Category: Disney Springs

Celebrate Mardi Gras and Carnevale at Disney Springs

As the end of February approaches and March begins, you know it’s Mardi Gras time! While famously celebrated on Bourbon Street in New Orleans, Disney Springs is offering up its own spin on this favorite holiday complete with food and entertainment that will have you “jazzed” to celebrate!

First things first, you have to dress the part, right? No celebration is complete without a pair of ears and these Mardi Gras-inspired Minnie Mouse ears make for the perfect party accessory! These beauties feature all the fun colors and patterns of Mardi Gras (and remind me of a certain Disney princess from New Orleans!) Look for these in the newly renovated World of Disney store at Disney Springs Marketplace.

For all you foodies out there, there’s no shortage of specialty and limited-time eats on the menu at some of our favorite restaurants. Look no further than House of Blues Restaurant & Bar for classic New Orleans favorites such as Steak Po’Boy (made special for this event!), Jambalaya, Gumbo and Bourbon Bread Pudding. (If you can only pick just one, I always suggest the Bourbon Bread Pudding. It’s in my top 5 list of best desserts you can find at Disney Springs!) The best part? You can grab all of these dishes at the Smokehouse grab and go window now through March 5. In addition to delicious bites, there will be live music, drink specials and prizes March 1-5 in the House of Blues Courtyard. With no cover or reservations required, this is a celebration you won’t want to miss.

Over in The Landing, Carnevale is back at Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante! Not familiar with Carnevale? The annual festival began in Venice, Italy and commemorates the joyous gathering of family and friends to eat, drink, dance and celebrate life together. Make a reservation by March 5 and you’ll get a front-row seat to live entertainment including singers, stilt walkers, jugglers, mimes, face painters, folk dancers and more all while indulging in signature Italian cuisine. During this limited-time engagement, you can enjoy the prix fixe “Feast of Carnevale” selections or order a la carte from the regular menu.

So grab your masks and get on out there and celebrate! If you need help booking your magical vacation, contact Enchanted Kingdom Vacations with Vikki for help. My services are completely free and I will always find you the lowest rates. Let me do all the work so you don’t have to!

February 26, 2019
Ron Jon Surf Shop to Open New Location at Disney Springs

Founded in 1959, the Jersey Shore-based Ron Jon Surf Shop is opening its newest store at Disney Springs.

The new 10,000 square-foot store will be opening its doors in late 2019 near The Polite Pig and will be filled with all your favorite beach and vacation essentials.

The shop carries everything you need for fun in the sun and with locations throughout Florida and the eastern seaboard, the Ron Jon brand is the place for beach essentials.

President and COO of Ron Jon, Debbie Harvey, saw the open-air retail and dining district as an ideal location for their newest store. Disney Springs is popular with visitors and locals, alike. This was a key component for the Ron Jon president, and she knew there was great opportunity for a successful store.

Disney Springs boasts more than 150 stores and eateries. These include high-end retail brands, celebrity-chef created dining experiences, and specialty stores and vendors.

The flagship Ron Jon store is located an hour away from Disney Springs in Cocoa Beach, FL. It operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

February 20, 2019
New Mickey Ice Cream Bar Inspried Cake Now Avaiable at Disney Springs

Amorette’s Patisserie has a special new offering at Disney Springs. The pastry shop recently added a new dome cake design inspired by the Mickey Premium Ice Cream Bar!

Amorette’s Patisserie is known for their incredible dome cakes, often themed after popular Disney characters such as Mickey, Minnie, Pluto, Goofy, and Donald.

This one just might be the cutest thing you’ll ever see. With fondant buttons and ears made of chocolate, this dessert is sure to be a hit at any party or special occasion. As for what’s on the inside, that’s up to you.

You can place an order by calling 407 934-3500 or by visiting the shop at least 72 hours in advance. For more details on these specialty cakes, visit the Amorette’s Patisserie web page.

February 8, 2019
Pepe by Jose Andres Opening in Disney Springs this Winter
Tuesday, Disney announced that José Andrés’ ThinkFoodGroup will be opening one of the first-ever brick-and-mortar location of Pepe by José Andrés, inspired by the popular Washington DC food truck of the same name!

Pepe by José Andrés, located right next to Jaleo at Disney Springs, will feature an extensive menu of hot and cold Spanish-style sandwiches including bocatas and bikinis, showcasing the best of José’s native country Spain.

Take a look at some of the delicious highlights below:
- Pollo Frito, made with breaded chicken breast, alioli, bravas sauce, piparra peppers, gem lettuce, and sherry dressing
- Serrano y Manchego, served on crispy Pan de Cristal with tomato fresco
- Bocata de Vegetales, made with roasted peppers, onion, green asparagus, spinach, and manchego cheese on Pan de Cristal
In addition to the sandwiches, Pepe will serve salads, soups and sides along with Spanish sangria.

The walls of Pepe are decorated with an elaborate mural by Marc Jesús, a famous Menorcan painter, featuring his ever-happy, blue-skinned female characters. The space, as well as Jaleo, was designed by celebrated Spanish designer Juli Capella.
January 24, 2019
Black Friday Weekend at Disney Springs
Black Friday is just days away and there is no better place to do your Disney shopping than Disney Springs. You’ll discover great gift ideas, special offers and unexpected treats as you get a jumpstart on holiday shopping.

Enjoy savings and in-store events at locations all through Disney Springs—all weekend long! With dining specials and yuletide magic at every turn, it’s a delightful way to put more merry and less hurry into your holiday shopping.

The Disney Springs Black Friday sales take place Nov. 24-26 with three days of savings from over 80 retailers. Take a look at some of the amazing deals below:

Fashion and Athletic Apparel Offers
Capture boast-worthy bargains on sought-after brands.

American Threads – Give the gift of style when you take advantage of their buy one, get one 50% off sale. Plus, enjoy special promotions on select pieces, including jackets starting at $32.99, sweaters starting at $24.99 and tops starting at $12.99. Offer valid November 23, 2018 only.

Curl® by Sammy Duvall – Save up to 50% off storewide and get 15% off all eyewear. Offer valid November 23 to November 25, 2018.

JOHNNY WAS – Enjoy 25% your purchase. Offer valid November 23, 2018 only.

LACOSTE – On the hunt for a preppy present? Save 40% off the entire store. Certain exclusions apply. Offer valid November 21 to November 26, 2018.

Pelé Soccer – Buy any full price jersey and receive 30% off select country jerseys and footwear styles. All footwear marked with a red sticker is eligible for the promotion. Offer valid November 23, 2018 only.

SANUK – Save 30% off storewide. Exclusions apply. Offer valid November 22 to November 25, 2018.

Shore – Spin the wheel of deals for a chance to land 20% to 50% off your entire purchase. Offer valid November 22 to November 25, 2018.

Sperry –Discover great doorbuster pricing on slippers and saltwater boots. Plus, save up to 50% on select merchandise. Offer valid November 22 to November 25, 2018.

Superdry – Save 30% off storewide! Exclusions apply and cannot be combined with additional discounts. Offer valid November 22 to 26, 2018.

UGG – Save 40% off select styles. Offer valid November 21 to November 25, 2018.

Specialty Shop Offers

These boutiques are brimming with gift-giving inspiration and can’t-miss sales.

ALEX AND ANI® – Enjoy 20% off items and get a peek at the 2018 limited-edition Snowflake Bangle Bracelet. Offer valid November 21 to November 26, 2018.

Basin – Spend $50 or more and get 20% your entire purchase. Offer valid November 23, 2018 only.

Chapel Hats – It’s an exciting time to grab a new addition to your hat collection! Get 25% off items in the entire store and at the outdoor kiosk. Offer valid November 22 and November 23, 2018.

Coca-Cola Store – Discover doorbuster deals galore! On November 23, 2018 swing by until noon to enjoy a complimentary mimosa while you shop. Other specials include:

A complimentary 2018 commemorative metallic bottle and a $5 Coke cash back to use towards a purchase of $20 or more made between November 24 and November 25

30% off customizable items like T-shirts and mugs

Edward Beiner – Get 50% select items! May not be combined with any other offer or existing sales. Offer valid November 23 to November 25, 2018.

Kipling – Take 30% off storewide—and shop a great selection of gifts under $100. Some exclusions apply. Offer valid November 21 to November 27, 2018.

Oakley – Delight in 50% off select apparel and accessories. Offer valid November 21 to November 26, 2018.

Pop Gallery – Receive a special gift when you purchase a piece from one of your favorite artists. Offer valid November 23, 2018 only.

Shop for Ireland –Feel the luck of the Irish when you get 50% off select Irish-themed clothing, T-shirts, hats and more priced at 50% off—20% off select jewelry, gifts and souvenirs. Offer valid November 23 to November 26, 2018.

Sugarboo & Co. – Come in for unique home décor and get 50% all pillows. Cannot be combined with other promotions and discounts. Offer valid November 23, 2018 only.

Note: all discounts are taken off retail pricing; see individual store locations for complete details.
November 21, 2018
Ribbon Cutting of the Re-Imagined World of Disney at Disney Springs

As we previously reported, World of Disney in Disney Springs opened to the public after a year of renovations. Saturday, October 27th, was their official Ribbon Cutting celebration and we can report we have found the Magic everyone has been looking for!

As Disney Imagineers began to work on re-imagining the old World of Disney they uncovered even more hidden Disney magic. You see, this used to be an old Farmer’s Market. After being abandoned for many years, it was taken over by young designers and artists who turned it into a bustling Disney animation studio. They moved on to Hollywood Studios, but this remodel has uncovered all the magic they left behind!

Vintage line drawings from the Disney vault hang on the wall, and come alive before your eyes. The exposed brick you’ll see throughout the store is all reclaimed from old buildings. Jars of paint left over from the artists decorate the shelves, and if you wait and watch you might even find a little pixie dust was left behind with the jars that helps other paintings dance and play. (Check out the video on Instagram: @MerlinsCauldron) If you look closely you’ll even see a subtle nod to Mickey in the jars of paint.

Look out for moving projections on the floors and walls. We were informed by Disney Cast Members that these will updated with the season’s, holiday’s, and when new Disney movies come out. So there will always be something new to see! The wall behind Belle is a montage of classic and new Disney Princesses, with a fireworks show at the end. If it’s quiet in the store you can even hear the fireworks going off!

The chandeliers above Cinderella are made of tiara’s and wands sold in the store, and Cinderella and Belle’s dresses are made up of hundreds of princess dolls.

There’s even magic at the registers, which are made from Imagineering desks. They’re full of classic movie references, and are covered with Disney doodles.

Stay tuned for an upcoming video walkthrough to be posted on the Disney Dorks Facebook page. On your next visit to the re-imagined World of Disney take time to look for any hidden details I might have missed, and let us know in the comments what you think of the big reveal!

October 30, 2018
FIRST LOOK: Brand New Merchandise Debuting at the New World of Disney

As we previously reported, World of Disney in Disney Spring has been undergoing a major remodel this year. It’s finally open and yesterday we got a Sneak Peek at all the new changes!

World owf Disney is the flagship retail destination featuring the world’s largest collection of Disney theme merchandise; and the remodel fits in perfectly with the 1930’s American Craftsman style in this section of Disney Springs.

The separate, disjointed room of the old store have all been opened up to create a better flow, with wide open walkways for guests. The new World of Disney now feels more like an upscale department store.

The new Mouseketeer Collection also debuted yesterday at World of Disney. This brand new collection has just the right amount of vintage nostalgia mixed with updated styles and fabrics. A Disney merchandise spokesman told me that this line will probably make its way to the parks in November 2018.

Christmas merchandise was also on display! Many of this years designs feature a ‘Nordic Christmas’ pattern, which is carried out on pajamas, apparel, pillows, and other family friendly items. The second holiday collection is ‘Turn of the Century’, which focuses on items like signs, ornaments, and some home goods like soup mugs, and plates.

I think this redesign is simply Magical and certainly worth checking out on your next trip to Disney Springs! Let us know in the comments what you think.

Stay tuned next week for another article detailing the official Grand Opening and ribbon cutting ceremony taking place soon, and more articles delving deeper into the Mouseketeer and Christmas lines!

Don’t forget to contact Merlin’s Cauldron for all your Disney Shopping needs.

October 19, 2018
Alcohol-Infused Push Pops Are Now Available At Disney Springs
Have you heard the Buzz? Now you can end your day the perfect way with Alcohol Infused Push Pops at Disney Springs.

The Paddlefish restaurant in Disney Springs now offers the viral-sensation Buzz Pop Cocktails, a mature take on the nostalgic treats of our childhood. These alcoholic push-pops come in eight flavors, made with fresh fruit and rum, and they contain an impressive 15 percent ABV. They’re also vegan, gluten and fat-free, net 5 carbs and under 100 calories each?

“If you’re lucky enough to make your way to the park, grab one of these Italian sorbet sweets and enjoy it from Paddlefish’s rooftop bar,” says CEO, Joseph Isaacs. You’ll cool down and stay buzzed during your next Disney getaway — what could be better? Take a look below for a list of flavors:
- Southern Belle – Bourbon
- Caribbean Breeze – Organic Rum
- Mango Passion – Organic Rum
- Pink Paradise – Tequila
- Blueberry Mania – Tequila
- Watermelon – Vodka
- Moscow Mule – Organic Vodka
- Lemon Drop – Organic Vodka
Buzz Pop Cocktails are a chef-inspired, gastro-innovation that meets the discriminating tastes of cocktail aficionados and people of all ages from coast to coast. Buzz Pop’s alcoholic popsicles (Adult Push-Pops) are fresh, vibrant and wildly delicious seasonal fruit whipped into an Italian-style 5 star restaurant quality gourmet sorbet made with 15% top shelf liquors offered in a ready-to-serve push-pop that makes for a guilt-free indulgence.
October 4, 2018
Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels Offering Special “Magic of Fall” Rates from August 20-October 31
There is so much going on at Walt Disney World Resort that you won’t want to miss out on and there is still time to make plans to experience all the special events this summer and fall! A great way to experience these events and new offerings is by taking advantage of the special “Magic of Fall” room rates that are being offered by the seven Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels for stays from August 20-October 31, 2018.

In addition to the very appealing rates, guests staying at these hotels also enjoy the Extra Magic Hours benefit, and the FastPass+ benefit at the Walt Disney World Theme Parks up to 60 days prior to your arrival, which guests staying at these seven Official Walt Disney World Hotels receive throughout 2018. With valid theme park admission, the Extra Magic Hours benefit enables guests to experience extra time in at least one of the Walt Disney World Theme Parks each day, either before it opens or after it closes. This provides the opportunity to enjoy select attractions, including the new offerings at Toy Story Land and the popular attractions at the other three theme parks, such as Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Plus, guests staying at the seven hotels are also able to link their hotel reservation on MyDisneyExperience, and with a linked, valid theme park ticket, you have the ability to make FastPass+ selections up to 60 days prior to arrival.

Featuring an ideal location in the Walt Disney World Resort, the seven Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels are within an easy walk to Disney Springs. Inspired by Florida’s charming towns and natural beauty, and boasting a picturesque waterfront setting and bubbling springs, the vibrant Disney Springs offers an impressive and diverse array of more than 150 retail, dining and entertainment establishments, which includes an exceptional collection of restaurants by award-winning chefs.

In addition, the hotels also provide shuttle transportation approximately every 30 minutes to all four Walt Disney World Resort Theme Parks, two Disney Water Parks, and at night to the Disney Springs area.

As a bonus, guests at these hotels also receive the “2018 Disney SpringsPassport” booklet that features discounts and specials from Disney Springs merchants on entertainment, shopping and dining. Among the coupons featured in the booklet are discounts and special offers at House of Blues Restaurant & Bar, T-REX Café, Rainforest Café at Disney Springs Marketplace, The Polite Pig and STK Orlando.

The special “Magic of Fall” room rates for stays August 20-October 31, 2018 are:
- B Resort & Spa — rates from $105 per room, per night
- Best Western Lake Buena Vista – rates from $99 per room, per night
- DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Orlando — rates from $101 per suite, per night
- Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace – rates from $110 per room, per night
- Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista – rates from $101 per room, per night
- Holiday Inn Orlando – rates from $103 per room, per night
- Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista – rates from $79 per room, per night.
Visiting also provides the opportunity to take in such special events as the 2018 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, from August 30-November 12, 2018, which has something for every taste bud, with truly delicious offerings and unexpected flavors from around the globe. In addition, the Festival includes the Eat to the Beat Concert Series each night, with concerts by such popular recording artists as Mercy Me, Glass Tiger, Baha Men, Plain White T’s, Living Colour, Sugar Ray, David Cook, Jeffrey Osborne, Air Supply, Smash Mouth, 98 Degrees, Kenny G, and Boys II Men.

Also back again is the popular, separately ticketed Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, which will be conducted at the Magic Kingdom Park on select nights from August 17-October 31, 2018.

It also is a great time to take in the terrific all-new 11-acre Toy Story Land, which just opened in June at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, where guests “shrink” to the size of a toy to explore the adventure and fun of Andy’s backyard and can enjoy such new attractions as the Slinky Dog Dash family coaster and Alien Swirling Saucers.

Other benefits of staying at one of the seven hotels include: the ability to purchase Walt Disney World theme park tickets at the hotels’ website, at their Guest Service Desk or the Disney Merchandise store located in the hotel; advance tee times and discounts at all Walt Disney World Resort golf courses; and the ability to book advance dining and dinner show reservations for all restaurants across the Walt Disney World Resort.

Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels includes:
- B Resort & Spa — this lifestyle resort opened in June 2014 with 394 newly renovated guest rooms, the full-service B Indulged AVEDA Spa, and features American Kitchen Bar & Grill
- Best Western Lake Buena Vista – the resort has spectacular views of the Walt Disney World Resort and offers two restaurants, a lounge and heated outdoor pools
- DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Orlando — the luxurious resort hotel features 229 spacious and modern one- and two-bedroom suites, and is the only all-suite resort hotel in the Disney Springs Resort Area
- Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace — just steps from Disney Springs, this contemporary oasis features 2 outdoor pools, beach-entry Float Lagoon, kids’ splash pad, 4 new restaurants and lounges, and Disney Character breakfast
- Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista — connected to Disney Springs via Pedestrian Skybridge, the resort features 2 heated pools with Jacuzzi, 7 dining options (including Benihana), exclusive Disney perks, Disney Character Breakfast and more.
- Holiday Inn Orlando – located steps away from Disney Springs, the hotel offers the ideal setting to stay and play, featuring kids eat free and complimentary Wi-Fi in all guest rooms and public areas
- Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista – featuring a Disney Character Breakfast 3 days a week, 394 guest rooms, six dining options, and the Oasis Aquatic Pool Playground with interactive water features.
With nearly 30 food and beverage outlets and restaurants, over 3,700 rooms and an array of amenities, the Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels offer a rate, space and menu to please every guest. Located in the heart of the Disney Springs area, these properties are within walking distance of exceptional shopping, dining and entertainment venues.

If you need help booking your magical vacation, contact Enchanted Kingdom Vacations with Vikki for help. My services are completely free and I will always find you the lowest rates. Let me do all the work so you don’t have to!
August 21, 2018
Disney Vacation Club Member Shop Opens at Disney Springs For A Limited-Time Through September 3

For the first time in its history, Disney Vacation Club has opened a limited-time pop-up shop at Disney Springs.

Located within the Marketplace Co-Op and open through September 3 as part of Membership Magic, the shop features the broadest assortment of Disney Vacation Club Member merchandise ever assembled in a single location, from apparel and accessories to travel gear and collectibles.

Members visiting the shop are discovering a wide range of new items, including new patterns for Dooney & Bourke handbags, new designs for Member MagicBands, pins and more.

Be sure to pop in to the pop-up shop and pick up the newest Member must-haves. Don’t forget, the Disney Vacation Club Member merchandise discount is valid on these new items!

As a part of Membership Extras, an incidental benefit, these member benefits are subject to change, availability or termination and may require a fee. Membership Extras are available with eligible ownership interests. Visit http://disneyvacationclub.com/memextraspolicy for more information.

August 14, 2018