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Everything You Need to Know About Wizarding World of Harry Potter Merchandise

One of the most memorable moments from the Harry Potter films and books is when Harry is shopping with Hagrid for all the supplies he’ll need at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. You can also experience the fun of shopping for Wizarding World of Harry Potter merchandise at Universal Orlando Resort as you choose a delightful creature companion, try on school robes, or stock up on quills and parchment.

There are two lands with a number of themed shops for you to explore — Diagon Alley in Universal Studios Florida and Hogsmeade in Universal’s Islands of Adventure. Each shop offers unique items for purchase that are inspired by the films and books, as well as incredible theming and details that make you feel as if you’re stepping right into the story. Whether you’re a long-time fan, or if it’s your first introduction to the wizarding world, you’re bound to find a magical keepsake to take home.

Here’s the full list of shops you can experience in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, along with some of my favorite items to keep an eye out for and tips on how to get the best experience during your visit.

DIAGON ALLEY

Quality Quidditch Supplies

Quidditch is a very popular wizarding sport and now you can get all the gear to rep your favorite house. Pick up house team apparel, pennants, and accessories, as well as everything you need to play, like Quaffles, Golden Snitches, and more.

Quidditch Jerseys: Are you the new Seeker or Keeper on your Hogwarts house team? You can now get your very own jersey personalized with your name.

Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes

You can’t miss this whimsical shop run by the pranksters Fred and George Weasley. The bright, orange shop immediately catches your eye and lures you inside to check out its shelves piled high with magical jokes and toys. Adopt a Pygmy Puff or stock up on pranks and tricks like the Decoy Detonator or an Extendable Ear.

Madam Malkin’s Robes for all Occasions

There’s only one place you can fill out your wizarding wardrobe. Madam Malkin’s offers the best in wizarding fashion, including unique replicas of Hermoine’s Yule Ball Gown and all kinds of Hogwarts house apparel.

Robes and Scarves: Stock up on everything you’ll need for Hogwarts with your house robes, scarves, sweaters, accessories, jewelry, and more.

Borgin and Burkes

If you muster the courage to wander into Knockturn Alley, get a taste of the Dark Arts inside Borgin and Burkes (my favorite shop) with items like Dark Mark tattoos, Deathly Hallow jewelry, skulls, and Death Eater masks.

Ollivanders Wand Shop

After you experience a wand choosing a wizard at Ollivanders, stop in the wand shop to browse the wide selection of wands. You’ll find shelves stacked high with wands from your favorite characters and interactive wands.

Interactive Wands: Practice casting your favorite spells throughout Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley with an interactive wand.

Magical Menagerie

One of my favorite moments in the Harry Potter films is when Harry finds Hedwig, his beloved owl companion. Now, you too can find your very own creature companion in Magical Menagerie from owls and cats to frogs and rats (all cuddly plushes, of course).

Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment

Known for its stock of magical instruments, Wiseacre’s is the blue shop located right next to Gringotts bank. Inside you’ll find wares like apparel and mugs, along with Butterbeer items perfect for fans of the frothy beverage and toys to challenge the mind like a Diagon Alley puzzle.

Butterbeer Tee: No matter which type of Butterbeer is your favorite (the drink is available in cold, frozen, and even hot during the winter months), show your love for all things Butterbeer with this comfy tee.

Gringotts Money Exchange

Here’s your opportunity to speak with a goblin, although you may only get a word or two and a glare from him. Afterward, exchange your U.S. currency for Gringotts bank notes, which you can use to shop in Diagon Alley or Hogsmeade. You can also pick up some bags of chocolate Gringotts coins.

Scribbulus

Scribbulus has all your wizarding-writing needs with quills and ink, Hogwarts house notebooks (another item you can get personalized), stationery, and backpacks to carry it all in.

Howler Recordable Card: Fans may remember when Ron Weasley received a Howler from his mom for flying the family car to Hogwarts in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. This recordable card allows you to send your very own Howler.

Wands by Gregorovitch

There’s another wand shop you will want to check out right across from Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes. Gregorovitch is a rival wandmaker of Ollivanders and you can find character wands, interactive wands, and wand stands at his shop.

Globus Mundi

You may be on vacation when you visit this shop, but it’s never too early to prepare for your next one. Globus Mundi is the official travel agency of the wizarding world and offers everything you need for your next trip like passport holders, travel apparel, mugs, and more.

Hogwarts Express Line: Travel in style with items sporting designs inspired by the iconic red locomotive, the Hogwarts Express, like a leather stainless tumbler or a collectible foil ticket set.

Sugarplum’s Sweet Shop

Before you leave Diagon Alley grab some treats to go from Sugarplum’s. This pink, sweet shop offers the finest in wizarding confections like Fizzing Whizbees, different flavors of fudge (including Butterbeer!), pumpkin pasties, Ginger Newt cookies, and more.

Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans: Challenge your friends to try a box of these beans and get ready to capture their reactions. The name says it all with flavors that range from enjoyable like lemon and cherry to the more, uh, unique flavors of grass and earwax.

After you’re done exploring the shops in Diagon Alley, head over to King’s Cross Station to catch the Hogwarts Express to Hogsmeade (remember, you’ll need a park-to-park ticket to hop aboard the train).

Before you go, make sure to check out the Wizarding World of Harry Potter merchandise cart in London right outside of King’s Cross Station. You can find some of my favorite themed apparel here like the Knight Bus merchandise and the Grimmauld Place T-shirt.

HOGSMEADE

Honeydukes

You’ve arrived in Hogsmeade and the first shop you’ll come upon is the colorful sweet shop Honeydukes. Here, you’ll find all of the famous wizarding treats like Chocolate Frogs, Fizzing Whizbees, Cauldron Cakes, Exploding Bonbons, and more.

Chocolate Frog: You won’t want to miss out on this favorite wizarding world treat. Not only are they delicious, but each Chocolate Frog comes with a collectible wizard card celebrating a famous witch or wizard.

Dervish and Banges

This is your one-stop shop for all your wizarding needs. Grab all of your Hogwarts house gear like robes, scarves, shirts, and drinkware. And don’t forget to check out the assortment of magical items such as wands, brooms, Sneakoscopes, and Quidditch supplies.

Owl Post

Owl Post is one of my favorite shops to stop in. It has everyone’s favorite owl plush companions (including Hedwig!) and every writing implement you need from quills to stationery and notebooks. You can also mail letters with a Hogsmeade postmark. For those of you who become inspired to read the books or see the movies during your visit, you can pick up both here, too!

Hogwarts House Stationery: Show your house pride with stationery that you can get personalized at the Owl Post cart located right outside the shop.

Filch’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods

You can’t visit Hogwarts without stopping here. Rummage through the confiscated trinkets and treasures the school caretaker, Argus Filch, has seized from students such as Hogwarts Crest items, a Marauder’s Map toy, and even movie-replica props like the Hufflepuff Cup or the Sword of Gryffindor.

Hogsmeade Carts

As you’re wrapping up your day, stop by the carts throughout Hogsmeade for any final finds like wands, wand stands, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure items like Pixie and Fluffy plushies, Hogwarts castle name keychains, and more.

Fluffy Plush Puppet: Little ones love this three-headed pooch puppet. It’s a great souvenir until they are tall enough to ride Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and meet Fluffy face-to-face!

Shopping Tips for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

For the ultimate wizarding world experience, explore getting an interactive wand first when you arrive so you can practice your spellcasting throughout Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley.
The shops are true to the films with narrow corridors and packed from floor to ceiling with whimsical oddities and magical supplies. Get a start on exploring the shops before the daytime guests with Early Park Admission. This perk is available to guests who stay at a Universal Orlando Resort hotel and gives you access to the parks one hour before everyone else.
Another perk for our hotel guests is being able to request to have your merchandise sent back to your hotel. Or, you can have the merchandise held near the park exit so you can pick it up at the end of the day. Just ask a Team Member at the shop and free up those arms from carrying bags for more spellcasting.
You can find select The Wizarding World of Harry Potter merchandise in the Universal Studios Stores located in the parks, CityWalk, and hotels. You can also find it before or after your trip on Universal’s online merch store. However, there are certain, exclusive items that can only be found in the lands.
Keep your eye out for the unexpected. You never know what you may find!

What’s at the top of your shopping list for Wizarding World of Harry Potter merchandise? Share your favorite finds in the comments below and on Twitter and Instagram using #WizardingWorldOrlando.

Thanks Universal Orlando Resort Blog!

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Fa-Boo-Lous Treats and Sips for Fall into Magic at Disney Springs

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It’s time to eat, drink, and be scary! With only a few more weeks leading up to Halloween, it’s time to indulge in all your favorite things at Disney Springs. From the spellbinding shopping at World of Disney to all the ghoulish good treats and sips! Guests will find some returning favorites and sweet new additions this frightfully fun Fall into Magic season at Disney Springs, including the Haunted Mansion Petit Cake, Pumpkin Donuts, Monster Cookies, and more.

You can find all the “fa-boo-lous” and yummy details here so you can make your own frightful foodie crawl on your next visit. (Most of these are only available through Oct. 31, so don’t wait too long!)

Amorette’s Patisserie

Haunted Mansion Petit Cake – Chocolate and vanilla chiffon cakes, with chocolate brownie, and diplomat cream sprinkled with candy-coated chocolate pieces and chocolate chips
Pumpkin Pecan Cheesecake Roll – Pecan Chiffon cake, pumpkin cheesecake filling, and dulce nutmeg chocolate mousse
Pumpkin Crème Brûlée – Pumpkin custard with brûléed sugar, candied pecans, spiced whipped cream, and raspberry cranberry tuile

Coca-Cola Rooftop Beverage Bar

FANTAween Punch – Fanta Orange, Simply Orange, muddled cherries, and whipped cream
StrawScary Float and BlueScary Float with Ice Cream

Disney’s Candy Cauldron & Goofy’s Candy Co. (mobile order now available)

Minnie Witch Caramel Apple
Mickey Mummy Marshmallow
Mickey Halloween Marshmallow
Pumpkin Spice Fudge
Pumpkin Spice Cupcake
Mickey Halloween Cupcake
Minnie Halloween Cupcake
Mickey Candy Corn Sugar Cookie
Mickey Spider Web Sugar Cookie
“Pumpkin Pie” Slice Crisped Rice Cereal Treat
Mickey Pumpkin Crisped Rice Cereal Treat
Jack Skellington Caramel Apple
Jack Skellington Crisped Rice Cereal Treat

Dockside Margaritas

Jack O’Lantern – Black rum, rum, white rum, orange-flavored triple sec liqueur, orange juice, lemonade, and a grenadine float

Erin McKenna’s Bakery NYC

Vegan and Gluten-Free Halloween Cupcakes and Brownie Bars – Vanilla and chocolate cupcakes and chocolate brownies topped with vanilla frosting and decorated with spooky designs
Vegan and Gluten-Free Halloween Sugar Cookie Kit – Six sugar skull shaped cookies, Six sugar pumpkin=shaped cookies, purple, orange, and white icing, and sprinkles
Vegan and Gluten-Free Custom Cakes – Available by pre-order only; Call (855) GOBABYCAKES to learn more.

Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew

Pumpkin Spice Cold Brew
The Great Pumpkin Donut – Plump yeast donut with vanilla icing, black and orange sprinkles, and crowned with candy corn-studded buttercream and pumpkin-shaped marshmallow candies (Available only Oct. 25–31)

The Ganachery

Pumpkin Spice Marshmallows
Caramel Chocolate Skulls – 65% dark chocolate skulls filled with caramel ganache
Pumpkin Spice Latte Ganache Squares – Pumpkin, spices, and Italian espresso with milk chocolate
Mickey Mummy Piñata – 65% dark chocolate sphere filled with sweet treats
Sister Elixir Cocoa Bomb – Dark chocolate cauldron filled with hot cocoa mix and green marshmallows topped with an edible image of the Sanderson Sisters and a chocolate broom stirrer (Available Oct. 19–31)

Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar

Witch’s Flight – Whiskey, white grape juice, lime juice, and sweet and sour with flavors of green apple, orange-tangerine, and blackberry

Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company

Pumpkin Pie Latte – Pumpkin pie syrup, milk and espresso (available hot or iced)
Harvest Chai Latte – Pumpkin pie syrup and chai tea (available hot or iced)
Happy Harvest Blend, Not-So-Scary Pumpkin Brew, Apple-y Ever After Packaged Coffees

(Ask your barista to top your beverage or a donut with new Disney and fall–inspired designs!)

Gideon’s Bakehouse

The Frankenstein Cookie – Limited-edition almost ½ pound cookie filled with chocolates, chocolate sandwich cookies, and M&M’s
The Bride of Frankenstein Cookie – Limited-edition almost ½ pound cookie filled with white chocolate, golden chocolate sandwich cookies, and M&M’s
Frankencake – Three layers of chocolate cake, cookies & cream buttercream, layers of M&M’s, and spooky reverse ganache

Morimoto Asia

Black Magic Martini – Grapefruit Vodka, lemon, agave and grape boba
Twisted Pumpkin Cocktail – Vodka, Bols Lychee and Pumpkin Spice Liqueurs and house-made lychee syrup.

Paddlefish

Vampire’s Kiss – Sparkling wine and raspberry red cocktail

Splitsville Dining Room

Black Cauldron – Blackberry vodka, blackberries, apple liquor, activated charcoal, and fresh lemon juice
Poison Apple – Apple whiskey, spiced whiskey, apple cider, and gold glitter with a dried apple garnish

Sprinkles Cupcakes

Black Velvet – A twist on a Red Velvet classic, this decadent dark chocolate cake is topped with whipped chocolate ganache frosting and a black modern dot (Available Oct. 11-17)
Double Stuffed OREO – Rich chocolate filled and topped with orange, color vanilla buttercream with Halloween orange OREO cookie crust and an OREO rim topped with a black bat (Available Oct. 18-31)
Bewitched – A Red Velvet cake rolled in Halloween-inspired décor by Fancy Sprinkles (Available Oct. 25-31)
Trick Or Treat – A Belgian dark chocolate cake with dark chocolate frosting, topped with a variety of candy including Twix, Kit Kat, Snickers, Milky Way, 3 Musketeers, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and M&M minis (Pre orders: Oct. 25-26; pick-up and delivery: Oct. 30-31)

Terralina Crafted Italian

Crisp Apple Martini – Vodka cocktail with the fruit flavors of apple and the crisp bite of sparkling wine

Vivoli il Gelato

Pumpkin Waffle – Pumpkin waffle topped with vanilla gelato, whipped cream, and brown sugar
Pumpkin Cannoli – Crispy pastry shell filled with a sweet cream made with ricotta cheese
Jack-O-Lantern Float – Vanilla gelato, Fanta Orange. and whipped cream
S’mores Pumpkin Cookie Sandwich – Freshly baked s’mores cookies with pumpkin gelato
Mocha Caramel Bombolato – Coffee gelato, chocolate chips. and caramel sauce in a warm Italian Doughnut

Are you planning to enjoy Fall into Magic at Disney Springs this year? Happy Halloween!

Thanks Disney Parks Blog!

Over 150 New Foods and Beverages Available During the World’s Most Magical Celebration

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The magic is calling all Foodies to the Walt Disney World Resort 50^th anniversary celebration – The World’s Most Magical Celebration! Throughout all four theme parks and beyond, Disney chefs and mixologists have created more than 150 sips and bites full of color, whimsy, and a touch of EARidescent shimmer – with even more coming throughout the 18-month celebration which kicks off October 1, 2021.

Walt’s personal recipes, Walt Disney World Resort attractions (past and present), beloved Disney Characters, and nostalgic dishes from 1971 were inspirations for the tasty offerings created for this anniversary celebration.

Walt’s palate was relatively simple – definitely a meat and potatoes guy! Roast lamb, roast beef hash topped with a fried egg, chili, and fried chicken were his favorites, along with lemon, apple, chocolate, and bread pudding desserts. Disney chefs looked to Walt’s recipes from the archives while planning for the 50^th anniversary celebration. The result is deliciously reimagined versions of Walt’s favorites. And many of the treats (including the fun EARidescent Sip-a-bration) are infused with EARidescent shimmers to add glimmering touches to the celebratory creations.

To view all the 50^th anniversary celebration food and beverage offerings on your mobile device, click here to download the My Disney Experience app or click here to view at Disneyworld.com.

While you are celebrating the World’s Most Magical Celebration, be sure to share your favorite sips and bites using the hashtag #DisneyWorld50.

Let The World’s Most Magical Celebration begin!

Magic Kingdom Park

Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies

Uncle Orville Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow Sundae – Chocolate and vanilla soft-serve, brownie pieces, hot fudge, and whipped cream topped with red, white, and blue sprinkles served in a “bathtub”

Be Our Guest Restaurant

Squids Revenge Drink – A michelada with a salted rim and garnished with charred octopus and cucumber. Watch out, the giant squid is back!

Casey’s Corner

Pressed Penny Silk Pie – Chocolate tart shell, silky chocolate filling, sweet whipped cream, and a chocolate-pressed penny
50^th Celebration Hot Dog – All-beef hot dog topped with strawberry bacon jam, crisp funnel cake pieces, and powdered sugar

Cinderella’s Royal Table

Royal 50th Celebration Flight – Flight of Enchantée Champagne – a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunière (Enchantée Champagne is sold exclusively at the Walt Disney World Resort)

Columbia Harbor House

Happy Haunts Milkshake – Blackberry milkshake topped with a purple chocolate-glazed doughnut covered with black sprinkles

Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café

Mission to Mars – Burger topped with bacon and macaroni & cheese served on a bun dusted with crushed cheese-flavored puffs

The Crystal Palace

Walt’s Favorites on the Buffet – Chicken fried steak, New York strip steak, pork chops, and more!

Friar’s Nook

The Toad Burger – Brat burger served on a bun with lettuce, tomato, pickle, and American cheese

Jungle Navigation Co. LTD Skipper Canteen

Veranda Fried Rice – Spicy chili-garlic shrimp served over pork fried rice with eggs and peas (from the original Verandah Restaurant menu)

Outdoor Kiosks

Dumbo Churros – Churros rolled in peanut dust and served with chocolate dipping sauce in a Dumbo-themed churro bag
Royal 50th Churro – Churros rolled in strawberry sugar, drizzled with marshmallow cream, and shimmer sprinkles served with chocolate dipping sauce

Plaza Ice Cream Parlor

The Banana Boom – Traditional banana split topped with popping candy and a candied shooting star

Plaza Restaurant

Cheers to 50 Years! – Chocolate and vanilla ice cream, brownies, cupcakes, cookie crumbles, pretzel rods, and hot fudge topped with whipped cream, EARidescent sugar, and a Mickey pretzel drizzled with caramel and chocolate icing (serves 4-6)

Storybook Treats

Heigh-Ho Sundae! – Chocolate soft-serve, hot fudge, graham cracker pieces, chocolate gems, and whipped cream

Tony’s Town Square Restaurant

Five Alarm Wings – Wings tossed in a sweet-and-spicy heat served with ranch dressing for dipping

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Drinkwallah

Hand-dipped 50th Celebration Mickey Premium Bar – Our classic Nestlé Mickey’s Premium Ice Cream Bar dipped in blue raspberry-flavored coating with celebration sprinkles and a little bit of pixie dust

Restaurantosaurus

Cheese Fries with Walt’s Chili – Crispy fries topped with Walt’s favorite chili and cheddar sauce
Walt’s Favorite Chili on Foot-long Hot Dog – A foot-long hot dog served on a warm bun topped with Walt’s favorite chili and cheddar sauce

Tiffins

50th Celebration Chocolate Gâteaux – Almond praline, white chocolate crémeux, ganache, and chocolate-South African cream liqueur sauce

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Trolley Car Café

Glimmer and Shimmer Pineapple Mousse – Golden pineapple mousse on a toasted coconut crisp with caramel cream and matcha sponge cake

The Hollywood Brown Derby

Filet Mignon with Walt’s Hash topped with an egg (just the way Walt liked it!)

The Hollywood Brown Derby Lounge, Oasis Canteen, Sunshine Day Bar, Animation Bar

Shimmer over the Moon – Apple pie moonshine, amaretto, falernum, pineapple juice, and club soda served with a souvenir glow cube

ABC Commissary

Chocolate Mousse – Raspberry-dark chocolate mousse, chocolate-almond cake, and a layer of hazelnut crunch and whipped chocolate-hazelnut cheesecake

EPCOT

Coral Reef Restaurant

Key Lime Tart with toasted meringue, EARidescent shimmer, sprinkles, and chocolate garnish

The EPCOT Experience

EARidescent Croissant Doughnut – Croissant doughnut with blue icing and sprinkles

Le Cellier Steakhouse

Chocolate Mousse Bar – Dark chocolate mousse, caramel cookie pieces, milk chocolate shell, and chocolate shortbread cookie

Sunshine Seasons

Mini Chocolate Bundt Cake – Mini chocolate Bundt cake with chocolate ganache, sprinkles, and icing dusted with EARidescent shimmer and chocolate 50^th anniversary garnish

Disney Springs

Amorette’s Patisserie

50th Celebration Petit Cake – Vanilla chiffon cake with celebration blue mousse, blueberry jam, and lemon curd

The Ganachery

50^th Celebration Chocolate Bundle:

50th Celebration Ganache Chocolate Bar – Milk chocolate combined with caramel and crispies for a playful crunch
50th Celebration Ganache Square – Celebration cake ganache mixed with sprinkles, enrobed in 65% dark chocolate, and decorated with a shimmering castle design

Frontera Cocina

Chocolate Pigñata – Chocolate shell filled with cajeta mousse, tender cake (infused with whiskey & vanilla), crumble of chipotle bacon, candied orange, and Maria cookies. Yes, there’s a mallet to break your piñata! Serves two.

The BOATHOUSE

Sweet Nostalgia Pineapple Upside-Down Cake – Pineapple upside-down cake with caramel glazed with Chantilly cream

Terralina Crafted Italian,

Whimsical White Chocolate Mousse –White chocolate mousse with salted caramel and cotton candy

Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill,

Caramel Banana Chocolate Sphere – Dark chocolate sphere, vanilla pudding, banana caramel compote, gold dust, and chocolate pearls

Resorts

The Mara, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Chocolate Mousse with a cardamom financier

Contempo Café, Disney’s Contemporary Resort

50th Anniversary Peanut Butter-Banana Pie – Sweet tart shell filled with peanut butter mousse and banana sauce topped with chocolate glaze and chocolate décor

Toledo–Tapas, Steak, and Seafood, Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

Braised Lamb Shank with olive oil-potato purée, rosemary-roasted garlic gravy, huckleberry jam, and English peas

P&J’s Southern Takeout, Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campgrounds

Chicken Dinner Cupcake Trio
- Fried chicken-apple fritter, apple pie moonshine filling, and vanilla buttercream
- Peas and carrots-strawberry moonshine custard, white chocolate frosting, and M&M’S Mini “peas”
- Mock mashed potato-SNICKERS mousse cupcake, caramel buttercream, and STARBURST “butter”

Grand Floridan Café, Disney’s Grand Floridan Resort & Spa

50th Anniversary Vintage Minnie’s Brown Betty Profiterole – Crunchy-topped cream puff filled with one of Walt’s favorite flavors of cinnamon-spiced apples and Chantilly cream

Olivia’s Cafe, Disney’s Old Key West Resort

Spam-Cheddar Biscuits with white gravy and drizzled with honey

Capt. Cook’s, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

50th Celebration Cupcake – Vanilla cupcake with DOLE Whip pineapple center, tropical fruit salsa, and pineapple macaron

Le Petit Café, Disney’s Riviera Resort

50th Celebration Cupcake – Vanilla cupcake, cake-flavored mousse, and caramel-buttercream icing garnished with crisp pearls, 50th anniversary sprinkles, and a whimsical gold Mickey

Roaring Fork, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Petit Stump Cake – Chocolate cake with birthday cake buttercream filling surrounded by chocolate “bark” fondant topped with 50th anniversary chocolate coin

The Market at Ale & Compass, Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts

50th Celebration Tart – Birthday cake mousse dome on top of a milk chocolate mousse-filled vanilla tart shell with mini chocolate crisp pearls, buttercream, fondant, and chocolate décor

Available at select table-service restaurants, lounges, and pool bars throughout all four Theme Parks and Resorts

EARidescent Sip-a-bration (Non-Alcoholic Beverage) – Minute Maid Premium Lemonade and fruity strawberry punch served in a souvenir 50th Celebration Cup with a surprise Character and a little bit of magic!
Magical Beacon Cocktail – Gin, blue curaçao, Minute Maid Premium Lemonade, orgeat (almond) syrup, lemon, hibiscus grenadine, and a souvenir glow cube

The classic Nestle Mickey’s Premium Ice Cream Bar has a festive new wrapper showcasing Mickey in his EARidescent finest!

Thanks Disney Parks Blog!

Complete Guide to Dining in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

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The immersive experiences within The Wizarding World of Harry Potter bring you as close as you can get to actually living out the fantasy. And one of the most tantalizing ways to immerse your senses is tasting some of the famous treats and flavorful beverages available in Hogsmeade at Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida. Today, we are sharing the complete guide to dining in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort.

BREAKFAST

As the saying goes at Universal Orlando Resort: early to rise, early to ride. This is why staying on property and taking advantage of Early Park Admission can be your best friend, especially with early access to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Plus, arriving early means in-park breakfast and I highly recommend you make time to enjoy a pleasant sit-down morning meal at one of the two remarkably themed restaurants in Hogsmeade or Diagon Alley before setting off on your journey.

Leaky Cauldron – Diagon Alley

Recommendations: To fully immerse yourself in the wizarding world you’ve got to go all in, which is why I highly recommend choosing one of the more adventurous breakfast plates like the delicious Egg, Leek and Mushroom Pasty.

Breakfast Menu

Three Broomsticks – Hogsmeade

Recommendations: The Traditional English Breakfast is the star of the show here, but when I’m in the mood for an old reliable I usually opt for the American Breakfast.

Breakfast Menu – Currently Unavailable

Check the Universal Orlando App for availability and mobile ordering during your visit.

LUNCH/DINNER

If there’s one word to describe the majority of meals you will find at seated dining locations throughout The Wizarding World of Harry Potter it is hearty. The menus at the Leaky Cauldron and the Three Broomsticks are loaded with wholesome dishes offering a feast of familiar and even some unfamiliar British fare. This, in addition to extraordinary theming and lively ambiance, makes the entire dining experience an attraction unto itself.

Leaky Cauldron – Diagon Alley

Recommendations: I can’t stress enough how good the Beef, Lamb & Guinness Stew really is, but I also dig the Mini Pie Combination.

Lunch/Dinner Menu

Three Broomsticks – Hogsmeade

Recommendations: Fish & Chips is my choice, but if you want something a bit more eclectic try the Great Feast.

Lunch/Dinner Menu

Both the Leaky Cauldron and the Three Broomsticks have kids menu options as well if you’re traveling with young ones.

Short on time? There’s a variety of grab-and-go food options throughout both lands so you can keep exploring and make use of every last valuable minute in the wizarding world.

London Taxi Cart – Diagon Alley

Recommendations: LoadedJacket Potato

BEVERAGES

When it comes to drinks in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Butterbeer is a must-try. However, choices abound beyond just that sweet butterscotch concoction, including a number of other favorite drinks from the stories. Though, if you do opt for Butterbeer, the decision you’ll have to make is…which kind?

Where to get Butterbeer…

Diagon Alley – Leaky Cauldron, The Hopping Pot, The Fountain of Fair Fortune

Hogsmeade – Three Broomsticks, Hog’s Head, Street Carts

Recommendation: Frozen Butterbeer is my personal favorite, but cold Butterbeer and hot Butterbeer are also worth a try. Keep in mind hot Butterbeer is a seasonal beverage available only during the winter time.

Eternelle’s Elixir of Refreshment – Carkitt Market in Diagon Alley

Recommendations: Sample the lot!CombineFire Protection Potion, Babbling Beverage, Draught of Peace, or Elixir to Induce Euphoria with a bottle of Gillywater for a flavorful treat.

Other Beverages…

Hogsmeade – Three Broomsticks

Diagon Alley – Leaky Cauldron, Fountain of Fair Fortune, The Hopping Pot

Recommendations: Pumpkin Juice is the classic, but Fishy Green Ale and Otter’s Fizzy Orange Juice are the more adventurous choices.

Adult Beverages…

Hogsmeade – Three Broomsticks, Hog’s Head

Diagon Alley – Leaky Cauldron, Fountain of Fair Fortune, The Hopping Pot

Recommendations: Try the exclusive Hog’s Head Brew or other domestic and imported beers.

Check each location for availability of specific beverages. *Must be 21 years or older with valid identification to purchase or drink alcoholic beverages.

TREATS

Butterbeer isn’t the only sweet treat to be found in the wizarding world. Both lands feature their own whimsically-themed candy shops with shelves and glass cases of popular treats from the stories and some originals you won’t find anywhere else, too.

Honeydukes – Hogsmeade

Sugarplum’s Sweet Shop – Diagon Alley

Recommendations: Too many to name… but I’ll try. Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans, Chocolate Frogs, Exploding Bonbons, Fizzing Whizbees, Fudge Flies, Butterbeer Fudge (yes, this exists and yes, it is absolutely delicious).

Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour – Diagon Alley

Recommendations: If you have to choose just one, I highly recommend Butterbeer ice-cream, but save room to try the Earl Grey & Lavender, Chocolate Chili and Sticky Toffee Pudding if you can.

Ice Cream Menu

HEALTHY EATING

And if you’re looking for options for healthy eating or special dietary needs, we got you covered with some delicious options. If you or another guest have food allergies or intolerances, we offer a number of dining options throughout The Wizarding World of Harry Potter where our chefs and culinary staff can accommodate your dietary needs. Just be sure to ask your server or attending Team Member for options at your specific dining location.

Leaky Cauldron – Diagon Alley

Recommendation: The Ploughman’s is enough food for two and it features an array of a feast of English cheese, crusty bread, field green salad, roasted tomatoes, cornichon pickles, apple beet salad, branston pickle & scotch eggs. Wow, that’s literally a mouthful!

Lunch/Dinner Menu

Three Broomsticks – Hogsmeade

Recommendation: Rotisserie Smoked Chicken Salad is a nice light way to graze and save room for other delights.

Lunch/Dinner Menu

I hope this guide to dining in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort helped you plan all of the yummy details of your next visit. If I missed any of your favorites, please recommend them in the comments below.

Must be 21 years and older with valid identification to purchase or drink alcoholic beverages.

Thanks Universal Orlando Resort Blog!

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La Crêperie de Paris Opens October 1 with Sweet and Savory Options

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When the newly expanded France pavilion at EPCOT debuts on October 1, helping kick off “The World’s Most Magical Celebration” in honor of the 50^th Anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort, you’ll be immersed in some of France’s signature sights, sounds, smells, and – of course! – tastes. One of the most delicious offerings, La Crêperie de Paris, is a traditional crêperie with a menu inspired by the Brittany region of France. The table- and quick-service restaurant, where everything is made from scratch and to order, will serve savory galettes and sweet dessert crêpes, along with some of Brittany’s famous hard ciders. Read on to learn all about the menu!

Like all galettes and crêpes from Brittany, La Crêperie de Paris will serve them very thin. The galettes will be cooked at a high temperature, allowing the outside to become crispy and crunchy, surrounding an irresistible array of fillings. The gluten-friendly savory galettes will be made with buckwheat imported exclusively from France and will feature classic fillings with some unique twists. Perhaps the best-known combination – and perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner – is the Classique that includes ham, eggs, and Swiss cheese. Perfect for any vegetarian diner and inspired by the “Little Chef” himself, The Ratatouille is filled with tomato, zucchini, and eggplant.

The sweet crêpes are also thin and made from scratch. From the traditional Gourmande, filled with house-made hazelnut chocolate spread, to the Pomme, filled with caramelized apples and caramel beurre salé, the dessert crêpes are guaranteed to satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth. You can even top these decadent delights with house-made ice cream!

To round out the authentic French experience, La Crêperie de Paris will serve traditional Brittany hard ciders that pair perfectly with both savory galettes and sweet crêpes. From the sweet doux to the less sweet brut and demi sec, the hard ciders are imported from France and made only with apples that Brittany is known for.

The restaurant will also offer a daily prix fixe menu that includes a choice of soup or a salad, one savory galette, one dessert crêpe, and a glass of hard cider, soda or juice. The full menu of savory and sweet crêpes features:

SAVORY GALETTES

Classique: ham, egg, Swiss cheese
Poulet: chicken, bechamel cheese sauce, mushrooms
Chèvre: goat cheese, spinach, walnuts
Saumon: smoked salmon, crème fraiche, chives, lemon
Ratatouille: tomato, zucchini, eggplant
Savoyarde: Raclette cheese, onions, imported Bayonne ham

SWEET CRÊPES

Gourmande: hazelnut chocolate spread, whipped cream
Banane: banana, caramel beurre salé
Melba: peach, red berries sauce, almonds
Poire: pear, chocolate ganache, whipped cream
Pomme: caramelized apples, caramel beurre sale

For diners looking for a quick-service option, check out Crêpes À Emporter at La Crêperie de Paris. The walk-up window attached to the restaurant will serve three savory galettes, four sweet crêpes, soft serve ice cream, and an assortment of ciders and wines.

SAVORY GALETTES

Cream of Brie Cheese Galette
Ratatouille Galette: tomato, zucchini, eggplant
Bechamel, Cheese & Ham Galette

SWEET CRÊPES

Butter & Sugar Crêpe
Hazelnut & Chocolate Spread Crêpe
Red Berries Crêpe
Vanilla or Chocolate Ice Cream Crêpe

If you’re anything like me, you’ll be excited to try all the sweet and savory crêpes at La Crêperie de Paris! But I’m also looking forward to enjoying the delicious options inside the restaurant, where the décor – from the stone walls to the blue-glass windows – pay homage to Brittany (with a few Parisian twists!). Even the staff costumes are inspired by traditional crêperies, including the striped shirts and the red hat, known as a miki, traditional to Brittany’s fishermen.

For now, reservations won’t be needed to enjoy this amazing taste of France in the newly expanded France pavilion, opening on October 1, with table service dining available on a first-come, first-served basis. Be sure to keep an eye on the Disney Parks Blog, DisneyWorld.com/50 and #DisneyWorld50 on social platforms for more details on “The World’s Most Magical Celebration.” Bon appetit!

Thanks Disney Parks Blog!

Dessert Parties, Dining Packages and More Returning to Disney World This Fall

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We’re counting down the days until two brand-new nighttime spectaculars debut as part of the Walt Disney World 50^th anniversary celebration. To make your magical evening even more special, a new lineup of Appetizing Occasions will be returning just in time for “The World’s Most Magical Celebration.” From sweet treats to international fare, there’s no shortage of options for making the most of your nighttime spectacular experience.

Disney Enchantment, a brand-new, dazzling nighttime fireworks spectacular, debuts Oct. 1 at Magic Kingdom Park. To enrich your experience of this immersive show, there’s a full menu of dessert party options that include viewing locations from the heart of the park to the Seven Seas Lagoon. Discover all of these experiences and more within the Enchanting Extras Collection.

Celebration at the Top: 50th Flavors and Fireworks at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Starts Oct. 2, 2021; Reservations available beginning Sept. 17, 2021

A sophisticated evening awaits at this event, where guests are welcomed to the private Sonoma and Napa Rooms at California Grill to sample a selection of specialty drinks, sushi and small plates that pay homage to the original menu from the resort’s opening in 1971. After an elevated cocktail hour, step outside to the observation deck on the 15^th floor for a unique viewpoint of Disney Enchantment, complete with the synchronized music. The event continues back inside after the show with petit-fours, cordials and coffee.

At Magic Kingdom Park, three dessert party options put you right in the middle of the magic to view Disney Enchantment. Each event includes 50^th anniversary-themed delights at different times throughout the evening at Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant. No matter which party you choose, you’ll discover a host of 50th anniversary-themed desserts prepared by our pastry chef, including chocolate-dipped strawberries and butterscotch pudding, plus a variety of cheeses. Drink selections will also be available, including an assortment of beer and wine for guests ages 21 and over.

Magic Kingdom 50th Fireworks Dessert Parties: Disney Enchantment Pre-Party
Starts Oct. 3, 2021; Reservations available beginning Sept. 17, 2021

Sweeten your evening at Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant at Magic Kingdom Park with 50^th anniversary-themed desserts prepared by our pastry chef, a variety of cheeses and beverages, with selections of beer and wine included. Then, before the show begins, Cast Members will escort you to a reserved standing viewing location in one of the plaza gardens with prime viewing of Disney Enchantment.

Magic Kingdom 50th Fireworks Dessert Parties: Disney Enchantment Treats & Seats
Starts Oct. 3, 2021; Reservations available beginning Sept. 17, 2021

After a day of Magic Kingdom Park fun, enjoy 50^th anniversary-themed desserts prepared by our pastry chef, a variety of cheeses and beverages, with selections of beer and wine included. Experience the fireworks views from the comfort of dedicated reserved seating at Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant.

Magic Kingdom 50th Fireworks Dessert Parties: Disney Enchantment After-Party
Starts Oct. 3, 2021; Reservations available beginning Sept. 17, 2021

Like the Disney Enchantment Pre-Party, this experience includes reserved standing viewing of Disney Enchantment in one of the plaza gardens. After taking in the sights and sounds of the spectacular, visit Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant for a spread of 50^th anniversary-themed desserts prepared by our pastry chef, a variety of cheeses and beverages, with selections of beer and wine included.

Ferrytale Fireworks: A Sparkling Dessert Cruise
Starts Sept. 18, 2021; Reservations available now

Set sail from the Transportation and Ticket Center on one of the iconic ferryboats for a magical evening on the Seven Seas Lagoon. Once onboard, taste a variety of bite-size signature sweets including build-your-own mousse, key lime tarts, cupcakes and specialty beverages with and without alcohol. Kids can even participate in an ultraviolet scavenger hunt. During the cruise, guests can observe the Magic Kingdom Park fireworks accompanied by stunning water views.

Harmonious, one of the largest nighttime spectaculars ever created for Disney Parks, will soon light the World Showcase Lagoon at EPCOT beginning Oct. 1. With choreographed moving fountains, lights, pyrotechnics and lasers in a 360-degree view, Harmonious shows how Disney music and stories have the power to bring people from all around the world together to unlock the magic of possibility. Looking for dinner with the show? Check out new package options available at two delectable World Showcase restaurants.

Rose & Crown Fireworks Dining Package
Starts Oct. 1; Reservations available beginning Sept. 23

Dine under the stars on the patio at Rose & Dining Room, which serves classic British fare, while you sit back and enjoy the wonder of Harmonious. This package features a prix-fixe menu including one appetizer, entrée, dessert platter and unlimited beverages.

Spice Road Table Dining Package
Starts Oct. 1; Reservations available beginning Sept. 23

Enjoy a delicious meal and feast your eyes on our newest nighttime spectacular at EPCOT. Dine in the covered, outdoor dining area reminiscent of the cafes from the Moroccan seaside with a stunning view of Harmonious. Spice Road Table offers a variety of Mediterranean small plates, including Grilled Lamb Kefta, House-made Hummus Fries and Spiced Chicken. The Spice Road Table Dining Package includes two small plates, a dessert platter and unlimited beverages.

Advance reservations are highly recommended for all dessert parties and dinner packages and can be made on DisneyWorld.com or the My Disney Experience app. For experiences located at Magic Kingdom Park and EPCOT, valid theme park admission and reservations are required.

There’s so much magic planned for the 18-month celebration. Stay tuned for more details on “The World’s Most Magical Celebration!”

Thanks Disney Parks Blog!

9 Tips for a Rainy Day at Universal Orlando Resort

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Any Floridian will tell you it’s just good sense to prepare yourself for rain when planning a day at a theme park. Here in the Sunshine State, we are all too familiar with those afternoon showers that come along during the later spring and summer months. As someone who has spent plenty of afternoons refreshing my weather app and trying to figure out where I can wait out the storm, I’m here to give you my best tips for a rainy day at Universal Orlando Resort so that you’re all set the next time the clouds start forming.

TIP #1: Stay at a Universal Orlando hotel.

The closer you stay to the theme parks, the easier it will be for you to decide to head back to the hotel, dry off, and come right back to the thrills once the storm has passed. And trust me, it will. Probably in like an hour or two. Plus with Early Park Admission (one of the MANY benefits of staying at a Universal hotel), you’ll be able to get a head start on your day if rain is in the forecast.

There are also plenty of indoor activities you can do at your hotel! Bowl at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort, enjoy some sushi at Loews Royal Pacific Resort, or go on a rum tasting journey at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort. Plus each of the hotels have a game room, just in case your crew is looking for some friendly competition.

TIP #2: Be prepared.

Here’s the deal — it isn’t completely unreasonable to assume that at some point during your day at Universal Orlando it may rain. Plan accordingly and throw a poncho or a light rain jacket into your bag to bring on your trip. Also plan to wear clothes and shoes that you won’t mind getting wet, just in case. Like I said, it’s just good sense to go ahead and be ready for a potentially rainy afternoon here in Florida!

There are also ponchos available for purchase throughout the parks, so if you find yourself needing one, check the official Universal Orlando Resort app for the nearest store.

TIP #3: Head to Universal’s Islands of Adventure first.

If rain is in the forecast, plan to start your day in Islands of Adventure. It has far more outside attractions that will be impacted by the rain, so you’ll want to make sure you get to fit those in first thing.

Head to Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade to start your day on a thrilling adventure through the Forbidden Forest.

TIP #4: Enjoy some indoor attractions.

I love roller coasters as much as the next theme park fan, but some of my favorite rides at Universal are indoor attractions. Check the list below for where you can head during a rainy day at Universal!

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS FLORIDA INDOOR RIDES:

Revenge of the Mummy | This is actually my all-time FAVORITE ride. I welcome the rain because it gives me an excuse to ride The Mummy over and over and over again.
TRANSFORMERS: The Ride – 3D
Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon | This is one of my favorite spots on a rainy day because the queue experience is so cool and transports you to Studio 6B! I love checking out the history of The Tonight Show, visiting with Hashtag the Panda, and catching the Ragtime Gals perform.
Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
Shrek 4-D
E.T. Adventure
Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts
MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack

ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE INDOOR RIDES:

The Cat in The Hat | You won’t even remember it’s raining you’ll have such a blast in this whimsical Dr. Seuss book brought to life.
Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey | Not only is this a reprieve from the weather, but you’ll get to explore the incredible details found in Hogwarts castle AND go on a thrilling adventure with Harry Potter himself!
Skull Island: Reign of Kong
The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man

TIP #5: Sit back and watch a show.

Don’t let the rain damper your good time; catch a phenomenal indoor live action stunt show at Universal Studios Florida — The Bourne Stuntacular. Or head over to The Horror Make-Up Show to fit some laughs into your day. They’re close to each other in the Hollywood area of the park so you can start with one and then head to the other without getting too wet!

Definitely download the official Universal Orlando Resort app to check for showtimes and other helpful features like Universal Pay, a map of the parks, and access to the Virtual Line experience.

TIP #6: Head to Universal CityWalk.

Take a break during your rainy day at Universal for a leisurely meal at any of the fantastic sit-down restaurants in CityWalk. The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen is my go-to because me and my crew love all of the different course-options: Bread (the warm chocolate almond bread is a must-order), Appetizer, Libation, Salad, Entree, and Milkshake. I also highly recommend asking if there’s seating upstairs! Watch the storm come and go with a great view.

You can also take the time to sit out the rain by catching a movie at Universal Cinemark.

TIP #7: Ride a water ride.

I mean, you’re already wet, right? If the storm has passed (or if it’s just some light rain), embrace your current state of damp and at least make the experience a fun one! Enjoy the three water rides in Islands of Adventure — Jurassic Park River Adventure , Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls , and Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges.

VOLCANO BAY TIP: The rides at Volcano Bay only close during inclement weather, so as long as there’s no thunder or lightning, you should be good to go on the rides. If the storm is still going, I’d say wait out the storm and go ahead and use your TapuTapu to join the Virtual Lines for the rides and hunker down at Kohola Reef Restaurant & Social Club or one of the boat bars.

TIP #8: Ride a roller coaster to dry off.

When the rain has stopped there is no more thrilling way to dry off than riding one of the high-speed roller coasters at Universal. If you’re in Universal Studios, head to Hollywood Rip Ride Rock-It. If you’re in Islands of Adventure, take a ride on The Incredible Hulk Coaster and Jurassic World VelociCoaster. You’ll be dry in no time!

TIP #9: You tell me!

These are my best tips for what to do on a rainy day at Universal Orlando Resort, but I’d love to hear yours! Share them in the comments below!

Thanks Universal Orlando Resort Blog!

Looking for the perfect outfit for your daughter to wear to Universal Orlando Resort? Check out DotDotSmile or join DotDotSmile by Siera!

Celebrate World Princess Week at Disney World

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The first-ever World Princess Week, part of the Ultimate Princess Celebration, starts August 23 and celebrates the courage and kindness displayed by Disney Princesses and Queens.

Starting August 23, there will be a new Tiana-themed playground available during the EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival! This playground is an awesome offering guests can enjoy during Walt Disney World Resort’s 50^th anniversary celebration, “The World’s Most Magical Celebration.” On August 26, plan a visit to Disney Springs Marketplace with your own little princesses, who will be invited to take part in a Princess Promenade at the AdventHealth Waterside Stage. Taking place from 2-6 p.m. for one day only, costumes are encouraged, and guests will enjoy a princess-themed entertainment performance.

When you’re walking around Disney Springs, be sure to check out the latest Princess-inspired merchandise and snap a pic in front of the three art expression walls, themed to the “Tales of Courage and Kindness” storybook collection.

Lastly, Movies Under the Stars at Walt Disney World Resorts will feature a line-up of Disney Princess movies, so you can get lost in your favorite fairy tales with some of your favorites you know and love.

The Disney Parks Blog also shared that there will also be some sumptuous themed food and beverage offerings across Walt Disney World Resort, inspired by the 14 Disney princesses and “Frozen” queens all week long.

Amorette’s Patisserie, Disney Springs

Tiana Petit Cake – Dark chocolate chiffon cake, raspberry mousse, raspberry pâte fruit, and chocolate crisp pearls

The Ganachery, Disney Springs

Princess Chocolate Bars – Ganache chocolate bars featuring Jasmine, Ariel, and Snow White

World Premiere Food Court, Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort

Mulan and Rapunzel Cookies – Sugar cookie featuring Mulan or Rapunzel

Landscapes of Flavors, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

Mermaid Cupcake – Vanilla cupcake filled with pineapple topped with coconut buttercream and a white chocolate mermaid tail

Contempo Café, Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Cinderella Cupcake – Vanilla cake with vanilla crème custard filling, buttercream, white chocolate slipper, and fondant pumpkin (available now through September 30)

Goods to Go, Conch Flatts General Store, and Turtle Shack Poolside Snacks, Disney’s Old Key West Resort

The Artist Palette, Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa

Snow White Cupcake – Vanilla cupcake with spiced caramel apple filling topped with caramel buttercream, red chocolate dip, and a red bow

Capt. Cook’s and Kona Island, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Moana Cupcake – Vanilla cupcake, toasted coconut mousse, and vanilla buttercream with white chocolate Moana accent piece

Everything Pop Shopping and Dining, Disney’s Pop Century Resort

Aurora Cupcake – Vanilla cupcake filled with marshmallow topped with strawberry buttercream, gold chocolate crown, and sprinkles

Le Petit Café, Disney’s Riviera Resort

Belle Cheesecake – Lemon cheesecake with lemon curd in a vanilla tart shell decorated with modeling chocolate to resemble Belle

I.C. Expeditions and Warming Hut, Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park

Elsa Freeze Sundae – Vanilla soft-serve ice cream with a blue raspberry swirl topped with sleigh ride winter sprinkles and a while chocolate Elsa topper

I.C. Expeditions, Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park

Elsa the Snow Queen Cone – Crystalized white chocolate waffle cone, vanilla soft-serve, and spiraled frozen fractals

Creature Comforts, Disney Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Pocahontas Dessert – Pineapple banana cake with cream cheese coconut mousse and colored sprinkles glazed in turquoise glaçage and finished with a chocolate gem, chocolate feather, and sugar flower

Block & Hans, EPCOT

Arendelle Aqua Lemonade – Frozen lemonade with cotton candy syrup

Oasis Sweets & Sips, EPCOT

Mosaic Cookie – Sugar cookies sandwiched with apricot jam and topped with mosaic fondant and chocolate Jasmine

Sunshine Seasons, EPCOT

Sisters Cupcake – Strawberry cupcake with strawberry filling and strawberry buttercream topped with a chocolate crown

Traveler’s Café, EPCOT

Sisters Cookie – Sugar cookies sandwiched with chocolate ganache and garnished with chocolate Elsa and Anna

The Trolley Car Café, Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Seaside Brownie – Brownie topped with chocolate fudge, graham cracker crumbs, and seaside-themed chocolate
Merida Cupcake – Yellow cupcake filled with a mixture of green, red, orange, and black sprinkles with green and burnt orange buttercream, gold crisp pearls, and chocolate arrow

Prince Eric’s Village Market, Magic Kingdom Park

Mermaid Slushy – Frozen blue raspberry and frozen green apple topped with whipped cream and a mermaid tale

Cinderella’s Royal Table, Magic Kingdom Park

Cinderella Slipper – White chocolate or milk chocolate slipper filled with chocolate mousse and raspberry coulis garnished with fresh berries

(Note: Offerings subject to availability.)

The Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend races go on sale on August 24. Taking place during the magic of the Walt Disney World Resort 50th Anniversary celebration, the weekend features events for all skill levels, coveted regal medals and Disney entertainment. Be inspired by some of your favorite Disney heroes to reach new heights of courage and kindness that propel you triumphantly to the finish line that ends with happily ever after!

BONUS: ?shopDisney’s Ultimate Princess Celebration Hotline will launch on August 23, this time with all-new recorded messages from five Disney Princess characters who can be reached by contacting 1-877-70-DISNEY, and two “Frozen” queens, Anna and Elsa, who can be heard only by visiting shopDisney.com. ?

How will you celebrate World Princess Week?

Complete Guide to Halloween 2021 Sweets and Treats at Disney World

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With Halloween 2021 right around the corner, Disney has shared an eerie early look at their most dreadfully delicious Best Bites of the year! Disney always offers delicious seasonal treats and this year’s Halloween season will be no different.

Whether it’s frightful favorites like Sea Witch’s Brew or a creepily creative “mummy-approved” cupcake, there’s a cauldron of terrifyingly terrific treats to enjoy this season at the Walt Disney World Resort. If you dare – check out this special guide for scrumptious sweets and treats during Halloween 2021 at Disney World:

Walt Disney World Resort Hotels

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – Sanaa and Sanaa Lounge
- Sea Witch’s Brew – Vodka, raspberry liqueur, blue Curaçao beverage syrup, muddled berries, and edible glitter served in a Collins glass with a blue glow cube (Available 10/24-10/31)

Disney’s Art of Animation, Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, and Disney’s All-Star Music Resort – Food Courts
- Spooky Apple Spiced Spider Cupcake – Vanilla cupcake with apple filling and spiced buttercream caramel drizzle (Available 10/25-10/31)

Disney’s Contemporary Resort – Contempo Café
- Mini Halloween Cake – Halloween sprinkle cake with candy bar custard and chocolate glaze (Available 10/1-10/31)

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa – Gasparilla Island Grill
- Hocus Pocus “Amuck” Cakes – Rich devil’s food cake with “peanut boo-tter” filling decorated to resemble all three Sanderson Sisters (Available 9/1-11/1)
- Jack Skellington Pumpkin Pie Pop – Pumpkin pie colossal pop covered in white chocolate decorated as the iconic Pumpkin King (Available 9/1-11/1)
- Sally’s Stitched Up Whoopie Pie Heart – Vanilla heart-shaped whoopie pie adorned with Sally’s signature patchwork (Available 9/1-11/1)
- Be-Witching Minnie Mouse Cupcake – Cookies & cream-filled chocolate cupcake enrobed in chocolate ganache and topped with Minnie Mouse chocolate witch hat (Available 9/1-11/1)

Disney’s Old Key West Resort – Gurgling Suitcase Libations & Spirits and Olivia’s Café
- Harvest Refresher – Vodka with cranberry juice and muddled oranges (Available 9/26-11/25)
- Apple Cider Old Fashioned – Bourbon with fresh apple cider, bitters, muddled oranges, and brown sugar cinnamon (Available 9/26-11/25)
- Caramel Apple Martini – Vanilla vodka, butterscotch flavor liqueur, and fresh apple cider with a brown sugar cinnamon rim (Available 9/26-11/25)

Disney’s Old Key West Resort – Good’s Food to go, Conch Flatts General Store, and Turtle Shack Poolside Snacks
- Poisoned Delight – Violet white chocolate mousse dome with an apple insert and fresh apple cake covered in a white chocolate glaçage (Available 10/1-10/31)

Disney’s Riviera Resort – Le Petit Café
- Milk Chocolate and Chocolate-Hazelnut Cheesecake – Caramel milk chocolate mousse, chocolate-hazelnut cheesecake, roasted white chocolate shell, and graham cracker sable-inspired acorn (Available 9/25-11/27)
- Milk Chocolate and Chocolate-Hazelnut Cheesecake – Caramel milk chocolate mousse, chocolate-hazelnut cheesecake, dark chocolate glaçage, and graham cracker sable inspired bat (Available 10/24-10/31)

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge – Geyser Point
- Blood Orange – Tequila, blood orange, and simple syrup with lime juice (Available 10/3-11/7)
- Black Magic Margarita –Tequila, blue Curaçao beverage syrup, green apple syrup, grenadine, sour mix, and a glow cube (Available 10/3-11/7)
- Around the Pumpkin Patch – Tequila, pumpkin spice, lime juice, and sour mix (Available 10/3-11/7)
- Poison Apple – Tequila, green apple syrup, lime juice, and sour mix with a poison apple glow cube (Available 10/3-11/7)
- Holiday Drink Flight – Flight with all four holiday drinks featured above (Available 10/3-11/7)

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge – Roaring Fork
- Going Batty Cupcake – Chocolate cupcake with ganache icing and sugar cookie bat (Available 10/28-10/31)

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort and Disney’s Beach Club Resort – The Market at Ale & Compass and Beach Club Marketplace
- Mummy Cupcake – Chocolate cupcake with a pumpkin mousse filling (Available 10/1-10/31)
- Tiramisu Grave – Aclassic tiramisù with coffee flavor and a chocolate pretzel skeleton with a marshmallow for a head (Available 10/1-10/31)

Disney’s BoardWalk Inn – BoardWalk Bakery
- Macaroon Pumpkin Pop – Coconut macaroon pumpkin on a stick (Available 10/24-10/31)
- Candy Corny Cupcake – Vanilla cupcake filled with white chocolate candy corn mousse and topped with baker’s cream (Available 10/24-10/31)
- Vampire Mickey Brownie – Ganache-covered brownie with Mickey ears and vampire fangs (Available 10/24-10/31)

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa – The Artist’s Palette
- Poisoned Delight – Violet white chocolate mousse dome with an apple insert and fresh apple cake covered in a white chocolate glaçage (Available 10/1-10/31)

Disney Springs

Amorette’s Patisserie
- Haunted Mansion Cake – Brownie with diplomat filling with purple and black chiffon cake (Available 9/5-10/31)

Dockside Margarita
- Jack O’Lantern – Black rum, rum, white rum, orange-flavored triple sec liqueur, orange juice, lemonade, and a grenadine float (Available 9/5-10/31)

The Ganachery
- Caramel Skulls (Available 9/5-10/31)
- Pumpkin Spice Latte Ganache Squares (Available 9/5-10/31)
- Pumpkin Spice Marshmallow (Available 9/5-10/31)
- Mickey Mummy Piñata (Available 9/5-10/31)
- Sister Elixir Cocoa Bomb (Available 10/19-10/31)

Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar
- Witch’s Flight – Whiskey, white grape juice, lime juice, and sweet and sour with flavors of green apple, orange-tangerine, and blackberry (Available 9/5-10/31)

Outdoor Kiosks
- Witch Way – Vodka, blue Curaçao beverage syrup, orange juice, and pineapple juice garnished with a poison apple glow cube (Available 9/5-10/31)

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Creature Comforts and Flame Tree Barbecue
- Scar Cupcake – Red velvet cupcake with toasted marshmallow filling, chocolate marshmallow frosting, chocolate pebbles, and white chocolate flames with an edible icing image of Scar (Available 10/1-11/4)

Mahindi, Feeding Ground, Cornivores, and Trek Snacks
- Poison Apple Sipper

Restaurantosaurus
- Maleficent Cupcake – Purple velvet cupcake with blood orange curd, vanilla frosting, crisp pearls, and white chocolate flames with Maleficent medallion (Available 10/1-11/4)

Magic Kingdom Park

Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies
- Prince John Sucker – Tart green apple lemonade slush topped with whipped cream and a ring pop (Available 8/10-10/31)

Golden Oak Outpost
- Mocha Chocolate Chip – Frozen mocha topped with whipped cream, chocolate chips, and a sugar acorn (Available 8/10-10/31)

Main Street Outdoor Vending Carts
- Maleficent Churro – Churro covered in chocolate cookie crumble drizzled with purple icing topped with green and purple sugar (Available 8/10-10/31)

Storybook Treats
- Five Dozen Egg Slush – Frozen custard with brown sugar topped with whipped cream garnished with a cinnamon stick (Available 8/10-10/31)

Disney After Hours Boo Bash Exclusive Treats

Sleepy Hollow
- Foolish Mortal Funnel Cake – Funnel cake topped with chocolate cookie crumbles, purple vanilla ice cream, caramel drizzle, and M&M’s milk chocolate Ghoul’s Mix (Available 8/10-10/31)

Golden Oak Outpost
- Apple Ginger Dale – Frozen apple cider mixed with ginger ale topped with whipped cream and chopped TWIX cookies bars (Available 8/10-10/31)

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

ABC Commissary
- Caramel Apple Tart – Spiced caramel cheesecake mousse apple served atop a cinnamon apple tart (Available 8/10 – 11/11)
- Chocolate Mousse – Raspberry dark chocolate mousse, chocolate almond cake, a layer of hazelnut crunch, and whipped chocolate-hazelnut cheesecake (Available 8/10 -11/11)

Backlot Express and Trolley Car Café
- Spooky Ghost Cupcake – Fudge-filled chocolate cupcake topped with cookies & cream buttercream, spooky sprinkles, and vanilla meringue ghost (Available 8/10 -10/31)

Backlot Express, ABC Commissary, PizzeRizzo, and Rosie’s All-American Café
- Frozen Apple Cider – Frozen apple cider topped with green apple boba balls (Available 8/10 – 10/31)
- Alcoholic Frozen Apple Cider with Whiskey – Frozen apple cider with whiskey topped with green apple boba balls (Available 8/10-10/31)

Hollywood Brown Derby Lounge
- Misty Whisper – Vanilla vodka, orange-flavored triple sec liqueur, orange-tangerine syrup, and vanilla ice-cream mix (Available 8/10-10/31)

Fairfax Fare and Catalina Eddie’s
- Pumpkin Spice Cookie – Pumpkin spice shortbread cookie covered in white chocolate (Available 8/10-10/31)

Hollywood Scoops
- Halloween Shake – Candy corn ice cream shake topped with a vanilla cake donut, whipped cream, spooky sprinkles, and candy corn (Available 8/10-10/31)

Oasis Canteen, Sunshine Day Bar, Animation Bar
- Sweet Poison – Coconut rum, blue Curaçao beverage syrup, rum, and pineapple juice (Available 8/10-10/31)

Outdoor Carts
- Halloween Brownie – Chocolate Mickey brownie with fun Halloween sprinkles (Available 8/10-9/30)
- Halloween Popcorn Mix (Available 8/10-10/31)

PizzeRizzo
- Pumpkin Cannoli – Spooky cannoli filled with whipped pumpkin cheesecake (Available 8/10-10/31)

Rosie’s All-American Café
- Witch’s Hat Mousse – Whipped blackberry panna cotta sitting on green apple mousse with salted caramel crispy pearls and chocolate shortbread cookie (Available 8/10-10/31)

The Trolley Car Café
- Pumpkin Mousse – Milk chocolate chai mousse filled with pumpkin bread set atop a chocolate shortbread cookie and vanilla buttercream (Available 8/10-10/31)

Woody’s Lunch Box
- Halloween Lunch Box Tart – Chocolate-hazelnut filled lunch box tart frosted with spooky vanilla icing, Halloween sprinkles, and candy corn (Available 8/10-10/31)

EPCOT

Block & Hans
- Spiked Frozen Apple Pie with Ole Smoky Apple Pie Moonshine, Minute Maid Apple Juice, and Cinnamon

Canada Popcorn Cart
- Spooky Caramel-Apple Cider in a Poison Apple Sipper (Coming Soon!)

As you can see, there are dreadfully delicious delights for everyone! Keep an eye out for the Mickey Mummy Popcorn Bucket coming soon to all four parks and Disney Springs. Also, be sure to check out Disney After Hours Boo Bash, a new event featuring Halloween-themed cavalcades, character sightings, trick or treating throughout the park and more. Disney After Hours Boo Bash will take place on select nights from August 10 through October 31.

And another frightfully fun favorite is materializing at Disney’s Hollywood Studios with the return of Minnie’s Halloween Dine – beginning August 10 until November 3. A monster of a feast will be served to your table at Hollywood & Vine with Disney characters and friends making special appearances in costumes for the season!

More thrilling (and chilling) Halloween magic is coming to Disney Parks this year so keep checking back for updates and other “spirited” surprises.

Thanks Disney Parks Blog!

Top 5 Reasons to Love Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Dockside Inn and Suites

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When traveling with your family, finding relaxing accommodations to stay at while not breaking the budget is key. All of Universal Orlando Resort’s uniquely-themed hotels offer an incredible array of benefits and amenities, but none meet the extra-affordable value and levels of relaxation needed for larger families quite like Universal’s Endless Summer Resort. This resort features Dockside Inn and Suites and Surfside Inn and Suites, both of which give you the surf culture and beach life vibes you’re looking for on a Florida vacation. There really is no comparison in Orlando when you look at the price value and pair it with amenities designed with families in mind and theme park perks exclusive to Universal hotel guests.

If you’re hooked and want to know more, we are sharing the top five reasons we think you’ll love staying at Dockside Inn and Suites for your family’s next Universal Orlando Resort vacation.

1. Exclusive Food and Drinks (Most Under $12!)

By far my favorite thing about Dockside Inn and Suites is the food and drinks. There are a plethora of unique options for the whole family like the Pier 8 Egg Muffin, Dockworker Wrap, or the Chicken and Waffles bucket. Don’t miss the fun Wet n’ Wild inspired cocktails you can get poolside (Wet n’ Wild was the longtime water park that was previously located where Universal’s Endless Summer Resort is now). And for craft beer drinkers, there is the Sunset Blonde, which is a Mango Blonde Ale brewed exclusively for the resort.

2. More Than Half of the Hotel is 2-Bedroom Suites

During vacation, your hotel is your home away from home. You want to be able to relax when you get back to your room after a day in the theme parks. Having a 2-bedroom suite gives you much-needed space to recharge for tomorrow. The kids can spread out and have their space, while mom and dad can get some privacy, too. You don’t even need to spend the extra cash for connecting rooms. Also, talk about spacious — these suites sleep up to six and have a kitchenette, picnic table for meals, double vanity, and plenty of suitcase storage.

3. A Huge Hotel Calls for Two HUGE Pools

When I’m looking at hotels for an upcoming vacation, one of the deciding factors is the pool because I know we’re going to spend a full day relaxing poolside. Dockside Inn and Suites makes it an easy choice for the sole fact that it has not one, but two massive pools. Plus, there’s a fun splash pad area for kids to run around in, and for mom and dad, two large pool bars to grab an umbrella drink.

4. There are More Than 1,000 Longboards Around the Hotel

Universal’s Endless Summer Resort was designed by the same creative teams who bring the theme parks to life, so you know it’s going to be incredible with every detail. It’s inspired by surf culture and you see it come to life through every aspect of your stay, especially the design elements. Dockside Inn and Suites hooks into the chill and relaxing side of shore life with driftwood details, photorealistic artwork, overall color palette, and longboards. Each room has a custom-made longboard made by Quiet Flight just for Dockside, resulting in 1,024 longboards in total around the hotel!

5. It’s a Short Ride to the Theme Parks and an Even Shorter Walk to Surfside Inn and Suites

Any chance you can save time on commuting during vacation is a plus. Staying at Dockside Inn and Suites gives you a direct ride to Universal CityWalk and the theme parks with just a short 5-10 minute ride on the shuttles that come every 15 minutes. Plus, after your short shuttle ride, you can get into the theme parks before regular day guests because of Early Park Admission. The extra bonus is you can take a short walk over to Surfside Inn and Suites right next door if you want to check out the surfboard-shaped pool or a different dining option. (Surfside Inn and Suites is temporarily suspending operations. Please click here for more information.)

These are just a few of my favorite things about Dockside Inn and Suites. Get all the details hereand share below what you’re looking forward to doing during your next vacation with us.

Must be 21 years and older with valid identification to purchase or drink alcoholic beverages.

Thanks Universal Orlando Resort Blog!

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