Teachers Can Play Free Right Now at Glow or Go Orlando During May Appreciation Event
If you’ve been grading papers by day and dreaming of an escape by night, here’s your golden ticket to break out of the classroom and into something a whole lot brighter. Glow or Go Orlando is celebrating Teacher Appreciation Month right now with a deal that’s equal parts fun and well-deserved.
Throughout the entire month of May, teachers can join the action for free with the purchase of a group ticket. That means if you rally your crew, one educator in the group gets to jump in on the experience at no cost. Consider it a well-earned recess, but with way more neon lights and way less homework.
Located inside The Florida Mall, Glow or Go drops guests into a high-energy, immersive world where teams race through interactive zones to restore color to a once lifeless environment. Think part escape room, part game show, part glowing playground where teamwork and quick thinking are your best tools.
The experience is designed for all ages and skill levels, so whether you’re a puzzle pro or just there for the vibes, it’s all about collaboration, movement, and a little competitive spark. It’s the kind of place where lesson plans are replaced with light panels and group projects actually feel fun.
To take advantage of the offer, teachers just need to show proof of employment on-site, like a Florida Department of Education certificate number or valid school ID. The promotion runs now through May 31, so there’s plenty of time to gather your fellow educators and make it a field trip worth remembering.
New “Love is Universal” Merch Collection Now Available at Universal Orlando and Hollywood
If you’re strolling through the parks right now and notice a burst of rainbow color brighter than a summer sunset over CityWalk, that’s because Universal has officially rolled out its brand-new “Love is Universal” merchandise collection, and it’s available now at Universal Orlando Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood.
This colorful collection is popping up in select retail locations, including the Universal Studios Stores, and it’s serving looks and meaning. The lineup includes everything from a vibrant Spirit Jersey and rainbow-accented hat to a crossbody bag, tumbler, and matching accessories that bring all the pride vibes into the parks.
One standout piece is the bold Spirit Jersey, featuring a rainbow gradient design that practically glows, paired with “LOVE IS UNIVERSAL” across the back. There’s also a denim jacket option with a retro-style rainbow “LOVE” graphic that feels equal parts classic and statement-making. Accessories round things out with playful flair, from beaded bracelets to a sleek tumbler that keeps the message front and center.
But this collection is more than just a wardrobe upgrade. Universal is currently donating 100 percent of the profits from “Love is Universal” merchandise through August to nonprofit organizations that support local communities, including the LGBTQIA+ community. So every purchase right now is doing a little extra good while you’re repping the parks in style.
If you’re visiting soon, this is one of those collections that’s hard to miss and even harder not to love. It’s bright, it’s bold, and it’s got a whole lot of heart stitched into every piece.
Passholder Lounge Is Now Open at EPCOT with A/C, Snacks, and a Genie-Worthy Photo Op
If you’re melting your way around EPCOT today, there’s officially a cool little oasis waiting just for Annual Passholders. The Passholder Lounge has returned for the summer and is now open inside the Morocco pavilion at EPCOT as part of V.I.PASSHOLDER Summer Days.
Tucked inside Restaurant Marrakesh, this limited-time lounge is currently welcoming Passholders daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and yes, the air conditioning is working overtime like the true MVP of Florida summers. It’s first-come, first-served, so if you’re planning to pop in, you may want to time your visit between rides and World Showcase snacking adventures.
Inside, it’s a full-on chill zone. Guests can grab complimentary snacks like pretzels and dried fruit, sip on water or Moroccan mint tea, and relax in a shaded, draped seating area that feels a world away from the blazing sun outside. It’s less theme park hustle, more laid-back lounge vibes with a splash of Moroccan flair.
There’s also a PhotoPass opportunity currently set up featuring Genie’s iconic lamp, letting guests pose with a little extra wish-granting magic against a themed backdrop. No characters are appearing in the space right now, but the photo op still adds a fun, interactive twist to the experience.
As you check in, Passholders are also receiving a complimentary button featuring Mickey Mouse rocking summertime shades, which honestly feels like the unofficial mascot of surviving EPCOT in the heat.
This lounge is just one of several perks currently happening during V.I.PASSHOLDER Summer Days, which also includes exclusive character meet and greets, special discounts, a Toy Story-themed magnet, and limited-time merchandise offerings throughout the park.
If you’re in EPCOT today and need a recharge, this might just be the coolest spot in World Showcase in more ways than one.
Chip ‘n’ Dale Are Meeting Passholders Right Now in 50th Anniversary Outfits at EPCOT
If you’re at EPCOT today and spot a little extra sparkle bouncing around World Celebration, you’re not imagining things. Chip ‘n’ Dale are officially greeting Annual Passholders right now as part of V.I.PASSHOLDER Summer Days, and they’ve brought their 50th anniversary shimmer along for the ride.
The duo is currently meeting guests inside the Magic Eye Theatre at EPCOT, rocking their EARidescent vests and bowties that instantly throw it back to Walt Disney World’s 50th celebration. The meet and greet is running daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. now through July 31, giving Passholders plenty of time to swing by and catch the chipmunks in action.
Over at the theater, which sits next to Journey Into Imagination With Figment, the vibe is already full-on playful chaos. Dale is doing what Dale does best by jumping into photos, stealing poses, and generally turning every interaction into a mini comedy show, while Chip tries his best to keep things somewhat on track.
This meet and greet is just one of the perks currently happening during V.I.PASSHOLDER Summer Days. Passholders can also take advantage of the lounge at Restaurant Marrakesh, exclusive discounts, limited-time merchandise, a Toy Story magnet, and even special popcorn buckets while the event runs this summer.
If you’re in the park today or planning a visit soon, this is one of those blink-and-you-miss-it character moments that feels like a throwback and a party rolled into one. And honestly, it’s hard to beat a little midday mischief with a side of sparkle.
Disney World Names Newest Ferry Boat After Former Resort President
As Magic Kingdom embarks on its most ambitious expansion to date, significant investments are also being made in the transportation systems that bring guests to the gates. For the first time in nearly 50 years, the iconic ferryboat fleet is expanding to enhance the complimentary travel experience between the Transportation and Ticket Center and the park.
Often cited as a favorite way to cross Seven Seas Lagoon, the ferry offers a scenic and seamless transition into the “world of yesterday, tomorrow and fantasy”.
If you’re team ferryboat , this is a really big deal. A 120-foot-long big deal, in fact! Next year, the brand-new ferryboat will set sail, increasing our fleet from three to four ferries here at Walt Disney World.
A team of engineers and craft workers have been hard at work designing and building the new ferryboat. It’s actually been under construction at a marina in Florida, and it’s getting ready to be shipped– in pieces – to Disney property over the next couple of weeks!
It’s still going to take some time, expertise and a little bit of Disney magic before it’s ready. The pieces need to be assembled, painted, and all the final touches put on. This process will take about a year, so we’re looking forward to this new vessel launching in 2027.
In 1997, to honor three individuals who were instrumental in making the resort a reality, Disney World rechristened our existing ferryboats as the Admiral Joe Fowler, the General Joe Potter and the Richard F. Irvine. Now, 30 years later, we get to add another name to that list!
We’re continuing the legacy of honoring individuals who’ve had a significant impact on Disney World by calling the fourth ferryboat the Meg Gilbert Crofton, named after Disney World’s fourth president. Meg started her Disney career in 1977 as a marketing manager and, after several roles in the company, took the helm as president of Walt Disney World from 2006-2013.
Just like the other ferryboats, Meg’s portrait will be found on the first deck of the new vessel. It was developed by Walt Disney Imagineering, and it will be accompanied by a plaque that will share Meg’s story with generations of guests as they glide across Seven Seas Lagoon.
“I was humbled to learn that my name would be on this new ferryboat,” Meg said. “It means so much to be recognized by the cast members I had the privilege of working with for so many years.”
What do you think of the new ferry coming to Disney World?
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Welcomes Adorable New Arrivals
The arrival of spring at Walt Disney World has brought a wave of adorable new births across the resort. As Earth Month concludes, Disney is celebrating a season defined by these new additions, significant milestones, and heartwarming moments occurring behind the scenes at both Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge.
It’s a girl! Earlier this month, a female Masai giraffe calf was born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, arriving at approximately 120 pounds and standing nearly six feet tall. Her mom, Willow, has been right by her side helping her curious calf get the hang of life as they bond and settle in together.
While she may be small now (by giraffe standards!), her arrival is a big moment for her species. Masai giraffes are classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, with an estimated 30,000 remaining worldwide.
Through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan, Disney works with experts to help care for giraffes and support a healthy population for generations to come.
Behind the scenes at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the animal care team is keeping a close eye on her growth and milestones. “She’s already had her first checkup and is doing great, so mom is happily in charge,” said Bri, an animal keeper at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. “Right now, she’s rarely far from her side, following her around the barn, exploring her surroundings and learning something new every day.”
For now, the calf is spending time backstage with mom Willow, but before long, guests will be able to spot her stretching her long legs on Kilimanjaro Safaris as she joins the rest of the herd this summer, including fan favorite Tucker (her half‑brother!) who was born in 2025.
The newest giraffe calf isn’t the only one stealing hearts this spring. Over at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, several other baby animals have arrived, and they’re already making a big impression. A male nyala calf named Parker is settling into his new home.
Nyala calves are born with white stripes and spots that help them blend into tall grass, and as he grows, Parker will develop a darker coat and the iconic spiral horns that make male nyalas so distinctive.
Fun Fact
Male and female nyalas look completely different, making them one of the savanna’s most unique antelope species.
“We’ve been welcoming new baby animals to the lodge since its opening more than 25 years ago, so our team knows exactly how to prepare them for life on the savanna — from gradual introductions to space and sounds to watching how they respond to mom and their new environments,” said Mel, an animal keeper at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. “Even with all that experience, no two arrivals are ever the same.”
You may already recognize these little ones. Red river hog piglets Mason, Cooper, and Phillip, born to mom Clementine, plus Demi, who was born shortly after to mom Persimmon, are starting to explore their savanna habitat at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. They’re already full of personality as they stick close to their moms and discover their new home.
And last but certainly not least, Mabel, the first Ankole calf born at Walt Disney World in more than 20 years, is thriving under the care of Disney’s expert animal care team. Though she’s small now, Mabel will one day grow the striking, sweeping horns that make Ankole cattle such an unforgettable sight.
While these young animals are currently spending time backstage — bonding with their mothers, growing stronger, and receiving round-the-clock care — it won’t be long before they make their debut on the savannas at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge this summer. Spotting a young animal exploring its habitat creates unforgettable moments for guests and sparks curiosity, connection, and appreciation for wildlife.
These exciting milestones reflect Disney’s ongoing commitment to conservation around the world through the Disney Conservation Fund. Since 1995, the Disney Conservation Fund has directed more than $141 million to community conservation programs to support organizations working with communities to protect wildlife, inspire action, and promote environmental resilience.
Thanks to the passion and expertise of cast members, these newest arrivals help bring conservation stories to life for guests every day.
Disney’s Airport Luggage Transfer Now Supports More Major Airlines
Walt Disney World is broadening the reach of its convenient Airport Luggage Transfer service, officially adding United Airlines and American Airlines to its roster. This expansion builds upon the service’s existing coverage for Southwest Airlines, which was first introduced in April 2025.
Originally launched in early April 2025 as a service exclusive to Southwest Airlines departures, the luggage transfer program—operated by BagCheck—is entering a major new phase. Initially, the service allowed guests to drop off checked bags at their resort before departing for Orlando International Airport (MCO), beginning with a pilot program at Disney’s Pop Century Resort that later expanded to other Value Resorts. By November 2025, the program grew to include Southwest Airlines arrivals, allowing for a fully hands-free experience.
Major Expansion Details
New Airline Partnerships: The service has officially expanded to include passengers flying with American Airlines and United Airlines.
Future Growth: Disney has indicated that the program’s footprint could grow even further, with additional airlines potentially being added in the future.
Seamless Convenience: Guests on these supported carriers can now bypass baggage claim or avoid hauling luggage to the airport, depending on their direction of travel.
How the Airport Luggage Delivery Works
For Resort Arrivals If you want your bags delivered directly to your resort upon landing at Orlando International Airport (MCO), follow these steps:
Pre-Registration: Sign up at enroll.bagcheck.com between 5 and 30 days before your scheduled flight.
Required Info: Ensure you have both your Disney Resorts Collection hotel confirmation number and your airline confirmation number ready.
Tagging Your Bags: If you register more than 7 days in advance, luggage tags will be mailed to your home; if you register within the 7-day window, no tags are sent, but your bags will still be delivered.
Airport Departure: Check in for your flight as usual and drop your bags with your airline at your departing airport.
Skip the Carousel: Once you land at MCO, bypass baggage claim entirely and head straight to your Disney resort.
Bag Retrieval: Contact Luggage Assistance at your resort—either via your in-room phone or at the lobby—to collect your delivered items.
The convenient BagCheck luggage service is currently available at all Disney Value Resort locations. If you are staying at a Disney Moderate or Deluxe Resort, you can opt to spend your final night at a Value Resort to take advantage of this hands-free travel perk.
Supported Resort Locations
Disney’s Pop Century Resort
Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Essential Travel Tips
Boarding Passes: Ensure your boarding passes are ready before you arrive at the drop-off point, as printing services are not available at the resorts.
Flight Cancellations: If your flight is canceled, the service will automatically redirect your luggage to your new flight.
Resort Swapping: Guests at non-Value resorts can swap to a Value hotel for their last night to access the service.
Fly Into Style With This New Tinker Bell Floral Mini Backpack That Is Pure Magic
If you’re looking to add a little faith, trust, and pixie dust to your wardrobe, BoxLunch has truly outdone themselves this time. Their new Tinker Bell Floral Allover Print Mini Backpack is essentially a springtime dream caught in bag form. Retailing for $79.90, it’s that perfect treat yourself piece that feels like a collector’s item without absolutely destroying your fun budget.
The design is where things get really magical. Instead of just slapping a character on the front, this bag features a gorgeous, tonal allover print of Tink fluttering through a field of flowers. It’s subtle enough to look sophisticated but detailed enough that fellow Disney fans will definitely do a double-take. The muted color palette makes it super easy to pair with your favorite park outfit or just a casual jeans-and-tee look for a coffee run.
What really sells me, though, are the extra touches that BoxLunch is known for. The front pocket isn’t just printed; it features beautiful embroidered details that give the bag some high-end texture. But the absolute best part? The bell zipper charms. Every time you reach for your wallet or phone, you get a little reminder of everyone’s favorite sassy fairy. It’s a functional, stylish, and slightly nostalgic accessory that’s bound to fly off the shelves.
Enchanted Disney Loungefly Gifts for the Mom Who Taught Us to Dream
Remember those Saturday mornings spent lost in stories of far-off lands, or the way Mom’s eyes would light up when her favorite theme song started to play? There’s a certain kind of magic in those memories, and this Mother’s Day, you can bottle up that nostalgia and hand it right back to her.
Whether she’s the queen of her own kingdom or a rebel leader in a galaxy far, far away, a Loungefly bag is more than just an accessory, it’s a little piece of enchanted history she can carry wherever she goes.
If Mom has a heart full of fairy tales, these flap-style and classic backpacks are like a dream come true. For the one who finds beauty in every sunrise, the Tangled Rapunzel Exclusive Floral Flap Mini Backpack ($90) is an absolute delight. Inspired by her iconic gown with scalloped edges and a 3D bow, it even comes with a detachable lantern coin bag to light her way, truly the Best Day Ever!
Or perhaps she’d prefer the golden glow of the Beauty and the Beast Quilted Bucket Mini Backpack ($90). With its soft quilted sides and Belle nestled among embroidered florals, it’s a sophisticated tribute to a tale as old as time.
If she prefers the classic Loungefly silhouette, the Sleeping Beauty Aurora Roses Mini Backpack ($90) captures the whimsical grace of the forest with gold-foil accents on her crown and the three Good Fairies tucked onto the straps for a little extra protection.
For a touch of mystery, the Aladdin Jasmine Moonlit Palace Mini Backpack ($90) features our favorite princess under a golden crescent moon, with the Agrabah palace shimmering against a nighttime sky. It’s a whole new world of style, right on her shoulders.
For the Icon: Mickey & Minnie Favorites
For the mom who taught you that it all started with a mouse, these playful designs are pure joy. The Minnie Mouse Exclusive Coral Crossbody Bag ($75) is a pop of bright, happy color featuring Minnie’s smiling face and those signature 3D ears. If she’s a fan of more intricate patterns, the Minnie Mouse Floral All-Over Print Mini Backpack ($90) mixes classic silhouettes with velvet textures and soft pink straps for a look that’s both vintage and fresh.
And for the sporty mom who hits the court or just loves a good preppy look, the Mickey Mouse Tennis Tote ($80) is a total ace. The pink argyle pattern and the tennis-ball-shaped Mickey coin bag are enough to make anyone’s heart skip a beat.
For the Force of Nature: Star Wars Legends
Sometimes Mom is the hero of the galaxy, and her gear should reflect that. The Star Wars Exclusive Leia, Rey, & Padmé Floral Mini Backpack ($90) is a stunning tribute to the women who lead the way. It balances strength and softness with 3D florals and Rebel symbols, making it a powerful piece for any fan.
However, if she’s always had a bit of a soft spot for the dark side or just loves a bold, edgy look, the Darth Maul Drawstring Mini Backpack ($90) is a masterpiece of design. With its deep black body and intricate red embroidery, it’s a striking way for her to show off her fandom while being the best-dressed pilot in the Outer Rim.
These bags are often limited exclusives! If one of these sparks a memory of a movie you used to watch together, don’t wait too long, magic like this tends to fly off the shelves.
The Disney Princess Madhappy Collection Has Arrived For A Fairytale Fit!
It is time to let your inner royal shine because a brand-new collaboration has just dropped at the Disney Store, and it is the ultimate mood-booster! The Disney Princess Madhappy Collection blends high-end lounge vibes with the timeless magic of our favorite heroines. If you’re looking to add a little happily ever after to your streetwear game, this drop is exactly what your wardrobe has been wishing for. From cozy heavyweight fabrics to delicate embroidery, these pieces are designed to make you feel as iconic as a castle at sunset.
First up in this royal lineup is the Disney Princess Pullover Hoodie ($225), which truly lets you wear your happy on your sleeve. This isn’t just any sweater; it’s a cozy masterpiece featuring fairytale favorites like Tiana, Ariel, Belle and more. Whether you’re heading out for a coffee run or just lounging in your own personal kingdom, this hoodie brings that signature feel-good energy. It’s styled for a chic, everyday look that proves you don’t need a ballgown to feel like royalty.
If you’re all about that head-to-toe magic, you’ll definitely want to pair your hoodie with the Disney Princess Sweatpants($180). These heavyweight lounge pants are the definition of cozy-cool, featuring beloved main characters like Cinderella, Jasmine, and Belle. They are perfect for those laidback days when you want to spark joy without sacrificing comfort. Trust us, these are the kind of sweats you’ll be wearing on repeat, consider them your new official uniform for royal relaxation.
Rounding out the collection is the Disney Princess T-Shirt($85), a midweight cotton tee that is perfect for layering or wearing solo. This shirt highlights Belle, Aurora, and Jasmine, giving some love to even more of our favorite leading ladies. It also features a special nod to Madhappy’s roots with California Los Angeles embroidered on a stylish ribbon. It’s a subtle, high-fashion touch that keeps the look grounded while the princess graphics keep your spirit soaring.
Which of these royal treats are you adding to your cart first?
Customize Your Galactic Style With The New Star Wars Create Your Own Headband Plush Reach Walt Disney World!
If you’ve been wandering through Galaxy’s Edge wishing you could show off your Star Wars fandom without lugging around a full-sized lightsaber, Disney has finally delivered the goods. The Create Your Own Headband station at Walt Disney World is basically a Build-A-Bear for your hair, and the latest batch of plush additions is honestly too cute to handle. It’s the perfect way to customize your park look while keeping things a bit more low-key than a full Chewbacca onesie.
First up, let’s talk about the Ewok Headband Plush. For just $11.99, you can have a tiny, smiling forest dweller perched right on your head. This little guy features a tan face and rounded ears, but the real selling point is his tiny brown headscarf. When you snap him onto the headband, the scarf drapes over the front, giving you that authentic “I just helped blow up a Shield Generator on Endor” aesthetic. He’s soft, he’s cheerful, and he’s significantly less grumpy than the real thing.
If you’re more into the bounty hunting lifestyle, the Mandalorian Headband Plush is calling your name. Priced at $13.99, this accessory is shaped exactly like Mando’s iconic beskar helmet. It’s got all the sleek lines and signature T-visor design, just in a much squishier, travel-friendly format. It’s the ultimate way to show everyone that This is the Way, even if the way currently involves standing in a 90-minute line for a Ronto Wrap.
Of course, a Mando accessory wouldn’t be complete without his tiny green sidekick. The Grogu Headband Plush ($13.99) is a total showstopper with his giant, three-dimensional ears and sweet embroidered features. He’s designed to look just as curious and chaotic as he does on screen. Whether you pair him with the Mandalorian helmet or let him fly solo, this little Force-sensitive snack-lover is guaranteed to get you some compliments from the Stormtroopers patrolling Hollywood Studios.
Imagineers Share Behind-the-Scenes Look at Tropical Americas Development
For nearly three decades, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park has stood as a unique tribute to the harmony between nature, storytelling, and adventure. Joan Hartwig, Executive Creative Director for the Tropical Americas project, has witnessed this evolution firsthand throughout her 36-year career as a Disney cast member. She has spent much of that time fostering the park’s legacy—a place dedicated to celebrating the intrinsic value of nature and the deep interconnectedness of all living things.
The park’s signature magic can be felt across its diverse landscapes, from the sprawling savannas of Africa and the towering Himalayan peaks of Asia to the bioluminescent wonders of Pandora – The World of Avatar. Soon, that spirit of discovery will expand into the lush rainforests of the Tropical Americas.
As the creative lead for this ambitious reimagining, Hartwig is overseeing the development of this vibrant new land. Her team has been hard at work conducting extensive research to ensure the land authentically captures the beauty and spirit of the region, bringing a joyful new chapter to the story of Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
When it opens in 2027, the new land will represent one of the most culturally rich regions on the planet. From the northern reaches of South America, through Central America, and into parts of Mexico, this is a part of the world where nature doesn’t just surround communities — it shapes them.
And ancient cultures are still present in everyday life. Explorers and curious travelers continue to fall in love with the region and all there is to discover.
During the 2024 Horizons: Disney Experiences Showcase at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, we shared that Tropical Americas will be home to Pueblo Esperanza when it opens at Animal Kingdom. Just as you stroll through the Port of Harambe in Africa, or wander the Kingdom of Anandapur in Asia, you’ll get to experience Pueblo Esperanza, a town with its own history, vivid culture, and of course, vibrant nature.
Imagineers have long dreamed of adding a land inspired by this region to Animal Kingdom. In fact, earlier concepts of potential park expansions imagined guests journeying into an ancient Maya temple and exploring a lush rainforest… sound familiar?
As Disney Legend and former Imagineer Joe Rohde said, “We thought for a really long time about building a Tropical Americas-inspired land at Animal Kingdom. Specifically, one that features the Maya because of how intertwined with nature they were — it’s just a natural fit for the park.”
Of course, ideas at Walt Disney Imagineering never fully disappear; they evolve and inspire new experiences. Mix in the enchanting world of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Encanto, the beloved escapades of Lucasfilm’s Indiana Jones, and a region where the power of nature entwines with human stories… and you get Tropical Americas, courtesy of a team of Imagineers continuing a grand tradition of bringing imagination to life.
To ensure the Tropical Americas expansion remains grounded in authenticity, Walt Disney Imagineering has followed the long-standing tradition of field research established during the original construction of Disney’s Animal Kingdom. The creative team embarked on several expeditions to immerse themselves in the culture, customs, and folklore of the region, ensuring the new land goes beyond mere recreation to tell stories with curiosity and humility.
The Heart of the Maya: A Research Expedition
A small group of Imagineers recently traveled to Honduras to consult with local Maya artists. These master carvers have dedicated their lives to preserving the intricate stonework found at Copán, one of the most significant and well-preserved cities of the ancient Maya civilization.
During this journey, the team explored lush mountain valleys and visited the historic quarries that have provided materials to the region for centuries.
Authentic Materials: Imagineers experienced the striking red and green stones native to the landscape firsthand.
Traditional Artistry: The team observed carvers using time-honored techniques that have been passed down through generations.
From Copán to Florida: In a breathtaking full-circle moment, these same native materials and traditional carving methods will be utilized in the construction of Tropical Americas at Animal Kingdom.
In their pursuit of authenticity, the Imagineering team traveled to Colombia to immerse themselves in the vibrant landscapes and rich traditions that inspired Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Encanto. This research serves as the foundation for the first-ever Encanto attraction in a Disney park, where guests will step into the world of the Madrigal family.
Stepping Into the World of Encanto
The upcoming attraction invites guests to join Antonio as he celebrates his unique gift—the ability to communicate with animals. The experience is designed to reflect the heart of the film: the idea that regardless of our individual abilities, we are all part of the “familia” of all living things.
Following the Filmmakers: The team retraced the steps of the original Encanto filmmakers, meeting with local communities and visiting the specific locations that shaped the Academy Award-winning film.
Designing Pueblo Esperanza: To ensure the land’s central town feels like a lived-in, breathing community, Imagineers studied:
The specific textures and materials found in traditional town plazas.
How the hues of haciendas shift and change under varying light throughout the day.
The architectural ways buildings naturally respond to the climate and rugged terrain of the region.
For Walt Disney Imagineering, these journeys are about more than just aesthetics; they are about gaining the insight and deeper understanding necessary to honor a culture. By traveling directly to the source, the team ensures that every detail brought back to Disney’s Animal Kingdom is crafted with the utmost authenticity and care.
Are you looking forward to experiencing the finished Tropical Americas?
