Foodie Guide to 2018 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom Park

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party is back and I am EXCITED and FESTIVE and HUNGRY! Hungry for what, you ask? Hungry for all of the sweet treats and savory bites that the Magic Kingdom culinary team has cooked up for you this year! Once again, aromas of chocolate, cinnamon, and peppermint fill the air in Magic Kingdom Park for the holiday season.

The Holiday Wishes Fireworks Holiday Dessert Party also returns this year with festive snacks and sweets and spectacular views of the holiday fireworks over Cinderella Castle. Take in the sights with reserved seating at Tomorrowland Terrace or get up close and personal with Plaza Garden Viewing. No matter where you watch the fireworks, your stomach will be full and your eyes will be dazzled!

New to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party this year is Tony's Most Merriest Town Square Party. Enjoy specialty sips including beer and wine, light bites, and irresistible sweets at Tony's Town Square Restaurant as well as a reserved viewing area the Once Upon a Christmastime Parade.

For more information on these yummy events and to make reservations, visit the Walt Disney World website. And for more information on all of the sweets and eats you can find throughout Magic Kingdom Park this holiday season, just keep reading my official Foodie Guide below!

We've got cinnamon buns, red velvet waffles, cookies, peppermint treats, and more this year scattered throughout the park. With returning favorites like the Scrooge McDuck Eggnog Custard and the Holiday Mickey Cinnamon Roll as well as exciting new treats like the Vanellope Éclair and the Christmas Cookie Milkshake, you'll have something to taste around every corner!

Main Street Bakery

• Holiday Mickey Cinnamon Roll (served daily throughout the holiday season) – with red and green icing garnished with a Mickey Santa Hat
• Chocolate Yule Log (gluten friendly) – with chocolate cake, chocolate mousse, chocolate ganache, and white chocolate piece featuring Mickey and Minnie
• Sugar Rush Jumbo Cupcake (served daily throughout the holiday season) – red velvet vanilla swirl cupcake with peppermint icing, assorted candy, sprinkles, and a white chocolate Wreck-It Ralph piece
• Mickey Ornament Gingerbread Cookie – gingerbread cookie dipped in icing

Casey's Corner

• Ugly Sweater Brownie (served daily throughout the holiday season)
• Poutine Dog – hot dog topped with fries, poutine gravy, cheese curds, and chives

Plaza Ice Cream Parlor

• Peppermint Ice Cream Sundae or Cone (served daily throughout the holiday season)

Sleepy Hollow

• Sandy Claws Dessert – toy sack cake pop wrapped in fondant with white chocolate Sandy Claws piece
• Red Velvet Zero Waffles – red velvet waffles with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, chocolate sauce, and holiday sprinkles

Gaston's Tavern

• Gaston's Cinnamon Roll (served daily throughout the holiday season) – cinnamon roll topped with red and white icing
• Vanellope Éclair – éclair with fruity cereal filling and topped with chocolate piece

Storybook Treats

• Peppermint Soft-Serve Cone(served daily throughout the holiday season)
• Peppermint Soft-Serve Sundae (served daily throughout the holiday season) – with red and white-striped paper straw dipped in chocolate and crushed peppermint
• Scrooge McDuck Eggnog Custard (gluten friendly) – eggnog custard topped with spiced chocolate cake meringue and a gold foil chocolate Scrooge McDuck coin

Cosmic Ray's Starlight Café

• Mickey's Very Berry Lemonade (served daily throughout the holiday season) – red and green strawberry lemonade
• Holiday Burger – burger on Texas toast with roasted turkey, Muenster cheese, stuffing, and cranberry sauce

Auntie Gravity's Galactic Goodies

• Christmas Cookie Sundae (served daily throughout the holiday season) – cookie butter ice cream topped with whipped cream, chocolate sauce, and sprinkles
• Christmas Cookie Milkshake (served daily throughout the holiday season) – cookie butter milkshake with cotton candy and a Mickey marshmallow paper straw

Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn & Café

• Feliz Navidad Nachos – red and green tortilla chips topped with turkey chili and queso sauce
• Three Caballeros Spiced Chocolate Yule Log (gluten friendly) – chocolate mousse with flourless chocolate cake topped with spiced chocolate ganache, powdered sugar, and white chocolate piece
• Churro Bites with Red and Green Sugar (served daily throughout the holiday season) – served with chocolate dipping sauce

Churro Carts Throughout the Park

• Red and Green Sugar Churros (served daily throughout the holiday season)

But wait, there's more! Throughout the year, Casey's Corner has featured a variety of specialty Hot Dogs of the Month, and we're bringing each and every one of them back for a limited time for the 12 Days of Christmas Dogs – featuring hot dogs of hot dogs past! In the 12 days leading up to Christmas, you'll be able to get your favorite Hot Dog of the Month once again. Each one will only be available for one day only, so be sure not to miss them!

• Dec. 14 – Pineapple Teriyaki Dog topped with roasted pineapple, onions, Teriyaki sauce, and green onions
• Dec. 15 – Buffalo Chicken Dog topped with buffalo chicken, celery, and a garlic ranch drizzle
• Dec. 16 – Greek Dog topped with olives, banana peppers, red onions, feta cheese, and tzatziki sauce
• Dec. 17 – Cuban Dog topped with mojo pork, relish, swiss cheese, and mustard
• Dec. 18 – Aztec Dog topped with sweet and spicy ground beef and creamy elote mixed with spicy lime mayonnaise and grated Parmesan cheese
• Dec. 19 – Philly Cheesesteak Dog topped with roast beef, sautéed peppers and onions, and cheese sauce
• Dec. 20 – Casey's Classic Dog topped with hash browns, bacon, cheese, and fried onion straws
• Dec. 21 – Cheesy Dog topped with cheddar cheese, queso cheese, and spicy cheese puffs
• Dec. 22 – Jalapeño Popper Dog topped with cheese sauce, garlic ranch, bacon bits, jalapeño poppers, and sliced jalapeños
• Dec. 23 – Loaded Mashed Potato Dog topped with garlic mashed potatoes, caramelized onions, cheddar, bacon, scallion sour cream, and green onions
• Dec. 24 – Poutine Dog topped with fries, poutine gravy, cheese curds, and chives
• Dec. 25 through Jan 1. – 2 Foot-Long Hot Dog with your choice of two toppings (Casey's Classic, Chili Cheese, or Macaroni & Cheese)

There's also an array of complimentary goodies that you won't want to miss out on (included in the price of your Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party ticket). Alternative healthy and allergy-friendly goodies are also available upon request.
 

• Main Street: Red Mickey Santa Sugar Cookie
• Tortuga Tavern: Snowman Soft Pretzel and Shaved Ice
• Liberty Square: Ginger Molasses Cookie and Eggnog
• Pinocchio Village Haus: Hot Chocolate, Fruit-flavored Soda, and a variety of holiday cookies
• Friar's Nook: Chilled Apple Cider and Chocolates
• Storybook Snacks Cart: Peppermint Crunch Cookie
• Auntie Gravitie's Galactic Goodies: Chocolate Chip Cookie and Shaved Ice
• Cosmic Ray's Starlight Café: Snickerdoodle Cookie and Hot Chocolate

And remember, unless otherwise noted, all of these items are exclusive to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party on select nights Nov. 8 – Dec. 21, 2018. Starting Nov. 9, some of them will also be available during regular park hours when using the My Disney Experience app's mobile order service, which allows you to order meals and snacks on demand, pay in advance and skip the line at select quick-service food and beverage locations.

So, what are you waiting for? These holiday eats are calling your name! Download the My Disney Experience app on your mobile phone to discover all of these yummy items, and don't forget to buy your tickets today for Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party and come celebrate the season with us!

New Must Have Holiday Merchandise from Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

Guests who share the magic of the holidays with loved ones at Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party in Magic Kingdom Park will discover festive décor, fun character greetings, holiday-themed food and beverage items, and magical entertainment that warms the heart. The best way to remember a visit to this oh-so-jolly celebration is with merchandise created exclusively for this annual holiday event. Here's a fun look at some of my favorite new items available in shops at Magic Kingdom Park.

From family apparel to festive home decor, there is something for everyone that captures the spirit of the season.

Knowing how much our guests love taking family photos at the event, our merchandise developers worked from a traditional holiday color palate of red, green and blue – all add just the right pop in pictures.

Find these products and more during the party at the shops listed below. Please note all items will be available while supplies last.

• Main Street, U.S.A. – Emporium (apparel, retail MagicBand, pins, ornament, Passholder items)
• Storybook Circus – Big Top Souvenirs (apparel, retail MagicBand, pins, ornament)
• Tomorrowland – Mickey's Star Traders (apparel, logo pin, ornaments, Passholder items)
• Liberty Square – Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe (apparel, logo pin, ornaments)
• Frontierland – Frontier Trading Post (pins and retail MagicBand)

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party will be held on select nights from Nov. 8 – Dec. 21. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit Disneyworld.com/ChristmasParty.

QUIZ: National S.T.E.A.M. Day Challenge

From Disneyland Resort to Walt Disney World Resort and beyond, S.T.E.A.M. concepts are brought to life right before your eyes at Disney Parks around the world. In celebration of National S.T.E.A.M. Day, I'm challenging you to put your science, technology, engineering, art, and math knowledge to the test with a quiz:

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For more science behind the magic, register your group of 10 or more for one of our Disney Youth Education Series S.T.E.A.M. programs and make our parks your learning laboratory through hands-on, educational adventures! Be sure to stay up-to-date on all things Disney Youth Programs and sign up for our e-newsletter.

Disney Doodle: Tiana & Lottie Find Delicious Inspiration at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

In today's Disney Doodle, artist Ashley Taylor imagines what Princess Tiana and her bestie, Lottie, would do if they had the chance to visit Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa during this time of year, right when the resort's beloved gingerbread house appears.

"Tiana is always cooking and baking," Ashley said. "It's easy to imagine her and Lottie baking the delicious gingerbread treats for the Grand Floridian's life size gingerbread house!"

Disney VoluntEARS Come Together for City of Hope’s Walk for Hope

This weekend, more than 100 Disney VoluntEARS laced up their shoes to support City of Hope at this year's Walk for Hope 2K/5K, raising funds and spirits in the fight against women's cancers. Disney has a strong legacy of supporting hospitals like City of Hope, providing financial support, hospital visits from our characters, VoluntEARS support, and more. This year, our support took on a whole new dimension, as Disney Parks, Experiences, and Consumer Products Chairman Bob Chapek had the honor of serving as Chair of the Walk for Hope.

"We all know someone who has been impacted by cancer—and some of us are fortunate enough to have had City of Hope in our family's corner during that fight," said Bob. "City of Hope saves lives, brings people together, and gives hope to thousands, and I was thrilled by the opportunity to support them in this meaningful way."

Supporting the communities we call home is a top priority—and we are committed to building on Walt Disney's legacy. Disney VoluntEARS have provided more than 10 million hours of volunteer service worldwide since the program began 35 years ago at Disneyland Resort, and continue to find new ways to impact families and communities.

"My family has been impacted by cancer, and research hospitals like City of Hope give women the edge they need to keep fighting," said Shelby Grasser, Team Disney VoluntEARS Captain. "I'm proud to join Disney and our amazing VoluntEARS team to support and raise funds for this critical research."

"Supporting City of Hope with more than 100 Disney VoluntEARS from across the company was an incredible experience," said Bob. "I am constantly amazed—but never surprised—by the giving spirit of our Cast Members, and today was no exception."

Premier Men’s College Basketball Tournament Returns to Walt Disney World Resort Thanksgiving Weekend

If you're planning a trip to Walt Disney World Resort around Thanksgiving and love college basketball, then you've struck gold.

As you plan your visits to Toy Story Land at Disney's Hollywood Studios or Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney's Animal Kingdom, you can also add a college hoops game or two to your vacation, because the AdvoCare Invitational will be underway at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.

The tournament runs Nov. 22-25 and includes a loaded field lauded by college basketball experts as one of the most competitive preseason tournaments in the nation this year.

Three of the eight teams in the AdvoCare Invitational are ranked in preseason top-25 polls – Florida State, LSU and 2018 NCAA National Champion Villanova. Alabama-Birmingham, Canisius College, College of Charleston, Memphis and Oklahoma State round out the field.

The tournament bracket features 12 games taking place over three days, with each team competing in one game per day. The AdvoCare Invitational championship game is Nov. 25.

So, in between exploring all of the fall magic taking place across Walt Disney World, be sure to visit ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex for some great college hoops action! Visit ticketmaster.com to purchase tickets for the AdvoCare Invitational.

‘Ralph Breaks the Internet’ – Can They Do That?

If you've seen the trailers for "Ralph Breaks the Internet" and laughed your way through sneak peeks at the film's headline-grabbing Disney Princess sequence, you may have found yourself asking, "Can they do that?"

In part five of my six-part conversation with "Ralph Breaks the Internet" producer Clark Spencer ("Lilo & Stich," "Bolt," "Winnie the Pooh," "Wreck-It Ralph" and "Zootopia"), the Oscar winner discusses the filmmakers' approach to pushing the humor envelope while paying all due respect to Disney royalty.

Look for the final clip from our conversation here on the Disney Parks Blog on Nov. 21, when "Ralph Breaks the Internet" opens in theaters.

Disney Ambassador Program Celebrates Rich Legacy with Incoming 2019-2020 Team

For more than 50 years, Disney Ambassadors have served as emissaries of goodwill for the Disney destinations they represent. Walt Disney, himself, created the program in 1965, naming the inaugural Disney Ambassador, Julie Reihm, who helped him by making appearances, giving speeches, escorting dignitaries and more.
 
Julie's role set the standard for future decades of the Disney Ambassador program, which has grown to include a whole new world of Disney properties, including six resorts and Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa.

Allow us to introduce the 11 Disney Ambassadors you'll soon meet at each of our locations, starting on January 1: 

    

Their immersive training lasts through the end of this year and consists of site tours, global business overviews, media training, and a deep-dive into Disney's most engaging experiences. They'll represent our approximately 150,000 cast members, crew members and Imagineers across the globe.

Earlier this week, the incoming class of Disney Ambassadors visited California as part of their training. They were even treated to a little movie magic with a tour of the Studio Lot and a meeting with Bob Chapek, Chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Consumer Products. 
  
In keeping with Walt's vision, the Disney Ambassador program keeps moving forward, which is why their responsibilities cover a colorful spectrum of magic and memory-making both in the parks and beyond. 
 
Please join us as we give a warm welcome to the 2019-2020 Disney Ambassadors!

Foodie Guide to 2018 Flurry of Fun at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

A feast of food is about to blow in for this year's Flurry of Fun at Disney's Hollywood Studios! From Nov. 8, 2018, to January 6, 2019, join us for this holly, jolly event and delight in festive shows, enchanting "snows," holiday décor, Toy Story Land cheer, and yummy sweets and treats!

Watch as Sunset Boulevard becomes a winter wonderland and Hollywood Tower Hotel transforms with projections and laser effects depicting holiday stories of beloved Disney characters. And at the end of every night, experience Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!: a Santa-sized spectacular jam-packed with holiday music, fireworks, special effects, and dazzling state-of-the-art projections.

You can also indulge in a flurry of sweets with the Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! Dessert Party. This special event features an array of holiday-themed snacks, decadent desserts, beer, wine, and specialty alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages as well as character greetings and reserved viewing for Disney Movie Magic and Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! For more information and to make reservations, check out my recent blog with all of the details.

Additionally, throughout the park you'll find festive treats that'll have your taste buds singing "Tis the season!" From gingerbread pops and holiday popcorn to hot chocolate flights and specialty cocktails, there's so much to celebrate! So, with that, here's your official Foodie Guide to Flurry of Fun at Disney's Hollywood Studios. For more information about this special holiday celebration as well as holidays around Walt Disney World Resort, visit the Walt Disney World Resort website.

FOOD:

Festive Popcorn – This treat features caramel corn mixed with nuts, crispy pearls, candy-coated chocolates, and mini sugar cookies. Find it at BaseLine Tap House and various popcorn carts throughout the park.

Gingerbread Pop – It's SO CUTE and one of my favorite holiday snacks, the Gingerbread Pop comes on a stick for easy on-the-go deliciousness and is dipped in chocolate. You'll find it at Anaheim Produce, the Churro Cart in front of the Chinese Theater, and the Main Entrance Coffee Cart.

Mini Shortbread Cookies – Decorated with sugar pieces, these yummy cookies can be found at Grand Avenue Cart and Hollywood Scoops.

Large Shortbread Cookie – This big shortbread cookie is filled with raspberry jam and decorated in frosting. Get it at Trolley Car Café!

Santa Belt Macarons – Ho ho ho! Have a Santa Macaron! These almond macarons with hazelnut filling have climbed down the chimneys at BaseLine Tap House and Oasis Canteen and come in packages of five.

Santa Belt Candy Apple – Dipped in chocolate and decorated with more chocolate and marshmallow ears, you'll definitely want to take a bite out of these candy apples available at Trolley Car Café!

Olaf Cupcake – You'll be giving everyone a warm hug after trying this chocolate cupcake with buttercream frosting available at ABC Commissary and Backlot Express

Strawberry Mint Verrine – Head to Fairfax Fare to try these marinated strawberries dipped in peppermint crème.

Spiced Cold Chocolate – This chocolate verrine is made with house-made cinnamon marshmallows and chocolate cake and can be found at Rosie's All-American Café.

Chocolate Chestnut Cone – Chow down on this chocolate treat served on a praline leaf offered at Backlot Express.

Chocolate Mousse Present – The tastiest present of all, this chocolate mousse dessert with chocolate ganache can be found at ABC Commissary.

Cranberry Mousse – Feast on this festive dome of chocolate-cranberry mousse available at Trolley Car Café!

Caramel Éclair – Find this tasty pastry filled with caramel at Dockside Diner.

Prep and Landing Cupcake – Get ready for some elven shenanigans with this gingerbread cupcake with cream cheese frosting offered at Rosie's All-American Café and Dockside Diner.

Eggnog Panna Cotta – I LOVE anything eggnog, and this one is definitely on my list of favorites this year. This Eggnog Panna Cotta comes with raspberry and chocolate crème and can be found at Catalina Eddie's.

Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Lunch Box Tart – You'll find a friend in this yummy holiday Cinnamon Apple Cranberry Lunch Box Tart at Woody's Lunch Box. It's also topped with snowflakes and crispy pearls!

BEVERAGES:

Hot Chocolate Flight – Warm up with Hot Chocolate Flights featuring hot chocolate with Irish liqueur, hot chocolate with vanilla vodka, and hot chocolate with cherry bourbon. The flight can be found at Fairfax Fare.

Frozen Hot Cocoa (non-alcoholic) – Cool down with some Frozen Hot Cocoa offered at ABC Commissary, Backlot Express, and Rosie's All-American Café.

Gumdrop – You'll be dreaming of sugarplums and gumdrops with this special holiday cocktail made with raspberry liqueur, raspberry vodka, pineapple and cranberry juices, and Sprite available at The Hollywood Brown Derby Lounge and mobile bars near Echo Lake and Hollywood Scoops.

Holiday Mule – There's nothing like a good mule with vodka, lemon liqueur, cranberry juice, and ginger beer. You'll find it at The Hollywood Brown Derby Lounge and mobile bars near Echo Lake and Hollywood Scoops.

Christmas on the Beach – Wishing you were on the beach this holiday season? Well you can make your wishes come true with this tropical cocktail! Made with blue liqueur, Caribbean rum, and pineapple and cranberry juices, you'll find it at The Hollywood Brown Derby Lounge and mobile bars near Echo Lake and Hollywood Scoops.

Frosted Gingerbread Martini – If you love gingerbread cookies, you'll love this gingerbread cocktail with vodka, Irish liqueur, coffee liqueur, gingerbread syrup, and ice cream mix available at Backlot Express.

Frostbite Cocktail – Get your freeze on with this cold cocktail made with vodka, blue liqueur, cranberry juice, and sour offered at Dockside Diner and Backlot Express.

Winterberry Margarita – Everyone loves a good marg, and we have the perfect seasonal margarita just waiting for you! Made with silver tequila, orange liqueur, sour, cranberry juice, and wildberry syrup. Find it at ABC Commissary and Rosie's All-American Café.

Exclusive ‘Mickey in Shanghai’ Collection Now at Shanghai Disney Resort

It's never too early to do some holiday shopping! And thanks to the debut of the "Mickey in Shanghai" merchandise collection, guests visiting Shanghai Disney Resort can take home a few new surprises for everyone on their list.

From clothes to toys to home décor and more, this exclusive collection celebrates the city's cultural heritage and some of its most famous landmarks, including the Oriental Pearl Tower, Yu Gardens and Shikuman architecture. "Mickey in Shanghai" also takes inspiration from Shanghai staples like the city's delicious xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) and the Shanghai dialect.

Take a sneak peek at some of the pieces in the new collection below – and don't forget to pick up a few for yourself!

The new "Mickey in Shanghai" merchandise collection is just one way guests can celebrate Mickey Mouse on the eve of his 90th birthday, as Shanghai Disney Resort kicks off a month-long celebration with special events, fun photo opportunities, delicious birthday treats and more!

We Interviewed Seven Kids About Their Disney Cruise and Here’s What They Had to Say

Seven kids. Seven different answers. That's what we found when we asked some of our young guests what they loved most about their Disney cruise.

There's a ton to love about being on a Disney ship and visiting our private island, Castaway Cay, so it's no surprise that no two answers were the same. But what these kids did have in common is that they like to have FUN! Fun with Disney, fun at sea and fun on the sand!

Take a look at this video to hear what they had to say about their vacation. If you've been on a Disney cruise with your kids, ask them to chime in with their favorite things and tell us in the comments.

What’s Brewing: Ballast Point Coming Soon to Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort

As we've previously announced, Ballast Point, the popular San Diego-based brewer, will open its first Orange County location in the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort this fall.

The 7,000 sq. ft. family-friendly eatery will house Downtown Disney District's first-ever on-site brewery, tasting room, kitchen and outdoor beer garden. The high-quality, award-winning beers complement its extensive selection of local, sustainable and seasonal fare – salads, small plates, flatbreads and entrees. The menu will feature its most popular dishes, such as Baja-style fish tacos and a house-made pretzel with a beer mustard, along with items exclusive to the Downtown Disney District location. Entrees can be paired with specialty beers from the extensive beer portfolio. In addition, gluten-free options, vegetarian dishes and a children's menu will be available.

We recently visited the experts at Ballast Point in their San Diego headquarters to learn more about the art and science of their craft, as well as its quintessential Southern Californian cuisine. Take a look at what's in store for guests of Downtown Disney District!

It's an exciting time at the Downtown Disney District. The promenade continues to transform with the recent opening of Salt & Straw scoop shop, the newly-renovated upper level of Naples Ristorante e Bar and the reimagination of the World of Disney flagship store!

Festive Disney PhotoPass Opportunities During Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

I know what you might be thinking: HO-HO-HOld on, it's only early November! But part of the magic of the season at Walt Disney World Resort is that it comes a little early for those of us whose Christmas spirit can't fit into just one month. If you're one of those people, I bring tidings of comfort and joy: Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party begins tomorrow at Magic Kingdom Park!

During the party, while you're feeling the warmth of the Christmas season (and it's not just the Florida weather), Disney PhotoPass photographers will be making your spirits even brighter with merry photo opportunities! Below are the special photo ops you'll find during Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party.

Have a taste for sweet Magic Shots? The Mickey Mouse Cookie Magic Shot is available in Adventureland, Fantasyland, and Tomorrowland, while the Candy Cane Magic Shot can be found in front of Cinderella Castle and on the bridges leading to Liberty Square, Tomorrowland, and Fantasyland.

Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade is a beloved party staple, and if you love it as much as I do, you'll adore these photo opportunities featuring a few parade favorites! The Toy Soldiers can march into your photo on Main Street, U.S.A., and the photographer at the entrance to the park can offer a Magic Shot featuring a cheerful reindeer and gingerbread man.

Disney Characters can make an appearance in your photos too! A Magic Shot featuring a festively dressed Tinker Bell will be available on Main Street, U.S.A., and look for Olaf to pop into photos taken on the bridges leading to Liberty Square, Tomorrowland, and Fantasyland.

For photos with a traditional Christmas vibe, visit any Disney PhotoPass photographer in the park (except for those at Character Experience locations) to take a Mistletoe Magic Shot, and get a special Animated Magic Shot when you meet Santa Claus.

At various locations around the park, photographers will be offering holly-jolly props for you to include in your photos, including the new Tinker Bell lantern! You'll find this new pixie-dusted prop in Fantasyland near Enchanted Tales with Belle.

And finally, photographers will also be capturing your memories at Character Experience locations during the event.

If you want to deck your halls with all of your photos taken during Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, purchase Memory Maker One Day* and apply the entitlement to the day you attended the party! With Memory Maker One Day, you'll receive digital downloads of all your Disney PhotoPass photos linked to your account that were taken on the one day of your choice. Memory Maker One Day is available in the My Disney Experience mobile app once you've linked at least one Disney PhotoPass photo to your account from the day to which you plan to apply the entitlement. You can also purchase it inside Town Square Theater at Magic Kingdom Park.

There's just no place like home for the holidays, and if your home is Walt Disney World Resort, I hope these photos will always serve as a reminder of the joy and magic you find here, especially at this time of year!

Parks, attractions, entertainment or character experiences may change operating hours; close due to refurbishing, capacity, weather, special events, character availability or other reasons; and otherwise change or be discontinued without notice and without liability to the owners of the Walt Disney World Resort.

*Memory Maker is subject to the applicable terms and policies. Includes photos taken during the applicable Memory Maker Window as defined in such terms (generally, photos taken (i) within one day for Memory Maker One Day or (ii) within 30 days from the date of first activation for standard Memory Maker). A MagicBand is required to receive certain attraction photos and other digital content. Online registration required. Disney PhotoPass Photos in your account will expire pursuant to the expiration policy. Downloads are restricted to personal use only. Not responsible for missing, lost or damaged photos. Subject to restrictions and change without notice. Valid theme park admission required for certain photo locations.

Get Acquainted with Fierce, Furry and Feathered Animal Friends with Adventures by Disney

Have you ever bottle-fed Irish sheep? Gone on an authentic African game drive? Learned how to harvest rice alongside a water buffalo in Laos? Saddled up for a cowboy style horse ride through an awe-inspiring Montana backdrop? Well, these are just a few of the amazing animal experiences you can have on a guided group tour with Adventures by Disney.

Whether you're a bird lover, like to pet furry friends or want to marvel at predators as they run loose in the wild, there's an Adventures by Disney trip that's sure to make your wildlife wishes come true. Check out just a few of the truly special animal experiences you can enjoy in this video!

#DisneyFamilia: My Favorite Dish at Flavors from Fire!

You have a few días to enjoy the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival! The last day of the festival is this upcoming Monday, November 12.

While I'm sad that the event is sending, I'm happy to share with you the receta of my favorite dish from this year's festival.

It's the Charred Skirt Steak with Corn Pancakes and Jicama Slaw. You can find it at the Flavors from Fire marketplace in Future World.

And now you can make it at home! This is one of the Latin-inspired dishes that you can degustar at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival.

Charred Skirt Steak with Corn Pancakes and Jicama Slaw
Serves 6

Ingredients:
Marinated Skirt Steak

• 3 tablespoons chopped flat-leaf parsley
• 3 tablespoons chopped cilantro
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon chopped Fresno or jalapeño pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon chopped serrano pepper
• 2 tablespoons diced red onion
• 1 pinch coarse salt
• 1 pinch freshly ground pepper
• 1 pinch smoked Spanish paprika
• 1 pinch chili flakes
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup canola oil
• 1 pound skirt steak

Jicama Slaw

• 1 cup peeled jicama, julienned with mandolin
• 1/2 cup peeled carrots, julienned with mandolin
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced, about 2-inch-long pieces
• 1 teaspoon finely diced Fresno or jalapeño pepper
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon coarse salt
• Pinch freshly ground black pepper
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons canola oil
• 1/4 teaspoon chopped flat-leaf parsley

Cilantro Cream

• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 to 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• Pinch coarse salt

Corn Pancakes

• 2 large ears yellow corn, shucked
• 1 large egg
• 3 tablespoons water
• 3 tablespoons whole milk
• Pinch coarse salt, freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup masa harina
• 1 teaspoon canola oil, more as needed

Directions:

For Marinated Skirt Steak:
1. Place all ingredients except steak in blender and purée until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust seasonings.
3. Put steak in large zip-top bag and add marinade. Refrigerate several hours or overnight.

For Jicama Slaw:
1. Julienne jicama and carrots with mandolin and place in glass bowl. Add onion and diced pepper.
2. Blend vinegar, salt, pepper and sugar at medium speed in blender.
3. With blender running, slowly add oil.
4. Stir in parsley and adjust seasonings. Pour dressing over slaw.
5. Transfer to glass bowl or zip-top bag and marinate in refrigerator at least 4 hours.

For Cilantro Cream:
1. Combine all ingredients in blender and purée until smooth. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
2. Transfer to bowl, cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

For Corn Pancakes:
1. Smoke corn over hickory wood chips at 220°F degrees for 20 minutes. Remove from heat, cool and cut kernels from cob. Divide into 2 equal portions.
2. Purée egg, water, milk, salt, pepper, and half of corn in food processor until smooth.
3. Transfer to medium-size bowl and fold in masa harina and remaining corn.
4. Heat canola oil in a medium-size skillet over medium-high heat. Pour a heaping tablespoon of batter into skillet and spread to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cook for about 4 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through. Cook in batches and keep warm until ready to serve. (This step can be done while steak is resting.)

To Serve:
1. Remove steak from marinade and grill over charcoal to medium rare. Remove from heat and rest 10 minutes. Slice thinly against grain.
2. Place pancake on serving plate, top with steak, slaw and cilantro cream.

Cook's Note: If you don't have time to make the corn pancakes, you can serve with store-bought corn tortillas—fry them in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat with 2 tablespoons hot oil for about 10 to 30 seconds on each side until browned and cooked (they will still be pliable). Drain on paper towels and keep warm until ready to serve.

What to beber: Pair with a cool margarita served over ice in a salt-rimmed glass, or agua fresca made with fresh melon, lime, sugar and mint.

The Festival's 23rd year runs until November 12, 2018. For more information on the Festival, check out TasteEpcot.com or call 407-939-3378.

‘Inside Disney Parks’ Holiday Show – Toy Story Land Decorations, Roller Skiers of Arendelle, World of Disney and More

The one-and-only Mickey Mouse is helping us kick off the holidays with a special episode of "Inside Disney Parks" featuring favorites of the season at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. This time, we go backstage at Magic Kingdom Park with the skilled Roller Skiers of Arendelle before dropping by the newly decorated Toy Story Land at Disney's Hollywood Studios.

Also, we take a closer look at the reimagined World of Disney stores in Downtown Disney District in California and Disney Springs in Florida and even share some new gift ideas for the holidays.

Here's a look at some of the topics covered during the show:

• Holidays at Toy Story Land – What would Andy do to spruce up his backyard for the holidays? Walt Disney Imagineering Assistant Producer Hannah Brennan takes us on a tour of the land decorated for the holidays with cranberry-and-popcorn garland, an oversized Hamm cookie and more.
• Mickey's Once Upon A Christmastime Parade – Disney Parks Live Entertainment Show Director Tara Anderson shares the inspiration behind the Roller Skiers at Walt Disney World Resort.
• World of Disney Reimagined for Holidays – Disney Parks Blog author Michael Ramirez visits the World of Disney at the Disneyland Resort and shows us how magic can be found throughout the store and Disney Springs Marketing and Sales Strategy Manager Darcy Clark highlights the new Mickey Mouse Club Collection and other great gifts at the Walt Disney World Resort location.
• Mickey's 90th Birthday – Mickey Mouse co-hosts our holiday show in his new celebration outfit. Mickey's birthday celebration will span across the globe with special in-park activations at all six Disney resorts around the world, bringing the party well into the New Year for all things Mickey Mouse. Stay tuned for more!

Start Planning Your Holiday Shopping with the Disney Springs Gift Guide

Earlier this week I bought my first Christmas present of the season – no surprise, it was from the recently reimagined World of Disney store! While I've got one gift down, there are plenty more on my list … and though I have some ideas on what to get the people I love most, I always welcome suggestions for those that are a little harder to shop for (I'm looking at you, mom!). If you feel the same, you'll love the latest version of our Disney Springs Gift Guide.

With gift ideas broken out by a dozen different categories, it's a great way to see some of the options available this season from a wide array of Disney Springs retailers. I love that you'll find information on where each gift can be found and even get pricing details. Some of the items – like the Castle Playset from World of Disney – are exactly what you'd expect, but others, such as the playful monkey pajamas and children's book from Rainforest Café or the wine-filled gift basket from Wine Bar George, are unexpected surprises. Of course, the list doesn't show everything available on property, but it does showcase a nice representation of the diverse gifts you can find here; there truly is something for everyone. One tip: be sure to check back weekly as we'll be adding new product releases every Tuesday in November, like the new Holiday dress that will be available at The Dress Shop on Cherry Tree Lane starting this Thursday, November 8, 2018, pictured below. (For additional details on product releases, you can also follow us on Instagram and Twitter via @DisneySprings.)

Check out the Disney Springs Gift Guide for yourself. Once you've made your list, you can share it via Facebook or Twitter. And remember … 'tis the season to treat yourself, too!

Which gifts from Disney Springs do you hope to find under your tree this year?

First Look: Toy Story Land Decorated For The Holidays

Guests visiting Disney's Hollywood Studios this morning are in for a holiday treat: the first sights of the holiday season have just arrived in Toy Story Land!

Toy Story Land, which opened at the park earlier in 2018, allows guests to explore the fun and adventure of Andy's backyard at Slinky Dog Dash, Alien Swirling Saucers and Toy Story Mania! And as of this morning, this joyfully toy-strewn land is officially set for the season, with new holiday decor that includes oversized cranberry-and-popcorn garland, an oversized Hamm sugar cookie, Green Alien ornaments, cardboard antlers on Rex and an Angel Kitty ornament and more.

Also starting today, the land's attractions have been plussed up with new holiday audio and music. Guests will hear sleigh bells ringing on Slinky Dog Dash, while Alien Swirling Saucers will offer two holiday tracks, plus themed lighting.