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We’re beyond grateful for all the incredible Disney Cast Members and the magic they create in the parks! ©Disney However, one Cast Member always makes us smile when we see him in Magic Kingdom, right at his normal spot near Casey’s Corner. If you head over near this restaurant, you may notice that there’s a piano inside a little gate, so guests can’t play it, but very special Cast Members can. They don’t just play the piano, though — they’re incredible musicians that really create magic and nostalgia with the way they play, and that’s ESPECIALLY true for one Cast Member named Grayson, who was just recognized for his incredible work! Disney gives out what they call the Legacy Award recognizes Cast Members who carry on Walt Disney’s legacy by being outstanding Cast Members, Crew Members, or Walt Disney Imagineers. These awards are nominated by other Cast Members, and highlight fellow team members who are an example of all three Legacy qualities: Dream, Create, and Inspire. Fewer than 1% of Disney’s Cast Members around the world are recognized with this award, meaning that when a Cast Member is recognized, it’s usually a huge surprise. That’s exactly what happened to Grayson! ©Disney Grayson masterfully plays the piano outside Casey’s Corner, in such a lively way that it often attracts people from as far as the sounds of the piano stretch — it doesn’t matter what they’re doing, so many people stop and listen to him bring these nostalgic, magical songs to life, turning a walk down Main Street, U.S.A. into a truly special moment. He’s been bringing these songs to life and exuding warmth, kindness, and radiance to guests for three years now, and after his fellow Cast Members shared that he’s someone who can turn even the smallest interaction into a lifelong magical memory, he’s now joined the elite group of Disney Legacy Cast Members! ©Disney When given the award, he said, “This is the honor of a lifetime. To be recognized in front of my friends and leaders, right here in Magic Kingdom, is something I’ll never forget.” When talking about Grayson, Magic Kingdom Vice President Sarah Riles shared, “Grayson has a gift for making every guest feel special. This Legacy Award is just a reflection of the magic he shares with all of us every single day. Because at Disney, it’s not just about the attractions, the fireworks, or even the churros, though those are great. It’s about people like Grayson, whose passion and heart make every visit to Magic Kingdom unforgettable.” ©Disney If you’re not already tearing up, get ready, because this might do the trick. Some of the comments Grayson’s fellow Cast Members shared about him were that he “creates happiness through his kind and entertaining interactions with guests every day,” going as far as to even remember revisiting guests, and that “When he plays, you can see the movie scenes dance before your eyes and the way the music always compels the guests to get up and dance with loved ones is what this company is all about.” Finally, another Cast Member shared that they’ve “never seen a guest without a massive smile on their face standing next to him,” and we can vouch for that too — we’ve seen it happen firsthand! Unveiling the piano for the day! We send all our congratulations to Grayson on his incredible achievement, and we can’t wait to wish him the same in person the next time we see him play. Be sure to be on the lookout for those blue name tags around the parks, and know that those Cast Members have truly gone above and beyond! If You Hear, “I’m Gonna Have Some Fun With Y’all” in Disney World, STOP and Go Meet That FAMOUS Cast Member 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 seen Grayson play? Tell us in the comments! The post Disney’s New Magic Kingdom Announcement Is Officially the Best Thing I’ve Seen All Week first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is throwing a goodbye party for PJ, a greater one-horned rhinoceros and a 13-year resident of the Sanford attraction. The animal is being transported to Buffalo Zoo as part of the Species Survival Plan, a function of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. PJ’s role will be as a breeding male, helping prop up the population. The Buffalo Zoo has been successfully breeding this species by natural and scientific methods of assisted reproduction, producing three offspring, it says. The farewell event is set for 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, coinciding with World Rhino Day. Activities will include keeper chats, rhino-themed activities and artwork created by PJ. The attraction is currently holding a farewell auction that includes some of the rhino’s art, zoo tours and other items. (The auction closes at 3 p.m. Saturday.) Party festivities are included with regular zoo admission. Greater one-horned rhinos weigh between 4,000 and 6,000 pounds and can be 6 feet tall. Their single horns are about 8 to 25 inches long and continue to grow throughout their lifetimes. The horn is used in searching for food and foraging for roots. The species rely on their heightened sense of hearing to detect danger. When startled, rhinos will charge, reaching speeds of up to 30 mph. For tickets and more information, go to centralfloridazoo.org. Email me at dbevil@orlandosentinel.com. Subscribe to the Theme Park Rangers newsletter at orlandosentinel.com/newsletters. View the full article

Something very cool is coming to Orlando, and we’re ready to go and buy our new Disney pajamas and all the other accessories we need without having to head to the parks. Primark According to the Orlando Business Journal, Primark, a U.K. brand with affordable clothing, home goods, and beauty products, is set to open a second location in Orlando. The first Orlando Primark opened about a year ago, and while there are tons of generic options, we were obsessed with the Disney-themed section of the store. They have fun pajamas, beauty products, and more for our favorite Disney characters and movies. My personal favorite was the Kermit the Frog lip gloss I found. A whole floor of Disney stuff The new location will be at the Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets, while the original location is at The Florida Mall. The new Orlando location is one of the 18 stores coming across the U.S. Primark has also expressed interest in opening one in Tampa. Stitch collection There is currently no opening timeline. Both the Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets and The Florida Mall are owned by Simon Property Group. Although they did not respond to requests for comment, the website states that “transformations are underway,” which will include “exciting new brands.” A remodeled food hall, upgraded walkways, signage, and an enhancement to existing lounge areas are also coming. Clothes! The Florida Mall location is our secret spot for grabbing Disney merchandise on the cheap. There are fun collections like this Bambi collection, which could rival Lug and Loungefly’s. Bambi collection Of course, there are adorable plushes and ears, too. All of the merchandise is officially licensed with Disney, so you know you’re buying something real. ALL the Disney stuff We also found shoes, suitcases, hoodies, jackets, and more. We could seriously spend all day at the Disney section in Primark. Marvel merchandise We’re so excited to see this open and to hear more details about the timeline. Make sure you keep following Disney Food Blog for more Disney news. I’VE TRIED EVERY LOUNGEFLY HACK IN DISNEY WORLD, AND I’M SHARING 6 OF MY FAVORITES 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 been to Primark? Tell us your thoughts about it in the comments. The post NEWS: Popular U.K. Store Primark To Open Second Orlando Location first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Who’s already planning their holiday travel? Raise those hands! Orlando International Airport If you’re going out of town for Thanksgiving, Christmas, the New Year, or any of the other big holidays, then you’re definitely not alone! The last few weeks of the year tend to be peak travel season in the United States, and that means that it will be EXPENSIVE to fly. So when is the best time to buy those flights? We’ve got the answer. The Washington Post reports that the best time to purchase your holiday flights is actually right now! The cheapest window for domestic airfare is typically 3-6 months in advance if you’re purchasing with cash outright instead of using points or rewards. Welcome to the Orlando International Airport Now, if you’re not able to purchase right now and you need to buy tickets in October and November, you’re not entirely out of luck. After analyzing Google Flight data, the Post reports that the cheapest day to purchase airfare for Thanksgiving “last-minute” is 35 days ahead of time. This year, that’s October 22nd if you plan to fly the day before the holiday. Long Beach Airport For Christmas, it’s best to purchase 51 days in advance. This means if you’re flying on Christmas Eve, you’ll need to buy your tickets on November 3rd. The same goes for New Year’s Eve, so your purchase date for that holiday would be November 10th. Contrary to popular belief, it doesn’t seem to matter which day of the week you book. John Wayne International Airport One of the most important things to consider, though, is the day of the week that you travel. Flights tend to be significantly cheaper for Monday-Wednesday departures. Those days are on average 13% cheaper than weekdays, which can make a big difference if you’re buying multiple tickets or upgrading your fare. Orlando Sanford Airport So if you’re heading elsewhere for the holidays, take these things into consideration. We’re still in that magic 3-6 month window for the Christmas and New Year holidays as well. Stay tuned to DFB for more travel tips. The Number One Travel Trend We’re Ready to See Die — Click Here! 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 flying this holiday season? Tell us in the comments! The post When Is the BEST Time to Buy Your Holiday Flights? We’ve Got the Answer. first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

It’s no secret that we’re BIG fans of the food you’ll find on the menu at one of the finest southern restaurants in all of Disney World, but it might come as a shock that there’s a bit of a debate between our team on which of this fan-favorite restaurant’s desserts takes the top spot in our taste buds. Homecomin’ We recently stopped by Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ at Disney Springs to find out which of their desserts reigns supreme, and now we’re bringing you our FULL review. Is it worth a stop on your next trip to the Most Magical Place on Earth? Find out here! Atmosphere When you step into this restaurant, you’re treated just like you walked into your friend’s kitchen. The atmosphere here is warm, inviting, and will make you feel like you’re ready to do some back porch sittin’. Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ Chef Art Smith is a Florida native whose dishes celebrate Southern and Floridian cuisine and “farm-to-fork” food at his Disney Springs restaurant. You might also know him as a BBQ Pitmaster Judge, author of Art Smith’s Healthy Comfort and other cookbooks, founder of Art and Soul in Washington, D.C., and Table Fifty-Two in Chicago, and former personal chef to Oprah Winfrey. Homecomin’ dining room The vibe you’ll catch when you walk in through those big glass front doors is warm and friendly with a dash of southern comfort and soul. Outdoor seating at Homecomin’ But enough about the restaurant — what’s on the menu here?! Menu There are desserts here a plenty! Since we’re just focused on the sweet treats you’ll find here, there are several choices to choose from, including signature offerings. ©Disney And now, onto the main event — the food! Eats To start off our ranking, we grabbed the Hot Fudge Bourbon Brownie for $14. This is made of dark chocolate brownie garnished tableside with Homecomin’s warm bourbon chocolate sauce. Hot Fudge Bourbon Brownie This is incredible — it’s a giant brownie that’s been cut in half. It’s fudgy, but it does still have a fluffy cake consistency — it’s not too dense but is so, so chocolatey. It’s moist and bouncy, and the vanilla ice cream served on the side is an excellent addition. The caramel sauce, chocolate drizzle, and candied pecans are also a nice touch. The pecans add a welcome crunch, and they’re lightly toasted, so they add a roasted nuttiness. A literal dream To round out this sweet venture, we picked up the Signature Sampler for $24. This dish is a trifecta of signature desserts! You’ll get a petite portion of Hummingbird Cake, Chocolate Pecan Pie, and Shine Cake (an adults-only butter cake soaked with moonshine syrup served with a seasonal fruit gastrique and a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream). Signature Sampler The Hummingbird Cake is very dense, but that rich cream cheese frosting helps cut through the richness of the cake itself. This is a pineapple-banana cake, and the pineapple is instantly noticeable, with the banana flavor being a bit more subtle. This is a really large portion for being a “sample” as well, so it gets lots of points for that! Hummingbird Cake The Chocolate Pecan Pie is good, but it wasn’t our favorite of the bunch. It’s very, very sweet — almost like a chess pie with lots of candied pecans on top. We really appreciated the addition of the chocolate, along with the crunch of the chocolate chips. We wish the pecans had been more mixed into the pie, but it was still tasty and nutty. Chocolate Pecan Pie The Shine Cake is Chef Art’s signature dessert, and it’s easy to see why. You can definitely taste the remnants of the moonshine that has been cooked out of the cake — it’s like if an angel food cake and a rum cake had a baby, only with moonshine. It’s drizzled with a nice, light icing, and the seasonal fruit gastrique (blueberries, in our case) is such a lovely addition. A bit tart, a bit sweet, and paired so well with the cake. Shine Cake If you ask us, this was basically the best meal we’ve ever had in our entire lives. You know, if you consider eating four kinds of dessert a meal. Since we’re here to rank these desserts, here are our thoughts: Hummingbird Cake Hot Fudge Bourbon Brownie Shine Cake Chocolate Pecan Pie Of course, this is just our opinion — so you should go do your own dessert ranking! Nosh or Not This Disney World restaurant is a must-visit if… You’re looking for what are quite possibly the best desserts in all of Disney World. Seriously. You can’t go wrong here. You want to try some Southern American, home-cooking-inspired meals. You’re at Disney Springs and want a relaxing, casual spot for brunch, lunch, or dinner. You should skip this Disney World spot if… You’re looking for something more unique or upscale. You don’t have time for a sit-down meal and want something quick. You’re looking for a lighter meal. Since these are Southern eats, they tend to be on the heavier side. There are lighter options, though! Overall We’ve never had a bad meal at Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’! And since this definitely counts as a meal, we can add this to the list as well. If you’re looking to celebrate something special or are just after some delicious desserts, you should definitely see if you can snag a reservation! They also offer walk-up seating at the bar if you’re lucky. Our full dessert spread In the meantime, we’ll be on the lookout for more restaurant updates from Disney World and beyond. Make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news and more! The Best Restaurants in Disney World in 2025 Need Disney Restaurant Advice? We’ve Got EVERYTHING You Need to Know The ONLY Disney Dining Planning Tool You’ll Need Is Here – Get the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining! See Our Complete Disney World Restaurants Guide The Best Magic Kingdom Restaurants The Best EPCOT Restaurant Restaurants The Best Hollywood Studios Restaurants The Best Animal Kingdom Restaurants The Best Disney Springs Restaurants Check Out Dozens of Disney Dining Tips and Tools Learn All About Tipping at Disney Restaurants How to Use Mobile Order in Disney World Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the latest Disney food news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Have you eaten at this Disney World restaurant before? Tell us in the comments! The post REVIEW: The Best Part of My Entire Career at DFB Was Ranking These Desserts at Homecomin' first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

When you’re heading to Disney World, deciding what bag to use sounds like it would be an easy choice, but alas, we’ve learned time and time again that choosing the WRONG bag can be disastrous. ODODOS Daily Sling Bag We’ve tried out dozens of different bags in the parks, and while some of them weren’t exactly great fits, there’s also ones like THIS that totally blow our socks off (when we totally expected the opposite). DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. When You Need A Small Bag That Fits It All! Trying out the ODODOS Daily Sling Bag! The ODODOS Daily Sling Bag had us a little wary at first, because it just looked SO small, we didn’t know how it was going to fit all that we needed to bring. However, to our surprise, this had no problem fitting what we needed in an organized way, which is really what set it apart from other smaller bags like fanny packs. Easy to organize! There are three different pockets here to use — a main pocket, a smaller inner pocket that doesn’t zip, and a tiny front pocket. There’s also a pocket on the back of the bag (that rests against your back) that can be great for thinner items that are important to keep from being stolen or lost. Back pocket While we were able to fit everything we needed, we also loved how easy it was to keep everything organized! If you’re someone who needs to have a specific place for everything instead of just shoving it all in a bag, this is a great fit for you. However, this won’t fit larger items like a poncho or umbrella, but we didn’t have an issue getting a normal sized water bottle to fit in here! So many pockets! This was also very comfortable to wear, especially with the adjustable straps. We do feel it’s better quality than a lot of the other bags we’ve tried. If you have the bag TOO full or heavy, we could see it getting to be a little painful for your shoulder, but that’s often the case with any bag, and the solution is just to carry fewer items in the parks. We’d absolutely use this again! Grab yours right here! Be sure to stay tuned to DFB for all the latest Disney news to help you make sure your trip is the best it can be! The post REVIEW: The Best Park Bag for Disney World Is Less Than first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Not all Disney restaurants are created equal!. Skipper Dan’s Dan Dan Noodles There are a lot of restaurants scattered across Walt Disney World property, to the point that it can sometimes become overwhelming to choose where to eat. That’s where we come in to help! So if you plan on visiting Disney World in 2025, we’re just going to tell you which restaurants you need to head to. Best Quick Service Cheeseburger Pods It’s no secret that we LOVE the Cheeseburger Pods at Satu’li Canteen, but almost ALL the food here is a standout, including the bowls. It turns out Pandora in Disney’s Animal Kingdom has really good food. Best of all, this incredible food is available via quick-service and you can get it quickly via Mobile Order. Also, don’t skip out on the dessert here either. Character Breakfast Mickey at Topolino’s Terrace character breakfast There are a LOT of character breakfasts in Disney World, but one stands out thanks to its characters AND its food (let’s face it, most character breakfast meals are subpar buffets — yes, Chef Mickey’s, we’re looking at you). Topolino’s Terrace at Disney’s Riviera Resort, though, has great food and fun characters in unique artistic outfits. Of course, that means it’s often hard to get a breakfast reservation here, but if you can nail one, you won’t be disappointed. Nice, but Affordable Sanaa Want a nice meal that is still relatively affordable? Well, you can’t beat Sanaa over at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. Even better? The food here is unique and inspired by the flavors of Africa. If you’ve been reading DFB for even a little while, you’ll also know we can’t get enough of the Bread Service here. Nice and Fancy Red Wine Glazed Salmon If you want something a little fancier, as well as expensive, hit up Narcoosees, an upscale casual restaurant at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. This restaurant rarely lets us down and we’ve often called it near-perfect. Every appetizer, entree, and dessert here screams decadent, so if you want to celebrate a special occasion or just feel a little fancy, Narcoosees is the restaurant for that. Buffet A Herd of Zebra Domes at Boma Buffets aren’t necessarily places you to go to for food (usually it’s more about quantity and multiple food options), but Boma at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge will change your mind about buffets. Everything on this buffet is delicious, especially the dishes inspired by Africa. And when it comes to dessert, Zebra Domes, are close to the top of our sweet treats list. Both breakfast and dinner here are winners. Something Different and Inexpensive in Disney Springs Dragon’s Breath There are a lot of choices when it comes to food in Disney Springs, but sometimes you just want something a little different. That’s why we will ALWAYS recommend the highly underrated eet by Maneet Chauhan, which is owned by celebrity chef Maneet Chauhan. The food here is solid, and yet it’s also affordable, and the monthly drink specials are usually a hit! Adventurous Let’s go in! Who’s up for a little adventure? Well, you’ll get that IN SPADES at Skipper Canteen in Magic Kingdom. Even the THEME of the restaurant is about adventure — well about adventure aboard the World Famous Jungle Cruise. But the food here is also adventurous, although our favorite thing isn’t even on the menu, but you can ask for it: it’s the Pao de Queijo Brazilian cheese bread, served with a side of poblano cream with red pepper flakes and chimichurri sauce. You can ask your server about that and everything else on the secret menu here. Like we said? This restaurant is an adventure! Worth a Second Chance Taste of the Caribbean Platter Okay, so a lot of DFB readers love Sebastian’s Bistro at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, so we think it’s worth a second look if you’ve been considering having a meal there. Not only is the food here solid, but it also has an amazing view of the EPCOT nighttime fireworks show. The food, the cocktails, the DESSERT (the bread pudding here is even better than the ‘Ohana bread pudding)…this is one restaurant that you shouldn’t overlook. Got a Sweet Tooth? Look at that sparkle! If you’ve got a sweet tooth and crave cookies and cake, Disney World has two INCREDIBLE options to satisfy those sugar cravings. First up, The Cake Bake Shop at Disney’s BoardWalk is THE place to go to celebrate a special occasion and enjoy decadent cake slices in a gorgeous atmosphere. Yes, the cake here is PRICEY, but we think it’s worth it. Cheaper Sweet Tooth Gideon’s Chocolate Chip Cookies If you’re looking for something to satisfy that sweet tooth that’s a bit cheaper, though, Gideon’s Bakehouse has LONG been a DFB favorite. The cookies here are MASSIVE and come in all kinds of delicious flavors, but don’t sleep on the peanut butter cold brew and the cake slices. Best New Dining Spot These are the biggest sliders we’ve seen. We had no idea our favorite NEW dining spot would be a pool bar, but here we are. However, Wailulu Bar & Grill at Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort WOWED us with its unique take on Polynesian food that includes Musubi made with Glazed Spam, Crispy Rice Pearls, Furikake, and Sriracha-Honey. This is also where you may find an even better burger than at Steakhouse 71 at Disney’s Contemporary Resort — NO LIE. There’s our list! We recommend visiting at least one of these restaurants in 2025 and let us know what you think. In the meantime, stay tuned to DFB for more Disney food reviews, news, and tips! The BEST Counter Service Restaurants in Disney World in 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 Will you be making plans to eat at any of these restaurants in 2025? Let us know in the comments! The post If You Can Only Go to One Disney World Restaurant in 2025, Go Here first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Walt Disney World has rolled out a new three-day ticket offer to Florida residents that’s valid almost through the end of 2025. The three-day, three-park ticket, is now on sale for $210. It’s good for visits between Oct. 5 and Dec. 23. It’s valid only at Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme parks — not at Magic Kingdom. Visitors can go to one of those three parks more than once under this plan, and the visits do not have to be on consecutive days. Theme park reservations are required, and they are subject to availability. With Florida resident tickets, adults must show proof of Florida residency at a Walt Disney World park ticket window before the first use. There are upgrade options, including park-hopping between the trio on a single day (additional $40 per ticket) and one that includes water park visits (for $35). The time period of the offer includes the remainder of the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, which ends Nov. 22, and the beginning of the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays, which begins Nov. 28. Disney’s Animal Kingdom will debut its “Zootopia: Better Zoogether!” 3-D show inside the Tree of Life Theater on Nov. 7. Disney World consistently has had package deals this year. One four-day offer is still underway, but the window will soon close. Purchases must be made by Sept. 23 and the four days’ worth of tickets must be used by Sept. 27. The price is $240, and add-ons such as park-hopping are available. Magic Kingdom is included. For purchases or more information, go to disneyworld.com/offers. Email me at dbevil@orlandosentinel.com. BlueSky: @themeparksdb. Threads account: @dbevil. X account: @themeparks. Subscribe to the Theme Park Rangers newsletter at orlandosentinel.com/newsletters. View the full article

We’re flipping out over here because some of our favorite celebrities have just been announced to be part of Disney’s newest film! ©Disney We’ve already been excited for Zootopia 2, but this recent update had us launching up out of our seat and texting our fellow Disney fans immediately. FOUR celebrities have just been confirmed to be voicing characters in the new film, and we cannot wait! Disney just made a post introducing us to The Lynxley Family, four new characters in Zootopia 2. Pawbert Lynxley will be voiced by Andy Samberg, Cattrick Lynxley will be played by Macaulay Culkin, Milton Lynxley will be played by David Strathairn, and finally, Kitty Lynxley will be voiced by none other than Brenda Song! ©Disney Andy Samberg is most known for his roles in “Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” “SNL,” Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers, the Hotel Transylvania series, and more. You likely know Macaulay Culkin most from Home Alone, but he’s also made appearances in “American Horror Story” among many other films and TV shows. ‘Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers’ Disney+ Ad in Hollywood Studios Many Disney fans likely recognize Brenda Song’s name and immediately associate her with her iconic role as London Tipton on “The Suite Life of Zack & Cody” and “Suite Life on Deck,” but she’s also been more recently seen in the film Secret Obsession and TV series “Running Point.” ©Disney David Strathairn is most known for his role as Noah Vosen in the Jason Bourne franchise, but he was also recently in Where the Crawdads Sing and Godzilla: King of the Monsters. We can’t wait to see/hear their performances in this new film! More Recent Disney Media News! Every Disney Adult Will Be Glued to Their Screens on September 17thAttention Disney+ Subscribers! NEW Perks Just Dropped (Including a Prize Worth $210)Three NEW Perks Just Dropped for Disney+ SubscribersAttention Disney+ Subscribers! 3 NEW Perks Just DroppedJUST ANNOUNCED: We Know When You Can Watch Disney’s ‘Thunderbolts*’ Movie on Disney+ Be sure to stay tuned to DFB for all the latest Disney media news and more! Your Favorite Disney+ and Hulu Shows Just Got Even BETTER 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 this new film? Tell us in the comments! The post NEW Casting Revealed for Disney's 'Zootopia 2' first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

If there’s one thing Disney knows how to do, it’s celebrate BIG. Disneyland’s 70th decor! They often put on massive celebrations for the anniversaries of the company, the parks, or even fan-favorite movies. Right now, they’re celebrating the 70th Anniversary of Disneyland Resort, and if you want to join the celebration from home, there’s a big TV special coming soon. ABC News Studios is airing “The Happiest Story on Earth: 70 Years of Disneyland – A Special Edition of 20/20” on Sunday, September 21st at 8PM ET. You’ll be able to watch the special on ABC as it highlights the history of Disneyland Resort. ©ABC The special “commemorates seven decades of one of the most beloved theme parks in the world.” It will feature reflections from Neil Patrick Harris, Jamie Lee Curtis, Jon Favreau, Patrick Warburton and Tiffany Haddish, as well as a message from Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex. Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary Celebration Disney CEO Bob Iger will share some insight into what the future holds for Disneyland Park, and former Imagineer Bob Gurr will make a (rare) appearance to regale what it was like to work alongside Walt Disney and to be at the park on opening day. In addition, there will be a sneak peek at future Disney California Adventure Park attractions, including “an expansion to Avengers Campus, a Coco attraction and the new Avatar destination.” 70th Anniversary Castle Tribute in Disneyland The special will be available to watch the next day on Disney+ and Hulu, so you can catch it then if you miss it live. We can’t wait to tune in and celebrate Disneyland! Stay tuned to DFB for more Disneyland news. Learn More About the 70th Celebration Here! 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 tune in to watch this show? Tell us in the comments! The post Why Disney Fans Will Be Glued to Their Screens on September 21st first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

There used to be a time when traveling from Orlando’s airport to Disney World was as simple as hopping on the included Magical Express. However, since that service was discontinued several years ago, things have gotten more complicated. Southwest at MCO On top of that, Disney trips are expensive, and every dollar saved on something like transportation can mean the loss of an extra snack, souvenir, or ride photo. Let’s break it down so you can make the best choice for your budget and travel style. Mears Connect Isn’t Always the Cheapest Option Mears Connect is probably Disney World’s most well-known airport transportation service, and for solo travelers or couples, it can be a pretty affordable and stress-free way to get from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to your Disney World hotel. Mears Connect The cost is $17.60 per adult and $14.30 per child one way. That means a family of four (two adults and two kids) would pay $63.80 total for the ride. ©Mears That sounds reasonable, right? Well, here’s the thing: While it’s budget-friendly for smaller groups, the price gap disappears when you’re traveling as a family. Uber and Lyft Might Cost About the Same (Or Even Less) Let’s compare the price of rideshare options like Uber and Lyft for the same trip from MCO to Coronado Springs Resort: UberX for four people = $52.97 ©Uber Lyft Standard-Priority for four people = $47.99–$52.71 ©Lyft So, if you’re a solo traveler or a couple, Mears Connect could save you a few bucks. But for a family of four, rideshares might actually be the same price or cheaper than Mears, AND that’s without the extra stops to other resorts. With Mears Connect, You’re Sharing a Ride AND Your Time If you choose Mears Connect, you’re not getting a private ride straight to your resort. Instead, you’ll be on a shared bus that could make multiple stops before reaching your destination. Mears Connect at Orlando International Airport This means you might have to wait longer at the airport for the bus to fill up, and your travel time could be extended depending on how many other stops are on your route. Mears Connect Bus On the other hand, Uber and Lyft take you directly to your resort, usually in 30–35 minutes. If you’re exhausted from a long flight and just want to get to Disney as fast as possible, a rideshare might be the better option. So, Which One Should You Choose? Here’s the takeaway: If you’re traveling solo or as a couple, Mears Connect is usually the cheaper option. For a family of four the prices even out, so consider whether you prefer a direct ride with Uber/Lyft or don’t mind extra stops with Mears. If you want to save time, rideshare will almost always get you to your hotel faster. Inside a Mears Connect Bus Ultimately, your best choice depends on your budget and priorities. Just make sure to check real-time Uber and Lyft prices before booking, because rates can fluctuate based on demand. Happy traveling! Until then, make sure to stay tuned to DFB for more. ALERT! Lightning Lane Prices Are Increasing SOON at 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 When’s your next trip to Disney World? Let us know in the comments! The post 3 Things I Wish I Had Known Before Paying for Disney World Airport Transportation first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We will not stop showing you the best Christmas Disney merchandise, and we’re not sorry. ©Pottery Barn Pottery Barn released their Disney collaboration, and we can’t stop singing our favorite Christmas songs. This is your final warning: once you see this collection, you’re going to want to click “add to cart.” DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Mickey Mouse and Friends Fair Isle Christmas Stocking ©Pottery Barn We know this is going to look perfect hanging on the mantel with every family member’s stocking hung up with care. There is one for Mickey, Minnie, and Pluto, but all in the same style, so everyone can pick their favorite character. If you’ve been looking for new stockings, this might be the perfect year to get them. SHOP NOW Mickey Mouse Christmas Tabletop Collection ©Pottery Barn This whole dining set is full of different Mickey and Friends dishes, and we want them ALL! Forget the fine china, I want to eat off of my Mickey Mouse bowl. There are plates, bowls, tumblers, utensils, chargers, placemats, and even a kid-friendly plate. The kids’ table at Christmas just became something to envy. SHOP NOW Mickey Mouse Holiday Pillow Set ©Pottery Barn Please stop the cuteness, Pottery Barn, I can’t take it! This pillow has Mickey and his besties on it in their adorable holiday outfits. It’s a two-pack, with the other pillow being a peppermint pillow shaped like Mickey Mouse. It’s made of cotton velvet and looks so fluffy and soft to touch. SHOP NOW Christmas Advent Calendar ©Pottery Barn Counting down to Christmas just got a whole lot better. This design is perfect for adding your own little items, including candy you know your family will like, clues leading up to a bigger present, and even little toys in each pocket. You can even get it embroidered with your family’s name, and it’s perfect to use year after year. SHOP NOW If you love those items that we pulled out, don’t forget to check out the whole collection! ©Pottery Barn There are items from quilts, ornaments, pajamas, and plenty of home decor items. They all have a bit of Disney magic, and we love Pottery Barn’s high-quality items that make it easy to pull out every year and continue on family traditions. SHOP THE COLLECTION Make sure you keep following Disney Food Blog for more! The post A New Pottery Barn x Christmas Collection Dropped Online first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Nothing hits more than meeting a bunch of your favorite characters at Disney World! Well, we just got to be a part of a rare experience at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and you’re going to love it. Hi Stitch! Have you ever heard of a Character Palooza? It’s when a bunch of characters (including RARE ones!) in training come out and interact with large groups of guests. It’s one of our favorite ways to interact with characters, because you get a bunch of them at one time. We just got to see a Character Palooza, and it was a fun time! Sometimes we’ve caught Character Paloozas near the Hollywood Studios entrance or in front of World Showplace in EPCOT. This time, we were making our way past the gate near where Fantasmic! is shown. Tiana! We got to see a bunch of the characters who are featured in Fantasmic! Let us tell you, that’s a RARE experience that almost never happens. We got to see Stitch… Stitch was getting pretty close …Tiana and Naveen… It’s Tiana and Naveen …Mary Poppins… Mary Poppins! …and Moana! Moana! It was so special to interact with all these characters simultaneously. You often have to wait a good chunk of time to see one character at the park. It’s also rare to run into characters like Mary Poppins! In every job that must be done, there is an element of fun! Oh, we’re missing someone. We also got to see everyone’s favorite, Donald Duck! Hey Donald! So we got to interact with six characters in under 30 minutes! Since the characters are moving about, you don’t get to interact with them as long as you normally would, but they stay long enough to sign autographs and take photos. We’ve seen other Character Paloozas, and they’re always a blast! Stitch loved getting his photo taken! There isn’t a way to plan to see these, which makes them so rare. Character Paloozas happen randomly. Next time you’re at the park, always keep your eyes peeled. You never know when you might run into a bunch of beloved Disney characters out and about. For more Disney updates, make sure to follow us at Disney Food Blog. A Big Change Hits Disney’s Hollywood Studios This Week 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 seen a Character Palooza? Let us know in the comments! The post If You Ever See THIS at Disney World, Consider Yourself Lucky first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

A Disney classic is available once again! Drooool For decades now, variants of the Monte Cristo sandwich have been an iconic staple of Disneyland’s food offerings. In my 7 years of covering Disney theme parks, it’s often been one of the first food offerings mentioned to me about the park, along with churros, beignets, and DOLE Whip. Over the years, the sandwich has come and gone from certain menus at the park, but recently, we were overjoyed to find it back as a quick service option. In recent weeks, a quick-service version of the classic Monte Cristo has become available at New Orleans Square’s Royal Street Veranda. The sandwich is the traditional mix of ingredients served at the park, as the offering is filled with ham, turkey, and Swiss Cheese, all between slices of egg bread dusted with Powdered Sugar and served with jam. Royal Street Veranda Menu The Royal Street Veranda Monte Cristo is priced at $13.99, seemingly a bargain compared with the $26 table service Monte Cristo offering at Cafe Orleans. Royal Street Veranda Monte Cristo While it is necessary to stress that the latter includes the choice of pommes frites or a petite salad, the quick service offering is a good deal all the same. Cafe Orleans Monte Cristo In fact, it could be argued that, thanks to its quality and historic popularity at the resort, the Royal Street Veranda’s Monte Cristo may be the best quick-service option currently available at Disneyland. Stay tuned to DFB for more Disney menu updates. Why Disney Adults Keep Booking the Wrong Disneyland Hotel 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 a fan of the Monte Cristo? Let us know in the comments below. The post This Is the BEST Disney Snack News We've Heard All Year first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Walt Disney World has tweaked its Tron Lightcycle / Run ride at Magic Kingdom theme park. The changes are notable, but neither drastic nor permanent for the futuristic indoor/outdoor roller coaster. We made a couple of rounds Monday, the first day for the revamping. Here are things to know before trekking to Tomorrowland for the “Tron: Ares” overlay. Light entertainment Obvious even to non-riders will be the amped up lighting package built into the sloped canopy of the ride. Thanks to adaptable LED technology, there are new hues and effects to absorb as the ride vehicles zoom past as well as in between the streams of screams. The colors have subtle changes. What may appear blue can fade into a purple or a teal. The roof can go all red – though those moments seem spread out for maximum effect – or it can present a mashup from its pallet. Along with the ride’s usual streaking-polygram effects, the canopy light show now includes swirling motions, waves of color changes and pulsating intensity. But it changes quickly. One moment Tron is very red and by the next iPhone click, it’s very red. The Tron train goes up after its first launch as neighboring Space Mountain looms at Magic Kingdom. (Dewayne Bevil/Orlando Sentinel) Sound advice The overlay and the upcoming “Tron: Ares” film are now accompanied with music by Nine Inch Nails. The movie soundtrack, set to be available Friday, includes “As Alive As You Need Me to Be.” “I wanted [this] to be a grittier version of ‘Tron,’ highlighting the contrast between the artificial world and the real world. I wanted it to have an industrial feeling to it,” “Ares” director Joachim Ronning told Billboard. “I think it’s already one of the more grown-up franchises at Disney, and it was important for me to take it to the next level.” Side note: Ronning also directed “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales” and “Maleficent: Mistress of Evil.” The ride’s original music, courtesy of Daft Punk (who contributed to “Tron: Legacy” in 2010), can still be heard along the attraction plaza during the “Ares” overlay. Derez of the stor Lighting effects continue inside the attraction, but it’s mostly a swapping out of the original blue motif for a bright reddish-orange one. In the tweaked story for the ride, your lightcycle gets hacked by Master Control with the goal of spreading his code in the grid. “Do so, or be Derezzed,” MC warns just before launch. The coaster hasn’t had physical changes to rail, so the experience is similar to the past. But we might get a new WDW catchphrase out of it with the voiced-over “Excellent work, the grid is now mine.” LED technology provides a new, multicolor look for Tron Lightcycle / Run at Walt Disney World on the first night of its 'Tron: Ares' overlay. (Dewayne Bevil/Orlando Sentinel) Why now? We don’t know when the “Ares” overlay is going away, but Disney has said it’s for a limited time. (It’s also been added temporarily to the original Tron ride at Shanghai Disneyland.) We do know that “Tron: Ares” comes to theaters on Oct. 10. The film stars Jeff Bridges, Gillian Anderson and Jared Leto as Ares. Disney released a video on its social media platforms of Leto on the ride. (Rock star hair becomes roller coaster hair quickly for Leto.) “I feel like I’m home,” the actor exudes walking up the Tron ride ramp. Email me at dbevil@orlandosentinel.com. BlueSky: @themeparksdb. Threads account: @dbevil. X account: @themeparks. Subscribe to the Theme Park Rangers newsletter at orlandosentinel.com/newsletters. View the full article

Each week, we scour Amazon to find the latest Disney merchandise and steepest Disney deals the massive e-tailer has to offer. ©Amazon This week, Amazon is offering up some of the best clothes and bags for a day at Walt Disney World! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Pirates of the Caribbean Tee ©Amazon This Pirates tee celebrates the massive film franchise, complete with an Est. 2003 word mark! SHOP HERE Aikman Waist Fan AMKEN Waist Fan This waist fan combines six functions in a small package, “including a small desk fan, a power bank, an LED light, an SOS light, and a warning light. Unlike other waist fans, this model’s aligned air inlet and outlet maximize the wind volume for efficient cooling.” We use it often in the parks. SHOP HERE Skeleton Dance Tee Silly Symphonies Tee The Skeleton Dance, one of the most iconic installments of Walt Disney’s Silly Symphonies series of cartoons, has been immortalized in this shirt. This is the perfect attire to show you’re spooky AND know your Disney history. SHOP HERE Yehtta Instant Print Kids Camera Yehtta Instant Digital Camera This camera bundle is currently available on Amazon, and is headlined by a camera that features a 2.4-inch IPS screen, clear 1080P high resolution video, 16x digital zoom, flash light, black and white instant prints, color photo shooting, continuous shooting, time-lapse, and filters, as well as a built-in MP3 player and 4 fun kids’ puzzles. The bundle also includes a 32G SD memory card, a Camera Lanyard, a Type-C cable, and 3 rolls of instant printing paper. SHOP HERE Halloween “Boo” Crossbody Boo! Thanks to its adorably spooky decoration, this bag is perfect for the fall season. We also found it light, with lots of space inside. The bag measures 8.2 X 5.1 X 1.5 inches. SHOP HERE Yeokou Romper Yeokou Romper Thanks to its free-flowing construction and ease to wear, this romper is the perfect parks garment. SHOP HERE Chenille Letter Mouse Ears Headband Holder Amazon This 11″x11″x4.5″ mouse ears travel case “securely holds up to 8 pairs of mouse ears with internal clasps and cushioning for protection. It includes front and internal zippered pockets, along with slip pockets, for up to 4 extra pairs of ears and accessories like clips and headbands.” SHOP HERE If any of these Amazon items sound appealing to you, get over to AMAZON ASAP and stay tuned to DFB each week for the best Amazon has to offer. The post The Amazon Disney Shirt You Need in October first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We hope you’ve been saving, because the Prime Big Deal Days just got announced! ©Amazon Who’s ready for some shopping? Prime Big Deal Days fall on October 7th and 8th, and we’re sure to see a lot of Disney souvenirs, essentials, and more go on sale. You don’t have to wait till early October to save on those though, as we found some great items that are having early deals RIGHT NOW! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Get this Waist Fan AMKEN Waist Fan If you’re looking for the best way to make sure you stay nice and cool during those hot Disney days, look no further than the AMKEN Waist Fan! It’s crazy how many ways you can stay cool with this, you can clip it onto your clothes, wear it on a waist belt, or on a lanyard. This is fantastic for people who are prone to overheating, and hot days during the Food and Wine Festival can make that even worse. It’s powerful, it’s affordable, and it’s an absolute must-grab — plus, it’s 28% off right now! View on Amazon Check out this Disney Princess Water Bottle ©Amazon Look how adorable this Disney Princess Water Bottle! Your little ones will love this, and it will keep them hydrated during a long Disney day. The water bottle has a leak-proof lid, helping prevent spills. It features some of your favorite princesses, including Ariel, Aurora, Cinderella, Jasmine, Snow White, and Belle. It’s hard to say no when it’s 20% off! View on Amazon We love this Haunted Mansion Shirt ©Amazon If you’re looking for that perfect fit that mixes Disney and spooky for the Halloween season, then this Haunted Mansion Shirt is just the thing for you! The shirt is inspired by the iconic Disney attraction, and features the Hat Box Ghost front and center. For 15% off, we don’t know how you couldn’t get this! View on Amazon Or, you can grab this Flat Plug Power Strip Flat Plug Power Strip This Flat Plug Power Strip is portable and effective, allowing you to charge multiple devices while not taking up too much space. It has three outlets and 4 USB ports (two USB-C). It’s been the best thing to bring to hotels, resorts, or wherever you’re staying with a large party. We can charge our phone, laptop, and whatever else we brought, while only taking up one outlet on the wall. We love the price you can get this at, and it’s 20% off right now! View on Amazon And finally, these Reusable Utensils Reusable Utensils With all the snacks and food we eat at Disney World, we can highly recommend this Reusable Utensil Set! Between EPCOT festivals and our normal go-to snacks, we love having these in our bags with us. We can easily wipe these off and throw them back in the case until the next time we need them. The set comes with four utensil kits, each containing a knife, fork, and spoon. For 27% off, we think this is essential to have with you in the parks! 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 Amazon Big Deal Day Dates Announced for October -- See What's On Sale Now first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Reach out and find your happily ever after — wait, wrong nighttime spectacular! Instead of the fireworks, please picture Mickey Mouse doing the arm shimmy at the beginning of Fantasmic. What a show! Fantasmic is located in Hollywood Studios and is one show you won’t want to miss. Before you head to the theater, make sure you know the new showtimes, and get ready to use your imagination. Fantasmic will now play at 8 PM and 9:30 PM, instead of 8:30 PM and 10 PM, starting September 18th. See? You totally would have missed the show if you didn’t check out the new hours, and that’s something we don’t want to happen. ‘Frozen’ segment in Fantasmic! This show is a great way to see tons of Disney characters, including Moana, Elsa, Mulan, Aladdin, Pocahontas, and lots of other princesses. Many characters have their own moments during the show, and then at the end, all come out on a steamboat with Mickey himself leading them across the water. Fantasmic! Maleficent is also there as a 40-foot-tall dragon, and yes, it’s as cool as you think. That part is Mickey’s nightmare, so you’ll have to help him use his imagination to fight it. Fantasmic! Out of all the shows at Fantasmic, you won’t want to skip it, but during the day, there’s also great entertainment to enjoy. Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After opened recently, and you’ll be introduced to three villains, and you’ll have to decide who was treated most unfairly. Captain Hook in Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After The Little Mermaid — A Musical Adventure is a newly reimagined version of the original Little Mermaid show, and you get to go under the sea with Ariel. Ariel in “The Little Mermaid — A Musical Adventure” Another super fun show is Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular. This has been at Hollywood Studios since 1989 and is perfect for the whole family. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how different stunts in movies are done, and it truly is an epic spectacle. Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular Check out Beauty and the Beast — Live on Stage, too. This is a shortened version of the stage product of Beauty and the Beast, and you get to see lots of dancing and singing, and it is the perfect show if you’re into the classics. Beauty and the Beast Live Onstage There’s so much to see at Hollywood Studios, but don’t forget to check out the showtimes in the My Disney Experience app before planning your day, so you don’t have to miss anything. Keep following Disney Food Blog for more. TWO WAYS DISNEY’S HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS WILL BE TOTALLY DIFFERENT IN 2026 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 show at Hollywood Studios? Tell us in the comments! The post A Big Change Hits Disney's Hollywood Studios This Week first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

LONG-AWAITED changes are coming to a pair of Magic Kingdom icons! Magic Kingdom Entrance Back in August, Disney made numerous announcements at the 2025 Destination D23 event, touching on every corner of the company from films, television, and — our focus today — their theme parks. In fact, to a 30-year visitor to the Magic Kingdom like myself, the biggest announcements had to do with two changes I’ve been waiting ages for. The Classic Cinderella Castle Color Scheme Returns The Magic Kingdom’s centerpiece is returning to its roots. For the first five decades of its existence (give or take some time spent as a cake or covered in toilet paper… thanks, Stitch) the Magic Kingdom’s icon had a blue and grey color scheme, accented with gold. It was definitely a sight to behold! However, that changed in 2020 when the Castle was repainted with a new color scheme of dark blue roofs, a slight rose pink color, and gold trim accents on the castle. The changes, which proved somewhat controversial, were said to be in honor of the 70th anniversary of the release of Cinderella. However, they remained for the next five years with no sign of change… until Destination D23. Magic Kingdom At the event, Disney announced that the castle would be returning to a “timeless color combination: deep, handsome blues paired with radiant golds.” According to Disney, these colors were chosen to “reflect the Florida sunshine in a way that makes the castle shimmer from every angle.” ©Disney No specific date was given for the changes, though we would expect work to begin somewhat soon. Judging by our readers’ reaction to the news, the overwhelming majority of fans support this change. Carousel of Progress While the Carousel of Progress might not be as visually iconic as Cinderella Castle, there’s no doubt that the attraction has been a cornerstone of Disney’s theme parks since it debuted at the 1964 New York World’s Fair. Via AllEars.net After a two-season stint at the Fair, the animatronic show – which followed an American family through the technological progress of the 20th century – had a stint at Disneyland before relocating to Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom in time for a 1975 opening. During its time at the Magic Kingdom, the Carousel of Progress has received several updates. The current version of the show debuted 30 years ago in 1994. While the first three acts remain mostly unchanged, if updated slightly for the times, the finale was greatly altered, depicting the then-upcoming future of the year 2000 through the lens of 1994. Suffice to say, that totally 90s ending was feeling a bit out of date circa 2025, Flying Ace Grandma notwithstanding. After years of calls to update the attraction, Disney finally made the big announcement at Destination D23. Look at Grandma Go! At the event, it was announced that the Carousel of Progress is about to undergo a massive refurbishment and modernization that will “introduce the show to an entirely new generation of fans, showing them that a great big, beautiful tomorrow is just a dream away. “ Carousel of Progress The most noteworthy addition will be a new opening scene featuring an animatronic of Walt Disney, similar to the show that currently runs in Disneyland. However, the Carousel of Progress version will be swapping Walt’s office set and suit for a costume and background more akin to Walt’s trips through the “Imagineering workshop” during episodes of the 1960s Disneyland television series. ©Disney In addition, Disney said we’ll also find out what “John, Sarah, and the rest of the family are up to,” leading many to theorize that the newly reworked show will have a brand new, more up-to-date finale. According to Kirsten Komoroske, Executive Director of the Walt Disney Family Museum, who worked with Disney on the addition, “The introduction of a new Audio-Animatronics figure of Walt Disney in ‘Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress’ marks an exciting milestone in our shared mission to celebrate the story of the man behind the magic and inspire new generations with his innovations and vision for the future. We appreciate the continued efforts and meticulous care that Imagineering has taken to keep Walt’s legacy alive.” Carousel of Progress Two major changes are coming to iconic Magic Kingdom locations! Stay tuned to DFB for further updates on these projects. I Am a Disney Grandma at Heart – These Are the Unspoken Rules I Follow in Magic Kingdom 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 refurbishment are you more excited about: Cinderella Castle or Carousel of Progress? Let us know in the comments below. The post OK, It’s Been Years. Disney Is FINALLY Fixing 2 Glaring Problems Magic Kingdom first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Where in Disney World does mobile order NOT work? New rules! What locations enforce a time limit for guests? And WHY is EPCOT asking for my ID when I go to purchase chocolate?? These are all the NEW rules that you need to know about before you start snacking around Disney World. Check out our video below: NEW RULES for Disney World Snacks Are you a DFB Video subscriber? If you hit the button below, you can subscribe to our channel and catch up on ALL of our latest episodes! And stay tuned for more theme park 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 What do you think of this video? Tell us in the comments. The post DFB Video: NEW RULES for Disney World Snacks first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

It’s time to book your dining reservations! Jollywood Nights! If you’re going to Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios this year, there’s one sit-down restaurant that brings in all the perfect vibes of the holidays into one meal. These reservations tend to go FAST, so here’s all the details you need to know. Advanced dining reservations are now open for Jazzy Holidays at the Hollywood Brown Derby. This dining experience is only available during Jollywood Nights. Full Spread Wondering what’s on the menu? Only the most delicious items! Here’s a look at the highlights: Chorizo Arancini with Shaved Parmesan and Salmorejo Tomato Sauce Jazzy Sliders — Bison and Pork, Onion Jam and Gorgonzola Dolce Cheese on a Brioche Roll, Lump Crab, Asparagus and Brown Butter-Bone Marrow Hollandaise Pork Belly Bao — Korean Barbecue, Cucumber Slaw and Soy Vinaigrette Holiday Mickey Hot Cocoa — Hot Cocoa by Joffrey’s topped with Whipped Cream, Caramel-Chocolate Brownie Mickey Ears, and Holiday Sprinkles (nonalcoholic) Mocha Espresso Mint-tini — Tia Maria Cold Brew Coffee Liqueur, Bols Peppermint Schnapps Liqueur, Mozart Chocolate Liqueur, and Vanilla Cream, garnished with Chocolate and Crushed Peppermint Mix Spiced Pear Martini — Grey Goose Vodka, Spiced Pear Syrup, and Lemon Juice We’ve eaten here a few times in the past and really enjoyed it. It can be nerve-wracking to schedule a dining reservation during your limited time during the after-hours event, but if you’re looking for a slower, more relaxing evening, this can be perfect. Jollywood Nights is also a bit smaller than Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, where it often feels like you don’t have a minute to breathe. The menu (2024) REVIEW: IS JAZZY HOLIDAYS REALLY WORTH THE TIME AT JOLLYWOOD NIGHTS? One dish we tried was the Hamachi Crudo, which is made with caper aioli, Dijon-avocado mousse, and citrus-chamagne vinaigrette. It was very salty, not too fishy, and we loved the avocado mousse. Hamachi Crudo Another dish we’re still raving about is the Jazzy Holiday Sliders. They were perfectly cooked with a warm pink center. The gorgonzola cheese came through in the perfect amount, and while we loved the onion jam, we just wished there was more. Jazzy Holiday Slider We can’t forget about the Sticky Chicken Wings with a sweet and spicy soy sauce. The sauce had a bit of smokiness in it that we enjoyed, but what really sold us on it was the housemade ranch. Can Disney bottle up that ranch, please? Sticky Chicken Wings at Hollywood Brown Derby If you’re debating grabbing a reservation, we highly recommend snagging one because by the time you decide, it might be too late. While this is the only sit-down restaurant open during the party, there are tons of other snacks to try, which we loved, so it depends on your family’s priorities during the event. Jollywood Nights 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! WE’RE TRYING OVER 15 EXCLUSIVE NEW SNACKS IN DISNEY WORLD: HERE ARE THE TREATS WORTH YOUR $$ 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 Are you going to Jollywood Nights this year? Tell us what you’re looking forward to in the comments. The post Reservations Are Now Open for an Exclusive Dining Experience at Disney's Jollywood Nights first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Planning a Disney World trip is tricky enough without having to worry about ride closures. Kali River Rapids October is shaping up to be a busy month in the parks, with Halloween season in full swing, special events happening across property, and (unfortunately) a few beloved attractions going down for refurbishment. Some are short-term closures while others are part of bigger, multi-year projects that won’t be back until 2026. Here are the four rides you need to know about before you go and what to ride instead. Kali River Rapids If you were hoping to cool off at Disney’s Animal Kingdom on Kali River Rapids, you’ll want to plan ahead. This water ride will be closing for its annual refurbishment a little earlier than usual, beginning October 6th, 2025. Disney has confirmed it will reopen sometime in December 2025, just in time for the holiday crowds. Kali River Rapids This downtime is pretty standard for Kali, as the attraction tends to close every year for maintenance and refreshes. With heavy use and tons of water involved, Disney needs to keep the ride systems in top shape. If staying dry (or not) on Kali is a must for your family, keep in mind it won’t be an option if you’re visiting in October or November. Kali River Rapids Alternative: If your group is craving a water-based attraction, Na’vi River Journey in Pandora offers a much calmer, indoor option. It won’t soak you, but the glowing bioluminescent scenery is breathtaking. For a little thrill without the splash, Expedition Everest is your best bet. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Over at Magic Kingdom, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad has been closed since January 6th, 2025, and it will remain shuttered all the way through 2026. This isn’t just a quick touch-up. Imagineers are working on a multi-year refurbishment that’s rumored to bring new effects and storytelling elements, plus prep work to integrate the attraction into future park expansions. Construction at Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Disney has already announced that this project will overlap with construction around the Rivers of America and the beginnings of the new Cars-themed area. The end result will also help connect Big Thunder to the upcoming Villains Land and Fantasyland. In the meantime, Frontierland is without its “wildest ride in the wilderness,” which is a big change for many Magic Kingdom regulars. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Alternative: For thrill seekers, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train offers another family coaster with smooth drops and fun theming. If you want something with a bit more intensity, head over to Space Mountain or TRON Lightcycle / Run in Tomorrowland. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin Magic Kingdom is also down one more classic ride: Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin. The attraction closed on August 4th, 2025, for a massive round of enhancements and will not reopen until 2026. Disney has teased plenty of exciting changes to the ride that make it more interactive and tech-savvy than ever before. ©Disney For starters, there’s a brand-new character named Buddy, a support robot designed by Pixar and Imagineering, who will welcome guests and get them ready for their mission against Zurg. The ride vehicles are being reimagined with new Star Command-inspired colors, handheld blasters, built-in scoring monitors, and a more immersive design. On top of that, the targets inside the ride are being upgraded so they actually react when hit. These changes promise to make the ride more engaging and competitive once it returns, but in the meantime, Tomorrowland is definitely feeling the absence of this family-friendly favorite. ©Disney Alternative: If your crew is missing the interactive, game-like experience, check out Toy Story Mania over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. It’s another ride that lets you compete with your family for the high score. At Magic Kingdom, Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor is a fun substitute for families looking for something lighthearted and kid-friendly in the same area. Spaceship Earth EPCOT’s iconic geodesic sphere, Spaceship Earth, is also unavailable right now. The ride closed for a routine refurbishment on August 25th, 2025, and while Disney hasn’t given an exact reopening date, the plan is for it to return before the end of the year. That means October visitors won’t be able to board this slow-moving trip through the history of human communication. Inside Spaceship Earth This isn’t the first time Spaceship Earth has gone down for upkeep, and Disney tends to handle these closures fairly quickly. Still, it’s always tough to see EPCOT’s flagship attraction behind construction walls, even for a short time. Keep your eyes on Disney’s updates if you’re planning a late fall trip, since this one could reopen before the holidays. Thank the Phoenicians Alternative: If you want another EPCOT attraction with classic storytelling vibes, try Living with the Land. It’s a slow-moving boat ride that’s both relaxing and educational, and it has that same “hidden gem” feel that Spaceship Earth fans often appreciate. What This Means for Your Trip Four rides being down at once may sound like a lot, but Disney World has so many attractions that your trip will still be packed with things to do. The main thing to keep in mind is that closures like these can shift crowd patterns. With both Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin down in Magic Kingdom, you might notice longer lines at other rides like Space Mountain, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, and Pirates of the Caribbean. Similarly, in Animal Kingdom, the absence of Kali River Rapids might make Flight of Passage or Kilimanjaro Safaris even busier. Closed for Refurbishment The best way to handle these closures is to stay flexible. Look ahead at what will be open during your trip, plan around those attractions, and be ready to pivot if wait times shift. Disney World is never short on magic—you just might need to find it in a different ride than you originally planned. Stay tuned to DFB for more Disney updates. Disney Files NEW Permit for Changes to Grand Floridian Hotel 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 closures do you think will impact your trip the most? Let us know in the comments below. The post 4 Disney World Rides Will Be Closed for Refurbishment in October first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

A popular Disney Springs restaurant was robbed by a goggle-wearing suspect who reportedly fled the scene in scuba gear. On Monday, just after midnight, deputies responded to an armed robbery report at Paddlefish, a restaurant housed within a steamboat replica on the shores of the lake at Disney’s shopping and dining attraction, according to a press release from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. The suspect approached the restaurant by swimming up in scuba gear and a wetsuit, according to WFTV. One victim told deputies she was standing in the doorway of the manager’s office when a man came in, pushed them, and made them get on their knees. She described the suspect as a man wearing all black, including a blue hat, rubber gloves, a ski mask, and socks, but no shoes. A second victim at the scene told a similar story. The sheriff’s office released an image of the suspect with reflective goggles and a completely covered face. WFTV reported the suspect was dressed in a wetsuit and scuba gear, which he stored elsewhere, before walking into the manager’s office. After stealing thousands of dollars, the suspect put his scuba gear back on and jumped back into the lake, according to the station. Law enforcement was unable to find him after their search. Deputies said neither victim sustained injuries, and the suspect didn’t have a weapon nor did he imply he had one, later referring to the event as a strong-arm robbery and grand theft. View the full article

Who else is going to Disney World in October?! We know we are! Get that pumpkin spice ready! It’s the spookiest month of the year, and while we’ve been celebrating since August, it’s the last chance to grab limited-time Halloween eats (there were some INCREDIBLE treats this year). But that’s not all — there are new closures, character dining changes, hotel perk updates, and so much more. Check out six major changes hitting Disney World in October! Heading to Disney World soon? Be sure to check out our planning worksheets. You can click the image below to get our list and make sure you don’t forget a thing! Extended Evening Hours Happening at Animal Kingdom It’s pretty rare to see the Extended Evening Hours perk happening at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, but it’s happening on October 27th! Tree of Life at night Extended Evening Hours will run from 6 PM to 8PM that day. This perk is available exclusively to Disney World hotel guests staying at the following resorts: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Disney’s Beach Club Resort Disney’s BoardWalk Inn Disney’s Contemporary Resort Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Disney’s Yacht Club Resort Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village Disney’s Beach Club Villas Disney’s BoardWalk Villas Disney’s Old Key West Resort Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows Disney’s Riviera Resort Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort – A Disney Vacation Club Resort (Please be aware that the extended evening hours benefit applies to Disney Vacation Club Cabins only.) The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Walt Disney World Swan Hotel Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel Walt Disney World Swan Reserve Shades of Green® on Walt Disney World Resort Expedition Everest at night This park typically closes around sunset or just after dark, but it’s a totally different park then, especially over in Pandora! If you miss out on this one, there are two more nights of Extended Evening Hours scheduled for November 5th and 12th. CONFIRMED: Magic Kingdom Extended Evening Hours Will NOT Happen on 62 Nights Last Day of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party We can’t believe the end of spooky season will be here before we know it! Luckily, there is plenty of time left to enjoy Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, a separately ticketed after-hours event in Magic Kingdom. Halloween The party kicked off on August 15th and runs on certain nights through October 31st — Halloween! A ticket to the party includes exclusive character experiences, entertainment (like the iconic Boo To You Parade), food at several restaurants around the park, low ride wait times, tons of trick-or-treating, and so much more. Jack Skellington and Sally Having FOMO? Well, as of writing, tickets are still available for a few nights, so snatch them up while you can! The Annoying Ride Rule You Must Follow During Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party If you’re booking a trip to Disney World soon, we’ve got a hack for you! Check out our friends over at Small World Vacations to help you plan the perfect trip — you won’t regret it! 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 Those are some of the major changes coming to Disney World in October! Disney World will continue to change and update, and DFB will be here to keep you in the loop! 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 visiting Disney World in October? What are you looking forward to? Let us know in the comments! The post 6 Major Changes Coming to Disney World in October first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

As the 100-day countdown to Christmas begins, Selfridges and Disney announce an unprecedented festive collaboration to excite and enchant visitors from around the world. ‘A Most Magical Christmas’ is inspired by timeless Disney stories and characters, bringing a sense of nostalgia and playfulness to a series of extraordinary and unforgettable in-store and online experiences. Visitors are invited to embrace the joys of childhood, immersing themselves in an expression of the timeless Disney adage “You’re never too old to be young.” The partnership will see Selfridges London, Manchester, and Birmingham stores as well as Selfridges.com transform into festive wonderlands filled with stardust. There will be 18 enchanting Disney windows, over 60 brand collaborations (including limited editions of Disney favorites, specially commissioned fashion pieces, and unique gift ideas), two bespoke Disney iterations of the iconic Selfridges yellow bag, and a truly unmissable façade that will bring the irresistible magic of Disney to the heart of London. Officially launching on November 6, this Christmas celebration is part of a rich history between the two iconic brands dating back to the 1950s, when Disney’s Alice in Wonderland and the Mad Hatter featured above the main entrance, followed by Peter Pan and then Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck in the 1960s and 1970s, respectively. The forthcoming 2025 Selfridges and Disney partnership, more than two years in the making, is founded in a shared creative dialogue and a mutual appreciation of each brand’s distinct craft and heritage. André Maeder, Selfridges Group Chief Executive Officer, says: “We’re full of excitement for this collaboration, bringing Selfridges and Disney together for a Christmas like no other. With a shared history of imagination and creativity it’s been a joy to dream up something this unique and special, working with some of the world’s best storytellers. We can’t wait to reveal more and share the magic with our customers.” Tasia Filippatos, Global President Disney Consumer Products, says, “At Disney, we believe in the enduring power of storytelling to inspire joy, wonder, and connection — especially during the holiday season. Our collaboration with Selfridges allows us to share the magic of Disney through imaginative window displays, festive experiences, and unique products — all inspired by the stories that have captured hearts for generations.” For those who can’t wait until the official launch on November 6, the Selfridges Christmas Shop is now open with an edit of Disney decorations featuring a wealth of celebrated characters — from iridescent and mirrored Mickey Mouse motifs, perennial princesses, and the timeless Tinker Bell — all in bauble form. From September 22, visitors will be able to shop a dedicated Disney Store destination as well as a must-see Harry Lambert for Zara x Disney residency in The Corner Shop. Look out for updates and news at @theofficialselfridges, across Disney social channels and at www.selfridges.com/inspiration/disney-x-selfridges/ The post Disney and Selfridges Announce ‘A Most Magical Christmas’ Collaboration appeared first on Disney Experiences. View the full article