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Courtney Harris

Cooking Up the Magic at Home: Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup from Le Cellier Steakhouse at EPCOT

Cooking Up the Magic at Home By February 12, 2021 No Comments

You won’t have to travel around World Showcase to try the famous Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup from EPCOT – you can now make it at HOME!

This classic soup is on the menu at Le Cellier Steakhouse in the Canada pavilion and is one of their most popular recipes! It serves as a great appetizer or even a warm dish for a cozy afternoon and you can pair it with pretzel bread for dipping for a magical meal!

Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup from Le Cellier Steakhouse at EPCOT

Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup from Le Cellier Steakhouse at EPCOT

Serves 10

Ingredients:

1/2 pound of bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
1 medium red onion, cut into 1/4-inch pieces
3 celery ribs, cut into 1/4-inch pieces
4 tablespoons butter
1 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups chicken stock
4 cups milk
1 pound white cheddar cheese, grated
1 tablespoon Tabasco sauce
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Coarse salt, freshly ground pepper to taste
1/2 cup warm Canadian golden lager or any pale lager-style beer
Chopped scallions or chives, for garnish

Directions:

  1. In a 4- or 5-quart Dutch oven, cook bacon, stirring, over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until lightly browned.
  2. Add red onion, celery, and butter and sauté until onion has softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 4 minutes over medium heat.  Whisk in chicken stock and bring to boil for 1 minute. Reduce heat to simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Add milk and continue to simmer for 15 minutes. Do not boil after milk is added.
  5. Remove from heat and add cheese, Tabasco sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Blend with immersion blender until cheese is melted and soup is smooth. Stir in warm beer.  If the soup is too thick, thin with some warm milk.
  6. Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped scallions or chives.

Click here for a print-at-home version of this recipe!

Happy snacking, Disney fans!

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Sweet Finds for Your Valentine at Disney Springs

Special Events By January 31, 2021 No Comments

If you’re looking for an incredible dinner for two or a sweet snack to share with your pal, make plans to dine at these locations that are offering a little something special to celebrate your loved one.

  • Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew – From Feb. 12-14, indulge with a heart-shaped donut crowned with sweet cream and heart-shaped sprinkles.
  • Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Soda Fountain – Enjoy a delicious Ghirardelli sundae with “buy one, get one” half off on all sundaes from Feb. 5-14, 2021. (Limit one per person, cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion.)
  • Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea – Treat your valentine to a coffee date with the Fairytale Love Latte featuring espresso, milk, dark chocolate sauce, caramel and coconut syrups. Plus, pick up a seasonal gift set as a take-home treat while supplies last.
  • Paddlefish – On Valentine’s Day, enjoy the Chef’s Special Seafood Boil for Two featuring Maine Lobster, Key West Shrimp, Cedar Key Littlenecks, Corn Bread, Red Potatoes, and Sweet Corn for $89 per couple. (Add a bottle Sparkling Cava for $30.) No discounts or substitutions.
  • Planet Hollywood – From Feb. 12-14, enjoy a Valentine’s prix fixe special for $34.95 featuring your choice of House or Caesar Salad, Roasted Prime Rib or Grouper and New York Cheesecake with Strawberry Sauce. (Add on Champagne for $6 a glass or $18 per bottle.)
  • Jaleo by José Andrés – Celebrate and enjoy a taste of Spain with the Chef’s Tasting Experience For Two plus decadent specials on Valentine’s Day for $95 per person. Special menu additions for the evening include seared scallops, fried shrimp, pork ‘canelones’ with béchamel sauce and berry soup with cheese ice cream.
  • Terralina Crafted Italian – On Valentine’s Day, enjoy Chef Justin’s special pre-fixe menu for two featuring Spicy Shrimp Scampi, Braised Bone-In Short Rib with wild mushroom and fennel risotto, and tiramisu for $90 per couple. (Add a bottle of Villa Sparina Rose for $30.) No discounts or substitutions.
  • The Edison – Enjoy an evening of industrial gothic elegance, live entertainment, paired with decadent dishes such as melt-in-your-mouth filet, a New York strip cooked to perfection, and indulgent desserts including a rich red velvet cheesecake and the signature DB “Clothesline Chocolate Covered Candied Bacon.” Available Feb. 12-14.
  • Sprinkles – New this year is the Valentines Red Velvet Cupcake with a romantic twist on the classic red velvet in southern-style light chocolate cake with cream cheese frosting and topped with Luck in Love sprinkles by Fancy Sprinkles. Available Feb.1-14. The classic Raspberry Chocolate Chip Cupcake also returns Feb. 1-28 featuring a Belgian dark chocolate cake topped with luscious raspberry frosting.
  • YeSake – Make a sweet stop at Yesake and try the new Chocolate Cherry Boba Tea served with heart shaped sprinkles and chocolate chips. Available Feb. 1-28.
  • Vivoli il Gelato – The Love Potion returns and is sure to hit the sweet spot with vanilla gelato, Fanta strawberry, whipped cream, sugar rock candy and sprinkles. Available through Feb. 18.
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Foodie Guide to Valentine’s Season 2021 at Disney Parks

Foodie Guide By January 29, 2021 No Comments

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and Disney chefs and candy makers from around the world have been busy creating fun and delicious offerings to celebrate this season of love.

They have everything from adorable sweets you can grab on the go, to romantic prix fixe meals with extra special touches to celebrate Valentine’s Day. They could not limit all this goodness of edible love to just one day so many of these offerings are available over multiple days. Check out all the offerings.

Happy Valentine’s Day – SWAK – Sealed with a kiss!

Disneyland Resort

Marceline’s Confectionery, Downtown Disney District (available Jan. 24 – Feb. 14)

Trolley Treats (available Jan. 24 – Feb. 14)

  • “Bee Mine” Apple – Granny Smith apple dipped in caramel, enrobed in red chocolate, and decorated in white and dark chocolate with cute little chocolate bee.
  • Strawberry Cake Pop – Chocolate cake pop dipped in pink strawberry-flavored chocolate and drizzled with red chocolate.
  • Dark Chocolate Marshmallow Wand – Marshmallow wand dipped in caramel and dark chocolate then drizzled with red and pink chocolate.
  • Dark Chocolate Dipped Strawberry – Long-stemmed strawberry dipped in dark chocolate and drizzled in white chocolate.
  • Milk Chocolate Swirl Strawberry – Long-stemmed strawberry swirled in milk, white, and dark chocolate.
  • White Chocolate Dipped Strawberry – Long-stemmed strawberry dipped in white chocolate and drizzled in dark chocolate.
  • Pink Minnie Candy Apple – Granny Smith apple dipped in caramel, coated in milk chocolate, and decorated with white chocolate, white candy-coated chocolates, glittery pink sugar, and a pink chocolate bow.
  • Tuxedo Strawberry (available Feb. 12,13, 14 only).

Walt Disney World Resort

Disney Springs

The Ganachery (available Jan. 31 – Feb. 14)

  • Sweetheart Minnie Piñata – Minnie Mouse dark chocolate sphere decorated with signature red bow and red heart-shaped dots filled with marshmallow treats.
  • Love Note Heart Piñatas – Chocolate heart filled with heart marshmallows adorned with sweet saying for your love.
  • Strawberries and Champagne Ganache Squares – Dark chocolate melded with strawberries and Champagne. Whimsical Cinderella’s coach container (holds two ganache squares) available for purchase.
  • I Heart U Ganache Lollipop – Raspberry and dark chocolate ganache on a stick decorated with I Heart U.

Amorette’s Patisserie (available Feb. 7-14)

  • Dipped Strawberry Bouquet – Strawberry dipped in Guayaquil dark chocolate.
  • Love is in the Air Petit Cake – Pink velvet chiffon, strawberry mousse, chocolate chiffon, peanut butter filling, strawberry crisp pearls, and strawberry jelly.
  • Le Grand Amour Éclair – Orange marmalade and milk chocolate garnished with heart and pipette of orange-flavored liqueur.

Marketplace Snacks (available Feb. 1-28)

  • A Valentine Swirl – A swirl of DOLE Whip®  Strawberry and Chocolate Soft-Serve with Chocolate-dipped Strawberry Garnish.

Magic Kingdom Park

Main Street Bakery (available Feb. 12-14)

Various Carts (available Feb. 12-14)

  • Royal Majesty – Strawberry-flavored cake pop dipped in red chocolate and coated with sprinkles.

EPCOT

Biergarten Restaurant (available Feb. 14)

Traveler’s Café (available Feb. 14)

Garden Grill Restaurant  (available Feb. 14)

  • Valentine’s Day Sugar Cookie – Sugar cookies with heart sprinkles.

Coral Reef Restaurant (available Feb. 14)

  • Red Velvet Cake with white chocolate cream cheese icing, raspberry coulis, and a chocolate strawberry truffle.

Le Cellier Steakhouse (available Feb. 14)

  • Red Velvet Chocolate Bar – Dark chocolate crémeux, red velvet cake, white chocolate-orange-flavored liqueur, and raspberry coulis.

Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Arts, Masterpiece Kitchen Food Studio (available through Feb. 22)

  • Vanilla, rose water, and pistachio panna cotta.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Creature Comforts (available Feb. 2 – Mar. 1)

  • Valentine’s Brownie with Mousse Dome – Strawberry mousse atop a chocolate brownie with valentine heart sprinkles.
  • Valentine’s Cupcake – Chocolate cake, cherry filling, and vanilla frosting with a chocolate zebra-striped heart.

Restaurantosaurus Restaurant (available Feb. 2 – Mar. 1)

Flame Tree Barbecue (available Feb. 2 – Mar. 1)

  • Valentine’s Cupcake – Chocolate cake with milk chocolate, soft ganache filling, vanilla buttercream, and Simba and Nala chocolate coin. 

Dino-Bite Snacks (available Feb. 2 – Mar. 1)

  • Valentine Ice Cream Sandwich – Strawberry ice cream between two chocolate cookies rolled in sprinkles.

Tiffins Restaurant (available Feb. 14)

  • Valentine’s Dessert – Chocolate-hazelnut mousse, pistachio cookie, berry coulis, pistachio sponge, chocolate ganache, and hazelnut liqueur-infused chocolate strawberry.

Nomad Lounge and Tiffins Restaurant (available Feb. 12-14)

  • Rose Rosé – Vodka, single estate rye, simple syrup, rose water, and rosé brut.

Walt Disney World Resort Hotels

Gasparilla Island Grill, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Roaring Fork, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Contempo Café, Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Ale & Compass Marketplace, Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts

Beach Club Marketplace, Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts

Capt. Cook’s, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

BoardWalk Bakery, Disney’s BoardWalk

P&J Southern Takeout, Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground

Primo Piatto, Disney’s Riviera Resort

Available Feb. 11-15

  • Valentine’s Day Cinnamon Candy Cupcake – Cinnamon sponge cake filled with red cinnamon mousse topped with heart-shaped vanilla buttercream and Mickey & Minnie chocolate garnish.

Landscape of Flavors, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

Everything POP Shopping & Dining, Disney’s Pop Century Resort

Centertown Market, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

Artist’s Palette, Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa

Good’s Food To Go, Disney’s Old Key West Resort

Wind & Waves Market, Disney’s Vero Beach Resort

Available Feb. 11-15

  • Call Me Sweetheart – Chocolate cupcake filled with hazelnut cream topped with chocolate hazelnut and strawberry buttercream, white chocolate heart, and strawberry crisp pearls.

Valentine’s Day Celebration Wine Package (offered Feb. 11-14)

All Resort Locations Offering Mobile Order

  • A bottle (187ml) of sparkling wine and two squares of dark chocolate ganache with pink raspberry center served in Cinderella’s coach container. Conveniently available on mobile order.

Topolino’s Terrance – Flavors of the Riviera, Disney’s Riviera Resort 

Valentine’s Day Prix Fixe Menu (available Feb. 11-14)

  • Sparkling Wine Toast Included.
  • Choice of One Appetizer:
    • Gnocchi – Duck confit, pesto bianco, garden kale, and pinole.
    • Romaine Insalata – Ricotta, watercress, acciuga, lemon, and olio d’oliva.
  • Choice of One Entrée:
    • King Salmon – Artichoke risotto, sauce vierge, upland cress, and huile d’ olive.
    • Filet Mignon – Truffle mashed potatoes, charred barbeque onions, fungi purée, and vinaigrette.
    • Rigatoni – Braised chicken sugo, chanterelles mushrooms, dandelion greens, broccolini, and Parmigiano-Reggiano.
  • Choice of One Dessert:
    • Warm Valrhona Chocolate Cake – Sea salt caramel center, chantilly, and raspberries.
    • Key-to-Your-Heart Dessert – Raspberry chèvre cheesecake, milk chocolate mousse, strawberry mousse heart, almond crumble, hibiscus meringues, and fresh strawberries.
  • Special wine pairings will be available.

Narcoossee’s, Disney Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Valentine’s Day Prix Fixe Menu (available Feb. 11-14)

  • Choice of One Appetizer:
    • Endive and Pear Salad with Gorgonzola, cherrywood-smoked bacon,
      and apple-maple vinaigrette.
    • Maine Lobster Bisque – Butter-poached lobster, coral, and chervil.
  • Choice of One Entrée:
    • Grass-fed Filet Mignon served with Yukon Gold mash, roasted carrots, cipollini onions, and red wine-oxtail reduction.
    • Pan-seared Georges Bank Day Boat Scallops served with Parisian-style gnocchi, peas, ham, and truffle-Meyer lemon cream.
  • Dessert:
    • Key-to-Your-Heart Dessert – Raspberry chèvre cheesecake, milk chocolate mousse, strawberry mousse heart, almond crumble, hibiscus meringues, and fresh strawberries.
  • Special wine pairings will be available.

California Grill, Disney Contemporary Resort 

Valentine’s Day Prix Fixe Menu (available Feb. 11-14)

  • Sparkling Wine Toast Included.
  • Choice of One Appetizer:
    • Plant City Strawberry Salad – Butter lettuce, strawberry variations, corn shortbread, and avocado.
    • Braised Beef Short Rib Wontons with doenjang miso-cola-onion sauce, crispy garlic-chili oil, radish, and pickled lotus root.
    • Yellowfin Tuna Sampler – Maki, Oshizushi, Nigiri, Tartare served with Wasabi, pickled ginger, dashi, crispy garlic, yuzu-gooseberry gel, soy gel, and tapioca-nori puff.
  • Choice of One Entrée:
    • Jumbo Scallops served with herb basmati rice, lobster, cashew chutney, bok choy, baby shiitake, and kaffir lime-coconut nage.
    • Oak-fired Wagyu Striploin served with potato-celeriac-apple pavé, leek fondue, and fig-onion demi.
    • Green Circle Chicken served with truffle-potato rostï, porcini cream, baby turnips, and roasted cipollini.
  • Dessert:
    • Key-to-Your-Heart Dessert – Raspberry chèvre cheesecake, milk chocolate mousse, strawberry mousse heart, almond crumble, hibiscus meringues, and fresh strawberries.
  • Special wine pairings will be available.

Hong Kong Disneyland

Dreamer’s Lookout, Disney Explorers Lodge (available Feb. 12-14)

  • Dreamer’s Lookout Chocolate Gift Box – Personalized Mickey and Minnie chocolate bonbons, Mickey dark chocolate truffle, and Minnie milk chocolate truffle.

Walt’s Café, Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel (available Feb. 13-14)

  • Valentine’s Day Prix Fixe Dinner – Four-course menu with caviar, veal liver, halibut, scallop, and Spanish red prawn. Included are two glasses of Champagne and one Alex and Ani bracelet for that special someone.

Shanghai Disneyland

Royal Banquet Hall, Enchanted Storybook Castle (available Feb. 14)

Valentine’s Day Dinner Set Menu for Two:

  • Sparkling Wine Toast Included.
  • Appetizer: Antipasto Misto.
  • Soup: Seafood Cioppino.
  • Entrée: Porterhouse Tagliata with Chianti Jus and Grilled Mixed Vegetables.
  • Dessert: Peach Mousse with Oolong Tea Jelly and Almond Joconde.
  • Valentine Gift: Three-Piece Chocolate Box.

Aurora, Shanghai Disneyland Hotel (available Feb. 11-17)

Aurora Spring Festival Dinner for Two

  • Sparkling Wine Toast Included.
  • Appetizers: Blue Swimmer Crab Salad and Angus Australian Beef Tartare.
  • Soup: Lobster Soup with Scallop Dumpling.
  • Choice of One Entrée:
    • Beef Wellington.
    • Pan-seared Canadian Halibut.
  • Dessert: Coconut Rice Mango Roll with Coconut Rum Ice Cream.
  • For guests dining on Feb. 14, they will receive a small bouquet of flowers per table and enjoy a special wine pairing.

Tokyo Disney Resort

Blue Bayou Restaurant, Tokyo Disneyland (available through Mar. 29)

Chef’s Special Course

  • Appetizer: Selection of Seafood – Cajun Shrimp and Marinated Seafood.
  • Choice of One Entrée:
    • Roast Beef with Light Gravy.
    • Grilled Chicken with Cream Sauce scented with Bourbon.
  • Choice of One Dessert:
    • Blackcurrant Mousse.
    • Chocolate Cake.

S.S. Columbia Dining Room, Tokyo DisneySea (available through Mar. 29)

Chef’s Special Set

  • Appetizer: Smoked Salmon and Barley with Marinated Scallop and Shrimp.
  • Choice of One Entrée:
    • Roast Beef with Tarragon Sauce.
    • Cod Meunière with White Wine Sauce.
    • Roast Beef and Baked Lobster Tail with Tarragon Sauce and White Wine Sauce.
    • Kuroge Wagyu Tenderloin Steak with Tarragon Sauce.
  • Dessert: Strawberry Verrine and Chocolate Cake.
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Check Out These Fresh Details for the Taste of EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, Blossoming March 3 with Family Fun

Special Events By January 27, 2021 No Comments

The Taste of EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival is a little more than a month away! To get ready for this year’s event, debuting March 3 and continuing through July 5, let’s take a look at some fresh new festival details we’re sharing today.

  

  • Topiaries Full of Disney Character: Throughout the park Guests will see gorgeous topiaries of Disney characters blooming to life in floral sculptures. Highlights will include Remy in the France pavilion, Tinker Bell and the Fairy Houses in the United Kingdom, Lady and the Tramp in Italy and Sorcerer Mickey at the park’s reimagined main entrance.
  • Gardens to Explore: Guests can soak in the sights of spring in 20 different garden areas all across EPCOT, including floating gardens on the waters of Future World, a bamboo garden in China, a tropical rainforest garden in Mexico and the English Tea Garden Presented by Twinings of London in the United Kingdom (where Guests can also take a Self-Guided Tea Tour!). Another picturesque spot is The Goodness Garden Butterfly House Presented by GoGo squeeZ, where Guests can view a kaleidoscope of butterflies up close, in all their extraordinary color. And at Outdoor Escapes Presented by OFF! Repellents in Future World East, Guests can unwind in refreshing spaces that show just how easy it is to create an outdoor escape for family and friends.
  • Outdoor Kitchens Galore: Guests can embark on a mouth-watering journey around the park and discover a smorgasbord of options, with more than 20 delectable stops to choose from. Each Outdoor Kitchen offers a specialty menu of creative cuisine and libations to savor and sip. We’ll have more details to share in an upcoming post about all the foodie fun Guests can expect this year.
  • Entertainment All Around: The festival features plenty of live music every day. Voices of Liberty perform an all-American a cappella showcase, celebrating the landscape, heart and human spirit of America, and Mariachi Cobre takes the stage for a performance of world-famous Mexican folk music. Guests can also tap their toes to the sound of the Jammin’ Gardeners, performing rhythmic beats with inspired backyard percussion, and head into World Showplace, where the EPCOT Pianist will be playing a selection of songs of the season.
  • Health Full Trail Presented by AdventHealth:  At the Flavor Full Outdoor Kitchen and garden along the Imagination Walkway, the whole family can learn ways to stay healthy.
  • Family Fun with Scavenger Hunts: Spike’s Pollen-Nation Exploration is a springtime quest to find the buzzzz-iest honey bee at Walt Disney World Resort. And as a special treat during the Easter season (March 19 – April 4), Guests can also take part in the Egg-stravaganza Scavenger Hunt to find Disney pals and their oversized eggs all around World Showcase.
  • Festival Memories: Guests can commemorate their visit with official event merchandise, including apparel, headwear, drinkware and much more, featuring Orange Bird, Figment, Minnie Mouse and Spike the Bee.

The Taste of EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival is available with valid admission and a park reservation for the same date. Stay tuned for more details as we draw nearer the festival.

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Cooking Up the Magic – Fan Fav Recipe From Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Arts

Cooking Up the Magic at Home By January 22, 2021 No Comments

The darling of this year’s Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Arts is a pocket of melty cheese topped with all sorts of deliciousness. What dish is everyone talking about? (Hint – it is offered at the new Vibrante & Vívido Food Studio.) Of course, it’s the Blue Corn Pupusa.

This classic Salvadoran dish starts with grilled blue masa corn cakes stuffed with white cheddar and top with shredded pork, guajillo-árbol chile sauce, cabbage slaw, and aji amarillo crema. Yum!

Disney chefs are sharing the recipe for this popular dish that is just as much fun to make with family and friends as it is delicious. Many of the components can be prepped the day before so everyone can help with stuffing, flattening, cooking, and topping right before eating.

Be sure to check out all the edible masterpieces at the more than 15 Food Studios at Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Arts through Feb. 22.

BLUE CORN PUPUSA STUFFED WITH CHEESE AND TOPPED WITH SHREDDED PORK

EPCOT International Festival of the Arts
Makes 8

PORK WITH GUAJILLO-ÁRBOL CHILI SAUCE

  • 6 dried guajillo chilies
  • 1 chile de árbol
  • 6 cups plus 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 2-3 pounds pork butt, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
  • Coarse salt, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch

CABBAGE SLAW

  • 2 cups red cabbage, shredded
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 carrot, julienne
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more, to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 3/4 teaspoon brown sugar
  • Pinch red pepper flakes
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

AJI AMARILLO CREAM

  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 3/4 teaspoons aji amarillo paste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon coarse salt, plus more, to taste

BLUE CORN PUPUSA

  • 2 cups blue corn masa1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon coarse salt
  • 3/4 – 1 1/2 cups water
  • 1/2 cup grated white cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup canola oil

GARNISH

  • 16 freshly picked cilantro leaves

FOR PORK WITH GUAJILLO AND ÁRBOL CHILI SAUCE:

  1. Remove stems from guajillo and árbol chiles. Heat large sauté pan over medium heat for 5 minutes, until hot. Add chilies and toast for 1-2 minutes on each side, until darker in color.
  2. Place chilies in large pot with 6 cups of the water and garlic clove. Bring to simmer and cook, covered, for 20 minutes, until soft. Blend with immersion blender until smooth.
  3. Season pork generously with salt. Add to pot of water. Bring to boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook, covered, for 1 hour, until pork is tender. Remove from liquid and cool for 20 minutes. Do not discard cooking liquid.
  4. Combine remaining 2 tablespoons of water with cornstarch in small bowl. Bring pork liquid back to a boil. Add cornstarch and water and stir until sauce thickens. Reduce heat to low.
  5. Shred pork and add to sauce. Season with additional salt, to taste.
  6. Keep warm until ready to serve.

FOR RED CABBAGE SLAW:

  1. Combine apple cider vinegar, water, salt, oregano, brown sugar, and chili flakes in small saucepan. Bring to boil over medium heat and cook, stirring frequently, until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.
  2. Mix shredded cabbage, onions, and carrots in large bowl. Add cooled dressing and toss to coat.
  3. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, up to one day, before serving.
  4. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.

FOR AJI AMARILLO CREAM:

  1. Combine sour cream, aji amarillo paste, lime juice, and salt in medium bowl. Season with additional salt, to taste.
  2. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

FOR BLUE CORN PUPUSA:

  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spray with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.
  2. Combine masa, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt in mixing bowl. Pour in 3/4 cups of water and stir to combine. Slowly add additional water, 1/4 cup at a time, until a soft, pliable dough forms.
  3. Scoop dough into 1/4 cup balls and place on reserved baking sheet.
  4. Using your fingers, make a well in the center of each ball of dough. Fill each well with 1 tablespoon of cheddar cheese. Pinch to close dough around the well.
  5. Gently flatten into disks, making sure no cheese is showing.
  6. With caution, heat canola oil in large non-stick skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes. Cook pupusa for 2-3 minutes on each side, until dark blue in color and crispy on the outside.
  7. Keep warm until ready to serve.

TO SERVE:

Place pupusa in the center of each plate. Top with pork and red cabbage slaw. Drizzle aji amarillo cream on top. Garnish with cilantro leaves.

NoteAlways use caution when handling sharp objects and hot contents. Please supervise children who are helping or nearby. This recipe has been converted from a larger quantity in the restaurant kitchens. The flavor profile may vary from the restaurant’s version.

Click here for a print-at-home version of this recipe!

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Sweet New Additions at Disney Springs

General By January 20, 2021 No Comments

Guests planning ahead for their next Disney Springs visit will not want to miss these sweet new additions!

Gideon’s Bakehouse

Celebrating its grand opening just last weekend, Gideon’s new flagship location is already a popular destination at Disney Springs. Nestled in the heart of The Landing is where Guests will find this incredible bakery packed with handmade, almost half-pound cookies, double frosted cakes, and delicious iced coffees. Not only is the menu amazing, but the dark and mysterious atmosphere themed to an old bookshop creates an unforgettable experience as soon as Guests walk through the door including some interactive elements inside. (Not to give too much away!) Gideon’s Bakehouse carries the same popular menu from their original East End Market location with a few Disney Springs exclusive offerings like the ever-popular Coffee Cake Cookie (previously only available one month a year) and hot cookie hour each evening. Due to popular demand, Gideon’s does offer a virtual queue each day so we recommend that Guests arrive early so they can grab their spot in-line and do a little shopping while they wait.

Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew

Open for just a few weeks now at Disney Springs West Side, there is no better foodie destination for any and all donut-loving fans. The menu boasts an impressive selection of both classic donut flavors and over-the-top gourmet creations like Peanut Butter Explosion, Maple Double Bacon and Oreo Supreme just to name a few. And what’s a donut without an awesome cup of joe? Everglazed also specializes in cold brew coffees and even spiked coffees. Other noteworthy items on the menu include their hand-crafted flavored milks, savory breakfast sandwiches, and loaded fries.

Wondermade

Guests will have to make room for “s’more” treats at the new Wondermade pop-up shop located in The Landing just outside of Paddlefish. A local Central Florida brand, Wondermade specializes in hand-crafted marshmallows including flavors such as S’mores, Key Lime Pie, Birthday Cake and Salted Caramel.  Guests ready to indulge in some real luxury can ask about their Gold Champagne flavor hand-covered in 24 karat edible gold.

Coming Soon — M&M’S

As we enter 2021, Guests can get ready to play in a whole new world of color at M&M’S opening soon at Disney Springs West Side! This beloved brand is a guest-favorite and we’re thrilled to share there’s even more to love about M&M’S. Be on the lookout for new Mickey and Minnie Mouse M&M’s designs and packaging sold exclusively at Disney Springs. If that’s not exciting enough, the new store will be filled with their signature chocolate wall and feature a vast assortment of whimsical merchandise, including apparel and accessories.

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New Menu of Mediterranean Small Plates at Spice Road Table

News By January 13, 2021 No Comments

What better way to enjoy the wonderful Florida weather than outdoors savoring Mediterranean small plates and refreshing beverages? Now add scenic views of World Showcase Lagoon at EPCOT–perfection. With décor inspired by outdoor cafés from the Moroccan seaside, Spice Road Table is now open offering a delicious new menu of small plates and sips to enjoy al fresco or in the quaint dining room. Here is a tasty tour of the menu. B’Saha!

Hummus and Cauliflower
  • Hummus Fries with Citrus Chipotle, Preserved Lemon
  • Pomegranate-Chili Crispy Cauliflower with Red Pepper Aleppo Sauce (plant-based)
Calamari and Kefta
  • Fried Calamari with Rémoulade and Harissa Sauce
  • Grilled Lamb Kefta with Tzatziki, Radish, Cherry Tomato Confit
Naan and Shrimp
  • Naan Spreads – Hummus, Chermoula, Marinated Olives, Za’atar
  • Spicy Shrimp with Chili, Garlic, Peri Peri Sauce
Tiropitakia and Grape Leaves
  • Tiropitakia – Cheese-filled Phyllo, Cucumber Tomato Relish
  • Dolmas – Grape Leaves filled with Rice and Herbs, Marinated Olives, Charred Lemon (plant-based)
Chicken Sampler
  • Spiced Chicken with Ras el Hanout, Mint Yogurt
  • Road Table Sampler – Lamb Kefta, Tzatziki, Spiced Chicken, Tiropitakia

A terrific assortment of Mediterranean beer and wine as well as refreshing specialty beverages including:

  • Mahiarita – Fig Brandy, Agave, Lime Juice, Sumac Salt, and Pomegranate Seeds
  • Pomegranate Mimosa
  • Hibiscus Mimosa
  • Blood Orange Mimosa
  • Moroccan Mule – Fig Vodka, Ginger Beer, Agave, and Lime
  • Medina Mixer – African Rum, Tangerine Liqueur, and Cranberry Juice
  • Sahara Spritz – Botanical Cucumber and Mint Vodka, Soda Water, and Lime
  • Iced Mint Tea with Gin
  • Moroccan Hot Tea Service (nonalcoholic)
  • Iced Mint Tea (nonalcoholic)
Cookie Platter

To enjoy a treat on-the-go can visit the adjacent Morocco Juice Bar offering a variety of delicious Moroccan sweets.

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Foodie Guide to 2021 Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Arts Opening Jan. 8

Foodie Guide By January 6, 2021 No Comments

Kick-off 2021 in an artful way with the Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Arts, running Jan. 8 through Feb. 22, 2021. In addition to celebrating visual and performing arts, the over 15 Food Studios showcase the best in culinary art – blending colorful ingredients, unique cooking techniques, and imaginative presentations to create edible masterpieces for the plate and glass.

Our culinary and beverage teams created many new tastes and sips for this year’s festival and brought back several fan favorites. Be sure to check out our new Food Studio – Vibrante & Vívido Food Studio – located between Morocco & France.

Returning is the Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine, a fun food stroll highlighting five delicious sweet and savory offerings at the festival – all listed in the Festival Passport. Upon this colorful purchase, you will receive a stamp for their Festival Passport. Once they’ve collected all five stamps, your Clients can bring their Festival Passport to the Decadent Delights Food Studio to receive an adorable complimentary Artist Palette Cookie. The Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine can be completed at leisure, and you can even bring back your stamped Festival Passport to EPCOT at any time during the festival to complete the stroll.

Now on to the Foodie Guide – enjoy!

Refreshment Port (Showcase Plaza)

Food Items:

  • Lobster Poutine: Lobster, Lobster Bisque Cheese Sauce, Pickled Jalapeños, and Citrus Cream (NEW)

Beverages:

  • Barrel of Monks Brewing Raspberry Beret, Boca Raton, FL (NEW)
  • Spottswoode Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley, CA

Citrus Blossom (Showcase Plaza)

Beverages:

  • Orange Cream Shake in a Souvenir Orange Bird Sipper Cup (non-alcoholic)
  • Lost Coast Brewery Tangerine Wheat Ale, Eureka, CA
  • Florida Orange Groves Winery Selections
    • Key Limen
    • Strawberry Blush
    • Orange Sunshine
    • Sparkling Key Lime
    • Sparkling Cranberry
    • Sparkling Blueberry

The Deconstructed Dish (Showcase Plaza)

Food Items: 

  • Deconstructed Reuben: Rye Popover, Corned Beef, Gryuère Panna Cotta, and Brined Brussels Sprouts with Broken Thousand Island Dressing
  • Deconstructed BLT: Crispy Pork Belly, Soft-poached Egg, Brioche, Watercress Espuma, and Tomato Jam
  • Deconstructed Strawberry Cheesecake: Whipped New York-style Cheesecake with Fresh Florida Strawberries and Sugar Cookies

Beverages:

  • Rainboba: Fruit Bursting Boba with Sparkling Water (non-alcoholic)
  • Deconstructed Breakfast: Twinings of London® Chai Tea Shake with Maple Syrup garnished with a Waffle Crisp and Candied Bacon (Non-alcoholic)
  • Deconstructed Breakfast: Twinings of London® Chai Tea Shake with Cream Bourbon garnished with a Waffle Crisp and Candied Bacon

Decadent Delights (Promenade Refreshments)

Food Items:

  • Raspberry Soft-serve Ice Cream (New
  • Lemon Soft-serve Ice Cream (New)
  • Artist Palette Cookie 

Beverages:

  • North Coast Brewing Co. Scrimshaw Pilsner, Fort Bragg, CA
  • M.I.A. Beer Company Deco IPA, Doral, FL
  • Saugatuck Brewing Co. Peanut Butter Porter, Douglas, MI
  • Beer Flight also available

Pop Eats (Showcase Plaza)

Food Items:

  • Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese (New)
  • Tomato Soup with French Onion and Bacon Grilled Cheese (New)
  • Shrimp Ceviche with Lime Mint Foam (Gluten/Wheat Friendly) 
  • Almond Frangipane Cake layered with Raspberry Jam and Belgian Chocolate
  • Pop’t Art: Modern-designed Sugar Cookie with Strawberry Filling

Beverages:

  • #RainbowSherbetGlitterDreamAle by Playalinda Brewing Co., Titusville, FL
  • Popping Bubbles Cocktail
  • Tomato Soup Can Bloody Mary

Refreshment Outpost

Food Items:

  • Plant-based Bratwurst with Spicy Turmeric Aïoli, Coffee Barbecue Jackfruit, and Slaw
  • Warm Brown Sugar-stuffed Pretzel with Banana Soft-serve Ice Cream and Chocolate Sauce

Beverages:

  • Frozen Slushy Coca-Cola® or Minute Maid® Lemonade in a Souvenir Spike The Bee Sipper Cup (non-alcoholic)
  • Playalinda Brewing Co. Blue Raspberry Blonde, Titusville, FL (New)

Cuisine Classique

Food Items:

  • Red Wine-braised Beef Short Rib with Parsnip Purée, Broccolini, Baby Tomatoes, and Aged Balsamic
  • Coq au Vin: Chicken Roulade with Violet Mustard, Candied Carrots, Pancetta Crisp, Marble Potatoes, and Beurre Rouge Sauce (New)
  • Opera Cake: Almond Joconde, Coffee Buttercream, and Chocolate Ganache (New)
  • Artist Palette Jumbo Chocolate-Chip Cookie

Beverages:

  • 3 Daughters Brewing Rosé Hard Cider, St. Petersburg, FL
  • 81Bay Brewing Rosé Blonde Ale, Tampa, FL
  • Frozen Rosé
  • Campo Viejo Rioja Reserva Art Series, Logrono, Spain
  • Domaine Savary Chablis, Burgundy
  • A Play on Rosé Flight

The Artist’s Table

Food Items:

  • Beef Wellington: Mushroom Duxelle, Prosciutto, and Puff Pastry with Red Wine Demi-Glace and Fennel Cream
  • Pan-Seared Scallop with Chorizo, Roasted Red Pepper Coulis, and Parmesan Crisp (Gluten/Wheat Friendly) 
  • Artist Palette Jumbo Chocolate-Chip Cookie

Beverages:

  • SippingChocolate Flight: White, Milk, and Dark Chocolate (non-alcoholic)
  • Saugatuck Brewing Co. Neapolitan Milk Stout, Douglas, MI
  • Lexington Brewing Company Kentucky Vanilla Barrel Cream Ale, Lexington, KY
  • Lindemans Framboise Lambic, Belgium
  • Âme du Vin Côtes de Provence Rosé
  • Writer’s Block Pinot Noir, Lake County, CA
  • Symphony in Chocolate Flight: Mozart Cream Liqueurs paired with Sipping Chocolates
  • Beer Flight also available

Mosaic Canteen (Morocco)

Food Items:

  • Mediterranean Flatbread with Zaatar Pesto, Artichokes, Roasted Peppers, Sundried Tomatoes, and Fennel Cream (New)
  • Harissa-roasted Rack of Lamb with Baba Ganoush, Picholine Olives, Toybox Tomatoes, Preserved Lemons, and Pomegranate (New)
  • Mouskoutchou: Orange Cake with Cinnamon-Chocolate Mousse (Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine – Orange) (New)

Beverages:

  • 1906 Reserva Especial Dark Amber Lager (New)
  • Maeloc Blackberry Hard Cider (New)

Vibrante & Vívido Food Studio (Between Morocco & France) 

Food Items:

  • Chilled Seafood Cocktail with Octopus, Scallops, Shrimp, Black Garlic Aïoli, Tomato-Coconut Sauce, and Serrano-Lime Oil (New)
  • Blue Corn Pupusa-stuffed with Cheese and topped with Shredded Pork, Guajillo and Árbol Chile Sauce, Cabbage Slaw, and Aji Amarillo Crema (Gluten/Wheat Friendly)(Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine – Blue) (New)
  • Passion Fruit Mousse with Dragon Fruit Jam (New)

Beverages:

  • Coconut and Passion Fruit Smoothie (non-alcoholic) (New)
  • Frozen Piña Colada (New)
  • Passion Fruit Daiquiri (New)

Festival Favorites (World Showplace)

Food Items:

  • Remy’s Ratatouille with Eggplant, Zucchini, Yellow Squash, Tomatoes, and Red Pepper Piperade (Plant-based) (Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine – Red) (New)
  • Charcuterie with Meats and Cheeses featuring Nueske’s® Applewood Smoked Beef
  • Lemon Blood-Orange Tart
  • Artist Palette Jumbo Chocolate-Chip Cookie

Beverages:

  • Blue Sky Black Cherry Boba Freeze (non-alcoholic)
  • 3 Daughters Brewing Strawberry Blonde Nitro, St. Petersburg, FL
  • Breckenridge Brewery Nitro Vanilla Porter, Breckenridge, CO
  • M.I.A. Beer Company Milk Stout Nitro, Doral, FL
  • Cold Fashioned Coffee Cocktail
  • Neapolitan Beer Flight

The Painter’s Palate (World Showplace)

Food Items:

  • Prime Steak Tartare with Pickled Vegetables, Parsley Salad, Béarnaise Anglaise, and Sous Vide Quail Egg (New)
  • Salt-roasted Beet Tartare with Pickled Vegetables, Parsley Salad, and Béarnaise Aïoli (Plant-based) (New)
  • Pistachio Cake with Cherry Mousse and Morello Cherries (Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine – Green) (New)

Beverages:

  • Kalimotxo: Red Wine Cocktail with Pibb® Xtra (New)
  • Frozen Rusty Nail Cocktail (New)
  • Pinord La Dama Reserva Familiar Brut Rosé, Spain

Masterpiece Kitchen 

Food Items

  • Wild Mushroom Risotto, Aged Parmesan, Truffle Shavings, and Zinfandel Reduction
  • Salmon and Cream Gâteau with Egg Yolk Cream, Paddlefish Caviar, and Micro-Herbs
  • Vanilla, Rose Water, and Pistachio Panna Cotta (Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine – Pink)

Beverages:

  • Weihenstephaner Original Lager, Freising, Germany
  • Perrier-Jouët Belle Époque Brut Champagne
  • The Meeker Vineyard Winemakers’ Handprint Merlot, Sonoma County, CA
  • Pinord La Dama Reserva Familiar Brut, Spain
  • Classic Sidecar with a Chocolate Twist

L’Art de la Cuisine Française (France)

Food Items:

  • Crème de Brie en Petit Pain: Warm Creamy Brie in a House-made Bread Bowl
  • Croissant à la Truffle Noir d’Hiver: Black Winter Truffle Croissant (New)
  • Moelleux à la Framboise et aux Chocolats Valrhona: Molten Chocolate and Raspberry Cake with Pure Origin Valrhona Chocolates (New)
  • Trio de Macarons: Assortment of Three House-made Macarons in a Gift Box

Beverages:

  • Frozen French Martini: Grey Goose, Vodka, Chambord Liqueur, Pineapple, Orange, and Grape Juice with Lemon-Lime Foam
  • Charles Lafite, Brut Méthode Traditionnelle Champenoise, French Sparkling Wine
  • Château La Gordonne, Vérité du Terroir, Côtes de Provence Rosé (New)
  • Bordeaux Merlot and Cabernet Blend, Baron des Chartrons, 2015 (New)

El Artista Hambriento (Mexico)

Food Items:

  • Chile Relleno: Fried Poblano Pepper filled with Flank Steak, Black Beans, and Tomatoes drizzled with a Poblano Cream Sauce (Gluten/Wheat Friendly)(New)
  • Pork Belly Pastor: Pastor-marinated Pork Belly atop Boniato Purée with Charred Pineapple and Crispy Cilantro (Gluten/Wheat Friendly)(New)
  • Taco de Chocolate: Chocolate Candy Shell filled with Mexican Chocolate Mousse with a touch of Chile topped with Tropical Fruit (Gluten/Wheat Friendly)(New)

Beverages:

  • Mexican Craft Beer: Tulum Artisanal Lager crafted with Citrus notes and made with Mexican Caribbean Seawater
  • Diego Pomegranate Margarita: Ojo de Tigre Mezcal, Pomegranate-Prickly Pear Juice, Blackcurrant Liqueur, and Rose Petal Liqueur with a Hibiscus Salt Rim
  • Frida Carrot Margarita: Casa Noble Blanco Tequila, Carrot Juice, Ginger Cordial, Lime Juice, and Agave Nectar

Goshiki (Japan)

Food Items:

  • Stone Garden: Red Bean Mousse with Chocolate Rocks and Arare Rice Cracker Pebbles (New)
  • Sushi Donut: Donut-shaped Sushi featuring Salmon, Tuna, Shrimp, Cucumber, and Sesame Seed over a decorated plate of Wasabi Aïoli, Sriracha, and Eel Sauce
  • Vegetable Gyoza: Vegetable-filled Spinach Gyoza with Tofu atop Mashed Potatoes with a Kamaboko Fish Cake, Pepper Strings and Tonkatsu Teriyaki Sauce

Beverages:

  • Haiku Draft Lager (New)
  • Masu Sake in a Traditional Personalized Wooden Cup
  • Pink Snow: Sake, Peach Schnapps, Cranberry Juice, and Calpico dusted with Snowflake Confetti (New)

The Painted Panda (China)

Food Items:

  • Old Shanghai Shi Zi Tou: Pork and Water Chestnut Meatballs served with Taro Root (New)
  • Sichuan Red Hot Mala Shrimp (New)

Beverages:

  • “Panda” Bubble Tea: Classic Milk Tea with Black and White Boba Pearls (non-alcoholic)
  • Jasmine Draft Beer
  • Fortune Cookie: ByeJoe Spirit, Amaretto, and Piña Colada Mix
  • Kung Fu Punch: Vodka and Triple Sec
  • Sea Butterfly: Butterfly Pea Flower infused Cocktail with Lychee Syrup, Vodka, Light Rum, and Magic Boba Pearls

L’Arte di Mangiare (Italy)

Food Items:

  • Arancini: Sweet Sausage fried Risotto Balls with Pomodoro Sauce (New)
  • L’Aragosta: Lobster Ravioli with Vanilla-Saffron Cream Sauce and Shredded Chili Peppers (New)
  • Bomboloni: Cream-filled Italian Doughnut with Raspberry Sauce and Powdered Sugar (New)

Beverages:

  • Peroni Pilsner
  • Pinot Grigio
  • Chianti
  • Prosecco
  • Rosa Regale
  • Moscato
  • Italian White Sangria with Prosecco
  • Italian Red Sangria with Cabernet Sauvignon
  • Italian Margarita with Tequila and Limoncello
  • AmarettoBellini: Amaretto, White Peach Purée, and Prosecco
  • Bergamotto: Italicus Rosolio Di Bergamotto, Prosecco, and Cerignola Olive

Funnel Cake

  • Red Velvet Funnel Cake topped with Cream Cheese Icing and Pixie Dust (New)

Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company

  • Showcase Plaza – Caramel Canvas Latte: Artisan Latte with Peanut Butter Syrup, Caramel, and Dark Chocolate Sauce topped with SNICKERS® Original Candy Pieces paired with a doughnut
  • The American Adventure – Color-Me-Latte:  Made for a true artiste with Espresso, Swiss Chocolate Syrup, and Dark Chocolate Sauce sprinkled with M&M’s® Candies paired with a doughnut
  • Future World East – Starry Night Latte: Paint the sky with this Espresso beverage with Dulce de Leche, White Chocolate, and Dark Chocolate Sauce topped with MILKY WAY® Bar Pieces paired with a doughnut
  • Canada – Creative Twist Latte: Stretch your imagination with this Latte with Brown Butter Toffee Syrup and Swiss Chocolate Syrup topped with TWIX® Bar Pieces paired with a doughnut
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Taste of Epcot International Festival of the Arts: Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine

Special Events By January 4, 2021 No Comments

Take a walk on the delicious side when you embark on the Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine at Taste of Epcot International Festival of the Arts—January 8 through February 22, 2021.

A serving on ratatouille presented in a pinwheel shape

A Journey to Savor

Purchase 5 vibrant food items to receive a technicolor treat during this delectable experience.

Use your Festival Passport as your guide to look for specially notated menu items and track your progress by collecting a stamp after each purchase. Once you’ve savored 5 artistic dishes to collect 5 stamps, visit Decadent Delights to claim your reward.

Featured foods on the Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine:

  • Red: Remy’s Ratatouille with Eggplant, Zucchini, Yellow Squash, Tomatoes, and Red Pepper Piperade — located at Festival Favorites
  • Blue: Blue Corn Pupusa stuffed with Cheese and topped with Shredded Pork, Guajillo and Árbol Chile Sauce, Cabbage Slaw, and Aji Amarillo Crema – located at Vibrante & Vívido Food Studio.
  • Green: Pistachio Cake with Cherry Mousse and Morello Cherries — located at The Painter’s Palate
  • Pink: Vanilla, Rose Water, and Pistachio Panna Cotta — located at Masterpiece Kitchen
  • Orange: Mouskoutchou: Orange Cake with Cinnamon-Orange Chocolate Mousse — located at Mosaic Canteen
  • Reward: The Artist Palette Cookie

This activity is fun for all ages and can be completed at your own leisure. You can bring your stamped Passport to Epcot at any time during the Festival of the Arts to complete your stroll.

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21 Ways to Kick Off 2021 with Magic at Walt Disney World Resort

General By January 1, 2021 No Comments
Happy New Year! Walt Disney World Resort is ready to help you turn the page on 2020 right away and begin 2021 with magic. From new and classic attractions to culinary experiences to character interactions and more, here are 21 reasons to be excited about a visit to The Most Magical Place on Earth in early 2021:
Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Arts

1. Explore the Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Arts, Beginning Jan. 8 – Through Feb. 22, you’re invited to an expansive collection of visual, performance and culinary arts throughout the park.

New Entrance Fountain at EPCOT

2. Gaze Upon the Reimagined Entrance Fountain at EPCOT – The new water feature in front of Spaceship Earth hearkens back to the park’s origins and highlights a greener, more open and welcoming experience as you enter the park. The fountain is the most recent milestone in the historic transformation of EPCOT now underway.

Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway

3. Step Inside the Cartoon World of Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway at Disney’s Hollywood Studios – Go through the movie screen as Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Engineer Goofy and Pluto take you on a trip through Runnamuck Park … where anything can happen!

Kylo Ren in Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance

4. Embark on a Star Wars Adventure in a Galaxy Far, Far Away – Disney’s Hollywood Studios is also home to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, the immersive, award-winning land featuring two thrilling attractions: Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run.

Cinderella Castle, the icon of Magic Kingdom Park

5. Check Out Cinderella Castle’s Royal Makeover – The treasured icon at the heart of Magic Kingdom Park now features bold, shimmering and regal enhancements befitting its royal status, making for a great photo with family and friends.

6. Experience Classic Attractions at Magic Kingdom Park – Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, The Haunted Mansion, “it’s a small world,” Pirates of the Caribbean, Space Mountain … the new year is a great time for you to reconnect with these classics loved by millions the world over.

Nigerian dwarf goats at Disney's Animal Kingdom

7. Watch for New Residents on the Harambe Wildlife Reserve at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park – Nigerian dwarf goats now play like kids at the warden’s outpost near the end of Kilimanjaro Safaris.

Female Masai giraffe Maple at Disney's Animal Kingdom

8. Bask in the Cuteness of Baby Animals – In addition to the Nigerian dwarf goats, you may catch a glimpse of some of the animals born in 2020 at Walt Disney World while at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Aboard Kilimanjaro Safaris, for example, you may spot young Masai giraffe now out on the savanna.

Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney's Animal Kingdom

9. Celebrate the Magic of Nature in Pandora – The World of Avatar – At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, travel to the Valley of Mo’ara to hike among the floating mountains of Pandora and experience two awe-inspiring attractions: Avatar Flight of Passage and Na’vi River Journey.

'Mickey and Friends Cavalcade' at Magic Kingdom Park

10. Find Disney Characters in New Places – From cavalcades to caravans to flotillas and even special “pop-up” appearances, you can discover favorite friends at all four theme parks and the occasional special surprise at Disney Resort hotels.

11. Hop from Park to Park – Beginning today, guests who purchase a ticket or annual pass with Park Hopper benefits will be able to visit more than one park per day (with some new modifications).

Chocolate Chip cookie from Gideon’s Bakehouse

12. Indulge in Sweet New Treats at Disney Springs – When visiting the shopping, dining and entertainment district of Walt Disney World, you have plenty of new options to satisfy your sweet tooth, including newly opened Gideon’s Bakehouse and the forthcoming M&M’S store and Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew.

Interactive Groot action figure and Bluetooth speaker

13. Pick Out the Perfect Post-Holiday Gift – Disney Springs is also the place where you’ll find a little something you may have missed on your holiday shopping list. From the massive World of Disney store to quaint boutiques and just about everything in between, Disney Springs is home to the latest Disney merchandise as well as on-trend accessories, apparel and gear from other top brands.

14. Return to Favorite Disney Restaurants – As part of the phased reopening of Walt Disney World, restaurants continue to return to operation across The Most Magical Place on Earth. Recent reopenings include The Crystal Palace inside Magic Kingdom and the character breakfast at Chef Mickey’s inside Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

15. Make Some Time to Relax Outdoors – Central Florida weather is often gorgeous in the early months of the year, and Walt Disney World offers special ways to enjoy some outdoor recreation, including golf and miniature golf, fishing expeditions, horseback riding and more.

Fresh Flowers and Flavors Spring to Life March 3, 2021

16. Buzz Through the Taste of EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, Blooming in March – Beginning March 3, you’ll find fresh cuisine, creative gardens and unforgettable topiaries as part of this annual festival.

Summit Plummet at Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park

17. Soak Up the Sun at Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park – After remaining closed for all of 2020 due to the pandemic, this wintry-themed water park is planning to reopen in March and celebrate its 25th season in splashy style.

New Entrances to Walt Disney World Resort

18. Look for Some Fresh Pixie Dust at the Entrances to Walt Disney World – Make some new memories as you pass these iconic gateways to The Most Magical Place on Earth, which are receiving a refreshed color palette complementing the recent Cinderella Castle makeover.

New Offer | Walt Disney World Resort

19. Add Extra Theme Park Magic to Vacations – Available to book beginning Jan. 5, 2021, guests buying non-discounted four-night/three-day room and ticket packages at select Disney Resort hotels for arrivals most nights Jan. 8, 2021, through Sept. 25, 2021, will receive an additional two days of theme park tickets.

Father and daughter at Magic Kingdom Park

20. Florida Residents Can Take Advantage of a Special Ticket Offer – Beginning Jan. 4, 2021, the four-day Florida Resident Discover Disney Ticket invites Floridians to visit any of the four Disney parks through June 18, 2021 (subject to blockout dates), for $199 (plus tax). For more details on this special offer, click here.

21. Get Excited for Even More Magic Later this Year – Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, the new family-friendly attraction coming to the France pavilion in EPCOT, will debut in 2021. And the new Cirque du Soleil show “Drawn to Life,” coming to Disney Springs, will be a collaboration between Cirque du Soleil, Walt Disney Animation Studios and Walt Disney Imagineering. Keep checking back with us for more details about these experiences and other excitement happening around Walt Disney World in the future!

As a reminder, Walt Disney World continues to operate with enhanced health and safety policies so everyone can enjoy the magic responsibly. To manage attendance, guests are required to have valid theme park admission and make a park reservation for each day of their visit through the Disney Park Pass system. Please visit Disneyworld.com/Updates for more information.

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