Dole wide world 🍍 🍦

Lime, raspberry, orange, or classic pineapple. In a cup or in float form, Dole Whips have come a long way since the original was introduced.

Hi, theme park foodies. It’s Haley, wishing a Happy Dole Whip Day to all who celebrate.

For today’s newsletter, I thought I’d “treat” you by taking a moment to talk about one of Disney World’s most iconic snacks.

I revised an article I wrote for Disney World’s 50th anniversary. While much of ClickOrlando.com’s coverage was focused on history and specific attractions, I felt the need to highlight the Dole Whip.

I spoke to a Dole spokesperson about how a sponsorship back in the ‘80s evolved into what has become a cult following. The article also gives proper spotlight to Citrus Swirl, which by the way isn’t on the Sunshine Tree Terrance menu at the moment.

My go-to frozen Disney snack of choice isn’t either of those classics. It’s actually the Tropical Serenade which can be found at the most famous Dole Whip spot, Aloha Isle.

Dole Whip Day is July 18 this year. And obviously, you don’t need park admission to acquire one.

I posted all the DOLE Whip locations at Disney World in this fruitful read.

Walt Disney World

The bears are back and bedazzled 🤠🐻

The one-and-only Ah-riginal Country Bear Musical Jamboree is back. And even though I enjoyed the original show at the Walt Disney World opening day attraction, I will say this one is better.

Most of the song list has changed from the Country Bear Jamboree, as this show has twangin’ interpretations of Disney Songs from films such as “Coco,” “Frozen” and the “Little Mermaid.”

I spoke with a couple of Disney Imagineers who helped bring this new show to the stage, as well as Emily Ann Roberts, who voices Trixie. I have to say, her rendition of “Try Everything” has been in my head.

Also — the new outfits are sparkly fun.

The Country Bear Musical Jamboree opens on July 17.

Universal Orlando

Universal Orlando deemed their new Mega Movie Parade as “the biggest daytime parade we’ve ever done,” and I can confirm that it stacks up.

Universal Studios had its first test run on July 3 and this week, I got the chance to hear from organizers about their amazing parade floats that are indeed as if they came right out of a movie.

It was really hard to pick a favorite, but I think “Jaws” is the winner.

I wrote a short summary of every movie included in the Mega Movie Parade. It’s in the same order as you would see at Universal Studios.

Enter the Further 😱

We aren’t too far off from the kick-off of Halloween Horror Nights 33. This means Universal Studios will be cranking out more announcements over the next month.

We got word this week that the third IP-themed house coming to this year’s event is “Insidious: The Further.” If you’re familiar with the Insidious franchise, you know there’s a red door. Guests will enter a realm where many of the tormented spirits and demons await, determined to ensnare humans and steal their souls.

Gatorland

Chester, Larry, Turnpike, Bogey, Winchester, Terminator, Jawlene.

Gatorland is home to over 2,000 alligators and some are a big deal enough to have a name.

The Alligator Capital of the World is celebrating its conservation milestone of 100 gator rescues over the last five years. Seven reptiles will have a permanent place on the Celebrity Alligator Walk of Fame.

I’m so impressed with how Gatorland can tell these famous gators apart. The only obvious one is Jawlene.

That’s a wrap for this week.

As always, feel free to keep me in the loop through my email or reach out to me on my X or Instagram.

Occasionally, I make appearances on Take 6 on News 6+. This week I talked with Lisa Bell about Shark Week at our theme parks.

You can watch that conversation below.

See you next week!