The Brand-New Mickey Mouse Portrait Brings Happiness to Everyone

July 20, 2018March 31, 2020

By Jocelyn Buhlman

We made our debut at San Diego Comic-Con today, and it’s only appropriate that our very first panel would honor the mouse that started it all. Fans who gathered in Room 6A came to celebrate Mickey Mouse himself, but also to witness the unveiling of a brand-new work of art: Mickey’s new birthday portrait! Titled “Spreading Happiness Around the World,” the painting by legendary Walt Disney Animation Studios animator Mark Henn honors Mickey’s 90th anniversary, and the fans gathered at our panel “Celebrating 90 Years of Mickey Mouse with D23: The Official Disney Fan Club” were the very first to see it in person!

This stunning portrait, featuring Mickey floating over a world full of happiness, was commissioned by D23 and our friends at the Walt Disney Archives, in partnership with Walt Disney Animation Studios. Henn—a Disney animator currently working on Ralph Breaks the Internet, but who previously brought his magic to “Mini Maui” in Moana, along with supervising the animation on a castle’s worth of Disney Princesses such as Ariel, Belle, Jasmine, Mulan, Pocahontas, and Princess Tiana—follows in the footsteps of Disney Legend John Hench, who crafted five of Mickey’s previous official portraits.

“It is one of the great honors of my career to be asked to paint Mickey’s 90th birthday portrait,” says Henn. “I was greatly inspired by the portraits painted by John Hench. I wanted to capture some of the same style and sense of youth that John achieved in his portraits.” D23 Gold Members can enjoy the portrait in their own homes, as it is the stunning cover of the Fall 2018 issue of Disney twenty-three, the quarterly publication sent exclusively to Gold Members of D23.

Since we first met Mickey in his big-screen debut in Steamboat Willie on November 18, 1928, he has been the global ambassador for The Walt Disney Company. From the beloved Mickey Mouse Club to today’s Mickey Mouse cartoon shorts, fans around the world enjoy Mickey’s optimistic outlook and endearing personality every day. You can find out even more ways we’ll be celebrating Mickey Mouse this year and join in the celebration yourself on social media with the hashtag #Mickey90.

The Inside Scoop on Disney QUIZney from Host Trinitee Stokes

July 19, 2018July 19, 2018

By Beth Deitchman

Something truly magical happens every weeknight at 9 p.m. EDT/6 p.m. PDT. All across the U.S., Disney fans stop what they’re doing, head for the nearest screen and spend the next seven minutes together, playing a game in which the more they love Disney, the more likely they are to win. Trinitee Stokes (K.C. Undercover) is right there alongside them as host of the brand-new interactive trivia show Disney QUIZney, airing live on Disney Channel and on the DisneyNOW apps and DisneyNOW.com through Friday, July 27. A Disney fan through-and-through, the effervescent 12-year-old is in her element at the helm of the fast-paced live show.

“The best part about hosting Disney QUIZney has probably been the live component,” Trinitee tells Newsreel during a break in rehearsal for the evening’s telecast and livestream. “When you’re in the game, you get to see the number of people playing,” she explains, and that number only grew over the course of the inaugural episode. As host, Trinitee serves as asker of questions and keeper of answers, and she also roots for her fellow Disney fans, offering shout-outs to contestants who make it to the top of the leaderboard—with each day’s top-10 winners sharing $1,000 in digital gift card prizes.

Every game consists of five questions that cover a range of topics from DCOMs to Disney animated classics. They become increasingly more challenging—even for a Disney devotee—but fear not. Trinitee notes that she—like many Disney QUIZney contestants in the inaugural game—was fooled by a question about what animal Genie transformed Abu into for Aladdin’s grand entrance as Prince Ali. An abundance of contestants saw “Abu” and selected “monkey,” when the correct answer was “elephant.” Though she was disappointed to have guessed incorrectly, the host prefers to look on the bright side. “It makes me want to go home and watch Aladdin again,” says Trinitee, who loves that the game reminds her of Disney details she may have forgotten.

Trinitee considers herself something of an expert on characters from Disney movies, but the game is so fast-paced, she stresses that sometimes you just have to go with your gut. “I think if I were really playing the game I would do pretty well, but there were a few questions that made me ponder,” she admits. “But you don’t have the time to think about an answer, so I would come at it the random way—just pick an answer that I think is right.”

We asked Trinitee to share her expert advice with Disney fans to help them prepare for the game. “To have the best shot, I would definitely set your alarm for about 5:58 [p.m. PT], so you can be on the couch, on your phone, on Disney Channel—ready!—so that when Disney QUIZney comes on you can be zoned and ready to go,” she says. “I recommend maybe taking a quick power nap, so that your brain can be ready to digest all of the questions and then you can be like, ‘Bam, I got this!’” But the most important thing, Trinitee emphasizes, is “Be prepared and just have fun!”

Fans who miss the live telecast can still test their Disney knowledge in the DisneyNOW app, where the Disney QUIZney questions become available as the “Quiz of the Day” after the livestream ends. A new edition of Disney QUiZney airs tonight and continues in the 9 p.m. EDT/6 p.m. PDT timeslot weeknights through Friday, July 27. And Disney QUIZney welcomes in the weekends with “Freaky Fridays,” where the cash prizes are doubled, but the questions are harder, as well. Trinitee is excited to see the stakes increase, and she wants to assure her fellow Disney fans that they’re up for the challenge. “You guys can do it!” she says with her winning smile.

Star Wars: The Clone Wars Returns with a Brand-New Season

July 19, 2018September 26, 2018

By Jocelyn Buhlman

Not so long ago at a Comic-Con rather close by… Star Wars: The Clone Wars fans rejoiced at an out-of-this-galaxy announcement.

Today, fans gathered at San Diego Comic-Con for the 10th anniversary celebration of the animated series chronicling the adventures of Anakin Skywalker and his apprentice, Ahoska Tano, during the era between Star Wars: Attack of the Clones and Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith. Dave Filoni announced at the panel that the Emmy®-winning series will receive a new season on Disney’s upcoming direct-to-consumer streaming service. The new season’s poster and trailer debuted at the panel today.

Created by George Lucas, Star Wars: The Clone Wars first debuted in 2008 and captured the hearts of Star Wars fans everywhere with its complex storytelling, lovable new characters (Who knew they could make an army of clones so unique?), and unique animation style. The series initially concluded with a fifth season and some additional episodes released as “The Lost Missions,” but fans wanted to know more about what would happen to the characters they have come to adore. We can’t wait to see what see what this new chapter in the Star Wars saga will bring.

9 Things Every Winnie the Pooh Fan Needs to Own

July 19, 2018

By Karina Schink

Ever since he made his debut in 1966, we haven’t been able to get enough of the always cute and cuddly Winnie the Pooh and the Hundred Acre Wood gang. And this year, we get to go on another adventure when Christopher Robin hits theaters on August 3. We can’t wait to say hello again to our favorite forest-y friends, but in the meantime, we can always stock up on some of our Winnie the Pooh merchandise.

And, don’t forget that all of you silly old bears who are D23 Members get a discount at shopDisney.com.

Winnie the Pooh “Hunny Pot” Crossbody Bag by Loungefly

Can you imagine a better place to store your goods than this faux leather Hunny Pot? We know Pooh would approve.

Eeyore Cuddleez Plush – Large

Even in his down-in-the dumps disposition, we can all agree that lovable donkey Eeyore is one of the cuddliest characters out there, and with this appropriately named Cuddleez plush, you can bring him home with you. So, there’s really no need to be sad! Plus, this plush comes with a detachable tail, so be careful (you know Eeyore).

Big Feet Plushies

Winnie the Pooh Big Feet Plush – Small – 10”
Piglet Big Feet Plush

While Tigger may be the one who uses his tail to bound around the Wood, these other woodland creatures have an extra spring in their step with their adorably big feet! (Hopefully Tigger or Kanga gave them some tips!)

Eeyore Ringer T-Shirt for Women – Winnie the Pooh

He may not be your go-to source for a pick-me-up, but Eeyore has some words of wisdom to share. Show your pride for your favorite member of the group and wear one of his mannerisms loud and proud.

Woodland Creatures Mugs

Kanga and Roo Checkered Mug
Tigger Checkered Mug
Winnie the Pooh and Piglet Checkered Mug
Eeyore Checkered Mug

Enjoy your daily java in a cup featuring your favorite friends of Christopher Robin. Everyone needs a Disney-themed mug in their cupboard!

Winnie the Pooh’s Library Box Set

Return to where it all started with the classic children’s books written by A.A. Milne. This box set includes Winnie-the-Pooh, The House at Pooh Corner, When We Were Young, and Now We Are Six.

Winnie the Pooh Necklace

All of us who love Disney know that stars are meant to be wished upon, and what better kind to whisper your wish to than one with our favorite stuffed bear perched atop?

Winnie the Pooh “It’s a Wonderful World” Framed Wall Décor

Don’t let your walls go “bear”! Show everyone that Pooh is a favorite over in your neck of the woods.

Sketch Winnie the Pooh Tote Bag

We know you’re going to need the perfect bag to carry around your honey, and we’ve found just the thing. Not only does this tote feature our favorite honey fiend, but you can also make it one of a kind by customizing it! We know you’re going to love it (even if you just fill it up with honey!).

Beat the Heat with These New and Classic Non-Dairy Treats

July 18, 2018July 8, 2019

UPDATED: July 8, 2019

By Karina Schink

There’s nothing better than a summer day spent at a Disney resort, fully immersed in the magic—and with a little something sweet in your hand! While there are ice creams and delicious desserts galore at the parks, here are some of our favorite old and new delectable non-dairy treats to cool you down this summer.

So, get ready to stop inside one of the many ice cream parlors at the parks (where you can request non-dairy substitutes for some of your favorite flavors), grab your favorite cool sip, or dive into a Dole Whip^®.

Disneyland Resort

While everyone knows that the Dole^® Whip is one of the most famous treats to enjoy at a Disney park, there are plenty of others that can help keep you cool during the Southern California summer.

Milk Stand
Blue Milk
Green Milk

Don’t let the name fool you—these non-dairy treats are the drinks you’re looking for. Offering both Blue and Green Milk, these frozen blends bring out-of-this-galaxy flavor to your taste buds and are the perfect way to cool off from the heat of the bright suns at Batuu. The blue and green treats will also be available at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida—opening August 29, 2019.

The Tropical Hideaway
Loaded Whip

Tucked between the songs of the Enchanted Tiki Room and the misty waters of the Jungle Cruise, The Tropical Hideaway is Adventureland’s hotspot for a variety of Dole Whip treats. Whether you choose swirled pineapple and orange, pineapple and raspberry, or the Loaded Whip—a pineapple and orange swirl with exotic fruit and crystallized hibiscus—it’s a perfect way to cool down during all of your Disney adventures.

Mint Julep Bar
Watermelon Mint Julep

Alien Pizza Planet
Alien Ice
(Strawberry or Sour Apple Slush)

Located inside the newly dubbed Alien Pizza Planet in Tomorrowland (where Redd Rockett’s Pizza Port was located), these brain-freeze-worthy drinks will make you go “Ooohh!” In both Strawberry and Sour Apple Slush flavors, Alien Ice will take your taste buds on an intergalactic adventure!

Adorable Snowman Frosted Treats
It’s Lemon!
Pixar Pier Frosty Parfait

What better way to celebrate the new Pixar Pier, than with the new (and appropriately named) Pixar Pier Frosty Parfait? Located at the Adorable Snowman Frosted Treats, this is not your typical kind of parfait. The star of this treat is the It’s Lemon! soft-serve, layered with blue-raspberry slush, the simply superb combination for this snowy sweet.

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Bing Bong’s Sweet Stuff
Rainbow Unicorn
Sunshine in a Cup
Imaginary Pal
Slow Burn
Gloomy Blue

There’s no better way to celebrate Pixar Pier’s one-year anniversary than with a delightful treat from one of its sweetest shops: Bing Bong’s Sweet Stuff. The whimsical confectionery and retail location offers a variety of imaginative frozen drinks, known as Memory Refreshers! Their bright colors and memorable flavors are bound to bring some joy to anyone’s day.

Rita’s Baja Blenders
The Tropicool

Located at the Pacific Wharf, take a break from the sun and cool down with The Tropicool. The non-alcoholic drink features three possible flavors to beat the heat: strawberry, lemon-lime, and Rita Baja Blenders’ featured flavor.

Tiki Juice Bar
Dole^® Whip

Maurice’s Treats
Boysen Apple Freeze

Clarabelle’s Hand-Scooped Ice Cream
Raspberry Sorbet

Lube-O-Rama Retail Store
World Grand Freeze
Red’s 4 Alarm Fire
Groovy Glacier
Dinoco Blue

Cozy Cone Motel
Ramone’s “Pear of Dice” Soda
Fillmore’s Fuelin’ Groovy All Natural Lemonade
Fillmore’s Fuelin’ Groovy Pomegranate Limeade
Doc’s Wild Grape Tonic
Red’s Apple Freeze

Flo’s V8 Café
Mater’s Tulsa Tea

While the opening of Pixar Pier has given us so many new sips to savor—we still enjoy all of the oldies (but goodies!). Our friends over at Disney Parks Blog put together a comprehensive guide for you to learn more about all of the classic drinks over in Cars Land.

Walt Disney World Resort

There’s no reason to let the Florida humidity slow you down at Walt Disney World when there are so many ways to cool down by filling up with some of our favorite non-dairy delicacies.

Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies
2319 Cone
Request this treat from Gravity’s without the cookie sock to make it non-dairy

We all scream for ice cream! Especially when it’s a 2319 cone! This brand-new soft-serve is a delicious swirl of mango and vanilla with sprinkles. Located in Tomorrowland at Auntie Gravity’s, the Monsters, Inc.-inspired cone is a scary-good treat to top off a furry good day at the Disney parks!

Storybook Treats

The Lost Princess Cone

Any day at a Disney park is a good one, but throw in a dreamy treat and it’s the best day ever! A lemon soft-serve adorned with edible flowers atop a purple sugar cone, this magical treat is reminiscent of a certain blondie we know. You can find the Lost Princess Cone over in Fantasyland, not in a tower but at Storybook Treats!

Peter Pan Float
request this treat from Never Land without the chocolate feather to make it non-dairy.

All the world is certainly made of faith, trust, and pixie dust, and this new float is no exception! A combination of Key Lime Ice Cream and Sprite, this drink fizzles and dazzles just like its namesake. Located at Storybook Treats, the Peter Pan Float is the fairy tale ending dessert you deserve.

Sunshine Tree Terrace

Redd’s Revenge Float
Request this treat from Sunshine Tree Terrace without the chocolate pirate hat to make it non-dairy.

Ahoy, mateys! A new treat is landing at Sunshine Tree Terrace, just in time for the summer. A blend of Strawberry Fanta and soft-serve, this treasured float is a refreshing treat for any pirate or landlubber. As Redd would say, “Drink up, me hearties, yo ho!”

Dole^® Orange Soft-serve

Gaston’s Tavern
LeFou’s Brew

Cheshire Café
Wonderland Slushy

The Lunching Pad
Space Ranger Slush

Tamu Tamu Refreshments
Simba Sunset
King’s Cooler

Can you feel the heat this summer? In celebration of The Lion King, cool down with some royally delicious Dole Whip treats, available through the end of the summer. From Simba Sunset, a Dole Whip topped off with strawberry-watermelon-coconut syrup, to the King’s Cooler, which can be served with dark or coconut rum, these treats have something for everyone, so gather your herd and head towards the African savanna at Animal Kingdom.

Goofy’s Candy Company
Goofy’s Glaciers (assorted flavors)

L’Artisan des Glaces
Sorbets (assorted flavors)

Aloha Isle
Dole^® Whip

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Pongu Pongu
Night Blossom

When adventuring around Pandora – The World of Avatar, you’ll encounter serene rivers, majestic floating mountains, bioluminescent forests, and the warm sun. Right across from the howls of the banshees, at Avatar Flight of Passage, is Pongu Pongu. The drink stand is host to a variety of thirst-quenching frozen drinks, including the popular Pandoran treat, the Night Blossom. With its colorful beauty and tantalizing flavor, the Night Blossom is the perfect cool drink for any adventurer.

Refreshment Outpost
Savanna Smoothie

Delicious New Delights at Disney’s Animal Kingdom—Plus More in News Briefs

July 18, 2018November 8, 2018

By Courtney Potter

New Animal Kingdom eats to tickle your taste buds, and a sneak peek at this year’s holiday fun aboard Disney Cruise Line… See more, along with other news from around Disney, in this week’s news briefs!

Check Out All the New Eats Available at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

If you’re adventuring over to Walt Disney World Resort this summer, there’s a host of delicious new eats and treats to try at Disney’s Animal Kingdom—including some fresh options at fan-favorites Tiffins Restaurant and Flame Tree Barbecue and a brand-new dessert party during the park’s gorgeous nighttime spectacular Rivers of Light. We’ve got all the mouthwatering scoop right here at D23.com.

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

D23 and Walt Disney Archives
July 21, 2018
D23 Member Mixer—San Diego
July 30, 2018
Attend the Red Carpet Premiere of Christopher Robin
July 31, 2018
Be Among the First to See Disney’s Christopher Robin!
August 6, 2018
D23’s Behind-the-Scenes Experience: Pixar Animation Studios
August 10, 2018
Lunch with a Disney Legend – Jim Cora
August 11, 2018
D23’s Saturday Morning on the Lot
August 12, 2018
Mickey’s of Glendale Summer Shopping Event
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
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
August 3, 2018
Disney’s Christopher Robin opens in U.S. theaters
November 2, 2018
The Nutcracker and the Four Realms opens in U.S. theaters
December 19, 2018
Mary Poppins Returns opens in U.S. theaters
Television
July 13, 2018
Fancy Nancy premieres on Disney Junior (11–11:55 a.m. EDT)
August 10, 2018
Disney Channel Original Movie Freaky Friday premieres on Disney Channel (8–9:45 p.m. EDT/PDT)

Making Merry with Disney Cruise Line This Winter

Don’t get us wrong—we love summer. Cookouts with s’mores, trips to the beach, listening to our favorite Disney summer jams on Spotify… But we’d be lying if we didn’t admit that we’re already looking forward to the coming holidays. And with the fun in store later this year on Disney Cruise Line (DCL), we don’t think you’ll be able to blame us!

Starting in early November, all DCL ships will be transforming into a veritable winter wonderland for their “Very Merrytime Cruises”—sailings with more jolly than you can shake a holly sprig at. All manner of parties and themed entertainment will delight guests young and young at heart, including “Mickey’s Tree-Lighting Magic” (where you’ll find Mickey Mouse and friends singing carols and lighting the ship’s three-deck-tall Christmas tree!); “sea-sun’s” greetings at Disney’s private island Castaway Cay (featuring beachside “snow flurries”); “Santa’s Winter Wonderland Ball” (a magical welcome-party production that includes an appearance by Kris Kringle himself); special activities just for kids; and so much more.

So if you’re looking for a truly memorable way for your family to spend the holidays this year, check out DisneyCruiseLine.com for more information.

Disney’s Media Networks Honored with 39 Emmy^® Nominations

TV fans, rejoice—for awards season is upon us, and some of our favorite shows are getting the accolades they so richly deserve from the Television Academy… including a slew of awesome programming from ABC, Disney Channel, Disney XD, and Marvel Television. D23.com has a complete rundown of Disney’s whopping 39 Emmy Award nominations here.

Tokyo Disneyland Celebrates 35 Years with Fabulous New Entertainment

Regular readers of D23.com (including Gold Members, who also receive our nifty Disney twenty-three magazine each quarter) know that Tokyo Disneyland has been commemorating its mega-awesome 35th Anniversary in 2018—and they premiered several new entertainment options earlier this spring to launch the celebration. But the party is really kicking into high gear this summer with the addition of a brand-new nighttime spectacular and two new stage shows.

As first announced by our friends at the Disney Parks Blog, Tokyo Disneyland guests can now enjoy some New Orleans-style fun at the new “Let’s Party Gras!” show at Theatre Orleans inside Adventureland, where Mickey Mouse and his friends will “let the good times roll.” Over at Tokyo DisneySea, at the American Waterfront Dockside Stage, “Hello, New York!” finds Mickey and pals discovering—via song and dance—just what makes New York City so memorable. And back at Tokyo Disneyland once the sun sets, Cinderella Castle is transformed with Celebrate! Tokyo Disneyland—a nighttime spectacular featuring fountains, projections, and dazzling pyrotechnics. (Bonus tip: Purchase a super-cool, exclusive light-up pendant before the show starts and you can be a part of the magic.)

Congrats to Tokyo Disneyland on their amazing three-plus decades of bringing Disney fun to guests from around the globe!

A Jungle Full of New Eats at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

July 17, 2018

by Karina Schink

Adventure awaits in Disney’s Animal Kingdom at the Walt Disney World Resort. Gear up for a “food-afari,” because all of your favorite food pit-stops just got a little bit yummier! This summer, the park is debuting tons of new, wild, and tasty treats, for carnivores, omnivores, and herbivores alike!

Rivers of Light
You might not believe us, but this party is only just getting started! A new dining experience is coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s nighttime extravaganza Rivers of Light, which invites guests to embrace the magic of nature while the night bursts with captivating special effects, music, and animal folklore.

But now while you’re gazing (and oohing and ahhing) at the show, you can also tantalize your taste buds with the new Rivers of Light Dessert Party. This delectable new dining experience will take place on select nights starting on Monday, August 6, 2018, and features a beautiful buffet of desserts, snacks, and drinks that are themed to this incomparable park.

Pizzafari
Beginning July 31, you’ll be able to make reservations at the fan-favorite quick-service restaurant and enjoy the all-new Pizzafari Family-Style Dining Experience. After checking in at the podium and ordering your drinks, you and your pack will be seated in one of two dining rooms where all of your favorite Italian dishes will be brought right to your table!

While you’re there–eating in or to go–you’ll notice that the menu has some new additions! The classic round pizzas are back and ready to be the feature of your safari with options like Cheese, Pepperoni, Vegetable, or Sausage & Pepperoni.

Don’t worry if you’re not in the mood for pizza! You can also enjoy a small Caesar Salad (with a chicken option) and add some Garlic Knots on the side for good measure. Every great meal needs a great finale, too! Top it off with the decadent Cannoli Cake: a slice of chocolate cake with chocolate chip cannoli filling, topped with chocolate ganache and a mini cannoli filled with sweet ricotta cheese and chips! (Our mouths are watering just typing that!)

Tiffins Restaurant
You can also continue your culinary expedition next door at Tiffins Restaurant, which also debuts some new menu options! The new two-course lunch menu allows you to pick an appetizer/entrée or entrée/dessert combination.

If you choose to go the appetizer route, you can select options such as Apple Walnut Salad or Spiced Chickpea Falafel from the menu, while entrée choices include Wagyu Beef Tagine, Paella, and Roasted Chicken Breast. And, for those with a sweet tooth, you can enjoy a dessert duo (two is always better than one!) with South American Chocolate Ganache and Guava Mousse!

This lunch menu is $35 per person (plus tax and gratuities) and counts as 2 TSR meals on the Disney Dining Plan and is served from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. daily. Reservations can be made at DisneyWorld.com/Dine or by calling 407-WDW-DINE (407-939-3463). And of course, walk-ups are always welcome!

Flame Tree Barbecue
Did we mention the sweets? When your savory tooth is satisfied, head over to the Flame Tree Barbecue for delectable delicacies like the Banana Maple Cake. This cake has all the fixins: a vanilla chiffon cake with banana maple mousse, topped with a white chocolate glaze and crunchy meringue.

Dino Diner
“What’s the big idea?” A Donald Duck-themed cupcake, of course! Donald’s Dino-Bash! Cupcake is available at Dino Diner in DinoLand U.S.A. and this vanilla cupcake is filled with lemon-flavored white chocolate mousse and topped with buttercream, crispy pearls, and a red fondant bow (Minnie would be so proud!).

If you’re nearing extinction and you need to fuel up before diving in for the sweets, Dino Diner has something new on the loose! The Italian Sausage Hoagie features broiled Italian sausage, sautéed onion, and sautéed peppers, served with a side of potato chips.

Restaurantosaurus
You can find another new leafy-green dish over at Restaurantosaurus, in the Grilled Chicken Salad with Summer Berries. If you prefer to chow down on something more omnivorous, Restaurantosaurus is also offering Breaded Shrimp with French Fries, as well as Shrimp & Chicken served with French Fries.

Harambe Market
Harambe Market makes for the perfect stop on your safari where you can recharge and refuel your engines, especially with new additions to the menu like the Pork Sausage with curried onion relish, served on naan bread with black-eyed pea salad!

Also new to the market are the Roasted Vegetables with cauliflower, sweet potato, and chickpeas served over steamed rice with yogurt raita. Don’t drive away without grabbing a Safari Cake! This coconut cake goody—inspired by the Okapi (which you can snap some photos of over at Kilimanjaro Safaris)—is made with pineapple-coconut mousse and coated in chocolate.

Satu’li Canteen
For those of you who like to sit in the driver’s seat, Satu’li Canteen in Pandora – The World of Avatar features new Build-Your-Own-Bowl options. The carnivores among us need not choose between meats and can order the grilled beef and chicken combination, while also choosing from two new bases: Rice and Beans and a Hearty Salad base.

Warung Outpost
Oh boy, oh boy! Last, but certainly not least (but maybe the sweetest!) is the Up!-inspired Cake Push Pop. With this dessert, you can see from the ground to the sky, with layers of earth chocolate cake, mountains and skies of green and blue buttercream, all topped off with crispy white chocolate “balloons.” It’s the perfect snack to grab before heading into UP! A Great Big Bird Adventure in Asia.

To commemorate your “food-afari” (and stay hydrated during your tasty travels!), you can pick up the new Animal Kingdom Canteen at Mahindi Popcorn, The Feeding Ground, and at most Ice Cream Carts throughout the park.

And with that, folks, your great trek through Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s newest eats has come to an end. We hope you enjoyed the ride and worked up an appetite to embark on your own “food-afari” at the Walt Disney World Resort. It’s an epicurean expedition you’ll be tempted to take again and again!

Disney’s Media Networks Combine for 39 Emmy Nominations

July 12, 2018July 12, 2018

By Jim Frye

Nominations for the 2018 Primetime Emmy Awards were announced this morning from the Television Academy’s Wolf Theatre at the Saban Media Center in North Hollywood. ABC received 31 nominations—including six for Dancing with the Stars and five for black-ish—while Disney XD and Disney Channel added five, for a total 36 nominations for the Disney ABC television group. Together with Marvel Television’s three nominations, Disney programs collected a total 39 Emmy nominations.

The 2018 Emmy Awards will be presented live September 17, 2018. A complete list of every Disney Emmy nomination is included below. To view the entire list of Emmy nominees, visit Emmys.com.

ABC

American Koko
Outstanding Actress in A Short Form Comedy or Drama Series, Diarra Kilpatrick

black-ish
Outstanding Contemporary Costumes
Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series, Anthony Anderson
Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series, Tracee Ellis Ross
Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series, Wanda Sykes
Outstanding Comedy Series

Dancing with the Stars
Outstanding Production Design for a Variety, Reality or Reality-Competition Series
Outstanding Costumes For Variety, Nonfiction or Reality Programming
Outstanding Hairstyling For a Multi-Camera Series or Special
Outstanding Lighting Design/Lighting Direction for a Variety Series
Outstanding Makeup for a Multi-Camera Series or Special (Non-Prosthetic)
Outstanding Technical Direction, Camerawork, Video Control for a Series

Grey’s Anatomy: B Team
Outstanding Short Form Comedy or Drama Series

How to Get Away with Murder
Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series, Cicely Tyson

Jimmy Kimmel Live!
Outstanding Variety Talk Series
Outstanding Technical Direction, Camerawork, Video Control for a Series

Modern Family
Outstanding Sound Mixing for A Comedy or Drama Series (Half-Hour) and Animation

Once Upon A Time
Outstanding Music Composition for a Series (Original Dramatic Score)

The Oscars
Outstanding Production Design for A Variety Special
Outstanding Directing for a Variety Special
Outstanding Creative Achievement in Interactive Media Within an Unscripted Program
Outstanding Lighting Design/Lighting Direction for a Variety Special
Outstanding Music Direction
Outstanding Variety Special (Live)
Outstanding Sound Mixing for a Variety Series Or Special
Outstanding Technical Direction, Camerawork, Video Control for a Limited Series, Movie or Special

Roseanne
Outstanding Multi-Camera Picture Editing for a Comedy Series
Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, Laurie Metcalf

Scandal
Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series, Viola Davis

Shark Tank
Outstanding Directing for a Reality Program
Outstanding Structured Reality Program

DISNEY CHANNEL

The Scariest Story Ever: A Mickey Mouse Halloween Spooktacular
Outstanding Character Voice-Over Performance, Russi Taylor

DISNEY XD

Big Hero 6: Baymax Returns
Outstanding Animated Program

Star Wars Rebels
Outstanding Music Composition for a Series (Original Dramatic Score)
Outstanding Children’s Program
Outstanding Sound Editing for a Comedy or Drama Series (Half-Hour) And Animation

MARVEL TV ON NETFLIX

Marvel’s Jessica Jones
Outstanding Music Composition for a Series (Original Dramatic Score)

Marvel’s The Defenders
Outstanding Original Main Title Theme Music

Marvel’s The Punisher
Outstanding Stunt Coordination for a Drama Series, Limited Series or Movie

7 Disney Moments When Bad Luck Amazingly Led to Something Good

July 12, 2018September 13, 2019

By Megan Deppe

Friday the 13th is upon us, so we’re avoiding ladders and handling our mirrors oh-so-carefully—because who wants bad luck in their life? You might feel like the odds are weighted against you today, but if you let Disney movies serve as your guide, you’ll see that sometimes bad luck leads to something even better. And to give everyone an extra dose of good luck on this most superstitious of days, we’ve rounded up a lucky seven examples!

1. Pit Stop (Cars)
When Lightning McQueen fell out of the back of Mack, he thought his world was ending—all he cared about was getting to California for the biggest race of his life! To him, it was his bad luck to end up in in the middle of nowhere, Radiator Springs. That turned out to be exactly what Lightning needed to get his priorities in order and learn what’s really important in life. Who could imagine Lightning never meeting Mater, Doc Hudson, or Sally?

2. An Icy Flight (Iron Man)
“Sometimes you gotta run before you can walk.” Tony Stark lived to regret those words, at least a little bit, when he flew for the first time in the Iron Man suit. Since he hadn’t tested everything before taking flight, he ended up freezing his suit and going into free fall and nearly colliding with traffic. Tony turned this bad luck into a lesson: He fixed his suit and later tricked Obadiah Stane into flying high enough to freeze himself, giving Tony the upper hand in their battle.

3. Off the Hook (Moana)
After Moana and Maui retrieved the demigod’s hook, they figured their quest to Te Fiti would be smooth sailing. Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case. Maui’s lack of confidence and his years without the hook made it difficult for him to shapeshift into the forms he actually wanted, and he eventually turned himself into a half-shark. But this obstacle created an opportunity for Moana and Maui to bond—not to mention how much fun we had watching Maui regain his confidence.

4. Scare Tactics (Monsters University)
All Mike Wazowski ever wanted was to be in the Scare Program at Monsters University, but he had some bad breaks—culminating with an argument with Sulley during their final exam, when their roars cause Dean Hardscrabble’s prized scream canister to fall and break. Both monsters are dropped from the Scaring Program. However, that devastating moment ultimately led Mike (and Sulley) to join Oozma Kappa, where they both would find out what it truly means to be a monster, and (most importantly), become best friends. What’s one moment of bad luck compared to a payout like that?

5. The Garbage Will Do (Star Wars: The Force Awakens)
Rey, Finn, and BB-8 were in a tight spot as they tried to escape Jakku—there were Stormtroopers on their tail, and most of the nearby ships weren’t in the best shape. At first, Rey directed the trio towards a ship that she was confident she could fly, but that turned out to be the next ship blown up by passing TIE Fighters. Only one option was left: the ship Rey deemed to be “garbage”—which turned out to be none other than the Millennium Falcon.

6. 23-19! (Monsters, Inc.)
Poor George Sanderson, his life seems to be marred by bad luck. When we first meet the monster, it’s with a sock stuck to his back—prompting a 23-19 call signifying he’d been contaminated by humans! This happens again to George when Sulley crams all of Boo’s toys into George’s locker, and when Sulley runs George over when upon his return from banishment. Thankfully George’s story ends happily on the Laugh Floor, when—after it’s discovered that humans aren’t toxic after all—the monster finds his calling amusing kids, rather than scaring them.

7. Wolf Attack (Beauty and the Beast)
It’s hard to imagine a scenario in which a wolf attack would could ever be construed as a positive thing, but hear us out… Belle, frightened by Beast in the West Wing, tries to run away from his castle but is cornered by a pack of wolves. She thought she’d escaped, but now she’s in serious trouble! To combat this perilous twist of fate, Beast swoops to save Belle from the wolves and she sees a different side to Beast. As Belle takes care of the injuries Beast received in the fight, there seems to be something there that wasn’t there before.

Life-Size 2 is Shining Bright This Christmas—Plus More in News Briefs

July 11, 2018November 8, 2018

By Courtney Potter

Mark your calendars for Life-Size 2 on Freeform; get ready to test your Disney knowledge; and prepare for Christopher Robin’s debut next month… Read more, along with other news from around Disney, in this week’s news briefs!

Freeform’s Life Size 2 is Now in Production

No, your eyes aren’t deceiving you—there’s going to be a sequel to fan-fave The Wonderful World of Disney television movie Life Size… and it just went into production! Life Size 2 will air on Freeform and will once again star Tyra Banks as Eve—but this time, she’ll have to contend with Grace Manning (portrayed by grown-ish co-star Francia Raisa), the confident and funny CEO of Marathon Toys, a toy company started by her mother that’s most famous for manufacturing the iconic Eve doll. Unfortunately, Grace herself is notorious for drunken exploits that wind up all over the tabloids… and make the company’s stock plunge on a daily basis.

The cast also includes Gavin Stenhouse (Allegiance) as Grace’s potential love interest Calum; Shanica Knowles (The Young and the Restless) as Tahlia, and Hank Chen (The New 30) as Brendan, Grace’s two best friends; and Alison Fernandez (Once Upon a Time) as Lex, Grace’s young next-door neighbor. It is directed by Steven K. Tsuchida (Younger) and executive produced by Banks. Look for more about Life Size 2—including a premiere date—soon.

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

D23 and Walt Disney Archives
July 13, 2018
D23 Member Mixer—Seattle
July 21, 2018
D23 Member Mixer—San Diego
July 30, 2018
Attend the Red Carpet Premiere of Christopher Robin
August 6, 2018
D23’s Behind-the-Scenes Experience: Pixar Animation Studios
August 10, 2018
Lunch with a Disney Legend – Jim Cora
August 11, 2018
D23’s Saturday Morning on the Lot
August 12, 2018
Mickey’s of Glendale Summer Shopping Event
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
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
July 6, 2018
Marvel Studios’ Ant-Man and the Wasp opens in U.S. theaters opens in U.S. theaters
August 3, 2018
Disney’s Christopher Robin opens in U.S. theaters
November 2, 2018
The Nutcracker and the Four Realms opens in U.S. theaters
December 19, 2018
Mary Poppins Returns opens in U.S. theaters
Television
July 13, 2018
Fancy Nancy premieres on Disney Junior (11–11:55 a.m. EDT)
August 10, 2018
Disney Channel Original Movie Freaky Friday premieres on Disney Channel (8–9:45 p.m. EDT/PDT)

Disney QUIZney Kicks Off This Monday, July 16

What if you could test your Disney and Disney Channel trivia mettle, right from your very own mobile device… and potentially win some cash prizes to boot? Sounds awesome, right? Well look no further than Disney QUIZney, the brand-new, groundbreaking, multi-platform interactive trivia game show—hosted by K.C. Undercover’s Trinitee Stokes—kicking off this coming Monday, July 16. Watch the show’s trailer and read all about it right here on D23.com.

Disney QUIZney isn’t the only thing to premiere next week; fans of Disney Channel’s wildly popular 1990s docu-series Bug Juice will be pleased as punch to know that the show is returning—and it all starts on Monday, June 16, at 7:30 p.m. EDT on Disney Channel, the DisneyNOW app, and Disney Channel VOD. The 16-part series goes back to its original location (Camp Waziyatah in Waterford, Maine) to chronicle all manner of hilarious and heartwarming summertime adventures with a whole new batch of kids. Episodes will air Monday through Thursday evenings throughout the summer. Roast up some marshmallows for s’mores (safely, of course) and check it out!

Brand-New Christopher Robin Featurette

We’re less than a month away from the debut of a movie we’re tickled pink to finally see: Disney’s Christopher Robin! (We’re big fans of the Hundred Acre Wood ’round these parts.) So we were excited to see this just-released featurette for the film, featuring never-before-seen footage as well as interviews with stars Ewan McGregor and Hayley Atwell; director Marc Forster; and Disney Legend (and Christopher Robin songwriter) Richard Sherman.

In this heartwarming live-action adventure, the young boy who shared countless adventures with his stuffed animal friends has grown up… and lost sight of what’s important in life. Now it is up to his childhood pals to venture into our world and help Christopher Robin rediscover the joys of family life, the value of friendship—and to appreciate the simple pleasure in life once again.

Tickets for the film, which opens August 3 in U.S. theaters, are now on sale. We’ll see ya there!

Candlelight Narrators Announced for 2018 Holidays at Walt Disney World Resort

With temps heating up around the country and kids out of school—at least for a few more weeks—we can’t help but daydream about the cooler weather and holiday fun to come. So our bells were positively jingled when we saw that our friends at the Disney Parks Blog announced the majority of their celebrity narrators for the 2018 Candlelight Processional at Epcot! Disney-loving pals like Neil Patrick Harris, Whoopi Goldberg, and The Little Mermaid’s Jodi Benson are returning for the merry magic; check out the list here, but keep your eyes peeled for a few more announcements as the holidays draw closer.

These #DreamBigPrincess Digital Shorts Celebrate Female Trailblazers

Disney’s Dream Big, Princess movement aims to inspire girls around the globe to realize their dreams. Coming soon, there’s a brand-new series of digital shorts—to be created by young filmmakers—showcasing well-known (and well-loved) role models… and it’s all to encourage girls everywhere to create, dream, and celebrate who they are!

Plans for the #DreamBigPrincess series were unveiled recently at the United Nations Foundation’s Girl Up Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C. Each aspiring filmmaker will be paired with a fabulous, inspirational interview subject from a truly diverse range of professions; the young women will capture the stories of these incredible folks, along with their advice for achieving success. Jennifer Lee, director/writer of Frozen and the new Chief Creative Officer of Walt Disney Animation Studios, is just one of the talented women who’ll be featured in the series.

Plus, starting this October 10 and through November 20, for each like or share of a video or photo with the hashtag “#DreamBigPrincess” on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, Disney Worldwide Services will donate $1 to Girl Up in support of girls’ leadership and empowerment—up to $1 million! Pretty cool, huh?

Check out the video above to hear what excites Lee most about this #DreamBigPrincess digital series, and keep your eyes peeled for more information as we get closer to the first short’s debut.

Meet Cookie, Duffy’s Newest Pal at Hong Kong Disneyland

Longtime readers of D23.com know our love for Duffy, the adorable Disney Bear that welcomes guests from all over the world to Hong Kong Disneyland (as well as Tokyo DisneySea). He has several equally adorable friends—Gelatoni, ShellieMay, and StellaLou—but just recently welcomed a new pal into the fold… Cookie, a very curious puppy who loves to learn all about food! She’s the first of Duffy’s friend to make her inaugural appearance at Hong Kong Disneyland.

According to our pals over at the park, Duffy and Cookie met on Main Street, U.S.A. His cotton candy and her tall stack of waffles went flying when they bumped into each other, and when Cookie caught them she came up with a new idea: why not combine her waffles and Duffy’s cotton candy to make a cotton candy waffle sandwich? Sounds delish!

Cookie is now visiting with guests on Main Street, U.S.A., in her signature chef’s hat with the cute pink bow. And visitors can even take a little bit of Cookie’s sweetness home with them, with exclusive merchandise and yummy treats available at the Main Street Corner Café.

Take a look at Cookie’s arrival at Hong Kong Disneyland in the video, above.

Disneyland Resort

Walt Disney World Resort

Check Out All the New Eats Available at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

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

Making Merry with Disney Cruise Line This Winter

Disney’s Media Networks Honored with 39 Emmy® Nominations

Tokyo Disneyland Celebrates 35 Years with Fabulous New Entertainment

Freeform’s Life Size 2 is Now in Production

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

Disney QUIZney Kicks Off This Monday, July 16

Brand-New Christopher Robin Featurette

Candlelight Narrators Announced for 2018 Holidays at Walt Disney World Resort

These #DreamBigPrincess Digital Shorts Celebrate Female Trailblazers

Meet Cookie, Duffy’s Newest Pal at Hong Kong Disneyland

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

Disney’s Media Networks Honored with 39 Emmy^® Nominations

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