Anaheim City Council Gives Final Approval For DisneylandForward Expansion Plan

Last night (May 7th) the Anaheim City Council held it’s last meeting regarding the DisneylandForward expansion plan from The Walt Disney Company, and gave its final approval. The Details The council voted 7-0 to give the final approval to the project, following a previous unanimous vote approving the project in April. The park intends to… Read More »Anaheim City Council Gives Final Approval For DisneylandForward Expansion Plan

The post Anaheim City Council Gives Final Approval For DisneylandForward Expansion Plan appeared first on The Disney Blog.

Walt Disney World Restricts Park Admission for International Cast Members

Walt Disney World has abruptly changed their policy for international Cast Members’ admission to theme parks.

International Cast Members Admission Policy

EPCOT World Showcase Cast Members in a variety of costumes in front of Spaceship Earth

Walt Disney World Cast Members are provided with a complimentary Main Entrance Pass or Self-Admission Pass that allows them and a select number of guests entry into the parks. The type of pass and restrictions vary depending on if they are full-time, third-party, etc.

According to a tip received by WDWNT, the policy regarding admission for international employees was changed without warning recently. They are no longer receiving the less-used Self-Admission Pass but the Main Entrance Pass. The restrictions include only 16 uses per year. Cast Members can admit themselves and up to three others but must enter together. Previously, a Cast Member and their guests could enter separately at different times.

Visits are subject to the theme parks reservations system and these Cast are limited to holding just three reservations at a time. Reservations are difficult to get as all Cast Members with a Main Entrance Pass pull from the same pool (a similar situation with Disneyland Resort Magic Key holders led to a lawsuit). Reservations for the Self-Admission Pass are usually available.

Reportedly, Disney did not notify Cast Members of this change and some who traveled to the parks for a visit had their reservations unexpectedly canceled that same day.

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

The post Walt Disney World Restricts Park Admission for International Cast Members appeared first on WDW News Today.

TV Recap: The X-Men Reassemble for an Epic Battle in Penultimate Episode of “X-Men ’97”

The three-part X-Men ‘97 season finale kicked off last week with a bang as Bastion launched his Prime Sentinel attack on the mutants and Charles Xavier returned to Earth. Now, with Magneto back to his old ways and the X-Men facing a threat unlike they’ve ever seen, the stage is set for an epic final showdown. […]

The post TV Recap: The X-Men Reassemble for an Epic Battle in Penultimate Episode of “X-Men ’97” appeared first on LaughingPlace.com.

Aquatica Orlando Unveils New Nighttime Swim Party Experience AquaGlow Coming This Summer

Next month, Aquatica Orlando will launch an all-new swim party experience, AquaGlow. The first event will kick off June 7 and run select nights throughout the summer. What’s Happening: This June, Aquatica Orlando, voted Best Outdoor Water Park by USA Today’s 10Best Reader’s Choice, will launch all-new AquaGlow, an electrifying nighttime swim party experience that will […]

The post Aquatica Orlando Unveils New Nighttime Swim Party Experience AquaGlow Coming This Summer appeared first on LaughingPlace.com.

Disney’s Gotta Make Some Big Announcements, and They’re Promising to Do it This August

Are you beyond stoked for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event? We sure are!!

D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event

There are so many reasons to get excited. There will be special exhibitsexclusive merchandise, presentations, and more! But, what’s got us the most excited about this year’s event is what they could possibly talking about! We’re getting ready for it, so let’s talk about the big announcements that we’re looking for Disney to make at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event this August!

As we have said many times, if you haven’t already marked your calendars for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event this August, then you had better get on it! So what could possibly be in store for us in the form of announcements? Let’s dive right into the speculation zone for this one. Let’s go!

D23 Day at Disneyland Resort

A Tropical Paradise Awaiting at Animal Kingdom?

As we know, for months, Disney had been teasing that a Tropical Americas-themed land would replace Dinoland U.S.A. in Animal Kingdom, and last month, we finally got confirmation they’re moving forward with the project. They even went as far as to release concept art of the new land, with potential experiences inspired by Encanto and Indiana Jones.

So much to take in!

Based on the current layout of Dinoland U.S.A., it looks like the whole land will be undergoing a massive transformation. While plans can always change, we’re really excited about what we see, and Disney can go a long way to setting up even more hype and excitement by sharing new announcements about this land at D23.

Not To Be Dramatic, But This is The BEST Part of Disney World’s Animal Kingdom Expansion

Beyond The Thunder?

A couple of years ago, Disney announced a “blue sky” project that would bring a NEW land (or lands) to Magic Kingdom. Disney has always teased the possibility of adding Coco-Encanto-, and/or Disney VILLAINS-themed lands and attractions to Magic Kingdom. The project has been dubbed “Beyond Big Thunder Mountain” because expansion will likely be physically located behind the Big Thunder Mountain ride.

Possible Land Expansion in Magic Kingdom ©Disney

At first, it was just a “maybe, what if” kind of idea, but it’s been confirmed as something that’s really happening since then. At D23, Disney could put all of our fears and speculation to rest by officially sharing the plans, opening timeline, the addition of new attractions, restaurants, shows, and more. We say Disney should err on the side of sharing “too much” info on this. We’d love that for a change!

Disney Confirms Permit To Begin MASSIVE Magic Kingdom EXPANSION

Updates on the Treasure and Destiny

We all know and love the Disney Cruise Line, and its two newest ships getting ready to join the fleet, the Disney Treasure and Disney Destiny, are going to set sail in the near future!

©Disney

D23 could be the perfect platform for Disney to unveil more details about these highly anticipated vessels.

The Disney Destiny!

We’re expecting to hear even more about unique design features, all the onboard activities, and of course the destinations they’ll whisk us all away to in the not-too-distant future!

Will the Disney Treasure Sail to Disney’s Newest Island Destination? Here’s What You Need to Know!

When Will the New DVC Tower Open at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort?

Disney Vacation Club members have been eagerly waiting for the latest scraps of news on the new DVC tower under construction at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort (and who can blame them?).

Polynesian Village Resort construction — April 2024

The Polynesian Resort was basically perfect and now it’s going to be even more…perfect when this tower finishes its construction. So, it seems to us that D23 might just be the perfect platform to finally reveal its grand opening date!

We Have To Talk About All the NEW Expansion Updates at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

These are just a few of the possible announcements that could unfold at the D23 this August. Knowing Disney, one thing’s for sure. It’s going to be an event no Disney fan will want to miss!

©Disney

Don’t forget to stay tuned to DFB for the latest Disney news and updates from D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event later this year!

🚨 BEWARE This New RULE at the 2024 D23 Expo 🚨

Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!

WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.


Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.

Whether you’re a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!

Will you be attending the D23 Expo this year? Tell us all about it in the comments.

The post Disney’s Gotta Make Some Big Announcements, and They’re Promising to Do it This August first appeared on the disney food blog.

Disney FINALLY Released the Loungefly We’ve All Been Waiting On

We’re suckers for Disney merchandise, that’s no secret, but Disney merchandise that looks like some of our favorite snacks from the parks? Count us IN!

We love Mickey Ice Cream Sandwiches!

Yes, that means Disney has just released ANOTHER collection inspired by iconic Disney park snacks that we can’t resist, so naturally, we needed to tell you about it IMMEDIATELY.

DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.

A Backpack That Will Make You VERY Hungry

©Disney

For all our lovers of mint chocolate, you’ll want to grab the Disney Eats Ice Cream Sandwich Loungefly Mini Backpack! The front pocket of this bag looks just like a Mickey Ice Cream bar, and the rest of the bag is colored to match the theme.

Buy it while you can!

And a Headband to Match!

©Disney

And if you’re looking for the perfect ears to match, grab the Mickey Mouse Ice Cream Sandwich Ear Headband! They look just like the front of the Loungefly bag, but one of the sandwiches has a bite taken out of the ear!

Check it out!

Grab Yourself a New Cup While You’re At It!

©Disney

And if you’re not a fan of apparel, you can also grab part of the collection with the Disney Eats Ice Cream Sandwich Starbucks Tumbler!

Add it to your cart!

We’re expecting this collection to go pretty fast, so if you want a part of it, grab it while you can. We’ll be sure to keep you updated on all the latest Disney merchandise news, so stay tuned to DFB!

Check out our Amazon Storefront for more of our favorite Disney merchandise!

What’s your favorite item in the collection? Tell us in the comments!

The post Disney FINALLY Released the Loungefly We’ve All Been Waiting On first appeared on the disney food blog.

DFB Video: Hidden Disney World Money Traps

I know YOUR type. You are smart, savvy and probably an over-achiever.

You’re the type of person who doesn’t wanna be bamboozled by Disney’s super sneaky vacation costs. So let’s outsmart these extra expenses TOGETHER y’all.

Check out our video below: Hidden Disney World Money Traps

Are you a DFB Video subscriber? If you hit the button below, you can subscribe to our channel and catch up on ALL of our latest episodes!

And stay tuned for more Disney news! 

What’s your favorite Disney World purchase? Let us know in the comments!

The post DFB Video: Hidden Disney World Money Traps first appeared on the disney food blog.

10 Signs You Should SKIP Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Disney World

You’ve probably heard of FOMO (the fear of missing out), but have you considered JOMO — the joy of missing out?

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Crowds

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom is one of Disney World’s most popular seasonal events, and for good reason. Between trick-or-treating, lack of wait times, and all the fun Halloween entertainment, we get it. However, if you’re looking for reasons to skip Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party this year, we get that too.

While we generally think Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is worth attending, we’ve come up with 10 signs you should skip this year’s festivities!

Long lines never bothered you anyway

Let it go! Let it go! That is, let go of the desire for short wait times!

Pirates of the Caribbean

Long lines don’t bother you? In fact, maybe you like looking at all the little details in a ride’s queue. Maybe you don’t want to pay extra for shorter waits. If that’s the case, pass on Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, as the event tends to yield shorter wait times due to reduced park occupancy.

©Disney

In all seriousness, if the only reason you’d go to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is the shorter waits, we recommend looking into Genie+ or individual Lightning Lanes during a regular park visit instead. Both services will likely cost you far less than tickets to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, as well.

You don’t see well in the dark

Hey, there’s no shame in calling it quits before the sun sets.

Haunted Mansion

After-dark events are just that — dark. So if you prefer plenty of light to actually see where you’re walking, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party probably isn’t the place for you.

Rope-dropping lines at Magic Kingdom

If you aren’t a vampire and crave as much sunlight as possible, rope-dropping Magic Kingdom is a viable solution that will help you maximize the daylight.

Disney villains give you the heebie-jeebies

Ok, but seriously, Disney has some VERY creepy villains.

Chillin’ like a villain

Villains like Cruella de Vil and Maleficent are CREEPY and no one is going to question your desire to stay far, far away from them! Considering Disney Halloween events naturally gravitate towards Disney’s illustrious villain catalog, it’s safe to say you’ll see quite a few ne’er-do-wells at the Party!

Disney Villains in Mickey’s Boo To You Parade

However, if you still like character meet-and-greets, there are plenty of friendly ones you can experience during non-event days!

You refuse to let the Sanderson Sisters bewitch you

Speaking of villains, we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention the infamous Sanderson Sisters from Disney’s Hocus Pocus franchise!

Hocus Pocus Villains Spelltacular (2022)

You’ve seen the movies and know not to listen to the villainous sisters sing! And sing they will in the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular!

Minnie, Daisy, and Clarabelle as the Sanderson Sisters

If you decide to attend despite your fear of the sisters from Salem, you might also see a familiar trio make an appearance dressed as the Sanderson sisters. But don’t worry — these cosplayers only spread joy instead of chaos.

Money

This one is a pretty serious reason to skip Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. Dropping dough on Disney extras isn’t an easy decision to make. And we get it if you can’t justify the cost.

Treasure Chest of Gold Coins

Prices will run you $119 to $199 per ticket, plus tax depending on the date, and that’s already an increase from last year.

You’ll want to save money when you visit Disney World

If you’re traveling to Disney World on a budget, check out our recommendations for the cheapest times to visit in 2024 by CLICKING HERE!

Candy grosses you out

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

Candy…candy everywhere! That’s what you’ll find at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. If you don’t like candy or are opposed to other sweet treats, this is not the event for you.

Snow White Table on Living with the Land

Believe it or not, you can eat healthy at Disney World and we have the guide to prove it! CLICK HERE to check it out!

Costume parties aren’t your style

It may not be mandatory to dress up in a costume for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, but it is encouraged!

@majikwyfe

If you’re more accustomed to normal, non-costumed Disney days, then Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is going to feel…odd. Of course, these events are the rare occasions when adults are actually allowed to dress up, but if that’s not your thing, who are we to argue?

@samantha_rose_51 @salt_n_sass_kicking_pots_ass

If you don’t want to commit fully to a costume but still want to look like your favorite Disney character, we suggest giving DisneyBounding a go instead!

You’re more of a Christmas person

Hey, you’re more than game for a fun special Disney seasonal event, but ’tis not the season…yet.

Mickey’s Once Upon A Christmastime parade

We know what you’re waiting for — Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom later this year. If you’ve only got time for one of the holiday parties, you’re picking the one with Santa, right?

It’s SANTA!

Not too much is known about this year’s festive holiday event, but we may learn more about it over the summer, so stick around here at DFB for any updates!

Mom said we have Halloween at home

Who are we to argue with Mom?

Halloween in Disney World

You want to come out for this year’s Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, but Mom, a significant other, your wallet, etc. said “no”. That’s life — but not all is lost!

©Disney

You can still get into the Disney Halloween spirit at home with Disney+! Stream Halloween classics like the Hocus Pocus movies or the Halloweentown series!

You crave REAL scares

Let’s face it — Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is a lot of fun, but it’s catered towards families and is very tame compared to other theme park Halloween events.

©Universal

If that’s the case, we recommend something more like Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights, of which tickets are already on sale.

©Universal

If supreme horror is your thing, be sure to follow us here for updates on the new Universal Horror Unleashed experience coming to Las Vegas in the hopefully-near future!

There you have it! All in all, whether or not you attend Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is up to you, regardless of our silly reasons as to why you should not attend. If you do participate, share your experiences with us, and, in the meantime, be sure to follow us here at DFB for all the latest Disney World news, tips, and more!

CONFIRMED: Exclusive NEW Character Meet-and-Greet Coming to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party in Disney World!

IT’S SPOOK-TACULAR!


Get ready for the spookiest season of the year at Disney World! We are beyond thrilled to announce the arrival of our brand-new guide — Halloween at Disney World: DFB’s Spook-tacular Guide!

From the thrills of Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party to the enchanting resort decorations that’ll send shivers down your spine, our guide is packed with tips and tricks to help you squeeze every ounce of ghoulish fun out of your visit. Plus, we’ve got the inside scoop on all the limited-time-only bone-chilling activities happening across the parks!

Get the Halloween at Disney World: DFB’s Spook-tacular Guide to make your frightfully delightful adventure even more magical!

What are some reasons you’ve passed on Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party? Let us know in the comments!

The post 10 Signs You Should SKIP Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog.

The 92 Days That’ll be Massively AWKWARD in EPCOT This Year

EPCOT festivals are some of the most exciting offerings throughout the year in the park.

EPCOT

It’s a fantastic way to try some new dishes you normally wouldn’t know about, experience other cultures without purchasing an entire meal, and experience some amazing entertainment. However, Disney has changed something this year which means there’s about to be a pretty awkward period in the park later this year.

In past years, Disney World typically puts their festivals right next to each other with very few days in between. However this year, that has changed.

EPCOT

In fact, there are 92 (!!) days in between the end of EPCOT’s Flower and Garden Festival (May 27th) and the beginning of EPCOT’s Food and Wine Festival (August 29th). At this time, we do not have dates for the beginning of EPCOT’s International Festival of the Holidays, but it typically starts the day after Thanksgiving, which is November 29th this year.

Flower and Garden Festival

So what exactly does this mean? Well, it won’t seem like there’s too much of a difference for people who don’t pay a lot of attention to festivals when they’re in EPCOT anyway, but for the vast majority of EPCOT fans who travel there specifically to experience the festival offerings, you may feel like the park is lacking some of its pizzazz. 

EPCOT

All the booths will be closed around the park, limited the dining options you have around the park by around half, and there won’t be any special concerts or entertainment happening. While you’ll still be able to experience all the attractions the park typically has to offer, festival-goers may feel like they’re really missing out.

Festival of the Arts Artwork

If you find yourself in EPCOT during this time and are missing these opportunities, there are a few things we suggest doing to still fulfill those cultural experiences you’re looking for!

  • Check out the restaurants and stands around World Showcase! Even without festivals going on in EPCOT, there are consistently open quick service and table service offerings in the World Showcase that will give you a fantastic taste of the culture of that country. Some of our favorites are Spice Road Table in Morocco, La Cava del Tequila in Mexico, Chefs de France in France, and Biergarten in Germany, just to name a few!
  • Head out of the park early and go to Disney Springs for some live entertainment! Disney Springs often has local and popular bands playing at the various stages around the area. You can grab some great food at different restaurants in the area and have a wonderful evening.
  • Research the park’s year round offerings, such as the rides, shows, and what transportation options are available to other parks in case you prefer to park hop. You can take the Skyliner to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the Monorail to the Ticket and Transportation Center and then to Magic Kingdom, and a bus to Disney’s Animal Kingdom!

Canada Pavilion

This is also why it’s important to wait until Disney makes announcements about festivals before booking your trip, if at all possible, so you’re not disappointed if you happen to miss the festival. We’re always here to help you plan your next vacation and bring you all the latest news, so stay tuned to DFB!

Learn all about EPCOT’s Food and Wine Festival here to get prepared!

Click here to subscribe

What’s your favorite EPCOT festival? Tell us in the comments!

The post The 92 Days That’ll be Massively AWKWARD in EPCOT This Year first appeared on the disney food blog.