Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge guests may get a glimpse of a rare and unusual baby animal in a month or so when our new okapi calf goes out on the resort’s Pembe savanna. The female calf, born Oct. 1, is backstage bonding with her mom in this great photo taken by Gene Duncan. Our animal care managers report that mom and baby are doing very well.

The Pembe savanna in Kidani Village presents an exceptional opportunity for guests to see okapi in a large, mixed-species savanna habitat right outside the guests’ hotel rooms throughout the day and into the evening.

The okapi is considered rare and is classified as near threatened. The main threat is habitat loss due to logging and human settlement as well as hunting for the bush meat and skin trade.

Okapi fun facts:

• There are fewer than one hundred okapi in North American zoological facilities.
• The okapi with its white and black striped legs is often thought to be related to the zebra but actually is the only living relative of the giraffe. The stripes work as camouflage when hiding in the partial sunlight that filters through the forest canopy.
• Okapi are typically solitary animals, living alone or in mother-offspring pairs. They are extremely wary and secretive, making okapi very difficult to observe in the lowland rainforest of central Africa where they make their home.
• The okapi’s gestation period is about 14 months, with the calf typically weighing between 50 and 60 pounds at birth.
• Adult okapi can reach weights of 550-720 pounds with females typically being larger than males. They can live over 30 years in zoological facilities.
• Normally silent, female okapi vocalize with a soft “chuff” during courtship and when calling to their calves. There are infrasonic qualities to their call, which are below the frequency that the human ear can pick up.

Most people fear bats. They are the animals people love to hate! Why? Because bats come out at night, fly into people’s hair, attack them and suck blood, right? And let’s face it, they fly all around and are hard to see and catch.

Bats really are the good guys! That’s why Disney’s Animal Kingdom is celebrating the Year of the Bat atConservation Station on October 26 (9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.). Family-friendly activities will feature our very own not-so-scary bat cave, where children will census bat populations. Guests also will be able to play a bat board game that highlights cool facts about bats, talk with Bat Conservation International staff, learn how Disney is helping bats through the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund and meet our bat keepers who will introduce videos of our bat training program that ensures the best health and care for our bats.

Everyone has a bat story. My sister-in-law told me about a time she visited Mackinaw Island and everyone was told to run into their houses at dusk to avoid the bats that supposedly dived-bomb people. On the other extreme, a few friends and I made a point of sitting outside on Ngamba Island in Uganda, gin and tonic in hand, to watch the sky darken as huge numbers of bats flew out of the forest in search of insects over Lake Victoria. What a spectacular sight!

As with most fears, once you know more about bats, the less feared they become. Most bats in the U.S. are insect-eaters that are highly beneficial, gulping down thousands of pesky flies and mosquitoes every night. Others are pollinators, re-growing trees and other plants for future generations.

Do you have a bat story? Share them with us here and we’ll post them at our Year of the Bat celebration.

Bat Fun Facts:

• The Malayan Flying Fox, which guests can see on the Maharajah Jungle Trek when they visit Disney’s Animal Kingdom, is one of the largest bats in the world with a wingspan of close to 6 feet. Being an Old World fruit bat, they can’t echolocate and instead use their excellent eyesight to fly at night and sense of smell to locate food.
• While many bats are nocturnal, both the Malayan Flying Fox and the Rodrigues fruit bat (another species of bat guests can see on the Maharajah Jungle Trek) are crepuscular, meaning that they are most active at dusk and dawn. Although they are most active during the sunrise and sunset hours, they may be observed fanning, grooming, stretching out their wings and even flying on occasion during the day.
• For 2011, the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund is sponsoring a Bat Conservation International project in Mexico that will help teach wildlife professionals and a new generation of conservationists about migratory bats, increasing the odds that these prized pollinators and pest managers return healthy each year to North America’s fields, farms and forests.

More than 1,100 Cast Members from Walt Disney World Resort awoke before sunrise on a recent Saturday for the Orlando Start! Heart Walk. They laced up their walking shoes to show support for the American Heart Association and help raise more than $47,000 for research and education to help fight heart disease and stroke.

“My goal is to get healthier and complete a marathon this year,” said Kendall Bercaw, a resort operations assistant at Walt Disney World Resort. She joined 16,000 others who took to the streets of downtown Orlando as a way to jump start her own healthy objectives.

“The Greater Orlando Heart Walk was my opportunity to take the first step, get fit alongside some of my closest friends and raise money for an important health concern not only in Central Florida, but the entire country,” Bercaw said.

At Walt Disney World Resort, some Cast Members prepared for the Orlando Start! Heart Walk by joining a weekly Cast walking club, while others burned calories at the company’s on-site fitness centers.

As a co-chair of this year’s event, Meg Crofton, President, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Operations – U.S. and France, helped kick off the festivities and told the crowd she understood from her own experience that entire families are affected by heart disease and walking is a great way to be healthy.

“As a teenager, I had the privilege of helping my father walk back to full health after a massive heart attack,” Crofton said. “Thank you, everyone. You are stepping out for your own heart health, and you are stepping out for the research, the education and the technologies that are improving the heart health of our Central Florida community.”

According to the American Heart Association, as little as 2.5 hours of moderate-intensity physical activity a week can lower the overall risk of heart disease by 14 percent.

As a thank-you for participating in this annual event, Disney VoluntEARS received a Duffy Bear plush, which smiled from the arms of walkers and peeked out of backpacks throughout the three-mile trek.

Halloween is by far my favorite holiday, and I can’t think of a better way to celebrate than by attending a Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom Park.

Parties, which take place from 7 p.m. – midnight on select evenings September-November, feature trick-or-treat locations, Disney characters in costume, enhanced holiday décor and special stage shows. Two major highlights are the Boo-to-You Halloween parade, which features the Headless Horseman, Disney characters in Halloween regalia and the stars of The Haunted Mansion. Another is the Happy HalloWishes fireworks spectacular, which illuminates the park in glittering color and light.

Dates for this year’s party nights are: Sept. 13, 16, 20, 23, 27 and 30, Oct. 2, 6, 7, 10, 11, 13, 16, 18, 20, 21, 23, 25, 27, 28, 30, 31, and Nov. 1. Prices vary based on event night.

Oh, and don’t forget that dressing in costume is encouraged! Here’s a look back at some of our “best-dressed” guests from last year.

Take a look back at more fun from last year’s Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom Park:

• A Wonderful Night at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
• Boo to You and You and You and You – It’s Almost Halloween
• Video: Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

Stormtroopers along with Duffy the Bear and Phineas and Ferb are ready to celebrate with guests at Mickey’s Halloween Party at Disneyland.

This year, Stormtroopers from the “Star Wars” movies will take pictures with partiers in Tomorrowland.  Also, popular Walt Disney Channel brothers of Phineas and Ferb will be at Plaza Gardens Stage.  Duffy the Bear, dressed like a pumpkin, will greet guests at Town Square in Main Street, U.S.A.

A new dance party called “Piratepalooza” is scheduled to take place at Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante in Frontierland. “Buzz Lightyear’s Intergalactic Space Jam” will be returning to the Tomorrowland Terrace.

Along with the Halloween Parties, seasonal changes of Disneyland will include Mickey Mouse and other characters in Halloween costumes and the transformations of two rides.

The Haunted Mansion will be will get an overlay that mixes Halloween and Christmas and is inspired by the animated film “Tim Burton’s Nightmare Before Christmas.”

On the Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy, ghosts appear and reach out as if to grab riders; the ride is accompanied by a soundtrack of screams, sound effects and haunting music.

“Halloween Time has become an annual tradition for many of our guests,” said Disney spokeswoman Michele Himmelberg. “Mickey’s Halloween Party is fun for families who like to wear their costumes to the park and take photos with characters in their Halloween attire.

Look who stopped by Magic Kingdom Park. All 53 contestants for the title of Miss America 2012 – and current Miss America Teresa Scanlan – continued a Walt Disney World Resort tradition of walking down Main Street, U.S.A., and making some magical memories.

Representing fifty states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands, the women were greeted by Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Cinderella, Belle, Donald Duck, Goofy and Pluto. After group photos atCinderella Castle, the women broke up into smaller groups to see the rest of Magic Kingdom Park and later in the day, visited Disney’s Hollywood Studios to ride the new 3-D “Star Tours – The Adventures Continue.” Here’s a look at some of the fun.

Miss America Contestants Visit Walt Disney World

The 53 Miss America 2012 contestants also recorded interviews that are scheduled to appear in the pageant’s live telecast on ABC, Saturday, January 14.

As the world’s largest provider of scholarship assistance for young women and one of the nation’s leading achievement programs, the Miss America Organization last year made available more than $45 million in cash and scholarship assistance. The 53 Miss America 2012 contestants are in the Orlando area to attend the annual Miss America Outstanding Teen Competition.

Something mystical was happening in a corner of the Parks & Resorts Pavilion at the D23 Expo in Anaheim last month. Guests gathered throughout the weekend to see Destini – fortune teller and Audio-Animatronics marvel.

“Many Audio-Animatronics characters appear in Disney Parks but they don’t really pay attention to guests,” said Scott Trowbridge, VP of Creative at Walt Disney Imagineering Research & Development. “This will change that.”

Destini uses new technology developed by WDI. He’s the latest and most advanced fully autonomous, interactiveAudio-Animatronics figure – he can see you, hear you and even think for himself. Using sensors to observe and interact, he can see the guests in front of him – groups or individuals – and read their expressions. He can see whether you’re smiling or frowning, and adjust his interaction accordingly.

“We’re experimenting with technology to make our characters more aware and responsive,” said Scott, who went on to say that what WDI is really experimenting with is the larger idea of awareness.

This technology would be used “anywhere we want characters to be more aware,” Scott said, but it is not meant to replace performers. Rather, it would allow WDI to bring characters to life that wouldn’t otherwise be possible. At the D23 Expo, guests got an exclusive peek behind the curtain to see how Destini works, but in the parks the technology will not be center-stage.

“We want guests to have the sense that they’re actually meeting a living, breathing character,” said Scott. “We hope that in the parks, guests will never know what is going on behind the scenes. They will just be having a wonderful moment, not thinking about the technology.”

Tokyo DisneySea, the second theme park at the Tokyo Disney Resort, opened its doors Sept. 4, 2001. The park, “where adventure and imagination set sail,” is themed around the exciting adventures one can have when they explore the world by sea.

The park currently includes seven lands: Mediterranean Harbor, American Waterfront, Mysterious Island, Mermaid Lagoon, Arabian Coast, Lost River Delta and Port Discovery. The park contains many attractions that domestic Disney fans would recognize, including 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea at Tower of Terror, as well as attractions that are unique to this park, such as StormRider, Raging Spirits and Aquatopia.

Tokyo DisneySea has been celebrating this week’s 10th anniversary in a 20-month “Be Magical!” celebration that features special entertainment, themed décor, colorful character costumes, and more

As a part of the celebration, the park has been decorated with colorful magic hats that belong to different Disney characters. For example, Minnie’s hat, which is pink and features large bows and heart-shaped ornaments, decorates the American Waterfront area of the park, while Ariel’s hat, which was created in the style of King Triton’s Castle, tops off Mermaid Lagoon. At each magic hat, guests can step into the role of sorcerer by placing their hands the hat, causing it to emit lights and sound. They can also purchase special magic wands that, when waved at the hat monuments, cause even more magic to come to life.

This past August, Cirque du Soleil celebrated the 6,000th performance of La Nouba at Downtown Disney at Walt Disney World Resort. La Nouba features high wire and flying trapeze, acro-gymnastic performances and other displays of coordination and strength, set to live music and brilliant choreography. With an international cast of 67 artists, Cirque du Soleil welcomes more than 1,650 spectators, ten times per week.

“The partnership between Cirque du Soleil and Walt Disney World, represents the union of two of the world’s most iconic brands in what is a very unique and ideal relationship,” said Cirque du Soleil Company Manager Neil Boyd.  “We continue to be thrilled with providing world-class family entertainment by presenting La Nouba to an international audience for nearly 13 years here at Downtown Disney.”

The dynamic, white structure found on the Westside of Downtown Disney houses the multi-media stage and theatre which was the first permanent “Big Top” Cirque du Soleil ever built. Since Cirque opened the show for the first time on Dec. 23, 1998, multi-generations of Disney guests have made this theatrical circus a success over the years. This past July, La Nouba welcomed its 8,000,000th guest.

“Reaching the 6,000th performance of La Nouba demonstrates just how special, timeless and unique the show is,” said Keith Bradford, vice president of Downtown Disney. “La Nouba appeals to guest of all ages, making it a perfect fit among our assortment of offerings at Downtown Disney.”

The professional athletes and entertainers of La Nouba come from 14 countries around the globe and together deliver unparalleled artistic entertainment that sparks the audience’s curiosity and imagination, 478 shows a year.

Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog…

You would think that being a NASA rocket scientist, Disney Dad Bernie Edwards dreams would be out of this world! Not so. When not thinking about his day job, Bernie is wishing he were goin’ fishin’!

“If I had two hours at Walt Disney World Resort, I would put on my Walt Disney World Moms Panel hat and drive over to Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside for an early morning breakfast at their food court, Riverside Mill. I would get the freshly made waffles or a create-your-own omelet. I would make the rest of the breakfast perfect by adding nice, rich espresso.

Then I would go cane pole fishing for bluegill and perch at the Ol’ Man Island, a fully stocked catch and release pond near the main swimming pool at Port Orleans Resort – Riverside.”

What special Disney Parks activity would be your pick to create a lifelong memory? Let me know in my comments section below!

From The Disney Parks Blog…

I’m sure many readers have been to the Disneyland Resort multiple times. I’d even concede that you know much more about the Resort than even I do. But there are some things you might not know. I’ve recently found some interesting facts about the Disneyland Resort that I thought you might enjoy!

• Disneyland opened on July 17, 1955, with 18 major attractions. Today, there are more than 60 adventures and attractions at the Resort.
• When Mickey & Friends parking structure opened on June 27, 2000, it was the largest parking structure in North America.
• More than 5,000 gallons of paint are used each year to give the Disneyland Resort its better-than-new look.
• More than 800 species of plants from more than 40 nations are represented at the Disneyland Resort. The landscape panorama includes approximately 17,000 trees and 100,000 shrubs. Each year, about 1 million annuals are planted at the Disneyland Resort.
• Trees at the Disneyland Resort range in size from a one-foot dwarf spruce in Storybook Land to 80-foot-high eucalyptus trees.
• The Mickey Mouse floral “portrait” at the Disneyland park main entrance is planted six times a year.
• The Disneyland Resort uses 1,000 brooms, 500 dust pans and 3,000 mops a year.
• A new Disneyland Resort cast member costume takes from eight to 12 months to design and produce. The Operational Costume Division stocks 500,000 yards of material, covering 900 different fabrics.
• More than 300 different cast member costumes, comprised of more than 850 different styles of garment pieces, are issued from nine Costume Issue locations across the Disneyland Resort and Hotels.
• Approximately 300,000 buttons are replaced each year on cast member costumes.

G’day everyone, welcome to the Disney Traveller Website & Travel Blog. To compliment the Disney Vacations Website, we have created a brand new Disney travel information website and travel blog called “Disney Traveller”.

Friend the Disney Traveller Facebook Page today to get regular Disneyland, Walt Disney World, Disney Cruise Line and Adventures By Disney delivered to you as news, articles, specials and discounts break throughout the day.

We are committed to ensuring that all of our readers are kept up to date with the latest Disney travel information that will assist in reduce hassle, time and expense when booking your next Disney vacation.

As you know, we are passionate Disney Travellers that love the world of Disney and especially the Disney theme parks. Since 2001, we have regularly visited Disneyland in California and Walt Disney World in Florida  and the Disney Resorts have become our vacation of choice.

Over the past decade we have had the opportunity to experience these wonderful vacation destinations and along the way we have learnt many lessons on what to do and more importantly what not to do. We have traveled to Disney as a family, we have visited as solo travelers and have even been to Disney as business travellers.

The Disney Traveller Website and Travel Blog have been created to share these experiences and lessons with all Australian, New Zealand and other international travellers and to encourage all of our readers to visit the vacation wonderlands of Disneyland, Walt Disney World and the Disney Cruise Line.

We are committed to bringing you the latest Disney travel news, advice, tips, travel specials and discounts. We have also developed a series of free international traveller information guides for the Disneyland Resort, the Walt Disney World Resort, the Disney Cruise Line and how to save time, money and hassle when booking your Disney Parks or Cruise Line vacation.

The guides can be found here:

Disneyland Resort International Travellers Guides

Walt Disney World Resort International Travellers Guides

Disney Cruise Line International Travellers Guides

Save Time, money and Hassle When Booking Your Disney Parks or Cruise Line Vacation

To be kept updated on all the latest Disney travel news, please bookmark our home page, subscribe to our site through our free email subscription service or place our RSS feed into your favourite reader program to have our information delivered to you every day.

You can also follow Disney Traveller on Twitter and Facebook to be immediately updated  as new Disney information is released.

About AJ the Webmaster of Disney Traveller

As a Disney fan for many years, I am a passionate member and contributer to the Disney online community. I have been involved in establishing, contributing to and marketing a number of high profile Disney related blogs, websites, forums and podcasts.

As a public relations, communications and social media professional, I love to create and share quality Disney information to help assist, educate and inform via the online community.

As Walt Disney once said, “I am interested in entertaining people, in bringing pleasure, particularly laughter, to others, rather than being concerned with ‘expressing’ myself with obscure creative impressions”.

I hope that you enjoy our site, learn about the wonders of the Disney Parks and use this information to explore and appreciate the wonderful world of the Disney.

AJ

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Contact our Recommended Disney Travel Agent

So seniors you’ve spent years working hard in school and you’re finally graduating. But before you graduate you and your classmates deserve a senior class trip like no other!

Disney Senior Class Trip is a once-in-a-lifetime experience where you and your friends get to create one final high school memory. After all these years of hard work, you’ve finally made it to your senior year. Before saying goodbye to all of your friends, it’s time to create a high school memory at a place where we know how to celebrate life’s special moments.

Organizing a trip to the Disney Parks for your SENIOR CLASS celebration is the best way to magnify this special moment that only happens once in a lifetime. Disney Senior Class Trip takes your senior class trip to a whole new level at a magical place made for celebrating. Senior classes or senior groups can purchase specially priced theme park tickets and enjoy Walt Disney World parks in Florida anytime throughout the year. We even have special event add-ons to make you your senior trip extra special!

Seniors… it’s time to celebrate with Disney Senior Class Trip!

Enhancements to your Senior Class Trip

“Early-On” Experience in a Disney park

• Choose your park — Animal Kingdom, Epcot®, or Disney’s Hollywood Studios®
• With Youth Group ticketed admission, seniors will get to experience a select attraction at park opening as the rest of the Guests are entering the park for the day.
• Depending on park hours, breakfast is 1 hour prior to park opening before the attraction experience or 1 hour at park opening after the attraction experience.
• Attraction selection may vary based on group size and date availability.
• Menu choices are varied.

IllumiNations Dessert Party at Epcot®

• Dessert Party with exclusive use of a venue located along the lagoon.
• Venues provide a wonderful view of IllumiNations reserved just for your senior class!
• Basic dessert menu would include: Cookies, Brownies, Ice Cream Novelties. Upgrades available.

Fantasmic Patio Reception at Disney’s Hollywood Studios®

• Bypass the queue to your reserved patio location.
• Select from varied dinner or dessert party menus.
• Enjoy the Fantasmic extravaganza from a secluded venue.

Signature Events to your Senior Class Trip

Villian Party – “Club Evil”

• Private party themed with Disney Villains includes:
  • Themed buffet menu with “Villain” beverages
  • Lighting, music and décor to enhance the atmosphere
  • Lots of unique custom options

Themed Dance Party

• Exclusive use of a Private Venue including Event Hosts/Greeters
• Food & Beverage would include an Italian based menu with a cake
• DJ, Club Lighting, & Haze
• Confetti Finale
• Characters may be included

Dinoland Party

• Private, after hours event for groups beginning at 200 people at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Includes:
  • Dinner Buffet for 1.5 hours
  • Beverage Service throughout the event
  • Theme Park Dance Party
  • Attractions: number of attractions based on group size

G’day everyone, have you had a chance to check out our new Disney travel websites yet. We are receiving great feedback from our subscribers and visitors and we would like all of our good friends that enjoy the Travelears to come by and have a look at all of our new ventures.

Please “friend” our fan pages on facebook and subscribe to our twitter feeds to be kept up to date with the latest Disney travel news, articles, advice, discounts and travel deals as they break.

We would really appreciate your support to get the word out there about our new Disney travel websites and blogs and you can find all the links to our new sites and social media pages here:

DISNEY TRAVELLER

Disney Traveller Website and Blog

Disney Traveller Facebook Page

Disney Traveller Twitter Feed

DISNEY TRAVEL CANADA

Disney Travel Canada Website

Disney Travel Canada Facebook Page

Disney Travel Canada Twitter Feed

DISNEY VACATIONS AUSTRALIA

Disney Vacations Australia Website and The DisneyOz Blog

Disney Vacations Australia Facebook Page

Disney Vacations Australia Twitter Feed

Thanks to you all and we really appreciate your support!

AJ & CHRIS

Great Deal for Canadians!

For every adult that flies, one child flies FREE when you book a WestJet Vacations package to the Disneyland Resort in California by May 31 for travel from April 21 to June 29 and September 7 to October 31, 2011.* Plus, with WestJet’s daily flights to Los Angeles and NEW Orange County – Anaheim, California, the happiest place on earth just got happier.

Read More here

Disney is thrilled to announce that Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons will be hosting the very first tweetup at the Walt Disney World Resort in honor of the Royal Wedding! Grab your best princess or prince attire – from wedding gowns to pajamas – and join us from 4 a.m. to 8 a.m. on April 29th, 2011, as we watch the Royal Wedding live at Disney’s Wedding Pavilion.

Cinderella’s Coach – which was made by Bennington Carriages, the same coach makers to the British Monarchy – will be available for pictures while guests enjoy an English-inspired breakfast. Come see our newly-released Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings jewels, complete with princess-inspired tiaras and the Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings by Alfred Angelo collection of princess-inspired gowns. Of course, no sleepover would be complete without a fireworks grand finale behind Disney’s Wedding Pavilion.

Want to learn more? Check out Ever After for details and to RSVP for this event. Also, follow our hashtag, #DisneyRoyal on Twitter.

Please note, this event is open to the public and does not require park admission.

From the Magic Kingdom Gazette and the Disney Parks Blog…

Easter Bunny and his wife, Mrs. Bunny, have decided to visit the Walt Disney World Resort for some rest and relaxation in the days leading up to Easter’s annual holiday basket delivery.

The Bunnies, who have spent the last few months painting eggs and stocking up on jelly beans, will spend their Disney Parks vacation meeting and greeting families April 17-23 at Tour Guide Gardens, adjacent to City Hall at Magic Kingdom Park.

On Sunday, April 24, immediately after Easter’s whirlwind basket delivery is complete, the couple will celebrate by appearing in a special pre-parade that steps off 15 minutes prior to the park’s 3 p.m. Celebrate a Dream Come True parade.

All guests are welcomed to visit them during this time and are reminded that this is a limited engagement, so those wishing to visit should hop to it.

Tables in Wonderland

Cairo Dinner Show at Indiana Jones™ Epic Stunt Spectacular

Buffet Dinner Show

Saturday April 30, 2011  7:30pm – 9:30pm

Disney’s Hollywood Studios™

Indy and Marion need YOU to be on the set for this live show featuring awe-inspiring action and adventure!

Thrill to the pulse-pounding explosions, crashes, clashes, and death-defying stunts of Indiana Jones’ onscreen adventures.  Enjoy a close-up view to this stage spectacular that reveals some of the moviemaking magic responsible for Indy’s triumphs over deadly traps, bad-guy battles and epic-scale obstacles.  Inspired by the blockbuster film “Raiders of the Lost Ark,” this show recreates edge-of-your-seat scenes with over a dozen stunt performers demonstrating techniques Hollywood uses to fool moviegoers into thinking a favorite celebrity has taken a punch, fall or bullet. Professional stunt performers are also joined by audience volunteers, who act as extras in the show. And at THIS event… EVERYONE gets to be on the stage!   Many surprises are in store for you, including a feast fit for a sultan!

$160 per person, plus tax.  Gratuity is included.

For reservations, e-mail WDW.Tables.In.Wonderland@disney.com with the following information: your interest to book, your name, daytime phone number, home address, and the number of people in your party.  You will be notified on a “first-come, first-served” basis. Your credit card will be taken over the phone once your reservation is confirmed.  The event is limited to 250 Guests.  The event is exclusive to Tables in Wonderland members.

Buffet Dinner

Wild Greens with Sun-dried Cherry Vinaigrette

Fresh Cucumber and Red Onion Salad

Hot Grilled Seasonal Vegetables

Roasted Root Vegetable Cous Cous

Roasted Spiced Lamb Meatballs served with Cucumber Mint Raita and Harissa

Djej Bil Zetoon Maeshalla

Braised Chicken Breast with Roasted Garlic, Paprika, Cumin, and Green Olives

Moroccan Spiced Seafood Tagine with Shrimp, Scallops, and Crab in Saffron Charmoula

Grilled Flatbreads with Dukkah and Hummus

Mocha Éclairs, Baklava, and Citrus Tarts

Fresh Fruit Salad with Mint Yogurt

Coffee, Decaffeinated Coffee, and Selection of Teas

Beer, Wine, Specialty Drinks

************************************************************************************************

Tables in Wonderland Presents:

The Wave . . . of American Flavors Discovery Dinner

Date:  Thursday, April 21, 2011

Time:  6:30 p.m. Reception; 7 p.m. Dinner

Location:  The Wave . . . of American Flavors at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.  Please meet at restaurant’s main podium

Dress:  Casual Evening Attire

Price:  $92 per person, includes tax and gratuity

Matt McLean ventured into the organic juice business in 1999 with a passion for healthy living, as well as, a long family history of growing citrus in Florida.  Matt’s goal was, and still is, to produce the highest quality juice and fruit, using only premium 100% organically-grown fruit that is free from synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.

Matt’s family expertise dates back four generations to his great-grandfather, Angus Benjamin McLean, who learned firsthand how to grow quality citrus without the help of today’s synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.  His son, William Benjamin McLean (“Pappy”), carried on his father’s tradition, honing his growing philosophy, which advocates stewardship of the soil as the means to producing the healthiest, most nutritious crops possible.

Today, Matt carries on his family’s tradition of growing quality organic citrus on close to 1100 acres throughout the state.  Uncle Matt’s has also expanded their expertise to other Florida crops, and works with over 25 family growers to market not only organic citrus, but organic avocados, blueberries and peaches.

Reception in The Wave . . . of American Flavors Lounge

Pulled Berkshire Pork Sliders and Grilled Local Peach with Chipotle Barbecue Sauce

Blackened Day Boat Sea Scallops with Peach and Mango Chutney on a Potato Crisp

Sherwood Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough, New Zealand

Dinner in The Wave . . . of American Flavors Private Dining Room

Salad

Grilled Local Peach Salad with Odessa Baby Greens, Thompson Farm Country Cured Black Pepper Bacon, and Sherry Vinaigrette

Edgebaston “The Honey Pot” (White Proprietary Blend) Stellenbosch, South Africa

Appetizer

Sautéed Halibut Steak with Avocado, Fresh Crab, and Red Chili Vinaigrette

Nugan Estate Vision Chardonnay, New South Wales, Australia

Entrée

Thompson Farms Pork Two Ways with Naturally Raised Pork Chops and Tenderloin, Red Stag Marinated Peaches, and Blueberry Steel Cut Oatmeal Brule

Edgebaston “The Pepper Pot” (Red Blend), Stellenbosch, South Africa

Dessert

Florida Peach Tart Tatin with Peach Ice Cream

Blueberry Crisp with Blueberry Gelato

RL Buller Fine Muscat, Victoria, Australia

For reservations, e-mail WDW.Tables.In.Wonderland@disney.com with the following information: your interest to book, your name, daytime phone number, home address, and the number of people in your party.  You will be notified on a “first-come, first-served” basis.  Your credit card will be taken over the phone once your reservation is confirmed.  The event is limited to 44 Guests. The event is exclusive to Tables in Wonderland members.

Back by very popular demand, a voucher for 25 percent off dining with the purchase of any entrée at select quick-service restaurants – this time, from April 17-23 at both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort.

To save money – and alleviate wait times during one of the busiest seasons – you must dine before 11:30 a.m. or between 3 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. Alcohol is excluded.

In Magic Kingdom Park, try a hearty meatball sub at Pinocchio Village Haus, or a veggie burger or chicken wrap at Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Café. Go for the oak-grilled veggie flatbread sandwich at Sunshine Seasons atEpcot. At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, we recommend the Asian salad at ABC Commissary, and the tasty barbecue from Flame Tree Barbeque at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. At Disneyland park, it’s a great opportunity to try out the new fried green tomato sandwich and other new menu items at Hungry Bear Restaurant. The full list of restaurants is below.

Print Walt Disney World Voucher

Print Disneyland Resort Dining Voucher

You can print out the voucher from this website, or find one in the Walt Disney World Resort Times Guide, at the bottom of select merchandise receipts or at the bottom of receipts from select resort quick-service restaurants. At Disneyland Resort, it’s on the Entertainment Times Guide or on select merchandise receipts.

Sorry, can’t be combined with any other offer or promotion. Theme park admission is required and taxes and tips are not included.

Participating quick-service locations:

Disneyland Park

• French Market Restaurant
• Village Haus
• Hungry Bear Restaurant
• Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante
• Redd Rockett’s Pizza Port
• Tomorrowland Terrace

Magic Kingdom Park

• Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café
• Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Café
• Columbia Harbour House
• Pinocchio Village Haus
• Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant

Epcot

• Electric Umbrella
• Liberty Inn
• Sunshine Seasons

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

• Backlot Express
• ABC Commissary
• Studio Catering Company

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

• Flame Tree Barbecue
• Pizzafari
• Restaurantosaurus
• Tamu Tamu Refreshments

Disney Parks Blog

Mickey Mouse now reigns at a new location in Magic Kingdom to meet and greet his friends at Walt Disney World Resort. Guests can now go backstage at Town Square Theater for photos and autographs with Mickey — without waiting in a standby queue!

Mickey’s new location in the park also heralds the first-ever use of Disney’s FASTPASS Service for a character meet-and-greet experience. FASTPASS allows guests to reduce waiting by designating a window of time when they can return for a theme park experience.

The fun takes place at the Town Square Theater presented by Kodak, located just inside the Magic Kingdom entrance. Previously known as Town Square Exposition Hall, the venue has been re-imagined as a turn-of-the-Twentieth-Century theater where posters proclaim Mickey Mouse as the star of a magic show.

A glistening marquee with gold-leaf trim and sparkling lights beckons guests to enter a lobby that serves as a hub for character meet-and-greet queues, the Box Office Gifts merchandise shop and Tony’s Town Square Restaurant. Lush curtains with gold rope tie-backs, polished-brass chandeliers and a huge tile floor mosaic of the Town Square Theater logo adorn the space.

Just beyond the lobby, guests pass through an ornate arch and enter a queue to meet Magician Mickey Mouse — or a queue to meet the Disney princesses, for whom Town Square Theater will be a meet-and-greet location during New Fantasyland construction.

The meet-and-greet experience begins when magical posters featuring Mickey’s various magic acts come to life, enhancing guests’ journey through queues into the backstage corridors of the theater. Mickey greets guests in a rehearsal-room environment amid posters, steamer trunks and stage props. It’s a classic backstage area with a wood floor and ceiling. One wall is brick, the others are papered in red and black — Mickey colors.

During the Princesses’ limited engagement at Town Square Theater, they will greet guests in an area fit for royalty — replete with plush carpeting, lush velvety-blue drapes with gold tiebacks, and a large mural backdrop of a chateau amid green, tree-covered hills and fields.

Exiting the meet-and-greet areas, guests pass through Curtain Call Collectibles, a shop with design elements suggesting a backstage area used for theater shipping and receiving — with large, barn-like doors through which props and set pieces could pass.

Guests wanting to meet Mickey or the Princesses can either obtain a Disney’s FASTPASS ticket or get in standby queues. FASTPASS tickets, which are available near Town Square Theater, designate an hour window of time during which the guest can return to the theater and have their “magic moment” with Mickey or the Princesses without joining the standby queues.

Image Courtesy of Walt Disney World

Guests visit Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon for thrills like the Crush ‘n’ Gusher water coaster and Gang Plank Falls.  This June, they’ll hit the water park’s wave pool to help break a world record and spread an important message about teaching children to swim.

“We were honored Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park will once again serve as the official headquarters location for a second record-breaking World’s Largest Swimming Lesson,” said Jean Gallagher, director of water parks for Walt Disney World Resort. “At Walt Disney Parks and Resorts we have a strong commitment to water safety and the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson is a reminder to guests of all ages that when they step in the water we want them to have fun and be safety smart at the same time.”

Last year’s inaugural World’s Largest Swimming Lesson, hosted by Walt Disney World Resort, established the Guinness World Record for the largest simultaneous swimming lesson when almost 4,000 participants across 34 states, five countries and three continents participated to build awareness about the vital importance of teaching children to swim to prevent drowning.

To help spread the message about the importance of learning to swim, the worldwide safety and accessibility team at Walt Disney Parks and Resorts has produced a popular DVD, Disney’s Wild About Safety with Timon and Pumbaa: Safety Smart in the Water. In the DVD, Timon and Pumbaa help children learn that fun in the water starts with safety. Hundreds of copies of the DVD were distributed at last year’s event.

Tragically, drowning is the second leading cause of unintended injury related death of children ages 1-14 in the United States. In fact, more than one in four fatal drowning victims is a child under the age of 14.

Research also shows if a child doesn’t learn to swim before the 3rd grade, they likely never will. The threat of childhood drowning is even greater outside the U.S.

Olympic gold medal swimmers Rowdy Gaines and Janet Evans once again serve as official spokespeople for the World’s Largest Swimming Lesson. Evans will encourage swimmers at a remote site in California, while Gaines will kick off the event at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon and serve as master of ceremonies.

“I’m thrilled to be working with The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson for the second year to help spread the word that swimming lessons save lives,” said Gaines. “Learning to swim and the exposure to the water safety messages that swimming lessons offer provide a fundamental first step in drowning prevention.”

G’day everyone, have you had a chance to check out our new Disney travel websites yest. We are receiving great feedback from our visitors and we would like all of our good friends that enjoy the Travelears to come by and have a look.

Please “friend” our fan pages of facebook and join our twitter feeds. We would really appreciate your support to get the word out there about our new websites and blogs and you can find all the links to our new sites and social media pages here:

Disney Vacations Australia Website and The DisneyOz Blog

Disney Vacations Australia Website and The DisneyOz Blog

Disney Vacations Australia Facebook Fan Page

Disney Vacations Australia Twitter Feed

Disney Traveller Website and Blog

Disney Traveller Website and Blog

Disney Traveller Facebook Fan Page

Disney Traveller Twitter Feed

Thanks and we really appreciate your support!
Aj

Don’t just get Mom out of the kitchen on Mother’s Day – give Mom the royal treatment at the Disneyland Resortwith your choice of two delectable brunches: one in the Grand Ballroom at the Disneyland Hotel, the other at Storyteller’s Cafe at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa.

Both are back by popular demand, and both feature beloved Disney characters, with Cinderella and her princess friends in the Grand Ballroom, and Chip ‘n Dale and friends at Storyteller’s Cafe.

Delectable details: “Disney’s Royal Buffet for Mother’s Day” at the Disneyland Hotel is 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. on May 8, with Cinderella and her princess friends and live musical entertainment. The extravagant buffet includes beautiful spring salads, artisan cheeses, smoked and chilled seafood, cured meats, breakfast selections, seasonal fresh fish and free-range chicken. “Action stations” include fresh omelets, carving stations, Mickey waffles, crepes and Champagne. And just wait ‘til dessert, highlighted with a decadent chocolate fountain.

For kids: mixed greens, fresh fruit salad, crunchy chicken bites, pizza, “Mickaroni and cheese,” crispy waffle fries, mixed veggies and kid-approved sweets.

Cost is $71.99; $20.99 ages 3 to 9, free 2 and under (tax and gratuity not included). Premium annual passholders get a 15 percent discount; all other annual passports get a 10 percent discount. Complimentary four-hour parking is included (self-parking available) – after four hours cost to park is $6 per hour.

For reservations, call 714-781-DINE between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m.

The fun starts at 7 a.m. on May 8 at Storyteller’s Cafe where Mom gets a hug from Chip ‘n Dale and friends. Between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m., the impressive buffet includes black pepper-crusted New York strip loin (with cognac jus and horseradish cream), corned beef hash with poached eggs and chipotle-orange hollandaise, roasted salmon with tangerine vinaigrette, brioche French toast with blackberry compote and olive oil-poached asparagus with shaved Reggiano cheese. Add to that omelets, fresh scrambled eggs, Yukon gold hash browns with fresh thyme, sausage and bacon, artisan cheeses, cured meats and roasted veggies, spring greens, fresh fruits and over-the-top desserts.

Kids can fill up on scrambled eggs, oven-roasted potatoes, Mickey waffles and crispy chicken nuggets.

Cost is $29.99; $13.99 ages 3 to 9, free ages 2 and under (tax and gratuity not included). An a la carte menu also is available. Premium annual passholders get a 15 percent discount; all other annual passports get a 10 percent discount. For reservations, call 714-781-DINE between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m.

Disney Parks Blog

Congratulations! Disneyland Resort Executive Pastry Chef Jean-Marc Viallet took home top honors at the Southern California Restaurant Writers awards this past weekend.

Disneyland Resort won top honors in five categories, a generous nod to the vast array of outstanding dining options at Disneyland Resort: two restaurants at the Disneyland Hotel, two restaurants at Disney’s Grand California Hotel & Spa, one at Disney California Adventure park and one in Disneyland park.

“We are lucky to have Chef Jean-Marc as part of the Disneyland Resort Food and Beverage team,” said Michele Gendreau, director, Food & Beverage, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “With his creativity, exceptional artistry and talent he is able to conceive and produce the perfect pastry to bring Disney stories to life.”

Classically trained in France, Viallet has been creating innovative sweets for more than three decades, and for the past 10 years at Disneyland Resort. His favorite? “Chocolate desserts, with cream and crunchy textures,” said Viallet.

Following is a complete list of Disneyland Resort awards. The Golden Bacchus is for an extensive wine selection, with only about 30 of 1,500 restaurants achieving the award. The Golden Sceptre is the top restaurant award, with only 20 to 25 restaurants of 1,500 taking this one home.

Special Award Category

• Pastry Chef of the Year: Jean-Marc Viallet, executive pastry chef, Disneyland Resort

Golden Bacchus Wine Award

• Napa Rose (Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel)
• Steakhouse 55 (Disneyland Hotel)

Golden Sceptre (Five Star)

• Napa Rose (Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel)
• Steakhouse 55 (Disneyland Hotel)

Gold (Four Star)

• Ariel’s Grotto (Paradise Pier, Disney’s California Adventure park)
• Blue Bayou (New Orleans Square, Disneyland park)

Sterling (Three Star)

• Goofy’s Kitchen (Disneyland Hotel)
• Storyteller’s Cafe (Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa)

The Southern California Restaurant Writers, Inc. has operated for 36 years as a non-profit seeking to improve the quality of restaurants in the region. Award winners are chosen from Santa Barbara south to the Mexican border.

Originally posted in The Disney Parks Blog

A picturesque setting with island flair awaits couples seeking to exchange vows at the newest Disney Resort — Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa at Ko Olina, Hawai`i, on the island of O`ahu.

With seamless service, world-class amenities, and the unparalleled imagination guests have come to expect from Disney, Aulani is the perfect place to start your happily-ever-after. With Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons, guests can enjoy a one-stop-shopping experience and relax knowing that every detail from photography to floral will be their fairy tale wish come true.

Unforgettable ceremonies with a dash of island romance will unfold at Makaloa Garden, a secluded, flora-filled outdoor location with a view of the Pacific. Idyllic receptions reflect the wonders of Hawaiian culture with music, food and traditional floral in outdoor pavilions or lush garden settings.

For couples looking to start their happily-ever-after, Aulani offers the perfect backdrop for the honeymoon of a lifetime. Adventurous couples can hike Diamond Head, set sail on a romantic catamaran, or snorkel in the only saltwater lagoon in Hawai`i. They can indulge at Ulana, a Disney Spa with relaxing mineral pools and authentic treatments inspired by the elements of the island.

Couples can bask in the beauty of Hawai`i by booking as early as March 2011 for fall 2011 nuptials. Weddings are custom designed to meet the needs and budget of the couple. Pricing is comparable to the current Wishes Collection. For more information, visitdisneyweddings.com or call 321/939-4610.

From the time Star Tours debuted at Disneyland Park in 1987 and at Walt Disney World Resort in 1989 until the attraction went dark for “reimagining” in fall 2010, guests embarked on a journey to the Moon of Endor and beyond, with a trainee pilot named REX at the controls of 40-passenger Starspeeder 3000 spacecraft.

Now the Star Tours attraction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida (scheduled to reopen May 20) and at Disneyland Park in California (scheduled to reopen June 3) puts a whole new twist on virtual space travel with Starspeeder 1000 craft — predating the Starspeeder 3000 because the new show depicts an earlier chapter of the Star Wars saga than the original Star Tours did. But fear not: Techno-wizards are equipping passengers on the 1000 with the ability to experience the new adventure in eye-popping 3D — wherever that adventure may take them.

The destination is not necessarily what guests expect — unless they expect the unexpected — as C-3PO, a new pilot (by accident) takes the controls for a journey to the “metropolitan” planet Coruscant or to Tatooine an arid planet on the “Outer Rim,” or to some other planet within Star Wars’ mythical universe. Even the outcome of the adventure may change from one “launch” to the next.

To mark the 20th anniversary of Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons, Disney has announced special wedding packages plus a unique campaign showcasing the happily-ever-after stories of real life couples who have tied the knot at Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland and aboard Disney Cruise Line.

“The ‘Bringing the Fairy Tale to Life’ campaign is a tribute to all the brides and grooms who have shared their special day with us,” said Korri McFann, Worldwide Marketing Director of Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons. “We are honored to have our guests recall cherished memories during Disney’s ‘Let the Memories Begin’ campaign, where Disney is sharing real home videos and photos submitted by guests.”

Couples will be highlighted in print and online advertisements as well as at Behindthefairytale.com.

In honor of the platinum year, Disney has also created a specially priced wedding package perfect for vow renewals: the Memories Collection. Throughout the 20-month celebration, couples are invited to create new memories through intimate ceremonies at Walt Disney World Resort. The Memories Collection includes up to six guests, including the couple, a floral bouquet for the bride, solo violinist, transportation (three-hour limousine charter) and a professional photographer for one hour.

Ceremony locations include: Conch Key Marina at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Narcoossee’s Landing at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, and Luau Beach at Disney’s Polynesian Resort.

Disney has been making memories come true for couples and their families for two decades with a variety of wedding offerings. Traditionally recognized as a top-ranked wedding and honeymoon destination, Walt Disney World Resort currently hosts more than 1,000 couples tying the knot each year. Beyond Disney’s Wedding Pavilion, nuptials at Walt Disney World Resort also take place in outdoor garden settings, gazebos and courtyards, as well as indoor resort locations. All told, more than 40,000 couples have married at Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland and aboard Disney Cruise Line.

To celebrate 20 years of happily-ever-afters, Disney has partnered with Alfred Angelo to create a Platinum Anniversary wedding gown so that brides everywhere may be a part of the celebration.

The Memories Collection is priced at $1,991 in honor of the 1991 opening year of Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons, and will take place on Saturdays and Sundays at 9 and 11 a.m. and 1 and 3 p.m. More information: DisneyWeddings.com or 321/939-4610.

Disneyland Resort played host to D23 Members, their guests and Disney Legends as “The Official Disney Fan Club” turned two in style on Thursday, March 10, 2011.

The evening kicked off with a member mixer at ESPN Zone in Downtown Disneyland, where more than 300 loyal D23 members and their guests enjoyed food, games and Disney-themed conversation, of course. Special guests included Disney Legends Bob Gurr and Bill Farmer, the Armchair Archivist and Disney Geek, as well as John Tartaglia, Disney historians, and more!

From there, guests made their way to Disney California Adventure, fast passes in hand, for a nighttime showing of World of Color — the perfect way to celebrate our Technicolor year. Thanks to all those who helped make our second anniversary one for the storybooks. We hope you enjoyed the Disney fun- and fan-filled night as much as we did. Here’s to many more years of D23 magic and memories!

For a recap of the night, as well as interviews with a few of the D23 2nd Anniversary attendees, watch the March 16, 2011 episode of D23′s Disney Geek, available here.

Image Courtesy of Swan and Dophin Resort

Guests looking for vacation specials at the Walt Disney World Resort can try their luck this St. Patrick’s Day and save with one of several special offers from the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel, including two complimentary nights. On Mar. 17 only, those who call the hotel’s reservation line and mention “Lucky” will receive one of several special offers good for any new booking at the Orlando hotel, May 1 through Sep. 30, 2011.

Every caller can be assured to find some luck and save with free offers ranging from two hotel nights; to a one-day, one park Walt Disney World Theme Park ticket; to paddle boat rentals. Other prizes include:

• $100 credit towards food and beverage at any of the hotel’s 17 restaurants and lounges
• Breakfast for two
• Additional 10 percent off room rate
• Two sushi rolls of your choice at the hotel’s sushi restaurant, Kimonos
• AMC movie passes for two (redeemable at Downtown Disney area)
• Two kids buffets at Garden Grove restaurant’s character dining experience
• Box of signature chocolates from two-time world pastry champion Laurent Branlard, the hotel’s executive pastry chef
• Two “Zooberry” specialty cocktails from Todd English’s bluezoo lounge
• Milk & cookie turndown amenity
• Complimentary room upgrade

Only one offer will be awarded per reservation. For more information and a full list of prizes and rules, guests can visit www.swandolphin.com/lucky. Guests must call on Mar. 17 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. EDT at 1-800-227-1500. One night non-refundable deposit will be taken at the time of booking.

In the heart of the Walt Disney World Resort, the award-winning Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel is the gateway to Central Florida’s greatest theme parks and attractions. The hotel is located between Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and nearby Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park and Magic Kingdom Park. The hotel can be reached at 800-227-1500 or www.swandolphin.com

On March 14^th your taste buds will be river dancing.

Exclusive Luncheon and Culinary Masterclass from Celebrity Chef Kevin Dundon

To celebrate the launch of his new US book, Irish Master Chef, Kevin Dundon, will prepare a selection of his favorite recipes in an exclusive, four-course afternoon luncheon. Enjoy a live demonstration and culinary masterclass from this award-winning, James Beard chef. Call Lorraine at Raglan Road to book your reservation for this prestigious event.

Four-course lunch $55.00 plus tax and gratuity

Includes complimentary gift bag

BOOK NOW AS SPACES ARE LIMITED

Lunch Menu

Colpuccino

Cappuccino of Colcannon Soup

Cashel Queen

Poached Pear and Cashel Blue Cheese Salad

Atlantic Crossing

Line caught Atlantic Cod pan fried and served with a tomato vinaigrette sauce

High Tea

A dessert of 5* Kevin-made pastries

Hot Tea or Coffee

Raglan Road Orlando

1640 East Buena Vista Drive, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830 (407) 938-0300

Email: lgorham@raglanroadirishpub.com www.raglanroadirishpub.com

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Tables in Wonderland

Kevin Dundon Celtic Dinner

Raglan Road™ Irish Pub and Restaurant at Downtown Disney^®

Tuesday March 15^th, 2011

6:30pm Wine Reception and Meet & Greet

7:00pm Plated Dinner

$145.00 plus tax.  Gratuity is included.

Dress code: Business Casual

Experience a taste of Ireland when Raglan Road proudly presents this 5 star 5 course dinner hosted by Irish Celebrity Master Chef Kevin Dundon. This dinner is part of our week-long St Patrick’s Day Celtic Celebrations. This gastronomic menu is artfully prepared by Chef Kevin who will start the evening with an introduction to his philosophy on food and an overture to the evening’s delicious offerings.

Kevin is Ireland’s leading chef and owner of the renowned Dunbrody House Hotel & Cookery School in Co. Wexford. He will delight in showcasing some of his favorite dishes which will be delicately paired with some of the world’s best wines. The evening will finish with flambéed Jameson Irish coffees, the perfect way to finish this wonderful meal experience and to celebrate the spirit of St Patrick’s Day.

Each Guest to receive a goodie bag and signed copy of Kevin’s book – “Recipes That Work”

Menu

New Traditions

Ham Hock Terrine, Crispy Pork Belly, and Quenelle of Potato

Pierre Sparr Gewurztraminer, Alsace

Emerald Dream

Cream of Garden Pea and Fresh Mint Soup

Sea Scape

Oven-baked George’s Bank Scallop and Puff Pastry Tart

Jordan Chardonnay, Russian River

Land or Sea

Pan-seared Sole served with an Irish Seaweed Salsa Sauce

Jordan Chardonnay, Russian River

Or

Roast Rack of Lamb in Irish Consommé

Antinori Guado Al Tasso Il Bruciato Super Tuscan

Sweet Sensations

Baked Alaska Dessert

Flambéed Irish Coffee & Miniature Cupcakes

For reservations, e-mail WDW.Tables.In.Wonderland@disney.com with the following information: your interest to book, your name, daytime phone number, home address, and the number of people in your party.  You will be notified on a “first-come, first-served” basis. Your credit card will be taken over the phone once your reservation is confirmed.  The event is limited to 60 Guests.

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Tables in Wonderland Presents:

The Wave . . . of American Flavors Discovery Dinner

Date:  Thursday, March 24, 2011

Time:  6:30 p.m. Reception; 7 p.m. Dinner

Location:  The Wave . . . of American Flavors at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.  Please meet at restaurant’s main podium

Dress:  Casual Evening Attire

Price:  $92 per person, includes tax and gratuity

The Wave Discovery Dinners continue in March by celebrating our Central Florida Strawberry crop.  Our Farmer/Chef dinner will feature Lott Farms located just west of Plant City, Florida.  Mike and Sandy Lott started their farm in 1979 on rented land and then purchased and built their family farm of 50 acres in 1983.  They have lived on and farmed this land with their children and grandchildren since that date.  Mike’s great strawberries are sold under the Classic label through C&D Produce Distributors.

Reception in The Wave . . . of American Flavors Lounge

Lump Crab Quesadilla with Manchego Cheese and Strawberry Pico de Gallo

Fig and Prosciutto with Balsamic Strawberries and Baby Greens

Coconut Rice Cake with Stir Fry Scallops and Plant City Strawberries

Marqués de Cáceres Rosé Rioja; Spain
Marqués de Cáceres Blanco (White) Rioja; Spain

Dinner in The Wave . . . of American Flavors Private Dining Room

Salad

Plant City Strawberry and Beet Salad with Haricoverts, Purple Haze Goat Cheese, and Strawberry and Champagne Vinaigrette

August Kesseler Sylvaner Riesling; Rheingau, Germany

Appetizer

Wild Mushroom and Strawberry Onion Tart with Heirloom Tomato and Strawberry Jam

Perrin Reserve Côtes du Rhône Rouge; Côtes du Rhône, France

Entrée

Strawberry Margarita Infused Swordfish

Lobster and Sweet Potato Gratin

Mohua Pinot Noir; Central Otago, New Zealand

Dessert

Strawberry and Champagne Sabayon

Strawberry Ice Cream in a Strawberry Tuile

Strawberry Confit with Vanilla Balsamic Glaze

Warre’s Otima 10 Year Tawny; Porto, Portugal

For reservations, e-mail WDW.Tables.In.Wonderland@disney.com with the following information: your interest to book, your name, daytime phone number, home address, and the number of people in your party.  You will be notified on a “first-come, first-served” basis.  Your credit card will be taken over the phone once your reservation is confirmed.  The event is limited to 50 Guests