Disney Springs at the Walt Disney World Resort is opening tomorrow with new guidelines for guests, and I am really excited to share the official list of dining and retail locations that will be opening!
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
Disney Springs dining locations opening May 20th include:
Disney Springs shopping locations opening May 20th include:
Anthropologie
The Art Corner by Artistic Talent Group
Basin
Chapel Hats
Columbia Sportswear
Crystal Arts by Arribas Brothers
Edward Beiner Purveyor of Fine Eyewear
Free People
Happy Hound
Lucky Brand
Luxury of Time by Diamonds International
Pandora Jewelry
Pelé Soccer
Pop Gallery
Ron Jon Surf Shop
Royally Yours by Arribas Brothers
Sanuk
Savannah Bee Company
Sosa Family Cigars
Sugarboo & Co.
UGG
UNIQLO
UNOde50
Volcom
Vera Bradley
ZARA
It was announced last week, and you can read more about it here, but here are dining locations opening May 22nd include:
Morimoto Asia
Morimoto Asia Street Food
Pizza Ponte
Vivoli il Gelato
And the Walt Disney World Resort Announced that select locations operated by Disney will be opening May 27th, and they include:
World of Disney
Marketplace CoOp
DLuxe Burger – mobile ordering
This is an ever-changing list and things could be different up to the last moment, so make sure to stay up-to-date by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
CityWalk was really the ‘Epicenter of Awesome’ this week as they opened with limited operations.
It was so great to once again see people roaming CityWalk, but I will caution you that I expect the area to be busy this weekend so there a few things you can do to cut down on your waits!
Download the Official Universal Orlando Resort App – Be ready to make those Cashless purchases and make sure to link your Universal Orlando Resort Pass for discounts!
Plan to arrive early: They are limiting the number of guests they are allowing in the CityWalk area, and there can be a back up at the parking plaza as self-parking is free.
Be prepared – Have that mask on and ready as you approach the temperature check so security can pass you as quickly as possible.
Be patient – Mind those 6ft social distancing markers on the ground, relax, and make sure to enjoy your time once again at Universal’s CityWalk!!!
CityWalk at the Universal Orlando Resort is open daily from 4-10 pm, but please remember that the theme parks and resorts are still currently closed.
On the Go in the Parks: Disney Springs
While I know it is a bit early…let’s look ahead to the opening of Disney Springs on May 20, 2020!
There is so much to look forward to, and new information is coming out everyday!
Disney Springs dining locations opening May 20th include:
Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill
STK Orlando
Wine Bar George
Erin McKenna’s Bakery NYC
YeSake
The Polite Pig
Joffrey’s Coffee and Tea Co.
4 Rivers Cantina Barbacoa Food Truck
Sunshine Churros
Häagen-Dazs Ice Cream
Earl of Sandwich – Just Announced
Planet Hollywood Observatory – Just Announced
Chicken Guy – Just Announced
The Boathouse – Just Announced
Disney Springs shopping locations opening May 20th include:
American Threads
Anthropologie
Crystal Arts by Arribas Bros.
Free People
Pele Soccer
Pop Gallery
Ron Jon Surf Shop
Uniqlo
Disney Springs dining locations opening May 22nd include:
Pizza Ponte
Morimoto Asia
Morimoto Asia Street Food
Vivoli il Gelato
We are still waiting on a lot of details about the opening of Disney Springs, so make sure to follow @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
You know it is going to be a great day when we can start it off by sharing additional openings coming soon to Disney Springs!!!
The Patina Restaurant group announced that four of the Disney Springs dining locations that they operate will open on May 22nd with a new “Dine Safe” program.
The dining locations that will be resuming their operations with limited menus for lunch and/or dinner service include:
Vivoli il Gelato – Open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Morimoto Asia (Main Dining Room Dinner Service) – Open from 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Morimoto Asia Street Food (Outdoor Dining Lunch & Dinner Service) – Open from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Pizza Ponte (Indoor/Outdoor Dining Lunch & Dinner Service) – Open from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Please keep in mind that the operating hours listed are tentative and could change.
Now, let’s take a look at their new “Dine Safe” program that is being implemented across all of their locations.
The “Dine Safe: Commitment to Care” program is a comprehensive set of reengineered operating procedures to minimize contact risk and bolster hygiene protocol that meet or exceed the best-practice guidelines recommended by the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
“These heightened sanitation standards will help us manufacture a dining environment that keeps guests and our team members as safe as possible,” said Kyle Collins, Director of Marketing for Patina in Florida. “The health, wellbeing, and peace of mind of our guests, team members, and the community remain our highest priorities.”
The key components of the Dine Safe program include:
The Dining Room and Guest Experience:
To enhance health and safety measures, guests will be required to wear face coverings at all times except while eating and drinking.
Ensuring current social distancing procedures are upheld via the redesign of table layouts for seating guests as directed by local and state regulators and in compliance with the CDC.
Enhanced cleaning and sanitization protocols, including hourly disinfecting as needed for all high-touch surfaces.
Multiple hand-sanitizing stations strategically placed throughout our facilities.
Controlled access to the facility to carefully monitor incoming and outgoing patrons and employees through clearly designated entrances and exits.
Using single-use menus to limit contact.
Team Member Safety Measures:
Undergo a health check when they report to work.
Sanitize their hands when they report to work and are required to wash and sanitize their hands every 20 minutes throughout the shift.
Wear masks while on duty.
Undergo a comprehensive “Dine Safe” Training Program.
“We look forward to welcoming our guests back very soon and are dedicated to continuing to deliver an unparalleled dining experience,” Collins said.
The remaining Patina Restaurant Group-operated locations at Disney Springs including Maria & Enzo’s, Enzo’s Hideaway, and The Edison will also be resuming their operations soon, and we’ll be sure to share that news as soon as it becomes available!
You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
A phased reopening of Disney Springs will begin on May 20. Following the guidance of government and health officials, a limited number of shopping and dining experiences that are owned by third-party operating participants will begin to open during this initial phase. The rest of Walt Disney World Resort will remain closed, including theme parks and resort hotels.
As we continue to monitor conditions, and with the health of guests and Disney cast members at the forefront of our planning, we are making several operational changes. Disney Springs will begin to reopen in a way that incorporates enhanced safety measures, including increased cleaning procedures, the use of appropriate face coverings by both cast members and guests, limited-contact guest services and additional safety training for cast members.
While the announcement wasn’t full of details, there were 5 key takeaways to note.
Disney Springs Reopening:
5 Things to Know
1. What we know about the locations opening on May 20, 2020…
When Disney Springs reopens guests will find, “a limited number of shopping and dining experiences that are owned by third-party operating participants will begin to open during this initial phase. The rest of Walt Disney World Resort will remain closed, including theme parks and Disney Resort hotels.”
Photo: Walt Disney World Resort
So when it initially reopens, Disney Springs guests will not be able to shop at stores or dine at locations operated by Walt Disney World.
While not listed in this announcement, examples of these Walt Disney World operated locations include stores like World of Disney and the Co Op as well as dining locations like Jock Lindsey’s and D-Luxe Burger.
2. What we know about planning your trip to Disney Springs in the initial reopening phase…
When you think about planning your trip to Disney Springs in this phase, it is important to note that there will be limitations on capacity, parking, and operating hours.
Photo: Walt Disney World Resort
While no specifics were given in this initial announcement about any of these three important details, it will be important to watch for these details to make planning easier.
3. What will be different when Disney Springs begins reopening…
Disney Springs did note in their announcement that they would be making several operational changes that would include enhanced safety measures including increased cleaning procedures, limited-contact Guest Services, and additional safety training for Cast Members
Photo: Walt Disney World Resort
We will apply learnings and ideas from leaders in the health and travel industries, and we’re also talking to our unions as we prepare for some Cast Members to return to work.
Safety is ALWAYS at the forefront of operations at the Walt Disney World Resort, and I am beyond confident that they are going above and beyond to ensure the safety of guests and Cast Members.
4. What will guests need to have to visit Disney Springs…
Included in the many safety measures that Disney Springs is taking is, “…the use of appropriate face coverings by both Cast Members and Guests…”
Photo: Walt Disney World Resort
This isn’t meant to spark debate…just know that you will need to wear a face covering to visit Disney Springs in this phase of reopening.
5. More Information
As we get closer to May 20, 2020, more specific information will be coming out, but I would encourage everyone to stay patient, understanding, and most of all kind as we continue to figure this out together!!!
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
We are really excited about the reopening of Disney Springs, and will be sharing information as it is released!
You can find more information about theme park news and tips by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
Get out your finest green outfit and head to Disney Springs for the return of the Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival at Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant!
Celebrate five days of fun, March 13-17, with non-stop Irish-infused entertainment from morning until night, a mighty selection of beers and cocktails and of course, the most authentic Irish food.
My favorite part of the Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival is the fantastic line-up of live entertainment hand-picked straight from Ireland.
Here’s a look at this year’s line-up:
Strings & Things will bring their contemporary Irish Trad/Folk/Roots crossover talent from Tipperary and Galway to the festival stage. Their unique sound and powerful stage energy promise a raucous evening of music and song.
TradGad features three talented musicians from Kerry, Dublin and Galway charming guests with their vibrant performances on guitar, fiddle, mandolin, uilleann pipes, tin whistle, banjo and bouzouki.
Maca an Irish sister duo dubbed “Ireland’s next big thing” will rock the Raglan Road Pub stages with their extraordinary talent.
Fia Rua featuring band members from Ireland and Scotland, will blend their musical backgrounds to perform and wow guests with a unique Celtic sound.
Mike Waters, from the southeast of Ireland, will perform Irish songs and ballads from traditional to contemporary with a good measure of chat and humor.
Emily Furlong an extraordinary singer and entertainer from Wexford, Ireland will captivate guests with her stunning voice.
No Half Measures an exciting, fresh and vibrant four-piece band from Scotland, Cork and Kilkenny will spin their youthful, contemporary sound for the Mighty Festival audience.
And you can’t talk about Raglan Road without talking about their fantastic food!!!!
While the entire menu will be available, guests dining on Monday, March 16 can enjoy a new whiskey pairing dinner from 3-11 p.m. featuring a special prix fixe menu with locally sourced dishes like Whiskey Cured House Smoked Salmon and Apple Baked Dumplings paired with the finest Irish whiskey cocktails.
Of course, don’t miss the popular Raglan Road Irish Dancers plucked from the cast and stages of the world’s greatest Irish dance shows! They’ll be performing intermittently during the festival and ready to teach you an Irish jig – no experience necessary! Kids will also have a blast at this family-friendly party so be sure to bring everyone dressed in their best green garb and enjoy complimentary face painting.
For those planning to celebrate on St. Patrick’s Day, be sure to plan ahead for the fun!
On March 17, guests will be seated on a first-come, first-serve basis with a cover charge of $10 for each guest 18 and older. Reservations can be booked online for other festival days, including brunch by calling 407-938-0300.
The Edison at Disney Springs comes alive at night, and now you can enter a fantasy world of electrifying mystique and intrigue at The Edison’s inaugural Masquerade on February 22.
From the moment you cross the threshold of the restaurant, guests will be surprised and delighted around every corner as all party goers will be dressed incognito during a magical evening shrouded in an air of secrecy.
During the event guests will enjoy power-house trays of gourmet passed appetizers as well as access to a dedicated menu of themed-cocktails for the night.
For the Masquerade masks are mandatory, however full face masks are prohibited, and guests must be 21 or older to attend.
Tickets are available now $65 per person plus tax & gratuity, and don’t forget there is a 48 hour cancellation policy associated with this event.
Want to take your experience to the next level? VIP booths and reserved seating available for purchase. Email OrlandoEvents@patinagroup.com, or call The Edison for more information at (407) 560-8155.
Space is limited so don’t delay in snagging your spot for a shows-topping evening!
The M&M’s Orlando Store is coming to Disney Springs’ West Side, near the NBA Experience, in 2020 bringing sweet treats and merchandise to Walt Disney World!
Disney Springs West Side is already bustling with excitement as it is home to the recently opened NBA Experience and will also open the new Cirque du Soleil show (slated to premiere on April 17, 2020) and Beatrix Neighborhood Restaurant in 2020.
According to the Disney Parks Blog Post…
The new state-of-the-art store will offer an immersive experience that combines the colorful fun that fans of the M&M’S brand enjoy with lasting memories.
“Guests will be fully immersed into an interactive chocolate experience that will create more moments and more smiles through the colorful fun of M&M’S,” said Patrick McIntyre, director of global retail at Mars Retail Group.
Currently The M&M’s Orlando Store is open at the Florida Mall.
Keep an eye out for more details about the M&M’S Orlando Store and be sure to subscribe to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
The holidays at Disney Springs are filled with fun activities, entertainment, and sweet treats…but my favorite holiday experience is the Christmas Tree Trail!
Open from 11 am until 11pm until January 5th, the Christmas Tree Trail gets you in the yuletide spirit as you explore a winter wonderland where snow falls and holiday tunes fill the air.
Make your way through a winding path lined with 23 beautifully decorated Christmas trees inspired by some of your Disney favorites including:
Walt Disney World Theme Parks
Mickey & Minnie Mouse
Beauty & the Beast
Sleeping Beauty
Aladdin
Frozen
The Princess & The Frog
The Little Mermaid
Mulan
Haunted Mansion
Snow White
Pinocchio
Toy Story
Disney Villains
Dumbo
Cinderella
Robin Hood
Star Wars
Peter Pan
Tangled
The Lion King
Mary Poppins
Fantasia
In addition to the trees, you can visit Santa’s Chalet to meet the big guy himself to let him know what’s on your wish list.
You will need to visit the kiosk at the front of the trail, near Earl of Sandwich, or near Santa’s Chalet to get a return time as there is no standard queue.
To be in the queue you will need to give a Cast Member a cell phone number, and the system will send you two text messages – one to say you are in the virtual queue & one when it is your time to go to Santa’s Chalet for your visit.
Do note that once you arrive at the Chalet, all of your party needs to be present and you will still have a 30 minute wait to see Santa.
My best tip for avoiding a long wait is to arrive at the Christmas Tree Trail about fifteen minutes early to sign up for your virtual spot in the queue.
You can find more information about the holidays in the theme parks by subscribing to our YouTube Channel and following @onthegoinmco on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!
Disney Springs is once again celebrating the return of Autumn with the WonderFall Flavors at Disney Springs limited-time celebration returning September 20 through November 4, 2019.
The WonderFall Flavors at Disney Springs takes foodies on a journey around the shopping, dining, and experience destination with stops at over 30 participating locations.
From specialty cocktails and ciders to desserts and dishes featuring the popular flavors of the season like pumpkin, squash, apple, cinnamon, and more you are sure to find your favorite (or even new favorite) seasonally-inspired dish.
You can also pick up a WonderFall Flavors at Disney Springs event guide at various locations, but why wait???
The Disney Parks Blog has shared the 2019 Foodie Guide to WonderFall Flavors at Disney Springs!
4R Barbacoa Cantina Food Truck
Squash Blossom Quesadilla – fresh squash blossom, zucchini, tomato, onion, refried beans, Chihuahua cheese, and queso fresco with a side of pico de gallo
Amorette’s Patisserie
Harvest Apple Crépe – with vanilla sauce and toasted pecans
Pumpkin Crème Brûlée – pumpkin custard with brûléed sugar, candied pecans, and a pumpkin sable cookie garnished with Amorette’s chocolate
AristoCrepes
Poison Apple Cocktail – caramel apple frozen cocktail featuring apple whisky and creamy caramel served in a poison apple stein
The BOATHOUSE
Apple and Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée – topped with cinnamon whipped cream and sugared wonton chips
Pomegranate Margarita – tequila, lime juice, pomegranate liqueur, agave nectar, and a fresh lime wedge with a salted rim
Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’
Smoked Turkey Sliders – made with white cheddar cheese, spring mix, tomato, and Homecomin’s homemade cran-apple chutney
Brown Sugar Old Fashioned – featuring brown sugar bourbon, simple syrup and bitters with muddled orange and cherries
D-Luxe Burger
Oktoberfest Burger – signature blend beef patty topped with smoked sausage, braised red cabbage, stout cheese sauce, lettuce, tomato, and grilled onion on a Parker House Roll.
Pumpkin Pie Milkshake – made with gelato, caramel sauce, and graham cracker crumbles topped with whipped cream and pumpkin spice
Earl of Sandwich
Holiday Turkey Sandwich – sliced turkey with cornbread stuffing, cranberry sauce, and mayonnaise on fresh-baked bread
Erin McKenna’s Bakery NYC
Caramel Apple Medley – vanilla cake lightly drizzled with caramel, baked apples, and a cinnamon mousse topped with sugar crystals
Enzo’s Hideaway
Roasted Pork Porchetta – made with smoked maple polenta, delicata squash, pomegranate, and garlic gremolata
Smoked Maple Old Fashioned – featuring smoked maple bourbon, cinnamon pear syrup, and chocolate bitters topped with a cinnamon stick and an orange-peel garnish
Frontera Cocina
Chorizo Sopes – two crispy corn masa boats, pork chorizo, roasted butternut squash, cotija cheese, crema, cilantro, and onions.
Horchata Margarita – joven mezal, agua de horchata, coconut liquor, and cinnamon
The Ganachery
Pumpkin Spice Ganache Square – chocolate ganache with pumpkin spice
Chai Tea Ganache Square – chocolate ganache with chai tea
Maple Pecan Bourbon Hot Ganache – topped with a chocolate bacon garnish
House of Blues® Restaurant & Bar
Voodoo Shrimp – sautéed shrimp in a beer reduction sauce served over jalapeno-cheese cornbread
Abita Pecan Ale, Abita Brewing Company
Jaleo by José Andrés
Seared Scallops – with butternut squash, orange, and caramelized pumpkin seeds
Karlita Cocktail – brandy, amontillado, orange, lemon, and orange bitters
Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar
Giant Charcuterie Pretzel – featuring an air pirate cargo pretzel, prosciutto, sliced brats, artisan pepperoni, smoked cheddar, black diamond cheddar, pickles, spicy mustard, and beer cheese fondue
Autumn Smash – spiced rum, pear nectar, simple syrup, and a splash of lemon juice topped off with a cinnamon twig
Maria & Enzo’s Ristortante
Chicken Saltimbocca – prosciutto di parma, roasted apple, cipolini onions, and balsamic glazed baby carrots
Pumpkin Vodka Cocktail – mixed with pumpkin purée, apple cider, and a splash of soda water with lemon
Paddlefish
Crispy Catfish – with southern grits, black pepper butter sauce, baby kale, and julienne apple.
Paddlefish Hard Apple – apple juice mixed with bourbon and ginger beer and garnished with a cinnamon stick
Paradiso 37, Taste of the Americas
Autumn Special Flatbread – honey-roasted pears, creamy brie, caramelized walnuts, and fresh rosemary on a delicious crispy crust
Smoky Cinnamon Old Fashioned – made with a s’more roasted cinnamon stick and bourbon
Planet Hollywood
Slow Roasted Chicken Breast – tender slow-cooked all-natural double chicken breast, pan gravy with roasted garlic mashed potatoes, and green bean medley
Fall Spirit – cinnamon whiskey blended with fresh lemon juice and honey syrup finished with apple cider
The Polite Pig
Maple Bourbon Pork Belly – pork belly croutons on smashed sweet potatoes with maple whiskey caramel
Apple Cider Whiskey Sour – rye whiskey mixed with apple cider, lemon, brown sugar, and cinnamon
Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant
Braised Pork Shoulder – served with creamed sage cabbage, pickled mustard seeds, red wine jus, and spiced caramelized apple purée
Samhain Sangria – whiskey, sauvignon blanc, cold pressed apple cider, seltzer, and homemade cinnamon syrup with fresh orange, apple and cranberries
Rainforest Café
Roasted Fall Vegetable Tacos – roasted butternut squash with a roasted fall vegetable mix, corn, and black bean salsa garnished with avocado crema, fresh cilantro, and a lime wedge
Splitsville
Grilled Chicken and Apple Flatbread – Maple apple butter, smoked Gouda, and goat cheese topped with crisp diced apples, grilled chicken, red onion, bacon, and cilantro
Spiced Pear Spritzer – fresh pear nectar, ginger liqueur, vodka, lemon juice, and allspice topped with ginger ale and garnished with star anise
Sprinkles
Pumpkin Cupcake – pumpkin cake laced with fragrant ginger, clove, nutmeg, and cinnamon topped with sweet cinnamon cream cheese frosting
STK Orlando
STK Beef Lollipops – served with cranberry spice chutney and delicious sweet potato frites
Pecan Harvest Ale from Abita – a nutty-flavored beer brewed with Louisiana roasted pecans
Sunshine Churros
Pumpkin Spice Churros – classic churro with delicious pumpkin spice
T-REX
Mushroom Ravioli – topped with Italian sausage in a butternut squash cream sauce, freshly grated parmesan cheese, and sage
Bourbon and Cider Cocktail – fall cocktail with bourbon, apple and ginger
Terralina Crafted Italian
Apple and Cranberry Bread Pudding – made with cinnamon and cloves
Terralina Cider – featuring cinnamon whiskey, apple liqueur, and sour mix
Vivoli il Gelato
Pumpkin Cannoli – Italian pastry shell filled with sweet cream and pumpkin
Wine Bar George
Ibérico Pork Pluma – made with confit Yukon potatoes and butternut squash purée
Triton, Tempranillo from Toro – full-bodied red wine with ripe plum, black cherries, and earthy notes
Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill
Pumpkin Ravioli – made with a brown butter sauce, crushed walnuts, and sage
Drunken Pumpkin – vanilla vodka blended with coffee liqueur and pumpkin purée served in a graham cracker rimmed glass with a touch of nutmeg
Wolfgang Puck Express
Delicious Corn Flake French Toast – with maple syrup and seasonal fruit topping with cinnamon sugar
YeSake
Kabocha Pumpkin Bun – cinnamon-steamed bun filled with a sweet pumpkin cream and cranberries
Pumpkin Spice Boba Tea – made with tea, almond milk boba pearls, and spices (non-alcoholic)
Spiced Kabocha – made with sake, almond milk, pumpkin and cinnamon
In addition to all of these yummy items, you can also enjoy a variety of fall-inspired hard ciders at Dockside Margaritas and outdoor vending carts. And don’t forget to stop by Candy Cauldron and Goofy’s Candy Co. to snack on some fall-inspired treats like candy apples, cookies, cake pops, crispy treats, and more!
For more information on WonderFall Flavors at Disney Springs, restaurant info, full menus, and to make reservations, visit DisneySprings.com or call 407 WDW-DINE (407 939-3463).
AMC Movie Theatres have once again partnered with Disney’s Dream Big, Princess program this Fall to bring four beloved Disney princess feature films to the big screen for audiences to enjoy.
Some of these haven’t been shown on the big screen in ages, meaning it might be a first-time viewing for young Disney fans.
While we are still months away from Walt Disney Animation whisking audiences back to the mythical land of Arendelle for the further adventures of Anna and Elsa in FROZEN II, this is a great way to get excited for the new film coming to theaters on November 22nd!
The schedule for the 2019 Dream Big, Princess program will be as follows.
Soon to be made into a live-action feature starring Halle Bailey, THE LITTLE MERMAID follows a restless mermaid who dreams of one day living on the surface. To get there, Ariel trades her greatest gift — her beautiful singing voice — for a pair of legs. Come for the music, including brilliant songs like “Under the Sea,” which won a Best Original Song Oscar in 1989.
A tale as old as time … and one that always warrants a big-screen viewing. The 1991 animated version translates the classic romance for a contemporary audience, riding on the coattails of some incredible songs, such as “Be Our Guest” as well as the title track.
Rapunzel may have let down her hair, but TANGLED did not let down animation audiences looking for a new winner from Walt Disney Animation. Mandy Moore plays the fiery Rapunzel, and she is no damsel in distress. But the true star of TANGLED is the animators who turned Rapunzel’s flowing blonde hair into its own character.
Relatively new compared to the other titles on this list, though PRINCESS has built up a steady fan base over the years, and we expect them to turn out to see this one on the big screen once again. FROG has a distinct New Orleans flavor to it, tapping into the music and cuisine of the Bayou. But it also has star power, with Anika Noni Rose, Keith David and Oprah Winfrey all lending their voices.
Each film in the series will get a one-week run in participating theatres.
It’s worth noting that this will be the animated version of BEAUTY AND THE BEAST — the one that was nominated for Best Picture at the Oscars— and that warrants a big-screen revisiting every chance we get.
Advance Purchase tickets for the Dream Big, Princess series at AMC Movie Theatre are available now using the links under each movie title (which, BTW, are NOT affiliate links), and if you are looking to visit the AMC at Disney Springs showings are at 2pm and 6pm at the AMC DINE-IN Disney Springs 24.
Disney Springs is quickly becoming a mecca of dining (Did you know that Disney Springs is home to six James Beard Award-Winning, chef-owned dining locations?), and they have announced a new restaurant – Beatrix – will be joining the line-up that in the last year has seen opening of two new restaurants Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill and Jaleo by José Andrés.
Beatrix Restaurant, owned by Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises (a Chicago-based restaurant group), will open their first restaurant in Florida at Disney Springs West Side.
Amidst a mid-century setting inspired by Palm Springs in the ‘50s and ‘60s, Beatrix offers a smorgasbord of health-conscious food and beverage options for appetites large and small.
This restaurant, in-house bakery, full-service bar and lounge features a mouthwatering menu with something for everyone—from gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian and kids’ selections to coffee, fresh-squeezed juice cocktails, beer and wine.
Need a nosh to go? Head to the onsite market for quick ‘n’ easy treats.
Disney Parks Blog
Executive Partner and Divisional President, Marc Jacobs, explains “Beatrix represents the way people are eating today – it’s that mix of health and comfort. Whether grabbing a cup of coffee and your favorite pastry, or having a cocktail, lunch, or dinner with friends, it’s your neighborhood meeting place.”
Disney Parks Blog
Beatrix Restaurant at Disney Springs West Side, former spot of Bongos, will be open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, happy hour, dinner, and beyond.
8th Annual Great Irish Hooley Music Festival Will Rock Labor Day Weekend at Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant in Disney Springs
Central Florida’s rip-roaring, toe-tapping, high-voltage boutique Irish music festival will serve up a colorful live playlist of traditional Irish, Celt grass, folk, blues and soul August 30-September 2 during the 8th Great Irish Hooley at Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant in Disney Springs.
There’s no cover charge to join the fun, which begins at 4 p.m. Friday, August 30 and continues into the wee hours of Labor Day, September 2.
Never heard of a “hooley?” It’s an old Gaelic term for a party with music and entertainment with fun for the whole family. The Great Irish Hooley will include Celtic face painting, Hooley-crafted cocktails and beer plus creative new bites by the pub’s inventive culinary team. Raglan Road also will serve the delicious Rollicking Raglan Brunch Saturday, August 31 through Monday, September 2.
This year’s Hooley entertainment headliners include:
Billow Wood – Playing Irish and U.S. music festivals, this four-piece band fuses its unique brand of instrumentation with multi-vocals and harmonies for a blend of Irish and folk music. The band, which released its long-play album, “Can You See Me” – available for streaming and downloading on Spotify and other music sites – will have everyone tapping along to its bass and drums.
Strings & Things – Before returning to Raglan Road this summer, the original Irish folk/trad four-piece band Strings & Things toured in London and throughout Ireland with their own original sound and a variety of crossover songs featured on their first original album, “Turbulence.”
High Time – This fresh new trio from Connemara, Ireland, combines Irish music and an intriguing blend of modern folk influences to produce a rich sound and exciting experience. The band rocks an energetic statement with its instrumental line-up of flute, whistles, harp, bodhran, guitar and vocals – as well as some Irish dance steps thrown in!
TradGad — Three talented musicians from Kerry, Dublin, Colin Foley (guitar, vocals); Fionn Morrison (Uilleann pipes, whistles); and Ciara Ni Bhrian (guitar, fiddle, mandolin, Uilleann pipes, tin whistle, banjo and bazouki, charm Raglan Road audiences with their vibrant performances.
Maca – Two Irish sister-musician-songwriters dubbed “Ireland’s next big thing” are rocking Raglan Road Pub stages with their extraordinary talent. Saoise Carty (guitar,vocals) and Naoise Carty (fiddle, vocals) are from Wexford, Ireland.
The Rolling Wave – Stephen & Abby are one of the finest traditional Irish music duos around. These accomplished, energetic musicians work their crowd for some lively audience participation.
Atlantic Bridge – These accomplished musicians blend their rich musical backgrounds to create a fresh, exciting mix of country, folk and Irish trad music.
The Raglan Road Irish Dancers — Plucked from the cast and stages of the world’s greatest Irish dance shows, the Raglan Road Irish Dancers perform throughout the Great Irish Hooley. You can even learn some traditional Irish dance steps – no experience necessary!
Throughout the Hooley, guests can step up to one of Raglan Road’s 130-year-old imported-from-Ireland bars or grab a table for authentic contemporary Irish fare.
In May 2019, Raglan Road received OpenTable honors as one of the top 100 restaurants in America with “all the ingredients for the perfect big night out – upbeat energy innovative cocktails . . . and outstanding food.” A TripAdvisor Hall of Fame honoree and The Daily Meal’s 2018 “Best Irish Pub” in Florida, Raglan Road is known for its beer-battered fish and chips, Shepherd’s pie with a contemporary twist, delectable seafood and desserts, plus gluten-free entrees.
The festival will run from Friday afternoon at 4 pm through the wee hours of Labor Day (actually 1 a.m. Tuesday).
Owned and operated by Irish partners John Cooke and Paul Nolan, Raglan Road features traditional Irish dishes and new creations with a Celtic twist.
The restaurant’s warm interior of aged walnut and mahogany woods from old Irish bars and churches was built in Ireland and shipped to Orlando.
Live entertainment nightly includes a suite of shows featuring Irish bands and dancers. Guests also can enjoy shows beginning at noon during the weekend Rollicking Raglan Brunch. Lunch is served 11 a.m.-3 p.m.; Dinner 3-11 p.m.; Bar menu 11 p.m.-late; Saturday and Sunday Rollicking Raglan Brunch is served from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant is located at Disney Springs in the Walt Disney World Resort, 1640 E. Buena Vista Dr., Lake Buena Vista, Florida.
This summer you can experience the Flavors of Florida on a ‘Foodie Adventure’ across Disney Springs with a selection of perfectly paired Floridian-inspired plates, cocktails, and brews at 20 different locations throughout the the shopping and entertainment district.
Let’s take a look at what you can find at each location around Disney Springs!
Flavors of Florida Foodie Guide 2019
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar
Fountain of Youth Chicken Wings – Chicken wings served with St Augustine Datil Pepper Sauce
Florida Rain – Orange vodka, gin, coconut rum, blue curaçao, and sour mix
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
D-Luxe Burger
Southern Burger – Signature beef blend patty topped with a fried green tomato, pimento cheese, lettuce, grilled onion, and bacon
Orange Crème Milkshake – Vanilla gelato blended with zesty orange flavors and topped with whipped cream
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
Amorette’s Patisserie
Blood Orange Mousse – Lemon chiffon cake with grapefruit gelée
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
The Ganachery
Disney Springs Dark Chocolate Bar – Dark chocolate bar with orange
Florida Orange Ganache Square – Dark chocolate blended with Florida orange juice and orange zest
Key Lime Ganache Pop – White chocolate blended with Key lime juice and fresh lime zest covered with dark chocolate
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
Rainforest Cafe
Conch Fritters – Conch fritters served on a bed of tropical slaw with Key lime tartar sauce
Funky Buddha Floridian Hefeweizen
Wine Bar George and The Basket at Wine Bar George
Frozcato Cookie Sandwich – Frozen pineapple frozcato sandwiched between two house-made sugar cookies
Frozcato – Moscato, vodka, and Dole Whip Pineapple
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
Polite Pig
Smoked Prime Rib Slider – Prime rib served with a citrus aïoli and a green papaya horseradish slaw
Key Lime Pie – Key lime pie with graham cracker crust and toasted coconut
Sandbar Sunday Islamorada Beer Company American Pale Wheat Ale
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
Splitsville
Tuna Poke Tower – Seared ahi tuna, spicy crab mix, diced Florida avocado, and Asian slaw stacked and served with crispy wonton chips
Strawberry Sake Spritzer – Local strawberries, lemon juice, elderflower liqueur, and rosé-infused sake garnished with a whole strawberry and mint
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
YeSake
Fresh Tuna Tekka Don – Fresh, customizable poke bowl featuring sushi-grade tuna on a bed steamed rice topped with avocado, cucumber, seaweed salad, tempura crunch, and a zesty house-made yuzu aïoli
Violet Sake Slushie – Japanese sake, prickly pear, and lime topped with konpeito candy
Frozen Beer Shandy – Kirin draft beer with fresh-squeezed orange juice topped with frozen Kirin foam
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
T-REX
Boom Boom Alligator Tacos – Flour tortillas, fried alligator, and tropical fruit slaw topped with micro cilantro and spicy garlic sauce
Sailfish Brewing Co. Tag & Release Amber
The Ice Age – Rum, blue curaçao, piña colada purée, and orange juice
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’
Key West Shrimp Cocktail – Seasoned shrimp hand tossed with avocado, mango, cucumber, and house-made cocktail sauce and served with buttermilk crackers
Blood Orange Madras – Blood orange moonshine, freshly muddled strawberries, pineapple purée, and cranberry juice
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill
Local Buratta – Buratta made in Pompeo Beach, Florida served with prosciutto, arugula, fresh peaches, and basil pesto
Cigar City Jai Alai IPA
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
Paddlefish
Crab Ceviche – Blue crab, avocado, bell pepper, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime served with tortilla chips
Key Lime Wheat Ale
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
The BOATHOUSE
Steamed Peel and Eat Florida Shrimp – Florida shrimp dusted with Boathouse seasoning and served with drawn butter
Conch Republic Key Lime Wheat Ale
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
Pizza Ponte
A Zesty Slice of Florida – Pizza bianca with Florida lemon, ricotta cheese, arugula, and black pepper
Guyebera Citra Pale Ale
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
STK Orlando
Market or Fresh Catch Ceviche – Ceviche with passion fruit, lime, and chilis
La Playita Lager
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
Paradiso 37, Taste of The Americas
Florida Scorpion Shrimp Paella – Colossal gulf shrimp, mussels, pancetta, peas, crushed red pepper, tomatoes, and savory Key lime butter tossed with Calasparra rice and broiled to perfection
Sunset Margarita – Tequila, cointreau, and fresh-squeezed Florida orange juice
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
Planet Hollywood
Citrus Kale Salad – Superfood blend of kale, julienned broccoli, slivered Brussels sprouts and cabbage, feta, fresh grapefruit and oranges, cranberries, sunflower seeds, and agave dressing
Key Lime Martini – Vodka, ice cream, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup with a graham cracker crumbs rim
Photo: Disney Parks Blog
Morimoto Asia
Orange Gator & Waffle Cone – Tempura alligator wok-tossed with a sweet Florida orange sauce and served in a house-made waffle cone
Pulp Friction Grapefruit IPA
The Flavors of Florida event runs daily through September 2, 2019, and to keep track of your progress there is an event guide, available at any participating location as well as the Disney Springs Welcome Center!
Guests can personalize their experience at this all new destination, bringing NBA in WNBA moments to life at Disney Springs
The Walt Disney World Resort just announced that the NBA Experience, a brand new destination coming to Disney Springs, will officially open on August 12, 2019.
The NBA experience will give guests a chance to feel like a basketball superstar in one-of-a-kind environment packed with 13 interactive elements and hands on activities across 44,000 feet and two floors.
Rendering: Walt Disney World
The design of the NBA Experience at Disney Springs was created in collaboration with the NBA, and will include immersive environments such as an entryway designed to make guests feel as if they’re walking through the players tunnel at an NBA or WNBA arena.
A ticket to the NBA experience grants guess access to every activity, in any order they choose with the ability to return to stations to improve performances or learn even more about the game, players, and the teams they love.
In addition to all of the experiences you can have, there will also be a retail store featuring NBA themed merchandise.
Rendering: Walt Disney World
Here are a few of the elements that you will find inside of the NBA experience at Disney Springs:
A Slam Dunk Challenge, where guests can change the height of the standard 10-foot hoop to as low as 7-feet to perform their own superstar moves – captured by burst photography.
An activity that tests shooting skills with spots on a court that light up as guests move from one location to another attempting to sink as many shots as possible in 15 seconds.
A way for guests to see how they stack up to some of the world’s best basketball players by measuring their vertical leap, wingspan, shooting, and dribbling.
Personalization for various activities with guests names and associating me activity with their favorite NBA or WNBA teams.
Real-time technology to aggregate statistics of NBA and WNBA games and players for continuous updates, while leader boards will track top NBA experience performers throughout each day.
A stroll down the Christmas Tree Trail at Disney Springs
This holiday season Disney has added a few new entertainment options to Disney Springs. One of them, the Christmas Tree Trail, debuted this past weekend. When the Disney Parks Blog first made the announcement, I was definitely looking forward to it. The description reminded me of the trees that used decorate the Camp Minnie Mickey area of Animal Kingdom before it was closed to make way for Avatar.
The new Christmas Tree Trail is located at the old Marketplace bus depot and you enter in between Once Upon a Toy and Earl of Sandwich. There’s a DJ set up in the area, along with the large Christmas tree that they light every evening at 6:00PM.
We decided to walk the trail twice, before and after it got dark. During the day, it is much less crowded and easier to see some of the details on the trees. The snow machines run at night and of course the twinkle lights make it a bit more festive. My photos came out much better during the day too so that’s what you’ll mostly see here.
There are 15 trees and each one has a different Disney theme. The decorations went beyond just covering the tree in the characters. Some of them you even had to think about a little bit (like a spoonful of sugar on the Mary Poppins tree). It really reminded me of a hometown festival of trees.
Villians
Mickey & Minnie
Moana
Beauty and the Beast
The Little Mermaid
Cinderella
The Princess and the Frog
Mary Poppins
Frozen
The Jungle Book
Mulan
101 Dalmatians
Tangled
Muppets
Alice in Wonderland
The trail a nice holiday addition that fits with the hometown feel of Disney Springs. I hope they keep the tree trail for future years and even improve upon it. The area has a lot of space to add even more Christmas lights and decorations. Maybe even add some more activities. Have you visited the tree trail? Which tree is your favorite?Follow us for more updates:
