The Walt Disney World Blog

Walt Disney World Vacation Information and Advice

Christmas time is here!

Posted on December 11, 2013 by waltdisneyworldblog

Christmas day is only TWO WEEKS AWAY! Our tree is up and decorated, the stockings are hung, our front door boasts a wreath, and lights trim the house, inside and out, giving a delightful, warming glow to the night. Now, if only the last of our gifts were purchased and wrapped… There’s still time though!

Last week we talked about how elaborately Disney decorates for Christmas, from 65 foot tall trees to constructing carousels of gingerbread and chocolate. Yum. While you can spend many hours just enjoying the decorations in the resort hotels as well as the parks, Disney offers special events that give that extra touch of holiday magic. We delved into a couple of those already last week, including The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and the Jingle Jungle Parade at Animal Kingdom. But perhaps the two largest special Christmas events are Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom and the Candlelight Processional at Epcot.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party happens at the Magic Kingdom on select nights, beginning at 7:00 PM, running until midnight. This is a special ticketed event, so there is an additional cost to attend this event. The tickets averages about $65 a piece, which is certainly not by any means cheap. But a lot happens during the party, and I think it’s a great special occasion treat. For those of you who followed along with Mickey’s Not So Scarey Halloween Party back in the fall, you’ll find the set-up of Mickeys Very Merry Christmas Party familiar. So what goes on during the pricey, festive 5 hours? Lots of special entertainment and tasty treats. Here’s a Mickey’s Very Merry rundown:

Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas Parade: The parade features all of your favorite Disney characters, joined by elves, gingerbread men, and the like with plenty of festive music and lights. Santa even joins in! The parade runs twice during the party, usually at 8:15 and 10:30. Tip** The second showing of the parade is often less crowded.
Holiday Wishes: Wishes is Magic Kingdom’s nightly fireworks spectacular over Cinderella Castle. During Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party the fireworks take on a holiday flare with holiday music and colors with amazing fireworks.
Celebrate the Magic: Cinderella Castle is lit, bringing well loved Disney stories to life with a holiday touch.
Totally Tomorrowland Christmas: This fun show takes place in Tomorrowland featuring Buzz Lightyear, Mike Wizowski, and Stitch with plenty of music and dancing.
Celebrate the Season Show: Mickey and his pals gather to give gifts, and present their own special version of The Nutcracker.
Character Dance Party
Holiday Treats: There is plenty of complimentary hot chocolate and cookies to be had around Magic Kingdom Your taste buds will dance with these sweet delights. Also, Sleepy Hollow offers seasonally flavored waffles, Main Street Bakery has Mocha cocoa cupcakes, and Westward Ho tempts you with a peppermint brownies.

In addition to the list above, there is a magical snowfall on Main Street U.S.A. and opportunities for character meet and greets all throughout Magic Kingdom. You can also visit your favorite attractions. Be sure not to miss the seasonal Jingle Cruise that has taken over the Jungle Cruise for the first time this holiday season.

Epcot celebrates the season with the Candlelight Processional. This music filled event happens nightly at the American Gardens Theater in the World Showcase. Each night the story of Christmas is read by a celebrity narrator, interspersed with music from a full orchestra and choir. In addition to the candle-bearing sizable choir, is a 50 piece orchestra, trumpeters, and a small caroling group. The celebrity narrators are exceptional. The list this year includes Neil Patrick Harris, Ashley Judd, Whoppi Goldberg, and Amy Grant to name a few. The full show runs just under an hour. The Candlelight Processional is not a special ticketed event, so there is no additional cost to attend beyond your park admission. Seating is limited though, and is available at a first come, first served basis. However, Disney does offer a Candlelight Dinner Package. In the package you get a 3-course meal or full buffet (depending on location) at a participating Epcot restaurant, guaranteed seating at the Candlelight Processional, as well as access to a special viewing location for IllumiNations, Epcot’s nightly fireworks and laser show spectacular. In my opinion, this is the way to go – you get a full tummy and a stress free experience for attending the Candlelight Processional. The list of participating restaurants is extensive, with plenty of flavor choices. And with your seating guaranteed, you are free to enjoy the park instead of get in line early for a seat. The event is extremely popular (deservedly so), and the American Gardens Theater is not huge. The Illuminations viewing area is an added bonus too!

Well telling you all about these festive happenings this morning has certainly put me in the holiday spirit! I hope it has brought you a bit as well. See ya real soon!

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas…

Posted on December 5, 2013 by waltdisneyworldblog

Thanksgiving has come and gone and I hope you all had a wonderful holiday. It’s been so busy here lately and I’ve been so separated from the blog! But life always seems to kick into overdrive once the holidays draw near. I have no doubt that the time before Christmas Eve will pass by in a Buzz Lightyear-like hyper-speed.

Disney does the holidays like no one else – in true Disney style. All of Walt Disney World is transformed with a bounty of decorations. The statistics are mind-boggling. 1,300 Christmas trees, just as many wreaths, and well over 8,500,000 lights. Yes, over eight MILLION lights. And then there are all of the ornaments, stockings, candles, ribbon, chocolate, gingerbread, candy cane, and garland (to name a few). Considering I haven’t even started my Christmas decorating yet, Disney clearly puts me to shame. And pretty much any one else, for that matter. Christmas trees can reach up to 65 feet tall, and each is uniquely decorated to look perfectly in place, wherever it may call home. Ornaments are all custom made and some are delightfully large to look just right one the Christmas trees of epic proportions.

Not to be outdone, the horticulture team at Walt Disney World plays an expert and essential part in the decorating. Landscapes transform with poinsettias, ivy, and topiaries. Especially the poinsettias. Magic Kingdom alone can have 25,000 poinsettias for holiday decor.

Truth is, holiday planning and decorations are worked on year-round. No corner is left unturned. Cinderella Castle gets draped in over 200,000 LED lights, making it glisten like a beautiful ice sculpture at night. At Animal Kingdom, Mickey’s Jamin’ Jungle Parade becomes the Jingle Jungle Parade. Epcot’s World Showcase gets a multicultural holiday make-over where the 11 world showcases display holiday traditions from around the world. Disney’s Hollywood Studios is home to The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights. The Streets of America are completely draped in lights, and then brought to life with music. Amazing.

Of course, decorating isn’t just reserved for the theme parks. All of the resort hotels get an astounding dash of decorating as well. Christmas trees and completely edible, over-sized gingerbread houses can be found in resort hotels as well. The Contemporary has a Mary Blair gingerbread piece, while The Grand Floridian has a life sized Victorian gingerbread house. Head inside the gingerbread house to purchase your own gingerbread nibbles and sweet snacks. The Beach Club Resort has a life sized carousel with chocolate horses, The Boardwalk has a gingerbread gazebo, and the Yacht Club has it’s own miniature gingerbread village, complete with a train set. You could have a wonderful, holiday outing just visiting different resorts to see their holiday decor.

Wilderness Lodge Bridge Decoration

Wilderness Lodge Christmas Tree

Animal Kingdom Lodge Christmas Tree

Grand Floridian Gingerbread House

Grand Floridian Christmas

Grand Floridian Christmas Tree

*Whew* That is just a touch of the holiday festivities at WDW, and I’m exhausted just thinking about it all. How special it would be to see it all! Next post I will tell you more about the holiday going-ons at Walt Disney World, such as Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and Epcot’s Candlelight Processional.

Jingle Cruise at Magic Kingdom

Posted on November 14, 2013 by waltdisneyworldblog

Yes, that’s correct… Jingle Cruise. It is not a typo. This holiday season Disney Imagineers are transforming the classic attraction Jungle Cruise at Magic Kingdom into the Jingle Cruise to bring some extra holiday magic to guests. Bits of holiday decor have been added to the attraction, including the boats, a little holiday music can be heard, and the cheesy jokes will take on holiday punch lines.

Now as you know I’m all for one holiday at a time. Being November, I’d like to give the turkey a chance to gobble before I go plunging into the holidays. And while I won’t be posting any big holiday posts until after Thanksgiving, I saw this video the Disney Parks Blog released about the Jingle Cruise and I couldn’t help but share!

Disney Parks Blog Jingle Cruise Video

This is the first time Imagineers have ever tweaked an attraction at WDW for the Holiday Season. At Disneyland, The Haunted Mansion takes on a Nightmare Before Christmas Theme for late September through early January, becoming Haunted Mansion Holiday. I think it’s such a great way to bring a new face to a classic. Special experiences are what make the holidays exciting, and this is a great way for Disney to up their game and provide a special experience to guests. I certainly wish I was traveling to the parks this holiday season to experience the Jingle Cruise!

W.T.D.W. – Prince Charming Regal Carrousel at Magic Kingdom

Posted on November 13, 2013 by waltdisneyworldblog

When is the last time you rode a carousel? They’re so enchanting. Full of beautifully carved horses trimmed with detail, winding around to tinkling music. I don’t know many people who wouldn’t be awed by their charm.

In the heart of New Fantasyland, directly behind Cinderella Castle, is Prince Charming Regal Carrousel. Originally known as Cinderella’s Golden Carousel, the name changed in June of 2010 to Prince Charming Regal Carrousel. The name may be new, but this ride is anything but. Originally crafted in 1917 by the Philadelphia Toboggan Co., this carousel took residence in Detroit, Michigan until 1928 when it moved to Maplewood, New Jersey. In 1967 Disney purchased it and completely refurbished it – painting each horse by hand. In true Disney fashion, no attention to detail was spared. There are 90 unique horses and one chariot, all trimmed in gold, banners, and flowers. Only one has a gold bow tied on the tail, which some say belongs to Cinderella. Of the 90 horses, 72 are still from the original carousel.

Prince Charming Regal Carousel brings the Cinderella story to life as it turns, with 18 ornate hand-painted vignettes. During the day, bright and vibrant colors give the ride life, but at night, 2,300 lights give the carousel a glimmering magic. The music is a medley of beloved organ tunes that give mix of fun and nostalgia as the horses spin, bringing a cool breeze to your face (and I suspect a smile to your heart).

Prince Charming Regal Carousel is a no-brainer for kids. Young ones love the entire experience, and if they are like me as a child (OK… and probably still as an adult), take special care to select just the right horse. As an adult I will often overlook this experience, making more room in my schedule for more dare-devilish attractions. But I think that is silly of me, and next trip I will be sure to fit in a turn around on the carousel with my prince charming. After all, I love going to WDW so I can let go and be a kid again. I do think that I’ll take a nighttime spin though. How can you resist the lights?

W.T.D.W. – Dinosaur at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Posted on November 6, 2013 by waltdisneyworldblog

Rrrrroooaaarrr!!! It’s been one of those mornings. Do you know what I mean? The kind where you especially don’t want to get out of bed, and then when you do get up, everything that is normally a simple part of your routine turns into one BIG disaster after another. And then when you go to make coffee (which normally hubby does) you realize that there are no beans ground, so you have to get out the grinder and whip up a whole new batch. (We love to grind our own coffee – it tastes better that way. But really! It’s bad news when you just want it brewed already.) It’s one of those mornings here. That’s why I’m drinking from the Donald mug. In my mind, (and probably under my breath) this morning I muttered a lot the way good ol’ Donald does. But all in all, everything managed to come together – as it usually does.

Today on WHAT TO DO WEDNESDAY we are visiting Dinosaur at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This was one of the original attraction when Animal Kingdom opened 1998. (Wow, does that make anyone else feel old?)

The story goes like this: You are visiting scientists at the Dino Institute. They have the amazing ability to travel back in time in special vehicles called Time Rovers to study dinosaurs. You are lucky enough to get to join in for a tour – traveling back to the late Cretaceous period. Your scientist guide is on the lookout for a specific dinosaur – the Iguanodon. The problem is, the last known location of the dino was just before a life-destroying meteor shower hits the earth. Determined, your scientist secretly takes you to the dangerous period in search of the Iguanodon despite the inherent dangers.

Guests climb aboard a jeep like vehicle, your Time Rover, and set out, traveling back in time to find the dino. On your mission you move through rough jungle terrain encountering many types of dinosaurs in search of the Iguanodon. The pressure is on as the meteor shower draws closer and closer.

This ride is dark, suspenseful, a bit rough, and exciting with realistic looking dinosaurs all around that move and “breathe.” It’s certainly thrilling. Kiddos need to be 40″ tall to ride. With plenty of darkness, sharp movement, loud noises, and surprises Dinosaur could certainly frighten young ones.

I enjoy this attraction because of the obvious reasons: dinosaurs are rad and the suspense is fun. But, I think it’s the unique way the time rover vehicle moves that really gives Dinosaur the thrills. The vehicle manages to move as though you are in an all-terrain vehicle going over some serious rocks and craters. I love the movement of being pitched and pulled around in the vehicle.

FASTPASS is available for Dinosaur, and I suggest you use it. This attraction is always popular and the queue can get long.

W.T.D.W. – The Haunted Mansion at Magic Kingdom

Posted on October 30, 2013 by waltdisneyworldblog

Welcome, foolish mortals, to WHAT TO DO WEDNESDAY. Oh how I have been waiting so patiently!! Ever since summer, when I began WHAT TO DO WEDNESDAY, I have been dying (get it?!) to write about The Haunted Mansion. One of my (and hubby’s) absolute all-time WDW favorites – this attraction has it all. It’s spooky, it’s humorous, it’s classic, it’s SO much fun!! I decided to save it for Halloween, and I am very, very glad it’s finally here!

Located in Liberty Square this delightful family fun attraction has been around since the Magic Kingdom opened in October of 1971. It has been refurbished with some minor updates inside, and a new interactive queue has been recently added outside, but for the most part it is still the same as the day it opened.

While in the queue you can take two paths: interactive or regular standby. The last time hubs and I were there, the interactive queue was a bit longer, so we skipped it. However, if you have kiddos, or you just want some extra fun – don’t pass it by! It’s worth a few more minutes. Last week, when I talked to you all about Muppet Vision 3D, I mentioned my friend Patrick. Allow me to properly introduce him to you: Patrick, or Pa-track as I sometimes call him, is one of my most fabulous friends. We met when working together on the Disney College Program in 2005. Patrick is the only one of my CP (College Program) friends who lives in proximity to me. The rest of my dear friends are scattered across the country. Patrick is in love with The Muppets, soccer, photography, movies, museums, and he is a complete goofball who always makes me smile. Meet Patrick:

Like I said, Pat is a goofball, he has personality. He obviously enjoyed the interactive queue at The Haunted Mansion. When looking through photos from my brother’s last visit to The Haunted Mansion, I noticed something interesting – Pat and my brother’s girlfriend Cindy have strikingly similar ideas. Pat and Cindy, while they have met, do not really know each other, and did not visit the interactive queue together. Behold:

My favorite part of this is the look on the little boys face as he watches Pat act like a goober at the organ. But isn’t it funny how similar the pictures are?? I think the above collages provide plenty of evidence as to why you should check out the interactive queue.

At the end of the queue (interactive and regular standby) you will notice a graveyard on your left. Be sure to read the tombstones – they have enjoyable inscriptions. And you just might notice an odd thing or two happen…

Once you enter the mansion, you and a small group of others will be guided into an octagonal portrait gallery. Here you first meet your host, “your ghost host.” He talks about the portraits in the room, which begin to stretch, and reveals how each person met their demise. Before long you proceed to the ride portion of the attraction, where you get to tour the mansion.

You tour the haunted mansion in black vehicle that seats two people called a “Doom Buggy.” Guided by your “ghost host,” your tour of the mansion takes you through several rooms where a variety of spiritual occurrences can be seen. In the ballroom there are ghosts waltzing to an organ tune around a decadent dinner table. The hallway displays paintings with shifty eyes and knocking doors. Madam Leona is in her crystal ball while invisible spirits from the beyond sound musical instruments. The bride’s beating heart thumps ominously as portraits suggest the fate of her beloved. No haunted tour would be complete before a spin through the graveyard. The Haunted Mansions’ graveyard has plenty of ghosts popping out from out of nowhere and singing busts serenade you in barbershop style. And of course, as you head to exit you should watch for hitchhiking ghosts. This attraction is spilling over with details – sights and sounds, and now matter how many times you visit you always notice new things.

The Haunted Mansion has 999 happy haunts, but there’s room for 1,000…

W. T. D. W. – Muppet Vision 3D at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Posted on October 23, 2013 by waltdisneyworldblog

Muppet Vision 3D is what I think of as a WDW Disney classic. Joining the Hollywood Studios in May of 1991, this was the second 3D show to open at Walt Disney World. (The first was Captain EO starring Michael Jackson at Epcot which opened in 1986.) Jim Henson’s Muppets are all beloved characters, and in this quirky, silly, 3D show you get them at their best. It’s been around for a long time, and while 3D animation has improved immensely since this attraction was built, you appreciate its “vintage” quality.

Upon entering the theater, you will be guided in to a pre-show. This is a large open room that has the feel of a backstage area. Many TV screens are located up high, appearing to look like packing crates, where you can watch the pre-show. This part is not in 3D. I will admit, when I was younger, the pre-show seemed to take FOREVER. I was just so anxious to get into the theater and see the 3D portion. In reality it’s the same length as the show, about 16 minutes. (Quite the forever when you’re 9.) As an adult, it might be my favorite part of this attraction. It features a lot of Scooter, Gonzo, Rizzo, and Sam Eagle – more minor but awesome Muppets characters.

Once you’re inside the theater and settled in with a pair of lavender 3D glasses on, the show kicks off with oldtimers Waldorf and Statler, who are up in box seats in the theater. I absolutely love them. I think they’re hilarious. After they get in a couple of snarky words, the 3D magic is underway with all of your favorite Muppets characters. Periodically through the show Waldorf and Statler will interject with a remark or two. Outside of the film 3D effects, you’ll find a few extra touches such as a bit of water spray, wind, and bubbles.

What’s to love about this attraction:

It’s kid friendly. There isn’t anything scary about this attraction, it’s just good fun with the Muppets so the whole family can enjoy it together.
There usually isn’t a long queue. The theater holds a lot of people, and of course there is the pre-show too. So you usually don’t have a long wait long for this attraction. The last couple of times we visited were peak seasons and both times we were able to go right into the pre-show.
Both adults and kids will have a chuckle. There is a lot of silliness kids love, and Waldorf and Statler provide sarcastic humor that adults tend to appreciate. Hubby and I love Sam Eagle as well – he has a great couple of lines.

All in all, it’s a must see. And, it’s a great chance to rest your feet and enjoy the AC when its hot outside. If you like the Muppets, (like my very fun friend Pat) you will delight in the Muppets gift shop which has a plethora of Muppets goods.

W. T. D. W. – Finding Nemo – The Musical at Animal Kingdom

Posted on October 16, 2013 by waltdisneyworldblog

Fall is here, and in the mid-Atlantic region where we live, that has meant much cooler weather, a lot of rain, cloudy days, and cooling temperatures. There’s a lot to love about fall. Halloween, colorful trees, pumpkin baked goods, and hot apple cider are a few of my personal favorites. But I’m still missing the hot, beachy days of summer, and I haven’t quite finished mourning their passing yet. So for this week’s WHAT TO DO WEDNESDAY, I am taking us to warm, coral reef waters with Finding Nemo -The Musical at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This charming Broadway-style show opened in January of 2007, and personally, I think it makes a superb addition to Animal Kingdom.

The Basics: This show calls DinoLand U.S.A. home in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Finding Nemo – The Musical runs about 5 times a day, so you have several opportunities to find a time slot that works with your schedule. This is what I think of as a mini-musical. It has all of the wonderful things a musical has – a story, acting, dialog, and of course plenty of great tunes. The Finding Nemo show runs about 40 minutes, all in one act. Stylistically, this is the Finding Nemo story told with wonderful music and the magic of puppeteering. This a show that will befriend adults, charm little ones, and probably even get a smile out of a teenager.

Why I Love it:

Style – This show is so pretty. The colors alone are so enticing, but it is the puppeteering that really makes it magical. The puppets and the puppeteers, especially the main characters (Nemo, Marlin, Dory, etc.) stand together and apart simultaneously. It’s so fascinating. Other times, the puppets take the focus, and the puppeteer is almost unseen. Some of the puppets are so large they take several puppeteers to bring them to life, such as Crush and the pelican. It’s amazing how everyone moves together to bring one idea to the audience.
Length – This attraction is just the right length. 40 minutes gives you time to sit down in a beautiful theater, where you can rest your feet and enjoy the air conditioning. But, 40 minutes isn’t too long either. You are entertained and engaged, and it doesn’t take an overly large chunk of your day. AND, probably most importantly, it’s not too long for kids to sit still through. Especially because the show is in constant motion.
Interaction – There are many times where the puppeteers enter the audience area, which really immerses you in the musical. My favorite part is the jellyfish. Puppeteers with giant jellyfish on poles make them appear just as if they were floating in the ocean. It’s really neat. I also happen to really like jellyfish. As long as they are nowhere near me when I am swimming in the ocean.

From my experiences visiting this attraction over the last few years, I have put together some helpful hints for you.

Tips:

Plan a show time. At the start of your day check your Guidemap and Times Guide to see when the show is scheduled for the day. Come up with one or two of the performance times that you think would fit your schedule. If you don’t pick a time, you may find yourself leaving the park having missed all of the performance times. I like to couple the show with lunch. For example I may go see the 11:00 AM show and eat lunch right after. OR, I may have lunch first and then see the 1:00 PM after eating.
Arrive Early. While the theater is large, it can only hold so many guests. If you wait until 11:55 to show up for the 12:00 show, you may find the theater full. Arrive at the show queue about 30 minutes prior to the performance to give yourself the best chance of getting a seat at your chosen performance time. Animal Kingdom is a big place, give yourself plenty of time to walk to the theater as well.
Don’t stress about your seat. Seriously. I’ve sat in several different places in this theater, closer to the stage, further back, more to the side – and I’ve enjoyed it equally every time.
Think forward. – While I think this is a very family/kid friendly show – there are always kids who can’t make it through. If you have a little one with a short attention span, or who may become frightened in the dark after an extended time, grab a seat near the exit so you can easily slip out if you need to.

Have a great day everyone! And remember: Just keep swimming…

M.M. – Epoct International Food & Wine Festival Picks

Posted on October 14, 2013 by waltdisneyworldblog

After taking two days to bring you two (very) long posts about the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival, I just couldn’t seem to let it go. Food, food, food, was all hubby and I could talk about. So I made the decision last Friday that we would take the weekend to consider the Food Marketplace menus I divulged in Part 1, and pick our must-tastes. We worked separately on our lists, so we could compare. There was no set number of items – just a food & drink choosing free-for-all.

Hubby sat down and chose his list within about 10 minutes. “How?!?” you ask. I don’t know. It took me forever. (Forever looking more like 30 minutes.) At any rate, here are the lists: His, Hers, and Ours (common items among our lists).

HIS EATS:

Grilled beef skewer with chimichurri sauce & boniato purée – Argentina
Seared mahi mahi with jasmine rice and “singa” sauce – Singapore
Almond crusted blue cheese soufflé with fig jam- Cheese
Artisan cheese selection – Cheese
New England Clam Chowder – Hops & Barley
California roll – Japan
Dole pineapple fritters – Refreshment Port
Fried shrimp with Dole pineapple sweet & sour sauce – Refreshment Port

HIS DRINKS:

Tequila flight – Mexico
Rogue Chocolate Stout – Hops & Barley
Orlando Brewing Company Sun Shade Organic Pale Ale – Florida Local
Glenfiddich Scotch Flight – Scotland
Beer Flights 1 & 2 (essentially, all of them) – Craft Beers

HER EATS:

Black Pepper shrimp with suchuan noodles – China
Schniken nudel (pasta gratin with ham and cheese) – Germany
Roast bratwurst in a pretzel roll – Germany
Ravioli de formaggio all’emiliana (baked cheese ravioli with creamy beef bolognese sauce) – Italy
Florida shrimp cerviche with fire-roasted vegetables and micro cilantro – Florida Local
Steamed Green Lip Mussels with garlic butter and toasted bread – New Zealand
Boeuf bourguignon (braised short ribs in cabernet with mashed potatoes) – France
Canadian cheddar cheese soup – Canada
Seared Scottish salmon with cauliflower purée, watercress and malt vinaigarette – Scotland
Berbere-style beef with onions, jelapeños, tomato, okra, and pap – Africa

HER DRINKS:

Aulani Sunrise – Hawai’i
Möet & Chandon Impérial –France
Orange Dole Whip with Crème de Cacao White – Refreshment Port (I’m not sure what the actual consistency of this would be – but Disney calls it a drink, so that’s where I put it. All the more reason to try – curiosity.)
La Face Neige Sparkling –Canada
Sparkling Pomegranate Kir – France
Kim Crawford Pinot Noir – New Zealand
Once Upon a Vine’s The Lost Slipper Sauvignon Blanc – Cheese
Sangria – Mexico
Pascual Toso Sparkling Brut – Argentina

OUR EATS:

Beef empanada – Argentina
Grilled lamb chop with mint pesto and potato crunchies – Australia
Spicy hand roll (tuna and salmon with chili pepper, soy sauce, and sesame oil topped with Kazan Volcano sauce) – Japan
Teriyaki Chicken roll – Japan
Potato and leek waffle with braised beef – Belgium

OUR DRINKS:

Terrrazas Reserva Malbec – Argentina
Singapore Sling – Singapore
Beer Flights 1 & 2 – Brewer’s Collection

Clearly I had more items than hubby. I just had a harder time deciding! I don’t really think there are any items I wouldn’t be happy to at least try. My list was a mix of favorite flavors with a one or two out of my everyday comfort zone. The point is to have new adventures right?

Hubby is a big beer guy, so I wasn’t surprised to see so much of the brew on his list. I”m much more of a wines gal – with a fervent love for sparkling wines. There were plenty of those to tempt me. BUT here is my COMPLAINT for the Food & Wine Festival Food Marketplaces: There were several food marketplaces offering beer flights, and a couple (Mexico & Scotland) offering a liquor flight – but NO ONE offering a wine flight. How silly and disappointing is that? *Sigh. Guess I’ll just have to head to the Wine Cellar in Italy to quench my wine flight thirst. For the record – hubby and I liked that spot so much we visited it twice on our last trip. I do think this is the last of my Epcot International Food and Wine Festival posts for this year. Feel free to weigh in and offer up your picks from the Food Marketplaces in the comments section. 🙂

Epcot International Food and Wine Festival – PART 2

Posted on October 11, 2013 by waltdisneyworldblog

Over the last couple of days, as I have been writing about this year’s International Food and Wine Festival at Epcot, my mouth has just been constantly watering. I’ve just felt hungry, every time I think about the festival. So many delights!

Yesterday we reveled in all of the flavorful offerings of the Food Marketplaces. Today in Part 2, I’m going to fill you in on the Special Events portion of the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival. There is a ton to see and do this year aside from the Food Marketplaces, with the opportunity to learn quite a bit. Many of these events are located in the Festival Center, which you shouldn’t miss. The festival center is located in Future World in-between Ellen’s Universe of Energy and Mission to Mars. Other Special Events take place in the World Showcase – just make sure to check your Guidemap and Festival Guide to know where to go.

Special Experiences at the Food & Wine Festival fall into two categories: “Free” (included in your Epcot park admission) and Ticketed, meaning of course that there is an additional cost to participate.

I like free, so let’s start with that list:

Authentic Taste Seminars – Based on a single, whole food ingredient, these are 30 minute seminars that discuss the ingredients history and uses.
Book & Bottle Signings – Daily there is an opportunity to meet with a well known wine maker or chef, and get their autograph. The schedule changes daily, but here a few of the names for the signings this year: Buddy Valastro, Jamie Deen, Warren Brown, and Jill Ramsier & David Forrester from Quantum Leap Winery.
The Chocolate Experience: From Bean to the Bar – Calling all chocolate lovers! Hosted by the beloved Ghirardelli, you can sample chocolate and admire sculptures made only of chocolate designed by Walt Disney World Pastry chefs. You can also shop for chocolate gifts or try a cup of “drinking chocolate.”
“Seasons of the Vine” – Running continually though the day, this a great seven minute video about the making of wine.
Intermissions Café – Another spot to try a bite. Wines, cheeses, sandwiches and salads are on the list of available eats.
The Stock Pot Shop – This is the place to purchase a little Food & Wine Fez to take home with you. There is special festival merchandise, cookbooks, and cooking products. Calling this one “free” may be a stretch, but it’s free to look, right?
The Art of Food & Wine – A play on words, this is a gallery with prints and original artwork that you can purchase or simply admire.
Discover the Cranberry – Ocean Spray Cranberry has an awesome information set up this years festival. On your way from Future World into the World showcase you’ll find Ocean Spray has set up a cranberry bog (cool!!). Learn all about this amazing crop and sample some dried cranberries. Yum.
Eat to the Beat Concert Series – Daily, there are several concerts featuring a rotating group of musicians. Epcot does a great job of bringing in a variety of musicians, who all have had pretty well known careers. The concerts are shady, and a great opportunity to sit back, relax and enjoy a bite to eat. Or just digest. Here are this years artists: STARSHIP starring Mickey Thomas, The Go-Go’s, Air Supply, Sister Hazel, Sugar Ray,Edwin McCain, The Manhattan Transfer, Wilson Phillips, The Pointer Sisters, Night Ranger, Boyz II Men, Survivor, 38 Special, Smash Mouth, Spin Doctors, Christopher Cross, Hanson, Dennis DeYoung, and Big Bad VooDoo Daddy,

This is one of the best perks, in my opinion, of the Food & Wine Fez. Who doesn’t want to catch a bit of a concert?

Now the not free, but very awesome (I-want-to-TRY-THEM-ALL) available Special Events:

Wine/Beverage Seminars – Join together with a winery principal or beverage expert who will guide you through a selection of wines or beverages. Delight your palette and learn at one of these informative sessions for $14 a person. Count me in!
Culinary Demonstrations – A variety of chefs and beverage specialists will be sharing tips, while they prepare an item you will get to sample. With a cost of $14 per person, this is a great way to learn and taste without breaking the bank.
Kitchen Memories – Big names in the restaurant world, such as Art Smith and Robert Irvine, will demonstrate the preparation of an appetizer, main course, and dessert. Wines will be paired with each course. This is a great way to have a personal experience, taste a lot, and learn a little along the way.
Mixology Seminars – This is another great value, and an experience I would recommend if you want to try something extra at the Food and Wine Fez. For $15 a person, you will watch a drink specialist prepare a selection of 3 cocktails. And of course you will get to sample all of them as well. Cheers!
Cheese Seminars – Paired with wines and beers, this is a great opportunity to sample, taste, and learn about a variety of cheeses.
The Discovery of Chocolate – Now crazily enough, I am not really a chocolate person. But I know more people than not, who would love to give this experience a go. On select Sundays, Chocolatiers will teach guests about chocolate. And of course there is plenty of tasting, with accompanying wines.
Sweet Sundays – Here the day kicks off with a breakfast buffet, sparkling wines, and of course – dessert! The desserts preparations are all demonstrated by a prestigious pastry chef or baker. Breakfast, sparkling wines, and dessert!?! How did they know three of my favorite things?
Culinary Adventures in Signature Dining – Located at a variety of restaurants across the WDW property, these are specially designed feasts prepared by Disney’s signature chefs. Dine on a specialty multi-course menu with selected beverage pairings.
Food & Wine Pairings – Pull up a chair at either Restaurant Marrakesh in Morocco or Tokyo Dining in Japan to indulge in three specially prepared dishes with a specifically chosen wine pairing.
Pavilion Dining Events – In this series, the Mexico, Italy, France, and Japan Pavilions of the World Showcase are hosting specialty events. Try the Mexican Tequila Lunch in Mexico. Italy is offering both a Food & Beer pairing as well as a Food & Wine pairing at the Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria. France has three options: Parisian Breafast, Regional Lunches – to get a tour of France’s wine regions, and a Mixology Series: Taste, Shake, and Indulge Like the French. Presented by Grand Marnier, guests will taste and prepare a range of French cocktails. Or perhaps you’ll want to head to Japan for The Hibachi Experience, which is new this year. This is Hibachi on the finest level, including specially selected sake for each course.

Once again, as you can see, there is a myriad of events and choices involved in the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival. Your experience is completely customizable. Spend just a little or go all out – it’s completely up to you. If I were going I would certainly take advantage of as many of the free events as possible. I also think that I would try a couple of the low cost seminars: Mixology Seminars, Culinary Demonstrations, and Wine/Beverage Seminars.

Now that I’ve gone through the entire festival I will also say this is a much more adult centered event, than family/kid centered. Some of the Food Marketplaces we discussed yesterday have things kids would love, and would make a great addition to your family’s exploration of the World Showcase. If Mom and Dad really want to get into the festival on the family vacation, I suggest utilizing one of the many fantastic Disney run childcare services. That way the kids are having a great time and Mom and Dad can really enjoy the festival offerings.

It’s been a very exciting couple of days bringing all of the Food & Wine Fez happenings to the blog. I decided that on MUNCHY MONDAY next week, I am going to give a sort of Part 3 of the festival, and share the things hubby and I decide we want to try from the Food Marketplaces. Until then, have a great, TASTY weekend!

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