Journey of Water Inspired by ‘Moana’ Soft Opening Begins Today at EPCOT

Journey of Water, Inspired by “Moana” is set to begin its soft opening period today at EPCOT.

Journey of Water Soft Opening

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The walk-through attraction is set to begin soft opening to guests October 6, 2023. The attraction will be open to guests for select hours and days through October 15. Journey of Water will officially debut in World Nature on October 16, alongside a new Moana meet and greet.

The soft opening period for the attraction might also utilize a virtual queue, so be sure to check the My Disney Experience app should you want to participate.

Menu Updates Coming Soon to 3 Popular Disney Resort Hotel Spots

Three popular restaurants at three different Walt Disney World resorts will receive new menu updates beginning next week. 

From a Disney cast member;

Foodies, grab your appetites and get ready to eat because three popular spots at Walt Disney World Resort are giving their menus a revamp. Over at our Disney Resort hotels, the culinary teams have been hard at work putting together dishes and beverages that are sure to satisfy. Starting Oct. 11, Geyser Point Bar & Grill at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Three Bridges Bar and Grill at Villa del Lago at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, and Banana Cabana at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort will be getting new items with a little something for everyone.

I won’t keep you waiting. Let’s jump right in and see “What’s Cooking” with all the new items coming to these three locations next week.

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Let’s take a trip on the wild side over to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge where you’ll find Geyser Point Bar & Grill nestled pool and lakeside. You don’t have to explore very hard to know that this spot doesn’t disappoint with its dishes. And these new additions are no different. The iconic Bison Burger is always still available to indulge in, but the culinary team has created some additional plates for the lineup, including three new plant-based bites. Not to mention, all of the food offerings are available on mobile order. Are you ready to see them all?

First up, the Crispy ‘Peking’ Ribs. This dish is tossed in a tasty peking sauce with cashews. If wings are more your thing, the Geyser Chicken Wings are now available in two new flavors – Thai Chili or Sriracha Buffalo. But don’t worry, if you love the Teriyaki, it’s still available too!

What’s better than charcuterie? Charcuterie in flatbread form. The Charcuterie Flatbread is topped with salami, brisket, chorizo, bacon, and ​smoked gouda beer cheese. YUM! The new Turkey BLT Sandwich is not your average BLT. It combines house-smoked black pepper turkey, candied bacon, and avocado puree ​for the perfect blend of flavors in every bite.

As I mentioned, there are three – yes, three – new plant-based offerings that simply cannot be missed. The Macaroni and ‘Cheese’ Bites are “cheesy” bites of goodness paired with tomato and peppers. This is one starter you’ll definitely want to order. The Vegetable Burger with ‘Cheese’ is a fantastic plant-based option. It’s topped with a spicy slaw, pepper jack ‘cheese’, lettuce, and tomato​. Lastly, we’ve got the Multigrain Salad with Tofu. This delicious new addition combines mixed greens, wild rice, bell peppers, and sesame vinaigrette. It’s also available with chicken, steak, or salmon if you’d like.

In addition to all these bites, there’s also a new sip joining the menu. The Pineapple Mule is returning from its temporary run during Black History Month, and now will be featured as a permanent offering at Geyser Point Bar & Grill. It brings together Uncle Nearest 1884 Small Batch Whiskey, Hella Cocktail Co. Ginger Bitters, pineapple juice, ginger beer, and mint for a refreshing and delicious beverage. Guest Experience Managers Mauro Santiago Marcos and Megan Reinhardt crafted this cocktail centered around Uncle Nearest Whiskey which pays homage to the first known Black master distiller, Nathan ‘Nearest’ Green. In addition to Geyser Point Bar & Grill, the Pineapple Mule will be added to over 40 Disney Resort hotel bars and lounges.

Three Bridges Bar and Grill at Villa del Lago

Get ready to bask in the good vibes and good flavors at Three Bridges Bar and Grill at Villa del Lago. This open-air spot found at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is a fan favorite, and for good reason. In a few short days, this location will be adding quite a few mouthwatering delights to its flavorful selections. And, in case you didn’t know, all the food is available via mobile order too.

First up, we’ve got the Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns. This bite is paired with lime mayo, sweet-and-spicy gochujang sauce, ‘kimchi’ pickles, and radish. Another new starter is the Tamarind Soy-glazed Pork Ribs with scallions, pickled fresno chili, and cilantro. Whether you’re a ceviche fan or looking to try it, the Ceviche Classico is the perfect dish to satisfy your taste buds. It deliciously features kona kampachi, sweet potato, cancha, red onion, chile, and leche de tigre. Yes, yes, and yes!

For a refreshing salad, the Villa del Lago Wedge Salad is a must. It combines baby iceberg lettuce, chorizo, bleu cheese, and marinated tomatoes topped with avocado dressing. You can also get it with grilled shrimp or grilled chicken if you’d like some added protein.

It’s time for the entrées! Few things are better than tacos and the new Pork Carnitas Tacos are no different. These are served with a trio of sauces – chipotle-pineapple salsa, tomatillo salsa verde, and salsa borracha – along with cotija cheese and pickled vegetables served with black beans and rice. That’s what I call a taco. The Chicken Mole Poblano is another must-try with a sweet corn-Oaxacan cheese tamale, – yes, you heard that right – rich mole poblano sauce, and radish.

If you’re in the mood to fulfill that burger fix (we’ve all been there), the Three Bridges Signature Burger is just the plate for you. This is not your average burger. This one is topped with a bacon marmalade, sun-dried tomato jam, smoked gouda queso, crispy vegetables, and arugula served with smoked paprika fries. Yes, please!

Last up for new main dishes is the Plancha-seared Mahi Mahi and Shrimp. Seafood fans will love this new item. It’s expertly paired with basmati rice, bok choy, Thai red coconut-curry sauce, and mint.

Attention plant-based diners! Some of your favorite plant-based bites like the Guacamole, Roasted Corn Dip, and ‘Poke’ Bowl, which is now available with tofu, aren’t going anywhere, so no need to fret.

What meal is complete without a sweet treat? The Warm Churros are still on the menu, but now featuring three dipping sauces: tequila caramel, spiced chocolate, and mango-chamoy. My mouth is already watering for this one! Another sweet delight is the Coconut Flan with passionfruit sauce, mango, and hibiscus. You may have seen this dish previously on the menu for Women’s History Month, and now it has made Three Bridges Bar and Grill at Villa del Lago its permanent home.

Before we head over to our next location, we have to take a look at three new beverages on the way. The Cold Brew Old Fashioned will satisfy cold brew and old-fashioned fans alike. It combines SelvaRey Chocolate Rum, Tia Maria Coffee Liqueur, Joffrey’s Mexican Femenino Cold Brew, and Hella Cocktail Co. Orange Bitters. For some red wine with a twist, the Tinto de Veranoserves up red wine, Combier Creme de Mure, Minute Maid Premium Lemonade, and Sprite. This refreshing cocktail is traditionally served in the summer months in Spain. And for a tropical beverage that’s non-alcoholic, the Tropical Coconut Cooler is a refreshing blend of coconut, orange, pineapple, and lime juices with a salt rim.

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

Now, it’s time to relax and feast because we’re heading over to Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort where Banana Cabana has got some new bites joining the menu. Pair one of this location’s deliciously refreshing beverages with a savory bite like the new Banana Cabana Burger. This dish features Caribbean barbecue, tomatillo-jalapeño cream cheese, and pineapple salsa with plantain crunch served with french fries.

Do you love yourself some wings? If so, you’re in luck because the Grilled Wings now feature two new sauce flavors – Rum Barbecue and Guava Buffalo. But don’t worry, the tasty Jamaican Jerk is still there too. These three options are designed by the talented culinary team to be an island-style of mild (Rum Barbecue), medium (Guava Buffalo), and hot (Jamaican Jerk). No matter your sauce of choice, your wings will be joined by carrots and a tasty cilantro-lime crema.

For those of you who love seafood, there are two new items you should try poolside – the Seafood Fritters served with a passion fruit aïoli and the Coconut Shrimp served with citrus-chili sauce and french fries. How delicious! The island vibes are even better on Fridays and Saturdays when Banana Cabana features a live steel drum band.

I don’t know about you, but I am now very hungry! Whether you’re looking for sweet or savory, the foodie adventures are endless at Disney Parks.

New Candlelight Processional Celebrity Narrators to Headline 2023 EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays Beginning Nov. 24

The time for fa-la-la-la-la is just around the corner! To celebrate, the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays presented by AdventHealth at Walt Disney World Resort brings the joyful season to life with magical traditions, jubilant entertainment, delicious dishes and sparkling merchandise.

Grab a mug of hot cocoa and let’s take a look at all that’s coming!

NEW Celebrity Narrators Join EPCOT Candlelight Processional Alongside Returning Favorites

Long a guest favorite, the EPCOT Candlelight Processional is the retelling of the Christmas story by a narrator and a massive choir, accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra, herald trumpets and the incredible Voices of Liberty. This spectacular event returns this year with more new celebrity narrators than ever before! Nine new voices join the ranks of captivating storytellers who share the universal message of this heartwarming story.

To plan your visit, here’s the full list of this year’s celebrity narrators:

  • Chrissy Metz (NEW): Nov. 24-25
  • Luis Fonsi (NEW): Nov. 26-27
  • Ann-Margret (NEW): Nov. 28-29
  • Simu Liu: Nov. 30-Dec. 2
  • John Stamos: Dec. 3-5
  • Neil Patrick Harris: Dec. 6-8
  • Marlee Matlin: Dec. 9-11
  • Brendan Fraser (NEW): Dec. 12-14
  • Eva Longoria (NEW): Dec. 15-16
  • Joey McIntyre (NEW): Dec. 17-18
  • Sterling K. Brown (NEW): Dec. 19-20
  • Jordan Fisher (NEW): Dec. 21-23
  • Steven Curtis Chapman: Dec. 24-26
  • Audra McDonald (NEW): Dec. 27-28
  • Lisa Ling: Dec. 29-30

Candlelight Processional Dining Packages Open Oct. 17

Want to ensure your seat for the performance? There’s no better way than to book a Candlelight Processional Dining Package. Choose from seven distinctive eateries, offering everything from character dining at Chip ‘N’ Dale’s Harvest Feast at Garden Grill Restaurant in The Land pavilion to signature dining at Le Cellier Steakhouse in the Canada pavilion. With breakfast, lunch and dinner options, there’s something for everyone. For more information, including pricing and availability, visit the Disney Travel Agents website.

Santa Returns to the Odyssey Pavilion

Santa Claus himself will visit with guests at the Odyssey pavilion from Nov. 24 through Dec. 24. Don your festive best for the perfect photo op and make sure you’ve been nice! But that’s not all, because …

Storytellers From Around the World Share Tales and Traditions

… World Showcase comes alive with magical legends and lore as storytellers from around the globe captivate listeners with myriad tales. Celebrate the season with laughter in the Norway pavilion as a mischievous Barn Santa makes an appearance; observe the wonder of a Chinese Lion Dancer commemorating the Lunar New Year; join a fascinating journey to learn more about Hanukkah festivities around the world; and rediscover the magic of special moments as Pere Noel shares the delightful words of a child’s letter. As you stroll the park, don’t miss the beautiful and diverse décor throughout World Showcase – and beyond.

Even More Joy

To fill your cup up even more, sing along with the exuberant voices of JOYFUL! A Celebration of the Season in World Showcase Plaza. With uplifting Gospel and R&B songs celebrating Christmas and Kwanzaa, the biggest challenge you’ll have will be standing still! And as a bonus, enjoy a sparkling boat tour through Living with the Land in World Nature, where the greenhouses will be decked out with twinkling holiday light displays.

Tantalizing Holiday Kitchens and a Decadent Cookie Stroll Highlight Seasonal Flavors

What’s a holiday without feasting? If tucking into delicious goodies is your favorite way to celebrate, then you’ve come to the right place. More than 15 Holiday Kitchens will entice your palate with treasured dishes that celebrate a panoply of global holiday cheer. While we can promise you that there will be plenty of returning favorites like Slow Roasted Turkey with Stuffing, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans and Cranberry Sauce, there are also scrumptious surprises in store. Keep an eye out for all the jolly details coming soon in the Disney Eats Foodie Guide.

Remember to save room for the delectable Holiday Cookie Stroll! There’s nothing better than exploring the sights and sounds of the festival with a sweet treat in hand. My family loves to try them all, and I know you will, too. Purchase five cookies from any of the official cookie stroll locations and collect the matching stamp for each cookie to add to your festival passport. Once you’ve collected five stamps, bring the stamped passport to the Holiday Sweet & Treats Holiday Kitchen and receive a specialty cookie. Since you can complete the stroll at your leisure through December 30, it’s the perfect activity to enjoy with family and friends every time you visit the festival.

Olaf’s Holiday Tradition Expedition Scavenger Hunt

Set off on an adventure with Olaf for his Holiday Traditions Expedition Scavenger Hunt, a fun way to explore World Showcase. Just purchase your map and stickers from select festival merchandise locations and seek out the “tradition” that Olaf has found in each pavilion. Whether or not you complete the quest, you can redeem your map at Creations Shop, Disney Traders or World Traveler at International Gateway for a special festival holiday keepsake.*

Note that to experience any in-park offerings, guests must have valid theme park admission and may need a theme park reservation depending on the type of admission and date of visit. The ability to visit a theme park is subject to the park’s capacity limitations.

From celebrating beloved and familiar traditions to learning about new ones, EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays presented by AdventHealth is the perfect way to embrace the cheer and good will of the season. Be sure to stay tuned to Disney Parks Blog for more details now through the beginning of the festival.

*Redemption valid through Dec. 30 or while supplies last.

Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort: A Coastal Paradise with a Dash of Disney Magic

Tucked away on the enchanting shores of Hilton Head Island in South Carolina, Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort offers guests a tranquil and magical escape that seamlessly combines the charm of a coastal retreat with the enchantment of Disney storytelling. Nestled amidst lush maritime forests and pristine beaches, this idyllic vacation destination is a haven for relaxation, outdoor adventure, and Disney-inspired fun.

From the moment you arrive at Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort, you’ll be greeted by the warmth of Southern hospitality and the playful touch of Disney magic. The resort’s design is a harmonious blend of coastal elegance and Disney whimsy, with touches of nautical decor and hidden Mickeys awaiting discovery. It’s a place where relaxation and Disney enchantment go hand in hand.

The resort offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every vacationer’s needs. Guests can choose from spacious and comfortable studios, one-bedroom villas, or even multi-bedroom vacation homes for larger families or groups. Each accommodation is thoughtfully designed with coastal-inspired decor and modern amenities, providing a comfortable home away from home.

One of the highlights of Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort is the Big Dipper Pool, a themed pool area that captures the essence of a coastal swimming hole. With its winding waterslide, relaxing whirlpool spa, and charming poolside bar, it’s the perfect place to soak up the sun and cool off.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the resort offers an array of activities that celebrate the natural beauty of Hilton Head Island. Guests can explore the lush maritime forests on nature trails, embark on a fishing excursion in Broad Creek, or even try their hand at crabbing at the resort’s dedicated crabbing dock. There’s never a shortage of outdoor adventures to embark upon.

Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort ensures that the magic of Disney is never far away. The resort hosts a variety of Disney-themed activities and events, from character meet-and-greets to outdoor movie nights under the stars. Younger guests will love the supervised kids’ club, where they can enjoy crafts, games, and storytelling while parents enjoy some downtime.

The dining options at Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort are a celebration of Lowcountry cuisine. Guests can savor Southern-inspired dishes made from locally sourced ingredients at the resort’s main restaurant, the Shelter Cove Harbour and Recreation Center, or enjoy a quick bite at the Tide Me Over snack bar.

Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort embraces the spirit of community and connection. The resort hosts a variety of gatherings and celebrations throughout the year, including special events during holidays like Easter, Halloween, and Thanksgiving. These occasions create a sense of togetherness and camaraderie among guests and cast members alike.

In conclusion, Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort is a coastal paradise that offers a harmonious blend of relaxation, outdoor adventure, and Disney magic. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil escape from the everyday, an exploration of Hilton Head Island’s natural beauty, or a dash of Disney enchantment, this resort has something for everyone. It’s a place where families create cherished memories, nature lovers find solace in the great outdoors, and Disney fans discover a coastal paradise infused with their favorite storytelling magic. From the charming accommodations to the outdoor adventures and Disney-inspired fun, Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort is a destination that captures the essence of relaxation and enchantment on the shores of Hilton Head Island.

Fairfax Fare at Hollywood Studios: A Delicious Adventure Awaits

Fairfax Fare is a dining gem that offers visitors a diverse and mouthwatering selection of American-inspired dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for classic barbecue, savory sandwiches, or loaded baked potatoes, this quick-service restaurant promises to satisfy your cravings in a delightful Hollywood setting.

Fairfax Fare is conveniently located in the Sunset Ranch Market area of Disney’s Hollywood Studios, making it a convenient dining option for guests exploring the park. The restaurant’s design and décor are inspired by Hollywood’s golden age, complete with a rustic and inviting ambiance.

One of the standout offerings at Fairfax Fare is its delicious barbecue. From smoked pulled pork to tender beef brisket, the restaurant’s barbecue selections are cooked to perfection, delivering that authentic smoky flavor. Guests can savor these delectable meats as platters, sandwiches, or even on a loaded baked potato.

Fairfax Fare also boasts an array of mouthwatering sandwiches. Whether you prefer a classic burger, a hearty chicken sandwich, or a vegetarian option, there’s something on the menu to please every palate. These sandwiches are generously portioned and bursting with flavor.

For those seeking a unique and satisfying meal, Fairfax Fare offers loaded baked potatoes with a variety of toppings to choose from. Whether you prefer chili and cheese or a vegetarian medley of toppings, these baked potatoes are hearty and customizable.

Families visiting Fairfax Fare will appreciate the kid-friendly menu that includes options like chicken nuggets and macaroni and cheese. These selections are perfect for young diners looking for familiar and delicious meals.

To complement your meal, Fairfax Fare offers a range of beverages, including soft drinks, bottled water, and even alcoholic options for adults. You can quench your thirst and stay refreshed while enjoying your Hollywood Studios adventure.

One of the advantages of dining at Fairfax Fare is its quick-service format. This makes it an ideal choice for guests who want to maximize their time in the park without sacrificing quality or flavor.

Fairfax Fare at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is a culinary delight that celebrates the flavors of American cuisine. With its convenient location, diverse menu, barbecue bliss, tempting sandwiches, loaded baked potatoes, and kid-friendly options, it’s a must-visit for anyone seeking a satisfying and flavorful dining experience at Disney. Whether you’re a fan of classic American fare, a lover of barbecue, or simply seeking a quick and delicious meal to fuel your adventures in Hollywood Studios, Fairfax Fare promises a culinary journey that will keep you energized and ready for more Disney magic. So take a break, savor the flavors, and recharge at this delightful dining destination in the heart of Hollywood.