Merry Menagerie, Frozen Holiday Surprise, and More Holiday Favorites Returning to Disney World in 2024

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June 24, 2024

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The Holidays Are Coming to Walt Disney World Resort: A Sneak Peek at What’s Returning!

Get ready to deck the halls and jingle all the way! The holiday season is just around the corner, and Walt Disney World Resort is gearing up to spread cheer throughout its parks and Disney Springs.

Here’s a glimpse of some returning favorites that will make your holiday visit extra magical:

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Disney’s Animal Kingdom: The whimsical Merry Menagerie puppets will once again enchant guests, while Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Daisy don their festive finest for the season.

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Disney’s Hollywood Studios: The breathtaking yuletide projection show on the Hollywood Tower Hotel is back to dazzle, and Toy Story Land is transforming into a holiday wonderland with Woody, Jessie, and Buzz Lightyear decked out for the occasion.

Magic Kingdom Park: “Frozen Holiday Surprise” returns to Cinderella Castle, where Elsa, Anna, Olaf, Kristoff, and the Snowgies will spread icy cheer.

Disney Springs: It’s a shopper’s paradise with twinkling decorations and the ever-popular Christmas Tree Stroll. Don’t miss the magical snowfall in Town Center, creating a winter wonderland in the heart of Florida.

Disney Resorts: Staying at a Disney Resort hotel during the holidays is an immersive experience like no other. Festive décor, gingerbread masterpieces crafted by culinary artists, and appearances by Santa Claus himself across all four parks (even in his beach attire at the water parks!) will transport you to a world of holiday wonder.

To make it all even sweeter, starting on June 27 you can save up to 30% on rooms at select Disney Resort hotels for stays most nights from Nov. 24 to Dec. 25, plus other savings for stays most Sunday to Thursday nights between Oct. 6 to Nov. 21. You can also get a free Park Hopper option added to your tickets when you upgrade to a Walt Disney Travel Company package that includes a non-discounted 4-day or longer date-based ticket.

No matter where your holiday adventure takes you at Walt Disney World Resort, you’re sure to find heartwarming moments and cherished memories

EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays Presented by AdventHealth Returns in 2024

By

Chip

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June 24, 2024

EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays Presented by AdventHealth Returns in 2024

EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays: A Global Celebration of Festive Traditions

From November 29th to December 30th, the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays promises a global celebration of festive cheer. Guests can immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and flavors of the season, experiencing unique cultural traditions from around the world.

Holiday Kitchens scattered throughout the park will tantalize taste buds with an array of delectable dishes and beverages, showcasing holiday flavors from every corner of the globe.

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A must-see highlight is the Candlelight Processional, a heartwarming spectacle featuring a celebrity narrator reciting the Christmas story alongside a grand orchestra and choir. This moving performance beautifully captures the spirit of the holidays and is sure to leave a lasting impression. Stay tuned for the announcement of this year’s esteemed lineup of narrators.

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Beyond culinary delights and heartwarming performances, the festival also offers engaging holiday storytellers, festive merchandise, and a variety of entertainment options, ensuring a memorable and joyous experience for all who attend.

Also returning in 2024:

Holiday Cookie Stroll

Sweeten your day with scrumptious cookies—and enjoy a treat at the end of your tasty journey.

Living with the Land – Glimmering Greenhouses

Celebrate the season’s bounty on a voyage through greenhouses aglow with dazzling lights.

Olaf’s Holiday Tradition Expedition Scavenger Hunt

Go on a quest to find holiday traditions that Olaf has gathered—and lost—along the way!

Don’t forget you can also:

Meet Santa Claus

Visit with jolly old St. Nick at the Odyssey Pavilion for a festive photo.

JOYFUL! A Celebration of the Season

Witness a joyous tribute to Christmas and Kwanzaa—with Gospel, R&B and holiday songs.

Holiday Storytellers

Gather around as lively storytellers share holiday legends and lore from around the world.

Dates & Details Announced for Jollywood Nights Official Return to Hollywood Studios

By

Chip

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June 24, 2024

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Dates & Details Announced for Jollywood Nights Official Return to Hollywood Studios

Lights, camera, holidays! Disney Jollywood Nights is back at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, bringing a glamorous twist to your festive celebrations. ✨

On select nights from November 9 to December 21, step onto the red carpet for five hours of holly jolly fun from 7:30 PM to 12:30 AM. This separately ticketed event is your chance to experience the park’s dazzling holiday transformation.

NEW this year: Be mesmerized by a spectacular ice skating show on Hollywood Boulevard, set to beloved holiday tunes. ⛸️🎶

PLUS: Get ready for exclusive character encounters with over 20 beloved favorites, including new additions like Bo Peep, Lotso, Baloo, and King Louie from TaleSpin! Capture those magical moments with included PhotoPass digital downloads.📸

OG Disney Jollywood Nights fans will remember Ollie, the most dapper gingerbread man in Hollywood. This year, we’re introducing a new merchandise collection inspired by Ollie, featuring items like a Minnie Mouse ear headband and festive apparel.

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Returning culinary favorites – including that iconic Gertie cookie! – will be available alongside new treats. Upon exit, each guest will also receive one sweet treat created by Wondermade!

In addition to meeting your favorite characters, indulging in delicious treats and shopping, the night will be packed with entertaining shows like What’s This? Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-Along, Disney Holidays in Hollywood, and Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!

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The Holiday Fiesta en la Calle will move to Animation Courtyard and there you’ll be able to spot Jose Carioca and Panchito from The Three Caballeros! Meanwhile, The Twilight Soirée at the Tip Top Club located in the Tower Courtyard will have you dancing throughout the night. Jazzy Holidays at the Hollywood Brown Derby will return – I recommend getting a reservation due to limited space. Stay tuned to DisneyWorld.com/Jollywood for more information on how to book in September.

Guests of select Disney Resorts hotels, Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin hotels and Shades of Green can purchase tickets starting on July 2. For all other guests, tickets will go on sale July 10. To purchase tickets, visit DisneyWorld.com/Jollywood or call 407-934-7639.

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Event Dates & Ticket Prices

Explore event dates and ticket prices—as well as discounts for Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members.

Admission to Disney Jollywood Nights requires a separately priced ticket. Tickets are valid only during specific event hours and are subject to availability.

2024 Event Dates

November 9, 13, 16, 18, 23, 25 and 30
December 2, 7, 11, 14, 18 and 21

Event Times
This special event takes place from 7:30 PM to 12:30 AM.

You can get a head start on the festive fun! Ticketholders will be admitted to Disney’s Hollywood Studios as early as 6:00 PM on the valid date of their ticket. These date-specific event tickets do not require an additional day theme park ticket or theme park reservation.

Ticket Prices
Event tickets are $159 to $179 per ticket, plus tax (prices vary by event date).

Discounts
Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members can save $10 per ticket to Disney Jollywood Nights, valid for all event nights.

Purchase Tickets Soon
Special event tickets may be purchased starting July 10, 2024. Guests of select Walt Disney World Resort hotels can purchase tickets early—starting July 2, 2024—for event dates during their stay. This advance purchase window is available to Guests of:

Disney Resorts Collection hotels
Walt Disney World Swan Hotel
Walt Disney World Swan Reserve
Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel
Shades of Green at Walt Disney World Resort

Tickets are limited and may not be available for purchase on the day of the event (or earlier).

With more Saturday dates added, there are plenty of opportunities to join in the holiday fun. Don’t miss out on this swanky holiday celebration at Disney Jollywood Nights!

Secure your tickets and get ready to experience a holiday like no other at Disney Jollywood Nights!

Dates & Details Announced for 2024 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

By

Chip

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June 24, 2024

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Dates & Details Announced for 2024 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at the Magic Kingdom

Get ready to make this holiday season extra magical at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party! 🎄✨

New this year:

A brand-new exclusive merchandise collection featuring apparel, trading pins, and more – perfect for gifting or treating yourself! 🎁

Returning favorites:

Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade: Be swept away by the enchanting floats and beloved characters 🎅
Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Show: Watch the sky sparkle with festive cheer ✨
Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration: Sing along to your favorite holiday tunes at Cinderella Castle 🏰
Complimentary cookies and cocoa: Satisfy your sweet tooth with these classic treats 🍪☕️

And as always, Main Street, U.S.A. will be decked out in its holiday finest, and your favorite attractions will be transformed for the season! 🎉

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a limited capacity five-hour holiday event kicking off Nov. 8 and running on select nights through Dec. 20 from 7 p.m. to 12 a.m.

Guests of select Disney Resorts hotels, Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin hotels and Shades of Green can purchase tickets starting on July 2. For all other guests, tickets will go on sale July 10.

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Event Dates & Ticket Prices

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party takes place on select nights between November 8 and December 20, 2024.

Event Dates

November – 8, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 19, 21, 22, 24, 26, 27 and 29
December – 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19 and 20

Event Times
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party will take place from 7:00 PM to midnight.

Ticket Prices
Event tickets are $169 to $219 per ticket, plus tax (prices vary by event date).

Discounts
Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members can save $10 per ticket to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party—valid only for the following event nights:

November – 8, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 19, 21 and 22
December – 1, 3, and 5

Cast Members can also save on select nights. More details can be found on Cast Life Web or My Disney Today.

Purchase Tickets Soon
Guests of select Walt Disney World Resort hotels can begin purchasing Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party tickets as early as July 2, 2024—for event dates during their stay. All other Guests may purchase tickets beginning on July 10, 2024.

This advance purchase window is available to Guests of:

Tickets are limited and may not be available for purchase on the day of the event (or earlier). To purchase tickets, visit DisneyWorld.com/VeryMerry or call 407-934-7639.

Mark your calendars to experience the wonder and delight of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. There’s no better way to get into a magical holiday spirit!

Who’s ready to celebrate the holidays at the most magical place on Earth?

Newborn Eland Calf Joins the Family at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

By

Chip

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June 24, 2024

Newborn Eland Calf Joins Animal Family at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is delighted to announce the recent birth of a healthy eland calf. The newest addition, a female, is the first offspring of mother Cleo.

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Both mother and calf are doing well, bonding in a backstage barn before making their debut on the savanna. This is an exciting time for the Lodge’s animal care team, who have been eagerly anticipating the arrival of this little one.

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Elands are the largest species of antelope and are native to the grasslands and woodlands of Africa. They are known for their majestic spiral horns and gentle nature. The addition of this calf is a testament to the exceptional animal care and conservation efforts at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge.

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Guests can look forward to seeing the eland calf and her mother on the savanna soon, where they will join the rest of the animal residents in their sprawling natural habitat. Stay tuned for updates on this adorable new arrival!

Ever After Jewelry Co & Accessories Relocates to Tren-D in Disney Springs Marketplace

By

Chris B

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June 24, 2024

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xciting changes are happening at Disney Springs! Ever After Jewelry Co. & Accessories has temporarily relocated to Tren-D in the Marketplace neighborhood while its main store undergoes a magical transformation. We recently reported on the re-imagining of Ever After Jewelry Co., and now we have photos of the charming temporary kiosk set up in Tren-D.

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The new concept, aptly named Disney Ever After, promises to delight guests with collections featuring favorite characters, new merchandise, and plenty of huggable plush. During the transition, the temporary location continues to operate under the name Ever After Jewelry Co. & Accessories, ensuring that guests can still find their beloved jewelry and accessories while eagerly anticipating the grand unveiling of Disney Ever After.

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Located in the vibrant Marketplace neighborhood, Tren-D now serves as the interim home for Ever After Jewelry Co. & Accessories. Be sure to visit and explore the temporary setup, and stay tuned for more updates as the enchanting new Disney Ever After store takes shape, bringing even more magic to your shopping experience at Disney Springs.

Walls are down at EPCOT’s Morroco Pavilion

By

Chris B

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June 24, 2024

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Exciting updates at EPCOT’s Morocco Pavilion! The construction walls are down, revealing a refreshed courtyard after months of work that began in March. This quiet section of the World Showcase is now once again fully accessible for guests.

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The most notable changes are in the pavilion’s courtyard, where the tiles on the four planters and the central fountain have been replaced. The new tiles on the planters and central fountain, featuring a simpler checkered design in teal, blue, white, and yellow, replace the previous intricate tilework.

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NEW Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Photo Opportunity at Port Orleans Resort

By

Chris B

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June 24, 2024

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Guests visiting Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside have an exciting new way to immerse themselves in the magic Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. A new photo op has been set up at the resort, featuring a backdrop of the ride’s landscape. This stunning backdrop showcases all the iconic imagery from the re-imagined attraction, including the salt mine, the thrilling 50-foot drop, and Tiana’s Foods tower.

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To add an extra touch of fun to their photos, guests can use various themed props. One popular prop features Louis the alligator joyfully playing his trumpet. Guests can also pick up a green trumpet prop with a yellow outline, echoing the vibrant Mardi Gras colors of the attraction, and pretend to make some music of their own.

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For those who love to get every detail right, the photo setup includes a Tiana’s Bayou Adventure sign, beautifully crafted with “Tiana’s” written in yellow and “Bayou Adventure” in green. A pink five-petaled lily graces the center of the “o” in “Bayou,” while yellow lilies accent the corners of the black backdrop.

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This delightful photo op is perfect for marking the opening of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, which officially opens on June 28 at Magic Kingdom. Previews are currently available for cast members, Annual Passholders, D23 members, and DVC members, making now the perfect time to get a sneak peek and capture a photo at Port Orleans Resort – Riverside.

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New Test Track Logo Unveiled as Reimagining Begins at EPCOT

By

Chip

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June 24, 2024

New Test Track Logo Unveiled as Reimagining Begins at EPCOT

As Test Track closes its doors for a major refurbishment, a fresh new logo has been revealed on the construction walls surrounding the attraction. This marks the beginning of an exciting transformation for the popular EPCOT ride.

The new logo maintains the familiar black, blue, and white color scheme but introduces a more modern font and incorporates three hexagonal shapes. This subtle evolution from the previous logo signals a new era for Test Track, while still paying homage to its roots.

While the updated font had been previously glimpsed in concept art, the inclusion of hexagons is a surprising addition. The walls also feature the phrase “Coming Soon” in bold yellow lettering, generating anticipation for the reimagined attraction.

Construction crews have already begun work on the refurbishment, wasting no time in bringing the new vision for Test Track to life. This marks the first major overhaul of the ride since 2012, with General Motors continuing as the sponsor and Chevrolet branding remaining a prominent feature.

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Imagineers have hinted that the reimagined Test Track will draw inspiration from its predecessor, World of Motion, which closed in 1998 to make way for the current attraction. Guests can expect the new version to capture the same “spirit of optimism” that characterized the beloved classic.

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Stay tuned for further updates on the progress of the Test Track reimagining as EPCOT continues to evolve and create new experiences for visitors.

Jodi Benson & Bill Farmer Announced to Join the Cast for Disney ’80s-’90s Celebration in Concert

By

Sara

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June 24, 2024

Jodi Benson & Bill Farmer Announced to Join the Cast for Disney ’80s-’90s Celebration in Concert

Get ready for a wave of nostalgia! Disney Legends Jodi Benson (the voice of Ariel) and Bill Farmer (the voice of Goofy) dive into the ’80s and ’90s alongside an all-star cast at the Disney ’80s-’90s Celebration in Concert! Catch them with the LA Phil at the Hollywood Bowl on July 19th and 20th.

The cast includes Corbin Bleu, Susan Egan, Aisha Jackson, Arielle Jacobs, Adam J. Levy, Krysta Rodriguez, alongside gospel vocalists from ‘DC6 Singers Collective’ and an ensemble of Broadway dancers. Sarah Hicks will conduct the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra with music direction by Benjamin Rauhala and choreography by Anna Aimee White.

Following last summer’s spectacular concert celebration of 100 years of Walt Disney Animation Studios, Disney Concerts, 10th & Main Productions and the Hollywood Bowl are set to return with the ultimate throwback concert celebrating the very best Disney and Pixar soundtrack hits of the ‘80s and ‘90s including songs from “Hercules,” “A Goofy Movie,” “Toy Story,” “A Bug’s Life,” “The Little Mermaid,” “Newsies,” “Aladdin,” “Hunchback of Notre Dame,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “Pocahontas,” “The Lion King,” “Hocus Pocus,” and many more.

Tickets are on sale through the Hollywood Bowl hollywoodbowl.com. Disney ‘80s – ‘90s Celebration in Concert is part of the LA Phil-presented Hollywood Bowl 2024 Season.

Epcot Dedication Plaque Removed at Park Entrance

By

Sara

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June 24, 2024

Epcot Dedication Plaque Removed at Park Entrance

EPCOT’s main entrance has undergone a subtle change! The dedication plaque, a familiar sight for many guests, is no longer in its usual planter.

The dedication plaque had a message inscribed on it from Card Walker which read:

“To all who come to this
Place of Joy, Hope and Friendship
WELCOME

Epcot is inspired by Walt Disney’s creative vision. Here, human achievements are celebrated through imagination, wonders of enterprise and concepts of a future that promises new and exciting benefits for all.

May EPCOT Center entertain, inform and inspire and above all, may it instill a new sense of belief and pride in man’s ability to shape a world that offers hope to people everywhere.”

The reason for the plaque’s disappearance remains a mystery. Was it damaged? Is it undergoing refurbishment? We expect it to return to its familiar spot soon.

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Fan Favorite Menu Items Removed from Columbia Harbour House in the Magic Kingdom

By

Sara

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June 24, 2024

Fan Favorite Menu Items Removed from Columbia Harbour House in the Magic Kingdom

Columbia Harbour House at Magic Kingdom has shaken things up with a menu refresh! Some familiar favorites are gone, but exciting new dishes have arrived to tempt your taste buds.

While the menu refresh brings new options to Columbia Harbour House, a few beloved items have set sail. The biggest blow for many fans is the absence of the hushpuppies, which were previously available as a side or included with some meals. Several other entrees have also been docked, including the New England Shrimp Boil, Sea Captain’s Fish Sandwich, Mixed Greens Salad, and Plant-Based Crab Cake Sandwich.

Trio Platter Revamped: This platter gets a makeover! It now features beer-battered shrimp and fish instead of the classic fried options. The hushpuppies have been swapped for french fries, but the price remains at $14.29.
Shrimp Skewer Upgrade: The former Grilled Shrimp Skewer has been transformed into a full-fledged Shrimp Skewer Platter. It now comes with green beans and rice for $14.49.
Chicken Strips Get a New Name: Not much change here, just a new name! The Chicken Strips are now called the Chicken Platter, but it’s still the same delicious combination of chicken strips and fries for $10.99.
Lobster Roll Stays Classic: Thankfully, the Lobster Roll remains unchanged. You can still enjoy chilled lobster with a touch of mayonnaise on a New England-style bun served with french fries, all for $16.99.

The following entrées are new:

Maple-Mustard Glazed Salmon: Served with Green Beans and Rice – $14.79
Fried Shrimp Platter: Beer-battered Shrimp served with French Fries – $13.99
Shrimp Salad: Mixed Greens with Cherry Tomatoes, Mild Pepperoncini, Manzanilla Olives, and Capers topped with Grilled Shrimp – $13.49
Fish Platter: Beer-battered Fish served with Tartar Sauce and French Fries – $12.99
Plant-based Crispy Mushroom Roll: Cornmeal-fried Mushrooms, Plant-based Spicy Tartar Sauce, Lettuce, Tomatoes, and a Pickle served with French Fries – $13.49

Good news for parents! Disney Check Meals at Columbia Harbour House have a yummy new option for little ones: the Turkey Sandwich Kid’s Pack. For $7.79, this kid-approved meal includes sliced roasted turkey breast and cheddar cheese on honey wheat bread, all served with refreshing apple chips, cucumber slices, and grape tomatoes. And like all Disney Check Meals, it meets Disney’s Nutrition Guidelines to ensure a complete and balanced meal for your child.

Are you bummed with this menu change or are you looking forward to trying the new items?