8 Ways to “Celebrate Soulfully” at Walt Disney World Resort

Posted on by Mathew Corn Animal Kingdom, Disney Dining, Disney Parks, Disney Resorts, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Magic Kingdom

Walt Disney World Resort is thrilled to “Celebrate Soulfully” during Black History Month in February with vibrant art, soul stirring music, savory soul food and a limited-edition pin, embracing the richness of Black heritage.

Through the talents of wonderful Cast Members and collaborations with a myriad of Black-owned businesses, guests can “Celebrate Soulfully” across the resort throughout the year, but especially during Black History Month. Explore some ways to honor Black culture, heritage and contributions at Walt Disney World Resort this February.

  1. Ring in the Celebration with Michael James Scott as the Honorary Parade Grand Marshal

Broadway performer and Orlando native Michael James Scott, well known for his portrayal of Genie in the hit Broadway musical, “Aladdin,” will be the honorary grand marshal for the “Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade” at Magic Kingdom Park on Feb. 6. His appearance helps kick off our month-long celebration of Black heritage and culture. Guests can catch Michael James Scott along the parade route all the way down to Main Street, U.S.A., around 3 p.m. ET.*

  1. Collect the New Princess Tiana Tiara Pin

With the theme of dreams coming true, and just in time for Black History Month, a new Princess Tiana tiara pin is available at locations around Disney theme parks and soon on shopDisney.com. The limited-release pin was designed by Brittany L. Smith, a senior production designer with Walt Disney Imagineering. The pin is inspired by Brittany’s interpretation of the tiara-topped water tower featured in Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. Smith is also a designer for Tiana’s Audio-Animatronics character in Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, which opens at Magic Kingdom Park and Disneyland Park this year.

  1. Celebrate the Arts at EPCOT International Festival of the Arts

Guests can check out the artistic designs of three Black artists participating in EPCOT International Festival of the Arts, which is a grand celebration of artistic expression in all forms. The three Black artists are taking part on various days through Feb. 19.

  • Ryan Riller (Feb. 12-19)
  • Yesenia Moises (Feb.13-19)
  • Larissa Marantz (Feb. 14-19)

Also, guests can’t miss the performances by the following Black artists lighting up the stage at America Gardens Theatre during the DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series on select nights during the festival:**

  • Steven Taylor (“The Lion King” – Jan. 26, 28 and 29, Feb. 1, 3, 5 and 6)
  • Kissy Simmons (“The Lion King” – Jan. 27, 30 and 31, Feb. 2, 4, 7 and 8)
  • Bradley Gibson (“The Lion King” – Feb. 10, 13, 14, 16, 17 and 19)
  • Michael James Scott (“Aladdin” – Feb. 9, 11, 12, 15, 18 and 19)
  1. Explore Artistic Expressions at Disney Springs Art Walk

Guests can head over to Disney Springs for food, music, shopping– and some colorful artwork by several Black artists. Guests should take a stroll past the Disney Springs Art Walk where they will find murals painted by Black artists such as Ernest Shaw, Nneka Jones and Nardstar.

  1. Check out the African Art exhibit in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

A new African art installation is coming to the Pizzafari gate at Disney’s Animal Kingdom beginning February 1. Featured artwork from internationally renowned Nigerian-American artist Victor Ekpuk explores historical narratives and contemporary African diaspora.

  1. Be Inspired by the work of Floyd Norman, Disney’s First Black Animator

Floyd Norman, Disney’s first credited Black animator, helped animate characters Kaa and Shere Khan from “The Jungle Book.” At Conservation Station’s Animation Experience in Disney’s Animal Kingdom, guests will receive step-by-step guidance on how to illustrate their own version of the popular Disney Animation and Pixar Animation Studios characters that Norman helped to animate as well as others such as Bruce from “Finding Nemo;” Tick-Tock from “Peter Pan;” or Scar from “The Lion King.”

  1. Indulge in “Cooking with Soul” Cuisine

Across Walt Disney World resorts, guests can expect to see “Cooking with Soul” items on restaurant menus. They will find classic comfort food prepared by a diverse group of Walt Disney World chefs.

Mini Red Velvet Cake: Red velvet cake with cream cheese buttercream (New);

Available at:  

  • Landscape of Flavors at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
  • Centertown Market at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
  • Everything POP Shopping & Dining at Disney’s Pop Century Resort
  • Riverside Mill Food Court at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
  • Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter

Tiana’s Petit Cake: Vanilla chiffon cake, lemon Chantilly, and fresh strawberries topped with a fondant flower and a Tiana chocolate piece (New)

Available at:

  • Main Street Bakery in Magic Kingdom (Available Feb. 1 through March 1)

Shrimp and Grits: Roasted corn and goat cheese, peri-peri shrimp, and green tomato-apple chutney(Currently Available)

Available at:

  • Tiffins Restaurant in Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Griot and Pikliz: Epis-marinated fried pork shoulder, fried green plantain, and pikliz (New)  

 Available at:

  • Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar in Disney Springs (Available Feb. 1 through 29)

Check out the Foodie Guide for the full list of Cooking with Soul items found across Walt Disney World.

  1. Make Magical Memories with Ariel, Tiana and Asha

Throughout February and beyond guests can interact with a variety of popular and diverse characters such as Tiana at Magic Kingdom, Ariel from the live-action story at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Asha at EPCOT.

With every beat, every flavor and every smile, guests are sure to enjoy “Celebrating Soulfully” at Walt Disney World Resort!

Food and Beverages Coming for Celebrate Soulfully 2024 to Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks

The Disney Parks Blog has released the full lineup of food and beverages guests can expect to enjoy during the Celebrate Soulfully 2024 festivities during Black History Month at both Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort.

These items begin arriving at both resorts starting February 1, 2024.

Celebrate Soulfully 2024 at Walt Disney World Resort

Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, Disney’s All-Star Music Resort, and Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort

World Premiere Food Court, Intermission Food Court, and End Zone Food Court (Available Feb. 1 through March 31; mobile order available)

  • Banana Pudding Cheesecake: Banana cheesecake with vanilla pudding and vanilla wafer crust
    • Assistant Sous Chef Janell Wright drew inspiration from her Jamaican roots and time living in the U.S., where she developed a fondness for banana pudding. Janell took these classic dessert flavors and infused them into a special cheesecake topped with a Mickey garnish, a special nod to Janell’s dream of working for Disney coming true.

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter

Scat Cat’s Club – Lounge (Available Feb. 1 through 29)

  • Berry Beignet: Mixed berry compote, house-made Uncle Nearest Whiskey caramel sauce, and powdered sugar served with a pipette of Uncle Nearest Whiskey

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa

The Artist’s Palette (Mobile order available)

  • Soulful Sunday Pork Cutlet: Smoked pork chop, collard greens, black-eyed peas, and house-made sweet cornbread (New) (Available Feb. 1 through 29)
  • Traditional Pound Cake: Homemade vanilla pound cake (Available Feb. 1 through March 31)
    • This dish is inspired by Proprietor Deborah Davis Pollard’s family recipe that has been passed down from generation to generation.
The Country Fried Pork Steak with Herbed Gravy (left) and Mini Red Velvet Cake (right) for Celebrate Soulfully 2024.

Available at Various Disney Resort Hotel Quick-Service Restaurants (Available Feb. 1 through 29; mobile order available)

  • Country Fried Pork Steak with Herbed Gravy: Fried pork loin with herb cream sauce, fried cabbage sautéed with smoked sausage, and roasted marble potato salad (New); Available at the following locations:  
    • World Premiere Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
    • Intermission Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
    • End Zone Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
    • Landscape of Flavors at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
    • Centertown Market at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
    • Everything POP Shopping & Dining at Disney’s Pop Century Resort
    • Riverside Mill Food Court at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
    • Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
      • Sous Chefs Anthony Watson and Angie Thomas drew inspiration from generations-old family recipes for this collaboration. The result is a celebration of marinated, smothered, and seasoned meat dishes paired with flavorful sides.
  • Mini Red Velvet Cake: Red velvet cake with cream cheese buttercream (New); Available at the following locations:  
    • Landscape of Flavors at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
    • Centertown Market at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
    • Everything POP Shopping & Dining at Disney’s Pop Century Resort
    • Riverside Mill Food Court at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
    • Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
The Southern Citrus Twist for Celebrate Soulfully 2024.

Available at Various Disney Resort Hotel Pool Bars, Lounges, and Table-Service Restaurants (Available Feb. 3 through 29)

  • Southern Citrus Twist: Uncle Nearest 1884 Small Batch Whiskey, lemon juice, maple syrup, and Hella Cocktail Co. Orange Bitters (New)
    • Inspired by the partnership between Leaders Dougie Williams and Hunter Bernreuter, this cocktail features Uncle Nearest 1884 Small Batch Whiskey and celebrates heritage, partnerships, and Black, Indigenous, and People of Color products.
The Bananas Foster Shake (top left), Crab-topped Catch of the Day (top right), Chicken and Andouille Gumbo (bottom left), and Tiana's Famous Beignets (bottom right) for Celebrate Soulfully 2024.

Magic Kingdom Park

Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies (Available Feb. 1 through March 1; mobile order available)

  • Bananas Foster Shake: Banana milkshake layered with caramelized banana sauce and topped with whipped cream (New)

Cinderella’s Royal Table (Currently available)

  • Crab-topped Catch of the Day: Roasted pumpkin-smoked gouda grits, braised greens, and brown butter-Meyer lemon emulsion

The Crystal Palace (Available Feb. 1 through March 1)

  • Chicken and Andouille Gumbo: Chicken, andouille sausage, and okra in a traditional gumbo base (New)

Golden Oak Outpost (Available Feb. 1 through March 1)

  • Tiana’s Famous Beignets: Light, sweet, and fluffy beignets with strawberry dipping sauce
Tiana's Petit Cake (top left), Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich (top right), Sweet Potato Pie (bottom left), and Peach Cobbler (bottom right) for Celebrate Soulfully 2024.

Main Street Bakery (Available Feb. 1 through March 1)

  • Tiana’s Petit Cake: Vanilla chiffon cake, lemon Chantilly, and fresh strawberries topped with a fondant flower and a Tiana chocolate piece (New)

Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe (Available Feb. 1 through March 1; mobile order available)

  • Fried Green Tomato BLT Sandwich: Fried green tomato sandwich with lettuce, bacon, and bacon-pimento spread served with house-made chips (New)
  • Sweet Potato Pie topped with toasted marshmallow cream and candied pecans

Pinocchio Village Haus (Available Feb. 1 through March 1; mobile order available)

  • Peach Cobbler: Cinnamon panna cotta, peach cobbler, brown sugar streusel, and whipped cream with a Tiana chocolate piece (New)
    • Princess Tiana’s passion for cooking is a generational legacy ignited by her father. Assistant Pastry Chef Tianna Roberson has been making this signature recipe since age ten. Inspired by her grandmother’s recipe, this cherished dish defined her childhood. Passed down through generations, it stands as a beloved family tradition.

Plaza Ice Cream Parlor (Available Feb. 1 through March 1)

  • Butter Pecan Praline Sundae: Butter pecan ice cream topped with praline sauce, spiced pecans, and whipped cream (New)

The Plaza Restaurant (Available Feb. 1 through March 1)

  • Chicken and Andouille Gumbo: Chicken, andouille sausage, okra, and rice in a traditional gumbo base (New)
  • Tiana’s Petit Cake: Vanilla chiffon cake, lemon Chantilly, and fresh strawberries topped with a fondant flower and a Tiana chocolate piece (New)
The Peach Cobbler Mini Cake (left), Creole Smoked Sausage Sandwich (center), and The Ginger Whiskey (right) for Celebrate Soulfully 2024.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Dino-Bite Snacks (Available Feb. 1 through 29; mobile order available)

  • Peach Cobbler Mini Cake: Vanilla cake, cinnamon-caramel-peach filling, and oat streusel topping served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream (New)
    • Inspired by a recipe featured in What Mrs. Fisher Knows About Old Southern Cooking, the first cookbook by an African American author. Abby Fisher started a business in Alabama where she made and sold pickles and preserves. She eventually dictated her own recipes that would later become What Mrs. Fisher Knows About Old Southern Cooking, published in 1881.

Flame Tree Barbecue (Available Feb. 1 through 29; mobile order available)

  • Creole Smoked Sausage Sandwich: Creole smoked sausage on a roll with piccadilly relish and stewed black-eyed peas
    • Creole smoked sausage is best credited as the result of pairing the distinct cooking flavors of French and African descendants living in Louisiana during the 18th century. Accompanying our Creole smoked sausage sandwich are black-eyed peas, which are known to be a symbol of prosperity and hope.

Pizzafari (Available Feb. 1 through 29; mobile order available)

  • Celebrate Soulfully Cupcake: Vanilla cake with bananas foster jam filling, vanilla buttercream, Joe Gardner half note white chocolate décor, and multicolored crispy pearls
    • In Disney and Pixar’s Soul, Joe Gardner dreams of becoming a great jazz musician. Joe adorns this cupcake as an homage to jazz’s cultural impact. With historical roots, jazz transformed the music industry and brought success to musicians such as Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, and Ella Fitzgerald.

Restaurantosaurus (Available Feb. 1 through 29; mobile order available)

  • Celebrate Soulfully Cupcake: Vanilla cake with bananas foster jam filling, vanilla buttercream, Joe Gardner half note white chocolate décor, and multicolored crispy pearls

Tiffins Restaurant

  • Shrimp and Grits: South African Mealie Pap with roasted corn and goat cheese, peri-peri shrimp, and green tomato-apple chutney (Currently available)
  • The Ginger Whiskey: A cocktail featuring Uncle Nearest 1856 Whiskey with notes of ginger and brown sugar (Available Feb. 1 through 29)
    • Uncle Nearest Whiskey is both a Black and women-owned and operated business. Begun in 2017, Uncle Nearest Whiskey has become one of the leading whiskey brands in its industry. The brand’s namesake Is Nathan “Nearest” Green, who is believed to have created the Lincoln County Process, a hallmark of Tennessee whiskey, in which whiskey is filtered through sugar-maple charcoal and then aged in charred oak barrels. Green is credited with teaching this technique to Jack Daniel, who hired Green as the first main distiller for the company and on record in the United States.
The Pineapple Mint Julep for Celebrate Soulfully 2024.

Dawa Bar, Restaurantosaurus Lounge, and Thirsty River Bar (Available Feb. 1 through 29)

  • Pineapple Mint Julep
The Poulet Marine Au Four for Celebrate Soulfully 2024.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

ABC Commissary (Available Feb. 1 through 29; mobile order available)

  • Gumbo: Chicken, andouille sausage, okra, and seasonings simmered in chicken stock served over rice

Hollywood & Vine (Currently available)

  • Poulet Mariné Au Four (Baked Marinated Chicken): Baked chicken marinated in assorted spices served with red peppers, green peppers, and onions
The Mardi Gras Milk Shake (left) and Sweet Potato Lunch Box Tart (right) for Celebrate Soulfully 2024.

Hollywood Scoops (Available Feb. 1 through 29)

  • Mardi Gras Milk Shake: Cinnamon-vanilla milkshake topped with a Mardi Gras king cake doughnut

Woody’s Lunch Box (Available Feb. 1 through 29; mobile order available)

  • Sweet Potato Lunch Box Tart with cinnamon-brown sugar icing, toasted marshmallows, and pecans
The Hummingbird Cake for Celebrate Soulfully 2024.

EPCOT

The Artist’s Table at the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts (Currently available through Feb. 19)

  • Hummingbird Cake: Banana and pecan cake dipped in cream cheese icing with caramel sauce and warm pineapple compote

Coral Reef Restaurant (Currently available through March 31)

  • Shrimp and Grits: Cajun-grilled shrimp, seared grit cake, andouille hash, and Cajun emulsion
The Half Note Float (left) and Banana Pudding (right) for Celebrate Soulfully 2024.

Fife and Drum (Currently available)

  • Half Note Float: Frozen Fanta Wild Cherry, Minute Maid Lemonade, and Fanta Blue Raspberry Slushy with vanilla ice cream and half note white chocolate

Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue (Available Feb. 1 through March 31; mobile order available)

  • Banana Pudding

Disney Springs

Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ (Available Feb. 1 through 29)

  • Charles Woodson Wines’ 2019 Intercept Cabernet Sauvignon
The Cookie Butter Ganache Square (left) and Soulfully Pralines (right) for Celebrate Soulfully 2024.

The Ganachery (Available Feb. 1 through 29)

  • Cookie Butter Ganache Square: Cookie butter ganache enrobed in dark 65% chocolate (New)
    • This bite was inspired by Chocolatier Cast Member Destiny Hinds, who loves sharing her cookie butter confections with friends.
  • Soulfully Pralines: Pecan pralines covered in dark 65% chocolate
    • Chocolatier Cast Member Sheila Moten drew creative inspiration from Disney and Pixar’s Soul for the Soulfully Pralines.
The Griot and Pikliz for Celebrate Soulfully 2024.

Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar (Available Feb. 1 through 29)

  • Griot and Pikliz: Epis-marinated fried pork shoulder, fried green plantain, and pikliz (New)
    • Culinary Cast Member Daphnee Vilme Dorcelian draws inspiration from griot, a Haitian fried pork dish that’s a cherished favorite at family gatherings. Marinated in a blend called “epis” with Scotch bonnet, bell peppers, and spices, it is served with fried plantains and “pikliz,” a pickled cabbage slaw. This flavorful and slightly spicy dish is a weekend tradition, bringing a taste of home to the United States and earning praise from Daphnee’s kids as one of their favorites.

The Polite Pig (Available Feb. 1 through 29)

  • Pork Belly Diri Kolepwanwa: Sweet and spicy pork belly, diri kolepwanwa (rice and black beans), and onion jalepeño slaw

Splitsville Luxury Lanes (Available Feb. 1 through 29)

  • House of Brown 2021 California Red Blend

Vivoli il Gelato (Currently available through March 30)

  • Black Girl Magic Float: Float with vanilla gelato and Black Girl Magic wine from the McBride Sisters Wine Company

Celebrate Soulfully 2024 at Disneyland Resort

The Fried Chicken Bowl (left) and Sweet Potato Pie Casserole (right) for Celebrate Soulfully 2024.

Disneyland Park

Troubadour Tavern (Available Feb. 16-18 and 23-25; mobile order available)

  • Fried Chicken Bowl: Spicy honey-glazed fried chicken served with four cheese mac ‘n cheese, smoked turkey collard greens, and sweet potato cornbread
  • Sweet Potato Pie Casserole: Sweet potato-pecan pie (New)

River Belle Terrace (Available Feb. 1 through April 1)

  • Brunch Platter: Pancakes, scrambled eggs, biscuit and gravy, and house slaw
  • Dinner Platter: BBQ brisket, fried chicken, buttery mashed potatoes, and biscuit and gravy

Cafe Orleans (Available Feb. 1 through April 1)

  • Prix-Fixe Meal with choice of appetizer, deviled eggs, and pickled vegetables, gumbo, or Caesar salad with cornmeal fried fish and turtle cheesecake
The House-filled Beignet (top left), 7 Greens Gumbo with Chicken & Andouille Sausage (top right), 7 Greens Gumbo (bottom left), and Beef Po'boy Sandwich (bottom right) for Celebrate Soulfully 2024.

Tiana’s Palace

  • House-filled Beignet featuring lemon ice box pie filling topped with lemon glaze
  • 7 Greens Gumbo with Chicken & Andouille Sausage: White beans, okra, yams, sweet potatoes, and heirloom rice
  • 7 Greens Gumbo: White beans, okra, yams, sweet potatoes, and heirloom rice (Plant-based)
  • Beef Po’boy Sandwich: Slow-cooked beef in gravy dressed with shredded lettuce, tomato, pickle, and mayonnaise on a toasted New Orleans French bread and served with red beans and rice and house-made pickles

Disney California Adventure Park

Lamplight Lounge and Lamplight Lounge – Boardwalk Dining (Currently available)

  • Brown Estate Chaos Theory Red Wine Blend (New)
The Sweet Potato Fries Poutine (left) and Barrel Aged Smoked (right) for Celebrate Soulfully 2024.

Disneyland Hotel

Lobby Lounge (Available Feb. 1 through 29)

  • Shrimp and Grits (New)
  • Sweet Potato Fries Poutine: Sweet potato fries, gravy, and cheese curds (New)
  • Barrel Aged Smoked: Uncle Nearest 1884 Bourbon, turbinado sugar, Angostura Bitters, Peychaud’s Bitters, and a luxury ice cube (New)
  • McBride Sisters Sparkling Rosé (New)
  • Crowns & Hops Pilsner (New)

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa

GCH Craftsman Bar, Hearthstone Lounge, and Storytellers Cafe (Available Feb. 1 through March 1)

  • Golden Soul: Uncle Nearest 1884, ginger liqueur, creme de cassis, lime juice, and raspberries
  • Crowns & Hops 8 Trill Pills
The Cinnamon & Honey Fried Chicken Ice Cream for Celebrate Soulfully 2024.

Downtown Disney District

Salt & Straw (Available Feb. 1 through 29)

  • Cinnamon & Honey Fried Chicken Ice Cream: In partnership and support of Black-owned business, Ezell’s Famous Chicken out of Washington State, this savory and spicy ice cream is made with fresh croissants, torn into bits, that are then deep-fried with chicken fat until crispy and then churned into salted vanilla ice cream. A touch of cinnamon, a splash of honey, and a shake of secret spices give you a sweet Cajun heat with pleasant pops and crackles

Celebrate Soulfully at Disney Parks This February in Honor of Black Culture and Heritage

Posted on by Mathew Corn Animal Kingdom, Disney Parks, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Magic Kingdom

This Feb. marks the return of Celebrate Soulfully at Disney Parks, bringing new culturally rich experiences to Walt Disney World Resort and, for the first time, to Disneyland Resort. Coinciding with Black History Month, Celebrate Soulfully invites families and friends to gather for experiences that honor Black heritage and culture through music, food, art and more.

Celebrate Soulfully is one of the ways Disney Parks is reimagining tomorrow.

Immerse Yourself in Art, Music and Entertainment

Join us as we celebrate soulfully through song, dance, stories and stirring displays featuring the work of Black artists across Walt Disney World Resort and at Disneyland Resort.

Walt Disney World Resort

At Disney Springs, Motown favorites return alongside jazz, R&B and pop hits, with a line-up of featured musical acts all month long. Serving as the perfect spot to capture commemorative photos of the celebration, the fun continues with new murals and art displays throughout Disney Springs, several of which have been inspired by favorite characters from “The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder” series on Disney+. And at House of Blues Restaurant and Bar, guests can discover a permanent collection of Southern Vernacular Art.

Explore the rich and dynamic evolution of jazz at “The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure” exhibit in The American Adventure at EPCOT through the legacies of famous musicians and stories of how jazz took root in cities across the United States. Since its inaugural debut last year, the exhibit has traveled to museums across the country and expanded to include histories from Kansas City and Harlem.

You can continue to celebrate Black cultural influences at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, where you may encounter the beats of the Tam Tam Drummers of Harambe as they bring rhythms from the Congo to Mombasa Marketplace in Africa or attend “A Celebration of Festival of the Lion King,” a Broadway-style show filled with pageantry puppetry and classic songs from Disney’s “The Lion King.”

And at select Walt Disney World Resorts, join us for viewings of films including “Soul,” “Remember the Titans,” and more as a part of Movies Under the Stars.

Disneyland Resort

As part of Celebrate Soulfully, Disneyland Resort will present “Celebrate Gospel” – at Disneyland park for the first time. “Celebrate Gospel” is a Disneyland Resort tradition, previously held in Stage 17 in Disney California Adventure park.

Opening this powerful event, award-winning Gospel singer, actor and fashion designer Kierra Sheard performs on Feb. 19 at Fantasyland Theater, along with a capella Gospel group Sacred Groove. On Feb. 26, Grammy-award winners Jonathan McReynolds and Mali Music take the stage, along with The Singers of Soul performing in their unique a capella style. On both weekends, you can hear Southern California community choirs as they also join this beloved tribute to the spirit of Gospel Music from 3-7 p.m. on the Fantasyland Theater stage.

At Downtown Disney District, you can celebrate with nightly outdoor concerts covering genres such as R&B, Gospel, reggae, funk and jazz throughout Feb., plus Saturday afternoon Gospel music. You can also catch live jazz piano nightly at Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen.

Also at Downtown Disney District, discover art displays from emerging Black artists who found inspiration in Disney and Pixar’s “Soul.” Originally developed in collaboration with Pixar and HUE Unlimited in a collection of wearable art, the works are from Bee Harris, Bianca Pastel, Arrington Porter and Cory Van Lew. Plus, chalk muralist Marcella Swett will create a new chalk mural each week in February.

Immerse yourself in Black stories at Disneyland Resort in February and beyond. Join the heroes in Avengers Campus at Disney California Adventure park, where you may see Black Panther and join Okoye, the leader of the Dora Milaje, to learn wisdom from Wakanda. Let your imagination soar during a one-of-a-kind princess experience, which may include sightings of Princess Tiana, with Disney Princess Breakfast Adventures at Napa Rose restaurant.

Feed Your Soul with Inspired Flavors

Discover celebratory eats inspired by Black stories and new dishes brought to life by chefs at locations throughout Walt Disney World Resort. And make sure to look for “Cooking with Soul” featured menu items, spotlighting authentic dishes and the talented chefs who create them across Walt Disney World Resort, including EPCOT and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Join us for new and returning favorites at Disneyland Resort.

Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort

  • Come together with loved ones over a meal that nourishes your soul with brunch and happy hour menus at dining destinations across Disney Springs, including Wine Bar George, House of Blues, City Works Eatery & Pour House, STK and Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’.
  • Discover the flavors from the Caribbean, Africa and the Southern United States as chefs and culinary cast members draw on their heritage to infuse cultural flavors into mouthwatering new menu items at Polite Pig, Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar and D-Luxe Burger.
  • Craving something sweet? Head to The Ganachery to indulge in Soulfully Sweet Pralines inspired by Joe Gardner from Disney and Pixar’s “Soul.”
  • Support Black-owned businesses at Vivoli il Gelato by ordering Coffee Pot Gelato, a limited-edition flavor made with coffee stout sourced from Green Bench Brewing Company, a Florida-based Black-owned brewery.

EPCOT at Walt Disney World Resort

  • Available at Refreshment Outpost, the Nairobi Coffee Porter is infused with Kenyan coffee and features subtle berry and stone fruit notes.
  • Also found at Refreshment Outpost, the Plant-based Bratwurst is inspired by the flavors of Eastern Africa and is served with spicy turmeric aioli, Kachumbari slaw and coffee barbecue jackfruit.
  • Featuring layers of Fanta Strawberry, Minute Maid Lemonade, Fanta Blue Raspberry Slushy and vanilla ice cream, the Half Note Float at Fife & Drum is named in honor of the jazz club frequented by Joe Gardner in Disney and Pixar’s “Soul.”

Disney’s Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort

  • The Peach Cobbler Rum Cake at Tiffins Restaurant is inspired by a beloved recipe from chef James Hemings, celebrating his lasting creative and culinary legacy.
  • At Nomad Lounge & Cocktail Bar, guests are invited to satisfy their sweet cravings with Mandazi, a delicious fried dough dessert with Swahili origins.
  • Available at Creature Comforts Coffee Shop, Flame Tree Barbecue and Restaurantosaurus, the Celebrate Soulfully Cupcake is a colorful and delicious homage to the Disney-Pixar film, “Soul.”
  • Sip on a refreshing Mint Julep, flavored with pineapple and orange to honor the inspirational story of the drinks’ creator, John Dabney. This flavorful craft cocktail will be available at locations around Disney’s Animal Kingdom, including Nomad Lounge, Dawa Bar, Restaurantosaurus Lounge and Thirsty River Bar.

Disneyland Resort

  • Celebrate Soulfully New Orleans style at Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen at Downtown Disney District, where chefs honor the flavor of Louisiana with creole cuisine including their NOLA BBQ Shrimp & Grits.
  • Sip from a special menu, enhanced with wines, beer and spirits from Black-owned businesses, at Hearthstone Lounge at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. Live jazz is offered nightly in the hotel lobby throughout February.

Bring Home Treasures Celebrating Black Makers and Creatives

Retail destinations at both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort spotlight Black designers, artists and visionaries with celebratory merchandise items.

Walt Disney World Resort

  • Inside Art of Disney, check out the Artist Spotlight to learn more about Floyd Norman, Bruce Smith, Carole Holliday and others – some of the talented animators who have worked with the Walt Disney Animation Studios in films ranging from “The Jungle Book” to “The Proud Family” and beyond. And on select dates, meet artist, painter and operator of the Three Masks Art Gallery, Timothy Adebule.
  • In honor of Black History Month, Bowes Signature Candles, will offer special discounts off candle making. Founded by Jamaica native and artisan Dave Bowes, Bowes Candles is located inside Marketplace Co-Op and Disney’s Days of Christmas at Disney Springs. And during the month of February, Bowes Candles can also be found on the porch of the Discovery Trading Co. facing the Tree of Life at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
  • Sephora at Disney Springs will celebrate a company-wide commitment to dedicate substantial shelf space in-store to diverse companies.
  • Be inspired by the words of modern age trailblazers like Muhammad Ali and historic figures like Maya Angelou at Sugarboo & Co., where you can find an assortment of writings from members of the Black community.
  • Within some of the most popular Disney-owned locations at Disney Springs, you’ll discover products featuring classic and new characters and films, including “Soul,” “Princess at the Frog” and “Black Panther.”
  • Under Armour joins the celebration with their Black History Month Collection for men, women and youth in apparel and footwear silhouettes.
  • Meet the talented African artisans behind unique craftworks near Mombasa Marketplaceat Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park.

Disneyland Resort

  • Returning to Downtown Disney District on Feb.1, Post 21 features a collection of modern and design-forward merchandise from Black-owned businesses, curated by a local Los Angeles-based mother and daughter team at a kiosk location.
  • At WonderGround Gallery, guests will discover items with connections to the films “Soul,” “Princess and the Frog,” “The Lion King” and more.
  • Pelé Soccer will debut a new sweatshirt design that features an iconic image of Pelé and a call to “empower the culture.”
  • Lovepop honors Black History Month with special “We are Black History” and “Black is Beautiful” cards.

These are some of the ways you can celebrate soulfully at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. Keep checking back here for more details about future offerings!

‘Celebrate Soulfully’ to Debut in February at Disney World

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks

Beginning in February, Walt Disney World Resort will unveil several new experiences inviting guests to celebrate soulfully at The Most Magical Place on Earth. Coinciding with and extending beyond February’s Black History Month, these offerings honor Black heritage and culture through music, food, art and more.

“Celebrate Soulfully at Disney Springs” brings together several new offerings debuting in February at the Walt Disney World shopping, dining and entertainment district. With jazz-inspired performances, new art displays, special food menus and more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Featured will be four new art displays inspired by Disney and Pixar’s “Soul,” created by emerging Black artists: Bee Harris, Bianca Pastel, Arrington Porter and Cory Van Lew. Originally developed in collaboration with Disney and Pixar as part of a HUE Unlimited collection of wearable art, the work reflects each artist’s interpretation of the film.

Three evenings per week – Motown Mondays, Jazz Thursdays and Smooth Sundays – musicians will perform throughout Disney Springs, playing tunes sure to stir the soul. In addition, select dining locations will feature special menu items, including Amorette’s Patisserie offering treats inspired by “Soul” and Walt Disney Animation Studio’s “The Princess and the Frog.” Also at Disney Springs, several retail locations will spotlight products from Black designers, artists and visionaries.