Pride Month is just around the corner and with that comes some special offerings!

Pride Month Sign

Disney World has a lot going on in June, Pride Month included! If you’d like to join the festivities and take advantage of some special Pride Month offers, Disney Springs might have just the thing for you!

PATINA®

To celebrate the vibrancy of the LGBT+ community, these restaurants have created four unique cocktails crafted with 21Seeds tequila and real fruit.

The drinks and the restaurants where you can find them are as follows:

Maria and Enzo’s, Enzo’s Hideaway, and The Edison 

• Seed & Sassy: Choice of 21Seeds Infused Tequila with club soda, served over fresh fruit and ice for $15
• Spicy Ms. Margarita: 21Seeds Cucumber Jalapeño Infused Tequila, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup with a lime wedge, cucumber slices, and salted rim for $17

Morimoto Asia 

Seed & Sassy and Spicy Ms. Margarita are offered here in addition to two more drinks: 

• Mr. Margarita: 21Seeds Valencia Orange Infused Tequila, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup with a lime wedge, cucumber slices, and salted rim for $17
• Proud Paloma: 21Seeds Grapefruit Hibiscus Infused Tequila, pink grapefruit juice, and club soda, served with a slice of grapefruit and a sprig of basil for $15

The Edison in Disney Springs

Along with these new June offerings, Patina Restaurant Group’s Orlando restaurants will make a donation to The Center Orlando, an LGBT+ organization that strives to promote and empower the LGBT+ “community and its allies through advocacy, education, information, and support.”

So if you’re all about the cause and want to give back, head over to any of these four restaurants and grab yourself a cocktail!

Maria & Enzo’s Area

Patina Restaurant Group’s Pride Month offerings are just another part of the larger Disney World Pride Month celebration, which in the past has included special merchandise, new food, unique PhotoPass backgrounds, and Pride Month-themed art and decorations around the resort.

Pride Month mural in 2023

We’ll keep you posted on Pride Month updates as they roll out in addition to any and all Disney Springs and Disney World news — so stay tuned right here at the Disney Food Blog for all the latest!

ALERT! Disney Just Dropped a NEW Pride Collection Online!

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!

GET YOUR GUIDE NOW

Are you a fan of any of the restaurants offering these limited-time drinks? Let us know in the comments!

The post ALERT! These NEW Disney World Cocktails Are Gonna Be POPULAR! first appeared on the disney food blog.

We’ve given you a heads-up about all kinds of things that can go wrong with your Disney World vacation and tried to prepare you every step of the way.

©Terminix

This time we don’t have trip cancellations or delays to tell you about, but we do have ANOTHER pesky bug to warn you about before it has a chance to make a dent in your vacation plans!

If you’re planning a trip to Disney World in the near future, you’ll want to be aware of an ant species that is capable of setting up “super colonies”. Yep, you heard us right… and you’ll need to be aware because they’re starting to pop up all over Florida.

©Arrow Termite and Pest Control

This problematic ant species isn’t just your normal, run-of-the-mill ant. Although they’ve been around for decades, with summer just beginning it’s a prime season for these ants to spread. According to WKMG, researchers at the University of Florida have named this particular ant the “Tawny Crazy Ant” due to the erratic and quick ways they move and their reddish-brown color.

Tawny crazy ants feeding on NecDew (Photo Credit: Dr. Rudolf Scheffrahn) (Rudolf Scheffrahn)

Although they’ve got quite the jarring name, these ants are relatively harmless, since their bites are very lame and they have no sting. The real problem you’ll encounter with them is that they’re capable of creating “super colonies” with more than one queen and a system of connected nests. Several counties in Florida have already reported trouble dealing with these ants and we can totally see why.

©WKMG

According to Dr. Rudolf Scheffrahn, a professor of entomology at the University of Florida, just spraying the infected area won’t fix your problem. While most folks want to self-treat or get pest control companies in to take care of the problem, these pests aren’t going away easily until you’re able to deal with all of their nests (and there might not be an easy way to know where and how many of them are connected).

Dead crazy ants outside of a screened patio (Photo Credit: UF/IFAS) (University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences)

Experts are advising that if you experience an infestation, you should try to remember the following:

• Eliminate food, water, and shelter that could encourage ants to seek out your property.
• De-clutter and remove debris or other unneeded items from your property.
• Establish regular trash removal.
• If you have had pest control performed on your property, don’t hose ants off the pavement area, as this can also wash away the treatment. Instead, use a blower.
• Prepare to pay for frequent pest control services.
• Be careful about “self-treating,” as your efforts could counteract those of a professional pest control service. For example, spraying an insecticide over a bait could render the bait ineffective.

However, even if your best efforts prove less successful than what’s ideal, not all hope is lost. Dr. Scheffrahn also added that this species of ant is “ephemeral,” which means they won’t stick around for too long. He explained their M.O. is to come into an area, take over, and then abruptly leave after a year or two. While he’s not totally certain of what exactly drives them out eventually, Scheffrahn thinks it could be as simple as being lesser to fire ants or encountering another big-headed ant species that take over their habitat.

It’s certainly not ideal for something to encounter while you’re looking to have the best vacation ever but knowing what to watch for and being proactive with treatment really will be your best route of trying to rid yourself of these pests fastest.

Be sure you stay tuned with us at Disney Food Blog as we bring you the latest in news, updates, and more to help you plan for your next Disney World vacation!

4 Hotel Rooms in Disney World That Are Only 127 Steps Away from the Skyliner

What are the bugs in Florida that you dread most when you visit? Give us your list in the comments below!

The post A ‘Crazy Ant’ Species Has Been Spotted Near Disney World. No, Really. We’re Serious. first appeared on the disney food blog.

We give out plenty of Disney World tips here at DFB, but one of the most important will always be remembering sun protection!

Flying

We seriously cannot stress enough the importance of keeping your skin safe from those harmful UV rays — whether it’s with sunscreen, a hat, loose long-sleeved shirts, or whatever floats your boat. But, we recently learned a travel fact that may or may not have scarred us for life, and if we have to be scared forever now — so do you.

Sure, you know you need to worry about wearing sunscreen — and the proper amount at that — when you’re outside in the sunshine, at the beach, at Disney World, and really anywhere you’re planning on going where you might be exposed to the sun. But, did you know you should actually also be wearing sunscreen when you’re on a flight?!

Air travel

It’s the truth, it’s factual, but not everything is satisfactual if you don’t wear sunscreen on your next flight. According to the Ohio State University (OSU), airplane passengers are especially at risk “because airplane travel is closer to the ozone layer of Earth’s atmosphere.” This means that ultraviolet (UV) radiation can be even more powerful and pose a greater risk of sun damage.

Flying can be stressful!

Passenger exposure is typically less than that of the flight crew, especially pilots, because of the difference in the size of passenger windows as opposed to cockpit windows, the different frequencies, and extended periods of time spent on airplanes. Luckily, not all hope is lost! There are ways to protect your skin when you’re in the skies.

OSU recommends applying “a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF of 30 or higher, and reapply every two hours. If you’re in a window seat on an airplane, shut the shade when you can.”

But, it’s not just air travel that can pose risks of harmful UV exposure.

Flying on Frontier Airlines

Anytime you’re near a window exposed to daylight for long periods of time you’re potentially exposing yourself to UV rays — which can increase your risk for skin cancer and sun damage that leads to early signs of aging. Wearing SPF 30 or higher sunscreen and reapplying regularly can be a huge help, but so can wearing sun-protective clothing or a wide-brimmed hat.

You’re sure to be the most fabulous-looking passenger on the plane! And, check out our tips for how to choose the best sunscreen below.

Airplane

• First thing’s first, check the ingredients. There may be some that you are allergic to (for example, many sunscreens contain gluten) or you may prefer a product with more natural ingredients. If you are concerned about these things, check the labels.
• For all sunscreens, doctors recommend using at least SPF 30 or higher and ones that provide both UVA and UVB protection (sometimes called “broad spectrum”). However, if you do pick a sunscreen with a higher SPF, that doesn’t mean using less or applying it less often, so stick to your normal sunscreen routine.
• Now, figure out what you are looking for in sunscreen. This can help narrow down your choices! We have compiled some great options for each of these categories, so take a look below!
  • If you have little ones, there are specially-formulated sunscreens for infants and kids that start off white so you can see where it has already been applied before fully rubbing it in.
  • For those with darker skin tones, there are plenty of options for sunscreens that won’t leave a white-cast on your skin.
  • Natural sunscreens are great for those who prefer organic products and for people with sensitive skin.
  • Spray sunscreens are popular for their light-weight feel and ease of application.
  • It’s always a good idea to bring some travel-sized sunscreens for reapplication while in the parks.

Let’s fly!

Don’t forget to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog as we continue to bring you the latest travel news, updates from Disney World, and more!

I Travel to Disney World 20 Times a Year. This Is How I Keep My Skin Healthy Despite Airplane Air.

What’s your best suncare tip? Tell us in the comments.

The post This Travel Fact Scared Me and Now I Wear Sunscreen on Planes first appeared on the disney food blog.

It’s not uncommon to see Disney parks close early every now and then.

Hollywood Studios

However, when they do, they add it to their calendar with at least a week’s notice typically, to help guests plan for what park(s) they’d like to visit on that day. If you’re heading into Disney World next week, you need to know that one park is closing WAY early on June 5th.

On this date, Disney’s Hollywood Studios will close early at 5:30PM. This is due to the SAP Sapphire & ASUG Annual Conference Orlando. They will be hosting a special event in the park that evening.

©Disney

Park pass reservations for regular ticket holders and hotel guests are also totally sold out for Hollywood Studios on June 5th, however some Annual Passholders can still grab passes.

Slinky Dog Dash

So what should you do? Well, you could grab a park pass reservation for a different Disney World park, since plenty are still available, OR if you’re an an Annual Passholder who can still grab a reservation, it’s POSSIBLE (key word here being possible) that crowds many actually be lower during the day, since most ticket holders who don’t need park passes won’t want to go to Hollywood Studios on the day that it’ll be cut short.

Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway

Looking for more recent Hollywood Studios news? Check out our posts below!

As always, stay tuned to DFB for all the latest Disney news!

Check out where this part of the permanently closed Star Wars hotel is hiding in Hollywood Studios!

What’s your favorite part of a Hollywood Studios day? Tell us in the comments!

The post REMINDER: Hollywood Studios Closes EARLY One Day Next Week first appeared on the disney food blog.

Fireworks over Cinderella Castle are an iconic part of a Disney World vacation.

Happily Ever After fireworks in Magic Kingdom

For many people, a Magic Kingdom day just isn’t complete without staying for the nightly fireworks. And the fireworks shows are getting more and more elaborate — going from basic fireworks in the “Fantasy in the Sky” show that ran at Magic Kingdom from its opening day in 1971 to 2003, to the first show with a storyline and music designed to elicit emotion (“Wishes”), to the addition of castle projections and today, projections on the castle and all the way down Main Street, U.S.A., as well as spotlights and other effects in “Happily Ever After.”

But what if the fireworks that have been a part of almost every evening for more than five decades went away? Nearly 1,000 people responded to our question about this on Facebook, so let’s take a look at what YOU said!

Now, here’s the thing. Fireworks are becoming a bit controversial because of air pollution. A recent study reported that fireworks do increase air pollution and decrease air quality. Researchers from the University of Maryland monitored particulate matter in the air at 315 sites around the United States for a few days before and after the Fourth of July — when you’re most likely to have fireworks shows. They found that particulate matter in the air was elevated an average of 42% on July 4th-5th.

In addition, there are fire risks associated with fireworks — and in 2021, there was a small fire near Cinderella Castle in Disney World that was reportedly caused by the fireworks.

Image from DFB reader @ptolley_ on Twitter

And now, we’re seeing drone shows as an alternative to fireworks in many places — including Disney Springs, where the “Disney Dreams That Soar” drone show has just debuted and is set to run nightly throughout the summer. (And we need to note that there are questions about the environmental impact of drones, too — especially if they operate on Lithium-Ion batteries.)

Disney Dreams That Soar

We’ve got a look at how to handle the crowds at the drone show and some of the best places to watch. But this show got us wondering if drones could ever replace the fireworks in Magic Kingdom, and we decided to ask YOU — our experts — on Facebook. We got 1,000 responses, so we know you have some strong feelings about whether or not fireworks should remain.

Carl and Ellie’s house from Up in Disney Dreams That Soar

Bring On the Drones!

Malarie said the environmental impact would be less with drones, so she’s all for them: “Yes. Better for the environment, and honestly what they can do with drones is way more interesting. I understand the sentimental attachment to fireworks, but I absolutely believe this is the right way forward and inevitable and in 5 years after they implement it people will be curious why it didn’t happen sooner.”

Jamie agreed, saying, “I think it would be fine, honestly. I’m sure they’d come up with something magical that still struck and awed us. Plus, the environmental impact of fireworks kinda sucks. I definitely wouldn’t knock it until I saw it.”

View of the drone show from the Coca-Cola rooftop

And some readers went beyond environmental concerns, saying that the explosions associated with fireworks can have a negative impact on autistic people or those suffering from PTSD.

Drone shows are “far more environmentally friendly, not to mention PTSD-friendly. Easier to configure new shows for more minor holidays, and other special events. I’m not certain, but they might also be more cost-effective in the long run as well. And no loud bangs to frighten the smaller children,” according to Laurie. 

And Annette said it would be “finally a way for kids on the spectrum to enjoy a magical ending to a magical day.”

Keep the Fireworks, Please

But about an equal number of comments advocated for keeping the traditional fireworks in Magic Kingdom.

Derek said he thinks drones are cool, “but I prefer fireworks.”

And Belazco said absolutely not — “Fireworks are prettier and more old school. Not everything needs to change, some things are just classic and need to stay that way.”

Magic Kingdom fireworks

“I think that would be cool and more ecofriendly but I think they should stick to the magic of fireworks and maybe do a special drone show once in a while,” said Jillian.

And Josef said he doesn’t want to see a change: “At the risk of sounding like an old white guy, (I’m not old) some things don’t need to change. Like I’m fine with most ride changes, etc, Disney has to keep things fresh. But honestly, the fireworks feel magical when you see them above the castle. Save the drones for something else.”

Add a Drone Show in Another Park

Some of you who were opposed to drones replacing fireworks in Magic Kingdom did say you would like to see drones in another park. The most common suggestion here was Animal Kingdom — because fireworks there would negatively impact the wildlife.

Kristin said, “I think they would be great at Animal Kingdom.”

And Miranda agreed. “The Animal Kingdom might be a great place for a night time drone show. I dont believe they would harm or disturb the animals and it would be great to see the park open late.”

Animal Kingdom

And John made the point that the amphitheater in Animal Kingdom that used to be the home of KiteTails could be a good location. “A drone show at Animal Kingdom would be great. Disney needs to get ROI on the rivers amphitheater they built. They could do Lion King , Jungle Book , so many movies to use. They need a night time show there again.”

But some of you suggested EPCOT as a good drone show location!

<3

Candice said, “at EPCOT they would be cool. I hate the fireworks there.”

And Doug agreed. “…put the drones at Epcot!! Something different at each park!”

Why Not Do Both?

Many of you also suggested that an addition of drones to the fireworks and projections would make a nighttime spectacular at the Magic Kingdom even better.

Sashia said she’s in favor of a compromise. “Drones is great and all but not the same magical feeling!! Maybe incorporate the drones with the Fireworks show!!!”

And Laurence agreed. “…the fireworks should be enhanced with the drone show.”

Peter Pan

“Drone show before fireworks like in Paris for the win,” Darren said.

And Edward floated an idea that might help eliminate that post-fireworks crowd crush: “If the drone show happens over the 7 seas lagoon at the same time as the fireworks it will split the crowd. It pleases everybody and helps the congestion that occurs at the hub amd on main street.”

And there you have it — a sampling of the HUNDREDS of responses we got about replacing the Magic Kingdom fireworks with a drone show. Keep following us here at DFB for alllll the Disney news — we go to Disney World every day to bring it to you!

2 Ways to Beat the Chaotic Crowds at the Disney Springs Drone Show

Fireworks or drones? Where do you fall in this debate? Let us know in the comments!

The post Is It Time To Say Goodbye to the Magic Kingdom Fireworks? 1,000 Disney Fans Had STRONG Opinions first appeared on the disney food blog.