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There’s a theatrical renaissance taking place in our theme parks, and I am here for it. Hot on the heels of the new stage shows at Universal Epic Universe, Walt Disney World has raised the curtain on two new productions at Disney’s Hollywood Studios: “The Little Mermaid — A Musical Adventure” and “Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After.” Both put an array of theatrical arts on display — and let’s not underestimate the fact that for many children, this will be their first exposure to theater experiences. “The Little Mermaid — A Musical Adventure” is a vastly expanded and improved version of the previous “Little Mermaid” show in that space. This feels like a true retelling, helped immensely by the simple change of introducing Prince Eric much earlier in the show. And, crucially, Eric is now portrayed by a speaking actor so the character is far more fully realized. More human (or soon-to-be-human) performers deepen the storytelling of "The Little Mermaid -- A Musical Adventure" at Disney's Hollywood Studios. (Dewayne Bevil/Orlando Sentinel)The live performers are accentuated more: Ariel joins in “Under the Sea,” a new “Kiss the Girl” scene features both Ariel and Eric. But there’s a group of unseen performers contributing just as much — through puppetry. “The Little Mermaid” always has featured strong puppeteering, but this version feels next-level. Watch Sebastian the crab move, or check out the bird going for a big solo in “Kiss the Girl.” Ursula’s eel minions, Flotsam and Jetsam, have more motion, too. My only quibble is not directed at the performers but rather a technical element. Animation used in the opening sequence to introduce Ariel’s sisters (yes, “Daughters of Triton” now also is performed) feels out of sync with the style of everything that comes after — as if it was left over from some other version that didn’t make it off the drawing board. But on the whole, this is a huge step forward in theatricality for Ariel and her friends. Ursula is still causing trouble in "The Little Mermaid -- A Musical Adventure" at Disney's Hollywood Studios. (Omark Reyes/Walt Disney Co.)Across the park, the baddies are up to no good and pleading their case in “Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After.” Three live performers interact with the Magic Mirror from “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” in a show that relies heavily on recorded imagery — not unlike many of today’s Broadway shows. The show’s venue has received a major upgrade from previous use and looks like an actual theater. Cruella de Vil is larger than life in "Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After," now running at Disney's Hollywood Studios. (Courtesy LKD Photo)And while Magic Mirror’s patter is engaging enough and the use of technology is attention-getting, it’s undoubtedly the human actors who give this show its spark. The featured villains are Cruella de Vil, Captain Hook and Maleficent. Cruella is all manic energy, as you’d expect, with some fabulous costume changes. Maleficent oozes malice, putting her own menacing spin on Sleeping Beauty’s “Once Upon a Dream.” Captain Hook is practically an old vaudeville star, singing and hoofing and drawing laughs. It’s a fun role that, like the others, wouldn’t have the same effect on video. Which makes it more puzzling why we see two other villains (Hades and Jafar) only on video, a bit that doesn’t quite work because it can’t capture the magic of live appearances. I wonder why Disney didn’t design the show so other villains could swing in, perhaps widening the casting pool but also providing a surprise for guests each time — and a reason to come back. At show’s end, the audience gets to decide which villain has been most unfairly judged; the winner at my performance was Captain Hook — no surprise with charisma like that. All those pictures surrounding Captain Hook? They are video screens that change their images frequently in "Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After," now running at Disney's Hollywood Studios. (Courtesy LKD Photo)The two new Disney shows follow new stage shows “Le Cirque Arcanus” and “The Untrainable Dragon” at Epic Universe. SeaWorld Orlando also has introduced a new stage show, “Hydro Surge,” which includes singers, a drummer, puppeteers, dancers, acrobats and aerial artists. This one is a limited-time offering, part of the park’s “Summer Spectacular” promotion. The road to increased park-based entertainment hasn’t been 100% smooth. Entertainers at Universal Orlando were thrown a major curveball when a show they had spent weeks rehearsing was canceled during the pre-opening test phase of Central Florida’s newest theme park. But multiple people affected by that decision have told the Sentinel that every effort was being made to shift the displaced performers into other roles — and that even more entertainment was on the way. Maleficent strikes a pose next to a picture of her nemeses, Prince Phillip and Princess Aurora, a k a Sleeping Beauty, in "Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After," now running at Disney's Hollywood Studios. (Courtesy LKD Photo)Let’s hope that happens. Because maybe park executives are realizing that the storytelling their parks do is thanks not only to the themed architecture and rides. There’s a human factor in storytelling that can only come from the theatrical power of live entertainment. Follow me at facebook.com/matthew.j.palm or email me at mpalm@orlandosentinel.com. Find more entertainment news and reviews at orlandosentinel.com/entertainment or sign up to receive our weekly emailed Entertainment newsletter. View the full article

Over in Disneyland Resort, one of the park’s most iconic attractions is currently closed for refurbishment. Disneyland Matterhorn Bobsleds has already been closed for just over two months, but now, we finally know when it’ll reopen in the park. If you’re visiting in July, you’re in luck! Disney has just updated their calendar to reveal that Matterhorn Bobsleds will reopen again on July 24th! Matterhorn Bobsleds The attraction has been closed since May 5th for routine maintenance, and we can understand why, considering how intense this ride can be! Our hope is that the construction may be able to smooth it out a bit — as it stands, it’s VERY jerky. Matterhorn Bobsleds Matterhorn Bobsleds offers both Lightning Lane, which you can access through Lightning Lane Multi Pass or Lightning Lane Premier Pass, and a single rider line. Your party will likely have to split up, but you can usually get a much shorter wait time! Matterhorn Bobsleds We’re looking forward to this attraction being back open again, because we know a lot of people love it as much as we do. Looking for more recent Disneyland Resort news? Check out our posts below! More Recent Disneyland Resort News! UPDATE: You Can FINALLY Ride This Disneyland Attraction Again on July 24th!FULL REVIEW: WAIT Til You SEE This Mickey Mouse Crazy SHAKE!REVIEW: We’re Trying NEW Menu Items From A Popular Disneyland RestaurantDisney Files NEW Permit for First Ever ‘Coco’ AttractionREVIEW: This Disney Fried Chicken Might Give Homecomin’ a Run for Its Money Be sure to stay tuned to DFB for all the latest Disneyland news! Did Disney Drop a Hint About This Popular Attraction’s CLOSURE? Want to Learn More About Disneyland? Check Out the Links Below! DFB Disneyland Restaurants Guide Disney Genie and How to Use it in Disneyland What You Need to Know About the Theme Park Reservation System for Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Closures and Construction at Disneyland Learn All About Disneyland Park See What Marvelous Stuff You’ll Find at Avengers Campus in Disney California Adventure Learn About Pixar Pier in Disney California Adventure Get All the Details About the Disneyland Mobile App Everything You Need to Know About Mobile Order in Disneyland Learn More About Disneyland’s Magic Key Program Full Details About the Holiday Season in Disneyland Full Details About Halloween Time at Disneyland Get Some STRANGE Tips for Disneyland Click HERE to Check Out Lots of Other DFB Posts About Disneyland Join the DFB Newsletter To Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox! Click here to Subscribe How do you feel about Matterhorn Bobsleds? Tell us in the comments! The post UPDATE: You Can FINALLY Ride This Disneyland Attraction Again on July 24th! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Are you planning a trip to Disney World? Cinderella Castle You might have already started figuring out your budget, picking your hotel, and deciding on what tickets you need for your trip. Maybe you’ve even started looking at how you’re getting to Disney World, whether that be by driving or flying into Orlando International Airport. There is one thing you need to do, though, before you get ahead of yourself: be sure to buy your theme park tickets BEFORE October. We’re going to tell you why that’s so important. So why should you buy your tickets before October? Well, traditionally, October is when Disney World starts raising prices on just about everything, including food, and yes, theme park tickets. In 2024, we saw that ticket prices for this year, 2025, would increase at that time. We’ve also seen hints that park tickets will also go up again in October 2026. Magic Kingdom entrance So that means if you’re planning a trip to Disney World and already know when you’re visiting and your dates are available for buying tickets, you should get buy them sooner, rather than later, to save some money. We’ll also suggest that if you’re visiting Disney World after October, plan for increases on things like food and drinks, too, as we traditionally get price increases across the board on those items during that month. Disney’s Hollywood Studios entrance So, yes, once we hit the tenth month of the year, things just get more expensive, but if you’re prepared, buy those tickets before the price increases take effect, you’ll still be able to save a little money that you can put towards other vacation expenses, like food and souvenirs. We’ll keep an eye out for any and all price increases in Disney World, so stay tuned to DFB to stay updated! 5 Items You Thought Were Illegal in Disney World But AREN’T 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 do you usually buy your Disney World tickets? Let us know in the comments! The post Why You Should Always Buy Your Disney World Tickets Before October first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

While having a MagicBand+ isn’t necessary for your vacation, it does make things a lot easier! MagicBand+ You can use it to tap in for your Lightning Lanes, attach a card to use it as a payment method, and it can interact with shows and experiences around the parks! If you’ve been looking for some new designs, there are two new additions online that you won’t want to miss. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Haunted Mansion Fans, This is For You! ©Disney If you love Haunted Mansion as much as we do, you’ll love the new Madame Leota and Friends MagicBand+! Madame Leota is featured front and center, but the strap features both The Hatbox Ghost and The Bride. It’s perfect for those who love spooky vibes all time of year. Check it out here! Wonderfully Classic! ©Disney If you want something a little more classic but still bright and colorful, the Mickey Mouse Silhouette MagicBand+ is the way to go! It’s a beautiful light blue color with a geometric pattern on the band (complete with Mickey silhouettes), and Mickey on the tapping part of the band. Check it out here! Be sure to stay tuned to DFB for all the latest Disney merchandise news and updates! The post We're Telling You -- You HAVE To Grab This Disney MagicBand+ Online Before It Sells Out! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We find out the best Disney merchandise on Amazon! ©Shutterstock From Mickey Ears to theme park essentials, there is a little something for everyone on Amazon! That’s why we’re doing a wrap-up of our favorites from this week, right here. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Disney Villains Cookbook ©Amazon Looking to get cooking with a side of mischief? This Disney Villains Cookbook features 50 beginner-friendly recipes like Kronk’s Spinach Puffs, Gaston’s Chicken Drumsticks, Cruella Cookies, and more! For Kronk’s Spinach Puffs alone, we’re tossing this one in our cart! It also has a difficulty rating for each recipe, so you know before you start how tough it’ll be. View on Amazon Silly Symphonies Shirt ©Amazon Next is this shirt inspired by the Silly Symphonies cartoon! It features the skeleton dance section of the cartoon and is a great way to show off your love for vintage Disney. View on Amazon Amazon Echo Pop Kids ©Amazon This is an Amazon Alexa smart speaker designed for your kids! It features Disney characters, princesses, and Marvel characters for your kids to get in on all of the fun. You can play songs from Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Music, and more! It also features storytelling and learning capabilities. View on Amazon Kitsch Disney Claw Clip ©Amazon Looking for an adorable way to keep your hair out of your face? This Mickey Mouse plastic claw clip features several tiny Mickey silhouettes made out of pink, red, and silver stones. This clip is smaller, making it great for thin hair or half-up hairdos. View on Amazon Silver Buffalo Stitch Tumbler ©Amazon Looking to stay cool this summer? This Lilo and Stitch tumbler is the perfect way to do it! It features Stitch, lots of blue water, and tiny islands for the perfect summer vibes. It holds 40 ounces and can keep drinks cold for up to 18 hours. View on Amazon Hercules VHS Crossbody ©Amazon Finally, we have this bag that every ’90s baby needs! It’s a crossbody bag inspired by the VHS tape for the movie Hercules! The strap can go from 34 inches to 69 inches for comfort and flexibility. View on Amazon We’re constantly looking out for the best Disney deals and discounts, especially during huge sales like Amazon Prime Days. So don’t forget to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more! Shop for more on our Amazon Storefront The post LIMITED Disney Prime Deals Are Happening Now -- Get Them While You Can first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Thinking about finally booking that trip to Disney World, but are waiting on a sign? This might be it! Cinderella Castle We’re always on the hunt for the latest flight sales and deals that can help you save some money on your vacation to Disney World, or anywhere. A popular budget airline is having a major summer sale with up to 30% off flights — but not for long! Allegiant Air is having a Soaring Summer Sale with flights up to 30% off! Not only that, but Allways Rewards members can earn 2x points per $1 spent or 5x points per $1 when included with a bundle. But wait, there’s more! ©Allegiant Airlines Get a Double Upgrade on a rental car when added to your trip through Allegiant. There’s also a $75 off Allways Rewards VISA Card offer on eligible purchases with code SAVE75. This sale won’t last long, though — you’ve got just over one day before the deals end at 11:59 PM PT on July 8th, 2025. Allegiant Air Seats are limited, and the low fares are not available on all flights. Your travel dates must fall between July 7th and December 15th, 2025. If you’re thinking about planning a trip to Orlando, we found nonstop flights to Sanford International Airport for just $48 one way. ©Allegiant Air Don’t want to go through all of the stress of booking your Disney World trip alone? Reach out to our friends at Small World Vacations! Their experienced agents monitor your reservation for possible future savings, compare discounts, and figure out which one works best for your travel party, dates, resort, and touring plans. And, they share expert tips and first-hand advice with you about your magical vacation. We’ll be on the lookout for more travel updates, so make sure you stay tuned to DFB for the latest news! You May Want to Avoid Flying to Disney World on These 8 Dates in 2025 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 Will you be taking advantage of this flight sale? Let us know in the comments. The post Score Flights to Disney World -- But Not for Long! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

The countdown is on. Everywhere you look, new sales are popping up in stores and online. It’s the season of SALES! In fact, one of the BIGGEST sales of July is happening TOMORROW, and we know where to go to find allll the best discounted Disney items. Magic Kingdom Amazon Prime Day is happening from July 8th through July 11th, and we’re here to be your resource. Thanks to our carefully curated Amazon Storefront, we are rounding up alllll the deals in ONE place. Early deals are already live on our storefront, and we will continue to update them throughout the sale. Save this page and come back to it! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Get the FROGG TOGGS Poncho on SALE! Frogg Toggs Poncho This poncho is a best-seller for a reason. The special cape shape and durable material really set this one apart from your average hot, clingy poncho. Frogg Toggs is just superior! Oh, and our readers (and other loyal Frogg Togg fans) have SOLD OUT this poncho in the past, so get it NOW before it sells out again. View on Amazon This BAGSMART Travel Toiletry Bag is on sale, too! Bagsmart Toiletry Bag Early deal alert! We own this travel toiletry bag and LOVE it! The bag has four handy compartments that can flawlessly organize your toiletries, and it’s super easy to pack. Look — it even has a spot for makeup brushes! View on Amazon We love the MultiCharger for MagicBand+ MultiCharger for MagicBand+ If you’re new here, let us put you onto something MAJOR. This MultiCharger for MagicBand+ is SO handy to pack for vacation. It gives you WAY more places to charge all your devices, including iPhones, smart watches, MagicBands, tablets, and more. Disney World hotels simply do NOT have enough outlets for all our tech — this solves that problem. View on Amazon Or, you can grab the INIU Portable Charger while it’s on SALE! INIU Portable Charger Speaking of our favorite charging devices, this portable charger is a MUST-HAVE for Disney World. It’s SUPER thin yet has 10000mAh capabilities — enough to top up iPhone 8 3.6 times, Samsung S22 1.8 times, or AirPods Pro 13.2 times. Don’t pay full price. Get it while it’s on SALE! View on Amazon Don’t forget the BAODINI Travel Mini Umbrella UV Umbrella Protect yourself from the heat! This UV-blocking umbrella is made from black fabric, which reflects most UV rays. There’s also a black coating under the canopy that absorbs any remaining UV rays, giving an overall UPF rating of 50+. It’s small and compact, making it a great option for Disney World. View on Amazon Check out our exclusive Amazon Storefront below! Bookmark that page — we will keep updating it as new deals arrive. 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 Why Tomorrow Is a Big Day for Disney Fans first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Do do do do do do do do do. Bluey! Bluey and Bingo! We LOVE Bluey here at Disney Food Blog, and we know little ones are pretty big fans, too. With Amazon Prime Days just around the corner, we grabbed a few Bluey souvenirs that you can grab on sale that kiddos are going to be obsessed with. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Bluey Chalk Art Pack ©Amazon Currently, this chalk pack is 20% off and features easy-to-grab holders for the jumbo chalk. There are even fun stencils so you can outline Bluey and Bingo. There are five colors: yellow, blue, pink, orange, and teal. SHOP ON AMAZON Bluey Bubble Wand ©Amazon OMG! Can you imagine this at Disney World? At 44% off, this bubble wand is less than $10 and is ready for Dance Mode! The bubble wand is voice-activated and lights up when you start to sing. SHOP ON AMAZON Bluey Blanket Slumber Bag ©Amazon This would make naptime the best time of the day. It is sherpa lined with Bluey and Bingo on the front with their plush rabbit. If your kiddo is getting used to sleepovers or sleeping while in hotels, the familiar faces of Bluey and Bingo may help. SHOP ON AMAZON Children’s Bluey Foam Chair ©Amazon Do they make these in adult sizes? Please say yes! This foam chair is one of the cutest things we’ve seen, and we just know kids are going to be obsessed with it. Once again, Bluey and Bingo are on it, and this would be so fun to sit in while watching more Bluey. SHOP ON AMAZON These are four souvenirs we’re not going to miss out on during Amazon Prime Days. If you have Bluey fans in your life, you’ll want to take advantage of these sales too. Make sure you keep following Disney Food Blog for more! The post The Bluey Souvenir Everyone Is Buying On Amazon Today first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

All aboard! Now that Tom Sawyer Island, the Rivers of America, and the Liberty Square Riverboat are closed, the Walt Disney World Railroad is undergoing some changes. Frontierland Before you hop on the train, be warned that your route might be a little different than you’re used to. The railroad now only has two stops, Fantasyland and Main Street, skipping over Frontierland. Instead of going through a full loop around Magic Kingdom, it will go forward and backward! Walt Disney World Railroad For the different routes, there’s a new train conductor spiel. The conductor discusses a new experiment and references the original Experiment 626, also known as Stitch. Seats Because you’re going forward and backward, half of the seats are turned to face the opposite direction. Different directions Why are all of these changes coming to the railroad? Well, lots of changes are coming to Magic Kingdom! Magic Kingdom Villains Land is coming, and it will be the biggest expansion to ever hit the Magic Kingdom. This project is going to be behind Big Thunder Mountain, so they’re pausing the railroad that goes through the area. Villains Land ©Disney Piston Peak is also being welcomed to Frontierland! This Cars-themed land will feature new rides and will replace the old Tom Sawyer Island and Rivers of America. Piston Peak ©Disney We’re excited about these new projects, and if you haven’t been on the train in a while, you should add it back to your list to try out the new version they’re calling “Shuttle Mode.” We’re bringing you all the Disney updates you need right here at Disney Food Blog. 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. ALL THE NEW RIDES AND ATTRACTIONS AT DISNEY WORLD IN 2025 AND BEYOND 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 about these railroad changes? Tell us your thoughts in the comments. The post We'll Add It to the List -- Another Ride Has CHANGED in Magic Kingdom! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

When it comes to dining at Disney World, you’ve got a TON of options. Want something quick and easy? You’ve got it. Something middle of the road and comforting? Yep, that too. And if you’re looking for something upscale and luxurious, you can find that as well. Disney Springs We recently stopped by Swirls on the Water at Disney Springs to check out a new DOLE Whip flight, 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! We stopped by Swirls on the Water at Disney Springs to try the latest DOLE Whip Sampler Flight! This one comes with DOLE Whip Pineapple swirled with Vanilla Soft-serve and Fresh Pineapple Wedge, DOLE Whip Orange swirled with DOLE Whip Watermelon with Fresh Orange and Orange Crisp Pearls, and DOLE Whip Lime swirled with DOLE Whip Strawberry and Fresh Strawberries. You can grab it for $7.99. NEW Dole Whip flight Starting with the DOLE Whip Lime swirled with DOLE Whip Strawberry and Fresh Strawberries, which was such a good combination! It was topped with fresh strawberries that were cut up. The lime soft serve and the strawberry soft serve of the DOLE whip went beautifully together. The combination was very nice and summery and very fruity. Both flavors in the swirl were the same type of sorbet soft serve versus the creamier kind; they eventually kind of melted together and formed one flavor. It was sweet thanks to the strawberry, but had the perfect hint of tartness from the lime. DOLE Whip Lime swirled with DOLE Whip Strawberry and Fresh Strawberries Next up, we tried the DOLE Whip Orange swirled with DOLE Whip Watermelon with Fresh Orange and Orange Crisp Pearls. This was a fun, melon-citrus explosion. In fact, when the orange and the watermelon melted together, they leaned more toward the melon side — almost like cantaloupe. But it was really, really nice, and it also had the orange crispy pearls for a fun texture addition. Now, because the orange DOLE whip is more of a cream, it did get kind of frothy on that side when it started to melt, so you’ll want to eat this fast. This one was our reporter’s favorite of the new flight! DOLE Whip Orange swirled with DOLE Whip Watermelon with Fresh Orange and Orange Crisp Pearls Last one up was the classic DOLE Whip Pineapple swirled with Vanilla Soft-serve and Fresh Pineapple Wedge. This is one that’s pretty standard in all the floats you can get around Disney World. The combination of the tangy pineapple with the creaminess of the vanilla soft-serve is just out of this world. We had absolutely no complaints, but would have liked to see something a bit more creative from this last flavor combo! DOLE Whip Pineapple swirled with Vanilla Soft-serve and Fresh Pineapple Wedge We’ll be on the lookout for even more fun snacks to review for you around Disney World and beyond. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news! The ULTIMATE Guide to Disney Springs Restaurants 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 trying this new DOLE Whip flight at Disney Springs? Let us know in the comments. The post REVIEW: Did We Just Find Our NEW Favorite DOLE Whip Flavor?! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

It’s summer, which means it’s vacation time for a lot of folks. That means that a lot of those folks are traveling to the Orlando Airport to visit Disney World, Universal Orlando (especially Epic Universe), or both. Orlando International Airport Well, it’s also HOT and humid in Florida these days, and we’ve noticed an interesting shoe trend at the airport. Not only are folks dressing their feet for comfort, but they’re also dressing their feet for the weather, and sandals are EVERYWHERE. So if you’re looking for a good pair of sandals to travel in, we’ve found some great pairs on Amazon you’ll want to grab. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. You’ll want to grab these comfy and versatile sandals NOW before your next trip to Orlando! Get the Birkenstock Women’s Arizona Soft Footbed Sandals ©Amazon Y’all. Birkenstock sandals have a good reputation for a reason. These sandals are SO comfy that you can easily wear them all day. They’re also easy to slip on and off and keep your feet nice and cool on those super hot days. It’s true…Birkenstocks will never go out of style. View on Amazon This View on Amazon Buy the Crocs Women’s Getaway Strappy Sandals ©Amazon These sandals are called “Getaway” because that’s just what they’re perfect for. We know that many DFB readers love Crocs, and these sandals have Crocs comfort you love. They’re lightweight, versatile, and elegant. You can dress them up or down. View on Amazon Get the CUSHIONAIRE Women’s Luna Cork ©Amazon These sandals’ name literally has the word “cushion” in them, so you know they’ll be great for traveling through airports this summer. They have a light flexible corkbed that makes walking so comfortable. They’re also easy to slip on and off. Even better? They’re on sale! View on Amazon Buy the Crocs Brooklyn Low Wedge Sandals ©Amazon Comfort and style can go hand-in-hand, especially with these Crocs — nope, these are not your mother’s Crocs. These lightweight sandals feature a wedge heel for a fashionable fit, but they’re also designed to keep your feet nice and comfy all day. They also come in a variety of colors. 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 The Surprising Shoe Trend I Spotted Everywhere in the Orlando Airport first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

When the crypt doors creak and the tombstones quake, we know we’re in for a Haunted Mansion treat! Haunted Mansion in Disneyland Disney just released A LOT (no, really, there’s so much!) Haunted Mansion souvenirs, and if you’re someone who recites the preshow and sings along to Grim Grinning Ghosts, you’re going to love these new releases. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Haunted Mansion Dooney & Bourke Satchel ©Disney Look at this gorgeous bag! This print features various Haunted Mansion scenes, including the Hitchhiking Ghosts, singing busts, the groundskeeper, and more. SHOP ON THE DISNEY STORE Madame Leota Ornament ©Disney The details on this ornament are so beautiful! It lights up and hangs on a satin ribbon, looking perfect on your Christmas tree when you need to represent the best ride at Disney. SHOP ON THE DISNEY STORE Gus Sculpted Mug ©Disney There is a mug for each of the Hitchhiking Ghosts, and they’re perfect for the ultimate collectors. He has his ball and chain and is in the perfect shade of blue that just screams the Haunted Mansion. SHOP ON THE DISNEY STORE Haunted Mansion Trinket Tray ©Disney If you can’t choose your favorite character and need them all represented, this tray is perfect for you. With Madame Leota in the middle and other characters along the sides, it’s great to throw in some small trinkets and anything else you need to keep track of for later. SHOP ON THE DISNEY STORE Sally Slater Ornament ©Disney Fans of the preshow will need this ornament! Sally is on top of her tightrope above her alligator, looking just like the stretching portraits. We love that it’s in a glass dome, but her umbrella is hanging off! SHOP ON THE DISNEY STORE Haunted Mansion Spirit Jersey ©Disney If your dream has always been to be a Haunted Mansion Cast Member, you need this spirit jersey! It features a name tag on the front that reads ‘Ghost Host’ and is adorned with the iconic green and black stripes. SHOP ON THE DISNEY STORE Haunted Mansion Crocs ©Disney You need the matching Crocs if you’re grabbing the spirit jersey. These are in the same green and black stripes with a Jibbitz on the top and the strap. SHOP ON THE DISNEY STORE We’ve been waiting for this merchandise collection to arrive, and we’re thrilled to finally be able to hit “add to bag.” Tell us what your favorite part of the Haunted Mansion is in the comments, and keep following Disney Food Blog for more. The post Grab This NEW Haunted Mansion Collection Online – It’s Already Selling Out! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Is it weird if we have an ornament collection? ©Disney Store We absolutely love grabbing new Disney ornaments for our holiday celebrations! They let us show off our love for our favorite characters, theme park attractions, movies, and more. That’s why we were so excited to see all of these brand-new ornaments now online! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Get the Pluto 95th Ornament ©Disney Store Celebrate Pluto’s 95th anniversary in the cutest way possible! This limited-release ornament features Pluto from The Wonder Dog, which debuted in 1950. He’s standing tall and proud with a white and red “P” flag on his tail. View on the Disney Store The Goofy Movie 30th Ornament ©Disney Store Next, we have this amazing Powerline-inspired ornament! You can see Powerline, Max, and Goofy all featured in this holiday decor. There are translucent bolts along the edges to add a pop of color and the Powerline logo on the bottom. Anyone else suddenly craving Cheddar Wizzy spray? View on the Disney Store You NEED the Cinderella 75th Anniversary Ornament ©Disney Store If you love the classics, this is for you! This ornament is also a limited release and it features Cinderella in a glass “bubble” from the scene in where she sings “Oh, Sing Sweet Nightingale.” She can see herself in the reflection of the bubble and we can practically hear her humming now. View on the Disney Store Or, you can grab Sally Slater Ornament ©Disney Store You might not know the name Sally Slater but you know her portrait! The ornament is inspired by the Haunted Mansion. The glass dome surrounds Sally as she tightrope walks over an alligator with its mouth open. Her parasol is coming out of the dome to make the ornament even more dynamic. View on the Disney Store And Finally, the Madame Leota Ornament ©Disney Store This ornament has us ready to call on the spirits of the Haunted Mansion! It lights up and features Madame Leota. Once it’s lit up, it features a 3D illusion to make Leota look like she’s floating. There is a satin ribbon to hold it up on your gorgeous, Disney Christmas tree. View on the Disney Store We’re constantly looking out for the best Disney deals and discounts, especially during huge sales like Amazon Prime Days. So don’t forget to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more! Shop for more on our Amazon Storefront! The post TONS of NEW Disney Ornaments Are Online Now! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

There’s a HUGE change coming to Magic Kingdom, and really, we aren’t talking about it enough. ©Disney No one is more excited for the nighttime parade, Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away, debuting on Main Street on July 20th, than we are. However, because this parade is expected to be extremely popular, Disney is making a significant change to their reservation system. If you’re planning to catch the parade on opening day, make sure you know the details! If you are an Annual Passholder and want to catch Starlight on opening day, you NEED to have a theme park reservation. ©Disney Typically, if it’s after 2 PM, you can head to any of the four parks without needing a reservation. For the opening day of the parade, a reservation is required. Disney Starlight debuts July 20th in Magic Kingdom ©Disney While making a Magic Kingdom would be the easiest if you’re heading to the castle to watch Starlight, park hopping is still in play, so you can book a reservation at any of the four parks and then park hop over to Magic Kingdom. Keep in mind that park hopping is subject to availability, so if Magic Kingdom is at capacity before you get there, you might be out of luck. ©Disney Let’s recap. If you are an Annual Passholder and want to watch Starlight on July 20th, here’s how to do it: Book a reservation for Magic Kingdom Book a reservation for Animal Kingdom, EPCOT, and Hollywood Studios, and park hop to Magic Kingdom when you’re ready, but make sure that Magic Kingdom isn’t at capacity Merch! This new parade will take place at 9 PM and 11 PM, except on nights with specialty parades, such as Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. Disney Starlight Popcorn Mix One incredible part about this parade is that they are changing the traditional parade route. Instead of starting in Frontierland and ending on Main Street, it will proceed in reverse, beginning at the front of Main Street and concluding in Frontierland. Goofy, Mickey, and Minnie are READY to light up the night in Disney Starlight! If you want to catch the fireworks show, Happily Ever After, it usually runs at 10 PM, so you can watch them before or after the parade, depending on how late you want to stay. Keep in mind that July 20th will be BUSY, so if you want to watch the fireworks, you might not have the most ideal spot since lots of people will be there for the parade. ©Disney We’ll be in the parks on July 20th, ready to bring you photos and details on the new parade (and trust us, we’re screaming with excitement to be there), so make sure you are following Disney Food Blog for everything Starlight. 3 TRICKS TO GETTING THE BEST VIEW OF HAPPILY EVER AFTER FIREWORKS IN MAGIC KINGDOM 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 When do you plan on seeing the parade? Tell us what you’re most looking forward to in the comments! The post REMINDER: Park Pass Rules Are Changing in Disney World This Month first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

The endless loop that is the soundtrack of “it’s a small world” is getting a new verse in the Magic Kingdom attraction. The sounds of the finale of the gentle boat ride will change July 17 to add a verse written by Richard Sherman, who died in May 2024 at age 95. Richard Sherman and his brother Robert Sherman, who died in 2012, wrote the original lyrics along with several other Disney classics. The new lines retain the global unity of the original “It’s a Small World (After All).” Soon to be heard in the finale scene: “Mother Earth united us in heart and mind / And the love we gives makes us humankind / Through our vast wondrous land / When we stand hand in hand / It’s a small world after all.” According to the official Disney Parks Blog, Gregg Sherman, son of Richard, said the new verse is meant to “celebrate that there’s more that unites us than divides us, and reinforce the message of that song.” The verse was presented in November as part of “The Last Verse,” a three-minute Disney film now available on Disney+ streaming service and other online outlets. In Feburary, the company announced that it would be incorporated in the Disneyland “small world” as part of the California park’s 70th anniversary. Brother songwriting team Richard Sherman (right) and Robert Sherman wrote the original lyrics for 'it’s a small world.' (Walt Disney Co.)“Hearing Richard Sherman recite the final verse to ‘It’s a Small World’ before he died will be a moment I will carry with me forever,” Walt Disney Co. CEO Bob Iger said last year. “This beautiful short film is our tribute to their immeasurable musical contributions, their memory, and to the countless memories they helped create for generations of people around the world.” The attraction dates back to Walt Disney’s contributions to the 1964 World’s Fair in New York. It was then added to Disneyland in 1966 and was one of the opening-day rides at Magic Kingdom in 1971. 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

Walt Disney World is s sprawling complex – famously just about double the size of Manhattan – and requires a large, sprawling transportation network. ©Disney Recently, Disney released a new infographic detailing each of the resort’s transportation options, as well as some facts and figures that put into perspective just how large the resort’s transportation system truly is. Walt Disney World Monorail When Disney World first opened in 1971, the resort’s primary transportation offering was the Walt Disney World Monorail. Taking Disneyland’s Monorail aesthetic and greatly expanding it, the Monorail initially connected the Magic Kingdom with the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC), the Polynesian Village Resort, and the Contemporary Resort. Stops were added to EPCOT and the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa when they opened in 1982 and 1988 respectively. Walt Disney World Monorail As the infographic laid out, the line features 12 monorail trains, and 14.7 miles of track, making it the largest system in the U.S. Watercraft Watercraft has also been part of Disney World’s transportation system since the beginning. Boats currently travel around the Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake, connecting the Magic Kingdom with the nearby resorts as well as the TTC. In addition, the watercraft connect EPCOT and Hollywood Studios, with the Swan & Dolphin, Yacht & Beach Club, and Boardwalk resorts and Disney Springs with the Port Orleans Riverside, Port Orleans French Quarter, Old Key West, and Saratoga Springs resorts. Behold! Disney World’s fleet of 36 watercraft are 10 more than New York’s world-famous Staten Island Ferry. Buses As Walt Disney World expanded with MGM-Studios, Animal Kingdom, and a double-digit number of hotels in the late 1980s and 1990s, the Monorail ceded the title of Disney World’s most vital transportation method to the bus system. Magic Kingdom Bus Currently, Disney World’s bus system features 424 buses and 43 square miles of bus routes. It also features ridership that makes it the equivalent to the 13th largest level of bus ridership in the U.S. Skyliner The newest transportation method at Disney World, the Skyliner debuted at Disney World in 2019. The gondola system connects EPCOT and Hollywood Studios with the Riviera Resort, the Caribbean Beach Resort, the Pop Century Resort, and the Art of Animation Resort. Skyliner The system’s 304 gondolas carry over 10x the ridership of New York City’s well-known Roosevelt Island Ariel Tramway. Inside the Disney Skyliner Disney World guests have several transportation options to travel around the resort, each of which is aimed at making the experience as smooth as possible. Stay tuned to DFB for more on Disney’s infrastructure. My Millennial Mind Is Literally on Fire After Learning That Disney World Used to Have… 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’s your favorite Disney World transportation option? Let us know in the comments below! The post This New Map Shows What Disney World Looks Like With EVERY Transportation Route (Even the Ones You Didn't Know About) first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Test Track 3.0 opens to the public on July 22nd, 2025, and although we’ve already had a chance to check it out, we can’t wait to ride it again and again. Test Track Ahead of the ride’s reopening, Disney has been sharing details on what we can expect when this ride officially reopens — and we just learned what that means for Early Theme Park Entry and Extended Evening Hours! Test Track 3.0 will officially open on July 22nd, 2025, at EPCOT, and we can’t wait! The ride has been closed for over a year, and is now welcoming select groups for previews. Ahead of the ride’s official reopening, Disney has just revealed that Test Track will be available during Early Theme Park Entry and Extended evening Hours at EPCOT! Test Track As a reminder, guests staying at ALL Disney World Resort hotels can enjoy Early Theme Park Entry. Early Theme Park Entry allows guests to enter ANY of the four theme parks 30 minutes early EVERY DAY to get a head start on their day in the parks! Test Track Disney World also offers Extended Evening Hours for select guests, giving them extra hours in the parks! Unlike Early Theme Park Hours, the Extended Evening Hours are offered only at one park per specific date. Unlike Early Entry, Extended Evening Hours are only available for those staying at a Deluxe or Deluxe Villa Walt Disney World Resort hotel for the length of their stay. Test Track Here’s a look at the EPCOT rides available during Early Entry: Frozen Ever After Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind Mission: SPACE Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure Soarin’ Around the World Spaceship Earth Test Track The Seas with Nemo & Friends The new queue for Test Track And, for Extended Evening Hours at EPCOT, these rides will be available: Frozen Ever After Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana – New! Mission: SPACE Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure Soarin’ Around the World Spaceship Earth The Seas with Nemo & Friends Test Track The final scene on Test Track! Disney also recently confirmed that Early Entry and Extended Evening Hours will continue throughout all of 2026, so this will apply to any future trips you plan for next year as well! There’s a pine scent We can’t wait for Test Track 3.0 to officially be open at EPCOT, but you can check out our full coverage of our preview ride at the link below. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news. FIRST LOOK! We Just Rode the NEW Test Track in EPCOT and We Have SO Much to Show You! 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 heading to EPCOT to ride Test Track when it opens? Let us know in the comments. The post NEWS: Disney Adds Test Track to Early Entry and Extended Evening Hours first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Okay, okay, we can’t believe we’re saying this either: we’re over halfway through 2025. Eek! 2025 Merchandise We know 2026 is really upon us because new yearly merchandise is starting to pop up at Disney World. We have officially spotted the first 2026 souvenirs. Drumroll, please! Let’s welcome this 2026 Disney World Calendar! 2026 Calendar! We found this calendar at Mickey’s of Hollywood for $16.99, but we expect to start seeing them in more stores around Disney World soon. Mickey’s of Hollywood On the back, we see pictures from all four parks along with iconic attractions and Mickey and Minnie in their Halloween costumes. Monthly pictures Every year, Disney releases a new yearly collection with different colors, icons, and styles. It appears that this purple style will likely be the design featured in new merchandise collections. Imagine t-shirts, hoodies, ears, mugs, picture frames, and so much more all in this style! What do you think about this new design? 2025 merchandise is still available for sale throughout the parks, so don’t worry if you’re still hoping to snag some of this year’s items before heading to the next. 2025 Merchandise Yearly souvenirs are a topic of debate within the Disney community. Do you like having yearly merch to remember a trip, or do you prefer pieces you can wear for many years to come? 2025 Souvenirs Don’t want to go through all of the stress of booking your 2025 and 2026 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. Tell us your thoughts in the comments, and keep following Disney Food Blog for more! 5 ITEMS YOU THOUGHT WERE ILLEGAL IN DISNEY WORLD BUT AREN’T Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW The post SPOTTED: The First 2026 Souvenir Has Dropped in Disney World! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

There is nothing like bringing the Disney magic home to you! Haunted Mansion We are obsessed with anything Disney, and even more specifically, the Haunted Mansion, so when we saw the brand-new Starbucks tumblers, we knew we had to have them! Let’s check out exactly what we’ll be sipping our iced coffees out of for the rest of time right here! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. If there’s one thing we will get every time, it’s a Starbucks Tumbler! This latest spooky addition is no different. Haunted Mansion Starbucks Tumbler ©Disney Store Can you see why we’re so obsessed? These brand new tumblers are metallic purple with the intricate black detailing of those famous Haunted Mansion walls. It also notes the attraction name at the bottom of the mug. If you thought it couldn’t get any cuter, the straw topper is a bat! ©Disney Store It’s double-walled to keep your drinks cold for hours, and it is the cutest way to make the ghost that followed you home feel a bit closer to its former mansion. We’re expecting these to sell out quickly, just in time for the summer to wrap up and the spooky season to begin! ©Disney Store Shop here! We are obsessed with these and can’t wait for ours to arrive ASAP! As always, be sure to keep following DFB for more Disney finds online! The post JUST DROPPED! The NEW Haunted Mansion Starbucks Tumblers Are Online NOW first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

The Cars are coming. Cars Area Concept Art ©Disney This past summer, Disney shocked the theme park world when they announced that a Cars-themed expansion was coming to the Magic Kingdom’s Frontierland, controversially replacing the Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island. According to Disney, the area will blend into Frontierland by tying “into the themes of exploration and adventure that inspire so many of us to keep propelling forward.” Get ready for Piston Peak National Park! The upcoming area is inspired by National Parks, specifically, Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado. The name of Piston Peak stems from the fictional land, Piston Peak National Park, from the 2014 Disney film Planes: Fire & Rescue (which is part of the Cars universe). And, now that Tom Sawyer Island and the Liberty Square Riverboat are closed for good, Disney is wasting no time beginning the construction process on this new area. Tom Sawyer Island is now CLOSED We spotted those infamous Disney World construction walls up over at the docks where you’d catch a raft to the island. Walls are UP at the entrances It looks like Cast Members are making their way onto Tom Sawyer Island wearing high-visibility vests and hard hats since this area is now officially a construction zone. Cast Members in hard hats and high-vis vests And, over by the entrance to the Liberty Square Riverboat, new construction walls have appeared as well. There’s now a door with walls up over at the entrance and a similar situation over at the exit of the ride. Disney has already filed permits for the demolition of Tom Sawyer Island and much of the Rivers of America, so it’s likely that those changes are imminent as well. Liberty Square Riverboat walls are up New attractions, stores, and food and beverage spots will be part of this new land. Guests can look forward to two NEW Cars attractions! Get ready to race through the mountains on wild terrain along mountain trails as you dodge geysers and splash through mud holes on an exciting and thrilling rally race ride. Disney also shared that the second ride will be geared toward “smaller racers” and will be fun for the whole family! Piston Peak ©Disney 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. Construction of the massive — and controversial — Cars area coming to the Magic Kingdom’s Frontierland has begun. Stay tuned to DFB for further coverage of Disney World’s ongoing construction. NEWS! Close-Up Look At NEW Cars Rides Coming to 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 Are you excited for the new Cars area? Let us know in the comments below. The post NEWS: HUGE Changes Hit Magic Kingdom Overnight first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We always love hearing from our readers! We often ask questions about all things Disney on our social media channels, and we love spending time getting to read through your responses. Our readers have some of the best insights and opinions, and we appreciate everyone who takes the time to engage with us. Magic Kingdom We recently posted a question about Lightning Lane Multi Pass and asked our readers what they would like to see changed with this service. You all came through and gave us some great insight into what Disney fans would love to see changed with Lightning Lane Multi Pass. Let’s take a look at what you all said! Lightning Lane Multi Pass is an optional paid service that allows you to bypass standby lines and instead enter through the Lightning Lane of select attractions. You pay a base price to be able to make reservations for multiple attractions. When you initially purchase Lightning Lane Multi Pass you can make 3 selections in advance of your visit. As you begin to use your Lightning Lane selections, you can make another selection after you have used one. Your selections are dependent on availability, and you choose a one-hour arrival window (when there is availability). Lightning Lane at Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure Lightning Lane Multi Pass utilizes a tiered system when you are making selections. Attractions are divided into tiers, and when you are making your advance selections, you can choose one attraction from the higher-tiered group, and two (or all three) from a lower-tiered group. The tiers only apply when you are making your selections in advance, and once you are in the parks you can hold more than one reservation for the higher-tiered group. Lightning Lane at Haunted Mansion Kristen mentioned that while she loved the benefits, they “were running from one side of the park to the other!” Katy also agreed and wished there was an easier way to “pick slots of rides that are closer to one another in a park.” We definitely agree, as sometimes you end up with Lightning Lanes that are close together, but the attractions are on opposite sides of the park. We would love it if Disney added a feature to help make Lightning Lanes closer together, maybe like a “take me in a clockwise direction” filter. Winnie the Pooh Lightning Lane Stefania wishes that there would be more availability, and April hopes that Disney will add character meets back in. As well, Jason would prefer that all of the rides are in one option. No more Lightning Lane Single Pass or Virtual Queues, just incorporate them all into Lightning Lane Multi Pass. All of the different systems can definitely feel a bit confusing! TRON Lightning Lane One of the more popular wishes was echoed by numerous people. Margaret wrote, “to go back to being free.” And she wasn’t the only one that shared a similar sentiment. Pam, Jennifer, Shirley, and others all wished that this service would be free. Many of them mentioned that old FastPass system used to be a free service and they would like to see that return. Kelly wrote, “make it FastPass again.” Many guests don’t want to have to pay for something additional on top of hotels, tickets, and parking. Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway Lightning Lane Along the lines of making the service free, many were also in agreement that Lightning Lane Multi Pass should be offered to guests staying at Disney World hotels for free. Steve and Lauren both wish that this paid service would be given to guests of hotels as a perk. Universal Orlando provides their version of Lightning Lane passes to guests staying at select hotels in its Signature Collection (the top tier of hotels). Lightning Lane at Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular Our readers definitely have some great ideas for ways to make the Lightning Lane Multi Pass service better. Stay tuned to DFB for more Disney World tips, tricks, and news! EVERYTHING You Need to Know About Lightning Lane Multi Pass! Planning a Trip to Disney World? We’ve Got Everything You Need to Know The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Disney World Vacation A Month-by-Month Guide to Planning Your Disney World Trip Tips, Hints, Lists, and Videos for Planning the BEST Disney World Trip Learn About the Disney Park Pass System The Ultimate Disney World Packing List Everything You Need to Know About Lightning Lanes Insider SECRETS for Your First Trip to Disney World A Complete Look at the Current Disney Discounts and Deals The ONLY Disney Dining Planning Tool You’ll Need Is Here – Get the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining! Join the DFB Newsletter to Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox! Click Here to Subscribe What changes would you like to see to Lightning Lane Multi Pass? Let us know in the comments! The post "Make It FastPass Again" -- Lightning Lane Multi Pass Needs 5 BIG Changes in Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Legoland Florida has introduced an upgraded U.S. Capitol building in the Miniland USA section of the Winter Haven theme park. The structure, slid into place in time for Independence Day, has 381,000 Lego bricks. The park’s master model builders spent 1,500 hours on the project. “What we like to do with our models is make them as accurate to the real thing as possible,” Calvin Casey, a Legoland Florida master model builder, said in a park video. For the latest renovation, lighting was added beneath the Capitol dome and lamp posts were put around the grounds. The model continues to sport architectural details, Lego-style, and it’s still fronted by marching minifigures. Other Washington, D.C., landmarks in Miniland include the White House, Smithsonian and Washington Monument. Legoland Florida’s Miniland also re-creates New York City (Times Square, Statue of Liberty, Guggenheim Museum), California (Golden Gate Bridge, Hollywood Bowl, Griffith Observatory), Las Vegas (casinos, wedding chapel, “fabulous” Las Vegas welcome sign) and various Florida scenes, including Daytona International Speedway, Kennedy Space Center, South Beach, St. Augustine, Bok Tower and Orlando Eye observation wheel, among others. Legoland Florida has extended sales on its current ticket deal through July 13. Buyers can do one day, two parks (Legoland plus its water park or neighboring Peppe Pig Theme Park) for $69.99. A two-day, two-park ticket runs $94.99. Another $10 add-on gains entry to Sea Life Florida Aquarium, which debuted at the resort in June. There is also a Legoland Florida hotel and ticket package offer that includes breakfasts and a round of mini-golf. For purchases and more information, go to legolandflorida.com. 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

Well, it’s a small world after all! “it’s a small world” A new change is coming to “it’s a small world,” and now the attraction will feel even more special with every ride! It was announced that Disneyland is changing the last verse in the finale scene of “it’s a small world,” but we just found out that the change is coming to Disney World, as well! This change will start on July 17th in both parks. “it’s a small world” in Disneyland Before Richard Sherman, one of the two Sherman brothers who wrote most of Disneyland’s original music, passed earlier this year, he wrote a new verse “as his final gift to Disney.” We love this ride! The new lyrics will be: Mother Earth unites us in heart and mind / And the love we give makes us humankind / Through our vast, wondrous land / When we stand hand in hand / it’s a small world after all Inside A special edition vinyl will be available online at the Disney Music Emporium. You can preorder the record now for its release on July 18th. A digital version of the song will also be available on all music streaming platforms. ©Disney The change coming during the 70th anniversary of Disneyland makes it feel even more special, and it feels like a full-circle moment to the park’s beginning. Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary Celebration We are so glad that this new verse is coming to both Disneyland and Disney World, and we can’t wait to board the Happiest Cruise to Ever Sail to listen to it together. Keep following Disney Food Blog for more! 17 MAJOR CHANGES COMING TO 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 What do you think about these changes? Tell us your thoughts in the comments! The post NEW Change Announced For “it’s a small world” at Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

How can you get as much done in Epic Universe as possible with just one day? What do you need to bring with you that you DON’T have to bring to OTHER theme parks? Constellation Carousel in Celestial Park And which rides are gonna give you a NEW reason to get back in line over and over and OVER again? These are all the things you should ALWAYS do at Epic Universe… no matter WHAT. Check out our video below: 11 Things You Should ALWAYS Do at Epic Universe 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: 11 Things You Should ALWAYS Do at Epic Universe first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Being a Disney World Annual Passholder comes with a WHOLE LOT of perks. Disney World Annual Pass Not only do you get access to the parks pretty much whenever you want (depending on the type of pass you have!), but you also get special discounts, merchandise, and more. And, every once in a while, Disney celebrates Passholders with a MAJOR event and extra perks — but a major perk is ending soon. Heads up, Passholders! V.I.Passholder Days have been going on at Disney World and run through July 31st. During this time, Passholders can get even MORE discounts on food and shopping, plus take advantage of a ton of new perks, including an exclusive lounge in EPCOT. But, these perks are ENDING soon — and the exclusive lounge will close even sooner! EPCOT Annual Passholder Lounge If you want to experience this lounge before it closes on July 13th, make sure you head over to Restaurant Marrakesh in the back of the Morocco Pavilion at EPCOT. Just show your Annual Pass at the door, and bam — you’re in! Passholder Lounge The lounge is inside the former Restaurant Marrakesh location, and it’s a cozy place to sit — complete with air conditioning! You can also grab some free snacks here while you’re at it. The last time we stopped by, there were Stacy’s Garlic and Parmesan Herb Pita Chips and Fruit Bowl Nut Free Mix to munch on while you’re taking a break. You can also grab some free water and Moroccan Mint Tea! Great place to hydrate, too The lounge will be open from 11 AM to 7 PM through July 13th, so make sure you stop by before then if you want to check it out! Nice comfy place Don’t want to go through all of the stress of booking your Disney World trip alone? Reach out to our friends at Small World Vacations! Their experienced agents monitor your reservation for possible future savings, compare discounts and figure out which one works best for your travel party, dates, resort, and touring plans. And, they share expert tips and first-hand advice with you about your magical vacation. We’ll be on the lookout for more updates you need to know from Disney World. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news! Make sure you use these limited-time Annual Passholder perks while you can! Planning a Trip to Disney World? We’ve Got Everything You Need to Know The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Disney World Vacation A Month-by-Month Guide to Planning Your Disney World Trip Tips, Hints, Lists, and Videos for Planning the BEST Disney World Trip Learn About the Disney Park Pass System The Ultimate Disney World Packing List Everything You Need to Know About Lightning Lanes Insider SECRETS for Your First Trip to Disney World A Complete Look at the Current Disney Discounts and Deals The ONLY Disney Dining Planning Tool You’ll Need Is Here – Get the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining! Join the DFB Newsletter to Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox! Click Here to Subscribe If you’re a Passholder, did you check out the exclusive Lounge at EPCOT? Let us know in the comments. The post WARNING! A Massive Annual Passholder Perk Is About to END in Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article