Disney Parks Blog just shared a first look at some of the fun merchandise we will find at the 2023 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival. They also gave us a sneak peek at some new topiaries. Let’s check it out!

First, let’s look at the merchandise and save the topiaries for the end. Orange Bird is making an appearance once again, and the merchandise is as cute as ever. I don’t know about you, but I need those ears immediately and maybe the matching Loungefly bag. I will also be getting the Orange Bird Disney Munchling.

A new Snow White collection is also being dropped for this festival. This new collection has a Dooney and Bourke bag, gorgeous ears, and matching Crocs, of course. Out of these pieces, I am most excited about the ears. I’m not the biggest Snow White fan, but I love the flowers on these, and they would look great in pictures.

Now that the merchandise is out of the way let’s look at these new topiaries coming to Flower & Garden.

Princess Tiana – The American Adventure

Doesn’t she look gorgeous? I can’t wait to see this in person and look at all the little details that were put into the display.

Family Madrigal Antonio – EPCOT Entrance

To get a close-up look at the rest of the Madrigal Family, watch this video that Disney Parks put on Youtube.

The post A First Look at the Merch and Topiaries Coming to the 2023 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival! first appeared on DIS.

Disney has shared a first look at the Orange Bird, Snow White, and Figment-inspired merchandise that will be available at the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival 2023.

The Orange Bird collection includes a Spirit Jersey, Loungefly backpack, ear headband, and CORKCICLE tumbler.

There will also be a limited-edition Disney Munchling, presumably inspired by Orange Bird and oranges.

The Snow White merchandise includes a Dooney & Bourke bag and garden-inspired ear headband.

Disney also released a photo of Figment Crocs from a Figment collection.

Merchandise will be available at Festival Markets, Odyssey, and Creations Shop in EPCOT. The Festival begins on March 1 and runs through July 5.

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The post Sneak Peek at Orange Bird, Snow White, and Figment Merchandise Coming to EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival 2023 appeared first on WDW News Today.

Disney and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis have been battling over Orlando’s Reedy Creek Improvement District (RCID) for the better part of a year, and it seems as though the battle may be over — at least for now.

©WFTV 9

After much anticipation, we finally have an update on the status of the bill that could change Disney’s special district from here on out.

To bring you up to speed, Disney’s Reedy Creek Improvement District (RCID) functions as its own county with the ability to make decisions about emergency services, sewage, and more.

But following Disney speaking out against Florida’s Parental Rights in Education Bill (known as the “Don’t Say Gay” bill by critics), a bill was passed and later signed into law that would dissolve RCID by June 2023.

©WFTV 9

The governor shared that he would be coming up with a new structure and plan for how Reedy Creek would work, and in early 2023 we found out what that plan was. A new bill was drafted that would make several key changes to RCID.

Firstly, the bill would strip Reedy Creek of its power to create a nuclear power plant (which was not something Disney had ever seriously considered), and it would also impose new reporting requirements for the district. The new district would still retain power over sewage and emergency services, the ability to issue bonds, and more.

Reedy Creek Sign in Disney World

Additionally, Reedy Creek would be allowed to do business as-is for two years to allow time for the necessary legal and financial changes to take place.

Next, the Governor will be able to appoint all five members of the Board of Supervisors for the District, but his selection must be confirmed by the Senate. While the effective date of the bill would end the term of all current members of the board, they are permitted to continue serving until a successor is appointed and qualified. While these new board members aren’t required to live in the Orlando area, they must be Florida residents, and they are not permitted to serve more than three consecutive terms. You can read the full details of the bill here.

via Twitter

The bill was also written so that it would go into effect as soon as Governor DeSantis signed it into law — which brings us to our latest update.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has officially signed the bill to change Disney’s Reedy Creek Improvement District as we know it. The governor held a press conference on February 27th, 2023, at which he declared, “Florida Ends the Corporate Kingdom.”

via Twitter

Now, Reedy Creek will slowly have to begin operating under its new name — The Central Florida Tourism Oversight District. According to The Orlando Sentinel, DeSantis has already made his choices for the new Board of Supervisors:

“Bridget Ziegler, a member of the Sarasota County School Board and a supporter of Moms for Liberty; Seminole County attorney Michael Sasso; Attorney Martin Garcia of Tampa as chairman; Ron Peri, CEO of The Gathering USA, a ministry that focuses on faith and culture; and Clearwater attorney Brian Aungst.”

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis ©Deadline

At the press conference, DeSantis’ team was handing out a paper to various members of the media according to WESH News’ Anika Hope.

This is the paper that Governor DeSantis’s team provided to media at the Reedy Creek press event this morning. pic.twitter.com/st0OEDeBaA

— Anika Hope (@AnikaHopeTV) February 27, 2023

The governor also reiterated that these changes meant Disney would start “paying its fair share of taxes,” which is something he has continued to mention throughout the war for Reedy Creek. But, Disney has been one of the “largest property taxpayer(s) in Orange County,” according to The Orlando Sentinel, and the company does pay taxes.

Cinderella Castle

The governor spoke directly about Walt Disney’s vision for Disney World and telling people the “truth” when they lose their way. But, DeSantis’ new board holds no power over Disney’s creative decisions and what happens in the parks.

They’ll be on the board that oversees the new district, which controls decisions regarding the land where Disney is located. Think regulations for emergency services on Disney property, land use, debts, and various things like that. There won’t be much decision-making power when it comes to the next roller coaster or table service restaurant.

Reedy Creek Trash Cans

You can watch the full press conference below.

Florida Ends the Corporate Kingdom https://t.co/N7lJA1BSXb

— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) February 27, 2023

We’ll continue to keep an eye out for more updates on Reedy Creek, so stay tuned to DFB for more.

See Why Disney May Not Fight the Death of Reedy Creek

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What do you think will happen with the Reedy Creek District? Let us know in the comments!

The post “There’s a New Sheriff in Town” — Florida Governor DeSantis Ends Disney’s Reedy Creek District first appeared on the disney food blog.

Have you always wanted to take a Disney cruise, but weren’t sure if you would be welcome without kids?

Disney Wish

Maybe you had fun on your last family trip, but want to enjoy a little quiet getaway while the kids are back home with the grandparents?

If you’ve never sailed with Disney Cruise Line before, you might be surprised to learn that there are 5 ships to select from: the Disney Magic, the Disney Wonder, the Disney Dream, the Disney Fantasy, and the newest ship in the fleet: the Disney Wish. Next year, the fleet will expand to 6 when the Disney Treasure debuts! You can sail out of a variety of ports to nearby spots like the Bahamas or far-off destinations like the Mediterranean.

Castaway Cay, Disney’s own private island!

While you can always pick from different excursions, there is plenty to do on the ship as well. From world-class dining to Broadway shows, you probably won’t have time to be bored. You may think that Disney Cruise Line is only for families with kids, but that is far from the truth. There are plenty of reasons why a Disney cruise could be an excellent vacation for those traveling without children!

Dining

Each ship in the fleet has its own unique dining options along with standard food-courts and quick service locations. While there are a fair amount of places with heavier Disney theming, you can also enjoy upscale dishes at fine dining restaurants like Palo, an adults-only spot that can be found on the Magic, Wonder, and Fantasy.

Grilled Cut Sirloin at Palo on the Disney Dream

Looking for something more exciting? The Disney Wish has several themed dining options that provide an engaging experience to your dinner and are fun for all ages. Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure gives guests dinner and a show as you dine on traditional Arendellian cuisine in the palace’s ballroom to celebrate Anna and Kristoff’s engagement! You’ll be entertained by characters from the films through song. You can also check out other themed restaurants like Worlds of Marvel or chill out in the Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge.

Accommodations

Disney Cruise ships often have spacious staterooms, with designs that give off a soothing atmosphere. While in your room you might just forget you’re on a Disney cruise! The staterooms can be a lovely place to relax, especially if you book one with a balcony.

Disney Magic Stateroom

The Disney design elements are often pretty subtle, so you don’t have to worry about stepping into a rainbow-colored room filled with bright patterns and Mickey Mouse faces! You can also upgrade to a deluxe stateroom or suite for a more luxurious experience.

Adult-Exclusive Experiences

Did you know that Disney Cruise Line has adults-only areas on all of their ships? You can enjoy experiences where all the age groups mix of course, but if you need a little break you can steal away to one of these areas. Disney Cruise Line offers adult dining, adults-only pools, and even an adults-only area on the beaches of Castaway Cay!

One of the bars in the adult area of the Disney Fantasy

The Disney Fantasy is the best in this category because all of the adults-only experiences are grouped together in one area of the ship. There are over 18 options to check out, including 7 bars and lounges!

Adult-only area on the Disney Wonder

For a more exciting evening you can spend your time at one of their night clubs. On the Disney Magic you’ll find Fathoms, an undersea-themed lounge with live entertainment. When it’s time to relax, book yourself a massage at the Senses Salon & Spa, which is available on every ship in the fleet. They also offer other treatments like facials, body wraps, and aromatherapy to really help wash your troubles away!

Entertainment

Apart from the live music and other entertainment in the bars and lounges, you can sit down and watch a variety of other shows while onboard. Disney Cruise Line often offers mini-versions of different Disney Broadway shows, like The Little Mermaid and Tangled. Dinner and a show definitely sounds like a wonderful way to spend your evening!

Walt Disney Theatre on the Disney Wish

There are also movie theaters on each ship where you can enjoy films completely free, including new releases! Sometimes your ship will also show films on the deck near one of the pools for a movie-under-the-stars experience. The Disney Dream and Fantasy also offer interactive mystery games with their Midship Detective Agency. You can join along to help crack the case, a fun activity for groups to take part in together!

Disney-Level Service

When you step aboard a Disney Cruise ship you’re not leaving the entire parks experience behind. Throughout your voyage guests are still treated to the exemplary Disney service we know and love. This is what really sets Disney Cruise Line apart from others.

Disney Wonder

Each aspect of your trip is designed to meet Disney’s high standards, and if you ever have an issue the Cast Members aboard can assist to the best of their abilities. Just know that when you embark on a Disney Cruise, you’ll still be met with the same attention to detail that you would expect from your regular resort stay.

Can’t decide which ship to choose? Check out this video where we rank each ship!

An Overview of EVERY Disney Cruise Line Restaurant

What You Need to Know About Disney Cruise Line

• Learn All About Disney Cruise Line and Its Various Ships

• Follow Along As We Explore Disney’s NEW Mega Cruise Ship – The Wish

• Learn ALL the Secrets of the Disney Wish

• We Ate EVERYTHING on Disney’s Newest Cruise Ship — The Disney Wish

• Learn About Disney Cruise Line’s COVID-19 Testing and Vaccination Policies

• Disney Wish COVID-19 Testing Mishaps to Avoid

• A Full List of What You CAN’T Bring on a Disney Cruise

• These Are the BEST Times to Book Your Disney Cruise

• The Best Ways to SAVE SPACE in Your Tiny Cruise Cabin

• 10 Things You NEED on Your Next Cruise (That You Won’t Think to Pack!)

• A Look at the COVID-19 Testing and Vaccination Policies For EVERY Major Cruise Line

• What It’s Like to Live on a Cruise Ship for 6 Months

Join the DFB Newsletter To Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox Click here to Subscribe

Have you been on a Disney cruise? What is your favorite thing about cruising with Disney? Comment your thoughts below!

The post Is Disney A Good Cruise Line Without Kids? first appeared on the disney food blog.

Disney has shared a first look at the new topiaries of Tiana and “Encanto” characters that will be displayed at the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival 2023.

Disney Horticulture and Walt Disney Imagineering worked together to design, build and grow diverse topiary masterpieces, including the debut of fearless Princess Tiana from the Walt Disney Animation Studios classic “The Princess and the Frog,” plus the courageous Madrigal sisters and young Antonio from Disney Animation’s Academy Award-winning “Encanto.”

This process of pushing boundaries and growing new magic began nearly a year ago. Talented artists developed sketches, Imagineers designed 3D models, skilled welders molded frames, and horticulture specialists chose plant materials. The results are charming, whimsical – and definitely photo-worthy!  

EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival 2023 will run from March 1 through July 5.

For the latest Disney Parks news and info, follow WDW News Today on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

The post First Look at New Tiana and ‘Encanto’ Topiaries Coming to EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival 2023 appeared first on WDW News Today.

A new Oswald the Lucky Rabbit MagicBand+ is available at Walt Disney World, as part of the new Disney100 Oswald collection.

Oswald the Lucky Rabbit Magic Band+ – $44.99

The MagicBand is white and covered with black Oswald-related iconography.

There are music notes, dumbbells, a top hat, a cane, a pencil, and Oswald’s rabbit ears.

Oswald himself is pictured on the center puck, popping out of a blue and red “hole.”

He’s also pictured playing the banjo and dancing next to his name on one end of the band.

We found this MagicBand+ in the Emporium at Magic Kingdom. A new platinum Oswald statue is also available at Walt Disney World.

Walt Disney created Oswald in 1927 for Universal Pictures and he debuted in 1927 with “Trolley Troubles.” Disney created 26 Oswald short films in 1927 and 1928, before losing creative control of the character. In 2006, CEO Bob Iger made a deal with NBCUniversal to regain Oswald. A new Oswald animated short was released last December.

For the latest Disney Parks news and info, follow WDW News Today on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

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