Walt Disney World Archives - On the Go in MCO

WDW Food Guide: St. Patrick’s Day 2023

Happy St. Patrick’s Day, foodies! It’s nearly March 17, and you know what that means — it’s time for another WDW Food Guide!

WDW Food Guide: St. Patrick’s Day 2023

Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, Disney’s All-Star Music Resort, and Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort

World Premiere Food Court, Intermission Food Court, and End Zone Food Court (Available March 10 through 17; mobile order available)

St. Patrick’s Day Cake: Irish cream cake with mint ganache, buttercream, fondant rainbow, and a chocolate pot of gold (New)

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort and Disney’s Pop Century Resort

Landscape of Flavors and Everything POP Shopping & Dining (Available March 10 through 17; mobile order available)

St. Patrick’s Day Parfait: Layers of green velvet cake, ganache and Irish crème cheesecake topped with sweet cream and white chocolate shamrock décor (New)

Disney’s Beach Club Resort

Beaches & Cream Soda Shop (Available through March 31)

Mickey Shamrock Milkshake: Mint milkshake with chocolate drizzle, shamrock sprinkles and a specialty vanilla cupcake (New)

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

Centertown Market and Spyglass Grill (Available March 10 through 17; mobile order available)

Mint Chocolate Chip Cheesecake: mint chocolate brownie topped with vanilla cheesecake, whipped mint ganache, and house-made chocolate décor

St. Patrick’s Day Cupcake from Contempo Café and Lucky Leprechaun from Three Bridges Bar and Grill at Villa del Lago WDW Food Guide: St. Patrick’s Day 2023

Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Contempo Café (Available through March 17; mobile order available)

St. Patrick’s Day Cupcake: Chocolate cake filled with gold crisp pearls with green buttercream, green sugar, shamrock sprinkles and a white chocolate Minnie Mouse topper

Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

Three Bridges Bar and Grill at Villa del Lago (Available March 10 through 17)

Lucky Leprechaun: Whiskey coffee custard, whiskey-soaked cake, and pistachio mousse topped with a dark chocolate shamrock (New)

Disney’s Old Key West Resort

Good’s Food to Go (Available through March 17)

Mickey Pot of Gold: Stout-chocolate cake filled with Irish cream mousse dipped in chocolate shell, buttercream, gold sprinkles, and rainbow gummy (New)

Mint Chocolate Chip Cheesecake from Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory and Mickey Shamrock Beignet from Scat Cat’s Club – Café

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter

Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory (Available March 10 through 17; mobile order available)

Mint Chocolate Chip Cheesecake: Mint chocolate brownie topped with vanilla cheesecake and whipped mint ganache with chocolate décor

Scat Cat’s Club – Café (Available through March 31)

Mickey Shamrock Beignet: Mickey-shaped beignet, chocolate-mint ganache, milkshake pipette, and shamrock décor (New)

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside

Riverside Mill Food Court (Available March 10 through 17; mobile order available)

Mint Chocolate Chip Cheesecake: Mint chocolate brownie topped with vanilla cheesecake and whipped mint ganache with chocolate décor

Caramel-Hazelnut Profiteroles from Le Petit Café, Mickey Pot of Gold from Good’s Food to Go, Lucky Irish Cone from Backstretch Pool Bar and The Nugget from Roaring Fork

Disney’s Riviera Resort

Le Petit Café (Available March 17 only)

Caramel-Hazelnut Profiteroles: Caramel-hazelnut custard-filled chocolate profiteroles with chocolate ganache

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa

The Artist’s Palette (Available through March 17; mobile order available)

Mickey Pot of Gold: Stout-chocolate cake filled with Irish cream mousse dipped in a chocolate shell, buttercream, gold sprinkles, and rainbow gummy (New)

Backstretch Pool Bar (Available through March 17)

Lucky Irish Cone: Cake cone, vanilla soft-serve, chocolate sandwich cookies, and gold sprinkles (New)

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Roaring Fork (Available through March 17; mobile order available)

The Nugget: Vanilla bean mousse, Irish stout cake, and salted caramel ganache (New)

My Lucky (Plant-based) Clover Cupcake WDW Food Guide: St. Patrick’s Day 2023

Available at Various Disney Resort Hotels (Available through March 31; mobile order available)

My Lucky (Plant-based) Clover Cupcake: Chocolate cupcake with vanilla buttercream and sprinkles (New) (Plant-based);Available at the following:
- World Premiere Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
- Intermission Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
- End Zone Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
- Landscape of Flavors at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
- Centertown Market at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
- Spyglass Grill at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
- Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
- Riverside Mill Food Court at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
- Everything POP Shopping & Dining at Disney’s Pop Century Resort

St. Patrick’s Day Irish Coffee Tart WDW Food Guide: St. Patrick’s Day 2023

EPCOT

Sunshine Seasons (Available March 17 only)

St. Patrick’s Day Irish Coffee Tart: Chocolate coffee tart topped with mint mousse, Irish coffee crémeux, and shamrock garnish (New)

Rose & Crown

Fish and Chips: Rose & Crown’s Signature Dish: Beer-battered and served with tartar sauce
Shepherd’s Pie: Ground beef, seasonal vegetables, English peas, and mashed potatoes with Irish cheddar
Leaping Leprechaun: Jameson Irish Whiskey, Don Q Cristal Rum, SVEDKA Vodka, melon liqueur, and sweet-and-sour topped with Sprite

St. Patrick's Day Petit Cake WDW Food Guide: St. Patrick’s Day 2023

Disney Springs

Amorette’s Patisserie (Available March 10 through 18)

St. Patrick’s Day Petit Cake: Whiskey-soaked spiced chiffon cake with layers of Irish cream mousse, caramel banana mousse, and candied walnuts (New)
St. Patrick’s Day Chocolate-covered Strawberries

Irish Loaded Fries and Irish Bangers & Mash from City Works Eatery & Pour House

City Works Eatery & Pour House (Available through March 17)

Irish Loaded Fries: House-made corned beef, hardwood-smoked bacon, Guinness braised onions, IPA cheese sauce, green onions, and waffle fries
Pastrami Reuben: House-made pastrami, Swiss cheese, Russian dressing, and bacon-braised sauerkraut on marble rye
Irish Bangers & Mash: Grilled Louisiana hot link, smoked cheddar and horseradish potato purée, caramelized cabbage, and Guinness onion gravy
Irish Mule: Jameson Irish Whiskey, lime juice, bitters, and ginger beer
Dark Side of The Moon: Blue Moon and Guinness
Snakebite: Angry Orchard Crisp Apple and Guinness
Voodoo: Reubaus and Guinness

The Daily Poutine (Available through March 31)

Irish Pork Bangers Poutine: Irish cheddar, onion marmalade, stout gravy, and french fries

Dublin Burger from D-Luxe Burger WDW Food Guide: St. Patrick’s Day 2023

D-Luxe Burger (Available through March 31; mobile order available)

Dublin Burger: Two pressed signature blend patties with Irish cheddar, corned beef, shoestring fried onions, Irish stout barbecue, lettuce, tomato

St. Patrick's Day Mickey Piñata and Milk Chocolate Irish Cream Ganache Squares from The Ganachery

The Ganachery (Available through March 19)

St. Patrick’s Day Mickey Piñata: Chocolate piñata filled with mint marshmallows enrobed in chocolate, white crisp pearls, and green sprinkles
Milk Chocolate Irish Cream Ganache Square
Dark Chocolate Irish Whiskey Ganache Square

Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant

Revelers can enjoy Raglan Road’s Signature Brew Flight, whiskey flight, or craft beers, wines, and hand-crafted cocktails of their choice while choosing from the chef’s selection of authentic Irish dishes, including the dry-aged prime short rib and brisket beef OMG Burger, Shepherd’s Pie (beef and lamb version or the popular plant-based option), and fresh-caught fish with chips. The authentic fish & chips also are available to go at the adjacent Cooke’s of Dublin counter.

Salt & Straw (Available through March 30)

Pots of Gold & Rainbows: Hand-sorted rainbow marshmallows tossed into cereal milk ice cream

Sprinkles (Available March 13 through 19)

Irish Coffee Cupcake: Chocolate coffee cake filled with marshmallow, topped with Irish whiskey green-vanilla buttercream frosting, and finished with a clover décor (This cupcake contains a small amount of alcohol; for adults 21+)

St. Patrick’s Day Cone and Bailey’s Chocolate Float from Swirls on the Water WDW Food Guide: St. Patrick’s Day 2023

Swirls on the Water (Available through March 31)

St. Patrick’s Day Cone: Chocolate and mint soft-serve swirled in a black vanilla cone topped with gold sprinkles (New)
Bailey’s Chocolate Float: Frozen hot chocolate with mint soft serve and Bailey’s Irish Cream float (New)

Marshmallow Cereal Shake and Pistachio Bombolato Vivoli il Gelato

Vivoli il Gelato (Available through March 31)

Shamrock Shake: Mint chocolate chip gelato and pistachio gelato topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings
Pistachio Bombolato: Pistachio gelato and chocolate sauce in a warm Italian donut
Mint Cannoli: Sweet cream of ricotta cheese, sugar, mint, and chocolate shavings in a crispy pastry shell
Marshmallow Cereal Cannoli: Ricotta cheese and marshmallow cereal
Marshmallow Cereal Bombolato: Marshmallow cereal and vanilla icing
Marshmallow Cereal Shake: Vanilla gelato and marshmallow cereal topped with a bombolato

TRON Lightcycle / Run – Know Before You Go

The much anticipated TRON Lightcycle / Run will open in less than a month at the Magic Kingdom, but before you race into the Grid, there are a few things to know!

@onthegoinmco
Let’s ride the newest @disneyparks coaster…TRON Lightcycle/Run at the Magic Kingdom! #TRON #tronlightcyclerun #lightcycle #disneyworld #disney #wdw #magickingdom #pov #disneypov #disneyparks #tronlegacy #teamblue
♬ Derezzed (from “TRON: Legacy”) – From “TRON: Legacy”/Score – Daft Punk

TRON Lightcycle / Run – Know Before You Go

The Story Behind the Ride

Disney made filmmaking history when it released TRON in 1982. The movie was the first production to mix live action with computer-generated visuals and backlit animation.

After the film’s release, its iconic visuals and story continued to inspire video games, comic books, animated series, and the 2010 sequel TRON: Legacy.

In 2023, we have the opportunity to join the story again!

Following the “TRON: Legacy” events, we find that Sam Flynn is now opening new gateways into this digital realm at specific locations worldwide!

The first portal he created is at Shanghai Disneyland with the original TRON Lightcycle Power Run, which opened in 2016 with the park, and now Magic Kingdom guests will get their turn through this second gateway on TRON Lightcyle / Run.

Ride Experience

TRON Lightcycle / Run invites riders over 48 inches tall to climb aboard their very own Lightcycle, launching them at almost 60 miles per hour along over 3,000 ft of track to race against the Grid’s most menacing Programs through 8 Energy Gates.

The attraction’s seating is another first-of-its-kind at the Magic Kingdom.

Riders will enter motorcycle-inspired seating with a unique restraint system, similar to Avatar Flight of Passage, for a thrilling race through the digital frontier.

Team Blue racers looking for more accessible seating should let a Cast Member know their racing requirements, as the back row of each attraction train features traditional seating options with a lap bar.

Virtual Queue for Team Blue

TRON Lightcycle / Run uses a virtual queue instead of a traditional standby queue, allowing guests to experience the attraction later in the day and enjoy all that Magic Kingdom Park offers while they wait to enter the Grid.

Guests with a valid ticket or pass and a theme park reservation for Magic Kingdom Park on the same date can request to join the virtual queue twice daily via the My Disney Experience.

The daily distribution times are subject to change or cancellation as availability allows, and Park Hopper visitors may not be able to join the virtual queue in a park where they do not have a Disney Park Pass reservation.

For the best chance of successfully obtaining a spot in the Virtual Queue, select one member of your party who must be connected to everyone looking to race on the My Disney Experience App to access the virtual queue to check for an available boarding group for everyone in your party.

If multiple people in your party try to join the virtual queue simultaneously, that may inhibit your ability to join a group.

Individual Lightning Lane

Guests who do not obtain a virtual queue spot may also have the option to purchase individual – or à la carte – Lightning Lane entry using the My Disney Experience app.

On the day of their visit, Team Blue recruits with a valid admission and a park reservation on the same date may visit the Disney Genie Service Tip Board in the My Disney Experience app to choose an arrival window and make their purchase before joining the race against Team Orange.

Lightning Lane entry purchases may vary in price by day, are limited in availability, are subject to change or closure, and are not guaranteed.

@onthegoinmco
Let’s head Back into the Grid to check out the TRON Lightcycle/Run lockers! #tronlightcyclerun #troncoaster #tron #lightcycle #waltdisneyworld #disneyworld #magickingdom #wdw #disneyparks #disneytok
♬ Good Vibes (Instrumental) – Ellen Once Again

Storing Gear During the Race

New to TRON Lightcycle / Run is a double-sided and digitized locker system to store bags and loose items while you race your Lightcycle.

Inside the attraction queue, these complimentary lockers pair directly with MagicBand, MagicBand+, or ticket media which can easily lock and reopen with a quick tap.

Racers without a MagicBand or other ticket media (such as a card) will need to speak with a Cast Member in the locker area to receive a card to assign their locker.

All items must be placed either in a locker before you board your Lightcycle or in a small compartment located on the attraction vehicle that can hold items such as cellphones, glasses, or wallets.

There are tap points to display locker numbers, and Cast Members are readily available for help in the locker area.

Mid-Race Photos

Team Blue Members can relive their race through this dark, computerized world with an onboard photo and video automatically linked to your My Disney Experience account.

Racers can wear a MagicBand or MagicBand+ linked to their My Disney Experience account or an eligible mobile device.

For mobile devices, enable Bluetooth for the My Disney Experience app before riding, ensure you’ve logged into the My Disney Experience app sometime earlier that day, and keep the device out of low power mode. Also, make sure to bring your mobile device boards your Lightcycle with you and safely store them in the small Lightcycle compartment to use this method.

@onthegoinmco
#TRONHYPE #TRONHYPE #TRONHYPE #troncoaster #tronlightcyclerun #tron #magickingdom #wdw #disneyworld #disney #intothegrid #teamblue
♬ original sound – addalydiaz

See you in the Grid, Team Blue. End of line.

Celebrating Women’s History Month at WDW

Women’s History Month at Walt Disney World 2023

Women’s History Month at Walt Disney World is all about celebrating the inspiring female cast members and beloved Disney heroines!

This month the parks will be showcasing achievements, memorable moments, and more as they ‘Celebrate HERstory.”

10 Ways to Celebrate Women’s History Month at Walt Disney World 2023

1. Explore the 2023 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival

The 2023 EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival kicks off today with the debut of several new topiaries.

You can admire and snap photos with topiaries of the fearless Princess Tiana from the Walt Disney Animation Studios classic “The Princess and the Frog” and the courageous Madrigal sisters from the award-winning Disney Animation feature film “Encanto.”

Plus, as part of this year’s Garden Rocks Concert Series, various female performers will take the stage at the America Gardens Theatre, including Berlin and the Pointer Sisters.

2. Get Inspired at Disney Springs Art Walk

At the Disney Springs Art Walk: A Canvas of Expression, artists continue to spread creativity and magic through their work.

This month Disney Springs celebrates the talented women whose work is featured, such as Stacey Aoyama, Leah Abucayan, Nani Chacon, and Nneka Jones.

Guests can also experience the newest artist Thao Huyhn French adding her work live this month from March 18 through April 1.

3. Enjoy Live Entertainment at Disney Springs

While you’re at Disney Springs, dance and sing along with live entertainment at three main stages.

Several acts and bands highlight female artists on Sundays, Mondays, and Thursdays, including Ladies of Motown, The Betties, and many more.

Look for these talented performers at Orange Node, Waterview Park, AdventHealth Waterside Stage, and Dockside Margaritas.

4. Make Memories with Disney Magic Shots

Encanto Magic Shot from Disney PhotoPass Service

Jump into some of your favorite Disney stories with amazing Magic Shots from Disney PhotoPass Service!

Returning this year are fantastic designs showcasing Edna Mode, Disney’s “Encanto,” Disney’s “The Princess and the Frog,” and Magic Shots and props inspired by Disney Legends Harriet Burns, Leota Toombs, and Mary Blair.

5. Strike a Pose with Resort Photo Backdrops

Unique photo-silhouette backdrops are another fun way to celebrate HER.

These photo locations can be found at most of the resort hotels. Find them and take a post-worthy photo to share on your social channels using the hashtag #CelebrateHERStory.

6. Say Hi to Your Favorite Characters at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Get a chance to meet the heroic Mrs. Incredible, or show off your outfit with the fashionista herself, Edna Mode.

You can find these two at Disney’s Hollywood Studios for action-packed greetings filled with hugs and photos.

7. Treat Yourself to Female Chef-Created Dishes across Walt Disney World

Wishing On Stars, Honey-Thyme Pork Loin, Whiskey Tradition and Pineapple Mule WDW Food Guide Women's History Month 2023

Don’t miss all the beautiful and flavorful dishes female chefs across Walt Disney World created.

Chef Assistant Ashley created the Chocolate ‘Muse’You can #CelebrateHERStory at Walt Disney World Resort during Women’s History Month and beyond!
When Chef Assistant Meg created the Coconut Flan at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, she was inspired by a love of flowers, bright flavors and Surrealism. It’s a piece of edible art!
The Sponge Cake at Sunshine Seasons in EPCOT was created by Chef Assistant Anna and inspired by Marie Curie. As a Polish woman, Anna was inspired by fellow Pole Marie Curie, the renowned physicist and chemist. She was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and the first woman to teach at a European university!

Check out the Women’s History Month Foodie Guide for even more delicious dishes to celebrate.

beer flight Women’s History Month at Walt Disney World 2023

8. Savor Crafted Cocktails and Wines Featuring Women-Owned Businesses Across the Resort

The Ginger Whiskey at Tiffins Restaurant and Nomad Lounge in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park features Uncle Nearest Whiskey, which is both a Black- and woman-owned and operated business. Started in 2017, Uncle Nearest Whiskey has become one of the nation’s leading whiskey brands and made history as the first and only brand to commemorate an African American, Nathan “Nearest” Green, an emancipated slave who became the first master distiller on record in the United States.

At Disney Springs, City Works Eatery & Pour House has crafted a special beer flight with beers made by women-owned or women-led breweries.

Over at Magic Kingdom Park, you can discover the McBride Sisters Wine at Cinderella’s Royal Table. The McBride Sisters Wine Company is a Black-owned and female-led wine business. Select wines include:

McBride Sisters Sparkling Brut Rosé, Hawke’s Bay
McBride Sisters Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough
McBride Sisters Chardonnay, Central Coast

9. Indulge In Women-Inspired Treats at Disney Springs

Ahsoka Pop Women’s History Month at Walt Disney World 2023

Visit The Ganachery to discover a treat inspired by Ahsoka Tano. The “Ahsoka Pop” is a plant-based coconut and blueberry-swirled ganache, topped with 65% dark chocolate. The inside swirl represents the blue and white striped head tails of Ahsoka Tano. The outside is hand-decorated with the fulcrum symbol.

10. Learn More About the Women of Imagineering

The Play Disney Parks app will feature a special “Women of Imagineering” trivia game highlighting current and former female Disney Imagineers and their incredible contributions to The Walt Disney Company.

I am so excited to celebrate Women’s History Month at Walt Disney World!!!

2023 Garden Rocks Concert Series Lineup

Get ready to rock with the Garden Rocks Concert Series – returning to the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival this March!

There’s nothing like ending your day at EPCOT with a concert that, BTW, is included with your theme park admission featuring internationally recognized artists performing Friday-Monday and showcasing local Orlando talent on Tuesday-Thursday at the America Gardens Theater!

The Garden Rocks Concert Series lineup is filled with talent from returning favorites like The Pointer Sisters, Simple Plan, and the Plain White T’s, along with fresh talent like legacy guitarist AJ Croce and GRAMMY award-winning Switchfoot.

Garden Rocks Concert Series Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival 2020

2023 Garden Rocks Concert Series Lineup

March 3-4 – Journey former lead vocalist STEVE AUGERI
March 5-6 – Daughtry
March 10-11 – Tommy DeCarlo
March 12-13 – Smash Mouth
March 17-18 – Mike DelGuidice
March 19-20 – Blue Oyster Cult – NEW
March 24-25 – Berlin
March 26-27 – The Pointer Sisters
March 31 – Luis Figueroa – NEW
April 1-2 – Piso 21 – NEW
April 3 – TBD
April 7-8 – STARSHIP featuring Mickey Thomas
April 9-10 – Don Felder, formerly of the Eagles
April 16-17 – Switchfoot – NEW
April 21-22 – A Flock of Seagulls
April 23-24 – Jo Dee Messina
April 28-29 – Ambrosia with Peter Beckett, The Voice Of Player
April 30, May 1 – Kool and the Gang
May 5-8 – Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone
May 12-15 – The Orchestra starring former members of ELO
May 19-20 – A.J. Croce: Croce Plays Croce – NEW
May 21-22 – Casting Crowns – NEW
May 26-27 – Jason Scheff, longtime lead singer of Chicago – NEW
May 28-29 – Rick Springfield
June 2-5 – Plain White T’s
June 9-10 – The Spinners
June 11-12 – The Commodores
June 16-17 – Vertical Horizon
June 18-19 – Tony Orlando
June 23-26 – Simple Plan
June 30, July 1 – Living Colour
July 2-3 – Wang Chung

Beginning February 9, guests can secure their spot for these rockin’ performances with a Garden Rocks Dining Package. Check out FreshEPCOT.com.

Just a reminder, to experience EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, guests must have both valid admission and a park reservation for EPCOT on the same date.

Celebrate Soulfully at Walt Disney World

Celebrate Soulfully during Black History Month at the Walt Disney World Resort with a variety of experiences to celebrate, educate and honor Black heritage and culture throughout the resort.

With the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts presented by AT&T in full swing, you’ll have the chance to meet two of the Black artists featured in this year’s festival lineup.

From February 3-5, Kahran and Regis Bethencourt, founders of CreativeSoul Photography, will be at The American Adventure pavilion to showcase their reimagined visions of classic Disney princesses through dolls, costumes, and photographic prints.

And for the first time ever, a gallery exhibit will feature life-sized dresses and natural hair-styled wigs seen in their photographic prints.

Black Broadway performers will be featured during the DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series on various dates between Feb 4 – 19. They include:

L. Steven Taylor (The Lion King)
Kissy Simmons (The Lion King)
Michael James Scott (Aladdin)

The already colorful and diverse Disney Springs Art Walk: A Canvas of Expression will receive two new additions by Black artists, and they will both paint their work live during Black History Month.

Ernest Shaw and Nneka Jones will join the likes of Everett Spruill and David Anthony Geary.

By the end of February, you will be able to celebrate the work of four Black artists on the Art Walk, showcasing the ongoing commitment to diversity and representation at Walt Disney World.

If you visit Disney Springs often, you may be familiar with the smooth sounds of Motown experienced through live entertainment on Monday nights.

Black music will take center stage this February, with Black musicians featured on all three main Disney Springs stages on Sunday, Monday, and Thursday nights.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park continues to highlight Black culture through a variety of music and art found throughout the park.

Move to the beats of the Congo with the Tam Tam Drummers, let loose with the Caribbean Street party music of Viva Gaia, then take home authentic imported African art, clothing, crafts, instruments, and toys created by African artisans available at Mombasa Marketplace.

At the Conservation Station, uncover the secrets of how Disney’s first Black animator, Floyd Norman, brought favorite characters to life using real-life animals as inspiration

Be sure to stop and take in some of the fun with Magic Shots across the property featuring Princess Tiana in her element at Tiana’s place, selfies with Penny and friends from The Proud Family, and more.

Explore existing, returning, and brand-new Food & Beverage offerings across Walt Disney World for Black History Month.

And new this year, each Food & Beverage location will now highlight the cast inspirations of dishes with photos and storytelling.

Some new items debuting for February include:

Shrimp & Grits featuring spicy shrimp, corn grits with bacon jam, and crispy radish at Tiffins in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
Tiana’s Mardi Gras Shake features a cinnamon vanilla milkshake topped with a Mardi Gras King Cake Doughnut served at Hollywood Scoops in Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Gumbo with chicken, andouille sausage, okra, and seasonings offered at ABC Commissary in Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Pineapple Mule cocktail with Uncle Nearest Tennessee Whiskey, pineapple juice, ginger beer, and mint available at Geyser Point at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Soulful Sunday Dinner at The Artist’s Palette at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa featuring a dinner plate of barbeque chicken, collard greens, black-eyed peas, and house-made cornbread
Jamaican Jerk Chicken Frites featuring Sweet n’ Hot jerk marinated chicken, pineapple salsa, scotch bonnet aioli, and fries are available at The Daily Poutine at Disney Springs.

All these items and more are found in the Disney Eats Foodie Guide.

I hope you enjoy all the ways to “Celebrate Soulfully” at Walt Disney World for Black History Month and throughout the year.

Drawn to Life Announces New 2023 Schedule

Drawn to Life, presented by Cirque du Soleil and Disney, is the gem of Disney Springs, and for 2023 the show’s schedule will include new matinee show times on Sundays.

Guests can enjoy two performances daily, Wednesdays through Sundays, at Disney Springs West Side, with showtimes Wednesday through Saturday at 5:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. and two Sunday matinees at 1:30 p.m. and 4 p.m.

“Based on feedback from guests, we determined this new schedule will offer great daytime opportunities for travelers and locals to see the show, especially those with children,” said Heather Reilly, Drawn to Life Company Manager.

Tickets for next year’s performances are available for sale now at cirquedusoleil.com/drawn-to-life.

cirque du soleil orlando drawn to life prix fixe — Photo: Walt Disney World

Drawn to Life has been delighting audiences at Disney Springs West Side since its November 2021 premiere with an imaginative blend of timeless Disney magic and remarkable Cirque du Soleil artistry.

The family-friendly show tells the story of the love between a father and a daughter, drawing inspiration from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ 100-year heritage of storytelling.
The show celebrates iconic Disney stories and characters through innovative design, acrobatic performances, dazzling choreography, musical scores, and brand-new animation lovingly created by Disney Animation artists.

And Florida Residents can now also take advantage of new offers!

2023 Epcot International Festival of the Arts

The Epcot International Festival of the Arts returns to the Walt Disney World with a global celebration of visual, culinary, and performing arts from January 13, 2023, until February 20, 2023.

This year’s daily celebration invites park guests to immerse themselves in the joy of art and to let their creativity shine as they experience a variety of experiences that are included with their theme park admission.

2023 Epcot International Festival of the Arts Highlights

2021 Epcot Festival of the Arts Walt Disney World

Performing Arts

The performing arts take center stage with new and returning artists performing around World Showcase.

Guests can enjoy musical artists Mariachi Cobre, feel the beat of the JAMMitors, watch artists create magic in front of an audience, and listen to the iconic Voices of Liberty.

On the Go in the Parks Disney on Broadway Epcot International Festival of the Arts

DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series

Three times each evening, the DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series fills the American Gardens Theatre with some of Broadway’s biggest stars performing songs from more than 25 years of award-winning DISNEY ON BROADWAY stage productions.

The full lineup of show-stopping performers includes:

January 13, 15, 16, 19, 20 – Kara Lindsay (“Newsies”) & Kevin Massey (“Tarzan”)
January 14, 17, 18, 21, 22 – Arielle Jacobs (“Aladdin”) & Adam Jacobs (“Aladdin”)
January 23, 25, 26, 29, 30, Feb. 2, 3 – Patti Murin (“Frozen”) & Robert Creighton (“Frozen”)
January 24, 27, 28, 31, Feb. 1, 4, 5– Mandy Gonzalez (“AIDA”) & L. Steven Taylor (“The Lion King”)
February 7, 10, 11, 14, 15, 18, 19 – Kissy Simmons (“The Lion King”) & Josh Strickland (“Tarzan”)
February 6, 8, 9, 12, 13, 16, 17 – Ashley Brown (“Mary Poppins”) & Michael James Scott (“Aladdin”)
February 20 – Special, extended finale performance featuring Brown, Scott, Simmons & Strickland

If you want to guarantee your seat and enjoy a delicious meal, DISNEY ON BROADWAY Dining Packages are available at ArtfulEpcot.com.

Visual Arts

More than 100 Disney and visiting artists will showcase their eye-catching and brilliant works at marketplaces and host signings throughout the World Showcase to celebrate the visual arts.

The lineup features many new faces, including husband and wife photography team Kahran and Regis Bethencourt, and returning favorites such as Dylan Bonner, Fenway Fan, Jerrod Maruyama, Ashley Taylor, and more.
Guests can catch a glimpse of artists at work with a peek inside the Disney Artist Gallery or the WonderGround Gallery.
From Figment to Jiminy Cricket, Chalk Full of Characters features charming chalk drawings in tucked-away corners throughout EPCOT.
An outdoor art wall features stories and characters that reflect EPCOT’s imaginative and innovative spirit at Drawing on Inspiration: Celebrating EPCOT.

Culinary Arts

Every year the Epcot culinary team creates a wide selection of culinary masterpieces that are Instagrammable and delicious!

During the 2023 Epcot International Festival of the Arts, guests will enjoy beautiful bites at 16 Food Studios around the World Showcase Lagoon, with new favorites you will want to visit!

Figment’s Inspiration Station at the Odyssey: Art, Food, and Little Sparks of Magic join the lineup this year with an array of vibrant and playful food and beverage items guaranteed to ignite guests’ imaginations.

Also new in 2023, Moderne invites guests to explore an avante-garde menu that promises to inspire and delight. Selections include Angry Crab, a whole, crispy soft-shell crab served with green papaya salad, mango-Sriracha fluid gel, and coconut-lime foam with pomegranate and mango crush pearls – perfect for pairing with a J. Lohr Riesling – in addition to other tempting treats.

The Artist’s Table in the American Adventure pavilion also boasts a new menu of artistically elevated comfort foods, including Duck and Dumplings with smoked duck breast, ricotta dumplings, petite vegetables, and duck jus, with other delicious items to savor as well.

Family Fun

Families experiencing the Epcot International Festival of the Arts can see and create art together through interactive activities.

Guests of all ages can express their creative side by learning to draw a Disney character at the Animation Academy, kids can create their own chalk art masterpieces at Kid’s Chalk Art, leave their creative mark at Expression Section: A Paint by Number Mural, and help Figment learn about art on a scavenger hunt around World Showcase with Figment’s Brush with the Masters.

For a unique keepsake and social media moment, guests can “Step into” life-sized versions of some of the most-admired artwork from around the world at special photo locations throughout EPCOT.

Festival Merchandise

The fun and memories do not stop when you leave the park because guests can purchase exclusive EPCOT International Festival of the Arts merchandise featuring beloved Disney characters.

If you are interested in attending the 2023 Epcot International Festival of the Arts, please remember that all guests ages three and older must have a park reservation in addition to valid admission for the same park on the same date.

For more information about the Walt Disney World Resort Park Pass Reservation System, a reservation availability calendar, and Florida Resident hotel and ticket offers, visit https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/experience-updates/park-reservations/.

Walt Disney World News Roundup – 1/10/2023

The Walt Disney World Resort shared a TON of news over the past few days about attractions, exciting changes for visitors, and special offers!

Let’s dive right in!!!

Prepare to Enter the Grid

On April 4, 2023, guests will enter the Grid and climb aboard their very own lightcycles on TRON Lightcycle / Run, one of the fastest coasters in any Disney park.

As part of Team Blue, guests compete against fierce Team Orange to be the first to race through eight Energy Gates in a dark, computerized world.

Before the attraction officially opens, cast members will be the first to enter the Grid during special previews. And I heard preview opportunities are coming for guests too, including Annual Passholders and eligible Disney Vacation Club Members.

D23 Expo 2022 Walt Disney World Announcements — Josh D’Amaro (Chairman; Disney Parks, Experiences and Products) at the D23 Expo

BIG News For Walt Disney World Visitors

Josh D’Amaro, Chairman, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, has shared some BIG news for Walt Disney World Visitors that is AMAZING!!!!

Beginning in the next few months, Walt Disney World Annual Passholders will be able to visit the theme parks after 2 p.m. without needing a park reservation, except on Saturdays and Sundays at Magic Kingdom Park. Pass blockout dates will continue to apply as they do today.

Complimentary self-parking returns for guests staying at Disney Resort hotels beginning this evening, January 10

Beginning in the next few months, guests purchasing Disney Genie+ service will also receive digital downloads of their Disney PhotoPass attraction photos taken in the park on the day of their purchase at no additional charge.

I’m excited about all of these changes and offers and want you to know that we are committed to listening, adapting, and staying relentlessly focused on making the guest experience at our Disney parks even better.
I believe there’s no other place like Disney and of course, nothing helps our guests connect with Disney like you do. And while it’s easy to celebrate the products we make, the moments we create, and the experiences we provide … I think it’s important that we recognize all of YOU who make it happen.
Thank you for all that you do. Here’s to an amazing 2023! Cheers!
Josh

What’s Next for Walt Disney World Nighttime Spectaculars

Fan-favorite nighttime spectacular “Happily Ever After” returns to Magic Kingdom Park on April 3, featuring all-new projections down Main Street, U.S.A. “Disney Enchantment” will be offered through April 2.

And as we shared at D23 Expo in September, an all-new nighttime spectacular is planned to debut at EPCOT later this year.

But, before the new show launches, “EPCOT Forever” will be back as an interim show over the skies of World Showcase Lagoon starting April 3. Similar to how it appeared in 2021, “EPCOT Forever” is the perfect offering while the Entertainment team preps the Lagoon, including a phased removal of fireworks platforms following the final “Harmonious” performance on April 2.

A limited-time spectacle of lasers, lighting, special effects, and fireworks, “EPCOT Forever” returns with a collection of songs that offer both a trip down memory lane and a look toward the future.

Walt Disney World 50th World's Most Magical Celebration — Matt Stroshane, photographer

Disney Weekday Magic Ticket

The Disney Weekday Magic Ticket is back!* Beginning today, Floridians will be able to purchase a 2-day ticket for $175 (plus tax) to visit Walt Disney World Resort theme parks Monday through Friday (ticket is valid through April 27, 2023, subject to blockout dates**).

Welcoming guests into new and timeless stories, Florida residents can discover wonder and joy throughout a range of experiences at Walt Disney World Resort theme parks, including:

Discover a beautiful land that celebrates the magic of nature, exploring Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park.
The larger-than-life show “Festival of the Lion King” at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, filled with songs, pageantry, and puppetry, celebrates the classic movie “The Lion King.”
EPCOT International Festival of the Arts presented by AT&T – one of my favorite EPCOT festivals – kicks off January 13 and runs through Feb. 20 with show-stopping performances, delicious cuisine, and creative talents and artwork.
Guests can shrink down to the size of Chef Remy for a 4D culinary adventure on Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure at EPCOT.
All aboard the Walt Disney World Railroad! The beloved steam train is again welcoming guests on a convenient – and nostalgic – trip around Magic Kingdom Park.
The recent return of the beloved nighttime spectacular “Fantasmic!” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios features a brand-new show sequence. If you have not yet seen the show’s triumphant return, now is the time to do so!
Guests may zip away on a zany adventure through a cartoon universe crammed with surprises on Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

… and even more exciting debuts are on the horizon across Walt Disney World Resort theme parks!

To learn additional details, including information on 3-day and 4-day Disney Weekday Magic Tickets, visit DisneyWorld.com/Resident.

*Disney Magic Weekday Tickets are valid for one theme park per day. Proof of Florida residency is required. To enter a park, both a park reservation and valid admission for the same park on the same date are required for guests ages 3 and up. As a reminder, reservations are required with admission for each day of your visit. Reservations are limited and subject to availability.

**Subject to the following blockout dates: March 13-17, 2023, April 3-7, 2023 and April 10-14, 2023.

Florida Resident Hotel Offer

Florida residents can save up to 20% on rooms at select Disney Resort hotels on select dates. If you are looking for a reason to get away, whether it’s a family vacation, a couple’s retreat, or a trip with the friend group, this is your sign to do so! To learn more, visit DisneyWorld.com/FLSave.

When you stay at a Disney Resort hotel, you get access to special perks, such as 30-minute early entry into the theme parks every day (valid theme park admission and theme park reservation required)*** and free transportation, turning joyful moments into treasured memories.

***For early theme park entry, you’ll need valid admission, a park reservation and Resort ID.

EPCOT International Festival of the Arts 2023: Foodie Guide

The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts, January 13 through February 20, 2023, will celebrate the creation and beauty of art, music, and (my favorite) cuisine.

With 14 Food Studios around the park, there are plenty of new and returning favorites to enjoy.

As you eat around the World Showcase, pick up a Festival Passport to participate in the Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine, a returning food stroll featuring culinary delights. With each bite, collect stamps by purchasing five of these decadent dishes to redeem a special prize from Deco Delights to enjoy.

Fruity Fig Bar Figment Disney Munchling and Figment Popcorn Bucket EPCOT International Festival of the Arts 2023

If you love Figment, you’re lucky because you can explore Figment’s Inspiration Station at the Odyssey: Art, Food, and Little Sparks of Magic, bring home Figment with the brand-new Fruity Fig Bar Figment Disney Munchling, and grab a Figment Premium Popcorn Bucket with a new EPCOT 40th anniversary strap!

EPCOT International Festival of the Arts 2023: Foodie Guide

Tomato Soup with grilled cheese, and Almond Frangipane Cake layered with raspberry jam and Belgian chocolateEPCOT International Festival of the Arts 2023

Pop Eats (Near Port of Entry)

Food Items:

Tomato Soup with grilled cheese
Tomato Soup with pimento cheese, bacon, and fried green tomato grilled cheese (New)
Almond Frangipane Cake layered with raspberry jam and Belgian chocolate (Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine Item)

Beverages:

Brooklyn Brewery Pulp Art Hazy IPA
Bleu Spectrum: Blanc de Bleu Cuveé Mousseux with boba pearls

Deconstructed BLT and Deconstructed Key Lime Pie EPCOT International Festival of the Arts 2023

The Deconstructed Dish (Near Port of Entry)

Food Items:

Deconstructed BLT: Pork belly, soft-poached egg, onion bread pudding, watercress espuma, and tomato jam
Deconstructed French Onion Soup: Beef broth ravioli, gruyère cream, onion bread pudding, and onion textures
Deconstructed Key Lime Pie: Flexible Key lime curd, “Key lime” mousse, graham cracker cake, and meringues (Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine Item)

Beverages:

Deconstructed Apple Pie à la Mode: Apple-cinnamon gelato, cinnamon apple cider, apple pie filling, and streusel (Non-alcoholic)
Wicked Weed Brewing Blank Canvas Belgian Blonde Witbier

Dulce Chocolate Mousse and Orange Mousse

Deco Delights (Near Port of Entry)

Food Items:

Dulce Chocolate Mousse with chocolate crémeux and dark chocolate truffle
Decadent Valrhona Chocolate with dark chocolate mousse, chocolate brownie, and cassis mousse
Orange Mousse with Lemon Cake and Raspberry Meringues (Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine Item)

Beverages:

3 Daughters Brewing Strawberry Blonde Nitro
81Bay Brewing Co. Vanilla Porter
Playalinda Brewing Co. Milk Stout
Espresso Martini featuring Boyd & Blair Potato Vodka (New)
Neapolitan Beer Flight

Beef Wellington and Cast Iron-roasted P.E.I Mussels EPCOT International Festival of the Arts 2023

The Craftsman’s Courtyard (Near Creations Shop)

Food Items:

Beef Wellington: Mushroom duxelles, prosciutto, and puff pastry with red wine demi-glace and baby vegetables
Cast Iron-roasted P.E.I. Mussels with sautéed tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs

Beverages:

BrewDog Jet Black Heart Nitro Oatmeal Stout (New)
Cold Fashion Coffee Cocktail

Plant-based Bratwurst with spicy turmeric aïoli, coffee barbecue jackfruit, and slaw EPCOT International Festival of the Arts 2023

Refreshment Outpost

Food Items:

Plant-based Bratwurst with spicy turmeric aïoli, coffee barbecue jackfruit, and slaw (Plant-based item)
Artist Palette Jumbo Chocolate Chip Cookie
Soft-serve Waffle Cone: DOLE Whip, salted-caramel soft-serve, or swirl

Beverages:

Ivanhoe Park Brewing Co. Berries & Cream Sour Berliner (New)
Left Hand Brewing Co. Wook Bait IPA (New)
Central 28 Beer Company Wall Art Brown Ale

Red Wine-braised Beef Short Rib and Black Forest Cake EPCOT International Festival of the Arts 2023

Pastoral Palate (Germany)

Food Items:

Red Wine-braised Beef Short Rib with parsnip purée, broccolini, baby tomatoes, and aged balsamic
Wild Boar Cassoulet with duck confit, ham hock, and wild boar sausage
Black Forest Cake: Chocolate Mousse with morello cherries and Chantilly cream (New)

Beverages:

3 Daughters Brewing Rosé Hard Cider
81Bay Brewing Co. Rosé Blonde Ale
Frozen Rosé
A Play on Rosé Flight
Marietta Old Vine Rosé

Three-Meat Meatloaf and Hummingbird Cake EPCOT International Festival of the Arts 2023

The Artist’s Table (The American Adventure)

Food Items:

Three-Meat Meatloaf with “Peas and Carrots”: Green pea pudding, carrot ketchup, shaved carrot salad, and snap peas (New)
Duck and Dumplings: Smoked duck breast, ricotta dumplings, petite vegetables, and duck jus (New)
Hummingbird Cake: Banana cake with pineapple, coconut, pecans, and cream cheese frosting with banana sorbet (New)

Beverages:

Sipping Chocolate Flight: White, milk, and dark chocolates (Non-alcoholic)
Boulevard Brewing Co. Tank 7 Farmhouse Ale (New)
Parish Brewing Co. South Coast Session Amber Ale (New)
Brewery Ommegang Three Philosophers Belgian Quad (New)
Lange Estate Winery Pinot Noir
Symphony in Chocolate Flight: Mozart Chocolate Liqueurs paired with sipping chocolates
Beer Flight

Carrots Three Ways and House-made Crispy Almond Phyllo Pockets

Tangierine Café: Flavors of the Medina (Morocco)

Food Items:

Carrots Three Ways: Chermoula-spiced grilled carrots, pickled carrots, and carrot ginger purée (Plant-based item) (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
House-made Crispy Almond Phyllo Pockets with white chocolate pomegranate and milk chocolate orange

Beverages:

Chai Tea Mint Sparkler featuring Twinings Chai Tea with Sprite (Non-alcoholic)
Stem Ciders Flockstar Hard Cider
Blake’s Hard Cider Co. Mule de Pomme: Pomegranate, ginger, and lime hard cider
3 Daughters Brewing Chai Hard Cider
Chai Tea Mint Mimosa featuring Twinings Chai Tea with Key lime sparkling wine and mint
Cider Flight

Spicy Ajiaco Soup and Passion Fruit Mousse EPCOT International Festival of the Arts 2023

Vibrante & Vívido: Encanto Cocina (Between Morocco & France)

Food Items:

Chorizo and Potato Empanada with turmeric aïoli and annatto aïoli (Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine Item)
Spicy Ajiaco Soup with guajillo and árbol chili-spiced chicken, potato, avocado, corn, and crème fraîche (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
Passion Fruit Mousse with dragon fruit jam (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)

Beverages:

Coconut and Passion Fruit Smoothie (Non-alcoholic)
Frozen Piña Colada
Passion Fruit Daiquiri

Artist Palette Jumbo Chocolate Chip Cookie EPCOT International Festival of the Arts 2023

Refreshment Port (Near Canada)

Food Items:

Gnocchi Poutine with red wine-braised beef, cheese curds, basil, and burrata
Artist Palette Jumbo Chocolate Chip Cookie
Soft-serve Waffle Cone: DOLE Whip Strawberry, DOLE Whip Lemon, or swirl

Beverages:

Blood Orange Cosmo: Boyd & Blair Potato Vodka with blood orange, cranberry, and lime
Boulevard Brewing Co. Quirk Blueberry Lemon & Lavender Hard Seltzer (New)

Blood Orange-braised Beet and Roasted Bone Marrow EPCOT International Festival of the Arts 2023

Gourmet Landscapes (Canada)

Food Items:

Blood Orange-braised Beet Tartare with mustard vinaigrette, pickled clamshell mushrooms, and golden beets (Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine Item) (Plant-based Item) (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
Roasted Bone Marrow with onion marmalade, pickled mushrooms, and petite lettuce
Wild Mushroom Risotto with aged Parmesan, truffle shavings, and zinfandel reduction

Beverages:

Whole Hog Brewery Raspberry Chéret Double Radler
Schlumberger Cuvée Klimt Brut
The Meeker Vineyard Winemaker’s Handprint Merlot
Frozen Rusty Nail Cocktail

Compressed Watermelon Tataki, Angry Crab, Pan-seared Scallops, and The Tropics

Moderne (Near Test Track)

Food Items:

Compressed Watermelon Tataki with pickled watermelon rind, yuzu pearls, watermelon foam, and wasabi (New) (Plant-based Item)
Angry Crab: Whole crispy soft-shell crab with green papaya salad, mango-sriracha fluid gel, and coconut-lime foam with pomegranate and mango crush pearls (New)
Pan-seared Scallops with vanilla-butternut squash purée, brown butter cauliflower purée, and lime foam (Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine Item)
The Tropics: Lilikoi mousse, guava cake, coconut crémeux, compressed pineapple, and mango gel (New)

Beverages:

Watermelon Mary featuring Boyd & Blair Potato Vodka (New)
J. Lohr Riesling (New)

Pop’t Art: Sugar Cookie and Rainbow Cake

Figment’s Inspiration Station at the Odyssey: Art, Food, and Little Sparks of Magic

Food Items:

Fruit Pizza: Watermelon, compressed cantaloupe, berries, and berry balsamic (New) (Plant-based Item) (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
Pop’t Art: Sugar Cookie with blueberry filling (Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine Item)
Rainbow Cake with freeze-dried SKITTLES bite-sized candies
Figment Premium Popcorn Bucket with rainbow popcorn (Limit 2 per person)

Beverages:

Grape Smoothie with freeze-dried SKITTLES bite-sized candies (Non-alcoholic) (New)
3 Daughters Brewing Black Cherry Hard Cider (New)
3 Daughters Brewing Blood Orange Hard Cider (New)
3 Daughters Brewing Passion Fruit Hard Cider (New)
Rainbow Cider Flight (New)
81Bay Brewing Co. Green with Envy Blonde Ale (New)
81Bay Brewing Co. Blue Butterfly Lager (New)
Urban Artifact The Gadget Raspberry & Blackberry Midwest Fruit Tart (New)
Rainbow Beer Flight (New)

Figment Liege Waffle and Dusk ‘Til Dawn EPCOT International Festival of the Arts 2023

Connections Café

Food Item:

Figment Liege Waffle (New)

Connections Eatery

Beverage:

Dusk ‘Til Dawn: Three Olives Blueberry Vodka, lemonade, and orange juice with cotton candy

Crème de Brie en Petit Pain, Croissant à la Truffle Noir d’Hiver, Mille-Feuille de Betteraves, and Moelleux aux Noisettes et Chocolats Valrhona EPCOT International Festival of the Arts 2023

L’Art de la Cuisine Française (France)

Food Items:

Crème de Brie en Petit Pain: Warm creamy brie in a house-made bread bowl
Croissant à la Truffle Noir d’Hiver: Black winter truffle croissant
Mille-Feuille de Betteraves aux Herbes et Noix de Cajoux: Plant-based napoleon with beets, cashew-herb filling, pepper-pine nut sauce, and balsamic vinegar caviar (New) (Plant-based Item)
Moelleux aux Noisettes et Chocolats Valrhona: Molten chocolate and hazelnut cake with pure origin Valrhona chocolates and passion fruit-mango sauce

Beverages:

Frozen French Martini: Grey Goose Vodka, vodka, Chambord liqueur, pineapple, orange, and grape juices with lemon-lime foam
Charles Lafitte, Brut Rosé Prestige, Méthode Traditionnelle Champenoise, French Rosé Sparkling Wine
Domaine Raphaël Sallet, Mâcon-Uchizy Les Maranches 2020, Chardonnay, Mâconnais, Burgundy (New)
Cîroc Sunset Citrus Vodka Spritz (New)

Carne Asada and Flan de Coco EPCOT International Festival of the Arts 2023

El Artista Hambriento (Mexico)

Food Items:

Carne Asada: Chipotle-marinated beef sirloin, sweet potato purée, and crispy-fried onions (New)
Huarache de Champiñones: Guajillo chile and corn masa huarache with pinto beans, oyster mushrooms, Nopales, queso fresco, and pea tendrils (New)
Flan de Coco: Coconut flan, guava sauce, and whipped cream (New) (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)

Beverages:

Mexican Craft Beer: Cielito Lindo Artisanal Mexican Craft Beer
Bombon Margarita “Marshmallow”: Ilegal Mezcal Reposado, marshmallow cordial, lime juice, agave nectar and a hint of coffee and elderflower served with a toasted marshmallow (New)
Las Californias: Tromba Blanco Tequila, strawberry-lime purée, and Las Californias Citrus Mexican Gin (New)

Rainbow Katsu Sando and Ichigo Daifuku EPCOT International Festival of the Arts 2023

Goshiki (Japan)

Food Items:

Rainbow Katsu Sando: Pork cutlet sandwich with tangy tonkatsu sauce and cabbage in rainbow sweet bread (New)
Sushi Donut: Donut-shaped sushi featuring salmon, tuna, shrimp, cucumber, and sesame seed over a decorated plate of wasabi aïoli, sriracha aïoli, and eel sauce
Ichigo Daifuku: Mixed berry mochi, sweet azuki bean paste, and mascarpone (New)

Beverages:

Sui Sui Watercolor Lager (New)
Masu Sake in a traditional personalized wooden cup
Purple Yuzu Sake Lemonade: Sake cocktail infused with butterfly pea flowers and yuzu lemonade (New)

General Tso’s Chicken Shumai and Char Siu Pork Bun EPCOT International Festival of the Arts 2023

The Painted Panda (China)

Food Items:

General Tso’s Chicken Shumai
Char Siu Pork Bun

Beverages:

“Panda” Bubble Milk Tea with black tea, milk, chocolate, and tapioca boba pearls (Non-alcoholic)
Lucky Foo Pale Ale
Silk Road Hard Lemonade with Smirnoff Vodka, lavender-coconut syrup, and lemonade (New)
Sea Butterfly: Butterfly Pea Flower-infused cocktail with Smirnoff Vodka, light rum, lychee syrup, and magic boba pearls

Mozzarella Fritta and Ravioli ai Funghi EPCOT International Festival of the Arts 2023

L’Arte di Mangiare (Italy)

Food Items:

Mozzarella Fritta: Flash-fried breaded fresh mozzarella with artist palette condiments (New)
Ravioli ai Funghi, Perle Tartufate: Wild mushroom-stuffed pasta with truffle butter and truffle pearls (New)
Budino al Cioccolato: Chocolate pudding with colorful chocolate décor (New)

Beverages:

Peroni Pilsner
Chianti
Prosecco
Italian Sangria Red or White
Italian Margarita with tequila and limoncello
Amaretto Bellini: DISARONNO Originale Liqueur, white peach purée, and prosecco

Funnel Cake

Mocha Funnel Cake: Mini Funnel Cake with cappuccino ice cream topped with chocolate whipped cream and M&M’S chocolate candies (New)

Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company

World Discovery (Near Mission: SPACE)

Amber Frost: An artistic blend of frozen lemon ice, a splash of Minute Maid Premium Lemonade, blood orange, and orange popping boba pearls (New) (Alcoholic version available with Grey Goose Vodka)

Near Canada

Magenta Frost: An artistic blend of frozen lemon ice, a splash of Minute Maid Premium Lemonade, dragon fruit, and dragon fruit popping boba pearls (New) (Alcoholic version available with Grey Goose Vodka)

Showcase Plaza (Near Disney Traders)

Jade Frost: An artistic blend of frozen lemon ice, a splash of Minute Maid Premium Lemonade, green apple, and green apple popping boba pearls (New) (Alcoholic version available with Grey Goose Vodka)

The American Adventure

Cerulean Frost: An artistic blend of frozen lemon ice, a splash of Minute Maid Premium Lemonade, blue raspberry, and blueberry popping boba pearls 6.39 (New) (Alcoholic version available with Grey Goose Vodka)

I hope you’re as excited as me to eat and drink your way through the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts!

Walt Disney World Resort – New in 2023

After a few years of construction at Walt Disney World, several new additions and closures are coming to the Most Magical Place on Earth!

New in 2023: Walt Disney World

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Splash Mountain

In preparation for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, Splash Mountain at Walt Disney World Resort will be closed starting Jan. 23, 2023, so we can begin the next phase of this attraction’s development.

Tiana's Bayou Adventure 2023 2024 Walt Disney World

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will have riders joining Princess Tiana and jazz-loving alligator Louis during Mardi Gras season as they prepare to host a one-of-a-kind celebration for the people of New Orleans.

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will debut at the Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort in 2024, and I will be bringing you all updates along the way!

Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary

Fans of the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary celebrations and treats will want to soak in all the fun before March 31, 2023.

Disney’s Enchantment has been illuminating the night sky over Cinderella Castle at the Magic Kingdom for over a year. The spectacular evening will dazzle guests for the last time this Spring.

While we don’t have many details about the show’s replacement, we do know (and are stoked) that the “Happily Ever After” anthem will be returning as part of the updated spectacular.

Harmonious at EPCOT will also be coming to a close at the end of March, and the rumor is that EPCOT Forever will return for a short run.

Disney 100 Years of Wonder

Disney100 will be the largest cross-company global celebration in the 100-year history of The Walt Disney Company. It will bring new décor, specialty food and beverages, character experiences, merchandise, and more to parks around the world and beyond.

The celebration will be based at Disneyland, and the fun will begin at the Walt Disney World Resort on April 1, 2023.

TRON Lightcycle / Run

The MUCH anticipated TRON Lightcycle / Run will take riders into the Grid at the Magic Kingdom in 2023!

Lean forward into the ultimate race of survival! Leave the real world behind and join Team Blue in an epic quest across the Grid—the dark, computerized world with no horizons from TRON. Here, there’s no limit to the excitement.

Climb aboard your Lightcycle and take off on a high-speed adventure, racing against the Grid’s most menacing Programs. Surge past your fierce opponents as you attempt to cross through 8 Energy Gates and secure your team’s victory—so you can survive to race another day.

Walt Disney World has previously announced that TRON will open in Spring 2023, and I have my fingers crossed for an April 2023 opening since that is my Birthday month!

Woody's Roundup BBQ Disney's Hollywood Studios 2023

Roundup Rodeo BBQ Restaurant

Roundup Rodeo BBQ at Toy Story Land in Disney’s Hollywood Studios is set to welcome guests for delicious barbecue and toy-sized fun in Spring 2023 to welcome guests for delicious grub and toy-sized fun.

Using his imagination, Woody’s Roundup toys, and other playthings, Andy has built a rodeo restaurant for all his pals to enjoy barbecue-inspired comfort foods served family-style, with platters of house-smoked meats, a roundup of sides, and some miniature sweet surprises along the way.

The restaurant will be the world’s first “Toy Story” table service restaurant!

Disney’s Animal Kingdom 25th Anniversary

Disney’s Animal Kingdom will celebrate its 25th Anniversary on April 22, 2023.

While nothing has been officially announced, we will surely see some commemorative merchandise, art, and treats.

However, I am going to keep my fingers crossed for some big announcements! As soon as I know more, you know that I will be screaming it from the top of Expedition Everest!

Journey of Water

Stroll along a self-guided outdoor trail where you can play and interact with water as it travels from the sky to the ocean and back again. Along the way, learn about the importance of water and discover its playful personality—just as Moana did on her heroic voyage.

Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana, is scheduled to open in 2023 within World Nature — the EPCOT neighborhood dedicated to understanding and preserving the beauty and balance of the natural world.

Dreamers Point

Get ready to find inspiration inside World Celebration, the EPCOT neighborhood offering experiences to connect us to one another—and to our world, when the lush gardens of Dreamers Point open in late 2023.

Dreamers Point is located behind Spaceship Earth, and will also be home to the newest statue of Walt Disney.

Figment Meet and Greet

Imagination has always been a core theme at EPCOT, and guests will once again be able to meet their favorite Royal Purple Pigment Figment in late 2023.

Hatbox Ghost Arrives at the Haunted Mansion

A fan favorite, the Haunted Mansion, will welcome a new happy haunt as the Hatbox Ghost materializes in 2023.

The new Haunted Mansion movie releases on August 11, 2023, and wouldn’t that be an amazing promotional tie-in???

Disney’s Blizzard Beach is Now Open

Blizzard Beach Reopens November 2022 Frozen — Amy Smith, photographer

It’s a ski-riffic time at Walt Disney World Resort as Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park has reopened with new touches from the Walt Disney Animation Studios film Frozen.

The new Frozen features are a part of the kid-sized thrills of Tike’s Peak that’s popular among young guests who will delight in the statuettes of Olaf and his Snowgie pals in the warm wading pool, as well as Anna and Elsa’s igloo castle.

The water park, which features heated water throughout the park, will also have an enhanced holiday atmosphere.

This year there will be limited-time holiday offerings through December 31 that include holiday-themed treats, snowfall, and festive inner tubes. Guests can even meet a tropical-dressed Santa for the ultimate Florida holiday experience.

Popular attractions and features await guests again, everything from slushy and slippery ski jumps to bobsled and toboggan runs to polar play spaces for every family member.

Disney’s Blizzard Beach Highlights

Summit Plummet is one of the tallest, fastest freefall body slides around. The heart-pumping attraction plunges guests down Mount Gushmore in a near-vertical drop and rockets them into a darkened tunnel. It’s an attraction made especially for thrill-seekers!
Teamboat Springs is one of the world’s longest group whitewater raft adventures, where up to six riders can take an epic and unpredictable whitewater journey down a mountain.
Toboggan Racers is a unique attraction where guests use a mat to compete in a thrilling race downhill on an eight-lane slalom-style waterslide.
Cross Country Creek is a scenic lazy river that takes guests on an arctic adventure, gliding through mysterious caves and illuminated grottoes and basking in Mount Gushmore’s refreshing spring water throughout polar paradise.
Runoff Rapids offers a choice of three distinctly different inner-tube waterslides, where guests twist and turn down an adrenaline-filled trip down Mount Gushmore.

The food and beverage options will also be a huge draw for guests again. The water park offers several spots where guests can chill out and try mouth-watering culinary creations, such as new Frozen-themed menu items.

Returning popular sweet and savory snacks like the Earidescent Ice Dream Cone, 50th Ice Dream Sand Pail Sundae, and Walt’s Chili Nachos can also be found at various dining locations throughout the water park.

Adults can complement their flavorful bites with chilling new beverage offerings like Orange Slope DOLE Whip Swirl at Warming Hut. There’s also a Red Slope Bloody Mary at Frostbite Freddy’s and a Melt-A-Way Margarita at Polar Pub.

Walt Disney World Holiday Celebrations

The holidays are just around the corner, and the theme parks of Central Florida will be filled with more merriment and festivities than ever before, with new celebrations joining fan-favorite events.

November 2016 at Walt Disney World — Photo: Walt Disney World – Ryan Wendler, photographer

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

The Magic Kingdom Park at the Walt Disney World Resort will be filled with holiday fun as Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party returns on select nights through December 22, 2022.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a separately ticketed event with exclusive entertainment, a jolly parade, complimentary cookies and hot cocoa, new Disney PhotoPass opportunities, merchandise, characters, treats, and so much more!

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Tickets are limited and can be purchased on the Walt Disney World website, with prices ranging from $149 to $199 per person.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party event dates are:

November: 8, 10, 11, 14, 15, 17, 18, 20, 22, 27, 29
December: 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 11, 13, 15, 16, 18, 20, 22

EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays

Take part in holiday traditions, sights, sounds, and flavors from around the world during the annual EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays from November 25 through Dec. 30, 2022.

Guests will get wrapped up in the holiday fun experiencing storytellers, musical acts, performers, and “JOYFUL! A Celebration of the Season,” a stirring and uplifting music performance in celebration of Christmas and Kwanzaa, daily.

Throughout the park, the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays Kitchens will be serving traditional and inspired recipes, festive drinks, and sweet treats for all to enjoy.

Most EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays performances and activities are included with theme park admission. Valid Admission and Park Pass Reservation for the same Park on the same date are required.

Candlelight Processional

EPCOT will welcome back the iconic “Candlelight Processional” nightly at the America Gardens Theatre.

This moving retelling of the Christmas story features celebrity narrators accompanied by the Voices of Liberty a cappella ensemble, a 50-piece live orchestra with herald trumpets, and glorious massed choirs comprised of Disney cast members and Central Florida community groups.

This year’s lineup of award-winning actors, singers, and TV personalities features several new celebrity narrators making their debut alongside returning fan-favorite celebrity narrators.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Tinsel Town takes on a new meaning as the holidays arrive at Disney’s Hollywood Studios with the Santa Claus Merry Motorcade, a festive finale to “For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration,” holiday glamour on Hollywood and Sunset Boulevards in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and festive touches in Toy Story Land.

Sunset Seasons Greetings is the perfect way to add holiday magic to an evening as guests watch the iconic Hollywood Tower Hotel transform into holiday scenes inspired by a “Toy Story” toy hotel, a snowy corner of Arendelle, and more.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Holidays are WILD at Disney’s Animal Kingdom with animal-inspired décor including beautiful luminaries on Discovery Island, holiday cheer brought to Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom by ex-pats from Earth, and specialty treats.

The highlight of any holiday trip to the park is the Merry Menagerie of life-sized, artisan-sculpted puppets of winter animals and musicians interacting with guests exploring Discovery Island.

After dark, watch the Tree of Life awaken as a series of wintry tales emerge from within, complemented by holiday-inspired music.

Disney Springs

Shop, sip, and stroll through Disney Springs enjoying specialty food & beverage options, decorations, flurries of snow, and entertainment to ring in the holiday season.

If you are looking for character-inspired cheer, the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll, located throughout Disney Springs, leads guests on a scavenger hunt to find features festively decorated trees for a special surprise.

At the end of a shopping spree, head over to Jock Lindsey’s Holiday Bar for limited-time holiday-themed sips and snacks to get into the season’s spirit.

Disney Springs Art Walk: New Additions

The Disney Springs Art Walk has been one of my favorite things to explore while shopping and dining, especially because it continues to grow vibrantly, flourishing with murals from talented artists from near and far.

This month is no exception, as two new artists have brought their vibrant and meaningful creations to the Art Walk.

Check out the video below to go behind the scenes and learn about the inspiration for their art.

Inspired by their strong Hispanic roots and just in time for Hispanic and Latin American Heritage Month, artists Leo Gómez and Don Rimx boldly expressed pride for their culture, telling unique stories with their Art Walk pieces.

With over 3,000 murals spanning over five continents, Kobra has a distinguished style with unique techniques involving airbrush and spray paint.

His newest piece will be a Disney-inspired creation that, like other Disney Springs Art Walk murals, will be a must-see for Walt Disney World Resort guests.

I cannot wait to see and share more about his creation at one of my favorite places on property!

Raglan Road Introduces New Dishes

@onthegoinmco
Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant at Disney Springs is my FAVORITE dining spot at Disney Springs!!! The invited me out to try six new dishes!!! #raglanroad #disneysprings #disneyfood #wdw #disneyfoodie
♬ Celtic Irish Double Jig(1218454) – musica.tartaro

Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant at Disney Springs is one of my absolute favorite places to eat, and while the music and drinks are great…the food is even better.

“We’ve put a lot of thought and work into our menus which showcase contemporary Irish dining. You’re going to be pleasantly surprised because we’re going to delight your palate with award-winning cuisine prepared in collaboration with the finest local Florida producers.”

During the annual Great Irish Hooley, Raglan Road introduced six new additions to their menu that you need to RUN to try!

Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant New Dishes

Appetizers

Raglan Road New Menu Additions September 2022

Dalkey Duo – $16

Dalky Mustard beer battered Cheshire Heritage Pork Sausages, Dalkey mustard mayonnaise, and buffalo applesauce.

Board of Beauty – $42

It’s an Irish Egg, Bacon & Cabbage Roll, Bang Bang’s Chicken, & Beef in a Bed.

Irish Egg – NEW – Guinness and onion sausage crusted egg, Bushmills bacon jam, whole grain mustard aioli
Raglan’s Bacon and Cabbage Roll – Bacon and cabbage pastry roll, buffalo apple puree, pickled cabbage
Bang Bang’s Chicken – Buttermilk marinated fried chicken with a spicy bang bang mayonnaise
Beef in a Bed – NEW – Smoked pulled beef short rib on buttermilk cheddar bread, roasted corn, smoked onion puree, and crispy fried shallots.

Entrees

Raglan New Menu Additions September 2022

Salmon Run – $32

Roasted Atlantic Salmon filet in Raglan signature potato cake, roasted broccolini, spinach white wine butter sauce, & confit tomato.

Me Ma’s Best Chicken – $28

Roasted Bell and Evans chicken breast with a chicken, spinach, wild mushrooms, and leek pie in roast chicken jus, topped with herb stuffing crumble with champ mashed potato.

Dessert

I Crumble Inside – COMING SOON

Apple and blackberry crumble with hidden custard inside.

BONUS- Brunch

It’s OK to Drool – $20

famous Bread & Butter pudding, French Toast style, with vanilla mascarpone, mixed berries, macadamia nut crunch, and crispy maple glazed bacon.

There is no cover charge to enjoy the entertainment, beverages, or food at Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant, and parking at Disney Springs is free.

Reservations aren’t required, but they are strongly recommended.

EPCOT Extras Tours Returning

EPCOT truly offers something for everyone, from immersive attractions to flavorful festivals and interactive pavilions that spark your curiosity and enable you to experience cultures and cuisine from around the world.

And with the park transforming before our eyes – and preparing to celebrate its 40^th anniversary on October 1st – it’s an exciting time to experience EPCOT!

And now, there are three more reasons to visit as fan-favorite Enchanting Extras Collection are returning to EPCOT beginning October 2, adding to and completing the previously announced lineup of highly popular tours returning to Walt Disney World Resort.

These personalized experiences offer an exciting look at the magic of possibilities and give you the unique ability to experience EPCOT by land and sea!

Experience The Land:

If you like the Living with the Land attraction at EPCOT or have an interest in gardening and natural sciences, then you’ll love Behind the Seeds!

This one-hour walking tour gives you an up-close and personal view of amazing plants, insects, and fish throughout four state-of-the-art greenhouses.

Take in the sights and smells of unusual crops from around the world as you explore the future of agriculture.

Your knowledgeable guide will help you discover some of the latest plant-growing techniques in use at The Land, including hydroponics, and provide ideas you can try at home in your own garden!

Experience The Seas:

The Seas with Nemo & Friends is home to more than 2,000 sea creatures representing over 90 aquatic species, including sea turtles, angelfish, dolphins, eagle rays, and sharks.

With the return of EPCOT Seas Adventures – DiveQuest, guests once again can dive right into this 5.7-million-gallon saltwater environment and immerse themselves in the sea life surrounding the coral reef.

This experience offers SCUBA-certified guests guaranteed calm seas, unlimited visibility, no current, and incredible marine life.

If you aren’t SCUBA-certified or prefer to stay on your “sea legs,” don’t worry; there is a tour for you, too!

With the return of EPCOT Seas Adventures – Dolphins in Depth, guests can meet the bottlenose dolphins at The Seas to learn about their complex undersea behavior and talk with the experts who work with them every day.

These guest-favorite tours return beginning Oct. 2 and are on sale beginning August 22 on DisneyWorld.com or the My Disney Experience app.

Due to the popularity of these tours, advance bookings are highly recommended.

Please note the Behind the Seeds experience requires a valid theme park admission and reservation.

For a complete list of the Enchanting Extras Collection across Walt Disney World Resort, click here.