Category: Holidays

Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort Returns September 7
Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort is returning for even more days of wicked fun! Beginning September 7 through October 31, a spell will be cast at both Disneyland park and Disney California Adventure park, transforming the Disneyland Resort into a frenzy of happy haunts.

This limited-time seasonal celebration will include special attraction overlays, themed décor, seasonal treats and merchandise, plus spooky encounters with favorite characters.

Oogie Boogie will once again take over Disney California Adventure park with stylish Halloween decor along Buena Vista Street and a swarm of bats encircling Carthay Circle Theatre. Cars Land will celebrate Haul-O-Ween as Radiator Springs turns into Radiator Screams! For the occasion, Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree will transform into Mater’s Graveyard JamBOOree while Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters changes into Luigi’s Honkin’ Haul-O-Ween. In Hollywood Land, Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! will transform nightly into Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark.

Over at Disneyland park, the Pumpkin Festival will greet guests as they make their way down Main Street, U.S.A. Fan-favorite attractions will also return, including the eerily delightful Haunted Mansion Holiday and Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy.

Additionally, the highly anticipated Mickey’s Halloween Party will host 15 nights of fun. This separate-ticket, after hours event gives you the chance to make your Halloween Time experience even more fun with some exclusive entertainment, Disney characters in their Halloween attire and trick-or-treating throughout Disneyland park!

Be sure to purchase your Mickey’s Halloween Party tickets* early and mark your calendars for the dates below.
- June 5: Tickets on sale to Disneyland Resort Annual Passholders, Disney Rewards Visa card holders and Disney Vacation Club members
- June 12: Tickets on sale to general public
- Mickey’s Halloween Party 2018 dates: Sept. 19, Sept. 21, Sept. 24, Sept. 26, Sept. 28, Oct. 2, Oct. 5, Oct. 9, Oct. 12, Oct. 16, Oct. 19, Oct. 23, Oct. 26, Oct. 29, Oct. 31
For more information about Halloween events at the Disneyland Resort, contact me anytime. If you need any 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!
May 18, 2018
Celebrate Mother’s Day at Disney Parks
If you’re looking for a special place to celebrate Mother’s Day with your mom this year then give her a little Disney magic with a special sweet or even a delicious brunch! Here are some sweet treats you can find at Walt Disney World Resort, as well as special Mother’s Day brunches at both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort.

If you’re at Epcot at Walt Disney World Resort, there’s a beautiful Mother’s Day Dessert at Sunshine Seasons with raspberry mousse and lemon cake and topped with a delicate Swiss buttercream rose and fondant pearls, available on Mother’s Day only. Or if you’re looking for a cupcake, look no further than Fountain View. May 11-13, you’ll find a vanilla Mother’s Day Cupcake with raspberry white chocolate mousse and pink icing.

At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, there’s a vanilla Mother’s Day Cupcake at Creature Comforts and Isle of Java that’s filled with white chocolate raspberry mousse and topped with buttercream flowers.

Send Mom a special message with a Mother’s Day Chocolate Letter from Amorette’s Patisserie at Disney Springs. Topped with chocolate-covered strawberries and mini-macarons, this offering can be personalized with a short message written in icing and is the perfect delicious gift! You can also find a Chocolate Raspberry Mousse Petit Cake featuring Mrs. Potts from “Beauty and the Beast.” And nearby at The Ganachery, you’ll find a Mom Pop with dark chocolate-covered raspberry ganache.

At Disney’s All-Star Music and All-Star Movies Resorts, Intermission Food Court and World Premiere Food Court will be offering a Tropical Éclair on Mother’s Day only. This éclair is filled with mango and pineapple tropical cream and chocolate ganache and is topped with fondant rose buds.

May 11-12, there will be a Mother’s Day Cookie Flower Pot Activity Kit available for purchase at World Premier Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, Landscape of Flavors at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, and The Artist’s Palette at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa. This kit will include a flower pot filled with chocolate cake, chocolate ganache, and cookie crumbles, customizable flower cookies, and jelly candy worms. There will also be a special Mother’s Day Activity at each of the locations listed above where families can come together and decorate their flower pots with a pastry chef. See below for activity dates and times!
- Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, World Premier Food Court – May 11-12, 2-4 p.m.
- Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Landscape of Flavors – May 11-12, 1:00-1:30 p.m.
  (Activity kits will also be sold on May 10)
- Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, The Artist’s Palette – May 11-12, 1-2 p.m.
At Disneyland Resort, River Belle Terrace in Disneyland Park will offer a 3-course special to the menu. The first course is a Strawberry Pistachio Salad, and for the main course, Pan-Seared Scallops with grilled corn succotash and squash puree. And for dessert? A sweet Blueberry-Lemonade Shortcake.

Mother’s Day Dining Experiences

In addition to the delicious offerings throughout the parks, there’s also a few special Mother’s Day Brunches and Dining Experiences at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts, all offered on Mother’s Day only.

Make your Mother’s Day POP! with a Mother’s Day Brunch buffet served 10am-2pm at Everything POP Shopping and Dining at Disney’s Pop Century Resort. Starters include fresh fruit, cereal, assorted pastries and muffins, and bagels with cured salmon, diced red onion, cream cheese, and capers. For the main event, you’ll enjoy options such as Made-to-Order Omelets, Buttermilk Pancakes with strawberry compote, Carved Ham with orange blossom honey, Carved Roast Turkey with traditional stuffing and cranberry relish, Bacon Vinaigrette Potatoes, House-Made Corn Bread and more. And for a decadent dessert, you can try the Peach Cobbler, Strawberry Shortcake, or other assorted mini-desserts.

Enjoy a “contemporary” Mother’s Day Brunch at Disney’s Contemporary Resort! The Wave… of American Flavors will be offering a special brunch buffet 7:30am-2pm. Start your meal off with options like a Harvest Salad, Asian Noodle Salad, Israeli Couscous Salad with grilled vegetables tossed in lemon vinaigrette, fresh fruit, Smoked Salmon with traditional accompaniments, Citrus-Poached Shrimp, assorted pastries, and cheese and charcuterie. Entrees from the kitchen include dishes such as Eggs Benedict, Sweet Potato Pancakes, Herb Roasted Chicken, Egg White Frittata. Kids can also enjoy Mickey Waffles, Chocolate Chip Pancakes, eggs, bacon and sausage, and even Crispy Chicken Tenders with fries.

Sail on over the Disney’s Yacht Club Resort for a Mother’s Day Brunch that’s full of flavor. From 7:30am to 2pm at Ale & Compass Restaurant, enjoy endless assortments of savory flatbreads, fresh fruit, yogurt parfaits, breads and spreads, smoked salmon, and house-baked pastries. Follow up with delicious entrees like Blueberry-Bacon Pancakes, Salted Caramel French Toast, Eggs Benedict, Steak and Eggs, Pasta Primavera, Lobster Roll, or Fish and Chips. On the kids menu, find Mickey Waffles, Pancakes, Ham and Egg Sandwiches, Grilled Chicken, Ravioli, and Cheeseburgers. Guests over the age of 21 can also enjoy specialty raspberry, strawberry, pineapple, or cranberry mimosas as well as a Bloody Mary Flight.

Just across the lake at Disney’s BoardWalk, Flying Fish will be offering a special Mother’s Day prix fixe menu with optional wine pairings 3:30pm-9:30pm. Start your meal with Ahi Tuna with caper, blue lavender, and black Cyprus salt paired with Kim Crawford Spitfire Sauvignon Blanc. And for your entrée, you’ll enjoy Filet Mignon with wild Floridian shrimp and crab, served with delta asparagus, Idaho potato, and hollandaise and paired with Penner-Ash Pinot Noir. For the finale, the Spring Garden Fruit Tart with brulee custard, bush berries, orange chiffon, and strawberry rhubarb sorbet will go down smooth paired with Veuve Clicquot Rose. In addition, this experience includes complimentary roses as well as a photographer who will provide photos at the end of the meal, free of charge.

Over at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, Turf Club Bar and Grill will offer a Mother’s Day Brunch 10am-2pm. For the opening course, enjoy your choice of Steel Cut Oatmeal, Greek Yogurt Parfait, Peppered Smoked Salmon, or Berry Salad. For Entrees, choose from a selection of dishes such as Croque-Madame Black Forest Ham and Gruyére Cheese, Slow Roasted Ranchers Reserve Prime Rib, Gourmet Blend Burger with Crispy Pork Belly, Saratoga Springs Eggs Benedict with Manhattan Steak Medallion, or S’mores Style Buttermilk Waffles with marshmallow and chocolate, to name a few. For a sweet finale is a Mother’s Day Medley of Sweet Temptations. Specialty adult beverages available include an Island Grove Blueberry Moscato, Tropical Mimosas with Passion Orange Guava Juice, and the Turf Club Bloody Mary.

At Disneyland Resort, you can celebrate Mother’s Day with a memorable meal at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. Storytellers Café will offer a bounteous breakfast buffet 7am-11:30am as well as a dinner buffet from 11:30am-9:45pm. In addition, as a special Mother’s Day treat, Chip and Dale and other Disney Pals will be around to greet guests throughout the entire day!

Steakhouse 55 at Disneyland Hotel will offer a special Mother’s Day Tasting Menu. For the starter course, enjoy an Heirloom Tomato and Melon Salad with marinated artichokes, petite mache, fresh mozzarella, and peppermint vinaigrette. For the entrée course, savor a Broiled 8-ounce Filet Mignon with brown butter mashed potatoes, broccolini, balsamic pearl onions, and maniari port demi. And for dessert – you’ll love the Vanilla Bean Crème Brulee with a chocolate tart shell, poached peach, and raspberry mascarpone.

No matter where you’re celebrating, you’ll certainly have a magical Mother’s Day at Disney Parks. So give your mom something special – and tasty – this weekend, because she deserves it!
May 11, 2018
Disney Springs Is The Perfect Spot For Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day is less than a week away! Whether you want to treat your mom to a memorable experience that you can enjoy together or a keepsake item that will show her how much you care all year long, there’s a good chance you’ll find what you’re looking for at Disney Springs.

Below are a few of-the-moment offerings she’s sure to treasure:

Brunch with Her Brood: If you’re a mom who’d rather not spend her Mother’s Day in the kitchen, a meal where she’s the pampered patron is always a good idea! While there are many awesome options, the newest brunch option from Maria & Enzo’s where endless mimosas and bellinis are just $15 extra.

Something that Sparkles and Shines:
- Pretty Pieces from PANDORA Jewelry: PANDORA Jewelry is currently offering some incredible Mother’s Day promotions. From stand-alone charms to pre-packaged gift sets, there seemed to be something to suit every mom at a variety of price points.
- A Little Love from Alex and Ani: Another guest favorite with so many jewelry options to choose from. Necklaces, rings, and of course, bangle bracelets are available in an array of styles.
- A Tiny Treasure from Rebecca Hook Jewelry: Representatives from this popular brand will be at Ever After Jewelry Co. & Accessories on May 11 and 12, 2018 to showcase core jewelry and additional items available for a limited-time, while supplies last. Rebecca Hook herself will appear on May 11, giving you a chance to meet the designer; if you’re stuck, perhaps she can help you decide which piece is best for your mom?
- Hands-on Macramé with Mom: Sugarboo & Co. Here, you’ll enjoy the art of macramé, complete with extra time for shopping and coffee. The class is $60 for two guests; $35 for each additional person.
- Something Sweet: With a floral motif in punchy pastels, the perfectly packaged chocolates from Ghirardelli Chocolate Shop are almost too pretty to unwrap.
With less than a week before Mother’s Day, you’ve still got time to pick up the perfect something. Of course, if you really have no idea what she’ll love most, a Disney gift card lets your mom treat herself to whatever she desires at Disney Springs.
May 9, 2018
Disney’s Easter Brings the Start of Tokyo Disney Resort 35th ‘Happiest Celebration’

With the 35th Anniversary “Happiest Celebration!” just around the corner, Tokyo Disney Resort guests can now enjoy the first springtime offerings during Disney’s Easter at Tokyo DisneySea, including a sneak peek of the theme song for the celebration.

Colorful decorations, entertainment, special menus and exclusive merchandise bring this season to life at the resort. Tokyo DisneySea will host an egg hunt for the very first time this year, and guests who find the whimsical eggs themed to Disney characters will receive with an exclusive Bunny Ears hair clip.

At the Mediterranean Harbor, Mickey and Minnie are joined by Disney characters to perform in the renewed Fashionable Easter show celebrating the arrival of spring. Exciting pyrotechnics and the premiere of the theme song for the “Happiest Celebration!” make this show a can’t-miss. Over at Waterfront Park, members of the Tokyo DisneySea Maritime Band are also be dressed in new costumes in honor of the season.

The first Tokyo Disney Resort 35th Anniversary merchandise is now on sale alongside dozens of new Easter designs, including the fan-favorite Bunny Ears Headbands and Easter “Bunny” Bonnets. Delicious new food and drink items are available at Café Portofino, New York Deli, Barnacle Bill’s, Sebastian’s Calypso Kitchen and Tropic Al’s.

Disney’s Easter will be at the resort until June 6, and the “Happiest Celebration!” begins on April 15. Stay tuned for more updates from Tokyo Disney Resort!

March 28, 2018
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom Tickets Now On Sale
Last Week Disney announced the dates and details for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party which will transform Magic Kingdom Park for a sweet 34 nights.

So polish those pumpkins and plan your costume! Mickey’s annual Halloween spook-tacular promises a frightfully fun evening filled with trick-or-treat thrills ‘n’ chills at Magic Kingdom park.

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Dates
- August 17, 24, 28, 31
- September 3, 7, 9, 11, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 28, 30
- October 2, 4, 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30, 31
Returning treats include the “Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular” stage show in front of Cinderella Castle featuring the mischievous Sanderson sisters from the hit Disney film “Hocus Pocus” (my favorite Halloween film), Mickey’s “Boo-to-You” Halloween Parade and “Happy HalloWishes,” the fall spectacular led by the infamous Disney villains!

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party tickets start at $75 in advance or $85 at the gate, if available.
March 24, 2018
The Raglan Road Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival Returns to Disney Springs March 16 – 18
St. Patrick’s Day revelers may go for the perfect-pour Guinness when U2 tribute band Elevation launches into “With or Without You.” Families with kids can opt for a fish-and-chips party as award-winning traditional Irish band The Maguires – new to Raglan Road Pub – tunes up their talent dubbed “insanely awesome” by Milwaukee Irish Fest.

And more award-winning bands are lined up for three non-stop days of live music, Irish dance, first-rate food and fun during the Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival 2018 at Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant in Disney Springs March 16-18. Here’s the complete lineup:
- Young Dubliners – One of Celtic rock’s hardest working bands, the Young Dubliners play hundreds of shows to thousands of fans across the United States and Europe every year. Young Dubliners are known for their hearty rock and Irish-infused live performances.
- Elevation (U2) — Back by popular demand, this stellar U2 tribute act will play two special nighttime shows March 16 and 17. They appeared at Raglan Road’s Great Irish Hooley last September during U2’s world tour celebrating 30 years of the groundbreaking Joshua Tree album.
- The Maguires – Called “brilliant” by IrishCentral news, The Maguires traditional Irish family band comprises Emma, 17, on fiddle, flute and whistle; Aoife, 15, on concertina and uilleann pipes; Sean, 12, on bodhrán; and their dad, Philip, on guitar. Trad favorites and modern tunes combine with syncopated, infectious rhythms sure to wow Mighty Festival crowds.
- Briste — This inspiring all-female trio includes Emma Robinson (flute, whistle), Joanna Boyle (banjo, vocals) and Alison Crossey (bodhran, guitar). They grew up listening to and playing traditional Irish music, winning numerous awards at County, Ulster and All Ireland competitions, quickly gaining themselves a fine reputation in traditional music circles. Blending together their rich musical backgrounds, Briste creates a fresh and exciting mix of country, folk and Irish traditional music.
- The Byrne Brothers — An exceptionally talented traditional Irish music family from Donegal. They are Luca, 13 (button accordion); Finn, 11 (banjo, mandolin and whistle); Dempsey, 8, (whistle and bodhran); and father,Tommy (guitar, Uilleann pipes, fiddle, whistles, bagpipes and bodhran). Their show combines exciting traditional Irish tunes with modern dance beats, and they love to interact with every audience.
- The Raglan Roots Coalition – This edgy house band is known for its soul-rockin’ Celtic bluegrass with hip-swingin’, knee-shakin’ funky roots beats.
- Reel Republic – Hailing from the southwest corner of Ireland, Aisling Egan-Sage (fiddle); Liam O’Keefe (box, vocals); and Colin Foley (guitar, vocals) are Reel Republic 2.0, three seriously talented musicians always pushing to make the next gig better than the last.
- Out the Gap – Niall McIlroy (guitar, ukulele bass, whistles and flute); Deirdre Ni Mheachair (fiddle); and Aidan Byrne (guitar, vox, keys and percussion) make up the pub’s newest house band performing a sweet combination of innate musicianship, beautiful tune playing and fairly outrageous virtuosity.
- The Raglan Road Irish Dancers – Plucked from the cast and stages of the world’s greatest Irish dance shows, the Raglan Road Irish Dancers perform throughout the Mighty Festival. You can even learn some traditional Irish dance steps – no experience necessary!
Guests can enjoy a mighty selection of beers, spirits and craft cocktails to pair with exceptional pub grub and more elegant Irish fare while musicians and dancers perform on multiple stages, indoors and out, from noon-1:30 a.m. March 16 and 10 a.m. until 1:30 a.m. March 17 and 18. Mighty Festival guests can accent their Irish holiday attire with complimentary face painting available for up to nine or 10 hours each festival day. On March 17, St. Patrick’s Day, guests will be seated on a first-come, first-served basis with a cover charge of $10 for each guest age 18 and older.
March 15, 2018
Egg-stravaganza Returns to Disneyland Resort March 16

Hippity hoppity Easter’s on its way! And thats means that it’s once again time for Egg-stravaganza at the Disneyland Resort! This popular egg-themed scavenger hunt has become a springtime tradition at Disneyland park, Disney California Adventure park and Downtown Disney District.

Search for special hidden “eggs” themed to Disney and Pixar characters, and record your discoveries by placing the corresponding sticker on the themed Egg-stravaganza map to represent that location.

Whether you choose to hunt for eggs or not, you can return your map to a redemption location for a special surprise. Redemption locations include the following merchandise shops: Elias & Co. at Disney California Adventure park; Disney Showcase in Disneyland park; World of Disney Store in the Downtown Disney District.

From March 16 through April 1, you can participate by picking up a map and stickers for $5.99 (plus tax) at select merchandise locations throughout Disneyland Resort.

March 1, 2018
Valentine’s Day Foodie Guide For Disney Parks

Love is in the air on Valentine’s Day and at Disney Parks, love is in the food too! If you love the sweet tasty treats that come along with the most romantic day of the year, then Disney Parks are the place to be.

There are plenty of sweets to go around this year for Valentine’s Day at the Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts. Whether you’re spending the day with that special someone or just celebrating the company of good friends, our chefs have developed some amazing desserts that everyone can enjoy. Here’s your guide on where to find all the Valentine’s Day goodies!

At Walt Disney World Resort, there are plenty of lovely sweets to go around. Starting at Disney Springs with the popular Amorette’s Patisserie, you’ll be able to order a couple new desserts from Feb. 11-17. The first is a “Beauty and the Beast”-themed Rose Petit Honey Cake with Grand Marnier-soaked strawberries, rum roasted pineapple and honey Chantilly cream. The second is a Strawberry Champagne Toast Dessert – strawberry mousse with a Champagne gelée Feuilletine crunch and strawberry pâté de fruit. You’ll also find some delicious hand-dipped chocolate strawberries!

One of the staples of Valentine’s Day is chocolate, and if you’re in the mood for it, then The Ganachery is the place to go! And it’s just a quick walk from Amorette’s Patisserie. This year, the chocolate shop is offering an array of gourmet ganache squares and special desserts like Valentine’s Day-themed Chocolate Lollipops and Raspberry and Dark Chocolate Marshmallows. One of the special ganache squares being featured this year is Strawberries and Champagne featuring Cinderella’s Coach, and you can even order a chocolate ganache pairing with Rosa Regale.

In addition, locations all over Disney Springs are celebrating with special offerings.

At Magic Kingdom Park, take a stroll to the Main Street Bakery to find a special Valentine’s Day Cinnamon Roll from Feb. 11-17. Or try the chocolate-covered strawberry-inspired Milkshake of the Month at The Plaza Restaurant: a Strawberry and Chocolate Milkshake topped with whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, a strawberry and chocolate shavings. And at Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Café you’ll find hand-dipped white and dark chocolate strawberries!

If you’re at Epcot, Fountain View will be offering a Valentine’s Day Chocolate Cupcake with strawberry white chocolate mousse, strawberry buttercream, chocolate ganache drips, disco dust, a chocolate heart ganache and strawberry crispy pearls from Feb. 13-14. And for Valentine’s Day only, Sunshine Seasons will offer a decadent heart-shaped Red Velvet Cake with strawberry mousse filling, chocolate pearls and edible flowers.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park will have a Valentine’s Day Cupcake at Creature Comfortsconsisting of chocolate cake with strawberry buttercream topped with chocolate and strawberry crispy pearls, mini heart sprinkles and a chocolate-covered strawberry.

Disney’s Port Orleans Resorts – Riverside and French Quarter are offering a special Chocolate Strawberry Cupcake at Riverside Mill Food Court and Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory. And at Sassagoula, you’ll find a Strawberry Beignet Sundae with chocolate ice cream, whipped cream, strawberry drizzle and heart-shaped sprinkles, YUM!

Roaring Fork at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge will offer a Chocolate Cupcake with Chambord cream filling and topped with raspberry ganache icing, raspberry chocolate hearts and crispy pearls. And BoardWalk Bakery at Disney’s BoardWalk will be serving up a Valentine’s Day Red Velvet Cupcake with chocolate-cherry filling and a ganache-dipped chocolate red rose.

At Intermission Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort, you can find a Chocolate Strawberry Whoopie Pie, a Red Fruit Cupcake and a Raspberry Ganache Cheesecake. And at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa and Disney’s Old Key West Resort, you’ll find a Chocolate Raspberry Cupcake, and at Satatoga Springs only you can also get a beautiful gift box with chocolate-covered strawberries.

On the west coast, Disneyland Resort has a few items as well, such as Cherry Vanilla Cotton Candy! This scrumptious snack will be available at various outdoor vending locations throughout both Disneyland park and Disney California Adventure park. And speaking of candy…at various candy locations across the resort, you’ll be able to find Valentine’s Day goodies like a Red Rose Cake Pop, a Pink Minnie Apple covered in caramel, chocolate and pink sugar, and Pink Chocolate Crispies and Cake Pops drizzled with red icing. You’ll also find February’s Gourmet Apple of the Month – the Black Forest Cherry Caramel apple with cherries, nuts and chocolate drizzle!

On Main Street U.S.A in Disneyland park, Jolly Holiday Bakery Café will have adorable heart-shaped Strawberry Macarons, and over at Blue Bayou Restaurant you’ll be able to order Sweetheart Toast Sparkling Cider. And If you’re looking for some delicious Valentine’s Day ice cream, then look no further than Clarabelle’s Hand Scooped Ice Cream at Disney California Adventure park where you can get a Valentine Sundae! This sundae has scoops of vanilla and strawberry ice cream and is topped with strawberry topping, a chocolate-dipped strawberry and pink peppermint whipped cream and comes served in a hand-made waffle cup. And for the smoothie lovers out there, a Chocolate Strawberry Smoothie will be available at Schmoozies!

February 14, 2018
Celebrate the Season of Love and Friendship at Disney Springs

This February, take a fresh approach to celebrating Valentine’s Day, Galentine’s Day (Feb. 13) or any fun night out with friends by exploring what’s new at Disney Springs.

Recently recognized by The New York Times as one of the top places to go in 2018, Disney Springs is home to Central Florida’s hottest new restaurant and entertainment venues. It’s the place to set sail for romance aboard a stunning 40-foot Venetian water taxi or treat friends to a vintage amphicar ride. And it’s the destination for one-of-a-kind entertainment that ranges from a hyper-reality Star Wars experience and luxury bowling to an eclectic array of street performers and live entertainment.

Here are some memorable ways to surprise your Valentine, gal pals or best friends this month – or any other time of the year.

From Romantic to Electrifying Dining

In honor of Valentine’s Day, a number of restaurants at Disney Springs are offering special menu items. The list includes surf-and-turf for two at STK Orlando, fresh catch selections at Paddlefish, a delectable special menu at Paradiso 37 and a specialty cocktail at Morimoto Asia.

Friends and lovers can also check out some brand-new Disney Springs restaurants. Guests can share plates of spaghetti and other tasty Italian dishes at the new Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante. Following the Disney Springs story line, this chic restaurant is set in a once-abandoned airline terminal from the 1930s. The open and airy dining room features 50-foot ceilings and views of Lake Buena Vista. For a more casual experience, head below ground to Enzo’s Hideaway – a speakeasy located in storied rum-runner tunnels – that serves up Prohibition-era cocktails and hearty Roman dishes.

Next door, The Edison dials up the excitement with electrifying entertainment, craft cocktails and contemporary American fare. At night, this “industrial Gothic”-themed space transforms into a nightlife hot spot with weekends featuring live bands, cabaret dancers and aerialists.

These are just some of the options at Disney Springs, which is home to more than 50 food and beverage locations including five by James Beard Award-winning chefs.

More to See and Do Together

Shared time together is arguably the best gift of all. At Disney Springs the options for sharing time with friends or that special someone are off the charts.

Venture to The VOID and embark on the new hyper-reality, multi-sensory experience, Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire. In groups of four, teams suit up and go undercover as Stormtroopers to capture imperial intelligence vital to the budding rebellion’s survival. The experience is untethered and unbelievable.

At The BOATHOUSE, couples can set sail on The Venezia, a breathtaking Italian water taxi, for a romantic guided tour of Disney Springs complete with chocolate-covered strawberries and a champagne toast. There are also vintage amphicar rides – rare vehicles that travel both on land and in the water.

Other favorite hotspots for a fun night out include Splitsville Luxury Lanes, a modern upscale bowling alley, and AMC Fork & Screen Dine-in Theatres. Or, simply stroll the promenade and catch some of live performers and entertainment – more than 25 acts nightly.

Indulgent treats

Nothing says Valentine’s Day better than chocolate. Stop by The Ganachery and watch expert chocolatiers create richly exotic treats. Sample in store and take home an elegant, hand-packaged gift box for that special someone. Decadent hot-fudge sundaes – perfect for sharing – can be found at the world-famous Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop. There is also a gallery of goodies at Amorette’s Patisserie – a sophisticated pastry shop filled with Disney-inspired cakes, cookies, cheesecake, macarons and eclairs.

Step beyond everyday gift giving

It’s easy to get creative with gift giving at Disney Springs. For the guy who likes a little pampering there’s The Art of Shaving. This handsome shop features high-end grooming products for the modern man. Guys can even get a haircut and shave onsite in The Barber Shop.

Ladies will enjoy the fairytale ambiance of Ever After Jewelry Co. & Accessories, the ultimate destination for Disney-themed baubles, handbags and fashion. For elegant fine jewelry and designer watches, Luxury of Time by Diamonds International offers a wide selection in their upscale boutique.

Complimentary self-parking is available at all Disney Springs garages and surface lots. Walt Disney World Resort guests enjoy complimentary transportation between their Disney Resort hotels and Disney Springs.

About Disney Springs
Disney Springs is a one-of-a-kind retail, dining and entertainment district located in the heart of the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. With its namesake springs, beautiful open-air promenades and lakefront setting, Disney Springs evokes the charm of Florida waterfront towns at the turn of the 20th century. It’s also home to a collection of more than 150 shops and restaurants, including top-name retail brands, specialty boutiques and dining experiences created by celebrity and award-winning chefs. Located in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., Disney Springs is open daily.

February 3, 2018
14 Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Walt Disney World

“Love is an open door” at Walt Disney World and there is no better place to celebrate the most romantic week of the year. Whether it’s a night out with that special someone, a “galentine’s” evening or special moments shared with friends, the options for romance and fun on Valentine’s Day are practically endless.

Here are 14 enchanting and memorable things to do this Valentine’s Day at the Most Magical Place on Earth.

1. Epcot International Festival of the Arts: Guests can celebrate romance with a brush stroke of sense-tempting activities during this Epcot festival that celebrates the visual, culinary and performing arts. The festival runs now through Feb. 19 and offers everything from sparkly, bubbly drinks to imaginative works of art and performances by Broadway stars. Some of the enticing festival tastes include Le Coucher de Soleil at L’Art de la Cuisine Food Studio in the France Pavilion. This sunset mango and raspberry cake is a must-have!

2. The Edison: Swing by this lavish, “industrial gothic”-style hotspot for classic American cuisine, craft cocktails, live music and jazz-inspired performances. There’s no better place to evoke the romantic, adult side of Disney Springs than this new restaurant and bar inspired by the decadent lifestyle of the Roaring ‘20s.

3. Delicious Dinner Experiences:The magic of Disney dining brings romance to the table with special Valentine’s Day prix fixe menus that include optional wine pairing, themed desserts and drinks at select restaurants at Walt Disney World Resort hotels. Couples can share unforgettable meals at some of the swankiest restaurants on property such as Narcoossee’s and Cítricos at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Yachtsman Steakhouse at Disney’s Yacht Club, Artist Point at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Jiko at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge.

4. Sneak a Smooch at the Parks: Disney theme parks are filled with countless romantic spots to share with a loved one. But some of them might not be on lovers’ radars! The Magic Carpets of Aladdin at Magic Kingdom provides the perfect place to sneak a romantic kiss while flying high over Agrabah.

5. Dreamy Photo Ops: A stroll down Main Street, U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom Park can quickly turn into an impromptu photo session, and Mickey-shaped balloons are the perfect prop. After the sun sets, guests can pose under the lanterns of Rapunzel’s tower in Fantasyland for another Insta-worthy shot. There are literally hundreds of unforgettable photo locations.

6. Sweets at Amorette’s Patisserie: Experience romance in all its sugary deliciousness at this artsy and sophisticated pastry shop located at Disney Springs. Chocolate covered strawberries? Check. French champagne? Check. Eleven layers of red velvet cake? Yes, please.

7. Kilimanjaro Safaris at Sunset: At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, guests can experience this popular attraction in a whole new light. Travel to the tranquility of the African savanna and see an array of exotic animals under the setting sun. After all, nothing says romance like the glow of twilight’s golden hour.

8. Venezia Champagne Cruises: It’s a whole new world aboard a beautiful, 40-foot Italian water taxi that launches from Disney Springs to sail the waters of Lake Buena Vista. Each sailing comes complete with chocolate-covered strawberries and a champagne toast to christen the occasion in style. No trip to Italy necessary!

9. Get Pampered at Senses Spa: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort are both home to the finest, most indulgent experiences at Walt Disney World Resort – Senses Spa. At either location, guests will find a full selection of therapies and treatments. Couples can enjoy a romantic massage for two. The spas are also great for creating an unforgettable girls’ day out.

10. Creative Gift Ideas at Disney Springs: It’s easy to get creative with gift giving at Disney Springs. For the special guy who needs a little pampering, The Art of Shaving is the place. This handsome shop features high-end grooming products for the modern man. Guys can even get a haircut and shave onsite in The Barber Shop.

11. Carriage Rides at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground: Couples looking for rustic romance can relax on a horse-drawn carriage ride through the pine and cypress forests of Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground where deer, rabbits, ducks and even wild turkeys like to roam.

12. Unforgettable Engagements: The romantic and magical ambiance of Walt Disney World makes it the perfect place to pop the big question. Those looking for new and creative places for a truly memorable proposal should consider proposing at Cinderella’s Royal Table at Magic Kingdom or during IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth near the Italy Pavilion at Epcot. The Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons team can also help guests plan the perfect proposal. Adding even more magical romance, Freeform TV will broadcast a special airing of “Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings” on February 14, featuring an unforgettable engagement at Walt Disney World Resort.

13. Romantic Stroll at Disney’s BoardWalk: Guests can experience the timeless charm of Disney’s BoardWalk, a quarter-mile promenade of exquisite dining, unique shops and exciting nightlife. And only on Valentine’s Day, the recently redesigned Flying Fish will offer diners a magical prix fixe menu that includes everything from filet mignon, lobster tail and even a delicious fondue for two.

14. Happily Ever After Fireworks: An evening around the Most Magical Place on Earth isn’t complete without experiencing Happily Ever After – the newest and most spectacular fireworks showcase in Magic Kingdom history. Guests can experience the magic of beloved Disney movies firsthand—and be inspired to find their own happily ever after.

February 1, 2018