Our Disney bag is full of essentials!

If you’re a fan of traveling light when it comes to your Disney park bag and don’t want something too large, coming up with creative ways to carry around all of your things is pretty darn important. Luckily, we’ve done the work for you — and that’s why so many people are clipping this $10 Amazon find to their Disney park bags!

Get these Mickey Mouse carabiners before your next Disney World trip!

©Amazon

While you might not think of these carabiners as being Disney World essentials — they can seriously come in handy when it comes to carrying your things around Disney World. You can use them to clip all sorts of items to your park bag, like water bottles, popcorn buckets, umbrellas, pin lanyards, portable chargers, reusable ponchos, and a whole lot more.

We love that these clips are shaped like Mickey’s silhouette, and the set comes with one black and one red carabiner. They feature easy, one-hand operation, plus an improved, durable spring and smooth edges so you don’t get scratched when using them.

©Amazon

These carabiner clips are made of high-quality aluminum alloy with a polished finish, are ultra-light yet strong, and tough enough to resist water and abrasion — making them an investment that will last for many Disney World trips to come!

view ON AMAZON

We’re always on the hunt for the latest and greatest Disney souvenirs and essentials, so don’t forget to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more!

©Tampa International Airport

What do you need to board your flight? What are the luggage regulations? What items do you need to remove from your person or bag to go through security? All great questions! And if you’re flying through one Florida airport, you should know that security is about to CHANGE.

According to CNN, Tampa International Airport is going to privatize Transportation Security Administration operations. This decision comes a few months after President Trump revealed a 2027 budget proposal that called for handing more airport security operations over to private companies.

©Tampa International Airport

Tampa International Airport (TPA) has opted in to the TSA Gold+ program, which is a new public/private partnership screening program. TSA will still have regulatory oversight for TPA’s screening programs, and those screenings will still have to follow TSA rules, but the employees and equipment involved will be managed by a third-party company instead of the United States government.

©AP

“TSA looks forward to working closely with our airport partners to implement enhancements that will benefit everyone who travels through a TSA Gold+ airport,” the agency said in a statement Tuesday. Participation in this program is voluntary and requires airports to apply. At this time, two other airports are taking steps to privatize security under TSA Gold+ — Charleston International Airport in South Carolina, and Des Moines International Airport in Iowa.

PreCheck signage

Currently, 20 airports in the U.S. have security run by private companies and supervised by TSA under the Screening Partnership Program. That list includes the Orlando Sanford Airport, as well as San Francisco International, Kansas City International, and 17 other smaller airports.

Orlando Sanford Airport

Privatizing security operations has become a major talking point in recent months, particularly when government shutdowns continued to interrupt air travel operations at many major hubs. However, the move is not without its controversy. The union that supports over 47,000 TSA employees, American Federation of Government Employees, has spoken out against this change.

“Make no mistake – this is a major departure and step backwards from the aviation screening security system that Congress created in the wake of the Sept. 11th terrorist attacks in 2001 and the deadly bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 over Scotland in 1988,” Everett Kelley, AFGE’s national president, said in a statement. “Changes of this magnitude should not be made behind closed doors without the input of Congress, the flying public, the local airport authorities, and TSA employees themselves.”

Ready to fly?

We’ll make sure to keep you updated with any details about security changes and how this could affect your travel in the future. Stay tuned to DFB by subscribing to our newsletter.

This New TSA Rule Can Change How You Travel

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WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.

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Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.

Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!

GET YOUR GUIDE NOW

Have you ever flown through the Tampa airport? Tell us in the comments!

Welcome to Dollywood!

And if you are traveling here, you’re going to need a place to stay! From Dollywood’s own resorts to cabin rentals throughout the area, there are A LOT of places to choose from. BUT where you should really stay is the fully Christmas-themed hotel because why wouldn’t you want to be in the spirit all year round? Come with us for our FULL TOUR of The Inn at Christmas Place in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee!

Atmosphere

Let’s start out with the vibes of this hotel — obviously, they’re VERY festive and holiday-inspired. The lobby and its surrounding areas are fully decked out in Christmas trees…

Christmas Trees!

…twinkling lights…

How pretty!

…garland…

You can be festive while you eat!

…and SO much more holiday decor!

Christmas Decor in the Lobby!

If you think it looks festive, just imagine the SMELL! You’ll get that sweet smell of treats and Christmas cookies, and that’s because this hotel serves milk and cookies EVERY DAY!

So many choices!

There is a hot breakfast included in your stay every morning from 7 AM until 10AM. Here you’ll find your typical hotel breakfast with waffles, eggs, sausage, fruit, yogurt, and cereal…

Even the breakfast is themed!

…but you’ll also find some southern bites, including gravy, grits, and biscuits!

Our southern breakfast spread!

When you head outside, you’ll find a circular sitting area with a fire pit in the middle…

The outdoor firepit

…and a pool area, including a large pool with IMMACULATE theming…

Swim through the Christmas village!

…a lazy river…

Float along the lazy river

…and a water slide!

The water slide

There is also an indoor pool with a hot tub!

©The Inn at Christmas Place

Even the gym is decked out in holiday decor! So, you can get into the Christmas spirit while you work out to those holiday tunes!

Workout in style!

And there is even MORE theming when you enter your room, so let’s get into that!

Standard Rooms

Upon arrival, you’ll be given a hotel key to enter your room, like any other hotel does. BUT unlike any other hotel, this key will determine your place on the Naughty or Nice List dependent on whether or not you return it after your stay!

Room Key

Once you enter your room, you’re immediately met with holiday decorations!

Christmas Tree In Your Room!

Starting off in the bathroom, you’ll find a shower, one sink, and one toilet, and your basic toiletries.

The Inn at Christmas Place Bathroom

And on the wall of the shower, there are shampoo, conditioner, and body wash for your convenience.

Shampoo, Conditioner, and Body Wash

There are four room types to choose from — a Double-Queen Standard Room, a King Standard Room, Christmas suites, and the Santa Suite. We stayed in the Double-Queen Standard Room, and these were some of the BEST and most comfortable beds we’ve EVER slept in!

These beds are SO comfortable!

The sheets were soft, the pillows were comfortable, and we loved the subtle theming of the red velvet pillows and bed runner!

A themed pillow!

In the corner of the room was a cushioned chair with a light behind it, making it the perfect place to settle down and read a Christmas story!

Cushioned Chair

And, of course, there was a TV in the room that would play a fireplace ambiance or Christmas movies!

Standard Room TV

The room also comes equipped with a microwave…

Microwave

…a mini fridge…

The mini fridge!

…and a coffee maker!

Coffee Maker

And no need to worry about eating in bed because there is also a table with two chairs in the room!

Table and chairs

You Should Book Here If…

• You LOVE the holidays! This hotel is everything a Christmas lover DREAMS of, from the smells to the decor, and let’s not forget the daily cookies and milk! If you’re a person who celebrates Christmas in July and watches Christmas movies year-round, you’ll want to stay here!
• You want to stay in a resort with over-the-top theming! This resort does it ALL in terms of theming. Not only do you have candy canes, Christmas trees, and gingerbread all around you, but you also have the southern meals and hospitality of Tennessee! This combination is why this hotel is a must-stay!

You Should Skip This Hotel If…

• The holiday season is too overwhelming for you. This hotel is EVERYTHING Christmas is about — the decor, the sounds, the vibes, so if the holiday season stresses you out and all you would think about during your stay is buying presents and spending money, maybe skip this one!
• You want a hotel that includes Dollywood perks. Since this hotel isn’t owned by Dollywood, guests staying here won’t get the perks that guests staying at a Dollywood hotel do, like skip-the-line passes, complimentary transportation, and early entry into the theme park!

The Inn at Christmas Place

There you have it — a FULL TOUR of The Inn at Christmas Place! For more hotel tours, food reviews, and theme park tips and tricks, be sure to follow us at DFB for more!

Dollywood Has Officially Ruined ALL Disney World Hotels for Me

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WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.

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Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.

Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!

GET YOUR GUIDE NOW

Would you stay in this Christmas hotel any time of the year? Let us know in the comments below!

Welcome to Tiny Train Town!

Hi! If we haven’t met, my name is Lydia, and I’m the DFB-proclaimed Mayor of Tiny Train Town in EPCOT’s Germany Pavilion. Over the years, I’ve seen some serious shenanigans and malarkey in that village, and I’m getting to the bottom of it. So come along with me to see what’s happening in the triple-T recently!

Let’s start things out with this suspicious character I spotted in the village square. She may seem like she’s birdwatching, but this not-so-innocent woman was caught with hundreds of surveillance photos from around our town! Is she in cahoots with someone? Where are those photos going? What is their PURPOSE? I must find out!

A spy?!

Speaking of suspicious things, I noticed several people coming in and out of this unmarked building at strange times of the day and night. This was an old train depot that’s no longer in use, and the building was vacated years ago. So what’s going on?

Well, thankfully, this one wasn’t sinister at all! Upon further investigation, there’s a secret acapella group that meets inside here in the late evenings and early mornings outside of their regular work hours. Apparently, the acoustics inside are phenomenal. They’re looking for an alto…anyone interested?!

Suspicious!

However, that was pretty much the only bit of happy news I have this week. One of the town doctors has been arrested for medical malpractice after it was discovered that his credentials are FAKE. Could he be working with our sneaky spy with the camera? I’m starting to think there’s some kind of undercover operation going on here.

NOT a real doctor!

Also, there have been mass reports of livestock deaths in recent weeks. Last year, we dealt with a tainted food source for many of the farms, but this year, autopsies have revealed poison blow darts to be the cause of death! Someone is quite literally shooting down the cows of the village from the rooftops. Only one farm seems to be unaffected at this time…could that be the culprit?

Those poor cows!

I’ll be digging deeper into these mysteries in the hopes of getting some answers, so subscribe to our newsletter for more updates!

* The anarchy within is mostly created by natural occurrences, like giant squirrels, wind, rain, and relatively godzilla-sized lizards who frequent the town; but we find it fun and entertaining to make up fictional stories about what COULD be happening.  We are grateful to the folks who create and maintain this Tiny Train Town for Disney World, as it’s one of our favorite parts of EPCOT and always has been.

See Another Tiny Train Town Update Here!

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WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.

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Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.

Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!

GET YOUR GUIDE NOW

Have you visited the Tiny Train Town in EPCOT? Tell us in the comments!

©Disney

With so much success, fans were thrilled when a second season was announced, and now it seems like we haven’t seen the last of Percy Jackson and his pals, as we officially know when the third season will be released on Disney+. Not only that, but we’ve got a first look at a new teaser trailer!

Percy Jackson and the Olympians Season 3 premieres on Disney+ on November 20th, and we can’t wait! Disney also dropped a teaser trailer for the third season, which promises that “The Titan’s curse is upon us.”

The Titan’s curse is upon us. #PercyJackson and the Olympians Season 3 premieres November 20 on Disney+. pic.twitter.com/NbA8KXz0Us

— Percy Jackson (@PercySeries) July 23, 2026

The news was revealed during a San Diego Comic Con panel, and fans went wild, according to Deadline. They were also treated to the first few minutes of footage from Season 3.

©Disney

Season 3 of Percy Jackson will be the first time that the third book in author Rick Riordan’s series has been adapted for the screen. The previous film adaptations ended with Sea of Monsters, so fans are thrilled to see this book come to life for the first time. In The Titan’s Curse, the series darkens and matures as Percy and his friends become more involved in the war between the gods.

The official description of Season 3 reads, “Percy Jackson is on a dangerous quest. Outrunning monsters and outwitting gods, he must journey across America to return Zeus’ master bolt and stop an all-out war. With the help of his quest mates Annabeth and Grover, Percy’s journey will lead him closer to the answers he seeks: how to fit into a world where he feels out of place, and find out who he’s destined to be.”

©Disney

We’ll be on the lookout for more Disney+ updates you need to know about. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news and more!

Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!

WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.

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Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.

Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!

GET YOUR GUIDE NOW

Are you a Percy Jackson fan? Let us know in the comments below.

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

When we find ourselves baking in the heat at the Magic Kingdom, these are the rides and spaces we go to cool down and recharge.

Hall of Presidents

When it comes to “Magic Kingdom shows to get out of the heat,” Liberty Square’s Hall of Presidents is probably the first show that comes to mind for many (at least while the Carousel of Progress is on the refurbishment list). This patriotic pageant featuring animatronics of every U.S. President has been a refuge from the climate for over 50 years now. Plus, if you don’t want to see the show, you can still enjoy the air-conditioned atrium and gallery.

The Hall of Presidents atrium

3 Snacks Announced for Magic Kingdom Including NEW Churros

Country Bear Musical Jamboree

Just down the road from the Hall of Presidents, there’s Frontierland’s Country Bear Musical Jamboree. The newest version of the iconic show features the original bears belting out well-known Disney songs, all in air-conditioned glory. In other words, if you want to cool down in a dark theater but would prefer animatronic bears to animatronic presidents, this is probably the spot for you.

Country Bear Jamboree

4 New Rules For Magic Kingdom in 2027

Columbia Harbour House

Columbia Harbour House provides an air-conditioned space to dine on a quick-service New England menu of fish and chicken. In particular, sitting upstairs provides a place to cool down and people-watch on the Haunted Mansion queue. 

Dining area at Columbia Harbour House

Adults Are Secretly Ordering THESE Kid’s Meals at Magic Kingdom

Mickey’s PhilharMagic

While the Hall of Presidents and the Country Bear Musical Jamboree may be the cool-down shows of choice for Gen. X members, Elder Millennial hearts likely belong to Fantasyland’s Mickey’s PhilharMagic. Air conditioning? Check. 3D Representations of some of the biggest films of the Disney Renaissance? Check. A soundtrack of classic songs? Check. It’s kind of a paradise for park-goers born from the late 1980s to the early 2000s.

Mickey’s PhilharMagic

Disney World’s Wait Times Are Heating Up Along with the Temperature

Eating upstairs at Pinocchio Village Haus

Remaining in Fantasyland, guests looking to have a bite to eat while escaping the heat can head up the second floor of Pinocchio’s Village Haus to enjoy a meal. Plus, they’ll have a view of…

Upstairs at Pinocchio

“it’s a small world”

When it comes to the best Disney World rides to beat the heat, Pinocchio Village Haus’s neighbor, “it’s a small world” might be the top option. It’s air-conditioned, floating on water, and lasts between 12 and 15 minutes. Of course, it might depend on just how much of a tolerance level one has for the classic (but repetitive) song.

“it’s a small world”

This Disney World Ride Will Be Closed for Refurbishment in August 2026

PeopleMover

While the PeopleMover isn’t air-conditioned and takes place mainly outdoors, the attraction’s constant motion means riders experience a perpetual “breeze.” Of course, the only danger there is if it breaks down.

PeopleMover

8 Disney Ride CHANGES Confirmed for November

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

Swinging back over to Frontierland, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is certainly the most thrilling way to beat the heat thanks to its air-conditioned interior sections, as well as the final drop and its massive — and on a hot day, massively refreshing — splash.

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

We’ve Got a Big Update on the “Cars” Land Coming To Magic Kingdom

DOLE Whip in the Enchanted Tiki Room

Finally, there’s the iconic combination of a DOLE Whip (personally, I go for the float) and a seat watching the Enchanted Tiki Room in all its air-conditioned glory. Few Magic Kingdom experiences can top it.

A DOLE Whip in the Tiki Room

Next time you find yourself sweating under the Magic Kingdom sun, head to some of our favorite spots to cool off! Stay tuned to DFB for more Disney World tips.

The No-Brainer Trick Everyone Forgets About in Magic Kingdom

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WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.

---

Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.

Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!

GET YOUR GUIDE NOW

What do you do in the heat? Let us know in the comments below.

©Marvel

It was recently announced by Deadpool himself, Ryan Reynolds, that another Deadpool movie will be coming to the big screen…at some point. With two big Marvel movies coming out this year, and another massive one on the way next year, we know there is a lot up in the air for the plans of Marvel Studios.

Recently during a panel at Fanatics Fest over the weekend, Ryan Reynolds confirmed that there will “eventually” be another movie starring the iconic Marvel antihero, but it may revolve around “deep cuts” from the character’s comics, according to Variety.

©Marvel

“There’s a few really deep cuts that I think are missing from the movies. I think there’s a few deep cuts missing from some of the comics,” Reynolds told moderator Nature Luvz You. “There’s certainly some stuff that I love that [Deadpool co-creator] Fabian [Nicieza] wrote that is incredible [and] Gerry Duggan, another friend and incredible comic writer, that we can put in. But then there’s stuff upcoming. There’s eventually, you know, remotely another ‘Deadpool’ film. So it’s going to be great.”

©Marvel

Reynolds mentioned before that he already started writing the return of Deadpool to the big screen, but the main focus wouldn’t be on him. “I have some stuff kind of written, but I don’t think I am ever going to center him again,” Reynolds said. “He is a supporting character. He is a guy who is great in a group.”

©Marvel

Although it’s not confirmed, there’s a chance we might see Deadpool before his next movie. Avengers: Doomsday releases to theatres on December 18th, and we know it’s going to be the start of a multiversal battle. That movie will lead into Avengers: Secret Wars, which releases in 2027. That next movie WILL be a multiversal battle. So, there’s a chance that Deadpool could appear in either of those movies, but nothing has been confirmed.

©Marvel Studios

In an interview in 2024, Reynolds talked about how he’d love to cross paths with the Avengers and X-Men, but wouldn’t want to join the team. “If he becomes either, we’re at the end,” Reynolds said. “Deadpool works so well appearing with the X-Men and Avengers, but he always needs to stay an outsider. His ultimate dream is to be accepted and appreciated. But he can’t be accepted. His coping mechanism of deflecting shame through humor works only when used to pave over his many inadequacies. If and when he does become an Avenger or X-Man, we’re at the end of his journey.”

©Marvel

We’d love to see another Deadpool movie in the future, and it sounds like we will. It’ll be interesting to see what happens with Marvel in the future. To keep up with all the latest Disney news and updates, make sure to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog.

“I Am Feeling Like a Gigantic Loser and Failure.” President of Marvel Studios Confirms Reboot Is CANCELED

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WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.

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Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.

Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!

GET YOUR GUIDE NOW

Would you watch another Deadpool movie? Let us know in the comments!

Welcome to ALDI!

The popular grocery store chain is known for its great deals on food as well as household goods and other miscellaneous items. Many times, they even sell Disney-licensed pieces! So today, we’re rounding up all the good deals you need to know about — here are the ALDI finds coming to stores July 29th through August 4th.

Get the perfect lunch essentials!

©ALDI

Next week, there are several new lunchbox essentials coming to ALDI, just in time for your kids to return to school! These would be great to pack meals on the go, and they even have tiny salad dressing containers.

©Amazon

If you can’t make it to ALDI next week or don’t have a store near you, you can snag these salad dressing containers from Amazon. They come in small 1oz sizes with sealing lids and measurements marked on the side. They’re great for sauces or for small portions of things like berries.

view ON AMAZON

This utensil set is a must-have!

Reusable Travel Utensils Set

ALDI is also offering reusable utensil sets, as pictured in the section above. However, we have a favorite that we’ve used in Disney World several times. The Reusable Travel Utensil Set comes with four sets of utensils in four different colors, each in their own separate case. This way you have sets for everyone in the family! They’re great for packing a lunch, but we love them for festivals in EPCOT as well.

view ON AMAZON

We love the Bento boxes, too!

©ALDI

Bento boxes have become a hugely popular lunch-on-the-go item. With these new ones at ALDI, you wouldn’t even need a lunch box. You could just pack your food inside, close the lid, and go! They even come with a dual-ended spork.

©Amazon

For an Amazon alternative, we like these COOL GEAR 3-Pack Expandable Bento Containers. They come with multiple layers to separate your food, and they can be flattened or expanded to fit your needs. There are four separate compartments and individual lids, so you could use these as storage containers at home as well.

view ON AMAZON

Or, you can grab these simple containers

©ALDI

And sometimes, you just need something simple and straightforward. These Crofton 2-compartment or 3-compartment storage containers are an easy way to meal prep or store your leftovers in the fridge. Get them at ALDI next week in a few different colors.

©Amazon

These reusable snack containers with lids on Amazon are very similar, with a boxier shape. You could use them to plan out snacks for your kids or pack meals. The larger side has a 1-cup capacity while the smaller side is a 1/2 cup — easy for portioning things out!

view ON AMAZON

We’re always on the hunt for the latest and greatest Disney souvenirs and essentials, so don’t forget to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more!

The Disney Vacation Club Imaginatrium

Whether you have one preferred Disney Destination like Walt Disney World Resort that is the perfect fit for your family, or you’d like to explore the whole world beyond the World, Disney Vacation Club – or DVC – offers members the opportunity to lock in their future vacations at today’s prices. Not only that, but being a DVC member comes with a whole lot of exclusive perks — and a ton of new ones just dropped at Disney World!

Welcome Home Weeks are BACK for Disney Vacation Club Members, and that means a ton of new Disney World perks just dropped! Featuring exclusive treats, special experiences, and enhanced discounts just for eligible Disney Vacation Club Members, Welcome Home Weeks are definitely a reason for DVC Members to head to Disney World.

©Disney

DVC Members can enjoy a refreshing and tasty complimentary ice cream treat at select locations across Walt Disney World. You’ll find these Sweet Stops at:

Magic Kingdom Park

• Location: Tomorrowland Terrace
• Dates: Wednesdays, starting July 22, 2026
• Times: 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

• Location: Tower of Terror Courtyard
• Dates: Mondays and Tuesdays, starting July 27, 2026
• Times: 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

• Location: Upper Bradley Falls (located on the pathway between Africa and Asia)
• Dates: Thursdays and Fridays, starting July 23, 2026
• Times: 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM

EPCOT

• Location: Near the Disney Vacation Club Discovery Desk in the Canada Pavilion (look for event signage)
• Dates: Tuesdays and Thursdays, starting July 23, 2026
• Times: 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM

Disney Springs

• Location: Gateway to Discovery – A Disney Vacation Club Welcome Home Center
• Dates: Mondays and Fridays, starting July 24, 2026
• Times: 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa

• Location: Disney Vacation Club Preview Center
• Dates: Daily, starting July 22 through August 26, 2026
• Times: 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Please note: There is no on-site parking available for this event. Members are strongly encouraged to use Walt Disney World Resort transportation.

Disney’s Riviera Resort

• Location: The Eventi Room, 1st floor (look for event signage)
• Dates: Daily, starting July 22 through August 26, 2026
• Times: 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM
• Please note: There is no on-site parking available for this event. Members are strongly encouraged to use Walt Disney World Resort transportation.

Mickey Premium Bar

Wanting to meet some more DVC members? You can mingle with fellow Members for coffee and a morning treat at Disney World at the following locations:

• Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
  • Location: Top of the World Lounge
  • Dates: Fridays and Saturdays, starting July 24, 2026
  • Times: 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM

• Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
  • Location: Reunion Station
  • Dates: Saturdays and Sundays, starting July 25, 2026
  • Times: 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM

Morning caffeine with a view!

Who doesn’t love a good character meet-and-greet?! Members can meet with beloved Disney Characters at fun events at Disney World:

• Location: Atlantic Dance Hall at Disney’s BoardWalk
• Dates: July 22, July 27 through July 28, August 4 through August 5, August 12 through August 13, August 17 through August 18, and August 26, 2026
• Times: 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
• Please note: There is no on-site parking available for this event. Members are strongly encouraged to use Walt Disney World Resort transportation.

©Disney

Having meals while at Disney just got a whole lot better thanks to the DVC exclusive dining discounts! Enjoy up to 40% off food and nonalcoholic beverages at select table-service restaurants at Walt Disney World on select dates at the following restaurants on Mondays through Thursdays:

• Hollywood & Vine at Disney’s Hollywood Studios (40% off breakfast, lunch & dinner)
• Tusker House Restaurant at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park (40% off lunch & dinner)
• Biergarten Restaurant at EPCOT (40% off lunch)
• Tiffins Restaurant at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park (40% off dinner)
• Coral Reef Restaurant at EPCOT (40% off dinner)
• Garden Grill Restaurant at EPCOT (40% off lunch & dinner)
• The Crystal Palace at Magic Kingdom Park (20% off lunch & dinner)
• Be Our Guest Restaurant at Magic Kingdom Park (20% off lunch)
• Whispering Canyon Cafe at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge (40% off brunch & dinner)
• Trattoria al Forno at Disney’s BoardWalk (40% off breakfast & dinner)

Tusker House

You’re not going to want to miss out on the exclusive “Welcome Home Weeks” dining offerings at select locations across Disney Springs at Disney World:

Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew: Complimentary Donut

Stop by Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew at Disney Springs to receive a complimentary Welcome Home Weeks donut. No purchase necessary.

• Location: Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew at Disney Springs
• Dates: Wednesdays, starting July 22, 2026
• Times: During venue’s normal operating hours
• Eligibility: Members eligible for Membership Extras (one donut per Member, per week, while supplies last)

eet by Maneet Chauhan: Complimentary Desi Ice Cream

Visit eet by Maneet Chauhan at Disney Springs to receive a complimentary Desi ice cream. No purchase necessary.

• Location: eet by Maneet Chauhan at Disney Springs
• Dates: Thursdays, starting July 23, 2026
• Times: During venue’s normal operating hours
• Eligibility: Members eligible for Membership Extras (one per Member, per week, while supplies last)

Frontera Cocina: Complimentary Half & Half Appetizer

Receive a complimentary Half & Half appetizer when you purchase the DVC Welcome Home Weeks drink (available as a cocktail or mocktail).

• Location: Frontera Cocina at Disney Springs (valid only while ordering at the bar)
• Dates: Fridays, starting July 24, 2026
• Times: During venue’s normal operating hours
• Eligibility: Members eligible for Membership Extras (one per Member, per week, while supplies last)

The Polite Pig: Complimentary Pretzel

Receive a complimentary Hop Salt Pretzel when you purchase a specialty drink (cocktail or mocktail). As part of this offer, Members receive a 15% discount on food and beverage (nonalcoholic) items.

• Location: The Polite Pig at Disney Springs
• Dates: Mondays, starting July 27, 2026
• Times: During venue’s normal operating hours
• Eligibility: Members eligible for Membership Extras (one per Member, per week, while supplies last)

City Works: Complimentary DVC Slushie

Receive a complimentary, Welcome Home Weeks-exclusive slushie when you purchase any entree.

• Location: City Works at Disney Springs
• Dates: Tuesdays, starting July 28, 2026
• Times: During venue’s normal operating hours
• Eligibility: Members eligible for Membership Extras (one per Member, per week, while supplies last)

Everglazed

We’re suckers for those buttons you can get at Disney World, so we got hyped to hear that DVC members can pick up a complimentary button to celebrate Disney Vacation Club Welcome Home Weeks:

• Disney Vacation Club McKim’s Mile House – A Member Lounge (Magic Kingdom park)
• Disney Vacation Club ImaginAtrium – A Member Lounge (EPCOT)
• Disney Vacation Club Discovery Desks
• Château de Voyage – A Disney Vacation Club Welcome Home Center (EPCOT)
• Gateway to Discovery – A Disney Vacation Club Welcome Home Center (Disney Springs)

©Disney

Strike a pose during a private, 15-minute photo session with Disney PhotoPass photographers at select locations across Walt Disney World Resort! Space is limited; preregistration is required.

• Location: Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
• Dates: Wednesdays, starting July 22, 2026
• Times: 3:40 PM to 7:55 PM

• Location: Disney’s Old Key West Resort
• Dates: Thursdays, starting July 23, 2026
• Times: 3:40 PM to 7:55 PM

• Location: Disney’s Riviera Resort
• Dates: Mondays, starting July 27, 2026
• Times: 3:40 PM to 7:55 PM

PhotoPass Photographer

For all those Disney Vacation Club moviegoers, you can receive candy at Movies Under the Stars at select Disney World resorts or popcorn while watching films aboard Disney Cruise Line sailings. Yes, it’s ALL complimentary!

WHEW! That’s a LOT of perks. Make sure you take advantage of them if you’re a DVC Member, and make sure you check your DVC account for eligibility and additional information.

Movie Under the Stars

We’ll be on the lookout for even more updates you need to know about Disney Vacation Club and beyond. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news and more!

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Disney Cruise Line

This year has seen many firsts for Disney Cruise Line, including the maiden voyage of the Disney Adventure, the first Disney ship to set sail from Singapore. Well, Disney Cruise Line just announced another first: its first female captain in the entire history of the cruise line!

Captain Maria Gotor is the newest captain for Disney Cruise Line. Gotor has taken over the helm of the iconic Disney Wish, but what makes her really interesting is that her current career path was a surprise, even to her. Before becoming a captain, Gotor was practicing law in Spain.

©Disney

Gotor changed her mind about law after sailing across the Strait of Gibraltar. During her cruise, she met the ferry’s captain and visited the wheelhouse. That day changed her life. She went back to school for a master’s degree in nautical engineering and maritime navigation. After finishing her education, she began piloting that very same ferry! But that wasn’t enough: Gotor eventually took on ocean navigation aboard a passenger cruise ship, with her first job in 2009. She joined Disney Cruise Line in 2024.

©Disney

Gotor says she was drawn to Disney Cruise Line because it was so unique (we’d have to agree!). She said, “The joy on board is real, and today I am the happiest I have ever been.” She referred to serving as the Disney Wish’s captain as “deeply personal and professionally meaningful.” See? Dreams really do come true!

Disney Wish at Castaway Cay

Gotor also loves the challenge of captaining the Wish. She said, “Guiding a cruise ship requires constant focus, judgment and precision. I love the challenge of monitoring changing conditions at sea or preparing to bring the ship safely into port. On the Disney Wish, there’s 144,000 tons of steel that you have to stop without brakes. It’s challenging, and it’s rewarding.” She also attributes the happiness she feels on board to the crew who cheered her on when she was revealed as the ship’s captain.

©Disney

We wish Gotor all the best as the captain of the Wish, and we can’t wait to sail aboard her fine vessel again. We’ll keep you updated on more Disney Cruise Line news, so stay tuned to DFB for more.

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