Disney4me

Some MAJOR Disney news is coming. Walt Disney Company Headquarters in Burbank The Walt Disney Company has announced the date for the next earnings report and call, which is when we learn just how the company is doing, how Disney+ is doing, how the parks are doing, and a whole lot more. We’ve got all the details you need to know! The Walt Disney Company will be holding its third quarter earnings call for fiscal year 2025 on Wednesday, August 6th, 2025, at 8:30 AM ET/5:30 AM PT. ©Disney | Walt Disney Company Headquarters During the call, we expect to hear just how the company is doing financially when it comes to entertainment, merchandise, the parks, the cruise line, and plenty more. But, Disney also likes to make some pretty big announcements during these calls. The Disney Dream We could get more information about the DinoLand, U.S.A. retheming in Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the Cars retheme and Villains Land expansion in Magic Kingdom, and even potentially an update on the new Monsters, Inc. Land coming to Hollywood Studios. We could also get some news on the new virtual storefronts that were recently announced for Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN’s streaming platforms. To listen to the call, head to The Walt Disney Company website for the live webcast. Walt Disney Company Headquarters ©LA Times We’ll be tuning into the call and bringing you ALL the updates you need to know about The Walt Disney Company. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news! NEW RULES for Going to Disney World This Summer 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 tuning into this Disney earnings call? Let us know in the comments. The post DATE ANNOUNCED for Disney’s 2025 Third Quarter Earnings Call first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Disney is getting ready for our favorite festival of the year, and they just dropped some BIG news! Food & Wine Festival EPCOT’s Food and Wine Festival is getting closer, and we’re beyond excited. Disney is already starting to drop news — including a few returning foods that are CONFIRMED for the festival! Let’s take a look at some of the delicious returning items we’ll get to try. EPCOT’s Food and Wine Festival will be taking place on August 28th through November 22nd. The festival spans throughout the park, and it’s a favorite amongst guests. It involves concerts, activities, and TONS of food and beverages — so you’d better come hungry! Spain booth Every year, the Global Marketplaces around EPCOT’s World Showcase feature diverse cuisines from all around the world. It’s a very cool experience to try different foods from different cultures. An experience you’d really only get if you travelled to those countries. These menus will include kid-friendly and plant-based options. Milled & Mulled: Fall Fruit Cheesecake featuring Boursin® Fig & Balsamic Cheese with Pomegranates and Candied Pecans ©Disney You know the beloved rat from Disney Pixar’s Ratatouille? Well, Remy has been a big theme for the festival for some time now. So it only makes sense that the first confirmed dishes are cheese-related! If you’re a fan of cheese, take a look at some of the dishes available during Emile’s Fromage Montage, inspired by Remy’s brother. Cheese from Greece ©Disney You’ll be able to sample a selection of delicious cheese dishes from various Festival Marketplaces all around the park. As you travel around the world trying these dishes, make sure to collect the cheesy stamps in your festival passport to receive a complimentary dairy treat. Cheese from Brazil ©Disney Here’s some of the cheesy goodness you’ll be able to get at the festival: Milled & Mulled: Fall Fruit Cheesecake featuring Boursin® Fig & Balsamic Cheese with Pomegranates and Candied Pecans Brazil: Pão de Queijo: Brazilian Cheese Bread Greece: Griddled Cheese with Pistachios and Honey Greece booth Speaking of Remy, don’t forget to join “Remy’s Hide & Squeak Scavenger Hunt”! Remy’s Hide and Squeak Hunt invites guests to join Remy, or rather FIND Remy, as he “hides” throughout World Showcase. There he is! The scavenger hunt is fun for the whole family, challenging them to search for Remy together. A map and stickers will be available for purchase at different locations throughout the park to help keep track of your discoveries. Remy will be hiding in different World Showcase pavilions, collecting specific ingredients (as he would). Once you’ve found all of Remy’s hiding spots and finished the scavenger hunt, there will be a special prize waiting for you! This year, Remy’s Hide and Squeak Scavenger Hunt has received a price increase — from $9.99 to $11.99. Mexico pavilion We’re so excited for the festival, and we’ll be waiting for more food to be confirmed. Make sure to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog, because we’re going to be watching Food and Wine news like a hawk! 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 Food and Wine Festival this year? Let us know in the comments! The post 3 of Our FAVORITE Snacks Have Been CONFIRMED for the 2025 EPCOT Food & Wine Festival first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

If you’re heading to Disney World this summer, especially if you haven’t been in a minute, there are some new “rules” you’ll need to follow! Slinky Dog Dash Summer 2025 is a time of change at Disney World. Muppet*Vision 3D closed to make way for Monsters, Inc. on June 7th, and the Rivers of America will have its final day of operation on July 6th before making way for Cars. Across the resort, two other beloved attractions are in their final months of operation, while another has returned in an all-new version. On top of that, new experiences — and new rules with them — have arrived as well. With that, here are all the NEW Disney World rules for the summer of 2025. Be Prepared for Fluctuating Crowds Let’s start with crowds. On the one hand, Universal’s opening of Epic Universe is drawing large numbers of visitors to the Orlando area. While the initial thought process might be that this is a negative for Disney, the precedent for decades has shown that Disney actually benefits whenever a competing venture opens in the Orlando area. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure crowds However, on the other hand, political strife and economic issues are currently battering the tourism industry. International travel numbers have plunged as visitors are wary of the current U.S. government policies, while domestic travel has been hit hard by inflation, cutting into discretionary spending for things like vacations. Soon, weather may not be the only reason Main Street looks like this… All of this to say, it’s hard to accurately predict what crowds will be like at Disney World throughout the rest of the year, and it’s best to prepare for anything from a packed house to unusually empty. Water Parks are a Must-Do The Disney World water parks have been a big part of the resort’s offerings since the dearly departed River Country first opened years ago, and they were often seen as an ancillary experience by many guests. However, now that Disney is incentivizing free water park admission to Disney hotel guests on their check-in day, a trip to either Blizzard Beach or Typhoon Lagoon (both of which are operating this summer) has become a must-do part of their vacation in order to “get their money’s worth.” Typhoon Lagoon 21+ Guests Must Visit GEO-82 In June, EPCOT saw the opening of the new GEO-82 lounge. The establishment pays homage to the attraction through its name — a reference to Spaceship Earth’s shape and opening year– as well as “the storied history and enduring legacy of this timeless EPCOT icon” through its theming and decorative elements. It looks like a real cocktail! In addition to its Spaceship Earth theming, GEO-82 also brings another NEW element to Disney World: It is the first 21+ lounge in one of Disney World’s theme parks. Get in Iconic Attractions Before They Close In addition to the aforementioned closures of Muppet*Vision 3D and the Rivers of America, two other longtime Disney attractions — DINOSAUR at Animal Kingdom and the Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster — are closing in on their final days of operation. The former to serve as the home of a new Indiana Jones attraction in Animal Kingdom’s new Tropical Americas and the latter to become home to the Muppets (who were displaced by the aforementioned Muppet*Vision closure). Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster If you want to experience either attraction in its current state, you still have time. Both DINOSAUR and the Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster will be open through the end of 2025 before closing in 2026. Dinosaur The NEW Test Track While some classic rides are closing, a fan-favorite is returning after a long refurbishment. After having been closed for over a year, Test Track is back at EPCOT! Test Track The newly revised attraction, which fans have dubbed Test Track V3, officially opens to the public on July 22nd. As seen during the attraction’s preview period, this new version captures the unique charm of early EPCOT dark rides, which will surely make it quite popular throughout the rest of the year. Let’s go! Keep an Eye out for Characters Finally, if you’re staying at select Disney resorts this summer, your vacation is going to have a bit of extra… character. Character Meet and Greet sign at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort If you are staying at select resorts like Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, and Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, you’ll be able to find exciting Disney-themed activities. These include character visits with set appearance times to help you plan your day and an expanded itinerary of activities. More characters have also been popping up around the parks, which has been very refreshing, so keep your eye out for more roaming characters! Hey Chip! Keep these “rules” in mind if you’re heading to Disney World this summer! Stay tuned to DFB for more Disney World tips! 4 Rules You’re Accidentally Breaking in EPCOT 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 are some of your own “rules” for visiting Walt Disney World? Let us know in the comments below. The post NEW RULES for Going to Disney World This Summer first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival runs from August 28th to November 22nd and will be packed with a variety of foods to try, drinks to enjoy, and shows to see. One of our favorite activities is the Eat the Beat Concert Series, which features popular bands and singers performing at the American Garden Theater. 2024 Food and Wine Festival If you don’t want to worry about waiting in line to grab a seat at your favorite band’s concert, you can purchase a dining package, which allows you to enjoy dinner and come back for designated seating for the performance. You can start booking a dining package on July 16th. Most packages include an entree and dessert, or a full buffet, as well as a nonalcoholic drink. You can score a reserved seat by buying an Eat to the Beat dining package! What restaurants are participating? Let’s find out! They also listed the prices for adults (ages 10 and up) and children (ages 3 to 9). Biergarten Restaurant ($66, $35) Chefs de France ($81, $33) Coral Reef Restaurant ($73, $29) Garden Grill Restaurant (Breakfast) ($66, $40) Garden Grill Restaurant (Lunch/Dinner) ($79, $49) Le Creperie de Paris ($56, $30) La Hacienda de San Angel ($82, $37) Le Cellier Steakhouse ($99, $39) Nine Dragons Restaurant ($60, $23) Rose & Crown Dining Room ($61, $26) Shiki-Sai: Suhi Izakaya ($80, $40) Spice Road Table ($56, $21) Teppan Edo ($80, $40) Tutto Italia Ristonrante ($77, $29) Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria ($65, $28) The Regal Eagle Smokehouse ($36, $21) will have a limited amount of same-day dining packages to snatch up, too! You’ll want to head to the restaurant the same day as the concert to find out, but note it may not be available during peak dates. 98 Degrees (2022) Who’s coming to perform? Some returning favorites and artists new to the EPCOT Food & Wine Festival will be there! Joey Fatone & Friends — August 29th-30th MercyMe — August 31st-September 1st (NEW) KT Tunstall — September 5th-6th TobyMac — September 7th-8th STARSHIP featuring Mickey Thomas — September 12th-14th Bacilos — September 15th Sheila E. — September 19th-20th (NEW) Ben Rector — September 21st-22nd Tiffany — September 26th-27th Jesse & Joy — September 28th-29th Baha Men — October 3rd-4th TBD — October 5th-6th (NEW) The Wanted 2.0 — October 10th-11th The Fray — October 12th-13th Hanson — October 17th-20th Hoobastank — October 24th-25th Smash Mouth — October 26th-27th Big Bad Voo Doo Daddy — October 31st-November 1st Boys II Men — November 2nd-3rd David Archuleta — November 7th-8th (NEW) Jordin Sparks — November 9th-10th (NEW) Bowling for Soup — November 14th-15th (NEW) The Beach Boys — November 16th-17th There is so much to look forward to at the Food & Wine Festival, and we’re just counting down the days until we can run from food booth to food booth to try everything new. Make sure you keep following Disney Food Blog for more! 4 MAJOR CHANGES WE’RE EXPECTING FOR THE 2025 EPCOT FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL 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 Is there an artist you’re excited to see? Tell us who in the comments! The post PRICING and DETAILS Announced for 2025 EPCOT Eat to the Beat Dining Packages first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Anyone who travels frequently probably has a TSA horror story or two to share with you. Maybe they got stuck in an hours-long line at security. Perhaps the scanners detected something in their carry-on, prompting a mini panic attack as an agent goes through their bag. We’ve all been there — the airport is a strange and stressful world for many of us. ©Getty Images One of the most notoriously stressful airports is the London Heathrow Airport. Maybe you’ve heard the warnings. Maybe you’ve lived through a dramatic encounter with a TSA agent. It feels like airport security rules are constantly changing, so it’s no wonder travelers get tripped up at the airport. But during a recent visit, we had a…good experience at the infamous London Heathrow Airport. Here’s what was different — and what might be different for YOU, too! During our trip to the London Heathrow Airport, we noticed an updated sign with the full list of security rules. Most notably, the updated guidelines stated that we were to 1.) keep EVERYTHING in our bag, and 2.) leave the liquid in plastic bottles. That’s right — while refillable metal or double-walled containers must be emptied, you do not need to empty plastic bottles. Check out the NEW rules! Why are we so excited about these changes? Well, as we alluded to earlier, London Heathrow Airport has a reputation for being one of the strictest airports in the world. When it came to liquids, you had to keep them in a very specific, clear bag. When it came to drinks, they had to be emptied. But now, it appears that — at least in the international terminal — the airport has upgraded equipment. London Heathrow Airport As a reminder, you are still restricted to a maximum liquid 2L per container, but all liquids, toiletries, and makeup can remain in your bag. This should make things a LOT easier as you make your way through security. We have some GOOD airport news! Of course, these rules are subject to change at any time. You never know when an airport might update its security policies, so we still recommend keeping your liquids in a place that is easy to access if needed. Always check the rules before you get to security! 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. In the meantime, we’re always on the lookout for the latest Disney news, so stay tuned for more. NEW SCAM at the Airport: Here’s the TSA’s Latest Warning 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 have any airport horror stories? Let us know in the comments! The post NEW RULES Debuted at the World’s Strictest Airport first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Okay, we have some favorite snacks in Disney World, and if you’ve been hanging with us for a while, you probably know a lot of them. Kringla Bakeri og Kafe in EPCOT Some of those favorite snacks include cinnamon rolls because…well, you just can’t beat a cinnamonny ball of dough with icing on top for breakfast…or any other part of the day. We’ve talked a lot about the Colossal Cinnamon Roll in Disney’s Animal Kingdom, as well as the Warm Cinnamon Roll from Gaston’s Tavern in Magic Kingdom. Well, a new cinnamon roll has entered the arena, and it has come out swinging! It’s time to add EPCOT to the Epic Cinnamon Roll List because we just had the new Cinnamon Roll with Orange Cream Cheese Icing for $6.49 from Kringla Bakeri og Kafe in the Norway Pavilion and we were SHOOK. Now, granted, this is the spot where we usually just grab a Frozen Viking Coffee and School Bread, but don’t sleep on this new cinnamon roll, y’all. Cinnamon Roll with Orange Cream Cheese Icing Let’s just say this thing is so good that when we went to grab one, it was already sold out and we had to wait for more. It’s a big fluffy cinnamon roll, and pretty standard for a cinnamon roll, but it’s taken up a notch by a massive dollop of orange cream cheese icing. So you get that cinnamony flavor complemented by the sweet and zesty flavor of the icing. That icing is everything The only complaint we really have is that underneath the icing is a regular Disney cinnamon roll — there isn’t any orange in it, but honestly, for less than $7, this just became BIG competition for every other cinnamon roll in Disney World. Sorry, Gaston. Stay tuned to DFB for more. We Reviewed 4 Surprisingly Good Snacks at Some of Disney World’s Worst 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 What’s your favorite cinnamon roll in Disney World? Let us know in the comments! The post Move Over, Gaston, Disney World Has a New Cinnamon Roll King! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Walt Disney World has revealed the performers for this year’s Eat to the Beat concert series, the musical element of the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. New acts on the list include Jordin Sparks, KT Tunstall and, in the final concerts of 2025, the Beach Boys. The lineup including several returning favorites, including Boyz II Men, Hanson (the only act on stage for four nights), Tiffany, Big Bad VooDoo Daddy and Joey Fatone & Friends, which will be the opening headliner act on Aug. 29, the Friday before Labor Day. The schedule, subject to change, includes: • Aug. 29-30: Joey Fatone & Friends. • Aug. 31-Sept. 1: MercyMe. • Sept. 5-6: KT Tunstall. • Sept. 7-8: TobyMac. • Sept. 12-14: Starship featuring Mickey Thomas. • Sept. 15: Bacilos. • Sept. 19-20: Sheila E. • Sept. 21-22: Ben Rector. • Sept. 26-27: Tiffany. • Sept. 28-29: Jesse & Joy. • Oct. 3-4: Baha Men. • Oct. 5-6: TBA. • Oct. 10-11: The Wanted 2.0. • Oct. 12-13: The Fray. • Oct. 17-20: Hanson. • Oct. 24-25: Hoobastank. • Oct. 26-27: Smash Mouth. • Oct. 31-Nov. 1: Big Bad Voodoo Daddy. • Nov. 2-3: Boyz II Men. • Nov. 7-8: David Archuleta. • Nov. 9-10: Jordin Sparks. • Nov. 14-15: Bowling for Soup. • Nov. 16-17: The Beach Boys. The festival runs Aug. 28-Nov. 17, and gaps in the concert schedule are occupied by local acts. Performances are held at the theme park’s America Gardens Theatre at 5:30 p.m., 6:45 p.m. and 8 p.m. daily. They are included with regular Epcot admission. 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

There are really only two ways to get to Orlando, Florida: you can take a little road trip and drive straight to Disney World, or you can hop on a plane and land at the Orlando International Airport. Of course, there are a LOT of factors that go into planning a trip to Disney World, but one of the biggest things to consider is the budget. Welcome to Disney World! If you’re weighing the idea of driving to Disney World, you might want to listen up! We have an important update about the cost of a road trip, and it might sway your decision to hop in the car for a road trip. The cost of gas can seriously impact your road trip budget, and this summer, gas prices are expected to fall, per Click Orlando. The upcoming Fourth of July holiday weekend is fast approaching, and millions of Americans are expected to hit the road for the holiday. Driving to Disney World could be less expensive! The average price of gasoline per gallon dropped 25.9 cents since last month and is 46.9 cents cheaper than one year ago, per Click Orlando. Gas prices change pretty often Right now, the average price per gallon is $2.89 in Florida, while prices in the Orlando area range from $2.63 to $3.15. Via ©Spectrum News The national average is $3.14 per gallon, which is 32.1 cents cheaper than a year ago. The price is up 1.1 cents from May 2025. Disney World gas station in March 2022 Currently, the price of gas is set to hit its lowest Fourth of July price since 2021, according to current projections per Click Orlando. Frontierland dance party (2024) 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. In the meantime, we’re always on the lookout for the latest Disney news, so stay tuned for more. FULL LINEUP Announced for the 2025 EPCOT Food and Wine Festival Eat to the Beat Concert Series Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you planning a trip to Disney World this summer? Let us know in the comments! The post The Important Update You Need To Know if You’re Driving to Disney World Right Now first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

With everything that’s been going on with Magic Kingdom lately, you may have missed this subtle change! Magic Kingdom Disney World has been undergoing a lot of updates. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad has been closed for refurbishment, Astro Orbiter just reopened, and we’re a few days away from saying goodbye to Tom Sawyer Island — and this is just a FEW of the many things going on. With everything happening, we wouldn’t blame you if you missed this NEW spot — but now that you’ll know about it, you NEED to check it out! When you’re strolling through Frontierland, have you ever seen that one shop, Prairie Outpost and Supplies? Well, it was never there just for decoration, the NEW Prairie Outpost store is now OPEN! Prairie Outpost It’s a hat store that is quite literally filled with all kinds of hats for you. In there, you’ll find top hats, visors, sun hats, ball caps, fascinators, and more. Look at all these hats! You can even get a newsboy hat like Prince Naveen wears in Disney’s The Princess and the Frog! You can be like Prince Naveen We haven’t even talked about the best part yet. This isn’t like every other hat store; something about it makes it unique. You can actually decorate and design your own hat! Pick out your hat, customize it, and turn it into a fashion statement — the possibilities are endless. You can decorate your own hat The store has tons of pins and accessories for you to put on your hat. They are magnetic to your hat, so you won’t poke or damage it. Other decorations they have at the store include elastic bands that’ll fit around your hat, feathers to make them fancy, and even a few jewelled bands themed for the Magic Kingdom lands. Decorate your hat! We loved the jewelled bands themed to the Magic Kingdom lands. They were specifically themed as a frog for Frontierland, a castle for Main Street, a pirate skull and crossbones for Adventureland, and the black and silver skulls for Liberty Square. Pins for decorations! The store does offer discounts for Annual Passholders, as well as a military discount of 10%. They do not ship outside of the store here, but Chapel Hats at Disney Springs can and will for a fee. If you wanted to purchase and pick up here later in the day, you can do that. You just have to pick up at least 30 minutes before the park closes. We loved this new store! Of course, we weren’t going to go to the new store and NOT customize a hat! Check this out! Check out our design! We chose a black hat and gave it a blue elastic band, with a blue feather. We felt the Mickey Sorcerer hat pin and Cinderella Castle would give it some extra pizzazz, but there are SO many options. You need to go to the new store Next time you’re in Magic Kingdom, you need to check this new store out! We’ll be back putting some more designs together, maybe we’ll even build our own custom hat collection. For more Disney news and updates, be sure to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog! Magic Kingdom Is Planning a Dramatic Attraction Overhaul — Here’s Everything We Know DON'T DO IT ALONE! Our favorite people over at Small World Vacations are ready to help you save time, headaches, and best of all, money, when you book your Disney trip or cruise. Their agents compare current offers to find the best deal for you -- they've literally saved their guests millions of dollars since 1996. Plus, their services are 100% FREE FOR YOU! (They're DFB's recommended travel agency, and you can see why here!) So book that trip now, then sit back and enjoy planning your Disney World Trip with a DFB-approved expert! Click here for a no obligation price quote today, and let them know DFB sent you GET MORE INFO Are you going to check out the new store? Let us know in the comments! The post We Just Designed a CUSTOM Hat at the NEW Store in Magic Kingdom first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

If you can count on anything in Disney World, it’s that the weather is going to be unpredictable. Rainy day in Magic Kingdom Now, we don’t expect a snowstorm to pop up in the middle of July. However, you can expect super hot and humid days that will make you pray for rain…which will show up in the form of random storms pretty much any time of the day. It’s also hurricane season, though, and that means that tropical systems that form in the Atlantic often have the chance to impact Florida. Well, buckle up, because the holiday weekend could be seeing something just like that. According to WESH, a tropical system could form over Florida to rain out the 4th of July holiday weekend. An area of low pressure might develop near or along the southeastern U.S. Atlantic and/or Gulf Coasts. This storm could bring tropical or subtropical characteristics as it drifts just off the coastline, meaning it could affect the entire state of Florida. ©WESH The chance of this storm development over the next seven days has increased to 40%, although this storm is not expected to become a hurricane or tropical storm. It is, though, expected to bring rain to Central Florida, so Disney World could be wet this weekend. The chance for rain between Friday and Sunday is 60 to 80%. So if you’re heading to Disney World or Orlando for the weekend, pack for rain. Rainy day in Hollywood Studios The Atlantic Hurricane Season runs through November 30th, so this is probably the first of many storms that could impact Disney World during that time. If you’re traveling, be sure to plan for things like delays, as well as heavy rainfall in the parks (pack those ponchos and raincoats, folks). We’ll keep an eye on the weather and everything else in Disney World, so stay tuned to DFB for more. The Internet Says This Viral Essential Is Like a Magic Wand for Rainy Days in Disney World — I Was Skeptical, so I Tried It 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 traveling to Disney World this holiday weekend? Let us know how you’re preparing for the weather in the comments! The post Traveling to Disney World This Weekend? Pack a Poncho! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

This year marks a major milestone for Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (HKDL) as it celebrates its 20th anniversary with a yearlong party that features a spectacular lineup of new entertainment, community initiatives, and a bold vision for the future. Since opening its gates in 2005, HKDL has become a beloved destination for Disney fans across Asia and beyond. “HKDL has become the tourism flagship for Hong Kong and the region now. We hope this milestone year will be filled with immersive entertainment, unforgettable moments, and boundless magic and surprises that only Hong Kong Disneyland can create,” Michael Moriarty, Managing Director of Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, said. A Celebration Like Never Before To commemorate two decades of storytelling and innovation, HKDL has launched its most ambitious entertainment slate to date. “This party is a vibrant celebration like never before,” Moriarty noted. “Guests can get up close and interact with beloved Disney characters, both classic and new, as we bring everyone together for the festivities. Prepare to experience the full celebration with all your favorite Disney friends.” At the heart of the celebration is a trio of new entertainment experiences designed to dazzle guests of all ages. For the 15-minute concert-style show “Disney Friends Live: Party at the Castle!,” Paul Rivet, Executive Director, Entertainment, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, noted that guests can expect “vibrant pop music, fun interactive moments, and favorite Disney characters all in one magical performance.” The show — which will “get everyone into the party spirit,” according to Rivet — includes three large LED screens displaying mesmerizing visuals and new scenic elements like fog jets and cold pyro to energize partygoers, in front of the castle decked out with giant balloons and banners, making for an epic backdrop. Disney Princesses Aurora, Tiana, and Belle make a grand entrance in never-before-seen party attire, while live vocalists perform three original songs, including the 20th anniversary anthem, “The Most Magical Party of All.” The celebration continues with “Friendtastic!”, the largest parade in HKDL’s history. “This dazzling 30-minute parade has been two years in the making,” Christie Evangelisto, Creative Director, Entertainment, Hong Kong Disneyland, noted. “The parade showcases 11 groups of Disney friends, each on brand-new floats. There will be several firsts in Hong Kong Disneyland’s parade history, including the very first Duffy and Friends-themed float and an Encanto-themed float.” Over 100 performers, including more than 30 beloved Disney characters — some making their Hong Kong Disneyland debut — bring the parade to life. “Four original songs were created just for this parade,” Evangelisto added. Rounding out the entertainment is “Momentous: Party in the Night Sky,” an enhanced nighttime spectacular that adds eight minutes of new story moments, breathtaking projections, and drone choreography. “Mickey Mouse gathers friends from more than 20 beloved stories to bring decorations and music to ‘The Most Magical Party of All,’” Rivet, said. A Legacy of Impact Beyond entertainment, the 20th anniversary is a moment to reflect on HKDL’s community impact. “As a flagship destination for Hong Kong tourism, HKDL has offered unique Disney storytelling and authentic experiences to locals and tourists for nearly two decades,” Moriarty said. “When people think of what to do in Hong Kong, ‘go to Disneyland’ is always one of the top recommendations.” Michael Moriarty, Managing Director of Hong Kong Disneyland Resort Throughout its 20 years of bringing Disney stories and characters to its guests in the region, HKDL has created tens of thousands of jobs on its way to becoming one of the largest entertainment employers in Hong Kong. And, over the past 19 years, Disney VoluntEARS have contributed nearly 123,000 hours to help children in hospitals and children with disabilities. This year, as part of its anniversary celebration, HKDL will double its annual donation of 100,000 complimentary park tickets to community organizations serving those in need. “HKDL has the most passionate fans,” Moriarty said. “As we reflect on our journey, we celebrate the spirit of togetherness that HKDL fosters, making our city a happier and more welcoming place.” Looking Ahead As HKDL celebrates its past, it is also looking boldly toward the future. “Following the successful launch of World of Frozen in 2023, the current 20th anniversary, and our current expansion plans with more Super Hero-themed experiences, a Pixar entertainment offering, and more new guest offerings in development, HKDL has a solid pipeline for future growth,” Moriarty said. Hong Kong Disneyland Resort is looking forward to a bright future ahead. “We remain agile and committed to providing innovative experiences and exceptional service for our guests,” Moriarty said. “Those are a testament to the ideals that have guided us for the last 20 years.” The post Hong Kong Disneyland Resort Celebrates 20 Years of Magic, Innovation, and Community appeared first on Disney Experiences. View the full article

Let’s cut to the chase. There are things you should ALWAYS do at Disney World restaurants to make your experience better, more convenient, and possibly cheaper than expected. It’s stunning in here. And we’re gonna cover the TOP dining must-dos that you NEED to do TODAY, here on DFB Guide. Check out our video below: 12 Things You Should ALWAYS DO at Disney World Restaurants 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: 12 Things You Should ALWAYS DO at Disney World Restaurants first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Rock ON! Forget the hassle of Ticketmaster. You can score a SWEET live concert performance INSIDE Disney World — for FREE! (OK, so you do need to pay for a ticket to EPCOT, but once you’re inside, the concert is F R E E.) It’s all possible thanks to a little thing called the EPCOT Food & Wine Festival. This seasonal event is more than just food and wine, people. 2024 Food and Wine Festival Mark your calendars! The 2025 EPCOT Food and Wine Festival will run from August 28th to November 22nd. All throughout the event, you’ll be treated to exclusive snacks, drinks, and live performances! Disney just confirmed The Eat to the Beat Concert Series is returning in 2025, and we officially know the iconic bands and artists will be performing! Stay calm — it’s happening! The Eat to the Beat Concert Series is returning to the 2025 EPCOT Food & Wine Festival! The concerts take place on select nights at the America Garden Theater. Shows will take place on Fridays through Mondays throughout the festival. Disney just announced the FULL LINEUP of performers! 98 Degrees Bookmark this page so you know exactly when to visit EPCOT this year! We’ve got a look at the full lineup for the 2025 EPCOT Food & Wine Festival Eat to the Beat Concert Series: Joey Fatone & Friends — August 29th-30th MercyMe — August 31st-September 1st (NEW) KT Tunstall — September 5th-6th TobyMac — September 7th-8th STARSHIP featuring Mickey Thomas — September 12th-14th Bacilos — September 15th Sheila E. — September 19th-20th (NEW) Ben Rector — Septmeber 21st-22nd Tiffany — Septmeber 26th-27th Jesse & Joy — Septmeber 28th-29th Baha Men — October 3rd-4th TBD — October 5th-6th (NEW) The Wanted 2.0 — October 10th-11th The Fray — October 12th-13th Hanson — October 17th-20th Hoobastank — October 24th-25th Smash Mouth — October 26th-27th Big Bad Voo Doo Daddy — October 31st-November 1st Boys II Men — November 2nd-3rd David Archuleta — November 7th-8th (NEW) Jordin Sparks — November 9th-10th (NEW) Bowling for Soup — November 14th-15th (NEW) The Beach Boys — November 16th-17th Eat to the Beat 2022 Want to GUARANTEE yourself a prime seat for the show? Good news! Disney confirmed Eat to the Beat Dining Packages will return. These special dining packages get you a meal (lunch or dinner) at select EPCOT restaurants AND include same-day reserved seating at the Eat to the Beat Concert that evening. You can reserve spots for the Eat to the Beat shows by purchasing a dining package starting on July 16th. You can score a reserved seat by buying an Eat to the Beat dining package! In 2024, Disney offered the Eat to the Beat dining package at restaurants like Akershus Royal Banquet, Biergarten Restaurant, Garden Grill, and Regal Eagle Smokehouse. 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. In the meantime, we’re always on the lookout for the latest Disney news, so stay tuned for more. Everything We Know About the 2025 EPCOT Food & Wine Festival in Disney World 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! Which artist are you looking forward to seeing in EPCOT? Let us know in the comments! The post FULL LINEUP Announced for the 2025 EPCOT Food and Wine Festival Eat to the Beat Concert Series first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Welcome back to the EPCOT Eat to the Beat Concert Series presented by Florida Blue, returning in 2025. One of the headlining events of the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, the Eat to the Beat Concert Series is returning with help from the team at Disney Live Entertainment, who have cooked up a lineup full of flavor and fun for young kids, Gen Z and music lovers of all ages. Get ready to sip, snack and sing along—because we are bringing the beat back this fall. Who is Performing at Eat to the Beat This Year? We all know you’re looking for the brand-new headliners for this year’s event, and we’ve got some of them right here. Drum roll, please…. for the first time, KT Tunstall, Bowling for Soup and Jordin Sparks will be performing at the Eat to the Beat Concert Series! In addition, some of your favorite musical groups from prior years are returning for more sound-sational fun, including Joey Fatone & Friends, Hanson and Boyz II Men. From throwback hits to fresh new notes, this year’s lineup of genre-bending artists delivers something for every music fan — making each concert unique. With more updates still to come on TasteEPCOT.com, check out the schedule below for a breakdown of the acts for 2025 and what dates they’ll hit the stage, with the final list coming soon: 2025 EPCOT Eat to the Beat Concert Schedule Aug. 29–30 – Joey Fatone & Friends Aug. 31–Sept. 1 – MercyMe Sept. 5–6 – KT Tunstall (NEW) Sept. 7–8 – TobyMac Sept. 12–14 – STARSHIP featuring Mickey Thomas Sept. 15 – Bacilos Sept. 19–20 – Sheila E. Sept. 21–22 – Ben Rector (NEW) Sept. 26–27 – Tiffany Sept. 28–29 – Jesse & Joy Oct. 3–4 – Baha Men Oct. 5–6 – TBD Oct. 10–11 – The Wanted 2.0 (NEW) Oct. 12–13 – The Fray Oct. 17–20 – Hanson Oct. 24–25 – Hoobastank Oct. 26–27 – Smash Mouth Oct. 31–Nov. 1 – Big Bad Voo Doo Daddy Nov. 2–3 – Boyz II Men Nov. 7–8 – David Archuleta Nov. 9–10 – Jordin Sparks (NEW) Nov. 14–15 – Bowling For Soup (NEW) Nov. 16–17 – The Beach Boys (NEW) Where is the Main Stage Located? Located at the America Gardens Theatre stage in EPCOT (in between Italy and Japan), you can check out the wide range of musical acts at the stage located directly across from The American Adventure pavilion. From Smash Mouth to David Archuleta, there have been plenty of iconic groups and rockstar solo artists to perform on this hallowed stage, and we can’t wait to see this next lineup wow audiences during each performance. Is There Guaranteed Seating? Seating during each musical act is first-come, first-served, and often fills up very quickly, so make sure to plan ahead and make it a priority on your visit to the Food & Wine Festival. Beginning July 16, 2025, guests this year can again secure a spot in advance by reserving a Festival Concert Series Dining Package available Friday-Monday. Find out more by visiting TasteEPCOT.com. What Do the Dining Packages Include? When you purchase the Festival Concert Series Dining Package this year, you can enjoy the following choices: Choose from breakfast, lunch or dinner (selections will vary depending on the restaurant you choose) Entree and Dessert or buffet Non-Alcoholic Beverage or an Alcoholic Beverage (for guests ages 21 and older) After you’ve devoured your delicious meal, you’ll receive a reserved seating badge for one of the Festival Concert Series performances that same day. The reserved seating is in the second section in the middle of the America Gardens Theatre. While seating is guaranteed, it’s on a first-come, first-served basis within that section, so arriving early is still recommended for the best view. For All Future Concert-Goers: Please note that specific offerings may vary by restaurant. For example, at Spice Road Table, the meal includes two small plates, a shared dessert platter and a beverage. Prices for the dining package vary by restaurant and mealtime. Make your reservations through the My Disney Experience app or the official Walt Disney World website. Are Eat to the Beat Shows Free? Yes! Whether or not your favorite genre is rock, pop or alternative, admission is complimentary to see your favorite act and is included with EPCOT park entry. Simply select your seat and get ready to have a great night full of music. How Long Will the Concerts Be Performing at EPCOT? The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival runs from August 28 to November 22, 2025, and the Eat to the Beat Concert Series will take place nightly. What Type of Food Can I Get Near the Theatre? Over 30 Global Marketplaces will be located all over the park during the Food & Wine Festival, featuring plenty of kid-friendly and plant-based options for all types of appetites. For more delicious details and a full list of all the menus coming to the festival, stay tuned for the upcoming EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival Foodie Guide. What Else Can I Do Right Now at Walt Disney World? EPCOT has endless opportunities to enjoy eats, entertainment and character experiences throughout the park. Whether you’re exploring the diverse array of offerings in World Showcase, taking off on an intergalactic chase with Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind or ending the evening with the sparkling spectacle “Luminous The Symphony of Us,” there is always something to see. And the beat keeps rolling throughout the resort. Walt Disney World is rocking all year long, with the debut of the “Disney Starlight” nighttime parade in Magic Kingdom, the new GEO-82 lounge in EPCOT, the return of Test Track presented by General Motors and special offers throughout the resort. Don’t miss out on the current Cool Kid Summer offerings for guests of all ages, and keep an eye out on the Disney Parks Blog as we continue to announce more details about Halloween and the holiday season. Disney World Announces New Family Deals for Summer 2025 READ MORE 2025 EPCOT Food and Wine Festival Dates and Appe-teasers READ MORE Dance, Play and Chill with Cool Kid Summer at Disney World READ MORE The post Eat to the Beat 2025 Lineup: Get the Full Concert Schedule appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

There are a lot of exciting projects in the works at Disney World right now. From Pueblo Esperanza, the Tropical Americas land coming to Animal Kingdom, a whole new villains land going beyond Big Thunder Mountain in Magic Kingdom, and even smaller projects like a fully updated Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin. Construction Walls featuring Artwork for Tropical Americas We keep track of all the new projects and search for as many details as we can so you can learn more about your favorite Disney Park. Disney has just dropped two new permits, which are giving us clues as to what’s to come for two new projects. First we’re heading to Hollywood Studios to see what’s happening behind the walls of the previous Muppet Courtyard. The Muppets are moving out to welcome Mike and Sulley from Monsters, Inc. as the area transforms to Monstropolis. ©Disney The new permit indicates that Disney is starting “general construction” on the MuppetVision building. While we haven’t received official confirmation, based on the concept art, it appears that MuppetVision is being transformed into a different show, featuring a marquee sign that reads “The Glob.” ©Disney According to the concept art, the new building appears identical to MuppetVision. Are they starting to change exterior elements? Working on the inside? We don’t know, but they are already beginning to work on the changes. MuppetVision 3D Spaceship Earth is temporarily closing for refurbishment, starting on August 25th, with a promise of reopening sometime later this year. The Disney World website referred to it as a “routine refurbishment,” so the updates may not be as noticeable to us, but they keep the ride running smoothly. Spaceship Earth The permit also states “general construction,” so it appears Disney will be ready to start as soon as the closure begins. Inside Spaceship Earth With so many projects underway right now, we’re not sure which one we’re most excited about, but we’re thrilled about the great, big, beautiful tomorrow that’s coming to Disney. We’ll continue to track all current projects for more updates, so be sure to follow Disney Food Blog for the latest information. 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 new project are you most excited about coming to Disney World? Tell us your thoughts in the comments. The post Disney Files NEW Permits for Monsters, Inc. Land and Spaceship Earth Refurbishment first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Tips Every Parent Needs to Know About Disney's Animal KingdomView the full article

“It all started with a monkey in 1923.” That’s the sentence that begins the first chapter of the Central Florida Zoo’s more than 100-year history in Sanford. As the story goes, a rhesus monkey — the same variety found at Silver Springs — was gifted to the Elks Club in Sanford by a traveling circus. The monkey soon moved to the Sanford Firehouse, where it was joined by more animals before turning into a makeshift weekend attraction. Before there ever was a Central Florida Zoo, the Sanford Fire Department cared for monkeys and several other animals beginning in the 1920s. (Central Florida Zoo/Courtesy of Wellons Communications)By the early 1940s, the animals relocated to a zoo that comprised several acres where Sanford City Hall stands today. In the 1960s, when the city decided to stop funding the zoo, a group of concerned citizens banded together to form and fundraise for the Central Florida Zoological Society. On July 4, 1975, the Central Florida Zoological Park, sitting on 106 acres of land leased from Seminole County, first opened its doors to a crowd of 10,000 people. Though some of the original attractions and animals are no longer at the zoo, the footprint remains largely the same. The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is celebrating its 50th anniversary July 4-6 with discounted tickets — $19.75 for adults and seniors and $16.75 for children. A displayed historical photo shows part of the 50-year history of the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens in Sanford. (Patrick Connolly/Orlando Sentinel)“There are families that have been coming here for two, three or four generations,” said Richard Glover, the zoo’s CEO. “This has been part of their life for so long that it’s really neat to hear what the zoo means to them.” Visitors interested in learning more about the zoo’s history can see an exhibition inside the Wayne M. Densch Discovery Center that features historical photos and newspaper clippings. In addition, a screen shows submitted photos and stories from the organization’s 50-year history, which are continuously collected online. Glover said he’s heard some whacky tales from decades past. “Apparently at one point we had a monkey who was addicted to Pepsi and cigarettes. We had a parrot who cussed at people,” he said. “We’ve heard some crazy stories about the old days.” A displayed historical photo shows the original Sanford Zoo in a display commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens in Sanford. (Patrick Connolly/Orlando Sentinel)Jack Hanna, the zookeeper who later became known for his TV appearances, served as the zoo’s first director before moving on to a new role at the Columbus Zoo in 1978. As a modern-day zoological institution, the nonprofit now cares for 350 animals representing more than 100 species of amphibians, birds, invertebrates, mammals and reptiles. Guests can experience up-close encounters with PJ the rhino, feed giraffes, meet petting zoo animals or ride a miniature train. This past holiday season, the zoo also welcomed 120,000 after-hours guests for the Asian Lantern Festival. Photos from a 1980 annual report show the early years of the Central Florida Zoo. (Central Florida Zoo/Courtesy of Wellons Communications)The zoo’s outreach expands beyond its Sanford borders through its work with the Orianne Center for Indigo Conservation in Eustis. The program is operated by the zoo and helps breed Eastern indigo snakes to restore their wild population. While thinking about the zoo’s current reach and future plans, Glover considers the humble beginnings and the grassroots effort that started it all. “This zoo wouldn’t exist if the community didn’t band together and say, ‘We want this to exist,'” he said. “We had over 18,000 volunteer hours last year. We couldn’t do what we do without that.” Find me @PConnPie on Instagram or send me an email: pconnolly@orlandosentinel.com. Stay up to date with our latest travel, arts and events coverage by subscribing to our newsletters at orlandosentinel.com/newsletters. If you go The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens celebrates its 50th anniversary July 4-6, open daily from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at 3755 W. Seminole Blvd. in Sanford. Discounted tickets are available throughout the weekend. Visitors can submit their historical photos and memories by visiting centralfloridazoo.org/share. View the full article

Animal Kingdom is going through some big changes! Animal Kingdom DinoLand U.S.A. is transforming into Pueblo Esperanza, and Judy Hopps is in the process of moving into the park! While we wait for the big changes to take shape, we noticed a small but still important switch to one of our favorite snacks. Are they still good? We’re finding out here! While DinoLand might be on the brink of extinction, it isn’t gone just yet! Still open in the land is the Dinosaur attraction, some snack stands, and Restaurantosaurus! Restaurantosaurus Restaurantosaurus is a quick-service restaurant in the area where you can find burgers, chicken tenders, and more traditional theme park options. One of our favorite snacks is the Chili Cheese Fries for $6.99, but they’ve recently changed! The old cheese fries with chili Previously, they had the amazing plastic cheese drenched across the top for a heavy, savory snack. Now the fries have changed to be crispy fries topped with chili and shredded cheddar cheese. Now the cheese might now seem like a big deal to you, but it is in this Food Blog household. The new fries! If we’re being honest, these didn’t change too much in flavor. The chili still tasted like chili, and there was still cheese. The chili was similar to Walt’s Chili in Magic Kingdom and Casey’s Corner Chili. If we’re being real, we didn’t mind the change too much! A closer look! It makes the fries a bit less messy, which we can really appreciate. We will say, we do miss the satisfaction of putting our fork into the hot, melty cheese, so if you’re looking for a ton of cheese flavor, you will also miss that. Have a bite! The cheese did melt onto the hot chili, but it just wasn’t the same. We’re really, really hoping that these will be the only cheese fries change because our hearts couldn’t take it if they switched up the Pulled Pork Fries from Flame Tree Barbecue. Pulled Pork Fries These fries are still tasty and come with familiar flavors, but nothing will beat our favorite Pulled Pork Fries. If you’re looking for less of a mess, these can serve a purpose, but we will always recommend Flame Tree first! Luckily for us, there have been no changes there just yet. Flame Tree Barbecue Restaurantosaurs will be closing along with DinoLand sometime in 2026, and it will be replaced with one of the largest quick-service restaurants in Disney World! As always, be sure to keep following DFB for more Disney food and snack reviews. Best Snacks in Animal Kingdom for 2025 Need Disney Restaurant Advice? We’ve Got EVERYTHING You Need to Know The ONLY Disney Dining Planning Tool You’ll Need Is Here – Get the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining! See Our Complete Disney World Restaurants Guide The Best Magic Kingdom Restaurants The Best EPCOT Restaurant Restaurants The Best Hollywood Studios Restaurants The Best Animal Kingdom Restaurants The Best Disney Springs Restaurants Check Out Dozens of Disney Dining Tips and Tools Learn All About Tipping at Disney Restaurants How to Use Mobile Order in Disney World Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the latest Disney food news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Would you try these fries? Tell us in the comments! The post Upsetting Plastic Cheese News! A Disney World Snack Has CHANGED first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Let’s talk about Hong Kong Disneyland! Castle of Magical Dreams at Hong Kong Disneyland We recently got to spend some time in the international Disney park to celebrate its 20th Anniversary! During our time here, we’ve enjoyed the special entertainment, merchandise, and more. Now we’re diving into 2 of the most insane Disney snacks we’ve ever seen, and we’re bringing you along with us. In Hong Kong Disneyland, we have had too much fun diving into all of the special and rare treats they have for the 20th Anniversary Celebration! While we’ve tried tons of foods and desserts, these two treats we’re about to tell you about literally left us speechless. Welcome to Hong Kong Disneyland! First, we started with the simpler of the two, the Celebration Cotton Candy from a cart in Fantasyland! This is really just colorful cotton candy, so why were we so blown away? Well, it was made by a robot! The Cotton Candy! Yes, you read that right! This cotton candy was spun by a robot, which you can see below. The robot! Overall, the Cotton Candy was a bit more dense than we’re used to. Rather than pulling apart in little wisps, it pulled apart more in chunks. Like all cotton candy, it was also incredibly sticky and messy. The cart! While it did have a bit of flavor, the only real taste we got was sugar (which is to be expected). It was so pretty and super cool to see it made, but taste-wise, it was just normal. How pretty! For our second treat, we were shocked by the size of it! We grabbed the Mickey and Friends Giant Sundae Party at the Main Street Corner Cafe for $688 Hong Kong Dollars (roughly $88 U.S. dollars). Yes… 88 real dollars. The Giant Sundae place card! This came with chocolate, marshmallows, jelly, sponge cake, panna cotta, mixed berries, and whipped cream, all on top of tons of ice cream. It was so big, we literally had to hold it with two hands! This thing was INSANE! THIS IS HUGE! This is another special dessert for the anniversary, and it is supposed to serve 4-6 people. We honestly think it could serve 6-8 easily! There is a lot of panna cotta at the base, making it super rich. It was almost hard to eat because it was under so many toppings. A close look at the toppings! The entire thing was so visually striking and offered a really interesting mix of toppings. There were crunchy and crispy elements that paired well with the variety of ice cream flavors. That’s the sponge cake! The jellies did become a bit heartier, almost more like jello cubes. The best part of this was the sponge cake because it was moist, sweet, and held its structure in the sundae. A look at the Mickey and Minnie toppers! This was one of the better specialty desserts we’ve ever had, but the size was still so shocking to us! Both of these desserts were so wild and blew our minds in the way they were so visually stunning. As always, be sure to keep following DFB for more Disney snack reviews! These Are Literally the Most EPIC (and Unhinged) Disney Snacks You’ve EVER Seen 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 these snacks? Tell us in the comments! The post We Spent on This Disney Dessert and We Have THOUGHTS first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We’re big fans of saving money where we can, and sometimes that means not buying things that are unnecessary. Magic Kingdom However, it also means sometimes you need to buy things before you arrive at the park to save money while you’re there! We’re in the parks nearly every day, so we know what’s definitely needed for your trip, and what you may want to take out of your Amazon cart. These items are 100% the essentials we think are needed for your next vacation! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Keep Yourself Dry! FROGG TOGG Poncho Disney World is rainy, especially in summertime, and instead of buying a cheap poncho inside the Disney World park which will tear after your first time using it. Instead, we recommend grabbing the FROGG TOGGS Poncho online, which will last you time and time again! It even comes with its own pouch that you can put it back into, so it doesn’t get anything else wet in your bag. Grab it here! Never Lose Anything in Your Bag Again Bag Organizer There’s nothing worse than KNOWING you put something in your bag, but being unable to find it because your bag is too cluttered. That’s where the HOYOFO Mini Backpack Organizer comes in. It has tons of pockets to help you organize your items so they’re all easy to find. It also helps you decide how much you can realistically pack so you’re not overwhelmed in the park. Grab it here! Get A Replaceable Portable Charger FuelRods Having a portable charger in Disney World is of utmost importance, but it’s a terrible day when your portable charger runs out of juice. By using a FuelRod Portable Charger Kit, you can purchase two FuelRods online, then replace them in the park whenever you need a recharge. Then, you can continue to use your FuelRods at home and charge them normally! Grab it here! Keep Yourself Cool! JISULIFE Handheld Mini Fan Summer is also HOT in Disney World, so keeping yourself cool is super important. We love the JISULIFE Handheld Mini Fan for how small it is, and it’s easily rechargeable. Again, it’s something you can use back at home too, so it’ll certainly get plenty of use during those hot days. Grab it here! Charge Everything at The SAME Time MultiCharger for MagicBand+ When you’re on vacation, especially if you’re staying in a Disney World hotel room, you may find that you don’t have as many outlets as you’d like to charge what you need. As you likely know, it’s very important to have everything charged for each day of your trip, so you don’t want to pick and choose what you charge, which is where the MultiCharger comes in! This way, you can make sure all your devices are ready to go without taking up multiple outlets. Grab it here! Keep The Sun TOTALLY Off Of You UV Umbrella If you want to avoid sunburn and help keep yourself out of the sun no matter where you are, you’ll want to grab the BAODINI Travel Mini Umbrella. Even if you use sunscreen, sometimes you still can get sunburn, or even worse, sun poisoning, and nothing can ruin your trip faster. We find that by using one of these, it lowers the temperature underneath by 5-10 degrees easily. Grab it here! Be sure to stay tuned to DFB for all the latest Disney recommendations and news to make sure your vacation is the most successful! The post These 6 Cheap Products Will Significantly Improve Your Disney World Trip first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Something fun is happening at Animal Kingdom! Tree of Life It’s time for Cool Kid Summer in Disney World, and we are loving all of the little plus-ups around the parks! Over in Animal Kingdom, one of our favorite friends is hosting her very own party that we think you need to check out. Animal Kingdom is getting in on all of the Cool Kid Summer fun in DinoLand, U.S.A.! While this area of the park is slowly changing into Pubelo Esperanza, it doesn’t mean that they still can’t have some fun while it’s open. Dinoland At Restaurantosaurus, you can find Daisy’s Dig! This is a fun character meet and greet experience with extra activities and live entertainment. Here you can meet Daisy Duck herself and a Dino Institute intern inside the restaurant. Daisy’s Dig! You can find a sing-along here, arts and crafts, and lots of dancing! This offering will be available most days until about 5:30. How cute is Daisy? The Dino Institute Intern comes in periodically throughout the day, but Daisy is there pretty much the entire time! It’s a super cute way to spend some time with such a popular character inside, with AC and other activities. Daisy previously met in this DinoLand-inspired look by the entrance to Dinosaur, but that meet and greet recently closed. Look what we colored! This is just another one of the Cool Kid Summer offerings that are running until September 1st, 2025. Each park has its own set of activities for this fun, limited-time event! Let’s have some fun! In EPCOT, Goofy has taken over Communicore Hall for a full-time GoofyCore bash! In Hollywood Studios, you can find character dance parties. Magic Kingdom has special character fun zones and more. Cool Kid Summer These events have really made the parks feel even more alive with tons of exciting and free experiences. We have loved getting in on all the dancing, singing, and more. As always, be sure to keep following DFB for more Disney news and updates! These 10 NEW Disney World Additions Will Make Your Trip 10X BETTER Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What do you think about this new addition? Tell us in the comments! The post This NEW Animal Kingdom Change Made Our Day 10X Better first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Summer is here, and that means summer dishes are starting to pop up around Disney World. Disney’s Hollywood Studios We headed to Hollywood Studios to try a brand new menu item, and let’s just say, we think you’re going to love this lighter option! Over at Rosie’s All-American Cafe on Sunset Boulevard, we tried the Hot Honey Buffalo Chicken Chef Salad for $12.99. Hot Honey Buffalo Chicken Chef Salad This salad is packed with hot honey buffalo chicken, romaine lettuce, carrots, red cabbage, celery, cucumber, avocado, peppadew peppers, and green onions with siracha ranch dressing. Right off the bat, we loved how big this portion was! This isn’t a side salad but the main star. There were tons of toppings on top and plenty to go with all the lettuce underneath. Look how big it is! We fell in love with the chicken, which had quite a kick to it. The buffalo sauce definitely has spice, but depending on your bite, you get a hint of sweetness that helps cool down the heat. The chicken on top is served cold, so you don’t have to worry about the lettuce wilting underneath. Chicken The dressing wasn’t as spicy, despite being a sriracha ranch dressing, but it mainly tasted like ranch. We mixed up all the toppings together, and it was like confetti! There were a variety of textures, ranging from the softness of avocado to the crunch of cucumbers and celery, with a slight bite from the carrots and peppers. So filling! While we love a variety of different types of theme park food, we adore finding a lighter option to counterbalance all our favorite fried foods and ice creams. Despite being a lighter dish, there were plenty of toppings that made it a filling dish, especially with the chicken. The chicken is still fried, which still makes a theme park dish feel special. Summer is just starting, and we have a lot of food to try. Make sure you keep following Disney Food Blog for the best tips and tricks you need for your vacation. WE’VE EATEN AT EVERY RESTAURANT IN DISNEY’S HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS. THESE ARE THE BEST. 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! What’s your favorite lighter option in the parks? Tell us in the comments! The post REVIEW: Move Over Brown Derby, This Might Be Our New Favorite Salad at Hollywood Studios first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Heading on a vacation this summer? If you’re flying through the Orlando International Airport, things might be WILD. Orlando International Airport Summer travel season is really ramping up, and it’s projected to be crowded this year, on both the roads and in airports across the country. So, how can you prepare? Well, we’re breaking it down with some important rules. ABC News reports that summer 2025 is going to be 4% busier than last summer’s travel season. The Federal Aviation Administration said it predicts over 50,000 flights per day throughout the summer. In line with this, United Airlines is predicting a record-breaking summer, and American Airlines expects to operate 5% more flights as compared to last year. Welcome to the Orlando International Airport So what’s important to know if you’re heading to the Orlando International Airport this summer? We’re sharing some must-know rules for MCO. Rule #1: Be Mindful of the Busiest Days Some of the busiest travel days are expected to be Tuesday, August 5th, and Tuesday, August 26th. In general, the airport will be busier on the weekends, as well as Mondays and Fridays. TSA lines at MCO If you’re trying to travel during a less crowded time, you’re advised to book flights for midweek days. Flying on a Tuesday or Wednesday could save you up to 20% off your fare, according to Hopper. Expedia notes that the cheapest days to fly domestically this summer will be Tuesday, August 19th, and Monday, August 25th. Rule #2: Consider Your Point of Origin You might be committed to flying into Orlando if you’re heading here for vacation or business, but if your point of origin is flexible, you could solve some serious crowd problems. ABC News shared that some of the most popular domestic travel spots this year are Las Vegas, New York City, Miami, Chicago, San Juan, Honolulu, Seattle, Los Angeles, and Myrtle Beach. MCO Luggage Drop-Off If you’re heading to Orlando, you may need to fly into MCO for convenience or based on your airline of choice, but if you can change your point of origin, you may save yourself some time. Avoiding the major travel destination cities as your departure airport or during a layover could be crucial in having a sucessful trip. Rule #3: Consider Paying for Convenience This busy travel time of year is a great time to consider purchasing something like TSA Pre-Check. Long lines at security are one of the biggest time sucks during your airport experience, and if you’ve got plans to travel frequently, purchasing Pre-Check could pay for itself through time saved. Security at MCO And when you head home from Orlando? Look into using MCO Reserve! It’s a free service where you can schedule a time to go through security before your flight. You’ll need to register in advance and arrive on time, but you can avoid the typically long lines this way as well. Rule #4: Pack Smart if Possible When the airport is this busy, one of the best ways to get in and out quickly is by ONLY traveling with carry-on bags. For those looking to save time at baggage claim and checking in, it may be a good idea to fly with an airline that allows you both a personal item and a carry-on bag. Baggage claim! And if you’re staying at select Disney World hotels, you may want to check out the luggage transfer option that’s available on a trial basis. Those flying out of MCO on Southwest Airlines can check their bags at their hotels, and they’ll be delivered to the airport, loaded on the plane, and you can pick them up at your final destination. This could be very helpful if you’re in a rush when leaving! Check to make sure that your resort is participating in this offering before your trip. Luggage transfer in Disney World! For those attempting to pack light for their trip, we recommend compression packing cubes, planning your outfits ahead of time, and double-checking your airline’s onboard luggage sizing limitations so that you can maximize space. Frontier Plane at the Orlando Airport We’ll make sure to keep you in the loop with any other important travel news this summer. If you’re heading too Disney World, check out the video below! Stay tuned to DFB for more travel news and tips. 7 Things the Orlando Airport Wishes You Knew 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 travel plan for this summer? Tell us in the comments! The post NEW RULES For Flying to Orlando Airport This Summer first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Calling all Disney goers who love MagicBands! MagicBands! You can literally wear your park ticket, room key, credit card, and more on your wrist! We’re always keeping an eye out for new MagicBand+ designs — and two just released online! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Get this Stitch MagicBand+ ©Disney Store In honor of 626 Day, Disney released this Stitch 626 Day MagicBand+! This limited release design features Stitch as his chaotic self — scratching the band, liking the band, and crawling all over it. The strap also has the ”626 Day” logo printed on it. Any Stitch fan will want to be rocking this band! View online We also spotted (HA) this MagicBand+ ©Disney Store This Leopard Print MagicBand+ is perfect for a day at Disney’s Animal Kingdom! The design is a sleek all-over leopard print, including the middle tappable icon with its Mickey icon. If you look closely, it looks like you can see a hidden Mickey on the strap within the leopard print! 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 2 New Disney MagicBands Just Released Online first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We’ve just received the greatest news that only true Disney adults will understand. Oswald at Disneyland Casting for an Oswald Disney+ series has been announced, and we’re obsessed. According to Deadline, Oswald the Lucky Rabbit will be produced by Jon Favreau, known for his work on The Mandalorian, Star Wars, and Iron Man, and has announced the three leads for the show. Ravi Cabot-Conyers will be playing Jake, “a hardworking middle school student with a big heart.” He’s known for his roles in Skeleton Crew and Encanto, where he voiced Antonio. ©IMDB Mykal-Michelle Harris, known for Raven’s Home and Mixed-ish, will play Jen, “an artistic middle schooler who is always ahead of the game.” Harris has also worked on HBO’s Big Little Lies. ©IMDB Ryder Allen will take on the role of Taylor, “a middle school student who is cautious but avoids turning down his friends.” Allen has been in The Penguin and Palmer. ©IMDB Oswald the Lucky Rabbit has always been a big part of the Walt Disney Company. He was one of Walt Disney’s original characters and appeared in animated shorts before Universal acquired Oswald. This later caused Disney to create Mickey Mouse. Oswald the Lucky Rabbit ©Disney Disney acquired Oswald in 2006 by trading Al Michaels, the NBC Sunday Night Football announcer, for the Oswald trademark. The new TV series coming to Disney+ will feature Oswald “in a blend of animation and live action, bringing his mischievous attitude and self-absorbed antics to modern audiences.” ©Disney This new series sounds like a blast, and we’re excited to watch it. Make sure you keep following Disney Food Blog for more! EVERYTHING COMING TO DISNEY+ IN JULY 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 this casting? Tell us your thoughts in the comments. The post NEWS: Casting for ‘Oswald the Lucky Rabbit’ TV Show Announced first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article