Orlando Airport’s Visitor Pass Returns for All Terminals
World-class shopping and dining at Orlando International Airport are once again accessible to non-travelers! The popular Experience MCO Visitor Pass Program has officially returned, and for the first time ever, it includes access to post-security areas in Terminals A and B in addition to Terminal C. Starting today, guests can apply to explore everything the airport has to offer without a plane ticket.
Following a brief pause by the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) to evaluate staffing and operations, the Experience MCO program has officially returned with expanded access to all terminals. Because daily pass availability is limited, guests are encouraged to apply online up to seven days in advance. To ensure a smooth security process, all personal information on the application must exactly match your TSA-approved identification (such as a passport or REAL ID).
”Orlando International Airport is pleased to welcome the return of non-ticketed guests to eat at our restaurants, explore our retail concessions, or simply spend quality time with a traveling loved one,” said GOAA CEO Lance Lyttle. “We thank our partners with the Transportation Security Administration for their assistance with the program’s re-implementation now in place across our entire campus.”
MCO is now accepting applications and interested parties may apply here: https://flymco.com/experience-mco-visitor-pass-program/ Applications will be processed at midnight on the day of the requested visit. Approved guests will need to present both their digital Experience MCO Visitor Pass and their TSA-approved identification to clear the security checkpoint.
Starting December 12, guests can explore a new Taylor Swift display at Walt Disney Presents in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. For a limited time, the exhibit will showcase three Eras Tour costumes worn by Taylor herself, featuring looks from Reputation, The Tortured Poets Department, and Midnights.
End Date Announced for Taylor Swift Eras Tour Costumes Display
If you’re a Swiftie planning a trip to the Most Magical Place on Earth, you’ll want to move fast. To celebrate a wave of new Taylor Swift content on Disney+, Walt Disney World has unveiled an exclusive costume exhibit at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. However, this “Enchanted” experience won’t last forever—Disney has officially confirmed the exhibit will be on display through January 23, 2026.
Located inside the Walt Disney Presents attraction, this limited-time engagement offers fans a rare, up-close look at the intricate craftsmanship of three iconic outfits handpicked from the record-breaking Eras Tour.
The Taylor Swift Eras Tour costume display is currently open at the Walt Disney Presents attraction (located near the entrance to Toy Story Land). According to Disney, the exhibit is scheduled to run through January 23, 2026.
Because of the massive popularity of the display, Disney’s Hollywood Studios has even adjusted its operating hours, with Walt Disney Presents opening as early as 8:30 AM for resort guests with Early Entry to help manage the “Mastermind” level crowds.
Each costume in the exhibit represents a pivotal moment in the show’s three-hour journey. Here is what you can expect to see in person:
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The reputation Era Taylor’s entrance for the reputation set is famously fierce, and now fans can see the asymmetrical black bodysuit that started it all. This specific “gold” variant features swirling, shimmering serpents and an open-mouthed snake design. Created by Roberto Cavalli, this outfit made its grand debut during night one of the tour in Miami.
THE TORTURED POETS DEPARTMENT Era Representing the newest chapter of the tour, the exhibit features the striking, theatrical gown designed by Vivienne Westwood.
Added to the tour in 2024, this custom-draped white corseted gown is inscribed with lyrics from “Who’s Afraid Of Little Old Me?” and is displayed alongside its matching three-row orb detail choker, white gloves, and custom Christian Louboutin boots.
The Midnights Era The exhibit concludes with the ultimate closing look: the Zuhair Murad Couture custom bodysuit. This midnight blue piece features side cut-outs and heavy crystal embellishments.
It is topped with the vibrant, multi-colored fringe jacket Taylor wears for the show’s final anthem, “Karma.”
Experience the “End of an Era” on Disney+
The exhibit is part of a larger “Taylor Takeover” on Disney+ following the release of her latest project, The Life of a Showgirl. Fans can now stream two major new additions:
“The End of an Era” Docuseries: A six-episode behind-the-scenes event. The series explores the logistical “magic” of the tour, from rehearsal rooms to the final stadium shows. Two episodes are released each week (starting Dec 12, 2025), with the finale airing December 26.
“Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour | The Final Show”: Filmed during the tour’s absolute final stop in Vancouver, B.C. (December 8, 2024), this concert film includes the entire live set of The Tortured Poets Department for the first time.
Pro-Tip for Visiting
If you’re planning a trip to see the costumes, head to the back of the park toward Animation Courtyard. The exhibit is included with your standard park admission. For the best photos without the crowds, try to visit during the first hour of park operation or during the evening “Fantasmic!” showtimes.
All Indiana Jones Movies Coming to Disney+ just in Time for New Animal Kingdom Ride
The fedora is coming out of the closet again because all five Indiana Jones movies are heading back to Disney+ just in time to build hype for the franchise’s next big theme park chapter. Starting January 1, 2026, fans will be able to stream Raiders of the Lost Ark, Temple of Doom, The Last Crusade, and Kingdom of the Crystal Skull alongside Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, which has lived on Disney+ since its release.
The return of the full collection comes as licensing agreements with Paramount wrap up, allowing the earlier films to finally stay put on Disney+. For longtime fans and first-time explorers alike, it is the perfect excuse for a full marathon, complete with whips, relics, and just enough snakes to keep things interesting.
That timing is no coincidence. Over at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, DINOSAUR is set to close in February 2026 to begin its transformation into a brand new Indiana Jones attraction, scheduled to open in 2027. While the ride system will be familiar to anyone who has braved DINOSAUR or ridden Indiana Jones Adventure in Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea, the Florida version will feature a brand new storyline set in a Mayan temple to better fit the upcoming Tropical Americas land.
Between a full film saga streaming and a new ride on the horizon, it is shaping up to be a golden idol moment for Indy fans. Grab the popcorn, dust off the leather jacket, and get ready to relive the adventure.
‘The Muppet Show’ Returns With A Special Event Feb 4. On Disney+ And ABC
It is time to light the lights! Disney+ has officially announced that Kermit, Miss Piggy, and the entire gang are making a triumphant return to television.
The Muppet Show will return for a brand-new special event premiering February 4 on both Disney+ and ABC.
To celebrate the announcement, Disney released a first-look teaser today. You can check it out below:
A Return to the Theater
According to the official synopsis, this isn’t just a remote reunion—the Muppets are going back to their roots. The gang will once again take the stage of the original Muppet Theatre.
Fans can expect the franchise’s signature blend of music, comedy, and absolute chaos to ensue. Joining them for the madness is a very special guest: pop superstar Sabrina Carpenter.
The production brings together some heavy hitters in the entertainment world. The special is produced by 20th Television, Disney Branded Television, The Muppets Studio, and Point Grey Pictures.
Alex Timbers is at the helm as director and executive producer. The executive producing team also includes Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg, James Weaver, and Alex McAtee for Point Grey Pictures. Sabrina Carpenter also serves as an executive producer alongside Albertina Rizzo, Matt Vogel, and Eric Jacobson.
Legendary Performers Return
For long-time fans, the most exciting news might be the talent operating the characters. The special features veteran Muppet performers Bill Barretta, Eric Jacobson, Peter Linz, David Rudman, and Matt Vogel performing the majority of the iconic characters.
Notably, Dave Goelz returns to the fold. Goelz has performed with The Muppets for over 50 years and was one of the performers on the original Muppet Show, where he originated the roles of The Great Gonzo and Dr. Bunsen Honeydew.
Celebrating 50 Years of Magic
This special serves as a perfect kickoff to a major milestone. In 2026, The Muppet Show will celebrate its 50th Anniversary.
Created by the legendary Jim Henson, the original series ran from 1976 through 1981. It aired in over 100 countries and became a cultural phenomenon, once called “the most popular television entertainment now being produced on Earth” by Time magazine in 1978.
If you need to brush up on your Fozzie Bear jokes before February 4, all five seasons of the original The Muppet Show are currently available to stream on Disney+.
For 70 years, Disneyland Resort has served as a constant backdrop for countless family traditions and milestones, welcoming guests from around the world to enjoy quality time with their loved ones. From first-time visitors to lifelong locals, the resort has opened its doors since its legendary first season in 1955, continuing that legacy today as the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration continues.
Few stories capture that enduring spirit better than Dick and Cynthia Borrud’s 70-year connection to Disneyland. Married in August of 1955, this perfect match first visited Disneyland just five weeks after its historic opening in 1955 as part of a wonderful SoCal honeymoon. Since then, this loving couple has made a point to return to Disneyland Resort every year of operation, growing with one another as the days go by and reflecting the everlasting energy that has defined the resort for generations.
A Flash Back to August 1955 – Disneyland and Beyond
There are so many phenomenal places in the world to potentially travel on a honeymoon, but the couple had a key reason why they chose to visit sunny Southern California back in the summer of ‘55.
Officially married on August 21, 1955, just over one month after Disneyland opened its gates to the world, Dick and Cynthia Borrud set off on their honeymoon on a road trip from Mabel, Minnesota, to California in a 1950 Studebaker, towing a homemade tent camper trailer for their adventure across the nation. Fresh off their wedding and full of enthusiasm, they headed to Los Angeles so Cynthia could meet Dick’s family for the very first time, marking some of their first steps as lovely newlyweds ready to take on the world together.
On their long, winding way to The Golden State, they journeyed through mountains, hills, and national parks, making stops at Mount Rushmore in South Dakota, Estes Park and Dinosaur National Monument in Colorado, and finally Las Vegas in Nevada, before driving all night through the desert on the road to L.A. on August 26. After a few days of local fun with family, their honeymoon culminated with a perfect cherry on top with a stop at The Happiest Place on Earth.
Arriving early in the morning that day, Dick and Cynthia noticed just how big the parking lot in front of the park seemed. Before even entering the park, they could feel this brand-new destination was humming with magic, exuberance, and an overall sense of happiness.
Once they stepped through the gates, Dick and Cynthia recalled that all the guests in the park were dressed up for the occasion: men wearing slacks and women adorned in dresses and heels, with a sense of joyous bustle in the air.
On their very first visit, the lovely dynamic duo boarded King Arthur Carrousel, Mark Twain Riverboat, Jungle Cruise, and the Disneyland Railroad. It was a pleasant day with warm weather and plenty of excitement among thousands of happy smiles. Accompanied by Dick’s grandmother, stepmom, and two younger brothers, the pair stayed late into the afternoon, even enjoying a nice lunch in the picnic area outside the park during the day — check out two photos from their very first visit above!
This milestone moment made such a lasting impression that they ended up making it a tradition to return to Disneyland at least once a year when visiting family members in Southern California. Since that magical trip in August 1955, the couple has visited the resort every year (outside of 2020), eventually bringing their four children and two grandchildren along for the ride over the years.
Travel Back in Time Through the Years with Dick and Cynthia at Disneyland
Since 1955, Dick and Cynthia have been able to experience the Disneyland of past and present, documenting so many of these trips with their fair share of pictures and special memories. Have a favorite attraction from the past, a former beloved restaurant that you remember dining at, or a now-retired snack that is always in the back of your mind? There’s a good chance that this delightful duo knows what you’re referring to.
Over the years, Dick and Cynthia even became somewhat of familiar Disneyland “experts” within the park, learning to precisely plan out their day with the ticket books that they received on earlier visits to Disneyland (especially by making sure to plan out their visits to the E-Ticket attractions) and now using the Disneyland app with family members to stop by their favorite rides. While Disneyland has evolved over the past seven decades, it remains a place full of comfort, warmth, and a present sense of nostalgia for all.
On this year’s trip, Cynthia mentioned just how beautiful and inviting the park remains 70 years later. As for Dick, he mentioned how happy everyone always is when visiting the parks and enjoys connecting with cast members across the resort, sharing the couple’s happy history along the way.
As time passed, new memories were created and added to the family’s cherished photo album.
With children and eventually grandchildren entering the picture, new family members joined in on the fun over the years: meeting characters at a young age, boarding classic park attractions as they grew up, and certainly scooping up a fair share of goodies each and every visit no matter the age.
Magic and Memories During the 70th Anniversary of Disneyland
92 and 93 years young respectively and now living in Ellensburg, Washington, Dick and Cynthia remain young at heart with a dear connection to Disney. When visiting this year during the 70th anniversary of Disneyland Resort, the duo used this vacation as another opportunity to live in the moment and experience all that the resort has to offer, this time with their daughter, Julie, and their grandchildren, Anna and Lars Enger, at their side.
Dick and Cynthia noted that they especially enjoy boarding the Disneyland Railroad, “it’s a small world,” and Jungle Cruise on trips to the resort these days, three classic attractions that they’ve come to love over the years with each successive visit.
In addition, they appreciate having a glass of wine at Mendocino Terrace at Disney California Adventure park, before venturing over to Cars Land to witness the neon lights in the area glow up at sunset. They also love ordering coffee and treats from the Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe on Main Street, U.S.A., to enjoy on the restaurant’s patio, enjoying some quality time in Disneyland park that takes them back to the days of yesteryear.
With 70 years of experience at Disneyland, these two have plenty of favorite choices and tips up their sleeves – read on to check out some of their top picks below!
A Few of Dick and Cynthia’s Top Picks Over the Years
Favorite Treats: Churros and Frozen Bananas
Favorite Restaurant: Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante
Favorite All-Time Entertainment: The Golden Horseshoe Revue Entertainment
So, all these years later, what still makes their yearly trip to Disneyland so special?
The couple says that these visits give them time to reflect on all the happy memories made over the years, looking back on that inaugural visit in 1955 and all the incredible family moments made in the decades since. Yet, as time goes by, two constant forces remain the same for this perfect pair – a true, compassionate love for one another and an authentic, everlasting connection to The Happiest Place on Earth, 70 years in the making.
Disneyland is currently testing a new approach designed to significantly speed up the security screening process. If adopted, this change could streamline park entry and greatly enhance the guest experience—a constant focus for the resort. This effort follows recent updates, such as the installation of new ADA-compliant, guest-driven entry gates across Disneyland Resort.
Disneyland is currently testing a new security approach utilizing designated “wheels” and “no wheels” lanes at security checkpoints. This system directs guests with strollers and other wheeled mobility devices into a specialized lane, while those without them use a separate line.
This change is expected to streamline the screening process, as items with wheels—which require Cast Members to perform extra checks of compartments—can be processed efficiently in their own area, separate from guests with only bags.
By consolidating all wheeled devices into a single lane, Cast Members can work more efficiently, providing clearer, consistent instructions for the specific type of screening required. Crucially, because manually checking wheeled devices is a slower process, separating them significantly speeds up the security line for guests carrying only bags.
It is currently unclear if this new system is also being tested at the Mickey and Friends Parking Structure entrance, or if it is a temporary measure designed specifically to manage the very heavy holiday crowds at Disneyland.
“it’s a small world” to Close for Holiday Overlay Removal
As the post-holiday crowds subside, Disneyland strategically schedules a heavier volume of ride closures, which now includes “it’s a small world.” This slower period allows the park to conduct necessary refurbishments and address routine maintenance, alongside completing seasonal updates like removing the popular Holiday overlay.
Following the conclusion of the holiday season, the popular “it’s a small world” Holiday attraction at Disneyland Park is scheduled to close temporarily to remove its seasonal overlay. We are here to bring you all the details on this specific closure, as well as the latest Disney news, including multiple other recently announced ride closures and end dates added to the refurbishment calendar.
The festive “it’s a small world” Holiday overlay is traditionally featured from the start of the Christmas celebration through early to mid-January. This year, the holiday version was installed starting October 30, 2025, and reopened on November 14 to coincide with the official start of the Christmas celebration.
While the Christmas season officially ends after January 7, “it’s a small world” Holiday will remain open for a couple of extra weeks. Its closure to remove the seasonal overlay is scheduled for January 26, 2026. (For context, this overlay typically runs slightly longer than the Haunted Mansion Holiday overlay, which starts in August; the park often staggers these closures to keep key attractions available.)
A reopening date for the classic “it’s a small world” is not yet visible on the refurbishment calendar. It appears that Disneyland may be using this downtime for additional maintenance beyond the overlay removal. Building permits suggest teams will be creating an 854 sq ft uncovered storage yard, installing new storage racks, and performing electrical improvements by replacing existing lighting cabinets with new relay panels.
Universal Files Trademark for “Celestial Goodnight,” Hinting at a Future Epic Universe Nighttime Show
Universal may have just dropped a starry little clue about the future nights at Epic Universe. A newly filed trademark for the name “Celestial Goodnight” is sparking speculation that a full-scale nighttime spectacular could be on the way for Universal Orlando’s newest theme park. While Epic Universe is already known for its stunning nighttime lighting and the Cosmos Fountain Show, this filing could signal something even bigger lighting up the sky.
The trademark application, filed by Universal Studios, lists “Amusement park services” and “Entertainment services like an amusement park show,” which certainly sounds like nighttime entertainment territory. The logo tied to the filing features a shooting star and crescent moon, a perfect thematic match for Celestial Park, the cosmic heart of Epic Universe. That connection alone has fans buzzing, especially since early concept art for the park showed fireworks bursting above Universal Helios Grand Hotel.
Adding fuel to the fireworks fire, the lake behind Helios Grand Hotel includes a peninsula that many fans believe was designed with fireworks launches in mind. Universal has previously said it is “still looking into” fireworks for Epic Universe. While no official announcements have been made, “Celestial Goodnight” feels like a name tailor-made for a closing moment that sends guests home on a high note.
Of course, trademark filings do not always guarantee a finished product, and it is possible the show could change names or even evolve into something other than fireworks. Still, the timing and theming make this one especially intriguing. Whether it becomes a full nighttime spectacular or something more subtle, it is clear Universal is thinking about how to end the Epic Universe day with a little extra sparkle.
Minnie, Daisy, Donald, and Goofy Meet and Greets Temporarily Moving at Magic Kingdom
If your circus-style character plans at Disney’s Magic Kingdom are feeling a little shuffled, there is a good reason why. Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck, Donald Duck, and Goofy will soon be greeting guests in new temporary locations as Pete’s Silly Sideshow in Storybook Circus prepares to close for a short refurbishment. The circus tent is scheduled to become unavailable beginning January 5, 2026, prompting Disney to relocate these popular meet-and-greets elsewhere in the Storybook Circus area.
While Disney has not shared exact details about where each character will pop up during the closure, the move is expected to stay within Storybook Circus. The temporary relocation is likely tied to repairs at Pete’s Silly Sideshow, as the tent was recently reported to be torn. Back in October, Disney filed permits for work at both Pete’s Silly Sideshow and Big Top Souvenirs, contracting Birdair, Inc., a company known for working on tensile structures like canopies and large fabric roofs.
For now, guests planning character hugs and photos with Minnie, Daisy, Donald, and Goofy should keep an eye on the My Disney Experience app and signage in Storybook Circus for updated locations. While the setting may change, the smiles and autographs should still be easy to find once the refurbishment work gets underway.
Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto Now Opens Earlier at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Trader Sam just moved last call way earlier and tiki fans everywhere are cheering. Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort has officially shifted to an earlier daily opening time, now welcoming guests starting at 11 a.m. instead of the long standing 3 p.m. opening. According to the Walt Disney World website calendar, the fan favorite tiki bar will continue closing at midnight each night, while the attached outdoor Tiki Terrace will also open at 11 a.m. and close at 11 p.m.
Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto is legendary among Disney fans for its immersive Adventureland-style theming, interactive bartenders, collectible tiki mugs, and cocktails that trigger special in-bar effects. Named after the iconic Jungle Cruise character, this location is the second Trader Sam’s overall, following the original Enchanted Tiki Bar at Disneyland Hotel in California. Because reservations are not accepted, guests have historically lined up hours before opening just to get their name on the list, especially in the evenings. The move to earlier hours could help spread out demand and make it a little easier to snag a seat inside the grotto.
Families can also take advantage of the earlier opening, as Trader Sam’s welcomes guests of all ages from opening until 8 p.m., after which the bar becomes 21 and over only. Whether you are stopping by for a mid-day HippopotoMai Tai, an Uh Oa!, or just soaking in the Polynesian vibes before dinner, this earlier opening makes it easier than ever to fit Trader Sam’s into your day.
Disney Water Park Seasonal Pass Makes a Splashy Return for Winter and Spring 2026
If your idea of winter magic includes wave pools and water slides instead of sweaters and scarves, Disney has a very merry surprise for you. The Disney Water Park Seasonal Pass is officially back, and it is a pretty cool deal for anyone who loves soaking up the fun at Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon. Seasonal water park passes are now on sale, letting guests splash, slide, and float from now through May 9, 2026, with just a few spring break blackout dates to keep in mind.
The Disney Water Park Seasonal Pass is priced at $89 for adults and $83 for kids ages 3 to 9. With this pass, you can enjoy repeat visits to Blizzard Beach’s snowy slopes or Typhoon Lagoon’s tropical thrills, including fan favorites like Summit Plummet and Crush ‘n’ Gusher. The only blockout dates run from March 28 through April 5, 2026, so you will want to plan around that spring break window.
This year, Disney added some extra perks to sweeten the deal. Seasonal passholders can enjoy 20% off cabanas at both water parks, with Polar Patios at Blizzard Beach and Beachcomber Shacks at Typhoon Lagoon. This discount is available as a walk up offer when you arrive at the park, making it an easy way to add a little lounge time to your splash day. Your pass also includes one round of mini golf for the season at either Winter Summerland or Fantasia Gardens and Fairways, as long as you tee off before 4 p.m., which is a fun bonus to round out your visit.
As for which water park you can dive into right now, Typhoon Lagoon remains open through February 14, after which Blizzard Beach will reopen on February 15 just in time for spring fun. If you are looking to extend those vacation vibes well beyond the holidays, the Disney Water Park Seasonal Pass might be the coolest gift you can give yourself this season.
Universal UK Theme Park Clears Huge Hurdle as Planning Permission Is Officially Approved
Universal’s long talked about UK theme park just hit a major “we’re really doing this” moment. Planning permission has officially been granted by the UK government, clearing one of the biggest obstacles for Universal Destinations & Experiences as it moves closer to building its first-ever theme park and resort in Europe. The approval was issued through a Special Development Order from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, allowing the Bedford project to move forward pending a statutory parliamentary review period. Universal called the decision a major milestone and emphasized that it reflects years of collaboration with local councils, national agencies, and the surrounding community.
Once complete, the Universal UK resort is expected to be one of the largest entertainment developments in the country. Universal estimates the project could deliver around £50 billion in direct and indirect economic benefit, generate approximately 20,000 construction jobs during the build phase, and create about 8,000 permanent jobs once the resort is operational, with roughly 80 percent of those roles expected to be filled by local workers. The development also includes major transportation upgrades, such as an expanded Wixams railway station and new direct slip roads from the A421, aimed at improving access to the site and the wider Bedfordshire area.
In a letter dated December 16, 2025, Page Thompson, President of New Ventures for Universal Destinations & Experiences, thanked national and local stakeholders for their support throughout the planning process and highlighted the extensive community engagement involved. While there are still steps ahead, including parliamentary review, Universal says construction is still projected to begin in 2026, with more detailed updates on jobs, suppliers, and next phases expected to roll out in the coming months. Bedford is now firmly on the map as the future home of Universal’s first UK and European theme park, and this milestone makes the project feel more real than ever.
