Get ready to embark on a culinary journey like no other at the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, where guests can taste their way around the world from August 29 to November 23, 2024. This year, Disney has announced two exciting new booths that are sure to delight food enthusiasts and festival-goers alike.
Autumn Blaze will be serving up “fall food and flavors” that capture the essence of the season. One of the highlights from this booth is the brined pork tenderloin with fennel slaw, promising a delicious and savory experience that will transport you straight to a cozy autumn evening.
Harvest Table
Harvest Table also embraces the season with its offerings of “fall food and flavors.” Among the tantalizing dishes available, the wild game chili stands out, providing a hearty and unique culinary adventure for those looking to try something different and satisfying.
Taste Your Way Around the World
This year’s festival spans six continents, featuring Global Marketplaces where guests can indulge in innovative dishes crafted by globally inspired chefs. From savory mains to delightful desserts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. While the full lineup of booths and menus are yet to be released, these sneak peeks hint at the incredible variety and quality of food that attendees can look forward to.
Eat to the Beat Concert Series Presented by Florida Blue
In addition to the fantastic food, guests can spice up their day with live music at the Eat to the Beat Concert Series. Presented by Florida Blue, these concerts are a staple of the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, bringing a dynamic and entertaining atmosphere to the event. Be sure to check out our guide to the full lineup!
With the festival running from late August through late November, there’s plenty of time to plan multiple visits to savor all the culinary delights and enjoy the vibrant entertainment. Whether you’re a local or planning a trip to Walt Disney World, the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival is a must-visit event that offers something for everyone.
Stay tuned for more updates on the full lineup of booths, menus, and the Eat to the Beat concert schedule.
Exciting news for Walt Disney World Annual Passholders! Disney has announced new ‘Good-to-Go Days’ for the summer, allowing passholders to enjoy the magic of the parks without the need for a reservation. Mark your calendars for July 22, 27, 31, and August 4, 2024, and get ready for some spontaneous fun!
On ‘Good-to-Go Days,’ Annual Passholders can enter any of the four Walt Disney World theme parks without needing a park reservation. This means more flexibility and convenience for passholders, making it easier to enjoy all the magic and excitement the parks have to offer.
Dates to Remember
July 22, 2024
July 27, 2024
July 31, 2024
August 4, 2024
What You Need to Know
No Reservations Needed: On these designated days, Annual Passholders can access Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom without a prior reservation.
All Parks Included: This perk applies to all four Walt Disney World theme parks, giving passholders the freedom to choose their adventure.
Annual Pass Required: Ensure you have your Annual Pass and valid photo ID for entry.
Blackout Dates Still Apply: Your Annual Pass needs to be valid during the period covered by the Good to Go Days in order to take advantage of this perk.
‘Good-to-Go Days’ are a fantastic opportunity for passholders to experience the parks with added flexibility. Whether you’re looking to explore new attractions, savor delicious dining options, or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, these days provide the perfect chance to make spontaneous visits to the parks.
Disney Legend Whoopi Goldberg Admits to Spreading Her Mother’s Ashes at Disneyland
Disney Legend Whoopi Goldberg told an interesting story on “Late Night with Seth Meyers” recently. The host of “The View” revealed a surprising way she honored her mother’s love for Disney Parks. It turns out, Goldberg scattered some of her mother’s ashes on a favorite ride at Disneyland.
Disney superfan Whoopi Goldberg isn’t shy about her love for the company. She’s not only voiced iconic characters like Shenzi in “The Lion King” and Stretch in “Toy Story 3,” but has also been vocal about her frequent visits to Disney Parks.
However, during a 2010 trip to Disneyland following her mother Emma Harris’ passing, Goldberg embarked on a unique tribute that even the most devoted Disney fan wouldn’t attempt. She scattered some of her mother’s ashes on a favorite ride – “it’s a small world.” While a heartfelt gesture, Goldberg later realized it might have been a bit much. Recognizing the potential safety hazard of human remains in a water ride, she confessed her actions to Cast Members. It was a clear moment of both deep love and good sense prevailing.
Unfortunately, Whoopi Goldberg’s story isn’t an isolated incident. According to a 2018 Wall Street Journal report, such occurrences, informally dubbed “Code Grandma” by park staff, happen nearly every month. This troubling trend disrupts park operations as the affected ride needs to be shut down for proper cleaning and safety checks, highlighting the potential health risks associated with scattering ashes in a theme park environment.
While you might think it’s a touching tribute to scatter your loved one’s ashes at a Disney park, please don’t! Honor their memory in a safer way.
Mickey Mouse Pumpkin Wreaths Coming to the Disney Store
Get ready to add some spooky-cute cheer to your door this Halloween! The iconic Mickey Mouse pumpkin wreath, just like the ones lining Main Street, U.S.A. at the parks, is coming to the Disney Store this month!
This delightful fall decoration isn’t just any wreath! It features a grinning Mickey Mouse pumpkin as the star, surrounded by a vibrant autumn bounty. Sunflowers nod hello, orange flowers add a pop of color, and colorful gourds and leaves complete the scene, bringing the magic of fall right to your doorstep.
Want to bring the magic of Main Street, U.S.A. right to your door this fall? The light-up Mickey Mouse pumpkin wreath, just like the ones you love at the park, is coming to the Disney Store website on July 22nd at 11:00 AM ET. It’s $74.99 plus tax. Don’t miss out on this hauntingly cute decoration!
Will you be grabbing one or two (or more) of these spooktacular wreaths?
First Look at the Staterooms on the Disney Treasure
Great news for Disney Cruise Line fans! The Disney Treasure reached a major milestone recently with all 1,246 staterooms now installed. This signifies significant progress on the ship’s interior construction. With staterooms complete, the shipyard can focus on outfitting the vessel for its exciting debut later this year.
A few weeks ago, the final stateroom was installed on the beautiful Disney Treasure at Meyer Werft Shipyard in Papenburg, Germany. Needless to say, the process of positioning all 1,246 rooms inside the ship was quite an undertaking! It began when each cabin was prefabricated at an off-site factory on a slow-moving conveyor belt. As the cabins moved down the line, different team members went to work building out various components of the rooms, from the plumbing to the furniture and everything in between. Once each cabin was completely outfitted, they were loaded onto semi-trucks and individually transported to the yard. From there, they were carefully lifted by cranes and slotted into position within the Disney Treasure.
The progress photos show how each stateroom features a fresh, natural color scheme and custom artwork. Can you spot which Disney and Pixar films inspired the piece in the pictured room? The accommodations will soon become a home away from home for future Disney Cruise Line guests when they embark on family adventures later this year.
Set sail for adventure with me as your Disney Cruise Line personal concierge! I can help you navigate all the magical possibilities, from finding the perfect itinerary and stateroom to uncovering special offers and onboard activities. Let’s create an unforgettable Disney cruise together – simply tell me your dream vacation and I’ll handle the rest!
Shopping and Merchandise Options for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in 2024
Calling all Disney superfans with bulging wallets and itchy credit cards! Got your tickets for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event presented by Visa in Anaheim (Aug 9-11, 2024)? Wondering where to score all the exclusive merch? Look no further! Here’s your ultimate guide to shopping at D23: ️
This year, attendees of D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event presented by Visa can take their fandom to the next level with World of Disney: The Product Experience, the home for limited-edition and event-exclusive merchandise from D23 Marketplace, Disney Publishing, and more!
This expansive and reimagined destination will be located on North Level 200 of the Anaheim Convention Center, giving attendees an opportunity to interact and engage with some of their favorite products and stories from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars.
Returning this year in a new location within World of Disney: The Product Experience is the D23 Marketplace. This 16,000 square-foot retail location (also known as the retail location of my dreams) brings together the most exciting products from DisneyStore.comand Disney Parks, offering merchandise from fan-favorite collections including Disney Limited-Edition Dolls, and debut collections that fans are sure to love, especially when you Step into Magic with Disney Lacers – a new vinyl collectible series! Love Disney Pin Trading while in the Parks? D23 Marketplace will also be a great spot to buy all-new limited-edition styles and a limited-edition capsule which nods to the 25th Anniversary of Disney Pin Trading.
Fellow bibliophiles, this one’s for us. Disney Publishing books andmerchandise will also be located within World of Disney: The Product Experience with first-to-market must-reads including titles from Bob Weis, former President of Walt Disney Imagineering; incoming Disney Legend, Martha Blanding; Pete Docter, Pixar Animation Studios’ Chief Creative Officer, and many more.
While you shop, you can also enjoy a brand-new sip and shop experience featuring a cup of the latest blend from Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Co. I can smell the amazing aroma of coffee beans now!
Show Floor Shopping Experiences
M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E, did you sing it in your head like I did? Perfect, because The Walt Disney Company Store is making its first appearance this year at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event presented by Visa with two locations on the show floor! The Walt Disney Company Main Store,in Hall D, will feature new branded merchandise from The Walt Disney Studios, The Walt Disney Archives, and of course, The Walt Disney Company. Within this shop, you can find everything from collectibles to apparel. And additionally, in collaboration with D23: The Official Disney Fan Club, The Walt Disney Company Store will be home to all official branded merchandise for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event presented by Visa. For those pin lovers, The Walt Disney Company Pin Store,in Hall B, will host a large assortment of limited-edition pins with a new assortment appearing each day of the event.
Mickey’s of Glendale, the beloved Walt Disney Imagineering store, makes a return this year with two stores in Hall C of the Anaheim Convention Center. In Mickey’s of Glendale, you’ll find work from Disney’s talented Imagineers with unique spotlight collections that include apparel and collectibles inspired by Disney characters, theme park attractions, and iconic Disney moments. Disney pin enthusiasts will want to stop by the Mickey’s of Glendale Pin Store, which will also launch a new assortment of limited-edition pins throughout the event weekend. It’s important to note that the Mickey’s of Glendale Pin Store will be cashless and requires guests to have the Disneyland app downloaded to their smartphone device to make a purchase. It’s highly recommended to have the app downloaded and account created ahead of time to ensure the best shopping experience!
Shop the magic of Hollywood at Disney Studio Store Hollywood, located in Hall B, where event attendees will find newly released limited-edition pins, framed pin sets, and official Disney Studio Store branded apparel.
How to Shop at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event
If reading about shopping has you counting down the seconds till Aug. 9, 10, and 11, be sure to also learn more about the return of merchandise mobile checkout and virtual queue at select locations. Both services will be available through a direct link from the D23 app to the Disneyland app. The D23 app is currently available for download on the app store for iOS and Android devices and an update coming soon will add functionality to help guests navigate all the entertainment, presentations, shopping, photo opportunities, and magic that Disney has in store at this year’s event. The Disneyland app is currently available for download on the app store for iOS and Android devices. As mentioned, many locations are cashless venues and will only accept a credit or debit card.
Continue the Magic Beyond the Event
Unable to attend D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event presented by Visa this year but still want to shop, or missed out on purchasing a coveted item during the event? DisneyStore.com has you covered with select event items as well as new products from collections that launched at the event going on sale Monday, Aug. 12, at 8 a.m. PT at DisneyStore.com/D23Event2024, while supplies last. Set your alarms now!
Now, who’s ready to shop? D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event presented by Visa is only 24 days away! Stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog for even more fun ahead of and during our biggest event yet including exciting updates from Josh D’Amaro and other surprise guests during Horizons: Disney Experiences Showcase on Aug. 10.
Blast Off with Mickey! Hallmark’s New Space Mountain Ornament!
Disney fans and ornament collectors alike will be over the moon for Hallmark’s newest release: the Space Mountain Clear for Launch Ornament. This dazzling piece captures the thrill of the iconic Disney Parks attraction, with Mickey Mouse at the helm of his rocket ship, ready to explore the cosmos. You can get it at Hallmark stores or online for $19.99.
Perfect for adding a touch of interstellar magic to your holiday tree, this ornament is a must-have for any Disney enthusiast. Crafted with intricate detail, Mickey’s rocket ship is poised for takeoff, surrounded by twinkling stars and shimmering planets. The clear ornament design allows the light to shine through, creating a truly captivating display.
Whether you’re a seasoned space explorer or just dreaming of distant galaxies, this Space Mountain ornament is sure to ignite your imagination. So, fasten your seatbelts and prepare for liftoff!
A Practically Perfect Carousel Ride Ornament: Celebrate 60 Years of Mary Poppins Magic!
Hallmark is bringing a touch of enchantment to your holiday decor with their new Mary Poppins 60th Anniversary A Practically Perfect Carousel Ride Ornament. This delightful keepsake captures the spirit of the beloved Disney classic while adding a touch of festive cheer to your Christmas tree.
Find this enchanting ornament at your local Hallmark store or online at Hallmark.com. Make this holiday season extra special with a touch of Mary Poppins magic!
For just $24.99, you can bring home the magic of Mary Poppins. The ornament features the iconic nanny in her signature red and white dress and wide-brimmed hat, gracefully perched atop a stunning purple and white carousel horse. Inspired by the unforgettable chalk-drawing scene with Bert, this ornament is a must-have for any Disney fan.
Whether you’re a lifelong admirer of Mary Poppins or simply looking to add a touch of whimsy to your holiday decor, this ornament is sure to delight. It’s the perfect gift for yourself or a loved one, and it’s guaranteed to bring a smile to everyone’s face.
Purr-fectly Fabulous: New Disney Cats Dooney And Bourke Tote Bag Takes Over the Disney Store!
Disney fans, rejoice! The latest must-have accessory has arrived at the Disney Store, and it’s a feline frenzy! The new Disney Cats Dooney and Bourke Tote Bag is here to add a touch of playful charm to your everyday look.
The Disney Cats Dooney and Bourke Tote Bag is priced at $298 and is currently available online at the Disney Store.
This delightful tote bag is a purr-fect blend of style and nostalgia. Featuring a vibrant, colorful print showcasing beloved Disney cats, like Figaro, Lucifer, Cheshire Cat, Sergeant, Tibbs, Bagheera, Duchess, O’Malley, Marie, Toulouse, Berlioz, Scat Cat, Rufus, Oliver, Rajah, Simba, Mittens and Mochi captured in stunning detail on this coated cotton bag. it’s a true collector’s item.
Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the bag features contrast stitched leather finishings and a zip top closure with a leather pull for added elegance. With ample room for your essentials, this tote bag is perfect for everyday adventures or as a stylish shopping companion.
Whether you’re a die-hard Disney fan or simply appreciate the charm of these iconic characters, this tote bag is sure to become a cherished addition to your collection. Hurry, because this feline-fabulous find is likely to sell out quickly!
The worlds of Pixar’s beloved Cars franchise and high-octane NASCAR have merged in an exciting new toy line from Mattel! Fans of all ages can now experience the thrill of the race with the Lane Change Race Playset and six newly designed die-cast vehicles.
The iconic Lightning McQueen, with his signature red paint and yellow lightning bolt, is at the heart of this collection. But he’s not alone! Mattel has introduced five new character racers inspired by real-life NASCAR champions:
Carstin “Ace” Dillon: Modeled after four-time NASCAR Cup Series winner Austin Dillon, this red and yellow speedster is ready to take the checkered flag.
GoGo Logano: Inspired by two-time NASCAR champion Joey Logano, this lucky number 22 car is sure to be a fan favorite.
William Byrev: With 13 career victories, William Byron’s NASCAR counterpart, #24 William Byrev, is a force to be reckoned with.
Ryan “Inside” Laney: Reigning NASCAR Cup Series champion Ryan Blaney gets his own die-cast replica in the form of #12 Ryan “Inside” Laney.
Bubba Wheelhouse: Sporting a striking purple metallic finish and yellow rims, Bubba Wheelhouse, inspired by NASCAR’s Bubba Wallace, completes the lineup.
Each of these 1:55 scale vehicles features unique NASCAR-inspired designs and matching pit-stop barriers. With their metallic finishes and authentic details, they’re perfect for both play and collecting.
The Lane Change Race Playset provides the ultimate racing experience, inspired by the Los Angeles Raceway from the Cars movie. Kids can recreate their favorite racing moments or create their own high-speed adventures.
Whether you’re a die-hard Cars fan, a NASCAR enthusiast, or simply love fast-paced fun, this new toy line is sure to rev up the excitement!
Fans of the ghostly grandeur of The Haunted Mansion are in for a frightful treat! A new Loungefly mini backpack has arrived at Magic Kingdom, and it’s as eerie as it is enchanting.
If you’re ready to embrace your inner ghost host, head to Magic Kingdom or visit the Disney Store online to snag this spine-tingling accessory. Priced at $89, it’s a hauntingly good deal for fans of the spooky and stylish.
This simulated leather backpack is a must-have for any mansion enthusiast. The star of the show is undoubtedly the die-cut tombstone-shaped front pocket, featuring the iconic Hatbox Ghost himself. And get this, his eyes glow in the dark! It’s like he’s following you into the night.
But the spooktacular details don’t stop there. The back of the bag boasts the classic Haunted Mansion logo, while the side pockets are adorned with bats and the mansion’s initials. It’s a ghostly gathering of details that will have you feeling like a true resident of the Haunted Mansion.
Carousel of Progress Gets Brand-New Retro-Style Seating
Get ready for a blast from the past on your next ride through time at Walt Disney World! The beloved Carousel of Progress in Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom has undergone a seating upgrade, and it’s got a groovy 1970s vibe.
Totally Tubular Seats: All the chairs in one of the six theaters have been replaced with brand new seating that captures the essence of the 1970s. Expect the other theaters to follow suit soon!
Color Explosion: Each row boasts a bold and bright color scheme, with green, orange, red, or blue upholstery.
Far Out, Man!: The seatbacks feature a funky 1970s pattern of circles and diamonds, creating a dazzling starburst effect.A Touch of Nostalgia: The new chairs are made of gray plastic with slightly rounded backs, reminiscent of the original Carousel of Progress seating when it debuted at Magic Kingdom in 1975.
This update adds a fun, immersive touch to the classic attraction, subtly referencing the era when the Carousel of Progress first arrived at the park.
