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Sure, Disney World has rides and entertainment, as well as a million things to do. A flamboyance But Disney World also has ANIMALS, especially in Disney’s Animal Kingdom and at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge (although you can see some sea creatures in EPCOT, too). Well, if you’ve ever been on the Kilimanjaro Safaris ride, you may have learned a little something about flamingos…that they get their color from their diet and that a group are called a flamboyance. Well, let’s just say that Disney World’s flamboyance just got a little bigger because some new flamingos have been born. BABY BIRDS, y’all! Some new chicks (aka baby flamingos) have been born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, adding to the flamboyance that’s already living there. In fact, you can even see them if you visit the hotel at Jambo House. They’re cute and tiny…but don’t expect them to be pink. Like we’ve learned from Kilimanjaro Safaris, they aren’t born pink…they turn pink as they get older due to their diet of algae and brine ship, which are rich in carotenoids, which gives certain foods a bright pink color. ©Disney Believe it or not, there are actually six species of flamingos. Those in Disney World are greater flamingos, which are the most widespread kind of flamingo. These flamingos are also the largest species of flamingo and can grow to about 43-59 inches tall. Flamingo in Animal Kingdom If you love flamingos, be sure to stop by Jambo House to say hi to this little guy. While you’re there, be sure to check out all the other animals you can see on the savannah and be sure to grab some zebra domes before you leave. Even better? Snag a Boma or Sanaa reservation and have a nice meal, too. ©Disney Stay tuned to DFB for more.  Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What’s your favorite animal to see in Disney World? Let us know in the comments! The post Excuse Us While We Get Emotional Over This Disney World News first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Get ready to travel in style! ©Amazon When you’re putting together a packing list before visiting the Disney Parks, you’d be foolish to leave off luggage! How else are you going to fit all those ponchos, running shoes, and Disney souvenirs? Fortunately, a trusted luggage brand just released a new collection online on Amazon, and we’re telling you all about it! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. American luggage and travel accessory company Away just released some new items on Amazon, and we definitely recommend checking them out! This Durable Luggage Will Keep Your Essentials Safe ©Amazon This Away Medium Checked Hard Shell Suitcase is available in several different colors on Amazon and is designed to last. This piece of luggage is lightweight, has spinner wheels, features a TSA lock, and is listed at 26 inches. Buy on Amazon This Duffle Bag Can Do It All ©Amazon If you’re looking for something smaller, check out the Away Everywhere Duffle Bag! This bag is available in one of four different colors on Amazon and is water repellent. The bag also has a removable shoulder strap, a water bottle pouch, and a padded laptop sleeve. Buy on Amazon This Sizeable Suitcase Surely Gets The Job Done ©Amazon If you’re planning a long Disney vacation, the Away Large Trunk Luggage could be PERFECT for you! This 31 31-inch hardside suitcase comes with spinner wheels, a TSA lock, several spacious interior compartments, and is noted for being lightweight and durable. The suitcase is currently available on Amazon with several different color options. Buy on Amazon And there you have it! Do you plan on picking up one or more of these luggage items? Let us know and continue to follow us here at DFB for more travel tips and updates! Find more Disney trip essentials on our Amazon storefront!The post Why Every Disney Adult Is Buying Away Luggage From Amazon Today first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Picture this: You’re having the best vacation ever, but it’s now check-out day from your Disney World Resort, and saying you’re feeling sad is an understatement. You can’t help but think about all the attractions you didn’t get to or that resort you visited for dinner that you’re now craving to stay in. Instead of feeling bummed, what if we told you planning your next trip now could save you money for the next? Animal Kingdom Lodge Disney World has extended an offer for guests who have recently checked out of a Disney Resort, so you can keep the magic going. Now you can book your next Disney World vacation within seven days of your current check-out date to get major savings. New 2026 dates have been added so we can book even more vacations. Contemporary Resort You can book your next trip most nights between: May 26th to July 2nd, 2025 July 7th to August 28th, 2025 September 1st to 30th, 2025 October 26th to November 26th, 2025 Novemember 30th to December 24th, 2025 January 12th to 15th, 2026 January 19th to 23rd, 2026 Feburary 8th to 12th, 2026 Feburary 15th to 19th, 2026 February 22nd to 25th, 2026 March 3rd to May 21st, 2026 May 25th to July 1st, 2026 July 6th to September 2nd, 2026 September 7th to 29th, 2026 October 26th to 31st, 2026 That’s a lot of date options all the way through 2026! Trust us, once you get a taste of Disney World, you’re going to want to book the next trip immediately. Disney’s Pop Century Resort What resorts can you stay in? Well, most of them! You can save up to 35% on these Deluxe Resorts and Villas: Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort – A Disney Vacation Club Resort (for 2026 arrivals only) Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village Disney’s Beach Club Resort Disney’s Beach Club Villas Disney’s BoardWalk Inn Disney’s BoardWalk Villas Disney’s Contemporary Resort Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Disney’s Old Key West Resort Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows Disney’s Riviera Resort Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Disney’s Yacht Club Resort The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Disney’s BoardWalk Inn Save up to 30% on the following Moderate Resort hotels: Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside Coronado Springs Resort Room You can even save up to 25% at the Value Resorts: Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort Disney’s All-Star Music Resort Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort Disney’s Art of Animation Resort Disney’s Pop Century Resort All Star Sports We know that’s a lot of information, but here are the highlights of what you need to know to take advantage of this deal. You need to book within seven days of your check-out date at a Disney World Resort. There are select dates you can book your future trip in, and specific resorts that are available. There is also a limited number of rooms allocated for this promotion, and the length of stay requirements might apply. Port Orleans French Quarter Another deal we’ve been obsessing over is the free dining plan offer. All of 2026, kids can eat for free! When you stay at a Disney World Resort and add on the Disney dining package for the family, kids ages 3 to 9 get their package for free. You need to add the dining plan for the whole party staying in the room, but this is a great way to save extra money on your trip. Let’s eat! Don’t want to worry about the details? That’s why we use Small World Vacations! They’re experts at all the details and will book your whole trip for you using the best promotions and deals. We’re going to start planning our next trip, but in the meantime, make sure you’re following Disney Food Blog for more Disney details. WHICH DISNEY WORLD RESORT HOTEL IS BEST FOR YOU? 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 Do you currently have a Disney World trip planned? Let us know in the comments! The post CONFIRMED: Disney World Hotel Discount EXTENDED for 2026 first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Universal’s Epic Universe has several revolutionary theme park elements, including its attractions, theme portals, and… food ordering? Epic Universe That’s right, many of the restaurants at Universal’s new park utilize a new mobile-based ordering system that we’ve previously seen at other restaurants at the resort. One that even Disney fans are looking at longingly. ​ At many of Epic Universe’s restaurants, including the thematically phenomenal Das Stakehaus in Dark Universe, each table features a QR code and a specific number. Notice the table-specific QR code? Guests enter the restaurant, sit at an available table, and scan the QR code to order and pay for their food using their mobile device. Their meal is then brought to their table, corresponding with the number, when ready. Carved Stake Steak This system features the ease of mobile ordering, without needing to pick up the food and — sometimes fruitlessly — juggle said food while looking for a table. Darkmoor Black Wings Suffice it to say, we wouldn’t mind Disney integrating something similar into their own mobile ordering system, at least in certain locations. Red Velvet Death Universal’s QR code/table number mobile order system is on full display at some of Epic Universe’s restaurants, and we welcome it. Stay tuned to DFB for more on Epic Universe! REVIEW: BEWARE! Prime Epic Universe Restaurant Views Come at a Price (but Honestly? Worth 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 Have you eaten at Epic Universe yet? Let us know in the comments below. The post "No Stink Eye Necessary." Why Disney Adults Love This Epic Universe Restaurant Trend first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

There are plenty of fires to put out – and lessons to learn – with “DC Super Heroes: Discover Your Superpowers,” a recently installed interactive exhibit at Orlando Science Center. Holy skill sets, Batman! The hands-on displays are designed to educate about teamwork, deduction, health care, coordination, agility and cognitive thinking, among others. The exhibit starts with the news that the Bat-Signal has been stolen, and there are clues to its whereabouts – and associated villainous activities – across Gotham City businesses and institutions. As the saying goes, not all heroes wear capes. But loaner capes are provided at the exhibit. Here are five takeaways from the “Superpowers” exhibits: Roping mechanism They had me at virtual golden lasso. One of the first activities seen in the exhibit has participants doing their best Wonder Woman recovering stolen museum items (on-screen) by using some body moments, including an overhead double loop that ropes in artifacts. In that same area, folks can maneuver through simulated laser beams in the museum in pursuit of Cheetah. Match game Break out your superpowers of observation. The exhibit include stations that encourage use of deduction. At the Hall of Justice Control Center, visitors match up hazardous scenarios across the U.S. with the most appropriately empowered hero. There’s also a scene where two people must open a bank vault and rescue employees trapped in there by the Riddler. There are clues as to which keys to use simultaneously. (Our clue: Look beyond the spaces immediately surrounding the keys.) Two heads Teamwork is essential to the bank challenge, and it pops up in multiple displays. In a jewelry store, one person must complete the assembly of a necklace without looking and by going only by the description of a partner. On the run The exhibit looks to encourage the exercising of body and mind. At Star Labs, folks can race in place and get congratulations from a digital version of upbeat Flash. (There’s a hand version as well, but note that it requires a full palm, not a fastest finger strategy.) A Green Lantern-themed area uses light sequences to sharpen wits, and in the end, an exhibit-wide scavenger hunt of sorts leads to a word jumble activity that, if successful, saves the Bat-Signal. Be a hero Lastly, the exhibit preaches that you need not possess actual superpowers to be a hero. (We’re looking at you, Grayson.) Suggestions such as “become a volunteer” and “be a friend” appear on signs. Or maybe a super friend. “DC Super Heroes: Discover Your Superpowers,” produced by the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, remains at Orlando Science Center through Sept. 7. The exhibit also is featured within Saturday’s adults-only Science Night Live event. The after-hours session includes a presentation by environmental scientist and film producer Amy Giannotti as well as a “Sci-Fi Science” talk by Derek Demeter, planetarium director at Seminole State College. Cosplay is encouraged. For tickets or more information, go to OSC.org. 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

Summer is almost here, and that means new food and snacks to try at Disney World! Florida Citrus mural in Disney Springs This fan-favorite celebration is coming back to Disney Springs, and we’re ready to grab our forks and dive right in. Disney Springs Flavors of Florida will be from June 27th to August 10th! This is the sixth year of the event, and if you haven’t gone in the past, now is the year to do it. ©Disney There will be culinary showcases on select Friday nights from restaurants at Disney Springs, hosted by Kroger Delivery. We love the culinary demonstrations and hearing from the chefs about their culinary experiences and their passion for flavors in their restaurants. If you want to come and watch, you’ll need to register, but it’s completely free to sign up. We don’t have registration details yet, but we’ll be keeping an eye on them. Culinary Series Pairing Events will be back, where “experts will host dinners featuring exquisite cocktails, wines, and beer pairings with flavors inspired by the Sunshine State.” Florida has a lot of different flavors to offer, and we’re ready to try them all. These dinners also require registration along with payment. NEW Sunshine Stroll Beer You know we’re obsessed with Disney scavenger hunts, and a new, free scavenger hunt is back. Pick up a map and explore Disney Springs, and once you complete it, you get a special prize! Flavors of Florida guide map With a celebration called Flavors of Florida, you know there’s going to be new menu items! Many restaurants across Disney Springs will offer limited-time offerings from appetizers, entrees, desserts, and drinks with a Florida twist to try. There will be some returning favorites to try again, too! ©Disney For the event, there will be more than 90 menu items from over 45 different Disney Springs restaurants to enjoy all summer long. Keep following Disney Food Blog for more details! CHECK OUT EVERYTHING WE HAD FROM FLAVORS OF FLORIDA 2024 HERE! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you excited for the Flavors of Florida to be coming back to Disney Springs? Tell us your thoughts in the comments! The post DATES ANNOUNCED: Flavors of Florida Is Coming Back to Disney Springs Next Month first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Drinking Around the World in Disney World can feel SO right, yet go SO wrong. EPCOT So here are the things we WISH we would’ve known before drinking around the world in EPCOT so that YOU know what to prioritize, as well as what to avoid. Check out our video below: What I Wish I’d Known Before Drinking Around the World in EPCOT 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: What I Wish I'd Known Before Drinking Around the World in EPCOT first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Shine and Dine at Disney Springs Disney Springs Flavors of Florida returns June 27 – Aug. 10. Delight your senses with culinary series hosted by Kroger Delivery and pairing events headlined by Disney Springs chefs. More than 90 delicious menu items inspired by Florida cuisine from 45+ locations at Disney Springs make this the biggest Flavors of Florida event so far. Get ready for another food and drink adventure inspired by the Sunshine State at Disney Springs! Flavors of Florida, the annual culinary celebration featuring menu items with ingredients grown and harvested in Florida, is back for its sixth summer starting June 27 with returning favorites and a tastebud-blasting list of new offerings at various Disney Springs locations. Keep reading for all the reasons you won’t want to miss this year’s Flavors of Florida. Learn from Disney Springs Chefs with Weekly Culinary Series On select Fridays throughout the summer, chefs from some of your favorite Disney Springs restaurants will showcase the skills and creativity used to craft this year’s menu items. During the culinary series hosted by Kroger Delivery, guests will feast their eyes on cooking demonstrations from kitchen masters sharing their unique talents. Registration is required, but it is free, so don’t forget to sign up to snag your spot. Stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog for more details! Pairing Events for the Discerning Diner Nothing elevates a dining experience like finding a perfect drink to complement your meal. And with the return of Flavors of Florida pairing events, you will learn the secrets to curating the perfect food and drink combinations. Disney Springs experts will host dinners featuring exquisite cocktail, wine and beer pairings with flavors inspired by the Sunshine State. Registration is required for the pairing events, and payment is due at the time of registration. Stay tuned for more info! Seek and Find Even More to do at Disney Springs In between trying all the amazing food, don’t forget to check out the Discover the Springs seek and find presented by The Polite Pig. With more than 1,200 acres of dining, shopping and entertainment venues to explore, there’s always something new to discover, and the seek and find is a fun way to discover some of the hidden gems at Disney Springs. You can pick up the free event guide at select locations… and when you complete the seek and find, don’t forget to turn in your completed map for a special surprise! New Menu Items to Wow Your Senses Chefs at Disney Springs spent the past year creating so many unique appetizers, entrees and desserts that you will definitely need more than one visit to enjoy them all. Keep an eye on the Disney Parks Blog for the upcoming foodie guide because I’ve had a sneak peek and I can say with the firmness of a proper meringue that your appetite will definitely be satisfied. A Second Chance to Enjoy Returning Favorites One of the tastiest surprises from last year—the St. Augustine Datil Pepper Fritas—is back for a second round at The Daily Poutine! The crispy pork dish features a datil pepper sauce and Florida hearts of palm slaw. But the beer cheese crafted from Sunshine Stroll Orange Pilsner helps make it truly special. Sunshine Stroll was introduced during Flavors of Florida last year as a Disney Springs exclusive, and our chefs immediately went to work using it in various dishes like this one. I was thrilled to find out this dish is coming back and can’t wait to see what other creations use the exclusive pilsner this year. While you’re exploring Disney Springs Flavors of Florida, don’t forget to stop by Swirls on the Water for another returning treat—the Orange Bird Cone! This sublime dessert combines DOLE Whip® Orange in an orange cone, topped with sprinkles and a chocolate piece. It’s a delightfully satisfying sweet worthy of featuring the name of one of my favorite Disney characters. If there’s a flavor that comes from Florida—peppers, citrus fruit, cheeses and more—you’ll find it at Flavors of Florida. Overall, this year’s event will have more than 90 menu items from 45+ Disney Springs restaurants! So, start planning your date nights, family outings and celebrations, and we’ll see you at Disney Springs this summer. Dance, Play and Chill with Cool Kid Summer at Disney World READ MORE Disney World Announces New Family Deals for Summer 2025  READ MORE 2025 EPCOT Food and Wine Festival Dates and Appe-teasers READ MORE The post Feast on the Dates and Details for This Year’s Disney Springs Flavors of Florida appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

Doing something so wrong has never felt so right — especially at Disney World! Busy day in Magic Kingdom We don’t usually advocate for illegal activity, but for this one, we’ll make an exception. Bear in mind, the kind of “illegal” we’re talking about isn’t quite what you’re thinking. We’re talking about illegal shoes — the kind BANNED from competition. So while these shoes are a no-go if you plan on competing in some kind of race, rest assured that these illegal shoes are totally LEGAL at Disney World! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Nearly a decade ago, a new type of shoe was introduced into the distance-running sport, and sport officials were taken aback. In a Wall Street Journal report, it was noted that folks weren’t truly prepared for “Nike shoes with chunky soles injected with a carbon-fiber plate to suddenly make runners more efficient and so much faster.” As these types of shoes became more popular among other brands, records started falling, and these shoes were quickly labeled as performance enhancers. The World Athletics — the governing body of running — eventually made it a rule that a shoe’s sole thickness (also known as “stack height”) could not exceed 40 millimeters/1.6 inches. ©Disney The reasoning behind the ban? It’s actually quite simple: the more foam under your foot, the more comfort you’ll experience and the longer you’ll be able to run. The fallout from this ruling is still being felt, as companies have not stopped making these “illegal” shoes. Of course, you still have controversies come up in elite races where participants accidentally (or intentionally) run with these shoes. 2022 Walt Disney World Marathon That’s the bad news. The good news is that visiting Disney World leisurely isn’t a regulated event by a sports commission — meaning YOU’RE MORE THAN WELCOME TO WEAR THESE ILLEGAL SHOES! Considering many folks consider these larger-sole, carbon-fiber plate-infused shoes to be extra comfy with extra lift, these shoes could be PERFECT for a Disney trip. We’ve picked out a few shoes that would be considered “illegal,” and you can legally buy them right now on Amazon! These Running Shoes Are Recommended For Long Walking Days ©Amazon The ASICS Women’s Magic Speed 4 Running Shoes come in slightly over the slack height limitations and are available in several different styles and sizes on Amazon. One recent review called these shoes “fast, comfortable, and versatile.” Shop on Amazon These Next Shoes Break The Rules By A Lot ©Amazon The Adizero Prime X 2.0 Strung Shoes by Adidas have a whopping 50 millimeter slack height and are outright banned by certain running organizations. Fortunately, Disney World doesn’t care, so feel free to wear these running shoes that are lauded for their comfort and weight reduction efforts. Shop on Amazon This Popular Brand Dabbles In Delightfully Illegal Sneakers ©Amazon Coming in with a 48 millimeter slack height, the Hoka Women’s Skyward X Sneaker provides extra elevation and cushioning compared to regular running shoes. We’re big fans of the Hoka brand, and this particular sneaker is available online on Amazon in several different sizes and styles. Shop on Amazon ASICS Makes The List Again With A Well-Regarded Entry ©Amazon We’re capping off this list with another ASICS shoe, the Superblast 2 Sneaker. This shoe has a stack height of 45 millimeters and is available on Amazon in several different men’s and women’s sizes. The sneaker has strong reviews, praising its larger size, firm midsole, comfy cushioning, durability, and style. Shop on Amazon And there you have it? What kind of style of shoe do YOU prefer to wear at Disney World? Would you give a pair of these illegal shoes a try? Let us know and continue to follow us right here at DFB for more tips on how to win Disney World! Looking for more Disney World essentials? Check out our Amazon storefront!The post ILLEGAL SHOES Are Taking Over Disney World. Here's Why. first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

It feels like Disney World is constantly changing. With new rides, lounges, and snacks, it can be hard to know what’s seasonal and changing and what’s here to stay. EPCOT Over in an EPCOT pavilion, this exhibit is extending its stay and sticking around for more visitors. When you’re walking through the World Showcase, you might be drawn into the American Adventure Pavilion when you hear the incredible Voices of Liberty singing a set filled with American classics. Look around when you’re listening because you’ll see the room is filled with hand-painted portraits. Portraits of Courage This is the Portraits of Courage: A Commander in Chief’s Tribute to America’s Warriors, all painted by former President George W. Bush. The 60 portraits of service members and veterans will be staying in the pavilion through 2026. Portraits of Courage The exhibit started in June 2024, and it’s hard not to notice the deep colors and faces of the portraits as soon as you walk into the room. Portraits of Courage A new special on Hulu, Our America: Portraits of Courage, takes viewers on a journey through the lives of four veterans, as highlighted in the portraits, along with President Bush’s commentary on the portraits and his ongoing work within the veteran community. American Adventure Pavilion After catching the Voices of Liberty and admiring the portraits, don’t forget to go upstairs to watch the attraction, The American Adventure. The show tells great stories of America and uses animatronics to share iconic moments. Voices of Liberty On your way out, you can also grab a bite from Block & Hans. We’ve been obsessed with the Pretzel Nuggets with Beer Cheese as our halfway through the World Showcase snack. You can also catch a show at the American Gardens Theater from special performers during EPCOT festivals. Pretzel Nuggets with Beer Cheese The portrait gallery will be staying through 2026, so make sure you take a peek inside during your next EPCOT visit. Keep following Disney Food Blog for more! ULTIMATE GUIDE TO THE BEST SNACKS AT 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’s your favorite hidden gem in the World Showcase? Tell us about it in the comments! The post UPDATE: This EPCOT Pavilion Change is Staying Through 2026 first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Disney’s commitment to protecting wildlife for future generations extends far beyond our theme parks. Through the Disney Conservation Fund, grants are provided to leading conservation organizations around the world to help stabilize and increase the population of at-risk animals — including gorillas in the wild. As their habitats in Africa are starting to disappear, these gentle giants continue to face threats like poaching, deforestation and infectious diseases. One of Disney’s long-standing collaborations is with the Gorilla Rehabilitation and Conservation Education (GRACE) — a conservation organization in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Founded in 2009, GRACE partners with Congolese communities to create a living landscape where gorillas and people thrive. As part of their comprehensive conservation strategy, GRACE operates as the world’s only sanctuary for critically endangered Grauer’s gorillas, also known as eastern lowland gorillas, rescued from the illegal wildlife trade, poaching and habitat loss. A Major Milestone in the Survival of Gorillas in the Wild Today, we are joining our friends at GRACE to celebrate a major milestone — the rewilding of four critically endangered female Grauer’s gorillas rescued from the illegal wildlife trade. This reintroduction to the wild is the first time gorillas who have been living at the GRACE sanctuary have been rewilded. The gorillas were released in Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, marking the largest-ever population reinforcement initiative in Africa. The rewilding of the gorillas aims to prevent the extinction of the isolated population of Grauer’s gorillas on Mt. Tshiaberimu in Virunga National Park. “Congratulations to our friends at GRACE and the many conservation organizations and local communities that came together for this momentous achievement and conservation success story in the Democratic Republic of the Congo,” said Dr. Mark Penning, Vice President of Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment. “We thank GRACE for their collaboration and commitment to saving Grauer’s gorillas, protecting habitats and inspiring communities throughout the world.” Disney’s Collaboration with GRACE Disney’s involvement with GRACE dates back more than 15 years ago when the center was founded. In addition to funding through the Disney Conservation Fund, Disney experts helped local communities design and build the sanctuary, and Disney cast members continue to support GRACE’s Congolese staff by lending their expertise to advise on the care and conservation of this iconic species, and inform GRACE’s education outreach strategy that engages over 60,000 community members per year. Disney animal care experts, scientists, veterinarians and education specialists have helped offer support and train GRACE’s community, animal care and education staff. “Being part of this journey with the GRACE staff has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my career,” said Rachel Daneault, animal care manager with Disney’s Animals, Sciences and Environment who has worked with GRACE since the very start. “We’ve shared a vision and poured our hearts into making this a reality, and their passion and commitment have inspired me every step of the way. I’m truly honored to have walked this path with them.” To learn more about how GRACE cares for rescued gorillas and works hand-in-hand with Congolese communities to protect gorillas and their habitat, visit www.gracegorillas.org. Protecting the Magic of Nature GRACE is one example of the many collaborations the Disney Conservation Fund has with global organizations – on every continent, in half the countries around the world and all five oceans. Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, the Disney Conservation Fund has directed more than $132 million to community conservation programs along with the expertise of our dedicated teams to support organizations working with communities to protect wildlife, inspire action, and promote environmental resilience. To learn more about Disney’s commitment to the environment through Disney Planet Possible, visit impact.disney.com. The post Disney’s Commitment to Conservation: Saving Gorillas appeared first on Disney Experiences. View the full article

Disney’s commitment to protecting wildlife for future generations extends far beyond our theme parks. Through the Disney Conservation Fund, grants are provided to leading conservation organizations around the world to help stabilize and increase the population of at-risk animals — including gorillas in the wild. As their habitats in Africa are starting to disappear, these gentle giants continue to face threats like poaching, deforestation and infectious diseases. One of Disney’s long-standing collaborations is with the Gorilla Rehabilitation and Conservation Education Center (GRACE) — a conservation organization in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Founded in 2009, GRACE partners with Congolese communities to create a living landscape where gorillas and people thrive. As part of their comprehensive conservation strategy, GRACE operates as the world’s only sanctuary for critically endangered Grauer’s gorillas, also known as eastern lowland gorillas, rescued from the illegal wildlife trade, poaching and habitat loss. A Major Milestone in the Survival of Gorillas in the Wild Today, we are joining our friends at GRACE to celebrate a major milestone — the rewilding of four critically endangered female Grauer’s gorillas rescued from the illegal wildlife trade. This reintroduction to the wild is the first time gorillas who have been living at the GRACE sanctuary have been rewilded. The gorillas were released in Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, marking the largest-ever population reinforcement initiative in Africa. The rewilding of the gorillas aims to prevent the extinction of the isolated population of Grauer’s gorillas on Mt. Tshiaberimu in Virunga National Park. “Congratulations to our friends at GRACE and the many conservation organizations and local communities that came together for this momentous achievement and conservation success story in the Democratic Republic of the Congo,” said Dr. Mark Penning, Vice President of Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment. “We thank GRACE for their collaboration and commitment to saving Grauer’s gorillas, protecting habitats and inspiring communities throughout the world.” Disney’s Collaboration with GRACE Disney’s involvement with GRACE dates back more than 15 years ago when the center was founded. In addition to funding through the Disney Conservation Fund, Disney experts helped local communities design and build the sanctuary, and Disney cast members continue to support GRACE’s Congolese staff by lending their expertise to advise on the care and conservation of this iconic species, and inform GRACE’s education outreach strategy that engages over 60,000 community members per year. Disney animal care experts, scientists, veterinarians and education specialists have helped offer support and train GRACE’s community, animal care and education staff. “Being part of this journey with the GRACE staff has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my career,” said Rachel Daneault, animal care manager with Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment who has worked with GRACE since the very start. “We’ve shared a vision and poured our hearts into making this a reality, and their passion and commitment have inspired me every step of the way. I’m truly honored to have walked this path with them.” To learn more about how GRACE cares for rescued gorillas and works hand-in-hand with Congolese communities to protect gorillas and their habitat, visit www.gracegorillas.org. Protecting the Magic of Nature GRACE is one example of the many collaborations the Disney Conservation Fund has with global organizations – on every continent, in half the countries around the world and all five oceans. Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, the Disney Conservation Fund has directed more than $132 million to community conservation programs along with the expertise of our dedicated teams to support organizations working with communities to protect wildlife, inspire action, and promote environmental resilience. To learn more about Disney’s commitment to the environment through Disney Planet Possible, visit impact.disney.com. The post Disney’s Commitment to Conservation: Saving Gorillas appeared first on Disney Experiences. View the full article

Another panel of the Disney Springs Art Walk mural is complete, and it’s work done by Brett Tachi, an artist born and raised in Orlando. “I wanted to showcase a bit of our family history,” Tachi said in a video released by Walt Disney World. Her artwork — titled “Memento” — features a persimmon tree growing out of rocks, which represents her family’s resilience, Tachi said. The painting is a tribute to her Japanese-American heritage and her great-grandparents, who opened a plant nursery in California after immigrating to the United States in the early 1900s. “The whole idea of this mural is to find ways to connect with your ancestors and your culture. So, I hope they think of their own ancestors and their elders and ways that they can relate back to their history no matter where they’re from,” Tachi said. The mural is one of several seen at the Disney Springs Art Walk, an outdoor set of large paintings on continuous display. The works, featuring 20 artists, are found in the Town Center neighborhood of the entertainment and retail complex, nestled between the Lime parking garage and the bus loading area. “It’s such a diverse and amazing collection they have here,” Tachi said. dbevil@orlandosentinel.com View the full article

Can military families use the Disney Dining Plan if they’re buying discounted tickets? It’s a common question, and the answer isn’t as straightforward as you’d think. The real key to unlocking the Disney Dining Plan isn’t the ticket type at all—it’s where you’re staying. If you’re staying at a Disney-owned resort, you’re in business. If […] The post Is the Disney Dining Plan Available with Military Tickets? appeared first on Military Disney Tips. View the full article

Photographed Wednesday, May 28, 2025, scenes from Muppet*Vision 3D, the longtime fan-favorite film at Disney’s Hollywood Studios that will permanently close June 7. The 3D movie with live-action 4D effects was directed by Muppets-creator Jim Henson in his last big project before his death in 1990. It will be replaced by a new “Monsters, Inc.” themed attraction based on the hit movie franchise. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel) Guests wait Wednesday, May 28, 2025, in the backstage-themed pre-show area of Muppet*Vision 3D, the longtime fan-favorite film at Disney’s Hollywood Studios that will permanently close June 7. The 3D movie with live-action 4D effects was directed by Muppets-creator Jim Henson in his last big project before his death in 1990. It will be replaced by a new “Monsters, Inc.” themed attraction based on the hit movie franchise. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)Danica Wailes and Levi Myer, 2, visiting from Branson Missouri, are entertained by Muppets superfan Zach Haumesser, from Buffalo, NY, Wednesday, May 28, 2025, outside Muppet*Vision 3D, the longtime fan-favorite film at Disney’s Hollywood Studios that will permanently close June 7. Haumesser made a special trip to Florida to see the attraction before it closes. The 3D movie with live-action 4D effects was directed by Muppets-creator Jim Henson in his last big project before his death in 1990. It will be replaced by a new “Monsters, Inc.” themed attraction based on the hit movie franchise. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)Guests hang out Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at the Miss Piggy fountain outside of Muppet*Vision 3D, the longtime fan-favorite film at Disney’s Hollywood Studios that will permanently close June 7. The 3D movie with live-action 4D effects was directed by Muppets-creator Jim Henson in his last big project before his death in 1990. It will be replaced by a new “Monsters, Inc.” themed attraction based on the hit movie franchise. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)Guests take in the bubble effects, Wednesday, May 28, 2025, during Muppet*Vision 3D, the longtime fan-favorite film at Disney’s Hollywood Studios that will permanently close June 7. The 3D movie with live-action 4D effects was directed by Muppets-creator Jim Henson in his last big project before his death in 1990. It will be replaced by a new “Monsters, Inc.” themed attraction based on the hit movie franchise. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)Guests enter the theater, Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at Muppet*Vision 3D, the longtime fan-favorite film at Disney’s Hollywood Studios that will permanently close June 7. The 3D movie with live-action 4D effects was directed by Muppets-creator Jim Henson in his last big project before his death in 1990. It will be replaced by a new “Monsters, Inc.” themed attraction based on the hit movie franchise. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)Guests take in the effects, Wednesday, May 28, 2025, during Muppet*Vision 3D, the longtime fan-favorite film at Disney’s Hollywood Studios that will permanently close June 7. The 3D movie with live-action 4D effects was directed by Muppets-creator Jim Henson in his last big project before his death in 1990. It will be replaced by a new “Monsters, Inc.” themed attraction based on the hit movie franchise. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)Guests enter the theater, Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at Muppet*Vision 3D, the longtime fan-favorite film at Disney’s Hollywood Studios that will permanently close June 7. The 3D movie with live-action 4D effects was directed by Muppets-creator Jim Henson in his last big project before his death in 1990. It will be replaced by a new “Monsters, Inc.” themed attraction based on the hit movie franchise. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)Guests take photos Wednesday, May 28, 2025, of the Miss Piggy fountain at the entrance to Muppet*Vision 3D, the longtime fan-favorite film at Disney’s Hollywood Studios that will permanently close June 7. The 3D movie with live-action 4D effects was directed by Muppets-creator Jim Henson in his last big project before his death in 1990. It will be replaced by a new “Monsters, Inc.” themed attraction based on the hit movie franchise. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)Guests take in the firework effects, Wednesday, May 28, 2025, during Muppet*Vision 3D, the longtime fan-favorite film at Disney’s Hollywood Studios that will permanently close June 7. The 3D movie with live-action 4D effects was directed by Muppets-creator Jim Henson in his last big project before his death in 1990. It will be replaced by a new “Monsters, Inc.” themed attraction based on the hit movie franchise. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)Guests hang out Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at the Miss Piggy fountain outside of Muppet*Vision 3D, the longtime fan-favorite film at Disney’s Hollywood Studios that will permanently close June 7. The 3D movie with live-action 4D effects was directed by Muppets-creator Jim Henson in his last big project before his death in 1990. It will be replaced by a new “Monsters, Inc.” themed attraction based on the hit movie franchise. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)Guests enter the theater, Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at Muppet*Vision 3D, the longtime fan-favorite film at Disney’s Hollywood Studios that will permanently close June 7. The 3D movie with live-action 4D effects was directed by Muppets-creator Jim Henson in his last big project before his death in 1990. It will be replaced by a new “Monsters, Inc.” themed attraction based on the hit movie franchise. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)A Muppets fan holds a Kermit plush toy, Wednesday, May 28, 2025, outside Muppet*Vision 3D, the longtime fan-favorite film at Disney’s Hollywood Studios that will permanently close June 7. The 3D movie with live-action 4D effects was directed by Muppets-creator Jim Henson in his last big project before his death in 1990. It will be replaced by a new “Monsters, Inc.” themed attraction based on the hit movie franchise. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)A guest takes photos, Wednesday, May 28, 2025, in the backstage-themed pre-show area of Muppet*Vision 3D, the longtime fan-favorite film at Disney’s Hollywood Studios that will permanently close June 7. The 3D movie with live-action 4D effects was directed by Muppets-creator Jim Henson in his last big project before his death in 1990. It will be replaced by a new “Monsters, Inc.” themed attraction based on the hit movie franchise. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)Guests enter the theater, Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at Muppet*Vision 3D, the longtime fan-favorite film at Disney’s Hollywood Studios that will permanently close June 7. The 3D movie with live-action 4D effects was directed by Muppets-creator Jim Henson in his last big project before his death in 1990. It will be replaced by a new “Monsters, Inc.” themed attraction based on the hit movie franchise. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)Guests wait Wednesday, May 28, 2025, in the backstage-themed pre-show area of Muppet*Vision 3D, the longtime fan-favorite film at Disney’s Hollywood Studios that will permanently close June 7. The 3D movie with live-action 4D effects was directed by Muppets-creator Jim Henson in his last big project before his death in 1990. It will be replaced by a new “Monsters, Inc.” themed attraction based on the hit movie franchise. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)Scenes from the backstage-themed pre-show area of Muppet*Vision 3D, the longtime fan-favorite film at Disney’s Hollywood Studios that will permanently close June 7. The 3D movie with live-action 4D effects was directed by Muppets-creator Jim Henson in his last big project before his death in 1990. It will be replaced by a new “Monsters, Inc.” themed attraction based on the hit movie franchise. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)Muppets superfan Zach Haumesser, from Buffalo, NY, poses with his authentic Kermit puppet Wednesday, May 28, 2025, outside Muppet*Vision 3D, the longtime fan-favorite film at Disney’s Hollywood Studios that will permanently close June 7. Haumesser made a special trip to Florida to see the attraction before it closes. The 3D movie with live-action 4D effects was directed by Muppets-creator Jim Henson in his last big project before his death in 1990. It will be replaced by a new “Monsters, Inc.” themed attraction based on the hit movie franchise. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)A cast member walks through the backstage-themed pre-show area, Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at Muppet*Vision 3D, the longtime fan-favorite film at Disney’s Hollywood Studios that will permanently close June 7. The 3D movie with live-action 4D effects was directed by Muppets-creator Jim Henson in his last big project before his death in 1990. It will be replaced by a new “Monsters, Inc.” themed attraction based on the hit movie franchise. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)A promotional poster outside of Muppet*Vision 3D, the longtime fan-favorite film at Disney’s Hollywood Studios that will permanently close June 7. The 3D movie with live-action 4D effects was directed by Muppets-creator Jim Henson in his last big project before his death in 1990. It will be replaced by a new “Monsters, Inc.” themed attraction based on the hit movie franchise. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)Show Caption1 of 19Guests wait Wednesday, May 28, 2025, in the backstage-themed pre-show area of Muppet*Vision 3D, the longtime fan-favorite film at Disney’s Hollywood Studios that will permanently close June 7. The 3D movie with live-action 4D effects was directed by Muppets-creator Jim Henson in his last big project before his death in 1990. It will be replaced by a new “Monsters, Inc.” themed attraction based on the hit movie franchise. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)Expand View the full article

Epic Universe is officially OPEN for business, allowing fans to enter the portals into new worlds. Epic Universe has so much to offer, including attractions (duh), shows, merchandise, and lots and lots of food! Dark Universe Portal One world we keep finding ourselves running back to is Dark Universe, which has got to be a contender for our favorite land! It’s where visitors will “encounter everything from the experiments of Dr. Victoria Frankenstein to the shadowy landscape where monsters roam in a world of myth and mystery”. No wonder we keep coming back here! Dark Universe has its fair share of places to eat, one of them being The Burning Blade Tavern. The Burning Blade Tavern is a quick-service restaurant inspired by the iconic windmill from Universal’s 1931 classic, Frankenstein! The old mill was given an awesome backstory, as it’s been transformed into a diner by Darkmoor Village’s monster hunters. We love a re-purposed building! Burning Blade Tavern We recently visited the quick-service restaurant for a secret (shh!) drink. It’s a drink you won’t find anywhere on the menu, making it literally a secret menu item! We grabbed it for fun thanks to the bartender’s recommendation — and we won’t lie, we had to get another one. The Burning Blade Tavern The drink is called “The Crossbow,” and it was available for $14.25. This drink is Darkthorne Mead and Strongbow Gold Apple Cider. Fair warning — it’s pretty sweet, but that combination of the Cider and the Mead helps cut through some of the sweetness of the cider and the tartness of the mead. Introducing The Crossbow It’s honestly the perfect balance (in our opinion), and it offers a nice option for people who don’t want sugary, syrupy drinks or beer. In terms of alcohol, it’s semi-strong, so you might get a little kick. The drink cuts the ABV of the mead, so this is a great way to try the mead without the high ABV. Burning Blade Tavern Menu Don’t worry about running into monsters when you go; this is for monster hunters only! When you enter, you can order from the bartenders or Epic Universe Team Members stationed at the counters. There are a lot of options for drinks at the tavern, but like we said, you won’t find this one on the menu. So when you go to The Burning Blade Tavern, just go up to the counter and ask for “The Crossbow”. Mobile order is available here, but you won’t find the secret menu item on there either! A look inside Dark Universe Once you get your secret drink, go explore Darkmoor Village! Dark Universe is home to SO MANY cool attractions and experiences — experiences we’ve never seen anywhere before. After all, this is the only place where you will literally meet monsters! The world has several meet-and-greets, giving fans the opportunity to interact with characters like the Bride of Frankenstein, Victoria Frankenstein’s servant, Ygor, and The Invisible Man! It’s The Invisible Man! If you’re feeling a connection to the monsters, you can just become one yourself! The Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience will transform you into the monster of your choosing. Darkmoor Monster Makeup Experience Then there are the attractions — Dark Universe has two of them! One of them is a roller coaster called Curse of the Werewolf, a spinning family-friendly coaster themed after the Wolf Man. However, the experience everyone is running to the land for is Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment! A massive, thrilling E-Ticket level ride featuring thrills, motion, and insane animatronics. This is a MUST-DO at Epic Universe! Monsters Unchained We love looking for secret menu items; you never know what you’ll get, and where you can get them from. We’re always looking out for that next big secret we can reveal to you! So make sure to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more of them. Read more: DFB's complete guide to Universal’s Epic Universe >> Are you going to try the secret menu item? Let us know in the comments! The post REVIEW: We Just Found a SECRET Menu Item at a Popular Epic Universe Restaurant first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

The Savannah Bananas have arrived at Disneyland! That’s right, the bright yellow baseball team known for its entertaining shenanigans on the baseball field has arrived at the “Happiest Place on Earth.” ©Disney You might have seen the Savannah Bananas on social media once or twice, or maybe you have no clue what we are talking about right now. Well, they are in Disneyland for one day only, and we are here to cheer them on! First up was the Dance Performance at Sleeping Beauty Castle. While we were so excited to see the Savannah Bananas, we were a bit disappointed that the dance only lasted for about three minutes. We could watch these guys dance allllll day, but we know they have rides to ride, bananas to split, and banana ball games to play. Dance at the Castle Then, they got a massive group picture in front of the castle. Of course, we had to capture that as well. Next up, there will be a cavalcade down Main Street U.S.A. at 12:30 PM PT. Group picture! As far as special food and drink, you can snag the Banana Split at Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor or the Banana Pudding at Hungry Bear Barbecue Jamboree in Disneyland, as well as the Banoffee Pie Cold Brew at the Cappuccino Cart and the Banana Split Churro at the Churro Cart near Goofy’s Sky School in California Adventure. Savannah Bananas After the Savannah Bananas have spent the day at Disneyland, they will be heading over to Angel Stadium in Anaheim, California to play games on May 30th and May 31st. If you aren’t able to catch the games, have no fear! These games, as well as nine others, will be streaming on Disney+. ©Disney+ Stay tuned to DFB for all your Disneyland news! Avoid My Disneyland Horror Story and DON’T Do This 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 Did you see the Savannah Bananas at Disneyland today? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! The post Some POPULAR Special Guests Are Visiting Disneyland – And Crowds Showed Up BIG TIME! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

If you’re already making plans in anticipation of Disney World’s brand-new NIGHTTIME parade, there’s something BIG coming soon, and you need to see it. Disney Starlight Popcorn Mix Disney’s just dropped some HUGE news about its new nighttime parade coming this summer, Disney Starlight. The parade will feature new floats and Disney character outfits, all set to an incredible original score. But while you watch the show, you might as well enjoy a little treat, right? Well, you’re in luck! Let’s back up for a second. In case you missed it, Disney World just revealed new information about its upcoming nighttime parade. Disney Starlight will debut in Magic Kingdom beginning July 20th, and we’re SO excited to see it finally come to life! Peep the new costumes — they are GLOWING! Goofy, Mickey, and Minnie are READY to light up the night in Disney Starlight! Not only did Disney reveal the opening date of the parade, but they also shared several other additions that will debut alongside the parade. An entire merchandise collection will also be coming soon, as well as a new snack! We got the chance to see the new Starlight Popcorn Mix up close (and got to taste it for good measure)! Starlight Popcorn Just like the popcorn mixes we’ve picked up at Magic Kingdom before, you’ll find this one at Main Street Confectionery. This dreamy new popcorn mix is made of Bubble Gum and Blue Raspberry Candy, Popcorn, M&M’S Milk Chocolate Candies, Mini-Marshmallows, and White Chocolatey Drizzle, all served up in a classic popcorn bowl. First of all, those ingredients? Wow! There’s a lot going on there. Second of all, WOW — this popcorn mix is PRETTY! Starlight Popcorn We got to try a bit of this mix, and wow (yep, our third “wow”), this is SO sweet! The blue raspberry popcorn is a bit chewy and gets stuck in your teeth easily. We were actually impressed by the bubble gum popcorn, even though that was the flavor we were more skeptical about. It’s very festive and, like all the other Confectionery popcorn treats, this one would last you a while, even when sharing. If you’re wondering how soon you can get your hands on this new star-kissed popcorn mix, you won’t have to wait too long! This new mix will be available beginning the first night of the new parade. Disney Starlight concept art ©Disney It seems like, between the new merchandise and the sparkly new snack, Disney World has really got us covered when the parade debuts. We’re constantly eating our way around Disney World! Check out a few of our reviews below and stay tuned with us at DFB for more. REVIEW: Why Are People Still Skipping the BEST Restaurant in EPCOT?  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! Will you be trying this new popcorn mix at Disney World? Tell us what your favorite mix has been in the comments below! Disclosure: In nearly all circumstances, Disney Food Blog writers and photographers pay full price for their own travel, hotel, food, beverage, and event tickets. We do this because it’s important to us as journalists to ensure not only that we give you unbiased opinions, but also that you can trust us to do so since we’re paying our own way. On rare occasions, when we are invited by a company to attend a preview as media, and when we choose to accept that invitation, we will always make you, our readers, aware of that situation. Recently, we were invited by Disney World to attend their media preview of the upcoming Disney Starlight parade. Note that when we attend events as media we are 1) Not required to review that event/food on any of our channels, and 2) Not required to review that event/food favorably. You can always count on DFB to give you a 100% unbiased and honest review of any event that we attend, food that we eat, or beverage that we drink. You can see more in our Disclosure Policy. Thank you for reading. — AJ The post REVIEW: We've Got Three Words To Say About This New Magic Kingdom Snack: "Wow. Wow. Wow." first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

While creeping around Dark Universe with our favorite monster friends, we were dying of hunger, so we darkened the doorway of Das Stakehaus. The Portal to Dark Universe Okay, so we might not be as cool as The Invisible Man or Dracula at Epic Universe, but that doesn’t mean we can’t eat like them! We tried a new snack at this vampire-owned restaurant, and we’re bringing you all the details so you can decide if you need to put a stake in this snack. Das Stakehaus was built over ancient catacombs and is meant for those who like a dark atmosphere and a creepy aesthetic. You’ll find most items served on a stake (you would think the vampires would want to avoid stakes) and sometimes themed to the max, like the dessert we had that was supposed to look like maggots. Das Stakehaus We ordered the Fish on a Stake for $22.99, and spoiler alert — we’d do it again. Fish on a Stake This dish features a blackened salmon steak accompanied by charred green onion mashed potatoes, roasted baby carrots, acorn squash, and crispy maitake mushrooms. Our salmon The salmon was cooked just how we like it, and we loved that we could see the grill marks on it. It had a blackening seasoning, but it wasn’t overly coated, so we could taste the actual fish. Now, this might not have been the most creative salmon we’ve ever had, but for a quick-service option, we loved it. Yum! What were the stars of the dish? The potatoes and veggies! The potatoes were creamy but not overly decadent, bringing a lighter feeling to the dish. The root vegetables were cooked well and seasoned beautifully. We loved how this dish was filling, but we didn’t feel stuffed at the end. Overall, it was a lighter dish with classic elements done well. We’re definitely having the salmon again because finding filling and lighter dishes in a theme park is not an easy feat. Veggies and potatoes We might not be vampires, but they run a great restaurant, and in the blazing heat of Dark Universe, it’s a great spot to relax and cool down. Make sure you’re following DFB for all the details you need for your Epic Universe trip. REVIEW: WE TRIED THE NEW BURNING BLADE TAVERN AT UNIVERSAL’S EPIC UNIVERSE Read more: DFB's complete guide to Universal’s Epic Universe >> Have you eaten at Das Stakehaus? Tell us about your experience in the comments. The post REVIEW: If We Could Only Pick ONE Meal From This Epic Universe Restaurant, Here’s What We’d Choose first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

The brand-new Lilo & Stitch movie has arrived in theaters, and you can grab LOTS of merchandise to celebrate its release. You can find exclusive merchandise at the Disney parks, the Disney Store, and now at BoxLunch, too! ©Disney BoxLunch just launched a brand-new Lilo & Stitch collection, and we are loving it! There is something for everyone, and we wanted to share some of the new items with you. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. This new collection is a BoxLunch exclusive, and you can choose from many options. Plus, for a limited time, you can get buy one, get one 50% off Lilo & Stitch items, so hurry over! Get this adorable Stitch & Ducklings Hat ©BoxLunch We can’t get over how cute those little ducklings are! Plus, Stitch is also lookin’ really cute! The hat is made of cotton and is adjustable, so you can size it the way you want. Get this hat here! Grab a Beachy Stitch Loungefly Mini Backpack ©BoxLunch Celebrate the new movie with a new Loungefly backpack! The design features Stitch having some fun at the beach alongside Scrump, ducklings, and some ocean animals. The inside of the bag also features a fun, beachy Stitch pattern. Get this Loungefly here! Pick-up this Stitch Corduroy Loungefly Mini Backpack ©BoxLunch Or, if corduroy is more your thing, then this new Stitch Corduroy Loungefly is perfect for you! The top part of the bag features an adorable Stitch face, and then the backpack is covered in corduroy. We can already tell it feels pretty great! Get this Loungefly here! Add some Stitch to your home with this Silhouette Corkboard ©BoxLunch If you are looking for a subtle Stitch decoration, this Silhouette Corkboard might be the winner! It is both a useful decoration and a fun way to add some Disney to your home. You can put whatever your heart desires on the corkboard or save it for Stitch pins if you are a Stitch lover! Get this corkboard here! Snag this Stitch T-Shirt ©BoxLunch You can also find some really fun Stitch clothing items! Like this Stitch T-Shirt. It is a dark blue color and even features the famous “Ohana means family” on the back. This shirt is a great way to show off your love for Stitch! Get this shirt here! Add some Hawaiian flair to your wardrobe with this Stitch Women’s T-Shirt ©BoxLunch You can also grab this adorable Stitch Surfing Women’s T-Shirt! You can spot Stitch, Nani, and Lilo out on the surf with lots of Hawaiian flowers and palm trees. It is colorful and fun, and the perfect shirt to add to your summer outfits. Get this shirt here! We are already adding some of these items to our cart so we can wear them to see the new Lili & Stitch movie. Stay tuned to DFB for more Disney merchandise news! Shop all of our favorite Disney essentials on our Amazon storefront!The post New Lilo and Stitch Loungeflys and More Just Dropped Online first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Okay, we’ll admit it, we’re breakfast people. You know the type: we’ll have breakfast for breakfast, of course, but we’ll also eat breakfast for lunch (brunch) and dinner (brinner). Kona Cafe We also go to Disney World nearly every day, so we’ve had a chance to have some pretty outstanding breakfasts, including character dining experiences, Boma (it’s in a breakfast class all by itself), fancy breakfasts at places like The Cake Bake Shop by Gwendolyn Rogers, and more. But we recently learned about what is essentially a secret menu breakfast item at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and we HAD to check it out: Pudge’s Peanut Butter French Toast. For those not in the know, Pudge is a fish character in Lilo & Stitch and right now, Disney World is celebrating the release of the Lilo & Stitch live-action film. So Pudge just got peanut butter French toast at Kona Cafe. This breakfast will be available through June 30th and for $15, you get French toast served with peanut butter sauce. It also comes served with some nice crispy bacon. Here’s the kicker, though: it’s not on the official menu, so you have to know to ask for it. Pudge’s Peanut Butter French Toast But that’s it. It’s just regular French toast with peanut butter sauce. It’s not stuffed like Tonga Toast (another specialty at this restaurant). It’s basically some nice, warm pieces of French toast that are fluffy on the inside and crunchy on the outside, coated in cinnamon sugar. Yep, bring your sweet tooth! It’s also served with maple syrup because why not MORE sugar? Beautiful French toast Let’s talk about the peanut butter sauce, though. It’s really just a melty, runny peanut butter. But if you love peanut butter, then you’ll probably love it. The maple syrup, though, doesn’t taste real — it tastes like artificial syrup. So that was disappointing. Peanut Butter Sauce Granted, this is French Toast done very well, so despite our initial concern that it wasn’t a stuffed French Toast or anything, we enjoyed it. So once our expectations were tempered, we were into it. Plus, you get a LOT, so if you don’t have someone to share with, you might have leftovers. WE KNOW – there are SO many great snacks at Disney World! How do you choose (we don’t want to choose but will blow our budget on Day 1 otherwise)? We’ve got you covered! We have reviewed nearly EVERY snack available at Disney World, and we’ve written a series of DFB Guides about them! Check out our DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining + Snacks Bundle for all the details you need to plan your snackin’ and spending. You can even download them to your smartphone – it’ll be like we’re right there with you in the parks! Stay tuned to DFB for more.  Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What’s your favorite breakfast in Disney World? Share with us in the comments! The post REVIEW: Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Has a SECRET New Breakfast (With PEANUT BUTTER SAUCE) first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

WHERE MY SPOOKY PEOPLE AT?! Pumpkin szn! You know what’s even spookier than the grammatical errors in that opening line? How quickly these viral Mickey and Minnie jack-o-lanterns sell out once they go on sale. If you ask me, spooky season is a way of life so it’s never too early to celebrate — and Disney Store is doing just that. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. I know, I know — we’re not even technically halfway through this year yet, but that doesn’t mean you can’t start planning for spooky season already! That’s right, Halloween will be here (okay, at Disney World) before we know it, and if you’re trying to get into the spirit (see what I did there?) early, you’re gonna want to snag these VIRAL Mickey and Minnie jack-o-lanterns before they sell out. ©Disney Store They’re set to go on sale online at the Disney Store at 8 AM PT/12 PM ET on June 6th, so make sure you mark your calendars and set your alarms because these babies go FAST! You can pre-save these links below so you can get to the goods ASAP. Get the Mickey Light-Up Jack-O-Lantern ©Disney View online Or, you can grab the Minnie Light-Up Jack-O-Lantern ©Disney Store 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! Shop for More Disney Essentials on Our Amazon StorefrontThe post Release Date Announced for Disney’s Viral Mickey Pumpkins first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

You’re missing out on some seriously good food if you’re only eating in the parks. Disney World Disney hotel restaurants don’t always get the spotlight they deserve, but some of the best meals on property are hiding just a short walk, boat ride, or Skyliner trip away from the parks. If your must-eat list is full of character dining or whatever you could snag last-minute in the app, you might be sleeping on some hidden gems. Here are six underrated Disney World hotel restaurants you keep forgetting to add to your list — and why they absolutely deserve a spot. Story Book Dining at Artist Point with Snow White (Disney’s Wilderness Lodge) If you want character dining without the chaos of Chef Mickey’s, this is your spot. Storybook Dining at Artist Point Tucked inside the rustic-cabin-meets-luxury-vibes Wilderness Lodge, Story Book Dining gives you a quiet, fairy-tale escape — and a chance to meet Snow White, Dopey, Grumpy, and the Evil Queen. But because it’s not in a park and doesn’t scream “Instagram buffet,” it gets overlooked constantly. The menu leans hearty and earthy (think beef stew, roasted chicken, wild mushroom bisque), and it’s plated beautifully. Magic Mirror’s Slow-Braised Pork Shank Also? The Evil Queen is a total scene-stealer — in the best way. For our most recent review of Story Book Dining at Artist Point with Snow White — Click Here Boma – Flavors of Africa (Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge) Boma has been around for a while, and those of us who know it? We love it. Boma But for some reason, it just doesn’t make the average guest’s radar. Maybe it’s the location (Animal Kingdom Lodge isn’t exactly next door to the parks), maybe it’s the buffet format (which gets dismissed as outdated), but skipping Boma is a mistake. This is one of the most flavorful and adventurous buffets on Disney property, and still manages to please picky eaters. Our plate! We’re talking carved meats, African-inspired salads, Bobotie (don’t knock it till you try it), and the cult-favorite Zebra Domes. It’s not a quick bite, but it’s 100% worth the detour. For our most recent review of Boma – Flavors of Africa — Click Here Olivia’s Café (Disney’s Old Key West Resort) Olivia’s is the kind of spot that feels like a Disney secret, mostly because it kind of is. Olivia’s Cafe Unless you’re staying at Old Key West or happen to wander in while exploring DVC resorts, this one flies completely under the radar. It’s cozy, it’s low-key, and it serves comfort food that just hits. It’s not flashy or trendy — but it’s the kind of place you walk into and instantly feel like you’re on vacation. For our most recent review of Olivia’s Café — Click Here Steakhouse 71 (Disney’s Contemporary Resort) Sitting just off the main lobby of the Contemporary (literally steps from the monorail station), Steakhouse 71 feels like it should be a dining staple. Steakhouse 71 But with California Grill right upstairs stealing the thunder, most guests don’t even know it’s there. That’s a mistake. The breakfast here is excellent, the lunch is underrated, and dinner is a full-on steakhouse experience without the signature price tag. And the burgers are seriously next level. Steakhouse 71 Stack Burger If you’re park hopping around the Monorail resorts or looking for a post-Magic Kingdom bite, this one should be on your radar. For our most recent review of Steakhouse 71 — Click Here Three Bridges Bar & Grill (Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort) Most people don’t think of Coronado Springs as a dining destination — and that’s exactly why Three Bridges stays so low-key. Three Bridges Bar & Grill But here’s the deal: if you’re looking for a chill vibe, waterfront seating, and killer small plates, this is the place. You’ll find dishes like roasted corn dip and poke bowls — not to mention a solid cocktail menu. It feels like a break from the Disney bubble in the best way possible. Grab a table at sunset and thank us later. For our most recent review of Three Bridges Bar & Grill — Click Here Whispering Canyon Café (Disney’s Wilderness Lodge) Yes, we’re looping back to Wilderness Lodge — because it actually has two overlooked spots. Whispering Canyon Cafe Whispering Canyon is known for its rowdy antics, but that reputation can turn some people off. Which is a shame, because the food is solid. The all-you-can-eat skillets are hearty and satisfying, especially after a long park day, and the atmosphere is way more fun than stressful if you lean into it. Full Spread Don’t let the chaos scare you away — it’s a great meal with a big personality. For our most recent review of Whispering Canyon Café — Click Here Look, there’s nothing wrong with sticking to the hits — ‘Ohana, Chef Mickey’s, Boma — but if you want to shake things up, these five spots deserve your attention. Whether you’re looking for a low-key brunch, a great steak, or a dinner with a view, there’s something here that’ll surprise you in the best way. Keep following DisneyFoodBlog for all of your Disney news. REVIEW: We Seriously Wish This Disney World Restaurant Was Open Every. Single. Day. Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Which of these have you tried — and what’s your personal underrated favorite? Tell us in the comments! The post 6 Overlooked Disney World Hotel Restaurants You Keep Forgetting to Add to Your List first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

The Little Mermaid is one of those Disney movies that continues to be SUPER popular to this day, even after the animated movie’s original premiere in 1992. The film has been so popular that it has even spawned a live-action version, which hit theaters in 2023. ©Disney The tale of Ariel continues to mesmerize audiences so much that she also has a lot of representation in Disney theme parks across the world, including in Disney World, where you even have a ride devoted to Ariel’s story in Magic Kingdom. In fact, a brand-new show, The Little Mermaid — A Musical Adventure, just debuted in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. During a media preview of that show, we had a chance to speak with the original voice of Ariel herself, Jodi Benson. She also went on to say that she thought Ashman would love the new show. “Anytime we can tell our story over and over again for the next generation is beautiful and I know Howard would really love that. His career is just brilliant and we’re honored that we get to carry on this legacy in whatever way we can.” Ariel and Ursula We were so honored to get to chat with Jodi Benson, who is a true Disney Princess both on and off screen. Stay tuned to DFB for more. We Just Saw Disney’s BRAND-NEW Little Mermaid Show and We Have THOUGHTS 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 catching the new Hollywood Studios show soon? Let us know in the comments! Disclosure: In nearly all circumstances, Disney Food Blog writers and photographers pay full price for their own travel, hotel, food, beverage, and event tickets. We do this because it’s important to us as journalists to ensure not only that we give you unbiased opinions, but also that you can trust us to do so since we’re paying our own way. On rare occasions, when we are invited by a company to attend a preview as media, and when we choose to accept that invitation, we will always make you, our readers, aware of that situation. Today, we were invited by Disney World to attend their media preview of The Little Mermaid — A Musical Adventure. Note that when we attend events as media we are 1) Not required to review that event/food on any of our channels, and 2) Not required to review that event/food favorably. You can always count on DFB to give you a 100% unbiased and honest review of any event that we attend, food that we eat, or beverage that we drink. You can see more in our Disclosure Policy. Thank you for reading. — AJ The post “I Am So Grateful That I Get To Have That Magical Moment.” A Celebrity Just Revealed Her FAVORITE Disney Memories, and the Answer Did NOT Disappoint first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

This summer is going to be all about trendy Disney-style merchandise, and we’re here to help get you started! Flower and Garden Merch 2025 Disney just dropped a new clothing collection online, and you need to check it out. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Get this Striped Mickey T-Shirt ©Disney Store We’re starting off strong with this Striped Mickey Mouse T-Shirt! The question is, how can you go to the park and not represent the main mouse? The shirt is designed in nice light colors — and each letter of Mickey’s name is a different color, giving the shirt an eye-popping contrast! View on Disney Store Check out this Minnie Striped T-Shirt ©Disney Store This Minnie Mouse Striped Shirt could pair up great with the Mickey shirt to make a cute couple’s fit! The shirt features the classic Minnie Mouse face, complete with her red polka dot bow. The shirt’s dropped shoulders will give you that relaxed and sporty vibe. View on Disney Store We love this Tigger T-Shirt ©Disney Store Ok, this Tigger T-Shirt might be our favorite of the bunch! Look how adorable he is peeking through the box on the shirt. The tee features a close-up look of the lovable bouncing tiger, with his name printed underneath him. The colors of the stripes and the character work so well together — we’ll be pouncing on this one! View on Disney Store Or, you can grab this Donald T-Shirt ©Disney Store The Tigger shirt might be one of our favorites in the collection, because we love this Donald Duck T-Shirt as well! The shirt is in Donald’s classic blue and white colors. It features the duck we all know and love — we wonder what he’s mad about this time?! Donald is in his classic animated style, and we’re here for it. View on Disney Store 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! Shop for More Disney Essentials on Our Amazon StorefrontThe post The New Disney Collection Everyone Will Be Wearing in June first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article