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There’s more in store at the Downtown Disney District – more shopping, more dining and even more fun! We’re thrilled to give you the next sneak peek and inside scoop on all that’s on the way for you to enjoy in the district at the Disneyland Resort – including opening details for Avengers Reserve and the D-Lander Shop, a first look at the first-of-its kind concept for Porto’s, additional details on Parkside Market, and so much more! New Disney Retail Shops Opening Soon! We recently shared with you that three new shops are coming to the district! Let us give you a closer look at these exciting locations coming soon. Opening December 6, 2024, Avengers Reserve will celebrate fandom and the stories of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes and their amazing friends! At the entrance, a 9-foot Incredible Hulk sculpture will be smashing through the wall, while Spider-Man has climbed atop the building. Inside, the store will have a high energy, industrial vibe with lighting effects, authentic film props and a media screen with a gaming demonstration station. The shop will carry comic books, must-have collectibles, Super Hero-inspired apparel and role-play toys for all ages. The collections will be refreshed regularly, so you’ll want to come back again and again! Also opening on December 6, 2024, the D-Lander Shop will be light, bright and modern with pops of colors, a relaxing lounge area, and the fitting rooms will have fabulous, eye-catching artwork! In all, this might be your new favorite place for trend forward fashions and co-branded collections of apparel, handbags and jewelry including Kate Spade, Dooney & Bourke and a dedicated Pandora Jewelry shop-within-a-shop! Opening this winter, Disney Wonderful World of Sweets will be a wonderful place with the sweetest tastes, introducing a splendid array of new confectionery treats! The interior will be whimsical and colorful with dimensional murals of this delectable new world, and exhibition kitchens will be viewable from the promenade and inside the shop. Here, you can pop in for favorite snacks such as caramel apples, sour balls, lollipops, churro toffee and introducing to the Disneyland Resort, freshly made Werther’s Original Caramel popcorn. These treats are perfect for gift giving, or just take some home for yourself! Parkside Market Opening This Winter, With New Details! Parkside Market will open this winter on the west end of the district, bringing four distinctive locations under one roof! First, let’s reveal the name of the second story bar: Vista Parkside Market, which will offer great views of the district to sip signature craft cocktails and mocktails made with local ingredients and artful garnishes. These will pair nicely with Parkside Market menus with full service right to your table. As we previously shared, Parkside Market will feature Seoul Sister, a fast-casual modern eatery serving Korean-style rice bowls; Sip & Sonder serving lattes, fresh treats, frozen drinks and delicious small bites; and GG’s Chicken Shop serving chicken sandwiches, salads and classic dinner table sides. A First Look at the First-of-its-Kind Concept for Porto’s Bakery and Café Scrumptious plans are underway for Porto’s Bakery and Café and we want to give you the first look! Porto’s fans will be able to pick up their signature Cheese Rolls, Potato Balls and other favorite goodies from its Bakery and Café, and for those looking for an enhanced Porto’s experience, this will be the first Porto’s location with sit-down table service and a full bar. Stay tuned for more details in the future! Announcing Arthur & Sons Steak and Bourbon, and Pearl’s Roadside BBQ Restaurants Here’s more meaty news about two new restaurant concepts in the works for Downtown Disney District by Michelin-starred Chef Joe Isidori. Arthur & Sons Steak and Bourbon will be a classic steakhouse, with a lively center bar, offering prime cuts of beef, fresh seafood, sandwiches and salads, and an impressive selection of bourbon and inventive cocktails. Next door, Pearl’s Roadside BBQ will be a quick service eatery offering flavorful dishes such as pulled pork, beef brisket and smoked heritage turkey with house-made sauces, along with craft beers and moonshine cocktails. You may see work beginning soon where these restaurants will be built on the footprint of the former Tortilla Jo’s. Building Excitement for New Designs at The LEGO Store The LEGO Store has been busy building new creations with the refurbishment of their flagship Downtown Disney location. While the store will reopen soon with refreshed interior spaces, their Master Builders will begin work on new sculptures for the exterior. It’s always a fun-filled world of vivid colors and imagination at The LEGO Store! What will you build next? Celebrate the Holiday Season in Downtown Disney District The merriest season is on the way (November 15, 2024 – January 6, 2025), and Downtown Disney is a delightful place to stroll and savor this special time of year with twinkling decor, boutique shopping, a new holiday ornament cart, special holiday menus at select restaurants, live music and family festivities. Enjoy the nightly snowfall from 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. each evening from November 29, 2024 – January 6, 2025, at the Downtown Disney LIVE! stage and lawn with a special photo op from Disney Vacation Club, and keep your eyes out on Chip and Dale’s Ornament Trail for hidden ornaments on display November 22, 2024 – January 1, 2025. Guests can purchase an activity map at select shopping locations in Downtown Disney and the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort to help their ornament search and redeem it at World of Disney or Disney’s Pin Traders for a holiday keepsake.* With all of the terrific additions on the horizon, there’s still so much to do, see, eat and explore throughout the district right now. We look forward to welcoming you back, again and again! Stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog for all the latest news! *Chip and Dale’s Ornament Trail pursuit is subject to cancellation or change without notice including, without limitation, dates, keepsakes and prices. Purchase limits apply. Whether you choose to search for the ornaments or not, return your map for a small keepsake. 1 Map = 1 Keepsake. Maps are valid for redemption through 1/1/2025, or while keepsake supplies last. The post Opening Dates and Details for New Downtown Disney Shops and Restaurants appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

There’s a NEW restaurant in Disney World! The Cake Bake Shop The Cake Bake Shop by Gwendolyn Rogers recently opened at Disney’s BoardWalk, and it originally made waves with its high prices. But after some trial meals and lowering the prices on the menu, they finally had a grand opening, and we got to stop by to try several of the items on the menu. Even though we had a few meals there, we were waiting for one special offering that the restaurant promised…and now it’s coming soon! When The Cake Bake Shop was announced, it was revealed that the restaurant would offer an afternoon tea service. And now we’ve got the details on this new dining option! The Cake Bake Shop The Roses of Gold Afternoon Tea is now listed on the Disney World website, and reservations can be made by calling (407) 574-3040 between 10AM and 4PM or emailing concierge@thecakebakeshop.com. Space is limited and reservations are required. The Cake Bake Shop When you arrive for the afternoon tea, a dedicated server will show you a “meticulously curated selection of distinguished teas — crafted in collaboration with Dammann Frères” to choose from for your meal. You’ll be able to try as many as you want! A table at the Cake Bake Shop While you sip your tea, you’ll get to enjoy the restaurant’s homemade scones and the Roses of Gold tray, which is decked out with various desserts and finger sandwiches. The entire experience is $95 per adult and $65 per child, so it’s definitely not cheap. But it could be a good experience for a special occasion. The Cake Bake Shop The online menu lists four different adult sandwich options, as well as the orange cranberry scone. ©Disney There are also three different child sandwich options that can be brought out, and six different patisserie options from the bakery. Sounds like quite the spread! ©Disney We’ll make sure to go try out this new offering soon and let you know what we think! We’ve been waiting for an afternoon tea option in Disney World since the tea room at the Grand Floridian Resort still hasn’t reopened. Stay tuned to DFB for more updates! Click Here for Our Dinner Review of The Cake Bake Shop! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Would you pay for this experience? Let us know in the comments! The post ALERT! Disney World’s Newest Restaurant Adds Afternoon Tea Option first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Okay, so if you’re planning a Disney World trip in 2025, well, you’ve got a LOT to look forward to, and that includes a lot of NEW things. Magic Kingdom If you haven’t been to Disney World in the past year or so, you’ve got some new restaurants to check out (like The Cake Bake Shop by Gwendolyn Rogers and Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs). Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in Magic Kingdom is still also pretty new. We’ve seen new shops open up in Disney Springs recently, as well. However, a LOT of NEW things will be opening for the FIRST TIME EVER in Disney World in 2025. So here’s what’s coming to Disney World in 2025. Magic Kingdom Disney Starlight Magic Kingdom is getting a nighttime parade called Disney Starlight that will feature floats all lit up for the night with some of Disney’s most iconic movies, including Encanto, Moana, and Peter Pan. Disney said the parade would be “using the latest technology to tell new stories about the characters you love.” ©Disney Disney Starlight will be “brought to life by the magic of the Blue Fairy” from the Disney animated classic, Pinocchio. The parade is expected to premiere in summer 2025. Learn more about Disney Starlight Pirates of the Caribbean Tavern A new Pirates of the Caribbean Tavern is coming to Magic Kingdom! This lounge will be a “first-of-its-kind experience will extend the story of Pirates of the Caribbean.” The tavern will bring together pirates of all ages to “gather to tell their tales!” The Barker Bird, who used to greet guests at the Pirates of the Caribbean ride, will also be part of the experience. ©Disney This “rambunctious watering hole will offer a welcoming haven for all pirate-kind, big and small, and everyone in between.” Expect it to open sometime in 2025. Here’s more about the tavern! EPCOT New Test Track A brand new version of Test Track is coming to EPCOT! Disney is collaborating with Chevrolet, the ride’s sponsor, to celebrate the spirit of innovation while also looking forward to the human “drive” for a brighter tomorrow. The new version of the ride is expected to look at past, present, and future with the queue having six distinct exhibits. ©Disney The new version of the ride will feature new show scenes featuring technological advances that show “how our lifestyles and relationships to mobility connect everyone.” It’s set to open in 2025. Here’s more about Test Track’s opening timeline Spaceship Earth Lounge We’ll admit we were a little confused when Disney first announced a Spaceship Earth lounge because we thought there would be a lounge IN Spaceship Earth. But instead, we’re getting a lounge in an undisclosed location that’s themed to Spaceship Earth — okay, we get it now (although a lounge inside Spaceship Earth would’ve been AMAZING). ©Disney The lounge will feature colors and design elements that are inspired by Spaceship Earth, and we can imagine there will be a fun drinks menu with Spaceship Earth-themed drinks. We hope one of them is named “Thank the Phoenicians.” The new lounge is set to open in 2025 More about the Spaceship Earth Lounge Disney’s Hollywood Studios Villains Show Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy will be going away to make room for a brand new Villains show in Hollywood Studios. The show will transform the theater into the “mysterious, reflective realm of the Magic Mirror.” You can expect to see some classic Disney villains like Cruella de Vil, Captain Hook, Maleficent, and more “breaking through the glass” to come on stage to perform. ©Disney Disney is, obviously, in its villains era (especially with an entire Villains land coming to Magic Kingdom) and we are here for it. The villains show is set to open in summer 2025. Learn more about the villains show “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” Hollywood Studios is also getting a brand new Little Mermaid show that will replace the closed Voyage of the Little Mermaid show. The new show will feature live actors, puppets, digital animation, and live motion capture all blended together to replicate the story’s underwater setting. ©Disney The story will also be re-told almost entirely from Ariel’s point of view and will feature two songs that weren’t in the previous show: “Daughters of Triton” and “Kiss the Girl.” Although the new show was set to open in fall 2024, Disney delayed that opening until summer 2025. Check out a look at the new show! Disney’s Animal Kingdom Zootopia: Better Zoogether! It’s A Bug Life, which is inside the Tree of Life, will be going away to be replaced by a brand new show, Zootopia: Better Zoogether! The new show will follow some of our fave Zootopia characters like Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde, in a production that “will take guests on an adventure through different biomes seen in the film.” This new show is set to debut in the winter 2025. Learn more about the new Zootopia show! Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Island Tower Disney’s all new DVC tower, Island Tower, will be opening at the end of December 2024, so we had to include it on the list because it will still be VERY new in 2025. The 10-story tower will feature rooms perfect for groups of all sizes. It will also have its own swimming pool, as well as a quick-service restaurant. Island Tower construction Booking for the new rooms are available now to everyone, so if you’d like to stay there in 2025, you can! SEE INSIDE the NEW Rooms at Disney’s Polynesian Tower in Disney World So if you’re going to Disney World in 2025, there’s a lot of new stuff you have to look forward to! With even MORE being added to the parks, you’ll probably want to form a game plan BEFORE your trip so you can prioritize the new stuff you want to check out! Stay tuned to DFB for more. 17 MAJOR Changes Coming to Disney World in 2025 Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Will you be visiting Disney World in 2025? What new thing are you looking forward to doing there? Let us know in the comments! The post FULL LIST of What's OPENING in Disney World in 2025 first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

It’s the holiday season, and the Christmas-themed treats abound! Magic Kingdom In the past several days, we’ve been hustling all across Disney World to try everything from gingerbread to ice cream to savory seasonal snacks. There’s going to be PLENTY for you to try if you’re heading to the parks soon! And now, we’ve got to share two treats we tasted in Magic Kingdom. Mickey Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookie In bakery cases around Disney World, including at Big Top Treats, you’ll find the new Mickey Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookie for $7.79. This is very similar to the mint chocolate version we’ve seen in the past, except it’s holiday-themed! The new cookie! We ended up liking this one better than its mint cousin! It has a great peppermint flavor in the whipped filling, and the cookie held up a lot better for us than when we tried the original. The chocolate cookie is a little crumbly, but it’s almost Oreo-like in flavor. The cookie If you’re a fan of the peppermint and chocolate combo, you might want to give this a try! Holiday Cookie Popcorn The newest popcorn mix available at Main Street Confectionery is the Holiday Cookie Popcorn for $16.99. This mix is made with caramel popcorn layered with M&Ms, crushed ginger snap cookies, marshmallows, and milk chocolate drizzle. So festive! Holiday Cookie Popcorn This is definitely one of the most festive-looking treats we’ve seen with those iconic red and green M&Ms, and we had several people stop and ask us where we got it! The caramel and chocolate flavors blend really well together, but the one area where this might be divisive is the ginger snap cookies. The mix! If you love ginger snaps, this might be your new favorite treat, but they’re pretty big chunks (larger than the other elements of the mix), so it’s not quite as cohesive as some of the other popcorn blends. It definitely feels like a Christmas-y treat though, and we thoroughly enjoyed it! Deliciousness That’s a wrap on the new snacks in Magic Kingdom for now! Stay tuned to DFB for more updates from the park this holiday season. Click Here for Reviews of ALL the Holiday Snacks in Disney World! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Which of these treats would you try? Tell us in the comments! The post REVIEW: This NEW Disney World Snack Will Have Everyone Asking "Where Did You Get That?" first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Jollywood Nights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is BACK. After a rather rough start last year, Disney has worked to improve this pricey after hours exclusive event. Tip Top Club So, how are things shaping up this year? We went to the very first night of the 2024 event to bring you the good, the bad, and the stuff you absolutely cannot miss from this holiday event at Disney World. Check out our video below: The ULTIMATE Guide to Disney World’s Jollywood Nights  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 Are you attending Jollywood Nights this year? Tell us in the comments. The post DFB Video: The ULTIMATE Guide to Disney World's Jollywood Nights first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Is it just me or are we seeing a lot of Disney IP at EPCOT nowadays? Spaceship Earth I mean, we have Anna and Elsa in the Norway pavilion. We also have Moana kicking it at the park, and on top of that, we even have a certain rat hanging out in the France pavilion. So what about the Mexico pavilion? Well, let’s talk about where ‘Coco’ is and why it hasn’t taken the pavilion over. As we were saying, you might have wondered why ‘Coco’ hasn’t made a full-blown appearance in the Mexico Pavilion. The film seems like the perfect fit. It celebrates Mexican culture, traditions like Día de los Muertos, and has a colorful visual style that would look incredible in the World Showcase, but as far as we can see, aside from some occasional visits by Miguel, ‘Coco’ is, for all intents and purposes, no where to be found. Mexico Pavilion at EPCOT So, let’s talk about why ‘Coco’ hasn’t taken over the Mexico Pavilion. The Three Caballeros Are Still Holding Down the Fort For starters, we can’t forget about The Three Caballeros. This classic trio has been a part of the Mexico Pavilion since 2007. Now, sure, “The Three Caballeros” isn’t exactly Disney’s most well-known property in 2024, but this attraction has been a staple in EPCOT for a while. It’s a quirky, nostalgic ride that we appreciate for its throwback vibe and classic Disney animation. Gran Fiesta Tour starring The Three Caballeros Replacing The Three Caballeros would mean Disney would be removing a bit of EPCOT’s history, and while ‘Coco’ might seem like a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, maybe Disney is hesitant to completely overhaul something that holds sentimental value for many of us. The Three Caballeros Even though “The Three Caballeros” ride may not draw the same crowds as a potential ‘Coco’ ride, it has a legacy at EPCOT that resonates with many of us who appreciate the original park attractions. So, in a way, keeping The Three Caballeros feels like a nod to Disney’s roots. Budget Priorities It’s no secret that Disney’s had a massive EPCOT overhaul, and this transformation has been a big investment. Additionally, you’ve got the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind coaster, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure in the France Pavilion, and the Moana-inspired Journey of Water walkthrough, Disney’s clearly been funneling resources into some high-profile, high-cost projects. Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure When you look at the scope and budget of these recent additions, it makes sense that Disney might be holding off on adding ‘Coco’ to the Mexico Pavilion (at least for now). Theming an attraction to Coco would mean a significant rework of the pavilion’s current ride and maybe even parts of the pavilion itself. For example, they’d likely want to add ‘Coco’-inspired decor, animatronics, and possibly even scenes from the movie, and we know all of that wouldn’t come cheap. Looking Good! And as much as fans love Coco, Disney’s already spread its budget across a wide array of projects. Between park renovations, new lands, and expensive new attractions, adding Coco might just not be at the top of the to-do list right now. Plus, after the economic impact of the pandemic, Disney has reportedly become more strategic with its spending. In the grand scheme of things, revamping a nostalgic EPCOT ride might not be as high on the list as other park expansions and new lands that are proven crowd-pullers. Will Coco Eventually Come to the Mexico Pavilion? Honestly, it’s anyone’s guess. Maybe Disney is trying to keep ‘Coco’s presence mainly in Disneyland, or they’re waiting to tie a new ‘Coco’ attraction into a big sequel announcement. Either way, Disney hasn’t given any official word on plans for ‘Coco’ in EPCOT, but it’s certainly possible we could see it make a more permanent presence in the future. Miguel! In the meantime, for more Disney news, keep following DFB! BREAKING: EPCOT Opening DELAYED Due to Technical Difficulties 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 your thoughts about ‘Coco’ and the Mexican Pavilion at EPCOT? Let us know in the comments! The post The Complicated Reason Why 'Coco' Hasn't Taken Over the Mexico Pavilion in EPCOT first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Debuting on January 10, 2025, the all-new nighttime spectacular, “Disney Tales of Magic,” is coming to Disneyland Paris and we have all the details you’ve been waiting for! This new show will transport you to the enchanting worlds of Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios from “Pinocchio,” “Cinderella,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “The Lion King,” “Lilo & Stitch” and “Encanto” to “Inside Out” and “WALL-E.” Celebrating the magic within each of us, you can expect this nighttime experience to evoke universal emotions from pursuing dreams to embarking on new adventures with friends, and more! We’re pushing the boundaries like never before, blending storytelling and cutting-edge technology into a unique experience found only at Disneyland Paris. The 20-minute show begins as projections on Main Street, U.S.A. and Sleeping Beauty Castle seemingly blend together to create the ultimate immersive experience. From a grand ballroom where Cinderella and Prince Charming waltz under the stars to a colorful Colombian village brought to life by the magic of the Madrigal family and rows of colorful emotion-filled memory balls inside Riley’s mind, there are quite a few special moments in store. That’s not all: the show will also combine pyrotechnics, fountain displays and cutting-edge technology that add to the show’s all-encompassing nature, including 60 brand new ultra-powerful lighting fixtures, 15 ultra-bright lasers, an all-new architectural LED lighting package and even a new immersive audio system. And it wouldn’t be a Disneyland Paris nighttime experience without DRONES! This one-of-a-kind technological display required over 17,500 hours of work, leveraging the most advanced 3D technologies to help bring to life the magic of Disney and Pixar storytelling. “At Disneyland Paris, we’ve always strived to push the boundaries of what’s possible in nighttime entertainment, and Disney Tales of Magic takes that vision even further. Our teams have crafted something truly magical, an experience that will captivate and inspire guests for years to come. Building on our legacy of innovation, creativity, and storytelling, we’re excited for this show to become a lasting part of the story of Disneyland Park” said Natacha Rafalski, President of Disneyland Paris. Not only is it about advancing the technology, Disneyland Paris has also created an exclusive soundtrack, with new arrangements of over 20 classic Disney Animation and Pixar songs into a fresh, vibrant style. At the heart of this new music is the lead song, “Live in Magic,” an original song performed in both French and English. We were able to get an inside scoop into the making of the show, including a sneak peek of this all-new song. Speaking of music, we have even more news to share! Beginning on April 19, 2025, Disneyland Paris will celebrate the magic of music with its first-ever “Disney Music Festival” through September 7, 2025. Inspired by the well-known festival in France, “Fête de la Musique,” discover unforgettable live musical moments of classic and contemporary hits from Disney Animation and Pixar animated films around Disneyland park. The all-new nighttime show and music festival are just the beginning of what’s to come at Disneyland Paris! Take a look at all that’s in store as the resort continues its transformation and expansion. The post Disneyland Paris Reveals All-New Nighttime Show Details appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

Fantasmic! finally made its triumphant return to Disneyland’s Rivers of America earlier this year! Fantasmic! After an extended closure and refurbishment, Fantasmic! returned with an updated show after a fire caused damage. The new version of the show no longer has the Maleficent dragon, but the fan-favorite Peter Pan scene returned to the Sailing Ship Columbia! If you are looking to see this show in a reserved area, then listen up because a new Fantasmic! dining package will debut next year! Dining packages are a great way to secure your spot for popular entertainment, and now, starting on January 10th, 2025, there will be a new way to reserve your spot for this can’t-miss nighttime spectacular! Fantasmic! You can dine at Cafe Orleans, located in New Orleans Square, for lunch or dinner. The Fantamic! dining package includes a three-course meal. Cafe Orleans For your appetizer course, you can choose between gumbo or sweet potato and lentil hummus. The hummus is plant-based. The special entrée for this dining package is Steak Frites, which is a ribeye and a petite watercress salad served with a béarnaise sauce. You also can choose from any current entrée offerings. No meal is complete without dessert. The dessert course includes a Chocolate Decadence Tart Dessert, which is a dark chocolate coffee custard with chocolate cookie crust topped with a mousse rock and Mickey Mouse decoration. ©Disney This new offering is available right after the new year, starting on January 10th, so make sure to plan and reserve your spot through the Disneyland app. Advance Dining Reservations can be made 60 days in advance! Cafe Orleans Dining packages can be a great value, especially if you do not want to stand and reserve your spot for the show. For all the latest Disney news, make sure to continue to stay tuned to Disney Food Blog! Everything That Will Be CLOSED in Disneyland in 2025 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 Have you ever purchased a dining package at Disneyland or Disney World? Tell us about your experience in the comments!The post Disney Announces NEW Fantasmic! Dining Package! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

#Holidays at #WaltDisneyWorld Resort flip in the blink of an eye! ❄️🎄View the full article

We’ve stayed at a LOT of Disney World hotels, and we’ve noticed one common problem: it’s not easy to charge multiple devices at once. Disney just doesn’t offer a lot of plugs and outlets! Luckily, we’ve also tested a LOT of products, and we’ve found a few that work super well when you’re on vacation. MultiCharger for MagicBand+ The good news is that all the items we love are under $50, so you can charge your devices efficiently, AND you won’t blow your budget. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Anker Magnetic Portable Charger ©Amazon OK, we’ll start with one of our favorite brands when it comes to phone chargers: Anker. Their products never let us down! We love this magnetic phone charger, complete with Anker’s new MiniCell technology that delivers ideal charging performance with a smaller profile. It’s slim, lightweight, and reliable. View on Amazon FuelRod 2-Pack FuelRod We have a secret weapon when we go to Disney World: FuelRods. Why? Disney has special FuelRod stations all over the parks and resorts where you can swap your portable charger for a fully-charged FuelRod! This set of two on Amazon comes with fully charged portable chargers that can be instantly swapped at any FuelRod Kiosk nationwide. How handy! View on Amazon MultiCharger for MagicBand+ MultiCharger for MagicBand+ OK, this might be one of the most POPULAR items on our list. This thing is perfect for your Disney vacation; plug it in at your Disney hotel, and you can charge WAY more items at once, including your MagicBand+! This item is easy to pack and, at under $12, it’s a great deal! View on Amazon In the meantime, we’re always on the lookout for the latest Disney souvenirs, so stay tuned for more. Check out our Amazon Storefront for more Disney items!! The post We Will Never Charge Our Phone in Disney World the Same Thanks to This Upgrade first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Tiger Tuesday Live! Watch Bakso & Mom’s First Week at Disney’s Animal KingdomView the full article

It’s the most wonderful, holly, jolly time of the year! Christmas Tree We spent last weekend partying it UP in Disney World, holiday-style. We went to both Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and Jollywood Nights to celebrate the beginning of the Christmas season, and we had a blast. Two nights filled with sweet treats, exclusive entertainment, rare characters, and staying up WAY past our bedtimes. And you know what happens when you stay up late all weekend? Silly little things you spot in the parks start to seem a lot funnier. If you’re heading to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party this year, make sure to stop by Storybook Circus in the back corner of Magic Kingdom. Why? Because there’s a very special guest back there! Santa’s Christmas Carnival Yep, Santa Claus has temporarily left the North Pole to station himself in Storybook Circus (he can’t spend ALL his free time freezing his tootsies off up north!). But if you head over to visit Santa, you’ll also pass some of Magic Kingdom’s most iconic new additions…the Smellephants on Parade. SMELLEPHANTS!!! And apparently, Disney decided the Smellephants needed a little bit of holiday spirit, because they decided to accent the cotton candy one with its own personal snoap machine. But not any of the other statues…just this one. He’s special, clearly! Why is this one Smellephant so special? We have no clue — cotton candy isn’t even a holiday scent! All we know is that we could’ve stood here for an hour rocking out with this horn-playing, snow-blowing festive king. Is this the new highlight of the holiday season? They should add it to the party map. 2024 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Map There are only a select few places in Disney World where you can experience snoap during the holiday season, and now we can add one Smellephant to that exclusive club. We’re picturing midnight raves with the elephants — who’s in? Maybe Disney should add him to Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade — he deserves his own float for sure. BLOW THAT HORN BUDDY So if you’re visiting Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and you want a snoap machine all to yourself, make sure to stop by Smellephants on Parade, the clear winner and highlight of the night! ELEPHANT RAVE! Click Here for All the Details on Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you heading to Magic Kingdom this holiday season? Let us know in the comments! The post The Super Weird Holiday Exclusive That’s Not on the Map in Magic Kingdom first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We’re down to just 40 some days until Christmas! But who’s counting? Happy Holidays from Magic Kingdom! Well, that’s why we love advent calendars — especially Disney ones. They make the holidays even more special and it gives us something to look forward to leading up to Christmas. So we found 6 of our favorite advent calendars to share with you! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Have you been wanting to try Amazon Prime? Try our FREE Amazon Prime Trial below! Bluey Book Bundle Advent Calendar ©Amazon Now this one has already sold out once so get it while you can! This advent calendar has 24 mini-books, including a special Christmas story for Christmas Eve. It includes stories such as The Beach, Grannies, Butterflies, coloring books, and more surprises. Right now they are 27% off so grab it quick! View on Amazon Disney Advent Calendar ©Amazon Join your favorite Disney and Pixar characters on a 24-book adventure, packed with enchanting stories and engaging activities. Inside this advent calendar, you’ll discover storybooks, quizzes, mazes, Odd One Out, and Spot the Differences. This advent calendar will keep your kids busy while they count down to Christmas. View on Amazon Disney100 12 Days of Christmas Mini Puzzles ©Amazon Mickey’s 12 Days of Christmas Advent Calendar contains one 300-piece Christmas tree-shaped puzzle and eleven 100-piece ornament-shaped puzzles. It features our favorite Disney characters. We love how engaging this advent calendar is. View on Amazon Disney100 Storybook Advent Calendar Disney 100 Storybook Advent Calendar Every day in December leading up to Christmas, you can unwrap one Disney paperback storybook, each of which is 24 pages long. There are both classic stories and holiday-themed ones, and they feature Disney and Pixar characters. Disney100 Advent Calendar You can read stories featuring Disney characters like Nemo, Mirabel, and Woody. Kids will be excited to open a new book every day. View on Amazon Funko! Pop Advent Calendar ©Amazon With this Pixar Advent Calendar, you’ll get 24 of your favorite characters. They are 2″ tall and each day you’ll find a new surprise. You can collect characters like Walle, Sully, and more. Hurry because you can get this one for 44% off! View on Amazon Disney Munchlings Advent Calendar ©Amazon This Advent calendar is super sweet– literally! This imaginative set is packed full of 16 sweetly scented toy figures, plus tongs, plates, and icing bags. Munchlings in this calendar are scented with chocolate, strawberry, cinnamon, and more. Disney foodies, this is for you! View on Amazon Check out Our Amazon Storefront for More The post 6 Disney Advent Calendars It's Totally Okay To Open Before Christmas first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

If you are heading to Magic Kingdom in the next few days, we have some important news about one of its iconic attractions! Magic Kingdom One of Magic Kingdom’s attractions is suddenly closed down and we have the details for you about when it will be reopening. The Liberty Square Riverboat was closed when we walked by earlier and it had a sign that said it is “currently being refitted.” When we spoke with Cast Members, they let us know that it will be temporarily closed until at least Wednesday, November 13th. Liberty Square Riverboat is currently closed The Disney World website reflects a similar story, but the Liberty Square Riverboat IS currently showing hours for Wednesday, November 13th. While you won’t be able to ride the boat for the next two days, hopefully it will be back up and running by Wednesday. Liberty Square Riverboat It is not uncommon for us to see the Liberty Square Riverboat closed temporarily. Back in August, the attraction was also closed for three days from August 20th through August 22nd, and we have seen similar closures over the years. Usually, the closures are for routine maintenance, and it seems like this closure is likely for some sort of maintenance as well. Liberty Square Riverboat If you are a huge fan of the Liberty Sqaure Riverboat, you will want to get your last few rides in as soon as possible! Brand-new Cars attractions will be making their way to Magic Kingdom, and they will be taking the place of the Rivers of America (which is where the Liberty Square Riverboat is located.) Work is expected to begin in early 2025 so you will want to stop by soon once the attraction reopens on November 13th. ‘Cars’ area in Magic Kingdom ©Disney While we wait for the Liberty Square Riverboat to reopen, there is still plenty of things to do in Magic Kingdom. Make sure you check out our video for the 25 things you should ALWAYS do in Magic Kingdom: Make sure to stay tuned to DFB for all your Disney World news! Check out the BEST snacks in Magic Kingdom! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Is the Liberty Square Riverboat a must-do attraction for you in Magic Kingdom? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! The post An Iconic Magic Kingdom Attraction Has Suddenly CLOSED first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

You won’t believe who gave us a tour of The Cake Bake Shop by Gwendolyn Rogers! This new restaurant is located at Disney’s BoardWalk and while we have dined there when it opened, we just got the most incredible tour. The Cake Bake Shop Gwendolyn Rogers herself took us around her restaurant and pointed out some of her favorite hidden details. We are still in shock, and we can’t wait to share it all with you! The Cake Bake Shop by Gwendolyn Rogers recently opened at Disney’s Boardwalk. While the restaurant has seen some scrutiny for its higher prices, when we dined there for breakfast and dinner, we were impressed by the atmosphere inside and the quality of the food. It is gorgeous on the inside, and we were so excited to get a tour of the restaurant! Dinner at The Cake Bake Shop We were recently stopping by The Cake Bake Shop and Gwendolyn Rogers herself was there. We also saw her at the restaurant on opening day, but this time she also gave us a TOUR of her restaurant! We were freaking out a bit and we knew we had to share some of the hidden details in the restaurant with you all. Gwendolyn Rogers on Opening Day First of all, EVERY single piece of crystal on EVERY single chandelier in the ENTIRE restaurant was hung by Gwendolyn. Yep, she personally designed and created every chandelier that hangs inside The Cake Bake Shop, and there are A LOT of them. She hung ALL these herself The chandeliers throughout the restaurant are gorgeous and definitely add so much to the ambiance inside. She even hid a rose in one of the chandeliers! There is not a single piece of crystal hanging inside The Cake Bake Shop that wasn’t hung by Gwendolyn. Look at the rose! It is hard not to be impressed by all of that work that she put into the restaurant! We can’t even imagine how many hours she must have spent working on them. So pretty! But we learned even more about the restaurant too! Gwendolyn brought us to the most popular table in the restaurant which is called The Crown. On top of the table is a turntable that can hold up to 15 tons and she has been working on a Christmas decoration to put on top for YEARS. The Crown Table She has been having a Christmas tree built along with a slightly animatronic Santa Claus that has been rigged from an existing decoration she loved. Plus, the decoration will have a reindeer too! The decoration will take 30 minutes to rotate around on the turntable. She is hoping it will be on top in the next week or so pending Disney approval. We can’t wait to see the decoration on top! She also told us about a hidden detail in the music loop inside the restaurant. She had the sound of birds chirping applied on top of all the music, so you can hear birds chirping all over the building! The Cake Bake Shop She also brought us to this framed star which we already knew was a tribute to the old ESPN Club. However, Gwendolyn also told us that she rescued it from the trash and brought it home with her to have it restored and framed. She hung it in the restaurant as a tribute to the ESPN Club and she told us how grateful she is that the ESPN Club existed. It was really important to her to restore this star and have it be a part of the restaurant. Tribute to the ESPN Club As well, the ENTIRE dining room has been built with electrical wiring for projectors which she is hoping she will be able to install in the restaurant soon. She said that she is inspired by the projection transformations at Dior’s flagship store in Paris and she would love to periodically transform the dining room in a similar way. The Cake Bake Shop She also mentioned that all of these lights twinkle with the push of a button. Gwendolyn is still trying to figure out how to integrate it into the restaurant, but we are sure it will look so pretty once she does! All of these lights can twinkle We also found out that she has relocated to Orlando, so it is likely you could catch her when you stop by The Cake Bake Shop! Gwendolyn let us know that hidden details and secret magical things are really important to her. She wants to evoke memories of a simpler and more beautiful time in general. We want to say a HUGE thank you to Gwendolyn for giving us a tour of your restaurant! The Cake Bake Shop Want to learn even more about The Cake Bake Shop? We have a full video review of this brand-new restaurant, so make sure you check it out: Make sure to stay tuned to DFB for all of your Disney World food news! Check out our review of dinner at The Cake Bake Shop! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Have you been to The Cake Bake Shop yet? Let us know about your experience in the comments! The post You Won’t Believe Who Gave Us a Tour of Disney World's Newest Restaurant first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Let’s go dining at Disneyland! Naples Ristorante The Disneyland Resort is known to have some really amazing dining options and the Downtown Disney District is home to several. One of our favorites, Naples Ristorante E Bar, recently changed up its menu so we headed over to try out some new offerings and see if this location is still worth visiting! Atmosphere Naples Ristorante can be found in Downtown Disney not far from the parking lot tram dropoff area near the Disneyland Esplanade. Its location makes it a great location if you want to leave the parks for lunch but don’t want to wander to far, as you’ll be only minutes from both gates. Naples Ristorante The restaurant features plenty of seating with an indoor portion attached to a visible kitchen, an upstairs area, and a pretty sizable outdoor patio area. Naples outdoor seating area Inside, you’ll find plenty of art and a laid-back vibe that is very welcoming after a long day at the parks. Naples Ristorante Vibrant and contemporary, this restaurant offers plenty of seating but we still recommend making reservations just to be safe. Naples Ristorante The vibes here are more upscale than most restaurants you’ll find in the parks but still laid back enough that almost everyone you see will still be in park attire. Of course, you’ll also get some Neapolitan theming to match the menu. Menu Naples offers southern Italy and Neapolitan cuisine at a moderate price. Naples Menu There are tons of options to choose from breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert menus. The restaurant offers several different pizzas in 10″ and 20″ options. You’ll also find several entrées like prime steak and a solid selection of pastas. Pizza, pasta, and entrées menu Can’t forget the wide variety of cocktails, appetizers like calamari and fried mozzarella, and salads! Naples menu Naples also suggests drink pairings to take your meal to the next level. Drink Menu And, of course, feel free to finish off your meal with a dessert like zeppole or New York-style cheesecake! Dessert menu We tried quite a bit from the menu and we can’t wait to tell you how it all tasted! Drinks For our beverage, we tried the Blue Galaxy for $18. This drink is concocted with Empress, blue curacao, Chambord, pomegranate & lemon juice, and simple syrup. Blue Galaxy Our drink was really smooth and was almost like a subtle Bomb Pop popsicle with its mix of flavors. Not overly sweet, the drink toed the line really well from being too sugary to being just right. The curacao stood out as did the tartness of the pomegranate, but everything came together quite nicely. The black cherry garnishes were also a nice touch and quite tasty. This refreshing cocktail is ideal for a hot Southern California day and looks great year-round. Blue Galaxy We also grabbed some food of course! Eats For our meal, we tried the House-Made Bread, Shrimp Penne Alla Vodka, Pesto Genevese Pizza, and Cheesecake. Naples Spread First up, we tried the House-Made Bread for $7! This starter is plant-based and made with focaccia and arrabbiata dipping sauce. House-Made Bread The bread was nice, fluffy, and surprisingly filling. This a starter that you would need multiple of if dining with a large group, but it probably serves two, maybe three people just fine. Ours had a nice crunch and tasted fresh. The sauce, however, is gonna divide diners. Arrabbiata is generally made with garlic, tomatoes, and dried red chili peppers cooked in olive oil to make a spicy marinara. It’s safe to say the sauce lived up to the billing, as ours had a kick. If you have trouble with spice, don’t lather the bread in the sauce. You could also opt for butter instead. While the sauce won’t be for everyone, the bread itself is pretty good, even if $7 is slightly steep. The sauce has a kick Next, we tried the Shrimp Penne Alla Vodka. This $28 dish is made with shrimp, tomato sauce, Calabrian chili peppers, garlic, and cream. Shrimp Penne Alla Vodka Have you ever ordered a pasta dish that comes with chili peppers and it’s just too hot because the peppers were applied too liberally? We’re happy to say that wasn’t a problem with this pasta dish! The flavor here was top-notch, blending tons of different components seamlessly. The vodka sauce was creamy and delicious while the peppers added a subtle kick that contributed to the flavor instead of overpowering it. The texture of our pasta was also perfect and this was a very satisfying meal. The shrimp is very meaty, which gives you some bang for your buck. Be advised though that you will get that seawater smell and flavors with this dish, so if that’s not your thing, you might want to go with something more veggie or land-based. Also, this plate is just slightly overpriced at nearly $30. Don’t get us wrong, it was tasty and filling but just be warned before you order it. The shrimp are a good size Pizza time! Next up we have the “speciale” Pesto Genevese Pizza! We got the 10″ smaller-sized pie for $25 but the larger 20″ will set you back $42. This vegetarian pizza is topped with pesto, mozzarella, diced tomato, and basil. Pesto Genevese If you’re looking for a light and healthy pizza, this is your guy. The pesto and cheese were real standouts while the arugula provided a nice fresh flavor. The crust had a really great texture as well and we were overall very happy with the taste of this pizza. A healthier pizza option There are a couple of downsides here. The smaller size isn’t really shareable unless you don’t have an appetite or you get several different items. Our pizza also had a slightly burnt undercarriage that charred our fingers. Fortunately, flavor wasn’t affected and this is more of a minor grievance. All in all, howver, flavor is king here and we think this pizza was very delicious. Pizza undercarriage Naples offers different types of seasonal desserts but we tried one of the more constant offerings: the Cheesecake for $13. This cheesecake features New York-style cheesecake with strawberry sauce. Cheesecake This dessert was so good that we devoured it in a matter of seconds! YUM! The cheesecake was rich and creamy, leaving us with no real complaints. The added whip was generously applied and had a great sweet vanilla offset that, when mixed with the strawberry sauce, created an amazing blend. The quality of the dessert matched the quality of our dishes and might’ve even been our favorite item of the day. We recommend giving it a try if you like strawberries and/or cheesecake! Joy in every bite And that’s everything we tried! Obviously, we have some thoughts overall… Overall Naples isn’t the fanciest restaurant you’ll find at the Disneyland resort, nor is it the best, but it remains a solid choice when visiting. If you’re craving good Italian food with good service, this is your spot. ©Disney The prices are a little high and it’s easy to rack up a bill, but if you’re searching for quality dining outside of the parks, this is a very good spot for diners of all ages. Nosh or Not? Head over to Naples Ristorante E Bar if… You want a quality restaurant close to the Disney Parks. Naples is a short walk from both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, making it a good choice if the plan is to settle down immediately after a long day or hop right back over to the theme parks. You want good southern Italian food. We were pleased with the variety of food we ordered here, and the menu offers a little something for everyone so even picky eaters should be able to find something they’d like. You’re looking for good drinks and shareable food. While you won’t save a buck on drinks, the larger pizzas become really good value when shared. The restaurant also features a happy hour with curated food and drink specials every Monday through Friday. Avoid Naples if… You’re on a budget. Pastas setting you back nearly $30 and pizza in the $20 range is a recipe for disaster unless you’ve planned for it. If you’re looking for a much cheaper alternative close by, head on over to Earl of Sandwich! You want something fast and easy. Naples is close to the parks but it isn’t in the park. It’s also a table-service restaurant, so be prepared to spend some time here. If the goal is to grab and go, we recommend dining at one of the many quick-service restaurants in the parks. Next door, you’ll also find Napolini Pizzeria, which serves the restaurant’s “famous wood-fired pizzas, freshly prepared boxed salads, and sandwiches for hearty meals when you’re short on time.” You want a broader menu. Italian food has a wide appeal, but if you’re with super picky eaters, the menu is restricted to one type of cuisine. Because it’s a sit-down restaurant, you can’t bounce between restaurants to get what everyone wants. If that’s something you’d be interested in, you’re better off visiting several different quick-service locations in the parks. Napolini We’ll continue to keep you posted on all things Disneyland, so stay tuned right here at the Disney Food Blog for all the latest news, tips, reviews, and more! I Spent $22 On A Disney Lunch, And It Was 110% Worth It 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 Have you eaten at Naples Ristorante E Bar? Share your review in the comments below! The post REVIEW: We're Revealing Where to Find Disney Italian Food That's ACTUALLY Good first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Some new eats are making their way down the bayou to Tiana’s Palace just in time for the opening of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in Disneyland Park! Tiana’s Palace Disney just announced some new eats and an adorable souvenir straw clip that will be available to celebrate the opening of the rethemed ride on the West coast. In celebration of the opening of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, Tiana’s Palace will be adding THREE new menu items. These food items will be available beginning November 15th, which is the opening day of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Disneyland Park! Tiana’s Palace First up is a new dish, the Catfish Po’boy! This po’boy features southern-style dusted catfish filet with lettuce, tomatoes, and mayonnaise on toasted New Orleans French Bread with remoulade sauce served with red beans, rice, and house-made pickles. ©Disney Next up is another new dish, Jambalaya. The Jambalaya is made with chicken, andouille sausage, heritage rice, and creole sauce. ©Disney As well a new beignet option will be joining the menu on November 15th. The Classic Beignets are two fresh beignets dusted with powdered sugar and honey drizzle. These beignets aren’t sticking around for too long though, they will only be available from November 15th through November 17, while supplies last. ©Disney As well, Disney also highlighted the House-filled Beignet which is strawberry cream filling topped with strawberry glaze. The beignet definitely looks scrumptious, and it is already available at Tiana’s Palace! Currently, you can grab it under the name Strawberry Pie-filled Beignet. As well, you can also get a beignet filled with lemon ice box pie filling. ©Disney In addition to these food options, you can also stop by Tiana’s Palace to pick up an adorable souvenir! Beginning November 15th, the Raymond Firefly Straw Clip will be available for purchase. He is adorable! ©Disney We are excited about these new options arriving soon at Tiana’s Palace and we can’t wait for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure to be open as well! Want to see what else you should try while you are feasting on the new menu items at Tiana’s Palace? We’ve got you covered as we have an entire video dedicated to the best Disneyland snacks in 2024: Stay tuned to DFB for all your Disneyland food news! Check out our FULL review of Tiana’s Palace! 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 Will you be trying any of the new dishes at Tiana’s Palace? Let us know in the comments! The post BREAKING BEIGNET NEWS: Disney Just Announced 3 NEW Menu Items! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

If you’ve been paying attention to Disney news over the past few years, you’ve probably heard the name Reedy Creek Improvement District (RCID). This now-transformed and newly named special district essentially functions as its own government and has done so since 1967, when it was first created. Cinderella Castle The RCID has undergone some significant changes over the years including being renamed to the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District (CFTOD) and falling under the control of Florida’s governor. But, just how did Disney end up creating its own government? In May 1967, the Reedy Creek Improvement Act was signed into law — establishing the area surrounding Disney World as its own governmental authority. This law granted Disney the same authority and responsibility as a county government. And from there, chaos ensued. Nah, not really — not yet anyway. That wouldn’t come until years later, when the act was challenged — but I’ll get to that shortly. Reedy Creek Improvement District When Disney’s “Florida Project” (the name Imagineers called Disney World before it was officially named) was underway, much of Orange and Osceola Counties — where Disney World is located — were underdeveloped and lacked the ability to provide power and water to the property. ©D23 So, Disney worked with the Florida Legislature to create a special district that could govern Its own properties and levy additional taxes on top of what local governments charge, in order to pay for various services on Disney property. Essentially, Disney wanted to ensure that Florida taxpayers wouldn’t have to take on the cost of providing and maintaining essential public services and infrastructure required to build and later operate Disney World. With the Reedy Creek Improvement Act, Disney was able to pay for the water, power, etc. that would normally fall to taxpayers in a normal district or county. ©D23 Not only that, but since Disney World spans two counties, having the Reedy Creek Improvement District allowed a unified governing body to make decisions, which gave legislative flexibility when it came to Disney’s innovative construction techniques and more. A board of supervisors was to be chosen by landowners inside the district, who would in turn make decisions on behalf of Reedy Creek, and thus Disney. Reedy Creek Trash Cans The status of the district has been challenged more than once in the past. In 1968, the Supreme Court of Florida ruled that the law did not violate Florida’s Constitution, and in the 1980s, Orange County officials threatened legal action against Disney over the RCID charter. More recently, in April 2022, the Florida Legislature passed a law to disestablish the RCID that was supposed to take effect in June 2023, with lawmakers and Governor Ron DeSantis arguing that the Orange County government should be in charge. via Twitter After it became unclear what would happen to the $1 billion in bond liabilities the RCID had if the district were dissolved, lawmakers voted to revert most of the changes — but replaced the board with five members appointed by the Governor. Additionally, some of the district’s powers were stripped — such as the ability to construct a nuclear power plant, airport, and stadium — and the name was changed to the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District. ©Central Florida Tourism Oversight Board Livestream While the future of the former Reedy Creek Improvement District seems secure for now, we’ll be keeping an eye out for any potential changes that may come to Disney’s special tax district. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog so you don’t miss the latest Disney news and more! This Is the Hotel Where President Nixon Gave His “I’m Not a Crook” Speech in Disney World Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW When are you visiting Disney World next? Tell us in the comments. The post Wait, How DID Disney World Create Its Own Government? first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

It’s almost time to decorate! ©Home Depot Believe it or not, Thanksgiving is only a few weeks away, and in turn, it’s nearly time to start decorating for the Christmas season for those who celebrate. If you’re looking for some Disney-themed Holiday display options, get on over to Home Depot ASAP. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Mickey as Santa! ©Home Depot Of course, we have to start with the Big Cheese himself: Mickey Mouse. This 4 ft. animated Mickey has three types of motion (head, body, and right arm), and can recite a poem and sing a song. It’s basically like your own Disney animatronic! SHOP HERE Donald the Elf ©Home Depot Donald, likely much to his chagrin, serves as Mickey’s right-hand man… er duck… dressed in an elf-like costume. Like Mickey, Donald comes in at 4 ft. tall. He has 2 movements (head and right arm) and can sing 2 songs. SHOP HERE Ms. Claus Minnie! ©Home Depot The perfect companion piece to Mickey, this Minnie matches him and Donald at 4 ft. tall, features two movements (head and body), and can sing two festive songs. SHOP HERE Darth Vader ©Home Depot If you’re more in the mood for a Holiday from a galaxy far, far away. This 7 ft. tall Darth Vader features three movements (head, arm, and lightsaber), speaks 3 different phrases with sound effects, and features an illuminated chest panel and lightsaber. What makes him Christmas? His candy cane-striped Lightsaber, and Death Star ornament. SHOP HERE Stormtrooper ©Home Depot Pair Darth Vader with this 6ft. Stormtrooper, which features posable arms & animated head, speaks 3 different phrases and wields a candy cane blaster. The figure also comes with an interchangeable Death Star candy bucket for decorative use during Halloween. SHOP HERE Head over to Home Depot NOW if you’re planning to decorate Disney-style for the Holiday season. Stay tuned to DFB for more Holiday offerings! Looking for More Disney Essentials? Head Over to Our Amazon Storefront.The post NO WAY. You Can Have Your Own Disney Animatronic at Home for Just 0 first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Disney Cruise Line is a great vacation option if you’re looking for a way to relax while getting a taste of Disney fun. ©Disney The cruise line offers a variety of sailings and itineraries to various locations around the globe, all complete with Disney characters, creative dining options, fun onboard activities, and Broadway-style entertainment. It’s a blast! But for one group of people, a Disney cruise was recently a REAL lifesaver. According to ABC News, a Disney Cruise Line ship recently rescued four people from a sinking catamaran in Bermuda. The 50-foot boat, called Serenity, was about 230 miles off the coast of Bermuda when it had a gasket failure in the escape hatch. ©Disney The passengers called for help and the Coast Guard issued a broadcast to vessels nearby, alerting the Disney Treasure, which was 80 miles away. The Disney Treasure launched one of its small boats and was able to rescue the Serenity’s four passengers. All four people were safely recovered and no injuries were reported. ©Disney “We are pleased that the Disney Treasure was able to provide aid to the boat passengers in peril. Our crew members worked together on the rescue, skillfully demonstrating their training and commitment to safety,” Disney Treasure Captain Marco Nogara said in a statement to ABC News. At the time of the rescue on Sunday, the Disney Treasure had been traveling from the Netherlands to Port Canaveral, Florida. ©Disney The Treasure’s rescue was even shared by Walt Disney Company CEO Bob Iger on Instagram. He posted a photo of the passengers being pulled from the Serenity. via @robertiger on Instagram The Disney Treasure is taking its maiden voyage in December 2024, so it will be arriving in Florida soon. The ship is designed to celebrate Walt Disney’s love of adventure and features design elements inspired by Africa, Asia, and Aladdin‘s Agrabah. The ship will offer new dining options, new entertainment, and new activities. Concierge Suite ©Disney We’ll make sure to keep you in the loop with any more Disney Treasure news, so stay tuned to DFB for the latest. Click Here to Learn More About the Disney Treasure What You Need to Know About Disney Cruise Line Learn All About Disney Cruise Line and Its Various Ships Explore Disney’s Mega Cruise Ship – The Wish A Full List of What You CAN’T Bring on a Disney Cruise These Are the BEST Times to Book Your Disney Cruise The Best Ways to SAVE SPACE in Your Tiny Cruise Cabin 10 Things You NEED on Your Next Cruise (That You Won’t Think to Pack!) What It’s Like to Live on a Cruise Ship for 6 Months Join the DFB Newsletter To Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox! Click here to Subscribe The post The Disney Treasure Just Rescued 4 People From a Sinking Boat in Bermuda first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We had a BLAST at the first 2024 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party on November 8th! 2024 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party There is lots to do at this annual holiday party in Magic Kingdom! You can enjoy exclusive entertainment, free cookies and hot cocoa, shorter wait times for attractions, and, of course, the famous snoap on Main Street, U.S.A. There are also fun holiday character meet and greets to enjoy, but there’s one we recommend skipping, and the reason why is a SECRET we’re going to share with you! You’ll see characters all around the park during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party! There are several dance parties where you can jam out to your favorite holiday songs with your favorite characters, such as at Club Tinsel in Tomorrowland. Club Tinsel You’ll also find Storybook Circus transformed into Santa’s Christmas Carnival! Here, you’ll see the entire area turned into the North Pole with fun holiday decorations, lots of Christmas cheer, and friends from the North Pole, including Santa Claus! Santa’s Christmas Carnival You might think this is the perfect place to take your kiddos to meet Santa. It’s at the Most Magical Place on Earth, decorated to the nines with holiday spirit. What could be a better place than this to visit the Big Guy?! But trust us, we know of a much better spot at Disney World to share your Christmas wishes with Santa Claus! Santa!! At the party, you’ll likely find that Santa Claus has a very long standby line. He’s a very popular guy at a party themed for Christmas, after all. So, if you want to skip the line and have more time for all the other exclusive things to do at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, we suggest meeting Santa over at Disney Springs! Meet at Santa at Disney Springs! Santa is meeting daily from now until December 24th (after that, he’ll be a bit busy…) from 10AM to 10PM at the Marketplace near Disney Pin Traders in Disney Springs! The meet and greet location is in the area that used to be Star Wars Trading Outpost until it recently closed. ©Disney There is no standby line for this meet-and-greet experience. You’ll log onto the My Disney Experience app to grab a spot in the virtual queue. Once you’ve arrived in Disney Springs, you’ll use the app to enter a virtual queue to meet Santa. You’ll be able to grab a virtual queue spot at multiple times throughout the day: 9AM, 11AM, 1PM, 3PM, and 6PM. You’ll receive a notification when it’s time to get in line. When you arrive, you’ll see signs that say where to enter the line. Visit Santa in the Disney Springs Marketplace Since this meet and greet uses a virtual queue, your wait in the actual line will likely be much shorter than it would be at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, so you’ll save time for other activities at the party instead! And while you’re waiting to be called for your virtual queue, you can get some shopping and dining done around Disney Springs. It’s a win-win scenario! The wait will likely be MUCH shorter here! We want you to have the BEST time at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, so use your time for those exclusive attractions you can’t experience during regular park hours. This includes things like the exclusive holiday stage shows, exclusive fireworks, and hitting the rides with much lower wait times! Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Don’t miss out on all the exclusive holiday offerings happening now at Disney World! For more Disney news, keep following DFB! I Cried at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, and You’ll Never Guess Why DON'T MISS A MOMENT OF HOLIDAY MAGIC Holidays at Disney World: DFB's Merriest Guide is a one-of-a-kind resource that will help you get the most out of your holiday vacation at Walt Disney World. It includes all the must-have information for navigating the holiday season at Disney World, including: The COMPLETE schedule of events for the Holiday Season How to avoid the crowds on Disney World's busiest days (and when Disney World closes their parks due to capacity!) ALL of the events, activities, and holiday additions in Walt Disney World. ALL. OF. THEM. And, of course, we'll tell you where to eat! Save 20% on the Holidays at Disney World: DFB's Merriest Guide with code PEPPERMINT. GET YOUR GUIDE NOW MORE Disney World Holiday INFO! Learn About Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Get the Latest Information About the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays Get All the Details About Disney Jollywood Nights Everything You Need to Know About Disney World Holiday Dining and Events Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the latest holiday news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Are you going to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party this year? Let us know in the comments! The post If This Secret Gets Out, Nobody Will Go To This Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party Perk first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

It was a BIG weekend for Disney fans. Not only was it the opening nights of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and Disney Jollywood Nights at Disney World, but the D23 Brazil expo was also happening all weekend long in São Paulo. ©Disney Disney fans were treated to a weekend full of fun, including some exciting announcements about what is coming soon for Disney fans! We are rounding up the big announcements that were made during D23 Brazil which took place from November 8th through November 10th in São Paulo, Brazil. The event included announcements about parks and experiences, as well as a look at upcoming movies and TV shows. Let’s take a look at what was announced! Parks and Experiences Villains Land Disney also provided a first look at the villains that are inspiring this new land that will be built in Magic Kingdom. ©omelete Pirates of the Caribbean Tavern Disney shared some new concept art for the Pirates of the Caribbean Tavern that will be coming to Magic Kingdom in 2025. ©Disney Disney Starlight Nighttime Parade We got a look at MORE concept art for the new nighttime parade that will be coming to Magic Kingdom. ©Disney Movies and TV Shows Ice Age 6 Ice Age 6 is officially in production! Disney also released a trailer for this new movie. Mufasa Disney released a new trailer for the movie that is coming to theaters on December 20th, 2024. Live-Action Lilo & Stitch We got a new look at Stitch from the live-action Lilo & Stitch movie that will be in theaters on May 23rd, 2025. ©Disney Zootopia 2 It was confirmed that Shakira will be back as Gazelle in Zootopia 2, which will be in theaters in November 2025. Shakira Dream Productions Disney gave the audience a sneak peek at this new series which is an Inside Out spin-off. Dream Productions Win or Lose The D23 audience also got a sneak peek at the new Disney+ series, Win or Lose. ©Pixar Read more about these movie announcements from Disney! Avatar: Fire & Ash Disney released NEW concept art for the upcoming movie. It is expected to be released in theaters on December 19th, 2025. ©Disney Andor Season 2 They announced the release date for season 2 of Andor! We will be able to watch the new season on Disney+ on April 22nd, 2025. ©Disney Daredevil Born Again A sneak peek for Daredevil Born Again was also released for the new television series that will debut on March 4th, 2025. ©Disney Captain America: Brave New World A brand-new trailer was also released for Captain America: Brave New World. The movie is expected to debut in theaters on February 14th, 2025. Thunderbolts The audience was also presented with a special look at the new Thunderbolts movie which will be in theaters on May 2nd, 2025. Fantastic Four: First Steps The audience was introduced to Fantastic Four: First Steps and given a sneak peek of the movie that is expected to be in theaters on July 25th, 2025. ©Disney Marvel Animation Brad Winderbaum presented a reel of upcoming shows from Marvel Animation, including What If..? Season 3 and Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man. ©Disney The Amateur Remi Malek shared more details about this upcoming movie and shared a special look with the audience. This new movie is expected to debut in theaters on April 11th, 2025. ©Disney See more about the announcements for upcoming movies and TV shows! Skeleton Crew A special look was presented to the audience. The first two episodes of the new series will be streaming on Disney+ on December 3rd, 2024. ©Disney The Mandalorian and Grogu A special sneak peek of the upcoming movie was also shared with the audience. This upcoming Stars Wars film will be in theaters on May 22nd, 2026. The Mandalorian and Grogu Toy Story 5 Disney shared a NEW piece of concept art for the upcoming film, Toy Story 5. ©Disney Elio The audience was shown a sneak peek for this new movie that will be in theaters on June 13th, 2025. ©Pixar Moana 2 Fans were also given a sneak peek of the new film and watched a video from Auli’i Cravalho and Dwayne Johnson. ©Disney Percy Jackson Season 2 It was also announced that Andrea Day has been cast as Athena for season 2 of Percy Jackson. ©Disney Light Shop A trailer was shown for a new Korean drama that will be coming to Disney+ in December called Light Shop. There was a lot of upcoming projects covered at the D23 Expo in Brazil, and we can’t wait to see the new movies, TV shows, and enjoy the new park experiences. Make sure to stay tuned to DFB for all your Disney news! See ALL the big announcements about the parks that came out of the D23 Expo in Anaheim this year! 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 announcement are you most excited about? Let us know in the comments! The post Every Single BIG Announcement Disney Made This Weekend first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Disney World has some pretty amazing rides, don’t you think? Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind I mean, you’ve got the classics like Pirates of the Caribbean and Haunted Mansion, the thrill rides like TRON Lightcycle/Run and Tower of Terror, and then everything in between. And for some of those rides like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, you can’t just rock up to the entrance and wait in line. You’ve got to get a Virtual Queue if you want to ride. Thinking about that and the fact that it’s been using the Virtual Queue system since it opened, we were wondering if you thought it was time for a change, so we reached out to you to get your thoughts. Well, we asked and you delivered! We reached out to our followers on Instagram to ask: “We’re thinking about Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and we wanna know…Should Disney get rid of the Virtual Queue?” We had quite a few people leave their opinions in the comments! What do you think? Now, you were divided into one of two camps: “Yes! It really doesn’t need one anymore” and “No! I actually like the Virtual Queue here!” Did you imagine the results would be that close? So let’s dive into your thoughts! Why Some Fans Want the Virtual Queue Gone Let’s face it, Virtual Queue can feel a bit stressful. Imagine you’re getting ready for your Disney World day, your fingers are ready at 7AM, and…you don’t get a spot. Sure you can hoping for another chance at 1PM, but the reality of it is that you might not get to ride that day at all. Virtual Queue For the 48% of you who voted to do away with it, it sounds like your main reasons boil down to flexibility and simplicity. Without the Virtual Queue, you would have the option of hopping in line whenever it suits you. You don’t have to worry about 7AM alarms, or 1PM rechecks. You’d basically have none of that pressure. Instead, you’d have the old-school, stand-in-line system that we all grew up with. You really can’t knock the ease of it. Virtual Queue Plus, some of you feel that Cosmic Rewind has been around long enough, meaning that the initial demand must have cooled down a bit. So maybe it’s time to let it operate like other popular attractions where guests simply wait their turn. Why Other Fans Still Love the Virtual Queue On the other side, we’ve got the 52% of you who actually like the Virtual Queue for Cosmic Rewind. For you, the Virtual Queue is a way to avoid physically waiting in a long line, which frees up your time to enjoy other parts of the park. You’d rather snag a virtual spot and use that waiting period to explore, grab a bite, or even hop on more attractions. Cosmic Rewind There’s also the element of reduced crowding. With the Virtual Queue in place, Cosmic Rewind avoids the kind of massive, snaking lines that we’ve all seen (and dreaded) at some of the other popular rides. For you, the Virtual Queue is Disney’s way of keeping things organized and giving everyone a fair shot at riding without devoting a huge chunk of their day to standing in line. What Does This Mean for 2025? I think the fact that 48% of you want the Virtual Queue gone is pretty significant. Disney has made changes based on guest feedback before, and this nearly 50-50 split might just be enough to get Disney to rethink its approach. Whether Disney sticks with Virtual Queues or leans back toward traditional standby lines, it’s clear that we as fans want our voices heard. So, with 2025 practically on top of us, who know what changes Disney might have in store for us? We’ll have to keep our eyes peeled! Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind Those were just some of your thoughts on if Disney should get rid of the Virtual Queue for Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, and now we want to hear even more from you! Until then, keep it right here for all the latest Disney news! Also, follow us on Instagram to join in on the next discussion. 7 Things Disney Experts Say Are 100% Worth Buying, No Matter the Cost 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 Should Disney get rid of the Virtual Queue for Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind? Let us know in the comments below! The post 48% of Disney World Fans Want to See This HUGE Virtual Queue Change in 2025 first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

As long as Disney’s Animal Kingdom has existed, the savanna has been at the heart of this park and home to over 100 animals, including some pretty majestic savanna royalty – African lions. A symbol of strength, nobility and power, Disney’s lions have always been one of the most iconic stops on Kilimanjaro Safaris. For the last decade, two special lions, Dakari and Kamari, have stood tall atop the highest point of the savanna, creating lasting memories for millions of guests who have visited the park and admired their beauty or heard their mighty roar. It is with heartfelt emotions that we share the news of Dakari and Kamari’s retirement to a conservation haven in Florida accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). As they enter the next phase in their lives, we made this major decision with a continued focus on their wellbeing, happiness and health in mind. Kamari and Dakari have received world-class care from the animal keepers, veterinarians and the entire animal care team for many years and will be greatly missed. Their presence has left a long-lasting and larger-than-life legacy to those who have cared for them over the years. Not only have they created memories for our guests at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, but they also helped bring stories to life on the big screen. In 2019, Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures released a live action version of “The Lion King.” Years in the making, the ability to create photo-real animals was no easy feat. Luckily, Dakari and Kamari leaped into place and served as inspiration. Crews visited the savanna to watch and film them. This footage was woven together to create 3D models that could be used to create the animals featured in the film. This ensured the most realistic retelling of the beloved story. As we prepare to say farewell and send them off with well wishes for their retirement, we will always remember them as ambassadors for African lions around the world. Their time on the savanna has allowed for our cast members to tell endless stories of how to protect their wild counterparts and contribute to the conservation of this majestic species. Shortly after Dakari and Kamari settle into their new home, we will welcome a group of young lions including one male and two females. Our animal care team is eager to welcome these new lions and work diligently to make them feel comfortable in their new home. During the first few weeks after their arrival, the pride will spend time backstage, getting acclimated to our keepers and their new space. It won’t be necessary to make introductions because these three lions are already littermates, brother and sisters. We hope that sibling dynamic will shine through as guests make their way to them on Kilimanjaro Safaris. We look forward to sharing details of their arrival and when guests can visit them soon. For the latest updates on the new arrivals and all the animals at Walt Disney World Resort, follow Dr. Mark on Instagram and Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment Facebook page. The post Disney’s Iconic Lions: A Legacy Worth Celebrating appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

Disney World is so much more than just its theme parks! Magic Kingdom There is so much to see, do, and experience around the hotels you’d need to plan an entire trip just to get through it all. But, exploring some Disney World hotels isn’t quite as easy — or cheap — as it is to visit others. Three Disney World hotels operate a bit differently than the rest — and that’s true when it comes to parking, too. The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resorts, and the new Swan Reserve Hotel, are owned by Marriott and because of that — staying there is a bit different than at an official Disney World hotel. Luckily, though, you get lots of the same perks as Disney’s Deluxe Resorts at Moderate Resort pricing, which is just one of the reasons why we love this hotel so much! Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin But, unlike Disney World owned-and-operated hotels, where parking is free, you’ll have to pay to park at the Swan and Dolphin hotels — even if you’re not staying overnight and are just there to visit for the day. The Swan Reserve Here’s a look at the pricing for parking at the Swan and Dolphin hotels: Non-registered guests: $36 self-parking per exit / $44 valet per exit Registered guests: $36 self-parking plus tax per day / $44 valet plus tax per day A non-registered guest is someone who is visiting the hotels to use the facilities — like go to dinner — while a registered guest is someone staying at the hotel overnight. Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Keep in mind that you can walk to the Swan and Dolphin from EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and other EPCOT resort area hotels like the BoardWalk Inn, and Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club hotels if you want to check out all this resort has to offer without having to worry about parking fees. Or, you can always opt to use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. The Swan and Dolphin also have a free shuttle that takes hotel guests to and from Disney World parks, plus water taxis to EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and the BoardWalk. This is a benefit provided for hotel guests staying at the Swan and Dolphin! Swan and Dolphin Hotel walkway to parks A BIG update was recently announced for the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin, and the Swan Reserve. The 3-hotel complex will be getting new convention center space, technological updates, and newly renovated rooms! The room renovations are scheduled to be completed by the end of 2024, so you might get lucky with a brand-new room if you’re planning a stay for 2025 or the future. ©Marriott We love the vibes of the Disney World Swan, Dolphin, and Swan Reserve hotels and can’t wait to officially check out the brand new renovations once they’re finally open! In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest updates on Disney World hotels and more. SEE INSIDE the Newly Renovated Rooms at This Popular Disney World Hotel Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Have you stayed at the Swan and Dolphin? Tell us in the comments. The post 3 Disney World Hotels Cracking Down on Parking first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article