Though it is months away, I’ve got a big red circle drawn on my calendar over November 22nd. Why? The Food Allergy and Celiac Convention at Walt Disney World comes to town that day. As a member of their official Blogger Street Team, I’m so excited to be a part of this amazing event which will feature many different opportunities to connect and collaborate with Disney, vendors, and fellow gluten-free diners to bring awareness to our shared diet and share the magic of being able to enjoy great gluten-free food. As the day draws closer, I’ll be sharing more info on this convention and covering the event to the fullest. In the spirit of getting the word out about this upcoming event, I’ve compiled a list of my top 8 reasons why you should check it out!
8. A Magical Transformation to A Magical Vacation
Thanks to one of the event’s generous sponsors- Destinations in Florida– this one day event can become a little more magical as a weekend getaway, family vacation, or a short “staycation” for locals. With their knowledge and experience, this vacation planning service can help you book a room, reservation, and more all while sharing special discounts.
7. Kid-Sized Fun
Billed as the “happiest place on Earth,” Walt Disney World has something in store for kids of all ages. At the Convention, kids get their own corner in which they can enjoy kid-friendly snacks and meet other kids who have food sensitivities. Sponsored by Schar, a great gluten-free company, there’s sure to be some fun and magic abound here.
6. Non-dairy Ice Cream Buffet
Need I say more? Besides being gluten-free focused, the team organizing this event are celebrating awareness of those with multiple allergy concerns and are making sure everyone is included in the fun with special touches like including non-dairy ice cream as an option. I can’t wait to try my first ice cream buffet since going gluten and dairy free and really hope there’s some Enjoy Life dark chocolate morsels on the toppings bar!
5. Disney Chefs Showing Off
For those lucky enough to have had the experience of dining at Disney, they quickly realize just how knowledgeable and friendly the whole culinary team is when it comes to navigating dining with special diets. Thanks to the awesome setting of Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, Disney chefs will be on hand to give demos and give a peak behind the scenes as they prepare their magical allergen-free fare.
4. A Sunny Start
In addition to a non-dairy ice cream buffet, the Convention will feature a welcome breakfast that’s guaranteed to start your busy convention-going day sunny side up. I’m crossing my fingers that Mickey himself will make an appearance at the event- Mickey waffles that is!
3. A Magical Expo with Magical Vendors
Stocked with vendors, non-profit organizations, and other resources for our community, expos are a perfect way to familiarize yourself with new companies while learning of new products from old favorites. I’m excited to count Nostalgic Cookies, Goldbaum’s, Bee Nut Free and Enjoy Life Foods among the many vendors setting up shop during the convention. Stay tuned for more vendor announcements here.
2. The Hostess(es) with the Mostess
Behind this amazing event are two dedicated people who tirelessly work to make life a little easier for those with food sensitivities. Co-hosts Sarah Norris (the blogger behind Gluten and Dairy Free in Walt Disney World) and Laurie Sadowski (blogger and author behind the Allergy-Free Cook series) will share their combined knowledge and expertise to make this event jam-packed with information and magic at every turn.
1. All This for Only $10 ($5 for Kids!)
Quick- what can you buy that’s gluten-free for only $10? If you’re like me, then that list is pretty limited. This is why the ticket price for this Convention is such a great deal. But this ticket price is only good for preorders, as the price will rise to $15 at the door. Kids’ tickets are $5 either way. If you ask me this investment is a no brainer because this event offers a triple treat of food, education, and the opportunity to meet fellow others with special diets. Ready to purchase now? Click here.
But that’s not all folks!
This list is only a sampler of the fun in store at the Food Allergy and Celiac Convention. As the date comes closer, I’ll be sure to share more magical tidbits and further details as they come out. Have your curiosity peaked? Check out the Convention’s website for more information and for other ways to participate such as becoming a speaker, volunteer, or a sponsor/vendor.