Walls Up on the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

By

-

December 9, 2025

Walls Up on the Gorilla Exploration Trail at the Animal KingdomWalls Up on the Gorilla Exploration Trail at the Animal Kingdom

Walls Up on the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail at Disney’s Animal Kingdom as Work Continues on the Colobus Monkey Habitat

If you’re trekking through Disney’s Animal Kingdom anytime soon, you might notice a surprising new addition along the wildly popular Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail. Yep, more construction walls have sprouted in the park, and this time they’re surrounding the Angola colobus monkey habitat. Those striking black-and-white monkeys have been off exhibit for a bit, and now we’re getting a clearer picture of just how much work Disney is doing behind those green walls.

Walls Up on the Gorilla Exploration Trail at the Animal Kingdom

The entire section is wrapped in tall construction barriers decorated with fun little animal-themed signs (including a very appropriate “SQUAAAWK!”), which soften the blow of losing one of the trail’s most active viewpoints. But once you look up, it becomes clear that this isn’t just a light touch-up. A large scaffolding structure now towers above the walkway, giving us a peek at what appears to be a significant refurbishment of the monkeys’ climbing and play areas. Poles, platforms, elevated walkways, and netting are all currently accessible for crews, suggesting anything from structural updates to enrichment upgrades could be underway.

While this slice of the trail is temporarily closed, the rest of Gorilla Falls remains fully open. You can still enjoy hippos, meerkats, zebras, gorillas, and plenty of other wildlife as you wander through Harambe’s lush pathways. Animal Kingdom’s trails are such underrated gems, and even with one section blocked off, they’re absolutely still worth the stroll.

Two Unique New Years Eve Celebrations Coming to Promenade Sunset Walk

By

Catherine

-

December 9, 2025

Two Unique Celebrations Ringing in 2026 at Promenade at Sunset Walk

Promenade at Sunset Walk, the unique entertainment district featuring dining, shopping, and experiences, is setting the stage for two fantastic and FREE New Year’s Eve celebrations this December 31st! From family-friendly fun in the morning to a rocking street party at night, the Promenade has end-of-year celebrations covered for everyone.

The Morning Bash: Happy Noon Year’s Kids’ Party

Families and little ones who can’t stay up until midnight are invited to celebrate the “Noon Year” in style!

When: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Where: Promenade North Roundabout
Cost: FREE Admission & Parking

The party will be packed with exciting music, including fun-filled sing-alongs led by children’s musician Mr. Harley and the energetic DJ Scotty B.

The countdown culminates in a festive Noon Year’s Eve confetti blast at 12 p.m.! Leading up to the big moment, guests can enjoy:

The Pearl Express Train Tour & Bungee Trampolines
Complimentary party favors
Bubble fun

This is the perfect way for little revelers to experience the excitement of the New Year’s countdown without missing their bedtime.

The Nighttime Spectacle: Rocking New Year 2026

As the clock ticks closer to midnight, the Promenade transforms into a high-energy Rocking New Year 2026 nonstop street party and concert.

Time: Starting at 8:00 p.m.
Cost: FREE Admission & Parking

This all-ages celebration boasts amazing live entertainment, featuring guest performers like Pandora’s Box: The Tribute to Aerosmith and Project: DJ Slam! Hosted by Scotty B, the event promises to be Central Florida’s most immersive street party, complete with:

A spectacular midnight fireworks display
LED street performers
Laser light shows
Flame and special effects

🍾 VIP Experience (21+)

For those 21 and older looking for an elevated experience, VIP tickets are available for purchase. The VIP package includes:

VIP Main Stage Viewing
Specialty NYE Party Favors & LED Glow
A Complimentary Midnight Champagne Toast
VIP Cash Bar Access

Whether you’re celebrating the Noon Year with the kids or rocking out until the fireworks spectacular, the Promenade at Sunset Walk is the destination for a memorable New Year’s Eve celebration!

You Can Fly! The Magical Loungefly Peter Pan Quilted Collection is Here!

By

Ana Leal

-

December 9, 2025

You Can Fly! The Magical Loungefly Peter Pan Quilted Collection is Here!

Get ready to sprinkle some serious pixie dust on your everyday style because Loungefly has done it again! They’ve just dropped an exclusive Peter Pan Quilted Collection, and honestly, it’s going to make you want to pack a bag and head straight for Never Land. Forget roughing it, this collection is all about bringing an elegant, but still totally fun, touch of Disney magic to your look.

Quilted Texture Mini Backpack ($90)

Time to trade in those plain old bags for something truly enchanting! The Peter Pan Exclusive Quilted Texture Mini Backpack is the absolute star of this lineup. They’ve nailed the Never Land vibe with its gorgeous green velvet material, which features a cool quilted texture that makes it look super luxurious. But the details are where this bag really shines. We’re talking delicate embroidered floral details mixed with shimmering faux pearls sprinkled across the top flap, front pocket, and sides.

And don’t miss the adorable golden metal charms of both Peter Pan and Tinker Bell dangling right on the front! Seriously, the whole design is brought together with distressed material on the straps, giving it that perfect adventurous, yet magical, feel. It’s the kind of backpack that instantly elevates any outfit.

Quilted Texture Crossbody Bag ($75)

If you’re looking for something a little smaller and chicer, you have to check out the Peter Pan Exclusive Quilted Texture Crossbody Bag. This piece is perfect for days when you only need the essentials (like, you know, your phone and a tiny vial of pixie dust!). It features the same lush green velvet and adds quilted details to the sides for that signature look. Just like the mini backpack, the front is adorned with beautiful embroidered flowers and faux pearls. Plus, a golden metal charm of Peter Pan himself dangles right from the top flap, reminding you to stay young at heart! And good news, the beautiful floral designs continue on the back, so it looks magical from every angle. This exclusive crossbody is the ideal way to incorporate a little Disney whimsy into your daily routine.

This collection is truly a must-have for any Peter Pan fanatic. It’s elegant, exclusive, and totally captures the spirit of adventure. Go ahead, treat yourself to some Loungefly magic!

Credit: Loungefly

Don’t Stress, Just Glow: The Anxiety Glow Tote Bag with Coin Bag Is Here!

By

Ana Leal

-

December 9, 2025

Don’t Stress, Just Glow: The Anxiety Tote Bag is Here!

Okay, let’s be real. Who hasn’t felt a little (or a lot) anxious lately? The newest emotion to steal the spotlight in Disney and Pixar’s Inside Out 2 is Anxiety, and honestly, she’s kind of a vibe. If you’re ready to embrace those nervous feelings in the most stylish way possible, you absolutely need to check out the Inside Out 2 Anxiety Glow Tote Bag with Coin Bag from Loungefly! Forget worrying about your outfit, this tote is here to put all your style fears aside.

You can snag this piece of emotional fashion for $80 right now over on the Loungefly website.

Anxiety herself is front and center, looking perfectly on-edge and adorable, surrounded by those signature bright orange Memory Spheres. The color palette is just electric! But wait, there’s more than just the front. When you flip the bag around, you’ll find more of those glowing orange spheres, plus a glimpse of Riley’s anxious “Sense of Self”, a totally deep and relatable detail! It’s all about carrying a piece of the movie’s heart (and stress) right on your shoulder.

And because Loungefly knows we need all the coordinating accessories, this bag comes with a bonus! Attached to the strap is a cute little coin bag. It’s a mini double-feature, showing Riley’s anxious Sense of Self on one side and the main girl, Anxiety, on the other. It’s perfect for stashing your change, lip balm, or maybe just a few calming breaths. Plus, did we mention the glow feature? That’s right, this bag has an extra bit of pop to light up your look! Go grab it before it gives you anxiety about missing out!

Credit: Loungefly

New Sorcerer Mickey Mouse Denim Jacket To Cast A Spell On Your Style!

By

Ana Leal

-

December 9, 2025

New Sorcerer Mickey Mouse Denim Jacket To Cast A Spell On Your Style!

Hey there, Disney fashion fanatics! Get ready to sprinkle a little magic into your wardrobe because we’ve found the ultimate layering piece for any true Mickey fan: the Sorcerer Mickey Mouse Denim Jacket!

It retails for $89.99, which is a steal for a unique, high-quality, and limited-edition anniversary item like this. The best part? You don’t even have to leave your couch! You can conjure one up for yourself right now because it’s available online at the Disney Store.

This isn’t just any denim jacket; it’s a celebration of 85 years of pure animation genius! We’re talking about Fantasia, of course. Designed in that effortlessly cool, classic trucker style, this jacket takes you straight to the conductor’s podium… or, you know, right into a flood of water caused by magically animated brooms. It’s got an awesome oversized fit, making it perfect for throwing over literally anything. Whether you’re heading to the parks or just hanging out, this is going to be your new go-to jacket.

But let’s talk about the star of the show: the art! This jacket features incredible embroidered art that really pops. You can see the main mouse himself, Sorcerer Mickey, looking focused as he casts a spell. And you know who else is there? The tireless Brooms, marching along, doing their part to make the magic happen (maybe a little too well, ha!). It’s a gorgeous piece of wearable nostalgia that elevates the classic denim look with a touch of Disney wonder. It truly is a style worthy of the Sorcerer’s Apprentice!

Ready to make this magical piece yours? Seriously, don’t miss out on celebrating Fantasia’s 85th Anniversary in the most stylish way possible.

Credit: Disney Store

New Peppermint Brownie Treat from Creature Comforts in Disney’s Animal Kingdom

By

Catherine

-

December 9, 2025

New Peppermint Brownie Treat from Creature Comforts in Disney’s Animal Kingdom

If you’re looking for a festive and delicious snack to fuel your wild adventure, look no further than Creature Comforts (the park’s Starbucks location) in Disney’s Animal Kingdom! We just tried the new Peppermint Ganache Brownie, and it is absolutely adorable and worth a stop.

What Makes This Treat So Sweet?

This seasonal delight starts with a rich, fudge brownie base—the perfect dense and chocolatey foundation. It’s then crowned with a generous swirl of peppermint-white chocolate ganache that is incredibly smooth and definitely rich! For a final holiday touch, the top is dusted with crunchy peppermint pieces that add a nice textural contrast.

The peppermint flavor is present but pleasantly light and not overpowering, making it a great option even for those who might be hesitant about strong mint flavors. The white chocolate ganache is the dominant flavor, which is decadent and creamy.

Our Review and Rating

Price: $5.79
Where to Find It: Creature Comforts (Starbucks), Disney’s Animal Kingdom

We loved the richness and the beautiful presentation! Our only minor critique is that we wished for just a little more peppermint punch in the ganache to make it a true five-star holiday knockout. If you prefer a subtler hint of mint with a strong, rich chocolate backbone, this is the treat for you!

View this post on Instagram

New Black Disney World Create Your Own Headband Base!

By

Ana Leal

-

December 9, 2025

Black Disney World Create Your Own Headband Base

New Disney World Black Base for Create Your Own Headband!

Remember those adorable, customizable headbands that hit Walt Disney World last year? The ones where you could choose your base and then totally load it up with mini plush character accessories? Well, get ready for an upgrade because there’s a new black Disney World create your own headband base in town, and it’s looking seriously chic!

The original headband base had a bit of a contrasting vibe, black on the outside, but with a blue velour lining. Cute, sure, but maybe not the sleekest foundation for your epic character collection. Say goodbye to that flash of blue because the new version is all black, all the time! It’s a clean, monochromatic look that makes your chosen plushies really pop. Plus, there’s a little bit of extra magic: the Walt Disney World wordmark is now embroidered in crisp white right on one side. It’s subtle, stylish, and a great way to rep your favorite vacation spot. We spotted this new, dark beauty over at Star Traders in Magic Kingdom, so keep your eyes peeled!

If you haven’t jumped on the “Create Your Own Headband” trend yet, here’s the lowdown: you grab the base, which will only set you back a reasonable $9.99, and then you go wild picking out the mini plush pals you want. Each character accessory attaches easily with a Velcro strap on the back, so you can mix, match, and swap them out depending on your mood or outfit! At $11.99 per plush, you can build a small, personalized masterpiece for a fun price, especially compared to some of the fancier, pre-made ears around the parks. This new all-black base is the perfect way to start building your own, unique Disney style!

Disney Extends Deal with Jimmy Kimmel till 2027

By

Sara

-

December 9, 2025

Jimmy Kimmel Sees Massive Ratings Boost Following Return

Disney Extends Jimmy Kimmel’s Contract Through 2027

The host of ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel Live! has finalized a new agreement with Disney, securing the show’s presence on the network until 2027, according to sources close to the negotiations.

Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel is staying with ABC, according to a Variety report. The comedy veteran has reportedly signed an extension deal with Disney that secures his tenure hosting Jimmy Kimmel Live! until sometime in 2027, pushing his previous contract expiration date (believed to be 2026) further out.

Despite recent challenges, Jimmy Kimmel remains a cornerstone of ABC’s programming. Having joined the network in 2003, Kimmel has secured his place as one of network television’s longest-running late-night hosts, a commitment now solidified through a newly renewed deal with Disney lasting until 2027.

This renewal comes months after the host faced controversy and a brief “indefinite preemption” on over 30 Sinclair-owned ABC stations following comments made on his show in September 2025. Interestingly, the deal was reportedly signed last summer, before the drama occurred, and its public announcement was delayed out of respect for the news of Stephen Colbert’s show ending in May 2026.

Are you a fan of Jimmy Kimmel Live?

Lindsay Lohan Meets Judy & Nick and has a Blast at Disney World

By

Sara

-

December 9, 2025

Lindsay Lohan Shares Fun Photos Meeting Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde

Lindsay Lohan brought her family to Walt Disney World for a recent visit, which included some special character encounters. She was spotted at Disney’s Animal Kingdom enjoying the holiday cheer and meeting up with Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde.

Lohan documented her trip on Instagram, captioning her vacation photos with “Fairytales, family, and a touch of #zootopia magic.” This character meeting was timely, as the Nick and Judy meet-and-greet debuted just this November with the launch of Zootopia: Better Zoogether at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Beyond the Zootopia meet-and-greet, Lohan’s visit included riding TRON Lightcycle Run (complete with its TRON: Ares overlay) and experiencing the classic Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster just before its upcoming Muppet-themed renovation.

Lindsay Lohan is currently starring alongside Jamie Lee Curtis in the highly anticipated Disney sequel, Freakier Friday, reprising her role from the 2003 hit Freaky Friday. Her previous work with Disney includes beloved titles such as The Parent Trap, Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen, and Herbie: Fully Loaded.

View this post on Instagram

Christmas Dining Coming to the Hotels at Universal Orlando Resort

By

Chris B

-

December 8, 2025

Universal Orlando Hotels Unwrap Festive Christmas Eve & Christmas Day Dining for 2025

Universal Orlando’s hotels are decking the halls, the buffets, and the prix fixe menus this holiday season with an impressive lineup of Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dining offerings across the entire resort. From elegant chef-driven feasts at the all-new Universal Helios Grand Hotel to tropical holiday buffets at Sapphire Falls, guests will find plenty of merry, bright, and downright delicious ways to celebrate December 24 and 25.

Universal Stella Nova Resort lobby tree display

At Universal Helios Grand Hotel, Flora Taverna is hosting not one but three holiday dining events. Christmas Eve brings a five-course prix fixe menu featuring Ora King salmon, grilled beef tenderloin, or braised lamb shank, followed by Christmas Morning Brunch packed with slow-roasted ribeye, made-to-order omelets, artisanal pastries, and dessert favorites like eggnog panna cotta and a chocolate yule log. Christmas Night returns to a five-course feast including artisanal focaccia, your pick of the main entrées, and a trio of dreamy desserts ranging from honey lavender panna cotta to white chocolate cranberry cheesecake.

Over at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Trattoria del Porto will host a lavish Christmas Day buffet filled with beef rib roast, pineapple-glazed ham, seafood classics, and live music to set the holiday mood. Mama Della’s Ristorante invites families to gather for a three-course Italian-style prix fixe dinner with options like gamberi scampi, zuppa di pesce, veal osso bucco, and a lemon mascarpone cheesecake finale.

Loews Royal Pacific Resort is offering a Christmas Day buffet at Islands Dining Room, where traditional holiday dishes meet South Seas inspiration. Family entertainment including a ukulele player, balloon artist, and hula dancer keeps the festive spirit lively. Meanwhile, at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, Amatista Cookhouse brings a tropical twist with Caribbean-inspired cuisine, a churrasco display, ceviche, decadent sides, and steel drum music. Kids will love the face painter and balloon artist between bites.

Hard Rock Hotel is turning up the volume with a classic Christmas Day brunch at The Kitchen, where carved turkey, honey baked ham, seafood stations, and show-stopping desserts are served with live entertainment to amp up the atmosphere. Guests at the value and prime value resorts aren’t left out either. Stella Nova and Terra Luna are dishing up honey and tangerine-glazed ham or roasted turkey breast meals at their cafés, while Cabana Bay Beach Resort, Aventura Hotel, Surfside Inn and Suites, and Dockside Inn and Suites will all offer special holiday plates featuring turkey or ham with seasonal sides.

Loews Royal Pacific Resort Islands Dining Room

As a little festive bonus, Loews Portofino Bay, Royal Pacific, Sapphire Falls, and Universal Helios Grand guests can enjoy a special Cozy Earth discount of 40 percent off sitewide through December 31. Holiday dining paired with luxury pajamas? Now that’s a Christmas treat.

Universal Orlando has created a menu lineup full of festive flavors, elegant touches, family-friendly fun, and unique holiday vibes across each hotel. Whether you’re craving a refined prix fixe dinner, a beachy Caribbean buffet, or just the comfort of holiday favorites, there’s a seat at the table waiting for you.

Disney Sets Reopening Date for Kali River Rapids in Disney’s Animal Kingdom

By

Chris B

-

December 8, 2025

Kali River Rapids Returns to Operation After Annual Refurbishment

Kali River Rapids Sets Mid-December Reopening at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Guests heading to Disney’s Animal Kingdom this holiday season can officially add one of the park’s splashiest adventures back to their must-do list. Kali River Rapids is set to reopen on December 12, 2025, following its annual refurbishment. The attraction has been closed since October 6 as part of its routine multi-week upkeep, though this year’s closure arrived earlier than usual to fit into the park’s shifting refurbishment priorities.

In previous years, Kali typically went down in January and returned in late February or early spring. Disney bumped this year’s work forward to ensure the raft ride is back online before the upcoming February 2, 2026 closure of DINOSAUR and the rest of DinoLand U.S.A., which will be transforming into the Tropical Americas project. With that entire corner of the park soon behind construction walls, keeping Kali available is a smart move to maintain capacity and preserve one of Animal Kingdom’s few true family thrill options.

Located in the Asia section of the park, Kali River Rapids takes guests through lush forest scenery, logging sites, and churning whitewater moments, ending with the classic “who’s going to get absolutely soaked?” finale that has made it a hot-weather favorite for years. With the December 12 reopening date, the attraction will be ready just in time for the holiday crowds, even if riders may want to pack an extra layer for those cooler Florida winter days.

Streaming Giants Clash as Paramount Counters Netflix with Higher Warner Bros. Offer

By

Chris B

-

December 8, 2025

Streaming Giants Clash as Paramount Counters Netflix with Higher Warner Bros Offer

Hostile Takeover Bid Aims to Stop Netflix’s Warner Bros. Deal Amid DC Theme Park Shake-Up

Hollywood just added another wild twist to an already blockbuster-sized saga, and the plot thickens faster than you can say “extended universe.” Paramount Skydance has officially launched a hostile takeover bid for all of Warner Bros. Discovery, aiming to derail Netflix’s recently announced deal to buy the studio and streaming assets. Instead of watching Netflix’s move from the balcony, Paramount charged straight onto the stage with a $74.4 billion all-cash offer, a staggering $18 billion more than Netflix’s bid.

Netflix’s original agreement targeted only the Warner Bros. studio and HBO Max operations, but Paramount wants the entire enchanted castle, encompassing Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group and DC Studios, as well as cable heavyweights like CNN, TNT Sports, and Discovery. In its pitch to shareholders, Paramount emphasized that its $30-per-share all-cash proposal is clearer, richer, and far less volatile than Netflix’s mix of cash and stock.

This dramatic bidding war comes at a moment when Warner Bros. is already making headlines for an entirely different reason: its theme park rights to the DC Universe. Recent reporting suggests the company has been shopping those rights to outside operators, and rumors are flying that Universal, already home to some of the biggest franchises in Orlando, is very interested in bringing Batman, Superman, and the Justice League into the Universal Orlando Resort family. If that unfolds, it could mean Gotham, Metropolis, or even Themyscira joining the neighborhood near Epic Universe. With Warner potentially shifting ownership and IP strategies, every move in this corporate chess match could ripple through theme parks as well as streaming libraries.

Warner had previously announced plans to split into two entities by late 2026: one housing streaming and studios like HBO, HBO Max, DC Studios, and Warner Bros. Television, and another called Discovery Global that would include cable networks like CNN, Discovery+, TNT Sports, and Bleacher Report. Netflix’s deal had already raised eyebrows because it would consolidate massive franchises like Game of Thrones, The Sopranos, The Wizard of Oz, and the full DC catalog under one streamer. Now Paramount has entered the arena, and suddenly the battle for Warner Bros. is a three-act epic.

Washington is watching, too. President Donald Trump has already said the Netflix arrangement “could be a problem,” and the Senate is preparing for an antitrust hearing. With Paramount upping the stakes and DC’s theme park future hanging in the balance, this story is shaping up to be one of the most consequential Hollywood showdowns in decades. And like any good franchise cliffhanger, the next chapter is guaranteed to bring even more twists.