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We may have just started Halloween celebrations at the Disney Parks, but that doesn’t mean we aren’t looking ahead to the holiday season! Castle of Magical Dreams at Hong Kong Disneyland With Christmas on the brain, we were excited to hear that a brand-new Christmas celebration is coming to the World of Frozen at Hong Kong Disneyland! From November 15th, 2024 through January 1st, 2025, Hong Kong Disneyland is getting into the festive spirit with its A Disney Christmas, a holiday celebration taking over the park, including the World of Frozen! ©Disney For the first time in forever — literally — Christmas is coming to Hong Kong Disneyland’s World of Frozen and will give guests the opportunity to celebrate the holidays with special festive décor and meet-and-greets with Anna and Elsa in Arendelle. ©Disney Disney released some concept art for the event that features plenty of decorations including garland and Christmas trees that are sure to get you into the festive spirit. The event will also include “A Holiday Wish-Come-True” Tree Lighting Ceremony on its Main Street, U.S.A., a Mickey and Friends Christmastime Ball, special character meet-and-greets, and much more! World of Frozen in Hong Kong Disneyland Hong Kong Disneyland isn’t the only Disney Park getting in on the holiday fun! The Disneyland Resort is hosting the Festival of Holidays, Disneyland Paris is having multiple experiences such as its “Mickey’s Dazzling Christmas Parade”, and Disney World will feature Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and Disney Jollywood Nights. These theme park resorts will also boast tons of decorations and fun little events throughout their celebrations. Christmas Tree in Magic Kingdom Similarly, the Disney Cruise Line is bringing back its Very Merrytime Cruises to honor the season. ©Disney We’re so excited to see how Hong Kong Disneyland’s festivities turn out! In the meantime, stay tuned right here at the Disney Food Blog for all the latest Disney holiday news, tips, and more! ALL the SOLD-OUT Dates for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party in 2024 Travel Updates, Tips, and Tricks Complete Guide to Booking the CHEAPEST Flight to Disney World What to Do if Your Flight to Disney World Is Canceled Our Best Tips For Flying Through the Orlando International Airport Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get to Disney World From the Orlando Airport You’re SLEEPING on These Packing Hacks Air Travel Tips That’ll Change Your Life 8 Catastrophic Travel Mistakes and How to Solve Them The Airline with the MOST Flight Delays and Cancellations This Small Change Will Save You From Lost Luggage The Best Disney Luggage for 2023 21 Things a Former Flight Attendant Needs You To Know 7 Highest-Rated Travel Items on Amazon Join the DFB Newsletter to Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox! Click Here to Subscribe Do you plan on visiting Hong Kong Disneyland to check out this new Christmas celebration? Let us know in the comments! The post SNEAK PEEK at Disney's World of Frozen Holiday Celebrations first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Are you ready to seize your Destiny? (Okay, yes, that was lame because this is a post about the Disney Destiny, but we had to go there). ©Disney The newest ship in Disney Cruise Line’s fleet will be ready to set sail in November 2025, and we’re getting really excited learning more about it. The ship’s theme is all about heroes and villains, which means it will feature some of Disney’s most iconic heroic and villainous characters in its theming and characters. But did you know that you can also get married on this ship? Well, you can! Disney Fairy Tale Wedding has revealed that you can have a wedding aboard the Disney Destiny. The venue? The Grand Hall will be the ceremony location for weddings and vow renewals. Disney has already revealed the the Grand Hall will be inspired by Wakanda and feature King T’Challa, the Black Panther, as its signature sculpture. The Grand Hall also features a gorgeous chandelier and grand staircase — yep, it’s PERFECT for a wedding. ©Disney Weddings and vow renewals in the Destiny Grand Hall accommodate up to 40 guests and start at $5,000. The ceremony includes an on-site ceremony coordinator, choice of fresh floral arrangements for the couple, an officiant, a solo pianist, a cake and champagne celebration onboard the ship, a complimentary meal for the couple at Palo, steaming services for the couple’s wedding outfits, and more. Palo on the Disney Wish Although the Destiny sets off on its maiden voyage on November 20th, 2025, weddings and vow renewal services won’t be available on the ship until January 22nd, 2026. Note that you will need to have booked your cruise before adding on the Disney wedding package. Once that package is added to your cruise, though, you’ll be connected with a Disney wedding planner. Disney Destiny Stateroom ©DisneyCruiseLine The Disney Destiny will offer 4 and 5-night itineraries to the Bahamas and the Western Caribbean with bookings available as of September 6th. The ship will also feature rotational dining including the first ever Lion King-inspired dining experience, Worlds of Marvel, and 1923. You’ll also find a Pirates of the Caribbean lounge, the Haunted Mansion Parlor, De Vil’s Piano Lounge, and more. Learn more about the Destiny here. Stay tuned to DFB for more. FULL LIST of Fall 2025 and Spring 2026 Disney Destiny Cruise Itineraries! 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 cruising with the Disney Destiny? Let us know in the comments! The post WEDDINGS Are Coming to Disney's NEW Destiny Cruise Ship first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Whether you’re heading to Disney World or staying right at home, we Disney lovers enjoy adding touches of Disney to our outfits! Magic Kingdom It’s fun to toss a bit of Disney magic into our outfits. When we’re at home it helps us show off our love of the movies, parks, and entertainment, and while we’re in the parks, it’s a MUST to add Disney flair! That’s why we’re sure you’re going to love these Disney products — some that we designed and some we found on Amazon. Add these accessories and you’ll have cute, subtle reminders of all things Disney! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Over at the DFB Store, you’ll find all kinds of cute Disney accessories! Check out some of our favorites below. Grab a New Disney Phone Case Haunted Mansion Phone Case We have TONS of phone case designs at the DFB Store! If you love the Haunted Mansion, Cinderella Castle, Disney snacks, and more, you’re sure to find the perfect new phone case for you. Check out all of our phone case designs here! Get It Here! Get Yourself a New Disney Hat Disney World Snacks hat Hats are great for in the parks to help keep that Florida sun out of your eyes. They’re also great accessories to throw on while out and about at home. Pick up one of our several hat designs to show off your Disney style! Get It Here! Grab the New Tick Tock Croc Tote Bag Tick Tock Croc Tote Bag We have a new collection featuring the Tick Tock Croc from Peter Pan and it’s adorable! You can toss your everyday necessities, a good book, or a snack in this fun Tick Tock Crock tote bag. Get It Here! Grab a New Pair of Mickey Earrings ©Amazon We spotted these cute Mickey earrings over on Amazon! We love that they’ll add a beautiful, subtle Disney flair to any outfit. They’re gorgeous and will be a good go-to hoop earring. Get It Here! Grab a Cute Disney Watch Band AppleWatch Bands While you’re adding a new phone case, grab these fun Disney Apple Watch bands! The Disney World parks and snacks are featured on them which is so cute. Plus, we love the subdued colors so they’ll be a great addition to practically every outfit! Get It Here! Grab an Adorable Disney Hair Scrunchie ©Amazon We love a subtle Disney hair accessory! This Kitsch scrunchie with Mickey rhinestones is simply darling, and something we’ll wear every day. Get It Here! Add a Beautiful Mickey Bracelet ©Amazon Finally, complete your outfit with a charming Mickey bracelet! It’s sterling silver and so pretty. It’s sure to go with all your favorite outfits or as an everyday bracelet. Get It Here! If you’re looking for more Disney souvenirs, keep following DFB! Don’t miss out on more Disney souvenirs on our Amazon storefront!The post 7 Disney-Inspired Accessories To Elevate Your Outfit first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Have you used Disney World’s NEW Lightning Lane system yet? Lightning Lane Back in July 2024, Disney World changed up its Lightning Lane offerings, ditching the old ways of Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lanes and swapping over to Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Lightning Lane Single Pass instead. The system has made some major changes to how and when you book your Lightning Lanes, but one of the biggest benefits is that you can now check prices for Lightning Lane Multi Pass in advance! Back when Genie+ was the skip-the-line offering in Disney World, you had to wait until midnight on the day of your visit to find out how much it would cost for the day. However, now Disney releases prices for Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Lightning Lane Single Pass weeks in advance — this way, you can start budgeting ahead of your trip. Disney & Pixar Short Film Festival Currently, Disney has revealed pricing for most of September 2024. So we’ve rounded up the full list of prices for you to start planning! Here’s what’s listed on the My Disney Experience app currently for Lightning Lane Multi Pass: Friday, September 6th — $23 for Magic Kingdom, $17 for EPCOT, $21 for Hollywood Studios, and $15 for Animal Kingdom Saturday, September 7th — $25 for Magic Kingdom, $18 for EPCOT, $22 for Hollywood Studios, and $16 for Animal Kingdom Sunday, September 8th — $25 for Magic Kingdom, $18 for EPCOT, $22 for Hollywood Studios, and $16 for Animal Kingdom Monday, September 9th — $25 for Magic Kingdom, $18 for EPCOT, $22 for Hollywood Studios, and $16 for Animal Kingdom Tuesday, September 10th — $23 for Magic Kingdom, $17 for EPCOT, $21 for Hollywood Studios, and $15 for Animal Kingdom Wednesday, September 11th — $25 for Magic Kingdom, $18 for EPCOT, $22 for Hollywood Studios, and $16 for Animal Kingdom Thursday, September 12th — $25 for Magic Kingdom, $18 for EPCOT, $22 for Hollywood Studios, and $16 for Animal Kingdom Friday, September 13th — $27 for Magic Kingdom, $19 for EPCOT, $24 for Hollywood Studios, and $17 for Animal Kingdom Saturday, September 14th — $27 for Magic Kingdom, $19 for EPCOT, $24 for Hollywood Studios, and $17 for Animal Kingdom Sunday, September 15th — $23 for Magic Kingdom, $17 for EPCOT, $21 for Hollywood Studios, and $15 for Animal Kingdom Monday, September 16th — $27 for Magic Kingdom, $19 for EPCOT, $24 for Hollywood Studios, and $17 for Animal Kingdom Tuesday, September 17th — $25 for Magic Kingdom, $18 for EPCOT, $22 for Hollywood Studios, and $16 for Animal Kingdom Wednesday, September 18th — $27 for Magic Kingdom, $19 for EPCOT, $24 for Hollywood Studios, and $17 for Animal Kingdom Thursday, September 19th — $27 for Magic Kingdom, $19 for EPCOT, $24 for Hollywood Studios, and $17 for Animal Kingdom Friday, September 20th — $25 for Magic Kingdom, $18 for EPCOT, $22 for Hollywood Studios, and $16 for Animal Kingdom Saturday, September 21st — $27 for Magic Kingdom, $19 for EPCOT, $24 for Hollywood Studios, and $17 for Animal Kingdom Sunday, September 22nd — $25 for Magic Kingdom, $18 for EPCOT, $22 for Hollywood Studios, and $16 for Animal Kingdom Monday, September 23rd — $27 for Magic Kingdom, $19 for EPCOT, $24 for Hollywood Studios, and $17 for Animal Kingdom Tuesday, September 24th — $27 for Magic Kingdom, $19 for EPCOT, $24 for Hollywood Studios, and $17 for Animal Kingdom Wednesday, September 25th — $27 for Magic Kingdom, $19 for EPCOT, $24 for Hollywood Studios, and $17 for Animal Kingdom Thursday, September 26th — $27 for Magic Kingdom, $19 for EPCOT, $24 for Hollywood Studios, and $17 for Animal Kingdom ©Disney Keep in mind that these prices are per person, per day. You can purchase Lightning Lane Multi Pass and make your selections 7 days in advance of your vacation if you’re staying at a Disney World Resort. If you’re staying off-site, you can purchase and make your selections 3 days in advance of your visit. Lightning Lane For Lightning Lane Single Pass, you pay PER RIDE for Lightning Lane access. Prices vary by ride and by date, but you can also view these prices a few weeks in advance through the My Disney Experience app. For the currently-posted available dates in September, Lightning Lane Single Pass for Seven Dwarfs Mine Train in Magic Kingdom ranges between $10-$12 per person, per day. The cheapest days are September 6th, 10th, and 15th, while the more expensive days are September 8th, 13th, 14th, 16th, 18th, and 19th. Seven Dwarfs Mine Train During the same timeframe, Lightning Lane Single Pass for TRON Lightcycle / Run in Magic Kingdom is listed as costing $20 per person, per day. This price hasn’t changed at all throughout the month of September so far. TRON Lightning Lane Lightning Lane Single Pass for Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind in EPCOT ranges between $14-$17 per person, per day, during the period where prices are currently available. The cheapest days are September 6th, 10th, and 15th, while the most expensive days are September 8th, 13th, 14th, 16th, 18th, and 19th. Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind For Rise of the Resistance in Hollywood Studios, the Lightning Lane Single Pass price ranges from $20-$25 per person, per day. The cheapest days are September 6th, 10th, and 15th, and the most expensive days are September 8th, 13th, 14th, 16th, 18th, and 19th. Rise of the Resistance entrance Last but not least we have Avatar Flight of Passage, whose Lightning Lane Single Pass cost varies from $13-$16 per person, per day. For this ride, the cheapest dates are also September 6th, 10th, and 15th, and the most expensive days are September 8th, 13th, 14th, 16th, 18th, and 19th. Flight of Passage entrance So there you have it — all the Lightning Lane prices currently available for September 2024! If you’re planning a trip this month, stay tuned to DFB for more Lightning Lane updates and all the tips you need to know. Click Here to Learn More About Lightning Lane Multi Pass! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Do you use Lightning Lane when you go to Disney World? Tell us in the comments! The post September Prices CONFIRMED for Disney World's Lightning Lane System first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We talk about Disney souvenirs a lot on here, and we know that can feel a little overwhelming sometimes. Merchandise in CommuniCore Hall But we love to keep up with all the latest merchandise news (because we can’t help ourselves and buy more than we care to admit) and share all that news with you, but we’ll be honest — there are TWO Disney souvenirs that we use time and time again that we HAD to tell you about. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. The Best Coffee Cups For Every Morning JoyJolt Cups By far, our favorite cups to drink our morning coffee, or really any drink out of, are the JoyJolt Disney Mickey Mouse 3D Coffee Cups! Both of these are 10 oz cups that are double walled, so you can pick your drink up by the side without burning your hand. JoyJolt Mickey Cups We genuinely can’t tell you how happy just seeing a Mickey head silhouette in the morning immediately brightens our day. We use them ALL the time, and recommend them to all the Disney fans we know! Don’t miss them! Welcome Guests To Your Home in Style! All the different Mickeys It doesn’t matter what season or holiday it is, the Interchangeable Seasonal Welcome Door Sign is ready to welcome guests into your house, or welcome you home, in a way that will bring a smile to your face. It just comes with so many OPTIONS, we adore that we can make it match any and all occasions with just a quick swap. The sign hanging on the door We also love that the interchangeable part of the sign is relatively small, so it’s easier to keep the ones you’re not using easily stored away in a drawer for easy access. It’s something so simple, but it really does remind us of the Disney parks magic, no matter how far away we are from Florida or California. Check it out! Be sure to stay tuned to DFB for all our latest Disney merchandise finds! Check out our Amazon storefront for more of our favorite Disney essentials! What’s your favorite piece of Disney merchandise you own? Tell us in the comments! The post 2 Disney Souvenirs You'll Legitimately Use Every. Single. Day. (And They're Online!) first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

One of our favorite Disney World souvenirs just showed up someplace NEW. Animal Kingdom Headwear has long been an essential part of Disney theme parks. From the earliest Mickey Ears to the litany of detailed ear and hat options that are available today. Recently, we stumbled across one of Disney’s most CREATIVE headwear options at a new spot. On our most recent trip to Animal Kingdom, we discovered that Disney’s popular Create Your Own Headband option — which had previously been available at Disney Springs among other locations — had come to the Riverside Depot store at Animal Kingdom. Create Your Own Headbands! To create your own headband, you’ll first select a headband base, then pick from a litany of small character plushes to attach to it. Each headband can hold a total of four characters. It’s pretty simple Options available at the Animal Kingdom location include Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, Chip & Dale, Willie the Pooh, Tigger, Stitch, Lotso, Buzz Lightyear, and a Little Green Man alien. The character lineup In addition, there are seasonally appropriate options including Jack Skellington, Sally, and Zero from Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas. This is Halloween! We really dig these headbands, as they offer a way to creatively combine characters from different Disney and Pixar universes into one piece of merchandise. Zero Disney’s Create Your Own Headband option has expanded into Animal, as this merchandise option continues to grow in popularity. Stay tuned to DFB for further updates on Disney’s souvenir offerings. We’ve Been Going to the EPCOT Food & Wine Festival for 15 Years. Here’s What We Buy EVERY. SINGLE. TIME. Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What do you think of the Create Your Own Headband options? What other characters would you like to see? Let us know in the comments below. The post A POPULAR Disney Souvenir Has Made Its Way to a NEW Park! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

If you’re holding off an exploration to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, you’ll want to know when the new land is opening. Pueblo Esperanza Model Themed to the Tropical Americas, this expansion is officially named Pueblo Esperanza. You may want to visit sooner than later if you’d like to get a last ride on Dinosaur. Disney announced DinoLand, U.S.A. will become Pueblo Esperanza, and the land will highlight the Tropical Americas through the stories of Encanto and Indiana Jones. “You’ll Still Have a Chance To Experience Dinosaur One More Time” Disney Shares HUGE Update on the Fate of DinoLand, U.S.A. Expansion Details Pueblo Esperanza will become home to two signature attractions — an Encanto ride featuring the Madrigal family and a new Indiana Jones adventure ride! The new Tropical Americas land coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom lets guests explore a preserved Maya temple – and the ensuing adventure – alongside Indiana Jones. ©Disney The new land will feature classic Spanish-style architecture with a large hacienda that will also serve as one of the largest quick-service restaurants at Disney World. ALERT: A BRAND-NEW ‘Indiana Jones’ Ride Is Coming to Disney World! Pueblo Esperanza will feature an all-new Encanto-themed ride with the family Madrigal inside the enchanted Casita. ©Disney The boat ride will begin just as Antonio has received his special gift and his room becomes a beautiful rainforest. Take a detailed look at the concept art HERE Timeline For now, we know that Pueblo Esperanza is coming to Walt Disney World’s Animal Kingdom park in 2027. Pueblo Esperanza ©Disney We learned that an Indiana Jones ride is poised to take over DINOSAUR, while an Encanto attraction will also be part of this new land. We had seen some initial permits filed a while back, but now it looks like things are really kicking into gear! DinoLand, U.S.A. It’s probably an intentional move on Disney’s part to keep these permits as vague as possible so they don’t reveal too much information about what’s going on here. We do know that Buena Vista Construction Company is listed as the contractor on all three permits — which is a construction company that Disney itself owns and operates from Disney World property. @Disney The addresses listed on the permits match up with three separate buildings in an area that is currently backstage at Dinoland — so we’re not sure if these permits are related to new construction or are instead potentially related to preparing the area for construction just yet. The fact that the expiration dates on the permits are the standard one year likely means that more will be on the way soon. Map of planned construction areas Based on the model of the Tropical Americas land we saw at D23, it does look like the Encanto ride will have a large show building, so it’s possible that Disney might need to revamp some of the backstage space into usable space for the ride. Ultimately, though, these permits are an exciting sign that means this retheme is gaining some actual momentum. Puebla Esperanza model The land, which Disney announced will officially be named Pueblo Esperanza, is slated to open in 2027 and will highlight the Tropical Americas through the stories of Encanto and Indiana Jones. Pueblo Esperanza will become home to two signature attractions — an Encanto ride featuring the Madrigal family and a new Indiana Jones adventure ride! Pueblo Esperanza Model The new land will feature classic Spanish-style architecture with a large hacienda that will also serve as one of the largest quick-service restaurants at Disney World. The rich and lush color and biodiversity of the Tropical Rainforest will be on full display and at the center of Pueblo Esperanza will be a large fountain where stories will be told by gathering villagers. We can’t wait! Learn ALL about Tropical Americas right here! More Tropical Americas News! When Is Disney’s New Animal Kingdom Land Opening?Disney World Files 3 NEW Permits for Transformation of DinoLand, U.S.A. to Tropical AmericasWhy We’re Worried About 2 NEW Disney World AttractionsNEWS! Close-Up Look At NEW Encanto Ride Announced for Disney World!Nobody’s Talking About This NEW Disney World Ride, but They SHOULD Be! Be sure to stay tuned to DFB — we’ll keep you updated on all the latest Dinoland U.S.A. retheme news! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What do you think of this expansion? Tell us in the comments! The post When Is Disney's New Animal Kingdom Land Opening? first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

It’s no secret that we have our favorite Disney World snacks here at DFB. We still love those Corn Dog Nuggets (even if they have been renamed) at Casey’s Corner in Magic Kingdom. We will NEVER not tell you how amazing the Carrot Cake Cookie is at Trolley Car Cafe in Hollywood Studios. We always pick up some Zebra Domes from Animal Kingdom Lodge when we’re there. Well, now a favorite EPCOT snack has returned and we have been joyously reunited with it! If not, well, we have created a copycat recipe that could fulfill that Gingerbread Salted Caramel Buttercream Cookie Sandwich urge when it strikes: check that out here. If you have a chance to get the real thing, though, we HIGHLY recommend it. Stay tuned to DFB for more. REVIEW: Should Disney RETIRE These Old Snacks? Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Have you ever tried this cookie sandwich before? What did you think about it? Let us know in the comments! The post BREAKING SNACK NEWS: One of Our FAVORITES Has Returned to EPCOT! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

History at the “Most Magical Place on Earth.” Magic Kingdom American history has been part of Disney’s theme parks pretty much since the beginning, as Walt Disney found several ways to bring references to the country’s history into Disneyland. However, not even Walt could imagine that a history-changing moment would actually take place at a resort in Disney World. Walt Disney had idolized President Abraham Lincoln since he was a child, and held great general respect for the office of the President of the United States. He long wanted to bring the history of the office to life in his park, and plans for the attraction that would become the Hall of Presidents were put into motion as early as 1956. They would eventually morph into the Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln show, which debuted at the 1964 World’s Fair and was then moved to Disneyland. When Disney World opened half a decade later, the Hall of Presidents was an opening-day attraction and stood in tribute to Walt, who had passed away in 1966. However, less than two years later, Disney’s fabricated take on U.S. history would be overshadowed by a real event. Hall of Presidents By 1973, President Richard Nixon’s second presidential term was unraveling. Despite having won reelection in a landslide the previous year, Nixon’s popularity and approval ratings had plummeted in light of his involvement in the Watergate scandal. ©Getty Images In November of 1973, the President made an appearance at the annual convention of the Associated Press Managing Editors Association, which was taking place at the then-new Contemporary Resort at Disney World. The resort, with its massive convention space and ultra-modern (hence the name) design, had been built by Disney to bring in these types of massive events. Disney’s Contemporary Resort During an hour-long television address from the resort, Nixon (in response to a question about his taxes) delivered one of the most famous lines ever uttered by an American leader: “I’ve earned every cent. And in all of my years of public life, I have never obstructed justice… People have got to know whether or not their President is a crook. Well, I’m not a crook. I’ve earned everything I’ve got.” The “I am not a crook” speech has gone on to become iconic, especially following Nixon’s resignation from the presidency in 1974. Washington Post However, many people don’t know that this history-changing, era-defining, arguably legacy-destroying speech was delivered at Disney World. Stay tuned to DFB for more dives into Disney World history. 50 Amazing Things You Never Knew Were in Disney World Hotels 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 Did you know that Nixon’s famous speech was delivered at the Contemporary? Let us know in the comments below. The post This Is the Hotel Where President Nixon Gave His "I'm Not a Crook" Speech in Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Calling all “Cars” fans! Today, 9/5, we’re celebrating everyone’s favorite #95 racer on this honorary Lightning McQueen Day – led by the racer who loves going faster than fast! Get ready to switch gears as we celebrate with these amazing “Cars” must-haves: The Track Talkers Lightning McQueen Talking Toy Car says iconic phrases from “Cars,” recognizable to fans of all ages, such as Lightning McQueen’s famous line: “KA-CHOW!” Little ones will also love the Global Racers Cup Jumping Raceway Playset. This kid-powered, crisscrossed track with a cranking booster and jumping stunt comes with two vehicle racers including Lightning McQueen and Francesco Bernoulli. The recently debuted, newly designed Walmart exclusive NASCAR Die-Cast Vehicles from Mattel are inspired by Lightning McQueen, as well as real NASCAR drivers! Race them on any surface, or on Mattel’s NASCAR Lane Change Race Playset. The 2.5-foot track set is designed to look like the Los Angeles Raceway, which fans will recognize from the first “Cars” film. This kid-powered track playset allows racers to launch the vehicles across the track to try to take the lead and win the Piston Cup! It also includes two racers: Lightning McQueen and Carstin “Ace” Dillon, named after NASCAR driver Austin Dillon. Adult and kid “Cars” fans alike can sport their favorite movie with raceway-inspired apparel from BoxLunch! This Lightning McQueen T-Shirt for adults shows off #95, highlighting his Piston Cup wins and memorable Rust-eze sponsorship. The littlest racers will be ready to hop into the driver’s seat with the adorable Cars Racing Suit for infants, featuring embroidered and printed designs inspired by the movie. As a bonus, it’s September, which means it’s A Pixar Celebration! All month long, we’ll celebrate this JOY-ous occasion and spotlight Pixar’s characters and films, including this summer’s blockbuster hit, “Inside Out 2,” and, ahead of its 30th anniversary next year, “Toy Story.” A personal favorite of mine, the “Toy Story” films tell the stories of some of Pixar’s most beloved characters. Fans can bring home a classic Roundup Fun Woody Action Figure and Action-Chop Buzz Lightyear – just like Andy’s! Both action figures, from Mattel, say more than 30 phrases from the “Toy Story” films, and Buzz has an impressive karate-style chopping action activated by the button on his back. Support your favorite Pixar eatery with this Toy Story Hat from Concept One, featuring the iconic Pizza Planet logo! It’s the perfect accessory to show off your “Toy Story” fandom! We’re still feeling all the emotions from the recent release of “Inside Out 2” – and the next few products are sure to bring you so much joy! The LEGO Disney Inside Out 2 Mood Cubes from the LEGO Group help kids learn to express their emotions in a fun way. It features two cubes for decorating, with changeable mood plates, and LEGO Disney mini-doll figures of Joy and Anxiety. Speaking of Anxiety, the Shaking with Anxiety Feature Plush from Just Play will help fans work through all the feels. Start your day in a refreshing way with the One of a Kind 3-Step Barrier Boost Routine skincare set from Bubble Skincare. Including a gel cleanser, hydration boosting serum, and cream moisturizer, this three-step skincare kit leaves your skin—and your mood!—feeling balanced and calm. Now, it’s time to celebrate! You can shop these fan-favorite Pixar products and more at major retailers including Amazon, Target, and Walmart. The post Start Your Engines – And Shop Your Favorite Products for Lightning McQueen Day appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

A beloved program is returning. Southwest plane It’s been a year of transition at Southwest Airlines. The successful U.S. carrier has announced changes are coming to its long-established seating policy and also began heavily enforcing its carry-on rules, including what can be classified as a personal item. However, amid all these changes, at least one well-liked perk from Southwest’s past is returning once again. In September 2024, Southwest announced that their popular and “highly coveted” Companion Pass offering is returning for a limited time. The Companion Pass functions as a benefit for Southwest’s Rapid Rewards Members, as it allows them to “designate one person to fly with them for free every time the Member purchases or redeems points for a flight.” To qualify for the Companion Pass, Rapid Rewards Members have to follow these steps: Register for the promotion and purchase a qualifying Southwest flight (one round trip or two one-way qualifying flights) through 11:59 p.m. CT on Sept. 5th, 2024. Travel by Nov. 20th, 2024. Designate a Companion to fly for free with them between Jan. 6th and March 6th, 2025. Mickey & Minnie Are Ready to Fly — Are You? According to Southwest, “We love offering this Companion Pass promotion because it allows our Members to experience one of the many benefits of our award-winning Rapid Rewards program. Earlier this year, we launched Cash + Points, giving our Customers extra flexibility to make their points go further. And now, for the first time, Members can use their Rapid Rewards points, a combination of cash and points, or other eligible forms of payment to book qualifying flights that count toward this Companion Pass promotion.” Flying Southwest also offered companion passes earlier this year as a part of a promotion linked to the 5th anniversary of the carrier’s service between the mainland continental United States and Hawaii. ©Southwest Southwest Airlines is once again offering their popular Companion Pass for Rapid Rewards Members, but Time is short to take advantage of the offer! Stay tuned to DFB for further travel industry news. The Hardest Part of Being an Olympic Pole Vaulter Is the Airport?! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Have you ever used a Southwest Companion Pass? Let us know in the comment below. The post 🚨 Southwest Airlines Announces Return of FREE Ticket Deal 🚨 first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Sure, it’s Halloween, but we’re already looking forward to the holidays in Disney World. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2023 The holidays are SO magical in the parks, and there is so much to enjoy, including fun holiday merchandise, the EPCOT Festival of the Holidays, and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. So, speaking of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, we need to let you know that reservations have officially opened for the party’s fireworks dessert party. Yes, it’s time to book those dining packages ASAP! That’s right — you can now make your reservations for the Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Dessert Parties. There are two versions of the dessert parties you can choose from, but with both, you get a dessert buffet, as well as a reserved viewing area for the party’s exclusive fireworks. The dessert parties happen during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, which is held on select nights in November and December in Magic Kingdom. Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks If you choose to view the fireworks from the Tomorrowland Terrace (which is also where the dessert party takes place), the price varies by date, starting at $111.73 for adults and $70.42 for children ages 3 to 9. Your other option is to attend the dessert party at Tomorrowland Terrace and then view the fireworks from the Plaza Garden viewing area (in front of the castle) starting at $92.95 for Adults, and $55.39 for Children ages 3 to 9, depending on the date. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Holiday Fireworks dessert party The festive dessert buffet includes holiday-themed sweets like cupcakes, chocolate-dipped strawberries, chocolate mousse, ice cream, fruits and cheese, and specialty beverages (including wine for those 21 and up). Then depending on the dessert package you chose, you can either view the fireworks from Tomorrowland Terrace or from the Plaza Garden viewing area. Both are great viewing areas with their pros and cons, so you’ll have to decide which is best for you and your group. Set-Up for the Holiday Fireworks Dessert Party in 2018 If you’re looking to book an advance dining reservation at a table service restaurant during the party, you will be able to book those as of 2PM on September 5th. If you don’t mind taking some valuable time away from the party, you can book those reservations for the following restaurants: Be Our Guest Restaurant, Cinderella’s Royal Table, and The Plaza Restaurant. Be Our Guest We usually don’t recommend booking dining reservations during the party as your time is already limited and there is so much to do, and sitting at a table service restaurant takes up time. However, if you do need a break during the party, having a meal at these restaurants that often are hard to get reservations for during regular park hours could work for you. Stay tuned to DFB for more. CONFIRMED: Everything Returning to the 2024 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party in Magic Kingdom 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! Will you be going to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party this year? Let us know in the comments! The post ALERT! You Can Now Book a Fireworks Dessert Party For Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

If you didn’t realize it, the Disney hype train it real! D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event If you remember (as if any of us could forget), just last month during the D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, Disney dropped all kinds of major park news like new lands coming to Disney World, new nighttime entertainment, new rides, new shows, and that doesn’t even cover all of it! So, as you can imagine, ever since Disney shared all this news, search traffic has nearly tripled! Let’s talk about what’s got everyone frantically Googling and why fans are equal parts thrilled and freaked out. For those who might’ve missed it, Disney pulled out all the stops at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event on August 10th. During the Horizons: Disney Experiences Showcase, they dropped a bombshell that sent the Disney community into a frenzy — a brand new Monsters, Inc. Land is coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios! (Cue the collective squeals of joy from Monsters, Inc. fans everywhere.) Monsters Inc. Land Concept Art ©Disney We’ve all been waiting for more from our favorite Monster team, and Disney is finally delivering, but that’s not all. This isn’t going to be just any old themed land. We’ll get to roam around the city and even visit the plant that is in charge of collecting all of our screams…we mean laughs. The story will pick up after the events of the popular film and the land is set to have an attraction and by the looks of it, some dining options as well. The Monsters, Inc. plant is set to feature the first-ever suspended roller coaster in a Disney park! Yep, you heard that right. A roller coaster that’s basically gonna have you soaring, with our feet dangling, throughout the plant with Sulley and Mike. Are you freaking out? Because we’ve been freaking out ever since it was announced. And we have some HIGH expectations since we’ve been dreaming of an attraction like this since 2001. You can even ride on a door like Mike and Sully in the iconic scene from the film with Disney’s first-ever suspended coaster. ©Disney We also got to see a 3-D model of this new ride during the D23 event. This model shows how we’ll be inside the factory and whipping and twisting through the area holding all the doors to the human world. Monsters, Inc. roller coaster So, as we were saying, since the D23 announcement, the search traffic for Monsters, Inc. Land has skyrocketed, nearly tripling in just this short time. Everyone is desperate for more info on what land will look like, how intense the new roller coaster is going to be, and, of course, what’s happening to the Muppets? Wait…what about the Muppets? There have been rumors that Monsters, Inc. Land might be replacing the Muppets Courtyard, and fans have not been taking it well. Now, first off, Disney has not confirmed where this new Monsters, Inc. land will go in the parks, however the concept art suspiciously matches this area. We know to take concept art with a grain of salt, but it’s hard to deny that it looks like it will be right in the middle of Muppets Courtyard. Muppet Courtyard in Hollywood Studios Now, the Muppets have been a staple at Hollywood Studios for years and Muppet*Vision 3D is one of those classic attractions that holds a special place in our hearts. The thought of it disappearing to make room for the new Monsters, Inc. Land has people feeling seriously conflicted. On one hand, we’re all pumped for the new land. On the other, losing the Muppets? That’s a tough pill to swallow. Muppet*Vision 3D The bottom line is that Disney knows how to keep us on the edge of our seats, and the anticipation for Monsters, Inc. Land is through the roof. Whether you’re counting down the days until you can ride that suspended coaster or holding your breath to learn more about the future of the Muppets, one thing’s for sure, we’re keeping our eyes and ears wide open for all the latest news. Construction is set to begin in 2026, so we should have more details on what exactly is coming to the land and where it will go SOON. In the meantime, keep following DFB for all the updates! We Found a BIG Clue About a NEW Restaurant Coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you excited for this new roller coaster? Let us know in the comments! The post Search Traffic for Monsters, Inc. Land Has Nearly TRIPLED Since Disney's Big News Drop first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Halloween is in full swing both in the Disney parks and in our personal houses and apartments, because we just can’t help ourselves. It’s time to buy Halloween stuff! While we’ve seen a lot of great Disney Halloween merchandise this year already, there’s ONE souvenir that’s been iconic for years, and that’s the Light Up Mickey Jack-O-Lantern. Most of us have seen it advertised, or more likely, seen how it’s sold out like lightning in recent years. We have great news though — if you don’t have a lot of room for decorations in your space, there’s a MINI pumpkin that was just released online! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. We’re Not Kidding, A Mini Pumpkin is Available RIGHT NOW! ©Disney Now is your chance to buy the ADORABLE Mini Mickey Mouse Glow Pumpkin! This is the same design we’ve seen on the other sizes, but just in a handheld version. ©Disney But it gets better! There’s also a Mini Minnie Mouse Glow Pumpkin available too! What’s better than one mini pumpkin? That’s right — TWO! Buy the Mini Mickey Pumpkin here! Get the Mini Minnie Pumpkin too! ©Disney Grab the Mini Minnie Pumpkin here! The Medium is Still Available Too! ©Disney If you’re looking for something a little bit bigger, the Mickey Mouse Light-Up Jack-o’-Lantern is also still available online! You’ll want to grab it ASAP if you’re interested though, because we have a feeling they’re going to sell out fast! Buy it now! Want to see the entire Halloween collection Disney has available right now? Check it out below! Check out the whole collection! We’re always keeping you updated with the latest Disney Halloween merchandise news, so be sure to stay tuned to DFB! Check out our Amazon Storefront for more of our favorite Disney essentials! What’s your favorite part about Halloween in Disney? Tell us in the comments! The post GO! Disney's New Mini Mickey and Minnie Pumpkins Just Released Online first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

It is hurricane season, and we are constantly keeping an eye on severe weather that could affect your Disney World vacation. Magic Kingdom during Hurricane Debby Right now, the National Hurricane Center is tracking not one, not two, but FIVE areas of interest in the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. That’s right, there are five disturbances that the National Hurricane Center is keeping an eye on. However, before anyone panics, ALL of the current disturbances have a LOW chance of development in the next seven days. ©NHC Of course, a low chance of development does not mean a zero chance, and weather is constantly developing, but right now there is not a high chance of a severe storm developing. All of the disturbances have a 30% or less chance of developing in the next seven days. ©WESH 2 News The Atlantic hurricane season lasts from June 1st through November 30th. This year, the NOAA National Weather Service predicted above-normal hurricane activity, so we have been expecting an active hurricane season. We will continue to keep an eye on these disturbances and provide you with updates! Rain on Main Street The good news is that even if you find yourself with a Disney World vacation planned during hurricane season, Disney World is well equipped to deal with the severe weather. You will want to take extra precautions if you are visiting during hurricane season including packing lots of rain gear. Rain during Hurricane Debby It is also important to manage your expectations of Disney World during a hurricane. While Disney World has earned a great reputation of being a safe place to be, the parks and resorts will look a bit different during an emergency. Magic Kingdom during Hurricane Idalia Attractions and restaurants may be closed, and some programming may be limited. Depending on the severity of the storm, the parks may close or have a delayed opening. However, Disney World will still make sure you are well taken care of! Hurricane Nicole in Disney’s Hollywood Studios If you want to learn even more about traveling to Disney World during hurricane season, make sure to check out our video all about surviving hurricane season at Disney World: We will continue to monitor the weather reports as we continue through hurricane season. Stay tuned to DFB for more updates on severe weather that could impact your Disney World vacation. Read more about planning a trip to Disney World during hurricane season! STORM UPDATES A Step-by-Step Guide to Hurricane Cancelation Policies and Refunds in Disney World How to Handle the Worst-Case Scenario During Hurricane Season at Disney World The BEST Hurricane-Ready Hotels in Disney World 6 Items You Need For a Hurricane in Disney World Join the DFB Newsletter to Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox! Click Here to Subscribe Have you been to Disney World during a hurricane? Let us know about your experience in the comments! The post NEWS: National Hurricane Center Tracking FIVE Potential Storms first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Just when you thought you had the PERFECT Disney World budget all laid out for you — WHAM — Disney throws you a curveball. Grand Floridian Resort We’re here to REVEAL all the hidden costs surrounding your upcoming hotel stay — and how YOU can prevent them from throwing off your carefully collected vacation funds. Check out our video below: The Hidden Cost of Staying at a Disney World Hotel  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 How do you like to spend your vacation at Disney World? Let us know in the comments! The post DFB Video: The Hidden Cost of Staying at a Disney World Hotel first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Y’all, everything is changing SO FAST in Disney World. We’ve even already seen quite a few changes this year, from the opening of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure to the reopening of a newly re-themed Country Bear Jamboree. Magic Kingdom But Disney World is JUST getting started with changes because many more are coming! Magic Kingdom is getting both a Villains-themed land and a Cars-themed land. Hollywood Studios is getting a Monsters, Inc. land and a villains-themed show (we’re loving all this villains love, by the way). A ride in Magic Kingdom will be changing soon, too, so if you have plans to ride TRON Lightcycle / Run on your next trip, you’ll need to mark September 9th in your Disney World calendar. Since Tron Lightcycle / Run opened in 2023, you’ve been able to ride one of two ways. The first way is by purchasing a Lightning Lane Single Pass (previously known as Individual Lightning Lane). The second was by trying to get a FREE spot in the ride’s virtual queue. However, that’s about to change. Tron virtual queue sign Disney recently announced that the Tron virtual queue will be going away as of September 9th. It will be replaced with a standard standby line instead. That means on that date and after, you’ll have to either get in the ride’s standby line or purchase the Lightning Lane Single Pass for it to ride. TRON Lightcycle / Run This means if you’re visiting on September 8th or BEFORE, you’ll still want to use the My Disney Experience app to grab that virtual queue spot or purchase the Lightning Lane Single Pass. After September 9th, though, virtual queue will no longer be available and you’ll have to go stand in the standby line of purchase Single Pass to get in the shorter Lightning Lane. TRON Lightcycle / Run This could mean that the standby line will be pretty long on September 9th and after, so getting that Lightning Lane Single Pass could be your best option if you don’t want to wait in line for a long time. However, it could also mean that Lightning Lane Single Pass could become a VERY popular option for the ride, so you’ll want to grab it as early as you can (and remember you can pre-book those passes BEFORE your trip either seven days in advance if you’re staying at a Disney World hotel or three days if you’re not). TRON Lightcycle / Run So you’ll want to keep that in mind if you’re visiting Magic Kingdom on or after September 9th. Stay tuned to DFB for more. I Hate To Say It, But I’m Pretty Sure This Is the WORST Snack at 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 What do you think of this change? Let us know in the comments! The post Why September 9th Is a HUGE Day in Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Will you be heading to the 2024 EPCOT Food & Wine Festival? 2024 Food and Wine Festival As you know, the festival has officially begun, and there is quite a lot eat, drink, and buy. You’ll find plenty of food booths, merch, and even concerts you have to watch! But even though there’s all of that, there’s still an uncomfortable problem and we need to chat about it! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. As we were saying, the EPCOT Food and Wine Festival has an “uncomfortable” problem, so let’s talk about it! The Table Dilemma Okay, first up, we talk about the general lack of tables? Seriously, the lack has most of us feeling like we’re expected to enjoy our treats just standing up or sitting on the curb like a college student eating takeout? 2024 Booth We’ve seen people plenty of people balancing their plates on top of trash cans, which, while creative, is not exactly the “magical” experience we’re all hoping for. Festival Booth At the end of the day, the Food & Wine Festival could use a lot more tables and places to actually sit and savor the food. We shouldn’t be doing a balancing act. There is one item that we tend to bring to the festivals to combat that — food trays! Oh, yeah. We’re talking trays like you used to use at your school cafeteria. Get a Tray! These trays make it easier to carry your food while you are on the hunt for a table. They also just make it easier if you aren’t able to find a table at all! GET YOUR TRAYS HERE! The Bee Situation Now, we’re all for saving the bees as they’re vital to our ecosystem, but when they’re swarming around our drinks and desserts, it’s a problem. Pão de Queijo: Brazilian cheese bread At the same time, all those the sweet-smelling cocktails and sugary treats are basically an open invitation for these buzzing pests. But, in the end, constantly shooing bees away doesn’t exactly scream “relaxing day at EPCOT.” We have literally seen booths have to CLOSE during the festival due to swarms of bees. If you see a booth that’s unexpectedly closed, this might be why. Just circle back later and hopefully the bees will have moved on and allowed the booth to reopen. And, we literally had a bee land in our drink this year and we accidentally drank it… So remember to check your drink before ya sip! The CommuniCore Disappointment Next, we’ve got to talk about the CommuniCore situation. You remember how not that long ago, we were all hyped about the renovations and updates? Well, all that excitement kind of fizzled out once we realized it wasn’t going to be the awesome hub we expected it to be. Merchandise in CommuniCore Hall Instead of a cool, revitalized space, it feels like they just slapped something together to fill the gap, and for a park that prides itself on innovation, this was, understandably, a bit of a letdown. CommuniCore Hall As the Food and Wine Festival keeps expanding, it’s kind of a bummer that this area isn’t living up to its potential as a festival hotspot. Hopefully Disney will take the feedback and will continue to improve and add more to this space at the next few festivals. Since it is just an empty and open space, the potential for additions and change is still there! It’s SO HOT for Heavy Food Now, let’s talk about the weather. I know we’re in Florida, and I’m used to the heat (for the most part), but some of these food options are just too heavy for this climate. Moroccan-spiced Lamb Do I really want a rich, cheesy soup when it’s 90 degrees and I’m already sweating bullets? My head says, YES. My body says, not really. Beer-braised Beef served with smoked gouda mashed potatoes I find myself craving lighter, refreshing options, but they’re often overshadowed by the heartier dishes. It’s a bit like the menu didn’t get the memo that this festival starts during the hottest part of the year. The heavier foods make a bit more sense now that the festival is starting later but we still think a few more lighter options would be welcome Food and Wine additions. The Rainy Day Problem Now, if the heat wasn’t enough, we’ve got the rain to deal with too. Most of the booths are outdoors with little to no cover. Rain So if it starts pouring, you’re either huddling under a single umbrella with your soggy food or you’re making a mad dash for the nearest pavilion. Rain This all begs the question, “Why start a festival during Florida’s rainy season if there’s no plan to keep everyone dry?” We’d love to see Disney provide a solution for this in the near future. Just a few more umbrellas or some covered areas to eat would be simple and welcome additions around the World Showcase. Hangry at EPCOT Lastly, you might find yourself in the struggle of choosing festival food over a table service restaurant. Fry Basket booth We’ve heard from more than a few people who decided to skip sit-down meals to try everything the festival had to offer, only to end up hangry and frustrated after waiting in long lines. 2024 India Booth By the time they got their food, they were so over it that they just went to Connections Café to grab something quick, which wasn’t exactly the foodie adventure they had in mind. Timing is everything at the festival. If you are trying to avoid crowds, we suggest hitting up the festival during lunch time on a weekday. Evenings and weekends tend to be busier! Connections Eatery Trying to plan the PERFECT trip to the 2024 EPCOT Food & Wine Festival? We’ll be keeping you updated on all of the latest. Click our links below for the information you need to know: Learn about the Eat to the Beat Concert Series and Dining Packages Check out ALL of the 2024 Food & Wine Booth Menus One HUGE Change Is Coming to the 2024 EPCOT Food & Wine Festival! Click here to see FULL reviews of EVERY. SINGLE. BOOTH. at the Food & Wine Festival! And don’t forget to pick up our 2024 EPCOT Food & Wine Festival e-book! See more details about the book below. IT'S WINE & DINE TIME! Food & Wine Festival can be a bummer. You stand in line waiting for what looks like the perfect treat, and it's a bust. But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE EPCOT Food & Wine Festival experience. If you're planning a day or a week at the festival, we've got every performance, activity, and tasty nosh detailed out so you can make the most of your time and money. Listen, it's a tough job eating and documenting the nearly 200 bites and sips, but we do it all for YOU! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Learn More About the EPCOT Food and Wine Festival! Food and Wine Festival 101 Eat to the Beat Concert Updates EPCOT Food and Wine Festival - Fans Facebook Page Wine and Dine Half Marathon Details Get More Updates, Tips, and Tricks to Help You Conquer the Food & Wine Festival Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! What “problems” have you come across with the Food and Wine Festival? Tell us in the comments! The post We NEED To Chat About This Uncomfortable EPCOT Food and Wine Festival Problem first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Let’s raise the roof! Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue, a beloved Disney tradition and one of America’s longest-running dinner shows, is celebrating its official 50th anniversary at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. For 50 years, the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue has captivated audiences with its perfect blend of timeless entertainment, delicious food and genuine joy. Lively performances fill the air with laughter, music, and a sense of community, where the show’s signature dishes—crispy fried chicken and BBQ smoked ribs—are as beloved as the comedy. The servers, culinary team, and leadership cast work in tandem with the performers to create a truly immersive experience, where singing, dancing, and guest interactions come together to make lasting memories for everyone involved. Join us as we take a trip down memory lane, sharing favorite memories from the cast members who bring Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue to life. Behind the Curtain: Performers Share Their Most Magical Hoop-Dee-Doo Moments Jamil, who plays Johnny Ringo and also performs as Jim Handy, reflects on the spontaneous nature of Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue and how it keeps the show exciting. “One of my favorite parts of the show is Clementine,” Jamil says. “As soon as that song starts, everyone in the room—both on stage and in the audience—knows that anything can happen. The energy in those moments is electric because it’s all about reacting to each other, both as performers and with the audience.” Jamil loves that the show breaks the fourth wall, bringing the audience into the experience in a way that feels fresh every night. “The ability to live that level of excitement and connection is what makes Hoop-Dee-Doo so special.” Kristina, who has played Claire de Lune since 2013, shares a deeply personal and inspiring story about her journey as both a performer and a mother. While expecting her daughter, Kristina continued to bring joy to audiences, performing on stage with the same energy and dedication that she always had. A few years later, Kristina had the opportunity to share with her daughter this very important piece of her life. “I finally got the chance to bring my daughter to see what I do, and even brought her up on stage,” she shares. Kristina’s daughter, who had once been a part of the show in her own unique way, now had the chance to see her mother perform in person. “I got to tell her, ‘You’ve been on stage before because you were in mommy’s belly, and I was cartwheeling and kicking and doing lifts.'” This full-circle moment is one of Kristina’s most cherished memories. Food & Beverage Cast Share Their Hoop-Dee-Doo Journey The magic of Hoop-Dee-Doo isn’t just on the stage—it’s found in the dining experience, thanks to the dedicated food & beverage cast who have been part of the show’s 50-year history. For Gloria, a server that has been with the show for 43 of her 45 years at Disney, Hoop-Dee-Doo has become a second home. “The people I work with are like family,” she says, reflecting on the camaraderie that has kept her at Hoop-Dee-Doo for so long. From serving iconic public figures to welcoming back multi-generational families who return year after year, her connection with guests is what makes the experience truly special. Mark, who has been part of the show for 47 years, has witnessed countless generations of families return, often bringing with them stories of their first Hoop-Dee-Doo experience. “It’s amazing when guests come in with pictures from 30 or 40 years ago and say, ‘You waited on us back then!’ It really shows the lasting impact of this show.” The Music Behind the Magic Randy, one of the show’s piano players, has been with Walt Disney World since its opening day on October 1, 1971! Before Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue was even conceived, he played music at Pioneer Hall, entertaining guests while they dined. Reflecting on his long tenure, Randy believes that the unpredictability of the show is what keeps it fresh for him and the audience. “The interaction with the guests is what makes Hoop-Dee-Doo unique,” he shares. “No two shows are exactly the same because you never know how the audience will react.” Hoop-Dee-Doo cast members attend a cast-exclusive performance on September 3, 2024 The Heartbeat of Disney Entertainment As Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue celebrates its 50th anniversary, it’s clear that the show’s legacy is not just in its longevity, but in the countless memories it has created for guests and cast members alike. From the laughter shared around a table to the dreams realized on stage, Hoop-Dee-Doo is a testament to the magic that happens when music, food and joy come together in perfect harmony. It’s a legacy that will continue to resonate for generations to come. Fun Facts about Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue The post Celebrating 50 Years of Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

DirecTV customers are at the center of a streaming dispute between DirecTV and The Walt Disney Company, who owns networks like Hulu, ESPN, Disney, and ABC. On Sunday, September 1st, customers could not stream live sports broadcasts, including the U.S. Open tennis tournament and college football. Disney+ In fact, Disney’s ESPN, ABC, and Hulu stations and services went dark for DirecTV customers on Sunday when Disney pulled its networks from DirecTV due to a contract dispute. Customers are not happy, and we have an update. DirecTV has a large subscriber base; this popular satellite TV provider has 11.3 million customers, according to CBS News. Customers were impacted when Disney and DirecTV’s agreement expired before a new deal could be made, causing Disney-owned channels to blackout. According to DirecTV’s estimations, a typical subscriber is paying about $270 a year for Disney’s channels since Disney increased its provider fees. ©DirecTV This isn’t the first time The Walt Disney Company has fought with a cable provider. In 2023, Disney was involved in a contract battle with Charter Communications, again leaving TV subscribers without access to Disney-owned networks while the companies negotiated. But this time, DirecTV’s dispute with Disney could continue for some time. CBS News reported that DirecTV chief financial officer Ray Carpenter explained, “This is not a run-of-the-mill dispute.” Walt Disney Company Headquarters ©LA Times At this time, it seems like the two companies are unable to reach an agreement. Ron Thun, chief content officer at DirecTV, released a statement, noting, “The Walt Disney Co. is once again refusing any accountability to consumers, distribution partners, and now the American judicial system. Disney is in the business of creating alternate realities, but this is the real world where we believe you earn your way and must answer for your own actions. They want to continue to chase maximum profits and dominant control at the expense of consumers – making it harder for them to select the shows and sports they want at a reasonable price.” DirecTV’s CFO Ray Carpenter further stated that Disney is pushing back on “creating slimmed-down channel bundles that could provide some savings to DirecTV consumers,” per CBS News. The Walt Disney Company Disney responded with a statement of its own, explaining that the company has extended “flexibility and terms” to DirecTV like it has for other distributors. Disney added that it “will not enter into an agreement that undervalues our portfolio of television channels and programs” and urged DirecTV “To do what’s in the best interest of their customers and finalize a deal that would immediately restore our programming.” ©Disney For now, DirecTV is offering customers a $20 credit due to the blackout. You can visit https://www.directv.com/tvpromise/ to redeem the credit. This is an ongoing dispute, and we will continue to share updates. Stay tuned for more. Millions of Subscribers Lose Access to Networks as Disney and DirecTV Negotiations Fall Through Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW The post DirecTV Blames Disney for Ongoing Streaming Blackout – Says Company Is “Refusing Any Accountability.” first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We were NOT prepared to see this today. Haunted Mansion Haunted Mansion fans, we have to admit there have been some really cool merchandise items to grab in the past that make your home feel like its part of the mansion, but these new souvenirs take things to the NEXT level. Trust us, grab your wallets now to be prepared! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Diffuse Your Favorite Scents in a SPOOKY Way! ©Disney If you’re looking for a new way to make your house smell good or to calm yourself down after a stressful day, The Haunted Mansion Diffuser is FOR YOU! It looks just like one of the iconic decorative gargoyles from the ride, meaning it’s the perfect way to make your house feel like you’re right back in the parks. Check it out here! Take The Spooky Vibes With You! ©Disney And if you’re looking to take those spooky vibes with you on the go wherever and whenever, grab the Haunted Mansion Stainless Steel Water Bottle! Not only does the bottle have the wallpaper pattern subtly detailed on the sides of the bottom, but the lid is your favorite gargoyle friend. Grab it here! We’re always keeping an eye out for the latest Disney merchandise, so stay tuned to DFB! Check out our Amazon Storefront for more Disney souvenirs we love and essentials we take with us on every trip!The post If You Only Buy ONE New Haunted Mansion Souvenir This Year, Make It THIS first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Okay, it’s what you’ve been waiting for: the day when Aldi drops its weekly ad for what’s coming to stores the following week. ALDI Next week is going to be bringing some Disney essentials (and at Aldi’s prices, you’ll want to grab those), as well as some fun Disney souvenirs, so you’ll want to make sure you hit up your local Aldi from September 11th through September 17th. Yes, it’s time for your next Aldi shopping trip (but really, we’ll go to Aldi ANY TIME WE GET THE CHANCE). DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. We just have to drop this info. in case you don’t know about it — did you know you could sign up for a FREE trial of Amazon Prime? Click on the banner below to get that free trial! Raingear ©Aldi Okay, we are ALWAYS telling you how you need to stock up on raingear before you visit Disney World because random Florida storms are a THING. You can pick up a raincoat for less than $15, an umbrella for less than $10, and Chelsea rain boots (which are SO Popular now) for less than $10. Get the Spider-Man Color and Activity Set ©Aldi This one is for the kids. Aldi has some fun color and activity sets and one is all about Spider-Man. You can even make wearable masks with the set. Fun! It comes with an art pad, crayons, markers, stickers, a paintbrush, paints, and more. Puzzle Books ©Aldi These toddler puzzle books are for kids that encourage deeper engagement with characters they already know like Stitch, Lightning McQueen, the Disney Princesses, and more. Each comes with a padded board and five puzzle pieces. Zak Water Bottles ©Aldi It’s important to stay hydrated if you’re visiting Disney Parks, and what better way to do it than with a fun water bottle that features your favorite characters? You’ll find some at Aldi next week, including water bottles Disney Princesses, Bluey, Spider-Man, and more. Get the Bubble Umbrella Okay, so not everyone has an Aldi nearby or can’t get to one next week, but don’t worry — we found some similar things on Amazon, including this umbrella. This clear umbrella is perfect for a lot of occasions and if you prefer an umbrella over a raincoat or poncho, this one can’t be beat. Buy on Amazon Buy the Chelsea Rain Boots ©Amazon You can get those Chelsea Rain Boots online at Amazon, too. These rain boots are not just waterproof, but also lightweight and stylish. They’re also comfortable and even have a removable EVA foam insole with lots of room in the toe area, so they could be great for your Disney World trip. Buy on Amazon Get the Disney Princess Imagine Ink Activity Book Set ©Amazon Disney Princess fans will love this activity book set that comes with a game book and invisible pen, a mini no-mess coloring book, and a water surprise coloring book. Yep, these allow for mess-free coloring with a magic invisible ink pen that won’t mark other surfaces. BRILLIANT! Buy on Amazon Buy the Zak Designs Disney Water Bottle ©Amazon You can get Zak Designs water bottles on Amazon, too. There are also plenty to choose from, including water bottles featuring Frozen, Cars, Marvel, Minnie Mouse, Spider-Man, Toy Story, and more. Buy on Amazon Happy shopping! Be sure to visit our Amazon Storefront for more Disney souvenirs and essentials. And stay tuned to DFB for more. Visit our Amazon StorefrontThe post NEW Disney Essentials are Coming To ALDI Next Week! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Have you ever visited Disney World’s epicenter of crime?! The town in question. Yep, we’re talking about the tiny train town in the Germany Pavilion at EPCOT, where the villagers run amuck and tomfoolery is on the daily schedule. As the town’s self-appointed mayor, I stop by weekly to check out the shenanigans, and this week you won’t believe what I caught going on! First of all, I have to give you a very exciting update that PROVES once and for all that I actually do my job as the town’s mayor. The trains have returned! I had previously put a halt to train service in the village due to a dastardly plot formed by the railroad workers. Well, thanks to some careful investigation, we have caught the perpetrators, hired new rail staff, and started the trains back up again! Hopefully this will put an end to all the unfortunate derailings we were seeing earlier this summer. The trains have returned! In another effort to ensure the safety of our townspeople, I have hired security guards to be stationed on the watchtower and prevent any further delinquency in the form of vandalism. We’ve had a serious problem with people removing the safety railings, so the guards are here to keep that from happening. Unfortunately, they couldn’t convince Little Suzie to go home…so she’s up there to keep an eye out as well, I guess. Security guards Of course, I also have to share an update on the jug band DRAMA! If you recall, this band had previously “disposed” of two of its members due to some senseless feuds. Now, just days later, they’ve already replaced one of their own. Talk about betrayal! Jug Band DRAMA And last but not least, I have to share one of my favorite updates! Our town is all decked out to celebrate the 2024 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival. Should we get some tiny food booths to match? I would love that! It’s festival time! That’s a wrap on this week’s visit to the tiny train town. We’ll keep you in the loop with all the news, so stay tuned to DFB! * The anarchy within is mostly created by natural occurrences, like giant squirrels, wind, rain, and relatively godzilla-sized lizards who frequent the town; but we find it fun and entertaining to make up fictional stories about what COULD be happening. We are grateful to the folks who create and maintain this Tiny Train Town for Disney World, as it’s one of our favorite parts of EPCOT and always has been. Click Here to Check Out Other Tiny Train Town Misadventures! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Have you ever been to the tiny train town? Tell us in the comments! The post There’s a Plot of BETRAYAL Afoot in EPCOT’s Tiny Train Town first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

It’s time to start thinking about the holidays! The Holidays at Disney World! Christmas might not be for a few more months, but it’s never too early to start preparing. Buying all your gifts for family and friends can be a BIG job, so getting an early start on it can be time-saving. One thing that we like to get early is an Advent calendar for our kiddos. If you grab an Advent calendar in advance, you’ll be ready right on December 1st for the first day of counting down til Christmas. We just spotted a new Advent calendar on Amazon that we think Disney kids everywhere will love! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Remember, you can get free, fast shipping with an Amazon Prime membership, so sign up for a FREE trial below! Grab the New Disney Munchlings Advent Calendar ©Amazon There’s a NEW Munchlings Advent calendar on Amazon, and we can’t get over how cute they are! You’ll get 24 Munchling toys, one every day until Christmas. ©Amazon These little toys aren’t only cute and adorable, though, they’re also SCENTED! You’ll get 1-inch tall toys that smell like cinnamon, chocolate, strawberry, and more. Plus, they also change color in water! You’ll get the figures along with tongs, icing bags, and plates to play with. It’s a cute little set of Munchling fun! Get It Here! We’re starting to find more holiday items popping up as we get into fall, so keep following DFB for more Disney gift ideas! Don’t miss out on more Disney souvenirs on our Amazon storefront!The post A NEW Disney Advent Calendar Is Online Now first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Celebrities are just like us: they love Disney, too, especially Disney World. Disney Springs Celebrities are visiting Disney World ALL the time and we’ve recently seen Terry Crews riding Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind in EPCOT (he actually APPEARS in the ride), although Jordan Fisher recently took a ride with the Guardians of the Galaxy, too. Olivia Rodrigo also recently took a trip to Disney World during a tour stop for her Guts World Tour. Even Oscar winner Charlize Theron had to make a trip to The Most Magical Place on Earth. Well, now two MORE celebrities are coming to Disney World — and you have a chance to meet them! Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul from Breaking Bad are coming to Disney Springs. The two will be promoting their Dos Hombres mezcal brand at Frontera Cocina in an event called Savor the Spirit. They’ll be teaming up with Frontera Cocina chef Rick Bayless, and you are invited to join them! Also, just how cool is it that these two formed a real friendship AND a mezcal company and are still hanging out even after their show ended way back in 2013? ©Frontera Cocina These two are no strangers to Disney World, though. They have previously visited La Cava del Tequila in EPCOT, too! They even helped create a special Breaking Bad cocktail there, the Crystal Inferno (yes, we tried it). Crystal Inferno However, if you want to join in on the experience, which happens on September 29th, you will need to book those reservations ASAP because spots are limited and they will go fast (like who DOESN’T want to meet these two?). You can make reservations here. The price is $150 per person, and although there isn’t a list of what this experience includes, we can imagine it will be SPECIAL. Frontera Cocina It’s also bound to be a lot of fun, since you get to meet celebrity chef Rick Bayless, too! Three celebrities in one place, y’all! Stay tuned to DFB for more. This is My Favorite Thing to Eat at Disney Springs and Too Many People Don’t Even Know it’s There 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 grabbing reservations for this event? Let us know in the comments! The post It's Official. You Can Meet These 2 Celebrities in Disney World SOON first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article