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Courtney Harris

The Holidays Start this Weekend at Walt Disney World Resort

Special Events By November 6, 2020 No Comments

The holiday season at Walt Disney World Resort starts today, and we’re unwrapping more details about the magical experiences happening across our theme parks and Disney Springs, including special pop-up appearances by Santa Claus. Read on for all the festive fun!

Magic Kingdom Park
Favorite Disney characters don their holiday best and celebrate the season in a series of special cavalcades, complete with Christmastime floats and music. From Mickey and friends trimming a tree to Goofy and his pals whipping up a bakeshop full of scrumptious treats, character cavalcades bring the holiday spirit to the streets of the Magic Kingdom throughout the day. And keep an eye out for Santa, as he glides down the parade route in his sleigh.

Main Street, U.S.A. is the spot to catch the Holiday Trolley, bringing festive harmonies from the Dapper Dans barbershop quartet, and guests may just see some Toy Soldiers joining the Main Street Philharmonic when they march through Magic Kingdom playing their merry melodies.

At night, holiday magic brings a festive look to Cinderella Castle with special projection effects, producing a kaleidoscope of designs including festive stripes and dots, a whimsical Christmas sweater look, a jeweled winter castle, and a regal overlay of red, green, and gold ornamentation. It’s sure to provide the perfect, colorful backdrop for your holiday photos.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
Holiday fun returns to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, bringing unique seasonal décor and a flurry of festive flotillas with favorite Disney characters sailing down the Discovery River to a jolly holiday soundtrack.

Donald’s Dino Bash Festive Flotilla takes its seasonal celebration to the water, with character friends waving to everyone as they pass, and Chip ‘n’ Dale jingle through the jungle, bringing their own style of holiday flair to the river. The Discovery Island Drummers cruise along, entertaining guests on the shore with an energetic holiday beat, and when Santa Claus makes the trek to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, he’ll spread the joyous spirit of the season to all he sees along the way.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Guests visiting Disney’s Hollywood Studios get their own visit from Santa when he brings glitz and glamour to a motorcade down Hollywood Boulevard, led by an entourage of elves and riding in his candy-apple red convertible packed with presents. And just in time for the holiday season, “For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration” adds a festive finale, featuring everyone’s favorite snowman, Olaf, and celebratory songs of the season.

After dark, the iconic Hollywood Tower Hotel on Sunset Boulevard will twinkle with projection effects as it becomes the Hollywood Holiday Tower Hotel, magically transforming into a Muppets gingerbread masterpiece, a “Toy Story” toy hotel, a snowy corner of Arendelle, and a Dickensian village inspired by “Mickey’s Christmas Carol.”

Disney Springs
The holidays arrive at Disney Springs on Nov. 7, when the area will transform into a winter wonderland, full of sparkling lights, enchanting décor, and holiday surprises. Disney Springs is the place to find the perfect gift for everyone. And here, guests will want to take a break and savor the comforting flavors of the season.

Wander and enjoy the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll presented by AdventHealth, with elaborately-decorated, Disney-themed trees appearing throughout the shopping, dining, and entertainment district. There will also be music-playing DJs during the day, and in the evening, stilt-walking toy soldiers, skating snowflakes, and a magical snowfall will add a touch of wonder for holiday shoppers at surprise locations.

Santa and Mrs. Claus are also making the trip to Disney Springs this year, where guests can catch them starting later in November, as they soak up their last bit of Florida sunshine before their big night. Look for them cruising Lake Buena Vista and sharing Christmas wishes from a pair of colorfully decorated pontoon boats.

Disney Parks Holiday Merchandise
Guests can bring the Disney Parks magic of the season home with new holiday-themed merchandise available throughout Walt Disney World Resort, as well as the Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort in California and online at shopDisney.com. From apparel to accessories to homeware and more, these very merry collections feature the latest ear headbands, spirit jerseys for adults and children, plush, mini-backpacks by Loungefly, cloth face coverings, and more. Highlights include:

  • The first Disney Parks holiday snowblower
  • Matching holiday onesies for the whole family
  • Fuzzy clogs by Crocs
  • A new holiday collection from BaubleBar
  • And much more!

This is just a sampling of all the festive fun Disney guests will enjoy across Walt Disney World Resort this year. And there’s more to come! EPCOT gets into the spirit a little later in the month, when the Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays presented by AdventHealth kicks off Nov. 27 with live entertainment, holiday kitchens, the Holiday Cookie Stroll, and more.

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Foodie Guide to the 2020 Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays– Opening Nov. 27

Foodie Guide By November 5, 2020 No Comments

As we savor the last few weeks of Taste of EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival ending Nov. 22, Disney Festival chefs are busy putting the final touches on the Holiday Kitchen menus for the upcoming Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays.

Celebrating joyous holiday cheer from around the globe, this year’s festival runs Nov. 27 through Dec. 30, 2020, and features a variety of yuletide decorations, live holiday music at various EPCOT stages, family-friendly activities, and, of course, the delicious food and beverage offerings at the Holiday Kitchens scattered throughout all 11 World Showcase pavilions and World Showplace.

The popular Holiday Cookie Stroll is back this year with yummy freshly baked cookies from the EPCOT bakery ovens. The Festival Passport lists the five official Holiday Cookie Stroll locations. Each stop will offer a delicious cookie for purchase and a stamp for your Festival Passport. Once you’ve collected all five stamps, bring your Festival Passport to the Sweets & Treats Holiday Kitchen to receive an adorable complimentary Minnie Peppermint Cookie! The Holiday Cookie Stroll can be completed at your own leisure, and you can even bring back your stamped Festival Passport to EPCOT at any time during the festival to complete your stroll.

In addition to all the cookies and decadent desserts at the festival, the EPCOT pastry chefs have been busy creating a Gingerbread Capital City! Located this year in World Showplace, this sweet patriotic display has gingerbread replicas of some of the nation’s most iconic landmarks including the United States Capitol Building, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, and a 5-foot tall Washington Monument!

And now it’s time to talk HOLIDAY KITCHENS! This Foodie Guide has it all – from unique and classic holiday dishes to festive seasonal cocktails and beverages. Check out all the delicious details below. Enjoy!

Turkey Poutine French Fries from Refreshment Port at the 2020 Taste of Epcot International Festival of the Holidays

Refreshment Port (Showcase Plaza)

Food Items:

  • Turkey Poutine French Fries with Turkey Gravy, Cranberry Relish, and Crispy Onions

Beverage Items:

  • T.G. Lee Eggnog (non-alcoholic)
  • T.G. Lee Eggnog with Spiced Rum
Orange Cream Shake from Citrus Blossom at the 2020 Taste of Epcot International Festival of the Holidays

Citrus Blossom (Showcase Plaza)

Beverage Items:

  • Orange Cream Shake in a Souvenir Orange Bird Sipper Cup (non-alcoholic)
  • 81Bay Brewing Co. Cinnamon Cranberry Orange Wheat Ale, Tampa, FL (New)
  • Florida Orange Groves Winery Selections
Offerings from Hawai’i at the 2020 Taste of Epcot International Festival of the Holidays

Mele Kalikimaka Holiday Kitchen (Showcase Plaza)

Food Items:

  • Kālua Pork with Okinawa Purple Sweet Potatoes and Mango Salad (New)
  • Lomi Lomi Salmon with Tomatoes, Onions, Salmon Roe, Yuzu Mayonnaise, and Yucca Chips (New)
  • Haupia: Hawaiian Coconut Pudding with Candied Macadamia Nuts and Coconut (New)

Beverage Items:

  • Kona Brewing Co. Big Wave Golden Ale, Kailua-Kona, HI
  • Florida Orange Groves Sparkling Pineapple Wine, St. Petersburg, FL
  • Melon Breeze with Spiced Rum (New)
Minnie Peppermint Cookies from Holiday Sweets and Treats at the 2020 Taste of Epcot International Festival of the Holidays

Holiday Sweets & Treats (Promenade Refreshments):

Food Items:

  • Peppermint Sundae: Chocolate Ice Cream, Whipped Cream, and Peppermint Candy (Gluten/Wheat Friendly)
  • Minnie Peppermint Cookie (Cookie Stroll)

Beverage Items:

  • Hot Cocoa (non-alcoholic)
  • Chocolate Peppermint Shake featuring Twinings® Peppermint Cheer Tea (non-alcoholic)
  • Shipyard Eggnog White Porter, Clearwater, FL
  • M.I.A. Beer Company Coquito Beer, Doral, FL (New)
  • Hot Cocoa with Assorted Alcoholic Cordials (Baileys Irish Cream, Frangelico Liqueur or Fireball Cinnamon Whisky)
  • Chocolate Peppermint Shake featuring Twinings® Peppermint Cheer Tea and Whipped Cream Vodka
Warm Brown Sugar-stuffed Pretzel from Refreshment Outpost at the 2020 Taste of Epcot International Festival of the Holidays

Refreshment Outpost:

Food Items:

  • Warm Brown Sugar-stuffed Pretzel with Soft-serve Ice Cream and Chocolate Sauce

Beverage Items:

  • Frozen Slushy Coca-Cola® or Minute Maid® Lemonade in a Souvenir Spike The Bee Sipper Cup (non-alcoholic)
  • 3 Daughters Brewing Spicy Apple Cinnamon Hard Cider, St. Petersburg, FL
Offerings from Bavaria Holiday Kitchen at the 2020 Taste of Epcot International Festival of the Holidays

Bavaria Holiday Kitchen (Germany)

Food Items:

  • Pork Schnitzel with Mushroom Sauce, Spätzle, and Braised Red Cabbage
  • Cheese Fondue in a Bread Bowl with Steamed Baby Vegetables and Marble Potatoes
  • Linzer Cookie (Cookie Stroll) 

Beverage Items:

  • Possmann Pure Hard Apple Cider, Frankfurt, Germany 
  • Ayinger Brewery Celebrator Doppelbock, Bavaria, Germany (New)
  • Regional Riesling
  • Glühwein: House-made Hot Spiced Wine
Offerings from American Holiday Kitchen at the 2020 Taste of Epcot International Festival of the Holidays

American Holiday Table 

Food Items:

  • Slow-roasted Turkey with Stuffing, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans, and Cranberry Sauce
  • Holiday Pot Pie with Jackfruit, Mushrooms, Carrots, Peas, Onions, and Puff Pastry (Plant-based item) (New)
  • Pumpkin Gingerbread Cheesecake with Cranberry Whipped Cream and Candied Pumpkin Seeds (New)
  • Chocolate Crinkle Cookie (Cookie Stroll) 

Beverages Items:

  • Bell’s Bright White Ale, Comstock, MI
  • Shipyard Eggnog White Porter, Clearwater, FL
  • Playalinda Brewing Co. Peppermint Chocolate Stout, Titusville, FL
  • Chalk Hill Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast
  • Martin Bay Vineyards & Winery Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
Offerings from L’Chaim! Holiday Kitchen at the 2020 Taste of Epcot International Festival of the Holidays

L’Chaim! Holiday Kitchen (Between Morocco & France)

Food Items:

  • Pastrami on Rye with House-made Pickles and Deli Mustard
  • Smoked Salmon Potato Latke
  • Potato Latkes (Plant-based item)
  • Sufganiyot: Mini Jelly-filled Donuts
  • Black and White Cookie (Plant-based item) (Cookie Stroll) 

Beverages Items:

  • Shmaltz Brewing Company Hanukkah Beer: Golden Jelly Doughnut Pastry Ale, Clifton Park, NY
  • Blue Cosmo Cocktail
Offerings from Festival Favorites at the 2020 Taste of Epcot International Festival of the Holidays

Festival Favorites (World Showplace)

Food Items:

  • Blackened Bass, White Cheddar Grits, and Okra with Tomato and Onion Stew, Seasonal Southern Delights
  • Duck Confit and Dumplings with Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Fig Reduction, Alpine Haus
  • Gingerbread Cookie (Cookie Stroll) 

Beverages Items:

  • Coquito: Tropical Eggnog (non-alcoholic)
  • Frozen S’mores (non-alcoholic)
  • Coquito: Tropical Eggnog with Bacardi Gold Dark Rum
  • Frozen S’mores with Whipped Cream Vodka
Offerings from Holiday Hearth at the 2020 Taste of Epcot International Festival of the Holidays

Holiday Hearth (World Showplace)

Food Items:

  • Red Velvet Mini Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Icing (New)
  • Salted Caramel Spaceship Earth® Cookie (New)
Offerings from Holiday Hearth at the 2020 Taste of Epcot International Festival of the Holidays
  • Snowball Cookies (New)
  • Peppermint Bark
  • Stollen: Holiday Fruit Cake
  • Mouse Crunch (New)

Beverages Items:

  • Gingerbread Milkshake (non-alcoholic) (New)
  • Hot Cocoa (non-alcoholic)
  • Gingerbread Milkshake with Whipped Cream Vodka (New)
  • Cocoa Candy Cane: Hot Cocoa with Peppermint Schnapps

Prost! (World Showplace)

Food Items:

  • Charcuterie and Cheese Plate

Beverages Items:

  • M.I.A. Beer Company White Christmas IPA, Doral, FL
  • 3 Daughters Brewing 70 Degree Winter Weizen, St. Petersburg, FL
  • Playlalinda Brewing Co. Gingerblonde House Ale, Titusville, FL (New)
  • Ciderboys Mad Bark Apple Cinnamon Hard Cider, Stevens Point, WI (New)
  • 3 Daughters Brewing Blueberry Peppercorn Hard Cider, St. Petersburg, FL (New)
  • Beak & Skiff Apple Orchards 1911 Honey Crisp Hard Cider, Lafayette, NY (New)
Offerings from Yukon Holiday Kitchen at the 2020 Taste of Epcot International Festival of the Holidays

Yukon Holiday Kitchen (Canada)

Food Items:

  • Seared Scallops with Parsnip Silk, Apple Chutney, and Hazelnut Croquant (New)
  • Beef Bourguignon with Crushed Potatoes (New)
  • Maple Bûche de Noël: Maple Mousse and Cranberry rolled in Gingerbread Chiffon Cake
  • Peppermint Pinwheel Cookie (Cookie Stroll) 

Beverages items:

  • Frozen Coffee (non-alcoholic)
  • 81Bay Brewing Co. Maple Cinnamon Coffee Beer, Tampa, FL (New)
  • Regional Icewine
  • Regional Red Wine
  • Frozen Coffee with Tap 357 Whisky

Holiday Beverages in the English Garden (Behind The Tea Caddy)

  • Twinings® Christmas Tea Toddy served with a Cinnamon Stick (non-alcoholic)
  • Twinings® Christmas Tea Toddy and Drambui served with a Cinnamon Stick
Offerings from Le Marché de Noël Holiday Kitchen at the 2020 Taste of Epcot International Festival of the Holidays

Le Marché de Noël Holiday Kitchen (France)

Food Items:

  • Rillette de Saumon: Salmon Spread with House-made Bread
  • Dinde Forestière, Pommes Dauphines: Turkey with Bacon, Mushrooms, and Onions in a Mustard Cream Sauce with Puffed Potatoes (New)
  • Bûche de Noël au Caramel: Christmas Log with Chocolate Cake and Dark Chocolate Caramel Ganache

Beverage Items:

  • Kronenbourg 1664 Blanc Fruits Rouges Draft
  • Rosé Pétillant Méthode Traditionnelle Champenoise: Rosé Sparkling Wine, Pink Flamingo
  • Cabernet Sauvignon, Village de France
  • Frozen Hot Chocolate Martini: Grey Goose Vanilla, Vodka, and Chocolate Milk
Offerings from Sapphire Holiday Kitchen at the 2020 Taste of Epcot International Festival of the Holidays

Sapphire Holiday Kitchen (Morocco)

Food Items:

  • Grilled Lamb Kefta Kebab and Grapes with Euro Cucumber, Red Pepper, Pickled Pearl Onions, and Harissa-Cilantro Dressing
  • Confit of Chermoula Chicken Drum with Cinnamon Granny Smith Apple, Toasted Almonds, Brussels Sprouts, and Pinot Noir Glaze
  • Sfenj: Warm Beignets with Cream, Cinnamon-Sugar, and Chocolate Sauce

Beverage Items:

  • Mediterranean Beer
  • Kasbah Prestige Red Wine
  • The Andalusian “Poinsettia” Cocktail: Sparking Wine, Orange Liqueur, and Cranberry Juice topped with Orange Blossom Water
Sacchetti alla Boscaiola from Tuscany Holiday Kitchen at the 2020 Taste of Epcot International Festival of the Holidays

Tuscany Holiday Kitchen (Italy)

Food Items:

  • Biancaneve Italian Flatbread with Mozzarella, Asiago, and Parmesan
  • Sacchetti alla Boscaiola: Four-cheese Mini Beggar’s Purses filled with Sweet Sausage, Caramelized Onions, Pancetta, and Cremini Mushrooms with a Creamy Sauce (New)
  • Cannoli Siciliani: Crisp Pastry filled with Sweet Ricotta, Chocolate, and Candied Orange

Beverage Items:

  • Peroni Nastro Azzurro Pilsner
  • Pinot Grigio
  • Chianti
  • Prosecco
  • Rosa Regale
  • Moscato
  • Italian White Sangria with Prosecco
  • Italian Red Sangria with Cabernet Sauvignon
  • Italian Margarita with Limoncello and Tequila
Offerings from Shanghai Holiday Kitchen at the 2020 Taste of Epcot International Festival of the Holidays

Shanghai Holiday Kitchen (China) 

Food Items:

  • Red-stewed Beef Rice Bowl (New)
  • Curry Chicken Rice Bowl (New)
  • House-made Crab and Cheese Wontons

Beverage Items:

  • “Panda” Bubble Tea: Classic Milk Tea with Black and White Bobas (non-alcoholic)
  • Tsigntao Lager
  • Jasmine Draft Beer
  • Dragonfly: Jose Cuervo Tequila Gold, Vodka, Mango Syrup, and Orange Juice
  • Marco Boba: Amaretto, Iced Coffee, Milk, and Boba
  • The Lucky Mo: Peach Schnapps, Peach Syrup, Orange Juice, and Piña Colada Mix
Offerings from Shi Wasu Holiday Kitchen at the 2020 Taste of Epcot International Festival of the Holidays

Shi Wasu Holiday Kitchen (Japan)

Food Items:

  • New Year Celebration Soba: Buckwheat Soba Noodles in Hot Dashi Soup with Shrimp Tempura, Fish Cake, and Chopped Green Onion
  • Chirashi Sushi Tree: Sashimi-grade Tuna, Salmon, Ikura, and Yellowtail with Vegetables decorated on a bed of Rice
  • Ichigo Mont Blanc Tart: Strawberry and Bavarian Cream-filled Tart sprinkled with Konpeito (New)

Beverages items:

  • Ichigo Milk Boba: Cranberry and Yuzu Cream Drink with Japanese Calpico and popping Strawberry Boba Pearls (non-alcoholic)
  • Sapporo Draft Beer
  • Tsubaki Whiskey Sour: Plum Wine with Whiskey, Cranberry Juice, Sugar, and Lemon
Offerings from Las Posadas Holiday Kitchen at the 2020 Taste of Epcot International Festival of the Holidays

Las Posadas Holiday Kitchen (Mexico)

Food Items:

  • Giant Tostada de Chorizo: Chorizo served on a Giant Tostada with Chipotle Black Bean Purée, Salsa Verde, Queso Cotija, Crema Mexicana, and Pickled Onion (Gluten/Wheat Friendly) (New)
  • Tamal de Pollo: Braised Chipotle Chicken served in a Corn Masa topped with Mole Verde, Queso Cotija, Crema Mexicana, and Toasted Pumpkin Seeds (Gluten/Wheat Friendly)
  • Dulce de Leche Churros: Dulce de Leche filled Churros sprinkled with Cinnamon-Sugar (New)

Beverages Items:

  • Tulum Mexican Craft Beer with a Blackcurrant and Ginger Liqueur Floater
  • Pumpkin Spice Margarita: Tomba Blanco Tequila, Ojo de Tigre Mezcal, Nixta Corn Liqueur, Pumpkin Spice Purée, and Lime-Agave Juice with Cinnamon-Sugar Rim (New)
  • Horchata Margarita: Casa Noble Blanco Tequila, Abasolo Corn Whiskey, Horchata Rum, Agua de Horchata, and a hint of Cinnamon-infused Mezcal Liqueur
Sweet Potatoe Casserole Funnel Cake from Funnel Cake at the 2020 Taste of Epcot International Festival of the Holidays

Funnel Cake (The American Adventure)

  • Sweet Potato Casserole Funnel Cake topped with Marshmallow Topping, Cinnamon-Sugar, Honey-roasted Pecans, and a Caramel Drizzle (New)
Offerings from Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company® at the 2020 Taste of Epcot International Festival of the Holidays

Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company® – All Locations:

  • Caramel Tinsel Latte: A cheerful Chocolatey Latte drizzled with Caramel Sauce and crumbled TWIX® Original, available hot or iced (New)
  • Caramel Tinsel Donut topped with crumbled TWIX® Original
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Buena Vista Street Opens Nov. 19, 2020, Extending Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort

News By November 5, 2020 No Comments

We’re excited to share that Buena Vista Street opens Nov. 19, 2020, extending the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort with more Disney shopping and dining experiences. Discover new and returning favorite menu items plus holiday gifts and apparel, and stay tuned for more holiday happenings!

Here’s a peek at what you can expect beginning Nov. 19:

Carthay Circle Restaurant, known for its upscale cuisine, is introducing Carthay Circle Lounge – Alfresco Dining, a new outdoor dining environment and menu featuring Mediterranean-California light fare, with small plates that can be shared or enjoyed separately. The seasonal menu created by Chefs Andrew Sutton and Alex Flores will feature the Carthay shrimp roll, harissa-roasted lamb, soy-glazed salmon, lemon-crusted fish of the day and an artisan cheese board. Kids will find menu options just for them, including orecchiette pasta with marinara and orange dragon chicken skewers. Relax and step back in time at this throwback venue that boasts distinct attention to detail. Unwind with flavorful, international fare and a glass of wine, craft beers or a cool cocktail, enjoying expanded outdoor seating and amazing views of Buena Vista Street.

On another corner, stop by Fiddler, Fifer & Practical Cafe for a yummy hot chocolate and a cranberry orange scone. Or, place a mobile order for corn dogs or soft drinks at Award Wieners, or for Smokejumpers Grill, serving bacon cheeseburgers, chicken tenders, onion rings, waffle fries, kids’ meals, and vanilla and chocolate shakes.

Along Buena Vista Street, Disney magic brings a nostalgic throwback to the 1920s and ’30s. The boulevard depicts a typical Los Angeles neighborhood where a young Walt Disney lived and worked after arriving in Southern California in 1923. This idyllic setting captures the quaint “mom-and-pop” shops of the time and a big-city department store including Elias & Co., Julius Katz & Sons, Kingswell Camera Shop and Trolley Treats, where you can find unique Disney apparel and gifts.

Beginning Nov. 19, 2020, there will be a $10 fee per car for parking at the Downtown Disney District in the Simba Lot. The number of guests visiting the Downtown Disney District and its locations, including the shopping and dining experiences along Buena Vista Street, will be limited to promote physical distancing. DIsney may at times use the mobile wait list system when Buena Vista Street and/or its queue are at capacity, similar to the process at some retail locations in the Downtown Disney District. Disney California Adventure Park is currently closed.

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Holiday Highlights: Tasty Treats to Celebrate the Holidays at Walt Disney World Parks

Special Events By November 1, 2020 No Comments

Like many of you, we absolutely love the holiday season at Disney Parks, especially all the festive food and drink. Walt Disney World chefs and mixologists have again created yummy treats and sips that will make your holiday visit to the parks, well, delicious!

We pulled together a list of edible holiday highlights – just a few favorites from WDE park kitchens. Be sure to check out all the holiday offerings when you visit the parks and let us know your favorites!

Tasty Treats to Celebrate the Holidays at Magic Kingdom Park

Magic Kingdom Park

Twice Upon a Cupcake – A confetti Christmas tree tops a vanilla cupcake with a red velvet hidden Mickey (Available at Main Street Bakery Nov. 6 – Dec. 30)

Let it Snow Taco – Sugar cookie “taco shell” filled with salted caramel and spiced chocolate mousse (Available at Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe Nov. 6 – Dec. 30)

An Orange Bird Christmas – Orange–scented white chocolate mousse filled with orange curd (Available at Sunshine Tree Terrace Nov. 6 – Dec. 30)

Chip and Dale Christmas Churros – Gingerbread churros topped with apple pie filling and chocolate chips (Available at Westward Ho Nov. 6 – Dec. 30)

Pistachio Chai Tea Float – Pistachio soft–serve, spiced chai tea, and a red velvet cake pop ornament (Available at Aloha Isle Nov. 6 – Dec. 30)

Tasty Treats to Celebrate the Holidays at Disney's Hollywood Studios

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Frozen Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate – Frozen salted caramel hot chocolate topped with marshmallows, green sugar, and a chocolate drizzle served with a souvenir Mickey Glow (Available at PizzeRizzo, Backlot Express, ABC Commissary, and Rosie’s All–American Café Nov. 6 – Jan. 4)

Mickey’s Holiday Cookie – Vanilla butter cookie enrobed with white chocolate and sugar snowflakes (Available at ABC Commissary and Rosie’s All–American Café Nov. 6 – Jan. 4)

Holiday Whoopie Pie – Red velvet whoopie pie filled with a classic cream cheese filling (Available at The Trolley Car Café and Backlot Express Nov. 6 – Jan. 4)

Olaf’s Snow Flurry – Yellow cupcake with vanilla buttercream, snow flurry sugar, and Olaf Glow (Available at Rosie’s All–American Café Nov. 6 – Jan. 4)

Tasty Treats to Celebrate the Holidays at Disney's Animal Kingdom

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

White–Chocolate Peppermint Cream Cheese Mousse – White chocolate peppermint cream cheese mousse with peppermint sauce and chocolate cookie crumbles (Available at Satu’li Canteen Dec. 20 – Jan. 2)

Menagerie Cupcake – Gingerbread cupcake with cream cheese frosting topped with a white chocolate bear (Available at Creature Comforts, Flame Tree Barbecue, and Restaurantosaurus Dec. 1–30)

Pumpkin Ice Cream Sandwich – Vanilla Ice Cream sandwiched between two pumpkin cookies decorated with fall sprinkles (Available at Dino–Bite Snacks Nov. 1–30)

Santa Mickey Mousse – White chocolate peppermint mousse dome on a brownie base, snowflake sprinkles, and chocolate Mickey ears (Available at Creature Comforts Dec. 1– Jan. 2)

Tasty Treats to Celebrate the Holidays at EPCOT

EPCOT

Spiked Frozen Apple Pie – Ole Smoky Apple Pie Moonshine with Minute Maid® Apple Juice and Cinnamon (Available at Block & Hans now – Dec. 31)

Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays Sneak Peek! Maple Bûche de Noël – Maple mousse and cranberry rolled in gingerbread chiffon cake

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at Walt Disney World and we couldn’t be more excited!

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Disney’s Hollywood Studios Piloting New Approach to Virtual Queue for Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance

News By October 29, 2020 No Comments
It’s clear the Force is strong with Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Since its debut last year, this spectacular experience inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge has proven to be one of the most popular attractions at Walt Disney World Resort.

To better help guests visiting Disney’s Hollywood Studios plan ahead for their day at the park, they’re piloting a new approach to the virtual queue system for Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. Starting Nov. 3, 2020, here’s how it will work:

  • Guests with a valid ticket or annual pass and a Disney Park Pass reservation for Disney’s Hollywood Studios will be able to access the virtual queue system and check for an available boarding group starting at 7 a.m. on the day of their park reservation. This can be done before you leave your Disney resort hotel, or wherever else nearby you might be at that time.
  • Just as they do today, the virtual queue will reopen daily at 2 p.m. for anyone who wasn’t already able to join a boarding group earlier in the day. Note: Guests must be inside Disney’s Hollywood Studios to access this second virtual queue opportunity, and access to a boarding group is subject to availability and not guaranteed.

Disney is hoping this new approach will make a day at Disney’s Hollywood Studios more enjoyable and relaxing, as guests no longer need to be inside the park each morning to request a boarding group for the first virtual queue opportunity. As a reminder, you need to be inside the park to request the 2 p.m. boarding groups.

To try to maximize the number of boarding groups they are able to accommodate while adhering to current health and safety guidelines, Disney recently added a clear barrier between the two rows of seats on each First Order Fleet Transport vehicle inside the attraction. This enables them to invite more guests to board Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance each day.

The attraction’s virtual queue is only accessible via the My Disney Experience mobile app. To maximize your opportunity to secure a boarding group, here are some tips we recommend you check off your list prior to your day at the park:

  • Register an account in My Disney Experience
  • Download the My Disney Experience mobile app on your smart device or ensure you’re using the most updated version of the app before you arrive at the park.
  • Have a valid Disney Park Pass reservation for Disney’s Hollywood Studios for the day you’re visiting
  • Link all park tickets in your party to your My Disney Experience account
  • Select one member of your party to access the virtual queue for everyone in your group; if multiple people in your party try to join the virtual queue simultaneously, that may complicate your ability to secure a boarding group
  • Remember, virtual queue boarding groups are limited and subject to availability

This new pilot approach to the Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance virtual queue is designed to give guests the best possible experience during a day at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. See you on your next trip to a galaxy far, far away.

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Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew Coming Soon to Disney Springs

News By October 27, 2020 No Comments

Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew will soon offer over-the-top donuts that will add to the amazing variety of sweet spots guests can find on property. Here is a rendering of the specialty food and beverage location opening soon at Disney Springs West Side.

Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew will be located adjacent to Splitsville and near the west entrance and exit of the Orange Parking Garage. The overall design of this sweet spot will have a unique spin on a classic donut shop featuring graphic pops of color, iconic signage, and a beautiful outdoor seating area in the “donut garden.” Before guests enter the venue, they may catch a glimpse of a culinary experience unfolding through the windows of the exposed kitchen where hot and fresh donuts will bake daily.

“We like to say our little oasis of indulgences is going to be where ‘Happiness is Glazed Daily,’” says Mark Gibson, co-owner of Everglazed. “The menu will be full of sweet surprises and a unique spot for guests wanting a quick treat, cold brew or nitro-infused chilled coffee.” Everglazed will specialize in hand-crafted donuts featuring mouthwatering yeast and cake donuts with an assortment of cold brew lattes and coffee cocktails and a few sweet-yet-savory sandwich bites.

“The humble donut has truly become a global phenomenon. The fried circle of dough is a simple concoction with the ability to showcase chef-inspired flavors and toppings,” says Guy Revelle, co-owner of Everglazed. “We can’t wait to offer guests at Disney Springs our robust menu of sweet delights, but you are officially warned: We spoke to your diet – and it’s taking some time off when we open our doors.”

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5 Pick of the Patch Pumpkin Recipes for National Pumpkin Day

General By October 26, 2020 No Comments
Today is National Pumpkin Day – and Disney chefs have harvested an appetizing array of perfect pumpkin recipes to bring a delicious dose of Disney magic to everyone at home.

From “gourd-geous” pancakes that look as good as they taste to a smile-inducing pumpkin soup, these scrumptious treats featuring the season’s favorite flavor are delightful and delectable.  Here are five Disney pumpkin recipes from our archives you can make right now:

Our first National Pumpkin Day inspired recipe is for a stack of mouthwatering Pumpkin Pancakes – slathered with butter and syrup. Click here for a print-at-home version of this recipe.

In a recent post, our gluten- and vegan-friendly Pumpkin Soup was described as a warm hug in a bowl – a must try!  Click here for a print-at-home version of this recipe.

These Pumpkin Bars are a special Disney treat with a graham cracker crust. Click here for a print-at-home version of this recipe.

Halfway to Halloween Pumpkin Crème Brûlée from Disney Parks

Pumpkin Crème Brûlée is a French classic with a nod to the Halloween season that’s actually easy to make.  Click here for a print-at-home version of this recipe.

Halfway to Halloween Pumpkin Twists from Disney Parks

And twists of pumpkin delight with pie filling is a delicious hand-held treat for the season.  Click here for a print-at-home version of this recipe.

We hope you enjoyed our look at these pick of the patch recipes for National Pumpkin Day.  Keep checking back for more delicious Disney recipes during the holidays!

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More Shopping, More Dining! Coming Soon: Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort Extends to Buena Vista Street

News By October 23, 2020 No Comments

Beginning in November there will be even more distinctively Disney dining and shopping to enjoy at the Disneyland® Resort, when the Downtown Disney District extends to Buena Vista Street!

  • Holiday shopping? Head to Elias & Co. The store is divided into distinct sections for men, women, and children, so you’ll find something special for the entire family! At Julius Katz & Sons, peruse even more holiday merchandise and Disney-themed home décor. At Kingswell Camera Shop offers great gift-giving ideas like frames, photo albums, and more. Buena Vista Street stores have a variety of your Disney favorites!
  • If you are looking to tempt your taste buds with a snack, Trolley Treats offers classic candies, old-fashioned confections, and all kinds of freshly made treats. Vending carts will offer popcorn, churros, ice cream, and other “must-bite” treats.
  • Swing by Fiddler, Fifer & Practical Cafe for the enchanting sights and sounds of Buena Vista Street—and a cup of coffee or scrumptious artisan sandwich.
  • Sit-down dining options include Carthay Circle Lounge, where you can unwind in our expanded outdoor seating area featuring an all-new menu of cocktails and dining. Smokejumpers Grill is serving up tasty American classics for lunch and dinner with a streamlined menu of burgers, fries, onion rings, and craft beer, located just around the corner from Buena Vista Street. The primary way to place your order at this dining location is through mobile order on the Disneyland App.*

Only the shopping and dining experiences along Buena Vista Street will be accessible from the Downtown Disney District at this time, as Disney California Adventure park is currently closed.

Before you go familiarize them with health and safety measures to learn important details, including temperature screenings prior to entry and the requirement for all guests, ages 2 and older, to wear an appropriate face covering. The number of Guests visiting the Downtown Disney District and its locations, including the shopping and dining experiences along Buena Vista Street, will be limited to promote proper physical distancing.

Check back soon for more details about the special shopping and dining experiences coming later in November to Buena Vista Street!

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Grab Your Paintbrush! Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Arts Begins Jan. 8, 2021

Special Events By October 21, 2020 No Comments

A global celebration of the visual, culinary and performing arts is on its way to Walt Disney World Resort early next year, as the Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Arts is set for Jan. 8 – Feb. 22, 2021.

The Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Arts offers fun for the whole family. Here is just a sketch of what to expect when the event debuts in January:

  • Indulge in over 15 Food Studios serving culinary art all around World Showcase
  • Explore and purchase the brilliant and diverse work of Disney and other invited artists on display in marketplaces encircling World Showcase Lagoon
  • Step into the scene at special photo locations scattered around the park
  • Participate in a paint-by-number mural that serves as a collaborative art project for all
  • Watch as visiting artists create magic right before your eyes
  • Catch performances by favorite EPCOT musical artists Mariachi Cobre and the JAMMitors.
  • Join an artful scavenger hunt and search for Figment around World Showcase
  • Shop for festival-exclusive merchandise

We’ll have more details on the Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Arts in the weeks and months to come.

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Enjoy the Impossible™ Burger Slider at Home or at Taste of EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival through Nov. 22

General By October 15, 2020 No Comments

There is just over a month remaining to sip and savor Taste of EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival. The festival will close on Nov. 22 to make way for Taste of EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays presented by AdventHealth, which begins Nov. 27.

Festival chefs were asked to share one a favorite plant-based recipe – the Impossible™ Burger Slider with Wasabi Cream and Spicy Asian Slaw. This slider, with its perfect spicy kick, is a popular festival offering as well as an easy (and delicious!) recipe to make at home. Check out the how-to video that accompanies this recipe.

Impossible™ Burger Slider with Wasabi Cream and Spicy Asian Slaw
Makes 6 Sliders

SLAW DRESSING

  • 1/4 cup sambal
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon fresh minced ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

SWEET AND SPICY SLAW

  • 1 cup shredded green cabbage
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrot
  • 1/2 poblano pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup shredded green papaya
  • 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
  • Reserved slaw dressing
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

WASABI AÏOLI 

  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1 tablespoon wasabi powder
  • 1/2 cup plant-based mayonnaise
  • 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt

IMPOSSIBLE™ PATTIES

  • 18 ounces Impossible™ Burger
  • 2 teaspoons coarse salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons sambal
  • 1 tablespoon canola oil

SLIDERS

  • 6 slider rolls with sesame seeds
  • 1 cup baby arugula

FOR SLAW DRESSING:

  1. Place sambal, soy sauce, sugar, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil in small saucepan. Heat over medium-high heat until boiling and stir until sugar is fully dissolved. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.
  2. Stir in lime juice and refrigerate until ready to serve.

FOR SWEET AND SPICY SLAW:

  1. Combine cabbage, carrot, sliced pepper, green papaya, and cilantro in large bowl.
  2. Add cooled slaw dressing. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.

FOR WASABI AÏOLI:

  1. Mix water and wasabi powder in medium to form a paste.
  2. Whisk in plant-based mayonnaise and salt until combined.
  3. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

FOR IMPOSSIBLE™ PATTIES:

  1. Combine Impossible™ Burger, salt, pepper, and sambal in large mixing bowl. Divide into six 3-ounce patties and shape to size of slider buns.
  2. Heat canola oil in large skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes. Place patties in pan and cook for 3 minutes on each side, until 155°F.
  3. Keep warm.

TO SERVE:

Drizzle Wasabi Aïoli on the bottom half of each sesame bun and top with a few leaves of baby arugula. Top with Impossible™ patty and Sweet and Spicy Slaw before adding the top of each bun.

Cook’s Notes: Impossible™ is available online or at your local grocery store. Impossible™ cooks and tastes like beef made from cows – but is made sustainably, from plants.

Always 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.

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