the full article

It’s no secret that Disney Springs has continued to evolve and grow since the name changed from Downtown Disney last fall. My fellow Disney Parks Blog authors and I have shared plenty of updates over the past several months … from restaurant launches to new store openings, we’ve covered it all. Fast forward to summer and we’re now ready to celebrate the Grand Opening of the property, giving you more reasons to visit! With even more live entertainment for summer, special décor, sales at many retailers, and fun warm weather-inspired enhancements, this Grand Opening season is the prefect time to discover Disney Springs. Check out a few of my favorite additions, going on through Labor Day: Entertainment: Did you know that on any given night, there are more than 20 different entertainment acts performing throughout the four Disney Springs neighborhoods? This free entertainment includes a variety of live musicians, improvisational rappers, DJs, Living Statues and, depending on the night you visit, maybe even a roaming illusionist (my favorite!). We’re amping up the Florida factor with some additional local talent including Sleeping Sunset (Pop), The I-4 Band (Top 40), Chaz Robinson (Pop), Casey Conroy (Contemporary/Pop), Plus 1 (Country), Vintage Vinyl (Contemporary with a vintage sound), Dayve Stewart (Jazz), CeCe Teneal (R&B), The Gerry Williams Band (Funk), and The Liam Duncan Trio (Current Acoustic) mixing it up all summer long. Beat the Heat DJ Party: Every afternoon, the Marketplace Fountain will be flowing, giving guests young and old the chance to splash the day away. With a combination of chill summer tunes and a variety of ice-cold, frosty beverages (with options for adults and kids) nearby, this will be THE spot to cool down. Retail Offers and Promotions: An ever-changing array of sales and specials makes summer shopping during the Disney Springs Grand Opening Celebration a must! A quick walk around Town Center, our newest neighborhood, reveals that many locations are offering some hard-to-pass-up deals. Below, a few that I’m especially excited about, happening now (keep in mind that offers are subject to change): Columbia Sportswear – 25% off entire store Lucky Brand – 40% off entire store Sperry – 50% off select items Kipling – 25% off the entire store, with 40% off select colors Alex and Ani – 30% off select styles UNOde50 – 30% off select accessories and jewelry francesca’s – buy one, get one 50% off accessories Erwin Pearl – 10% off Maya Collection Melissa Shoes – 40-60% off select styles when you buy 2 or more pairs JOHNNY WAS – 20% off in-store ZARA – summer sale happening now LACOSTE – up to 50% off select items Johnston & Murphy – buy one, get one 50% off apparel American Threads – buy one, get one 50% off regular priced apparel, exclusions apply And More: Keep an eye out for roaming PhotoPass photographers who will have Disney Springs Grand Opening-themed frames and props for you to pose with. In select locations, limited-edition “Grand Opening” treats will be available – I hear the culinary teams at The Ganachery and Amorette’s Patisserie have something sweet in store. Finally, with festive Grand Opening décor throughout property, you’ll feel that there’s something special in the air. Getting to Disney Springs is easier than ever. Disney Resort hotel guests can take complimentary bus transportation that drops off in the heart of Town Center. If you choose to drive, access the property from I-4 West via a new connection that leads directly to one of our two convenient parking garages. Both feature complimentary parking and smart technology that identifies open parking spaces. Valet parking is also available. With so much happening this summer, we’ll be sharing real-time updates via @DisneySprings on Twitter and Instagram. To celebrate the Grand Opening of Disney Springs, look for hashtag “#GoDisneySprings” launching today. (Be sure to share your own photos on social media using the same!) I look forward to seeing you this summer as we celebrate Disney Springs in a grand way! View the full article

Coca-Cola Store Orlando will open to the public Saturday in a prime location at Disney Springs, the company said Friday. The design of the retail outlet's structure is inspired by a brick 1920s Coca-Cola bottling plant and features an entryway that pays homage to the drink's classic green-glass... View the full article

It’s Independence Day weekend, and Disney Parks are celebrating the holiday with spectacular fireworks and themed shows. Whether it’s Walt Disney World or Disneyland Resort, Jenn Fickley-Baker tells us there’s plenty to see and do to commemorate this uniquely American holiday. We also give you a few photography tips from David Roark, Manager – Creative Photography at Walt Disney World Resort. We hope you enjoy this Inside Disney Parks Extra. Have a Happy Fourth of July! View the full article

Listen up foodies (or anyone who simply enjoys something tasty to eat)! It’s time to take your taste buds on a new adventure. And I can’t think of a more delicious journey than sampling the cuisine of eight unique destinations on an Adventures by Disney Danube River Cruise. Toast to adventure in Germany, sample strudel in Austria, stir up a pot of goulash with Hungarian cowboys and embark on the ultimate food lover’s expedition to the Great Market Hall in Budapest. This bustling bazaar offers a variety of delicious food offerings to explore – so many, in fact, that the culinary selections stretch across three floors! In addition to sampling the local flavors you may also discover unique handcrafted gifts to bring home. Take a look at the tantalizing options that await you at the Great Market Hall with Adventures by Disney. View the full article

Today marks 20 years of old-fashioned charm at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn. This whimsical, waterfront resort has been welcoming guests since July 1, 1996 at Walt Disney World Resort. Modeled after turn-of-the-century Atlantic City, the resort is steeped in nostalgia and playfulness of a bygone era. And there’s tons of unique dining and lively entertainment just outside of the resort on the Coney Island-style boardwalk along Crescent Lake. If you’ve stayed at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn before, what are some of your favorite memories from your stay there? View the full article

Last weekend, Ruby Barnhill, who plays Sophie in Disney’s newest film, “The BFG,” visited the Disneyland Resort with her family just a few days after attending the red carpet premiere. While Ruby stayed away from Giant Country on this trip, she did head over to Frontierland to ride the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and she got to meet the “big cheese” himself, Mickey Mouse. We caught up with her in Fantasyland to learn more about her big screen role. Ready to see Ruby’s biggest adventure? Head out to see Disney’s “The BFG” in theaters starting today! View the full article

A new Disney pin trading scavenger hunt has arrived at Magic Kingdom, but it will cost you -- $79.92 to be exact. The latest version of Disney PinQuest is a Steampunk-inspired pay-to-play game that, if completed, will set you back nearly 80 bucks (plus tax) and leave you with a decoder medal,... View the full article

Two new “Frozen” experiences – the Frozen Ever After attraction and the adjacent Royal Sommerhus – recently opened in Norway Pavilion at Epcot. To celebrate the opening, I visited this World Showcase pavilion to check out the latest “Frozen” merchandise and to explore a new shop called The Wandering Reindeer. My first stop was The Puffin’s Roost, which is the merchandise location found at the exit to the Frozen Ever After attraction. In addition to other Norwegian products, part of this shop is now home to all sorts of things from Disney’s “Frozen.” The location offers a variety of apparel, home goods, decorative artwork, holiday ornaments and much more. One area contains items inspired by scenes from the attraction including the “Summer Snow Day” Celebration and Troll Valley. Guests will find apparel, plush dolls, toys, drinkware, and a D-Tech phone case featuring Anna and Elsa in their summer attire. One of my favorite items is the adorable troll plush. New summer-themed dresses for Anna and Elsa join the existing winter dresses in the shop. Look for matching hair accessories that complement the new summer attire. Disney pin collectors will love several new open edition pins including a logo pin created especially for the attraction. On July 1, guests should look for three open edition retail MagicBands decorated with summer-inspired images of Anna, Elsa and Olaf. My next stop was to the new merchandise location found by the Royal Sommerhus called The Wandering Reindeer. This incredibly detailed shop contains an additional assortment of popular “Frozen” products. The inside of the shop looks fantastic, especially with many handcrafted details found throughout the location. I liked the nods to Sven in some of the displays. You can also find his hoof prints just outside the main doors. Guests may be able to order select items from these shops, including the new Frozen Ever After products, via the free Shop Disney Parks mobile app. To download, please visit DisneyWorld.com/Shop. View the full article

The patisserie and cakes at the new Amorette’s Patisserie in Disney Springs are as delicious as they are beautiful, each one a work of art. Today, we get a closer look at the culinary technique that goes into each decadent layer of the Mickey Dome Cake. Amorette’s Patisserie is now accepting pre-orders for petite cakes, dome cakes and Amorette’s Signature Cake. Orders can be made by calling 407-934-3500 or stop by the patisserie at least 3 days in advance. View the full article

"Wreck-It Ralph" is officially getting a sequel, Disney Animation announced on Thursday morning. The second installment of the animated hit will be directed by Rich Moore and Phil Johnston, with John C. Reilly returning to voice the titular lead character. The trio made the announcement via Disney/videos/10153760073335954/"... View the full article

Let the countdown begin! If you have been waiting for the chance to try our toffee gourmet treats, you’re going to love the month of July at our Disneyland Resort candy kitchen locations. Starting July 1, they’ll be offering a tantalizing and tart apple covered in creamy caramel, dipped in sweet milk chocolate and topped with crunchy toffee pieces, roasted almonds and chocolate drizzle. Our candy makers didn’t stop there – many of the toffee ingredients used for the apples can also be found on a marshmallow wand and crispy treat. Look for these delicious treats and more at Candy Palace on Main Street, U.S.A. and Hunny Spot in Critter Country at Disneyland park, Trolley Treats on Buena Vista Street in Disney California Adventure park and Marceline’s Confectionery in the Downtown Disney District. Keep in mind, these treats will only be available from July 1-31, or while supplies last. Don’t miss out! Which treat has your name on it? View the full article

The Fourth of July is fast-approaching, which means family, picnics and of course fireworks! I can’t think of a better place to celebrate it this year than at Walt Disney World Resort. Here are some ways you can celebrate at our parks: Magic Kingdom Park – “Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky” will illuminate the park two nights in a row, at 9 p.m. on both July 3 and 4. Epcot – On July 4 only, guests can expect to see a special patriotic finale added to that evening’s “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth,” which blasts off at 10 p.m. Disney’s Hollywood Studios – Catch the brand new “Star Wars – A Galactic Spectacular” fireworks show in its inaugural year at 9:30 p.m. Of course with so much fun in store – not to mention the recently opened Frozen Ever After, Soarin’ Around the World, Mickey’s Friendship Faire and new nighttime experiences at Disney’s Animal Kingdom – making FastPass+ and dining reservations as soon as possible is recommended. View the full article

The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique at Disney Springs has moved to a new location near Once Upon A Toy. I recently met my fellow Disney Parks Blog author Darcy Clark at the location for a tour of the new space. This year, the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique at Disney Springs celebrates 10 years. The original location inside World of Disney was the first enchanted beauty salon at Disney Parks. The newly expanded salon near Once Upon a Toy is five times larger than the original location. Inspired by the Walt Disney’s “Cinderella,” the expanded salon has a country home-inspired feel that complements the story of Disney Springs. Essentially, this location is the place for princesses and knights to prepare for the royal ball. At this location, Fairy Godmothers-in-Training will continue making magical transformations for guests ages 3 to 12. Girls can choose a hairstyle then add make-up, nail color and accessories—even a Disney princess costume. Boys can join in the fun too, as they’re transformed into gallant knights. There are new interactive elements, décor and artwork found throughout the Boutique. The tile mural of Cinderella Castle just inside the Salon is gorgeous! In fall 2016, we will introduce the Disney Princess Signature Collection at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique as shown in the image above. Look for additional details on the Disney Parks Blog in the coming months about this elegant new collection. The photo above was captured in the Carriage Room, a uniquely designed photo opportunity inside the new Disney Springs location where guests can use Disney PhotoPass. All Disney PhotoPass photos taken at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique are included with the purchase of Memory Maker if captured during the applicable Memory Maker window. Reservations for the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique are highly recommended. Appointments can be made up to 180 days in advance by calling (407) WDW-STYLE (407-939-7895). You can also visit DisneyWorld.com/Style for more information about this experience. View the full article

Are you already starting to plan out your Walt Disney World Resort vacation for the holiday season? Earlier today, we shared the first update on “The Candlelight Processional,” a must-do for many guests during the holiday season. Now, let’s talk New Year’s Eve. Of course, Walt Disney World Resort theme parks are great options for fireworks and family fun on New Year’s Eve. If you’re more of a partygoer, you may wish to consider the “Disney Countdown to Midnight – A New Year’s Eve Celebration” at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. This ticketed event will take place December 31, 2016, beginning at 8 p.m. at the hotel’s Convention Center. There, guests can ring in 2017 in the Fantasia Ballroom by dancing to music spanning from the ’60s to today, and trying “best-of-the-best” bites and wine pairings from California Grill, Flying Fish, Cítricos and Narcoossee’s. Guests can also enjoy the group Alter Ego as they perform their extravagant music- and dance-filled revue, then stroll outside to catch a unique musical act playing songs of today with a retro twist. The event will be highlighted with Magic Kingdom Park fireworks viewing and a champagne toast. There will also be themed photo backdrops and props to help you capture the memories of the evening and receive a souvenir to commemorate the night. Plus complimentary transportation will be provided for select Walt Disney World Resort hotels. Tickets for this special evening are extremely limited. Guests with a resort reservation can purchase tickets starting today. Reservations will open to all guests on July 4. To purchase or for more information, visit DisneyWorld.com or call 407-939-3463. View the full article

I’m excited to announce a new Disney pin trading scavenger hunt is coming to Magic Kingdom Park on June 30. Featuring Steampunk-inspired artwork, this Disney PinQuest reminds me of pin pursuits from the mid-2000s at Walt Disney World Resort. At that time, I was serving as Project Manager for Disney Pin Trading and the pursuits were a fun activity for guests of all ages. I recently caught up with Jeanne Lewis, merchandiser for Disney pins, to learn why this new PinQuest was created. “We’re excited to introduce a pin trading-themed scavenger hunt this summer,” Jeanne says. “For years, guests have told us how much they enjoyed pin pursuits once offered at Disney Parks. We applied their feedback and lessons we learned from other recent scavenger hunts to create this new activity. Ultimately, we wanted something that the whole family could enjoy during a summertime visit to Magic Kingdom Park.” The first step for this PinQuest is to purchase an adventure kit which contains a lanyard to showcase your pins; a decoder medal for use with PinQuest pins; and a lanyard pouch to hold the map included in the adventure kit. The lanyard pouch also holds PinQuest clue cards which are sold separately. There are six different PinQuest clue cards. Each clue card has a question that needs answered and shared with a NavigatEAR Cast Member in a particular location. Once solved, you can redeem the clue card for a PinQuest pin using the perforated ticket on the bottom of the clue card. Continue the hunt by using the decoder medal from the adventure kit. Line up the arrows for each pin to determine your next destination within Magic Kingdom Park. After purchasing all six clue cards and receiving stamps and pins from each location, guests should return to either Frontier Trading Post in Frontierland or Curtain Call Collectibles on Main Street, U.S.A. At those designated locations, guests who have completed the entire Magic Kingdom PinQuest are eligible to purchase a QuestEAR pin completer pin (shown above). All items for this PinQuest are available while supplies last. These items will not be sold online or via the Shop Disney Parks mobile app. You’ll need separate admission to Magic Kingdom Park in order to participate. Good luck and happy trading, QuestEARs! View the full article

It’s hard to believe another month has gone by, and summer is officially here! What’s new in food and beverage at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort? Keep reading to find out! At Disney Springs, new menu items debut at Jock Lindsay’s Hangar Bar this week. Look for adventurous new bites such as: Sallah’s Falafel, sweet potato falafel served with Romesco sauce, pickled vegetables, Swiss chard, herbed yogurt-cheese and grilled naan bread; Temple Tenderloin, sliced beef tenderloin stacked high on a toasted baguette with Swiss cheese, tomato, arugula, and radish slaw; and Tanis Tuna Tacos, seared Ahi tuna in a tortilla shell with lettuce, guacamole, sour cream pico de gallo, cilantro, jalapeño and a toasted lime. To celebrate the opening of Soarin’ Around the World at Epcot, Sunshine Seasons at The Land Pavilion developed a tasty Soarin’-themed dessert. The vanilla panna cotta pyramid with orange gelée will have your taste buds ready for takeoff! Cruise over to Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel, where baby back ribs and tri-tip beef are back by popular demand on the buffet at Disney’s PCH Grill. Available at dinner, these items are back just for summer, so make your reservation today! Adults can enjoy new flavors of kakigōri (shaved ice) at Kabuki Café in the Japan Pavilion at Epcot. The new Sake Mist version of the popular treat is available in Chocolate Cherry, Blood Orange and Coffee. If you are visiting Epcot on July 7, be sure to stop by and check out celebration taking place throughout the Japan Pavilion for the Tanabata Festival! Want to enjoy prime viewing of Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular fireworks show while enjoying out-of-this world sweets? This is the dessert party you’re looking for! Reservations are now available for the Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular Dessert Party at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Learn more by clicking here. If you find yourself looking for some tasty new treats while Jammin’ on the Backlot at Disney California Adventure park, look no further! At Studio Catering Truck, look for Chili Cheese “Ta-chos” and Vegetarian Chili with jalapeños. Treat your taste buds to a symphony of flavors at Stage 1, where you’ll find specialty drinks, Mickey-shaped pretzels, “Wrap”sody in Bacon BBQ bacon-wrapped hot dogs and “Corn”certo on the Cob chili lime elote. From June 26 and September 1, Walt Disney World Resort guests may purchase a souvenir refillable popcorn bucket for $10, with refills of hot, fresh Pop Secret popcorn available throughout the day for $1.50 each. This offering is available in Walt Disney World Resort theme parks, water parks, Disney Springs and ESPN Wide World of Sports. Restrictions may apply. If you’re celebrating Independence Day at Walt Disney World Resort, look for specialty themed sweets on July 4 at BoardWalk Bakery at Disney’s BoardWalk, Contempo Café at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Creature Comforts at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Main Street Bakery at Magic Kingdom Park. View the full article

I never expected mashed potatoes to be my favorite dish at chef Rick Bayless' Frontera Cocina. The spuds were smooth, garlicky and sprinkled with salty queso anejo, a Mexican cheese that I would expect Bayless to use at his new Disney Springs restaurant, which opened Monday at the former Downtown... View the full article

From the crazy but true files: I have a tasted a vegan dish and enjoyed it. I'd eat it again. I'll have my chances at this year's Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. Introducing loaded Greek nachos, which Disney World describes as pita chips, "meatless sausage crumbles" and vegan tzatziki... View the full article

From the crazy but true files: I have a tasted a vegan dish and enjoyed it. I'd eat it again. I'll have my chances at this year's Epcot International Food & Garden Festival. Introducing loaded Greek nachos, which Disney World describes as pita chips, "meatless sausage crumbles" and vegan tzatziki... View the full article