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Think that cooking oil is only good for making your favorite recipe? Think again! Cooking oil is actually a key ingredient for biodiesel fuel – a nontoxic biodegradable fuel that drastically reduces engine emissions in comparison to traditional petroleum diesel. As part of our commitment to minimize waste whenever possible, Disney Cruise Line has donated more than 60,000 gallons of used cooking oil to Bahamas Waste Management since 2011 to help power their fleet of vehicles in Nassau. Take a look at this video to learn more about this process. Bahamas Waste collects the used cooking oil directly from Disney Cruise Line ships in Nassau and converts it into biodiesel fuel. Today, approximately 25 Bahamas Waste vehicles are fueled by biodiesel and the organization has future plans to expand to its entire fleet. On a weekly basis, more than 1,000 gallons of used cooking oil are offloaded Disney Cruise Line ships and recycled in ports of call around the world. The recycled oil program is just one of many environmental initiatives at Disney Cruise Line focused on utilizing new technologies, increasing fuel efficiency, minimizing waste and promoting conservation worldwide. We strive to instill positive environmental stewardship in our cast and crew members and seek to inspire others through programs that engage guests and the communities in our ports of call. You can learn more about our environmental efforts here: DisneyCruiseLinePublicAffairs.com. Disney Cruise Line Donates Used Cooking Oil to Help Power Fleet of Vehicles in Bahamas by Rebecca Peddie: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

This past Saturday, Dec. 26, in a ceremony at Disney California Adventure park, No. 5 Iowa and No. 6 Stanford met to celebrate their upcoming match-up in the 2016 Rose Bowl Game presented by Northwestern Mutual on Friday, January 1, 2016, in Pasadena, Calif., during a visit to the Disneyland Resort. Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz, Stanford head coach David Shaw and members of both teams appeared in a ceremony with Disneyland Resort President Michael Colglazier and Mickey Mouse and friends at Paradise Pier in Disney California Adventure park. Among the Iowa players in attendance were offensive lineman Austin Blythe, running back Jordan Canzeri, defensive back Jordan Lomax, defensive back Greg Mabin and wide receiver Tevaun Smith. Featured Stanford players at the ceremony were quarterback Kevin Hogan, cornerback Ronnie Harris, inside linebacker Blake Martinez, offensive guard Joshua Garnett and running back Christian McCaffrey. Following the ceremony, each team enjoyed opportunities to experience popular Disney California Adventure park attractions, including Radiator Springs Racers in Cars Land and California Screamin’ at Paradise Pier. For Stanford, this will be the third time in four years and the 15th appearance all-time in the Rose Bowl Game. The Cardinal also makes history for being the Pac-12 champion during the 100-year anniversary of the conference. Iowa will make its sixth appearance overall in the Rose Bowl Game, and the first since 1991. The two teams have never met in a football game in the schools’ histories. Disneyland Resort Welcomes Rose Bowl Game-Bound No. 5 Iowa and No. 6 Stanford Football Teams by Erin Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Do you make vacations a priority for your family? Disney Parks Moms’ Panelist Kate says that before joining Disney Vacation Club, her family didn’t vacation often enough. See what she has to say about how being a Disney Vacation Club Member enhanced her family’s ability to take regular vacations. For 2016, why not make a resolution to travel more often and spend quality time together as a family with Disney Vacation Club? A Mom’s Take: Making Family Vacations a Priority Thanks to Disney Vacation Club by Amanda Adler: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Our holiday series of Disney Doodles concludes this week with a look at Pinocchio and Jiminy Cricket, wishing on a star. Best wishes to all our readers for a happy, healthy new year. Disney Doodle: Pinocchio Wishes On A Star by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

This New Year’s Eve, Magic Kingdom Park will welcome in the year 2016 with a special presentation of “Fantasy in the Sky” fireworks at 11:50 p.m. EST. And the Disney Parks Blog team will celebrate by bringing this amazing show to you live, right here on the blog. To join us for the live stream, simply visit the Disney Parks Blog main page on Thursday night around 11:45 p.m. EST. The live stream will appear in a fresh blog post at the top of our site. And don’t forget to join the conversation during the live stream on Twitter with the hashtag WHAT. Watch Walt Disney World’s New Year’s Eve Fireworks Live December 31 at 11:50 p.m. EST by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Join us as we take a trip back to one of our favorite counter service stops — Cookes of Dublin! Learn About: Cooke’s of DublinDowntown Disney Disney World RestaurantsNot surprisingly, you’ll find this primarily-take-out spot adjacent to Raglan Road Irish Pub. In fact, it’s part of the same building, tucked in right around the corner from the restaurant’s main entrance. We routinely enjoy the house specialty here — freshly-prepard Fish and Chips. And it’s a rare visit that we don’t also indulge in some Irish Vintage Cheddar and Bacon Cheese Dip. But on a recent visit, with the family in tow, I decided to try a few of the other menu items. Come with us as we take a closer look. AtmosphereIf you’re looking for Cookes of Dublin, head for Raglan Road, and then hang a right. Go around past the gift shop and the Hole in the Wall Bar, and you’ve arrived! Cooke’s — Outside When you first step into the restaurant, you get a sense of just how small it is. That’s been done on purpose, actually. The owners envisioned this spot mostly as a takeaway. There are a few seats inside, however. Seating Area Here, you can see a few tables beyond the beverage and condiment station. Decor is vintage Dublin, with deep green-tiled walls and ceilings. Enlarged family photographs lend a sense of history, and etched mirrors serve to make the dining area feel a bit larger. Seats along the back wall include cushioned banquettes and chairs. Window tables are high-boy style. Seating — Up Close We selected one of the high-boys, primarily due to the cushioned window seats, where kiddos fit perfectly. Our Table Chalkboard signs remind you to check out offerings like the Soup de Jour and Dessert options. Signs One thing you should know about Cookes, compared to other counter service spots, is that many of the menu items are cooked to order. As a result, there’s usually a wait while your food is prepared. Also, there are no alcoholic beverages on the menu here. If you’d like a pint to go with your fish and chips or meat pie, then you’ll need to head back outside… This is Why You Wait a Bit :-) …Or rather, next door, to The Hole in the Wall. The Hole in the Wall The bar is one of several at Raglan Road, and also offers outdoor seating for Cookes. Outdoor Seating at Hole in the Wall An iron fence marks the perimeter of the bar, and a gate offers access to the walkway to Disney Springs. Gate Out to the Walkway Time to head back in and explore the menu a bit! EatsThe menu at Cookes is simple and hasn’t changed much through the years. Cooke’s Full Menu — Click to Enlarge Choose from Hand-Battered Specialties, like Cold Water Shrimp, Sausages, or Chicken Tenders. Dublin-style Savory Pies are also an option. If you’d like something on the lighter side, there are a few Salads to choose from. Hand Battered Options, Dublin-Style Pies, and Entree Salads — Click to Enlarge A selection of Sandwiches and Wraps are also on offer, including their signature Battered Burger. The Hog in a Box rounds out the main dish selections. More about that in a minute. Burgers, Sandwiches, and Hog in the Box — Click to Enlarge There are also some intriguing Side Dishes. This is where you can pick up your customary side of Crushed Peas if you choose to! The Kids’ Menu rounds out the offerings with scaled-down versions of the adult entrees, plus one extra option. Sides, Kids’ Menu, and Beverages — Click to Enlarge Most of the Desserts are on display, so you can get a good idea of what’s available and if they appeal to you. The day we visited there were only a few selections, and we didn’t spy many of the Cupcakes that we’ve seen on previous visits. The fan favorite Doh-Bar was also still absent from the menu. Apple Strawberry Crumble Lemon and Raspberry Trifle A lighter option, a Fresh Fruit Cup, was also available. Fresh Fruit Cups We did spy one cupcake — a Gluten Free Zucchini variety. Gluten Free Zucchini Cupcakes Cookies were also available, and might prove to be a good on-the-go snack later. Cookies Crackle Cookies As I mentioned before, you can expect a wait when you dine at Cookes. When you place your order, you’re given a number to take to your table. No magic roses here like you’ll find at Be Our Guest Restaurant, but your food will find you just the same. Table Number Once you place your order, you can go about gathering your Drinks and Condiments from the self-serve area. Beverages and Condiments They have everything you’d want for your dipping needs — including creamy Dalkey Mustard. This is the same mustard dip that you get inside Raglan Road with the Dalkey Duo! Condiment Dispenser Of course, not all things come in dispenser form. You can also pick up bottles to fill your condiment needs. After all, it wouldn’t be fish and chips shoppe without Malt Vinegar. Right? Bottled Condiments We chose a variety for our table. Condiments for the Table Soon, our food arrived. My husband opted to start his meal with a Side Caesar Salad. House Salad It includes the same ingredients as the Entree Salad: Grape tomatoes, Shaved Parmesan, Homemade Croutons and Prosciutto Crisp. House Salad — Under the Lid But while he really likes the salad, he prefers Cookes Ranch Dressing to their Caesar. (I like both.) Still, he asked for some Ranch Dressing, and they happily brought some out. Dressings The biggest reason we opted for Cookes that day is this right here — we LOVE their Cold Water Shrimp and Chips Basket. Cold Water Shrimp and Chips — Up Close The Shrimp are hand-battered and served tail-off, which makes eating them with a fork a little easier. Everyone at the table loved the light batter and fresh flavor. Cold Water Shrimp — Up Close A peek at the current menu shows that the Shrimp Basket has been replaced by a Cold Water Shrimp Skewer. We’ll have to check it out and report back to you on that one. I decided to go with the Hog in a Box. Craving Sunday Dinner the way that your grandma used to make it? Then this is the meal for you! It arrives tucked into a takeout box lined with Cookes signature paper. It’s a little hard to tell what’s what, with everything piled in there. Hog in a Box I asked for one of the takeout “boats” so you could see a little better what was what. It’s indeed a meal in a box. Hog in a Box — Out of the Box There’s slow-roasted Pork Shoulder, which is garnished with Pork Crackling, Applesauce, and Caramelized Onions. Hog in a Box — Pork Shoulder — Up Close Baby Potatoes are halved and roasted to a golden brown. Hog in a Box — Potatoes — Up Close But my favorite side in that box was the delicious Sage and Sweet Onion Stuffing. It was the perfect consistency — neither too wet nor too dry. This combination was incredible, and more than I could eat in one sitting. Really, it was such a delicious, comforting meal. What a treat that I could enjoy food like this without spending all day in my kitchen! Hog in a Box — Stuffing — Up Close Finally, the kiddo with us is a Mac and Cheese fiend, so a helping of Dubliner Mac and Cheese and Chips was in order. Dubliner Mac and Cheese and Chips This Mac and Cheese had more of an orange cast than I remember, and I would prefer that it come with a side other than Chips. But all in all, they enjoyed it. And it still has that sharp, slightly nutty flavor that’s the hallmark of Dubliner Cheese. Also, since it was kind of a special occasion (family movie day), we didn’t worry too much about the lack of veggies. Dubliner Mac and Cheese — Up Close We debated ending our meal with a 99! But in the end, we didn’t have room for dessert. Time for a walk around Disney Springs! OverallCookes remains one of the best counter service options at Disney Springs. While it will be interesting to see what competition moves in as the transformation of the area continues, we predict that lines will continue to be long and seating scarce at this spot. The reason? Very, very good — and authentic — food. It’s not fancy, but it’s well executed. And sometimes, well-prepared comfort food is exactly what you want. Have you stopped by Cookes of Dublin for a meal? Leave a comment and let us know what you think of this Disney Springs counter service spot! 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 NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: DFB Must-Have: Irish Vintage Cheese and Bacon Dip at Cookes of Dublin Review: Cookes of Dublin in Downtown Disney Review: Cookes of Dublin at Disney World’s Downtown Disney View the full article

The sunny skies of Florida and California might not feel holiday season-ish. But with the way our experts beautify the parks, how could you not be festive? This week in Disney Parks photos we go coast-to-coast: Erin Glover showed us some highlights through the numbers in her neck of the woods, and Jenn Fickley-Baker shared gorgeous after-dark photos from Magic Kingdom Park. We hope you had a wonderful Christmas! This Week in Disney Parks Photos: Holidays at Disney Parks by Victoria Lim: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

As this 2015 draws to a close, here is a look back at some of the most popular Disney Parks Blog articles about merchandise. My fellow author Michelle Harker and I loved sharing the latest and greatest products created especially for Disney Parks. Thank you for your enthusiasm and comments this year. We look forward to an exciting 2016 filled with even more Unforgettable tangible memories. Retail MagicBands – The most popular item this year was retail MagicBands at Walt Disney World Resort. We released a variety of new character, limited release, and limited edition MagicBands throughout the year. In fall, we opened a retail MagicBand on Demand station inside the Tomorrowland Light & Power Co. at Magic Kingdom Park where guests can create and personalize their own MagicBands. Dia De Los Muertos Treats – Michelle shared details about Dia de los Muertos, apples, cake pops and crispies at Disneyland Resort. Disney Parks Collection | PANDORA Jewelry – We continued offering new items from the Disney Parks Collection | PANDORA, a collection of hand finished sterling silver and 14K gold charms developed especially for Disney Parks. Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration – One of the most exciting things this year was the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration. The Disney Theme Park Merchandise team created more than 500 products, including apparel, accessories, headwear, home décor, souvenirs, toys, pins, D-Tech, collectibles and more. Michelle Harker shared details about these new items in a series of articles throughout the year including this popular behind-the-scenes video. New Collections and Classic Collaborations – We introduced two new collections this year for guests who love Disney and Disney Parks – Disney Boutique and Twenty Eight & Main. Guests also found new accessories by Vera Bradley or Dooney & Bourke. Unique Souvenirs From Disney Parks – This year saw plenty of unique souvenirs from Disney Parks including the Disney Parks Castle Play Set, hand sanitizers, and a new Disney Park Pack – Trading Edition offered only on the Disney Parks online store. The Disney Egg-stravaganza returned to Disney Parks in spring and the Sanderson Sisters put a spell on Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Parties in the fall. Finally, we launched the free Shop Disney Parks mobile app which gives guests access to thousands of products created for Disney Parks. It’s one of my favorite downloaded apps this year that can be found at DisneyWorld.com/Shop. Year in Review: Most Popular Products from Disney Parks in 2015 by Steven Miller: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Our holiday coverage continued this week at Disney Parks with daily stories and even a special edition of our email newsletter with an exclusive Christmas wallpaper. Along with our holiday content, we also shared some important information for those of you planning to welcome 2016 at the Walt Disney World Resort. Shawn posted a rundown of some of the entertainment lined up for this year’s celebration at Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Magic Kingdom Park. And if you can’t join us in person for New Year’s Eve, be sure to tune in here on the Disney Parks Blog where we’ll be hosting a live stream of “Fantasy in the Sky” fireworks, direct from Magic Kingdom Park on December 31. Watch for more details coming soon. We also included an update that reservations opened for Symphony in the Stars: A Galactic Spectacular Dessert Party at Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort. Symphony in the Stars: A Galactic Spectacular Dessert Party happens January 8-March 20, 2016 from 6:30-8 p.m. each Friday, Saturday and Sunday, with special viewing for the “Symphony in the Stars: A Galactic Spectacular” fireworks at 7:45 p.m. each night. You can enjoy a selection of sweets as the night sky erupts with an arsenal of impressive fireworks, set to the most dramatic and memorable Star Wars themes of all time. Check Pam’s story for more details. Here are some of the other stories we worked on this week. Every Role a Starring Role – Disneyland Resort Guest Talent Coordinator for Special Events Such as Disney ¡Viva Navidad! – Guest Talent Coordinator Danny Gaitan hosts guest performers at the Disneyland Resort during special events such as runDisney race weekends and holiday celebrations. Danny says he creates magic not only for our guests who experience the performances, but also for the performers who get the opportunity to entertain on a world-class stage. Disneyland Resort Horses Featured in Horsetown Parade of Lights in Norco, California – For the second year in a row, Disneyland Resort horses participated in the annual Horsetown Parade of Lights in Norco, Calif. Pulling a vintage stagecoach used in Frontierland for many decades, Clydesdale team Lucky and Eddie glowed as festive decorations illuminated their harnesses. By the Numbers: Holidays at Disney California Adventure Park – Last week, we put some numbers on the holiday cheer at Disneyland park, and now we’re back with some festive figures for Disney California Adventure park! Thirsty River Bar and Trek Snacks Now Open at Disney’s Animal Kingdom – Nestled in the imposing shadow of Mt. Everest, Thirsty River Bar and Trek Snacks is the perfect place for tired and hungry travelers to stop in for a quick bite to eat or a refreshing beverage. For climbers who are returning from their ascent, a stop at the bar is considered tradition. Set Sail for Wintertime Fun with Adventures by Disney Holiday River Cruises – Every family has their holiday traditions. In my family they all seem to center around baking, sweets and the regret that comes from so much baking and so many sweets. QUIZ: How Well Do You Know Walt Disney World Resort Holidays? – Have you visited Walt Disney World Resort this holiday season? Do you think you know everything there is to know about the amazing decorations and miles of lights that make our resort even prettier this time of year? Disney Parks Blog Weekly Recap by Thomas Smith: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

We hope you had a wonderful, magical, and Merry Christmas! As much as we love that holiday we’re really looking forward to ringing in the New Year later this week! This year has been full of great new restaurants including Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto, Morimoto Asia, and the recently-opened Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd., Skipper Canteen. And we’re certain that 2016 is going to be full of some great food news as more new spots open at Disney Springs including STK Orlando, The Edison, and Blaze Fast Fire’d Pizza! We just know 2016 is going to be awesome and we hope you have a great time ringing in the New Year this week! We have a lot to share, so let’s jump right in… Disney Food NewsThere’s a burger back on the menu at Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe!Dining in Disneyland checked out the Jungle Cruise Sunrise Safari Breakfast.We’re hearing news that a wine bar – Wine Bar George – by George Miliotes is coming to Disney Springs!We have some tips for pre-ordering your meal at Be Our Guest in the Magic Kingdom.You’ll want to check out these holiday drinks at Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar at Disneyland!The latest Passporter podcast is up featuring a “Disney Dining Update” with AJ! 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 FindsIf 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! DFB reader Amy Rhodes says she’s officially OK without the taco salad at Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe thanks to the amazing fajitas! We loved ‘em, too! Loving the new menu at Pecos Bill! We can’t get over this amazing use of Dumbo popcorn buckets by Luis Rodriguez, Jr! We’ve seen everything now that we’ve seen an elephant fly! Best food-themed holiday decorations – EVER. Elf on the Shelf flies Dumbo! Do you have a favorite Disney Food find? Share your photos with us! Deal of the Week: Pre-Order The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2016 e-book!The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining e-Book is an instantly downloadable PDF guide, featuring over 490 full-color pages of photographs, information, and advice about our favorite subjects — food and dining in Walt Disney World. Pre-Order the 2015 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining today and use promo code SANTA for $5 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 you’ll get our 2015 Edition as an immediate download (for free!), AND we’ll email you your 2016 Edition as soon as it’s published in January 2016! That’s a two-for-one deal right there… 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!Pre-Order the 2015 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining today and use promo code SANTA for $5 off! The DFB Everything BundleBut 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 $4 off the already low price when you enter code SAVINGS. This Bundle is priced at a huge discount already — over 40% off the guide prices – representing great savings. But with our extra $4, you’ll save even more. Learn more about the DFB Everything Bundle here. The bundle includes the pre-order of the 2016 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 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 is spicing things up with this super cute Mickey and Minnie Retro Salt and Pepper Set! Cake Wrecks shared some sweet castle-themed cakes. WDW For Grownups talks about food allergies and dining at Walt Disney World. Disney Parks Blog showed us how to make a Jack Skellington ‘Sandy Claws’ Bento Box! Epic Stream shared recipes for some out-of-this-galaxy Star Wars-inspired cocktails! Buzzfeed shared iconic Disney movie foods we can actually make! 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 NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Disney Food Post Round-Up: December 20, 2015 Disney Food Post Round-Up: December 5, 2015 Disney Food Post Round-Up: December 21, 2014 View the full article

As the saying goes, time flies when you’re having fun. Well, 2015 has certainly been fun, and now here we are on the cusp of another incredible new year! For those of you planning to welcome 2016 at Walt Disney World Resort, we have quite a party planned for you. Here’s a rundown of some of the entertainment lined up for this year’s celebration. Epcot – It’s a night-long party throughout Epcot, with unique entertainment including a DJ and light show at the Future World Fountain Stage, dancing under flame effects and a smoke-billowing dragon in China, a British blast to the past in United Kingdom, Euro-pop and lasers in Italy, a Latin band and DJ on the America Gardens Stage and a “Silent DJ” party in Japan. Cap it all off with one of two showings of “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth.” The 6:00 p.m. show will include our holiday finale, while the 11:40 p.m. performance will be followed by a countdown and pyrotechnic salute to the New Year.Disney’s Hollywood Studios – Ring in a most unforgettable New Year with a Disney character dance party at Center Stage, leading up to fantastic fireworks set to the soundtrack of favorite films and memorable moments from across Disney’s Hollywood Studios. (Note: ‘Symphony in the Stars: A Galactic Spectacular’ will not be presented on Dec. 31)Magic Kingdom Park – You can get a head start on the festivities, with a special New Year’s Eve eve presentation of “Fantasy in the Sky” fireworks at 11:50 p.m. on Wednesday, December 30. The same show will be repeated on December 31. For families looking to wrap things up a little earlier, both nights will also feature the Holiday Wishes New Year’s Celebration at 6:30 p.m., complete with expanded fireworks and a New Year’s Eve countdown.If you can’t join us in person for New Year’s Eve, be sure to tune in right here to Disney Parks Blog, where we’ll be hosting a live stream of “Fantasy in the Sky” fireworks, direct from Magic Kingdom Park on December 31. Watch for more details coming soon! So tell me… What are you doing New Year’s Eve? Special New Year’s Eve Entertainment at Walt Disney World Resort by Shawn Slater: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

When walkin’ (or rockin’) around the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort, I couldn’t help but admire all of the beautiful Christmas trees. Like some families I know, tree decorating is serious business. Our Disneyland Resort family is no exception. Our trees are, of course, themed to their location and each tree is meticulously decorated with the tiniest of thoughtful, individual details. With our Chief Photographer Paul Hiffmeyer in tow, we captured a few of our favorite Christmas trees spread across our three resort hotels. Lobby and Pinocchio’s Workshop, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa Lobby, Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel Lobby, Adventure Tower and Goofy’s Kitchen, Disneyland Hotel Have a Tree-ific Holiday! Rockin’ Around the Christmas Trees of the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort by Michael Ramirez: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Merry Christmas from the Disneyland Resort! This year, the holidays are shining brighter than ever. Check out our Pinterest board for the Top 10 Ways the Holidays Dazzle During the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration! See How the Holidays Dazzle During the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration by Erin Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

To celebrate the release of Star Wars: The Force Awakens, two Star Wars-themed Disney Gift Card designs have landed in a galaxy near you. Which side will you choose? The light or the dark? The first card features both sides including new characters such as BB-8, Rey, Finn and Poe from the Resistance and Kylo Ren, Captain Phasma, and Stormtroopers from the First Order. The latter features Kylo Ren and First Order Stormtroopers preparing to destroy the Resistance. Both of these cards are now available in select locations at both Walt Disney World Resort & Disneyland Resort. Not going to be able to visit the Disney Parks anytime soon? The force is with you; both of these new Disney Gift Card designs are available at DisneyGiftCard.com. The Disney Gift Card can be used for practically all things Disney at Walt Disney World Resort, the Disneyland Resort, Disney Cruise Line, Adventures by Disney, Club Penguin, Disney PhotoPass, DisneyStore.com, and Disney Store locations in the U.S. Shop for hundreds of designs online at DisneyGiftCard.com. Feel The Force with New ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ Disney Gift Card Designs by Virginia Scanlon: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Merry Christmas! The “Disney Parks Unforgettable Christmas Celebration” will debut on ABC in just a few minutes, and we hope you’ll join us for a merry look inside our parks during this time of year. This year, “Good Morning America’s” Robin Roberts and Jesse Palmer will host a two-hour parade of floats and celebrity performances, including: Jason Derulo, singing “Can You Feel The Love Tonight”Ariana Grande, singing “Zero to Hero” and “Focus”Seal, singing “This Christmas” and “Every Time I’m With You”Tori Kelly, singing “Colors of the Wind” and “Winter Wonderland”Andy Grammer, singing “Good to be Alive” and “Have Yourself a Merry Christmas”Plus appearances by the cast of “Descendants” and moreAs for parade floats, keep your eye on the horizon for a Pirates of the Caribbean float, as well as moving tributes to “Inside Out,” “Toy Story,” “Frozen” and even “Star Wars: The Force Awakens.” We’ll be tweeting about the parade live on our @DisneyParks account, so follow along or join the conversation with the hashtag #DisneyHolidays. Tune In To ‘Disney Parks Unforgettable Christmas Celebration’ at 10 a.m. EST by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Lately I’ve been a big fan of Disney Marshmallow Wands. Fresh marshmallows dipped in gooey caramel, covered with chocolate then topped with various items: YUM! In the past we’ve seen lots of fun marshmallow wands. Everything from traditional sprinkles, to Reese’s Pieces, s’mores, character themed, and more. The Candy Cane Marshmallow Wand is currently here for the season, and it’s wonderful! I recently picked one up to enjoy at home and boy, am I glad I did. Candy Cane Marshmallow Wand The marshmallow is dipped in caramel then dark chocolate…. Candy Cane Marshmallow Wand Cross Section And finished off with a generous coating of crushed candy cane pieces. Candy Cane Pieces! The peppermint candy cane flavor mixed with the dark chocolate is a great combination. Added to the sweet marshmallow and caramel, well, it’s delicious. I absolutely love this treat. In fact, my whole family did! It’s a perfect holiday treat to enjoy while admiring the gorgeous seasonal decor of the Disneyland Resort. Marshmallow wands are $4.99 and can be found at Marceline’s in Downtown Disney, Candy Palace & Pooh Corner in Disneyland, and Trolley Treats at Disney California Adventure. In addition to the seasonal wands, other options are often available. So, if you aren’t feeling the peppermint, I highly recommend getting a plain one just to try the fantasticness of what is the Disney Marshmallow Wand. Have you or would you try the Candy Cane Marshmallow Wand? Are you marshmallow wand fan? Let us know in the comments below! Heather Sievers is the Disney Food Blog’s Dining in Disneyland columnist. See more of her columns here! 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 NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Snack Series: The Mickey Marshmallow Wand Dining in Disneyland Review: Candy Cane Beignets at the Mint Julep Bar Dining in Disneyland: 2013 Disneyland Candy Cane Dates!! View the full article

Tonight’s “Disney Parks After Dark” image was snapped at Magic Kingdom Park during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. In it, Mickey and friends join together in front of a glittering Cinderella Castle to wish a park full of guests a happy holiday season. Have a happy holiday and a merry Christmas Eve. GalleryDisney Parks After Dark view allDisney Parks After Dark: Happy Holidays From Walt Disney World Resort by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Each month, I love giving you an inside look at delicious treats prepared in our Disneyland Resort candy kitchens! We recently had a chance to meet up with Master Candy Maker Rob Mc Hargue, who shared some magical tricks and tips on how you can create some of this year’s favorite holiday treats at home, including the peppermint-infused candy-coated apple and winter crispy. Take a look! Special Fun Fact: Did you know that Rob has been a Candy Maker at the Disneyland Resort for more than 41 years? The next time you visit any of our candy kitchens at the Disneyland Resort including Candy Palace on Main Street, U.S.A., or Hunny Spot in Critter Country at Disneyland park; Trolley Treats in Disney California Adventure park or Marceline’s Confectionery in Downtown Disney District, see what kind of magic our Candy Makers are creating. What is your favorite treat to make for the holidays? A Special Holiday Treat from Our Disneyland Resort Candy Makers by Michelle Harker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Disneyland Resort cast members VoluntEARed for 60 days in a row, from October 6 – December 5, in honor of the Diamond Celebration. In 60 days, cast members raised $389,000 and VoluntEARed more than 1,000 hours by biking in the MS Bay to Bay Tour, walking in the CHOC Walk, donating items to Goodwill, packing military care packages, collecting canned food – and that’s just the start! This video highlights the impact our cast members made over the last two months through “60 Days of Giving.” Disneyland Resort Cast Members VoluntEAR for 60 Days in a Row to Celebrate Resort’s 60th Anniversary by Kevin Rafferty, Jr.: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Here’s a sweet new way to have even more out-of-this-world fun January 8-March 20, 2016, at Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort. Symphony in the Stars: A Galactic Spectacular Dessert Party happens from 6:30-8 p.m. each Friday, Saturday and Sunday, with special viewing for the “Symphony in the Stars: A Galactic Spectacular” fireworks at 7:45 p.m. each night. Enjoy a selection of sweets as the night sky erupts with an arsenal of impressive fireworks, set to the most dramatic and memorable Star Wars themes of all time. On the menu, look for lots of Star Wars-themed desserts treats, including the popular Yoda and Darth Vader cupcakes and a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. And you’ll get a souvenir Chewbacca stein to take home! Cost is $69, $39 ages 3 to 11, including tax and gratuity. For reservations, visit DisneyWorld.com/dine or call 407-WDW-DINE. Reservations Open for Symphony in the Stars: A Galactic Spectacular Dessert Party at Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort by Pam Brandon: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

The Anandapur area of Disney’s Animal Kingdom has come alive with the “Festival of All Seasons” for the holidays. And one group you can find providing live entertainment is Chakranadi, the land’s virtuoso sitar and tabla duo. Listen as Chakranadi plays “Carol of the Bells.” Hear Chakranadi’s ‘Carol of the Bells’ from Disney’s Animal Kingdom by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” is one of my all-time favorite holiday stories, which is why I’m excited about this week’s Disney Doodle. In it, artist Ashley Taylor imagines how Scrooge McDuck and his nephews will spend the holiday – by reading the Disney adaptation of the tale as “Mickey’s A Christmas Carol.” See the posts below for more Disney Doodles: Disney Doodle: Rapunzel Decorates Disney Gingerbread HousesDisney Doodles: ‘Rescued’ from the RainDisney Doodles: Hercules Pulls The Sword from StoneDisney Doodle: Enjoying ‘Mickey’s Christmas Carol’ At Magic Kingdom Park by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

A mild Florida winter cannot stop these Snow Men and Women from parading down Main Street U.S.A. in this snapshot from 1982. It is all part of the Disney magic! Wishing you and your family a magical Holiday Season! Disney Days of Past: Snowmen in Florida! by Rose Monahan: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

It’s hard to believe, but it’s already time to light up our traditional Disney Parks Yule Log. Check out our HD version, created especially for Disney Parks Blog readers and enjoy the crackling fire along with some great music and a surprise character guest. VIDEO: Disney Parks Yule Log by Thomas Smith: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

This post is part of the DFB #OnTheList series, where we feature eats you’ve GOT to have while you’re at Disney! Let us know what’s on YOUR Disney Food Bucket List @DisneyFoodBlog #OnTheList! The holiday clock’s a-tickin’ to check this week’s #OnTheList item off the list… Pecan Maple Bark in Epcot’s Canada Pavilion is only around for the season! Pecan Maple Bark makes its appearance at the unassuming, rustic little popcorn wagon in Canada as part of the international snack options featured during Holidays Around the World, Epcot’s celebration of holiday traditions around the globe. Canada Popcorn Cart When you think about holiday candy bark, I’ll bet you think the same thing I do: some combo of crushed candied peppermint and white chocolate layered over dark. Sure, you’ll find fun variations on this festive treat now and again, and whaddya know… Pecan Maple Bark is one of ‘em . Pecan Maple Bark But here’s what makes it stand out from the rest: naturally, there’s chocolate involved — sprinkled with plenty of toasted pecan along with some sea salt for good measure. But it’s all coating a layer of crunchy, buttery toffee, further flavored with maple in honor of our Canadian friends. Pecan Maple Bark You get a pretty decent-sized bag, to boot. Perfect for sharing… or carrying around to munch on throughout the day while enjoying the extra special sights and sounds that make up the Holidays Around the World experience at Epcot. Pecan Maple Bark in Epcot’s Canada Pavilion Now, perhaps your holiday plans don’t include a trip to Disney World this year. You may be wondering “How on earth will I ever cross this one off the list?!” Well, never fear… we’ve got the recipe for you to replicate the experience at home! Or, of course, you could add it to your Disney Food Bucket List for 2016. After all, we’ve all got some resolutions and goals to make, and adding all the Disney foods and restaurants you’ve always dreamed of trying should definitely be included on YOUR list for the New Year! What Disney foods or dining experiences did you cross off your Disney Food Bucket List in 2015? Please let us know with a comment! What’s On YOUR Disney Food Bucket List?Pecan Maple Bark is featured on the DFB Disney Food Bucket List — #OnTheList! Check out the list for more must-eats, and tweet, instagram, and Facebook your Disney Food Bucket List items @DisneyFoodBlog with #OnTheList! 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 NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Holiday Snack Series: Pecan Maple Bark from Epcot’s Canada Pavilion Disney Holiday Recipe: Pecan Maple Bark from Epcot’s Canada Pavilion #OnTheList: Caramel Kiss at Epcot’s Germany Pavilion View the full article