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There’s so much that we share, that it’s time we’re aware – this Saturday is the 50th anniversary of the opening of “it’s a small world” at Disneyland park. Following its run as one of the four Walt Disney-developed attractions at the 1964-65 World’s Fair in New York, “it’s a small world” was shipped piece by piece to Disneyland, where it debuted in Fantasyland on May 28, 1966. Walt was joined at the opening ceremonies that day by over 50 foreign consulate representatives along with children wearing the traditional dress of many countries. Some of these children helped Walt pour water collected from every ocean plus major rivers and bodies of water from around the world into the flume, truly symbolizing the attraction’s theme of global unity. Showcasing the classic work of Disney Legends including art director Mary Blair and costume designer Alice Davis, with an unforgettable theme song by the Sherman Brothers, the Disneyland version of “it’s a small world” famously introduced the gleaming white and gold-tinged facade, incorporating legendary international landmarks. The centerpiece is a 30-foot tall kinetic clock tower, which puts on a show every 15 minutes as a parade of characters mark the time with pomp and fanfare. View the full article

It has been 26 years since Orlando resident Doug Swallow first suggested an informal show of gay solidarity at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom. Today, what was a small, grassroots gathering has grown into a multi-day event filled with pool parties, pageants, concerts, silent auctions, designated... View the full article

'Alice Through the Looking Glass' Meet-Up | Walt Disney World View the full article

WHAT: New attractions — and enhanced versions of existing attractions — will light up the nights at Disney's Animal Kingdom. On Friday, the park will start nighttime outings of its popular Kilimanjaro Safaris with a special effect that appears to extend dusk on the savanna. Periodically through... View the full article

During Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple, guests can watch as younglings test their skills against the dark side. In this theme park offering, which takes place multiple times each day, Jedi Knights identify Force-sensitive children from throughout the galaxy and bring them to an ancient Jedi Temple to train in the ways of the Force. Under the guidance of a Jedi, these eager younglings learn how to use the Force and wield lightsabers, and are soon put to the test, coming face-to-face with Darth Vader or the Seventh Sister Inquisitor from the Disney XD series Star Wars Rebels! For families with a youngling of their own participating, this is an experience they’ll want to remember for a long time. That’s why a Disney PhotoPass Photographer is present at every show to capture the experience. Photos from the experience can be included in the purchase of a Memory Maker package here at Walt Disney World Resort or a Disney PhotoPass+ One Day package at the Disneyland Resort. Disney PhotoPass Service and Disney PhotoPass+ are subject to the Disney PhotoPass and Disney PhotoPass+ terms. Memory Maker is subject to the Memory Maker Terms and Conditions. Memory Maker includes photos taken during the applicable Memory Maker window. A MagicBand is required to receive certain attraction photos and other digital content at Walt Disney World. If Memory Maker purchased at the advance purchase price, any photos taken within 3 days from the date Memory Maker is purchased will not be included and must be purchased separately. Online registration required. Disney PhotoPass Photos in your account will expire pursuant to the Disneyland PhotoPass expiration policy and the Walt Disney World PhotoPass expiration policy, as applicable. Downloads are restricted to personal use only. Not responsible for missing, lost or damaged photos. Subject to restrictions and change without notice. Valid theme park admission and sign-up process required to experience Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple. View the full article

Disney’s “Alice Through the Looking Glass” doesn’t hit theaters until this Friday, but just a few days ago, 400 of our Disney Parks Blog readers were treated to a special advanced screening of the film. The event, held at AMC Disney Springs 24, took place on Saturday – or should I say “Hat-urday,” with many guests showing up donning their most unusual hat or entire “Alice in Wonderland”-inspired outfits. Some guests even wore creations of their very own! Be sure to click through our Facebook gallery and check out the video below for a full look. Thanks to photographer Armando Solares for the photos. Disney’s “Alice Through The Looking Glass” opens in theaters this Friday, May 27. View the full article

As a Corporate Citizenship program manager, Disneyland Resort cast member Gina Arreola Welch manages the Disney VoluntEARS program and our cast giving initiatives. Gina’s role is focused on helping cast members give back to the community in meaningful ways. Gina says, “I am amazed at how committed our cast members are as Disney VoluntEARS and incredibly proud to be part of this company legacy of community giving.” Learn more about Gina’s role in this “Every Role a Starring Role!” View the full article

Behind the Scenes: “The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic” | Disney’s Animal Kingdom View the full article

The all-new live entertainment experience, “The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic” nighttime show, begins its limited engagement run this weekend at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. From vibrant costumes and props to the unmistakable sound of the sitar and tabla drums, “The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic” brings India to Disney’s Animal Kingdom in a spectacular celebration of the epic tale from Disney’s blockbuster live-action film “The Jungle Book.” The show springs to life on the Discovery River, with dozens of performers filling five immense floating stages and spilling out into the audience with colorful production numbers that combine the most memorable story moments and songs from the film with an incredibly authentic Indian cultural influence. We recently had a chance to peek behind the scenes and talk to a few members of the Creative Entertainment team, working hard to prepare “The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic” for its grand debut. “The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic” will be performed nightly at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, starting May 28. What part of the show are you most looking forward to experiencing? View the full article

This month marks 50 years since the opening of “it’s a small world” at Disneyland park, and just a few years ago we marked another milestone of this classic attraction. In 1964, “it’s a small world” opened and captured imaginations at the New York World’s Fair. Fifty years later, in 2014, Disney Parks marked the the anniversary of this iconic attraction – and its memorable theme song – with a worldwide celebration. Take a look at some of our favorite renditions! The Mormon Tabernacle Choir kicked off our series of sing-along videos with their performance of “it’s a small world.” Here is a performance from the children’s choir, Xin Yin, at the Shanghai Cultural Center. Our musical tribute to the 50th anniversary of the song continued with a performance all the way from Italy. Finally, thousands of Disney Parks fans participated in the historic celebration, and even recorded and shared online video of themselves singing “it’s a small world.” Which was your favorite performance? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

On Saturday, June 11, 2016 Disney Parks will celebrate Speak Like a Whale Day. Taking a cue from everyone’s favorite forgetful blue tang, Dory, and her new friends Bailey, a beluga whale who is convinced his biological sonar skills are on the fritz, and Destiny, a nearsighted whale shark, guests can learn to speak the language while taking part in some whale-sized fun. Guests can celebrate in a number of ways: Guests at Disneyland Resort in California, Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and Disney Cruise Line ships will receive a complimentary button to celebrate the day on June 11 (while supplies last). At the Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort and Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort, families can dive into “undersea” themed activities, including a live DJ, games and giveaways. Young guests can attend “Whale Speak University” and give speaking the language a try. At The Seas with Nemo & Friends in Epcot at Walt Disney World Resort, guests can learn about the real-life counterparts of the characters from the film and see them in their massive 5.7-million-gallon saltwater aquarium home. Experts from Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment Team will be on hand throughout the day to help guests find Dory and her friends and get a closer look at their world. Dory and some of her new friends from Disney•Pixar’s “Finding Dory” have joined Crush at the Turtle Talk with Crush attraction at Epcot and Disney California Adventure park. Guests can meet Destiny the whale shark, Bailey the beluga whale and Hank the “septopus.” Check out this video from two of the stars from “Finding Dory,” Ty Burrell and Kaitlin Olson trying out their best whale voices. Be sure to swim on into Disney Parks to check out all of the fun and don’t miss Disney•Pixar’s “Finding Dory” in theaters June 17, 2016. View the full article

If you’ve cruised with us before, you know our entertainment includes Broadway-caliber stage shows with some of the most elaborate original musicals presented at sea. What you may not know is that on select sailings, guest stars from Broadway delight Disney cruisers with incredible performances. Last week, families on the Disney Magic were wowed with special performances by Susan Egan, the original Belle from “Beauty and the Beast” on Broadway. Egan showed off both her beautiful voice and sense of humor during family-friendly performances in the Walt Disney Theatre. She also entertained adults with a fun-filled cabaret titled “The Real Housewife of Broadway” in Fathoms nightclub. It was a night Disney cruisers will not forget! Stay tuned for a look at more Broadway stars cruising the high seas with us this summer! View the full article

We’re already back at Disney Springs to take a First Look at STK Orlando! Learn About: STK Orlando Downtown Disney Disney World Restaurants Now, you might be thinking, “Wait a minute, I thought STK Orlando wasn’t going to open until May 25th?” And if so, you are correct — the newest Signature Dining venue joining the ever-expanding options in Disney Springs doesn’t open to the public until this evening at 5:00 pm. But the DFB was kindly invited to a Preview event that took place last night. So while we are looking forward to dining there tonight and to bringing you our full review of our first dinner at STK Orlando soon, we couldn’t wait to give you a little sneak peek now . So welcome to this First Look at STK Orlando! Though technically situated in The Landing of Disney Springs, STK Orlando is still very much visible from the new Town Center in its spot near Morimoto Asia and Planet Hollywood. In fact, the building’s exterior — built to bear a resemblance to a refurbished train station — fits in nicely with the early-1900s-era inspired setting that is the Town Center. STK Orlando No matter whether you’re outside of STK or inside, it’s impossible to not be struck by how MASSIVE this place is, coming in at nearly 15,000 square feet! STK Orlando And speaking of stepping inside… STK Orlando rolled out the red carpet for invited guests getting ready to do exactly that, simultaneously establishing its distinctive vibe as a high-end steakhouse with modern flair. STK Orlando Preview Upon entering, the signature STK logo is illuminated behind the front desk. STK Logo STK Orlando Front Desk To the right, an open room with a bar and hightop tables (along with a few booths lining the side) invites guests to enjoy the atmosphere, with its party vibe completed by the presence of a DJ. Open Room upon entering STK Orlando Open Room upon entering STK Orlando DJ at STK Orlando And, no he was not just there for the Preview event. A DJ will be playing most nights at STK Orlando! DJ at STK Orlando To the left, you’ll encounter the main dining area three steps up from the dance floor. This is where you can catch a glimpse of “STK’s iconic wall feature,” a long line of ceramic longhorns displayed to bear resemblance to an eyelash. Main Dining Area on Lower Floor Floral arrangement Main Bar Area Seating in the main dining area consists of sleek, white round booths and chairs for seating. Table Seating Table Setting Closeup on Table Setting Altos del Plata Malbec Lovely Bocci pendants provide overhead lighting. Lighting Fixtures As part of the Preview, we were welcomed to try a few sips! STK Orlando Bartender Cheers, STK Orlando! STK Complimentary Cocktails for the Preview Event Again, our review of a typical meal at STK Orlando is yet to come; but here is a glimpse at a few of the cocktails we were able to sample, beginning with the Cucumber Stiletto made of Ketel One Citron, St. Germain, and cucumber. Cucumber Stiletto The Smokeshow is Don Julio Tequila, Mescal, Aperol, and Carpano Antica Sweet Vermouth. Smokeshow And Not Your Daddy’s Manhattan is comprised of Bulleit Bourbon, Zinfandel Port, and Carpano Antica. Not Your Daddy’s Manhattan Not Your Daddy’s Manhattan These were accompanied with the chance to try an STK signature item, Lil’ BRGs. This mini burger features a Wagyu beef patty topped with caramelized onions, gouda, and sauce on a black sesame seed bun. (Note that upsells for the Lil’ BRGs may be available on the menu.) Lil’ BRG While STK Orlando will offer several dishes specific to the location making up about 20% of the menu, we’re glad many of the signature items from other STK locations (New York, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Miami among them) will be also available, including the famous Lil’ BRGs. Small samplings offered the chance to taste the Rock Shrimp in a garlic aioli, Tuna Tartare, and Lump Crab Meat Salad. Rock Shrimp Tuna Tartare Lump Crab Meat Salad Since the focus was on small sips and bites, we didn’t actually get to try the specialty of the house… STEAK! @eatSTK Twitter @eatSTK Twitter But don’t worry… we’ll have PLENTY of steak pics for you once we come back with our full review after tonight’s dinner!! I have to say, as fun — and delicious – as it was to enjoy a few tastes, I think everyone was also pretty curious to take a trip upstairs to check out the long-awaited rooftop experience at STK Orlando. Stairs to Upper Dining Stairs to Upper Dining Of course, the second level offers indoor seating for dining as well, along with a central bar. It’s a more casual atmosphere than the main dining area, but the outside views give this space a feel of its own. Second Level Central Bar Table Seating As of right now, STK Orlando is the sole location in Disney Springs to offer a rooftop terrace experience (Paddlefish will join ranks when it opens in the fall). STK Orlando sign on Second Story Terrace Admittedly, the crowds were in full force for this Preview event! Second Floor Outdoor Terrace But the shot above gives you an idea of STK’s orientation (you can spy Planet Hollywood in the background). And we’re DEFINITELY eager to enjoy this spot — and the views! — on a more typical evening once regular operations are in place. STK Orlando sign at night And remember, those regular operations begin TONIGHT!! So keep an eye on the DFB twitter and instagram for peeks tonight, and on the blog itself for our first ever review of STK Orlando… coming SOON!! Are you excited to welcome STK Orlando to the Disney Springs dining scene? 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: STK Orlando to Open Summer of 2016 in Disney Springs News! STK Orlando to Open May 25th in Disney Springs, Reservations Available Now News: Frontera Fresco Restaurant by Chef Rick Bayless Coming To Disney Springs View the full article

If Walt Disney Co. executives thought they were going to open a theme park in mainland China without major opposition, they were wrong. Only weeks before the launch of the $5.5-billion Shanghai Disney Resort, a Chinese rival has vowed to outperform Disney with local theme parks that offer lower... View the full article

I don’t know about you but now that summer is here, I plan to spend almost every free day either at a pool, beach or waterpark. Recently, I was able to enjoy one of the best pools that we have at Walt Disney World Resort, located at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort! The main pool at the resort looks very familiar to this Puerto Rican girl since it reminds me of El Castillo del Morro Fort in Old San Juan. And to my surprise, the biggest of the seven pools of the resort is actually called Fuentes del Morro! Fuentes del Morro is a zero-entry pool and has two slides with water cannons! It also has a shipwreck themed kids play area for children under 48 inches tall, with three small slides and a barrel that dumps water every few minutes. I can’t wait to go back to Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort to relax and enjoy this awesome pool! What are your favorite pools around Walt Disney World Resort? View the full article

Do you have a pal that you can depend on through thick or thin? One that makes you laugh so hard that your sides ache? In fact, we all have that kind of pal in Goofy! Though he doesn’t show his age, our fast friend marks his 84th anniversary this year. Our designer, Leo Cardoso, wanted to show the silly side of Goofy in this new wallpaper. Simple, fun and festive was the goal. I think he achieved it! Here’s to another 84 years and more of fun-loving, turtle-neck wearing, clumsy yet clever, eccentric Goofy! Be sure to check out the terms of use about using the wallpaper before you download it. Want to check out other designs? Visit our complete gallery of wallpapers here. View the full article

STK at Disney Springs opened its doors last night for a grand opening party filled with bites, music and cocktails. Take a look at some photos I took last night of the party. The steakhouse is the newest restaurant in Disney Springs, the revamped shopping and dining area formerly known as Downtown... View the full article

STK at Disney Springs opened its doors last night for a grand opening party filled with bites, music and cocktails. The steakhouse is the newest restaurant in Disney Springs, the revamped shopping and dining area formerly known as Downtown Disney. There are about 12 STKs around the world including... View the full article

If you are set on a Hawaiian honeymoon, O‘ahu might be your perfect island escape. Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, is situated on a tranquil part of the island’s leeward (or west) coast and provides an ideal experience for honeymooners interested in a romantic escape, but with a touch of Disney’s magic. Here are some honeymoon-perfect activities: Couples Massage at Laniwai Spa Check in to our award-winning Laniwai Spa for special “you and me time.” I recommend booking one of our couples massages for ultimate pampering. The treatment, ‘Ohi’a Lehua “Love Story” for Two, includes a custom signature tropical exfoliation, followed by a lomilomi massage. You and your new spouse are also invited to relax in the Kula Wai, the spa’s outdoor hydrotherapy garden. With inviting pools, soaking tubs and waterfall rain showers, you won’t want to leave this oasis! Private Portrait Session with Disney PhotoPass With the splendor of Aulani as a backdrop, schedule a portrait session with one of our professional photographers. I recommend having your photos taken on the beautiful lagoon or among the Waikolohe Valley’s lushly green landscaping. Sessions typically last around 30-40 minutes – plenty of time to capture a happy couple in paradise. Island Excursion with Disney Adventure Guides No trip to O‘ahu would be complete without exploring a few of the island’s natural wonders. My favorite excursion takes place both on land and sea. The Kualoa Ranch Experience is an all-day adventure exclusive to Aulani guests. You’ll embark on a horseback ride through the ranch and enjoy lunch and leisure time on a private beach. Then you’ll hop aboard a catamaran to look for Hawaii’s magnificent green sea turtles. Sunset Cocktails at ‘Alohi Point For sweeping and unforgettable sunset views, I recommend ending each day at ‘Alohi Point, our double-terraced whirlpool spa overlooking the ocean. Before heading over, stop by the Wailana Pool Bar for a specialty cocktail. I love the refreshing Pau Hana Punch! Dinner at ‘AMA‘AMA At our signature restaurant, ‘AMA‘AMA, our chefs use fresh, local ingredients and island flavors to create delicious dishes. Indulge in the ‘AMA‘AMA Menu For Two, a perfect pairing for the occasion. This tasting menu begins with an appetizer sampler of the chef’s choosing. For the entrée, a Harris Ranch natural angus chateaubriand is served for two, along with farmer’s market vegetables, roasted fingerling potatoes and hamakua mushrooms. Lastly, end your meal with the mocha chantilly cake or lemon grass crème catalana. Love is delicious! For more honeymoon inspiration, check out the video below! What would be your dream honeymoon? View the full article

The opening of Town Center was less than ten days ago, but already two new additions have opened their doors. The stores, Lilly Pulitzer and TROPHY ROOM, are as different as can be, but I’m betting they’ll both be hugely popular! Lilly Pulitzer is a light, bright, airy space featuring a treasure trove of playful prints. With apparel and accessories done in the signature “Lilly” style, every nook of the boutique pays homage to its Palm Beach roots. (Tip: Be sure to check out the dressing rooms, where hand-painted murals bring the brand to life.) TROPHY ROOM is a sleek space showcasing ultra-cool sneakers and exclusive merchandise. This first-of-its-kind location — founded by Marcus Jordan, a University of Central Florida Grad, and the son of NBA legend Michael Jordan — was inspired by the real-life trophy room of his father. My favorite touches? Personal photos from the Jordan family collection and one-of-a-kind memorabilia on display. Whether you’re seeking sundresses or sneakers, now you can find them here at Town Center, alongside a wide array of just-opened anchor stores and boutiques. Have you had a chance to shop the Springs yet? If so, share your favorite store so far in the comments below — I’d love to know! View the full article

When Toy Story Pizza Planet closed in January for a refurbishment it was immediately wondered if the Hollywood Studios pizza spot would reopen with a new theme. The former Pizza Planet A short time later, a few clues began to lend weight to rumors that the quick service spot might reopen with a Muppets theme. First, there was the arrival of construction walls around the closed restaurant with more than a subtle hint of that classic Muppets humor. Walls surrounding Pizza Planet Walls surrounding Pizza Planet And second, the area surrounding the location was renamed Muppets Courtyard a few months later. Updated Map of Hollywood Studios with Muppets Courtyard Now, it appears this more-than-rumored updated location has a name to go with it: according to wdwnt.com, a permit has been filed for Pizza Rizzo! Muppet Rizzo the Rat has always loved pizza Now, for those of you hesitant about a restaurant named in honor of Muppet Rizzo the Rat, just remember that this wouldn’t be the first time a rat has been celebrated in connection with food at Disney World… remember when Remy used to show up occasionally at Chefs de France? So you can’t tell me that the presence of rodents automatically rules out great dining possibilities. Come to think of it, I’m sure Mickey Mouse wouldn’t argue with it, either . What do you think of the potential for Pizza Rizzo? 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: Rumor: Major Changes For Toy Story Pizza Planet in Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2016 News: Muppets Courtyard is Officially Official…for now…at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Imagineering Fun: Construction Walls in Disney’s Hollywood Studios (This Post is Not as Boring as it Sounds in the Title) View the full article

The Disney animated universe is full of beautiful princesses and charming male heroes and villains, so it was only a matter of time before they were incorporated into a "The Bachelor" parody. And it was done by Disney by the folks at the Oh My Disney blog. The video shows classic Disney characters... View the full article

I’m excited to share some of the unique details being added into Tiffins at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. The interior design of this new signature restaurant is much like a gallery you can dine in, with artwork that is a direct result of travels to Africa, Asia and South America and influenced the design of the park. Imagineers have even named each of the dining rooms with gallery names to celebrate Asia, Africa and the animal species that the Disney Conservation Fund works to protect. This week I have some new details on the artwork being shown in the Trek Gallery. Can you guess which attractions at Disney’s Animal Kingdom inspired these works of art? Tiffins opens for lunch and dinner daily, beginning Memorial Day weekend. For more about Tiffins, visit the posts below: All in the Details: Tiffins at Disney’s Animal Kingdom New Tiffins Restaurant at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Opens Memorial Day Weekend Tiffins Inventive Menu Stars Cuisine From Around the Globe, Wine List Focuses on ‘Environmentality’ More Details About Tiffins, the Newest Dining Experience At Walt Disney World Resort Tiffins Signature Restaurant Coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom in 2016 View the full article

Like many of you, I’ve been caught up in the “Frozen” phenomenon and have watched the film more times than I can count. The story, the characters, the songs – they capture the one thing we all know and love, the magic of Disney. I am so excited to see “Frozen – Live at the Hyperion,” opening Friday, May 27 at Disney California Adventure park, especially after watching the sneak peek at some of the innovative technology that will be used to bring the world of Arendelle to life on stage. I want to ensure that you see this spectacular theatrical interpretation in style, and I have the very cool pleasure of sharing your first look at some of the new “Frozen – Live at the Hyperion” merchandise offerings that will be available, immediately adjacent to the Hyperion Theater in Hollywood Land. They include a girls tank (above, left) and ladies T-shirt (not pictured), with iconic silhouettes of Elsa and Anna featured on the front and a cascade of snowflakes falling down the back. As you can see, the youth tee (above, right) is also a show-stopper, featuring Olaf and the clever tagline, “A Show Worth Melting For.” If you’re thirsty for more, the tumbler is definitely a great choice and something that can be used time and time again. Look for all of these plus other fan favorite items at the merchandise cart located to the left of the Hyperion Theater marquee. See you “In Summer!” View the full article

iNSIDE Disney Parks - Episode 2 View the full article