Try our Toffee Gourmet Treats this July at the Disneyland Resort

Let the countdown begin! If you have been waiting for the chance to try our toffee gourmet treats, you're going to love the month of July at our Disneyland Resort candy kitchen locations.

Starting July 1, they'll be offering a tantalizing and tart apple covered in creamy caramel, dipped in sweet milk chocolate and topped with crunchy toffee pieces, roasted almonds and chocolate drizzle. Our candy makers didn't stop there – many of the toffee ingredients used for the apples can also be found on a marshmallow wand and crispy treat.

Look for these delicious treats and more at Candy Palace on Main Street, U.S.A. and Hunny Spot in Critter Country at Disneyland park, Trolley Treats on Buena Vista Street in Disney California Adventure park and Marceline's Confectionery in the Downtown Disney District.

Keep in mind, these treats will only be available from July 1-31, or while supplies last. Don't miss out!

Which treat has your name on it?

How to Celebrate Fourth of July at Walt Disney World Resort

The Fourth of July is fast-approaching, which means family, picnics and of course fireworks! I can't think of a better place to celebrate it this year than at Walt Disney World Resort.

Here are some ways you can celebrate at our parks:

• Magic Kingdom Park – "Disney's Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky" will illuminate the park two nights in a row, at 9 p.m. on both July 3 and 4.
• Epcot – On July 4 only, guests can expect to see a special patriotic finale added to that evening's "IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth," which blasts off at 10 p.m.
• Disney's Hollywood Studios – Catch the brand new "Star Wars – A Galactic Spectacular" fireworks show in its inaugural year at 9:30 p.m.

Of course with so much fun in store – not to mention the recently opened Frozen Ever After, Soarin' Around the World, Mickey's Friendship Faire and new nighttime experiences at Disney's Animal Kingdom – making FastPass+ and dining reservations as soon as possible is recommended.

VIDEO – Tour the New Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique Location at Disney Springs Marketplace

The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique at Disney Springs has moved to a new location near Once Upon A Toy. I recently met my fellow Disney Parks Blog author Darcy Clark at the location for a tour of the new space.

This year, the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique at Disney Springs celebrates 10 years. The original location inside World of Disney was the first enchanted beauty salon at Disney Parks. The newly expanded salon near Once Upon a Toy is five times larger than the original location.

Inspired by the Walt Disney's "Cinderella," the expanded salon has a country home-inspired feel that complements the story of Disney Springs. Essentially, this location is the place for princesses and knights to prepare for the royal ball.

At this location, Fairy Godmothers-in-Training will continue making magical transformations for guests ages 3 to 12. Girls can choose a hairstyle then add make-up, nail color and accessories—even a Disney princess costume. Boys can join in the fun too, as they're transformed into gallant knights.

There are new interactive elements, décor and artwork found throughout the Boutique. The tile mural of Cinderella Castle just inside the Salon is gorgeous!

In fall 2016, we will introduce the Disney Princess Signature Collection at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique as shown in the image above. Look for additional details on the Disney Parks Blog in the coming months about this elegant new collection.

The photo above was captured in the Carriage Room, a uniquely designed photo opportunity inside the new Disney Springs location where guests can use Disney PhotoPass. All Disney PhotoPass photos taken at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique are included with the purchase of Memory Maker if captured during the applicable Memory Maker window.

Reservations for the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique are highly recommended. Appointments can be made up to 180 days in advance by calling (407) WDW-STYLE (407-939-7895). You can also visit http://ift.tt/29bOpdp for more information about this experience.

Ring in 2017 at the New ‘Disney Countdown to Midnight’ New Year’s Eve Celebration

Are you already starting to plan out your Walt Disney World Resort vacation for the holiday season? Earlier today, we shared the first update on "The Candlelight Processional," a must-do for many guests during the holiday season. Now, let's talk New Year's Eve.

Of course, Walt Disney World Resort theme parks are great options for fireworks and family fun on New Year's Eve. If you're more of a partygoer, you may wish to consider the "Disney Countdown to Midnight – A New Year's Eve Celebration" at Disney's Contemporary Resort.

This ticketed event will take place December 31, 2016, beginning at 8 p.m. at the hotel's Convention Center. There, guests can ring in 2017 in the Fantasia Ballroom by dancing to music spanning from the '60s to today, and trying "best-of-the-best" bites and wine pairings from California Grill, Flying Fish, Cítricos and Narcoossee's. Guests can also enjoy the group Alter Ego as they perform their extravagant music- and dance-filled revue, then stroll outside to catch a unique musical act playing songs of today with a retro twist. The event will be highlighted with Magic Kingdom Park fireworks viewing and a champagne toast. There will also be themed photo backdrops and props to help you capture the memories of the evening and receive a souvenir to commemorate the night. Plus complimentary transportation will be provided for select Walt Disney World Resort hotels.

Tickets for this special evening are extremely limited. Guests with a resort reservation can purchase tickets starting today. Reservations will open to all guests on July 4. To purchase or for more information, visit DisneyWorld.com or call 407-939-3463.

Adventure Awaits with New Disney PinQuest Coming to Magic Kingdom Park on June 30

I'm excited to announce a new Disney pin trading scavenger hunt is coming to Magic Kingdom Park on June 30. Featuring Steampunk-inspired artwork, this Disney PinQuest reminds me of pin pursuits from the mid-2000s at Walt Disney World Resort. At that time, I was serving as Project Manager for Disney Pin Trading and the pursuits were a fun activity for guests of all ages. I recently caught up with Jeanne Lewis, merchandiser for Disney pins, to learn why this new PinQuest was created.

"We're excited to introduce a pin trading-themed scavenger hunt this summer," Jeanne says. "For years, guests have told us how much they enjoyed pin pursuits once offered at Disney Parks. We applied their feedback and lessons we learned from other recent scavenger hunts to create this new activity. Ultimately, we wanted something that the whole family could enjoy during a summertime visit to Magic Kingdom Park."

The first step for this PinQuest is to purchase an adventure kit which contains a lanyard to showcase your pins; a decoder medal for use with PinQuest pins; and a lanyard pouch to hold the map included in the adventure kit. The lanyard pouch also holds PinQuest clue cards which are sold separately.

There are six different PinQuest clue cards. Each clue card has a question that needs answered and shared with a NavigatEAR Cast Member in a particular location. Once solved, you can redeem the clue card for a PinQuest pin using the perforated ticket on the bottom of the clue card.

Continue the hunt by using the decoder medal from the adventure kit. Line up the arrows for each pin to determine your next destination within Magic Kingdom Park.

After purchasing all six clue cards and receiving stamps and pins from each location, guests should return to either Frontier Trading Post in Frontierland or Curtain Call Collectibles on Main Street, U.S.A. At those designated locations, guests who have completed the entire Magic Kingdom PinQuest are eligible to purchase a QuestEAR pin completer pin (shown above).

All items for this PinQuest are available while supplies last. These items will not be sold online or via the Shop Disney Parks mobile app. You'll need separate admission to Magic Kingdom Park in order to participate.

Good luck and happy trading, QuestEARs!

Disney Parks Best Bites – June 2016

It's hard to believe another month has gone by, and summer is officially here! What's new in food and beverage at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort? Keep reading to find out!

At Disney Springs, new menu items debut at Jock Lindsay's Hangar Bar this week. Look for adventurous new bites such as: Sallah's Falafel, sweet potato falafel served with Romesco sauce, pickled vegetables, Swiss chard, herbed yogurt-cheese and grilled naan bread; Temple Tenderloin, sliced beef tenderloin stacked high on a toasted baguette with Swiss cheese, tomato, arugula, and radish slaw; and Tanis Tuna Tacos, seared Ahi tuna in a tortilla shell with lettuce, guacamole, sour cream pico de gallo, cilantro, jalapeño and a toasted lime.

To celebrate the opening of Soarin' Around the World at Epcot, Sunshine Seasons at The Land Pavilion developed a tasty Soarin'-themed dessert. The vanilla panna cotta pyramid with orange gelée will have your taste buds ready for takeoff!

Cruise over to Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel, where baby back ribs and tri-tip beef are back by popular demand on the buffet at Disney's PCH Grill. Available at dinner, these items are back just for summer, so make your reservation today!

Adults can enjoy new flavors of kakigōri (shaved ice) at Kabuki Café in the Japan Pavilion at Epcot. The new Sake Mist version of the popular treat is available in Chocolate Cherry, Blood Orange and Coffee. If you are visiting Epcot on July 7, be sure to stop by and check out celebration taking place throughout the Japan Pavilion for the Tanabata Festival!

Want to enjoy prime viewing of Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular fireworks show while enjoying out-of-this world sweets? This is the dessert party you're looking for! Reservations are now available for the Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular Dessert Party at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Learn more by clicking here.

If you find yourself looking for some tasty new treats while Jammin' on the Backlot at Disney California Adventure park, look no further! At Studio Catering Truck, look for Chili Cheese "Ta-chos" and Vegetarian Chili with jalapeños. Treat your taste buds to a symphony of flavors at Stage 1, where you'll find specialty drinks, Mickey-shaped pretzels, "Wrap"sody in Bacon BBQ bacon-wrapped hot dogs and "Corn"certo on the Cob chili lime elote.

From June 26 and September 1, Walt Disney World Resort guests may purchase a souvenir refillable popcorn bucket for $10, with refills of hot, fresh Pop Secret popcorn available throughout the day for $1.50 each. This offering is available in Walt Disney World Resort theme parks, water parks, Disney Springs and ESPN Wide World of Sports. Restrictions may apply.

If you're celebrating Independence Day at Walt Disney World Resort, look for specialty themed sweets on July 4 at BoardWalk Bakery at Disney's BoardWalk, Contempo Café at Disney's Contemporary Resort, Creature Comforts at Disney's Animal Kingdom and Main Street Bakery at Magic Kingdom Park.

More Retail Locations Will Open Soon at Disney Springs

It's an exciting time at Disney Springs, as more new additions are being added in the coming days and throughout the summer.

Today, I'm happy to share that another high-profile brand will join the world-class retail lineup in Town Center: Levi's. Opening later this summer, the Levi's Store will offer denim for the entire family – yes, kids can get jeans here, too! And for anyone who wants to have their clothing tailored, the Tailor Shop at the front of the store will allow shoppers to get their favorite shorts, T-shirts, truckers and accessories personalized by a team of craftsmen. (This offering is exclusive to just a handful of Levi's locations worldwide, so I'm extra excited that it's coming to Disney Springs!)

Don't want to wait for more new shopping? You don't have to. Opening soon in Town Center are Superdry, Sugarboo & Co., Shore, Columbia Sportswear and Coca-Cola Store Orlando, all joining the most recent additions that include LACOSTE, Free People and JOHNNY WAS.

Superdry, a cool British brand, offers high-quality wardrobe staples like jackets, knits, leather goods and leisurewear at affordable prices. Sugarboo & Co., "dealer in whimsy" and carrying "fine quality art and fanciful goods" – which roughly translates to "uplifting art, whimsical paper products and charming home goods that I want to decorate my condo with." (At least I think that's what it means.) Shore, known for its made-in-America apparel and eclectic branded lifestyle merchandise mix, is opening its second-ever store – the first is based in Sarasota, FL – with plans to offer some limited-edition products available only at Disney Springs. Columbia Sportswear, a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, features rugged and stylish apparel, footwear and equipment that's "tested tough." Coca-Cola Store Orlando, a completely immersive retail destination, allows guest to experience the world most iconic beverage brand in a building modeled after a 1920s bottling plant. (As a native of Atlanta, GA, this is where I'll be buying my Coca-Cola merchandise and savoring Coke-based adult beverages from the rooftop beverage bar. I can't wait.)

Of course, all of this shopping requires fuel, so if you want to try the newest restaurant, you'll be thrilled to learn that Frontera Cocina by celebrity chef Rick Bayless is now open. I had the chance to try it over the weekend, and given my love of Mexican food, I was in my element. Keep an eye on the Disney Parks Blog for more info on this incredible food and beverage destination, and when you do visit, try the Verde Guacamole (trust me on this!).

I hope to see you soon at Disney Springs – with summer sales happening now, this week is the perfect time to visit. What's at the top of your summer shopping list?

Welcome to Our World! What is Candlelight Processional?

Are you new to Walt Disney World Resort vacation planning? Then our "Welcome to Our World!" series may be just what you're looking for. Each week different Disney Parks Blog authors will be sharing introductory blog posts on certain aspects of vacation planning or spotlight an event that you may want to consider adding to your upcoming trip.

This week, we're taking a look at the Candlelight Processional at Epcot.

The Candlelight Processional is one of the most anticipated holiday offerings that many Walt Disney World Resort guests look forward to – and return for again and again – each year. The show takes place at the America Gardens Theatre at Epcot and features a celebrity narrator retelling the traditional Christmas story, as well as live music from a 50-piece orchestra and mass choir. Each year the list of celebrity narrators varies and is usually announced during summer, with more narrators added as the season gets close. The live music in the show is delightful, with the show featuring both recognizable Christmas carols and a handful of international holiday songs. The show is included in Epcot admission and takes place three times nightly, usually running from late November to late December (this year's dates are November 25 – December 30, 2016).

Because the Candlelight Processional is so popular, many guests choose to book a dining package which includes a meal at a restaurant and priority seating at one performance of the show. Guests who want to attend the show only can do so by joining the standby line, however due to the popularity of the show, very early arrival is recommended.

For the latest on Walt Disney World Resort holiday offerings at all of our parks, visit the official holiday page here.

2016 Candlelight Processional at Epcot Dining Packages On Sale Today

Call it a Christmas present come early! We are excited to announce that dining packages for 2016 Candlelight Processional are now on sale.

As a part of Holidays Around the World at Epcot, the Candlelight Processional presents the story of Christmas in truly spectacular fashion – with a celebrity narrator, a 50-piece orchestra and a mass choir.

Regular readers of the Disney Parks Blog know that the Candlelight Processional is one of my favorite events of the year. It's a holiday tradition for my family dating back before I came to work for Disney sixteen years ago.

Celebrity narrators this year include some returning favorites like contemporary Christian music singer Steven Curtis Chapman, actors Whoopi Goldberg and Neil Patrick Harris and newcomers like legendary baseball player Cal Ripken, Jr. Here's the list of confirmations we have so far:*

• 11/25-27 – Steven Curtis Chapman
• 11/28-12/1 – Neil Patrick Harris
• 12/2-12/3 – Whoopi Goldberg
• 12/4-12/12 – TBA
• 12/13-12/15 – Meredith Vieira
• 12/16-12/18 – TBA
• 12/19-12/21 – Joe Morton
• 12/22-12/27 – TBA
• 12/28-12/30 – Cal Ripken, Jr.

The processional is performed three times per night (5:00, 6:45 and 8:15 p.m.) during the holiday season at the American Gardens Theatre. These packages, available on select nights, include a delicious meal and a guaranteed seat for one of the Candlelight Processional performances. Availability is limited.

This year, in addition to lunch and dinner packages, breakfast options are available at some favorite Epcot restaurants like Akershus Royal Banquet Hall and Garden Grill. Breakfast, lunch and dinner options are also available this year at Captain's Grille at Disney's Yacht Club Resort and Trattoria Al Forno at Disney's BoardWalk.

Candlelight Dining Packages for breakfast start at $27 plus tax per person for adults and $14 plus tax per person for children, ages 3-9. Candlelight Dining Packages for lunch and dinner start at $47 plus tax per person for adults and $20 plus tax per person for children, ages 3-9.

'Holidays Around the World' is an extravaganza of holiday entertainment, merchandise, food, beverages and festivities where guests can celebrate at Epcot throughout the holiday season. Time-honored traditions come alive through the sights and sounds of the countries of World Showcase; and live musical performances enliven the park throughout the day.

Click here to book Candlelight Processional dining packages or to find out more information, call
407/ WDW-DINE (407-939-3463).

Holidays Around the World, including the Candlelight Processional, run Nov. 25 – Dec. 30, 2016 at Epcot. Keep checking the Disney Parks Blog for updates.

*Narrators and entertainment are subject to change without notice. Theme park admission is required. There is no 5 p.m. show on 12/4.

Celebrate the Opening of Shanghai Disneyland With Our Latest Wallpaper

It's incredible to think that half way around the world a new member of the Disney Parks family is welcoming its first official guests. Shanghai Disneyland Resort is open!

I feel a special connection to this park. I am Chinese by ancestry and I've always dreamed of seeing the land of my heritage. Well, dreams do come true … I got to visit China a couple summers ago. It is an amazing and intricate place with centuries of history standing next to the most modern of structures.

Can you picture the wonder and excitement of walking into a brand new Disney park? Riding the newest of new attractions? Being the first to find all of the hidden Mickey's?!

Our designer, Brittany Ungvarsky, has tried to capture that wonder in this new wallpaper commemorating this auspicious opening. A combination of Disney magic and ancient Chinese culture.

Xièxiè! (Thank you!)

Be sure to check out the terms of use about using the wallpaper before you download it. Want to check out other designs? Visit our complete gallery of wallpapers here.

Wildlife Wednesday: Disney is Helping ‘Reverse the Decline’ of Sea Turtles

Earlier this month, people around the globe recognized World Sea Turtle Day, and I would venture to guess that the most famous of sea turtles – if you're a Disney fan – is Crush, the turtle with a laid-back surfer attitude who appeared in "Finding Nemo" and returns in "Finding Dory."

Sea turtles in the wild might not be quite as chilled-out as Crush, as their lives are becoming more and more challenging. After inhabiting the Earth for millions of years, sea turtles have become endangered only the last 100 years or so.

This is one of the reasons the Disney Conservation Fund and Disney's Animals, Science and Environment have joined the Archie Carr Center for Sea Turtle Research at the University of Florida to "Reverse the Decline" of these magnificent animals.

Only one in about 1,000 sea turtle hatchlings reach adulthood. During their rush to the ocean, sea turtle hatchlings face many challenges, including predators like birds, raccoons and crabs. Sand castles, beach furniture and litter can block their path to the ocean, and lights from buildings can lead them off course.

And that's just minutes after they've hatched! If they're lucky, and our efforts are successful, sea turtles will enjoy long, happy lives.

By conducting research on the shores at Disney's Vero Beach Resort each year, our Disney conservation team is learning more about the habits of these turtles. Through the Disney Conservation Fund's support for the "Reverse the Decline" initiative, we are also helping nonprofit organizations increase public awareness, develop conservation strategies, monitor populations, and restore marine habitat and beach-nesting areas.

You can help, too, by taking action:

• When you choose sustainable-seafood options, you support fishing practices that are safer for sea turtles and that encourage positive change to fishery practices.
• If you live or vacation near a beach, make sure your lights don't shine on the beach.
• Trash at sea is very harmful to sea turtles. Young sea turtles commonly mistake bits of plastic as their food. Plastic bags are especially harmful because they are similar in form and color to a favorite sea turtle food—jellyfish. Ropes, lines and other synthetic debris can entangle sea turtles, causing severe injuries.
• Even if you don't live near a waterway, understand that all storm drains lead to one, so you can help protect sea turtles no matter where you live by putting trash in its proper place.
• Recycle! When you recycle, your trash will have a second life, which means fewer resources are used to make new products. You can also reduce waste by choosing reusable items instead of disposable items.

Every Role a Starring Role – Disneyland Resort Red Car Trolley Conductor

Ding! Ding! All aboard for this "Every Role a Starring Role" featuring Travis Dean, a Red Car Trolley conductor at Disney California Adventure park. For four years now, the Red Car Trolleys have taken guests on a scenic ride from Buena Vista Street to Hollywood Land, inspired by the historic Pacific Electric Railway.

Travis' responsibilities include initiating a trolley's movement, switching the cabling of a trolley to change directions and providing detailed information to guests about the sights and sounds of the surrounding area. Travis also communicates with cast members aboard the other trolley.
In this video, Travis tells us more about his role and these retro and leisurely trolleys, similar to the ones Roy and Walt Disney may have experienced when they first arrived in Los Angeles!

Frontera Cocina by Chef Rick Bayless Now Open at Disney Springs

The newest dining experience to join the lineup at Disney Springs just opened – Frontera Cocina, featuring exciting flavors and a contemporary Mexican experience developed by renowned chef Rick Bayless.

Chef Bayless offers his award-winning taste of dishes such as Oaxacan Red Chile Chicken, Salsa Verde Shrimp Enchiladas Suizas and freshly made salsas and guacamole. There's also a quick-service taco counter.

The lively new dining spot features warm colors and an open kitchen where Executive Chef Stephen Hicks leads the culinary team.

Chef Bayless created his Frontera franchise in Chicago in 1981. His other notable restaurants include Xoco, Frontera Grill, Toplobampo, Leña Brava and Cruz Blanca. He may be best known for winning the title of Bravo TV's "Top Chef Masters," but his national Public Television Series, "Mexico–One Plate at a Time," is in its 10th season. He's won multiple awards from the James Beard Foundation, including the foundation's highest award, Outstanding Restaurant, for Frontera Grill in 2007. He also won two for his cookbooks, Midwest Chef of the Year, National Chef of the Year, Humanitarian of the Year and Who's Who of Food and Beverage in America.

Frontera Cocina is a welcome addition to the diverse dining lineup at Disney Springs!

July Merchandise Showcases at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa

If you're visiting Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, during the month of July and you love to shop, you're in luck! For the past several months, we've been hosting trunk shows and pop-up shops featuring several Hawaii-based companies – and the month of July will bring you even more, with something happening every weekend in the Na Haku Pavilion, across from Kalepa's Store!

July 1-3: Representatives from Maui Divers will be on hand to help you "Pick A Pearl." What does that mean, exactly? First, you select an oyster, then – the magic moment – the oyster is opened right in front of you and a luminescent jewel emerges! Take it home with you as is, or create your own style with a selection of pearl mountings recommended by Maui Diver representatives. Take part in this special showcase from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. each day.

July 16: Taste freshly baked premium shortbread cookies that are hand-dipped in chocolate, made by Honolulu Cookie Company. Meet representatives and take part in a special dipping event from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

July 22-23: Look for an appearance by Jeff Granito, a featured Disney artist who will be on hand for a special artist showcase and signing of some of his latest pieces, among other fan favorites, on Friday, July 22, from 3 to 7 p.m., and Saturday, July 23, from 9 a.m. to noon.

July 29-30: Meet representatives from Kahulale'a who will be on hand to share stories of how they fashion vintage Hawaiian wear into modern day accessories. The timeless designs, as well as the look and feel of the fabric, will remind you of special moments you've treasured over the years and inspire you to create new stories with your own Kahulale'a accessories. Find the look that suits you best on Friday, July 29, from 3 to 7 p.m., and Saturday, July 30, from 9 a.m. to noon.

Will you have you a chance to check out any of these exciting artisans?

Discover Shanghai Disneyland: Adventure Isle

Our tour of Shanghai Disneyland continues today as we brave the wild jungles of Adventure Isle! Excitement awaits guests in this new land, exclusive to Shanghai Disneyland. At its center is Roaring Mountain, which legends says echoes with the roars of a mysterious reptilian creature just waiting to be discovered.

At the base of Roaring Mountain, guests are invited to prove themselves as true adventurers and blaze their own trails at Camp Discovery. They may choose to travel across time and space in Soaring Over the Horizon, or embark on the thrilling rafting adventure Roaring Rapids, straight through the heart of Adventure Isle.

Also found in Adventure Isle, "Tarzan: Call of the Jungle" is an original production performed in Mandarin. It's a high-energy, musical retelling of the classic story and features the iconic score from the animated Disney feature film, "Tarzan," with a fusion of theatrics and Chinese acrobatics.

Ready for more adventure? Check back soon as we continue our Shanghai Disneyland tour with Treasure Cove!

Celebrating 101 Instagram Followers With A Dalmatian Disney Doodle

Today we celebrated a special milestone on our Disney Parks Blog Instagram account – 101,000 followers!

We celebrated the moment there by sharing a special Disney Doodle that focuses on, who else but the 101 dalmatians. No doubt if these pups ever left their "dalmatian plantation," they'd stick together as a pack when visiting Magic Kingdom Park.

Celebrate the Fourth of July with Special Entertainment at the Disneyland Resort, in the Community

If you are celebrating Independence Day at the Disneyland Resort, don't miss out on special, all-American entertainment including the patriotic performances of the United States 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing Band from Miramar, California.

Disneyland park – Following the "Disneyland Forever" fireworks spectacular at 9:30 p.m. will be a patriotic, pyrotechnic grand finale. And, be sure to catch the United States 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing Band earlier in the day at the following times and locations:

• 4:00 p.m. – Flag Retreat Ceremony in Town Square
• 4:20 p.m. – Pre-parade, immediately following the Flag Retreat Ceremony
• 7:00 p.m. – Fourth of July Concert at Fantasyland Theater

Disney California Adventure park – A Fourth of July-themed pyrotechnic water display will be featured before the 9:00 p.m. and 10:15 p.m. showings of "World of Color."

Downtown Disney District – The breakout rock band of the United States 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing Band will perform on the Downtown Disney District main stage at 11:30 a.m.

In the local community, Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and other Disney friends will participate in the Huntington Beach Fourth of July parade, also broadcast live locally on KABC. And, in Anaheim, more Disney characters will take part in their local parade.

Style Happens Here – Summertime Hats at Disney Parks

As summertime returns, I'm continuing my series of articles about stylish accessories found at Disney Parks. Living in Florida since 1998, I've learned that a hat is an essential summer item. The great news is there are many choices available! Here is a look at some of my favorite designs you may see during your next visit to Disney Parks.

The headware team at Disney Parks Merchandise told me we have hundreds of hats available (the Shop Disney Parks app currently lists more than 580 caps, headbands or ear hats). One of the best places to find those many options is the newly expanded World of Disney in Disney Springs Marketplace. The team wasn't kidding as I found many hats for women, men and kids while wandering throughout the entire shop.

Some of my favorite hats are from the recent Twenty Eight & Main men's collection, which give nods to classic Disney Parks attractions like Mr. Toad's Wild Ride or 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea.

While I spotted many baseball caps, I also found a handful of visors.

For those guests who love anything from a galaxy far, far away, we have several Star Wars-themed hats. Look for hats inspired by characters such as Boba Fett, R2-D2 and others.

For younger guests, we have Disney character hats featuring Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy.

After visiting World of Disney, I stopped by Tren-D in Disney Springs Marketplace where I found several stylish options for women.

Finally, I made my way over to Disney's Animal Kingdom to enjoy a sunset ride on Kilimanjaro Safaris. The nearby Mombasa Marketplace had a variety of sunhats and safari hats available. I located the perfect one for my African adventure!

Look for these hats and more in select locations at Disney Parks. You may also find a selection of hats on our Disney Parks online store or an even larger selection available on the Shop Disney Parks mobile app.

I'd love to see your summertime Disney Parks style. Just add #StyleHappensHere to your posts on social media.

Watch Our #DisneyParksLIVE Stream of Disney Fireworks on Monday, July 4, at 8:50 p.m. ET

Got plans for the Fourth of July? Today, we're happy to share that our next #DisneyParksLIVE stream will take place July 4 from Magic Kingdom Park.

Our live stream of the park's special "Disney's Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky" fireworks will begin at 8:50 p.m. ET. Join us minutes before the fireworks start to learn more about firework spectaculars at Walt Disney World Resort. (A fresh blog post containing the live stream feed will be ready and waiting at the top of the blog on July 4.)

Will you tune in?

A World Showcase of Unforgettable Shopping at Epcot – The American Adventure

As part of my monthly World Showcase shopping series, I recently visited a pavilion that's dear to my heart – The American Adventure. For most of 2003, I served as an attraction manager at the pavilion, which has one of the best shows in all of Walt Disney World Resort. During my visit, I stopped by Heritage Manor Gifts to see the newest patriotic goods.

Heritage Manor Gifts opened at The American Adventure in 1985. You can see the original pavilion prior to the shop opening in this Disney Park Blog article. Today, the location is home to a variety of gifts in shades of red, white and blue. There is also a cart along World Showcase promenade that offers a handful of products including Disney pins.

Inside the shop, I found apparel and accessories for adults including shirts, tote bags and jewelry. I love the necklaces and earrings that use one-cent coins in the designs.

Guests may also find a copy of "The Kinsey Collection: Shared Treasures of Bernard and Shirley Kinsey – Where Art and History Intersect," a 198-page book telling the story of the African American experience from 1632-present. The book is the perfect complement to the exhibit of rare art, unique artifacts, and documents currently found in the American Heritage Gallery, "Re-Discovering America: Family Treasures from the Kinsey Collection."

One of my favorite items in the shop is a woven tapestry with Mickey Mouse, Goofy and Donald Duck. The artwork is reminiscent of America on Parade, the special American Bicentennial parade held at Disney Parks from 1975 to 1976.

You may be able to order select items from this shop using the free Shop Disney Parks mobile app. To download, please visit DisneyWorld.com/Shop.

Here are images of additional items I found including popular Tervis tumblers, magnets, Alex & Ani bracelets and more.