Disney4me

Next week brings the official opening of Shanghai Disney Resort in China, and you’re invited to help us celebrate this historic occasion at the Disneyland Resort! On Thursday, June 16, join us in Hollywood Land at Disney California Adventure park from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and enjoy special entertainment and photo opportunities in honor of the opening of our newest world-class Disney destination. The festivities will feature colorful performances by local community groups, along with character appearances by Mulan and Mushu! Some favorite Asian-inspired food & beverage offerings, including pork bao, almond cookies and pot stickers, will also be available for purchase. In addition, we’ll be giving away a button commemorating the opening of Shanghai Disney Resort to each guest entering the Disneyland Resort theme parks, while supplies last. Hope we see you there! View the full article

#DisneyGrandMoments – A Special Pair of Mickey Ears | Magic Kingdom View the full article

Once again, we’re taking Disney cruisers all over Europe this summer to experience incredible landscapes, historical sites and rich culture. The Disney Magic began the grand tour in Northern Europe and, for the first part of its tour, is calling on ports throughout the Baltic, Norway, Iceland and the British Isles. Next, Disney cruisers will have the opportunity to visit incredible ports in Portugal and Spain as we journey seven nights from Dover, England, to Barcelona, our homeport for the Mediterranean season. Today, I’ll tell you about Port Adventures in Vigo, located in northwest Spain’s Galicia region. Santiago de Compostela – Several Port Adventures give you the opportunity to visit the capital of Galicia, Santiago de Compostela, the most visited pilgrimage destination since the Middle Ages. Full- and half-day guided tours, plus an on-your-own option, give you flexibility to customize your family’s experience in the Old Town filled with impressive Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque buildings. For those who want to enhance their day with a regal dining experience, opt for the tour with lunch at Hostal de los Reyes Católicos, a beautifully restored 16th-century building that was a former pilgrim hospital. Baiona and The Fortress – Explore the Old World on your visit to the historic village of Baiona, where Christopher Columbus landed in 1493 after his return from the New World. You’ll have the unique chance to climb aboard a replica of the caravel La Pinta. Used by Columbus on his first transatlantic voyage, it’s anchored in the village harbor. Next up is a tour of the 17th-century Monterreal Fortress, followed by appetizers at the Parador de Gondomar, a former fortress surrounded by pine forest and an impressive view of the ocean. Galician Highlights – Exclusively for adults, this Port Adventure takes you to Spain’s albariño wine region for a tasting at a cellar in the village of Cambados, known for producing some of the best white wine in the world. Your day includes a walking tour of the historic town, where you’ll admire traditional Galician houses, as well as a visit to the province of Pontevedra to explore the medieval Castle of Soutomaior, which dates back to the 12th century. Up next, I’ll give you a glimpse at ways your family can have fun in Lisbon, Portugal. Remember, when the ship’s in port, venture ashore! View the full article

Fans of cupcakes have had a lot of eye candy lately here on DFB. Learn About: Main Street Bakery Magic Kingdom Disney World Restaurants We loved spotlighting the yummy eats — including cupcake sundaes! — at the newly-opened Sprinkles in Disney Springs. And don’t forget the Strawberry Lemonade Cupcake, the latest creation from the Boardwalk Bakery. But the recent creations from Contempo Cafe, including the Watermelon Cupcake and the unbelievable Churro Cupcake, have really wowed us. Now those were all gorgeous and fun, but our most recent cupcake spotting comes from our old nostalgic favorite, the Main Street Bakery. Today, we’ve got the Donald Duck Butt Cupcake! Donald Duck Butt Cupcake! When I first saw this in the bakery case I couldn’t figure out what it was supposed to be. But when the Cast Member spotted me looking and said “it’s Donald Duck!” — I couldn’t help but laugh! And I think that is the entire point of this fun, must-be-Philharmagic-inspired cupcake! (You all remember the distinctly duck-butt end of Philharmagic, right? ;-D) So, when it comes to components, this one is simple. The cake here is vanilla and the icing is delicious vanilla buttercream. Donald is made up of some white frosting and his cute feet are fondant. The water is made from blue sprinkles that are much more shimmery in person. Donald Duck Butt The flavors aren’t exactly groundbreaking, but they are classic and perfect for the less adventurous cupcake eaters. And I’m sure the little ones would get a kick out of a duck butt! Donald Duck Butt Cupcake – Inside I’ve been loving all of the these new cupcakes! And even though this one may seem simple in comparison to the fun flavors we’ve been seeing, it is always nice coming back to a classic. Plus, we are happy to see our favorite duck getting some Disney food love! Will you be stopping by Main Street Bakery to try the Donald Duck Butt Cupcake? Please 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: Re-Review: Peanut Butter Cupcake at Magic Kingdom’s Main Street Bakery Snack Series: Peanut Butter Cup Cupcake at Main Street Bakery Review: Sweet Treats at Main Street Bakery Starbucks in Magic Kingdom View the full article

We’re celebrating World Oceans Day today by kicking off a new video series – Behind the Waves featuring Disney Channel Star Jenna Ortega from the hit new TV series Stuck in the Middle. Jenna’s giving us an inside look at the many ways Disney Cruise Line is helping to protect the environment. In this first video, Jenna meets with a Disney Cruise Line animal expert to learn more about how guests can connect with nature on Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island, and how Disney Cruise Line is involved in a multi-year project to restore the health of coral reefs. Be sure to stay connected for more Behind the Waves of Disney Cruise Line. You can learn more about other Disney Cruise Line environmental efforts here. View the full article

To celebrate the upcoming opening of Shanghai Disney Resort, The Walt Disney Company will donate $3.1 million USD (RMB 20 million) to fund Disney-themed play spaces and therapeutic play activities at more than 50 children’s hospitals across China over the course of the five-year program. Disney will also donate Shanghai Disneyland theme park tickets to support children and their families as they undergo and recover from treatment. Disney Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Bob Iger announced the gift at the Shanghai Children’s Medical Center. “In honor of the grand opening of Shanghai Disney Resort, we are creating a bit of Disney magic where it is needed most. With our gift of 20 million RMB and tickets to our new theme park, we hope to bring happiness and laughter to children and families in hospitals across the country by creating opportunities to play and spend quality time together,” Iger said. Disney’s support of children’s hospitals dates back to the 1930s when Walt Disney would visit with children, often accompanied by Disney characters and animators. Today that support includes millions of dollars in annual grants and donations that provide play spaces, theme park tickets, first-run movies, care packages, in-kind support, and hospital visits from beloved Disney characters. View the full article

Today, we’re sharing a few more details about another restaurant coming soon to Disney Springs — Homecoming: Florida Kitchen and Shine Bar. Homecoming: Florida Kitchen and Shine Bar We already know that the restaurant, which is the brain child of celebrity chef and Florida native Art Smith, will feature the “farm-to-fork” cuisine that Smith is known for. Chef Art Smith But today, we’re getting more insight into just what the menu will include. Comfort food will be available in abundance, as dishes like Cheese-Laced Biscuits, Fried Chicken, and “exceptional” Macaroni and Cheese take center stage. Desserts will have a down-home feel as well, with Mockingbird Cake and Fruit Cobblers providing a sweet ending to your meal. Homecoming: Florida Kitchen and Shine Bar, Taking Shape Behind the Construction Walls Chef Smith has said that the spot will be a true celebration of all the bounty that Florida has to offer. Not only will the menu spotlight seasonal ingredients from both land and sea alike, but the Homecoming also plans to utilize products and ingredients created by Florida artisans. Look for locally roasted coffees, desserts and breads baked right here, and even locally distilled spirits. Coming Soon — Homecoming: Florida Kitchen and Shine Bar The adjacent Shine Bar will be your stop for hand-crafted cocktails, punches and other retro coolers. And the main ingredient will be Moonshine! (After all, a distillery would be perfectly located near those wonderful natural springs, no doubt. ) “Florida is truly my home, and Walt Disney World Resort is the perfect place to open up my family kitchen to the world,” Smith said. “With Homecoming: Florida Kitchen and Shine Bar, we will provide guests at Disney Springs with an authentic taste of Florida during their visit.” Coming Soon — Homecoming: Florida Kitchen and Shine Bar The restaurant itself will marry old Florida rustic charm with an exhibition kitchen, thus placing guests in the midst of all of the action. While we don’t have an official opening date, we expect to see the restaurant open before the middle of the Summer. And we can’t wait to see everything up close and personal! What are you most looking forward to trying at Homecoming: Florida Kitchen and Shine Bar? Leave a comment and share your top picks 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: Rumor: Chef Art’s Florida Fish Camp Coming to Disney Springs News: Frontera Fresco Restaurant by Chef Rick Bayless Coming To Disney Springs News: Chef Art Smith Restaurant in Disney Springs Confirmed View the full article

We recently shared how Disney California Adventure park guests will take to the skies above some of our planet’s most astounding natural and manmade wonders aboard Soarin’ Around the World – thanks to the efforts of the California Aviators, who’ve converted the Grizzly Peak Airfield hangar into a sort-of flying theater to take you on an exhilarating aerial adventure traveling far beyond the Golden State. In this video, Walt Disney Imagineering portfolio creative executive Tom Fitzgerald tells us more about the development of this new experience, including the attraction’s incredible international itinerary. You might even notice we’re visiting a couple of landmarks which provided inspiration for some beloved Disneyland Resort attractions. Flights on Soarin’ Around the World depart beginning June 17 from both Disney California Adventure park at the Disneyland Resort, and Epcot at Walt Disney World Resort, one day after Soaring Over the Horizon debuts at the grand opening of Shanghai Disneyland on June 16. Plus, don’t miss your last chance to experience the original Soarin’, now through June 15. View the full article

We've reached the time of year where high school seniors are given ambiguous yearbook titles like "Most Likely to Be Successful" and "Best Sense of Humor." This summer marks one of the busiest in recent memory when it comes to new attractions opening at Central Florida theme parks. Disney, Universal... View the full article

Ahhh, summer! Schools are out, the days are longer, and there’s nothing like relaxing with a cold drink and maybe taking in a concert in the park. If that’s your idea of a good time, Epcot has got you covered with the return of the Sounds Like Summer concert series! Each evening through July 23, the America Gardens Theater in World Showcase rocks with live music from some of the best tribute bands in the world, including acts appearing at Epcot for the first time this year that feature the music of Fleetwood Mac, Tina Turner and Bruce Springsteen. All this week through Saturday, June 11, Don’t Look Back is rocking the stage with their tribute to legendary ‘70s group Boston. Here’s a look at the rest of the lineup in the coming weeks (entertainment and times are subject to change): June 12-18: Hotel California – A Salute to the Eagles June 19-24: Rumours – A Fleetwood Mac Tribute Band June 25-July 1: Simply Tina – A Tribute to Tina Turner July 2-9: Stayin’ Alive – A Tribute to the Bee Gees July 10-16: Bruce in the USA – A Tribute to Bruce Springsteen July 17-23: DSB – A Tribute to Journey Show times are at 5:30 p.m., 6:45 p.m. and 8 p.m. each evening, and concerts are included with regular Epcot admission. View the full article

High School Football Team Celebrates Fairytale Season | Walt Disney World View the full article

With so many new spots to check out at Disney Springs, I was anxious to get back to a few of our longstanding favorites. Learn About: Raglan Road Irish Pub Downtown Disney Disney World Restaurants So on a recent visit to Walt Disney World, I took the opportunity to meet friends at Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant. Atmosphere If you’re familiar with the former Downtown Disney and Pleasure Island, then you know that Raglan Road used to front the Pleasure Island District, right next to the expansive parking lots. Well, with the redesign of the entire area and the birth of Disney Springs, Raglan Road seems to have moved! Actually, it’s in exactly the same place…it’s just that Disney Springs has bubbled up right out front of the spot. New Disney Springs Map — Key New Disney Springs Map — Raglan Road is #36 So to get your bearings, you need to think of what’s around the restaurant now. You’ll find it across the bridge from Sprinkles. And of course, Morimoto Asia is right next door. Bridge from Disney Springs Town Center to Raglan Road View of Raglan Road from Sprinkles’ Patio While the outside orientation feels a little different, we aren’t complaining! Raglan Road was built from repurposed materials, shipped from pubs and churches in Ireland. As such, it’s always felt a little more antique than its surroundings. Raglan Road — Outside Front View But now, it fits right in with the circa 1900s feel of this new, old little town. And you’ll still find Cooke’s of Dublin, Raglan Road’s Counter Service location, off to the side of the restaurant. There are also two different bars that occupy space in the restaurant as well as the Hole in the Wall outdoor bar. Cooke’s of Dublin If you haven’t had a chance to explore inside Raglan Road, be sure to have a look around the next time you visit; there is so much to see here. As you enter, you’re greeted by staff at the small entrance podium. Through a door to the left is outdoor bar seating. Entrance Foyer To the right, you’ll find the Raglan Road gift shop, where you can purchase a wide range of memorabilia. This is a great spot to find that Guinness pint glass or t-shirt that you’ve been looking for. Gift Shop The pub itself is roughly divided into three rooms, but you’ll find all kinds of cozy corners — and even a traditional “snug” or two — for lots of variety. The Main Dining Room has soaring ceilings, crowned with a cupola trimmed in stained glass. During the day, the skylights allow for plenty of natural light to filter in. The high ceilings also lend themselves well to the performances that take place here. You’ll find live music and traditional Irish dancing daily. Dancing Podium and Stage The octagonally-shaped room is flanked by not one, but two bars! Suffice it to say that you won’t go thirsty at Raglan. Not a chance. One of the Two Bars Inside Beyond the Main Dining Room, the Music Room offers comfortable seating, and guests here still have a view of the entertainment in the Main Dining Room. Music Room Seating Perhaps the quietest area to sit is the Raglan Room. Lower ceilings and a narrow entrance mean that you’ll have an easier time hearing conversations — something that can be a bit challenging in other parts of the restaurant when the live music is happening. Raglan Room Seating For more details and photos of the beautiful pub, be sure to check out previous Raglan Road reviews, like this one. Eats We happened to be dining during the afternoon hours. As such, we had access to both the Lunch and Dinner Menus. It’s the best of both worlds! Lunch Menu — Click to Enlarge Dinner Menu — Click to Enlarge While we love the incredible free-of-charge entertainment that Raglan offers in the evenings, lunchtime has its charms, too. For beginners, you can normally find a table during the day without an advance dining reservation. But also, because dancing and live music take place in the evenings, lunchtime is a nice time to have a quieter meal. (Weekends are the exception, when you’ll find live entertainment during the The Rollicking Raglan Weekend Brunch hours of 10:00AM to 3:00PM.) Raglan Road Dancers ©Raglan Road Pub It’s true that we have some serious favorites at Raglan Road. But even though the pub does offer a core menu of classics, fans should also note that Master Chef Kevin Dundon also likes to introduce new dishes as well. In fact, in the last year, Chef Dundon has included several menu items that utilize locally sourced ingredients. It’s a notion that’s central to Chef Dundon’s food philosophy — and it’s exciting to see that translated to Raglan Road as well. Strawberry season was in full force for my visit, so it seemed a good time to try a refreshing cocktail — the Strawberry Fields Mimosa, which combines Ciroc Vodka, Aperol, Lemon Juice & Housemade Strawberry Puree topped off with Prosecco. This is a light cocktail that’s perfect for starting things off just about any time of day. Strawberry Mimosa Along with our cocktails, we thought some Appetizers would be a good idea. I hadn’t tried the Smokie City, but it came highly recommended. The baked dip is served with Toasted Baguette Slices, and consists of Baked Smoked Haddock, Dubliner Cheddar Cheese, Diced Potatoes, and Cherry Tomatoes. The strong Dubliner gives the lighter flavors of the other ingredients an extra kick (I LOVE me some Dubliner, and actually have some in my fridge right now). This is a guest favorite at Raglan, and is well worth a try. Smokie City I also couldn’t resist Raglan’s take on the Scotch Egg. You probably won’t be surprised to find out that the pub classic has been rechristened An Irish Egg here, however. An Irish Egg Guinness and Onion Sausage encase a perfectly Soft Boiled Egg. Pickled Cabbage and Saffron Aioli complete the plate. The sausage here is extraordinary! I’ve had my share of Scotch Eggs, and this is probably my favorite that I’ve tasted due entirely to the flavors in this sausage. An Irish Egg — Up Close Did I mention that the egg is perfect? Here’s an inside shot, in case you had any doubts. An Irish Egg — Cross Section The Kids’ Menu isn’t something we’ve explored a whole lot previously. But thanks to my small fry along for the ride this time, we finally had our chance. We tried the Gold’n Chicken first. The housemade Chicken Goujons — the fancy name for Chicken Fingers — came with an ample side of Raglan’s thick-cut Chips. However, for this particularly picky eater, we chose to substitute Raglan’s skinny chips instead. The kiddo loved the chicken and fries, but the adults agreed that we would happily take an adult version of this kid classic any time. The skinny chips here are heaven. Usually they come with a dusting of parmesan and garlic when the grown-ups order them! Gold’n Chicken I thought the next dish was a great option for kids as well. Yummo Risotto is a kid-sized serving of Garden Pea Risotto, rendered even more creamy and flavorful by the addition of Pecorino and Buffalo Mozzarella Cheese. The dish is topped with a Grilled Chicken Breast Cutlet. (If this looks good to you, you’ll be happy to know that there’s a grown up-sized portion available as well.) My kid loves rice, risotto, AND peas, so this worked out well for him. And, of course, the grownups all snuck a few tastes as well and we loved it! Look at all that cheesy goodness going on in that risotto!!!! Yummo Risotto But there’s plenty more to explore! From the lunch menu, one of my friends opted for the Steak Sanger. The Open-Faced Sandwich includes Grilled NY Strip and Basil Grilled Vegetables. It’s dressed with an Herb Aioli, and is offered with a side of Chips. This was good, though not exactly what we expected. I guess I was thinking it was a sandwich — like with two pieces of bread. But this is very open-faced indeed! Steak Sanger But here comes our favorite choice of the day — the Pork by Pork. The dish offers Pork prepared two ways: Sage and Onion Stuffed Pork Loin, and Cider Braised Pork and Apple Fricassee. The whole thing is topped with a pork cracklin’ (which, incidentally, is the second time I was served cracklin’s at a Disney restaurant on this trip — maybe it’s a trend). Pork by Pork The dual dishes are served over creamy Mashed Potatoes and are topped with Warm Applesauce. Pork by Pork — Up Close The Sage and Onion Stuffing is the same that you’ll find in the Hog in the Box entree on the Cooke’s of Dublin menu. And overall, this dish was ah-mazing. We were told that it had originally been a seasonal menu item, but that it was so well-loved by guests that it was staying on the menu longer-term. I’m so glad, as the flavors and textures here are perfect. We couldn’t stop eating it! This is comfort food at its best. Pork by Pork — Cross Section Another friend went for the savory Our Pie to Try, which is served with a fresh Side Salad. The filling of the pie changes regularly, so it’s always fun to find out what the special is. Our Pie to Try — Quail This time out, the filling was Quail and Potato. We were told that during the week, guests will usually find beef or chicken filling the pie. But on weekends, when Raglan sees more traffic from locals, then switch it up to something a little more unique. Our Pie to Try — Quail — Inside This was good, but I’m not sure quail is my thing! I would definitely choose the Pork by Pork over this any day! While our meals were certainly satisfying, there was no way we were passing up dessert. And while we planned to try a few new things, we couldn’t resist starting with a Raglan Road classic — Ger’s Bread and Butter Pudding. Ger’s Bread and Butter Pudding The pudding is served overflowing a large coffee cup, and comes with two different sauces — Creme Anglaise and Butterscotch. Ger’s Bread and Butter Pudding — Pouring the Sauce This is an excellent bread pudding. But I’ve had it several times over the years, and always felt that it was…missing a little something. Well, on this visit I figured it out. In the past, I’d opened up the bread pudding and poured the sauce inside…all tidy-like. This time, I just dumped everything in those little buckets all over the bread pudding so that it soaked the whole dish. And THAT was the ticket. USE ALL YOUR SAUCES FROM THE BEGINNING. Don’t worry about the mess. That’s how you get the best texture and flavor out of this one. (That’s a PSA for the other super-tidy people out there like me.) What might even be the better choice is to ask for a second plate, dump the bread pudding out on the plate, and pour the sauces over the whole thing — making sure you get every inch covered. Oh, and then ask for some ice cream to put on top. I’m totally doing it that way next time. (Think I’m a little crazy about trying to maximize my food enjoyment? I agree. But that’s why you love me.) Ger’s Bread and Butter Pudding — Sauced Finally, it was time to try a new entry to the lineup — Granny Dundon’s famous steamed Orange Pudding. The traditional pudding is a moist Cake with a rich Caramelized Orange Sauce that’s steamed right along with the cake. If you are a fan of Sticky Toffee Pudding — or any British, Scottish, or Irish Pudding — and you favor Orange, you’re going to love this one. We sure did. In fact, even though it has a lighter texture and flavor, it was one of our favorites of the day! Another one that we couldn’t stop sneaking tastes of. Granny Dundon’s Famous Steamed Orange Pudding We also were intrigued by the Uisce Berry. Uisce Berry Whiskey-Poached (Uisce beatha is the Irish Gaelic term for whiskey) Sweet Life Farms Strawberries take center stage here. They’re paired with an Irish Oat and Firewater Bar. The cake is garnished with a Mead Emulsion and Vanilla Ice Cream. Uisce Berry — Up Close This one…well, it didn’t hit the mark as well as the other desserts for us. The Irish Oat Bar had the harder texture of a non-fat protein bar. I would have LOVED if this was more like a soft British flapjack (basically oats, sugar, and lots and lots of butter), since flapjacks are one of my favorite foods on the planet. But as it stood, this one did not impress in flavor or texture. I’d recommend the Bread Pudding or Orange Pudding over this one. Overall Once more, Raglan Road brings its “A” Game. Seriously, despite my personally not liking that dessert, every other dish we tried was a winner. And I find that while some Disney restaurants are flailing — having difficulty maintaining consistently good food and service — Raglan just keeps getting better and better. That’s not very common when it comes to Disney World restaurants — believe me. If you’re a longtime fan of the Pub, you’ll still find many of your favorites. But the team here isn’t afraid to branch out and try new things as well. After all, they aren’t looking to celebrate only where Irish food has come from; they’re routinely looking to share a glimpse into what’s happening there right now as well. Even with all of the new kids on the block, I’ll continue to enjoy my visits to this spot when I’m after an authentic slice of pub experience. People ask me all the time which restaurants I recommend in Disney World, and I always have to stop and think about “what’s good right NOW,” since so many of them cycle in and out of favor with me. But I can always consistently recommend Raglan, no matter what. And that’s saying something. What are you looking forward to trying the most during your next visit to Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant? Leave a comment and share your thoughts 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: Raglan Road Irish Pub Named 2014 Best Restaurant by Orlando Magazine Disney Recipe: Colcannon Soup from Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant News: Great Irish Hooley at Raglan Road Irish Pub View the full article

Walt Disney World plans a new family raft ride at its Typhoon Lagoon water park, according to documents filed with the South Florida Water Management District. The ride would be built on 2 acres in the northern part of the water park. It would be west of the Crush 'n' Gusher water coaster raft ride,... View the full article

Walt Disney World is planning a new family raft ride at its Typhoon Lagoon water park, according to documents filed with the South Florida Water Management District. The ride would be built on 2 acres in the northern part of the water park. It will be west of the Crush 'n Gusher ride, in an area... View the full article

A new tour at Disney's Animal Kingdom features a private safari outing with beer and tapas chasers. The Savor the Savanna Evening Safari Experience is now available for theme park guests. The premium tour includes an expedition through the Harambe Wildlife Reserve on a safari vehicle. The experience... View the full article

With all the new attractions, shows, and construction Walt Disney World is promoting, one ride's expansion quietly addresses a life-sized problem when visitors enter its toy-sized world. A third track began operation at Toy Story Mania! at Disney's Hollywood Studios last month, upping the ride's... View the full article

Next time you go to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, you need to stop by Bocados del Lago, one of the new quick-service kiosks located in the Echo Lake area of the park. The kiosk, the most popular of the three, offers comfort food from Latin America to all of our guests. Chef Joey Gullia got inspiration from Brazil, Mexico and others to offer deliciosos bocados: nachos, empanadas and a dulce de leche cookie. The beef empanadas (or pastel de carne) are served with a roasted corn and black bean salsa, queso fresco and cilantro sour cream. It’s a fusion of flavors from Brazil and Mexico in one small dish. The loaded nachos with chili and cheese are actually a vegetarian dish since the chili doesn’t have any meat. It has a rich tomato base and features kidney beans, mushrooms, peppers, onions and soy protein! Guests looking for a refreshing alcoholic beverage can also find Corona beer and a lime margarita available at the Bocados del Lago. This summer is definitely looking good at Disney’s Hollywood Studios! Bocados del Lago and the other kiosks are open for a limited time so be sure to try them before summer ends. View the full article

Happy World Oceans Day! It’s the perfect time to admire and protect our world’s oceans with the debut of Disney•Pixar’s “Finding Dory” swimming into theaters June 17. In anticipation of the film, we are celebrating Speak like a Whale Day June 11 at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. All theme parks at these two sites will distribute buttons to guests, and there will be special festivities at Disney Springs, as well as Downtown Disney at Disneyland Resort. At The Seas with Nemo & Friends at Epcot, guests may have the opportunity to participate in brief personalized experiences with one of our animal experts throughout the day. Based on your interests, our cast members can provide insider’s knowledge about our animals and point out the real-life species who inspired the characters of Dory and her friends, including a sea star like Peach and clownfish like Nemo. We know that some of you may be inspired to get a fish tank of your own after seeing the film, so here are a few things you should be aware of in order to choose the right pet fish for your family: On Disney.com/FindingDory, you can find a free downloadable activity packet developed by our Animals, Science and Environment Education Team that includes fun games and recycling-craft ideas. My favorite is the “Speak Like a Whale” activity, in which you work with two of Dory’s new friends, Destiny and Bailey, to decode their “whale-speak.” There is also a terrific educator’s guide and the pet ownership document above that are also available for download. To learn more about some of the animals at the Walt Disney World Resort, including sharks, rays, sea turtles and coral reefs, visit DisneyAnimals.com. There’s still time to brush up on your whale-speak before June 11, and you can practice by showing us in the comments below! View the full article

For the first time in 20 years, Disney officials have submitted plans to the city of Anaheim to build a new luxury hotel. The project, which would be the fourth hotel at the Disneyland resort, is slated for a 10-acre parking lot on the west end of Disney’s property. The proposed hotel would take... View the full article

With a range of breathtaking landscapes, outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, Oahu is the perfect Hawaiian destination to explore. Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, is nestled in Ko Olina and just a short distance to all the top sights around the island — from Haleiwa Town on the North Shore to Diamond Head crater near Waikiki Beach. Whatever your interests may be, Oahu has it! Today’s “Meet Aulani’s ‘Ohana” features one of our stellar concierge cast members, John. I had an opportunity to spend some time with John and hear his recommendations on Oahu’s must-do activities. Enjoy the video below! What adventures do you want to experience on your next Hawaiian vacation? View the full article

Disney Parks How-To Make a Bento Box Magical: Clawhauser From Disney’s ‘Zootopia’ View the full article

Veteran theme-park writer and actor Ron Schneider has played a lot of roles, from Dreamfinder at Epcot to Prof. Samuel P. Gladstone at a Wild West dinner show. Now he'll portray Walt Disney for the first time. Disney's head, to be exact. Schneider will appear in "The Further Adventures of Walt's... View the full article

To paraphrase the song from Pinocchio, it’s “a Disney life for me” when it comes to Oscar-nominated and Emmy winning composer John Debney. His life and career, connected with Disney since childhood, has included music for Disneyland park and Walt Disney World Resort. His life and career had connected with Disney since he was a child and practically grew up on the Disney lot. His father was Lou Debney, who started out selling newspapers to Disney animators and rose to such accomplishments as producing the original “Mickey Mouse Club” and “Zorro.” John fell in love with music, and has many Disney films and TV shows to his credit, including “The Princess Diaries” and “Hocus Pocus” (the music of which can be heard in the “Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular” show at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party). His latest work is the highly acclaimed score for Director Jon Favreau smash version of Disney’s “The Jungle Book.” John and Jon are such fans of classic Disney; the score even includes portions of George Bruns’ score for the 1967 animated film. And now, selections from John’s music will be heard in the Disney’s Animal Kingdom nighttime show, “The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic.” I asked John about his latest score and lots more in a recent interview. GREG EHRBAR: It must have been extraordinary to have the classic “Jungle Book” score put into your hands–but it’s not the first time you had to take a Disney score and reimagine it. One of your projects I most admired was your work on the music for Disneyland Fantasyland in 1983. JOHN DEBNEY: I was working at the studio at the time. Once I got out of college, I was lucky enough to get a job in the music department at Disney. One of my earliest assignments was to create music for the theme parks, including Epcot some time later. One of the very early Disneyland things I had the pleasure of doing was Fantasyland. I worked on everything from Peter Pan’s Flight to Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride and the Mad Tea Party. I even did Casey, Jr. I’m happy to say that most all of those tracks are still playing. It’s a real joy to walk around Fantasyland and hear these wonderful tracks from my childhood. I was working with [Composer and Disney Legend] Buddy Baker and all the great people who were working at the studio at the time. GREG EHRBAR: You also worked with two other Disney music experts, Les Perkins and Stacia Martin. I heard that, for the Alice in Wonderland attraction, you had to reconstruct the score from scratch because the original materials had been lost. JOHN: That is so great! What a great thing for you to bring up! Yes, back then, interestingly—and sadly—some of the older original scores were long gone. Some were only on microfilm. In the case of “Alice,” there had been some water damage. I ended up, in some cases, literally taking down different cues or reconstructing them from piano sketches for a lot of that score. That was a real joy and a challenge. A real labor of love. I’m so lucky that I was the one that did it. One interesting footnote–there were still some very, very vibrant musicians with us who had actually played on the original film soundtrack. I tried to hire as many of them as I could. That was really fun because these great players–like Art Smith, a legendary woodwind player of his day–was at the tail end of his career. I was able to get most of them to play the music that had done for Alice and it was a real joy for them to revisit that score 30-40 years later. It was surreal for them. They brought out all those strange instruments, like ocarinas and things. I also hired some of the same singers. A lot of them were still working, or nearing the end of their careers. GREG: Yes, one of them was Gene Merlino, who we profiled in our book, “Mouse Tracks: The Story of Walt Disney Records.” He sang on the original “Alice” and “Peter Pan” soundtracks. Walt Disney Imagineering even brought him in to sing for Mickey’s Philharmagic. JOHN: Absolutely. Gene worked with me, and Thurl Ravenscroft. A lot of the men and ladies were still working. I remember hiring ladies to sing for the tulips and some of them were the originals. I think that very distinctive contralto voice sang on the original. GREG; I’m sure you’ve heard [Disney Legend] Tutti Camarata’s version of “Alice in Wonderland” score with Darlene Gillespie. JOHN: Oh, it’s a great record! In fact, I think I referenced it quite a bit when I was working on recreating a lot of the Alice music. It is pretty amazing. [Side note: John’s Fantasyland scores are available on the Official Album of Disneyland, which is sold in many of the resort gift shops and the Shop Park app. Camarata and Darlene’s Alice album is available on iTunes]. GREG: Didn’t you also write SpectroMagic? JOHN: I wrote that with a friend of mine, Steve Skorija–a legend. We kind of “wood shopped” it together. He came up with lyrics, as I recall. Who knew it was going to play so long? GREG: It was so classically Disney. JOHN: Thank you. That was by intent. They probably hired me knowing that it was something IT was very near and dear to me. The fact that it played for about 20 years is unbelievably wonderful. That it gave so much joy to so many people, it’s mind blowing. GREG: Well, a lot of movie and TV music fans, as well as Disney fans music fans, are really glad to see that you’ve received a lot of recognition for “The Jungle Book” after all the years of great work you’ve created. JOHN: Thanks, Greg. You know, you work so hard and if you’re lucky enough–like I am–to have a career that has gone on for almost 30 years, it’s really exciting, humbling, and every word you can imagine. To get such an opportunity to write on such a large-scale canvas–it’s wonderful all the way around and it was a great journey. View the full article

Sometimes I feel like the additions to Disney Springs are too-good-to-be-true—I get to enjoy all the things I always loved about Downtown Disney (World of Disney is still my go-to spot for Disney gifts!), plus I can indulge in all that’s “new” restaurants like STK Orlando, snack spots like Amorette’s Patisserie, and of course all the new shopping destinations that now put stores like ZARA, Alex and Ani and Francesca’s my backyard. And the list keeps growing … Yesterday, lifestyle brand Vince Camuto opened their first central Florida location at Disney Springs, in a prime spot located in the heart of Town Center. I’ve always been a fan of Vince Camuto shoes, but a quick trip around the gorgeously appointed space, and it was clear that footwear was just the beginning. With clothing, handbags, accessories and even fragrances displayed in a setting that feels like an elegantly modern boutique, I have a feeling I’ll be a frequent shopper here. (Did I mention that I’m genuinely concerned for my bank account? With so much incredible shopping right outside my office doors, I’m now doing more buying than biting during my lunch breaks!) Scroll through the photos below to see what Vince Camuto is currently featuring in the shop, then let me know which item is your favorite in the comments below. It’s hard to choose, but for me, I think the magenta wristlet may be my next summer must-have. Want more? For the latest Disney Springs news and happenings, be sure to follow us on Twitter and Instagram at @DisneySprings. View the full article

From a new live stage show to all-new attractions, there’s so much to do at the Disneyland Resort this summer! Here are ten experiences you won’t want to miss. The new “Frozen – Live at the Hyperion” immerses Disney California Adventure park guests in the emotional story of Anna and Elsa in an exciting theatrical interpretation for the stage, including elaborate costumes and sets, stunning special effects, show-stopping production numbers and some unique surprises. Take flight on an all-new adventure to exciting destinations when Soarin’ Around the World opens at Disney California Adventure park beginning June 17. The fun-filled Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters, new in Cars Land at Disney California Adventure park, is rolling with fun as Luigi’s cugini have come from Carsoli, Italy, to help celebrate Race Day in Radiator Springs. Park guests join in the fun by hopping aboard miniature Italian roadsters, in the style of late 1950s micro cars. The cars perform the traditional dances of their village, moving to upbeat music and Luigi’s singing in a precision-choreographed dance across a trackless “dance floor.” In Tomorrowland at Disneyland park, Star Wars Launch Bay invites guests to discover authentic replicas of film props and encounter Star Wars characters such as Chewbacca and Kylo Ren. The Star Wars-themed transformation of Space Mountain into Hyperspace Mountain thrusts guests into an X-wing battle as they race through the darkness. The experience is enhanced by a new soundtrack, inspired by the Star Wars films’ musical themes and re-orchestrated to match every move in the attraction. At Star Tours – The Adventures Continue, guests encounter a new adventure and characters from “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” while journeying aboard a Starspeeder 1000. Don’t miss your chance to see the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration dazzle and shine before the celebration ends September 5, 2016. The sparkling “Paint the Night” parade builds on the tradition of breathtaking nighttime parades in Disneyland park that began with the “Main Street Electrical Parade.” Illuminated almost entirely by LED lights, “Paint the Night” is a state-of-the art, vibrant wonder that immerses guests in the magical, luminescent worlds of many Disney and Disney●Pixar characters. The “Disneyland Forever” fireworks spectacular entertains guests from the tips of their toes to the sky high above, surrounding the audience with music, dazzling visual projections and other special effects that bring the pyrotechnics to life in surprising new ways. Guests may enjoy the projections from multiple locations, including Main Street, U.S.A., and “it’s a small world” mall. At Disney California Adventure park, “World of Color – Celebrate! The Wonderful World of Walt Disney” is a fun-filled version of the popular, nighttime “World of Color” spectacular. Award-winning actor Neil Patrick Harris joins Mickey Mouse on a magical water canvas, bringing to life the remarkable story of Walt Disney and The Happiest Place on Earth with animated imagery, live-action film, fountains, lasers, special effects and a stirring musical score. What are you most excited to do at the Disneyland Resort this summer? Tell us in the comments! View the full article