Disney4me

Every week, we report the average Disney World wait times in every park so that you can be prepared for your next trip to Orlando! Magic Kingdom Disney World’s average wait times were surprisingly low this week (considering we’re so close to Christmas), though the Magic Kingdom’s TRON Lightcycle / Run topped the list with the highest average wait at the resort. This was one of the (shockingly) few instances where the wait time averaged over an hour. Don’t believe us? Take a look at this week’s average wait times! Magic Kingdom Wait Times Wait times at Magic Kingdom saw a jump this week, led by the ever-busy TRON Lightcycle / Run, which increased all the way up to 63 minutes. (REMINDER: Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is currently only available with virtual queue and Lightning Lanes.) TRON Lightcycle / Run ©Disney TRON Lightcycle / Run — 63 minutes Seven Dwarfs Mine Train — 48 minutes Jingle Cruise — 43 minutes Peter Pan’s Flight — 40 minutes Space Mountain — 33 minutes Haunted Mansion — 30 minutes Big Thunder Mountain Railroad — 27 minutes Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh — 24 minutes Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin — 21 minutes Astro Orbiter — 19 minutes We LOVE this ride! Pirates of the Caribbean — 18 minutes Enchanted Tales with Belle — 17 minutes “it’s a small world” — 15 minutes Mickey’s PhilharMagic — 15 minutes Magic Carpets of Aladdin — 13 minutes Barnstormer featuring the Great Goofini — 12 minutes Country Bear Musical Jamboree — 13 minutes Tomorrowland Speedway Dumbo the Flying Elephant — 12 minutes Tomorrowland Speedway — 11 minutes Enchanted Tiki Room — 11 minutes Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover — 11 minutes Mad Tea Party — 10 minutes Prince Charming Regal Carrousel — 9 minutes Carousel of Progress Carousel of Progress — 5 minutes Tom Sawyer Island — 5 minutes Liberty Square Riverboat — 4 minutes Hall of Presidents — 2 minutes BREAKING: Closure Announced For Yet Another Magic Kingdom Attraction EPCOT Wait Times The wait times in EPCOT remained stable, especially at the top of the list, with Remy’s and Frozen being the only waits to even approach an hour. (NOTE: Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind does not currently use a standby queue, so it’s not included here.) Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure — 50 minutes Frozen Ever After — 47 minutes Soarin’ — 29 minutes Living with the Land — 25 minutes We know what is coming next! Mission: SPACE — 16 minutes Turtle Talk with Crush — 15 minutes Spaceship Earth — 13 minutes The Seas with Nemo and Friends — 12 minutes Journey into Imagination — 11 minutes Gran Fiesta Tour — 11 minutes Test Track is currently closed for refurbishment. Awesome Planet, American Adventure, Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along, Disney and Pixar Short Film Festival, Impressions de France, and Reflections of China had no wait times this week. The Complicated Reason Why This EPCOT Restaurant Is Still Sitting Empty Animal Kingdom Wait Times Animal Kingdom’s Flight of Passage dipped again, this time falling out of the resort’s top spot. Flight of Passage (Yep, it’s in there) Avatar Flight of Passage — 56 minutes Na’vi River Journey — 42 minutes Kilimanjaro Safaris — 36 minutes A giraffe on Kilimanjaro Safaris Expedition Everest — 25 minutes Dinosaur — 17 minutes It’s Tough to Be a Bug — 10 minutes TriceraTop Spin — 6 minutes Kali River Rapids — 6 minutes The Boneyard — 0 A NEW Nighttime Show Has Arrived at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Hollywood Studios Wait Times Over in Hollywood Studios, Slinky Dog Dash remained on top, with a wait time of 55 minutes. Slinky Dog Dash Slinky Dog Dash — 55 minutes Rise of the Resistance — 51 minutes Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster — 48 minutes Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway — 40 minutes Toy Story Mania Toy Story Mania — 35 minutes Tower of Terror — 35 minutes Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run — 29 minutes Alien Swirling Saucers — 21 minutes Muppet*Vision 3D — 10 minutes Star Tours — 7 minutes Walt Disney Presents — 3 minutes 3 Game-Changing Updates Announced for Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2025 Stay tuned to DFB for more updates from Disney World! Your Disney World Trip Will Be SO Much Better if You Take Advantage of This App Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW How long would you wait for your favorite ride? Let us know in the comments below! The post Disney World’s Average Wait Times Just Took a Surprising Turn first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We are still finding new details on the newest Disney Cruise ship! Aladdin and Jasmine on the Disney Treasure The Disney Treasure recently had its first sailing, and we were lucky enough to hop on board! There were so many amazing dining options, specialty bars, and Disney pals on board. We have found so many little things we have loved on board, but this subtle detail surprised us. The Disney Treasure has so many hidden details it would take us days to talk about them all! From the hidden Haunted Mansion Parlor secrets to every little detail in the staterooms, we have had so much fun searching through Disney’s newest cruise ship. One of our favorite details? The bugs! Inside Stateroom Normally, if you see a bug on your stateroom door, it’s a little alarming, right? Luckily for us, these bugs aren’t real. On board the Disney Treasure, there are several different styles of staterooms like Encanto, Up, Finding Nemo, Pocahontas, Luca, and Aladdin. Each of these different rooms has hooks outside of the rooms where you’ll find your room keys when you first get on board. We got a butterfly at our Encanto room! Where you’ll find your Key to the World cards. For the Aladdin-themed rooms, you’ll find a scarab beetle outside of your door, which is a bug! Isn’t it so cute? We get that not everyone would be thrilled to see a little buggy on their door when they first get on board, but what if we told you these bugs are magical? Look at this little guy! In many cultures, like Ancient Egypt, the scarab beetle has a lot more meaning than just a crawling critter. You’ll find these bugs throughout hieroglyphs, statues, sculptures, and more when you’re diving into the history. In Ancient Egypt, these bugs represented immortality and protection. I don’t know about you, but we personally love that our room might be extra protected. Scarab Brooch ©Egypt Museum People often wore a scarab beetle to protect from illnesses, which we all probably need while we’re on a swaying ship eating a bit too much! There were many meetings attributed to this powerful little beetle, like the fact that it was a symbol of regeneration and birth, it represented the sun god, Ra, and the morning sun god, Khepri, and it was a seal for religious and personal purposes, too. Jafar even used a scarab to find the Cave of Wonders in Aladdin. ©Disney The use of the scarab as a magical and powerful symbol bled over into Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures as well, but it’s fair to say they are widely-known thanks to their significance in Ancient Egypt. So, does knowing this bit of ancient history make you feel a bit better about the bug on your door before heading into your Aladdin-themed stateroom? We sure hope so! The Aladdin room! This is just one example of the amazing and thoughtful details you can find throughout the Disney Treasure cruise ship! While we loved our Encanto-themed room, if we head back onto the boat, we might request the Aladdin rooms just for that bit of extra magic before we head into our room. Don’t forget to keep following Disney Food Blog for your latest news on the Disney Cruise Line. Check out this FULL TOUR of the Aladdin and Pocahontas Rooms On The Disney Treasure HERE What You Need to Know About Disney Cruise Line Learn All About Disney Cruise Line and Its Various Ships Explore Disney’s Mega Cruise Ship – The Wish A Full List of What You CAN’T Bring on a Disney Cruise These Are the BEST Times to Book Your Disney Cruise The Best Ways to SAVE SPACE in Your Tiny Cruise Cabin 10 Things You NEED on Your Next Cruise (That You Won’t Think to Pack!) What It’s Like to Live on a Cruise Ship for 6 Months Join the DFB Newsletter To Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox! Click here to Subscribe Did you know about these magical bugs? Tell us in the comments! The post The Bug You Actually WANT on Your Disney Cruise Line Door first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

It might be winter in Florida, but we’re celebrating the reopening of a pool at Disney World! Port Orleans — French Quarter A pool at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort—French Quarter briefly closed, but it is once again open to hotel guests! Not too many people might be going swimming in December, but it’s still good to see these refurbishments come to an end. Disney’s Port Orleans Resort — French Quarter The Doubloon Lagoon Pool has been closed this past week! Doubloon Lagoon Pool Luckily, it was only closed for a few days and has now reopened! Guests can now enjoy Doubloon Lagoon Pool, the multiple leisure pools, or Ol’ Man Island Pool at Port Orleans Riverside. We’re excited about this reopening, but other attractions are still closed at Disney World. Keep reading to find out what will remain closed the week of December 21st through December 28th! Happy holidays and Merry Christmas! Magic Kingdom Swiss Family Treehouse The Swiss Family Treehouse at Magic Kingdom is based on the classic movie Swiss Family Robinson and is a fun tree-climbing experience at the park. Swiss Family Treehouse construction This attraction has been undergoing a month-long refurbishment and was supposed to reopen on December 21st. However, it did NOT reopen. Scaffolding and screens still cover this attraction. The Disney World website shows hours for it starting on December 23rd, so you can likely expect it to open that day. If you and your kiddos are looking for a place to climb around for now, head over to Tom Sawyer Island instead. Frontierland Shootin’ Arcade We had to say goodbye to an opening day attraction on June 23rd. The Frontierland Shootin’ Arcade is closed The Frontierland Shootin’ Arcade was around for generations and provided simple fun to all who played. Now, the attraction has closed to make room for a new Disney Vacation Club lounge. This lounge will be the third in Disney World, joining one in EPCOT and one at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Disney has not yet announced when the new lounge will open. Disney Files Permit for Construction at Magic Kingdom Snack Spot Tomorrowland Terrace Tomorrowland Terrace is a quick-service restaurant that has been closed since the 2020 pandemic-related closures, but even before that, this spot was only occasionally open. Tomorrowland Terrace Once in a while, you’ll see the dining room open as a rest area (and it’s still being used for the Magic Kingdom Fireworks Dessert Parties), but it’s usually all roped off and empty. Tomorrowland Terrace Disney hasn’t announced when this spot could finally reopen, but we’ll be watching for updates. If you’re looking for a nice spot to hang out in Disney World and sit down for a rest, this could be it! Disney Begins Clearing Land Ahead of Big Magic Kingdom Expansion EPCOT Test Track Test Track closed on June 17th, and Disney is giving this ride a BIG makeover! ©Disney Disney has shared that the new version of Test Track will take inspiration from the old ride, World of Motion, that was originally there when the park opened in 1982. Disney shared more details at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Experience, and an updated opening timeline was just announced! We’ll be able to ride Test Track once again in late summer 2025. Disney Shares NEW LOOK at EPCOT’s Reimagined Test Track Attraction Restaurant Marrakesh Restaurant Marrakesh is currently closed as a dining location in the Morocco pavilion of EPCOT’s World Showcase, and there’s no word yet on when the restaurant could fully reopen. Restaurant Marrakesh building Occasionally, we’ll see it open as a lounge or Kidcot Fun Stop. So, if you’re in the Morocco Pavilion, check it out to see if it’s open. We’re watching for updates on when the full restaurant could reopen! NEW Food Booth Announced for the 2025 EPCOT Festival of the Arts Hollywood Studios Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy The Cars-themed show featuring Lighting McQueen permanently closed on October 8th, 2024, to make way for a brand-new Villains show. Sunset Showcase The Cars show was previously housed in the Sunset Showcase building, but the last day for guests to enjoy it was October 7th. The new Villains show is supposed to debut in the summer of 2025. We’re always watching for more details about the new show, and we recently spotted a casting call for Cruella de Vil, Captain Hook, and Maleficent! Say Goodbye to One of Our FAVORITE Bathrooms in Disney’s Hollywood Studios Voyage of the Little Mermaid Voyage of the Little Mermaid is currently closed in Disney World. But we recently spotted some construction walls up at the building along with a new permit filed! Voyage of the Little Mermaid Disney is going to introduce a new, updated show in this spot, though it will still be themed to the animated movie The Little Mermaid! The new show will be called “The Little Mermaid — A Musical Adventure,” and it is now coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Summer 2025. The Little Mermaid: A Musical Adventure Disney still hasn’t announced an official opening date for the new show, but it has been postponed from its Fall 2024 opening timeline. It will be a “fully reimagined theatrical production inspired by the Walt Disney Animation Studios classic.” NEW LOOK at “The Little Mermaid” Show Coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios! Typhoon Lagoon Blizzard Beach officially welcomed guests back on November 4th! That same day, Typhoon Lagoon closed its gates for the season. Typhoon Lagoon Typhoon Lagoon will likely be closed throughout the winter until sometime in the spring. Disney has been having one water park open at a time seasonally since 2020. In the meantime, you can enjoy the slopes at Blizzard Beach this winter! Click here to learn all about Blizzard Beach Disney World Hotels World Premiere Food Court — Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort The World Premiere Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort has been undergoing refurbishment since July. World Premiere Food Court This food court closed for refurbishment on July 1st and was set to reopen on July 31st. Currently, the Disney World website only lists the Rialto coffee shop as being closed for refurbishment until the end of December 2024. Everything POP Shopping & Dining — Disney’s Pop Century Resort The Everything Pop Food Court will continue its refurbishment for the time being. Everything POP! Since July 29th, Everything Pop has been getting some work done. The refurbishment was supposed to end on September 29th. However, it was extended to November 30th, and now it has been extended AGAIN until April 2025. The new extension only notes that the coffee shop is still closed. We recently visited the food court, and it’s looking great! There is far less construction, and almost everything is open and available again. This is a big improvement, and it’s great that people staying here have most dining shopping options available to them once again. Disney’s BoardWalk Resort The Inn Leisure Pool at Disney’s BoardWalk Resort is currently closed for refurbishment! Inn Leisure Pool Construction This closure is expected to last until late December, but in the meantime, you can swim in one of the other two pools at this hotel, the Luna Park Pool or the Villas Leisure Pool. Disney World’s Newest Hotel Addition Has Some SPECTACULAR Fireworks Views — Here’s the Secret Looking for more resources to help you get ready for your upcoming trip? Check out these posts to learn all about Disney World’s rides: 10 Rides to AVOID in Disney World if You Struggle with Motion Sickness What It Takes to CHANGE a Disney World Ride 9 of the SCARIEST Rides in Disney World, According to YOU! A FULL LIST of the Thrill Rides in Disney World! The Ultimate Guide to the BEST and WORST Seats On EVERY Magic Kingdom Ride We’ll keep you updated with all the latest news, so stay tuned to DFB. Full List of Important Disney World Closures You Should Plan Around in 2025 Planning a Trip to Disney World? We’ve Got Everything You Need to Know The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Disney World Vacation A Month-by-Month Guide to Planning Your Disney World Trip Tips, Hints, Lists, and Videos for Planning the BEST Disney World Trip Learn About the Disney Park Pass System The Ultimate Disney World Packing List Everything You Need to Know About Lightning Lanes Insider SECRETS for Your First Trip to Disney World A Complete Look at the Current Disney Discounts and Deals The ONLY Disney Dining Planning Tool You’ll Need Is Here – Get the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining! Join the DFB Newsletter to Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox! Click Here to Subscribe When is your next Disney World vacation? Let us know in the comments! The post ALERT! A Disney World Hotel Pool CLOSURE Is Coming to an END first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

This is a special time to be visiting Disney World. Animal Kingdom We’ve already told you how incredible the holiday season can be here, after all, what with the decorations, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and Jollywood Nights, and the holiday snacks (the best part, IMHO). We also love visiting Disney’s Animal Kingdom this time of year because we get to see the Merry Menagerie. However, there’s also a special nighttime show that gets a holiday update, but this year, ANOTHER update was added to the show (hint: it might have you working on your roar). The best part of this nighttime show is that you don’t have to stake out a spot to see it. It’s visible all the way back to the Island Mercantile shop and everything is basically downhill from the tree, so you’ll get perfect viewing just about anywhere in that area. He’s adorable Tree of Life Awakenings is worth waiting around for, so be sure to catch it before you leave Animal Kingdom at night. Stay tuned to DFB for more. WINTER Is the Best Time of Year to Visit This Disney World Park. CHANGE MY MIND. 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? Have you ever watched this show? Let us know in the comments! The post Something NEW Just Arrived at Disney's Animal Kingdom first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Extra, extra, read all about it! Seriously, we’re sure Disney World hasn’t had a wink of sleep because it has dropped so many new updates this week. If you’ve missed out, this is your chance to catch up! Cinderella Castle I’m back again with another round of WHAT’S NEW UPDATES AT DISNEY WORLD, a rundown on all the epic news and updates that happened at Disney World this past week. This week, we got the 4-1-1 on another CLOSURE announced for a Magic Kingdom attraction, a NEW food booth coming to the 2025 EPCOT International Festival of The Arts, and the opening of a NEW hotel! Let’s check it out. BREAKING: Closure Announced For Yet Another Magic Kingdom Attraction Quite a few attractions will be CLOSING in Disney World in 2025. Magic Kingdom Some attractions will be closing permanently to make way for other offerings, like Tom Sawyer Island, Liberty Square Riverboat, and TriceraTop Spin. But outside of the permanent closures, there will also be a few attractions that close for refurbishment… and now another one has been added to the list! Hall of Presidents As expected, the Hall of Presidents has now been added to Disney World’s list of upcoming refurbishments. The show will close on January 20th to be updated, and there is currently no reopening date listed. Hall of Presidents For those who don’t know, the Hall of Presidents is a show that features animatronics of every single United States president, telling the story of our country’s history. Whenever a new president is elected, the show will close to get updated with the animatronic of that person. The current president’s animatronic is always featured prominently at the front of the stage, and they get a speaking part during the show. The seal of the United States This closure will come after two other Magic Kingdom attractions close on January 6th, 2025 — Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Astro Orbiter. The former will be closed until 2026 while the latter will be closed until summer 2025. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Phew, so many closures announced and the new year hasn’t even started! 7 Disney World Rides That Will Permanently Close in 2025 — Click Here! NEW Food Booth Announced for the 2025 EPCOT Festival of the Arts Something NEW is coming to the 2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts! 2024 EPCOT Festival of the Arts Each year, EPCOT hosts several seasonal festivals, including the Food and Wine Festival, the Flower and Garden Festival, the Festival of the Arts, and the Festival of the Holidays (which is happening NOW). These events always seem to brighten up the park — and we never get tired of snacking around the World Showcase. Well, from January 17th to February 24th, the Festival of the Arts will be BACK with some new and returning snacks and drinks. In fact, Disney just confirmed that a NEW food booth will be at the festival! Spaceship Earth Over in CommuniCore Plaza, Disney recently started a new tradition during its seasonal EPCOT festivals. Each season, the kitchen near CommuniCore Hall transforms to match the theme of the current EPCOT festival. Right now, for example, this booth is called Experimental Prototype Cookies of Tomorrow, and it serves (you guessed it) holiday cookies. For the Festival of the Arts, EPCOT will host the Opening Bites Food Studio! EPCOT Festival of the Arts We still don’t have the official menu for this new food booth yet, but Disney hinted, “This menu is all about paying homage to the foods and drinks immortalized onstage.” Could we get some Broadway-themed bites? Maybe a Lion King or Aladdin snack? We can’t wait to see! 2024 Festival Favorites Speaking of new additions, Disney also revealed that a new Artful Photo Op is coming soon! These are basically giant recreations of iconic works of art that YOU can step inside. We know that a few returning favorites will appear, like Luncheon of the Boating Party by Pierre-August Renoir and Edvard Munch’s The Scream. Additionally, a new Artful Photo Op will debut starring Moana! This news comes just in time to celebrate the new movie, Moana 2. ‘Luncheon of the Boating Party’ Photo Op We are so excited about what the 2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts has in store! Learn more about the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts here! A NEW Hotel Opened in Disney World and We’re Sharing EVERYTHING The day has FINALLY come! Island Tower construction For months, we’ve been patiently watching as the new Disney Vacation Club (DVC) tower at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, called Island Tower, has taken shape, and the time has finally come for us to step inside for the very first time. There are new dining options to explore, a new pool and splash pad, and of course, new rooms! Island Tower Atmosphere The atmosphere of Island Tower is similar to the theming of the rest of the existing Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, but it does have its own flair. Many fans aren’t big on the new look, while others have said they’ve loved it! Island Tower lobby From the outside of the resort, we do agree with some guests who have said that the building looks a little plain, but we think the foliage and additional theming additions do help a bit. Exterior Inside the building, you’ll find lots of stunning artwork in bright colors. These displays really help to bring the Polynesian vibe. It’s gorgeous! These pieces of art are especially prominent in the lobby area, with tall displays that fill the space. We could sit here and relax all day long! There is beautiful art all around the lobby But what about other offerings? Dining The new dining option at this tower is Wailulu Bar & Grill, which is a mix between a walk-up pool bar and table service restaurant. You’ll get to look at views of Cinderella Castle and Seven Seas Lagoon while you dine! Wailulu Bar & Grill There’s an all-day lunch and dinner menu available, as well as on-the-go options for breakfast. Wailulu Bar & Grill We’ll be sharing full reviews of the meals at this restaurant soon, so stay tuned to DFB! Their menu has some Polynesian inspiration. Wailulu Breakfast Menu On opening morning, there were already a few people at the bar to grab breakfast. This spot is likely going to be popular since it’s the building’s only dining location. Wailulu atmosphere We ordered a few different grab-and-go options to start our morning. We’re really hyped to try the Pineapple-Coconut Bread! Our breakfast spread But that’s not all! Entertainment While there’s a new fitness center available at Island Tower, there’s also a new pool and splash pad! This new pool is called Cove Pool and is complete with a sandy beach area, whirlpool spa, and gorgeous views of Seven Seas Lagoon. Cove Pool There are plenty of spots to lounge near the pool. We could totally see ourselves spending a relaxing resort day out here! Lounge areas near the pool Little ones can enjoy Moana’s Voyage, a splash pad boasting a full-size sculpture of Moana and her iconic canoe. Moana’s Voyage Seriously, your kids are going to love this splash pad! That Moana sculpture is SO accurate. Moana! But what about the accommodations here? Rooms What do these new rooms look like at Island Tower though? That’s one of the most important aspects since it’s where you’ll be staying, right? We got to check them out for ourselves firsthand! Bed area We stepped into one of the Deluxe Studios for a tour, and while the rooms are small, they pack quite a few offerings in the space. There’s both a queen bed and a Murphy bed that turns into a couch. Stunning artwork again Since these are DVC rooms, you get a kitchenette, complete with a mini fridge and microwave. There’s a decent amount of cabinet storage. Kitchenette The bathroom is fairly small, with a door to close off the toilet and shower. We love that blue water-like tile, though! Bathroom The vanity is actually hidden behind the door to the room. It’s the first thing you come to when you walk inside. Vanity area This hotel is absolutely beautiful and we are so excited to have it be a new addition to Disney World! A SECRET Disney World Shortcut Has FINALLY Reopened Of course, that’s not all that happened! There are plenty of things that happen every single day at Disney World. Check out EVERYTHING by clicking through the links below! Our reporters and writers keep these pages updated with all the latest things that take place in the parks — from merchandise drops to new menu items. See for yourself! WHAT'S NEW AT DISNEY? Check out our daily updates on all the happenings around Disney World and Disneyland! Magic Kingdom EPCOT Hollywood Studios Animal Kingdom Disney Hotels Disney Springs Disneyland In the meantime, we’re always on the lookout for the latest Disney news, so stay tuned for more. Looking for more big Disney World news? Click here! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What do you think of these big Disney World updates? Let us know in the comments! The post A New Closure, a New Food Booth, and a New Hotel? The Latest in Disney World News! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We spend a lot of time talking about Disney World restaurants…but what about the snack stands?! Spaceship Earth at EPCOT There are seemingly hundreds of little snack stands throughout the parks, each with a different menu and theme. Some of them harbor secretly delicious treats, while others are home to just the basics. And recently, I visited one of Disney World’s most classic snack spots to do a full review! Atmosphere For this review, I’m taking you with me to Fife & Drum Tavern in EPCOT! This little snack spot is located at the front of the American Adventure Pavilion, serving some classic American snacks and one unique treat. Fife & Drum Tavern The little brick building is made up of two windows and an outdoor kiosk. The ordering process may change depending on the day that you visit, but when I stopped by, it was pretty busy. They had me place my order at the kiosk and then pick up my food at the windows. The Tavern! The menu here is pretty small, so their condiment station is as well. Next to the building, you’ll find utensils, napkins, ketchup, and mustard. It’s a simple spread! Condiments As for seating, there are some tables nearby around the American Adventure fountain, as well as some that are shared with Regal Eagle Smokehouse. They’re all picnic-style tables, and many of them have umbrellas for a little bit of shade. Seating If it’s raining, you can always try taking your food inside to Regal Eagle, or heading to the picnic tables across the pavilion near the restrooms — those are under an awning. But I’ll be the first to admit…seating is not this snack stand’s strong suit! More seating Now let’s take a look at that menu! Menu The menu here is pretty short, and most of the options are basic snacks, like popcorn, hot dogs, slushies, soft serve ice cream, and Mickey pretzels. You can also order bottled beverages here, as well as a few different alcoholic options. Menu However, the two standout items here are the turkey leg and the American Dream. There are only a select number of spots in Disney World where you can get a turkey leg, and this is one of them! As for the American Dream, it’s a unique slushy and ice cream mix that’s ONLY available at Fife & Drum. Eats For my meal, I ordered three different items, starting with that American Dream! I’ve never personally tried this treat until now, but it’s a favorite for a few people on our team. It’s made with Frozen Fanta Wild Cherry, vanilla soft serve, and Frozen Fanta Blue Raspberry slushy. Layered like an American flag! (*chants* USA! USA!) American Dream This will cost you $7, so it’s a bit more expensive than a regular slushy (which is $6.25), but I personally thought the upgrade was worth it! The slushy parts melt faster than the ice cream, so you kind of end up drinking it in the order of blue raspberry, cherry, then vanilla ice cream. The ice cream can be hard to suck through the straw until it starts to melt, but once it does, you get a float-like consistency with a bit of that carbonated Fanta goodness. It’s such a simple treat, but it’s a lot of fun in execution, and I think it would be SPECTACULAR on a hot day. Your kids will probably love this! I think I’ll be adding it into my personal rotation from now on. It holds together surprisingly well! And if we’re going for classic American fare, you know I had to try the basic Hot Dog and Chips meal. It’s just a simple beef hot dog with a bag of classic Lay’s chips for $11. This really just made me feel like I was eating dinner at a ball park, and after I tasted the hot dog, I went to the condiment station and loaded it up with ketchup and mustard for the traditional experience. Hot Dog Meal If you’re planning to order a hot dog in Disney World, you should know that there are typically two different kinds. One is the type you’ll find at quick service restaurants like Casey’s Corner or Friar’s Nook — it’s an all-beef hot dog that’s about an inch in diameter and served on a large bun (clearly made to be loaded down with toppings). On the other hand, some snack stands and hot dog carts will instead sell THIS type of hot dog, which is much more similar to what you’d buy at the store and make yourself. A manageable size. And of the two options, I like this hot dog a lot more. The beef flavor isn’t quite as overwhelming, and because of its more proportionate size, it’s easy to eat just topped with simple ketchup and mustard. It was cooked all the way through, had a little bit of chew, and a very nice, soft bun. Good ratio of dog to bun overall. However, for $11, I do think you could probably find a slightly more interesting meal in EPCOT. Nothin’ more American than a hot dog And rounding out my meal, I snagged a Soft Serve Waffle Cone for dessert! (“Wait, Lydia, didn’t the American Dream count as dessert?” you may ask. And I answer — no, that was a beverage. Completely different. I don’t make the rules.) This cone is available for $6.50, and you can get it in vanilla, chocolate, or swirl. Rounding out the meal with some ice cream! Of course, I got swirl, because Hannah Montana gives the best advice (best of both worlds, people). And you know what? I was shockingly impressed with this ice cream. I’m a bit of a soft serve snob, and much of the soft serve that you get in Disney World can be lackluster — lumpy and airy instead of creamy and smooth. So far, my favorite spot to get soft serve in the parks has been the truck in Anandapur in Animal Kingdom, and this cone comes very close to being as good as that one! The soft serve was creamy, smooth, and rich. The chocolate and vanilla flavors both had some depth, but weren’t too sugary or overwhelming. Quite delicious, if you ask me. It was shockingly good soft serve, y’all. So how does Fife & Drum stack up? Overall In the end, I was fairly impressed with my visit to this snack spot. Their unique item was fun and original without being too complicated, and their basic snacks were better than they’ve been in other places around Disney World. The spread Now, this probably isn’t the spot that I’m recommending for lunch or dinner, simply because of the limited menu and the fact that there are much more interesting foods in EPCOT. But it’s a great place to grab a midday snack! Nosh or Not? Don your colonial garb and dine at the Fife & Drum if… You want to try the American Dream. As I mentioned above, this snack stand is the only place where you can order that particular treat, and it was honestly pretty fun and delicious! You want some basic Disney snacks. Just craving a Mickey pretzel or want to try the infamous turkey leg? This is a good spot to stop, considering most of the other World Showcase pavilions don’t sell those basic snacks. You need to eat something FAST. If you’re in a rush and you need to pick up snacks on the go or just grab a hot dog/turkey leg to munch on at a picnic table, this is your place! I was able to get through my meal here incredibly quickly — probably a good bit faster than indoor quick service spots. Experience other culinary adventures and dine elsewhere in the World Showcase if… You want to try something unique or interesting. If you’re an American, the menu here is probably going to feel pretty basic to you. For more unique and interesting eats, see one of the other countries — they all have their own snack stands! You want a dining experience. This spot doesn’t really have a special theme, an interesting menu, or a fun atmosphere, so if you’re hoping for any of those things, I suggest booking a table service meal in EPCOT instead. You have picky eaters (who don’t like hot dogs and turkey). While the menu options here may appeal to some picky eaters, others will be completely turned off. There’s not a lot of variety overall. Fife & Drum That’s a wrap on my visit to Fife & Drum — thanks for coming along! We’ll make sure to keep you in the loop with any more food reviews from Disney World. Click Here for Our List of BEST EPCOT Restaurants! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Have you ever been to Fife & Drum? Tell us in the comments! The post REVIEW: This Basic EPCOT Snack Spot Weirdly Impressed Me first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Disney Springs is seriously underrated. Disney Springs From shopping and dining to entertainment, there is so much to do and see in Disney’s shopping and dining district! We have our favorites, but it seems like one of Disney’s newer restaurants might have gotten even better. Disney Springs has tons of restaurants that we sing the praises of, but one of our recent favorites is Summer House on the Lake. Summer House opened last year and has been a consistent hit with our team. Summer House on the Lake This restaurant features Californian-inspired cuisine with a matching atmosphere throughout. The outdoor porch offers beautiful views of Disney Springs while you sip on their signature Summer House Rosé! ©Summer House on the Lake This spot has been bringing just the right vibes for the past year, but this new menu has potentially made this great spot even better. The brand-new Martini Hour is available right now at Summer House, and we are ready to get in the car to race to Disney Springs just to try it out! For $10 each, you can grab the espresso martini, the fin collins martini, or a classic martini. ©Summer House on the Lake Personally, we’ll be grabbing the espresso martini for a little pick-me-up, but if you’re more of a wine or beer drinker, they also have that! You can grab a glass of red, white, or rosé for $5, which is over half-off compared to their lunch and dinner pricing per glass. Rotating beers are $4 each. ©Summer House on the Lake For some smaller bites, you can try the mixed nuts or summer house tostadas for $6 each. If you need something a little more substantial, they have two saucy chicken tenders for $9, bottomless truffle fries for $10, and a prime cheeseburger for $14. ©Summer House on the Lake None of that tickles your fancy? You can also grab a tomato sauce and mozzarella pizza for $12 with the option to add sausage, pepperoni, or spicy giardiniera for $3 each. ©Summer House on the Lake Summer House is a great place if you’re looking for relaxed atmospheres, light and tasty bites, and nice wines to sip on. If you don’t have the time for a sit-down, there is also a cookie walk-up bar where you can get drinks to go and as many cookies as your heart desires. Cookies! We can’t wait to put this martini hour to the test to see if it’s worth the price. As always, keep following Disney Food Blog for all of your Disney food updates and news. Find Our Ultimate Guide To Disney Springs Here! Need Disney Restaurant Advice? We’ve Got EVERYTHING You Need to Know The ONLY Disney Dining Planning Tool You’ll Need Is Here – Get the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining! See Our Complete Disney World Restaurants Guide The Best Magic Kingdom Restaurants The Best EPCOT Restaurant Restaurants The Best Hollywood Studios Restaurants The Best Animal Kingdom Restaurants The Best Disney Springs Restaurants Check Out Dozens of Disney Dining Tips and Tools Learn All About Tipping at Disney Restaurants How to Use Mobile Order in Disney World Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the latest Disney food news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Are you going to test this out? Tell us in the comments! The post NEW MENU ALERT! One of Our Favorite Restaurants Just Got a Upgrade in Disney Springs first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

The holiday season isn’t just one of the busiest seasons in Disney World. It’s also one of the busiest seasons at Orlando International Airport (with a lot of those folks coming TO Disney World). Orlando International Airport Now, flying during the holidays comes with its own share of challenges, including dealing with crowds and making sure you get to where you’re going when winter weather takes a turn for the worst. Well, if you’re flying into or out of Orlando International Airport today, you might find yourself spending more time at the airport than you had hoped for: over 230 flights are currently delayed. According to FlightAware, 236 flights are currently delayed at Orlando International Airport, while eight flights have been canceled. What’s telling is that these delays are affecting nearly every airline that flies into the airport. This number continues to increase, so the number of delays are likely to be even higher as the day progresses. ©FlightAware So, what’s behind all these delays? According to ABC News, wintry weather could be to blame, which is causing issues at some of the largest airports in the U.S. A ground stop was issued for Chicago O’Hare Airport due to snowy and icy conditions; as of 11:30PM ET on Friday evening, almost 10,000 flights had already been delayed nationwide, with over 500 cancellations. Orlando International Airport According to NBC 7 San Diego, dense fog has delayed flights at that airport. There are also weather-related delays happening at other major airports, including Newark, JFK, and LaGuardia. All these delays basically put airlines behind, especially if those planes are eventually headed to Orlando, resulting in even more delays at the Orlando International Airport (it’s sort of like a trickle-down effect). Orlando Airport If you’re flying today, especially into or out of Orlando International Airport, you’ll want to set up a way for your airline to notify you if your flight is delayed. It’s also good to keep an eye on your airline’s app on your mobile device for any updates (and enable notifications). Also, you need to remind yourself of the 3-2-1 travel rule when flying during the holidays: Be at the ticket counter at least 3 hours before your flight. Be at the security checkpoint at least 2 hours before your departure time. Be at the gate at least 1 hour before your departure time. Stay tuned to DFB for more. Our Best Tips For Flying Through the Orlando International Airport Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Do these flight delays affect your trip? Let us know in the comments! The post NEWS: Over 230 Flights Are DELAYED at Orlando International Airport first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Picture this: You’re planning your dream Disney World trip, and suddenly you’re faced with the age-old dilemma – what bag should you bring? Look at everything it holds! You need something that can hold all your essentials, won’t weigh you down, and won’t break the bank. Enter the Small Crescent Crossbody Bag, the latest trend that’s sweeping through the Disney parks faster than you can say “bibbidi-bobbidi-boo.” DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. This compact wonder is turning heads and solving problems for Disney-goers everywhere. With its sleek design, water-resistant material, and a price tag that’ll make your wallet breathe a sigh of relief, it’s no wonder this bag is becoming the must-have accessory for your next magical adventure. Let’s dive into why this $15 marvel is suddenly on everyone’s Disney packing list! “Is This Bag Mary Poppins’ Long-Lost Cousin?” Alright, let’s talk specs. This little wonder measures in at a modest 12″ x 3.5″ x 6″, but don’t let its size fool you. Like Mary Poppins’ iconic carpet bag, this crescent-shaped marvel seems to defy the laws of physics when it comes to capacity. Crafted from durable and soft nylon fabric, this bag is ready to weather whatever your Disney day throws at it. From unexpected Florida downpours to accidental ice cream spills, the water-resistant material has got you covered. The adjustable shoulder strap, measuring a comfortable 1.18″ wide, ensures you can wear it just the way you like it – high, low, or anywhere in between. It can fit all your park day essentials! But wait, there’s more! This bag isn’t just a one-trick pony. With its durable zipper closure and two inner compartments, it’s like having your own personal organizer. Keys, phone, park tickets, and that emergency stash of Mickey-shaped snacks – everything has its place. And here’s the kicker – this bag isn’t just for Disney. It’s a chameleon of accessories, seamlessly transitioning from park hopping to work commutes, shopping sprees, date nights, and even beach trips. Talk about getting more bang for your buck! View on Amazon This bag’s material is tougher than your resolve to stick to your Disney snack budget – ©Amazon “My Other Bags Are Jealous of This One’s Disney World Stamina” Let’s face it, a day at Disney World is like running a marathon while juggling – you need gear that can keep up. This Small Crescent Crossbody Bag is like the Olympic athlete of Disney bags, and here’s why: First off, its compact size is perfect for navigating crowded park pathways and squeezing into tight spaces on rides. No more awkward “excuse me” moments as you try to maneuver a bulky backpack through the queue for Space Mountain. Despite its small stature, this bag is a lightweight champion. The water-resistant material is a godsend in the unpredictable Florida weather – whether it’s a sudden downpour or a splash from Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, your belongings stay dry. We love this bag! Our team put this bag through its paces, and the results were impressive. It’s great for carrying essentials and even has room for a few extras. If you’re not a fan of belt bags, this is your perfect alternative. And for those EPCOT festival enthusiasts, it’s ideal for stashing your festival booklet and a few snacks. Now, no bag is perfect (though this one comes pretty close). If you’re the type who packs for every possible scenario, you might find the capacity a bit limiting. And on busy days when it’s packed to the brim, you might need to adjust it on your shoulder occasionally. But let’s be real – these are small prices to pay for a bag that’s more reliable than Genie+ on a busy day. Buy Yours Here “This Bag Organizes My Disney Day Better Than I Ever Could” Let’s talk organization, because this bag is basically the Marie Kondo of Disney accessories. With two inner compartments, it’s like having a personal assistant keeping your stuff in check. In one section, you can stash your phone, wallet, and keys – you know, the essentials that you don’t want to be fumbling for when you’re trying to grab a quick photo with Mickey. The other compartment? That’s your Disney command center. Park maps, a small tube of sunscreen, and maybe even a compact fan for those sweltering Florida afternoons. A look inside But here’s where it gets really good – there’s still room for the important stuff. And by important stuff, I mean snacks and small souvenirs. Because let’s be honest, no Disney trip is complete without impulse-buying at least one pair of Mickey ears. The practicality of this bag for theme park use is off the charts. Need to grab your MagicBand quickly? No problem. Want to stash that receipt from your latest Disney merch haul? Easy peasy. The secure zipper closure means you don’t have to worry about anything falling out on Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. And let’s not forget about the adjustable strap. Whether you want to wear it crossbody for hands-free fun, or shortened as a shoulder bag for a quick dash to catch the parade, this bag adapts faster than Chameleon Mickey changes colors. Get Organized Here “From Fantasyland to Future World: A Day in the Life of This $15 Wonder” Imagine a bag that’s as versatile as Disney World itself – that’s this Small Crescent Crossbody for you. Let’s take a whirlwind tour of how this bag holds up across the parks: In Magic Kingdom, it’s compact enough to navigate the tightest queues. Whether you’re squeezing through the winding paths of Peter Pan’s Flight or finding your spot for the fireworks, this bag stays close without getting in the way. Heading to EPCOT? This bag is perfect for carrying your Festival of the Arts passport or Food Wine Festival booklet. It’s like having a personal sommelier on your shoulder, minus the fancy bow tie. The Crescent Bag At Hollywood Studios, you’ll appreciate the hands-free convenience as you gesticulate wildly, trying to use the Force in Galaxy’s Edge. And when you’re screaming your lungs out on Tower of Terror, you won’t have to worry about your belongings taking a separate trip to the Twilight Zone. Animal Kingdom puts bags to the test with its wild adventures, but this one’s water-resistant material laughs in the face of Kali River Rapids. It’s ready for every safari, trek, and expedition you can throw at it. Our DFB team put this bag through its paces, and it passed with flying colors. It’s comfortable for extended wear, easily fitting park essentials and then some. Whether you’re park-hopping or settling in for a long day of magical memories, this bag keeps up without weighing you down. Adventure Awaits – Buy Now “The Price Tag That Made My Disney Budget Smile” Let’s talk money, honey, because this bag is a budget’s best friend. At around $15, it’s probably less than your last Mickey pretzel and ice cream combo. But unlike that snack, this bag keeps on giving long after your Disney trip is over. When it comes to value, this bag is like finding an extra FastPass in your pocket. It’s durable enough to withstand the rigors of park hopping, yet versatile enough to use in your everyday life. From Disney adventures to grocery runs, this bag transitions smoother than Cinderella’s carriage at midnight. Love ya, Crescent Bag Compare it to other park bag options, and you’ll see why it’s a standout. Designer park bags can set you back hundreds, and even “budget” options often creep into the $30-$50 range. This little champion gives you all the functionality at a fraction of the price. For Disney enthusiasts and frequent travelers, the long-term value is clear. It’s a bag that can accompany you on countless adventures, both in and out of the parks. And at this price point, you won’t be heartbroken if it eventually succumbs to one too many trips through Splash Mountain. Grab This Deal Now It’s Not Magic, But It’s Pretty Close: Why This Bag Is a Disney Must-Have As we wrap up our magical tour of the Small Crescent Crossbody Bag, let’s recap why this $15 wonder is casting a spell on Disney-goers everywhere: 1. Compact yet spacious design that Mary Poppins would approve of 2. Water-resistant material ready for any Disney adventure 3. Versatile enough for park hopping or everyday use 4. Organizes your essentials better than Cinderella’s mice 5. A price tag that’s more attractive than Prince Charming This bag is perfect for the Disney enthusiast who values practicality, comfort, and affordability. It’s ideal for those who prefer traveling light but still want to carry all the essentials. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple on a Disney date, or a parent trying to keep it all together, this bag has got your back (quite literally). However, if you’re the type who packs for every possible scenario or needs to carry gear for a large family, you might need to look at larger options. But for most Disney-goers, this bag hits the sweet spot of functionality and convenience. The Small Crescent Crossbody Bag might be the current star of the show, but the world of Disney accessories is always evolving. Keep your eyes peeled for more reviews and recommendations from the DFB team. We’re always on the lookout for the latest and greatest items to enhance your Disney World experience. From innovative park bags to must-have travel gadgets, we’ve got you covered. And remember, for all your Disney essentials, be sure to check out the DFB Amazon storefront. It’s like a treasure trove of magical must-haves, curated by our team of Disney experts. Looking for More Disney World essentials? Check out our DFB Amazon Storefront Happy shopping, and may your next Disney trip be filled with magic, memories, and perfectly packed bags! The post The Bag That Everyone Is Suddenly Bringing to Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

A lot will be changing at Magic Kingdom in the upcoming years! Magic Kingdom A new Villains land is getting added to the park, a new Pirates of the Caribbean lounge is being created, a new nighttime parade will debut in 2025, and two new Cars attractions will be replacing Tom Sawyer Island and Rivers of America. A few months ago, Disney filed a permit that appeared to be for the early stages of construction for these two Cars attractions. Then, in September, the South Florida Water Management District requested some additional information for the permit, and now we have an update on the status of this permit! In August, Disney filed the first permit for the Tom Sawyer Island and Rivers of America area for “Construction of a stormwater management master treatment facility to provide stormwater quality treatment for improvements within Canal L407/L407A and L405 Basins within the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District.” It essentially sounded like they will need to build a treatment facility for stormwater that will be drained from the area where the new attractions will be going. Permit number 48-00714-Pv However, in September, the South Florida Water Management District requested additional information for the permit. An additional letter was then sent on December 3rd, giving Disney 10 days to get that information and correct the permit to the district, or the permit would be denied. The Central Florida Tourism District responded with its own letter, requesting a 60-day extension for Disney to respond to the original request. This request was granted, and now there is a new update. ©Central Florida Tourism District As an update to this request, Disney has responded to the letter asking for additional information. All questions have been answered with the additional information needed. The new information also included two new maps to go along with the permit. New map Here’s a look at the second map. Second map At this point, the South Florida Water Management District has 30 days to review the new information and to ask for any more information they may need or make a decision. Construction is unlikely to begin until this permit has been approved. When it does begin, we’ll be seeing two new attractions take shape over the future. There will be a fast-paced ride through the mountains of the frontier… Coming to Frontierland at Magic Kingdom, a new area themed to Pixar Animation Studios’ “Cars” will leave Radiator Springs and head to the wilderness with two new attractions including an off-road race. …along with a family friendly race. Coming to Frontierland at Magic Kingdom, a new area themed to Pixar Animation Studios’ “Cars” will leave Radiator Springs and head to the wilderness with two new attractions including an off-road race. We’ll be watching for more updates to this permit and others being filed around Disney World for all the exciting changes coming in the next few years! For more Disney news, keep following DFB! Disney Files Permit for Construction at Magic Kingdom Snack Spot 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 these two new attractions coming to Magic Kingdom? Let us know in the comments! The post If This Magic Kingdom Permit Gets Approved, Disney Will Be One Step CLOSER to Starting a HUGE Project first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Did you know that Disney just opened up a whole brand-new hotel? Island Tower Of course we’re talking about the Disney Vacation Club property called the Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort! This property is really quite stunning, and we’ve had a chance to experience the grounds, the amenities, dining options, and even the rooms. We’ve loved our time here, but there has been one thing that really astonished us about Disney World’s newest hotel, and we’ve gotta talk with you about it! As we were saying, while there’s so much to fall head over heels for at this new hotel, one thing truly astonished us – and not in a good way. Let’s talk about transportation. Island Tower Now, if you’re a frequent Disney-goer, you know how vital good transportation is to your Disney World experience. After all, who wants to spend the majority of their precious park time trekking across a vast resort to catch a bus or monorail? That’s where the Island Tower at the Polynesian feels like it’s missing the mark. Island Tower Despite all the glamour and excitement surrounding this new property (it officially opened just a few days ago, on December 17, 2024), we were surprised to find a glaring lack of convenient transportation options. Here’s the scoop: the Island Tower doesn’t have its own dedicated bus stop. Yep, you read that right. Guests staying here will need to trek back to the main Polynesian Village Resort area to catch buses or access the monorail. Directions to the Monorail at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Now, here at DFB, we’re not ones to shy away from a leisurely stroll, especially when the grounds are as gorgeous as those at the Polynesian. But after a long day at the parks, when your feet are begging for a break, a long hike back to the transportation options isn’t exactly the move. This makes things especially tricky if you’re trying to make rope drop at Magic Kingdom or hustle back for a midday nap. Walking Path For a hotel this high-end, we were honestly expecting something a little more streamlined. Maybe a separate bus stop? Or a more direct path to the transportation hub? As it stands, the lack of easy transportation access is a definite drawback for this otherwise spectacular addition to the Polynesian. Island Tower Honestly, we can definitely see the appeal of calling a Minnie Van or rideshare service from the Island Tower instead of hoofing it back to the main transportation hub. But that’s an added cost and not exactly ideal when Disney’s selling you on the convenience of their resorts. That view, though! Does this mean you should skip the Island Tower altogether? Not necessarily! This place is gorgeous, and its location still gives you access to the monorail (if you’re willing to make the walk), plus all the dining and amenities of the Polynesian. It’s just something to keep in mind when planning your stay. Island Tower Hopefully, Disney finds a way to address this issue in the future, because the Island Tower deserves to shine without any logistical hiccups. For now, if you’re planning a stay here, bring comfy shoes (or budget for a Minnie Van). Trust us, your feet will thank you! We’ll be sure to keep you updated on all the latest news coming from this new Island Tower, so stay tuned to DFB! FIRST LOOK Inside the Rooms at Disney’s NEW Island Tower 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 Will you be visiting the Island Tower in 2025? Tell us in the comments! The post The One Thing That Astonished Us About Disney World's Newest Hotel first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Y’all. It has been a ROUGH year for a lot of TV shows, even those you think might’ve been successful (sometimes it’s hard to tell because streamers aren’t so forthcoming with their numbers). ©FX When shows like Netflix’s Dead Boy Detectives gets the axe, you start to worry. But it’s not just streaming subscription services that are canceling shows. Nope, networks have really jumped on the show cancellation trend, too. We previously learned about cancellations on CBS and other networks, but we’ve now got one to tell you about that just happened on FX: The Old Man will not be returning for a third season. According to Variety, The Old Man has been canceled after two seasons on FX. The series was based on a novel by Thomas Perry and starred Jeff Bridges as a former CIA operative. During the show’s first season, the series followed his character, Dan Chase, after he killed a home intruder and went into hiding. The second season revolved around Chase working to recover his daughter, who was kidnapped by an Afghan tribal leader. ©FX The show also starred John Lithgow, Alia Shawkat, and Navid Negahban. The season 1 cast also featured E.J. Bonilla and Bill Heck, while season 2 included Jacqueline Antaramian, Amy Brenneman, and Gbenga Akinnagbe. The show premiered in June 2022 and was a critical success and seemed popular enough. Season 2 also seemed to maintain a positive response from critics and viewers, but the show’s audience did decline between seasons, possibly due to a long hiatus. ©FX We’ll keep an eye out for more cancellation announcements, so stay tuned to DFB for more. Why Hulu Canceled 4 Shows 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? Did you watch this show? Let us know in the comments! The post Another Popular TV Series Is CANCELED After 2 Seasons first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

It is hard to believe, but MagicBands have been around for over a decade! MagicBand+ MagicBands were initially released in 2013 and have gone through several updates. While the MagicBands we know today still perform the same functions that the original MagicBands did back in 2013, they got some enhanced design upgrades. The most significant difference between the 2013 model and the models we have today is that they are no longer free, which is partially why experts are refusing to pay for MagicBands now. Let’s travel back in time. Magical Express picked you up at the Orlando International Airport for free, you could book your FastPass+ selections before your vacation for free, and your MagicBands were delivered to your house for free. The good ole days! We miss you, Magical Express! Today, MagicBands are still around and have been upgraded throughout the years. Currently, there are two types of MagicBands: MagicBand, the classic model, which Disney is starting to phase out, and MagicBand+, the newest and interactive model. Let’s go through the pros and cons of these Disney World “handy helpers.” Encanto MagicBand+ Pros Let’s start with the positives first! Discounts While MagicBands are no longer free for Disney World hotel guests, they can still be super helpful if you are staying on property. Believe it or not, your old MagicBands can still work at Disney World as long as the battery is still active. Plus, you can get a discount on your MagicBand if you are staying at a Disney World hotel and order in advance. If you have any Disney discounts, those can also be applied at gift shops across Disney World to purchase MagicBands. Fantasmic MagicBand+ MagicBand+ is Interactive The newest model of MagicBand, MagicBand+, can add a little bit of extra magic to your vacation. The new bands now light up and vibrate as they interact with different elements around the parks and resorts. This includes stage shows, nighttime entertainment, and other unique offerings like the Christmas Tree Stroll in Disney Springs. While this is not a make-or-break element, it can be fun to see your MagicBand+ interact with different parts of the park. Frozen Sing-Along MagicBand+ interaction It is Your Park Ticket, Room Key, and Credit Card! If you are staying at a Disney World hotel, a MagicBand can be super helpful as your MagicBand can do it all! Once your MagicBand is linked to your My Disney Experience account, you will be able to use your MagicBand to scan into the parks, get into your hotel room, and charge purchases. Off-White MagicBand+ Cons And now for the downsides of MagicBands. You Can’t Use it to Charge Unless You are Staying at a Resort Sorry locals or those who are staying off-property, you will not be able to use your MagicBand to make purchases unless you are staying at a Disney World hotel. This is because charges must be charged to a hotel reservation. Black MagicBand+ They Can’t Be Returned Once you purchase your MagicBand, they cannot be returned. In some instances, MagicBand+ can stop working and lose its fun features. There have been cases where Cast Members have made magic happen and ended up replacing MagicBands, but this is never guaranteed. MagicBand+ MagicBand+ Needs to be Charged The new version of MagicBands, MagicBand+, needs to be charged in order for the interactive features to work. The good news is that if your MagicBand+ dies, you will still be able to use it as your park ticket and room key and to make a charge, but it will not light up or vibrate. Star Wars Resistance Magicband+ Overall Overall, if you still have an old MagicBand, bring it with you on your trip! It may still work! But if you are a local or not staying at a Disney World resort, you may want to skip out on purchasing a MagicBands. It is totally up to you and your party, as there are some super cute MagicBand designs. Disney World experts aren’t paying for MagicBands and MagicBand+ anymore since everything a MagicBand can do can be done on a phone. So, as long as you download the My Disney Experience app, you can still master Disney World without the additional cost of purchasing a MagicBand or MagicBand+. Star Wars R2-D2 Magicband+ To stay up to date on all the latest Disney news and more Disney tips, make sure to continue to follow along with Disney Food Blog! The ONLY MagicBand+ Guide You NEED to Read for Disney World Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Do you like to use a MagicBand or MagicBand+ when you visit Disney World? Let us know in the comments!The post Sorry to the Disney Adults Who Still Do This, But Experts REFUSE To Pay for MagicBands Now first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Christmas is almost here! Did you get everything on your Christmas list? Christmas in Magic Kingdom If you’re still looking for the perfect Disney merch that will arrive just in time for Christmas, we’ve rounded up some of the best deals we could find from Amazon! Let’s not waste another minute! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Check Out This Simple Modern Disney 40 oz Tumbler with Handle and Straw Lid ©Amazon First up, if you’re looking for a really solid tumbler and one with a Disney design, then you can’t go wrong with this Simple Modern Disney 40 oz Tumbler with Handle and Straw Lid. It’s perfect for keeping you hydrated on your next Disney World trip! Get it here! Check Out The Unofficial Disney Parks Drink Recipe Book for 24% OFF ©Amazon If you love having house parties and showing off your mixologist skills, you might want to check out this The Unofficial Disney Parks Drink Recipe Book. It’s got all the recipes for your favorite drinks from the parks! Get it here! Check Out This Ultimate Princess Celebration Boxed Set of 12 Little Golden Books for 42% OFF ©Amazon Now, this Ultimate Princess Celebration Boxed Set of 12 Little Golden Books might just be the most perfect gift on this list for your little princess. Now, you’ll have more than enough stories of their favorite princesses for bedtime! Get it here! Check Out This Disney Princess 21 Piece Dress Up Trunk ©Amazon Speaking of your little princess, this Disney Princess 21 Piece Dress Up Trunk is definitely a winner. This will give her all the options she needs to play dress up with her friends of their favorite Disney Princesses. Get it here! Check Out This Disney Mickey Mouse Figural Mood Light ©Amazon Need a night light? How about checking out this Disney Mickey Mouse Figural Mood Light? Honestly, there might not be a cuter option that you can have than this one! Get it here! Check Out This Amazon Echo Pop Kids for 54% OFF ©Amazon If you’re looking for a way to stream kid-friendly songs from Amazon Music, Apple Music, Spotify, and others, then look no further than this Amazon Echo Pop Kids. And it’s got their favorite princesses on it, too! Get it here! Check Out This UNO Disney 100 Card Game ©Amazon Lastly, if you’re looking for a fun game for the game night you’ll be having on Christmas, then this UNO Disney 100 Card Game is the one! Not only is it the classic game, but it also comes with all of your favorite Disney characters on the cards! Get it here! In the meantime, we’re always on the lookout for the latest deals on Disney products, so stay tuned for more. Did you know we have a Disney-themed Amazon Storefront? Check it out!The post These Last-Minute Gifts From Amazon Will Arrive BEFORE Christmas (but You Have To Hurry) first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

If you’re not a big fan of waiting in long standby lines in Disney World, especially around the holiday season, you may consider purchasing one of Disney’s Lightning Lane options, like Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Lightning Lane Single Pass. Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway Lightning Lane However, if you want a bit more flexibility, you might even consider purchasing Lightning Lane Premier Pass. This is Disney’s more expensive skip-the-line option that gives you the ability to skip the process of pre-book Lightning Lanes for specific times (like you do with the other options) and simply enter a ride’s Lightning Lane whenever you want. Well, if you’re looking to purchase that option for specific dates, you could be out of luck. Why do we say that? Well, Lightning Lane Premier Pass has sold out for several days in Disney World at certain parks. On December 21st, both Magic Kingdom and EPCOT have no Lightning Lane Premier Passes available. That means folks paid $419 for the Magic Kingdom pass and $149 for the EPCOT pass for that day. ©Disney We also noticed that Magic Kingdom is sold out for December 27th. The price for Lightning Lane Premier Pass for that day is $449. ©Disney On December 28th, Lightning Lane Premier pass is sold out for both Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Magic Kingdom’s price is $449, while Hollywood Studios is $349. ©Disney Both parks are also sold out on December 29th. The price for Magic Kingdom is $449, while the price for Hollywood Studios is $349. ©Disney Finally, Lightning Lane Premier Pass is sold out for Magic Kingdom on December 30th, with that price being $449. ©Disney We do have to point out that Lightning Lane Premier Pass is offered in limited quantities, so it might not take a lot for it to sell out. But it does seem like some people are buying it to bypass long standby lines associated with this time of year in Disney World. January Prices CONFIRMED for Disney World’s Lightning Lane System We’ll keep an eye out for more sold-out dates, so stay tuned to DFB for more. Is Lightning Lane Premier Pass Worth It in Disney World? Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What do you think? Would you purchase this pricey option in Disney World? Let us know in the comments! The post 🚨Magic Kingdom and Disney's Hollywood Studios SOLD OUT of Lightning Lane Premier Passes 3 Days In A Row🚨 first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Disney World hotels have been stepping their game up and we’re here for it! Island Tower We’ve recently gotten a first look at the new Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and it was quite impressive. Featuring a more modern aesthetic and top-notch amenities, it got us thinking about all the positive changes other Disney World hotels have made, making Disney vacations ten times better! When it comes to your stay at a Disney World hotel, updated amenities and features can make a world of difference. We thought of six changes that have greatly improved our stays and are a step in the right direction! More Outlets After a long day at the park, it’s likely your devices’ power may be nearing empty. If you’ve got a lot of tech that needs charging overnight, it helps to have plenty of outlets. New plugs We’ve seen newer and refurbished rooms start to include more charging options. From more outlets to the inclusion of USB ports, we’re really digging this upgrade. It makes charging devices that much easier and removes the stress of worrying where and how we can draw power. Upgraded Vanities Sometimes you never knew you had a problem until you experience the finer things in life. That’s exactly what happened when we saw the new vanities. Vanity and mirror We’ve noticed a massively positive change with newer vanities. We’re seeing better/more storage that only amplifies accessibility and comfort. The vanity can be a heavily occupied spot during a vacation, and it’s nice to see Disney recognize that and focus on providing upgrades. TV Menu Features As we move further into the digital age, it’s only fitting that entertainment and tourism are now packed with digital interactivity. You’ll even find plenty of helpful features in your Disney World TV menus! Disney World Hotel TV You’ll find some nifty and interactive features on your TV menu, such as personalized greetings, theme park information, background music, streaming (such as Disney+) and casting capabilities, and more! Many Disney World TVs have quickly become not only a tool, but a wonderful link between the parks and your hotel room. “Hey, Disney!” Speaking of great tools, “Hey, Disney!” is Disney World’s version of Alexa and it’s become a fantastic way to help manage your vacation. Hey, Disney This voice assistant experience created especially for Disney Resort guests only requires you to say “Hey, Disney” to access so many cool features. You’ll be able to get a specialized wake-up call from Mickey and his friends, order more towels, hear jokes, listen to stories, play Disney trivia, get the weather, set a timer, get luggage delivered to the lobby, receive answers to your parks questions, and so much more! Hardwood Floors Most new hotel rooms are opting for hardwood floors instead of carpet and fans love the change! The Little Mermaid Rooms in Caribbean Beach Resort The change to hardwood has been welcome for several reasons, but two reasons truly stand out. For starters, hardwood is easier to clean. We don’t recommend eating food off the floor, but at least you won’t have to worry about hidden grime in a carpet. The second reason is that hardwood floors are less likely to cause problems with allergens. If you struggle with this, these new hardwood floors can be a lifesaver. Casting to the TV We briefly mentioned the ability to cast devices to the hotel room TV, but we have to highlight just how seriously awesome this is. Seating area and TV at Port Orleans Resort — French Quarter Putting the content YOU love on your hotel television is a great way to feel at home and comfortable. Disney World hotels continue to reduce limitations and enhance their rooms, and we’re excited to see what they do next! Are you staying at a Disney World hotel soon? Share with us which updated feature you’re most excited to use and continue to follow us at DFB for all the latest Disney World tips, updates, reviews, and more! Disney World’s Newest Hotel Addition Has Some SPECTACULAR Fireworks Views — Here’s the Secret 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! What are your favorite Disney World hotel features and upgrades? Let us know in the comments! The post Disney World’s 6 NEWEST Hotel Room Changes Will Make Your Trip 10x Better first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Freebies in Disney are few and far between! Magic Kingdom We go to Disney World every day and love finding all of the changes, new foods, and occasional free things to make your trip even better! If you’re a Disney Vacation Club Member, we just found something EXCLUSIVELY for you. If you didn’t know, Disney has its own timeshare program called the Disney Vacation Club, where you can purchase points to use toward your Disney vacations. Disney has been showing a lot of love to its vacation club members lately with new lounges, the new Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Resort, and more. Disney Vacation Club Now, Disney is back with even more love for its DVC members with a holiday freebie. Over on the Disney Vacation Club Instagram, we found something for the West Coast members! This year’s holiday magnet is a snow globe with the words “Welcome Home for the Holidays” over top of the Villas at Disneyland Hotel. ©Disney Vacation Club If you want to grab this magnet, complete with the DVC logo at the bottom, you can go to a Disney Vacation Club Discovery Desk or the Welcome Home Center at Disneyland Resort. These will be available while supplies last, so if you’re close to Disneyland this time of year, go grab yours! The DVC tower at Disneyland Hotel This is one freebie that will brighten up your refrigerator this holiday season. As always, don’t forget to keep following Disney Food Blog for your latest DVC news and updates. Travel Updates, Tips, and Tricks Complete Guide to Booking the CHEAPEST Flight to Disney World What to Do if Your Flight to Disney World Is Canceled Our Best Tips For Flying Through the Orlando International Airport Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get to Disney World From the Orlando Airport You’re SLEEPING on These Packing Hacks Air Travel Tips That’ll Change Your Life 8 Catastrophic Travel Mistakes and How to Solve Them The Airline with the MOST Flight Delays and Cancellations This Small Change Will Save You From Lost Luggage The Best Disney Luggage for 2023 21 Things a Former Flight Attendant Needs You To Know 7 Highest-Rated Travel Items on Amazon Join the DFB Newsletter to Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox! Click Here to Subscribe Are you going to get this magnet? Tell us in the comments! The post How To Get the Exclusive NEW Disney Vacation Club Holiday Magnet for FREE! first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Christmas in Magic Kingdom The holidays in Disney World are the best time to be in Disney World in our opinion. EPCOT’s Festival of the Holidays is happening, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is underway, and Jollywood Nights has us dancing the nights away. Starting tomorrow, we have another big change coming to shake up the festivities! Tomorrow, December 21st, you can see Mickey’s Once Upon A Christmas Parade without paying for an extra ticket! This popular holiday parade is typically only available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, which is a separately ticketed event — but not anymore. Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade Throughout the rest of the Christmas celebrations, you can catch this parade twice a day at Magic Kingdom! The parade will run at 12PM and 3PM for anyone who is at the park. While this does mean that the Festival of Fantasy parade will be unavailable for now, there’s no need to worry. It will be back starting on January 1st, 2025. The parade at night. The Christmas parade features Mickey and all his best pals in their holiday getups, along with familiar faces like Anna and Elsa from Frozen, Vanellope Von Schweetz from Wreck it Ralph, and even Santa Clause himself! This parade has been one of our favorites throughout the years, and now you can see it without going to the party. Santa!! This is a great way to see a rare parade without paying more than your traditional Disney ticket, and we are excited to enjoy it for the next few days. If you’re not going to be in the parks over the next few days, not a problem! You can always catch the Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade on ABC or Disney+ on Christmas Day. As always, keep following Disney Food Blog for all of your Disney news and updates. Learn More About the Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade on ABC Here! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Have you seen this parade? Tell us in the comments! The post ALERT! A BIG Parade Change Is Coming to Magic Kingdom on December 21st first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

January is almost here, and while we’re excited, we also have no idea how the year passed so quickly. Cinderella Castle A lot is happening in Disney World in 2025, and it’s our job to make sure you feel prepared for your upcoming trips! This means making sure you know about all the new attractions on the way, what’s changing, what are the best and worst times to go, and everything in between. If you’re heading to Disney World in January, we KNOW some of you may be gearing up to make this mistake, and but not anymore after reading this post! The truth is that while Disney World is getting ready to add a bunch of new attractions and rides to their parks over the next few years, that means they’ve got to go through a bit of a rough patch first. Existing attractions have to be refurbished, some are going extinct entirely to make way for new rides and experiences, and that means in January, a LOT of constructions walls are going to be up. Chip and Dale in Dinoland U.S.A. On top of that, a total of SIX attractions will be closed around the Disney World parks in the month of January alone. In Animal Kingdom, Kali River Rapids is closing for its annual refurbishment during the winter months on January 6th and TriceraTop Spin in Dinoland U.S.A. will be going away forever on January 13th. That brings this park, which is already short rides/attractions, down two rides. Expect wait times to increase around the park to make up for the closures! TriceraTop Spin Over in EPCOT, it was just announced that Gran Fiesta Tour would be beginning a TWO MONTH closure on January 13th, and isn’t set to reopen until March 15th. Meanwhile, Test Track remains closed as it undergoes its retheming. We’re excited for it to open in late Summer, but it’ll be a rougher two months for EPCOT as far as crowds go. Gran Fiesta Tour And over in Magic Kingdom, while we still don’t know when Tom Sawyer Island and the Liberty Square Riverboat will be closing down, Big Thunder Mountain will be closing for a YEAR LONG (at its shortest) refurbishment starting on January 6th. It was also just announced that Astro Orbiter in Tomorrowland would be closing for at least HALF THE YEAR starting on, you guessed it, January 13th. It’s current reopening timeline is Summer 2025. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad What do all these closures mean? That you might miss some of your favorite rides on your January trip, sure, but it also means that you’ll start to see construction walls pop up all over the parks beginning in January (it may not seem like they’re coming for Hollywood Studios yet, but they are!). Some of your favorite pathways may be blocked off, or your routes through the park may change to create a new faster way around the chaos. Magic Kingdom We’ll be sure to keep you updated on all the latest Disney World news, so stay tuned to DFB! Calling It Now! These Will Be the BIGGEST Disney World Food Trends in 2025 Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What are you most looking forward to (or dreading) in 2025 in Disney World? Tell us in the comments! The post The Disney World Mistake You'll Make in January first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Now, don’t get us wrong; we LOVE to vacation at Disney World, as well as all the Disney parks and resorts across the globe. However, sometimes, we dream about other vacations that are not Disney-related. Disneyland Paris If we had unlimited money or won the lottery, we know exactly the vacation we would book first, and once you see this new luxury travel experience, we are sure you will agree with us! If you like your hotel room to follow you while you travel, kind of like a cruise ship, then you might like sleeper trains. Belmond, the company that created the Royal Scotsman, has created a new luxury sleeper train: the Britanic Explorer. @Belmond This train will offer itineraries between London, Cornwall, Wales, and the Lake District. The new train will have 18 cabins. Three of them will be grand suites, each with an en-suite bathroom, a lounge, and a personal butler. ©Belmond The train will have no shortage of food as menus have been designed by Simon Rogan, who is the owner of L’Enclume, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant. ©Belmond You won’t have to worry about being bored as the train will have a bar as well as a spa. No trip is complete without the sites and views, and passengers will be able to explore destinations like Penzance, St. Ives, Porthmadog, Haverfordwest, and Ribblehead Viaduct in the Lakes. ©Belmond If this sounds like something you are interested in or are curious about when you need to win the lottery by, the train will debut in July of 2025 and start with three-day trips. The itineraries will start in either London, Lake District, Cornwall, or Wales. For more fun travel news, as well as all the latest Disney news, make sure to continue to follow along with the Disney Food Blog! How Your Disney Vacation Would CHANGE If You Won the Mega Millions 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 If you won the lottery, what would your dream vacation be? Let us know in the comments!The post If I Won the Lottery, This Is the Vacation I Would Book FIRST first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Raise your hand if you’re slightly obsessed with using TSA PreCheck when you travel. ©AP And, while TSA PreCheck certainly isn’t a secret travel hack anymore, it’s still more popular than ever. We use PreCheck every time we have to travel through the airport, and it often saves us time (and headaches!). But, if you’re thinking about joining the TSA PreCheck club, you need to be aware of this SCAM! We like to think of TSA PreCheck as the Lightning Lane of the airport — it’s a paid service that lets you skip the regular TSA screening line along with other benefits. More than 20 million Americans are enrolled in the program that streamlines their security checks, according to SF Gate. But, prospective TSA PreCheck travelers have been victimized by an enrollment scam in recent years. Orlando Sanford Airport People have been providing their information and payments to third-party manipulators that will submit their applications — which is a problem, because it’s completely unnecessary. Not only that, but victims often have zero recourse to get their money back. One traveler wrote, “There was a very convincing top ad on Google that scammed out of $150… I called my credit card company, but I don’t know how to dispute it as I did pay it.” ©Orlando International Airport So, if you’re considering enrolling in TSA PreCheck, make sure you keep an eye out for these red flags: TSA only works with three accredited providers for enrollment: Clean, Idemia, and Telos. If you’re on a different website than these three, it’s a scam. The cost to enroll in TSA PreCheck is under $100 for all three providers, so if you’re being charged more than that, it’s a scam. TSA PreCheck does not request payment upfront unless it’s from first-time enrollees when visiting an enrollment center. Orlando International Airport can get very busy TSA is warning travelers ahead of enrollment that these scams can be very convincing. Lorie Dankers, a spokesperson for the Transportation Security Administration, said: “We may be coming in a little bit too late because we have to be made aware of it. So part of our effort is to educate people that it is not necessary to use a third party and, in fact, to do so could be risky.” Orlando Sanford International Airport via AllEars.net The TSA can’t recoup funds for anyone who falls victim to these scams, but there is always the option to do a chargeback on your credit card, if you paid with one. Consumers can also file a report with the Federal Trade Commission to investigate. Make sure you double-check the website you’re on so you don’t fall victim to this TSA PreCheck scam! In the meantime, we’ll be on the lookout for the latest travel news that could impact your next vacation. Don’t forget to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more updates you might need to know about! NEWS: It Just Got EASIER To Travel with TSA PreCheck Travel Updates, Tips, and Tricks Complete Guide to Booking the CHEAPEST Flight to Disney World What to Do if Your Flight to Disney World Is Canceled Our Best Tips For Flying Through the Orlando International Airport Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get to Disney World From the Orlando Airport You’re SLEEPING on These Packing Hacks Air Travel Tips That’ll Change Your Life 8 Catastrophic Travel Mistakes and How to Solve Them The Airline with the MOST Flight Delays and Cancellations This Small Change Will Save You From Lost Luggage The Best Disney Luggage for 2023 21 Things a Former Flight Attendant Needs You To Know 7 Highest-Rated Travel Items on Amazon Join the DFB Newsletter to Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox! Click Here to Subscribe Will you be traveling with TSA Precheck? Tell us in the comments. The post BEWARE This TSA PreCheck Scam Before You Travel first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

Another celebrity has been spotted at Disney World! Let’s go to EPCOT! It’s that time of year when it seems like everyone is heading to Disney World. Thanks to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, Jollywood Nights, and Festival of the Holidays, Orlando has been pretty crowded, and we spotted a few familiar faces in that crowd. He also suggested hoping on Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind after you enjoy your margarita, which was a healthy reminder that celebrities are just like us. We, too, only want to grab a drink at La Cava before enjoying our favorite Disney coaster. He also stopped by the famous bar in the Mexico pavilion during his time in EPCOT. ©La Cava del Tequila If you’re still planning on heading to the Candlelight Processional before the last day on December 30th, 2024 you can expect to see Pat Sajak, Gloria Estefan, Edward James Olmos, Sterling K Brown, and Jodi Benson as the narrators on select nights. Previous narrators include Josh Gad, Whoopie Goldberg, Brenden Frasier, and more. Josh Gad narrating the 2024 Candlelight Processional The festival also has holiday storytellers in each pavilion to share unique holiday stories, amazing snacks and treats, and even more live entertainment. Don’t forget to keep following Disney Food Blog for all of your Disney news, updates, and celebrity sightings. Everything You Need To Eat and Drink at the 2024 Festival of the Holidays DON'T MISS A MOMENT OF HOLIDAY MAGIC Holidays at Disney World: DFB's Merriest Guide is a one-of-a-kind resource that will help you get the most out of your holiday vacation at Walt Disney World. It includes all the must-have information for navigating the holiday season at Disney World, including: The COMPLETE schedule of events for the Holiday Season How to avoid the crowds on Disney World's busiest days (and when Disney World closes their parks due to capacity!) ALL of the events, activities, and holiday additions in Walt Disney World. ALL. OF. THEM. And, of course, we'll tell you where to eat! Save 20% on the Holidays at Disney World: DFB's Merriest Guide with code PEPPERMINT. GET YOUR GUIDE NOW MORE Disney World Holiday INFO! Learn About Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Get the Latest Information About the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays Get All the Details About Disney Jollywood Nights Everything You Need to Know About Disney World Holiday Dining and Events Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the latest holiday news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Have you ever seen a celebrity at Disney World? Tell us in the comments. The post Celebrity Sighting! You Won’t Believe Who Just Visited La Cava Del Tequila in EPCOT first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

If there’s anything we love, it’s a new snack in Disney World! Disney’s Animal Kingdom We’re constantly on the lookout for new treats to try in the parks when we visit, and thankfully, Disney obliges us quite frequently. We see new treats for holidays, for new movies, and for all kinds of other special occasions. And right now, there are some new snacks available in Animal Kingdom and Disney Springs! A brand-new Disney movie hit theaters today, do you know what it is? That’s right, it’s Mufasa: The Lion King. This film is a prequel to the live-action The Lion King, telling the story of Mufasa, Simba’s father. And in honor of the occasion, Disney World dropped some new treats. ©Disney First up, there’s the Mufasa Cake Bar, which is available at Amorette’s Patisserie in Disney Springs. It’s made with cinnamon-vanilla mousse and vanilla chiffon with caramel chocolate-coated Feuilletine crunch dipped in dark chocolate. Sounds fancy! ©Disney The Mufasa Pride Rock Profiterole can be found at Creature Comforts in Animal Kingdom (the park’s Starbucks location). It’s a cream puff filled with chocolate cream and whipped coffee ganache. ©Disney For something fun to drink, pick up the Sunrise of the Kingdom! It’s a “blend of freshly brewed green tea, strawberry, and Minute Maid Premium Lemonade topped with passion fruit boba pearls.” You can find it at various locations around Animal Kingdom, as well as at B.B. Wolf’s Sausage Co. in Disney Springs. ©Disney If you’re craving something a bit more substantial, you can get the Journey Across Africa, which is available at Tusker House Restaurant. Red beans cooked in coconut milk with ginger, turmeric, coriander, and tomato are served over white rice. ©Disney And finally, there’s the Savory Tanzanian Pie at Harambe Market. It’s African-spiced beef and lamb stuffed in naan, drizzled with spicy ketchup, and served with house-made chips. ©Disney Sounds like a yummy list of options, if you ask us! We can’t wait to check out some of these eats while they’re available in the park and Disney Springs. Stay tuned to DFB for more Disney food and Disney movie news! Click Here to Check Out the Mufasa Trailer! 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 going to see this new movie? Tell us in the comments! The post 5 NEW Limited-Time Snacks Just Dropped in Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We’ll admit it — we’re guilty of procrastinating when it comes to our holiday shopping. Loungefly bags make great holiday gifts! It just happens. We can’t help it, especially this year when Christmas literally snuck up on us — wasn’t it Thanksgiving just yesterday? Anyway, if you’re like us and still need to find some great gifts before Christmas arrives next week, we’ve got you covered. We’ve found some Disney Loungefly bags (which make PERFECT gifts) that you can order now and still get in time for Christmas. Last-minute holiday shopping achievement unlocked! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. If you don’t have Amazon Prime and want to get that free shipping, you can sign up for a FREE Amazon Prime trial by clicking on the banner below. Get the Loungefly Minnie Mouse Black Sequin Mini Backpack ©Amazon Rep Minnie Mouse everywhere you go with this sleek backpack that’s all covered in black sequins. The look is completed with a big red bow. This bag also has a front pocket, as well as slits on the sides that can hold your smaller items. Buy on Amazon Buy the Loungefly Glitter Sparkle Minnie Mouse Mini Backpack ©Amazon If you want something even more sparkly, this Loungefly bag is for you and it comes in a variety of glittery colors, including purple, pink, and blue. Even the bow on this bag is made with sequins. We love how these bags catch the light — so pretty! Buy on Amazon Get the Loungefly All Over Print Mickey Mouse Mini Backpack ©Amazon This backpack is all about the mouse who started it all: Mickey! It’s a white backpack with a print of Mickey all over it, as well as a front pocket and side slits. The inside lining is black and white striped. CLASSIC. Buy on Amazon Get the Loungefly Hercules Muses Mini Backpack ©Amazon Who put the glad in gladiator? Hercules! But who sang the song? The muses and they are celebrated on this Hercules-inspired backpack. They’re standing on clouds with sparkly stars. The back of the bag says “Zero to Hero,” so yes, you need to order this bag “in no time flat.” Buy on Amazon Buy the Loungefly Peter Pan Characters Mini Backpack ©Amazon You can fly! This Loungefly depicts a cute scene where Peter, Tinker Bell, and the Darling children fly over the rooftops of London and straight past Big Ben on their way to Neverland. It also features the flying spaceship and a zipper pull that looks like the ship’s wheel. Buy on Amazon Get the Loungefly Fab 5 All Over Print Mini Backpack ©Amazon This bag is all about the Fab Five: Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, and Pluto! They’re covering the bag in an all-over pattern, while the bag itself includes a front pocket. This bag screams classic Disney, doesn’t it? Buy on Amazon Buy the Loungefly Mickey Mouse Ice Cream Sandwich Crossbody Bag ©Amazon Okay, we LOVE this bag because one of our favorite treats is a Mickey Ice Cream Sandwich — so this is that, but it’s a crossbody purse! The “ice cream” part even has sprinkles, while the inside lining has Mickey heads and sprinkles. SO fun. Buy on Amazon Buy the Loungefly Disney Princesses Cakes Mini Backpack ©Amazon Speaking of food (our favorite subject), this backpack features a pattern inspired by what Disney Princesses might look like…if they were cake! Inside, you’ll find a pattern of each Princess cake slice. This is a must for Disney Princess fans! Buy on Amazon Get the Loungefly Sleeping Beauty Stained Glass Castle Mini Backpack ©Amazon This beautiful backpack has Sleeping Beauty’s castle on it, along with three adorable pockets featuring the three fairies: Flora, Fauna, and Mayweather. The back of the bag features gorgeous artwork done in a stained glass style of Aurora as a baby with her mother and father. Buy on Amazon So hurry up and get those orders in ASAP and you can knock out the last of your holiday shipping quickly! And stay tuned to DFB for more. Visit our Amazon Shop for more Disney souvenirs and essentialsThe post 9 Disney Loungefly Bags On Amazon That Will Arrive In Time for Christmas first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article

We don’t always get excited about things coming to Orlando International Airport, because well…it’s an airport. Orlando International Airport However, we recently got word that new restaurants were coming to the airport, and, yes, we were obviously PSYCHED. Well, that’s not the only NEW thing coming to the airport. A new SHOP is also coming soon, and if you’re excited about Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe, you’ll want to shop there. A new Epic Universe store is coming to Orlando International Airport. Now, this new store will be separate from the existing Universal Orlando store already at the airport. This store will be dedicated specifically to stock merchandise from Epic Universe. How fun, right? New store spotted! As you can see, the store is not open yet. We spoke with staff, and they told us that it’s still under construction. This space was previously used by Universal as a pop-up shop for special events merchandise like Halloween Horror Nights and Mardi Gras. So, it’s now being converted into a spot for Epic Universe. There it is! We don’t yet have an opening date for the store, but we do know that Epic Universe will open on May 22nd, 2025, so we can assume the store will be open before that. Epic Universe store As we previously reported, eight local restaurants would also soon be opening new locations within the airport (and we’ve always said the airport needs more restaurants, especially outside of Terminal C). We’ll be keeping an eye out for more updates concerning the airport (as most of us fly in and out of there when we go to Disney World, right?) and keep you updated. Stay tuned to DFB for more. “Those Are NUTS” — Universal Reveals First Look at Epic Universe Monster Animatronics Read more: DFB's complete guide to Universal’s Epic Universe >> What do you think? Let us know in the comments! The post Something NEW Is Coming to Orlando International Airport, and Epic Universe Fans Are Gonna LOVE It first appeared on the disney food blog. View the full article