Epcot Archives - Page 4 of 7 - On the Go in MCO

Walt Disney World Entertainment Round Table

Summer is almost officially here and that means vacation time at Walt Disney World for many families with kids now out of school. This also means it is a more popular time in the parks where wait times can increase. We thought we’d share some of our favorite Walt Disney World entertainment options that can give you a break inside or in the shade or pass the time while waiting for your Fast Pass time to roll around.

Magic Kingdom

Betsy – I absolutely love the Dapper Dans! They remind me of one of my favorite movie musicals, the Music Man. I have even been lucky enough to be serenaded by these guys while getting my haircut at Harmony Barber Shop, which was perfect. I love their often A Capella performances, which are sometimes accompanied by the awesome Deagan organ chimes. It is especially cool to see them entertain as the Cadaver Dans during Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party

Cheryl – Push the trash can is very entertaining to watch with kids.

Dana – Wowzer is an acrobatic clown that usually juggles while balancing on boards that he has set up himself. He has a spinning plate act as well. Wowzer is fun and super talented.

Beth – I love watching the Dapper Dans tap dance! You never know when they’ll grab you from the audience and make you part of the show!

Kelly – Main Street Philharmonic – No matter how many time I’ve seen them perform there is a simple, yet amazing way to how they play and what they play with such ease, especially in the Florida weather! It’s awesome to hear Disney songs that most of us know in a slightly different style. Also, to hear them during Flag Retreat is fantastic!

Mike – One of my favorite things to experience while in the Magic Kingdom is the famous Main Street U.S.A. barbershop quartet, the Dapper Dans. Serenading guests, the Dapper Dans are a true piece of Americana. Not only are they delightful to listen to singing classic songs such as “Mr. Sandman” and “Hello My Baby”, but also the Dapper Dans love to get their guests involved in the show by allowing them to play the infamous Deagan Organ Chimes.

Shelley – To me nothing says the Magic Kingdom quite like the Main Street Trolley Show! I will stop EVERY time I see the Main Street Trolley Show, to sing and dance along with the performers. It also holds a special place in my heart, because Zoe has loved them from her very first visit! The Citizens of Main Street really are the heartbeat and soul of Main Street USA! They’re always willing to talk to you about your day, your celebrations, and especially about their lives on Main Street USA. Don’t forget to shake the Mayor’s hand, ask Scoop Sanderson about his latest pin, or let the Fire Chief know he’s doing a great job!

Epcot

Betsy – This is a toss up for me. Off Kilter and Voices of Liberty are my two favorite entertainment options in Epcot. I love how Off Kilter covers some eclectic choices of songs with their Celtic Rock flare. They range from classics like Amazing Grace and Danny Boy to Bob Marley and Byan Adams hits. Voices of Liberty perform American classics from hymns to revolutionary war songs. I absolutely love their set last year for the Fourth of July! It was one of the most moving performances and brought me to tears.

Cheryl – Voices of Liberty – It is great to get out of the sun and just sit in air conditioning

Dana – Miyuki – I always stop to watch her when I hear she is making candy. Yes, I said hear because she usually has a mic on. Her personality is as fun as the candy she creates for guests who stop to watch her. I’ve never been lucky enough to be picked by her, but still very entertaining.

Beth – Hands down Mariachi Cobre at the Mexico Pavilion. They are so talented and genuinely enjoy meeting and talking with their audience.

Kelly – JAMMitors – It never fails that when I’m walking by Innoventions that they are out there playing. The crowd they draw is amazed by how they are playing and what they are playing. British Revolution – I’m a sucker for British music and the atmosphere is a great way to relax and take in some awesome songs.

Mike – One of my favorite entertainment offerings in the World Showcase is the Celtic rock band known as Off Kilter. They rock out five times a day to some of the best in traditional Celtic music and sometimes will even throw in a few modern day hits in their set as well. If you love the sound of bagpipes combined with guitar, drum and bass this is definitely the band for you. Some of my favorite songs that Off Kilter plays include “Danny Boy” and “Bonnie Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond”.

Shelley – Off Kilter – Dancing to Off Kilter is quite possibly one of my favorite things to do at Epcot! They’re a really fun group of guys who play music that is great to dance (and maybe drink) to even if you’re just walking by around World Showcase. Their version of Whiskey In The Jar is awesome! Spirit of America Fife & Drum Corps – There is something quite special about catching the Spirit of America Fife & Drum Corps in the American Adventure Pavilion. They have several sets they play, but my favorite is when they have the kids march around, and as a fun bonus they receive a copy of the Declaration of Independence as a gift for participating.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Betsy – You may or may not have seen me at the Studios enjoying a performance of Mulch, Sweat and Shears. I have an affinity for the lead guitarist Axe and may even have picks he has tossed during shows. They cover classic and more current rock and some pop songs.

Cheryl – Citizens of Hollywood – They have some totally funny acts, and it is great to stop and watch.

Dana – Citizens of Hollywood – I love them strictly for the comedy. They can go unnoticed sometimes, but when you spot them, hilarity ensues. Jedi Training – Super cute. I watched it the first time last week. Everyone loved Darth Maul and I loved the sound effects that were perfectly timed to his lightsaber.

Beth – I enjoy the Citizens of Hollywood. You never know when you’re gonna stumble upon a performance.

Kelly – Citizens of Hollywood – Improv acting mixed in with random Hollywood Studios guests always makes for a great show.

Mike – Often found over in the Streets of America, Mulch, Sweat & Shears plays some of the greatest classic rock hits from bands such as Van Halen, Aerosmith, Queen, Kiss and so much more. Not only is this band extremely entertaining but also they do an amazing job with getting the crowd involved and allowing the audience to become an honorary member of the band by playing the cowbell, rocking out on the guitar with band leader Morris Mulch and even singing along with the band.

Shelley – Catching Mulch, Sweat, & Shears at the Studios is something I try to do as often as I can, because it is definitely a family favorite. Zoe will dance her heart out, and has high hopes of playing the cow bell with the band one day!!! Whatever you do, PLEASE take a moment from your day at Disney’s Hollywood Studios to watch the Citizens of Hollywood!!! This talented group of performers are great at improvisation and making you laugh no matter how long you had to wait for Toy Story Midway Mania.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Betsy – DJ Anaan is one of the newer additions to the live entertainment at Animal Kingdom. I remember going shortly after the Bhangra dance party started last year. It is so much fun watching the dancers move along with the Punjabi style music. Every time I have seen kids of all ages joining in with the party learning moves straight out of some of your favorite Bollywood movies.

Cheryl – I enjoy watching DJ Anaan and the dancing in front of Yak and Yeti.

Dana – DiVine – The first thing you notice is a group of people looking into the plant life on the walking between Africa and Asia. Then you spot her when she finally moves. It’s fun to watch her move into plant-like poses and watch her disappear back into the foliage.

Beth – My 4 yr old nephew Alex visited DAK for the first time this year. He loves playing the guitar and singing songs. As we were walking through Camp Minnie Mickey, Gi-tar Dan spotted Alex and started singing about his grey dinosaur shirt and grey shoes. The look on Alex’s face was priceless as he discovered the song was about him.

Kelly – Tam Tam Drummers – When these guys start playing their instruments you feel like you’re in their homeland. Such a cool dance party!

Mike – If you’re looking for an immersive cultural experience that can be enjoyed by people of all ages then look no further than the Burudika band at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Located over in the Harambe Village of Africa, Burudika plays some of Africa’s modern hits and encourages all guests to dance freely in front of the stage joining the band in an African street party. Sometimes if you’re lucky enough, the Tam Tam Drummers will join Burudika’s street party and aid them in teaching guests some traditional African dance moves that they can take home with them to show their friends and family.

Shelley – Tam Tam Drummers of Harambe – NOTHING makes me happier than being able to dance in a park, and the Tam Tam Drummers of Harambe are my favorite to dance with at Animal Kingdom…maybe even all of Walt Disney World! These guys play a mean song and dance with everything they have. They put on a great show, and taking in a show is a great way to spend time waiting for your Kilimanjaro Safari Fast Pass time!

Resorts

Betsy – One of my absolute favorite ways to unwind after a fun day in the parks is to grab a drink at Mizner’s and to listen to the Grand Floridian Society Orchestra. They play big band music mixed in with some Disney tunes and even take requests. I adore sitting for hours to catch their sets alternating with the piano player in the Grand Floridian lobby.

Cheryl – Yehaa Bob – It is no longer a “secret” at Disney. Its great to go and watch him perform.

Dana – Grand Floridian Society Orchestra – This could be a time to relax, beat the heat, and just listen to the Orchestra’s music.

Beth – Watching the Electric Water Pageant from the beach of the Polynesian Resort is fantastic. The pageant sails the Seven Seas Lagoon and around Bay Lake nightly and can be seen from any of the monorail resorts as well as the Wilderness Lodge and Fort Wilderness.

Kelly – Grand Floridian Lobby Society Orchestra – I love, love, love listening to the orchestra play classic Disney songs. You can hear it all throughout the lobby and it makes Grand Floridian that much cooler when you walk in and hear them playing. Scat Cat’s Club musician – This bar is nice and relaxing and to hear some jazz music in the background is a great way to end a day.

Mike – One of my all-time favorite entertainment options located on Disney property is Yehaa Bob Jackson located over at the River Roost Lounge at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside. Join Yehaa Bob for his whimsical piano sing-along featuring numerous classic songs like “Sweet Caroline”, “Piano Man” and of course my all time favorite audience participation song “Sarah, Sarah” (Don’t mess it up!!!) The reason why I love going to see Yehaa Bob so much is because he is not your ordinary piano player. In fact, he is the complete opposite. Instead, Yehaa Bob Jackson is a phenomenally talented piano player who is almost rarely sitting down and plays a piano that rarely sits still.

Shelley – Boardwalk Magician, Juggler, Musicians – The Boardwalk performers are quite different than what you will find at the Walt Disney World Resort, and they variety of shows they put on are sure to please every member of you traveling party. There is nothing like grabbing a snack on the Boardwalk and watching a performance! Yehaa Bob Jackson – Some of my most favorite memories of living so close to Walt Disney World involve going to a Yehaa Bob Jackson show! We’ve had girls nights, birthday parties, and gatherings there and we always have a blast! It can get a little loud, but don’t let that intimidate you from joining in on the fun…just donnnnnnnnn’t mess it up!!!!!!

These are just a few of the many options that Walt Disney World entertainment offers in and around the theme parks. We hope that you take some time to take a break and enjoy some of these fantastic choices for ways to spend time outside attractions. So much of what makes Walt Disney World amazing is the people and interacting with these performers and even other guests can provide some priceless memories. I know I will never forget the time I got pulled up to “sing” with Mulch, Sweat & Shears and my friends just happened to be there with a video camera. Seeing someone spot DiVine for the first time is often quite entertaining. If you haven’t enjoyed the ragtime piano playing while grabbing a snack at Casey’s Corner, you’re missing out on one of the best secrets in the Magic Kingdom. Hearing the Voices of Liberty perform Golden Dream live is a transformative moment to say the least. Take a moment and slow down while you’re on your vacation to experience the live Walt Disney World entertainment. You won’t regret it!

Sounds Like Summer Concert Series Brings Classic Hits to Epcot Through July

Summer sizzles at Epcot as some of the world’s greatest tribute bands rock the stage on select summer nights. Classic hits U2, The Bee Gees, The Police, and many more will rock during Sounds Like Summer concert series. The high-energy performances for Walt Disney World Resort guests take place at the open-air America Gardens Theatre in World Showcase.

The Sounds Like Summer Concert Schedule:

Entertainment subject to change without notice

June 9 to 15: Stayin’ Alive ~ A Tribute to the Bee Gees
June 16 to 22: Hotel California ~ A Salute to the Eagles
June 23 to 29: Mike DelGuidice & Big Shot ~ The Ultimate Billy Joel Tribute Show
June 30 to July 6: Slippery When Wet ~ The Ultimate Bon Jovi Tribute
July 7 to 13: SouthBound and Company ~ A Tribute to Lynyrd Skynyrd
July 14 to 20: The Police Experience ~ A Tribute to The Police
July 21 to 27: 2U ~ A Tribute to U2

Show times are 5:30, 6:45 and 8:00 p.m. – except on July 4 when show times are 5:15, 6:30, 7:45 and 9 p.m.

Sounds Like Summer concerts are included with Epcot admission.

WEDWay Radio and WEDWay Now Podcast Review

I remember the first time I ever heard of WEDWay Radio. Three friends of mine were sitting with me outside a Starbucks in Nashville in January of 2011. We were talking about the Disney community and the subject of podcasts was mentioned. They told me about this great podcast that they all listened to and said I should check it out. The production quality of the show was great and it was produced by two brothers, but they warned me I wouldn’t know they were brothers until several episodes in to the podcast.

Those brothers, Nate and Matt Parrish, started the WEDWay Radio podcast back in February of 2009, releasing episode 5 (the first they’ve decided is good enough for public listening despite my protestations and begging and pleading for episodes 1-4). On their website, Nate explains why they started the podcast: First, we felt that that there were not enough resources available on Disney theme park history. Though we own a lot of books and have lots of memorabilia, there are a lot of stories out there that need to be told about how different attractions came to be and maybe some ideas that never were built.

Honestly, I kind of forgot about that conversation until a few months later when I saw another friend tweet about a new episode of WEDWay Radio about Disney and the Tiki culture of the 1950s (ep 75 from 6/19/11). If I was ever going to check out an episode, this would be it as I love tikis and tropical decorations. I downloaded and listened to the episode and loved it. Shortly after I listened to that episode I started a new job and things were in a bit of flux for a while for me. In January of 2012 I picked it back up at the most recent episode 105, then decided in February to start at the beginning with episode 5 to listen all the way through to the present at over 100 episodes in. It took me about five months and with each subsequent episode, I fell more in love with this podcast.

What makes me appreciate WEDWay Radio so much is that Matt and Nate really do seem to love what they do. It is a labor of love and the effort they put into each show is very evident, from the production quality with clips and background music to the research involved in some of the subjects. As they mention in the intro to most of the episodes, this is a podcast “about exploring the Disney parks, Disney history and the Walt Disney Company.” This can cover such a wide variety of topics like theme park attractions or lands that were never built, to the history of getting the first animated feature film released, to resort reviews and experiences the guys had growing up on family trips.

As time progressed, I spent so much time listening to Matt and Nate, they seemed to become like brothers to me as I often heard their voices more often than that of my own brother. We interact on a pretty regular basis on twitter and/or facebook and seem to have common interests. These are nice, normal guys from Missouri who put out a fantastic show for the most part weekly. Nate and I tried to meet up on one of his trips here to Walt Disney World, but a family illness curtailed that meeting. Matt and I were lucky enough to hang out for a few hours this spring in Epcot while he and his family were here on vacation.

The sister podcast to WEDWay Radio is WEDWay Now, which had a reboot of sorts last summer. Previously, the Now show existed in the same iTunes feed as the regular WEDWay Radio shows. In June of 2012 it was put into its own place and became a show to talk more about current news and as a forum to invite on guests from the Disney community. Some shows don’t have guests, but will feature things more like announcements of upcoming changes to the parks or the guys will often talk about new movies in development or recently released. I enjoy this show as well as it is a bit more off the cuff and conversational with Nate and Matt’s opinions more so than the more informational episodes of WEDWay Radio.

On average a WEDWay Radio episode tends to run about an hour to an hour and a half and the Now shows are usually a bit shorter at 30 – 45 minutes on average. I thoroughly enjoy both of these podcasts and highly recommend them to anyone who is interested in learning about the history of the Disney parks or the history of the Company. They often split the topics pretty evenly between Disneyland and Walt Disney World, with occasional episodes covering even the international Disney parks. The guys have just started their latest series which is about Fantasyland and three dimensional reality. If this is anything like any of their previous series (40 Years of Magic at Walt Disney World, Epcot’s 30th Anniversary or Snow White), then we are all in for a treat. I cannot wait to see what else Matt and Nate have in store in the future. WEDWay Radio has deservingly been nominated the last two years consecutively for the Best Travel Podcast by the Podcast Awards.

These are two of the podcasts that I most look forward to each week. Both WEDWay Radio and WEDWay Now can be found on iTunes. Currently they are selling t-shirts with two limited time only designs available at the WEDWay Radio online store here. If you are looking for a new podcast about Disney history of all kinds from the man himself, to how the company has grown over the years, to the movie schedule slated for 2015, check out both WEDWay Radio and WEDWay Now. If you really like what you find, support the guys by buying one of their really cool shirt designs or by checking out some of the books they’ve talked about by clicking through to Amazon from their site. Any way you can, take the time to check out the great offerings produced by the Parrish brothers and share the love if you have already.

The Eat To The Beat 2013 Concert Series Line Up

This year’s Epcot International Food & Wine Festival will return to Epcot this September 27 – November 11, and while the food is spectacular I always look forward to the Eat to the Beat Concert Series which features some great new additions!

While I am SUPER stoked to see that Big Bad Voodoo Dady, Sugar Ray, and Boyz II Men are still part of the Eat to the Beat Concert Series, I am excited for updated series to take to the festival stage this year!

This year the concert series new comers include the Go-Go’s, Edwin McCain, The Manhattan Transfer, Wilson Phillips, Spin Doctors, and Christopher Cross.

Here is the entire Eat to the Beat Concert Series Schedule!

Sept. 27-29 – Starship starring Mickey Thomas
Sept. 30-Oct. 1 – Go-Go’s
Oct. 2-4 – Air Supply
Oct. 5-6 – Sister Hazel
Oct. 7-9 – Sugar Ray
Oct. 10-11 – Edwin McCain
Oct. 12-13 – Manhattan Transfer
Oct. 14-15 – Wilson Phillips
Oct. 16-17 – The Pointer Sisters
Oct. 18-20 – Night Ranger
Oct. 21-23 – Boyz II Men
Oct. 24-25 – Survivor
Oct. 26-27 – 38 Special
Oct. 28-30 – Smash Mouth
Oct. 31-Nov. 1 – Spin Doctors
Nov. 2-3 – Christopher Cross
Nov. 4-5 – Hanson
Nov. 6-8 – Dennis DeYoung
Nov. 9-11 – Big Bad Voodoo Daddy

I seriously cannot wait!!!

I hope that we see you at one of these concerts!!!

David Bromstad at the Flower and Garden Festival

I don’t know if you all know this, but I am a certified HGTV junkie! I can watch it all day every day from designs, to landscaping, buying and selling, to remodels. So when I heard my favorite HGTV star, David Bromstad, was going to be featured this year at Epcot’s International Flower & Garden Festival, I knew I’d be there. I have been coming to this spring special event for almost fifteen years, but have never been to any of the speaker series since the recent collaboration with HGTV over the past few years.

David Bromstad, HGTV’s first Design Star, and host of his own show Color Splash, has ties to Disney and Florida. He is a former Cast Member who attended Sarasota’s Ringling College of Art and Design (just minutes from where I live). I love the bright, bold colors David uses in everything he does and especially his one of a kind paintings that he often contributes to his redesigns. I was so excited to learn this presentation was entitled the Power of Color since I love bright colors in my design and clothing.

I met my friends Carol, Danny and Jodi at Epcot and after a quick ride on Test Track we ventured over to the Wonders of Life pavilion early to get our seats. I was so glad we got there almost 45 minutes early as the seats were almost full at that time! This only goes to show how popular David Bromstad is. His personality on his shows is as big and bold as the colors he loves to use! This showed in his fantastic presentation about color.

The Power of Color presentation featured about ten colors or so and discussed common representations of the color. For instance blue is often associated with serenity and peacefulness, but David also brought up the negative of each color, like blue can represent depression. In addition, he went over some of the holistic properties of each color and the characteristics of those who typically like each color. After each color was described, he would show slides of the color used in three very different ways to bring out hues and shades to represent different themes.

I absolutely loved the presentation and David Bromstad’s sense of humor was so personable. He was so down to earth, even shouting out to his friends and parents who were in the audience, making it feel like he had invited us in to his living room for a fun chat. Even my friends who didn’t know who David Bromstad was before Sunday and who aren’t fans of HGTV seemed to really enjoy the presentation. It was very accessible to everyone and I think most people walked out thinking of all the new possibilities for design or even for dressing themselves in the morning. My friends even decided that they will now not be painting the nursery yellow for their yet to be born baby because it is the hardest color for the eyes to focus on (gray is the easiest subsequently).

David Bromstad put on a great show and it was a great combination of education and entertainment. After the show ended, he even took a good amount of time to meet and greet with his fans. He didn’t rush anyone along and greeted everyone with a hug and a sincere thank you for coming. Guests asked design questions, gave him gifts and just chatted with him. It was nice to see someone down to earth matching the personality they put out on tv. I have to give a shout out and huge thank you to David Bromstad’s social media manager Augie for making a meet and greet happen for me even though I missed the line cut off. Coincidentally, I ran in to the guys later that night at our resort in the elevator.

If you enjoy design and decoration as much as I do, or even if you are new to the game, I strongly suggest checking out David’s shows Color Splash and HGTV Design Star, which returns June 9th. You are almost guaranteed to learn some new design techniques and you will be entertained each episode for sure. Also, when next year’s International Flower and Garden Festival rolls around, make sure you check out the presentations by some of the best HGTV personalities. Check out David’s blog post about his time at Disney World here.

A fan made this quilt of pictures of David

He was so sweet to take time with each guest

Wordless Wednesday – Living With The Land

Wordless Wednesday – May 22, 2013

18th Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Details Released!

Sip, Savor, Repeat! Fresh Global Tastes Tempt the Palate

at 18th Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Sept. 27-Nov. 11

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival 2013 — Guests can sample wine, cheese and ethnic tastes from regions around the world Sept. 27 – Nov. 11, 2013 during the 18th annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival.

Scotland Marketplace Debuts, Brazil Flavors Return for Encore

Disney guests can sip and savor fresh flavors from six continents during the 18^th Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Sept. 27-Nov. 11, 2013 at Walt Disney World Resort.

Disney chefs will debut the authentic tastes of Scotland at the celebrated 46-day festival known for innovative food, wine, beer, cocktails, music and entertainment. The sizzling aromas of more than 25 ethnic and specialized marketplaces including Africa, Brazil and Florida Local will tempt guests strolling the World Showcase Promenade. Celebrity chefs like Warren Brown and Jamie Deen will bring culinary cachet to special festival events and demonstrations.

Festival planners will present a delectable menu of premium programming, plus daily wine tastings and mixology seminars. Nightly Eat to the Beat concerts will keep the party rockin’, and five bands will make their festival debut this year. In Future World, the iconic Ocean Spray Cranberry Bog will return for a third year to introduce families to the cranberry’s rich agricultural heritage.

Fresh for the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival in 2013:

New marketplace debuts; favorites return -Traditional flavors with a twist will pair with beers, meads and Scotch at the new Scotland Marketplace designed by Walt Disney Imagineering. Scottish officials were so impressed with the hit Disney film, “Brave,” that they contacted festival planners about participating in this year’s festival. The Brazil Marketplace returns by popular demand with an exciting new menu following a one-year hiatus. Hawai’i is back with its flavorful Kalua Pork Slider, and Terra, which debuted last year, returns with vegan favorite Trick’n Chicken Curry.

Fan favorites rock the house at Eat to the Beat! Concerts – “We Got the Beat” with the Go-Go’s (Sept. 30-Oct. 1) and four other musical acts are set to make first appearances at Eat to the Beat nightly concerts. Also new to the festival stage: Edwin McCain (Oct. 10-11), The Manhattan Transfer (Oct. 12-13), Spin Doctors (Oct. 31-Nov. 1), and Christopher Cross (Nov. 2-3) Nineteen bands are slated, with STARSHIP starring Mickey Thomas kicking off the concert series Sept. 27-29. Returning fan favorites include The Pointer Sisters, Smash Mouth, Boyz II Men, Sister Hazel, Air Supply, Hanson and Big Bad Voodoo Daddy.

Celebrity chefs cook and dish – Renowned chefs like Warren Brown, Paula DaSilva, Gale Gand, Jamie Deen, Robert Irvine, Dean Max, Rock Harper, Jeff Henderson, Art Smith, Buddy Valastro, Allen Susser, “Cake Boy” Eric Lanlard, Duskie Estes and John Stewart, Donald Link, Bryan Voltaggio and Emily Ellyn share their talents during culinary demos and premium events.

Festival Welcome Center buzzes with activities – Guests can make the most of complimentary Authentic Taste seminars. Culinary demonstrations and wine seminars feature new tastes and sips for a nominal fee.

Reserved culinary events draw foodies — Special culinary programs showcase a lineup of renowned winemakers, guest chefs and speakers like Master Sommelier Andrea Robinson as they participate in elegant dinners, luncheons, seminars and wine schools.

Other festival highlights include:

More than 270 chefs including Disney chefs and culinary stars from across the country
A complimentary Marketplace Discovery Passport to be stamped at each international marketplace visited for the perfect scrapbook souvenir.
Party for the Senses grand tasting events Oct. 5, 12, 19, 26, and Nov. 2 featuring tempting bites from eminent chefs, more than 50 wines and beers and live entertainment.
Premium events including “3D” Disney’s Dessert Discovery on select Fridays, Cheese Seminars on Saturdays and Sweet Sundays on Sundays.

What’s Included with Epcot Admission:

Authentic Taste seminars, Ocean Spray Cranberry Bog, special book signings, Eat to the Beat! concerts, cultural adventures, Marketplace Discovery Passport and all attractions and park entertainment are included with regular Epcot admission.

Special Programming by Reservation:

The Party for the Senses grand tasting events and other special wine and culinary programs require reservations and separate event admission. Guests will be able to call 407/WDW-FEST (939-3378) to make reservations after an August date is announced. Information and reservations for select events and programs will be at www.epcotfoodfestival.com.

My Monsterous Summer Preview

I had the pleasure of attending the Walt Disney World Monsterous Summer Media Preview last week, and it was great to learn so much about all the fun there is to be had this summer at the Walt Disney World Resort!

Disney’s Monstrous Summer is going to have a little something for everyone! It’s the first summer of fun in New Fantasyland, this summer the surprises of Limited Time Magic continue, and some all-new adventures begin around the Resort including the opportunity play pirate in the Magic Kingdom or becoming a wilderness explorer with badges galore in Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

The Monstrous Summer lineup is inspired by the June 21 release of the Disney-Pixar animated feature, “Monsters University.” Mike and Sulley are dropping in from MU to scare up monstrous surprises! An all-new collegiate setting for meeting their favorite aspiring scarers will be on the Backlot at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will have a great view of the MU Campus. Also at the Magic Kingdom MU students have been studying new jokes to bring to the Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor!

But the event wasn’t just about Mike, Sulley, and their friends! It was an event full of some great announcements, so let’s take a look at what I learned all about…

Monsterous Summer – Special Events

May the 4^th Be With You – In honor of Star Wars day, Disney’s Hollywood Studios will be hosting “May the 4th Be with You!”—a one-of-a-kind Star Wars-themed celebration for the whole family. During this Limited Time Magic Event, you will be able to meet iconic characters, parents will be able to join their fellow Padawans in a special family Jedi Training Academy, purchase special merchandise with messages like “May the Fourth Be with You” and “Revenge of the Fifth”, you can join DJ Lobot for a Star Wars-themed Dance Party, and at the end of the day you can take a seat on Hollywood Boulevard and settle in for “Symphony in the Stars,” a spectacular fireworks display set to close the celebration. Catch all the amazing sights and sounds, the likes of which haven’t been seen since the fall of the Empire!

Pull an All-Nighter to Celebrate the beginning of Summer – A larger than life Mike Mike Wazowski joined us to tell us all about another 24 hour celebration coming to both coasts on May 24^th. You can find all of the details about the All-Nighter here.

httpv://youtu.be/OBRYUUO29LM

Downtown Disney Revs Up for Car Masters Weekend June 14-16 -Car Masters Weekend, now in its third year, is the perfect way to celebrate Father’s Day as Downtown Disney West Side hosts a classic car show with a modern twist June 14-16, 2013. Featuring all things “Cars,” the event showcases more than 150 classic, muscle and exotic cars; a chance for guests to meet “Cars 2″ stars Lightning McQueen, Mater and Finn McMissile; and special appearances by automotive designer Chip Foose and Disney-Pixar “Cars” filmmaker Jay Ward. Completing the car-nucopia of events, fans may purchase tickets for a ”Cars” & “Cars 2″ movie marathon at AMC Downtown Disney 24, “test drive” Ridemakerz “Cars” models, and enjoy caricatures, themed food and beverage, live entertainment and more. Entertainment subject to change.

Monsterous Summer – New Offerings

Senses, A Disney Spa At Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort – Joining later this summer its sister spa at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort, the new Senses Spa at Saratoga Springs will be inspired by the healing properties of natural springs that have drawn people for centuries to Saratoga Springs in upstate New York. A completely redesigned space, Senses, A Disney Spa At Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort, will feature 10 treatment rooms offering an array of services including water therapy, massage and facials. Senses will incorporate the springs, nature and the storyline of health in its design and theming. For reservations and information, you can call 407-WDW-SPAS.

Wilderness Explorers Comes to Disney’s Animal Kingdom – Coming this spring Disney’s Animal Kingdom guests will be invited to become Wilderness Explorers and experience the park in engaging and challenging ways aimed at deepening their understanding of animals and the natural world we live in. When you sign up and take the official pledge, you set off with your field guide and in hopes to earn all 30 sticker badges of the Wilderness Exlplorers! You will have to complete challenges as you explore the park and all of its rich details. While this activity is aimed at guests 7-10, it really looks like fun for the entire family! Who doesn’t love stickers? Wilderness Explorers will be self-guided and encourage more “up close and personal” time with the animal inhabitants of the park, and Wilderness Explorers will be included in Disney’s Animal Kingdom admission.

New Meet-Up with Mickey, Minnie at Disney’s Animal Kingdom – Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse are scheduled to welcome Disney’s Animal Kingdom guests to their new exploration headquarters, Adventurers Outpost, on Discovery Island, beginning this spring. The all-new indoor retreat is the perfect spot for guests to meet the globetrotting duo as they get ready to set off on their next adventure.

A Pirate’s Adventure: Treasures of the Seven Seas – In testing now and scheduled to debut this Spring, “A Pirate’s Adventure: Treasures of the Seven Seas” will be a new interactive adventure where Magic Kingdom guests participate in pirate raids throughout Adventureland. Pirate maps lead to fabulous treasures as guests join Captain Jack Sparrow and fight off the Royal Navy, Captain Barbossa, headhunters, curses — and the greatest threat of all, Calypso, the sea goddess. If they help Jack succeed in all the missions, they will be welcomed as part of his new crew. If not, they face the wrath of the cruel sea…alone. The adventure is divided into 5 different raids, each comprising a series of interactive tasks.

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Disney Dining – Coming by summer’s end: a re-imagined California Grill crowning Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Guests will experience a beautiful new dining room, onstage kitchen and new dining choices – chef Brian Piasecki will keep the focus on creative, fresh, seasonal dishes, and top-of-the-line sushi. At Epcot, what says summer better than ice cream? The France Pavilion will be expanding with L’Artisan des Glaces, an artisan ice cream and sorbet shop, debuts in mid-June with 16 yummy flavors, all made in-house with fresh ingredients (with the option of adding a shot of liquor on top, for grown-up tastes).

Summer Latte, Anyone? More Starbucks Locations Coming to Disney Parks -Starbucks will be opening locations at Disney theme parks at the Walt Disney World Resortt. When it reopens in early summer, Main Street Bakery in Magic Kingdom will keep its name and theming and continue to serve Disney favorites such as cookies, brownies and seasonal cupcakes, in addition to Starbucks signature beverages and other menu items. At Epcot, Starbucks products will be featured when the Fountain View location reopens for midsummer. Each Starbucks location inside a Disney Park will reflect the theme of its surroundings.

New Summer Line of Disney Parks Cosmetics – In time for summer, fairy tale legends and secrets come to life with the captivating new Unlock the Spell collection from Beautifully Disney, Disney Parks’ line of cosmetics and beauty products. The new-for-summer collection — inspired by the spellbound Tiana, Belle and Rapunzel — is rich in lush colors: soft, pretty yellow, rosy golds, and punchy purples. Unlock the Spell will make its debut at Trend-D at Downtown Disney.

New Disney Dooney Pattern – This spring, a new pattern of Disney Dooney and Bourke purses will be released at TrenD. This coated canvas, features a bold and fun type spelling out Minnie and Mickey with Mickey and Minnie Heads.The colors are more of a neon/bright color and are really on point! It’s a really great and versatile pattern that is great for casual fun or taking to the office. I can’t wait to bring one home for myself!

Disney Ray-Ban Sunglasses – Disney Ray-Ban sunglasses will be coming this spring, and they are adorable! Available in both original Wayfarer styles, they feature a black and white Mickey pattern. What will be really interesting, is to see if the black version with the Mickey pattern on the inside will be considered ‘Disney Look’…I have my fingers crossed for all my Cast Member friends!!!

Monsterous Summer – Announcements

Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade – The Magic Kingdom will be replacing the ‘Celebrate a Dream Come True’ Parade with the Festival of Fantasy Parade that will be stepping off in the Spring of 2014. This all-new parade will bring a celebration of New Fantasyland to life through innovative parade floats, costumes, and an original soundtrack of familiar favorites and a specially crafted parade theme song. The Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade will specifically highlight the stories of “The Little Mermaid,” “Sleeping Beauty,” “Dumbo,” “Pinocchio,” “Peter Pan,” “Tangled” and the Disney●Pixar film “Brave” among others.

Disney Magic Overhaul – There’s an extra dose of magic coming aboard the Disney Cruise Line Disney Magic! The Disney Magic is the first ship of the fleet, and will be getting a “re-imagineering” transformation during dry dock from Sept. 7 through Oct. 10, 2013. The fleet’s flagship will be receiving a new atrium, restaurant, improved dining experience in Palo, an update to the senses spa, additions in the kid’s club areas (I am most excited about the Avenger’s Academy addition), new pool and water play areas, as well as two all new slides! It is going to be amazing! I can’t wait to take the plunge on the AquaDunk!

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As you can see from my crazy long pos (sorry) there is a lot of great new experiences coming to Walt Disney World this Summer!!!

In the next few days I will be sharing more information and pictures from the Monsterous Summer Media Preview!

What are you most excited about?

Drinks around Epcot’s World Showcase

Some of my favorite moments in Epcot over the years have not even been while enjoying attractions. There are times where you just need to sit, or stroll, and take time to relax with your friends or family over and adult beverage or two. Partaking in the drinks from the countries of Epcot’s World Showcase is a great way to spend time with friends while waiting for your Fastpass window for Soarin’ or Test Track to roll around. Today I will share some of my favorite bars, beverages and even a few stories (some tales of caution).

Bars

For me, there are three fantastic bars at Epcot that I tend to frequent. That isn’t to say there aren’t more bars that are great, but these are my three favorites and each for a different reason. On any given day I will find it challenging to rank these in order of preference, so I don’t feel inclined to do so here. They are all winners for drinks in my book.

La Cava Del Tequila – I remember this place back when it was my favorite jewelry shop in the Mexico pavilion. I even have several of the rings I purchased from said shop still. The name says it all, or most of what this place is about. In the immortal words of The Champs, Tequila! (Feel free to jump on the bar and do the Pee Wee Herman dance, but if you do, I am in no way responsible.) This cozy little cave of a bar offers about 10 tables with chairs and bench seating, a sofa and stools as well as a high top table for standing in addition to the bar, also standing room only. If you aren’t there for rope drop (yes, more than once I’ve rope dropped this particular bar), on busier days you may find yourself adding your name to the waiting list or even queuing up outside waiting for a drink.

The margaritas here are great! My favorites currently vacillate between the avocado, blue and if you can get them to make it, the orange mango fire margarita. They also serve some non-alcoholic drinks in addition to beer, wine and sangria. Several pages of the menu are devoted to individual tequila shots, tequila infused cocktails and flights. Do not, I repeat, do not be tempted by the offer of the bartenders to give you a free shot if you eat the scorpion from the bottle. I know from experience it is not worth it. However, it is quite an interesting experience to have dozens of strangers chanting your name to try to encourage you to do so. Friends and I may also be known for holding court and rotating out people hanging there for four hours plus on repeated occasions. Appetizers here are also quite tasty with the guacamole and queso being two of my favorites.

Rose & Crown Pub – In the UK Pavilion, this restaurant and bar is situated along the shores of the World Showcase Lagoon. If you are looking for a great location from which to view Illuminations on a nice warm evening, see if you can get a reservation for around 8pm or so and let them know you’re willing to waiting for an outside table facing the water. It is an incredible view! The food here is great, although I still lament the loss of the Sunday Roast off the regular menu. I still love the corned beef sandwich off the pub menu (make sure to get mustard not mayo). This is yet another wonderful place to sit with friends, raise a pint or two, and just talk. They do offer some entertainment in the form of tricks from the bartender Carl (if you ask nicely) and Carol, the Hat Lady, performs most evenings singing songs and getting the pub patrons involved. My favorite drink here is definitely the snakebite and black, which is not on the menu, but I haven’t had a bartender yet who didn’t know immediately how to make it. I’m also a fan of just a nice pint of Guinness or Harp to wash down the fish and chips too. Cheers!

Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar – This relatively new locale in Italy is quickly creeping up the list as one of my favorites. They have a really extensive list of wines by the glass and also beer and some cocktails. In addition to beverages, the bar has a great menu of appetizers, small sandwiches and salads, and dessert. I was just there this past week and tried the cannoli for the first time and found myself cheesily exclaiming holy cannoli! I love the prosecco, especially if you like more dry white sparkling wines, but also the espresso martini is a great choice if you’re looking for something with a bit more punch. I really like how there are different sections to the bar and even for being a bit dim as far as the lighting, it still feels kind of light and airy. If you can, try to get the room with the sofas to yourself if you have a large enough party.

Drinks

Although not all of the countries around World Showcase necessarily have bars where you can sit and enjoy an adult beverage, pretty much all of them offer unique drinks. In addition to the ones I’ve mentioned above, here are some more of my favorite things to imbibe while strolling around World Showcase at Epcot.

Mexico – I almost always go to La Cava and nowhere else and alternate between margaritas and tequila shots or flights. No Scorpion shots ever again.

Norway – If you get a chance, stop in at Kringla Og Bakeri and grab a Carlsberg. While it may seem like an unconventional choice, I enjoy this to pair with one of my favorite desserts: school bread.

China – I go back and forth between the Peach Snap and the Mango Gingerita at the Joy of Tea kiosk. I remember bonding with friends Lori, Becky, Sarah and Tim for the first time over drinks in China several years ago during reunion 2010.

Germany – I have to go with any or all of the beers in Germany from either the carts or Sommerfest stand. Also, if you enjoy wine, check out the wine walk that also includes Italy and France.

Italy – My previous go to for sipping and strolling was the Rosa Regale, but I can get that at my grocery store, so I switched to the Italian margarita after having been introduced to it by my friend Kelly a while back.

America – At the Fife & Drum I will almost always go for the Sam Adams either regular Boston lager or seasonal beer. Occasionally I will partake in the Jim Beam Red Stag Lemonade that stuck around for a while after arriving at the Food & Wine festival a couple years ago.

Japan – I like to try different types of sake, especially when they have ones that are special and less expensive, from the back of the sake bar in the Mitsukoshi store.

Morocco – My usual is a Casa beer at the Tangierine Cafe (my favorite counter service location in Epcot BTW), but I also enjoy an occasional Moroccarita from the stand outside. Then there was that one time where I went to Tangierine Cafe to get a shawarma platter and a glass of wine and ended up with three and a half glasses of wine. Those Moroccan boys said “oops, this bottle’s almost done. Here, finish it up. Oh, I guess there’s more in there than we thought. Drink that and then we will give you some more.” Okay boys. Whatever you say. That was a good day. 😉

France – Ah, the French. They tend to spoil me by offering a multitude of tasty beverages. My favorite though has to be a Kir Royale. This is followed closely by the Grey Goose and Grand Marnier slushes. Most wines are also quite good if you like dry wines, but I learned my lesson and avoid the beer. Just not a fan. Stick to the grapes or aperitifs.

UK – I almost always get a snakebite and black, but again will not turn down the pints of Harp or Guinness served at the stand outside the Rose & Crown.

Canada – Several years ago my friend Tom told me of his tradition to try to always make the last drink of his trip a Moosehead from the beer cart in Canada, so I have adopted this as my go to drink here. However, if you can find it, which they occasionally have here, try any of the Unibroue beers, especially the Ephemere.

So, I hope you have enjoyed this trip around World Showcase with me and some of my favorite drinks. If any of you are wondering, no, I have never done the unofficial drink around the world with one drink in each country in one day. Number one, I don’t have the budget for that, two, I’m usually driving and I am more responsible than that, and three, I think I’m too old for that. What are some of your favorite drinks? Have you any stories you wish to tell of bonding over quaffs? Please do tell.

Wordless Wednesday – Water Lilies Galore

Wordless Wednesday – March 27, 2013

My Perfect Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival Day

This year’s Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival is full of some great new additions, as well as some of my old favorites. I thought I would take you along as I look at what makes a perfect day at the 2013 Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival.

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When you walk in the main entrance to Epcot, it’s hard to miss the new Fab 5 Topiary ‘Party with Mickey & Friends’ as they celebrate the 20^th Anniversary of Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival. Also as you walk around Spaceship Earth towards Future World, make sure you check out the Phineas & Ferb Topiary.

I am a big fan of the new ‘Radiator Springs’ interactive play area! Make sure you take a few extra minutes to become a Private Detective with Tow Mater. This area is sure to make the Cars fans in your family happy!

After taking a stroll through Radiator Springs, it’s a great time to head to the Festival Center. Here you can find all of the great Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival merchandise, see a presentation in the HGTV Theater with some of your favorite DIY gurus, take a class, or even ask an expert a question about your garden at home.

Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival — This year’s Festival Pins!

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Another area that I could spend all day in is Tinker Bell’s Butterfly House. This year Tinker Bell and her friends play host to a wonderful world of butterflies, and if you look closely you might even find some of their Fairy Houses! For a special treat, make sure you stop by around 11:00 am to watch the butterflies emerge from their cocoons.

You can visit the Land of Oz in the new children’s play area presented by the new Disney film ‘Oz the Great and Powerful’. In this area you can play midway games for prizes, take a break and play for a bit on unique play structures, and relax under a hot air balloon.

While you’re in this area, a fun activity for the little ones is to decorate a flower pot for their seeds from The Land of Oz at the Water Wise Herbs & Vegetable exhibit.

Luckily the Pineapple Promenade is right next to The Land of Oz Play area, so it was time to grab a Dole Whip (I opted to get one without spiced rum) and a Pineapple Upside Down Cake. What a great treat!

This year there are 12 food booths around the World Showcase Lagoon offering a Taste of Spring. While these booths look similar to those used for the International Food & Wine Festival in the Fall, that is where the similarities end. For the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival, each booth features fresh foods prepared in the booth with plantings around each one of ingredients used in the foods. The Cottage in the United Kingdom Pavilion was my favorite, but the candied strawberries of Lotus House are unique and worth a try!

Also, you will definitely want to pick up one of the Disney Gift Cards on a wristlet to make buying items at the booths super easy! It can be loaded with as little as $5, and is accepted as payment for nearly anything! Plus this year, they are themed to the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival! Super Cute! You can get them throughout Epcot at ticket booths, Guest Relations, the Festival Center, and almost anywhere they sell Disney Gift Cards!

And it wouldn’t be Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival without topiaries, and both World Showcase & Future World are full of some great ones! I definitely wouldn’t miss…

The new Disney-Pixar ‘Monsters University’
The Moose in the Victoria Gardens of the Canada Pavilion
Hook, Tic Toc Croc, and Peter Pan in the United Kingdom Pavilion
Beauty and the Beast in the France Pavilion
Woody & Lotso in the American Adventure Pavilion
Buzz in front of Mission Space
The Troll in the Norway Pavilion

The Backyard Play Garden is full of whimsical touches that you can add to your garden at home (with instructions), as well as a really nice play area for the kiddos. This is a great place to take a break since the kids have a place that is covered to play on with restrooms close by.

Two of my perennial favorites are the bonsai on display in the Japan Pavilion and the large terra cotta pots of Italy that are overflowing with beautiful flowers.

Now would be about the time to start queuing up for the Flower Power Concert Series performed at the American Gardens Theater near the American Adventure Pavilion. STOP TO AT LEAST HEAR ONE CONCERT! I know that these are older performers, but once they start going you will be surprised to see how many songs you know. We saw Micky Dolenz, of The Monkees, and he was amazing. I am personally stoked for The Village People to perform later in the festival.

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Make sure you take a moment to take in the Kinsey Collection: Shared Treasures of Bernard & Shirley Kinsey inside of the American Adventure Pavilion. This new exhibit allows you to see authentic documents, books, artifacts, and are art including landscapes and flora in one of the largest collections of African American Art. I had the amazing chance to speak with the Kinseys, and their passion for this collection is breathtaking. We are truly lucky to have such an exhibit visiting Epcot!

After you watch Illuminations, a mandatory watching is included in a perfect day at Epcot, make sure you check out the topiaries as they are illuminated and pixie dust powered at night.

And that would be my perfect day at Epcot’s International Flower and Garden Festival. It’s a great time of year to visit, and I can’t wait to hear what your perfect day at the Festival would be like!

Re-Discovering America: Family Treasures from the Kinsey Collection Coming to Epcot

Guests to the American Adventure pavilion at Epcot will journey “between the pages” of history as the American Heritage Gallery opens its doors to an art exhibit representing over 400 years of African-American achievement and contribution from the Kinsey Collection.

“Re-Discovering America: Family Treasures from the Kinsey Collection,” which opens March 8, draws from an extensive collection of rare art, documents, books and artifacts amassed by philanthropists Bernard and Shirley Kinsey, who share a passion for African-American history.

Their private collection has been displayed throughout the U.S., including in the Smithsonian National Museum of American History. Approximately 40 pieces will be on display for Epcot guests at any given time on a rotating basis during the exhibit run.

“We always wanted to extend the reach of the Collection to a larger, more international and diverse audience,” explained Bernard Kinsey. “So we are delighted to be collaborating with Disney to share the stories of our remarkable ancestors.”

Overseeing the collection is the Kinseys’ son, Khalil, whose school-age curiosity inspired his parents to build their collection.

The exhibit – themed to hope, belief, courage, imagination and heritage – provides optimistic and empowering stories from American history from voices that are not commonly seen or heard. Art and artifacts pay homage to African-Americans who helped build and transform a nation. Their stories of determination and courage, from the nation’s early days to the present, are at the heart of the exhibit.

To enrich the immersive storytelling experience of the exhibit, Walt Disney Imagineers added interactive displays in which Epcot guests can deepen their knowledge of the American heritage that the Kinsey holdings represent. Epcot guests will be able to use touch screens placed throughout the exhibit to further explore the art, artifacts and history. Guest-activated lanterns will help bring the history to life, with narration provided by Academy Award-winner Whoopi Goldberg (“The View”), Diane Sawyer (“ABC World News with Diane Sawyer”), and actors Chandra Wilson & James Pickens, Jr. (“Grey’s Anatomy”), Kerry Washington (“Scandal”), Zendaya Coleman & Roshon Fegan (“Shake It Up”), China Anne McClain (“A.N.T. Farm”), Tyrel Jackson Williams (“Lab Rats”).

“We are thrilled to bring the Kinsey Collection to Epcot guests,” said Jim MacPhee, senior vice president, Walt Disney World Parks. “Epcot is such a rich cultural tapestry that it serves as the perfect showcase for this powerful collection, with its celebration of the human spirit.”

Among highlights of each themed gallery:

HOPE

By age 19, Phillis Wheatley became internationally known as the first African-American ever to publish a book of poetry (1773). She wrote poetry about hope and freedom and is now known as The Mother of African American Literature. (Document on display: Phyllis Wheatley’s first book).
Other Hope Gallery highlights: Samuel Francis Smith, My Country ‘Tis of Thee lyrics (1895); “Untitled,” Hughie Lee Smith (1951); Almanack, Benjamin Banneker (1796)

COURAGE

Harriet Jacobs, an enslaved young black woman often called an “American Anne Frank” stayed seven years in a tiny attic until she could escape to freedom. She later chronicled her story in an autobiography. (Document on display: Harriet Jacobs’ book, Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl, 1862)
Other Courage Gallery highlights: Sea Island Woman, fiber art, Bisa Butler (2006); Loss, sculpture, Michael Chukes (1998);

BELIEF

In 1870, only seven years after Emancipation, Hiram Rhodes Revels became the first African-American to represent Mississippi in the U.S. Senate. Josiah Walls became the first African-American to represent Florida in the House of Representatives. (Document on display: “Senator Hiram Rhodes Revels Cabinet Card Photograph”)
Other Belief Gallery highlights: Buffalo Soldiers Parade Flag (1889); What Mrs. Fisher Knows About Old Southern Cooking, Abby Fisher (1881); A Negro Explorer at the North Pole, Matthew Henson book (1912) and article.

IMAGINATION

Alain Locke not only became the first African-American Rhodes scholar in 1907, but his book “The New Negro” helped inspire the Harlem Renaissance, a period in American culture that produced artists, musicians, writers and thinkers that showed the world how American greatness comes from all of its citizens. (Document on display: The Negro in Art, by Alain Locke).
Other Imagination Gallery highlights: Harmon Foundation Catalogs (1931-1935); American Beach Negro Ocean Playground, Florida – Steel plaque (1930); “Untitled” (Kadir Nelson, 1992)

HERITAGE

History can be shared through many types of artifacts. Sometimes it’s as simple as a timeworn letter written by Carrie Kinsey (Bernard’s cousin) to President Roosevelt. Or an old sewing machine passed down through generations by Shirley’s grandmother, Susie Plummer Pooler. (Document on display: “Letter to President Roosevelt,” by Carrie Kinsey)
Other Heritage Gallery highlights: Bill of Sale-William Johnson (1832); Schedule of Over 500 Slaves (1820); Sewing Machine (1900), Susie Plummer Pooler

The American Adventure pavilion is in the heart of the World Showcase area of Epcot. “Re-Discovering America: Family Treasures from the Kinsey Collection” is included in Epcot admission. For more: http://thekinseycollection.com

20th Epcot International Flower And Garden Festival Overview

The 20^th Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival presented by HGTV blooms into action March 6-May 19, 2013 at Walt Disney World Resort. More than 100 topiaries, 240 floating mini-gardens, dozens of flower towers and sweeping beds of multi-colored blooms will add floral splendor to the park landscape.

This year Disney’s favorite topiaries and beautiful garden landscapes create the perfect backdrop this year’s new crop of festival additions that include food-and-beverage Garden Marketplaces, new topiaries, a circus-like “Land of Oz” play area, and nighttime illuminated gardens.

Flower and Garden Festival Additions Debuting This Year:

Garden Marketplace culinary creations ranging from smokehouse barbecue and shrimp with grits and Zellwood corn to sweet “frushi” made with fresh fruits and coconut rice. Chefs are perfecting menus for marketplaces that will include Florida Fresh at World Showcase Promenade, Smokehouse Barbecue and Brew at American Adventure courtyard, Primavera Kitchen at Italy showcase, Hanami at Japan showcase and eight others. Around the World Showcase promenade

Garden Marketplace refreshing libations with a kick like Hot Sun Tomato Wine from Florida Orange Groves Winery and Dole Whip with Spiced Rum, as well as non-alcoholic drinks like Frozen Desert Violet Lemonade and Wild Berry Slush. Beverage specialists will feature brews and beverages at food marketplaces and at Fruits by the Glass andPineapple Promenade. Around the World Showcase promenade
The Land of Oz Garden circus-like play area, based on the Disney fantastical film adventure “Oz The Great and Powerful” to be released March 8, 2013. The interactive children’s play zone will feature play systems adorned with giant flowers and designed to stretch kids’ imaginations and muscles. Midway-style games, circus-themed game tents and the “Oz Movie Garden” of intriguing plants will capture the spirit of the upcoming film. Also on tap: photo opportunities and the “great and powerful Oz’s” crashed hot-air balloon. Imagination Walkway

Flower and Garden Festival — I am in love with these glass poppies outside of the Land of Oz play area.

Larger-than-life Fab Five Disney character topiary. Floral versions of Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Pluto and Donald Duck (with Daisy Duck in a cameo) star in a celebratory cookout scene in living topiary color. The 14-foot-tall Goofy topiary will bobble an anniversary cake while Donald and Daisy play badminton, Mickey fires up the grill, Pluto swipes a link of hot dogs and Minnie chills out on a colorful blanket of blossoms. Epcot Front Entrance

Illuminated Gardens in the park’s Future World and World Showcase will twinkle and glow over the festival’s world-famous Disney gardens and topiaries each festival evening. Epcot Future World and World Showcase

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When you travel World Showcase, you’ll find each pavilion features its own nation-themed Garden Marketplace (they may even look familiar) featuring great food and drink options for theFlower and Garden Festival! Here’s just a taste of what’s in store:

International Pavilions

The Smokehouse – Barbeque and Brews: Get into some finger-lickin’ barbecue—pulled pork and smoked brisket—and ice-cold craft beers at The American Adventure.
Lotus House: Delicacies with Far Eastern flair await you at China: a savory spring pancake, taro-bacon puff pastry, bubble tea and more.
L’Orangerie: France presents a rustic ratatouille tart, country pâté with cherry compote and, of course, a selection of French wines.
Bauernmarkt – Farmer’s Market: Visit Germany, for spring pea and mushroom bread pudding, potato pancakes and a variety of beers.
Primavera Kitchen: Italy will be serving lobster with asparagus, spring vegetable lasagna, panna cotta, fruity cocktails and Italian wines.
Hanami: Named after the nation’s custom of viewing spring flowers, this location in Japan will feature “frushi,” or fruit sushi, grilled seafood sticks and sake.
Jardin de Fiestas: Join the party in Mexico with crab tostadas, pork tacos, the strawberry-infused Rosita margarita and tequila flights.
Taste of Marrakesh: Enjoy Morocco’s lamb kebabs and couscous, harissa chicken drumettes with chermoula, desert rose cocktail and more.
The Cottage – Savories, Trifles and Tea: Stop by the United Kingdom for tea and delectable dainties, including a salmon tartare-topped cheddar biscuit, an ultra-gourmet Caprese and a trio of trifles.
Pineapple Promenade: Take a delicious break in your day, indulging in spiced rum Dole Whip, pineapple upside down cake, fruit cups and more.
Florida Fresh: Taste the Sunshine State with watermelon and feta salad, shrimp and grits, and tomato and carrot wines!
Fruits by the Glass: Toast to Spring with mango and blueberry wines, nonalcoholic wild berry slush and gluten-free raspberry ale, among others.

Throughout the 75-day garden party, guests will discover festival surprises around every corner including new topiary triumphs, a butterfly bounty, whimsical children’s play areas, HGTV celebrity designers, daily hands-on gardening seminars and a Festival Center packed with events that offer innovative ideas, gardening know-how and design tips. Weekends, top Flower Power rockers of the 1960s and ’70s will perform.

Every Friday through Sunday, HGTV design celebrities will host Festival Center seminars in the Flower and Garden Festival Center. This is one of my favorite parts of theFlower and Garden Festival, and I absolutely suggest checking it out! If you do plan on attending one of these seminars, you’re going to want to grab a seat early.

NEW! Chris Lambton of HGTV’s Going Yard
March 8 – 10
NEW! Chris Grundy of DIY Network’s Cool Tools
March 15 – 17
NEW! Egypt Sherrod of HGTV’s Property Virgins
March 22 – 24
Brandon Johnson of HGTV’s My Yard Goes Disney
March 29 – 31
Meg Caswell of HGTV’s Meg’s Great Rooms
April 5 – 7
Jason Cameron of DIY Network’s Desperate Landscapes and Man Caves
April 12 – 14
NEW! Sara Peterson of Editor-in-Chief, HGTV Magazine
April 19 – 21
Carter Oosterhouse of HGTV’s Million Dollar Rooms
April 26 – 28
NEW! Casey Noble of HGTV’s Design on a Dime
May 3 – 5
Dan Faires of HGTV’s Design Star and HGTV.com’sDanMade
May 10 – 12
NEW! David Bromstad of HGTV Design Star, Color Splash, Design Star All-Stars
May 17 – 19

MoreFlower and Garden Festival Family Highlights Include:

“Monsters University” topiary: Floral representations of Mike and Sully from the hit Disney-Pixar film “Monsters, Inc.” and stars of Disney-Pixar’s June 2013 release, “Monsters University,” will join the festivities as new topiary family members. On the Future World Walkway
Phineas and Ferb topiary: The popular Disney Channel animated celebs limit their shenanigans to go green for a family photo-op. Behind Spaceship Earth
“Radiator Springs” interactive play zone: Race car Lightning McQueen and tow truck “Mater” of the Disney-Pixar film “Cars 2″ will be the well-maintained topiary stars of this play area. On the Test Track Walkway
Tinker Bell’s Butterfly House: Eight fanciful fairy topiaries of Pixie Hollow, including Tinker Bell, Fawn, Vidia and Terrence, take over the Butterfly House this year where hundreds of colorful winged beauties flit to life. On the Imagination Walkway

Another really fun addition to theFlower and Garden Festival is the Flower Power Concert Series, which kicks off March 8-10 with Micky Dolenz (“I’m a Believer”), and continues each weekend with pop favorites including:

March 15-17: Chubby Checker & The Wildcats
March 22-24: The Guess Who
March 29-31: Nelson
April 5-7: The Turtles featuring Flo & Eddie
April 12-14: Paul Revere & the Raiders
April 19-21: Village People (new!)
April 26-28: The Orchestra, Featuring Former Members of ELO and ELO II
May 3-5: Tommy Roe (new!)
May 10-12: Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone
May 17-19: Starship starring Mickey Thomas.

You’ll notice that there are two really groovy additions to the Flower Power Concert Series this year! The 1970s top disco band the Village People (April 19-21) and 1960s singer-songwriter Tommy Roe (May 3-5) bring on the Flower Power beat when they take the concert stage for the first time.

If you are planning on attending one of the Flower Power Concerts, make sure that you get there early! Seats tend to go quickly and they are always a blast!

While you’ll find a lot of great exhibits and topiaries in Epcot’s Future World, the Flower and Garden Festival keeps growing as you travel around World Showcase, where the spotlight will shine on topiaries of Disney princesses, storybook characters and even pandas and trolls, guests will discover the attractions, shops and restaurants that represent cultures and cuisine of 11 countries.

httpv://youtu.be/gAHllZIQuek

For more information about the 20^th Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival, call 407/W-DISNEY (934-7639), check out the Flower and Garden Festival Guide, or visit www.EpcotinSpring.com.

The festival, including all gardening programs and exhibits, is included in regular Epcot admission. Availability is limited for some events. Events may be rescheduled or cancelled at any time.

Wordless Wednesday – Glass Flowers

Wordless Wednesday – March 6, 2013

Finding Teachable Moments In the Park: Epcot

When I was younger and we went on family vacations, it was important to my parents that we learned something while we were having fun.

And as we started our family, we made the decision to integrate these teachable moments into our family trips.

I remember my first trip to Epcot in 1986, and all the fun we had talking about what we saw on the rides and the countries we visited in World Showcase. Without a doubt, Epcot was (and still is) my favorite park!

Now that our family lives so close to Walt Disney World, we still keep this tradition alive when we visit Epcot.

I hope that you enjoy this short trip around Epcot’s Future World for some of our family’s favorite Teachable Moments!

httpv://youtu.be/IMKPlD_EIdI

I’d love to hear some of your family’s traditions and teachable moments!