Mission Force One Celebrates A Great, Big Beautiful Tomorrow

By Beth Deitchman

“There’s a great, big beautiful tomorrow, shining at the end of every day…”

The Sherman brothers’ penned their classic song for the Carousel of Progress at the 1964–65 New York World’s Fair, a musical representation of Walt Disney’s vision of an optimistic future—a vision that is also very much at the heart of Disney Junior’s Mission Force One and its predecessor, Miles from Tomorrowland. “There’s a Great, Big Beautiful Tomorrow” was featured in a special episode of the animated series back in May, and now a music video of the song makes its debut today. Featuring clips from “The Space Station Situation” episode, the video is now airing on Disney Junior, as well as the DisneyNOW app.

“We always tried to portray the idea that the future is a hopeful, positive place, and to inspire our viewers to see themselves as the makers of that positive future,” says Sascha Paladino, creator and executive producer of both Mission Force One and Miles from Tomorrowland. The “Miles-ified” version of the Sherman brothers’ song is performed by musician Matt Mahaffey and Grammy®-winning banjoist Béla Fleck (Paladino’s brother) and has been given a modern, rock-inspired makeover. “I was trying to combine the youthfulness of Miles and excitement about the future into our version of the song,” Paladino shares.

The episode in which “There’s a Great, Big Beautiful Tomorrow” appeared was an important one for the series and for its creative team. “A lot of us here feel like that episode is kind of the culmination of everything we’ve done on Miles from Tomorrowland to this point, because it sort of brings Miles and his friends into the real world of space as we know it,” Paladino explains. The episode allowed Miles to travel back in time and meet real-life astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS); by introducing young viewers—and Miles—to our space program, Paladino hopes the episode planted the seed of an idea that the series’ Tomorrowland Transit Authority is a natural evolution from NASA.

miles from tomorrowland

The ISS episode featured an out-of-this-galaxy cast of space and science luminaries and a dream-come-true collaboration with NASA. “How do you top that?” Paladino asks. And while Miles Callisto is just beginning a lifetime of space adventures with family and friends, the September 10 episode of Mission Force One will be the series finale. But, Paladino, emphasizes, viewers should not see this as an ending. “Miles and his family are off onto new adventures, and whether or not you see them on TV, those adventures are going to continue,” he says. “My ideal scenario is that a kid watches the finale episode, then goes off and decides in his or her own head what Miles does next.”

In the series finale, airing on Monday, September 10, at 5:00 P.M. EDT/PDT, viewers can look forward to the return of Miles’ parents, Phoebe and Leo, along with an encore appearance by a very special guest voice actor: legendary astronaut Buzz Aldrin, who reprises his role as the head of the Tomorrowland Transit Authority.

miles from tomorrowland

Working with the likes of Aldrin is just one of the many amazing experiences Paladino has had during his time with Miles. “It was in so many ways a dream come true,” he shares. “I got to explore outer space. I got to explore ideas about the future. I got to, in a way, live vicariously through Miles my dreams of going to outer space. And I got to tell stories that were important to me and explore this idea of a future that we want to live in and what that might look like; and also explore stories about what it means to connect with different cultures.”

The theme of connection is very much a part of Miles Callisto’s adventures, whether he was connecting the universe for the Tomorrowland Transit Authority with his family, or connecting and protecting that universe with his friends on Mission Force One. And the series itself is very much connected to a legacy that began for Disney in 1955 with the inaugural airing of Man in Space on Walt Disney’s Disneyland series, and continues in a galaxy far, far away. “I love Walt Disney’s ethos of the future as a place of innovation where great things will happen. That really summed up what the show is about,” says Paladino.

Or as the Sherman brothers wrote, “Tomorrow’s just a dream away.”

Absolutely Everything You Need for a Summertime Disney Picnic

By Karina Schink

Even as summer draws to a close, there’s still time to host at least one last get-together before the season’s official end. With your friends and family in tow, make sure you pick up some Disney swag to add a dose of magic to your day.

Don’t forget that D23 Members get a discount at shopDisney.com.

 

picnic merch

Disney Parks “Here For The Snacks” T-Shirt for Kids

picnic merch

Adventureland Pineapple Treat Baseball Cap for Adults
We know one of the best parts of a really good picnic is really good food. While you may not be able to bring all of the treats from the Disney Parks with you, you can certainly still show your love for your favorite foods!

picnic merch

Mickey Mouse Plaid Throw
Is any picnic truly complete without a plaid picnic blanket? Mickey definitely doesn’t think so, and there’s no better way to fulfill that quintessential picnic piece than with one featuring the mouse himself?

picnic merch

Mickey and Minnie Picnic Basket
If your picnic is a romantic getaway for two, this picnic basket (featuring two of our favorite lovebirds) does all of the packing for you, so you can just focus on your favorite thing: each other—and, of course, the food!

picnic merch

R2-D2 Cooler Tote
Beep-beep, this is definitely the droid you’re looking for. It’s no surprise that this resourceful astromech droid is here to keep all of your picnic goodies nice and cool, all the way from being packed to your final destination (so you don’t have to try to get there in under 12 parsecs!).

picnic merch

Star Wars: The Last Jedi Party Table Cover
Jedi or Sith, Resistance or Empire, we all need an out-of-this-galaxy table cover for a fun, force-filled picnic.

picnic merch

Mickey Mouse On the Go Disney Party Collection
Mickey is all packed up and ready to go with everything you need for your summertime picnic, from napkins and plates to fun party favors, to make sure your day is as magical as possible.

picnic merch

Sebastian Bubbles and Splash Sprinkler Play Set—The Little Mermaid
While your picnic may not take you under the sea, it wouldn’t be a picnic without some fun in the sun. If the day is a bit too hot (or you just need a little refreshing), this charming gizmo is straight from Ariel’s cavern and will help you soak up all of the fun the summer has left to offer.

Oga’s Cantina at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

By Jocelyn Buhlman

What would be your first adventure if you lived in the Star Wars galaxy? Some would begin their training as a Jedi Knight, others might sign up to join a ragtag group of rebels in saving the universe, but the rest of us… well, sometimes we just want to grab our favorite Wookiee and get up to no good at the local cantina.

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge promises to make that dream a reality with Oga’s Cantina at Black Spire Outpost. Disney Parks Blog just announced this local hive of scum and villainy, which will begin serving galactic guests in 2019.

Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge cantina

Meet Oga Garra
Oga Garra is a mysterious alien proprietor with a strict code of conduct. Can she keep the most wild of her patrons under control? On this smuggler’s outpost, we can’t be too sure. One thing’s for sure: If you’re up to no good and on the run, this cantina is the exact place you need to be to avoid the authorities—and maybe overhear a thrilling story or two!

Planetary Potions
While you’re dodging stormtroopers (or that Aqualish who beat you at sabacc), why not stop and quench your thirst? Sample famous concoctions full of out-of-this-world ingredients, served up in unique vessels. Whether you’re seeking a celestial spirit, or something more kid-friendly, Oga has something for everyone!

RX-24

Still Getting Used to His Programming
As first revealed at D23 Expo 2017, Star Tours’ most famous first-time pilot found himself a new job he (might) be better at: RX-24 provides the musical entertainment we’ve all come to expect from the local intergalactic cantina. He still has his quirky and talkative personality, of course—and he’s still trying his best.

We’re at the edge of our seats waiting for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge to open at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort in 2019. Stay tuned right here on D23.com for more out-of-this-world updates on and this new Disney Parks adventure.

Every Thing To Do While You Chew at Epcot International Food & Wine Festival 2018

By Karina Schink

The eats at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival are known to tantalize taste buds all around but throughout the celebration there are also so many different activities to take part in that go beyond dining and wining! Here are all of the things to do while you chew at the 2018 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival.

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival 2018

Eat to the Beat Concert Series
From pop to country to rhythm and blues, there’s a sampling of music to suit everyone’s taste. With your favorite festival food in hand, head over to the America Gardens Theatre where you can treat your ears with a sound-sational lineup of 32 acts, including nine newcomers for 2018: Tauren Wells, 98 Degrees, MercyMe, Vertical Horizon, Glass Tiger, Sheila E, and Jim Belushi & The Sacred Hearts, Anderson East, and High Valley. Click here to view the complete 2018 schedule.

Disney Du Jour Dance Party
For some family-friendly fun, head over to the Fountain Stage on Friday and Saturday evenings for the Disney Du Jour Dance Party. No one wants to dance alone, and every party will feature a special guest visit from a different duo of Disney characters! And the music? Every single dance party will be made extra magical with a special appearance by an up-and-coming Radio Disney artist. Be there for opening weekend to dance to music from Hollywood Records’ recording artist IRL as they kick off the festivities.

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival 2018

Family-Friendly Foodie Fun
Not only will you and your kids be trying tons of new foods, but they can also learn how to make some new culinary creations! On Sundays in the Festival Center, kids ages 4–10 can participate in Junior Chef Kitchen presented by Krusteaz and make, decorate, and sample their own pancake creations. (Young chefs must register for the Junior Chef Kitchen session the day before or morning of the experience, at the Festival Center.) Foodies-in-training can also work up an appetite as they explore a new playground in Future World.

Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak Scavenger Hunt
What better way to celebrate all things food than to play a game that stars the food maestro himself: Remy! Embark on a scavenger hunt adventure, searching all around World Showcase and the global marketplaces to find the ingredients Remy needs to make his signature dish, ratatouille. Want a tip? Just remember what Remy’s hero Chef Gusteau said, “If you focus on what you left behind, you will never be able to see what lies ahead.” We think that’s pretty good advice for a scavenger hunt! Find all 15 Remy statuettes and you can bring your completed scavenger hunt map to Disney Traders at the entrance to World Showcase and trade it for a new surprise, compliments of the little chef himself.

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival 2018

Party for the Senses*
Pay tribute to the sensory arts with a night filled with incredible food and entertainment at the separately ticketed event Party for the Senses. The parties feature an array of epicurean delights with a masterful medley of tasty eats and memorable music from Femmes of Rock, who bring their own special blend of entertainment to the high-energy shows that feature classic rock hits played on electric violins.

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival 2018

Festival Center Stage Presented by Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company®
It fuels you, delights you, and now, takes you on a voyage! At the Festival Center Stage, let Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company take you on an incredible journey from bean to mug to learn just how you get that cup o’ joe in the morning.

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival 2018

The Chocolate Experience: From Bean to the Bar—Hosted by Ghirardelli® Chocolate Company
Do you smell that? Chocolate! Just like Anna and Elsa, we’re obsessed with all things chocolate, and at this year’s festival, you can completely immerse yourself in the sights, smells, and flavors of that delicious cocoa candy. Not only will you be able to sample some, but you’ll also have the opportunity to view fantastical chocolate sculptures created by Walt Disney World pastry chefs, and discover the process that turns a simple bean into the world’s most famous—and one of its most delicious—flavors.

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival 2018

Culinary Demonstrations*
While eating may be our favorite part of any epicurean event, we also love to learn all about food! Mondays through Saturdays throughout the festival, you can take a couple notes from the pros during the Culinary Demonstrations—and each demonstration comes to a delicious culinary conclusion. Bon Appétit! Click here for the most up-to-date schedule and to make a reservation.

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival 2018

Mix It, Make It, Celebrate It!*
Want to get more involved with the cooking? At Mix It, Make It, Celebrate It, you’ll work side-by-side with the chefs, beverage experts, and other kitchen wizards to learn all of their tips and tricks in the culinary world. Click here to check availability and make a reservation.

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival 2018

Cheese Seminars*
These seminars will make you melt with cheesy delight. Guest cheesemakers and fromage experts will teach all about aromas, textures, and flavor levels of popular cheeses while you sample different wines, beers, and other beverages from featured regions. We can’t disa-brie that it will be an amazing event! There is still limited availability for these eagerly anticipated events. Click 

*This is a separately ticketed event

Meet Aella—The Giraffe Calf Just Debuted at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

By Beth Deitchman

Good things often come in tall packages, as guests experiencing Kilimanjaro Safaris at Disney’s Animal Kingdom saw firsthand recently. A two-month-old Masai giraffe calf has just made her debut on the savanna, and Aella (pronounced “eye-la”) is a sight to behold.

Aella, who was five-feet-tall when she was born on June 29, was named after an Amazon warrior, and is already known to be brave, bold and a little adventurous. Her curious and independent spirit shines through as she begins to explore the savanna and take her first few steps away from her mom, Lily. As the youngest and smallest giraffe in the herd, Aella is easy for guests to spot.

Like all giraffes, Aella is a herbivore. After nursing for approximately the first year of her life, Aella will feast in the bounty of the savanna and, when fully grown, use her 18-inch tongue to strip leaves off thorny branches from the tops and sides of trees to eat up to 75 pounds of food a day.

Lily and George, Aella’s dad, were chosen to breed through the Species Survival Plan (SSP), which is overseen by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and ensures responsible breeding of threatened and endangered species. Breeding this pair is important to the long-term survival of the species because it adds more genetic diversity to the giraffe population, which helps ensure future generations. There are approximately 32,000 Masai giraffes left in the wild—found primarily in Kenya and Tanzania—and the population continues to be at risk to poaching and habitat loss.

Disney's Animal Kingdom Giraffe Calf

The Disney Conservation Fund supports conservation efforts in Africa to protect wildlife habitats, including those of giraffes. Earlier this year, several Disney animal care experts went to Uganda to help relocate a herd of giraffes across the Nile River to establish a newer, safer habitat away from oil-drilling fields. Another team went to Kenya to support a giraffe and zebra population census.

To learn more about giraffes and the threats they face in the wild, visit DisneyAnimals.com.

D23 Expo 2019 Tickets Are Here—Plus More in News Briefs

By Karina Schink

Tickets for the Ultimate Disney Fan Event are on sale now; yummy treats and drinks revealed for the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival; and some secrets are revealed about The Tropical Hideaway at Disneyland… Read more, along with other news from around Disney, in this week’s news briefs!

ICYMI: D23 Expo 2019 Tickets Are On Sale Now

Oh boy! Last week, D23 began selling tickets for the next D23 Expo, which will take place August 23–25, 2019 at the Anaheim Convention Center. It’s the largest Disney fan event in the world, and we’re bursting with excitement over what next year’s Expo has in store!

Not only will we get to see the return of some fan-favorite D23 Expo festivities, such as the Mousequerade costume contest (judged once again by Ashley Eckstein and Yvette Nicole Brown!), but a little something wicked comes to Anaheim, too. The ghoulishly delightful Haunted Mansion-themed D23 Expo 2019 Design Challenge pays tribute to the popular attraction as it celebrates its 50th anniversary next year.

The Disney Legends Awards ceremony will again take place at D23 Expo, where you’ll be able to visit a brand-new exhibit from the Walt Disney Archives. It’s going to be much more than a bundle of fun!

Stay tuned for all the D23 Expo news as it breaks, but in the meantime, check out D23’s first installment of “Know Before You Expo” to discover 23 reasons why you’ll love D23 Expo 2019.

Save the Date!
Be sure to mark these upcoming Disney events on your calendar:

D23 and Walt Disney Archives
September 8, 2018
The Official Walt Disney Studios Tour—Presented by D23
September 8, 2018
D23’s Magical Screening Series: Mary Poppins at Walt Disney World
September 15, 2018
D23’s Magical Screening Series: Mary Poppins on the Lot
October 19, 2018
Lunch with a Disney Legend: Ron Logan
October 22, 2018
D23’s Sip and Stroll at Epcot
November 16-18, 2018
Destination D: Celebrating Mickey Mouse
August 23-25, 2019
D23 Expo 2019
Parks
August 17, 24, 28, 31
September 3, 7, 9, 11, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 28, 30
October 2, 4, 5, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30, 31

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom Park
September 19, 21, 24, 26, 28
October 2, 5, 9, 12, 16, 19, 23, 26, 29, 31

Mickey’s Halloween Party at the Disneyland Resort
August 30-November 12, 2018
Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
September 7-October 31, 2018
Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort
Summer 2019
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Opening at Disneyland Resort
Fall 2019
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Opening at and Walt Disney World Resort

Studios
November 2, 2018
The Nutcracker and the Four Realms opens in U.S. theaters
November 21, 2018
Ralph Breaks the Internet opens in U.S. theaters
December 19, 2018
Mary Poppins Returns opens in U.S. theaters
March 8, 2019
Marvel Studios’ Captain Marvel opens in U.S. theaters
March 29, 2019
Dumbo opens in U.S. theaters
April 19, 2019
Penguins opens in U.S. theaters
June 21, 2019
Toy Story 4 opens in U.S. theaters
Television
September 7, 2018
Stand Up to Cancer telecast on ABC (8 p.m. EDT/PDT)
September 21, 2018
Elena of Avalor: Song of the Sirenas premieres on Disney Junior (7–8 p.m. EDT/PDT)
November 4, 2018
Mickey’s 90th Spectacular airs on ABC (8–10 p.m. EST)

Get a Sneak Peek of the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival

The Epcot International Food & Wine Festival is here, and Inside Disney Parks is giving us a sneak peek at this year’s treats and eats. This latest episode presents a tantalizing behind-the-kitchen look at the event that has our stomachs a-rumbling. At the 23rd annual Food & Wine Festival, you don’t need a passport to try food from all around the world—all you need is an appetite and a curiosity to try something new. Preview the culinary magic and more in the sneak peek above from Disney Parks.

news briefs 8/29

Just Revealed: New Details About The Tropical Hideaway in Disneyland Park

Calling all explorers and adventurers­—wilderness and others alike! We’ve got news for you straight out of a special little retreat. We’re sure you’re all anxiously awaiting to hear absolutely everything and anything you can about The Tropical Hideaway in Adventureland at Disneyland park, and we’ve got a little extra to dish—right here at D23.com.

Labor Day Fan Zone Arrives at Walt Disney World

It’s almost the (unofficial) end of summer, and the Walt Disney World Resort will bring a fan-friendly event to the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. The Labor Day Fan Zone will take place on September 1–2 from 7:30 a.m.–6:30 p.m. and deliver the ultimate end-of-summer celebration.

This fan festival will feature high-energy music, food, event merchandise, vendor booths, character greetings, and big-screen televisions showing different sporting events. It’s sure to be a fun-filled weekend where everyone can come, enjoy the festivities, and relax.

We Were “Born Ready” for Dove Cameron’s New Single

Dove Cameron (Descendants, Liv and Maddie) has debuted her marvelous single “Born Ready,” the new theme song to Marvel Rising: Secret Warriors. The new animated film brings together a group of powered teens—Ms. Marvel, Squirrel Girl, Quake, Patriot, America Chavez, and Inferno—who join forces to save the world.

The animated film is set to premiere on Sunday, September 30, on Disney Channel and Disney XD. See this next generation of Marvel heroes in action and hear Dove Cameron perform “Born Ready” in the video above, and you can download the new single now!

news briefs 8/29

Get Ready To Dream Big: ABC’s American Idol Kicks Off Nationwide Bus Tour

The journey has begun once again: ABC’s American Idol kicked off nationwide bus tour auditions at Walt Disney World Resort on August 25. This beloved competition series has embarked on a 20-city tour across America, finding all of the hopefuls, and most importantly, the next American Idol.

Maddie Poppe, winner of ABC’s American Idol Season 1, was joined by runner-up Caleb Lee Hutchinson and finalist Catie Turner at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, where they offered encouragement to this year’s Idol hopefuls. It was a big kickoff to what promises to be an incredible season ahead, and we’re excited to see dream in the making!

This Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious Playlist Comes Straight from Richard Sherman

Attention, Disney music fans (who are we kidding—that’s all of us!): The Play Disney Parks app (which officially launched in June) has debuted a brand-new playlist, guest curated by Disney Legend Richard Sherman!

From “It’s a Small World” to “A Kiss Goodnight,” Disney Legend Richard M. Sherman—half of the renowned Sherman Brothers songwriting team—has been a part of the magic of Disney parks, and all of the songs he selected for the new playlist reflect those rich experiences he’s had over the years.

The playlist is available now in the app and through Apple Music, and if you’re an Apple Music subscriber, you can add your favorite tracks (or all of them!) directly to your Apple Music library! Visit the Disney Parks Blog to learn more.

Are You a Disney Parks Guru? The Disney Parks Moms Panel is Looking for Disney Experts!

Planning a Disney vacation is fun and exciting. But sometimes you need a little help with the details, and the Disney Parks Moms Panel is an online resource comprised of everyday parents, grandparents, and even some adults without kids who share first-hand experience to help make your own Disney vacation more magical.

And now, they’re calling all of you vacationers who know a thing or two about Disney Parks to apply to join the Disney Parks Moms Panel. The search will be open from September 5–12. Head over to momspanelsearch.com for eligibility requirements and more details.

Every Spooky Snack and Ghoulish Delight at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts

By Jocelyn Buhlman

The spooky season is approaching and Disney fans have begun to plan some bewitching days at their favorite Disney parks. There are so many essential parts of a perfect Halloween haunt at Disney parks—from dressing as your favorite Disney character to riding the special spooktacular rides—and none are more essential than tasting the treats and eats concocted just for the Halloween season. Whether you’re at Walt Disney World or Disneyland Resort, there’s a ghoulish delight for everyone to enjoy. Are you ready? We offer you this chilling challenge: figuring out what to try first!

Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World

Wizards, witches, toads in a pond—it’s time for tasty treats from regions beyond! At Magic Kingdom Park, there are so many deliciously spooky treats to enjoy for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. Here are some of our faves:

Halloween food round-up 2018

Main Street Bakery

  • Not-So-Poison Apple Cupcake: A spiced “apple” cupcake with pecan crunch and buttercream
  • Halloween Cinnamon Roll: Mickey-shaped cinnamon roll topped with icing and a chocolate spider web
  • Pumpkin Cheesecake (available on party nights only): Gluten-friendly pumpkin cheesecake with gluten-friendly vanilla pecan cake and caramel glaze

Casey’s Corner

  • Minnie Witch Brownie: Decadent brownie topped with a white chocolate piece featuring a wickedly wonderful Minnie Mouse, dressed in her witchy best!

Halloween food round-up 2018

Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe

  • Hades Nachos (available on party nights only): Black bean nacho chips topped with fiery buffalo chicken and choice of toppings from the topping bar
  • Worms & Dirt (available on party nights only; available daily starting October 1): Gluten-friendly Worms & Dirt chocolate pudding, gluten-friendly cake crumbs, gummy worms, and a chocolate grave stone

Halloween food round-up 2018

Cider House (Golden Oak Outpost)

  • Apple Cider (available on party nights only)
  • Warm Caramel-Stuffed Pretzel (available on party nights only)
  • Cinnamon Donuts (available on party nights only)

Halloween food round-up 2018

Sleepy Hollow

  • Zero Waffle Sundae (available on party nights only; available daily starting October 1): Special pumpkin waffles topped with vanilla ice cream, sprinkles, and a caramel drizzle
  • Jack Skellington Cake Push Pop (available on party nights only): Layered chocolate cake, vanilla buttercream, white chocolate and dark chocolate crispy pearls, dark chocolate curls, and a white chocolate Jack Skellington piece

Halloween food round-up 2018

Liberty Square Market

  • Madame Leota Dessert (available on party nights only): Vanilla tart shell filled with toasted marshmallow pastry crème and topped with crispy pearls, chocolate, and a hard candy garnish

Halloween food round-up 2018

Aloha Isle

  • Hitchhiking Ghost Dessert (available on party nights only): Doom Buggy-inspired Cream Puff filled with cookies and cream mousse and topped with a chocolate piece featuring the Hitchhiking Ghosts

Halloween food round-up 2018

Gaston’s Tavern

  • Oogie Boogie Meringue (available on party nights only): Gluten-friendly pomegranate-cherry gelée with gummy worms and topped with glow-in-the-dark meringue

Halloween food round-up 2018

Storybook Treats

  • Maleficent Dessert: Lime soft-serve in a black waffle cone, topped with purple sugar and chocolate horns

Halloween food round-up 2018

Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies

  • Candy Corn Ice Cream: Soft-serve ice cream available in a cone or in a sundae
  • Candy Corn Milkshake: Topped with cotton candy and a Mickey-shaped marshmallow

Halloween food round-up 2018

Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe

  • Muenster Smash Burger (available on party nights only): the Muenster Smash Burger is served on a black bun with Muenster cheese, tots, and Sriracha aïoli.

Disneyland Resort

If you haven’t visited Disneyland Resort recently, we have a sweet reason to hurry back… A spellbinding selection of delicious treats which are sure to raise your spirits. If you’re looking for all the treats and no tricks, you’re in luck, because the candy shops across Disneyland resort are bringing out their most bewitching goodies, just for you:

Halloween food round-up 2018

Disneyland Resort Candy Shops

(Pooh Corner and Candy Palace at Disneyland park; Trolley Treats at Disney California Adventure park; and Marceline’s Confectionery at the Downtown Disney District)

  • Minnie Witch Apple
  • Jack Skellington Apple
  • Skull Apple
  • Evil Queen Apple
  • Jack Skellington Cake Pop
  • Bat Cake Pop
  • Mickey Mouse Mummy Crispy Treat
  • Oogie Boogie Crispy Treat
  • Maleficent Crispy Treat
  • Mummy Marshmallow
  • Pumpkin Fudge

Disneyland Park

At Disneyland park, the spirits have cooked up something extra special: flavored churros from the beyond, ready to cast their spell on you! Which one will be your favorite? Make sure to stop by the churro carts to try them all:

Halloween food round-up 2018

Disneyland Park Churros Carts

  • Churros near Big Thunder Mountain: Orange Sugar Churro with Candy Corn Sauce
  • Churros near Haunted Mansion: Pumpkin Spice Churro with Cream Cheese Frosting
  • Hungry Bear Restaurant: Churro Bites Cereal Sundae with fruit cereal-dusted churros, cereal milk anglaise, strawberry ice cream, and raspberry sauce
  • Golden Horseshoe: Churro Sundae with cookie butter gelato garnished with a cinnamon sugar-dusted churro and topped with cajeta and whipped cream
  • Churros near Town Square and Sleeping Beauty Castle: Maleficent Churro covered with chocolate cookie crumbles blended with colored sugar (you can even add Marshmallow Dip!)
  • Churros near Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters: Sour Apple Churro (with the option to add Caramel Sauce to this one!)

Once you’ve had a churro or two (or three, or four…), don’t forget to enjoy the rest of Disneyland’s creepy cuisine:

Red Rose Taverne

  • Black Rose Dessert: black truffle mousse with raspberry compote and crunch center with a candy spider

Troubadour Tavern

  • Cookie Decorating Kits

Rancho del Zocalo

  • Orange Sugar Skull Pot de Crème
  • Frozen Abuelita Horchata: frozen Mexican hot chocolate layered with frozen horchata and topped with whipped cream

Halloween food round-up 2018

Café Orleans

  • Crab & Corn Chowder

French Market

  • Halloween-Themed Dessert Trio: with worms & dirt, salted caramel pudding, and pumpkin pie
  • Mansion Spider Bundt Cake: chocolate Bundt cake with green icing and a chocolate spider

Halloween food round-up 2018

Mint Julep Bar

  • Pumpkin Spice Mickey Beignets

Halloween food round-up 2018

Bengal Barbecue

  • Musubi Special: spiced ham musubi with lemongrass jasmine rice and pineapple teriyaki sauce and served with pickled daikon and carrots topped with furikake flakes

Halloween food round-up 2018

Carnation Café

  • Haunted Firehouse Chicken Sandwich: red pepper coulis, white cheese sauce, crispy pancetta, and arugula on yellow sliced bread

Halloween food round-up 2018

Gibson Girl

  • Apple Pie á La Mode: vanilla ice cream with warm spiced apples, crumble topping, and caramel drizzle

Jolly Holiday Bakery Café

  • Sweet Potato Hand Pie: sweet potato pie filling topped with orange white chocolate glaze and toasted mini-marshmallows
  • Cruella de Vil Brownie: brownie in a spotted cup with black dark chocolate mousse, white chocolate mousse, and a Cruella de Vil logo
  • Graveyard Cupcake: chocolate cupcake with cherry filling, dark chocolate mousse, Halloween sprinkles, and a chocolate tombstone
  • Spice Bundt Cake
  • Pumpkin Layered Cheesecake
  • Pumpkin Muffin
  • Mickey Mummy Macaroon

Halloween food round-up 2018

Refreshment Corner

  • Halloween Hot Dog: with spicy meatballs, cheese sauce, and oven-roasted tomatoes

Halloween food round-up 2018

Plaza Inn Restaurant

  • Main Street Mickey’s Pound Cake: pound cake filled with blueberry compote and cookie crumbles surrounded by whipped cream and garnished with black sugar and mint
  • Halloween Minnie Mouse Cake: cinnamon-praline Bundt cake with an apple center and finished with an orange glaze and sprinkles

Galactic Grill

  • Spider Parfait: chocolate cake, vanilla and chocolate pudding, and a thick layer of ganache

Halloween food round-up 2018

Alien Pizza Planet

  • Cosmic Chili Pasta: pinwheel pasta, chili, cheese, and green onion
  • Alien Spider Parfait: chocolate cake, vanilla and chocolate pudding, and a thick layer of ganache

Disney California Adventure Park

Disney California Adventure joins in the churro fun with some of their own flavored churros at carts throughout the park. There’s a full rainbow of churros just waiting to make your day (and Instagram feed) brighter:

Halloween food round-up 2018

Disney California Adventure Park Churros

  • Willie’s Churros: Purple, Green, and Orange Sugar Churro; Pumpkin Spice Churro
  • Churros near Redwood Creek Challenge Trail: S’mores Churro with graham cracker, chocolate chips, and a marshmallow drizzle
  • Churros near Goofy’s Sky School: Purple Sugar Churro
  • Cozy Cone Motel: Pumpkin Spice Churro with Cream Cheese Dipping Sauce

Don’t go too overboard on those devilish delights—at least, not until you’ve sampled the rest of the spookily scrumptious snacks the park has to offer:

Halloween food round-up 2018

Fiddler, Fifer & Practical Café

  • Sleepy Hollow Cupcake: red velvet cupcake with Headless Horseman chocolate piece

Halloween food round-up 2018

Clarabelle’s Hand Scooped Ice Cream

  • Purple, Orange, Green, and Black Sprinkles to Dip
  • Spider Silk Macaron Sandwich: black macaron with charcoal-tart cherry spun ice cream topped with popping candy and raspberry sauce
  • Bat Wing Raspberry Sundae: white chocolate raspberry swirl ice cream with raspberry splatter, red sprinkles, whipped cream, and bat wing cookie

Halloween food round-up 2018

Mortimer’s Market and Boudin Bread Cart

  • Mickey Bread with Fangs

Halloween food round-up 2018

Smokejumpers Grill

  • Green Apple Spell Lemonade: lemonade with sour green apple syrup, cherry popping pearls, and raspberry sauce

Pacific Wharf Café

  • Pumpkin Bread Pudding
  • Mickey Bread with Fangs
  • Bacon Cheddar Ale Soup

Pacific Wharf Beer Truck

  • Karl Strauss Oktoberfest Beer

Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta

  • Anti Vampire Pizza: roasted garlic sauce, marinated chicken smoked gouda, mozzarella, roasted red peppers, and a tomato-harissa sauce drizzle
Bayside Brews
  • ACE Pumpkin Hard Cider
  • Karl Strauss Oktoberfest Beer

Halloween food round-up 2018

Corn Dog Castle

  • Spicy Pepper Jack Dog: dipped in corn batter, drizzled with blackberry sauce, and topped with sweet pineapple salsa, pickled serranos, and crushed cheese puffs

New Details About The Tropical Hideaway in Disneyland Park

By Beth Deitchman

Calling all explorers! A new experience is coming to Disneyland park, and details about the one-of-a-kind outpost are no longer hidden, thanks to our friends at the Disney Parks Blog. Whether you’re seeking culinary adventure or a spot to soak in the sights of the Jungle River waterfront, The Tropical Hideaway is the place you’re going to want to be.

Set to open later this year, the new spot will feature extraordinary eats from all over the world. After a visit to the nearby Jungle Cruise and Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room, you’ll want to follow those classic attractions by taking a bao… or two or three, as The Tropical Hideaway will offer three different varieties: Spiced Vegetable Bao, Kaffir Lime Chicken Bao, and Bulgogi Beef Bao. The menu will also include a chilled ramen salad and other tropical-inspired snacks, not to mention Sweet Pineapple Lumpia, a pineapple and sweet cream cheese-filled spring roll.

Tropical Hideaway

Your other senses will delight in the feast, as well, as the musical sounds of the tropics and a waterfront view set the scene for a relaxing and refreshing respite. Evenings see The Tropical Hideaway transform into an enchanting nighttime venue, as the setting sun gives way to flickering torch lights.

We’ll continue seeking updates about The Tropical Hideaway as its opening approaches. Stay tuned to D23 for all of the details.

Oh Boy! Travel the World with Mickey Mouse

By Karina Schink

Aloha! Bonjour! All aboard! It’s time to go on an adventure with the mouse of the year, Mickey Mouse! As Mickey’s 90th quickly approaches, we decided to revisit some of his most adventurous moments from his various treks across the globe. So, pack a bag, get your boarding pass, and get ready to visit some of Mickey’s favorite vacation spots!

Mickey Vacations

Hawaiian Holiday (1937)
As you may already know, Hawai‘i was a favorite vacation spot of Walt Disney’s, so it makes sense that Mickey and his friends also find the islands to be an ideal destination for a holiday getaway. In this 1937 cartoon, Mickey, Goofy, Donald Duck, Pluto, and Minnie’s tropical vacation activities include surfing, strumming a guitar on the beach, and dancing, of course!

Mickey Vacations

Yodelberg (2013)
In a country just a bit colder, Mickey and Minnie must fend off an avalanche when their yodeling starts to cause a little bit more than a small snowfall in this Mickey Mouse cartoon short.

Mickey Vacations

Mickey’s Trailer (1938)
Camping is a classic vacation choice—the perfect way to get away. And in this classic short, Mickey shows us that all you need for an eventful trip is a great group of friends, a fresh pot of coffee, and just a little bit of havoc.

Shipped Out (2017)
Bon Voyage! The gang drops off Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse at their much-needed cruise vacation, where they’re looking forward to receiving the VIP treatment. Within minutes, the pair are set up for a relaxing cruise. But, when the VIP experience turns out to be a bit more than they expected, they soon find their trip to be less relaxing—and more adventurous—than they’d hoped.

Mickey Vacations

Mr. Mouse Takes a Trip (1940)
In this classic cartoon, it’s not about the destination but the journey for Mickey and his faithful pal Pluto. For this duo, hilarity ensues from the very beginning as Mickey tries to sneak Pluto on to the train after discovering there are no dogs allowed. While they may not be traveling far, we know this is a trip the two will remember for a lifetime, because all you really need is a great pal by your side.

Mickey Vacations

Croissant de Triomphe (2013)
Bonjour! Bonjour! We’re far away from that poor, provincial town as Mickey Mouse embarks on a flaky mission across Paris when Minnie runs out of croissants. As we trail along on his confectionary crusade, Mickey Mouse’s escapades also provide a beautiful tour of Paris!

Mickey Vacations

Mumbai Madness (2014)
Mickey Mouse is the ultimate travel guide in this short, and who better to travel across India with? This epic odyssey begins with Mickey Mouse, as a taxi driver in Mumbai, must take his passenger to one single stop, but it ends up being just a bit more complicated than that!

Mickey Vacations

Turkish Delights (2016)
Our favorite mouse must fend off other jealous merchants in Turkey when his Turkish Delight is the hit of the Grand Bazaar. But Mickey’s mission isn’t to outsell the competition or to put them out of business, but simply to share the deliciousness of his delicacies with them.

Mickey Vacations

Entombed (2016)
Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse are on an adventure to find “lost treasure, priceless antiquities, and ancient artifacts” all under the Valley of the Kings in Egypt. With spiders, snakes, tombs, mummies, and booby traps in their way, an overjoyed Mickey and Minnie embark on a thrilling search in the tombs.

Mickey Vacations

Tokyo Go (2013)
It’s rush hour in Tokyo, and Mickey is feeling a bit overwhelmed. When the morning commute gets a bit crowded and Mickey finds himself on the wrong bullet train, he begins racing for the exit at all costs.

Mickey Vacations

¡Feliz Cumpleaños! (2015)
This year, we’re celebrating Mickey’s 90th, and in this cartoon, Mickey also celebrates a birthday, but in Mexico! His friends plan a surprise party for him, but in true Mickey fashion, not everything goes to plan, and Mickey must fight off some rogue piñatas before he can have a truly happy birthday.