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The fun just keeps coming at Disney Springs, especially for food fans, with seven new spots opening Sunday, May 15, and reservations opening for STK the following day. Here’s the new line-up: D-Luxe Burger: Grab a classic cheeseburger or go for something indulgent like the El Diablo Burger with chorizo, fried banana peppers, pepper jack cheese, lettuce, tomato and chipotle mayo. There’s a veggie burger too. Plus gelato shakes, fresh-cut fries and more from the Disney chefs. Amorette’s Patisserie: Classic and contemporary cakes and pastries are the stars in this high-end pastry shop where guests can watch pastry chefs decorate signature cakes in the on-stage finishing kitchen. From a classic macaron or crisp, light pavlova to the ultimate chocolate-chocolate chunk cookie, Amorette’s is a dessert lover’s dream come true. The Daily Poutine: This kiosk brings the Canadian classic to guests with four varieties of toppings on hot, crispy French fries: Classic, with beef poutine gravy and Cheddar Cheese curds; Latin with fried yucca, black beans, pulled pork and queso fresco; Italian with bocconcino mozzarella and Bolognese sauce, and French with mushroom cream sauce and Gruyere cheese. Pair them with a lemonade, draft beer, sangria or fountain sodas. B.B. Wolf’s Sausage Co.: A kiosk with artisan sausages by Disney chefs – the Three Little Pigs with a Reuben dog, black bean salsa and chili cheese; Portuguese Sausage with pickled vegetable slaw and chili mustard; Sweet Hot Sausage with peppers, onions and marinara; Bavarian Sausage Sandwich with a mini-meterwurst, braised red cabbage and spicy brown mustard on a pretzel roll, and Italian Veggie Sausage with peppers, onions and marinara. Add a draft beer or fountain soda. YeSake: At this unique kiosk, try a Sake Cosmo Freeze or Sake Bourbon Slush among other offerings. Global eats range from the Great Wall with Chinese-style pulled pork to a Sombrero with ground beef, pico de gallo, guacamole, cheese and corn chips. Cold beer too. Morimoto Asia Street Food: A new walk-up window on the patio offers sushi, donburi rice bowls and bao tacos, plus snacks: such as takoyaki (octopus, nori, okomiyaki sauce), Morimoto sticky ribs, curry rice croquettes, pork egg rolls and taiyaki (snapper-shaped pancake filled with sweet adzuki red been paste). Also on the menu: popping boba tea and an assortment of Asian-influenced beers and beverages. Sprinkles: Look for handcrafted cupcakes, slow-churned ice cream and homemade cookies at Srpinkles, dubbed the first cupcake bakery by the Food Network. Options include vegan, gluten free and sugar free, and seasonal flavors. Two favorites are still there: They’re not missing, they just moved to new spots — Wetzel’s Pretzel’s and Haagen Dazs ice cream are now located across from Orlando Harley-Davidson on the West Side. View the full article

George W. Bush leaned over and awarded the gold medal in the heavyweight powerlifting on Monday morning. He cradled the winner's jaw and patted the winner on the head. Cheering fans soon surrounded the winner, though this Invictus Games participant seemed more eager to go over and lick nearby teammates... View the full article

Disney Springs' newest steakhouse eatery STK is taking reservations for May 25 and beyond. The One Group restaurant hasn't made an opening announcement, but it is accepting reservations online and over the phone for the restaurant. A representative for One Group said she was not able to release... View the full article

Are you ready to make your reservations for STK Orlando? STK sign installed at location earlier this year I sure hope so, because STK Orlando is ready for YOU! The newest STK location will open in Disney Springs on May 25th at 5:00 pm! Check out this announcement from STK’s Twitter account, @eatSTK. @eatSTK Twitter Interested guests can make their reservations by calling (407) 917-7440, or by booking online via the STK Orlando Webpage. Screenshot from the STK Orlando webpage Please note that at this time, Advance Dining Reservations are NOT available through the Walt Disney World booking system (it’s anticipated that booking through Disney may be available sometime next week). So… are you ready for a little STK, Orlando ? We can’t wait to see you there!! Are you planning to make a reservation to dine at STK Orlando? 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! Be Our Guest Restaurant to Accept Advance Dining Reservations for Lunch Starting February 25th News: Sprinkles to Open May 15th in the Town Center of Disney Springs View the full article

A usually bashful 2-year-old boy with autism morphed into Prince Charming when he met Snow White during a family trip to Walt Disney World. Mom Amanda Coley said her son "Jack Jack" is non-verbal and can often be shy around strangers, but you wouldn't guess that by looking at the video she posted. ... View the full article

Are you familiar with the Disney characters Johnny Fedora & Alice Bluebonnet? This two high-spirited hats appeared in the 1954 film “Make Mine Music,” and happened to fall in love inside a shop window. In the film, they’re sold (separately) and hope that fate will return them to one another someday. In this week’s Disney Doodle, artist Ashley Taylor images what these lovebirds would do if they could explore a Disney Park. Naturally the couple would head out for a romantic meal at the parks – where else but at the Brown Derby? View the full article

The competition is underway, but before it began, athletes from the Invictus Games Orlando 2016 were treated to a hero’s welcome during a magical parade at Magic Kingdom Park. Competitors representing many of the participating countries from around the world took part in a parade down Main Street U.S.A. amid a sea of confetti along with celebrity ambassador and Olympic gold medal gymnast Shawn Johnson and Disney characters. The competitors and their families also spent some time enjoying the theme park, experiencing some of the signature attractions such as Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. We are all looking forward to watching these inspiring athletes compete in the Games through May 12 at our ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. The Invictus Games is the only international adaptive sporting event for injured active duty and veteran service members. Started in 2014 by Prince Harry, the Invictus Games use the power of sport to inspire recovery, support rehabilitation and generate a wider understanding and respect for wounded, ill or injured servicemen and women who are transitioning into civilian life. In addition to honoring the competitors with the parade, Disney is also thrilled to further support this extraordinary event by co-sponsoring the Games’ opening and closing ceremonies. It’s a natural thing for us to do given the fact that our company has always had a strong and ongoing connection to the armed services, including through our “Heroes Work Here’’ hiring initiative that assists service men and women in career solutions after their military service ends. Our Disney cast members were on hand for the Opening Ceremony Sunday involving appearances by Prince Harry, First Lady Michelle Obama and actor Morgan Freeman. The event kicked into high gear with the start of competition featuring more than 500 athletes from 14 countries competing in 10 sports – archery, powerlifting, wheelchair rugby, wheelchair basketball, wheelchair tennis, sitting volleyball, cycling, swimming, indoor rowing and track and field. The Games run through Thursday and are televised live on ESPN’s family of networks. Tickets are still available for the closing ceremonies as well as all sports competitions at all Ticketmaster outlets and at www.invictusgames2016.org. Hope to see you there. View the full article

Meet Aulani’s ‘Ohana | Disney Photographer | Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa View the full article

A usually bashful 2-year-old boy with autism morphed into Prince Charming when he met Snow White during a family trip to Walt Disney World. Mom Amanda Coley writes on Facebook that her son "Jack Jack" is non-verbal and can often be shy around strangers, but you wouldn't guess that by looking at... View the full article

A usually bashful 2-year-old boy with autism morphed into prince charming when he met Snow White during a family trip to Walt Disney World. Mom Amanda Coley writes on Facebook that her son "Jack Jack" is non-verbal and can often be shy around strangers, but you wouldn't guess that by looking at... View the full article

Powerlifter Sarah Rudder of the United States has won the first gold medal at the 2016 Invictus Games at Disney World. Rudder lifted 49 kilograms, or 108 pounds, to capture first place in the women's lightweight division Monday morning at the HP Field House at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.... View the full article

Disney World visitors have two new places to meet three characters at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and Olaf, the comic-relief snowman from "Frozen," are now receiving guests in new digs at the theme park. The area designated "Mickey and Minnie Starring in Red Carpet Dreams"... View the full article

It’s a beautiful morning at Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park – one of my family’s go-to spots to cool down during warm weather. Have you tried the Toboggan Racers slide? Here, eight guests compete at a time by sliding on their bellies down Mount Gushmore’s 250-foot-long slope. Who’s first? View the full article

WOO HOO!!! We’re back at the Electric Umbrella in Epcot’s Future World! Learn About: Electric Umbrella Epcot Restaurants Disney World Restaurants Too much? Okay — I get it. It can be hard to muster up a ton of enthusiasm for the ol’ Umbrella. That’s not so much because of anything specifically wrong with it, per se. But when your neighbors include counter service options like Katsura Grill, Tangierine Cafe, and Sommerfest just to name a few…well, the more standard options available at Electric Umbrella can pale in comparison. Even if you pit it against fellow Future World counter service option Sunshine Seasons, it’s gonna seem ho-hum. But we’ve got to give some credit where it’s due. Over the past few years, the menu at Electric Umbrella has seen more changes than many other spots. Some have been successful (French Dip Burger!), and some not so much (Mac and Cheese Burger). In other words, there’s been some innovation here. (You might even call it innovention. ) The Electric Umbrella Since our last meal here, there have been even more menu updates. So clearly, it was time for another visit. Atmosphere Electric Umbrella is such a great throw-back. Walk in, and you’ll probably feel pretty much transported back to the 1990s, when the restaurant opened. The Electric Umbrella Decor The theming perfectly matches the name of the restaurant with large, prominent electric umbrellas and neon lighting along the main wall. Electric Decor! My favorite part of the totally awesome decor (I’m a child of the 80’s EPCOT themeing) has to be the large umbrella lights that hang over the dining area, though. Umbrella Lighting While they are primary-colored, you’ll also find pinks, purples, and other hues throughout the space. It doesn’t really match, but it all works together for that “ideal tomorrow” feel similar to Tomorrowland in Magic Kingdom. Dining Area The restaurant is pretty large, so finding a place to sit is not as much of a problem as it would be in, say Tangierine Cafe across the lagoon. Electric Umbrella Seating There is also an upstairs dining area that’s available during the busier seasons in the park. Upstairs Dining Area But if I have to choose (and the day isn’t too terribly hot), the outside seating area is ideal for people watching. It’s also covered by tarps, so you’re not drenched in sunlight. Outside Dining Area The patio also offers a great view of the Innoventions Fountain. Since the fountain show, complete with music, takes place every 15 minutes, it’s fun to take it in while you dine. But I promised a look at some new (and new-to-me!) dishes! So let’s head in to check them out. Eats Like most other Disney quick service spots, Electric Umbrella has several registers set up for taking orders. Ordering Area Once you order your food and receive it, you can take advantage of the self-serve beverage station, which includes basic Coca Cola options. Soda Station Hot Chocolate, Coffee, and Iced Tea round out your choices. Beverage Station The condiment station has standard toppings. Pumps dispense Mayo, Ketchup, Yellow Mustard, Barbecue Sauce, and Honey Mustard. Condiment Station As far as the menu goes, you’ll find some great basics, including a Bacon Cheeseburger and Chicken Nuggets, which may be a relief to some guests who panic when faced with some of the more adventurous dining options offered throughout Epcot. Electric Umbrella Menu Still, I find there’s a little something for everyone. And with two interesting vegetarian options (we’ve reviewed one previously, and we’ll try the other in just a sec!) as well as some lighter fare, Electric Umbrella really might just fit the bill for everyone in a large group. Electric Umbrella Menu We’ve enjoyed the French Dip Burger and the Vegetarian Flatbread during other visits. But this time, I was out to try a few new things. Since the overall consensus has been positive, I decided to start with the Sausage and Pepper Sandwich. Sausage and Pepper Sandwich The sandwich is served with a side of French Fries, which were fresh and hot. (You can also opt for Grapes as a side if you prefer.) Side of Fries As for the main event, the sandwich is certainly on the hefty side, packed with lots of Sausage and Roasted Vegetables. Sausage and Pepper Sandwich The sausage has a kick to it, but that was a plus for me. Hot Sausage The veggies and sausage were served in a hearty Marinara Sauce, making it more of a take on a meatball sub instead of an onions and peppers sausage sammy. Sausage and Pepper Sandwich Cross-Section It’s also topped with a thick blanket of melted Provolone Cheese. Melted Cheese The sum of all the parts here was deliciousness! The sandwich is definitely a winner, and is a good choice if you’re looking for a hearty meal or some comfort food flavor. But it wasn’t the only option I tried. I also went for the Veggie Naan Wich. Talk about polar opposites! This one is served with a choice of Fries or Grapes as well. Veggie Naan Wich A large loaf of Naan, or Indian Flatbread, acts as a wrap of sorts for an assortment of Broccoli Slaw and Edamame. Lots of Veggies The shredded veggies tasted really fresh and crisp and were coated in a Tofu Wasabi Dressing. I asked a Cast Member about the dressing since it wasn’t on the overhead menu, and she told me that it was akin to a Creamy Horseradish. To be honest, I didn’t detect a whole lotta flavor here — odd, since wasabi is anything but bland. Mostly, I just tasted Mayo. Still, surprisingly, it worked. Veggie Naan Wich And I suspect that was because of my favorite part of this sandwich: the Naan. It actually had lots of Herbs baked right in, so it really upped the flavor profile and complemented the veggies perfectly. I pre-judged this item a little bit, assuming that it would be boring. But I’m happy to say I was completely wrong! Naan Bread Beyond the entrees, there were some new side and snack items that I wanted to try, too. Well. To be clear, the Ranch-style Coleslaw and Tomato Bisque are new, but the Fanta Blue-Raspberry Slushy has been available here for some time. It is worth noting that they also have a Pineapple-Coconut Slush. I think I’ll be making a return trip soon. New Side Options But back to the reviews at hand — the Ranch-Style Coleslaw is pretty much just that — Coleslaw with a Ranch Dressing. Ranch-Style Coleslaw It’s nothing too fancy, but the slaw tasted fresh and crunchy, and might be a good alternative if you’re looking to ditch the fries and you’ve had your fill of Disney Apple Slices and Grapes. Ranch-Style Coleslaw Closeup I also sampled the Tomato Bisque Soup. Tomato Bisque Soup Served with a side of Oyster Crackers, this soup was well-seasoned and creamy. I thought it was a nice option for a lighter meal. Tomato Bisque Closeup Although it isn’t a new item, on this visit I also decided to try the Chocolate Cupcake. I mean, why not? On a previous visit, we really enjoyed the Strawberry Cheesecake. Maybe this would be another hidden gem. Chocolate Cupcake I really liked the colors, and how the blue and white icing echoes some of the EU themeing. The colorful sprinkles on top complete the look. Blue and White Icing While it was nothing to write home about (Sunshine Seasons is still the Epcot King of Cupcakes), it was fresh, and I welcomed the familiar flavors. Chocolate Cupcake Cross-Section If you’re craving Kid Birthday Party Chocolate Cake (and seriously — who doesn’t), then this one’s for you. Overall Electric Umbrella continues to be my quick-fix when I want some Epcot Future World nostalgia. And it’ll definitely fit the bill when you have picky eaters in your party and just want to stick to the basics! For this reason alone, I still think that Electric Umbrella serves an important purpose. Now we wanna hear from you! What are your top reasons for choosing Electric Umbrella for lunch or dinner? Leave a comment and tell us about your favorites! 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: Review: New French Dip Burger at Epcot’s Electric Umbrella Review: Electric Umbrella at Epcot Guest Review: Epcot’s Electric Umbrella View the full article

William Reynolds endured 26 surgeries after being victimized by a roadside-bomb blast in Baghdad in 2004. Anesthesia seems to be the only thing that can slow down the retired Army captain. Injuries to his left leg, which eventually was amputated three years ago, did not cause Reynolds to stray... View the full article

This week, we looked ahead to the holidays and shared an update that tickets for this year’s Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at the Walt Disney World Resort are on now on sale. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party will return for 29 nights of spook-tastic fun, starting September 2 and it will feature encore performances of last year’s new hit show “Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular.” Blog author Shawn Slater also shared that the team that brought the Sanderson Sisters back for Halloween is hard at work on another new show for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. Visit our original story for more details or if you’re ready to order tickets, head to Disneyworld.com, call 407-W-DISNEY or contact your travel agent. And if you haven’t heard, a new, late-night ticketed experience called Disney After Hours is underway at Magic Kingdom Park and it’s offering guests an experience like never before – after regular park hours. A Disney After Hours ticket, which is separately priced from a regular Magic Kingdom admission ticket, allows entry into the park at 7 pm to enjoy dining, evening entertainment like fireworks, the “Celebrate the Magic” nighttime projection show and the Main Street Electrical Parade. To learn more about the event and to hear from the first Disney After Hours guests, check out this video: There are only a few remaining nights to choose from and the number of tickets available for each one is very limited—be sure to purchase yours today. Here are some of the other stories we worked on this week. #DisneyKids: Early Fall Travel Package is Perfect for Little Ones – There is plenty of fun to be had this fall at Walt Disney World Resort, with a special package that is perfect for families with little ones. 5 Under $5: Disneyland Park Snacks – Whether you want to snack your way through the parks, or you’re just looking for a little something to tide you over until your next meal, here are a few favorite treats from Disneyland park (and they all are under $5) Sailing the British Isles with Disney Cruise Line: Adventures in France – This summer, we’re giving Disney cruisers the opportunity to experience the charm and history of France during our 12-night British Isles cruises. Disneyland Park Guests Celebrate May the 4th – May the 4th was a special day for Star Wars fans, and at Disneyland park, Star Wars Day came alive with special celebrations in Tomorrowland! New Adventures by Disney Vacations for 2017 – Recently we announced a new Adventures by Disney River Cruise itinerary for 2017, sailing along the Rhine River in Europe. This new vacation gives travelers the opportunity to experience the beauty of four countries – France, Switzerland, Germany and the Netherlands. Disney Park Pack Expands with New Items Coming to Disney Parks Online Store – I have exciting news for guests who love unique collectibles from Disney Parks. You may recall last year around this time we introduced the Disney Park Pack – Pin Trading Edition to our Disney Parks online store. Moms Panel Monday: Creating an Unforgettable Mother’s Day – Mother’s Day is this Sunday, and as a mom of four little ones, I cherish anything we can do to make special memories together. There are endless possibilities to do this at Disney Parks, so we asked our Disney Parks Moms Panel for their top picks for an unforgettable Mother’s Day. View the full article

Happy Sunday! We’re wishing all the moms out there a very happy Mother’s Day! We hope you’re having a fantastic – and relaxing – weekend because you deserve it! Ample Hills Sign on Disney World’s BoardWalk We’re super excited about the unveiling (not open yet, but SOON!) of Ample Hills Creamery at Disney World’s BoardWalk. We snuck a little peek inside and couldn’t wait to show you this new addition to the most Magical Place on Earth. And have you seen the new sweepstakes from Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea? You can win a trip to the Walt Disney World Resort as part of the 2nd Annual Magic in Your Mug Sweepstakes! We have a lot to share with you this week, so let’s jump right in… Disney Food News STK Orlando is slated to open this summer at Disney Springs! We cannot wait! We satisfied our sweet tooth at the Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop at Disney California Adventure. Have you dined at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Grill? We enjoyed lunch there recently! Check out some of the musical acts for this year’s Eat to the Beat concerts during the Epcot Food & Wine Festival. Pizzafari at Disney’s Animal Kingdom has added some new items to the menu! We reviewed the Roule Lard et Fromage at Epcot’s Les Halles. Check out all the latest Disney Food News — even the stuff we don’t mention in posts on the blog! — on our Disney Food News Pin Board, including menu updates, restaurant closures, special events, and more! We’ve got all the latest for you, so check it out before you go. DFB Reader Finds If you find a fun new food — or other edible awesomeness — in or about Disney, share a photo with us on facebook or twitter so we can add it to our DFB Reader Finds each Sunday! While we love stopping by Starring Rolls at Disney’s Hollywood Studios for one of the amazing cupcakes, they do, believe it or not, have other items on the menu too. Like this gorgeous fruit tart that our friend Barry Ripley recently enjoyed! I’ll admit, Barry…it’s pretty! Pretty and delicious! You all know we love Disneyland’s Rancho Del Zocalo! Dive into these Baked Fish Tacos that DFB reader Brandy Johnson shared with us. Yum! So hungry! Do you have a favorite Disney Food find? Share your photos with us! DFB Readers #OnTheList Suggestions As part of our new #OnTheList series we’ll be sharing weekly some of our readers’ suggestions for what they would add to the Disney Food bucket list! Check out our #OnTheList page to see what’s on OUR Disney Food Bucket List! Deal of the Week: 20% Off ALL Purchases at DFBStore.com This Weekend With Code 20SALE The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining e-Book is an instantly downloadable PDF guide, featuring over 530 full-color pages of photographs, information, and advice about our favorite subjects — food and dining in Walt Disney World. Order the 2016 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining today — or any of our other DFB Guide or money-saving Bundles — and use promo code 20SALE for 20% off! Our team of Walt Disney World food experts have put together the most comprehensive guide to Walt Disney World food and dining available. With more than 25 years of experience eating and drinking our way through the Parks and Resorts, we’ve learned a thing or two — and we love sharing our secrets with you! Order the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2016 e-Book today, and start planning your Disney dining adventures right now! Here are just a few of the things you’ll find in our DFB to Walt Disney World Dining: A 5-Step Strategy for Disney Dining Planning, covering everything you need to know from budgeting and booking to kids’ meals, dining discounts, and fireworks. A comprehensive and in-depth look at EVERY Disney World restaurant, kiosk, bar, and lounge, including our personal tips to ensure a positive and stress-free dining experience. Four free, downloadable worksheets for planning your trip. These worksheets are designed to help you execute all the steps of planning the perfect Disney dining experience. And they’re reusable for all of your future trips! Seven sample one-day dining itineraries for a head-start on planning. A comprehensive index of bars and lounges. An often under-appreciated option for both dining and entertainment, the e-Book devotes a whole index to the topic. You asked for it, and we wrote it! The ability to be read on your mobile device or computer! It’s fully portable — always just a pocket away! and MORE! Order the 2016 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining today and use promo code 20SALE for 20% off! The DFB Everything Bundle But for those of you who want to be prepared for EVERYTHING at Disney World, we’re also offering our most popular Bundle, the DFB Everything Bundle, for a special savings as well! This bundle packs in all of our e-Books, including the Guide that started it all — the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, 2015 edition. And during this special sale, you can get 20% off the already low price when you enter code 20SALE. This is a crazy good price for this incredible bundle! This Bundle is priced at a huge discount already — over 40% off the guide prices – representing great savings. But with our extra 20% off, this is an amazing deal. Learn more about the DFB Everything Bundle here. The bundle includes the pre-order of the DFB Guide to the 2016 Epcot Food & Wine Festival as well as the 2015 guide as an immediate download — FREE! Remember, with a 100% money-back guarantee on all of our guides, you have nothing to lose! On to the Round-Up! Mickey Fix found this adorable Snow White Apron! Perfect for your favorite chef! WDW For Grownups shared their favorite eats and drinks from Epcot’s Mexico pavilion. Disney Family shared a recipe for Jungle Book Honey Cupcakes. OhMyDisney shared some amazing Disney waffles! Travel + Leisure took us behind-the-scenes at Disney’s Flavor Lab. Entertainment Daily made some amazing Disney and Pixar pancakes! Have a great week! We’ll see you back here tomorrow with another great Disney food review! 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: Disney Food Post Round-Up: March 27, 2016 Disney Food Post Round-Up: January 10, 2016 Disney Food Post Round-Up: February 7, 2016 View the full article

It’s never to early to begin your holiday planning… not when it comes to a holiday at Disney World, at any rate! Tickets are now available for booking two special holiday events at Disney World: Mickey’s-Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party With the return of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party will be the return of the Happy HalloWishes Dessert Premium Package option to add on to your evening. Similar to last year when this Dessert Premium Package made its debut, participants will have access to a reserved location on Main Street U.S.A. to view Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade. This will be followed by a private dessert party with a reserved viewing area at Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant for the Happy HalloWishes Fireworks Spectacular. Halloween at Disney! Special treats to enjoy at your Jack-o-Lantern-topped table will include Halloween-themed cupcakes and desserts such as chocolate-dipped strawberries, chocolate mousse, and ice cream along with seasonal fruits and cheeses. ©Disney ©Disney Specialty Halloween drinks will be served alongside sparkling cider, lemonades, hot cocoa, coffee and tea. The Package is available for the following Party dates: In September: 2, 8, 11, 13, 16, 18, 20, 23, 25, 29, 30 In October: 2, 4, 6, 7, 10, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 21, 23, 25, 27, 28, 30, 31 The price for the Premium Package is $69 for adults, and $39 for children ages 3-9 (not including tax). The Premium Package does NOT include admission to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, which is to be purchased separately. Check-in for the event will take place from 4:00-7:00 pm at the Will Call booth outside of the entrance to Magic Kingdom, where participants will receive their credentials for identification. To book this experience, call (407) 939-3463 or book online. Will you be attending Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party or Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party this year? 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: Happy HalloWishes Dessert Premium Package Now Available for Booking for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party News! Disney Adds Premium Event “Villains’ Sinister Soiree” to Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Lineup News! Halloween Treats Return to Disney World’s Magic Kingdom for Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party View the full article

Since tomorrow is Mother’s Day, This Week in Disney Parks Photos we have a collection of Moms and ideas to celebrate with yours. Jamie Langdon and the Disney Parks Moms Panel provided lots of suggestions from where to dine, to where to stay, to where to shop, and where to eat – including tea with a Princess (a Disney one, in addition to your own) and ideas for delicacies from land and sea. From Kingdom Couture, to Alex and Ani, to keepsakes from the Disneyland Diamond Celebration, Michelle Harker has gift ideas, with the help of some friends. Sarah Domenech shared recent visits from two celebrity Moms – Univison’s Alejandra Espinoza and actress and host Gaby Espino. And we have a look at the lives of different families at Disney’s Animal Kingdom from Dr. Mark Penning. Hope all Moms and families have a great weekend. How will you celebrate your Mom? View the full article

In honor of the upcoming 2016 Invictus Games, which kicks off tomorrow at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort, I’m honored to feature three athletes who have overcome incredible odds to compete at the landmark event. Founded by Prince Harry, the Invictus Games is the only international adaptive sporting event for injured active duty and veteran service members, which is happening from May 8-12. Sergeant Kirstie Ennis Retired Marine Sergeant Kirstie Ennis is a native Floridian who will be competing in the rowing, swimming and outdoor cycling events. She joined the Marine Corps at the age of 17, and on her last deployment to Afghanistan in 2012, her helicopter went down. Ennis sustained several injuries including: facial trauma, hearing impairment, shoulder trauma, traumatic brain injury, and left foot limb salvage. In 2015, she postponed the amputation of her leg, so she could complete the Wounded’s Walk of Britain, a 1,000-mile trek across England, Scotland and Wales, where she had an emotional moment with Prince Harry: Major Sergeant Israel “DT” Del Toro Jr. Major Sergeant Israel “DT” Del Toro, Jr. will be one of only three competitors highlighted during the Opening Ceremony (co-presented by The Walt Disney Company and Jaguar Land Rover). Del Toro was injured in Afghanistan in December 2005 by an IED (Improvised Explosive Device). While over 80 percent of his body was burned, he lost fingers on both hands, suffered nerve damage to right foot and spent four months in a coma. He was even given a 15% chance to live and almost died three times, plus he has also undergone over 120 surgeries. He became the first 100 percent disabled airman to re-enlist in the US Air Force in 2010 and it first Para World Class Athlete for the US Air Force. He also set new World Records in shot put and discus at the 2014 US Paralympic National Championships. At the 2016 Invictus Games, Del Toro will compete in the cycling and powerlifting events. Chief Yeoman Javier Rodriguez Retired U.S. Navy chief petty officer and Florida resident Javier Rodriguez was the victim of a hit and run accident in 2011 in Hawaii, where he was stationed. He sustained severe trauma to his lower extremities and has battled through extensive surgeries and physical therapy before ultimately having his left leg removed. Rodriguez, 34, has competed in three Warrior Games for wounded, ill and injured U.S. service members and was a member of the U.S. wheelchair basketball team at the first Invictus Games in 2014. Rodriguez is scheduled to compete in wheelchair basketball and wheelchair tennis at the 2016 Invictus Games. Fun fact: He has a young daughter named Aulani. The Invictus Games is the only international adaptive sporting event for injured active duty and veteran service members, which is being hosted for the first time in the U.S. at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at the Walt Disney World Resort from May 8-12, 2016. You can buy tickets for the 2016 Invictus Games here. View the full article

I’m having a TON of fun at Disney World this week! And my trip has been made all the better by seeing that the construction walls surrounding the soon-to-be-open Ample Hills Creamery have come down! Ample Hills Sign on Disney World’s BoardWalk This “re-imagined take on the turn-of-the-century ice cream parlor” will take over the spot that was previously occupied by the ESPN Club Arcade, next door to the very-much-still-open ESPN Club. Located between ESPN Club and Seashore Sweets Once it’s open (official date unannounced as of yet, but we’ve heard from cast members that it will be May 15 with soft openings in the days prior), THIS is the only storefront outside of New York where you’ll be able to grab scoops of Ample Hills Creamery ice cream, known for creative flavors made from “hormone-free milk and cream from grass-fed cows and organic cane sugar” (that’s from the Ample Hills Creamery website. Check it out, along with their Instagram account!). Ample Hills Creamery Goodness You can see the kitchen windows, where we’ll all be able to peek in and catch the goings-on! Right now we’re not seeing any indoor seating, but we’re hoping that changes! Ample Hills Queue Line The highlight decor in the space is the custom mural in the signature Ample Hills style. This one features elements of the BoardWalk, Epcot, and even has a nod to the Brooklyn Bridge — representing Ample Hill’s home base — in the background. Ample Hills Mural Spaceship Earth in Ample Hills Mural Ample Hills Mural Close Up I love the “show kitchen” where guests will be able to see ice cream being made daily. Show Kitchen Show Kitchen And of course, those amazing waffle cones. Ample Hills embeds some of theirs with flavors and candies! Waffle Cone Makers Be on the lookout for unique signature flavors like Coffee Toffee Coffee, Ooey Gooey Butter Cake, Malty Salty Pretzel Punch, and Cotton Candy, as well as a special flavor created exclusively for Disney World. (I wonder if we’ll be able to grab any of those Star Wars flavors, while we’re at it?) I’m really looking forward to trying one of their Ice Cream Flights — I hope they have them! Ample Hills Creamery Ice Cream Flights So, the walls are down and we’re one step closer to the opening… I can’t wait to keep you posted here on the DFB (after I’ve grabbed a scoop — or seven — for myself, that is)! We’ll see you there real soon! Are you excited to welcome Ample Hills Creamery to Disney World? 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: Ample Hills Creamery To Open on Disney World’s BoardWalk Rumor: Is Star Wars Ice Cream Coming to Disney World’s BoardWalk? Sneak Peek and Review: Trattoria al Forno Breakfast at Disney’s BoardWalk View the full article

KISSIMMEE — Private First Class Normary Fontanez will juggle feelings of nervousness and excitement while holding a flag tonight. Along with other cadets in Liberty High School's Junior ROTC program, Fontanez will participate in the parade of nations at the Invictus Games' opening ceremony at Disney... View the full article

Vicky Gosling works for one heck of a demanding boss. "He is on my case every day,'' said Gosling, co-CEO of the Invictus Games. "'Ticket sales, Gosling? Who is in the closing act, Gosling? How many sports do we have, Gosling? Get me more competitors.' He raises the bar pretty much for me every... View the full article

Final preparations for the Invictus Games Orlando 2016 are almost complete and one of the major pieces of construction for the event is the installation of the new temporary swimming pool at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort. The pool venue includes a 50-meter, eight-lane pool for competition and a 25-meter, six-lane warm-up pool with seating for nearly 3,000. It took about a million gallons of water to fill both pools. While it took over a three-week span of time to build the pool venue, we’ve got a time-lapse video that will show you the process from start to finish in under a minute. The swimming preliminary heats begin Saturday with the finals on Wednesday. Tickets are still available at all Ticketmaster locations. It’s an event that is sure to, well, make a splash! View the full article

Many of us will be surrounded by our moms, daughters, aunts, grandmothers and grandchildren this Mother’s Day to honor the special bonds we all share. But we humans aren’t the only ones celebrating Mother’s Day this weekend! Meet grandmother Malika, mother Makeena and granddaughter Luna, a multigenerational giraffe family who live together on the Sunset Savanna at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. Take a look at how these special ladies are spending time together as a family in their spectacular home at Walt Disney World Resort. View the full article