I am always so impressed with parents who can keep the secret while planning a surprise Disney vacation. Have you ever wanted to surprise your kids with a Disney World vacation, but just unsure the best way to do it? Whether it’s a first visit or a special celebration, it can be a lot of fun to plan a surprise Disney vacation. Here are ten different ways to give your kids a surprise Disney vacation!
1. Scavenger Hunt: You can hide clues throughout your home where they will eventually find the last clue revealing the big trip. You can even have them pick up small gifts at each stop to compile at the end. Some of the earlier clues can be more generic like sunglasses, new luggage, hats, and swim suits.
5. Letter from Mickey: You can make a letter from Mickey Mouse for your kids letting them know that you’ll be coming to visit. Or, if you book your Disney World vacation with us, we will send your family a letter from Mickey Mouse in addition to an autographed picture to help with your surprise.
6. Custom Shirts: You can reveal your surprise Disney vacation with new shirts! If you are crafty, there is plenty of inspiration on Pinterest or you can always order some from Etsy or Amazon.
7. Character Call: If you are sailing on a Disney cruise, you can schedule a FREE call prior to your sailing from Mickey, Goofy, or Mickey and Minnie together. This can be a great way to tell the kids about your cruise!
8. Surprise at the Airport: If your kids aren’t big enough to read, you may be able to make it all the way to the airport before having to reveal the big surprise. Imagine the look on their faces as you pull up and they see all of the airplanes coming in and out!
9. A Box Full of Balloons, Characters, and More: If you can get a big cardboard box, fill it with Disney inspired goodies like balloons, plush, confetti, and more. Your kids will love unwrapping it and opening it to find surprises with clues revealing your vacation.
10. Puzzle: You can make your own puzzle at home or order one from Shutterfly to reveal your special message telling your family about their surprise Disney vacation. You can also find a beautiful wooden puzzle for a Disney World vacation or a Disney Cruise Line vacation.
Have you ever revealed a surprise Disney vacation? Share your experience below!
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Do you love eating at Disney? I do! Half of the fun of a Disney vacation is all of the delicious meals and snacks that I can enjoy in the parks and resorts! We can’t be in the parks every day though to enjoy all of those delicious treats. So, instead we can can taste a bit of the magic at home with these ten official Disney Parks recipes.
Disney Parks Churro Bites
Photo: Disney
Ingredients
1 cup water
8 tablespoons butter
¼ teaspoon salt
¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon, divided
1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
3 eggs
1 ½ cups vegetable or canola oil
½ cup sugar
Instructions
Combine water, butter, salt, and ¼ teaspoon cinnamon in 1 ½-quart saucepan over medium heat. Bring pot to rolling boil.
Reduce heat to low.
Add flour and stir vigorously until mix forms a ball. Remove from heat and let rest for 5-7 min.
Add eggs, one at a time, and stir until combined. Set aside.
Heat oil in medium skillet or 1-quart saucepan over medium-high heat or until temperature reaches 350˚.
Spoon dough into piping bag fitted with large star tip. Pipe 1-inch strip of dough over saucepan, cut with knife, and drop into hot oil. Repeat until churro bites fill saucepan with room to fry.
Fry churro bites until golden brown. Remove with slotted spoon or mesh spider strainer.
Drain churro bites on paper towel.
Mix sugar and ½ teaspoon cinnamon in medium bowl. Toss in churro bites until coated. Place on serving plate and serve with favorite dipping sauce.
Mickey Mouse-shaped Beignets
Photo: Disney
Ingredients:
1/2 teaspoon dry yeast
1/4 cup warm water (105°)
1/4 cup sugar
2 tablespoons vegetable shortening
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 egg
4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup boiling water
Vegetable oil for frying
Powdered sugar
Directions:
Sprinkle yeast over warm water in a small bowl, stirring to dissolve. Let stand for 5 minutes.
Combine sugar, shortening, salt, heavy cream, egg, flour and boiling water in a large bowl; stir in yeast mixture. With the dough hook attachment of an electric mixer on medium speed, mix the dough just until combined and smooth. Let dough rest for 30 minutes.
Roll to 1/4-inch thickness and cut individual beignets with a Mickey Mouse-shaped cutter or cut into 2 1/2 to 3-inch squares. Cover with a towel and let dough rise until doubled in size in a warm, draft-free area, about 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
Using caution, heat 3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F in a deep, heavy pot over medium-high heat. Fry beignets until golden brown, about 2 to 3 minutes, turning as soon as they brown on one side. Remove with tongs and place on paper towels to drain. Dust warm beignets with powdered sugar and serve immediately.
Chocolate-Hazelnut Lunch Box TartsRecipe (from Woody’s Lunch Box at Disney’s Hollywood Studios)
Photo: Disney
Ingredients
Chocolate Hazelnut Tarts
4 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 1/4 teaspoons coarse salt, divided
3 sticks unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
1/4 cup coconut oil
3 eggs, divided
10 tablespoons water
1/2 cup chocolate hazelnut spread
Icing
1 cup confectioners’ sugar
2 tablespoons milk, divided
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Garnish
4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
Instructions
For Chocolate Hazelnut Tart
Combine flour, sugar, brown sugar, 2 teaspoons of salt, butter, coconut oil, and 2 of the eggs in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Mix on medium speed until combined.
Add water and mix on low speed for 1 minute. Increase speed and blend until dough is smooth. Do not overmix.
Divide dough into two even balls and wrap in plastic wrap. Rest in refrigerator for 45 minutes.
Preheat over to 375 degrees.
Mix remaining egg and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a small bowl. Set aside.
Lightly flour a large cutting board and roll first ball of dough into 1/4-inch thick rectangle. Cut into eight 2- by 6-inch rectangles.
Place rectangles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with reserved egg wash. Spread 1 tablespoon of chocolate-hazelnut spread on the rectangle.
Roll remaining ball of dough into 1/4-inch thick rectangle and cut into eight 2- by 6-inch rectangles. Place on top of chocolate hazelnut covered tarts and seal edges with a fork. Brush top of tarts with egg wash.
Bake for 17 minutes, until golden brown. Cool completely.
For Icing
Mix sugar, 1 tablespoon of the milk, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Slowly add remaining milk until icing is smooth and spreads easily, but is not runny.
Spread icing on each cooled tart and top with bacon pieces.
Grilled Three-Cheese SandwichRecipe (from Woody’s Lunch Box at Disney’s Hollywood Studios)
Photo: Disney
Ingredients:
Cream Cheese Spread
1/2 cup cream cheese
1/2 cup shredded Double Gloucester or cheddar
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
Garlic Spread
1 cup mayonnaise
1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
Grilled Three-Cheese Sandwich
8 slices of artisan bread
8 cheddar cheese slices
8 provolone slices
Instructions:
For Cream Cheese Spread:
Combine cream cheese, Double Gloucester or cheddar, heavy cream, and salt in food processor. Blend until smooth. Set aside.
For Garlic Spread:
Combine mayonnaise, garlic, and salt in small bowl and stir until blended. Set aside.
For Grilled Three-Cheese Sandwich:
Lay out artisan bread slices on parchment paper or large cutting board.
Place 2 slices of cheddar on 4 of the bread slices. Place 2 slices of provolone on remaining bread slices.
Equally spoon cream cheese spread on slices with provolone. Gently smooth cream cheese spread over each slice.
Press cheddar side and provolone side together.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes, until hot.
Brush both sides of the sandwiches with garlic spread.
Grill sandwiches for 2 minutes on each side, until cheese is melted and bread is golden brown.
Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup Recipe (from Le Cellier Steakhouse at EPCOT)
Photo: Disney
Ingredients:
1/2 pound of bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces 1 medium red onion, cut into 1/4-inch pieces 3 celery ribs, cut into 1/4-inch pieces 4 tablespoons butter 1 cup all-purpose flour 3 cups chicken stock 4 cups milk 1 pound white cheddar cheese, grated 1 tablespoon Tabasco sauce 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Coarse salt, freshly ground pepper to taste 1/2 cup warm Canadian golden lager or any pale lager-style beer Chopped scallions or chives, for garnish
Directions:
In a 4- or 5-quart Dutch oven, cook bacon, stirring, over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until lightly browned.
Add red onion, celery, and butter and sauté until onion has softened, about 5 minutes.
Add flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 4 minutes over medium heat. Whisk in chicken stock and bring to boil for 1 minute. Reduce heat to simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add milk and continue to simmer for 15 minutes. Do not boil after milk is added.
Remove from heat and add cheese, Tabasco sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Blend with immersion blender until cheese is melted and soup is smooth. Stir in warm beer. If the soup is too thick, thin with some warm milk.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped scallions or chives.
The Grey Stuff Recipe
Photo: Disney
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups cold whole milk
1 (3.4 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
15 chocolate sandwich cookies
1 (8 ounce) container whipped topping, thawed
3 tablespoons instant chocolate pudding mix
12 scalloped sugar cookies
Edible sugar pearls
Directions:
Pour milk into large mixing bowl. Add instant vanilla pudding mix and whisk for 2 minutes until smooth and slightly thickened. Place in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours, until firm.
Place chocolate sandwich cookies in food processor and pulse until puréed.
Fold puréed cookies into pudding mix. Stir until fully mixed.
Add whipped topping and instant chocolate pudding. Stir until fully mixed.
Place in refrigerator and chill for one hour.
Spoon grey stuff into piping bag fitted with desired tip. Pipe grey stuff onto cookies. Top with sugar pearls.
Tonga Toast Recipe (from Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort)
Photo: Disney
Ingredients:
Sugar-Cinnamon
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon
Batter
4 large eggs
1 1/3 cup whole milk
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Tonga Toast
1 quart canola oil, for frying
1 loaf sourdough bread (uncut, 12 inches long)
2 large bananas, peeled
Directions:
For Sugar-Cinnamon:
Mix sugar and cinnamon in medium bowl (large enough to roll toast) with a fork until thoroughly blended. Set aside.
For Batter:
Whip eggs in medium bowl (large enough to dip toast) until well beaten. Add milk, cinnamon, and sugar. Mix well and set aside.
For Tonga Toast:
Using caution, preheat oil to 350°F in a large pot or a deep fryer. (If using a large pot, use a candy thermometer to make certain the oil does not get any hotter or it will burn.)
Slice the bread into four three-inch-thick slices.
Cut each banana in half crosswise, then each piece lengthwise.
Place a bread slice flat on the counter and tear out just enough from the middle (do not tear all the way through) to stuff half a banana into; repeat with each bread slice.
Dip stuffed bread into batter, covering both sides, allowing excess batter to drip off bread and place carefully into hot oil.
Cook 4-5 minutes until golden brown. If needed, turn toast over after 2 minutes and cook for another 2 minutes on other side. Remove and drain excess oil.
Roll toast in cinnamon-sugar. Repeat for each piece of toast.
Peanut Butter & Jelly Milk Shake Recipe (from 50’s Prime Time Café at Disney’s Hollywood Studios)
Photo: Disney
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons peanut butter
2 tablespoons jelly (strawberry or grape)
2 cups vanilla ice cream
1/4 cup milk
Directions:
Add all ingredients to blender and blend until smooth.
Add additional peanut butter or jelly to taste.
Cook’s Notes: Two cups sliced strawberries can be substituted for jelly.
Totchos Recipe (from Woody’s Lunch Box at Disney’s Hollywood Studios)
Photo: Disney
Chili with Beans
1 pound lean ground beef
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14.5 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon coarse salt
Black pepper, to taste
Ground cayenne, to taste
Queso Sauce
2 cups jar cheese sauce
1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with chilies
Totchos
1 (2 pound) bag frozen potato barrels
1 1/2 cups corn chips
Chili with Beans
Queso Sauce
3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
6 tablespoons sour cream
2 tablespoons thinly sliced green onions
For Chili with Beans:
Brown ground beef in a 5-6 quart Dutch oven over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain off excess grease.
Add onion and garlic and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until onion is translucent.
Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, chili powder, and cumin. Simmer for 20 minutes. Add salt.
Add black pepper and cayenne, as needed.
Keep warm until ready to serve.
For Queso Sauce:
Place cheese sauce and diced tomatoes with chilies in small saucepan. Cook over low heat for 10 minutes, until warm.
Keep warm until ready to serve.
For Totchos:
Cook potato barrels according to package instructions.
Divide potato barrels into 6 bowls. Place 1/4 cup each of corn chips, chili with beans, and queso sauce on top of each bowl of potato barrels.
Top each bowl with 2 tablespoons shredded cheese, 1 tablespoon sour cream, and 1 teaspoon green onions.
1 cinnamon spice cupcake (2 ½ x 1 1/4-inch), quartered
1 angel food cupcake (3 x 1 1/2-inch), quartered
2 generous scoops vanilla ice cream
2 generous scoops chocolate ice cream
2 generous scoops strawberry ice cream
1 generous scoop mint chocolate chip ice cream
1 generous scoop coffee ice cream
3 tablespoons chocolate syrup
1/4 cup marshmallow cream
1/4 cup strawberry topping
1/4 cup pineapple topping
14-ounce can dairy whipped topping
1 large brownie (6-inch x 6-inch), quartered
1 regular-sized candy bar, quartered
4 chocolate cookies with cream filling
1 tablespoon sliced toasted almonds
1 tablespoon dark and white chocolate shavings
1 tablespoon crushed chocolate cookies with cream filling
1 tablespoon chopped jellied orange slices, about 2 large slices
1 tablespoon milk chocolate chip morsels
1 tablespoon peanut butter chip morsels
1 tablespoon chocolate sprinkles
1 tablespoon rainbow sprinkles
1/2 cup drained maraschino cherries
To Serve:
Pour hot fudge, butterscotch, and peanut butter toppings into bottom of large bowl.
Layer banana slices and cupcake pieces over toppings. Top with all ice creams.
As quickly as possible, spoon chocolate syrup, marshmallow cream, strawberry, and pineapple toppings over ice cream.
Cover completely with dairy whipped topping. Tuck brownie pieces, candy bar pieces, and cookies in whipped topping.
Sprinkle with toasted almonds, dark and white chocolate shavings, crushed cookies, jellied orange slices, milk chocolate chip morsels, peanut butter morsels, chocolate sprinkles, and rainbow sprinkles. Top with cherries.
What are some of your favorite Disney Parks recipes?
“Grim Grinning Ghosts,” the theme of The Haunted Mansion, is both merry and spooky at the same time, and is perfectly fitting for one of our guest-favorite attractions. Of all the Disney Parks attractions with catchy theme songs, we can probably agree that we don’t mind when this one gets stuck in our heads.
In honor of The Haunted Mansion’s 50th anniversary at Disneyland which was celebrated last August, here are 10 fun facts about Grim Grinning Ghosts the Haunted Mansion:
The success of the catchy theme song, “Yo Ho Yo Ho (A Pirate’s Life For Me),” at Pirates of the Caribbeanspurred interest in creating a similarly compelling tune for the (then under-construction) Haunted Mansion attraction. Without “Pirates” we may never have had “Ghosts!”
“Grim Grinning Ghosts” composers Buddy Baker and X. Atencio were proven to be Disney songwriting successes when put on the project. Atencio had penned lyrics to the song “Yo Ho Yo Ho (A Pirate’s Life For Me)”, while Baker’s theme park contributions included scoring Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln and theCarousel of Progress.
Thurl’s quartet, The Mellomen, also contributed harmony to “Grim Grinning Ghosts.” The group had previously lent their voices to “Alice In Wonderland,” “Peter Pan” and “The Jungle Book.”
The arrangement of the tune progresses throughout the attraction, starting off on an eerie piano in the library and funeral scenes, then bolder as organ music in the dining room and a whooping party in the graveyard scene.
“Grim Grinning Ghosts” hits a high note in the graveyard scene, where a set of singing busts await “to shriek and harmonize.” Did you know that each of these busts has a name? They are: Rollo Rumkin, Uncle Theodore, Cousin Algernon, Ned Nub and Phineas P. Pock.
The face of singer Thurl Ravenscroft appears on one of the singing busts – Uncle Theodore, which you can identify at Magic Kingdom Park attraction as the “broken” bust.
Buddy Baker, X. Atencio and Thurl Ravenscroft have all been named Disney Legends in years past for their contributions to Disney Parks and films.
The pop band Barenaked Ladies did a cover of “Grim-Grinning Ghosts” in 2003 for the film “The Haunted Mansion” which starred Eddie Murphy.
A reference to a “Grim Grinning Ghost” (note “ghost” is singular, not plural) appears in the William Shakespeare poem “Venus and Adonis” which was completed in 1593.
1. More time to play: All Disneyland Resort hotel guests enjoy admission to select attractions, stores, entertainment and dining locations in Disneyland or Disney California Adventure parks for one full hour before the parks open to the general public on select days!
2. A warm welcome: Everyone knows that a stay in a Disneyland Resort hotel begins with a warm “Welcome!” from the cast members at the front desk. At Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, more than 50 of these cast members have learned to say “welcome” in 10 different languages to make all guests feel at home.
3. Surf’s Up!
Did you know that the PCH Grill at Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel is the only dining location at the Disneyland Resort where you can enjoy a meal with Mickey Mouse? The Surf’s Up! Mickey and Friends Breakfast is an all-you-care-to-eat breakfast experience, and seeing Mickey Mouse himself dressed in his beachy best is a perfect way to start surfing your way through a fantastic day at the Disneyland Resort.
4. Closer to the magic
Staying at a Disneyland Resort hotel puts you just steps away from all there is to do at Disneyland and Disney California Adventure parks and the Downtown Disney District. Plus, you’re surrounded by all the special Disney details that make the Disneyland Resort such a magical place to be – you never have to leave the Happiest Place on Earth until it’s time to go home!
Thirsty travelers over 21 years of age can order a Shipwreck on the Rocks or Krakatoa Punch at this tropical oasis at the Disneyland Hotel. But be careful, because the tiki gods might just create a fearsome lightning storm (complete with thunder and a sinking ship in a bottle) or cause a volcano eruption.
6. Kids have a getaway of their own
Pinocchio’s Workshop offers supervised play and themed activities each evening for children (ages 5 – 12) of hotel guests, providing parents an opportunity to have their own adventures. This fun-filled child activity center is located at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa but is open to guests staying at any of the three hotels of the Disneyland Resort.
7. A ‘Signature’ experience
While every guest room at a Disneyland Resort hotel includes special Disney touches, the six themed Signature Suites at the Disneyland Hotel fully immerse guests in the magic of Disneyland. From the replica of Davy Jones’ Dead Man’s Chest in the Pirates of the Caribbean Suite to a twinkling Tinker Bell turning on the lights of theSleeping Beauty Castle model in the Fairy Tale Suite, it would take much longer than one night to see all the details in these extraordinary suites.
8. Something special for fitness fanatics
While a walk in Disneyland and Disney California Adventure parks is a great way to stay in shape during a vacation, a power walk before a park opens to the public is a special treat. The early-morning Get Up and Go Power Walk through Disney California Adventure Park and Fitness Fusion class at the outdoor fireplace at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa are open to guests at all three hotels.
9. See more with a tour: The Happiest Hotel on Earth tour at the Disneyland Hotel teaches guests about the history and heritage of the hotel, while the Art of the Craft tour at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa shows the influence of the Arts and Crafts Movement on the hotel. These tours are complimentary and available on select days to all guests, including those not staying at a Disneyland Resort hotel, though reservations are encouraged.
10. Time for a bedtime story: Everyone loves a good story — and there’s nothing quite like having your own personal storyteller at bedtime. Guests cuddle up with blankets and gather in the rocking chairs around the stone fireplace in the lobby of Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa to hear Tales from the Hearth. It’s a great way for the whole family to wind down after a day at the parks. But if you miss it, no fear: just turn to the designated channel on your TV at any of the three Disneyland Resort hotels to hear Disney’s Princess Story Time. What better way to have sweet dreams?
Which one is your favorite Disneyland Resort Hotel?
Thousands of guests have had to cancel or reschedule their Disney vacations this spring due to the global pandemic. Many were planning to celebrate a birthday, anniversary, first visit, or just being at Disney. We could all use some pixie dust and Disney magic to lift our spirits during these trying times. We have five ways that you can take a virtual Disney vacation from your own home while the parks are closed.
Set the Scene
You need to get all ready for your virtual Disney vacation! You and your home need to look the part!
There are free animation classes at both the Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort Visit Rafiki’s Planet Watch in Animal Kingdom, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, or the Animation Academy in Disney California Adventure Park. Pretend that you are learning to draw with a Disney artist at home! Here are some characters to get you started:
Disney snacks are AMAZING! You can taste a bit of the magic at home with the official Disney Parks recipes. Iconic churros are served throughout the parks at both the Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. Mickey Mouse- shaped beignets are served in New Orleans Square at Disneyland Resort and at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort- French Quarter at the Walt Disney World Resort. Both the chocolate-hazelnut tarts and grilled cheese sandwich are served at Woody’s Lunch Box in Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Disney Parks Churro Bites
Photo: Disney
Ingredients
1 cup water
8 tablespoons butter
¼ teaspoon salt
¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon, divided
1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
3 eggs
1 ½ cups vegetable or canola oil
½ cup sugar
Instructions
Combine water, butter, salt, and ¼ teaspoon cinnamon in 1 ½-quart saucepan over medium heat. Bring pot to rolling boil.
Reduce heat to low.
Add flour and stir vigorously until mix forms a ball. Remove from heat and let rest for 5-7 min.
Add eggs, one at a time, and stir until combined. Set aside.
Heat oil in medium skillet or 1-quart saucepan over medium-high heat or until temperature reaches 350˚.
Spoon dough into piping bag fitted with large star tip. Pipe 1-inch strip of dough over saucepan, cut with knife, and drop into hot oil. Repeat until churro bites fill saucepan with room to fry.
Fry churro bites until golden brown. Remove with slotted spoon or mesh spider strainer.
Drain churro bites on paper towel.
Mix sugar and ½ teaspoon cinnamon in medium bowl. Toss in churro bites until coated. Place on serving plate and serve with favorite dipping sauce.
Mickey Mouse-shaped Beignets
Photo: Disney
Ingredients:
1/2 teaspoon dry yeast
1/4 cup warm water (105°)
1/4 cup sugar
2 tablespoons vegetable shortening
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 egg
4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup boiling water
Vegetable oil for frying
Powdered sugar
Directions:
Sprinkle yeast over warm water in a small bowl, stirring to dissolve. Let stand for 5 minutes.
Combine sugar, shortening, salt, heavy cream, egg, flour and boiling water in a large bowl; stir in yeast mixture. With the dough hook attachment of an electric mixer on medium speed, mix the dough just until combined and smooth. Let dough rest for 30 minutes.
Roll to 1/4-inch thickness and cut individual beignets with a Mickey Mouse-shaped cutter or cut into 2 1/2 to 3-inch squares. Cover with a towel and let dough rise until doubled in size in a warm, draft-free area, about 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
Using caution, heat 3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F in a deep, heavy pot over medium-high heat. Fry beignets until golden brown, about 2 to 3 minutes, turning as soon as they brown on one side. Remove with tongs and place on paper towels to drain. Dust warm beignets with powdered sugar and serve immediately.
Chocolate-Hazelnut Lunch Box Tarts (from Woody’s Lunch Box at Disney’s Hollywood Studios)
Photo: Disney
Ingredients
Chocolate Hazelnut Tarts
4 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 1/4 teaspoons coarse salt, divided
3 sticks unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
1/4 cup coconut oil
3 eggs, divided
10 tablespoons water
1/2 cup chocolate hazelnut spread
Icing
1 cup confectioners’ sugar
2 tablespoons milk, divided
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Garnish
4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
Instructions
For Chocolate Hazelnut Tart
Combine flour, sugar, brown sugar, 2 teaspoons of salt, butter, coconut oil, and 2 of the eggs in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Mix on medium speed until combined.
Add water and mix on low speed for 1 minute. Increase speed and blend until dough is smooth. Do not overmix.
Divide dough into two even balls and wrap in plastic wrap. Rest in refrigerator for 45 minutes.
Preheat over to 375 degrees.
Mix remaining egg and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a small bowl. Set aside.
Lightly flour a large cutting board and roll first ball of dough into 1/4-inch thick rectangle. Cut into eight 2- by 6-inch rectangles.
Place rectangles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with reserved egg wash. Spread 1 tablespoon of chocolate-hazelnut spread on the rectangle.
Roll remaining ball of dough into 1/4-inch thick rectangle and cut into eight 2- by 6-inch rectangles. Place on top of chocolate hazelnut covered tarts and seal edges with a fork. Brush top of tarts with egg wash.
Bake for 17 minutes, until golden brown. Cool completely.
For Icing
Mix sugar, 1 tablespoon of the milk, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Slowly add remaining milk until icing is smooth and spreads easily, but is not runny.
Spread icing on each cooled tart and top with bacon pieces.
Grilled Three-Cheese Sandwich (from Woody’s Lunch Box at Disney’s Hollywood Studios)
Photo: Disney
Ingredients:
Cream Cheese Spread
1/2 cup cream cheese
1/2 cup shredded Double Gloucester or cheddar
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
Garlic Spread
1 cup mayonnaise
1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
Grilled Three-Cheese Sandwich
8 slices of artisan bread
8 cheddar cheese slices
8 provolone slices
Instructions:
For Cream Cheese Spread:
Combine cream cheese, Double Gloucester or cheddar, heavy cream, and salt in food processor. Blend until smooth. Set aside.
For Garlic Spread:
Combine mayonnaise, garlic, and salt in small bowl and stir until blended. Set aside.
For Grilled Three-Cheese Sandwich:
Lay out artisan bread slices on parchment paper or large cutting board.
Place 2 slices of cheddar on 4 of the bread slices. Place 2 slices of provolone on remaining bread slices.
Equally spoon cream cheese spread on slices with provolone. Gently smooth cream cheese spread over each slice.
Press cheddar side and provolone side together.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes, until hot.
Brush both sides of the sandwiches with garlic spread.
Grill sandwiches for 2 minutes on each side, until cheese is melted and bread is golden brown.
Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup (from Le Cellier Steakhouse at EPCOT)
Photo: Disney
Ingredients:
1/2 pound of bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces 1 medium red onion, cut into 1/4-inch pieces 3 celery ribs, cut into 1/4-inch pieces 4 tablespoons butter 1 cup all-purpose flour 3 cups chicken stock 4 cups milk 1 pound white cheddar cheese, grated 1 tablespoon Tabasco sauce 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Coarse salt, freshly ground pepper to taste 1/2 cup warm Canadian golden lager or any pale lager-style beer Chopped scallions or chives, for garnish
Directions:
In a 4- or 5-quart Dutch oven, cook bacon, stirring, over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until lightly browned.
Add red onion, celery, and butter and sauté until onion has softened, about 5 minutes.
Add flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 4 minutes over medium heat. Whisk in chicken stock and bring to boil for 1 minute. Reduce heat to simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add milk and continue to simmer for 15 minutes. Do not boil after milk is added.
Remove from heat and add cheese, Tabasco sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Blend with immersion blender until cheese is melted and soup is smooth. Stir in warm beer. If the soup is too thick, thin with some warm milk.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped scallions or chives.
The Grey Stuff
Photo: Disney
Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups cold whole milk
1 (3.4 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
15 chocolate sandwich cookies
1 (8 ounce) container whipped topping, thawed
3 tablespoons instant chocolate pudding mix
12 scalloped sugar cookies
Edible sugar pearls
Directions:
Pour milk into large mixing bowl. Add instant vanilla pudding mix and whisk for 2 minutes until smooth and slightly thickened. Place in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours, until firm.
Place chocolate sandwich cookies in food processor and pulse until puréed.
Fold puréed cookies into pudding mix. Stir until fully mixed.
Add whipped topping and instant chocolate pudding. Stir until fully mixed.
Place in refrigerator and chill for one hour.
Spoon grey stuff into piping bag fitted with desired tip. Pipe grey stuff onto cookies. Top with sugar pearls.
Tonga Toast from Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Photo: Disney
Ingredients:
Sugar-Cinnamon
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon
Batter
4 large eggs
1 1/3 cup whole milk
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Tonga Toast
1 quart canola oil, for frying
1 loaf sourdough bread (uncut, 12 inches long)
2 large bananas, peeled
Directions:
For Sugar-Cinnamon:
Mix sugar and cinnamon in medium bowl (large enough to roll toast) with a fork until thoroughly blended. Set aside.
For Batter:
Whip eggs in medium bowl (large enough to dip toast) until well beaten. Add milk, cinnamon, and sugar. Mix well and set aside.
For Tonga Toast:
Using caution, preheat oil to 350°F in a large pot or a deep fryer. (If using a large pot, use a candy thermometer to make certain the oil does not get any hotter or it will burn.)
Slice the bread into four three-inch-thick slices.
Cut each banana in half crosswise, then each piece lengthwise.
Place a bread slice flat on the counter and tear out just enough from the middle (do not tear all the way through) to stuff half a banana into; repeat with each bread slice.
Dip stuffed bread into batter, covering both sides, allowing excess batter to drip off bread and place carefully into hot oil.
Cook 4-5 minutes until golden brown. If needed, turn toast over after 2 minutes and cook for another 2 minutes on other side. Remove and drain excess oil.
Roll toast in cinnamon-sugar. Repeat for each piece of toast.
Peanut Butter & Jelly Milk Shake from 50’s Prime Time Café at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Photo: Disney
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons peanut butter
2 tablespoons jelly (strawberry or grape)
2 cups vanilla ice cream
1/4 cup milk
Directions:
Add all ingredients to blender and blend until smooth.
Add additional peanut butter or jelly to taste.
Cook’s Notes: Two cups sliced strawberries can be substituted for jelly.
Totchos from Woody’s Lunch Box at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Photo: Disney
Chili with Beans
1 pound lean ground beef
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14.5 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon coarse salt
Black pepper, to taste
Ground cayenne, to taste
Queso Sauce
2 cups jar cheese sauce
1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with chilies
Totchos
1 (2 pound) bag frozen potato barrels
1 1/2 cups corn chips
Chili with Beans
Queso Sauce
3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
6 tablespoons sour cream
2 tablespoons thinly sliced green onions
For Chili with Beans:
Brown ground beef in a 5-6 quart Dutch oven over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain off excess grease.
Add onion and garlic and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until onion is translucent.
Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, chili powder, and cumin. Simmer for 20 minutes. Add salt.
Add black pepper and cayenne, as needed.
Keep warm until ready to serve.
For Queso Sauce:
Place cheese sauce and diced tomatoes with chilies in small saucepan. Cook over low heat for 10 minutes, until warm.
Keep warm until ready to serve.
For Totchos:
Cook potato barrels according to package instructions.
Divide potato barrels into 6 bowls. Place 1/4 cup each of corn chips, chili with beans, and queso sauce on top of each bowl of potato barrels.
Top each bowl with 2 tablespoons shredded cheese, 1 tablespoon sour cream, and 1 teaspoon green onions.
Kitchen Sink from Beaches & Cream Soda Shop at Disney’s Beach Club Resort
Photo: Disney
Ingredients:
1/2 cup warm fudge topping
1/2 cup warm butterscotch topping
1/2 cup warm peanut butter topping
1 medium banana, sliced in 1/2-inch slices
1 cinnamon spice cupcake (2 ½ x 1 1/4-inch), quartered
1 angel food cupcake (3 x 1 1/2-inch), quartered
2 generous scoops vanilla ice cream
2 generous scoops chocolate ice cream
2 generous scoops strawberry ice cream
1 generous scoop mint chocolate chip ice cream
1 generous scoop coffee ice cream
3 tablespoons chocolate syrup
1/4 cup marshmallow cream
1/4 cup strawberry topping
1/4 cup pineapple topping
14-ounce can dairy whipped topping
1 large brownie (6-inch x 6-inch), quartered
1 regular-sized candy bar, quartered
4 chocolate cookies with cream filling
1 tablespoon sliced toasted almonds
1 tablespoon dark and white chocolate shavings
1 tablespoon crushed chocolate cookies with cream filling
1 tablespoon chopped jellied orange slices, about 2 large slices
1 tablespoon milk chocolate chip morsels
1 tablespoon peanut butter chip morsels
1 tablespoon chocolate sprinkles
1 tablespoon rainbow sprinkles
1/2 cup drained maraschino cherries
To Serve:
Pour hot fudge, butterscotch, and peanut butter toppings into bottom of large bowl.
Layer banana slices and cupcake pieces over toppings. Top with all ice creams.
As quickly as possible, spoon chocolate syrup, marshmallow cream, strawberry, and pineapple toppings over ice cream.
Cover completely with dairy whipped topping. Tuck brownie pieces, candy bar pieces, and cookies in whipped topping.
Sprinkle with toasted almonds, dark and white chocolate shavings, crushed cookies, jellied orange slices, milk chocolate chip morsels, peanut butter morsels, chocolate sprinkles, and rainbow sprinkles. Top with cherries.
Make your Own Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique or Pirates League
Many of your little princesses, princes, pirates, and mermaids were looking forward to a makeover at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique or Pirates League. You can still have a makeover at home! Order a costume and give your little one a pirate or princess inspired makeover.
PS- We always recommend bringing your own costume to these locations in the parks to save on the cost of your experience!
After your Pirates League makeover, Pirate Mac can teach his newest recruits how to ready for life on the high seas here.
End Your Magical Virtual Disney Vacation with Happily Ever After
Our favorite way to end any day at Disney World is with Magic Kingdom’s nighttime spectacular, Happily Ever After. It is a beautiful show and the perfect “kiss goodnight.”
Watch as Cinderella Castle becomes a canvas for the heart-tugging story of the importance of chasing your dreams, no matter what, and finding your happily ever after.
This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission. Thank you for supporting our small business!
For the first time ever, Disney Parks are closed for 2 full weeks. I know thousands of guests had to cancel their Disneyland, Disney World, and Disney Cruise vacations.
Since we are all stuck inside, I’m sure you and your family are craving some Disney fun at home! Here are some fun ideas to create a little Disney magic at home with your family.
Puzzles are a wonderful way to pass the time and enjoy quality time with your family! If you are looking to add some new puzzles to your collection, the Dollar Tree usually has a great selection for kids just $1 or there are some more challenging options on Amazon like the Disney Villains, Disney Classics Collage, Disney Princess Collage, Aladdin, Pocahontas, and Toy Story.
Disney Family has a Mickey Mouse cinnamon roll recipe that you can make from home with your preferred brand of cinnamon rolls (or homemade dough). If you thought Mickey Mouse pancakes were easy, just wait until you try these cinnamon rolls! You can find many more Disney recipes here.
Have you ever played the Disney version of Heads Up? You may have even seen fellow Disney Parks guests playing this game while waiting in line for an attraction! The Disney Parks themed deck features iconic attractions, characters and experiences.The Heads Up app is available for $0.99 in iOS or free on Android. Some other fun Disney games to help you pass the time are Disney Hedbanz, Disney Color Brain, Disney Eye Found It, and Disney Family Feud.
Khan Academy, a free learning resource for all ages, has a FREE course called Pixar in a Box which allows you learn about the storytelling process at Pixar. They also just released another FREE course, Imagineering in a Box, which allows you to explore different aspects of theme park design, from characters to ride development, as you design a theme park of your very own.
Download the Play Disney Parks App
You can download the Play Disney Parks app on iOS and Android devices to interact with the parks like never before! You can download the app through the App Store and Google Play. We especially love the Disney trivia and Disney Parks sounds and music!
We are wishing you and your family a magical, safe, and healthy spring!
Get ready to discover the beauty of California with the 2020 Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival at the Disneyland Resort now through April 21! This popular festival features the best of the west coast with unforgettable cuisine, beverages, and special events that you won’t want to miss. Take part in culinary demonstrations, get the kids involved with our Jr. Chef cooking event, or even enjoy wine, beer, and mixology education and tasting seminars throughout the duration of the festival.
Photo: Disney
There’s something new to do around every corner, and of course, we can’t forget about the FOOD! Scattered around Disney California Adventure Park, you’ll find a variety of marketplaces with menus featuring everything from hand-selected wines and craft beers to plant-based dishes, regional recipes, and more that will delight your taste buds. And in addition, several restaurants, including Paradise Garden Grill and even several restaurants at the Downtown Disney District, are also joining in on the fun with special offerings available only during the festival.
While you’re wandering the festival, you’ll definitely want to grab a Festival Tasting Passport, which contains every menu throughout the marketplaces as well as important information about events, exclusive merchandise, and more. You also have the option of purchasing a Sip and Savor Pass! This special pass allows you to explore your way through the festival with a souvenir lanyard and credential with eight pull-off tabs. Each of these tabs is a coupon that can be redeemed for select food and beverage offerings at festival locations (excluding alcohol and souvenir items). Use them all at once spread out over a single visit, or save your pass and come back on multiple days to make the fun last even longer! Remember that the Sip and Savor tabs should remain attached until point of redemption with the Cast Member. The Sip and Savor Pass can be purchased at Elias & Co., Festival Gifts and Marketplaces, Kingswell Camera Shop, Rushin’ River Outfitters, Seaside Souvenirs, the Sip and Savor Cart, and the Studio Store in Hollywood Land.
For more information on the 2020 Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival, details on special events, reservations, tickets, and more, visit the Disneyland Resort website. And at various quick-service restaurants throughout the park, be sure to check out the Disneyland app to mobile order select items, skip the lines, and get straight to snacking!
Photo: Disney
Nuts About Cheese Marketplace
Fiscalini White Cheddar Lager Soup served in a Mini Boudin® Sourdough Bowl (Vegetarian)
Impossible™ Cheeseburger Mac & Cheese (Vegetarian)
Oikos® Greek Yogurt Banoffee Tart
Honey Bourbon Lemonade (Alcoholic)
Photo: Disney
Uncork California Marketplace
California Artisan Cheese with Central Coast Creamery Holey Cow Swiss and Vintage Cheese Co. Cabernet Cheddar (Vegetarian)
White Wine Flight
Malibu Rocky Oaks, Sauvignon Blanc, California
Rombauer, Chardonnay, Carneros
Francis Ford Coppola Winery, Sofia, Rosé, Monterey County
Red Wine Flight
Erath, Pinot Noir, Oregon
The Prisoner, Red Blend, Napa Valley
Quilt, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
Road Trip Mimosa Trio
Pacific Mimosa
Mojave Mimosa
Sierra Mimosa
Chandon Brut, Sparkling Wine, California
Photo: Disney
Golden Dreams Marketplace
Brunch Fried Chicken & Waffle Sandwich with Mimosa-inspired Slaw and OJ Bubbles
Seared Verlasso® Salmon with Lemon Pea Purée, Black Rice and Meyer Lemon Relish (Gluten-Friendly)
Strawberry-Rose Lemonade (Non-Alcoholic)
Fig & Lavender Cold Brew (Non-Alcoholic)
Photo: Disney
California Craft Brews Marketplace
Pepperoni Pizza Egg Rolls
Triple B Cocktail with Beer, Bourbon and Berries (Alcoholic)
Beer Flight – Fun with Flavor
Mother Earth Orange Vanilla Cali Creamin’ Ale
Black Market Cucumber Sour
Golden Road Strawberry and Pomegranate Balboa Blonde Ale
Twisted Horn Raven’s Claw Apple & Boysenberry Mead
Founders Backwoods Bourbon Barrel-aged Scotch Ale
Photo: Disney
Outdoor Vending Carts
Savory Empanada with Chipotle Crema Sauce
Sweet Empanada with Caramel Sauce
Boardwalk Pizza and Pasta
Chocolate-Hazelnut Cheesecake
Hollywood Lounge
Leading Role Lemonade – Gin with Lavender Lemonade (Alcoholic)
Opening Night Cocktail – Banana Whiskey with Cream Soda (Alcoholic)
Movie Star Mule – Whiskey with Black Cherry and Ginger Ale (Alcoholic)
On Location Libation – Stone Peak Conditions IPA with POG juice (Alcoholic)
Backlot Michelada – Tomato-based Michelada with Modelo (Alcoholic)
Modelo Especial Lager
Hangar 24 Passion Punch Gose
Stone Peak Conditions Hazy Double IPA
Honest Abe Limoncello Hard Cider
Bottle Logic Emerald City Raspberry Piña Colada Hard Seltzer
Supporting Role Lemonade – Lavender Lemonade (Non-Alcoholic)
Photo: Disney
Hollywood Churro Cart
Churro topped with Peanut Butter Cream, Chocolate Icing and Chopped Peanuts
Photo: Disney
Schmoozies!
Almond Mocha Shake
Almond Mocha Affogato
Sonoma Terrace
California Cheesesteak
Italian Meatball Sandwich
Bavarian Pretzel with Cheese Sauce
Triple Chocolate Brownie
Sandy Beach – Green Apple Vodka with flavors of Sea Salt Caramel (Alcoholic)
Catalina Island – Vodka and Passion Fruit with flavors of Raspberry Lemonade and Lime (Alcoholic)
Sparkling Greyhound – Vodka with flavors of Grapefruit, Chamomile and Cardamom (Alcoholic)
Pineapple Passion – White Rum with flavors of Pineapple and Passion Fruit (Alcoholic)
Firestone Walker Rosalie Beer Rosé
Francis Ford Coppola Winery, Sofia, Brut Rosé, Monterey County
Chandon Brut, Sparkling Wine, California
Selection of Craft Beers and Ciders
Pacific Wharf Coffee Cart
Tropicalifornia Tea Cocktail with Berry Vodka, Green Tea, Pineapple and Orange Juices (Alcoholic)
Fruitful Green Tea with Berry, Pineapple and Orange Juices (Non-Alcoholic)
Pacific Wharf Distribution Company
Karl Strauss® Crazy Eyes Doppelbock
Downtown Disney District Offerings
Photo: Disney
Ballast Point Brewing Co.
Impossible™ Lettuce Cups With Impossible™ Protein, Peppers, Hoisin, Sriracha, Garlic, Lime, Fresno Chilies and Hydroponic Lettuce
The Ballast Point Burger: 8 Oz Kobe & Chuck Blend Patty, Sharp Cheddar, Lettuce, Tomato, Red Onion, House-made Pickles, and Ballast Point Remoulade on a Brioche Bun served with Fries
Cioppino: PEI Mussels, Fish of the Day, Argentinean Shrimp, Spanish Chorizo, Stewed Tomatoes, Chili Flakes, Oregano, Crème Fraiche, Chili Thread, House-Made Pasta and Grilled Baguette
All Three Paired with Designated Beer Flight
Catal Restaurant
Smoked Salmon Crostini: Whipped Ricotta, Smoked Salmon and Basil Pesto
Burrata: Burrata, Prosciutto, and Balsamic Gastrique
Hand-shucked Oysters with Champagne and Black Pepper Mignonette
Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen
Creole Cobbler with Beefeater Gin, Santhenay Crème de Peche, Fresh Lemon Juice, and Orange Bitter
Photo: Disney
Splitsville Luxury Lanes
Surf & Turf Slider Duo: Salmon Slider featuring House-made Salmon Patty, Sriracha Aïoli, Red Onion, Butter Lettuce and Heirloom Tomato, and Filet Mignon Slider featuring Beef Tenderloin, Béarnaise Sauce, Arugula and Oven-Roasted Tomato
Photo: Disney
Salt & Straw
Apple Pie with Beecher’s Flagship Cheesecake: Warm-spiced Apple Pie Ice Cream with Beecher’s Flagship Cheddary Cheesecake
5, 4, 3, 2…fun! Join us for a playfully fun evening during Disneyland After Dark: Pixar Nite at Disney California Adventure park. This special, after-park hours event will celebrate some of the world’s best-loved stories and characters from Pixar Animation Studios with unique entertainment, special food, one-of-a-kind photo opportunities, collectible merchandise and more.
Disneyland After Dark: Pixar Nite takes place on Mar. 5 from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. at Disney California Adventure park. Pal around at these can’t-miss experiences:
Photo: Disney
Dance Parties
Boogie the night away during a record-breaking Scare Day with best buds Mike and Sulley. Join the crazy fun as we party with our pals from “Monsters, Inc.” and “Monsters University,” all night long in Hollywood Land! For a retro-cool vibe, head to Paradise Gardens Park and show your moves at the Incredibles Party Zone.
“Super Looks” fashion walk
Come dressed in your best! Visionary designer Edna Mode will be the judge at this fashion walk, so everyone’s invited to show off their incredible attire.
Photo: Disney
Limited-time food
Sample a Remy-approved menu of delightful sips and bites. Special Pixar-inspired menu offerings we can’t wait to taste include a Blueberry and Vanilla Shake, and Chocolate and Coffee-flavored Sponge Cake. For savory cravings, try the Corn Dog Barbecued Pork Belly with Barbecue Sauce and Pineapple. Yum!
Photo opportunities
Step into playful photo backdrops featuring your favorite films and some classic Pixar shorts, including “For the Birds,” “Geri’s Game,” as well as other immersive locations! You’ll also receive unlimited digital downloads of Disney PhotoPass photos taken during the event.
Photo: Disney
Character encounters
Say hi to your Pixar friends, including Buzz Lightyear and Woody from “Toy Story,” Merida from “Brave,” Miguel from “Coco,” Flik from “A Bug’s Life” and more!
Merchandise
Commemorate Disneyland After Dark: Pixar Nite with special event merchandise, including a special tee and keepsake tumbler!
After-hour access to attractions
Ride popular attractions in Disney California Adventure park with less time waiting in line! You’ll also have mix-in access to the park starting at 5 p.m.
Tickets are still available for Disneyland After Dark: Pixar Nite! Visit Disneyland.com for tickets and more information. Parking fees are not included in the ticket price.
Have you ever had the chance to attend a Disneyland After Dark event?
*The number of tickets available are limited and valid only for the specific event date and hours. Parking fees are not included in the ticket price. Tickets can be purchased online, at Disney Desk locations in participating Good Neighbor Hotels, or by calling (714) 781-4636 until the day before the event, or at any Disneyland® Resort Ticket Booth. Limit eight (8) tickets per person, and no discounts apply. Tickets not required for Guests ages 2 and under. Tickets are non-transferable, non-refundable and may not be resold. Costumes are subject to Disney guidelines and should not be obstructive or offensive; please check special event costume guidelines at https://disneyland.disney.go.com/faq/parks/dress/ for restrictions. Offer and event elements are subject to restrictions, change or cancellation without notice.
Exciting news! The all-new Magic Happens parade will make its debut at Disneyland park, beginning Feb. 28, 2020.
“Magic Happens” celebrates awe-inspiring moments of magic that are at the heart of so many Disney stories. Mickey Mouse leads this new daytime spectacular down Main Street, U.S.A., revealing a parade of stunning floats, beautiful costumes and beloved Disney characters. “Magic Happens” will also feature an energetic musical score and a new song, co-composed by singer-songwriter Todrick Hall.
Here are some highlights of the new Magic Happens parade, including a few more sneak peeks:
From Walt Disney Animation Studios’ record-breaking hit “Frozen 2,” Anna and Elsa explore the mysteries of an enchanted forest protected by Nokk, the mystical water spirit, as their friends Kristoff, Sven and Olaf tag along.
Photo: Disney
On her voyager canoe, Moana journeys forth on the crest of a towering wave, inspired by beautiful koa wood carvings and inset with dazzling, animated glimpses into the magic the ocean holds.
Photo: Disney
Joining Moana on her journey is legendary demigod, Maui, making his Disneyland Resort debut on his own magical island, along with Moana’s adorable pet pig, Pua.
Photo: Disney
Miguel appears in person for the first time, celebrating the magic that happens when he strums the guitar of Ernesto de la Cruz in the Disney and Pixar film, “Coco.” This spectacular float bridges the Land of the Living and the Land of the Dead with vibrant marigolds, and fantastical alebrije spirit animals join the procession, along with Miguel’s dog Danté.
Photo: Disney
The regal grand finale of the Magic Happens parade celebrates magical moments from several classic Disney stories, including the happily-ever-after scene from “Sleeping Beauty” with a trio of fairies and Princess Aurora’s gown shimmering between hues of pink and blue.
“Magic Happens” will remind us we don’t need wings to fly, that shooting stars were made to wish upon, and that magic doesn’t stop at midnight.
There are many who have entered the world of yesterday, tomorrow and fantasy inside Disneyland park, but have you taken the time to look closer at Walt’s original Magic Kingdom in detail? How did Disneyland come to be? Well, to those interested in learning more about this happy place, welcome! Let’s take a closer look at the “Walk in Walt’s Disneyland Footsteps” Guided Tour and see how your next visit to the Disneyland Resort could be transformed with this extra magical experience.
Photo: Disney
The “Walk in Walt’s Disneyland Footsteps” Guided Tour is a special tour that explores Walt’s crafting of The Happiest Place on Earth—from his early years during park conception to his final visit.
Throughout Disneyland park, the tour stops to reveal special moments from Disneyland’s beginnings, including information about classic attractions. Guests are also able to hear historical fun facts thanks to a special tour headset, which plays archived recordings, including Walt’s opening day speech.
Photo: Disney
On the tour, you will encounter magic at historically significant locations throughout the park. For example, when you walk down Main Street, U.S.A., your guide will explain how Walt’s childhood town inspired the design process for his old-fashioned Main Street. Your guide might even share the significance of the names on the windows above. Each person played an important role in the development of Disneyland, including Disney family members, cast members and Imagineers! You will then hop aboard the Disneyland Railroad, where you’ll learn about Walt’s love for locomotives and how it’s seen throughout the parks today. You’ll also stop by the five-ton petrified tree in Frontierland, where you’ll learn why Walt gave this tree to his wife Lillian!
Photo: Disney
You’ll also hear inspirational stories from Walt’s upbringing in Marceline, Missouri. For example, you will learn about Walt’s early inspirations for Fantasyland. Walt saw the play “Peter Pan” as a young boy and was inspired by the performance. He was so influenced by the story that he created a flight harness so that he could become Peter Pan, always turning his dreams into reality. Later, in a school performance, Walt took the lead role as Peter Pan and used a hoist and tackle to fly! On the tour, you’ll also learn about his 1958 attraction dedicated to Alice in Wonderland, as well as the opening day attraction King Arthur Carrousel with the famous horse “Jingles.”
Photo: Disney
Further along your journey retracing Walt’s footsteps, your guide will whisk you through historic details found inside the plans for the park and will explain how Walt’s persistence towards his goals was made in strides. You will see where Walt experienced many successes, as well as setbacks, leading to the grand opening of Disneyland in 1955. For example, at Central Plaza next to the Partners Statue, you will learn why Walt artistically designed this location to be the central location to the theme park. You’ll also learn how, on opening day – later referred to by some who were there as “Black Sunday” – was just as exciting as it was logistically challenging.
If you’ve ever wondered the significance of the Main Street Opera House, then you are in luck! You will browse through the amazing galleries of photos and artwork on the walls, while your guide explains their significance to Walt’s vision for the resort. After a showing of Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln, you will be able to better understand the true meaning of liberty in the eyes of Walt himself.
Photo: Disney
The tour is filled with wonderful surprises along the way, too, including the chance to experience classic attractions that connect with Walt’s very personal vision for the park. For even more magic, you will also take home an impressive collectible pin, alongside your own personalized button! Opening like a small book, the pin includes an inspirational quote from Walt Disney.
Here are some things you should know about the “Walk in Walt’s Disneyland Footsteps” Guided Tour:
The tour is approximately three-hours long.
Depending on the time of day, you will end the tour with a delicious lunch or dinner on Main Street U.S.A., provided for all tour participants by the Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe.
Theme park admission for Disneyland park is required to attend the tour.
Tour or tour elements are also subject to cancellation without notice due to, and without limitation to, attraction availability, inclement weather or other conditions.
For pricing and booking information, call 714-781-TOUR (8687). Also, be sure to check out the other Disneyland Resort Guided Tours at Disneyland.com.
