Ears the News: November 15, 2019 Edition

Welcome to the latest edition of Ears the News

Brought to you by our friends at WDWMagic.com

The Tree of Life at Disney's Animal Kingdom awakens each night with two all-new sequences for the Christmas Holidays this year.

The wintery tales are set to new arrangements of familiar holiday music and began each night at sunset through to park close. Check out the video below for a look.

Video courtesy of WDWMagic.com

Having trouble viewing the video? Click here to watch the video on YouTube.

Mickey's Pantry in the Marketplace at Disney Springs will close at the end of November 15, 2019 to make-way for an expansion of the Spice & Tea Exchange.

Spice & Tea Exchange opened as a shop-within-a-shop at Mickey's Pantry back in 2010, and offers over 40 freshly made blends of tea, and a variety of spices, salts, rice and sugars.

The newly expanded Spice & Tea Exchange will open on November 19, 2019.

The Disney products previously sold in Mickey's Pantry will continue to be available at World of Disney and the Marketplace Co-Op.

Minnie's Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks is an all-new firework show debuting this year as part of Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party.

Hosted by Minnie Mouse, Minnie's Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks show celebrates the magic of Christmas with medleys of beloved holiday songs, from “Joy to the World” and “Deck the Halls” to “Up on the House Top” and “We Wish You A Merry Christmas.”

You'll be able to see the fireworks show during the 23 nights of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party on select nights November 8 – December 22, 2019. See the full schedule and pricing for 2019 Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party.

Video courtesy of WDWMagic.com

Having trouble viewing the video? Click here to watch the video on YouTube.

Space Mountain has an all-new holiday overlay during this year's Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party nights.

The classic Disney coaster features holiday music and lighting effects throughout the mountain. For Space Mountain fans the lighting adds something a little different, and offers some great views of the track as strobes light up the structure, albeit very briefly. Take a front seat POV ride through in the video below.

Video courtesy of WDWMagic.com

Having trouble viewing the video? Click here to watch the video on YouTube.

The Epcot International Festival of the Arts returns in the new year for a 39 day celebration of the visual, culinary and performing arts.

More performers have been announced for the Disney on Broadway Concert Series, part of the Epcot International Festival of the Arts in 2020. 

Photo courtesy of WDWMagic.com

Kissy Simmons and Alton Fitzgerald White
January 17, January 20 through 21, January 24

Heidi Blickenstaff and Gavin Lee
January 18 through 19, January 22 through 23

Kissy Simmons, Heidi Blickenstaff, Alton Fitzgerald White and Gavin Lee
January 25

Kara Lindsay and Kevin Massey
January 26, January 28 through 29, February 1 through 2, February 5 through 6

TBD
January 27, January 30 through 31, February 3 through 4, February 7 through 8

Kara Lindsay, Kevin Massey and TBD
February 9

Ashley Brown and Josh Strickland
February 10, February 12 through 13, February 18 through 19, February 22 through 23

TBD
February 11, February 14 through 17, February 20 through 21

Ashley Brown, Josh Strickland and TBD
February 24

Performances are at 5:30 PM, 6:45 PM and 8:00 PM daily from January 17 to February 24, 2020.

Photo courtesy of WDWMagic.com

In addition to the recently announced Disney on Broadway performers, you can also take park in:

• A Le Cellier Brunch in the Canada pavilion, a leisurely prix fixe bounty each Saturday and Sunday in the relaxing Canadian chateau. Reservations required. 
• Explore the Green Landing Family Play Zone where Wall-E and Eve invite the entire family to enjoy a lush, green environment built for exploring. 
• Jump into photo-ops located throughout Epcot, such as the Peter Pan Storybook installation by the United Kingdom pavilion where guests can flap their fins in Mermaid Lagoon or get their pirate on at Skull Rock. 
• Grab a paintbrush and add color to a wall mural along World Showcase Plaza. 
• Join Figment’s Brush with the Masters, a scavenger hunt where the friendly dragon has painted himself into famous pieces of art in each World Showcase pavilion. 
• Purchase works by Disney’s iconic artists in displays throughout World Showcase. 
• Watch visiting artists as they create new pieces, from Disney-inspired works to creative art across diverse mediums. 
• Create festival-inspired T-shirts and candles.

Dining packages and workshops are available to book for Disney Vacation Members and Annual Passholders starting today. DVC Members may book by calling Member Services at (800) 800-9800 and Annual Passholders can call (407) WDW-Fest. General reservations start November 14 and guests can visit ArtfulEpcot.com or call (407) WDW-Fest for more information.

Jaleo Disney Springs is hosting a special one-night-only experience featuring 5 wines and 5 courses with Ontañón, a fifth-generation family-operated winery from the famous Rioja Baja region of Spain.

Raquél Pérez-Cuevas from Ontañón is working to carry on the tradition of grape growing in Spain,

Photo courtesy of WDWMagic.com

 and she's bringing five of her family's award-winning wines to Jaleo for guests to experience. The private, seated dinner will feature a special menu from Jaleo Disney Springs Head Chef Rodolfo L. Guzman Aranda and his team to perfectly pair with the Ontañón wines from Rioja, Rueda, and Ribera del Duero, including:

• Hinojo salad of fennel, tomato, asparagus, and orange dressed with passionfruit vinaigrette 
• The traditional Spanish dish Gambas al Ajillo (shrimp sautéed with garlic) 
• Arroz Meloso con Bacalao (creamy rice with seafood) 
• Costillas de Cordero con Miel y Romero (Josper-grilled lamb chops with rosemary sauce and honey aioli) 
• Flan Mama Marisa (the classic Spanish custard with 'espuma' of Catalan cream and oranges) 

The event takes place on December 10, 2019, and tickets are $115 per person and are available online now.

The 12th Ron Jon Surf Shop in the United States will officially open its doors to guests at Disney Springs on November 15, 2019.

Located in the Town Center across from the Polite Pig, the 10,000 sq. ft. will offer a wide assortment of surfwear, swimwear, sunglasses, hats and footwear.

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party is back for the 2019 holiday season, along with one of the highlights of the night, Mickey's Once Upon A Christmastime Parade.

The parade is performed twice each party night at the Magic Kingdom, beginning at 8:30pm and 11pm, stepping off in Frontierland. Here is a look at this year's parade.

Video courtesy of WDWMagic.com

Having trouble viewing the video? Click here to watch the video on YouTube.

Disney Annual Passholders can now get a discounted ticket to the NBA Experience at Disney Springs.

The special pricing is $19 for adults, and $14 for children and is available from November 15 2019 to March 31, 2020 with tickets purchased at the NBA Experience ticket window. This discount is available for the Passholder and up to 3 Guests. Regular pricing is $34 for adults and $29 for children.


Looking to plan your next trip to Walt Disney World? Contact the agents at Kingdom Konsultant Travel to help you plan your dream vacation. Email vacations@kingdomkonsultant.com for a free quote today.

Must-Do Universal for the Harry Potter Fan

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort is an incredible experience for all, but holds a special place in the hearts of Harry Potter fans of all ages.  The amount of detail and immersive surroundings will have you feeling like you stepped into another world and there can be so much to take in, so where to begin? Of course attractions, shopping and snacks abound, but what are those things that will truly make you feel like you are in the Wizarding World?  We've picked our top 5 must-do activities.

Which way to go for our top 5?

5) Dine at The Three Broomsticks or Leaky Cauldron

Both quick service locations, these two restaurants are serving up delicious food in a great environment.  You can round out your meal with several specialty beverage (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) as well.  Because these locations are both often very busy, dining is really the best way to see the details inside.  Honorable mention: next door to the Three Broomsticks is the Hogs Head, with a specialty beer you can only purchase there and is entirely worth a stop for the adults in your travel party!

Fish and Chips at The Leaky Cauldron (veggies subbed for Chips)

4) Explore Hogwarts Castle

At the back of Hogsmede Village is the stunning Hogwarts Castle, home to Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey attraction (a personal must-do for me!), but is an attraction all in itself.  As you head in line for the attraction, be sure to take in all of the details that were put into the queue.  You will truly feel like you are about to attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.  There are many delights around every corner, which house is in the lead for House Cup? Did you find the Sorting Hat?  Does this ride seem a bit too intense for you?  You can also walk through the queue to take in all the details and don't have to ride, just ask a team member at the entrance to the attraction. 

One of the many views of the Hogwarts exterior

3) Watch the wand pick the wizard at Ollivander's (and get your own wand after!)

Ollivander's exists both in Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade, but we recommend trying for the Diagon Alley experience for the shorter waits.  Once inside, you will witness (or if you're really lucky, get to experience for yourself!) the magic of wands and how each one uniquely picks the wizard.  After the show, you will end up in Ollivander's store where there are exclusive wands only available for purchase in those locations.  Talk to any team member there for help identifying which wand will fit you best.  If you purchase an interactive wand, it can lead to many magical experiences throughout both parks which is an extra treat!

Walls and walls of wands at Ollivander's

2) Ride the Hogwarts Express

The Hogwarts Express is how Harry Potter and his friends get to school each year and is a pinnacle part of the Wizarding World experience.  You do need a Park-to-Park ticket to experience it, as it will physically take you from Kings Cross Station (Universal Studios) to Hogsmeade Station (Islands of Adventure) just like it did for the students in the movies (or books!).  Be sure to ride this attraction in both directions, as you will have a different experience both ways.

The Hogwarts Express pulling into the station

1) Have a butterbeer!

Having a butterbeer seems to be the ultimate Harry Potter fan experience.  There are multiple ways to experience this wonderful delight reminiscent of butterscotch and shortbread.  The classic is a cold butterbeer but it also comes in frozen and hot (in winter only) beverages.  It can also be found in the form of several desserts such as ice cream, fudge, and potted creme. 

A classic cold butterbeer

*) Honorable Mention: Photo Session at Shutterbuttons Studio

Tucked away in Diagon Alley is Shutterbuttons Studio where you can have your own magical photos taken as a great souvenir.  This experience does cost extra but the photos you will have at the end are incredible!  They will help you bring out your inner witch and wizard.

The sign for Shutterbuttons

Adding on Universal Orlando Resort to a Walt Disney World vacation (or doing an entirely separate Universal Orlando trip!) is a great option for all of you Harry Potter fans out there!  However, putting this all together can be a bit overwhelming, but have no fear, we are here to help!  Your Kingdom Konsultant agent is well-versed in Universal Orlando and will be happy to assist you in booking a Universal trip or adding Universal to your Walt Disney World Vacation.  Did you know, we can even book Harry Potter exclusive vacation packages that will give you even more Harry Potter fun (and include the photo session at Shutterbuttons!)!

Ears the News: November 1, 2019 Edition

Welcome to the latest edition of Ears the News

Brought to you by our friends at WDWMagic.com

The McDonald's restaurant near to Disney All Star Resort will be closing for an extensive remodel.

Beginning October 30, 2019, the restaurant will close to begin updates to the location with a planned reopening in 2020.

The Magic Kingdom will be getting an early start to its holiday offerings with special entertainment set to begin on November 3 2019.

Photo courtesy of WDWMagic.com

A Frozen Holiday Wish will begin nightly from November 3 at 6:15pm.

During the daytime, the Holly Jolly Trolley Show will see a return to the Magic Kingdom, and the Holiday Finale returns to Mickey's Royal Friendship Faire.




Disney Villains After Hours will return to the Magic Kingdom for 24 nights in 2020.

Taking place on select nights from February 7 through to July 10, the 2020 season will be 14 nights longer than the debut year for the event in 2019.

Ticket prices have increased from 2019, with advance purchase price of $145 (up from $139), and same day price of $155 (up from $144). Pricing for Passholders and DVC Members is $115.

Minnie's Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks makes its debut next week as part of Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party.

Hosted by Minnie Mouse, Minnie's Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks show will celebrate the magic of Christmas with medleys of beloved holiday songs, from “Joy to the World” and “Deck the Halls” to “Up on the House Top” and “We Wish You A Merry Christmas.”

You'll be able to see the fireworks show during the 23 nights of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party on select nights November 8 – December 22, 2019. See the full schedule and pricing for 2019 Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party.

Video from WDWMagic

Having trouble watching the video? Click here to view on YouTube.

Jingle Cruise, the holiday overlay edition of the Jungle Cruise, opens November 2 for the 2019 Christmas season at the Magic Kingdom.

Debuting in 2013, the Jingle Cruise is back for another year, which sees holiday props, music and script changes added to the traditional Jungle Cruise attraction in Adventureland.

The Imagination! pavilion will soon be home to an all new Mickey Mouse meet and greet location.

You will be able to meet Mickey as part of the Disney & Pixar Short Film Festival, where he will be appearing in a section that is currently the indoor queue space for the movie.

The new meet and greet will open in early 2020, as the existing temporary meet and greet in Innoventions West is demolished.

Minnie Mouse, Goofy and Joy who currently meet in Innoventions alongside Mickey will also be on the move in early 2020, with their new locations still to be announced.

Concept art courtesy of Disney

Annual Passholders attending this year's Epcot International Festival of the Holidays can pickup a complimentary Chip 'n' Dale magnet set.

Available while supplies last from November 29 through December 30, 2019, you can pickup the set of magnets from Mouse Gear with your Annual Pass and Photo ID.

Image courtesy of Disney

Disney has added more dates to its popular Disney After Hours ticketed event and increased the ticket price

Beyond the previously announced dates, Magic Kingdom will now offer Disney After Hours events through to May 25, 2020, and at Disney's Animal Kingdom through to May 26 2020.

All Disney After Hours event tickets now cost $129 + tax for advance purchase and $139 + tax for day-of purchases (up from the previous $125). Disney Vacation Club members and Annual Passholders do receive a discounted price of $99 + tax (previously $95).

The event gives you access to the park for three hours after regular park hours, which means nearly no wait for attractions, and you can enter the park early – at 7pm on your event night – before Disney After Hours begins. Ice cream, popcorn and non-alcoholic beverages are also included in your Disney After Hours admission, which is a separately priced ticket from daytime park admission.

Magic Kingdom Park

• November 18 2019
• December 9 2019
• January 6, 13, 17, 20, 23, 27, 31 2020
• February 3, 10, 17, 24 2020
• March 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 2020
• April 5, 13, 20, 27 2020
• May 5, 11, 18, 25 2020

Disney's Animal Kingdom
Includes the Tree of Life Awakenings, the adventures within Pandora – The World of Avatar and more. Select quick-service food & beverage locations will remain open throughout the night for purchases.

Photo courtesy of WDWMagic.com

• November 5, 13, 19, 2019
• December 7, 14, 18, 2019
• January 9, 16, 22, 30, 2020
• February 6, 13, 19, 27, 2020
• March 5, 12, 19, 26, 2020
• April 1, 7, 14, 22, 2020
• May 2, 9, 16, 26, 2020

Looking to plan your next trip to Walt Disney World? Contact the agents at Kingdom Konsultant Travel to help you plan your dream vacation. Email vacations@kingdomkonsultant.com for a free quote today.

Storybook Dining at Artist Point Dining Review

In late 2018, the signature dining restaurant, Artist Point, known for game meats and a romantic lodge feel, transformed into Storybook Dining at Artist Point. The new dining experience features fairy tale inspired decor and menu items, and includes getting to meet some of your favorite characters from Snow White. Ever since the transformation, this has been a hot ticket item to try to get a reservation for, with some of these characters hard to meet elsewhere.  I was able to snag an early dinner reservation here in July and decided to give it a try.

Walking into the restaurant, it is a completely different feel from what existed here before.  You feel as though you are walking into an enchanted forest and we really liked the vibes. Immediately upon seating, you'll notice the great level of detail that went into designing this area, from the leaf and vine plate towers, to the well worn look of the menu, every little bit felt special. 

These decorative leaves would be used to hold our appetizers and desserts!

The well worn appearing menu

As we were among the first tables sat for the night, we got to see all of the characters be introduced before they started their greetings around the room. Their arrival was really a lovely and special touch so if you get a chance to catch it, make sure you look up from your menu or food when an entrance is announced!

Snow White entering the dining room

Dopey and Grumpy making their way to greet guests

The first course is a selection of appetizers and this is served family style with three plates presented on our leafy centerpiece.  Some of these seemed a bit adventurous to us considering you didn't get to choose and were just served them all.  We did see an adorable kids plate on another table and requested that as well, the little bread was a huge hit with us!  Our favorite of the apps was the mushroom soup.  It was a great little bite and felt right at home with the atmosphere.  The shrimp cocktail was also a hit as it was light and refreshing.  The Hunter's Terrine was a miss for me, just not my cup of tea and don't know a lot of others who are huge fans of this type of dish either.

Wicked Shrimp Cocktail - Soy, Miso, Avocado, Thai Chili, Greens

Hunter's Terrine - Chicken, Black Truffle, Stone Fruit Preserve, House-made Pickles

Mushroom Bisque - Crispy Mushroom

Kids Appetizer: From the Garden - Fruit, Vegetables, Cheese and create-your-own Honey Butter

Next up was our entrees.  Here everyone gets to make their own selection and again everything feels inspired by the theme of the night with fun titles for each entree. We opted to get the prime rib and the gnocchi and both enjoyed our meals. There are basic entrees such as roasted chicken up through adventurous entrees such as a surf and turf with clams, so there should be something to make everyone happy!

Royal Prime Rib Roast - Horseradish-Mashed Potato, Carrots, Popover, Jus

A Stroll through Nature - Asparagus, Leeks, Arugula, Gnocchi, Sage, Parmesan

As our meal progressed, we got visits from Snow White, Dopey and Grumpy.  Snow White was an absolute pleasure to chat with and posed to look princess perfect for photos.  Dopey was adorable as ever and Grumpy was a typical Grump.  The character interaction was some of the best here.

Agent Maci with Snow White

The meal wrapped up with three desserts served family style once again, and this is where we felt the meal really shined.  The attention to detail in these bite-size treats was so fun to eat with our eyes first, and then delicious when we dug in!  The gooseberry pie was familiar yet interesting, the poison apples were almost too pretty to eat, and Dopey's favorite dessert was tasty as could be!

Fairy Tale Gooseberry Pie - Meringue, Gooseberry

'Poison' Apple - Dark Chocolate-Apple Mousse, Sour Center

Miner's Treasures - Sponge Cake, Chocolate Gems, Berry Panna Cotta

As you wrap up your night, you will get an invitation to visit with the Queen.  You'll have to go to her, as she is above traveling around to the tables of peasants like us.  There was a Photopass photographer here for us at this location so that was a nice touch as well.  If you're lucky, you'll even get a gift from the Huntsman at your table to wrap up the meal!

At time of writing, this meal was $55 per adult and we felt for the interesting assortment of food items and the great character interaction it was well worth the price we paid.  Have you eaten here?  Let us know what you think in the comments below!

Ears the News: October 25, 2019 Edition

Welcome to the latest edition of Ears the News

Brought to you by our friends at WDWMagic.com

In a recent update at Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo in Star Wars Galaxy's Edge, the Star Wars inspired menu names have been removed and replaced with simple food titles.

Photo courtesy of WDWmagic.com 

The Braised Shaak Roast has become Beef Pot Roast, Smoked Kaadu Ribs is now Smoked Pork Ribs, and the Roasted Endorian Tip-Yip Salad is now simply a Roasted Chicken Salad. View the full menu at Disneyworld.com for more of the new names.

It isn't clear why the names have been removed, since the original menu had a detailed description of each item and what it contained. However, guest confusion is likely the cause, prompting Disney to make the change.

Warwick Davis and Chita Rivera have been added to the narrator line-up for the 2019 Candlelight Processional.

Photo courtesy of WDWmagic.com 

Here is the line-up so far:

• Ming-Na Wen - 11/29-12/1 
• Neil Patrick Harris – 12/2-12/5 
• Whoopi Goldberg – 12/6-12/7 
• Isabella Rossellini - 12/8-12/10 
• Chita Rivera - 12/11 - 12/12 
• Gary Sinise – 12/13-12/15 
• Pat Sajak – 12/16-12/18 
• Warwick Davis - 12/19-12/21 
• Steven Curtis Chapman – 12/22-12/24 
• Edward James Olmos – 12/25-12/26 
• Marlee Matlin - 12/27-12/28 
• Lisa Ling – 12/29-12/30 

Splash Mountain will be closing for a near two-month refurbishment in early 2020. 

Photo courtesy of WDWmagic.com 

The closure begins on January 6 with a reopening to guests on February 28 2020.

Walt Disney Presents at Disney's Hollywood Studios will soon be showing a special look at the upcoming Frozen 2 movie. The preview begins on November 5, 2019.

Video from Disney Parks.

Having trouble viewing the video? Click here to watch on YouTube.

Disney's Typhoon Lagoon water park will be offering several Halloween activities this year, taking place on October 31, 2019.

Photo courtesy of WDWmagic.com 

Trick or Treating will be available at three candy stops - Typhoon Lagoon’s front entrance, Singapore Sal’s and Safe Harbor. You can also check out pumpkin carvings at Singapore Sal's and decorate your own mini-pumpkin.

Mickey and Donald will be meeting and greeting in Halloween costumes near the Clock Tower.

Special treats will include the I-Scream Cone at Happy Landings Ice Cream - featuring Orange Dole Whip Soft Serve, a sandwich cookie waffle cone, Halloween sprinkles and a white chocolate surfboard.

You can also try fall-inspired menu items including Pumpkin Milkshakes, Pumpkin Cream Churros and Pumpkin Sundaes through November 23, 2019.

The app-based restaurant ordering system, Mobile Order, has been added to more Walt Disney World Resort hotel restaurants.

Photo courtesy of WDWmagic.com 

Recent additions include Capt. Cook's at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, The Artist's Palette at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, Landscape of Flavors at Disney's Art of Animation Resort, the Riverside Mill Food Court at Disney's Port Orleans Resort – Riverside, and Gasparilla Island Grill at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.

Disney now has more than 35 locations setup for Mobile Order throughout the Walt Disney World.

Mobile Order allows you to pay for meals on-the-go within the My Disney Experience app, bypassing the queue to order at the restaurant. Using the app, you can select menu items, customize an order and pre-pay for a meal.

Arriving at the restaurant, you tap an “I’m here” button in the app, which will notify the kitchen to prepare the meal. When ready, you'll be alerted through the app to pick up the meal at a designated window. Credit card payments are accepted via Mobile Order along with the Disney Dining Plan.

Filming for the 2019 ABC Holiday Specials will take place this year November 7, 9 and 10, 2019.

Photo courtesy of WDWmagic.com 

Although subject to change, the schedule is for filming at Disney's Hollywood Studios on November 7, and Magic Kingdom on November 9 and 10.

Following on from the previous year's new format, there will be multiple TV shows, set to air throughout the holiday season, in November and December. Airing dates are still to be announced.

As in recent years, no parade will be filmed at Walt Disney World, but stage show performances including musical acts will be filmed in Florida. The parade will be filmed at Disneyland Resort in California.

Tickets will not be made available to guests, with Cast Members filling in the audience as extras. It may be possible to see parts of the filming from guest areas however.

Circle of Flavors: Harambe at Night debuted at Disney's Animal Kingdom this past summer, and new dates have now been added for this winter.

Photo courtesy of WDWmagic.com 

Dates are available to book online now for December 4, 2019 through to April 15, 2020.

The $125 dining adventure begins with a welcome reception at the Wildlife Express Train Station and takes you to the train station at Rafiki’s Planet Watch, then continues on to Harambe Market. Throughout the night, you’ll take in sights, sounds, and flavors in celebration of “The Lion King” and the Big Five game animals: the African elephant, the rhinoceros, the Cape buffalo, the leopard, and our host animal, the lion. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about the importance of the Big Five and the challenges they face around the world as well as how Disney is working to protect them.

Star Tours – The Adventures Continue will be updated with new destinations inspired by the latest episode of the Star Wars saga at Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Paris and Tokyo Disney Resort.

Photo courtesy of WDWmagic.com 

The new additions will open at Disney's Hollywood Studios alongside the December 20th opening of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.

Ears the News: October 11, 2019 Edition

Welcome to the latest edition of Ears the News

Brought to you by our friends at WDWMagic.com

The Beauty and the Beast inspired Enchanted Rose lounge is now open at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort.

photos courtesy of wdwmagic.com 

Located in the former Mizner's lounge, the Beauty and the Beast inspired Enchanted Rose offers small bites and a range of specialty cocktails. The small plates range in price from $14 for truffle fries up to $95 for caviar.

On the drink menu, specialty cocktails are priced at deluxe resort price points - with a seasonal Old Fashioned costing $25 and Martini's at $17.

Starters

Crab and Gnocchetti Gratin

Jumbo Lump Crab, Gnocchetti Sardi, Robiola Bosina Mornay, Citrus Breadcrumbs

$16.00

Artisanal Cheese Selection

Artisanal Cheeses, Pine Nut Bread, Raisins on the Vine

$19.00

Espelette Pepper-spiced Shrimp

Lime Gelée, Piquillo Pepper Purée, Serrano Ham

$19.00

House-made Flatbread

Charred Broccolini, Seasonal Mushrooms, Fennel Sausage, Ricotta Salata, Tomato Confit

$18.00

Truffle Fries

Shaved Black Truffles and 18-Month Aged Parmesan

$14.00

Octopus à la Plancha

Black Olives, Blistered Tomatoes, Fingerling Potatoes

$18.00

Mini Smoked Short-Rib Sliders

Glacier Blue Cheese and Onion Marmalade on Split-top Buns

$16.00

White Sturgeon Caviar

Egg Timbale, Crème Fraîche, Chives

$95.00

Featured Cocktails

Tableside Cocktail - Amour (Love)

Grey Goose Vodka, Pavan Liqueur de France, Pear, Lemon, Twinings of London® Camomile Tea, Agave, Rose Petal

$21.00

Tableside Cocktail - Envie (Envy)

Busnel Calvados de Pays d’Auge, Green Chartreuse, Green Apple Purée, Angostura Bitters, Apple Chip

$21.00

Island Rose

Ketel One Grapefruit and Rose, Lime, Orgeat (Almond), Pineapple, Bitters, and Rose Water

$15.00

Floral Bitter Beauty

Hendrick’s Gin, St~Germain Elderflower Liqueur, Campari, Aperol, Lemon, and Soda

$16.00

Lavender Fog

Nolet’s Silver Dry Gin, Rothman Crème de Violette, English Breakfast Tea, Vanilla, and Cream

$18.00

Garden Daisy

Don Julio Reposado Tequila, Midori, Lime, and Cucumber

$19.00

Sunny Margarita

Patrón Silver Tequila, Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge, Juices of Orange and Lime, and Agave

$19.00

Rye Not?

Whistle Pig 10yr Rye Whiskey, Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge, Cinnamon, Pineapple, and Lemon

$24.00

Seasonal Old Fashioned

Widow Jane 10yr Straight Bourbon Whiskey, House-made Seasonal Syrup, and Bitters

$25.00

Grand Cocktails

Berkshire Pork Belly

Whistle Pig 10yr Straight Rye Whiskey, Carpano Antica Formula Sweet Vermouth, Angostura Bitters, and Orange Bitters

$25.00

Old Fashioned

Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Orange, Sugar in the Raw, and Angostura Bitters

$20.00

Side Car

Remy Martin VSOP Cognac, Cointreau, Lemon, and Agave

$22.00

Salty Dog

Grey Goose Vodka, Grapefruit, and Salt

$18.00

Mojito

Diplomático Planas Extra Añejo Blanco Rum, Mint, Agave, and Soda

$15.00

Negroni

Tanqueray N° Ten Gin, Campari, and Carpano Antica Formula Sweet Vermouth

$15.00

Kir

Trimbach Riesling and Chambord

$15.00

The French 75

Veuve Clicqout Yellow Label Brut Champagne, Hendrick’s Gin, Lemon, and Agave

$20.00 Per Bottle

Kir Royale

Veuve Clicqout Yellow Label Brut Champagne and Chambord Caviar Pearls

$27.00

Featured Martinis

Classic

Choice of Beluga Allure Vodka or Nolet's Silver Dry Gin with Dolin Dry Vermouth de Chambéry and House-made Blue Cheese-stuffed Olives

$17.0

Grand Cosmopolitan

Grey Goose Vodka, Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge, and Juices of Cranberry and Lime

$17.00

Gibson

Nolet’s Silver Dry Gin, Dolin Dry Vermouth de Chambéry, and House-made Cocktail Onions

$17.00

French Rose

g’Vine Floraison Gin, Apricot Brandy, Dolin Dry Vermouth de Chambéry, Lemon, and Grenadine

$15.00

Aura in Me

Nolet’s Silver Dry Gin, St~Germain Elderflower Liqueur, Honey, Pink Peppercorn, Cardamom, and Lemon (contains pasteurized egg whites)

$14.00

Espresso Martini

Stoli Vanil Vodka, Espresso, Crème de Cacao

$14.00

Beer and Hard Cider

Bud Light Lager - St. Louis, MO

$7.50

Cigar City Florida Cracker White Ale - Tampa, FL

$9.25

3 Daughters Bimini Twist IPA – St. Petersburg, FL

$9.25

Samuel Adams Seasonal – Boston, MA

$9.25

Stella Artois – Belgium

$9.25

Kona Longboard Island Lager – Kona, HI

$9.00

Schöfferhofer Pomegranate Hefeweizen – Germany

$9.25

St. Bernardus ABT 12 Abbey Ale – Belgium

$11.50

Sierra Nevada Pale Ale – Chico, CA

$9.00

Dogfish Head 90 Minute Imperial IPA – Milton, DE

$9.00

Left Hand Milk Stout – Longmont, CO

$9.00

Angry Orchard Rosé Hard Cider – Cincinnati, OH

$8.75

Wine

Veuve Clicqout Yellow Label Brut, Champagne, France

$89.00 Per Bottle

Veuve Clicqout Yellow Label Brut, Champagne, France

$130.00 Per Glass

Laurent Perrier Cuvée Brut Rosé, Champagne, France

$30.00 Per Glass

Laurent Perrier Cuvée Brut Rosé, Champagne, France

$140.00 Per Bottle

Trimbach Riesling, Alsace, France

$12.00 Per Glass

Trimbach Riesling, Alsace, France

$49.00 Per Bottle

Selbach-Oster Riesling Kabinett, Mosel, Germany

$16.00 Per Glass

Selbach-Oster Riesling Kabinett, Mosel, Germany

$65.00 Per Bottle

Jermann Pinot Grigio, Friuli, Italy

$12.00 Per Glass

Jermann Pinot Grigio, Friuli, Italy

$49.00 Per Bottle

Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand

$15.00 Per Glass

Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand

$59.00 Per Bottle

Silverado Chardonnay, Carneros

$16.00 Per Glass

Silverado Chardonnay, Carneros

$65.00 Per Bottle

Rombauer Chardonnay, Sonoma

$20.00 Per Glass

Rombauer Chardonnay, Sonoma

$79.00 Per Bottle

Enchantée by Gérard Bertrand Rosé, Provence, France

$12.00 Per Glass

Enchantée by Gérard Bertrand Rosé, Provence, France

$49.00 Per Bottle

CrossBarn by Paul Hobbs Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast

$15.00 Per Glass

CrossBarn by Paul Hobbs Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast

$59.00 Per Bottle

Penner-Ash Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley

$18.00 Per Glass

Penner-Ash Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley

$75.00 Per Bottle

Duckhorn Merlot, Napa Valley

$25.00 Per Glass

Duckhorn Merlot, Napa Valley

$110.00 Per Bottle

Tikal All Natural Malbec and Syrah, Mendoza, Argentina

$15.00 Per Glass

Tikal All Natural Malbec and Syrah, Mendoza, Argentina

$59.00 Per Bottle

Chappellet Mountain Cuvée Bordeaux Blend, Napa Valley

$17.00 Per Glass

Chappellet Mountain Cuvée Bordeaux Blend, Napa Valley

$69.00 Per Bottle

Emblem by Michael Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

$18.00 Per Glass

Emblem by Michael Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley

$75.00 Per Bottle

Non-Alcoholic Beverages

Garden Spritzer

Seedlip Garden 108 Herbal Distilled Non-alcoholic Spirit, Lime, Agave, and Soda

$13.00

B&B

Fresh Brewed Twinings of London® Iced Tea, Lemon, Blueberry, and Basil

$7.00

Rosemary Cooler

Odwalla® Lemonade, Vanilla, and Rosemary

$7.00

Featuring Freshly Brewed Joffrey’s Coffee™

Cappuccino

$4.79

Caffè Latte

$4.79

Double Espresso

$3.99

Press Pot (serves one or two)

Hot Tea

Featuring Twinings of London® Large Leaf Discovery Collection

$3.99

Disney's Animal Kingdom will be showing off all new holiday decor and entertainment this year, and Disney has today shared a video from inside the Holiday Services department where the new decorations are being created.

photo courtesy of wdwmagic.com

Video for the Disney Parks Blog:  

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ij3SzBo-R2g

There will also be a Holiday edition of the Tree of Life Awakening. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G5lSmSZyTzw

Walt Disney World's new gondola transportation system, Disney Skyliner, remains closed following an incident late Saturday night at the Riviera station.

photos courtesy of wdwmagic.com

No word has been given on when it will re-open.

The $50 Winter 2019 Tasting Sampler is now on sale at Disney's Animal Kingdom.

photo courtesy of wdwmagic.com

Included with the purchase are two digital value cards: one $50 card that can be used at over 40 outdoor food and beverage locations throughout the park (and does not expire), and a bonus $10 card that can be used at the following quick-service restaurants after 4pm from December 22, 2019 through January 4, 2020: Restaurantosaurus (DinoLand U.S.A), Pizzafari and Pizzafari Family-Style Dining (Discovery Island), Flame Tree Barbecue (Discovery Island), and Satu’li Canteen (Pandora – The World of Avatar).

In addition, with each $50 card purchased, you will receive two (2) reserved seats for the second showing of Rivers of Light: We are One (which must be redeemed between December 22, 2019 and January 4, 2020).

You can buy the Tasting Sample online now at https://wdgiftcards.disney.com/Campaign/DAKDINEBONUS/

Two new kiosks opened last week as part of the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival.

photos courtesy of wdwmagic.com

The Donut Hole offers Sweet Corn Fritters with Fresno and red pepper jelly as well as Strawberry-dusted Yeast Donut Holes. Beverages include a Strawberry Smoothie (garnished with a donut hole) and a Black and White Coffee Cocktail garnished with a fresh yeast donut with chocolate espresso bean crumbles, plus a Central 28 Beer Company Boston Cream Donut Ale.

Next door at Cool Wash, you can create your own custom slushy blend from six frozen carbonated beverages. Choose from Coke, Fanta Cherry, Fanta Orange, Fanta Banana, Fanta Watermelon and Blue Raspberry. You can then top your slushy with candy pebbles, popping pearls, jelly drops, or popping candy. There is also a Coca-Cola Orange Vanilla with gin in a souvenir cup.

Both The Donut Box and Cool Wash are located in Future World near to Test Track and will be open through the remainder of the festival which continues until November 23 2019.

Beginning October 18 2019, The Animation Experience at Conservation Station will begin offering tutorials for Disney Villains.

photos courtesy of wdwmagic.com

Characters in the rotation will include Scar and Ed from Disney’s “The Lion King,” Bruce from “Finding Nemo” and Hopper from “A Bug’s Life”; ShereKhan from “The Jungle Book” and Tic Toc from “Peter Pan.”