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If you’re heading to Disney World for vacation, you may only be spending one day in each park. Spaceship Earth at EPCOT While some people get the chance to stay longer and visit each park multiple times, many tourists aren’t getting that hefty of a schedule. And that can be a particular challenge when you’ve got a special limited-time event happening in the parks that you want to check out! So what happens when you go to EPCOT with only ONE day to conquer the International Food & Wine Festival? The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival is the park’s biggest festival of the year. With dozens of food booths including eats from around the world, special activities, unique merchandise, and exclusive entertainment, it would take DAYS to do everything if you’re just one person (or even a family of people). Food & Wine Festival So how on earth do you know what to prioritize? How do you know which food items are worth your time and which ones you should skip? Well, we’ve got good news! Here at DFB, we go to the first day of the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival every single year, and we do all the research so you don’t have to! Hawaii Booth Full Spread We review every single food booth each year with photos and detailed taste notes so you know what to expect from the food items. We cover all the merchandise, entertainment, and activities so that you know where to find those must-have souvenirs and how to fill your time during the day. We even keep tabs on the crowds at the festival so that you know the best days and times to visit! Brew-Wing Full Spread And then when we gather all that information, what do we do? We put it in our handy-dandy Food & Wine Festival DFB Guidebook! That book is complete with maps, menus, pictures, and even game plans so that you can get the MOST out of the festival. You’ll be able to use our guide to carefully budget and plan your day so that you don’t miss out on any of the important offerings. If you’d like to snag this awesome guide, it’s available for pre-order on our DFB Store now! After the first day of the festival, it’ll be officially published with all the information we gather so that you can have the most successful festival trip possible. It’s an incredible all-in-one resource, and you can access it digitally right on your phone! 2023 EPCOT Food & Wine Festival And if you want to SAVE, then you can snag the DFB Food & Wine Bundle! It comes with our acclaimed DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining AND our guide to Food & Wine Festival. That way, you’re prepared for not just your EPCOT day but your entire trip! Stay tuned to DFB for more updates on the Food & Wine Festival! We’ve got you covered with the latest! Click Here to Shop the DFB Bundle Online! IT'S WINE & DINE TIME! Food & Wine Festival can be a bummer. You stand in line waiting for what looks like the perfect treat, and it's a bust. But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE EPCOT Food & Wine Festival experience. If you're planning a day or a week at the festival, we've got every performance, activity, and tasty nosh detailed out so you can make the most of your time and money. Listen, it's a tough job eating and documenting the nearly 200 bites and sips, but we do it all for YOU! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Learn More About the EPCOT Food and Wine Festival! Food and Wine Festival 101 Eat to the Beat Concert Updates EPCOT Food and Wine Festival - Fans Facebook Page Wine and Dine Half Marathon Details Get More Updates, Tips, and Tricks to Help You Conquer the Food & Wine Festival Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Are you going to the festival this year? Tell us in the comments! The post You Have ONE DAY To Conquer the EPCOT Food & Wine Festival, and You Shall Prevail! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We’ve had some pricey meals in Disney World — because, hey, Disney food is our JOB! Japan Pavilion in EPCOT We once spent $300 on a sushi boat in EPCOT, and we have ZERO regrets. We’ve also dined at Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, which is the FANCIEST restaurant in all of Disney World. Again, that was a case of YOLO. We’ve done the tasting menu at Monsieur Paul at EPCOT, and it honestly blew our minds. Well, we recently revisited another EPCOT favorite, Takumi-Tei, and this one set us back about $250, and it was worth every penny. Takumi-Tei recently announced that it would undergo a “significant transformation” with all the restaurant’s courses being redesigned. So of course, we needed to check the restaurant out to make sure it still met all our expectations (it’s been a favorite in the past). Atmosphere Takumi-Tei may be a little hidden inside the Japan Pavilion, but you’ll find it if you look for a banner marking it to the right of Mitsukoshi. Takumi-Tei From the second you step inside, you might just have to pick your jaw up because the interior is simply gorgeous. There is no mistake that you’ve arrived here for a signature dining experience, and that shows in the restaurant’s interior and its immaculate service. Inside Takumi-Tei means “House of the Artisan” in Japanese, so inside, you’ll find five beautiful rooms, each inspired by a natural element: water, wood, earth, stone, or washi paper. We were seated in the wood room, which has some nods to the other elements in it. Each room is a beautiful ode to Japanese craftsmanship. Wood Room There are no windows, but once you’ve stepped inside, it’s like you’ve left EPCOT and were magically transported to Japan. It’s completely stunning Menu As we previously mentioned, the menus here have been overhauled, including the names of the two meals you can order. Omnivorous is now Kiku and costs $250 per adult and $100 per child (ages 8-12). The plant-based menu is now called Hasu and is the same price. Menu The dining here is “Omakase” meaning it’s a special multi-course experience where the entire meal has been curated by the chef. Omokase The Kiku meal includes include Sushimi, Soups, a Wagyu Beef Roll, a selection of desserts, and more. Kiku The Hasu meal includes plant-based plates like flesh yuba and pickled daikon, bamboo shoot tempura, nigiri sushi, plant-based desserts, and more. Hasu Beverages available include a variety of Sake, which can be ordered by the bottle or glass. Sake flights are also available. Sake menu You can also order Wine and Japanese Whisky. Wine and liquor menu A variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails are also available. Eats We decided to dive into the Kiku menu, so let’s take a look at what we ate. After we washed our hands with a hand towel that smelled of refreshing eucalyptus, we dug into the menu and started by getting a drink. We were offered the Shochu Shisho Fashion, which is not yet on the menu. This beautiful drink is a delicious spin on an Old-Fashioned. Shochu Shisho Fashion The Shochu is so delightfully heady and shines in the shrank as the main ingredient. The Shiso acts sort of like bitters and balances the drink’s flavor profile. It has the perfect amount of sweetness that makes it like a traditional Old-Fashioned, but with these elevated flavors. There’s an earthiness to it that reminds us of green tea. Even the crystal clear ice is amazing and melts in a beautiful way. Now, let’s get to the food. Course 1: Ichijyu-Sansai This course is served one-soup-two-dishes style and comes with sea urchin chirashi sushi; deep-fried tofu with white miso soup; and tuna, avocado, and zucchini with ponzu jelly. Our server recommended that we start with the soup and then eat clockwise around the plate, so that’s what we did. Ichijyu-Sansai The soup turned out to be our favorite thing on the plate. Miso soup is typically made with red miso, but this one is made with white miso, which makes it creamier. It still has the savory complex qualities of miso, and the tofu soaks up those flavors nicely. This was one of those things that was good on the first bite. We also liked the paper -thin breading on the deep-ried tofu, plus the added touch of wasabi. This was an amazing way to kick off our meal. Deep-fried tofu with white miso soup The sea urchin in the sea urchin chirashi sushi is a standout ingredient. It has a unique quality with a buttery texture and flavor, but then the flavor also has an aggressive smoky fishiness to it. We might compare it to smoked salmon, but it was way WAY more than that. That being said, not everyone might not like it because you need to love sushi. This piece fell apart in the mouth in a pleasantly gooey texture, and that might be too much for people who know they’re eating fish. Sea urchin chirashi sushi Then it was onto the tuna, avocado, and zucchini with ponzu jelly. We enjoyed this tuna salad. We will say this is a more familiar fish flavor, so if you’ve eaten a spicy tuna roll, you might recognize the taste of this and be more comfortable with it. It has the minerality of tuna. We liked how the textures varied: you’ve got the crunch from the zucchini, the fatty structure of the avocado mixed with the tuna, and the gelatinous ponzu jelly. Tuna, avocado, and zucchini with ponzu jelly Again, our favorite thing on the plate was the miso soup, but the entire course was a delicious start to the meal. Our server shared that the chef wanted a sort of soup, salad, and rice traditional start to the meal to warm the belly up for eating all the delicious food yet to come. Course 2: Sashimi The Sashimi course is four kinds of seasonal sashimi, with assorted garnish. Ours consisted of scallop, Japanese seabream, skipjack, and a fatty tuna. It’s served with soy sauce, albeit a milder version than what we’re used to. Wasabi is also served with the sashimi, and this is the real deal. We’ve found that true wasabi is less like a paste and a little grainier with a flavor that’s less likely to shoot up through your head. Both elevate the flavors of the fish. Sashimi The scallop had a mild flavor that was clean with a bright aftertaste. It’s deliciously light but still has an exciting complexity. Scallop The Japanese seabream is a bit meatier in texture and carries the flavor of the soy sauce with a mild umami flavor. Japanese seabream The skipjack had the thickest texture of the four but was softer away from the skin. It tasted bright and buttery with a savory aftertaste. Skipjack The fatty tuna just MELTS in the mouth. It has a very light tuna flavor but is mostly decadent and buttery. The texture is soft and as we said melts in your mouth the way you dream of food melting in your mouth. It carries the soy sauce and wasabi so well. Fatty tuna We will say that the last time we came here, the Sashimi was our favorite course, and for good reason. This redefines what you think sushi tastes like. The fish is all high quality and the preparation is perfect. Course 3: Hassun The third course is Hassun, which is seven kinds of seasonal small plates tailored by the chef. Our plate had yuba and salmon roe, shitake and spinach with tofu paste, egg cake, eel tail with a fermented paste made with rice vinegar, konnyaku with miso dengako, eel sushi, and salmon with seaweed broth and lime. This is a super interesting course and where you start to get into the more traditional, yet also experimental, elements of the meal. At this point, Americans may find the gelatinous textures a little overwhelming at this point. But you do get a variety of flavors and textures. Hassun The yuba, aka tofu skin, is very creamy and tastes like tofu with that silken meatiness to it. It’s topped with salmon roe, which kind of burst open with a sea salt flavor. We liked this more than we expected as these aren’t two ingredients we usually like on their own. However, together, it’s almost like a creamy meaty pudding. Very hard to describe, but tasty. Yuba and salmon roe We loved the spinach and shiitake with tofu paste. It’s almost like a bite of cold stewed veggies with a peanut sauce on top (although it’s actually a tofu paste, but it still tastes a bit nutty). Spinach and shiitake with tofu paste Egg cake is very common in Japan. It’s super soft and a little sweet. It sort of reminds us of a moist angel food cake. Egg cake The next thing was the eel tail with a fermented paste made with rice vinegar (there was a word for the paste that we couldn’t quite make out). This has a nice and much-needed texture mixup. It’s firm and chewy with a sweet and fruity garnish. There’s a slight fishy taste, so we’d say it’s kinda’ like a less chewy fish jerky. Eel tail with a fermented paste made with rice vinegar The texture of the konnyaku with miso dengako was so unique and we’re struggling to find a word to describe it. Maybe it’s bouncy? It’s like a soft gummy. Flavorwise, we got an explosion of salty savory flavor from the topping. But that texture is…challenging. Konnyaku with miso dengaku We were VERY excited to see eel sushi on the plate because we like eel sushi. It’s got a nice meaty texture and an amazing umami that kind of just sits in your nose. Honestly, this was a perfect piece of sushi. Eel sushi The salmon with seaweed broth and lime was a super weird mix of flavors for us. The lime almost created a bitter flavor profile, which did round out the plate well, but it cut through the buttery salmon and made us miss the flavor from the fish. Salmon with seaweed broth and lime It’s still a good bite, but the flavors just mixed strangely. Course 4: Shiizakana The Shiizakana course features Deep-Fried Japanese Wagyu Beef Shiso leaf Roll, Original Yellow Vinegar, Shiso flowers, Yuzu salt, key lime, Baked Flounder with Saikyo Miso, and Pickled celery. Yep, this is basically a surf and turf platter. Shiizakana The flounder is made in a white miso paste and we were STOKED because we love miso, but you couldn’t taste much of it. The skin of the fish had a lot of the flavor, but once the skin was gone, this was a regular white fish. It was still delicious and cooked well. We’ll also say this was a nice break from the raw textures we had in previous courses. Baked Flounder with Saikyo Miso The wagyu was amazing and we loved the yuzu salt that’s on the plate. It’s housemade, and it’s a lot like a citrus salt. The lime and that yuzu salt change the flavor of the wagyu, too, so you’re encouraged to try it with and without the salt. Deep-Fried Japanese Wagyu Beef Shiso leaf Roll Overall, this course is the heaviest and richest we’ve had so far and the first we couldn’t finish. We also think this is the course that would please pickier eaters. Course 5: Onmono This course offers you a choice of Japanese wagyu beef and bamboo shoots with tortoiseshell sauce, maitake mushrooms, chopped myoga and chives, dew ginger or Spiny Lobster and bamboo shoots with tortoiseshell starchy sauce, maitake mushroom, chopped myoga, chives and dew ginger. We chose the wagyu. Onmono: Japanese wagyu beef and bamboo shoots with tortoiseshell sauce, maitake mushrooms, chopped myoga and chives This was the standout element of the entire meal. Again, the wagyu is amazing. Here, it’s cut super thin and perfectly cooked and served in a luxurious decadent sauce. The sauce is sticky and is a combo of soy and corn syrup. You would think it would be too sweet, but it’s more savory. The meat is incredible and goes perfectly with the ginger on top. This is like beef stew, but way more bougie. That wagyu is incredible The mushroom and bamboo shoots are also perfectly cooked and oddly enough, those bamboo shoots almost tasted like potatoes more than bamboo shoots. DELISH, y’all. This dish is a real winner. Course 6: Gohanmono The next course is getting us ready to wind down the savory part of the meal with cooked conger eel nigirizushi with simmered sauce, wasabi, gari, and red miso soup. This course surprised us because it took us back into seafood territory. This eel is a lot like what we had earlier with a nice meaty texture but a light flavor. So it’s a transition from the heavier food we had transitioning into the next course, which is dessert. Gohanmono Even if you’re on the fence about sushi, we will recommend eel, especially cooked eel because it has this nice texture between tuna and chicken, making it more approachable than some other fish. This is good with the soy and pickled ginger. The Japanese black pepper on the eel also adds an incredible flavor. It’s not as overwhelming as an American black pepper. Cooked conger eel nigirizushi The soup is aggressively flavorful — it’s miso, but it’s AGGRESSIVELY miso. It’s delicious and we even think it helped with our digestion, which we NEEDED at this point in the meal. Whew. Course 7: Macha and Kanmi We did it! We made it to the dessert course. Here, you’re given a choice of homemade green tea cake, vanilla ice cream, whipped, blackstrap molasses, mint or Japanese pumpkin blancmange with blackstrap molasses, whipped, mint or Florida orange jelly with strawberry sorbet, whipped mint. We went with the pumpkin blancmange. Japanese pumpkin blancmange with blackstrap molasses, whipped, mint or Florida orange jelly with strawberry sorbet, whipped mint Okay, this was INCREDIBLE. It was a lot like a creme brulee but without the caramelized top. It’s very close to a custard. Imagine a less sweet pumpkin pie: loads of pumpkin flavor. It even had that bit of graininess of a pumpkin pie. The caramel sauce and whipped cream added the right amount of sweetness. Our server recommended this, and we are FOREVER grateful. This is the perfect light end for a very happy meal, but it’s also a super satisfying dessert. So pumpkiny But we aren’t COMPLETELY done because a traditional Japanese tea service is also served with dessert. This is the kind of tea service where they whisk the matcha into the cup right on your table from their tea cart. Now, our reporter is not a big fan of matcha, mostly because it has a powdery texture, but the way they whisked it here was so fast (like superhuman fast!) and that powdered texture goes completely away. Traditional Japanese tea service So you just get a nice smooth cup of matcha tea. What a great way to end the meal! Tea One of the things we also loved about our meal was the level of service. You do not get this kind of attentive service anywhere else in Disney World. The servers here go above and BEYOND to make your meal perfect. For example, we just ordered the one drink, but our server brought out some samples of her favorite sakes just because she wanted us to try them. It’s almost like having dinner with a super polite friend. At the end of the meal, the servers also make handmade origami parting gifts, and ours had a personalized note. Y’all — we can’t even. Nosh or Not Visit Takumi-Tei if: You love Japanese food. What you get here is a truly authentic Japanese food experience that you can’t find just anywhere. You want an elevated and spectacular dining experience. Many DFB reporters have said that the meals they’ve had here are some of their favorites of all time. If you’ve not been here before, it will surprise you. Is it pricey? Yes, but we’d argue it’s worth every penny for the experience and stellar service. You’re an adventurous eater. Now, you’ll need an adventurous palate to really appreciate the food here, and if you’re looking to try new things and don’t mind eating something you might not regularly eat, this is the place to do it. Skip Takumi-Tei if: You’re on a budget. This isn’t where you’ll get an inexpensive meal in Disney World, particularly if you’re feeding a family of four. This is a place where you go to splurge without worrying about how much it’s going to set you back. You’re a picky eater or have picky eaters in your party. Takumi-Tei is for those with an adventurous palate. The food served here is probably unlike anything you’ve had before and you have to go in with the idea that you’ll be eating adventurous foods prepared in unique ways. You don’t want to spend a lot of time on a meal. This is a seven-course meal, so you can expect to spend at least a few hours throughout the course of the experience. If you’re tight on time or just don’t want to commit your EPCOT park time to this experience, you should probably eat somewhere else. Overall We’ll say it again: this is almost ALWAYS one of the best meals we’ve ever had in Disney World, and even with the changed menu, it did not disappoint. The service is impeccable, some of the best you’ll get in Disney World, and every course feels like it was put together with a lot of special thought. Is it expensive? Well, again, the answer is yes. You not only get food with quality ingredients that have been carefully curated, but you also get incredible service. If you love Japanese food and want an experience that’s as authentic as you can get without going to Japan, Takumi-Tei is a must. With DOZENS of places to eat at Disney World, we know it can be tough to plan your meals. That’s why we wrote the DFB Guide to Dining at Walt Disney World. We have reviews, pictures, and details about every restaurant all in one digital download – along with ALL of our best tips and strategies from decades of Disney World trips. I Go to Disney World Every Week and I REFUSE to Eat at These Restaurants (But Not for the Reason You Think) 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 dined at Takumi-Tei? What was your experience like? Share with us in the comments! The post REVIEW: We Ate a 0 Meal in EPCOT and We'd Do It Again first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

When we visit Disney World, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the crowds, wait times, prices, and amount of walking you’ll have to do. However, while those variables can change, one obstacle remains a constant: the sun. A sunny day in Magic Kingdom! Sunxiety, or the fear of the sun or damage from the sun, is absolutely a real thing. Plenty of folks feel obligated to completely cover up when outdoors or avoid the outdoors altogether. We get it. Our reporters visit the Disney World parks every day and with that have come some gnarly burns on occasion and the fear of skin damage. As we learn more and more about both the positive and harmful effects of prolonged sunlight exposure, we’ve become more mindful of how we prepare for park days. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. When overcoming sunxiety, the best thing you can do is be prepared. Sun safety requires cognitive awareness about things like the time of day, the sunscreen products you’re using, when to apply them, and other skin care methods. Let’s get into some tips and tricks that will help YOU overcome sunxiety so that your next Disney World trip can be the best one yet! Umbrellas can be your best friend Useful for more than just blocking rainfall, an umbrella can be a saving grace when shade is impossible to find. On those busy days when all the shade is taken or lines saddle you out in the open, a UV-blocking umbrella can save your skin. UV Umbrella in Hollywood Studios A mini UV-blocking umbrella like this one that you can buy on Amazon is ideal for park days. Mini travel umbrellas like this are perfect for when you’re on the go as they are incredibly lightweight and collapsable. UV Umbrella As for the purpose of the umbrella, this one in particular includes an inside layer made from a black glue fabric that reflects most UV rays. The coating on the underside of the canopy absorbs any remaining UV rays which gives this umbrella an overall UPF rating of 50-plus. Ultimately, something like this is a wise investment if you’re looking to combat harmful UV rays. Buy on Amazon Throw in some anti-aging benefits with your sunscreen Indulging in sun safety can also have some serious anti-aging benefits. With the right kind of sunscreen, you can protect your skin and even look younger! ©Amazon One sunscreen we can recommend is Supergoop!’s Daily Dose Sunscreen Serum with SPF 40 and vitamin C. The vitamin C in the sunscreen is extra effective when worn with SPF and helps brighten the skin. The hydrating, oil-free formula helps filter out UV and blue light — two major causes of dark spots. Additionally, this serum goes really well with any other SPF-infused moisturizer, primer, or cream you might already be using! Buy on Amazon Worried about for face? This sunscreen has you covered! Sometimes when we visit Disney World, we forget that our face needs protection too. Hats and sunglasses are absolute essentials, but so is the right facial sunscreen. ©Amazon If you have sensitive skin, Amazon will have several options for you, such as this La Roche-Posay Anthelios Tinted SPF 50 Sunscreen. This face sunscreen is made with broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection SPF 50 with iron oxides and tinted mineral with no white cast. It’s billed as non-greasy, fast-absorbing, having a matte finish, water resistant for up to 40 minutes, and suitable for under-makeup-use. Buy on Amazon If the goal is to avoid sunlight, don’t forget to take your vitamins It’s true that the sun can be harmful, but it also provides a ton of benefits, such as vitamin D, which is vital for better moods, sleep cycles, and general well-being. If sunxiety keeps you out of the sun completely, one of the best things you can do to soften the blow is take some supplements. ©Amazon Over on Amazon, this NatureWise Vitamin D3 pack is ideal for picking up the nutrients you might be missing. These dietary supplements help bolster your immune support, muscle function, and bone health, especially if you might be vitamin D-deficient and suffer from sunxiety. Great for every season, these supplements could be useful for people who aren’t sunxious and just want the extra boost. Disney World can be demanding, after all, and you want to be as healthy as possible before taking it on. Buy on Amazon Get ready to conquer the Disney World sun before your next visit and continue to follow us here at DFB for more Disney World tips and tricks! For more Disney World essentials, check out our Amazon storefront!The post I Struggle with ‘Sunxiety’ in Disney World and I Know I’m Not Alone first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

There’s so much to love about a Disney vacation, and whether you’re setting sail with Disney Cruise Line or heading to Walt Disney World Resort for the ultimate theme park experience, you’re bound to have an amazing time. Why not double the fun and enjoy the best of both worlds? Port Canaveral is just an hour away from Disney World, making it easy to adventure by land and sea – all in one trip. Here are some helpful tips to add a Disney World visit to your next Disney cruise. Pack your best Disney fits – including a MagicBand+. When combining a park visit with a cruise, you’ll want to pack an array of outfits, like a snazzy bathing suit, walking shoes, attire for any themed nights, comfy shorts and maybe even matching shirts for your group. My top tip for your Disney fit though is to bring along a MagicBand+. Your Walt Disney World Resort MagicBand+ can be used onboard all Disney Cruise Line ships, allowing you to unlock the door to your room, enter our park gates, easily make purchases and enjoy special interactive experiences – all with a quick tap. Stay in “vacation mode” and leave the driving to us. Whether you’re visiting the parks pre- or post-cruise, traveling between the cruise port and our parks is a breeze. Disney can add a transfer to and from Port Canaveral, Walt Disney World and Orlando International Airport to your itinerary for an additional fee. Once at Walt Disney World, you can easily zip around our parks and resorts thanks to the many fun, quick and complimentary transportation offerings available. My personal favorite is a ride aboard the Disney Skyliner. Turn your cruise into a full-week trip with a Disney Resort stay. Turn your trip into a full-week vacation by adding a few nights at a Disney Resort to your three- or four-night cruise on the Disney Wish. This gives you plenty of time to explore the parks, relax by the pool and enjoy the same legendary detail, service and storytelling of a Disney cruise at the resort of your choice. Florida residents can save up to 30% on rooms at select resorts for the rest of the summer and early fall. Store your bags as soon as you arrive and hit the parks. No matter the length of your stay at Walt Disney World, make the most of your day by starting early. If you’re staying at a Disney Resort, you get early entry to the parks and you can store your luggage with Bell Services before your room is ready. They’ll even deliver your bags to your room later in the day so you can focus on your park adventure. Don’t miss out on the great entertainment options on land and sea. One of the best parts of a Disney trip is that there’s no shortage of great entertainment options. With a land and sea vacation, you have double the opportunities to catch a spectacular Disney production – or multiple! Between live music, Broadway-caliber shows, fireworks, parades and more, there is something for everyone. My top recommendation at Walt Disney World is “Festival of the Lion King,” where you can catch dancing, acrobatic hijinks and classic tunes from “The Lion King” at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Sit down and dive into a delicious meal at a Disney restaurant. If you’re a foodie like me, your vacations always revolve around what you’re going to eat. I especially love to grab a meal at a sit-down restaurant, trying new ones on every trip. Disney has some of the best restaurants out there, like themed, rotational dining included in your cruise fare, and adult favorites like Palo and Remy on the high seas. There are many incredible options at Walt Disney World too – including immersive picks that put you inside Beast’s enchanted castle, a Harambe marketplace, along Sunset Boulevard and even amongst toys in Andy’s Backyard. Use the My Disney Experience app to view dining availability at any given Disney World restaurant for multiple days at a time in one single search. Take lots of pictures – including with your favorite Disney pals. Photos are a great way to turn special moments into timeless memories, but sometimes it’s too easy to forget to snap a picture when you’re on the go and having a blast. This is your reminder to take lots of pictures on your next trip – including with your favorite pals. There are tons of opportunities to meet many different Disney characters on a land and sea vacation, and if you want to stay focused on the fun, we’ll handle the photos. With Disney PhotoPass Service at Walt Disney World and professional photo packages on Disney Cruise Line sailings, we’ll capture every hug, high-five and smile for you. Ready to set sail for the ultimate Disney vacation? Combine high-seas adventure with theme park magic by booking a Disney cruise and a visit to Walt Disney World. These tips above can help you get the best of both worlds on your next trip. Bon voyage and “sea” you real soon! The post Helpful Tips to Add Disney World to Your Next Disney Cruise appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

Time to get SPOOKY! Magic Kingdom Head over to Disney’s online store ASAP, as they currently have one of their most IN-DEMAND Halloween season items in stock NOW! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Considering an Amazon Prime subscription? Check out a free trial here: Get Your Medium-Sized Mickey Mouse Pumpkin Now! ©Disney The perfect Halloween decoration doesn’t exis…okay, yes, it does, because this is it. These Light-Up Mickey Jack-o’-Lanterns are VERY popular for a reason — just look at it. It has a switch that you can use to turn it on, but it also has a solid color light setting and pulsing setting. It even has a six-hour timer. Buy at The Disney Store There are few better spooky season Disney decorations than this adorable pumpkin. Looking for more Disney Essentials? Check Out Our Amazon Storefront! The post WOAH. A Mega Popular Disney Halloween Souvenir Just Dropped Online. first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

When it comes to food, we see changes ALL the time all over Disney World and Disneyland. Starbucks in Downtown Disney We’ve seen entire menus change (and sometimes NOT for the better…yes, Sleepy Hollow in Magic Kingdom, we’re looking at you). We’ve seen some of our favorite foods disappear (although, in one case, one of our fave snacks DID actually return). We also see a ton of price increases, especially around this time of year. Speaking of which, we’re sorry to report that we just noticed a TON of price increases at Starbucks locations in Disneyland. Yes, if you’re visiting Disneyland and need to feed your Starbucks addiction, it’s about to get a bit pricier. These price increases have happened at EVERY Starbucks location, too, including the Downtown Disney Starbucks, Market House in Disneyland, and Fiddler, Fifer & Practical Cafe in Disney California Adventure. It’s not just coffee that’s going up in price, though. Some food items are also now more expensive. Fiddler, Fifer & Practical Cafe Almost everything is going up in price, so we’re going to give you a few examples. Here are a few of the Frappucino increases: Vanilla Bean Crème Frappuccino Blended Beverage – Grande changed from $6.29 to $6.49 Vanilla Bean Crème Frappuccino Blended Beverage – Venti changed from $6.79 to $6.99 Strawberry Crème Frappuccino Blended Beverage – Tall changed from $5.79 to $6.29 Strawberry Crème Frappuccino Blended Beverage – Venti changed from $6.79 to $7.29 Caramel Frappuccino Blended Beverage – Tall changed from $5.79 to $6.29 Caramel Frappuccino Blended Beverage – Grande changed from $6.29 to $6.79 Caramel Frappuccino Blended Beverage – Venti changed from $6.79 to $7.29 Here are a few changes with Espresso and Coffee: Iced Hazelnut Oatmilk Shaken Espresso – Tall changed from $5.49 to $5.99 Iced Hazelnut Oatmilk Shaken Espresso – Grande changed from $5.99 to $6.49 Oleato Golden Foam Iced Shaken Espresso with Toffeenut – Grande changed from $5.99 to $6.49 Disney California Adventure Starbucks Mug Refreshers are also more expensive now. Here are a few examples: Pineapple Passionfruit Starbucks Refreshers – Tall changed from $4.79 to $5.29 Pineapple Passionfruit Starbucks Refreshers – Grande changed from $5.29 to $5.79 Pineapple Passionfruit Starbucks Refreshers – Venti changed from $5.79 to $6.29 Pineapple Passionfruit Lemonade Starbucks Refreshers – Tall changed from $5.49 to $5.99 Pineapple Passionfruit Lemonade Starbucks Refreshers – Grande changed from $5.99 to $6.49 Pineapple Passionfruit Lemonade Starbucks Refreshers – Venti changed from $6.49 to $6.99 Pineapple Passionfruit Lemonade Starbucks Refreshers – Trenta changed from $6.99 to $7.49 Downtown Disney Starbucks Breakfast Sandwiches and Wraps also saw increases: Double Smoked Bacon, Cheddar, and Egg Sandwich changed from $5.99 to $6.49 Sausage, Cheddar, and Egg Breakfast Sandwich changed from $4.99 to $5.29 Ham & Swiss Croissant changed from $4.99 to $5.29 Spinach, Feta & Egg White Wrap changed from $5.49 to $5.99 Bacon, Gouda & Egg Sandwich changed from $5.49 to $5.99 Under “Assorted Pastries,” the Petite Vanilla Bean Scone Trio changed from $6.29 to $8.29 — an increase of $2! There were also other price increases with pastries, snacks, and desserts. So, if you’re visiting Disneyland, we don’t want you to be surprised by these price increases. Stay tuned to DFB for more. Disneyland Is Getting 6 New Rides! 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 What do you think about these price increases? Let us know in the comments! The post ALERT: (!!!) Price Increase Hits Disney’s Starbucks Locations first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We still don’t believe it, but it’s really happening: A Monsters, Inc. land is coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Monsters Inc. Land Concept Art ©Disney We’ll admit this was one announcement we totally did NOT expect from D23: The Ultimate Fan Event, but we are STOKED. That’s because Disney also announced that we were finally getting the ride we’ve been wanting since 2001, when Monsters, Inc. landed in movie theaters: a ride based on the doors scene in the movie — and y’all, IT IS HAPPENING! Seriously, just go ahead and pinch us because we think we’re dreaming. Anyway, we’ve actually been hunting down some more details about the new ride and we think we found some clues about it. The first thing we need to tell you is that Disney has confirmed that the new Monsters, Inc. ride will be the first suspended roller coaster EVER in a Disney Park. Josh D’Amaro, Disney Experiences Chairman said, “Remember in the movie how those claws grab the doors and hoist them up into the air to take them away? We’re doing that, too. And you’re going along for the ride.” Disney also shared the ride concept art below: ©Disney We also know something else: the company Vekoma Rides could very well be the company helping Disney construct the coaster part of the attraction. Why do we think this? Well, they’ve worked on some of Disney’s most recent coasters like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train and TRON Lightcycle / Run. The company also helped Disney construct Big Grizzly Mountain Runaway Mine Train at Hong Kong Disneyland, as well as Expedition Everest in Disney World. This is the company Disney usually goes to when it’s creating a roller coaster. TRON Lightcycle / Run In looking at the Vekoma Rides website, it seems the company specializes in suspended family coasters. What will the Monsters, Inc. ride be? A suspended family coaster. Here’s what Vekoma’s website says: “Our Suspended Family Coaster line offers the excitement of a true suspended coaster in a family-friendly design that fits all age groups. These suspended coasters offer a unique open design seat and restraint system, providing optimal fit and security, and a sensational experience of freedom with your feet dangling free in mid-air. The fully unobstructed view of the ride and surroundings add to the fun.” ©Vekoma In particular, the description of Vekoma’s “Suspended Family Coaster Mistral Dark Ride” could very well give us a lot of hints about how the Monsters, Inc. ride will work. The website reads: “The train departs into the darkness. Feet dangle in mid-air. The riders climb and without warning plummet down the first drop. They fly through the underground tunnel into a high-speed turnaround pulling 3-G. A twisted drop. A final U-turn. A surprise bunny hop back into the station. The Mistral is a true storytelling coaster, combining a unique dark ride with the roaring winds of a thrilling gravity layout.” Here’s the concept art: ©Vekoma Well, that sounds a lot like that scene in Monsters, Inc., right? Also, the bit about storytelling is very on-brand for a Disney coaster. It also makes us think this could fit the Monsters, Inc. ride model we saw at D23: Monsters, Inc. roller coaster So we think Vekoma’s description of its family suspended coasters could give us an idea of just how thrilling this ride might end up being. Of course, we won’t know anything until Disney shares more about the new ride. We’ll be keeping an eye out for more clues, though, and we’ll share them when we can, so stay tuned to DFB for more. Disney World Is Getting 8 New Rides! 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? Does this sound like a fun ride to you? Let us know in the comments! The post What Will Disney's NEW Monsters, Inc. Roller Coaster Be Like? We Found Some CLUES first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Haunted Mansion Ghosts Watch-Along at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Parade!View the full article

Our favorite feathered friend is getting ready to take on the hottest challenge yet. Even Donald is happy about this change The “show with hot questions, and even hotter wings” has announced their special guest for this week’s episode and we are quacking up! First We Feast, the popular YouTube channel, has announced that the next guest featured on their hit talk show Hot Ones will be Donald Duck! This announcement was made in a post on X/Twitter where they shared a video of Donald himself inside the studio, stating that he is the guest for this upcoming episode. This announcement has come as a surprise to many, as Donald will be the first animated guest featured in an episode of Hot Ones. Not only is he solidifying his status as a total A-List celebrity (we know he loves the limelight), but he will also be making history as well! @seanseaevans Hot Ones is a talk show hosted by Sean Evans where he interviews celebrities, all while they eat spicy chicken wings. The catch, however, is that the spice level of the wings intensifies as they go through each of the hot sauces on the gauntlet. Many notable celebrities like Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, Sabrina Carpenter, Ariana Grande, and more have been featured on the show, so we know Donald is definitely living his best life — and we have confirmation that he will be eating cauliflower wings! An icon just being an icon and doing icon things It’s been a big year for Donald as he has been celebrating his 90th birthday. And even though that was technically back in June, he is an icon and can celebrate it for the rest of the year if he wants to (icons do iconic things)! We are definitely more than happy to join in on the festivities. For the celebration, Disney released a Donald Duck 90th Anniversary collection which featured merchandise inspired by the famous duck, a popcorn bucket, a Joffrey’s Anniversary Blend, and so much more. Donald 90th Anniversary Ears We’re glad to see that Donald is still getting the recognition he deserves with a guest spot on Hot Ones and we’re definitely rooting for him to complete the gauntlet. This episode of Hot Ones will be available to stream on YouTube on August 23. Stay tuned with us here as we bring you the latest in Disney news! Everything NEW Coming to Disney+ This September 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 looking forward to this episode of Hot Ones? Let us know in the comments! The post NEWS: Donald Duck Will Appear in a SPICY New Interview Soon first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

There are lots of restaurants in Disney World, but there’s one that offers a unique experience! Hoop Dee Doo If you’re hoping to dine with an interactive dinner show filled with music, dancing, and over-the-top crowd participation, there’s really only one option for you — Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue! This spot is a fan-favorite at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, and we stopped by recently to enjoy a meal there. Let’s talk about it! Atmosphere As we mentioned above, Hoop-Dee-Doo is located at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. You’ll find it in the Settlement Trading Post area, along with the other main dining locations and a gift shop. If you take the boat from Magic Kingdom, you’ll be dropped off at the Settlement Trading Post, but if you park at the resort or bus in, you may need to take the internal bus shuttle to get to your destination. Inside Hoop Dee Doo The restaurant is open Wednesday through Sunday each week and offers three dinner shows per night. The shows have some incredible entertainment with singing and dancing, and of course, plenty of fun jokes and gags! The show! Pricing for the show varies depending on where you choose to sit, and goes as follows: Category 1: $74 for adults/$44 for Children ages 3 to 9 Category 2: $69 for adults/$40 for Children ages 3 to 9 Category 3: $66 for adults/$39 for Children ages 3 to 9 ©Disney You’ll get breaks throughout the show to eat your food, which is served family-style. This experience has been open for 50 years, and many people come back year after year with their families! Menu As we mentioned, the meal is served family-style, which means everyone at the table will get the same eats. However, if you have someone in your party with allergies or a special diet, you can get alternate options. The regular menu features the Hoop salad, house-made cornbread, smoked barbecued pork ribs, creamy coleslaw, mashed potatoes, cowboy beans, cornbread-crusted macaroni & cheese, crispy-fried chicken, and strawberry shortcake. Menu Beverages are included with your meal, including your choice from a small list of alcoholic options or from a selection of non-alcoholic soft drinks, teas, juices, etc. There are also a few specialty beverages that you can add on for an extra cost. Eats We kicked our meal off with the traditional Hoop Salad, which was creamy and tart. It’s an incredibly tasty salad if you like the sharpness of a vinaigrette. However, if you’re more of a Caesar or ranch fan, it might be a little too tangy for you to eat more than one serving. Hoop Salad After that, we dove into the House-made Cornbread, which is simply phenomenal! It’s moist, fluffy, and pairs excellently with the sweet honey butter. For those who love a bread service, you’ll be incredibly happy here! We honestly could’ve eaten this whole thing solo — too bad we had to share with the table. Cornbread Then it was time for the main course! Let’s eat! Let’s dig in! The Creamy Coleslaw was strongly flavored and definitely creamy. If you’re a big coleslaw fan, it’s quite good, but for those who only gravitate toward it as a topping, it might not be your cup of tea. Coleslaw The Pecan-smoked BBQ Pork Ribs were fatty and a little bit basic. We wish the barbecue had a little more of a kick and that the meat was more savory. Not bad ribs if you live outside of barbecue country, but if you’re from somewhere like Texas or the Carolinas, you might have better options back home. The Fried Chicken had perfect texture, but it wasn’t as juicy as we wanted. There was a nice crispy exterior, but the flavor was just fine and not quite as memorable as some other fried chicken options we’ve had in Disney World. Definitely passable, though! Fried chicken & ribs The Cowboy Beans were one of the highlights for us, and we even went back for seconds! They were rich and smooth with a nice texture. Cowboy Beans Of course, you can’t have a good southern meal without Macaroni & Cheese. This version was a HUGE hit with some members of our party, and not as big of a hit with others. It’s creamy and cheesy, but not as decadent as some others we’d had in Disney World. It needed just a smiiiidge more richness in our opinion. Macaroni and Cheese The Mashed Potatoes were creamy and buttery with the perfect fluffy texture. If you like a little bit of skin in your potatoes, you’ll be quite pleased with these, and we would definitely get seconds of this one! Mashed Potatoes And last but not least, we had the iconic Strawberry Shortcake. It was SO fluffy and moist and soaked in strawberry goodness. We were actually worried we wouldn’t get enough of it! There’s a tiny bit of tartness to combat the sweetness of the cake and whipped cream, and all the ingredients pair perfectly together. Strawberry Shortcake So how did Hoop-Dee-Doo Revue fare? Overall All in all, we think that the main reason you’re probably coming to this restaurant is for the entertainment! The show is absolutely spectacular and entertaining, and we’d watch it over and over again. The food was yummy, and some items definitely stood out more than others, but it’s a pretty basic comfort meal. Our loaded plate! The point of Hoop-Dee-Doo is that it offers a unique experience, and we would keep going back for that hootin’ and hollerin’ good time over and over again! Nosh or Not? Plan for a hootin’ and hollerin’ good time at Hoop-Dee-Doo if… You’ve got an evening during your vacation with time to dine here. This isn’t a short meal experience, since it’s a dinner show, so you might want to mark this entire evening off if you want to head to this restaurant. If you have the time for the meal and the transportation to and from the resort, we definitely recommend it! You want to attend a dinner show. While you can find entertainment at many Disney World restaurants, this is technically the only dinner show still available around the resort. It’s a unique experience that we suggest you check out if you love entertainment while you dine! Your family loves comfort food. As far as Southern comfort food goes, this restaurant hits the nail on the head! You’ll enjoy plenty of delicious classics and you can get as much food as you’d like. Skip Pioneer Hall and head elsewhere for dinner if… You’re on a tight budget. This certainly isn’t one of Disney World’s most budget-friendly dining options, so keep that in mind when you’re considering it for your vacation. You don’t have a free evening or you’re in the parks every day. Since Hoop-Dee-Doo is a time-consuming experience and it can take quite a while to actually get TO the restaurant, we might not recommend this if you’re trying to squeeze it into a short trip where you don’t have the free time. You want adventurous eats. If you’re hoping to try food that’s unique and out of your comfort zone, you probably won’t find that here. This is a crowd-pleasing menu! Hoop-Dee-Doo Thanks for coming along with us to Hoop-Dee-Doo! Stay tuned to DFB for more dining reviews from Disney World. Click Here to Check Out Another Restaurant Review From Fort Wilderness! 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 Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue? Tell us in the comments! The post REVIEW: Is Disney World's Classic Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue Still WORTH the Price Tag?! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Let’s head to the Mexico pavilion in EPCOT! Mexico Pavilion at EPCOT If you head left around World Showcase, you’re first stop will be at the Mexico pavilion. This is one of our favorite pavilions. There is delicious food, great shopping, and a fun little boat ride featuring the three Caballeros (Donald, Panchito, and José Carioca). You’ll find La Cantina de San Angel, San Angel Inn, La Hacienda de San Angel, Choza de Margarita, and La Cava del Tequila as food and drink locations in and around this pavilion. La Cava del Tequila is located inside the building at the pavilion and is a small bar with great cocktails. The bar is currently celebrating its 15th anniversary, and one of our favorite cocktails is now available TO SHARE! La Cava del Tequila will frequently offer new specialty drinks, and this year they’ve come up with some extra special ones to celebrate their big milestone, like La Quinceañera Margarita! via La Cava Del Tequila on Instagram We also sometimes see them partnering with drink connoisseurs or celebrities to create fun new drinks, which is exactly what is going on right now! La Cava del Tequila had previously partnered with model Lily Aldridge to create “The Lily,” which happens to be one of our favorite drinks in the park! Lily Aldridge with her Lily Margarita The Lily is made of Casa Dragones Blanco tequila, cranberry-lime juice, Combier rose petal liqueur, and shimmering violet essence with a rose-hibiscus salt rim. The drink is $33 at La Cava del Tequila in the Mexico pavilion. But now, it’s available to share! The new Lily Margarita serves three and you can order it now. ©La Cava del Tequila La Cava features a rich and warm atmosphere decorated authentically, over 200 tequilas and unique margaritas, as well as a few appetizing ‘tapas style’ snacks! There is limited seating in this cozy cave; however, you can get your drinks to go if you’re unable to secure a table. There is pretty much ALWAYS a long line extending into the indoor Mexico pavilion for this beloved bar, but since a visit to La Cava is practically a rite of passage for of-age guests in EPCOT, you may as well join in! La Cava del Tequila We’re excited to be celebrating this milestone with La Cava del Tequila! For more Disney news, keep following DFB! Why Everyone Will Be Running to Starbucks on August 22nd Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What’s your favorite drink at La Cava del Tequila? Let us know in the comments! The post One of Our FAVORITE Drinks Has a NEW LOOK in EPCOT's Mexico Pavilion first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

If you are looking for shirts for you and the whole family to wear the next time you visit Toy Story Land, we’ve got you covered! Slinky Dog Dash in Toy Story Land In Toy Story Land at Hollywood Studios, you get to shrink down to the size of a Toy and hang out in Andy’s backyard with all of his best pals. Of course, you want to dress to impress, and we have two Toy Story-themed shirts that are perfect for the entire family! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Over at our store, we have so many fun Disney themed-shirts and other merchandise and one of our newest collections features two of our favorite toy pals! Rootin Tootin and Howdy Folks Collection Saddle Up for Adventure and Get this Jessie Themed Shirt Yodel-Lay-Hee-Hoo! Show your love for Jessie the Cowgirl with this ‘Rootin Tootin’ shirt! It features Jessie’s iconic red hat, yellow bow, and cow print boots! Rootin Tootin Shirt Get Yours Here Become Woody’s Favorite Deputy and Snag this Howdy Folks Shirt Reach for the sky when you sport this Woody-themed shirt! It has Woody’s hat, sheriff badge, and boots with spurs. And of course, the boot features Andy’s signature! Howdy Folks Shirt Shop Here When you visit Toy Story Land make sure to visit Woody and Jessie outside of Toy Story Mania and show off your shirts! Howdy Folks and Rootin Tootin Shirts As always keep following along with Disney Food Blog for more Disney-themed merchandise, tips, and news! Shop Our Amazon Storefront!The post The ONLY New Shirts You Need for Toy Story Land in Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Park bags have definitely changed over the years. Loungefly bags And we don’t just mean style, although that has changed too. But the bags people take to the parks are so much more than just a way to carry all their essentials around! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. The best part about shopping on Amazon is the free shipping you can get on any order with an Amazon Prime Membership. Don’t have one? Click below to start your free trial today! Bags have become an accessory to elevate outfits and express oneself. With character-themed styles to trendy designs and so much more, there is no limit to what your bag can represent, especially when styling it along your park outfit. But if you’re not so sure what you’re looking for, we decided to check out some bags available to purchase online. We tested one that caught our eye to see if it could make a great bag to take on a trip to Disney! We looked through Amazon and checked out several bags before spotting this adorable rattan crossbody purse and we could not miss out on getting it! Rattan Purse Although it’s advertised as a ‘Panda’ shaped bag, we definitely think it holds a strong resemblance to our favorite mouse pal, which makes it such a cute bag to take to any of the Disney parks and even Disney Springs. The bag is made out of rattan and sports a faux brown leather strap, giving us total fall vibes that is perfect for the season. Featuring a compact internal pocket, suitable for storing any essentials safely, as well as a customizable strap for easy fitting, this bag has many features that make it great for all your travel needs. We are also a fan of how it’s made with vegan-friendly materials and that it’s handmade. We can honestly see this bag as part of a cute look for EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival. Rattan Purse Shop on Amazon We definitely think this bag is worth the price, with its cute and unique design, different than anything we’ve seen sold at the parks. However, we do wish the bag was bigger so it could hold more of our essentials, but given its incredible quality, we have to say that this is a purchase we’re pretty satisfied with. This might be a great bag if you looking for something that’s stylish and lowkey and maybe more of an aesthetic accessory that compliments your outfit. It’s perfect if you’re just needing to bring a few smaller items to the parks. Or if it’s just in addition to another park bag! Stay tuned as we bring you even more of our Disney park style tips! Like what you see? Check out more of our Disney must-haves on our Amazon Storefront! The post OK. This Is Literally the Cutest Park Bag for Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

With all of the news coming out of the Disney theme parks lately, it might feel like it’s a little hard to keep up with much else, but luckily for you, you’re in the right spot! ©Disney If you’ve been wondering how much longer it will be until you’re able to stream one of the most highly anticipated spin-off MARVEL shows to date, this is your reminder that your wait is almost over! Disney+ is gearing up to bring us even more original films, series, new episodes, and film titles joining the streaming service library in September. If you’ve been eagerly waiting for some of the most notable favorites to finally make their way to your streaming library, here’s all that is coming to start streaming soon! ©Disney Wednesday, September 4th Kindergarten: The Musical (featuring a full 10 episodes for its first season) LEGO Pixar: BrickToons (all episodes streamable with the premiere) In this series you’ll join some of your favorite Pixar characters for adventures set in the world of LEGO! Sing along with Miguel in the Land of the Dead, help Merida and her brothers through a “beary” rocky situation, take an epic field trip with Nemo, Marlin, and Dory, watch the Parr family try to save their neighborhood from Syndrome, and join Mater as he prepares Lightning McQueen for his next big race! LEGO® Pixar: BrickToons – Cars. © 2024 Disney/Pixar. All Rights Reserved. Thursday, September 5th Are You Sure?! (Episode 6) Whenever BTS’s Jimin and Jung Kook meet, chaos and excitement ensue! In the summer of 2023, they embark on an unforgettable trip before their military enlistment. Their unpredictable adventure, “Are You Sure?!” is full of surprises. Will Jimin and Jung Kook complete their journey safely? Saturday, September 7th Chibi Tiny Tales (S5, 6 episodes) Sunday, September 8th Big City Greens the Movie: Spacecation (Sing-Along Version) Thrill-seeker Cricket Green tricks his country family into taking a “road trip” in space, which ends up endangering all of Big City. ©Disney Wednesday, September 11th Primos (S1, 9 episodes) Thursday, September 12th Are You Sure?! (Episode 7) This episode continues where the previous one left off! Friday, September 13th Me & Mickey (Shorts) (S3, 5 episodes) LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy (all episodes streamable with the premiere) The entire Star Wars Galaxy gets completely mixed up when an ordinary nerf-herder, Sig Greebling, unearths a powerful artifact from a hidden Jedi temple. He finds himself thrust into adventure in a new, wondrously wild and twisted version of the galaxy where good guys are bad, bad guys are good, and the fate of all depends on Sig becoming the hero who can put all the pieces back together. Tuesday, September 17th Dancing with the Stars (Season 33) (you can catch it live at 8/7c; same time as the broadcast on your local ABC station, based on your location) “Dancing with the Stars” is the hit series co-hosted by Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough in which celebrities are paired with trained ballroom dancers to compete in themed choreographed dance routines that are judged by a panel of renowned ballroom experts, including Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli and Derek Hough. ©Disney Wednesday, September 18th Hamster & Gretel (S2, 8 episodes) How Not to Draw (Shorts) (S3, 5 episodes) L-Pop (S2, 6 episodes) Marvel Television’s “Agatha All Along” – Two Episode Premiere at 6PM PT The infamous Agatha Harkness finds herself powerless after a suspicious goth Teen breaks her free from a distorted spell. Her interest is piqued when he begs her to take him on the legendary Witches’ Road, a magical gauntlet of trials that, if survived, rewards witches with what they need. Together, Agatha and the Teen pull together a desperate coven, and set off down, down, down The Road… ©Marvel Thursday, September 19th Are You Sure?! (Episode 8) Tuesday, September 24th Dancing with the Stars (Season 33) – New Episode (see it live at 8/7c; same time as the broadcast on your local ABC station, based on your location) Wednesday, September 25th Marvel Television’s “Agatha All Along” – Episode 3 at 6PM PT The infamous Agatha Harkness finds herself powerless after a suspicious goth Teen breaks her free from a distorted spell. Her interest is piqued when he begs her to take him on the legendary Witches’ Road, a magical gauntlet of trials that, if survived, rewards witches with what they need. Together, Agatha and the Teen pull together a desperate coven, and set off down, down, down The Road… Disney Jr.’s Ariel – New Episodes “Disney Jr.’s Ariel” is an animated musical series for preschoolers inspired by the beloved story of “The Little Mermaid.” It follows 8-year-old mermaid princess Ariel as she and her friends embark on fun-filled, action-packed underwater adventures throughout their Caribbean-inspired fairytale kingdom of Atlantica and beyond. The series features fan-favorite characters, including King Triton, Ursula, Sebastian and Flounder, as well as exciting new additions like Ariel’s two best friends, mer-children Lucia and Fernie, and lots of other adorable sea creatures. ©Disney Friday, September 27th Ayla & the Mirrors (premiere and new episodes) Ayla, a rich and spoiled girl, suffers a shock after losing her father and is left without memories. With no one to claim her, she arrives at the El Bosque shelter. There she meets Inés and The Mirrors, a dance group. She also discovers a surprising ability: hearing the feelings of others through musical visions. Her aunt Esmeralda keeps a close eye on her to make sure the girl is not a threat to her newly inherited fortune. We’re always talking about the latest Disney news so be sure to stay tuned with us at Disney Food Blog for more! The Secret Proof That Disney’s NEW Monsters Inc. Land Has Been in Development for YEARS 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 you currently watching on Disney+? Leave your list in the comments so we can watch them too! The post Everything NEW Coming to Disney+ This September first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Oh, Disney. You keep us on our toes! Here’s the thing about Disney World: it is in a constant state of change. Not a single day goes by without us spotting some kind of new treat, new merchandise collection, or even a new concrete update. Even Disney experts can’t get too comfortable in the parks — there’s a lot to keep up with, and we wouldn’t have it any other way. EPCOT Now, let’s talk about the latest sneaky update we spotted in EPCOT. In case you haven’t heard, the 2024 EPCOT Food and Wine Festival is starting SOON (August 29th, to be exact), and there are some new additions this year! While there’s a lot to look forward to at this year’s festival, there has been one update Disney hasn’t officially shared. Yet. EPCOT fans have had one thing on their minds ever since Disney announced a new “dedicated Festival area” at CommuniCore Hall: Food and Wine Festival Seminars and Demonstrations. For context, EPCOT used to host expert-led wine, beer, or cheese seminars during the Food and Wine Festival, and sometimes, Disney even brought in celebrity chefs to host special meals, book signings, and cooking demonstrations. These types of special events haven’t happened since 2019, though, and we’ve missed them. Demonstrations available in 2019 When Disney previously announced all the details about its latest addition to World Celebration, CommuniCore Hall and CommuniCore Plaza, this area was described as the place that would bring EPCOT International Festivals “to the center of Walt Disney World.” Sounds like a great place to host celebrity-led demonstrations, right? CommuniCore Hall Around this same time, Disney opened a new Festival Favorites area in EPCOT’s CommuniCore Hall. This simple, quick-service window serves an assortment of fan-favorite Festival food and drink items. This seemed like a great first step to bring the EPCOT International Festivals to World Celebration, but Disney still has not made any official announcements about what else will be available at CommuniCore Hall. We’ll admit it. We were starting to lose hope. It seemed like there was a very slim chance that Food and Wine Festival Seminars and Demonstrations would return to EPCOT this year. We miss you! But wait! During our visit to EPCOT on August 22nd, we noticed a suspicious new closure. CommuniCore Hall was CLOSED during our visit, and according to a Cast Member, the closure was due to “festival prep.” Hmm…what KIND of festival prep?! This spot was CLOSED! The Cast Member hinted that the building would be closed until the Food and Wine Festival begins on August 29th, and the space would be used for demonstrations when it reopens. Note that Disney has NOT officially confirmed this update, so we’ll have to wait and see if they indeed are back for the 2024 season. CommuniCore Hall is closed! The good news is that both the Mickey & Friends meet-and-greet area and Festival Favorites are still open at this time. Mickey’s Greeting Spot in EPCOT! OK, we’ll admit it. This little closure REALLY got our hopes up. Could this mean that Disney has more plans for CommuniCore Hall after all? Is the building just closed to add new decorations? WE MUST KNOW! We’ll be sure to let you know the moment we get an official update. CommuniCore Hall In the meantime, we’re always on the lookout for the latest Disney news, so stay tuned for more. ALERT: Exclusive Perk Revealed for Three 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 What do YOU think this closure means?! Let us know in the comments! The post NEWS: EPCOT Announces MYSTERIOUS Multi-Day Closure Days Before Food and Wine Festival Begins first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Without vacay, how can I everest? 🏔️ Share with someone who needs a vacationView the full article

We have big news for our friends who love to stay on property at Disney World! Swan and Dolphin However, this news is particularly for those folks who want to stay on property but prefer to stay at the hotels that AREN’T owned and operated by Disney, one of the most popular being the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resorts. Despite the name, these hotels are owned by Marriott, not Disney! And while there are already tons of Disney World park perks for staying at these hotels, a NEW perk has been announced that coffee drinkers will love. There are actually 3 hotels right in this area, which is within walking distance of EPCOT — we have the Swan hotel, Dolphin hotel, and the Swan Reserve. While the Swan and Dolphin hotels are quite similar in the type of stay you’ll have there, but there are different room types, the Swan Reserve is definitely more of a step up into more luxurious stays. Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin However, all THREE of these hotels now have a special new perk that guests will automatically receive when they book a stay here — guests can earn DOUBLE points at Starbucks locations around park property throughout the duration of your stay! The Dolphin There’s one Starbucks location in each Disney World park and 2 located in Disney Springs, so you can get your coffee fix AND earn double points, helping you reach additional rewards quicker! This is because Starbucks has recently partnered with Marriott to give all guests staying at Marriott hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy this special offer. Starbucks Refresher However, you will need to be both a Marriott Bonvoy and Starbucks member to take advantage of this offer, and you’ll need to link them together! Learn more about this special offer here! But that’s not the only special perk you’ll get when staying at the Swan, Dolphin, or Swan Reserve hotels! You’ll also receive: Complimentary transportation to Disney World parks (and to the TTC for Magic Kingdom) Early Entry into any theme park 30 minutes before regular opening time Extended Evening Hours (receive an extra 2 hours of park time after park close at select parks on certain days) Swan Resort lobby Looking for more recent Disney World and Disney World-area hotel news? Check out our posts below! More Hotel News! The Disappointing Truth About Disney World’s Moderate HotelsThree Huge Hotel Changes Have Been Announced for Disney World in 2025Full List of Important Disney World Closures You Should Plan Around in 2025Why You (Probably) Shouldn’t Stay at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort in 2025Disney Announces New Hotel Addition — and We’re Not Sure If We Like It Be sure to stay tuned to DFB for all the latest news to help you plan where you should stay on your next Disney World vacation! Is Skyliner Transportation Really Worth Spending More of Your Hotel Budget For? Want More Details About Disney World’s Hotels? Ranking of ALL of Disney World’s Hotels The “I’m So Tired; Just Tell Me What To Do” Guide To Choosing the Perfect Disney World Hotel 13 Critical Things You’re FORGETTING About When Booking a Disney World Hotel 8 Gadgets You Need for Your Disney World Hotel Room The Surprising Things You Won’t Find in Your Disney World Hotel Room The Secret Way to Stay in Disney World’s Hotels for LESS! What's New at the Disney World Hotels All About Disney World's Resort Hotel Refillable Mugs Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the latest Disney World hotel news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Have you ever stayed at the Swan or Dolphin hotels? Tell us in the comments! The post ALERT: Exclusive Perk Revealed for Three Disney World Hotels! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Your favorite Pixar characters are coming to Disney+… in a NEW way. LEGO® Pixar: BrickToons – Brave. © 2024 Disney/Pixar. All Rights Reserved. Pixar has long been known for innovation, and now the revolutionary film studio is teaming up with one of the world’s most recognizable brands for a new series of shorts on Disney+. Pixar released a trailer for the series recently and you can check it out below: The trailer highlights Marlin and Dory from Finding Nemo, Syndrome, Jack-Jack, Dash, and Violet from The Incredibles, Lightning McQueen and Mater from Cars, Merida and her rambunctious baby brothers from Brave, and Miguel and Hector from Coco. LEGO® Pixar: BrickToons – The Incredibles. © 2024 Disney/Pixar. All Rights Reserved. The new LEGO Pixar BrickToons mini-series debuts next month on Disney+. Stay tuned to DFB for further updates on Disney’s upcoming entertainment, Disney+ CANCELS New Series After One Season 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 about this new LEGO-based take on Pixar’s classics? Let us know in the comments below. The post Two LEGENDS Have Teamed Up for a NEW Disney+ Series first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Turns out, the monsters have been coming for a long time. ©Disney One of the biggest announcements at the recent D23 Ultimate Fan Event was the news that a massive Monsters, Inc.-themed land is coming to Hollywood Studios. However, along with the excitement over the land, there’s also been consternation about where the land will go. Turns out, some of the concept art gives us a hint as to just where it might go… and just how long Disney has been planning this expansion. Rumors of a Monsters, Inc. area — or at least a roller coaster themed to the film’s iconic door factory sequence — have been a constant presence among both Disneyland and Disney World fans for nearly two decades. However, as far as fans knew, these rumblings never went further than unconfirmed rumors until D23, when it was officially announced. According to Disney’s later roundup of the event, the land will pick up “after the events of Pixar’s beloved film, humans have now been invited to visit the world of Monsters, Inc. — and the monsters need laughter to power the city and keep it running smoothly. But it’s not a true visit without the factory itself. You’ll be able to see the sights, hear the laughs and zoom through the building just like James P. Sullivan (a.k.a. Sulley) and Mike Wazowski — via a door! Yes, a door. If you’ve been dreaming of riding through the door vault since the movie was released in 2001, you’re not alone — Josh has been thinking about this, too. “The first time I saw Monsters, Inc., all I wanted to do was ride on one of those doors like Mike and Sulley,” he told the crowd. “You’ll go into the factory and experience the first suspended coaster ever in a Disney park. Remember in the movie how those claws grab the doors and hoist them up into the air to take them away? We’re doing that, too. And you’re going along for the ride.” Monsters, Inc. coaster Along with that announcement, Disney released two VERY different pieces of concept art. The first seems to indicate that the as-yet-untitled Monsters, Inc. land will be built in the park’s Grand Avenue… which has petrified fans of Muppet*Vision 3D, who fear that the art indicates that the final project Muppets creator Jim Henson worked on before his death is on the chopping block. Monsters Inc. Land Concept Art ©Disney The second piece of concept art seems to not only suggest a larger scale land, it also appears to be located in the park’s Animation Courtyard area (with the main attraction entrance taking over the former animation tour/current Star Wars Launch Bay Area). In addition to alleviating the fears of Muppets fans, this area arguably makes more sense from a crowd flow and available space perspective. ©Disney While Disney has yet to confirm the current planned location of the land, the aforementioned concept art gives a clue. The Grand Avenue art features something rarely seen in publicly released Disney concept art: an artist’s signature AND (more importantly for our purposes) a date. Specifically, the art is dated 2020, as seen in the below closeup: Note the date Greg Pro is an Executive Concept Designer/Illustrator. His signature can be seen on other pieces of concept art shown at D23 with “24” after his name indicating it is a newer piece. So, this tells us that the Monsters, Inc. land has been in the heavy planning stages for at least four years – – quite frankly, given Disney’s penchant for showing “blue sky” concept art over the last several years, we’re surprised that they didn’t “announce” this land sooner – – and that the Grand Avenue location was being considered back then. That could be good news for those who want to save Muppet*Vision 3D, as it may indicate that Disney has moved past considering that area… or it could be bad news, indicating that Disney has long zeroed in on that area. 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 Until Disney announces the location and begins construction next year, we’ll keep analyzing this concept art for further clues about the upcoming Monsters, Inc. land. Stay tuned to DFB for further coverage of upcoming Disney World projects. 7 HUGE Announcements That Were MISSING From Disney’s News Drop 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 Where do you hope Monsters, Inc. land is built at Hollywood Studios? Let us know in the comments below. The post The Secret Proof That Disney’s NEW Monsters Inc. Land Has Been in Development for YEARS first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Summer is officially winding down (well, the concept of summer — it’s still warm in Florida), and fall is right around the corner. Fall is HERE! Of course, we’re already celebrating fall here at DFB — that comes with the first Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party in Magic Kingdom. We’ve also been diving into Halloween and fall treats in Disney World, so when we saw a new EXCLUSIVE Loungefly ALL ABOUT fall treats, our jaws dropped and we couldn’t grab our credit cards fast enough. So, obviously, we have to share this must-have fall bag with you. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. If you want to score free shipping on this Loungefly, but don’t already have Amazon Prime, you can sign up for a free trial of Prime below! Like we said, this bag is all about fall treats, and we think it’s incredible. It’s also only available on Amazon. Get the Fall Sweet Treats Loungefly Mini Backpack ©Amazon Yep, fall is all about very specific flavors, like Mickey cinnamon rolls, Mickey-shaped pies, Mickey cupcakes in fall colors, pumpkin pie, fall donuts, and more. And it’s ALL on this exclusive bag, which also features a gigantic Mickey cinnamon roll on the front. That cinnamon roll is also the bag’s front pocket. The inside lining also features a fall pattern, with autumn leaves and fall snacks. ©Amazon This bag is ONLY available on Amazon, so you’ll need to grab it fast — it’s available for pre-order right now! Pre-Order from Amazon We’ll keep an eye out for more Halloween and fall Loungeflys, so stay tuned to DFB for more. In the meantime, be sure to check out our Amazon Store at the link below for more Disney souvenirs and essentials. Shop our Amazon StoreThe post An EXCLUSIVE Disney Loungefly Just Dropped On Amazon first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

MORE change has happened in Magic Kingdom at Disney World seemingly overnight! Paw and hoof prints! So many new and exciting things have been announced for Disney World in the near future and we can hardly wait! While some projects already have kicked off with a running start like transforming Tortuga Tavern into Tortuga Treasures, others like Disney’s highly anticipated Villains Land might be a while before we get more insight into their extensive details. But one thing’s for sure from this latest update when Disney World has set their mind to change, you could see results FAST! It’s pretty often we spot something new around Magic Kingdom, but not always in the way we would expect! While taking a stroll around the park recently we discovered a weird traffic jam in an area that typically isn’t known for them. The entrance to Adventureland features a bridge that you walk across signifying entering the uncharted land of forrest, adventure, and a little bit of mystery. Magic Kingdom’s Adventureland But beyond the bridge, we notices crowds starting to build up from what looked like construction in the main entranceway. As we got closer we saw that a section of the ground had been roped off causing a bit of a bottle-necked, crowded area and people were passing through but when we took a closer look it really grabbed our interest! We already had noticed a few days before that the ground in this area had been scored which typically suggests some upcoming work to be done, and it’s usually for some kind of repair and refurbishment. Oooh, what’s this?! However, what was added to the area was intriguing! The ground now gives way to reveal a section of concrete that has been replaced and looks almost like a forest floor! Groundwork in Adventureland We spotted notes of what look to be green moss… Is that moss? …tracks of several animals… Animal tracks! …and rugged terrain peering back at us. It looks rough! Its actually quite a large section of concrete just outside of the Club 33 entrance and before you make your way out to the line for Sunshine Tree Terrace if you’re passing through the land’s entrance sign. When we stopped to ask a Cast Member about the change they weren’t certain why it was added or how much more we could anticipate popping up around the land at the time. We’re left with so many questions now! While nothing more has been confirmed about this construction change, we’re left wondering if maybe Disney World is testing pavement for the new cars land retheme as an “alpine” looking region. This area will be taking over the current Tom Sawyer Island, Rivers of America, and Liberty Square Riverboat which was announced as an upcoming project to the park during the Horizons segment at this year’s D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event weekend. ©Disney This construction is just the latest to join what’s already in progress further into the land by Pirates of the Caribbean at the former Plaza Del Sol Caribe and former Pirates League areas as Disney’s Imagineers work to transform it into the recently announced family-friendly Pirates of the Caribbean inspired lounge. This new space is expected to open sometime in 2025. An all-new lounge themed to Pirates of the Caribbean will open at Magic Kingdom in 2025. ©Disney All these latest construction happenings around Magic Kingdom have our thoughts swirling with excitement already! We’ll be keeping watch to see if this groundwork is expanded and if so, where and what may pop up next. We’re watching out for all the latest changes and updates happening around Disney World! Be sure to stay tuned with us for more! NEW Restaurant CONFIRMED for Disney’s Polynesian Village 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 The post Something NEW Has Popped Up in Magic Kingdom and We Think It May Be a CLUE! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Hey! Are you interested in saving even more on Disney merch?! ©Disney I mean, we all are, and that why we’re bringing you the latest and greatest deals that we’ve rounded up from the Disney Store online. Let’s go! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. First up, is there anything better than a free gift?! ©Disney Right now, you can choose a free gift from a selected assortment when you spend $100+ (make sure to use code GIFT at checkout). This deal ends Thursday, so you’ll have to get going! View on Disney Store Next, let’s talk about a 30% discount on a bunch of items! ©Disney If you hurry, you can get 30% Off of Adult Clothing, Accessories & More (no code necessary for this one). This deal also ends Thursday, so you have no time to spare! View on Disney Store Mickey Mouse Donut Loungefly Mini Backpack – Disney Eats ©Disney First up, as an example of what you can find in that 30% off Adult Clothing, Accessories & More sale, we’ve got this Mickey Mouse Donut Loungefly Mini Backpack. It’s guaranteed that you’re not going to find a “sweeter” Loungefly mini backpack that you can take to the parks. It’s part of the Disney Eats collection and it’ll honestly make for a fantastic bag to carry all of your park essentials. View on Disney Store Lizzie McGuire Denim Jacket for Adults by Cakeworthy ©Disney Also in that same sale, we’ve got this fantastic Lizzie McGuire denim jacket for Adults. I know it doesn’t typically did down below the 90’s for most of the year in Florida, but the look of this denim jacket and the nostalgia definitely have us wanting one so we can rock it at the parks. You’ll want to move quickly so you don’t miss out on grabbing this one 30% Off. View on Disney Store Next, we’ve got to talk about the Disney Villains Collection by Pandora Jewelry! ©Disney Right now with the purchase of any (4) Villains styles from the Disney x Pandora collection, there is a specially designed complimentary jewelry box. Here’s what it looks like when it’s open: ©Disney Styles are selling out quickly, so you’ll want to hop to it! View on Disney Store Mickey Mouse Halloween Glow-in-the-Dark Tote Bag ©Disney Here’s a look at it glowing in the dark: ©Disney Can you believe that we’re basically in the spooky season right now. Who know it was already time for a PSL? So, to commemorate the new season, you might want to get a brand new tote to take with you on your Disney World trip! This one not only has all the room you’ll need to carry essentials and souvenirs while you’re at the parks, and it glows in the dark! Need we say more? Also, it can be yours for $20 with any purchase. Don’t miss out on this one! View on Disney Store Mickey Mouse Halloween Plush ©Disney Looking to add a new piece to your Halloween decor? How about this Mickey Mouse Halloween Plush? It can be yours for $20 with any purchase right now. Just check out his green and purple suit and matching pumpkin hat! View on Disney Store Minnie Mouse Halloween Plush ©Disney And to complete the set, go ahead and add a Minnie Mouse Halloween Plush to the cart. It’s also available for $20 with any purchase, and she’s got the cutest matching outfit in shades of green, purple, and orange, with a pumpkin-topped bow. View on Disney Store In additional to all of that, FREE SHIPPING is happening for orders of $75 or more! Use the code FREESHIP at checkout! We’ll continue to keep you updated with any and all Disney news and updates, so make sure to follow along for more. Click Here to Shop Disney Merchandise on Amazon!The post Disney Is Giving Away a FREE Villains Souvenir...But There's a Catch! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We are bubbling with excitement to share the tropical features coming to the Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, projected to open on Dec. 17. Delicious Dining at Wailulu Bar & Grill Get ready to indulge in the delicious flavors of Polynesia at the Wailulu Bar & Grill. “Wailulu” gets its name from the Hawaiian words “wai,” which means water, and “lulu” which means calm, which is very fitting as this unique restaurant will boast breathtaking views of the Seven Seas Lagoon. Wailulu Bar & Grill will feature spacious indoor and outdoor seating areas and a spectacular bar space with views of Cinderella’s Castle at Magic Kingdom Park. This casual walk-up pool bar will feature an all-day menu for lunch and dinner that is influenced by the Polynesian Islands’ local and indigenous ingredients. Specialty coffee and on-the-go morning pastries will be available for breakfast. The dining room will be adorned with dazzling Polynesian-inspired artwork, created exclusively for the space, including floating tropical fish sculptures crafted from recycled materials and reclaimed fishing nets. The fish will be “swimming” throughout the space, leading to a grand textile piece featured in the bar area, representing a colorful coral reef. The center of the dining room will showcase an abstract Polynesian Stick Chart, an ancient navigation tool used to traverse the seas. A vibrant centerpiece composed of beautiful shades of blue, teal and green faux stained-glass will create an ambiance to dive in and explore the mouthwatering menu! Speaking of exploration, our favorite wayfinding princess, Moana, will be featured in a painting on display in Wailulu Bar & Grill. We will be sharing more information about Wailulu Bar & Grill and its menu in the near future, so make sure to stay tuned to Disney Eats on the Disney Parks Blog for more. Soak Up the Sun in New Pool & Splash Area Little ones can embrace their inner wayfinder at Moana’s Voyage, a whimsical new splash area that will feature life-size sculptures of Moana and her iconic canoe from the Walt Disney Animation Studios film. The tower will also be home to Cove Pool, a brand-new zero entry pool offering even more opportunities to relax. Both Disney Vacation Club members and guests staying at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort will be able to experience these new aquatic features.  Take In Stunning Terrace Garden Views Members and guests staying at the Island Tower addition will enjoy exclusive access to four tropical terrace gardens. Each terrace garden will feature vibrant artwork, lush foliage and uniquely themed seating areas. The distinctively designed hideaways will offer families a serene locale to gather and take in the views during their stay. Speaking of views, these oases will offer picturesque views of Disney’s Oak Trail and Magnolia Golf Courses or Seven Seas Lagoon, making it a spectacular place for viewing Magic Kingdom fireworks. Book Your Stay at the Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows Disney Vacation Club members can now make hotel reservations by contacting Member Services at (800) 800-9800. Members will be able to make points-based reservations at a later date. All guests can make reservations for the Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows either online or by contacting (407) 934-7639. Our island-inspired adventure is just getting started, so stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog to see how far we’ll go! The Island Tower addition is new developer inventory at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows and is under construction, projected to open December 17, 2024. This advertising material is being used for the purpose of soliciting sales of timeshare interests. The post New Features Revealed! Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

Disney fans were stunned back in 2022 when the CEO of The Walt Disney Company, Bob Chapek, stepped down, only to be replaced by Bob Iger, who held the position before Chapek. Ever since Iger’s return, there’s been speculation about who will replace Iger when he (re)retires in 2026. ©Disney | Walt Disney Company Headquarters Over the past few years, Iger has faced several challenges, navigating the complex world of streaming, turning things around for the parks, and battling with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Iger has made it clear that he plans to step down soon, leaving fans to wonder: who’s next? Recently, CEO Bob Iger spoke with Kelly Ripa in a podcast interview. During the interview, Iger stated he has one thing on his mind: finding a successor. Iger said, “I think it would be safe to assume that I think about [CEO succession] all the time.” He added, “It’s actually something that I’m obviously very focused on, not just because of the past, but because I’d like to retire again and I’d like to leave the company in great hands, and that is my intention and I’m now confident that not only will we do that, but we’ll do so on a timely basis that works for the company and hopefully works for me as well, but yes. It’s a huge priority,” per Variety. ©Disney It’s clear Iger means what he said. The Walt Disney Company just announced that the Board of Directors appointed Board member James P. Gorman to chair its Succession Planning Committee. As the name implies, this group is tasked with finding the next Disney CEO. Gorman previously joined the Disney board following his work at Morgan Stanley, where he oversaw the company’s succession process in 2024. ©Disney The addition of Gorman serving as the chair rounds out the board with three other members, including Mark G. Parker, Chairman of the Board, and directors Mary T. Barra and Calvin R. McDonald. Disney noted that “All members of the Committee have direct experience in CEO and senior leadership succession planning for Fortune 500 companies.” Chairman of the Board, Mark G. Parker, stated, “James is a highly respected leader, and we’ve asked him to serve as the new Chair of the Succession Planning Committee given his deep succession planning experience and long-term strategic mentality.” Gorman added, “I look forward to working alongside Mark and my other fellow Committee members in advising the Board as we continue to press forward expeditiously with this work.” Getty Images via The New York Times The Board formed its special Succession Planning Committee back in January 2023. The Committee is dedicated to “a deliberate succession planning process, including evaluation of transition structures and organizational frameworks, and planning for potential impacts of succession decisions across the Company.” Disney explained that since the start of fiscal 2024, the Committee has met six times. At this time, Disney hasn’t publicly stated who is still in the running, though many have speculated that Kevin Mayer, Candle Media co-founder and close Iger adviser, could take on the role. NEWS: Disney CEO Announcement Could Be Imminent, Says Iger Adviser Disney hinted that “Internal candidates are going through a preparation process that includes mentorship from Disney CEO Robert A. Iger, external coaching, and engagement with all Board directors,” which could mean someone like Dana Walden, co-chair of Disney Entertainment, Jimmy Pitaro, former ESPN president, Disney Parks chair Josh D’Amaro, or and Alan Bergman could be named CEO. Magic Kingdom For now, we’ll have to wait and see what the Committee decides. In the meantime, we’re always on the lookout for the latest Disney news, so stay tuned for more. NEWS: Disney CEO Bob Iger Confirms 2026 Exit 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 Who would you like to see take over the role of CEO? Let us know in the comments! The post BREAKING: Disney Takes Important Step Forward Amid Search To Find CEO Successor first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

If you’re traveling through the Orlando Airport, you might want to check the status of your flight. Now check it again. One more time? Flight delays and cancelations are pretty common these days — especially in Central Florida! Orlando Airport The weather has been a little, well, rough lately, and we’ve got an important update to share regarding departures out of the Orlando International Airport. The Federal Aviation Administration reported that “Departures to Orlando International are grounded due to thunderstorms.” The current probability of extension is listed as “medium” (30-60%), but the ground stop is expected to end at 4:30PM. ©Federal Aviation Administration FlightAware is currently reporting 83 total delays and five cancelations at Orlando Airport. We expect that number to increase throughout the late afternoon as the ground stop continues. ©FlightAware This is a developing story. We’ll keep our eyes out for updates. In the meantime, we’re always on the lookout for the latest Disney news, so stay tuned for more. We’ve Got a BAD Feeling About the Fate of This Classic EPCOT Food & Wine Festival Offering 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 “Delays Are Going To Start Building Quickly…” FAA Issues Ground Stop for the Orlando International Airport first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article