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Reach out and find your happily ever afterrrr! Happily Ever After That’s what you’ll be singing all day long after watching the Happily Ever After fireworks show at Magic Kingdom. Speaking of, if you have a Disney World vacation coming up, you’re going to want to be aware of changes coming to the fireworks showtimes! Look, we know that we’re in the middle of spooky season at Magic Kingdom, we’ve been doing lots of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party nights, trust us. That being said, let’s take a minute to acknowledge that we’re getting closer and closer to the start of Christmas at Disney World! Christmas in Magic Kingdom Of course, with Christmas coming to Magic Kingdom, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party — the special ticketed event for the holiday season — is getting ready to take over the park. If that’s coming, that means so is Minnie’s Wonderful Christmas Fireworks! As exciting as that is, it will impact the showtimes for Magic Kingdom’s Happily Ever After. Magic Kingdom Christmas Decor Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party will begin on November 7th, which means you can expect to watch Happily Ever After on its normal schedule at 9 PM, from November 1st (the first day after Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party ends) through November 6th. However, once the Christmas party begins, Happily Ever After will not be put on every night. Happily Ever After Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party will run on select nights. Party nights will begin at 7 PM and go till 12 AM, so there will be no Happily Ever After fireworks on those party nights. Any day that is not a party night at Magic Kingdom will still have the fireworks at 9 PM. So, the fireworks won’t be going away entirely; they just won’t be shown every night. You can see an example of the schedule below! ©Disney The 2025 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party dates will run on select nights from Friday, November 7th, to Sunday, December 21st. Below is a full list of dates for the 2025 season: November: 7th, 10th, 11th, 13th, 14th, 16th, 18th, 20th, 21st, 25th, 26th, 28th, 30th December: 2nd, 4th, 5th, 7th, 9th, 11th, 12th, 14th, 16th, 18th, 19th, 21st If you have a Disney World vacation coming in November or December, mark these dates down. Not only will there be no Happily Ever After on these nights, but you’ll also have to leave Magic Kingdom early (unless you have a party ticket). Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Don’t want to go through all of the stress of booking your Disney World trip alone? Reach out to our friends at Small World Vacations! Their experienced agents monitor your reservation for possible future savings, compare discounts, and figure out which one works best for your travel party, dates, resort, and touring plans. And, they share expert tips and first-hand advice with you about your magical vacation. We’re entering a busy season at Disney World, so make sure to pay attention to schedules and times on the My Disney Experience app or online. Also, make sure to stay tuned with us at the Disney Food Blog for all the latest updates and news. Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Will you be attending Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party this year? Let us know in the comments! The post ALERT! A Big Fireworks CHANGE Is Coming to Magic Kingdom on November 7th first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Costco might be best known for bulk groceries and everyday essentials, but savvy Disney fans know it’s also one of the best places to score magical finds at a fraction of the price. Costco From seasonal décor and collectibles to cozy sleepwear and themed kitchenware, Costco regularly surprises shoppers with Disney merchandise that’s both high-quality and budget-friendly. The catch? These items are usually limited-time offerings that disappear quickly once word gets out. If you spot something Disney-themed in the aisles (or online), it’s worth grabbing before it’s gone. If you’re a Disney lover with even a pinch of Halloween magic in your heart, this Mickey Mouse Halloween Treat Bowl at Costco is basically trick-or-treat goals. Shaped like Mickey’s head with classic ear silhouette and decked out in festive Halloween colors and designs, it’s perfect for stuffing with candy, holding fruity snacks, or even using as seasonal décor. It’s $35.99 and it’s online only! ©Costco For fans of The Nightmare Before Christmas, the Jack Skellington Treat Bowl at Costco offers just the right mix of spooky-chic and utility. Shaped around the iconic Jack Skellington face, it’s perfect for Halloween candy or popcorn movie nights. The bowl is “online-only” and “while supplies last,” which means once it’s gone, it’s gone. It’s $39.99 right now! ©Costco If you’ve got a baby on the way or are shopping for someone who does, the Disney Baby 2-pack Blanket Sleeper at Costco is a sweet option that combines Disney charm with practical coziness. We love this classic Winnie the Pooh theme, and you get two sleepers for a great price! They are just $14.99! ©Costco If you’re looking to bring a bit of playful holiday spirit into your décor, the Stitch & Scrump Holiday Statue by Jim Shore, available at Costco, is a knockout. This charming statue features Stitch (from Lilo & Stitch) and his adorable doll Scrump decked out in festive gear, with Jim Shore’s signature folk-art styling — quilt patterns, bold colors, and meticulous detail. This artwork piece is $74.99 right now. ©Costco For any Disney fan who loves turning their home into a seasonal wonderland, the Disney Holiday Village, 13-piece Set is a festive dream come true. This set includes charming miniature buildings and iconic character-themed pieces that light up and bring to life a little Disney town right on your mantel, shelf, or in your holiday village display. Because it’s a full 13 pieces, it gives you enough variety to mix and match to create a whimsical scene, rather than just a single ornament. It’s priced at $139.99. ©Costco For more Disney merchandise ideas, follow us at DFB! What I Wish I’d Known Before Taking a Shower in Disney World Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Which of these items would you want to purchase? Tell us in the comments below! The post The NEW Reason Disney Fans Are Running to Costco Right Now first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Welp, another day — another Disney World closure. Animation Courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is now officially closed, as is almost everything located within it. Animation Courtyard Animation Courtyard is closing to make way for Walt Disney Studios. This new area is expected to open in 2026 and will serve as a special tribute to the Walt Disney Studios lot in California. Now that Animation Courtyard has closed, we’re bringing you a look at all the changes you need to see! In July 2025, Disney announced that the area currently known as Animation Courtyard will be reimagined into The Walt Disney Studios as a “special nod to the legendary Walt Disney Studios Lot” in Burbank, California. But here, Disney Animation characters will “leap off the screen and into our world.” The new land will retain two of Animation Courtyard’s signature attractions while introducing brand-new experiences inspired by beloved Disney characters, as well as the “Once Upon a Studio” short film! ©Disney We stopped by Animation Courtyard on the first day of its closure to see what had changed, and weren’t surprised at all to see the classic Disney construction walls and bushes surrounding the area. Lots of walls and bushes You’re still able to go around the walls if you walk all the way to the left. While you still can’t get into the actual Animation Courtyard area, Disney has kept The Little Mermaid — A Musical Adventure open during construction, so they’ve created a pathway to get to the entrance of that attraction. Additional construction walls We also spotted some changes in the My Disney Experience app. The entire Animation Courtyard has been replaced with trees. ©Disney For reference, this is what the map used to look like: ©Disney In addition, the Darth Vader character meet-and-greet that was located inside Star Wars: Launch Bay has now moved over to Star Tours. He is now meeting in an area in the ride queue. To meet Darth Vader, you’ll go past the entrance to Star Tours and look for the CM in blue near Tatooine Traders. There, you can enter the queue. It’s very inconspicuous, but the wait is in the shade, so that’s nice. ©Disney As part of these changes, Star Wars Launch Bay will be turned into The Magic of Disney Animation. This attraction will have you interacting and exploring with this fun take on Disney Animation headquarters. ©Disney Just like its namesake building, The Magic of Disney Animation will feature Mickey’s famous Sorcerer Hat on top (which serves as a double nod to the Sorcerer’s Hat that used to stand in front of the Chinese Theater in the park). Disney says it will “cast a spell with pixie dust.” And once you go under it to step inside, you’ll be able to interact and explore this fun take on the Disney Animation headquarters, including the different studio departments. But in this version of the iconic HQ? “Some of our favorite pals have taken over to create the fun adventures.” ©Disney This area will also feature a new Drawn to Wonderland indoor play area inspired by Mary Blair, and the current Disney Jr. Play and Dance! show will be getting a makeover. ©Disney We’ll be on the lookout for even more updates about Walt Disney Studios and The Magic of Disney Animation at Hollywood Studios. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest news and more! Learn More About The Walt Disney Studios Coming to Hollywood Studios Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you looking forward to the changes at Disney’s Hollywood Studios? Let us know in the comments. The post FIRST LOOK: Disney Just Permanently CLOSED Part of Hollywood Studios first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

The holiday enchantment is just beginning at The Walt Disney Company. Last week, Disney announced an unprecedented collaboration with British luxury department store, Selfridges, that brings the magic of Disney straight to England. For a limited time starting November 6, a first of its kind celebration will be taking place across Selfridges London, Manchester, and Birmingham stores alongside globally on Selfridges.com which will feature more than 60 brand collaborations, 18 decorated Disney windows, an in-store façade, and two iterations of the classic Selfridges yellow bag. Combining Disney with fashion is a tried-and-true success, but Disney’s latest collaboration with world renowned global fashion stylist and creative consultant, Harry Lambert, has the whole world talking from fashionistas to entertainment fans, and beyond. First debuted during London Fashion Week, the Harry Lambert for Zara x Disney Collection — officially named the Aw Gee! Wow Collection — features everything from Mickey Mouse ear hats to loafers, retro t-shirts and more. Taking Disney’s distinctive style to new heights, this new collaboration has over 200 items available ranging from items for kids to adults. To celebrate the launch, three immersive pop-up experiences will occur throughout key fashion destinations: London at Selfridges Corner Shop started September 22, Tokyo in Shibuya started September 24, and Shanghai starting September 25. In addition, dedicated store displays will be found in Zara locations across Paris, Milan, and 19 different flagship stores across Europe, Asia, and North America. This collaboration will add on to Disney’s expanding portfolio with fashion powerhouses as displayed most recently with Levi’s and Marc Jacobs. The Aw Gee! Wow: Harry Lambert for Zara x Disney Collection launches globally September 25 on Zara.com and in select stores. The post Harry Lambert for Zara x Disney Launches Collaboration Pop-Ups Coming to England, Japan, and China appeared first on Disney Experiences. View the full article

Fans of Disney Parks and Selfridges – your holiday wishes are coming true! Just last week, we shared that Disney is collaborating with Selfridges, a world renowned, British luxury department store, but the magic doesn’t stop there. Disney Store has just launched a retail destination inside Selfridges London, featuring global Disney Parks merchandise that has never been offered beyond the parks! From plush to keepsake treasures and more, fans will be able to shop collections from Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, Disneyland Paris, Shanghai Disney Resort, and Tokyo Disney Resort. Marking an unprecedented moment for Disney Parks merchandise, Disney and Selfridges will bring the magic of Disney Parks straight to Selfridges London Oxford Street store, with a selection of items available online on DisneyStore.co.uk and globally on www.selfridges.com. Disney Store at Selfridges Here’s a glimpse at some of the Disney Parks merchandise you’ll find within the Disney Store at Selfridges destination: Celebrate 70 years of Happy with Disneyland Resort – Special anniversary items including collectible pins, create-your-own headbands and more can be found starting October 2. Enjoy highlights from Walt Disney World Resort – Capture the spirit of everyday moments in Disney Parks with the Parks Life merchandise collection and Loungefly bags while celebrating the holidays with an assortment of ornaments. With love, from Disneyland Paris – Shop limited-edition Parisian collectibles, including pins and seasonal gifts, inspired by Disneyland Paris’ European charm. Discover magic straight from Shanghai Disney Resort – Collect fan-favorite merchandise, seasonal exclusives, and so much more. Gather treasures direct from Tokyo Disney Resort and Disney Store Japan – Next stop, plush! Purchase highly coveted plush and character items, including festive keychains. Following the Selfridges London debut, which occurred on September 22, 2025, a curation of the Disney Store collection will roll out to Selfridges Manchester Trafford Centre on September 29, 2025 and both Selfridges Manchester Exchange and Selfridges Birmingham Bullring on October 13, 2025. This Disney Store collection is part of Disney and Selfridges A Most Magical Christmas collaboration, which celebrates a rich history between the two iconic brands dating back to the 1950s. Starting November 6, 2025, shoppers of select Selfridges destinations will find more than 60 brand collaborations, 18 decorated Disney windows, a special edition Selfridges yellow bag, and more. For more festive updates about Selfridges and beyond, stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog, Disney Parks social, @DisneyStoreUK, and @theofficialselfridges. Disney Announces Collaboration with Selfridges READ MORE A Holly Jolly 2025 Disney Holiday Merchandise Preview READ MORE New Levi’s x Toy Story Collection READ MORE The post Disney Parks Merchandise Launches in Disney Store Destination at Selfridges appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

2025 has seen a double-digit number of norovirus outbreaks on cruise ships, according to the Centers for Disease Control. ©Royal Caribbean Norovirus is a very contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea, thanks to acute gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach or intestines. 2025’s outbreaks began in January, when the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said that 107 passengers and 12 crew members onboard Holland America’s MS Rotterdam contracted norovirus. ©Holland America The ship embarked on a 12-day voyage from Port Everglades on February 2nd. In total, there are 2,614 passengers and 969 crew members on the ship. At the time, Holland America has told the CDC that it was increasing cleaning and disinfecting while isolating the infected passengers and crew to help further the spread. ©Holland America According to the CDC, 2025 has seen an additional 12 norovirus outbreaks on cruise ships following the intial Holland America outbreak, including the following voyages: Viking Ocean Cruises II Ltd.’s Viking Mars: January 10th, 2025 – January 24th, 2025 Princess Cruises’ Coral Princess: January 20th, 2025 – February 5th, 2025 Royal Caribbean International’s Radiance of the Seas: February 1st, 2025 – February 8th, 2025 Holland America Line’s Rotterdam: February 2nd, 2025 – February 14th, 2025 Holland America Line’s Eurodam : February 19th, 2025 – March 1st, 2025 Princess Cruises’ Coral Princess: February 21st, 2025 – March 9th, 2025 Holland America Line’s Rotterdam: March 7th, 2025 – March 16th, 2025 Cunard Line’s Queen Mary 2: March 8th, 2025 – April 6th, 2025 Seabourn Cruise Line’s Seabourn Encore: March 16th, 2025 – April 9th, 2025 Viking Expedition Operations’ Viking Polaris: April 11th, 2025 – April 23rd, 2025 Holland America Line’s Eurodam : April 12th, 2025 – May 3rd, 2025 Royal Caribbean International’s Navigator of the Seas: July 7th, 2025 – July 11th, 2025 Royal Caribbean — Enchantment of the Seas (Left) and Mariner of the Seass (Right) “Norovirus can be especially challenging to control on cruise ships because of the close living quarters, shared dining areas and rapid turnover of passengers,” the CDC website states. “When the ship docks, norovirus can be brought on board in contaminated food or water; or by passengers who were infected while ashore.” ©Holland America With norovirus being so contagious, you might want to know what to do to protect yourself on a cruise. One easy preventative measure is to wash your hands often, including after using the toilet and changing diapers, before eating or handling food, and before giving yourself or someone else any medication. One thing you’ll need to note is that hand sanitizer does not do a great job of preventing norovirus, so you’ll want to use soap and water when you can. ©Holland America We’ll continue to keep an eye on these norovirus outbreaks and let you know of any other potential cases that could impact your next vacation. In the meantime, stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest travel news and more! Norovirus Cases on the Rise on Cruise Ships. Here’s How To Protect Yourself Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Have you ever gotten sick on a cruise? Tell us in the comments. The post 13 Cruise Ships Have Reported Illness Outbreaks to the CDC So Far in 2025 first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Over the last several years, Loungeflys have become some of Disney’s most popular souvenir offerings, with guests taking them to the parks, coordinating different bags with different outfits, and grabbing limited editions as soon as they’re on sale. Loungefly Logo Plus, Disney is always coming out with more Loungefly bags that we swoon over and “add to cart” quicker than you can say bibbidi-bobbidi-boo. So, it is fair to say we have quite a few Loungefly bags. As a result, we have tried ALL the Loungefly hacks and are sharing our favorites with you! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. We love our Loungeflys! Not only do they help store all our necessities, but they are also adorable and a great way to show off your style. You can get Loungeflys with your favorite characters, or you can grab one with a fun pattern. This one is SO cute! Whatever Loungefly you choose, we wanted to share some of our favorite Loungefly hacks with you! First up, we love our HOYOFO Bag Organizer. It fits perfectly in our Loungefly bag, and we have never felt more organized! Loungefly Organizer However, we recommend measuring your Loungefly before purchasing as they all have different dimensions, and it may be too small for some. It makes organizing so much easier. We no longer have to dig around in our backpacks for what seems like five years to find our hand sanitizer. Loungefly Organizer You can have a spot for each item and easily switch between bags throughout your visit. Plus, if you get pulled aside at security, it is easy to pull the organizer out of your bag! Get this organizer here! We also love having a holder for our ears! As much as we love wearing them, they can get uncomfortable during long days in the park, and there will be numerous rides where you will need to remove them. That is why we love having a secure spot to store them. Mouse Ear Holder You can hook the ear holder onto the outside of your Loungefly and attach your ears whenever you need to take them off for a bit. It keeps them secure and safe from getting smushed inside your bag. Whenever you want them again, they are an easy grab away! Get this ear holder here! We have tried two different ear holders, and we loved them both! One is a leather pink bow with a snap to hold your ears in place, while the other features a beaded lanyard that wraps around your ears to secure them. Ear Holder They both held our ears in place, and we loved the little bit of extra fun they added to our Loungefly! Now, you don’t have to worry about where to put your ears if you aren’t wearing them. Get this ear holder here! When packing your Loungefly, we also highly recommend placing your metal items at the top so they are easy to remove at security. Having them at the top makes it easy to grab them before walking through the detectors. The Little Mermaid Loungefly We also love attaching a nuiMOs to our Loungefly. This hack can be used with pretty much any backpack, but we think they look extra cute on a Loungefly. All you will need is a hair tie and your favorite nuiMOs. Simply put your nuiMOs on the strap and loop the hair tie around their arms in the back. Super easy and super adorable! Belle nuiMO We did want to point out that if you are looking for a bigger Loungefly, check out stores other than the Disney Store or those in the parks. Stores like Hot Topic have Loungeflys that are usually bigger than the ones you can find at Disney! Star Wars Dark Side Collection Loungefly Finally, we HIGHLY recommend trying to catch Loungeflys on sale. They are not cheap, but you can often find them on sale, so we suggest waiting until you can snag them for cheaper! We are always on the lookout here at DFB, so stay tuned as we often post about Loungefly deals. Also, if you are looking for holiday-specific bags like Halloween or Christmas bags, they will usually be on sale right after the holiday! Mickey Mouse Snowman Holiday Loungefly Mini Backpack Finally, always check Amazon and other outlets for New Loungeflys Going Up for Preorder… Amazon … as these bags will SELL out fast! Amazon SHOP HERE These are some of our favorite Loungefly hacks, and we hope they will help make your next Disney World trip even better. Make sure to stay tuned to DFB for Disney merchandise news and deals on Loungefly bags! The post I’ve Tried Every Loungefly Hack in Disney World and I’m Sharing 6 of My Favorites first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

When it comes to rope dropping at Walt Disney World, not every hotel is created equal. Bright and early at Magic Kingdom Rope dropping, the process of showing up to a theme park before it opens and then subsequently getting phased deeper and deeper into the park as it gradually becomes available to the public, has become popular among guests as it usually provides you with the shortest wait times of the day and a leg up on guests who show up later. With that said, it’s more like ripping off a Band-Aid rather than something you’ll love to do. Rope dropping at Disney World requires you to get up EARLY, and it could be even earlier than you think once you start factoring in transportation times. On top of that, Walt Disney World hotel guests receive Eary Entry benefits to the resort’s parks. We’ve rope dropped from many different hotels over the years, and if you want to quickly get to rope drop and make the most out of your day, avoid these hotels and opt for their substitutions for a shorter commute. Disney World is the size of San Francisco, so, understandably, the parks are spread out. With that in mind, we can’t just give you a set list of hotels that are good and bad for rope drop. Each hotel is closer to a specific park and further from another. Therefore, we’re letting you know two hotels you should skip and two hotels you should opt for instead for each of the four theme parks. Magic Kingdom Magic Kingdom is the most popular park at Disney World, so rope-dropping here makes a lot of sense. Magic Kingdom If your main focus is to get in as much time at Magic Kingdom as possible, take these hotel tips into consideration: AVOID The Value Resorts Disney World’s Pop Century and Art of Animation resorts are on the Skyliner route, which is great…except you can’t take the Skyliner to Magic Kingdom. Even worse, the All-Star Resorts are even further away and off the Skyliner path. You’ll need to take buses to the park, and the commute (and its wait) won’t likely be brisk. Disney’s Pop Century Resort Of course, there is value (see what we did there) to staying at the value resorts. Specifically, Pop Century offers one of the most fun, and nostalgic themed environments for guests of a certain age who want to visit Walt Disney World in the most cost-effective way possible. Disney’s Pop Century Resort AVOID Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa This is no knock on Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa — in fact, it’s quite lovely as most Disney World hotel resorts are. However, it’s parked pretty close to Disney Springs, which means it’s not that close to Magic Kingdom. Saratoga Springs Resort Of course, Saratoga Springs’ location might be benefit in the eyes of some. Specifically, the hotel’s location all the way at the Disney Springs end of property makes it a bit more laid back and “out of the way” – well, as out of the way as a hotel can get – than those closer to Disney World’s parks. Saratoga Springs STAY AT Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa If Magic Kingdom is the crown jewel of your vacation, we recommend staying at a Monorail Resort such as Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. This luxurious hotel is one of the nicest (and most expensive) hotels at Disney World and one of its best perks is that you’re a short monorail ride away from the hotel (which has a station) and Magic Kingdom. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort In addition to its location near the Magic Kingdom, the grand Floridian offers some of our favorite restaurants and snacks at any of the property’s hotels. This is only going to get betetr with the opening of the hotel’s upcoming themed lobby bar. STAY AT Disney’s Contemporary Resort Another Monorail Resort, Disney’s Contemporary Resort is the CLOSEST resort to Magic Kingdom, so if your main goal is to spend as much time as possible at Magic Kingdom, this is the resort for you. This gorgeous resort (and California Grill especially) is a fantastic spot to stay at if you want to get to Magic Kingdom as soon as possible, but also a prime location to watch the fireworks at night. Fireworks deck at California Grill And keep in mind that the walking path to Magic Kingdom from the Contemporary is very short and quicker than going by Monorail! EPCOT EPCOT is located along the Skyliner AND monorail routes, creating some complexities as to which hotels you should stay at versus those you should avoid if rope-dropping EPCOT is something you take very seriously. Spaceship Earth If EPCOT is your top destination, take these hotel tips into consideration: AVOID Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground certainly offers a unique lodging experience that you can’t get anywhere else at Disney World, but it’s also off the beaten path. Fort Wilderness Of course, just because it’s not close to EPCOT isn’t a reason to write off the Wilderness Lodge. This massive resort is still one of our favorites on property. In particular, the resort offers one of our favorite themed pool areas thanks to it’s rocky, national park-like setting. Disney’s Wilderness Lodge AVOID Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is a FANTASTIC resort…but unless you’re consistently rope-dropping Disney’s Animal Kingdom, it’s just too far out from the other three parks. Animal Kingdom Lodge What Animal Kingdom Lodge lacks in ease of transportation, it more than makes up for it thanks to it’s beautiful savanas full of animals and some of the best hotel dining on property, including JIKO. Jiko STAY AT Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts are PRIME EPCOT locations. The International Gateway Entrance at EPCOT is located just a short stroll away from both hotels and you won’t need much transportation (or any at all) to rope drop. Disney’s Yacht Club Beyond that proximity, we have two words for you: Stormalong Bay! The pool area that the Yacht and Beach Clubs share is not only the best pool on property, it’s as good as some water parks. Yacht Club STAY AT Disney’s BoardWalk Inn Another short distance from EPCOT, Disney’s BoardWalk Inn is less than a 10-minute walk from the resort to the back entrance of EPCOT at the International Gateway. Disney’s BoardWalk Inn The Boardwalk’s proximity to ECPOT also provides another benefit: It’s so close, that the hotel essentially provides access to the Skyliner without even technically being on the Skyliner line! Inside the Disney Skyliner Disney’s Animal Kingdom Disney’s Animal Kingdom isn’t along the monorail or Skyliner routes, making it one of the trickiest Disney Parks to rope drop. Disney’s Animal Kingdom If you’re mostly game for safaris and visiting Pandora, the world of Avatar, consider these hotel tips: AVOID Disney’s Old Key West Resort Disney’s Old Key West Resort is sandwiched between EPCOT and Disney Springs and, while it’s not as far away as the Magic Kingdom resorts, it’s also not along any convenient transportation route. Old Key West Like Saratoga Springs, Old key West’s location provides a comparative form of isolation at the Walt Disney World Resort. Disney’s Old Key West AVOID Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Speaking of Magic Kingdom resorts, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is a fan-favorite and another great pick if you want to focus on Magic Kingdom, as it is a Monorail Resort. However, it’s one of the furthest hotels from Animal Kingdom in all of Disney World. Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Issues getting to Animal Kingdom aside, the Polynesian probably the quintessential Walt Disney World tesort, featuring in-depth theming, dining, and of course, one of our FAVORITE places on property: Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto. This heavily themed bar features themed takes on Tiki drinks, and is loaded with Disney in-jokes. Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto STAY AT Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge We already brought up Animal Kingdom Lodge as a place not to stay, but if your priority is Animal Kingdom or just animals in general, THIS IS THE PLACE FOR YOU. Animal Kingdom Lodge is literally the closest you can get to Animal Kingdom via a very short bus ride. Animal Kingdom Lodge In addition tot he aforementioned restaurants, the other main draw of this hotel is obvious. IT’S THE ANIMALS! Not a bad view STAY AT Disney’s All-Star Resorts Again, we’re suggesting resorts we told you not to stay at. Although Disney’s All-Star Sports, Music, and Movies Resorts aren’t ideal for rope-dropping ANY of the Disney Parks, they are a bit closer to Animal Kingdom than most other resorts — especially All-Star Sports. Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort The All-Star Resorts lack many of the amenities of other Disney hotels, BUT if you’re the type of person who wakes up early, gets up late, and spends the WHOLE day at the park, they may be the ideal resort for you. All-Star Music Resort Disney’s Hollywood Studios Finally, Disney’s Hollywood Studios sits along the Skyliner route and is an incredibly popular park to rope drop thanks to its big-ticket attractions. Hollywood Studios If you’re intent on rope-dropping Hollywood Studios, consider these hotel tips: AVOID Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is a ways away, closer to Magic Kingdom, and isn’t great considering how many hotels are better options for rope-dropping Hollywood Studios. Wilderness Lodge AVOID Disney’s Contemporary Resort While Disney’s Contemporary Resort is great for visiting Magic Kingdom, it’s much further away from Hollywood Studios. Stay somewhere closer unless you don’t mind long commutes to and from the park. Disney’s Contemporary Resort STAY AT Disney’s Swan and Dolphin Hotels Disney’s Swan and Dolphin Hotels are super close to Hollywood Studios and are actually within walking distance (with the Swan being closest). You’ll also get a scenic view along the way! Swan and Dolphin Hotel In addition to its proximity to the Studios park, the Swan and Dolphin offer some of our favorite hotel restaurants on Disney World property, including the new Bourbon Steak. 10 oz Center Cut Filet Mignon STAY AT Disney’s Art of Animation Resort or Disney’s Pop Century Resort Both Pop Century and Art of Animation Resorts are solid stays if you’re looking to rope-drop Hollywood Studios since they both have Skyliner access. Both have access to the same Skyliner station and you can take the bus if the Skyliner is down. Art of Animation And there you have it! Disney World has a TON of hotels, and each one has its pros and cons based on location. When in doubt, check the Disney World map for proximity and transportation options. As always, stay tuned right here at DFB for more Disney World tips! Disney Adults Are DIVIDED Over This Controversial Park Tip DON'T DO IT ALONE! Our favorite people over at Small World Vacations are ready to help you save time, headaches, and best of all, money, when you book your Disney trip or cruise. Their agents compare current offers to find the best deal for you -- they've literally saved their guests millions of dollars since 1996. Plus, their services are 100% FREE FOR YOU! (They're DFB's recommended travel agency, and you can see why here!) So book that trip now, then sit back and enjoy planning your Disney World Trip with a DFB-approved expert! Click here for a no obligation price quote today, and let them know DFB sent you GET MORE INFO Which hotels do you think offer the best rope-dropping advantages? Let us know in the comments! The post 8 Disney World Hotels That Make Rope Drop 10X Harder, and 8 You Should Stay at Instead first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

The brand-new 2025 Topps Chrome Disney set is here and promises to make every pull shine. Capturing the wonder and storytelling of Disney and Pixar through the lens of Topps Chrome technology, the 200-card base set brings iconic characters from classic animation and live-action adventures to life in vivid, collectible form. In this trading card set, you can also discover special inserts, rare autographs, and incredible sketch cards. Every pack is full of surprises. From Queen Elsa to Captain Jack Sparrow, you might just find your “Topps” picks waiting inside. A Major Surprise is On Deck for Mickey & Friends Get ready for a true all-star moment: As a part of Topps Chrome Disney, Mickey Mouse, Goofy, and Donald Duck are joining the lineup in official Major League Baseball uniforms for the very first time. These rare chase cards are the only baseball-inspired cards in the set, celebrating Topps’ legacy with America’s pastime and Mickey & Friends’ love for the game. To celebrate the release, Disney and Topps created a special animated short (check it out below!) where Mickey Mouse and his pals take the field, complete with a card reveal that captures the fun of their baseball debut. These new chase cards will feature Mickey Mouse, Goofy, and Donald Duck representing all 30 MLB teams throughout the season, with each character rotating through divisions for added collecting fun. That means you can find your top-pick team with your favorite pal. Mickey and Friends Baseball-Inspired Cards Mickey Mouse: American League (AL) & National League (NL) West Goofy: AL & NL East Donald Duck: AL & NL Central Later this fall, Topps will feature their away jerseys, giving fans a double-header through the 2025 season. Buy a 2025 Topps Chrome Disney set and check out the full card list and odds at www.topps.com. Collecting Disney Topps Cards: Here’s Where to Start Whether you are a first-time collector or a longtime Topps fan, opening a pack of Topps Chrome Disney is always an adventure. Between the base set, inserts, and rare finds, striking out isn’t on the scoreboard. Here’s a quick rundown of the key types of cards and lingo you might hear: Base Card Base cards make up the majority of cards in a given product. The base set is the most common set of cards. Insert Card Most trading card products have a base set, made up of common cards, and then a smaller number of more-limited parallel cards. These cards essentially “run parallel” to the base set – they have a similar look and design but are distinguished by a unique physical quality. Topps Chrome Disney will include “Iconic Moments,” Anniversary Cards, “Super Strength,” Future Stars and more. Any given set of cards will include a limited number of chase cards, which are highly coveted by collectors. Chase Cards can include: Sketch Card Sketch Cards are one-of-one, hand-drawn cards created by the licensed artist from a particular set. They are the same size as regular trading cards and include the artist’s signature. Autograph Card (Autos) A card that is autographed by a voice actor, celebrity, or other subject. Autos are a type of chase card – they are more limited, and thus more valuable, than the more common cards in a set. In Topps Chrome Disney, you could uncover cards signed by Disney and Pixar voice talent or live-action stars. Unpack the magic and discover which 2025 Topps Chrome Disney cards are waiting in your pack. But don’t head for the dugout just yet. More surprises from Disney and Topps are on deck later today at Angel Stadium, inspired by the new Mickey & Friends chase cards. And while you wait for the next pitch, why not suit up yourself? More Disney Gear for Game Day Find some sporty outfit inspiration to cheer on your team with ballpark-ready pieces featuring Mickey & Friends: Shoe Palace Disney Mickey & Friends Baseball Jersey Disney Store Pluto Baseball Shirt, also available at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort RSVLTS “Talkin’ Quack” Dad Hat Disney Store Mickey Mouse Collegiate Baseball Hat Disney Store Disneyland 70th Anniversary Baseball Shirt, also available at Disneyland Resort Savannah Bananas Come to Disneyland on May 28 READ MORE Disney Halloween Costumes: Princesses and More READ MORE Now Brewing: Shop Everything Pumpkin Spice READ MORE The post Mickey and Friends Suit Up in MLB Uniforms in New Disney Topps Cards appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

Marvel’s summer blockbuster, Fantastic Four: First Steps, just released digitally on September 23rd — now we can watch the super family from the comfort of our own home! ©Marvel Now, collectors are waiting for the physical release of the movie, which will be coming soon on October 14th. Not only will the Blu-Ray copy go well for anyone who likes to collect DVDs, but it will also offer exclusive deleted scenes and bonus features! Speaking of, you want to know what’s pretty FANTASTIC?! We got an early look at one of the deleted scenes that will be included. On top of the Blu-Ray release, there will also be boxed copies containing other special features. This would include three featurettes, a gag reel, and an audio commentary featuring director Matt Shakman and production designer Kasra Farahani, according to IGN. ©Marvel Marvel fans, get hyped, because IGN stated that the following will be included in The Fantastic Four: First Steps‘ physical release: Thanksgiving Soup Kitchen Fantastic Four Day Subterranea Birthday Sweater Taking Turns ©Disney There is a lot of footage to be seen by fans, as director Matt Shakman previously claimed that Marvel “intentionally wrote and shot a lot more than we ended up using, or needing to use”. Some of the cut material would have shown more backstory on the group of heroes becoming the Fantastic Four. Scenes were cut due to the lengthy runtime. ©Marvel “How long can we spend getting to know and love these characters in their environment? How much is too much? You never know until you start to put it together and feel it out for yourself,” Shakman said. “There was a ton of stuff we shot that was really wonderful that we didn’t use, couldn’t use.” For more Disney news and updates, be sure to follow us at the Disney Food Blog! 2 NEW Disney Movie Announcements That We Seriously Weren’t Expecting Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you looking forward to the deleted scenes? Let us know in the comments! The post There's Only ONE WAY To See These Deleted Scenes from Marvel's 'Fantastic Four: First Steps' first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Are you looking to get your hands on some Disney merchandise? Okay, trick question! Because if you’re like us, the answer is always “YES.” Well, we know that we’re all trying to save a little money, even when scoring Disney souvenirs, though, right? ©BoxLunch That’s why we’re always looking for good deals on Disney souvenirs, so you can save money on things you’d probably end up buying anyway (or at least we will). Plus, a good sale is a great excuse for some retail therapy. Well, look no further, because BoxLunch is now having a Buy 2, Get 1 Free Sale on Disney souvenirs! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Yep, that’s right. BoxLunch is giving away a FREE souvenir if you buy 2 select souvenirs. Wild, right? Get the Winnie the Pooh Fall Plate Set ©BoxLunch Pooh and Piglet are ushering in fall with this pretty plate set with fall leaves, fall colors, and pumpkins. These snack-sized plates are the perfect addition to your autumn decor, now that fall has officially arrived. View on BoxLunch Buy the Loungefly Mickey and Friends Canvas Embroidered Mini Backpack ©BoxLunch This pretty backpack has embroidery featuring Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Pluto, Goofy, and Daisy. Now you can take Mickey and his friends with you wherever you go. View on BoxLunch Get the A Goofy Movie Car Sunshade ©BoxLunch Your car is sure to “Stand Out” if you use this sunshade featuring Max and Goofy on their road trip from A Goofy Movie. This is the perfect accessory to keep your call cool during your own road trips. View on BoxLunch Looking to shop the whole Buy 2, Get 1 Free Disney sale? Click here! We’re always on the hunt for the latest and greatest Disney souvenirs and essentials, so don’t forget to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more! The post Thousands of Disney Souvenirs Are on Sale at BoxLunch Today first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Calling all Winnie the Pooh fans! We may or may not have found the ultimate Winnie the Pooh souvenir (hint: we totally did). Winnie the Pooh Whether you’re in the market for a gift for the Winnie the Pooh fan in your life or are looking for ways to add some Disney decor to your home, you’re definitely going to want to see what we’re talking about! Check out our full review of this souvenir. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Get the Winnie the Pooh Squishy Light here! Winnie the Pooh Squishy Light This little light would be adorable in a nursery or kids’ room, or just for any Winnie the Pooh fan! It’s relatively inexpensive at less than $20, and we think kids would have fun turning it on and off and learning some independence. The squishy nightlight changes brightness levels when you turn it on and bop it on the head. This is the most adorable thing we’ve ever seen The light is powered by a cord you can plug into the wall, or you can use AAA batteries. It’s absolutely adorable, and bopping it on the head is fun, even for adults. Kids would probably love it even more! We do wish it were rechargeable, but if you’re using the cord, it needs to be plugged in at all times. Otherwise, the batteries kick in. Look at him lit up! The light does not come with batteries, so you’ll need to provide those on your own, and we found that the battery compartment was a little tough to get open, but we eventually got it. It took a bit of bopping to get used to how to do it, but after we got the hang of it, it became more intuitive. It’s not particularly bright, so if you’re looking for something with more of a glow, this won’t be it. Winnie the Pooh Squishy Light We wish there was an easier on/off button instead of the bopping, but again, we do think kids would get a kick out of this in a nursery or kids’ room! View on Amazon We’re always on the hunt for the latest and greatest Disney souvenirs and essentials, so don’t forget to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more! The post I Wasn't Planning on Spending Today, But Now I Have to After Seeing This Disney Souvenir on Amazon first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

An expansion has been announced for Soaring Over the Horizon at Shanghai Disney! ©Shanghai Disney Shanghai Disney just announced that Soaring Over the Horizon will be getting an approximately 50% increase in current capacity AND there will be a new special ending for the attraction! Similar to Soarin’ Around the World in EPCOT, Soaring Over the Horizon takes riders on an exhilarating flight over some of the wonders of the world. Soon, the attraction will increase its capacity by about 50% and a new ending will be added, taking riders over Shanghai Disney. Plus, there will be even more magical surprises! ©Shanghai Disney Shanghai Disney hasn’t announced when the expansion will be complete yet, but it has said to stay tuned for more updates. We will let you know as we hear more about the expansion of Soaring Over the Horizon! While we don’t know a timeline yet for Soaring Over the Horizon, we do know that Shanghai Disney is currently celebrating Duffy Month! ©Shanghai Disney Resort During the month of September, you can celebrate Duffy and his friends. There will be photo opportunities including a Duffy-themed floral set and miniature sets to take pictures with your Duffy and Friends plushes! Plus, there will be new outfits for each of the friends. You can also check out special entertainment and grab exclusive merchandise and food items. ©Shanghai Disney Resort Then, beginning October 4th, Seas the Halloween season kicks off with two new experiences at Treasure Cove. A brand-new show called “Buccaneer Bash,” which will follow Captain Nova and her crew for “an immersive evening of pirate mischief and carnival games.” It will use live performances, interactive activities, games, food, and merchandise. There’s also a new pirate theme at Barbossa’s Bounty with new dishes, although Disney didn’t give more details just yet. These events wrap up on November 1st. ©Shanghai Disney Resort Stay tuned to DFB for all your Disney news! An ENTIRE DUFFY MONTH Is Coming To This Disney Resort Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Have you ridden Soaring Over the Horizon at Shanghai Disneyland? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! The post This Disney Attraction Is Expanding AND Getting a New Scene! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Despite Universal Orlando Resort’s claim a roller coaster “functioned as intended” when a 32-year-old man lost consciousness and later died on it, attorney Ben Crump and his team on Wednesday cast doubt on the safety of the ride and demanded it stay closed until an investigation is completed. Crump and his legal team said Kevin Rodriguez Zavala on Sept. 17 was placed by ride attendants in the front row of the Stardust Racers roller coaster’s car, and witnesses reported seeing his head slam repeatedly on a metal bar. “That is what killed Kevin,” Crump said at the afternoon press conference. “So to try to suggest in any way that his death was his fault, it’s offensive. It’s offensive on any level.” Zavala, who was in a wheelchair due to lifelong spinal condition, had gone to Epic Universe that night with his girlfriend and was excited about trying out the new ride, which opened with the rest of the park in May. Ride attendants used a transfer seat to help Zavala onto the ride, Crump said his firm’s investigation discovered. “He got on the ride expecting to have a joyous experience. … Universal employees never said anything about because he was in a wheelchair he could not ride on the Stardust racer,” he said. Attorney Benjamin Crump displays a photo of the roller coaster during a press conference with the family of Kevin Zavala in downtown Orlando, Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2025. Zavala died Sept. 17 from blunt impact injuries after riding the Stardust Racers roller coaster at Universal's Epic Universe. Zavala's sister Lisa Cruz Rodriguez and brother-in-law Anthony Cruz stand to the left. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel) A Universal safety warning states that for riders using mobility devices such as wheelchairs, “This attraction has a device to assist you with your transfer to the ride vehicle. Please see an Attractions Attendant for further information.” Crump, who was hired by Zavala’s family, added that part of a seat covering was detached and that Zavala was found slouched over when the ride finished. “That is very telling,” Crump said. “Just because you say there were no malfunctions doesn’t mean there weren’t any safety issues.” Crump and his team said the Zavala’s family is requesting that Universal “do the right thing” and conduct a full and transparent investigation. “How does a person end up dead riding on your Stardust Racer roller coaster?” he said. “Universal Studios, you have to make this right on so many levels. … We have to know what happened. We have to get answers.” Zavala, he said, “was a person. He was a good person.” Universal Studios Orlando did not immediately respond to a request for comment regarding Crump’s claims. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, which also is conducting an investigation into the Zavala’s death, also did not respond in time for a request for comment. At the afternoon press conference, Zavala’s family — including his parents, brother, sister and girlfriend — described him as a lifelong Central Florida resident who loved theme parks and called him a “roller coaster freak.” Despite being born with a spinal condition, Zavala did not let that prevent him from enjoying a full life, Crump said. He earned a college degree in video game design, his father, Carlos Rodriguez Zavala said. “Kevin was so special,” his father said. “He was awesome. The best. I don’t want anybody else to feel how I feel right now.” His sister, Lisa Cruz Rodriguez, said her brother was the “type of guy you could go to for advice” and was always there for his family. “He called me that morning when he arrived at theme park and told me how excited he was to be there,” she said in tears. “I thank God for the amazing person he was. … I just don’t want this to happen to anyone else.” Zavala died of “multiple blunt impact injuries” shortly after riding Stardust Racers, according to the Orange County medical examiner, who ruled the death to be accidental. Universal’s internal review found the ride worked properly and staff members correctly followed procedures, Karen Irwin, Universal Orlando Resort’s president, wrote in a letter to employees addressing Zavala’s death. State investigators reached the same preliminary conclusion, said Aaron Keller, a spokesman for the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the agency that generally regulates theme park rides. Investigations are being conducted by that department as well as the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. Kevin Rodriguez Zavala, 32, died from multiple blunt impact injuries while riding the Stardust Racers thrill ride at Universal Orlando’s new Epic Universe theme park on Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025. (GoFundMe page) The attraction will remain closed while the review continues in conjunction with the ride manufacturer, Irwin added in her letter. Crump, the prominent civil rights and personal injury attorney, is seeking the release of maintenance logs, inspection records, ride data and video footage. Few other details have emerged on what may have caused Zavala’s death. He was found unresponsive about 9:20 p.m. on Sept. 17, according to a sheriff’s incident report. He was taken to Orlando Regional Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead at 10:05 p.m. Stardust Racers is a dual-launch, “dueling” coaster with side-by-side tracks that reaches a top speed of 62 mph and a height of 133 feet, according to Universal. The most prominent feature is the patented “celestial spin,” where the tracks twist around each other in a barrel roll. Riders are restrained only at the lap by a solid bar that lowers from overhead, without any shoulder constraints. The park’s safety and accessibility guide states that Stardust Racers riders “should be able to independently: (1) maintain an upright position, (2) support your torso, neck, and head while absorbing sudden and dramatic movements, and (3) brace your body with at least one natural upper extremity.” Crump urged the theme park to “do the right thing” and be fully transparent on what happened to Zavala. “How does a person end up dead riding on your Stardust Racer roller coaster?” he said. “Universal Studios, you have to make this right on so many levels.” View the full article

A popular Disneyland restaurant will be closed for longer than anticipated! Napa Rose The reopening of Napa Rose, located inside Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, has been delayed. Previously, the restaurant was expected to reopen in the fall of 2025, but the reopening date has now been pushed back to early 2026. This popular restaurant has been closed since April 2025. During the closure, the restaurant will be getting a remodel with a new interior and patio. It appears the remodel is taking longer than anticipated as the reopening has been pushed back to early 2026. The remodeling plans include expanded counters where guests can watch the restaurant’s chefs in action. Disney explained that the restaurant “will have a rustic elegance and will be a tapestry of California’s storied history of wine and winemaking, using natural textures such as reclaimed French oak flooring and columns (a type of wood used to make wine barrels), hand-pinged artisan metals, leathers, deep colors of cabernet, and an eye-catching chandelier inspired by California’s Mission grapevines.” ©Disney The patio will also get more seating and two more fireplaces. According to Disney, guests dining on the patio will be “surrounded by lush greenery and soft lighting, the California breeze enhancing the flavors of your meal.” The two new fireplaces “will cast a warm, flickering glow across the patio, adding a cozy and inviting touch to the atmosphere. As the sun sets, you can gather around the fire, reflecting on your Disney day and enjoying the ambiance.” ©Disney When Napa Rose does reopen, it will also feature new menu items. Luckily, Disney confirmed Napa Rose will still serve fan favorites like the Smiling Tiger Salad and will still offer an impressive wine collection of more than 1,500 labels. Smiling Tiger Salad We still can’t wait to dine at Napa Rose again in early 2026 and see the changes and taste the new menu items. Stay tuned to DFB for all your Disneyland news! REVIEW: We’re Not Calling This Disneyland Restaurant Perfect, But It’s Nearly There Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What is your favorite Disneyland restaurant? Let us know in the comments! The post Disney DELAYS Reopening of a Popular Restaurant first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

October at Disney World might seem like the perfect time to visit — the weather is cooler, the Halloween vibes are in full swing, and the parks are decorated in their fall best. Walt Disney World entrance But it’s also a month full of closures, construction, and schedule changes that can seriously throw off your plans. Today, we’re breaking down the Disney World mistakes you’ll want to avoid in October so you don’t end up frustrated instead of festive. Forgetting About Ride Closures The biggest mistake you can make in October is showing up at Disney World expecting to ride all your favorites, only to find out some of them are closed. This month is a tricky one for refurbishments, and a few big-name attractions will be unavailable. Kali River Rapids At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Kali River Rapids will be closing on October 6th for its annual refurbishment. Normally this water ride goes down in January, but this year the schedule has been moved up. It’s not expected to reopen until December, so if you were hoping to get in a last splash before the weather cools down, that won’t be an option. Construction at Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Magic Kingdom fans are going to feel the impact of not one but two big closures. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad has been closed since January 6th, 2025, for a massive multi-year refurbishment. It won’t reopen until 2026, and it’s not just a quick refresh. Disney is working on enhancements that will connect Big Thunder Mountain with the upcoming Villains Land and other projects in the area, meaning construction around Frontierland is going to be significant. Closed for Refurbishment Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is also closed for a major overhaul. The attraction shut down in August 2025 and isn’t set to reopen until sometime in 2026. When it comes back, guests will see an entirely new scene featuring a new character named Buddy, brand-new ride vehicles, interactive targets, and upgraded blasters. It’s going to be exciting when it reopens, but for now, Tomorrowland is down one of its family-friendly rides. Inside Spaceship Earth Over in EPCOT, Spaceship Earth has been closed since late August for a routine refurbishment. The good news is that it’s expected to reopen later this year, but Disney hasn’t given an exact date yet. That means if you’re visiting in October, there’s a decent chance this icon will still be off-limits. Not Factoring in Construction Another mistake that can catch you off guard in October is underestimating just how much construction is happening across Disney World. Magic Kingdom is in the middle of preparing for its new expansion, which will bring Piston Peak and Villains Land to the park. That means construction walls are up, and areas around Frontierland and Liberty Square might feel crowded or blocked off. Walls near the Haunted Mansion in Magic Kingdom At Animal Kingdom, work is in full swing on the Tropical Americas project, which is replacing DinoLand U.S.A. If you’re used to spending time there or hopping on Dinosaur, you’ll need to adjust your plans. Meanwhile, Disney’s Hollywood Studios is starting construction on its upcoming Monsters, Inc. Land, which is replacing Muppets Courtyard. Expect walls, detours, and some rerouted foot traffic around that area. The sign has been covered! Construction might not seem like a big deal at first, but it can really change the flow of the parks. Walkways may be narrower, crowding can feel worse, and your usual shortcuts might be blocked. If you don’t plan for that, you could find yourself losing precious time just trying to navigate. Forgetting About Party Nights Finally, if you’re planning a Magic Kingdom day in October, don’t forget about Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. On party nights, the park closes early to guests who don’t have a party ticket. That means if you’ve booked a day at Magic Kingdom and don’t have a ticket to the party, your evening will end much earlier than expected. The party map! Party nights are amazing if you’ve bought tickets — the parades, exclusive snacks, and character meet-and-greets are top-notch. But if you’re not going to the party, you’ll want to avoid booking Magic Kingdom on those days, or at least manage your expectations. It’s a common mistake for guests to assume the park will be open until its normal closing time, only to get caught off guard when Cast Members start ushering them out around 6PM. The Bottom Line October can be a magical time at Disney World, but it’s also packed with closures, construction, and special events that make it more complicated than it looks on paper. The mistake you’ll want to avoid is walking in unprepared. Know which rides are unavailable, anticipate construction walls, and check the calendar for party nights before locking in your park plans. In the meantime, we’re always on the lookout for the latest Disney news, so stay tuned for more. The Ultimate Disney World Packing List for 2025 Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you planning a trip to Disney World this October? Let us know in the comments! The post The Disney World Mistake You'll Make in October first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

As we celebrate World Gorilla Day, we can’t think of a better time to honor the incredible life and legacy of Gino, our 44-year-old western lowland gorilla, and commit $500,000 of continued support for this critically endangered species through the Disney Conservation Fund (DCF). Gino touched countless lives at Disney’s Animal Kingdom with his playful spirit, gentle humor and steady presence. Among the many animals at Disney, Gino left an impact unlike any other – inspiring guests and cast members around the world. Born on Dec. 30, 1980, at the Rotterdam Zoo in Amsterdam, Gino arrived at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in 1997 before the park officially opened to our guests. For nearly 30 years, he called Disney home, and he loved our guests and cast members as much as they loved him. And it’s easy to see why he was a majestic icon – not only in the park – but across the zoological community. Gino had a special gift for connecting with people – impressing parents with his gentle fathering style, delighting children with his playful nature and even posing for the camera at times. These moments not only brought joy but also awakened in many a lifelong passion for conservation and protecting this magnificent species. “Gino was the very definition of a model silverback,” shared Dr. Beth Stevens, opening team member and former Vice President of Disney’s Animal Kingdom. “He engaged with the world around him and was always aware of who passed by. I’ll never forget the moment he saw Roy Disney. In an instant, Gino began chest-beating, a powerful display of dominance and connection. It was truly unforgettable – and nothing short of magical.” Gino with Dr. Jane Goodall in 1998. Gino Was a Caring Father & Gentle Leader Family was at the heart of Gino’s world. Through close bonds with his troop, he showed how love, guidance, and connection are essential to a gorilla’s life and inspired all who watched him grow and thrive as a family leader. He fathered 14 offspring across seven states, making critical contributions to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Species Survival Plan – a cooperative effort among accredited zoos to appropriately manage breeding in managed care. As a dad, Gino lovingly protected his youngest offspring from the roughhousing of his older kids, and he allowed his kids to remain in the family troop far longer than typically seen among silverbacks. In fact, his example of tolerance allowed keepers at another AZA-accredited zoo, where two of his sons now live, to smoothly introduce another male into their bachelor troop. Gino’s calm demeanor and remarkable example will continue to guide and benefit gorilla populations far beyond Disney for generations to come. And Gino’s lineage is helping to ensure the health and genetic diversity of future gorilla generations. His contributions are so significant that Gino’s likeness was the inspiration for the Gorilla Species Survival Plan (SSP) logo. “All gorillas at AZA zoos are special, but some find their way into our hearts in a profoundly endearing way,” said Dr. Kristen Lukas, Chair of the Gorilla Species Survival Plan (SSP), AZA. “Gino was one of those remarkable individuals with an exceptional character that was appreciated by gorillas, caregivers, and guests alike. He was a role-model parent, gentle leader, and exemplary silverback that strengthened the Gorilla SSP population. While we deeply mourn his passing, his legacy will endure and inspire generations to come.” Pioneer in Animal Care Advancements Through his trusted relationships with our veterinarians and animal care experts, Gino was open to participating in his own care – changing the way many gorilla caregivers now conduct medical exams. He was one of the first gorillas in the world to allow caretakers to perform cardiac ultrasounds without anesthesia. This provided a more accurate reading of his heart health, crucial to gorillas since they are prone to cardiac disease. This also enabled his keepers to train and develop important techniques which benefit gorillas in managed care and around the globe. Thanks to the path Gino paved, dozens of zoos have successfully used these methods to train gorillas for procedures without anesthesia, helping veterinarians detect medical issues early and contribute to global knowledge that protects gorillas everywhere. How Disney Supports Gorillas in the Wild Our legacy of protecting the magic of nature through the Disney Conservation Fund (DCF) started at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, built upon the deep responsibility we felt for ensuring a future for wildlife – including gorillas like Gino. Since then, the DCF has supported community-based efforts focused on recovering gorillas across the majority of countries where they still can be found. Over the past 30 years, the DCF has directed more than $4.5M in support to help protect every subspecies of gorilla and the habitats they call home. “Gino was a true ambassador for gorillas everywhere. His life and care inspired the creation of GRACE, the first and only sanctuary for critically endangered Grauer’s gorillas in the Democratic Republic of the Congo,” said Dr. Katie Fawcett, Executive Director of GRACE Gorillas. “Today, rescued gorillas are returned to a life in the wild. Gino’s legacy continues to shape conservation and gorilla wellbeing in the heart of the Congo Rainforest, inspiring the creation of protected habitats where people, forests and wildlife thrive. Thank you, Gino for bridging continents, opening hearts, and changing lives.” As we celebrate Gino and his tremendous impact, we are also proud to continue our commitment to gorillas through $500,000 in support of the important work of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund and Gorilla Rehabilitation and Conservation Education Center (GRACE). These two highly regarded organizations are helping to support community efforts to protect a collective 3,500 square kilometers of forest corridor habitat, critical to the survival of the critically endangered eastern lowland gorillas of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. “We celebrate Gino’s legacy not only in the joy he brought to those who visited him, but in the awareness he helped raise for the urgent need to protect gorillas in the wild. On this World Gorilla Day, the inspiration of Gino’s life is a reminder that together we can ensure a future for gorillas and their forest homes, which help maintain a healthy planet for us all,” said Dr. Tara Stoinski, CEO/Chief Scientific Officer, Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund. While we mourn this profound loss, we also celebrate the extraordinary gift of Gino’s life. Thank you, Gino. You will always be part of our family. Disney’s Sea Turtle Conservation Inspires the Next Generation READ MORE Meet Tucker, the New Baby Giraffe at Animal Kingdom READ MORE Baby Bakso Delights Wilderness Explorers at Animal Kingdom READ MORE The post World Gorilla Day at Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Celebrating Gino’s Legacy appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

The coolest experience is coming to Disney Cruise Line, and if you’re like me and have been going back and forth on whether to book a cruise, this might just prompt you to book immediately. Aboard the Disney Treasure, the Haunted Mansion Parlor honors more than five decades of fandom and introduces the world to the next chapter of the Haunted Mansion saga. Guests will enjoy spooktacular, specialty cocktails themed to the classic Disney Parks attraction and its inhabitants, as well as a variety of Haunted Mansion details from around the world. (Kent Phillips, photographer) Haunted Mansion fans are going to freak out over this new announcement because we’re turning into the ghost hunters. Disney says, “Starting this October, use your DisneyBand+ for a Happy Hunt to find hidden ghosts throughout the ship. Return them to Madame Leota for a swinging wake.” A new scavenger hunt? Sign me up! Haunted Mansion Parlour We hope we don’t have to find 999 happy haunted, but with your DisneyBand+ (which is the Disney Cruise Line’s version of a MagicBand), you’ll be able to unlock something special in the lounge. Hatbox The Haunted Mansion Parlor is a stunning lounge that takes inspiration from the original attraction but with a nautical twist. There are many hidden details throughout the space that we could have spent hours finding. Captain’s portrait Even the chair from the library in the mansion made its way to the ship. Do you see the hidden Donald Duck in it? Incredible details This isn’t the first scavenger hunt we’ve seen on the ships. We love the Midship Detective Agency on the Disney Fantasy and Dream, where the Muppets take you to different points on the ship. You end your hunt by visiting the outside Pepe the Prawn King’s own cabin. It’s truly a Muppet lover’s dream. Don’t want to go through all of the stress of booking your Disney World trip alone? Reach out to our friends at Small World Vacations! Their experienced agents monitor your reservation for possible future savings, compare discounts, and figure out which one works best for your travel party, dates, resort, and touring plans. And, they share expert tips and first-hand advice with you about your magical vacation. Make sure you keep following Disney Food Blog for more Disney news to take your vacation to the next level. FULL TOUR OF THE HAUNTED MANSION PARLOR ON THE DISNEY TREASURE CRUISE SHIP DON'T DO IT ALONE! Our favorite people over at Small World Vacations are ready to help you save time, headaches, and best of all, money, when you book your Disney trip or cruise. Their agents compare current offers to find the best deal for you -- they've literally saved their guests millions of dollars since 1996. Plus, their services are 100% FREE FOR YOU! (They're DFB's recommended travel agency, and you can see why here!) So book that trip now, then sit back and enjoy planning your Disney World Trip with a DFB-approved expert! Click here for a no obligation price quote today, and let them know DFB sent you GET MORE INFO What’s your favorite Disney Cruise Line ship? Tell us in the comments. The post NEW Haunted Mansion Experience Coming to the Disney Treasure Cruise Ship first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

When it comes to dining at the Disneyland Resort, there are so many options to choose from. If you’re looking for a little guidance on where to eat, you’ve come to the right place. Smokejumpers Grill We recently stopped by Smokejumpers Grill at Disney California Adventure to see what was cookin’, and now we’re giving you our full review of this limited-time treat! Disney California Adventure is filled with different snack and treat options — we’re constantly finding ourselves wandering around the park just to get food. One dish that really stood out to us this time was the Buffalo Chicken Loaded Onion Rings for $12.49! Take a look at the menu! The Buffalo Chicken Loaded Onion Rings are made with onion rings topped with buffalo chicken, blue cheese, ranch, carrot ribbons, and green onions. Buffalo Chicken Loaded Onion Rings Let us be very clear, you NEED to get this the next time you’re at the park! Our only complaint here was there’s a little too much ranch for us, but other than that, this snack is a 10 out of 10. This was AMAZING! The onion rings had a crispy, golden brown texture and a slightly sweet flavor that was mostly drowned out by the ranch and buffalo flavors. The grilled chicken had a peppery seasoning, giving it a little kick even if a particular bite didn’t have any buffalo sauce. It had a little kick to it. The carrots were a nice touch, as most bites had a bit of spice, and they made for a cool and refreshing break from the spice. It’s a generous portion as well — we’d rather share this as a snack instead of having it for a meal. You’ll need to try this! WE KNOW – there are SO many great snacks at Disney World! How do you choose (we don’t want to choose, but will blow our budget on Day 1 otherwise)? We’ve got you covered! We have reviewed nearly EVERY snack available at Disney World, and we’ve written a series of DFB Guides about them! Check out our DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining + Snacks Bundle for all the details you need to plan your snackin’ and spending. You can even download them to your smartphone – it’ll be like we’re right there with you in the parks! In the meantime, we’re always on the lookout for the latest Disney news, so stay tuned for more. Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Have you tried this before? Let us know in the comments! The post REVIEW: Disney Took Two Iconic Foods and Made Them BETTER first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

TRON Lightcycle / Run is one of the most popular rides in Magic Kingdom, but sometimes I run into problems when I ride it. TRON Lightcycle / Run Whether it’s the ridiculously long wait times, struggles with the lockers, or difficulties with the (in my opinion) uncomfortable seating situation, this ride can be a fairly unique experience. But recently, I encountered some problems with the lockers before hopping on the coaster, and I’m here to share with you the solutions I discovered! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Ticket Card Issues The first problem I witnessed at the lockers was a couple who were using MagicMobile on their phones and didn’t have physical ticket cards with them for park entry. I’ve personally had this issue in the past and was able to share with them a solution. TRON entrance In order to open the lockers to stow your belongings before boarding the ride, you’ll need a ticket card. If you don’t have one on you, you can simply flag down the nearest Cast Member (there are employees stationed specifically to help with the lockers) and they’ll give you a blank card to use. TRON Lightcycle / Run From there, you just put your belongings in and take the card with you while you ride. If you don’t have any pockets, there’s a small compartment on the front of your lightcycle for items like cards and phones. Bags Too Big For a while now, I’ve been using a backpack spacer in the theme parks. It helps distribute the weight of your backpack and keeps back sweat to a minimum, but it also makes fitting my backpack into lockers rather difficult. VentaPack GET YOUR BACKPACK SPACER HERE And if you’re like me, carrying a massive bag, I’ve got the answer for what happens to your belongings while you ride TRON. TRON Lightcycle / Run If your bag doesn’t fit, let a Cast Member at the locker station know, and then you’ll carry it to the boarding area. From there, another Cast Member will direct you to a space where you can set your bag while you ride. It will be left unmonitored during that time, and you’ll be able to pick it back up after you ride. Something Gets Stuck For me I managed to finally squeeze my backpack into the lockers for my ride on TRON, but when I got back, I realized that my straps had gotten stuck in the locker door on the other side. (You reopen the lockers from the opposite side of the wall.) Even though I could get the door open, I couldn’t get the bag out! Lockers at TRON: Lightcycle / Run Once again, the answer is to flag down one of the locker workers! A Cast Member was able to get the locker number from me, then go around to the opposite side and open the door to push my backpack through. Cast Members are the BEST. TRON queue So if you’re heading to TRON Lightcycle / Run soon and worried about the locker situation, this will hopefully put you at ease! Stay tuned to DFB for more Disney World news and updates. Click Here for Our Full Guide to Every Magic Kingdom Ride and Attraction! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Have you ever ridden TRON Lightcycle / Run in Disney World? Tell us in the comments! The post I Had 3 Major Problems at TRON Lightcycle / Run in Disney World -- Here's How I Solved Them first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

When packing for Disney World, your list might be getting pretty long. From bathing suits to pajamas, Mickey ears, pins, and then multiplying that by four for the whole family, the list keeps getting longer and longer. We’re here to help you cut a few items off your list. What are you packing? There are many banned items from Disney World that you may already be aware of, but it’s time to leave these six items at home. Selfie Sticks A classic! We know how hard it is to get a family photo of everyone together, but these are not allowed. Tripods, on the other hand, are permitted, but they must fit inside a backpack and cannot exceed six feet in length. Remember to pull these out before heading through the security lines, just as you would hold out your umbrella, because the metal usually sets off the alarm. Remember these bad boys? Don’t forget to take advantage of PhotoPass Cast Members, who are usually identifiable by their bright green attire, for family photos. They’ll take them with their own cameras and your phone if you ask! You can also download ride photos on the app, which is my favorite way to document the day. PhotoPass Photographer Vapes and E-Cigarettes Sorry, folks. It’s best to leave these at home or in the hotel. If you do bring them with you, you’ll want to make sure you only smoke in the designated smoking areas, and not in the middle of the parks. Epcot Smoking Area outside International Gateway Balloons in Animal Kingdom Due to the safety of the animals, no balloons are allowed inside the park at Animal Kingdom. If you’re coming in from another park and still have your balloon, you can leave it at Guest Relations, where they’ll take great care of it before you pick it up at the end of the day. Play in the park balloon design Plastic Straws in Animal Kingdom In the same vein, please remember to discard your plastic straws before entering. I’m guilty of bringing in a McDonald’s Coke, and while you’re more than welcome to bring your own food and drinks (besides alcohol, of course), Animal Kingdom will require you to throw out your straw and replace it with a paper or reusable one before continuing in the park. Or opt for the Resort Refillable Mug Toy Weapons Regardless of the costume, you may want to skip the plastic guns and other fake weapons and leave them at home. While you’ll find plastic and foam swords inside the parks, especially at the Pirates at the Caribbean store, outside of this, security will likely stop you and ask you to put them back in the car. Don’t worry, lightsabers don’t count, and you can bring these in — just be careful about using the force. Toys for the Kiddos Adult Costumes We know you love dressing up, but costumes for adults, especially those themed to Disney Princesses, should stay in the suitcase. The only exception to this is Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, but be sure to schedule it during your party time and avoid wearing masks or toy weapons. Between you and me, these costumes can also get hot in the Florida sunshine, so sticking to shorts and t-shirts is an easier way to show off love to your favorite character. Guest costumes at Not-So-Scary @Rickyvit1120 What do you always make sure to bring to Disney World? Tell us in the comments, and make sure you keep following Disney Food Blog for more. THE ULTIMATE PACKING LIST FOR DISNEY WORLD Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW The post 6 Illegal Items Everyone Tries to Bring to Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

The holiday season is almost here, meaning we’ll soon be past Halloween and celebrating Thanksgiving in Disney World. Thanksgiving dinner at Liberty Tree Tavern in Magic Kingdom If you’ll be visiting Disney World for Thanksgiving (and willing to navigate the crowds), you’ll want to keep an eye out for special Thanksgiving snacks, of course. However, if you want to have a traditional Thanksgiving meal while you’re there, Disney has already dropped some details about restaurants that will be offering special Thanksgiving meals on the day. So for starters, you can get a Thanksgiving meal every day at Liberty Tree Tavern and Diamond Horseshoe in Magic Kingdom. But if you’re not going to Magic Kingdom (or can’t get a reservation at either of those restaurants), Disney has revealed which restaurants will be offering traditional Thanksgiving food on November 27th, aka Thanksgiving Day. Liberty Tree Tavern That includes Sanaa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, which will be serving selections from the breakfast menu from 7:30 AM to 11 AM. However, from 11:30 AM to 9 PM, the restaurant will serve select items from its dinner menu and some holiday-inspired items. The regular lunch menu will not be available on November 27th. Sanaa Whispering Canyon Cafe at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge will also be serving special meals on Thanksgiving Day. Breakfasat will have a modified menu from 7:30 AM to 11 AM on Thanksgiving Day. A menu of holiday-inspired items will be offered for dinner from noon to 10 PM. Breakfast at Whispering Canyon Cafe Over at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Steakhouse 71 will be serving a Thanksgiving-inspired menu. Selections from the breakfast menu will be served from 7:30 AM to 11 AM, while select items from the dinner menu plus some holiday-inspired items will be served from noon to 9:15 PM. The regular lunch menu will not be available on that day. Steakhouse 71 If you’ll be staying in the EPCOT area, Ale & Compass Restaurant at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort will have Thanksgiving-inspired dishes on its menu. The regular dinner menu and some holiday-inspired menu items will be served from noon to 9 PM. The regular lunch menu won’t be available. Ale & Compass At Disney’s Old Key West Resort, Olivia’s Cafe will have a special Thanksgiving-inspired menu available. A modified menu with select items from the dinner menu and holiday-inspired foods will be served from 4 PM to 9 PM. Olivia’s Cafe If you’d like to make a reservation for these meals, Disney World hotel guests can book Thanksgiving Day meals starting on September 18th, while other guests can book starting on September 28th. This isn’t the full list of where you can have a Thanksgiving Day meal in Disney World, so if you’re looking for more options, please visit our Where to Find a Thanksgiving Meal in Disney World in 2025 page. Stay tuned to DFB for more. Something Is MISSING From the 2025 EPCOT Festival of the Holidays Announcements  Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Will you be visiting Disney World for Thanksgiving? What are your plans for food that day? Let us know in the comments! The post We Know Where We're Having Our Thanksgiving Meal in Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Ok, seriously though, this is the go-to spot for movies this spooky season! Downtown Disney We’re grabbing our blankets and our lawn chairs because Downtown Disney at the Disneyland Resort is hosting movie nights. If the movie isn’t enough to get you out of the house, these EIGHT limited-time treats for the movie nights sure will! Starting on September 24th, the Downtown Disney District will be hosting movie nights presented by M&M’S! The movies will take place on September 24th, October 1st, October 8th, October 15th, October 22nd, and October 29th at 7 PM on the Downtown Disney LIVE! Stage. The first movie was posted by Disney, and it’s none other than Hocus Pocus — we love spooky season! Downtown Disney Anaheim Are we going to Downtown Disney for the movie nights? Yes! BUT, we do have a little bit more motivation to make our way down outside of just the movie. We said the movie nights were presented by M&M’s, and that’s because near the stage will be a limited-time Disney Wonderful World of Sweets cart. This cart will have delicious treats available for purchase while you’re watching the movie. Since it’s here for the movie nights, the cart is only available from September 19th to October 31st. @downtowndisney via Instagram They look delicious, right?! Let’s take a look at each of the treats — that way, we know which one to go for first! Check out this Caramel Apple, that caramel sticking to the apple looks so fresh and smooth. @downtowndisney via Instagram There’s also this 70th Minnie Caramel Apple with M&M’s Milk Chocolate Candies! Ok, we 100% need to get this one. It looks adorable, and that chocolate looks TASTY. This treat also aligns with Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary. We said the movie nights were presented by M&M’s, so expect to see a lot more chocolate with the next treats. @downtowndisney via Instagram How about this Mickey Cereal Treat with M&M’s Milk Chocolate Minis! We can’t be the only ones who think M&M’s and Mini M&M’s taste different, so this treat will stand out on its own. We’re thinking the cereal is a Rice Krispies treat. @downtowndisney via Instagram The Mickey Caramel Apple with M&M’s Milk Chocolate Minis gives guests another candy apple option, but this one is covered in M&M’s at the bottom. @downtowndisney via Instagram For all you cookie fans, you’re going to freak out over this Mickey Chocolate Chip Cookie with M&M’s Milk Chocolate Minis! Look at the size of this thing! Yeah, this is a must-buy — good thing it’s here for a limited time, otherwise we may never stop eating it. @downtowndisney via Instagram You’ve heard that there is no better mix than peanut butter and chocolate. If you think that to be true, you need to check out this Peanut Butter Cookie Pie with M&M’s Peanut Butter Chocolate Candies. Our mouth is watering just looking at it! @downtowndisney via Instagram This smaller treat, the 70th Mickey Chocolate Cake Pop with M&M’s Milk Chocolate Candies, looks so cute! This is the only cake pop treat available, so all the cake pop fans (including us) will be scrambling to get this one. @downtowndisney via Instagram Lastly, there’s this Peanut Caramel Apple. If you’re not looking for something chocolatey, this tasty treat is just for you! @downtowndisney via Instagram We told you there was more reason to go to the movie nights, other than just the movie — so we’ll see you there! For more Disney news and updates, be sure to follow us at the Disney Food Blog. Why Disney Souvenir Fans Are Marking Their Calendars for October 1st Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What treat do you want to try the most? Let us know in the comments! The post Why Every Fan Will Be Running to Downtown Disney Next Month first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

When it comes to Disney style trends, vintage is in, and we’re here for it! ©Amazon The Disney Renaissance era lasted from 1989 through 1999 and was considered a massive success, as animated films such as The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, The Lion King, and Tarzan saw Disney return to its roots with terrific success. This era fostered a love of all things Disney for MANY Disney Adults, and we relish the chance to show off that love with fantastic t-shirts…like these ones you can find on Amazon! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Oh, I just can’t wait to bring this shirt home! ©Amazon This Lion King Graphic T-Shirt is available in different colors and features images of Timon and Pumbaa, Zazu, cub Nala, and cub Simba! Adorable and soft to the touch, this shirt is great to wear at the Disney Parks or if you’re simply out and about. BUY ON AMAZON This next shirt will have you saying “Hakuna Matata” ©Amazon Kick back and relax in the Lion King No Worries! T-Shirt! The shirt is offered on Amazon in six different colors and features Simba, Timon, Pumbaa, and Zazu front and center. Replicating the iconic “Hakuna Matata” scene from the animated film, this shirt gives off the chillest vibes! VIEW ON AMAZON Grab this Beauty and the Beast/Magic Kingdom-themed shirt! ©Amazon The Beauty and the Beast Magic Kingdom T-Shirt is available in pink, apricot, and grey colors on Amazon in a variety of sizes. The shirt combines the love of the classic animated film with Magic Kingdom, featuring a graphic of iconic elements from the movie, such as Lumiere and the red rose, as well as a design of Cinderella Castle. BUY ON AMAZON We’re in love with this Beauty and the Beast shirt! ©Amazon Honor the trailblazing 1991 film with the Beauty and the Beast Classic T-Shirt! The shirt is available in a bunch of different sizes and colors, and features characters from the movie on the front. VIEW ON AMAZON See the world while decked out in this Aladdin shirt ©Amazon Also available in several colors and fits, this Aladdin T-Shirt is PERFECT for fans of the 1992 movie and features Aladdin, Princess Jasmine, Abu, Genie, and the magic carpet on the front. BUY ON AMAZON Honor the colors of the wind with this next t-shirt ©Amazon The Pocahontas Dreamcatcher Watercolor Graphic T-Shirt, fittingly, is available in several different colors and features Pocahontas front and center in a watercolor-inspired design that includes beautiful floral imagery as well as Meeko the raccoon and Flit the hummingbird. VIEW ON AMAZON Check out this Ariel-themed shirt! ©Amazon Our favorite aquatic princess is represented on the The Little Mermaid Ariel Signed Portrait T-Shirt! This shirt features a design of Ariel on the front along with her signature, giving the shirt a nice, unique touch. Available in several different colors and sizes, customize your perfect shirt and pick one up today! BUY ON AMAZON Sport a legendary Disney heroine with this shirt ©Amazon The Mulan Warrior Stance T-Shirt is themed after the 1998 animated film and features Mulan, Mushu, and Cri-Kee (the lucky cricket) in their battle stances amid a stylized sunset poster background. Amazon offers this shirt in several different colors, so find your favorite and buy yours today! VIEW ON AMAZON Which shirt is your favorite? Let us know and continue to follow us here at DFB for more Disney merch updates! The post The Disney Renaissance Era T-shirts Every Disney Adult Is Buying from Amazon first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We get it — you’re planning your Disney World visit outfits WELL before your vacation even starts, but have you already thought about what you’ll wear to match your Disney World hotel? Bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort And if you’ve chosen to stay at one of the most sought after Disney World hotels that could make you feel like you’re visiting a tropical island, we’ve found the PERFECT Loungefly collection you’ll want to snag asap! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Get the Mickey and Friends Tiki Loungefly backpack at a great price! ©Amazon This Loungefly mini backpack showcases a vibrant Tiki-inspired print featuring Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy, Goofy, Chip, Dale and Pluto. The front pouch is also accented with a golden Mickey silhouette zipper charm, adding a touch of classic Disney charm to such a lively design. View on Amazon Don’t forget to grab the matching Loungefly Tiki wallet, too! ©Amazon Just like it’s counterpart, the Mickey and Friends Tiki Loungefly wallet comes complete with the same all-over pattern. It’s small enough to take up minimal space in your bag or be carried around on its own comfortably in your hand. View on Amazon We’re always on the hunt for the latest and greatest Disney souvenirs and essentials, so don’t forget to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more! The post 10 out of 10. The PERFECT Loungefly Collection for Disney's Polynesian Resort Just Released on Amazon first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article