Disney4me

The holidays are right around the corner, and it’s never too early to start shopping! ©Disney That’s especially true when Disney releases the more ADORABLE collections well in advance, because it’s possible they’ll sell out before the temperatures even drop. If you want to grab something new for the whole family this year, or decorate your home in a new way, look no further than the new Disney Family Holiday Shop! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Don’t Forget To Decorate The BOTTOM of Your Tree! ©Disney If you’ve been on the lookout for a new tree skirt for your tree, look no further than the reversible Tinker Bell and Fantasyland Castle Holiday Tree Skirt! On one side, it’s white and has Cinderella Castle front and center with other classic Disney icons around the edges, while the other side is green and has those icons as an all-over print. Check it out! There’s No Such Thing As Too Many Throw Pillows ©Disney Need a new throw pillow to add to your collection? The Mickey Mouse Holiday ”Joy” Throw Pillow is perfect! Not only does it have Mickey himself wearing a Santa hat, but the “J” has Cinderella Castle inside it, and the “O” is made of a wreath! Check it out! Make Your Door The Jolliest on The Block ©Disney Need a new wreath for the season? The Mickey Mouse Icon Ornament Holiday Wreath is stunning, and we know it’ll be a hit for any house. It’s made up of multiple different colored ornaments, bringing together all the holiday colors in one decoration. Check it out! It’s Not Christmas Without Matching Pajamas! ©Disney If you’re in need of some matching pajamas for the whole family, the Mickey Mouse Icon Holiday Sleep Set is perfect! They have a red base with white and green Cinderella Castles, green Christmas trees, and red Mickey icons making up the design. They look SO soft, we can’t wait to get a pair for ourselves! Check it out! That’s certainly not all there is to see — be sure to check out the whole collection below! It’s full of so many items that you won’t be able to stop hitting “add to cart.” Check out the whole collection here! Be sure to stay tuned to DFB for all the latest Disney merchandise news! The post A New Disney Christmas Home Decor Collection Just Released Online first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

If you’re traveling to Disney World this holiday season, there are a few problems you need to be prepared to tackle. Christmas in Magic Kingdom This is one of the busiest times of the year for people to visit the parks, and that can have a MAJOR impact on how smoothly your trip goes. But don’t worry — if you’re prepared for the holiday hustle and bustle, you should be able to have an amazing trip. That’s why we’re here to warn you about some problems! Crowds at the Resorts During the holiday season, several Disney World hotels have incredible gingerbread displays put together by culinary Cast Members. From gingerbread models of the BoardWalk to full-blown gingerbread carousels with chocolate-covered horses, these displays are impressive and pretty popular for people to stop by and check out. Jacob Marley horse The gingerbread displays are typically found in the lobbies of the Deluxe Resorts, and not every Deluxe Resort has one (the list often changes a little bit from year to year). If you’re hoping to avoid the crowds of visitors snapping pictures of the creations, you might just want to stay away from the hotel lobbies, particularly in the evenings. The other alternative is to stay at a Value or Moderate Resort during this year’s holiday season — even though they don’t have gingerbread displays, they will get decked out in Christmas decor! One important note here for your 2025 trip! The most famous of the Gingerbread Displays is the life-size gingerbread house at the Grand Floridian. And…it’s not happening this year. Disney is renovating the lobby of the Grand Floridian, and the gingerbread house won’t be built in there this year as a result. Be sure to keep that in mind as you play your holiday trip. Learn More About the Gingerbread Displays Here! Shortened Park Hours Throughout the holiday season, there are two major events in Disney World that take place on select nights — Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom and Disney Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios. These two nighttime parties are major draws, and on nights when they happen, the parks that host them will close earlier than usual. 2024 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party On party days, Magic Kingdom will close to daytime guests at 6PM and Hollywood Studios will close to daytime guests at 7PM. These parties are typically held on different nights of the week from each other. Before your trip, it’s a good idea to check out the calendars for each party so you can plan accordingly for your park days. The good news is that even if you end up at one of these parks on a party day, you’ll probably get the benefit of lower crowds than usual! We’ve often been able to get MUCH more done with lower wait times in Magic Kingdom on a 6PM closure day because people typically don’t want to go when the park closes early. Click Here to See Changes We’re Expecting at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party This Year! Higher Prices for Tickets & Hotels Sadly, because it’s SO popular to visit during the holiday season, that typically means that surge pricing goes into effect and your vacation can be much more expensive. Thanksgiving week and the weeks from mid-December through the end of the month are the biggest culprits of this, with higher-than-usual ticket and hotel room prices. Disney World Theme Park Ticket Cards If you’re looking at the numbers and you’re struggling to decide if the price is worth it this year, we recommend checking out the Special Offers page on the Disney World website to see if there are any savings or deals that apply to your vacation dates. Disney currently has a couple of discounts available for the holiday season in 2025. And if you want the holiday magic but you’re looking to ball on a budget, traveling in early November or early December is probably a better bet — go for days when the kids are still in school. Click Here to See Which Days Are Most Expensive to Visit Unpredictable Weather Finally, we’ve got to talk about the weather! During the last few months of the year, it can be pretty unpredictable in Florida because we’re starting to get a hint of fall and winter weather, but it doesn’t always stick around. I’ve had days in December when I wore boots, leggings, and a scarf, and I’ve had days when I was sweating in a t-shirt. It varies a LOT. Holiday Crowds So if you’re traveling during the holiday season, don’t commit too hard to wearing sweaters and jackets — you’ll want to check the weather leading up to your trip, and then plan your outfits with removable layers just in case. If you live anywhere north of Florida, the weather at home is probably not going to be the same as the weather here. Holiday crowds at Hollywood Studios The holiday season can be an absolutely magical time to visit Disney World, but it’s good to know the chaos you could be getting into before you travel. This way, you’ll be prepared to have the BEST trip! Stay tuned to DFB for more Disney World updates. Click Here to See What’s Coming to Disney World for the Holidays! 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 heading to Disney World this holiday season? Tell us in the comments! The post A Word of Warning About These 4 Holiday Problems in Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

According to Travel Off Path, beginning October 12th, 2025, Americans traveling to Europe will be required to be photographed AND fingerprinted. Europe’s new Entry-Exit-System will be debuting on October 12th, and it will result in some changes for Americans traveling to and from Europe. ©Tony Smith/Alamy Stock Photo This new system will eventually replace the manual passport stamping process and make it easier for border officers to catch anyone who is overstaying. American travelers can only stay in the Schengen Area — Europe’s border-free 29-country customs union for 90 days out of every 180-day period. This new system will make it easier to ensure travelers comply with the policy. The new Entry-Exit-System (EES) will allow officers to easily pull up someone’s personal details and travel history if required. The rollout of this new system may encounter some delays and bumps. There might be longer lines at passport control, so it’s best to give yourself enough time to undergo the new screening procedure. ©Phil Nijhuis/EPA, via Shutterstock As well, while the EES is debuting on October 12th, some entry points may not have implemented the new process yet. It will be a phased rollout, as some countries require more time to transition to digital, automated border checks. Currently, it is expected that this new system will be widely available within 180 days of October 12th. ©Getty Images During the transition, passports will still be stamped, but eventually this system will replace passport stamping, and the entire process will be digital. So, for now, make sure you have enough blank pages in your passport, but soon enough, you won’t have to worry about that. ©Shutterstock.com Stay tuned to DFB for more travel news! The Number One Travel Trend We’re Ready To See Die Travel Updates, Tips, and Tricks Complete Guide to Booking the CHEAPEST Flight to Disney World What to Do if Your Flight to Disney World Is Canceled Our Best Tips For Flying Through the Orlando International Airport Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get to Disney World From the Orlando Airport You’re SLEEPING on These Packing Hacks Air Travel Tips That’ll Change Your Life 8 Catastrophic Travel Mistakes and How to Solve Them The Airline with the MOST Flight Delays and Cancellations This Small Change Will Save You From Lost Luggage The Best Disney Luggage for 2023 21 Things a Former Flight Attendant Needs You To Know 7 Highest-Rated Travel Items on Amazon Join the DFB Newsletter to Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox! Click Here to Subscribe Are you heading to Europe soon? Let us know in the comments! The post In One Month, Flying to Europe Will Look Very Different first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Your favorite Disney+ and Hulu shows are about to get SO MUCH BETTER. ©Disney If you’ve got some must-watch shows on these streaming services, you’re definitely not alone! We’re also a little bit addicted to popular series like Dancing with the Stars and Only Murders in the Building. Disney seems to have caught on to how beloved some of these shows are, though, because they’re leveling them up — with podcasts! ABC 7 News reports that Disney+ and Hulu are expanding into video podcast content to enhance some of their most popular shows. The new offering will give a deeper look behind the scenes with recaps, facts, and more. ©Disney The first show to get this treatment is Only Murders in the Building. The Only Murders in the Building Official Podcast will launch with the show’s season 5 premiere on September 9th. New podcast episodes will be released weekly with each episode of the show. Michael Cyril Creighton, who plays Arconia neighbor Howard Morris in the series, will host and executive produce the podcast. ©Hulu “We built this slate of companion video podcasts to give our fans even more ways to connect more deeply with the shows they love. These are like a backstage pass for their favorite series, and we can’t wait to give fans the opportunity to expand their viewing experience, go behind the scenes with our creators and casts, and continue the conversation beyond each episode in an engaging and entertaining new way,” says Direct-to-Consumer & Disney Entertainment Television Marketing President Shannon Ryan. ©Hulu Podcast episodes will also be available on YouTube and distributed through audio channels in partnership with ABC News Audio. Other shows set to join the podcast group are Dancing with the Stars, Paradise, Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Tell Me Lies, The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, and Murdaugh: Death in the Family. ©Disney We can’t wait to check out these podcasts for some of our favorite shows. Will you be tuning in? Stay tuned to DFB for more Disney news. Click Here to See the 3 Disney Announcements We’ve Been Waiting For! 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 shows do you watch? Tell us in the comments! The post Your Favorite Disney+ and Hulu Shows Just Got Even BETTER first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

It’s my job to eat my way around Disney World, and I recently tackled the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival! Hi, I’m DFB Breea! Here at DFB, we’re serious about Disney World snacks and restaurants (it’s in our name, after all). Each year, we send a whole team of reporters (including yours truly!) to the first day of each EPCOT festival to try all the new eats, as well as some familiar favorites. I was there for the opening day of Food & Wine this year, and I’ve got some hot tips to share. The first thing you need to know about kicking off a festival is that our day starts at the crack of DAWN. (Maybe not literally, but pretty darn close.) Our team arrives before Early Theme Park Entry even starts for hotel guests, and then as soon as we walk through those tapstiles, BAM — it’s time to start filming, snapping pics, and reporting our findings to the writing and editing team. 2025 EPCOT Food and Wine Festival From there, things go into a bit of a lull. The food booths typically open at 11AM, so we use the first few hours of the day to check out the merchandise and secure some of the non-booth festival items. For me, I started with a milkshake for breakfast (YUM). I snagged the Remy Milkshake at Sunshine Seasons, and though I was concerned at first about the flavor (it’s cheesecake flavored and I am NOT a fan), it was surprisingly fine…and very cute! Puts the cheese in cheesecake. But that reminds me — as a reporter, sometimes we have to do things we don’t wanna do…and eat things we would never personally order. This will either pay off tremendously, or you’ll hate the item and then never order it again. All in a day’s work, my friends. Remy Shake Once the day is underway, things can get chaotic. We’re hopping from booth to booth and trying to cram in as much as possible. We’re assigned a list of booths ahead of time, but that schedule can be pretty fluid if we need to pivot day-of. For instance, I wasn’t originally supposed to go to Mexico according to our day’s game plan, but I lucked out and got assigned to it at the last second. (I…REALLY like the Mexico booths.) The spread! Food & Wine is an absolutely wild time to be a part of this team (think of it like the Disney World food Olympics). The beginning of the day has a lot of pent-up excitement, especially as our whole team meets at the entrance and starts getting hyped, and the end of the day is fun as we feel the accomplishment of a job well done. But the middle? Well, it can be BRUTAL. My phone overheated THREE separate times while trying to cover the Brazil booth. (Thankfully, the cheesy bread was worth the pain.) Pão de Queijo So yes, festival opening days can be absolute anarchy here at DFB, but they’re worth it to bring you guys the best coverage of all the eats, entertainment, merchandise, attractions, and more. And thanks to our amazing team of writers, editors, social media managers, and festival specialists at home, we can get those reviews and photos to you SAME DAY. We love the chaos here at DFB, and it’s all thanks to you guys that we get to do what we do. So thank you for following along, and of course, stay tuned for all the EPCOT festival coverage! Click Here for the FULL List of Food Booths & Menus for This Year’s Festival! IT'S WINE & DINE TIME! Food & Wine Festival can be a bummer. You stand in line waiting for what looks like the perfect treat, and it's a bust. But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE EPCOT Food & Wine Festival experience. If you're planning a day or a week at the festival, we've got every performance, activity, and tasty nosh detailed out so you can make the most of your time and money. Listen, it's a tough job eating and documenting the nearly 200 bites and sips, but we do it all for YOU! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Learn More About the EPCOT Food and Wine Festival! Food and Wine Festival 101 Eat to the Beat Concert Updates EPCOT Food and Wine Festival - Fans Facebook Page Wine and Dine Half Marathon Details Get More Updates, Tips, and Tricks to Help You Conquer the Food & Wine Festival Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Are you going to the festival this year? Tell us in the comments! The post Meet the Disney Expert Who Ate Around EPCOT's Food and Wine Festival in One Day first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Do you have a favorite Disney World smell? Pirates of the Caribbean Well, did you know you could take one of those smells home with you? We found some Bath and Body Works candles that have been giving our homes some of that Disney World aroma. Yes, one of them smells like Pirates! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Get the Champagne Toast Candle ©Bath and Body Works Picture you walking through Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom. You need to cool off from the heat, and decide to sit down for a show at Mickey’s PhillarMagic. This Champagne Toast Candle will turn your home into Mickey’s PhillarMagic! The candle has a mix of aromas — bubbly champagne, bright berries, and juicy tangerine. The candle is having a crazy sale right now, sitting at $10 off! View online We love the Frozen Lake Candle ©Bath and Body Works You know that smell you get when you’re soaring through Pandora on the back of a Banshee? Or, flying around the world, and into Fiji? That’s exactly the smell this Frozen Lake Candle will give your home! The aromas on Flight of Passage and Soarin’ are some of the favorites amongst Disney World fans, so we can see why this one is so popular. This candle is also having a $10 off sale! View online The Lakeside Morning Candle is the one you were waiting for! ©Bath and Body Works Yo ho, yo ho, this is the candle for you! We’re not even going to ask if you like the smell of the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction — we know you do. If you want to smell that sweet and nostalgic aroma, you need to get the Lakeside Morning Candle! We don’t have much to say about this one; it pretty much speaks for itself. Oh, if it wasn’t tempting enough, it is $10 off! View online 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 3 Bath and Body Works Candles To Make Your House Smell Like Disney World! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Rope dropping Disney’s Hollywood Studios can often involve a fair amount of planning, strategy, and risk. Disney’s Hollywood Studios There are several heavy-hitter attractions in this park, so it can be pretty challenging to know where to start if you want to take advantage of those early morning wait times. But recently, during a visit to Hollywood Studios, we tried a DIFFERENT strategy. And if you’re a fan of character meets, Star Wars, or even just a leisurely morning…it might be the plan that’s perfect for you! During a recent trip to Hollywood Studios, we headed to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge first thing in the morning. You may think we were there to ride Rise of the Resistance or even hop on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run…but NOPE. We stopped by to enjoy the atmosphere. Millennium Falcon And while we were in Galaxy’s Edge first thing in the morning? We got some of the BEST character interactions we’ve ever had. During that first part of the day, we noticed that Stormtroopers were more willing to stop and pose for pictures (they usually don’t do this super often when it’s more crowded out). Stormtroopers Vi Moradi was also out roaming, and she was interacting with lots of parkgoers throughout the land without any crowds. But the real kicker is that Mando and Grogu had only ONE family waiting to see them, which is pretty much unheard of any other time of day! Those guys are usually swamped. We LOVE him! So if you’re hoping to meet some of your favorite Star Wars pals and have longer, more memorable interactions, going first thing in the morning might be a good plan. You could grab some breakfast from Ronto Roasters and leisurely enjoy Galaxy’s Edge before the crowds overtake it completely. Sounds like a great time to us! Galaxy’s Edge We’ll make sure to keep you in the loop with more rope drop tips as we discover them from our many visits to the parks! And if you’re planning a trip to Disney World, we recommend using our friends over at Small World Vacations! They’re Disney experts with years of experience planning trips for fans, and they’ll help make sure you have the BEST time on your vacation. Stay tuned to DFB for more updates from Disney World. What No One Tells You About Rope Drop in Disney World — 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 Have you ever rope dropped in Hollywood Studios? Tell us in the comments! The post I Just Discovered a MAJOR Rope Drop Perk in Disney’s Hollywood Studios first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Loungefly fans, start your engines — a new collection just landed online that you can’t miss! Lightning McQueen! We love Cars and Lightning McQueen just as much as the next person (actually, probably a little bit more), which is why we’re SO excited that Loungefly just released a new collection online that has us grabbing our wallets at top speed. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. A Full-Size Backpack to Fit All You Need to Carry! ©Amazon First up in this epic new collection is the Pixar Cars Full-Size Loungefly Backpack! The front pocket is shaped just like one of Lightning McQueen’s iconic tires, while the all-over print of the rest of the bag is diagrams of Lightning McQueen and his design. The main colors here are black, white, and gray, with a hint of red on the tire. It’s got two pockets on either side for more storage, and the zipper decal is none other than the Piston Cup! Grab it right here! A Crossbody For The Win! ©Loungefly Looking for something smaller? Look no further than the super cool new Cars Lightning McQueen Racetrack Loungefly Crossbody Bag, which has a movable Lightning McQueen on the front of the bag! You can move him around the race track, which is something we’ve never seen before. Talk about a way to keep yourself (or a kiddo) occupied in line! Grab it right here! The Smallest Bag For The Quick Park Days ©Loungefly The final, and smallest, bag of the collection is the Cars Lightning McQueen Loungefly Sling Crossbody Bag, which is best for those quick park days where you don’t need to bring too much with you. The bag is covered with “stickers” from the series, like the Piston Cup, Rust-eze, number 95, Pit Crew, and more. This has an adjustable strap, so while it’s recommended to be worn over your shoulder, you could also potentially use it as a belt bag as well. Grab it right here! We’re always bringing you the latest Disney merchandise news, so stay tuned to DFB! The post We've NEVER Seen A Disney Loungefly Collection Like This Before! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

There is nothing worse than planning the perfect Disney day and then finding out you’re being kicked out of Magic Kingdom before the sun goes down. Magic Kingdom Magic Kingdom is home to some of the most iconic nighttime entertainment at Disney World, from the Starlight Parade to Happily Ever After fireworks. But if you’re visiting this fall or winter, there are 53 upcoming nights when you won’t see either unless you’ve got an extra ticket. That’s because Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party take over the park on select evenings. Today, we’re breaking down every date you’ll want to watch out for, plus the best tips to help you avoid disappointment. Why These Dates Matter When one of Disney’s after-hours parties is scheduled, Magic Kingdom shuts down to regular guests at 6:00 PM. That means no fireworks, no nighttime castle photos, no leisurely dinner in Cinderella’s Royal Table, and no chance to hit rides after dark. If you aren’t planning ahead, it’s easy to lose a good portion of your day without realizing it. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party And while the parties themselves are a blast if you have tickets, a surprise early closure can completely derail your park plans if you don’t. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Dates The Halloween season at Disney is long, stretching all the way from late summer through October. If you’re in Magic Kingdom during this time, check your calendar carefully because these are the nights you’ll have to leave at 6:00 PM without a party ticket. September 2025: 9th, 12th, 14th, 16th, 19th, 21st, 23rd, 25th, 26th, 28th, 30th October 2025: 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 7th, 9th, 10th, 13th, 14th, 16th, 17th, 19th, 23rd, 24th, 26th, 28th, 30th, 31st Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular That’s 28 party nights in total between September and October. If fireworks are a must-do, steer clear of Magic Kingdom on these dates unless you’re also buying a party ticket. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Dates Once Halloween wraps up, the park doesn’t slow down. Instead, it jumps right into Christmas mode with another wave of special ticketed nights. These are the dates when the holiday parties will take over and regular guests will be leaving before dinner. November 2025: 7th, 10th, 11th, 13th, 14th, 16th, 18th, 20th, 21st, 25th, 26th, 28th, 30th December 2025: 2nd, 4th, 5th, 7th, 9th, 11th, 12th, 14th, 16th, 18th, 19th, 21st Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party That adds 25 more early closure nights, bringing us to a total of 53 upcoming nights when Magic Kingdom will shut down early in 2025. What Early Closure Actually Looks Like On party days, Cast Members will begin gently clearing the park starting in the late afternoon. Around 6:00 PM, ride lines close to non-party guests, dining reservations end, and you’ll start to see wristband checks. By 7:00 PM, only party guests remain in the park. Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks If you don’t have a ticket, you’ll be walking toward the exit while the exclusive party entertainment is just getting started. Tips for Handling Early Closures Just because Magic Kingdom is closing early doesn’t mean your day is ruined. Here’s how to make the most of it: Expect lighter crowds earlier in the day. Some guests avoid Magic Kingdom on party days entirely, so mornings and early afternoons can feel more relaxed. That makes these dates great for knocking out attractions with shorter waits. Don’t plan on fireworks or the parade. Both Happily Ever After and the Disney Starlight Parade won’t run on party nights for regular guests. If those are on your bucket list, save Magic Kingdom for a non-party day. Avoid booking table service dinners. With the park closing at 6:00 PM, sit-down meals eat up valuable park time. Opt for quick service so you can maximize your rides. Use a park hopper if you have one. Magic Kingdom is still worth visiting until 4:00 PM, then hop to EPCOT for dinner or over to Hollywood Studios for Fantasmic. Buy a party ticket if you want the experience. The parties themselves are packed with unique entertainment, rare characters, and exclusive treats. If you want to see fireworks, it’s your only option on those dates. Time to celebrate! The Bottom Line Visiting Magic Kingdom during party season requires more planning than usual. With 53 total nights of early closures between September and December 2025, your vacation experience could look completely different depending on the day you pick. 2024 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party If you want the full Magic Kingdom experience — fireworks, nighttime rides, and castle photos after dark — choose a non-party day. If you’re flexible, use these party days to your advantage with lower morning crowds and a park-hopping evening plan. And if you’re excited about Halloween or Christmas extras, grab those tickets and enjoy the special events. What you don’t want is to show up expecting a 10:00 PM closing and find yourself heading for the monorail by 6:00 PM. Check the calendar, plan ahead, and you’ll set yourself up for a much smoother trip. Will you be attending either Holiday Party this year? Let us know in the comments, and continue to follow us here at DFB for all the latest Disney World coverage! Click here for all the info on Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 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 Have you ever been surprised by an early Magic Kingdom closure, or do you plan your trips around party days? Let us know in the comments below! The post ALERT! 53 Nights Magic Kingdom Is Closing EARLY first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

When it comes to traveling to Walt Disney World, every little bit of money saved can help! Sam’s Club has discounted gift cards! I’ve been visiting the “Most Magical Place on Earth” for 30 years now, and the prices keep going up. That’s why we’re always on the hunt for the latest and greatest discounts and deals that can help you save some dough! While Disney often comes out with seasonal discounts, it’s also wise to look beyond the company, especially at wholesale retailers like Sam’s Club! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Sam’s Club is the place to look for some STELLAR deals on travel gift cards. Members can typically find gift cards at discounted prices, and you can score some serious savings on both Disney gift cards (that you can use to plan and pay for your vacation) AND Southwest Airlines gift cards (that you can use on air travel and other Southwest offerings)! Cinderella Castle Keep in mind that these are E-GIFT CARDS, meaning that once you purchase them they’ll be delivered to you digitally, in your email. You’ll also need to be a Sam’s Club member to take advantage of these deals. From there, you can upload it to your Disney or Southwest account and get to spending! Get a $200 Disney Gift Card for $190 $200 Disney Gift Card GET IT HERE! Get a $500 Disney Gift Card for $484.98 $500 Disney Gift Card at Sam’s Club GET IT HERE! Grab a $150 Disney Gift Card set for $144.98 Promotion pricing GET IT HERE! Or, you can grab this $75 Disney Gift Card set for $71.98 Savings at Sam’s Club GET IT HERE! Get the $50 Disney Gift Card for $48.98 ©Sam’s Club GET IT HERE! Get this $250 Southwest Gift Card for $237.50 ©Sam’s Club GET IT HERE! Grab a $500 Southwest Gift Card for $474.98 ©Sam’s Club GET IT 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 Score MAJOR Savings on Disney and Southwest Gift Cards at Sam's Club Right Now first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Halloween is right around the corner, and if you’re like us, you’ve probably already started decorating, but then right after Halloween comes the holidays! ©Home Depot They’ll be here before you know it, and oftentimes, many people go straight from Halloween decorations into their holiday decorations. If you’re already planning how you’ll decorate your home for the holiday season and need some new additions, look no further than these Star Wars and Disney additions at Home Depot — you’ll want to be fast, some of them are already selling out! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Your Own Chewbacca! ©Home Depot If you’ve been looking to have your own nearly 8-foot Chewbacca in your home, the 7.5 ft. Animated Chewbacca is perfect for your house this holiday season! He’s MASSIVE and looks just like the character from the films — he’s even got his iconic bag. His head, mouth, and arm with the candy cane move. He’s motion activated, and has five different classic sound effects. Grab it here! If You Prefer The Dark Side ©Home Depot For fans of the Sith, don’t miss the 7 ft. Animated LED Darth Vader! His chest panel illuminates and he comes with interchangeable accessories. For his movement, he moves his head, arm and wrist, and speaks 3 different phrases — you never know which you’re going to get! Grab it here! For The Stormtrooper Fans ©Home Depot There’s also a 6 ft. Animated Stormtrooper available right now as well! He has poseable arms, so you can make them be in whatever position you’d like, and speaks in three different phrases. The best part? You can use him for both Halloween AND Christmas, because he comes with an interchangeable Death Star candy bucket! Grab it here! For Those Who Prefer The Classic Look ©Home Depot If you’re more of a classic Disney fan, look no further than the 4 ft. Animated Holiday Mickey Mouse! He’s cute as can be in his classic attire, plus winter scarf and Santa hat. His head, waist and right hand all move, and speaks 4 different phrases, plus he sings “Deck the Halls!” Grab it here! For All The Goofy Fans! ©Home Depot The 4 ft. Animated Holiday Goofy is extra unique, because it features Goofy sitting down reading a story! His head moves and his right hand waves, and not only does he speak, but he recites a poem and sings two different songs. Note: at the time of writing, this is currently sold out, but keep an eye out — it could come back in stock at any time! Grab it here! The Queen of Disney! ©Home Depot If you want to put Mickey and Minnie together, or if you’re just a big fan of Minnie, the 4 ft. Animated Holiday Minnie Mouse is calling your name. She can move her head and waist, and while she speaks four different phrases, she also sings “Jingle Bells!” Note: at the time of writing, this is currently sold out, but keep an eye out — it could come back in stock at any time! Grab it here! Who Wants A Warm Hug? ©Home Depot For all the Frozen fans out there, the 4 ft. Animated LED Holiday Olaf is perfect for this season! He has four different movements — his head and mouth move, his hands wave, and his eyes even blink. Both his eyes and the ice base he stands on are illuminated, and you’ll hear him speak five different phrases. Note: at the time of writing, this is currently sold out, but keep an eye out — it could come back in stock at any time! Grab it here! Be sure to stay tuned to DFB for all the latest Disney merchandise and decoration news! The post Home Depot Just Won Christmas With These Disney Animatronics first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Universal Orlando scored five victories in the Golden Ticket Awards, including four for its new Epic Universe theme park and one for its Volcano Bay water park. Epic’s Dark Universe area was named as the best new theme concept of 2025, and its centerpiece attraction Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment was tabbed as best dark ride. The Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry ride won for best new attractions, and Stardust Racers was named best new roller coaster of 2025. The new theme park debuted in late May. Volcano Bay, which opened in 2017, was awarded best water park of ’25, edging out Schlitterbahn. That attraction, located in New Braunfels, Texas, had won the category every year since the awards were established in 1998. The Golden Tickets are determined by Amusement Today, an industry publication, which uses a worldwide panel of experienced park enthusiasts as voters. The winners were announced in a Saturday ceremony at Carowinds, a theme park near Charlotte. “With so many years in the making, seeing the park emerge complete and over-the-top spectacular, it is no surprise to industry professionals, enthusiasts or day-to-day guests that something truly special has happened,” Tim Baldwin, Golden Ticket Awards communications coordinator, wrote in an editorial in the September edition of Amusement today. Other notable winners include Europa-Park of Rust, Germany, as best park of 2025 (Epic Universe was runner-up) and Busch Gardens Williamsburg as most beautiful park. Dollywood, an attraction in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, won three awards, including Big Bear Mountain as best family coaster, as well as best kids’ area and best guest experience of 2025. Keith James of RWS won the leadership award. James, a former Universal Orlando executive, will be inducted into the IAAPA Hall of Fame later this year. 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

Next up on “We Call It Imagineering” we’re taking you behind the castles at Disney parks around the world with the Imagineering team. Hear how these beloved icons are not only stunning landmarks, but also the symbol of Disney storytelling, innovation and artistry. Get ready and dream along with Imagineers as you watch episode 5 and see a breakdown below, highlighting chapters from this episode! Disneyland Resort: Sleeping Beauty Castle This is where Disney castles began. The 77-foot Sleeping Beauty castle evokes a sense of wonder, dreams, and aspirations for guests as they begin their descent down Main Street, U.S.A. From the stained glass to the drawbridge, this iconic structure was modeled after several European medieval castles and made its official debut to the public 70 years ago at The Happiest Place on Earth when the gates first opened at Disneyland park. Now you may be wondering, why was the castle themed to Sleeping Beauty instead of Snow White–our first original princess from the animated feature film, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs? In the latest We Call it Imagineering episode, former Disney Imagineer, Tom Morris, shared that the Disney Studios were producing Sleeping Beauty during the design period of the castle. To help promote the film, Walt Disney thought it would be a wonderful idea to have the castle at Disneyland be inspired by the beloved film. Walt Disney World: Cinderella Castle Now step into the park with a castle that is more French Renaissance than Medieval-themed. At Magic Kingdom, Cinderella Castle stands tall at 189-feet tall with nods to European architecture with Gothic touches throughout and a Romanesque, fortress-like base. Our Imagineer team is always excited to find new ways to update this beloved landmark that originally started with a cool gray color palette and has received warmer tones over the years to showcase the last rays of sunlight guests see in Orlando. Fun fact: Cinderella Castle was also the first castle to have a stage at the front of the structure, and it hosts daily performances like Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire and many others throughout the holidays. This home for entertainment creates a wonderful space where shows come to life and the structure of the building can be used as a canvas for nighttime spectaculars like Happily Ever After. A performance that evokes an emotional connection, projection mapping on the exterior of the castle allows the Disney Live Entertainment team to bring beloved characters like Peter Pan, Genie, Tiana and many more to guests in an impactful way. Disneyland Paris: Sleeping Beauty Castle Fairytale, unique, and storybook-like – these are the three words Tom used to describe the inspiration behind Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland Paris. The pink landmark is built on a hillside, creating a slender look, and utilizes the architecture as an extension of the building. Like other landmarks, this castle has been restored over the years by the same artisans who worked on restoring Notre-Dame Cathedral of Paris. Have you noticed the square-shaped trees that are on the hillside? This landscaping was inspired by Eyvind Earle’s art style in the film. Additional details from the beloved story come to life in the stained-glass storytelling throughout the interior and La Tanière du Dragon—a dragon’s lair—beneath the castle. Quick facts about La Tanière du Dragon under the castle: It is 79-feet long and 10-feet tall And holds a sleeping dragon animatronic that is usually caught snoring… except for when brave guests get too close to it, so be wary! Hong Kong Disneyland: Castle of Magical Dreams In 2020, Hong Kong Disneyland became the first Disney park to have a castle built on top of a castle. You heard that right! The Castle of Magical Dreams is an addition to the original Sleeping Beauty Castle in honor of the park’s 15th anniversary. The re-imagined look is inspired by 13 stories of cherished Disney Princesses and Queens, serving as a mosaic of different cultures with architectural inspirations from Europe, China, and Southeast Asia. Take a close look at the different spires and design elements across the exterior. You’ll find sweet nods to these films like lotus blossom flowers adoring a portion under a Mushu statue and an icy, blue-shingled roof that represents the story of Anna and Elsa. Tokyo Disneyland: Cinderella Castle Now heading over to Japan, the Cinderella Castle at Tokyo Disneyland is the first international castle our Disney Imagineers tackled. In the episode, we learn that Cinderella was chosen for the inspiration for this landmark because her kindness and strong work ethic were very similar traits to the culture in Japan. Shanghai Disney Resort: Enchanted Storybook Castle Now our last, and possibly most complex castle, takes us to Shanghai. The Enchanted Storybook Castle is our largest Disney icon, housing restaurants, merchandise locations, and two attractions. We learn in the episode, that the original goal of this castle was to infuse more Disney stories than ever before while remaining distinctly Chinese. Fun fact: Inside the structure, guests will see four Disney princess murals, representing the four seasons. Rapunzel for Spring Tiana for Summer Merida for Fall Anna and Elsa for Winter On the floor next to these murals, are also the Chinese seasonal flowers that represent those periods. According to Imagineer Ali Rubinstein, another thing you won’t want to miss is the carved Jade piece on the side of the castle, which is also the background for character meet and greets. There are a lot of great meanings behind Jade, and the team went to four different cities in China to find the perfect piece for the Enchanted Storybook Castle. Looking Towards the Future of Disney Castles So, what’s next? Our Imagineers are always looking towards the future. Exploring new ways to enhance these landmarks and thinking of the next big thing like Walt. In the upcoming years, they’ll be designing a new icon for the theme park coming to Abu Dahbi. And as Bruce Vaughn mentioned, seeing how the environment we’ll shape the design – possibly incorporating water into the design of the castle. Also, for the first time, we’re taking the iconic castle to the sea with our newest Disney Cruise Line ship, the Disney Adventure. Inspired by broader nature themes with subtle nods to princesses like Moana, Rapunzel, and Anna and Elsa, this will be a castle never done before. Stayed tuned for Walt Disney Imagineering updates on the Disney Parks Blog and the Walt Disney Imagineering YouTube and Instagram. Exciting adventures are on the horizon, and we’re thrilled to have you along for the ride with us! Disney Paper Parks Want to build your own Disney castle? Check out these designs to bring the magic home. Castle of Magical Dreams, Designed by Imagineers Read More DIY Sleeping Beauty Castle Model Read More Commemorative Shadow Box of Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom Read More Discover More Imagineering Stories New Color Palette Announced for Cinderella Castle Read More Details, Lore, and More Hidden Gems Revealed For Disney Castles Read More On with the Show! Episode 4 of ‘We Call It Imagineering’ Read More The post Magic Behind the Castle: Hear from Imagineers about the Dreams for these Icons appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

You’ll want to follow this one rule for each ride you do at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party! We’re back at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party! Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is one of the most popular after-hours events at Disney World. It brings spooky fun, exclusive entertainment, and trick-or-treating to Magic Kingdom. Guests of all ages get to dress up, collect candy, and enjoy shorter wait times for rides while the park transforms into a Halloween wonderland. From the Boo-to-You Parade to the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular, the party is packed with special experiences you won’t find during the day. But there’s something you should know before you fill your treat bag! One of the highlights of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is the candy. Guests are given a free treat bag when they enter the party, and throughout the night, you’ll find several treat locations set up across Magic Kingdom. Cast Members don’t hold back either! They’re known to hand out generous scoops of candy at every stop. By the end of the night, your little bag of treats can turn into a mountain. List of Trick-or-Treat Locations for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party 2025 This year’s trick-or-treat bag! But here’s the catch: All that candy has to go somewhere, and once you start hitting the rides, it can become a problem. Roller coasters like Space Mountain or even Seven Dwarfs Mine Train can send unsecured bags flying or, at the very least, spilling. A lap full of M&M’s or a queue full of Skittles isn’t exactly the kind of Halloween magic Disney has in mind, and it’s definitely not something you want to deal with in the dark. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party The rule is simple but important: Make sure your candy is secure before you board any ride. Whether you bring a backpack, zip-top bag, or even double up by putting your Disney treat bag inside a sturdier tote, you’ll thank yourself later. That way, you can enjoy the thrills of Space Mountain or the swerves of the Mad Tea Party without worrying about leaving a sugary trail behind you. After all, the only thing sweeter than all that free candy is making sure it makes it safely back to your hotel. Space Mountain Be sure to follow DFB for more Disney World tips! Photos AND Reviews: ALL the 2025 Fall and Halloween Treats 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 Do you go through the treat trails at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party? Tell us in the comments below. The post The Annoying Ride Rule You Must Follow During Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We are suckers for drinks topped with cute animal toys, and a brand-new drink has just arrived at Disney Springs that is topped with an adorable animal toy! While we love the mini animals, we also want the drink to taste good. Dragon’s Breath We knew we had to stop by to try it out, and now we’re sharing our thoughts with you. This drink is only available for a limited time, so if you are hoping to grab it, you need to make your way over to Disney Springs soon. We recently stopped by eet by Maneet Chauhan to try out their newest drink of the month, Dragon’s Breath! You can get this drink for $15.95, and it is a slushy made with our house-crafted dragon mist lemonade, passionfruit rum, and a touch of dragon fruit sugar from our neighbors at Spice & Tea Exchange Lake Buena Vista. The best part? You also get an adorable dragon toy on top, and you can pick from a variety of colors. Honestly, the drink is worth it for the cute dragon alone! Dragon’s Breath But how does it actually taste? We were impressed with the flavor of this drink! It is definitely on the sweet side, and we wish it has a bit more tartness. However, we could really taste the dragon fruit and passionfruit flavors in this drink. Dragon’s Breath It was extra refreshing since it was served frozen, and the added flavor from the dragon fruit sugar on the rim was the perfect complement. If you are a fan of sweet and fruity drinks, we think you will really enjoy this drink of the month! Plus, you get a precious little dragon to take home with you as a souvenir. Isn’t it just adorable!? eet by Maneet Chauhan has been offering so many adorable drinks recently. We have also gotten a drink topped with an octopus. It was also a drink of the month, and it was called Hank’s Gulf Coast Sunset. We are loving the cute animals! Hank’s Gulf Coast Sunset eet by Maneet Chauhan isn’t the only restaurant that is serving up adorable toppings on your drink at Disney Springs, though. You can also grab the Duck Duck Razz from The BOATHOUSE which features a rubber ducky on top, and we have also spotted drinks over at The Polite Pig that are served with a rubber pig on top. The tiny animal toy trend is continuing at Disney Springs! The infamous Duck Duck Razz! Stay tuned to DFB for all your Disney food news! 6 Things I’ll Never Do Again in Disney Springs 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 the new Dragon’s Breath drink? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! The post REVIEW: Come for the Plastic Dragon, Stay for the NEW Treat at This Disney World Restaurant first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

In 2025, a NEW hotel perk was introduced where you can get free entry into the Disney World water parks! Blizzard Beach Those staying at Disney World Resort Hotels get free entry to a Disney World water park on their check-in day, and recently, you’ve had the choice of going to Blizzard Beach OR Typhoon Lagoon because both parks have been open at the same time. But now, that has changed! As of September 8th, 2025, Blizzard Beach is closed for the season. Ever since the pandemic, Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon have typically been operating seasonally, taking turns being open. This summer was the first time in years that they were open at the same time. Blizzard Beach So if you’re visiting Disney World soon and hoping to use your free water park visit, Typhoon Lagoon will be your only option. Disney hasn’t yet announced when Blizzard Beach will reopen or if Typhoon Lagoon will have a seasonal closure. The Blizzard Beach closure comes as the weather starts to cool off, so it’s likely that the demand for the water parks will decrease overall. Blizzard Beach crowds Keep in mind that as we get into the winter months, water parks may close due to cold weather. So if you’re hoping to do a swim and you’re traveling toward the end of the year, you may want to be flexible with your plans. Blizzard Beach We’ll keep you updated with water park operating information, especially if there are any changes! Stay tuned to DFB for more Disney World news and updates. Click Here to See What to Eat (and Avoid) at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park! 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 going to a water park on your next trip? Tell us in the comments! The post A Popular Disney World Hotel Perk Just CHANGED first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

There are so many changes coming to Disney World! ©Disney From new lands to the Cinderella Castle updates, we have lots to look forward to in the next few years! While we wait on some major projects to come to life, a first-time ride overlay begins soon. In case you missed it, we recently went to Destination D23 in Disney World, where we got to hear directly from Disney Imagineers about behind-the-scenes stories, Disney history, new things coming to the theme parks, and more! One of those big announcements was a limited-time overlay coming to Tron Lightcycle/Run in Magic Kingdom. Tron in Magic Kingdom To celebrate the upcoming release of a new movie, Tron: Ares, a vibrant red overlay will replace the current blue hues of the ride. In addition to the color switch, the ride will sound different too! The ride will also be getting some new music by Nine Inch Nails, inspired by the music of the new movie. Disney wrote, “Adding to the immersive visuals, the pulsating industrial sounds of Nine Inch Nails will drive the ride’s energy, pushing your experience between the Grid and reality into a fully immersive, futuristic symphony of light, speed, and sound.” Now, we’ve gotten another new look at the upcoming changes! ©Disney Disney also shared that the bikes will take on a red hue to match the red overlay. Disney has also shared a new photo to show what the bikes will look like, along with your ride photos during the limited-time overlay! ©Disney The overlay will be at Magic Kingdom starting September 15th and Shanghai Disneyland starting September 16th. The new Disney film releases on October 10th, 2025, and you can see the official trailer here. Disney hasn’t shared how long the overlay will last, so if you want to see the new lights and music, be sure to head to the parks ASAP! As always, be sure to keep following DFB for more Disney news and updates. ALL the Biggest News You Missed from Disney World This Weekend 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 the new overlay? Tell us in the comments! The post NEW LOOK at the Ride Changes Coming to TRON Lightcycle / Run in Magic Kingdom first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

If you’re planning a Disney World vacation for 2026, we hope you have a great time! Big Thunder Mountain Railroad 2026 will bring us the reopening of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (official reopening date TBA) and lots of construction as new updates begin around the parks. Next year will also bring a few changes to several Disney World Resort hotels. If you’re planning to stay at one of the many Disney hotels, be aware of the following changes happening and consider them as you begin planning your vacation. Room Categories Room categories will be changing at Disney’s Moderate Resorts. This change is coming with the hope of helping to make your planning experience easier. The resorts that will see these changes are: Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort Disney’s Port Orleans Resort — French Quarter Disney’s Port Orleans Resort — Riverside Disney’s Port Orleans — Riverside You’ll see new categories on the Disney World website when booking your room. These new categories will be Standard Room, Preferred Room, or a room with a king bed. This simplifies the options available, making reservations easier. You will also note that some of the Moderate hotels will continue to offer additional categories, such as Disney’s Port Orleans — Riverside offering “Royal Guest Room.” General Construction Grand Floridian Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa has been undergoing a multi-phase refurbishment, but in 2026 it will officially come to an end. The resorts lobby, which is currently under construction, will officially be updated to include a brand new lobby bar inspired by the lobby’s giant birdcage. ©Disney The bar will be opposite the lobby’s Victorian cage-style elevator, but based on the concept art, the iconic bird cage will likely not be returning. The lobby as a whole will have a new look that combines Victorian charm with modern luxury, perfect for this top-tier Deluxe hotel with luxury pricing. The new bar construction Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort Some general construction will be going on at Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. This resort is within walking distance to Magic Kingdom, which makes it a favorite for many people. It is a Disney Vacation Club resort, but anyone is able to stay here. Bay Lake Tower In 2026, the Bay Cove Pool, the Cove Bar, the water play area, and the whirlpool spa will be temporarily closed for maintenance. This maintenance will be ongoing from January 26th, 2026 through early May 2026. While these areas are closed, Disney assures guests that the two pools, water play area, and the whirlpool spa at the Contemporary Resort will be open for you to enjoy. Guest Room Renovations Disney’s Port Orleans Resort — Riverside The guest rooms in the Magnolia Bend at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort — Riverside have been getting refurbished since May 2025, and this will continue until the end of February 2026. Magnolia Bend If you’re planning to stay here, be aware of the potential construction noise for the first couple of months of the new year. Disney’s Pop Century Resort Guest rooms at Disney’s Pop Century Resort have also been getting a facelift. Disney’s Pop Century Resort These refurbishments started in late March 2025 and will also last into February 2026. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Starting in October 2025, the rooms at Kidani Village at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge will be getting refurbished until May 2026. Kidani Village After Kidani Village’s refurbishments are complete, Jambo House will be next. Starting May 2026 through January 2027, be aware that construction may be seen and/or heard here. Copper Creek Villas & Cabins Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Copper Creek Villas are currently undergoing exterior refurbishment work. This began on August 5th, 2024 with no end date listed by Disney. Exterior refurbishment as of July 30th, 2025 However, luckily, the Copper Creek Villas & Cabins room refurbishments should be done getting refurbished by the end of September 2025. We’re including them in this list of changes because, if you’re staying here in 2026, you’ll be some of the FIRST to experience the renovated rooms! Copper Creek Villas Coper Creek is a DVC resort, but anyone is able to stay here! DVC members are able to use their points while all others pay a cash price. Copper Creek Villa Lots of changes are coming to Disney World in the next few years, and you can expect these hotels to be changing sooner rather than later! For more Disney news, keep following DFB! Two Warnings for Your 2026 Disney World Hotel Stay Which hotel do you plan to stay at in 2026? Let us know in the comments! The post 8 Huge Hotel Changes Announced for Disney World in 2026 first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

A wax figure of actress/singer/producer Selena Gomez has been added to the starry lineup of Madame Tussauds Orlando, an attraction inside Icon Park on International Drive. The faux Gomez is outfitted in a red beaded floral gown worn to the MTV Video Music Awards in 2023. Tussauds, owned by Merlin Entertainments Group, says a team of 20 studio artists spent more than nine months creating the figure, including meticulous work such as hand-inserting every strand of hair. “Selena Gomez is an international icon whose talent, style, and authenticity inspires millions around the world,” Paul Gould, general manager of Madame Tussauds Orlando, said in a news release. “We’re thrilled to honor her and welcome fans with this striking new wax figure, capturing one of her most memorable MTV VMA red-carpet looks.” A wax figure of actress/singer Selena Gomez has been installed at Madame Tussauds Orlando, an attraction on International Drive. The gown is from her appearance at the 2023 MTV VMAs. (Madame Tussauds) Gomez is known for hit music (“Come & Get It,” “Bad Liar”), television appearances (“Wizards of Waverly Place,” “Only Murders in the Building”) and business endeavours, including her Rare Beauty cosmetics brand, which propeled her to billionaire status last year. Among the other celebrities with wax figures currently featured in the Madame Tussauds Orlando attraction are Bad Bunny, Lady Gaga, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Taylor Swift, Angela Bassett, Zendaya, Harry Styles, Dua Lipa and Beyonce. For more information, go to madametussauds.com/orlando. 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

‘Tis the season for The Nightmare Before Christmas! Jack Skellington and Sally From Halloween through Christmas, it’s Jack and Sally’s time to shine! We start to see them EVERYWHERE on merchandise this time of year, and that’s the case with the newest Starbucks tumbler as well. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Get the Zero tumbler SOON! ©Disney The online Disney Store just shared a sneak peek at a new Zero-themed Starbucks tumbler that’s dropping on September 12th at 8AM PT. It’s a deep blue color decked out with the beloved ghost dog, as well as the movie logo. We think this one is going to be popular, so you may want to stake out the website for that drop on September 12th! View the Starbucks tumblers 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 First Look at the New Disney Starbucks Tumbler Dropping September 12th first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

You knew we had to attempt this Disney World challenge SOMEDAY… and it seems that “someday” is finally HERE. Mickey Pretzel We’re ranking EVERY MAGIC KINGDOM SNACK, today on DFB Guide. All the latest Disney Parks news is coming up right now on DFB Guide. By the way, have you subscribed yet? If you hit the button below, you can subscribe to the channel and never miss a single episode! http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/subscribe.png So check out the video and then let us know: Which Disney news of the week are you the most excited about? The post DFB Video: Ranking EVERY Magic Kingdom Snack first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Transportation at Disney World is supposed to make your trip easier, but there’s a major hiccup coming soon. Skyliner From January 25th, 2026, through January 31st, 2026, the Disney Skyliner will be closed for refurbishment. While complimentary bus service will be available, this closure could still have a big impact on how you get to and from the parks. If you’ve got a trip planned during this week, here’s what you need to know to avoid frustration and keep your Disney days running smoothly. Why the Skyliner Matters The Disney Skyliner is one of the most popular transportation options on property. It connects Disney’s Hollywood Studios and EPCOT with several resorts, including Disney’s Riviera Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Pop Century Resort, and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. For many guests, this gondola-style system feels like part of the magic itself, offering beautiful views and a fast ride straight into the action. Disney Skyliner But with the Skyliner down for refurbishment, those staying at Skyliner resorts will need to rely solely on Disney buses during this period. That means longer waits at bus stops, potentially crowded buses, and less flexibility when it comes to park hopping. What This Means for Resort Guests If you’re staying at Pop Century or Art of Animation, you’re probably used to the convenience of hopping on the Skyliner to EPCOT or Hollywood Studios within minutes. Without it, your only option will be buses, which take longer and often come with long lines during peak hours. Families with strollers, wheelchairs, or lots of gear may especially notice the difference in convenience since loading onto buses can take more time than the Skyliner’s continuous boarding. Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort Skyliner Caribbean Beach and Riviera guests will also feel the impact. Both resorts benefit from the Skyliner as a direct connection to the parks, and without it, their bus stops could see major congestion. This may also ripple out to other resorts, as Disney shifts buses to cover the missing Skyliner routes. Park Hopping Becomes Trickier One of the best things about the Skyliner is how it makes EPCOT and Hollywood Studios feel connected. It’s one of the fastest ways to hop between two Disney parks. Disney Skyliner at Hollywood Studios Without it, park hopping between these locations is going to be slower and less convenient. You’ll need to take a bus or even consider walking from EPCOT to Hollywood Studios (a long walk, but possible if you go through the International Gateway). For many guests, this could add an extra 30 minutes or more to their travel time. Timing Is Everything Because the Skyliner is down for a full week, it overlaps with the tail end of January crowds. While January is not peak holiday season, it is a popular time for those looking to enjoy cooler weather, lower prices, and EPCOT’s Festival of the Arts. Inside the Disney Skyliner That means you’re not just dealing with fewer transportation options—you’re dealing with them during a time when a lot of visitors will be staying at Skyliner resorts specifically for festival access. If you’re one of them, be prepared for longer waits and plan your mornings accordingly. How to Prepare If you’ll be at Disney World during the closure, here are a few tips to help you navigate: Leave extra time in your schedule for transportation. Don’t cut it close for dining reservations or showtimes. Use the EPCOT walking path if you’re willing to put in the steps. The walk between EPCOT’s International Gateway and Hollywood Studios can be quicker than waiting on a bus during busy times. Consider rideshare services like Uber or Lyft if you want a faster option without relying on Disney buses. Be patient at bus stops. Cast Members will be working hard to keep lines moving, but delays are almost guaranteed. The Big Picture At the end of the day, the Skyliner refurbishment is short—it’s just one week. But for those staying at connected resorts during that time, it could still put a dent in your plans. Disney transportation closures, even temporary ones, ripple across the resort and can impact everything from your park hopping strategy to your dining schedule. Knowing about it now gives you the chance to prepare and avoid stress once you’re actually there. Disney Skyliner So if your Disney World trip is set for late January 2026, don’t let this surprise you. The buses will still get you where you need to go, but the extra time and planning could make all the difference. Stay tuned to DFB for all your Disney World news! 4 Things Disney World Skyliner Cast Members Want to Tell You But Won’t Cause They’re Too Nice 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 Would you change your Disney resort plans if you knew the Skyliner was going to be closed during your trip? Let us know in the comments! The post The 2026 Disney World Transportation Problem You Need to Be Worried About first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

If there’s one thing every Disney World guest knows, it’s that the most popular rides come with the longest wait times. Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind We’ve seen popular attractions have up to 2-hour waits during peak seasons, while Magic Kingdom is packed with classics that draw huge lines all day long. That’s where Lightning Lane comes in. It’s Disney’s skip-the-line system, and it can help you make the most of your time in the parks. I’ve purchased Lightning Lane over 30 times, and this is one hack I will continue to do, because it saves hours of waiting and makes a Disney day so much smoother. When it comes to saving time at Disney World, Lightning Lane is one of the best tools you can have in your pocket, especially at Magic Kingdom, where there are dozens of attractions competing for your attention. I decided to test out the $66 Lightning Lane hack that Disney fans and experts swear by: grabbing a Lightning Lane Multi Pass for Magic Kingdom, plus two Lightning Lane Single Passes — one for TRON Lightcycle / Run and another for Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. The goal? Maximize rides while minimizing time spent in line. Lightning Lane at Peter Pan’s Flight At Magic Kingdom, this strategy pays off fast. Between classic rides like Peter Pan’s Flight, Jungle Cruise, and Haunted Mansion, wait times can eat up hours of your day. Using the Multi Pass, I was able to knock out several high-demand attractions without standing in the Florida heat for 60+ minutes each. And for TRON, where standby lines can easily stretch past 90 minutes, the Lightning Lane Single Pass was worth every penny for me. Walking past that massive line and hopping on one of Disney’s newest thrill rides felt like the ultimate win. TRON Lightcycle / Run But the hack doesn’t stop there. Since the monorail connects Magic Kingdom to EPCOT (with a quick switch at the Transportation and Ticket Center), it’s easy to plan an evening park hop. I booked a Lightning Lane for Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind in EPCOT, and by the time I arrived in the evening, I had both my spot secured and additional EPCOT Multi Pass Lightning Lanes ready to go. It was the perfect way to extend the day, hitting two of Disney’s most popular rides without battling those infamous standby lines. Lightning Lanes! Of course, this strategy isn’t exactly budget-friendly. At about $66 per person, it adds up quickly, especially if you’re traveling with a family of four. Still, for guests who value their time, the Lightning Lane hack can transform a long, line-filled day into a smooth, attraction-packed experience. For some, it’s the difference between riding TRON and Guardians once or not at all. Cinderella Castle For more tips and tricks for your Disney World trip, be sure to follow DFB! Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Surge Pricing: What You Need to Know 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 Do you think Lightning Lane is worth it for your Disney vacation? Tell us in the comments. The post I Tried the Lightning Lane Hack That Disney Experts Swear By first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Disney’s newest lounge is located in Magic Kingdom and is perfect for all fans of pirates, but we’ve gotta admit there’s something we need to warn you about over at The Beak and Barrel. The Beak and Barrel Reservations are hard to get for this hot new spot, as seating in this lounge is pretty scarce — there is a 45-minute time limit to your visit. Unfortunately, you might have to learn the hard way that snagging a reservation for The Beak and Barrel doesn’t necessarily guarantee you an actual seat in this new lounge. The Beak and Barrel is Magic Kingdom’s very first dedicated bar and lounge, inspired by Pirates of the Caribbean. Inside, you’ll find multiple different seating areas, each with a distinct theme, but like most restaurants, you don’t get to choose where to sit. Instead, you’ll be shown where to sit by your pirate host, and that’s where you’ll stay for your whole experience. The Beak and Barrel This is very similar to how seating works at Oga’s Cantina in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, because at both locations, you may be seated with other parties, especially if your reservation is between 1-3 people. Not only that, but even if you have a reservation to dine at this new lounge, you may not actually have a seat. Instead, you may be escorted to a section of the space that’s standing room only, which is exactly what happened to us on a recent visit. The Beak and Barrel Yes — while some people may get a super comfy chair by the fireplace, you may only be given a small section of standing counter space, which was pretty narrow in and of itself. However, since we did get to stand at the counter, we got a great view of Rummy the Parrot coming out and saying hello to guests, while those seated in the further off rooms didn’t get that same view. Rummy! While this may be frustrating, Disney does this for a good reason. While we do think it would be nice to get a heads up that your seating (or standing) experience may vary, this process has worked for Oga’s Cantina for many years with little to no issues, so it makes perfect sense why Disney would try this same style again for The Beak and Barrel. It’s also important to consider that this isn’t a restaurant where you’ll be having a leisurely meal — Disney has a two-drink, 45-minute limit on reservations at The Beak and Barrel, and being able to squeeze as many people in as safely as possible allows more people — like you — to get the chance to experience the new space. Skull Bar at The Beak and Barrel Getting to sit in the different rooms or stand at the bar is part of the fun here, and is part of what will keep people coming back! On your first visit, you may stand at the bar and get to take in all the incredible details there, and on your second trip, it’s possible you could be seated in the Captain’s Quarters section and get to watch the ships in a bottle battle. There are so many unique experiences here, it’s nearly impossible to see them all at once by only standing and sitting in one area, so it’s fun to come back and notice more and more details each time. And, like Oga’s Cantina, hopefully, demand for this new lounge will taper off as it gets its sea legs, and reservations will be even easier to get. As of now, a walk-up waitlist is not available for Beak and Barrel, but we’re hopeful that will eventually change as well. Posters at The Beak and Barrel No matter where you end up during your visit to the Beak and Barrel, make sure you take a look around the entire space — there are just so many details to take in, you’d never be able to catch them all on your first visit anyway. While you may end up at a counter you have to stand at, there will still be fun and interactive experiences you get to see. And, hey, it just gives you an excuse to go back! Looking for more recent Magic Kingdom news? Check out our posts below! More Recent Magic Kingdom News! I Can’t Believe This Rule Still Exists at Disney World BarsYou Need To Know THIS Reservation Change Before Going To Magic Kingdom’s The Beak and BarrelUPDATE: Fall Snacks Have Arrived in Disney World Hotels!Disney Finally Made the 3 Announcements We’ve Been Waiting ForIs Disney Going to Need NEW Rules for the Villains Land Expansion? Be sure to stay tuned to DFB for all the latest Disney World news! FULL REVIEW of The Beak and Barrel in Magic Kingdom 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! How do you feel about the potential of standing at The Beak and Barrel? Tell us in the comments! The post I Can't Believe This Rule Still Exists at Disney World Bars first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

The Beak & Barrel is officially open in Disney World! This Pirates of the Caribbean-themed tavern opened on August 29th in Magic Kingdom, and it has been a popular spot. Reservations booked up quickly once they were finally released, and availability has been hard to come by. The Beak and Barrel If you are looking to snag a reservation at Disney World’s newest lounge, you will have to be quick or keep an eye out for reservations, as they do occasionally pop up. However, if you are looking for a larger group, we have a huge tip that will help make getting a reservation for your whole party easier. We recently noticed that if you are trying to book a reservation at The Beak and Barrel on the My Disney Experience app, you will only be able to select up to 8 guests. No worries at all if you have fewer than 8 people in your party, but what if you are trying to book for more people? Booking The Beak and Barrel on the My Disney Experience App ©Disney We found a solution (at least for now)! If you head to the Disney World website instead, you can select up to 20 guests when you are making your reservation. Do keep in mind that it might be more difficult to snag a reservation with a very large party, but this could be an easier option then trying to grab two separate reservations and hope you are seated somewhat close together. While the option is still available online, it is possible this could change in the future! Booking The Beak and Barrel Online ©Disney While we still recommend having the My Disney Experience app for your vacation, this might be one of those instances where you will want to head to the Disney World Website instead! If you are booking for 8 people or less, though, you can choose whichever platform you prefer! The Beak and Barrel We have gotten the opportunity to stop by The Beak and Barrel and try out the new food and drinks! The tavern is themed to the Pirates of the Carribean and has its own backstory. Legendary pirate rumrunner, Captain Meridian “Merry” Goldwyn, has set up this “lively pirate pub” we know as The Beak and Barrel. Her first mate is Rummy, the tavern’s quartermaster, who keeps an eye on everything from his roost near the top of the bar. There are LOTS of hidden details throughout the lounge and you really feel like you are channeling your inner pirate while inside! The Cursed Bar inside The Beak and Barrel Stay tuned to DFB for all your Disney World news! FULL REVIEW of The Beak and Barrel 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 Have you been to The Beak & Barrel yet? Let us know in the comments! The post You Need To Know THIS Reservation Change Before Going To Magic Kingdom’s The Beak and Barrel first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article