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Walt Disney World previewed its “Rivers of Light” show created for Disney’s Animal Kingdom -- and then announced another show for the theme park based on “The Jungle Book” late Tuesday night. The “Jungle Book” production will take advantage of the popularity of the new film, a photorealistic remake... View the full article

Starting this Memorial Day Weekend, guests will be able to enjoy Disney’s Animal Kingdom in a whole new way – after the sun goes down! Whether it’s riding Kilimanjaro Safaris at sunset, venturing down Kali River Rapids at twilight, dancing alongside African performers in Harambe, or reveling in a live musical celebration of Disney’s hit film “The Jungle Book,” park guests have a lot to look forward to. Here’s a taste of what to expect: “Jungle Book: Alive with Magic” Show – For the summer, Discovery River will become the stage for a limited-engagement show inspired by Disney’s hit live-action film “The Jungle Book.” “Jungle Book: Alive with Magic” is filled with music and special effects that celebrates the new film and the classic songs, now infused with an Indian influence. The Tree of Life Awakens – Disney Parks Blog author Thomas Smith previously shared the first look at this amazing sight, in which the park’s iconic Tree of Life undergoes an extraordinary “awakening.” You can expect to see animal spirits come to life throughout the evening by magical fireflies. Each scene appears to emanate from within the tree itself and reveals stories of wonder. Kilimanjaro Safaris After Dark – Guests can enjoy Kilimanjaro Safaris in the evening hours, thanks to special lighting that will allow guests to explore the savanna – and its inhabitants – well into the night. Harambe Wildlife Parti – Guests can turn into “party animals” at the Harambe Wildlife Parti and enjoy lively African music, exotic foods and drinks, and explore the local marketplace. Discovery Island Carnivale – On Discovery Island, guests can join the local community in their celebration of their love for nature in this party that features music, dancers, stilt walkers, food and more. Tiffins – Guests can enjoy the park’s newest eatery, Tiffins, for both lunch and dinner. Check out this previous post for a peek at what to expect from the menu. Nighttime Attractions – The park’s attractions, now operating in the nighttime hours, will take on a whole new life. For the first time, guests will be able to experience the thrill of attractions like Expedition Everest and Kali River Rapids – surrounded by darkness. They’ll also be able to enjoy colorful midway games and attractions in DinoLand, U.S.A. View the full article

Just last month, we learned of two new food kiosks on the way to Disney Springs. Disney Springs mural While upcoming dining venues like D-Luxe Burger, Amorette’s Patisserie, Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza, and Sprinkles (just to name a few) have garnered their fair share of headlines, for a while the only information available regarding B.B. Wolf’s Sausage Co. and AristoCrepes was that they are “Coming Soon,” thanks to signs that suddenly appeared in Disney Springs several weeks ago. B.B. Wolf’s Sausage Co. “Coming Soon” B.B. Wolf’s Sausage Co. will serve artisan sausages, while AristoCrepes will feature sweet and savory crepes. AristoCrepes “Coming Soon” Today, however, we learned one more thing about these two upcoming kiosks… they’ll be joined by a third kiosk when The Daily Poutine opens as well!! Like its two neighbors, there is little information to share about The Daily Poutine at this time. However, we DO know that the menu will be comprised of hot fries with four different toppings! DFB readers (especially our Canadian friends) have been crying out for something like this for years… with our full support, mind you :)! It comes up whenever we mention any variation on a dish similar to traditional Canadian Poutine (fries topped with cheese curds and brown gravy), such as the Brown Gravy and Cheese Waffle Fries previously served at Golden Oak Outpost (R.I.P.), to the twists on the dish found at Le Cellier. Variations on Poutine at Le Cellier Speaking personally, this is VERY welcome news… but I’m guessing I’m not alone in my thinking . Am I right, friends?! Give me a shout and let me know! Are you excited to welcome The Daily Poutine to Disney Springs? 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: World of Coca-Cola Coming to Disney Springs News: Frontera Fresco Restaurant by Chef Rick Bayless Coming To Disney Springs News! A Cupcake ATM and MORE Coming to Disney Springs in Disney World View the full article

Disney's foray into river cruising in Europe is growing with the introduction of new Rhine River trips on board a new ship in 2017. Adventures by Disney, which will make ts first river cruise trips this summer on the Danube and will return in 2017 will now take on the Rhine River as well on a new... View the full article

In Disney’s “Alice Through the Looking Glass,” an all-new spectacular adventure featuring the unforgettable characters from Lewis Carroll’s beloved stories, Alice returns to the whimsical world of Underland and travels back in time to save the Mad Hatter. Beginning May 6, guests visiting Disney Parks will be able to catch a preview of scenes from the movie in sneak peeks planned for Disney California Adventure park and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. At Disney California Adventure park, the preview of “Alice Through the Looking Glass” will be presented in 3D with special in-theater effects at the Sunset Showcase Theater (formerly Crown Jewel Theater). Guests at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will get to see this advance look at clips from the film, as part of the One Man’s Dream attraction. Directed by James Bobin, who brings his own unique vision to the amazing world Tim Burton created on screen in 2010 with “Alice in Wonderland,” Disney’s “Alice Through the Looking Glass” is written by Linda Woolverton and reunites the all-star cast from the worldwide blockbuster phenomenon, including: Johnny Depp, Anne Hathaway, Mia Wasikowska, with Helena Bonham Carter and Sasha Baron Cohen, along with the voices of Alan Rickman, Stephen Fry, Michael Sheen and Timothy Spall. We are also introduced to several new characters: Zanik Hightopp (Rhys Ifans), the Mad Hatter’s father and Time himself (Baron Cohen), a peculiar creature who is part human, part clock. Plan to catch this 10-minute sneak peek of Disney’s “Alice Through the Looking Glass” before time runs out! It will be playing for a very limited time, May 6 – June 12, 2016. And you won’t want to be late for another very important date – May 27, 2016 – when “Alice Through the Looking Glass” drops into theaters in 3D! View the full article

Maelstrom will live on, in a small way, at Epcot. The flume ride that was the centerpiece of the Norway pavilion at the Walt Disney World theme park was shuttered to make way for a new “Frozen”-inspired experience now under construction. But two rune rocks from the previous attraction are placed... View the full article

Doesn’t Mom deserve a little spoiling this Mother’s Day? Maybe it’s time for a Disney Day! You, Mom, and Disney. What Could Be Better? Personally, I think she’d be happy to spend a little time with YOU — and throwing in a Mickey Ice Cream Bar wouldn’t hurt. But if you’re looking for something just a little more special, check out these options! Mother’s Day in Disneyland For our Moms on the West Coast, there are plenty of indulgences to be had. Several restaurants are planning special items just to celebrate Mom. At Blue Bayou, enjoy a Seafood Pot Pie, made with Lobster, Mahi Mahi, Snow Crab, English Peas, Carrots, and Potatoes. Dining at Blue Bayou is Always Special! Carnation Café will be featuring Teriyaki Honey Grilled Salmon, served with Spinach Orzo. Would Mom prefer to celebrate her special day with characters? Then head to Goofy’s Kitchen for a buffet breakfast or dinner, plus lots of special one on one time with your Disney favorites. If you’d rather skip the Parks, PCH Grill at Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel may tempt you with their buffet. Chef Goofy at Goofy’s Kitchen Prefer to celebrate in elegance? Head to Steakhouse 55 for their prix fixe dinner, and enjoy Lemon Fettuccine served with a pan-seared Scallop, and Filet Mignon with Lobster-whipped Potatoes and Spring Vegetables. Dessert is special, of course — Red Velvet Cake covered in Chocolate. For more details, visit Disneyland.com or call 714-781-DINE. Celebrate Mother’s Day in Disney Springs There’s so much exciting change happening at Disney Springs. Celebrating Mother’s Day can be the perfect opportunity to check out some of what’s happening there! And two restaurants — Portobello Restaurant and Wolfgang Puck Grand Cafe — are sharing special menus in honor of Mother’s Day. At Portobello, take advantage of a three-course, prix-fixe menu. Begin with a Spring Salad with Field Greens, Almonds, and Vanilla Vinaigrette. The main course features Grilled Salmon with Fettucine in a Citrus Reduction. Finish with Key Lime Cannoli with Blackberry Sauce. Florida meets Italy?! Love it! Enjoy Waterfront Dining at Portobello At Wolfgang Puck Grand Café, they are also offering three special courses. Your meal starts with a Spinach Salad that includes Frisee, Red Onions, Chopped Egg, Almonds, and a Warm Bacon Dressing. Next, you’ll enjoy Seasonal Fish with Saffron Braised Fennel, Mussels, and Shrimp in a Lobster Tomato Broth. Wolfgang’s signature Apple Strudel, served with Cinnamon Ice Cream, rounds out the meal. Visit Disney.com or call 407-WDW-DINE (407-939-3463) for more information! Will you be celebrating Mother’s Day at Disney? Leave us a comment and tell us all about how you plan to pamper Mom this year! 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: DFB Reader Questions Answered: Best Restaurants to Celebrate a Grown-Up Birthday at Walt Disney World Mother’s Day at Disney World and Disneyland News! Mother’s Day Meals at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel View the full article

A cruise around the British Isles is one of our brand-new offerings this summer, and just announced last week, we’re bringing back this incredible itinerary in 2017. Dublin, the capital of Ireland and home of Guinness stout, is one of the fantastic destinations Disney cruisers will have the opportunity to explore, so today I want to give you my suggestions for things to see and do in this vibrant, 1,000-year-old city. A Traditional Day in Ireland – This full-day excursion is a great way to get a feel for Dublin’s Old-World charm and life as a Dubliner. In addition to seeing historic landmarks throughout the city, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch and an entertaining performance of traditional Irish song and dance at a local pub. Then, it’s your turn to put your skills to the test after an expert Irish dance teacher shows you the moves of the famous hard-shoe Riverdance. Dublin’s North Coast and Malahide Castle – This Port Adventure gives you the chance to venture out of the city – with views of Dublin Bay and the Wicklow Mountains along the way – to visit one of Ireland’s oldest castles. Set on 250 acres of park land, the Malahide Castle dates back to the 14th century. It contains one of the finest collections of Irish period furniture as well as a trove of Irish portrait paintings from the National Gallery. Your excursion also includes a stop at the 11th-century Abbey Tavern in the quaint fishing port of Howth to enjoy an Irish coffee and savor the genuine atmosphere of old Ireland. Becoming a Guinness Connoisseur – If you have a taste for Irish dry stout, you won’t want to miss a visit to the Guinness Storehouse at St. James Gate Brewery to see how the beer is brewed and learn about the company’s 250-year history. On this signature tour, adult Disney cruisers also have the chance to become a connoisseur during an exclusive tasting session in Guinness’s luxurious, private connoisseur bar. Whiskey lovers may opt for A Taste of Ireland: Whiskey in the Jar to visit the site of the Old Jameson Distillery and compare Irish whiskeys against scotch and bourbon. Both Port Adventures journey through the heart of Dublin for the opportunity to see the medieval, Georgian and modern architecture of the city. Next up, I’ll showcase Port Adventures in Liverpool, England. Like Dublin, Liverpool is a port of call on our British Isles cruises and also our transatlantic voyage next month. Remember, when the ship’s in port, venture ashore! View the full article

Hooray Earth! Our planet feeds us, shelters us, and provides great fun. The Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival will celebrate Earth Day all weekend April 22-24. Start your Earth Day fun by checking out the Festival’s first-time expansion into The Land, where you can see large overlays of edible flowers. The greens harvested from the pavilion are part of the Field Greens salad at the Cider House outdoor kitchen. Can’t get fresher than that! For an occasion that celebrates environmental protection, the Festival folks certainly sniffed out the right guest for the weekend-long festivities. A pocket beagle named Captain Ron is gearing up for beach season, and is taking a break to meet guests at The Seas. During the summer, three days a week, he can be found at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort, assisting Disney’s Sea Turtle Conservation team in detecting the location of freshly laid eggs in sea turtle nests. This helps the team protect the nests. You’ll have a chance to meet Captain Ron and his trainer Pepe Peruyero, at 10:30 a.m, 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. on the Friday, Saturday and Sunday of Earth Day weekend. The duo will give a short presentation about their work, and will be available for photos. You can help our butterfly scientists collect data about these creatures and their plant preferences in our new Citizen Science project at the Pollinator Garden. The data will be used to help some of the endangered butterfly species. As we’ve shared a few weeks ago, purple martins enjoy visiting Walt Disney World Resort too – they even have their own “resort” at Epcot! At 11:00 a.m. each day during Earth Day weekend, you can get an up-close look at a nest with a purple martin expert, presented by the The Florida Audubon. At the Festival Center, catch horticulture and wildlife experts leading seminars about aquaponics, making your property wildlife-friendly and how to grow new plants from the plants you already have. And don’t forget young guests can frolic in our play gardens, Music Garden Melodies and Cactus Road Rally. At night, stroll through our gardens adorned with twinkling lights before ending your time at the Festival. Cheers to you, Earth! View the full article

UPDATE: Marvel’s “Captain America: Civil War” Special Advanced Screening has reached capacity and confirmation emails are being sent. Keep an eye on the Disney Parks Blog for future events! He’s been visiting with Disney California Adventure park guests for the last few weeks, and now The First Avenger is getting ready to make his big-screen return in Marvel’s “Captain America: Civil War”! And today I’m excited to invite you, our Disney Parks Blog readers, to attend a special advanced screening of the film here at AMC Downtown Disney 12 at the Disneyland Resort on Friday, April 29. Marvel’s “Captain America: Civil War” finds Steve Rogers leading the newly formed team of Avengers in their continued efforts to safeguard humanity. But after another incident involving the Avengers results in collateral damage, political pressure mounts to install a system of accountability, headed by a governing body to oversee and direct the team. The new status quo fractures the Avengers, resulting in two camps—one led by Steve Rogers and his desire for the Avengers to remain free to defend humanity without government interference, and the other following Tony Stark’s surprising decision to support government oversight and accountability. Join the battle by showing your allegiance at this special advanced screening. Show you’re on Captain America’s team by wearing blue, and those loyal to Iron Man should wear red! Can’t make it to the special advanced screening? Then be sure to catch Marvel’s “Captain America: Civil War” in theaters in 3D on May 6, 2016. Join us the afternoon of Friday, April 29! Space for the event is limited and you must sign up here. Please remember the following: All participants who sign up for the event must be 18 years or older, but guests of the participants may be younger than 18. Limit one guest per registrant. Event confirmations are non-transferrable and have no cash value. Confirmation will be for the accepted registered person plus one guest. Valid photo I.D. will be required at check-in. Participants will be responsible for any parking fees. The movie is rated PG-13. Please arrive early. Seating is first come, first seated. No one will be admitted late. The screening may be overbooked and seating is not guaranteed. Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures (WDSMP), the Disneyland Resort, their affiliates and the theatre are not responsible for overbooking. We may refuse, revoke or limit admission in our sole discretion at any time. NO RECORDING. The screening will be monitored for unauthorized recording. By attending, you agree not to bring any video or audio recording devices (including, without limitation, cameras and phones) into the venue and you consent to a physical search of your belongings and person for recording devices. If you attempt to enter with a recording device, you will be denied admission. If you attempt to use a recording device during this screening, you consent to your immediate removal from the venue and forfeiture of your recording device and its contents. Any attempted unauthorized recording will be reported to law enforcement and may subject you to criminal and civil liability. We reserve the right to pursue any and all available remedies at law and in equity for any unauthorized recording and/or copyright infringement, including without limitation statutory damages of up to $150,000 per violation, and nothing contained in this notice shall be construed to limit our available remedies and/or legal recourse. You assume all risks of personal injury arising from or incidental to attending the screening, whether occurring prior to, during, or after the event. Further, by attending you grant permission to WDSMP, its licensees, licensors, affiliates and agents, to record and utilize your name, voice and likeness to publicize the screening and promote the movie. I will give an update at the top of this post when capacity has been reached. Please note the event is subject to change or cancellation without notice. View the full article

Hollywood Studios has really been changing things up on us lately! Learn About: Oasis Canteen Disney's Hollywood Studios Disney World Restaurants Of course, we saw some of this coming with fair warning: we knew that several Counter Service spots would be closing in early April to make way for the construction of Star Wars and Toy Story Lands. So far, construction has most affected the former Streets of America section of the park, and the remaining dining location in that area — Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano — is now part of the recently renamed area of Muppets Courtyard (meanwhile, its nearby neighbor, Toy Story Pizza Planet, is closed for a major makeover of its own). Suddenly down a few dining locations, rumors of additions are starting to swirl (like a possible themed bar coming to the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror attraction). That’s just a glimpse of some of the changes around the park. And as much as these changes are highly likely to result in a really great experience once the new Lands are complete, it’s all enough to make you want to visit a tried-and-true spot and soak in some familiarity. So it came as a fairly big surprise when one of those tried-and-trues revealed an entirely new menu on our most recent visit. Oasis Canteen Sign The Oasis Canteen (located near the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular) has been the Hollywood Studios home to the theme park staple of Funnel Cakes for years. But now the usual drink offerings are accompanied by something entirely different. “Cold Beer, Bottled Beer, Cold Drinks” Chicken Nuggets have taken over the menu. However, now the usual Chicken Breast Nuggets that you’ll find pretty much all over Disney World are served alongside a second choice, unique to the Canteen: Sweet Chili-Glazed Chicken Breast Nuggets. New Menu at Oasis Canteen Sweet Chili-Glazed Chicken Breast Nuggets One more little twist is that the Nuggets are served with Lays Classic Chips and a small serving of celery and carrots with a Buttermilk Ranch dipper (as opposed to the standard side of French Fries). Ranch, Carrots and Celery Sticks The only other condiment available is Heinz Barbecue Sauce, so if you need ketchup for some reason, Min & Bill’s Dockside Diner is your closest and easiest spot to grab some. Barbecue Sauce As per usual, you receive eight Chicken Nuggets. Sweet Chili-Glazed Chicken Nuggets The sweet chili glaze tasted great with the nuggets, with an emphasis on the tangy. For those nervous about the spice, the heat was very light, and this dish would easily still be enjoyable even when it’s already hot outside. Sweet Chili-Glazed Nugget Closeup The chicken nuggets at Disney, of course, are always a win for me. I love that the breading is thick enough to remain crunchy even with the addition of the sauce. Sweet Chili-Glazed Chicken Breast Nugget Cross-Section I also enjoyed the sticky texture of the glaze, which gave a unique quality to what is otherwise a standard dish. But this might be a good time to mention that there are no tables and chairs at this very simple kiosk, and juggling a sticky entree isn’t really an easy task. Just head over the the large seating area at nearby Min & Bill’s Dockside Diner to enjoy these. Having lost one of the only other variations on the standard Nuggets when the Buffalo Chicken Nuggets were removed from Backlot Express with the transition to a more Star Wars-themed menu, it’s fun to have another variety of this Disney Counter Service staple available again. Though the focus of the Oasis Canteen is now on savory instead of sweet with the loss of the Funnel Cakes, there is still a dessert option on the menu (that also counts as a snack credit on the Disney Dining Plan): a Mickey Brownie. Mickey Brownie Though I didn’t try it on this trip, it’s essentially a brownie pop decorated to look like our favorite mouse. Cute! I was honestly a little bummed to see the funnel cakes gone from Oasis Canteen, but with the loss of some quick-service spots and kiosks around Hollywood Studios, I can see where additional entree offerings are needed. And with the amount of change we’ve seen at this particular park as of late, I wouldn’t be one bit surprised to see Funnel Cakes pop back up somewhere. As this most recent visit helps to demonstrate, you never know what you might find — especially these days — at Disney’s Hollywood Studios! Will you be trying the Sweet Chili-Glazed Nuggets? 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: Snack Series: Oasis Canteen at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Review: Backlot Express at Disney’s Hollywood Studios (Now with New Menu AND Buffalo Nuggets!) Review: Chili-Cheese Nachos with Pico de Gallo and Jalapeño at Herbie’s Drive-In at Hollywood Studios View the full article

The Star Wars Half Marathon – The Dark Side will be a race long remembered. One of my favorite parts of a runDisney race weekend is getting the opportunity to get together with visiting friends, partners and make new friends! My friends at Star Wars, Lucasfilm Story Group member Matt Martin and Star Wars contributor Cole Horton, showed our dark side throughout the weekend with casual wear from Champion and New Balance. Matt even personalized his Darth Vader-inspired look with a homemade chest box! You might recognize the outfits from my last blog: It’s Time To Pack for runDisney Star Wars Half Marathon- The Dark Side. Even the young apprentices were ready to conquer the runDisney Kids Races presented by GoGo squeeZ® in their Darth Vader ensembles. We weren’t the only ones who were inspired by our favorite Star Wars characters, runners embraced the theme in their style during the Star Wars 5K, Star Wars 10K and Star Wars Half Marathon – The Dark Side. To see some more of our favorite weekend looks, visit our gallery on our Facebook page! Thank you to all participants during Star Wars Half Marathon – The Dark Side. Follow @runDisney on Twitter and Instagram to see the galactic fun over the weekend. Show us how you embraced your dark side-inspired style using the hashtag #StarWarsHalf! View the full article

If you’ve visited Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort lately, you may have spied the construction going on in the Town Center area, which will soon come to life with more than 30 new shopping and dining experiences. The design of Town Center is “Mediterranean Revival,” a style of architecture that was popular in the 1920s & 1930s. In fitting this with the rest of the story of Disney Springs, the Town Center area would’ve been built a bit later than the turn-of-the-century town of Disney Springs was established. To make Town Center fit perfectly in this story, Walt Disney Imagineering created unique patterns and designs, some of which incorporate a nod to the town’s citrus growing history by featuring orange blossoms. One place to spy the hand-carved detail will be in some of the store fronts in Town Center, including the one pictured above. (The photos above illustrate the process from left to right – the design being stamped, then hand-tooled and carved). For more on what you can expect to see when Town Center opens this summer, visit Tom Smith’s previous blog post. View the full article

The Force became clearer at Disney's Hollywood Studios Monday night, but only for a select few. As part of the summer media preview that runs through Wednesday, media were able to see a scale model of the Grauman's Chinese Theatre and how the new, bigger, longer "Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular"... View the full article

The Force became clearer at Disney's Hollywood Studios tonight, but only for a select few. As part of the summer media preview that runs through Wednesday, media were able to see a scale model of the Grauman's Chinese Theatre and how the new, bigger, longer "Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular" fireworks... View the full article

Today, I have a look at new Dooney & Bourke handbags coming to select merchandise locations at Disney Parks this spring. The first collection is called “Mickey Thru the Years” and features a salute to the one and only Mickey Mouse. We’ll offer a large letter carrier, a tote and a wristlet. Once released in early May, look for them in merchandise locations that currently carry Dooney & Bourke items. The second collection is called “Romancing Minnie,” and it will only be found at Cherry Tree Lane inside the Marketplace Co-Op at Disney Springs Marketplace starting in mid-to-late May. These leather bags won’t be carried at Disneyland Resort locations at this time. Look for three styles including a zip satchel, a large letter carrier, and a pouchette. Finally, we will release three bags inspired by characters and icons from Star Wars. This is the first time we’ve introduced black leather bags with embossed characters and icons. These items are due to arrive around mid-to-late May at Legends of Hollywood in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, or at The Star Trader in Disneyland park. You may find select Dooney & Bourke items shown above via the Shop Disney Parks mobile app before they are released in merchandise locations at Disney Parks. To download this free app, please visit DisneyWorld.com/Shop. View the full article

We are less than a month away from the beginning of the next stage of Disney Springs. The Town Center “neighborhood” will begin opening stores in phases as of May 15. This is new territory for the entertainment complex formerly known as Downtown Disney: Town Center – and one more parking garage... View the full article

Ladies and Gentlemen, we’re back at Beaches and Cream Soda Shop for TWO reasons. Learn About: Beaches and Cream Disney World Restaurants One: We can never stay away from the home of amazing ice cream creations like the No Way Jose, Frozen Sunshine, Brownie a la Mode, and the always epic Kitchen Sink for too terribly long and… Two: We just HAD to check out the new ADULT BEVERAGES MENU featuring Hard Floats and Milkshakes!!! WHA?!?!??!…you’re probably saying? That’s right… if you’re ready to enjoy some ice cream concoctions with an adult twist, it turns out that Beaches & Cream should be your next stop. Like, PRONTO. My great pal @danielwanderman alerted us to this wonderful development at our favorite old-fashioned ice cream parlor in Disney’s Beach Club Resort, and it is a DOOZY. Beaches and Cream at Disney’s Beach Club Resort Just take a gander… Adult Drink Menu at Beaches & Cream Five Adult Hard Floats and Milkshakes make up the main menu, featuring a S’mores Shake, the Classic Root Beer Float, a Grasshopper Float, a Tropical Sunrise Float, and a Stout Float. Beaches & Cream Adult Drink Menu A selection of beer (including Guinness and the crazy delicious Schofferhofer Pink Grapefruit) along with hard ciders and root beer are listed on the back. Beer, Cider and Hard Soda List So, what’s the story behind these additional sweet-treats-with-a-twist? Well, here’s a little scoop (Ha!)… though these beautiful bevvies are currently found on the printed menus you see above, in time they will be showing up on the regular, permanent menu. Beaches and Cream menu And this is all thanks to one of the leadership Cast Members at the Beach Club who came up with the adult drink menu and pitched it to the powers-that-be. As though the Cast Members at the Beach Club and Beaches & Cream weren’t already some of my favorite people on the whole planet… . But let’s waste no more time and get to sippin’! First up: the S’mores Shake is made with chocolate and vanilla ice cream, Amarula Cream liqueur and Cream de Dark Coco… all topped with marshmallow, chocolate sauce, and graham, naturally! S’mores Shake I know the name “S’more” comes from everyone around the campfire wanting “SOME MORE” of the classic camping treat. Honestly, though, I’m typically good after about one of those. But THIS one, though… S’mores Shake With the extra-creamy taste from the Amarula and the overall decadence of the whole thing… umm, yeah. I’ll take S’MORE of this anytime. (Extra DFB Detail You-Heard-It-Here-First Tidbit: If the words “S’mores Shake” ring a bell, by the way, it may be because you read about a drink of the same name coming to D-Luxe Burger, one of the several eateries still on the way to Disney Springs owned and operated by Disney. As it so happens, one of the D-Luxe Burger reps came out to Beaches & Cream and got a little inspiration from this new menu! So you might see some similar concoctions at the newest burger joint on the block very soon!) Up next: the Classic Root Beer Float! It’s exactly what you would expect: a traditional vanilla ice cream float poured over with Hard Root Beer. Classic Root Beer Float If you’re looking for the drink with the taste most like the ice cream treats you enjoyed as a kid, this is the one. The alcohol it’s made with is Hard Root Beer (Coney Island brand, as opposed to the Not Your Father’s version of this float that you’ll find at Fife & Drum Tavern), which is made to mimic a regular root beer, ensuring a more classic taste… and hence the name . Classic Root Beer Float Having tried both (you’ll see our review of the Float at Fife & Drum coming up soon), I prefer this version at Beaches & Cream, because I think the Coney Island Hard Root Beer has better flavor. The Grasshopper Float is the pick for all you mint fans out there: it’s made with Mint Chip Ice Cream and Guinness Stout. Grasshopper Float Okay, true: not everyone enjoys Mint Chip Ice Cream, and it does have a bit of an odd appearance in this drink compared to the others. But if you ARE a Mint Chip fan (like me!), then go for it! The combo with the Guinness is a winner. Grasshopper Float The Tropical Sunrise Float is a beauty with its Rainbow Sherbet base (you’ll also find this ingredient in the non-alcoholic Frozen Sunshine). Here, the citrusy sherbet gets a tropical spin with the addition of Ace Pineapple Hard Cider. Tropical Sunrise Float This is the lightest of the drinks (as in the least heavy; maybe not so much from a calorie perspective), and it’s also surprisingly sour, which is HUGE bonus for me, because I LOVE sour drinks! Tropical Sunrise Float This and the S’mores, if I HAD to pick, are my favorites. Honestly, though, there wasn’t a bad one in the bunch. Which, finally, includes the Stout Float, combining Guinness Stout with vanilla ice cream and chocolate sauce. It. Is. GORGEOUS. Stout Float With vanilla ice cream and chocolate sauce to pick up on the rich flavor of the Guinness, it’s nearly as decadent as the S’mores Shake in its own way, and a fun find for Guinness lovers who might not be on board with the Mint Chip in the Grasshopper Float. Stout Float Oh! And here’s a tip… you can grab these drinks at the Beaches & Cream To-Go spot, too, where you’ll receive them in a plastic cup. Adult Drinks in To-Go Cups I’d say the Tropical Sunrise Float in particular is pretty much made for sipping while lounging at Stormalong Bay, wouldn’t you agree? Tropical Sunrise Float in To-Go Cup So, if you’re over 21, be sure to keep these options in mind if you’re so inclined to imbibe what might just be your NEW favorite dessert. ‘Cuz you know, we all need even MORE reasons to love going to Beaches & Cream ! Will you be trying any of the Adult Hard Floats or Milkshakes on your next visit to Beaches & Cream? 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: Beaches and Cream Soda Shop Review: Beaches and Cream Soda Shop Desserts Review: Lunch at Beaches and Cream Soda Shop at Disney’s Beach Club Resort View the full article

The Disney Theme Park Merchandise event team has some very special artist appearances scheduled for the month of May. Here are a few you do not want to miss! Disney California Adventure Park May 6–8: Precious Moments Doll Designer Linda Rick will be on hand for the release of some of her newest dolls, among other fan favorites, from noon – 10 p.m. each day, at Off the Page in Hollywood Land. Learn more here. Downtown Disney District May 7: Meet artist Jerrod Maruyama, who will be on hand to showcase some of his latest works at WonderGround Gallery from 3-5 p.m. Learn more here. May 7–8 and May 28-29: Don’t miss the chance to meet Leilani Joy during a special artist showcase, May 7 from 5–9 p.m., and May 8, 28 & 29 from 2-5 p.m., each day, at WonderGround Gallery. Learn more here. May 21: Artist SHAG will appear May 21, 2016, at WonderGround Gallery as we celebrate the release of his latest work, titled “A Wretched Hive” inspired by Star Wars. The art will be featured on an array of items including apparel, home décor, D-Tech on Demand and more. Also appearing are Dana and Melanie Harvey who have combined forces with SHAG on their new collection. SHAG and the Harveys will appear from 3–5 p.m. Learn more here. Artist in Residence: Appearing at WonderGround Gallery throughout the month is artist Gregg Visintainer. Look for artist showcases on the following dates: May 13–14, 20–21 and 27–28 from 6–10 p.m. each day. Learn more here. Which event or artist showcase are you the most excited to attend? View the full article

In recent years, we have offered unique t-shirts on our Disney Parks online store that celebrate classic Disney attractions, films and characters. Today, I’m excited to share a look at several new shirts coming to the online store in April and May 2016. These limited release shirts will be offered online only at DisneyStore.com/ParksEvents. Please allow 3-5 weeks for delivery once ordered. April 18-24 – Rocket Jets and Star Jets I love these retro ringer t-shirts that highlight two Tomorrowland attractions. The Rocket Jets opened on July 2, 1967 at Disneyland park in California, while the Star Jets opened on November 28, 1974 at Magic Kingdom Park in Florida. Both shirts were designed by Disney Design Group artist Richard Terpstra. Please note the image above features artwork so the final shirts may look slightly different. April 28 – May 4 – Twenty Eight & Main We will offer two new shirts from our Twenty Eight & Main collection. One features transportation vehicles from on Main Street, U.S.A. (hello, Omnibus!). The second shirt includes a Disney Parks Blog fan favorite, the Orange Bird. May 2-8 – Bob-A-Round Boats and Phantom Boats These two shirts celebrate a slice of Disney Parks’ history. Designed by Disney artist Richard Terpstra, the first shirt features Bob-A-Round boats. In the early days of Walt Disney World Resort, guests could rent these boats to “bob” around the Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake. Today, you can see a photo of a Bob-A-Round boat in the Great Ceremonial House at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. The other shirt was designed by artist Ian Giles and features the Phantom Boats, a short lived Tomorrowland attraction in Disneyland park that operated from 1955-56. Both designs will be offered as shirts for adults and youth. May 16-22 – Mickey Mouse Raglan This Mickey Mouse Raglan was also designed by Richard. He was inspired by a painter’s cap that was once sold at Walt Disney World Resort many years ago. View the full article

In this week’s “Disney Doodle,” artist Ashley Taylor imagines what Alice from “Alice in Wonderland” may do if she had the chance to visit Magic Kingdom Park. With Alice’s love of books, there’s little doubt she’d meet-up with Belle in her library inside Beast’s Castle. View the full article

Happy Monday! In this week’s “Good Morning” photo, our photographers captured the beauty of the sun rising in the France Pavilion in World Showcase at Epcot. Hmm, how early is too early to indulge in some French goodies? View the full article

The country music group Rascal Flatts, hip-hop artist Flo Rida and singer Rachel Platten are expected to perform at the closing ceremony of the Invictus Games on May 12 at Disney World, a news release will reveal Monday. Former reality-show winners Phillip Phillips ("American Idol'') and Jordan... View the full article

Hello to all my fellow USA residents who are not only facing MONDAY, but are also facing TAX DAY! I have a special message for those of us who have been buried under receipts and government forms and other boring things (oh my!) for days, weeks, and months…and even for those of us who paid someone else to be buried under receipts and government forms, but still had to write the check! This is me while I’m doing my taxes. It’s time to take a TAX BREAK…and plan your DISNEY TRIP INSTEAD! That’s totally worthy of celebration, I think! So this week only, we’re offering two fantastic opportunities to save…and excuses to blow off your responsibilities and start making FASTPASS RESERVATIONS! ;-D We’re talking 50% off of the DFB Guide Everything Bundle (that’s OVER $70 off the cover prices!) and 30% off of the book that started it all — the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2016 e-Book! Save 50% Off of the DFB Everything Bundle (More than $70 off the cover prices!) Get the Everything Bundle for 50% off the regular price by using promo code MICKEY50 at checkout! What does it include? The name says it all — Everything! When you purchase the DFB Everything Bundle, you get all of the following DFB Guides: The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, 2016 Edition The DFB Guide to Magic Kingdom Snacks The DFB Guide to Epcot Snacks The DFB Guide to Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios Snacks A Pre-Order of the 2016 DFB Guide to the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, and the 2015 Edition for FREE as an immediate download A Pre-Order of the 2016 DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World Holidays, and the 2015 Edition for FREE as an immediate download DFB Dining Adventures That’s every single book in our collection of critically-acclaimed DFB Guides — individually priced at a total of over $100! But today, you get them for LESS THAN $30!! We only do this sale about twice a year, so now’s the time to take action. To take advantage of this amazing deal, just enter Promo Code MICKEY50 at checkout! Save 30% off of the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2016 e-Book But you can also save big on the fully updated DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2016 e-Book — just enter promo code MINNIE30, and it’s yours for 30% off! The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2016 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. It’s guaranteed to help you navigate your way to delicious dining on your next trip! And if you’re ready to get yours now, head on over to DFBStore.com to pick it up!! This week only, use promo code MINNIE30 to get 30% off the regular price for a limited time! What’s In The Guide? As thousands of repeat customers already know, the Guide includes: 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. The ability to be read on your mobile device or computer! It’s fully portable right in your pocket! While our 2015 Guide was extensive, Disney World is always updating menus, prices, and other dining info. And we’re always finding new things to tell you about! So we’ve updated our 2016 edition with brand new details and more exclusive info! Check out a couple of sample pages below. Click to enlarge! DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Sample Pages So don’t wait! We’re offering Everything Bundle Guide for 50% off using code MICKEY50, and the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2016 e-Book for 30% off using MINNIE30 for a limited time — now through April 15! For more detailed information and screen shots from the e-Book, head over to DFBStore.com. With a 100% money-back guarantee, you have nothing to lose! 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: Celebrate Daylight Savings with…MORE Savings! Happy New Year! Celebrate with a Special Deal on the DFB Guide 2016 Pre-Order LEAP Into Savings Today at DFBStore.com! View the full article

Happy Sunday! We hope you’re having a wonderful weekend! Funnel Cake Closeup We’re so excited to announce the grand launch of the Disney Food Blog Guide to Epcot Snacks 2016-17 edition e-book! We’ve updated the instantly downloadable guide and this edition features more than 340 Epcot snacks, including more than 60 new snacks! To celebrate the grand launch of the Disney Food Blog Guide to Epcot Snacks we’re offering the guide for a 25% discount off the cover price! Simply use the code Epcot16 at checkout to get the discount! And, as always the Disney Food Blog Guide to Epcot Snacks comes with a 100% money-back guarantee. We have a lot to share with you this week, so let’s jump right in… Disney Food News Free dining at the Walt Disney World Resort might be announced very soon! We checked out the updated menu and premium toppings bar at Restaurantosaurus at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Amorette’s Patisserie is opening May 15 at the Town Center in Disney Springs! We’re talking about the best of the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival! Is a new lounge coming to The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror at Disney’s Hollywood Studios? That’s the rumor! We have a report on “What’s New” at the Walt Disney World Resort! We enjoyed lunch at Tony’s Town Square at the Magic Kingdom. Looking for a few new smoothie recipes? Check out these smoothies from the Senses Juice Bar on Disney Cruise Line. 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! There are so many delicious things to eat at this year’s Epcot Flower & Garden Festival. DFB reader Melissa said these Candied Strawberries from the Lotus House booth were #CompleteHeaven! Strawberry bliss! Plastic cheese lives!! We have to admit we got really excited when we saw this photo from DFB reader Natalie Baron! Her corn dog nuggets and fries from Intermission Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort came with a cup of hot liquid cheese! Natalie says the cheese is actually for the chili cheese dogs but you can request a cup on the side. Plastic cheese in a cup! 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: Grand Launch and 25% off of the DFB Guide to Epcot Snacks; 25% Off the DFB Guide + Snacks Bundle It’s here!! We are absolutely thrilled to share the Grand Launch of the Disney Food Blog Guide to Epcot Snacks e-Book, 2016-17 Edition! Use Your Snack Credits Wisely! And to celebrate, we’re offering a 25% off discount for a limited time! Use code Epcot16 at check-out! We’ve updated our detailed snack guide to help you find the best eats (and treats!) in Walt Disney World’s Epcot. You’ll see some of your old favorites as well as some snacks that you might have missed. This edition includes over 340 Epcot snacks, and over 60 NEW snacks! The Disney Food Blog Guide to Epcot Snacks e-Book The DFB Guide to Epcot Snacks e-Book is created to supplement our massive Disney Food Blog Guide to Walt Disney World Dining e-Book. Here you’ll find in-depth information, photos, and reviews about iconic and new-to-you Epcot snacks — in great detail! How Do I Get One? There is absolutely no waiting to satisfy your snack cravings! This guide is an instantly downloadable PDF guide with 387 pages of information and advice on over 340 delicious snacks that you can savor in Disney World’s Epcot. Download your copy right now, and start planning! Don’t Miss Out on the Best Snacks in Epcot! This guide is guaranteed to help you better plan your snacks and treats in Epcot, or your money back — we all know that treats in Epcot are just as important as a FastPass+ for Soarin! DFB Guide to Epcot Snacks Sample Pages The DFB Guide to Epcot Snacks e-Book includes: Huge, full-color photos of over 340 of our favorite snacks (including 70 brand new snacks in this edition!) Current prices and Disney Dining Plan snack credit status Snack locations Insider tips and details we’ve discovered through over 20 years of Disney World snacking experience Snack reviews Special Bonus items you’re going to love! (Of course…how could we not include these?) Disney World veterans and those new to Epcot will appreciate knowing what they are getting BEFORE using a precious snack credit or spending their limited vacation dollars. Whether you want sweet, salty, crunchy, healthy, or all of the above, The DFB Guide to Epcot Snacks e-Book tells you where to find a snack to match your craving! Don’t forget — for easy access in the parks, put the guide on your smartphone or iPad! As we mentioned before, to celebrate the grand launch and to thank you for your support of the blog, we’ll be offering the Guide for a 25% off discount! To secure the discount, use code Epcot16 at the check-out. For more detailed information, head over to The DFB Guide to Epcot Snacks! Want Even Greater Savings? Here’s How! Get four awesome e-Books bundled for 25% off! Limited time only… Bundle for greater savings Our DFB Guide & Snacks Bundle offers: The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2016, PLUS The DFB Guide to Epcot Snacks, The DFB Guide to Magic Kingdom Snacks, The DFB Guide to Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom Snacks All four are being sold together — for 25% off the already hugely discounted bundle price. Use code BUNDLE16 at check out to get the discount. Our Snack Guides vibrantly display and review hundreds of Disney World snacks (!!), including classic favorites and some of our favorite under-the-radar treats and eats in the parks. Get your DFB Guide & Snacks Bundle — including the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2016, the DFB Guide to Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom Snacks, the DFB Guide to Epcot Snacks, and the DFB Guide to Magic Kingdom Snacks — for 25% off here. Find out more about the DFB Guide & Snack Bundle here! Did You Purchase a Previous Edition of the DFB Guide to Epcot Snacks? If you purchased a copy of a previous edition of the DFB Guide to Epcot Snacks BEFORE April 14, 2016, we’ve got great news for you! Previous purchasers will receive a $4 discount off of the 2016-17 edition of the guide. Please email us at Support@DFBGuide.com and note the email address used to purchase the earlier e-Book to receive your special discount code! For more detailed information and sample pages from The DFB Guide to Epcot Snacks, head over to DFBStore.com! 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 a candle that smells like the Main Street Bakery! It’s almost as good as being there! WDW For Grownups shared their Top 5 Salty Snacks at Walt Disney World. Disney Family shared their recipe for Zootopia’s Nick Wilde Pawpsicles. Too cute! OhMyDisney shared their favorite sweet treats from Vanellope’s Sweets and Treats on the Disney Dream. Buzzfeed showed us how to throw the BEST ‘Star Wars’ birthday party ever. Babble shared its 10 Disney Movies & Popcorn parings! 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: April 10, 2016 Disney Food Post Round-Up: March 13, 2016 Disney Food Post Round-Up: March 6, 2016 View the full article