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Complete Guide to the 2018 Epcot International Festival of the Arts Food

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Complete Guide to the 2018 Epcot International Festival of the Arts Food

The Epcot International Festival of the Arts is now back for its second year! Come celebrate the joy of visual, performing and culinary art from around the world with special entertainment, artists and galleries, and of course, world-class cuisine. But let’s be honest, who isn’t here for the food?! Around the World Showcase you’ll find many artistic dishes that will dazzle your taste buds. The fantastic Epcot Culinary Team has created many beautiful, colorful and delicious dishes this year. And to help you find all of them, don’t miss this guide to the 2018 Epcot International Festival of the Arts food. The festival runs now through Feb. 19, and you won’t want to miss it!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The Deconstructed Dish (Showcase Plaza)
Food:

  • Deconstructed Reuben with shredded corned beef, Thousand Island dressing, pickled red cabbage, and a rye curl
  • Deconstructed BLT with crispy pork belly, tomato jam, and a soft poached egg
  • Deconstructed Strawberry Cheesecake: whipped New York style cheesecake with fresh Florida strawberries, sugar cookies and micro-basil

Beverages:

  • Deconstructed Breakfast: Twinings® Spiced Apple Chai Tea Shake with cream bourbon garnished with a waffle crisp and candied bacon
  • Deconstructed Breakfast: Twinings® Spiced Apple Chai Tea Shake garnished with maple syrup, a waffle crisp and candied bacon (non-alcoholic)
  • Intrinsic Cabernet Sauvignon, Washington
  • Pop-Artsicle: red, white, and blue frozen slushy (non-alcoholic)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The Artist’s Table (The American Adventure)
Food:

  • Roasted Pork Roulade with butternut squash purée, marble potatoes and baby carrots, with a red wine sauce
  • Pan-Seared Scallop with chorizo, roasted red pepper coulis, and parmesan crisp (gluten friendly)
  • Artist Palette Jumbo Chocolate Chip Cookie

Beverages:

  • Callebaut Belgian Sipping Chocolate Flight: white, milk, & dark chocolate (non-alcoholic)
  • Callebaut Belgian Sipping Chocolate: dark chocolate with Chambord
  • Perla Santa Coffee Flavored Wine, Spain
  • Barrymore Rosé, Monterey County, CA
  • Carmel Road Drew’s Blend Pinot Noir, Monterey County, CA

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Cuisine Classique (Germany)
Food:

  • Red Wine-braised Beef Short Rib with parsnip purée, broccolini, baby tomatoes, and aged balsamic
  • Seared Corvina with braised ratatouille and lemon-thyme beurre blanc (gluten friendly)
  • Saint-Honoré Tart: caramel cream tart with caramel glaze topped with cream puffs
  • Artist Palette Jumbo Chocolate Chip Cookie

Beverages:

  • Sierra Nevada Pale Ale, Chico, CA
  • Bell’s Two Hearted American-style India Pale Ale, Kalamazoo, MI
  • Duck-Rabbit Milk Stout, Farmville, NC
  • Beer Braising Flight
  • Campo Viejo Rioja Reserva Art Series, Logrono, Spain
  • Domaine Savary Chablis, Burgundy

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Pop Eats (Showcase Plaza)
Food:

  • Sous Vide Poulet Rouge Chicken Roulade with apples and sage served with warm brie fondue, blueberry and beet gel and garnished with apple and beet chips (gluten friendly)
  • Shrimp Ceviche with lime mint foam (gluten friendly)
  • Almond Frangipane Cake layered with raspberry jam and chocolate (vegetarian)
  • Pop’t Art: Modern-designed Sugar Cookie with strawberry filling (vegetarian)

Beverages:

  • Popping Bubbles Cocktail
  • Cloudem Sparkling Wine

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Masterpiece Kitchen (Near Canada)
Food:

  • Smoked Salmon Tartare, Caviar, Crisp Focaccia and traditional accompaniments
  • Wild Mushroom Risotto, Aged Parmesan, Truffle Shavings and Zinfandel Reduction (vegetarian)
  • Charcuterie Palette with artisan cured meats and cheeses featuring Nueske’s® Applewood Smoked Beef
  • Triple Chocolate Mousse, Chocolate Crunch, Dark Chocolate Sauce and Gold Leaf

Beverages:

  • Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque Brut Champagne
  • Classic Sidecar with a Chocolate Twist
  • The Meeker Vineyard Winemakers’ Handprint Merlot, Sonoma County, CA
  • Pinord La Dama Reserva Familiar Brut
  • Pinord La Dama Reserva Familiar Brut Rosé
  • Silverado Vineyards Chardonnay

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Painter’s Palate (Odyssey, Festival Center)
Food:

  • Trio of Savory Croissant Doughnuts:
    • Whipped Boursin® Garlic & Fine Herbs Cheese with fresh herbs (vegetarian)
    • Chicken Salad with shaved fennel and fresh herbs
    • Spicy Tuna with Wasabi and Seaweed Salad
  • Gallery Bites: A Trio of Hors d’Oeuvres
    • Chilled Shrimp with cucumber cream cheese on a crostini
    • Traditional Deviled Egg with candied bacon
    • Crispy Truffled Risotto Ball with truffled aïoli (vegetarian)
  • Pop’t Art: Abstract-designed Sugar Cookie with strawberry filling (vegetarian)
  • White Chocolate Figment Puzzle on an Artist Palette
  • Mickey and Pluto White Chocolate Painting with chocolate easel (gluten and vegetarian friendly)
  • Festival of the Arts White Chocolate Painting with chocolate easel (gluten and vegetarian friendly)

Beverages:

  • Pomegranate Mule featuring Van Gogh Vodka
  • North Coast Brewing Co. Scrimshaw Pilsner Style Beer, Fort Bragg, CA
  • M.I.A. Beer Company Jazz IPA, Doral, FL
  • Central 28 Beer Company Miss Mary Brown Oatmeal Brown Ale, DeBary, FL
  • Popcorn Pairing Flight

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Decadent Delights (Showcase Plaza)
Food:

  • White Chocolate and Purple Sweet Potato Mousse, Caramel, Coconut and Maple Meringue
  • S’mores Tart: House-smoked Buttermilk Chocolate Cake with chocolate mousse, toasted marshmallow meringue, graham cracker dust and malted milk chocolate sauce
  • Chocolate Caramel Mousse Bar, Flavored Meringue Kisses and Passion Fruit Sauce
  • Artist Palette Jumbo Chocolate Chip Cookie

Beverages:

  • Ferreira 10 Year Old Port
  • 3 Daughters Strawberry Blonde Nitro, St. Petersburg, FL
  • Breckenridge Nitro Vanilla Porter, Breckenridge, CO
  • Young’s Double Chocolate Stout, England
  • Neapolitan Beer Flight
  • Coppo Moncalvina Moscato d’Asti, Piedmont

Block and Hans (The American Adventure)
Beverages:

  • Honor Brewing Company Warrior IPA, Chantilly, VA
  • Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale, Lexington, KY
  • Ciderboys Grand Mimosa Apple Orange Hard Cider, Stevens Point, WI
  • Kona Brewing Co. Wailua Wheat, Kailua-Kona, HI
  • M.I.A. Brewing Mega Mix Pale Ale, Doral, FL
  • Founders Brewing Co. Porter, Grand Rapids, MI
  • Bell’s Amber Ale, Kalamazoo, MI

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Refreshment Outpost (Between China and Germany)
Food:

  • Chilled Shrimp, Quinoa, Layered Vegetables, Spiced Yogurt and Red Pepper Coulis

Fife and Drum (American Adventure)
Food:

  • Artist Palette Jumbo Chocolate Chip Cookie

Refreshment Port (Showcase Plaza)
Food:

  • Croissant Doughnut filled with Pastry Cream and Colored Pearls

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

L’Art de la Cuisine Française (France)
Food:

  • Rillettes du Mans, Cornichons, Carré du Boulanger: house-made pork rillettes, cornichons and house-made bread
  • Saumon en Croute Façon Paul Bocuse: salmon in a puff pastry crust Paul Bocuse-style with spinach and beurre blanc sauce
  • Le Coucher de Soleil: sunset mango and raspberry cake

Beverages:

  • Frosé: Frozen Côtes de Provence Rosé Wine with Grey Goose Vodka and Peach Purée
  • L’Or par Edmond Thery: French Sparkling Chardonnay
  • Alsace, Pinot Blanc, Reserve 2015, Gustave Lorentz
  • Bordeaux, Château Tour de Granins, Grand Poujeaux, Moulis en Medoc 2015

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Mosaic Canteen (Morocco)
Food:

  • Hummus Trifle: Layered Hummus topped with spiced beef, pine nuts and dry cherries, served with pita chips
  • Mediterranean Flat Bread with za’atar, olive oil artichoke, olives, mozzarella and feta cheese
  • Chebbakia: hand-twisted strips of fried dough coated with honey, rosewater and sesame seeds

Beverage:

  • Embrace the Arak: Massaya Arak, Orange Juice and Grenadine
  • Tarima Red, Alicante, Spain
  • Casa Beer

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

El Artista Hambriento (Mexico)
Food:

  • Mixiote de Cordero: wrapped slow-braised lamb, marinated in tres chiles paste and spices
  • Tacos de Puerco: two corn tortillas with slow-roasted pork shoulder, marinated in ancho paste and served with sweet plantain purée and garnished with pea tendrils
  • Atole de Fresa and Mexican Concha Bread: warm strawberry drink served with Mexican concha bread

Beverages:

  • Frida Guava Margarita
  • Diego Passion Margarita on the rocks
  • Allende Craft Mexican Golden Ale

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Takumi Table (Japan)
Food:

  • Chirashi Sushi and Haupia Pearl: salmon, tuna and yuzu miso with coconut tapioca pudding
  • Taiyaki Dessert: Japanese stuffed pastry, sweet red bean filling, sesame cream, and raspberry sauce

Beverages:

  • Calpico Yogurt Strawberry Swirl Sake
  • Masu Sake in a Personalized Wooden Cup

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The Painted Panda (China)
Food:

  • Coconut Panda Rice Cake
  • Crispy Fried Shrimp in a Wonton Lotus Flower
  • Crystal Mooncake with fruit filling and garnished with toasted coconut

Beverages:

  • Scarlet Blossom: A cooler of Mango Wine, Strawberry Syrup and Ginger Ale
  • Fortune Cookie: ByeJoe Dragon Fire, Amaretto, Coconut and Pineapple
  • Strawberry Bubble Tea (non-alcoholic)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

L’Arte di Mangiare (Italy)
Food:

  • Involtini di Salmone al Basilico, Piso Venere, Salsa Romesco: basil-scented salmon roulade, purple rice and romesco sauce
  • Sformato di Melanzane e Pomodori, Mozzarella Fior di Latte: tomato and eggplant terrine, fior di latte mozzarella
  • Crema Fritta, Pesche e Rucola Pesto, Ciliege di Amarasca: cream fritters, peach and arugula pesto and amarena cherries

Beverages:

  • Amaretto Bellini: Amaretto, White Peach Purée and Prosecco
  • Vodka Rossini: Vodka, Strawberry Purée and Prosecco
  • Prosecco, Villa Sandi
  • Moscato Fior d’Arancio, Montegrande
  • Corbinello, Montegrande
  • Pinot Grigio, Bosco del Merlo
  • Merlot, Montegrande
  • Moretti Lager
  • Moretti La Rossa Double Malt Beer

Funnel Cakes (American Adventure)

  • Orange Cream Funnel Cake

Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company
Future World East

  • Painted Lady Latte: a shot of Joffrey’s Italian Espresso mixed with rich Baileys Espresso Créme Liqueur, topped with steamed milk and whipped cream

Canada

  • Night Sky Latte: a delicious shot of Joffrey’s Italian Espresso mixed with Creamy Godiva Chocolate Liqueur, topped with steamed milk and whipped cream

Disney Traders

  • Cinnamon Sensation: a shot of Italian Espresso mixed with RumChata and Cinnamon Whiskey, blended with steamed milk and whipped cream

The American Adventure

  • Dreamy Bourbon: a shot of Italian Espresso mixed with Bourbon Whiskey Cream Liqueur, blended with steamed milk and whipped cream

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and member of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). She would love to help you plan your next cruise at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

New Details Shared for the Disney Skyliner Transportation System

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Earlier this year, we shared the news the Disney Skyliner transportation system will give our resort guests an unforgettable journey and a picturesque view of Walt Disney World Resort as they take to the sky to travel from select Disney resorts to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Today, we have a new details on what you can expect from the Disney Skyliner system.

Select Disney Skyliner cabins will have iconic Disney characters incorporated into their exterior design to give the appearance that a Disney pal is riding along with guests, such as characters from the ‘Fab Five,’ figures from Disney attractions, fan favorites from movies, and more.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The design of the Disney Skyliner station at International Gateway at Epcot will be inspired by the park’s nearby European Pavilions, and will be covered with metal and glass canopies, hand-painted murals and ornamental steel structures that harken back to the early 18th century Art Nouveau style. Guests traveling to Epcot via the Disney Skyliner will be welcomed to the park with a rare birds-eye view of World Showcase.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort station will be the hub of activity for Disney Skyliner. This station is inspired by the open air village marketplaces of the Caribbean and will showcase the nearby resort’s architectural detailing and color schemes. At this station, passengers will be able to transfer gondola routes to reach their destination, or are invited to sit and admire the waterfront resort setting.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The design style of the station at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will fit with that of the park’s main entrance and bus stations. Passengers traveling here from the Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort station can expect a new aerial perspective of the park’s iconic attractions, like The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror.

Disney’s Pop Century Resort and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort will share a Disney Skyliner station that feels whimsical and contextual with both resorts. Upon departing the gondola station, Skyliner passengers will ascend over Hourglass Lake and enjoy a panoramic view of these two colorful resorts.

Finally, cabins will slow down at the Disney Skyliner turn-station along Buena Vista Drive, where guests can see the mechanical and aerial components that make up the Disney Skyliner.

Stay tuned for future updates, including an opening date on this incredible new guest option.

(Thanks Disney Parks Blog)

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

New Details for the Enhancements at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

New Details for the Enhancements at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

Earlier this year, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort at Walt Disney World began some extensive construction projects and now Disney has released some new colorful details about those enhancements at Disney’s Caribbean Beach which are scheduled to debut late this summer!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Old Port Royale at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort will be reimagined as the port of entry where guests will check in before embarking on their island vacation. This centralized location will offer resort guests more convenient access to services, amenities and dining, including an all-new Centertown Market for casual eats, an all-new Shutters restaurant offering waterfront dining adjacent to the new Banana Cabana outdoor bar and lounge, and Calypso Trading Post for shopping.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Centertown Market will be expanded and enclosed, creating a quick-service restaurant with an indoor street market vibe. Guests will enter the space under a large palapa-like structure, accented with glowing colored light pendants made from glass bottles. The market will feature open shutters, wooden light posts, awnings, ornamentation and unique seating areas. Guests will also have access to the Grab n’ Go market for a specialty coffee and quick bites.

Shutters, a Caribbean-inspired table-service restaurant, will be located on the waterfront of Old Port Royale, transporting guests to a beachfront home in the tropical islands. Large open shutters will allow the sun to cast a warm light into the space adorned with handmade items that appear as they’ve been found on the islands. Leaves and floral design motifs will fill the space, celebrating the natural beauty of the Caribbean.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

A festive poolside bar, Banana Cabana will be a great place to gather for food and drinks, immersing guests into the fun and relaxation of island life. Cabana-style drapes will flank seating areas and re-purposed steel drums will illuminate a central communal table made from a wooden boat.

Forget something? No worries! With its history of being the port’s import and export facility, Calypso Trading Post will offer shoppers Disney merchandise and other vacation essentials.

What changes at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort are you most excited about?

Stay tuned for more details on these enhancements at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort!

(Thanks Disney Parks Blog)

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

2018 Garden Rocks Concert Series at Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The 2018 Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival will feature 17 favorite artists whose hits span more than five decades during the 2018 Garden Rocks concert series.

2018 will be the 25th event year and the Garden Rocks series features singers and groups from the ‘60s, ‘70s, ‘80s, ‘90s and 2000s with hit-makers in a variety of genres including rock, pop, country, R&B and dance.

There will be brand new acts such as country favorites Lonestar, British rock legends Foghat; and Don Felder, formerly of The Eagles – along with returning treasures disco pioneers Village People and ‘80s supergroups like Night Ranger.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

There will also be a couple of artists that have played other Epcot festivals like Survivor, Smash Mouth and Rick Springfield, who will be new to Garden Rocks this year.

Here is this year’s lineup for the 2018 Garden Rocks concert series (subject to change without notice):

  • March 2-5: Night Ranger “Sister Christian”
  • March 9-12: STARSHIP starring Mickey Thomas “We Built This City”
  • March 16-19: Simple Plan “Welcome to My Life”
  • March 23-26: Little River Band “Reminiscing”
  • March 30-April 2: The Orchestra starring former members of ELO “Evil Woman”
  • April 6-7: Foghat (NEW!) “Slow Ride”
  • April 8-9: Survivor (NEW to Garden Rocks!) “Eye of the Tiger”
  • April 13-14: Smash Mouth (NEW to Garden Rocks!) “All Star”
  • April 15-16: Rick Springfield (NEW to Garden Rocks!) “Jessie’s Girl”
  • April 20-21: Jo Dee Messina (NEW to Garden Rocks!) “Stand by Me”
  • April 22-23: Lonestar (NEW!) “Amazed”
  • April 27-30: Blood, Sweat and Tears featuring Bo Bice “Spinning Wheel”
  • May 4-7: Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone “I’m Henry VIII I Am”
  • May 11-12: Village People “Y.M.C.A.”
  • May 13-14: Don Felder, formerly of The Eagles (NEW!) “Hotel California”
  • May 18-21: The Guess Who “American Woman”
  • May 25-28: The Spinners “Working My Way Back to You”

2018 Garden Rocks performances are at America Gardens Theatre at 5:30, 6:45 and 8 p.m. every Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday of the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival and are included with Epcot admission.

For more information on the Festival, check out EpcotInSpring.com. Keep checking back here for more information on the Garden Rocks Dining Packages which will be coming soon, too!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Call her at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com for your free, no obligation quote. 

Treat Yourself to the Free Summer 2018 Meal Offer at Disney World

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We’ve cooked up a sweet surprise!

Enjoy a FREE meal at a Quick-Service location, per person ages 3 and up, per night when you buy a non-discounted 5-night/6-day Walt Disney Travel Company room & ticket package at a select Disney Value Resort.
For arrivals most nights 5/29–8/25/18. Book through 2/11/18.

The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited. Tickets valid for one Theme Park per day and must be used within 14 days of first use. First use must occur on or before 12/31/18. Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion.

Offer excludes campsites and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort––The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms. Everyone in the room must be on the same package.
Each Quick-Service meal includes one entrée and one nonalcoholic beverage (or, if age 21 or over, one beer, wine or cocktail). Children ages 3–9 must order from the children’s menu, if available.Walt Disney Travel Company CST# 1022229-50 ©Disney WDWRST-18-62450

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Call her at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com for your free, no obligation quote. 

18 Reasons to Book a 2018 Disney World Vacation

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

With a new whimsical land set to open at Disney’s Hollywood Studios this summer, plus the return of some amazing annual festivals and a multitude of new dining locations, 2018 will be an exciting year at Walt Disney World Resort.

If you’re considering planning a 2018 Disney World vacation, be sure to check out these 18 reasons why the new year should be the year for your Disney vacation!

1. Star Wars: The Last Jedi-Inspired Additions Are On Display At Star Wars Launch Bay – New props and models from Star Wars: The Last Jedi were recently put on display to Star Wars Launch Bay at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

2. Experience Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire Hyper-Reality Experience by ILMxLAB and The VOID – This newly opened experience is guaranteed to be a hit for Star Wars fans in 2018. Located in Disney Springs, Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire transports guests deep into the Star Wars universe, allowing them to walk freely and untethered throughout a multisensory experience with friends and family. In groups of four, teams will go undercover as stormtroopers to capture Imperial intelligence vital to the budding rebellion’s survival.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

3. Star Tours – The Adventures Continue Now Offers Two New Destinations – This attraction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios now takes passengers to two exciting new destinations: Crait, the site of an epic battle in Star Wars: The Last Jedi, and Batuu, the remote outpost guests will discover when Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opens at the park in 2019.

4. 25th Anniversary Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend Celebration Begins January 3 – The Walt Disney World Marathon will mark its 25th anniversary this year. The race weekend will “run” from Jan. 3-7, and include a 5K, 10K, half-and-full marathon.

5. Epcot’s International Festival of the Arts Expands To Run January 12-February 19 – Epcot’s art festival returns for a second year, with this year’s event offering seminars, workshops classes on drawing animation, photography and the art of making topiaries. Guests can also enjoy world-class cuisine at the food studios, or enjoy a Disney on Broadway series performance.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

6. Disney After Hours Event Nights Return to Magic Kingdom Park January-March – Disney After Hours event nights will return to Magic Kingdom Park on January 19, 26, and 30, February 8 and 15, March 1 and 8. Experience an event that takes place after the park closes and is only open to a limited number of guests (which means much shorter lines) at 25 attractions and experiences.

7. Disney Springs Will Welcome Eight New Dining Locations – A total of eight exciting new F&B locations are set to make their grand debuts at Disney Springs in 2018. The Edison, along with Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante, Enzo’s Hideaway and Pizza Ponte are scheduled to open early in 2018, while Terralina Crafted Italian, Wine Bar George, Jaleo and Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill are set to debut later on in the year.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

8. The Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival Celebrates Its 25th Anniversary – This year’s festival will run from February 28-May 28. The 90-day event brings with it a multitude of Disney character topiaries, tasty offerings at 15 Outdoor Kitchens, garden tours, the Garden Rocks music series, new kids’ activities, the Egg-Stravaganza scavenger hunt and much more.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

9. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Celebrates It’s 20th Anniversary – Walt Disney World’s theme park dedicated to celebrating life in the animal kingdom will mark a milestone 20th anniversary on Earth Day, April 22, this year.

10. An “UP”-Inspired Show Will Debut at Disney’s Animal Kingdom This Spring – A new show featuring Russell and Dug from Disney•Pixar’s film “UP” will offer guests the chance to see Senior Wilderness Explorer Russell and his furry friend Dug as they discover species of birds from around the world in their newest adventure at the Caravan Theater in Anandapur Village. Stay tuned for more on this new experience.

11. Celebrate The Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival at Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant at Disney Springs – Raglan Road is the place to be for St. Patty’s Day, this March 17. The annual event features live music and Irish dance performances, plus plenty of great food.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

12. Toy Story Land Opens in Summer 2018 – The highly anticipated expansion at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will debut to guests this summer, and with it, two new attractions: Alien Swirling Saucers and the Slinky Dog Dash family coaster. Guests can already catch a glimpse of what’s in store inside the park’s Walt Disney Presents attraction, where they can view the model and some attraction vehicle maquettes.

13. Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort Enhancements Will Debut This Summer – Several areas of this resort are currently undergoing enhancements, including a transformation for the resort’s existing lobby, an expansion of Centertown Market, and the addition of a new Caribbean-inspired restaurant and pool bar.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

14. Get Into The Halloween Spirit At Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party – This event is a must-do for guests visiting in the fall. Get ready to collect candy, dress in costumes, and enjoy Halloween entertainment like only Disney can create. Highlights of this special-ticket party include “Happy HalloWishes” fireworks, the “Boo-To-You Halloween Parade” and more.

15. Fall Will Be Unforgettable With The Epcot International Food & Wine Festival – Plan for a fantastic fall with the return of the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. The 2018 event will feature many guest favorites – including global marketplaces, the Eat to the Beat Concert Series, guest chef appearances, culinary demonstrations, beverage seminars and so much more.

Toy soldiers parade down Main Street, U.S.A., at Magic Kingdom during “Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade.” The festive processional is one of the happy highlights of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, a night of holiday splendor with lively stage shows, a unique holiday parade, Holiday Wishes: Celebrate the Spirit of the Season nighttime fireworks, and snow flurries on Main Street, U.S.A. The special-ticket event takes place on select nights in November and December in Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Ryan Wendler, photographer)

16. Holiday Favorite Events Will Return – There are so many wonderful things to see and do during the most wonderful time of the year! With Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Parties at Magic Kingdom Park, the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays, the Flurry of Fun celebration Disney’s Hollywood Studios, holiday shopping and entertainment at Disney Springs, and more, the holiday fun is never ending.

17. ESPN Wide World of Sports Will Expand – ESPN Wide World of Sports will open a new multi-use sports and entertainment venue in 2018. It will seat more than 8,000 guests and have the ability to host six regulation basketball courts, six regulation volleyball courts or concert configurations. For cheer and dance events, it will accommodate performance and warm-up space and include a flexible design for one large competition space that can be set up for as many as four competition areas. Additional areas can be tailored for warm-up and practice, along with areas for judges and officials. There will be concessions throughout the building, and additional box office and entry to the complex.

18. Look For More Updates on Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2019 – Slated to open in 2019, this entire land will allow guests to visit a remote trading port on the edge of wild space, where Star Wars characters and their stories come to life – and where guests will find themselves in the middle of the action. The lands will feature two major attractions that put guests in the middle of a battle between the First Order and the Resistance. Each attraction – and even the land itself – will offer guests the chance to immerse themselves in the Star Wars universe like never before.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Call her at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com for your free, no obligation quote. 

Stop by the Disney PhotoPass Studio at Disney Springs for Virtual Backgrounds

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The Disney PhotoPass Studio located in the Disney Springs Marketplace is a favorite among princesses and knights who have visited Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, but you don’t have to be on your way to the ball to have your photo taken here!

You can take a classic – or goofy – family or individual portrait on one of our standard backdrops.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

If you’re looking for a slightly more specialized photo experience, this studio also offers those of all ages the opportunity to pose in front of virtual backdrops using a green-screen technique.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Here are just a few of the numerous virtual backdrop themes currently available: “Aladdin;” “Beauty and the Beast;” “Brave;” “Cars;” “Cinderella;” “Elena of Avalor;” “Inside Out;” “Jake and the Never Land Pirates;” “The Lion Guard;” “The Little Mermaid;” “Mickey and the Roadster Racers;” “Moana;” “Monsters, Inc.;” “Mulan;” “Peter Pan;” “Pirates of the Caribbean;” “The Princess and the Frog;” “Sleeping Beauty;” “Snow White;” Star Wars; “Tangled;” “Toy Story” and more!

So smile and say cheese, arrr, Agrabah, McQueen or Mickey – the choices are endless! Your photographer will make sure you have the best backdrop for your photo.

These photos can be linked to your My Disney Experience account and downloaded as part of an active Memory Maker entitlement or purchased individually.

If you’re looking for an even more customized offering that allows your little princess to step right into a classic Disney story, be sure to ask a photographer at the studio about a Personalized Storybook!

No reservations are needed to visit the studio, so stop by for your photo shoot whenever it fits into your day at Disney Springs!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

10 Unique Experiences at 2018 Epcot International Festival of the Arts

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

As many of you know, the Epcot International Festival of the Arts is back in 2018 to celebrate all things art – performing, visual and culinary. With seminars, workshops, and more planned, we wanted to highlight ten unique experiences at 2018 Epcot International Festival of the Arts.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

There are many seminars and workshops from top Disney, local and nationally-renowned artists but here are a few you don’t want to miss:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Art of Topiaries – Our Disney horticulture team will be showing you how we create some of the amazing signature Walt Disney World topiaries you see here on the Disney Parks Blog. After this seminar, you’ll be inspired to create Disney sculptures at home to amaze your neighbors.

Watermelon Carving – You need to see this to believe it. A watermelon will be artfully carved while you receive great tips and tricks to use at your next party. This seminar is hosted by the National Watermelon Promotion Board and will be something to talk about!

Magic with Water – The same Disney Photo Imaging team you read about here on the Disney Parks Blog will discuss tips and tricks for taking great photos around water; including swimming pools, play fountains, waterfalls, and even in the rain. You’ll also learn about using camera settings, lenses, and locations to get the best results.

Animated Flip Books – This session is animation 101 where you’ll have the opportunity to create your own animated Flip Book while going over the fundamental principles of animation with one of our Disney animators. Drop by this seminar and watch your drawings come to life!

Food Styling 101 – If you love taking photos of amazing dishes, this is your experience. The session will look at the basics of what goes into making food photo- and video-ready. Lessons include going from ingredients to a beautiful hero shot, talking tricks and tools of the trade and sharing tips to make your own food photography shine.

Inspiring Floral – Over the years, the Disney Parks Blog has covered some of the amazing work created by Disney Floral Designers. This workshop will share floral design principles along with Disney-inspired creations to help you bring the magic of Disney home at any time of the year.

Handcrafted Calligraphy – It’ll be difficult not to have fun learning the basics of pointed pen calligraphy. This workshop will cover topics such as mastering faux calligraphy, how to hold your oblique pen, letter formation, common issues you may run into, and which paths you can take with your new skill.

Phone Cam Photography – This photography session from Disney Photo Imaging is for everyone! You will learn how to maximize the capabilities of your phone’s camera to improve your photos. Lighting adjustment, color adjustment, taking High Dynamic Range photos, time lapse, and how to edit your photos are just a few of the topics on the agenda.

Handwritten Typography – Nothing is more personal than typography created by hand and at this workshop, a Walt Disney World Resort creative service manager will teach you how to draw your own hand drawn typography to create personalized gifts and cards.

Storytelling Drawings – A single drawing can tell a story – and this workshop will show you how to do it. A Disney animator will share the art of quick sketching from life. Gesture drawing of people covered in this session is a foundational practice for animators, storyboard artists, and directors.

What sounds good to you? Let us know in the comments below.

And to book any of these experiences at 2018 Epcot International Festival of the Arts, call 407-WDW-TOUR or 407-939-8687 or ask your travel agent for assistance.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Call her at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com for your free, no obligation quote. 

Five Fun Facts about Sonny Eclipse at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Perhaps one of the lesser known characters at Walt Disney World Resort is Sonny Eclipse, Magic Kingdom Park’s resident lounge singer, at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe.

The “biggest little star in the galaxy” has been entertaining guests at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe in Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom Park since 1995. Guests can catch his 27-minute set of tunes – and wisecracks – multiple times a day while they dine.

Here are five fun facts about the one and only Sonny Eclipse:

1. Sonny’s instrument is an Astro-Organ – The “out-of-this world” instrument he uses for accompaniment is a glowing keyboard-like creation called an Astro-Organ.
2. His hometown is Yew Nork City on Planet Zork – Sonny describes his hometown as a “topsy-turvy town where the subways are up and the streets are down.”
3. Sonny’s repertoire features only original songs – Sonny’s set includes eight original songs, including “Planetary Boogie,” “Bright Little Star,” “Space Angels” “Gravity Blues” and more. The songs were co-created by Walt Disney Imagineering and composer George Wilkens, who had previously written and arranged music for the Food Rocks attraction at Epcot and the “Honey, I Shrunk the Audience” pre-show at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
4. Sonny loves jokes – Sonny incorporates many jokes into his act – the cornier the better! (“You know, I recently heard the universe was expanding. Guess it’s time to loosen the asteroid belt!”).
5. Sonny has three backup singers – Sonny is backed by an invisible trio known as the Space Angels.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Black Friday Disney World Deal to Spend Christmas at Disney World

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Black Friday Disney World Deal: Wrap Up the Ultimate Disney Christmas Package for Exclusive Holiday Experiences at Walt Disney World Resort
You can celebrate the magic of the holidays in The Most Magical Place on Earth with the Ultimate Disney Christmas Package at Walt Disney World® Resort. With this exclusive vacation package, you will arrive on December 21 and depart on December 26, 2017 and enjoy an itinerary full of magic, including special experiences just for Guests on this package! Take a look at all the unique Yuletide offerings included in this festive offer:
  • December 21, 2017- One ticket per Guest in your party to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom Park
  • December 22, 2017- Access to special nighttime Extra Magic Hours at Pandora- The World of Avatar within Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
  • December 23, 2017- A special holiday Character experience at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
  • December 24, 2017- An invitation to a special Christmas Eve dinner celebration at Epcot
  • December 25, 2017- A special holiday gift delivered to your Disney Resort hotel room

This special holiday vacation package also includes a 5-night stay at select Disney Moderate, Deluxe, or Deluxe Villa Resort hotels plus 4-day Theme Park tickets with Park Hopper option. These exclusive packages start at $139 per person, per night, for a family of four in a standard room at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort.

Hurry, this offer is only available to book through December 10, 2017 and is subject to availability.

Plus, if you book with Siera at Destinations in Florida by Monday, November 27, 2017, every child in your family will also receive a FREE pair of Mickey ears! Contact Siera today to start planning your magical holiday vacation.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Call her at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com for your free, no obligation quote.