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Disney Teases New Character Interactions with Roaming Villains for 2026 Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party

Disney Teases New Character Interactions with Roaming Villains for Halloween Parties

New Roaming Disney Villains Officially Coming to 2026 Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party

The 2026 Halloween season at Walt Disney World is shaping up to be more “frightful” than ever. As part of today’s massive news drop for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, Disney has officially teased that the streets of Magic Kingdom will be home to more roaming villains this year.

Related – Dates and Details for 2026 Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Announced

Disney Teases New Character Interactions with Roaming Villains for Halloween Parties

Watch Your Back in the Park

In previous years, fans have occasionally spotted unannounced villains wandering through various lands, but this marks the first time Disney has formally highlighted these encounters as a part of the event’s official lineup. According to the teaser, guests are encouraged to “keep their eyes peeled” as both new and returning Disney Villains might appear while you creep through the park.

Disney Teases New Character Interactions with Roaming Villains for Halloween Parties

What to Expect

While Disney hasn’t confirmed exactly which villains will be causing mischief, this official confirmation suggests that these interactions will be more frequent and organized than in years past. Whether you are walking through Frontierland or making your way toward Fantasyland, you may want to have your camera ready for some spontaneous (and potentially spooky) character moments.

Disney Teases New Character Interactions with Roaming Villains for Halloween Parties

Planning Your Spooky Night

These roaming encounters add another layer of value to the party experience, joining the ranks of the “Boo-to-You” Parade, the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular, and the event-exclusive fireworks. With the first party kicking off on August 7th, 2026, it won’t be long before we see exactly who is out and about causing trouble!

We have partnered up with Get Away Today to be the official Disney Travel Planner here on Chip and Company. Just click this link and let them handle all of the planning for you. Did we mention it is 100% Free to use their services!

Dates and Details Announced for 2026 EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival

Dates and Details Revealed for EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival

Dates and Details Revealed for the 2026 EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival

If you’re a dedicated foodie, you’re likely already daydreaming about your next culinary adventure at Walt Disney World Resort. The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival offers nearly endless chances to sample flavors from every corner of the globe, ensuring you never have to settle for just one dish. Today, we’re thrilled to share the first batch of details to help you get ready for the 2026 event.

Related – Dates and Details for 2026 Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Announced

Dates and Details Revealed for EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival

Festival Overview

As we look toward opening day, we’re serving up the official festival dates along with a preview of the fan-favorite activities and experiences that make this an essential annual tradition. Let’s take a look at what’s on the menu!

Dates and Details Revealed for EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival

The 2026 Festival Calendar

Prepare to sip and stroll through the park, where incredible global marketplaces collide with live music, interactive activities, and so much more. This flavorful celebration of international cuisine has been a guest favorite since 1996, and 2026 promises a mix of new surprises and cherished classics. The festival is officially scheduled to run from August 27 through November 21, 2026—the perfect timeframe to enjoy the end of summer and the beginning of the fall season at Disney.

Global Marketplaces & Sneak Peeks

While EPCOT is already famous for its diverse dining, the festival brings even more delicious options to the table. While the culinary teams are still perfecting the full 2026 lineup, we have a quick preview of three returning items you won’t want to miss:

  • Street Corn-style Dumplings: Chicken dumplings served with tomatillo salsa verde and street corn salad (at Gyozas of the Galaxy).
  • Grilled Bushberry-spiced Shrimp Skewer: Served with sweet-and-sour veggies and coconut-chili sauce (at the Australia booth).
  • Kirschwasser Torte: A decadent cake with cherry-brandy buttercream and sugared almonds (at The Alps). Please note that some marketplaces may have a phased opening, so keep an eye out for the full Foodie Guide later this year!
Emiles Fromage Montage EPCOT Food and Wine

Emile’s Fromage Montage

For the cheese lovers in the crowd, we can confirm that Emile’s Fromage Montage is back! This popular food stroll encourages guests to try various cheese-inspired dishes at select booths. As you sample these savory and sweet options, you’ll collect stamps in your Festival Passport; once you’ve completed the list, a special festival-themed treat awaits you.

Remy’s Hide & Squeak

Remy’s Hide & Squeak Scavenger Hunt

Everyone’s favorite “Little Chef” is ready to explore EPCOT again! Inspired by Ratatouille, the Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak scavenger hunt is a fantastic way for families to engage with the park. Guests can purchase a themed map and stickers to track Remy’s locations throughout World Showcase. Find them all and you’ll earn a special keepsake to take home.

Disney Updates Eat to the Beat Concert Lineup For EPCOT Food & Wine Festival

Eat to the Beat Concert Series

Live music takes center stage at the America Gardens Theatre with the return of the Eat to the Beat Concert Series. This high-energy performance lineup features a curated mix of artists and genres for every musical taste. Multiple shows are held daily, making it easy to fit a performance into your park schedule. Admission to the concerts is included with your park entry, and dining packages—which offer guaranteed seating—will be available for booking at a later date.

CommuniCore Hall Transforms to Festival Center for EPCOT Food & Wine Festival 1

Endless Fun at EPCOT

Beyond the sipping and snacking, there is so much more to experience. You can take a trip across the galaxy with the Guardians, meet your favorite Disney characters, or enjoy the high-energy ¡Celebración Encanto! sing-along at CommuniCore Plaza. The 2026 festival season is shaping up to be truly unforgettable!

Sneak Peek at Food & Merch Coming to 2026 Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party

Sneak Peek at Food & Merch Coming to Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party

First Look at Exclusive Food and Merch for the 2026 Mickeys Not So Scary Halloween Party

On the heels of the announcement this morning of the dates and details of the 2026 Mickeys Not So Scary Halloween Party.

The 2026 Halloween season is officially on the horizon, and Disney has just shared a “shriek peek” at the exclusive merchandise and specialty treats coming to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. From spooky spirit jerseys to savory “Bowl of Bones,” here is your first look at what you’ll be able to find in the Magic Kingdom this fall.

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Event-Exclusive Merchandise

If you’re looking to bring a piece of the party home, this year’s merchandise lineup is already shaping up to be a graveyard smash. Guests can expect a wide range of limited-edition items, including:

  • Themed Apparel: Including the highly anticipated 2026 party spirit jersey and t-shirts.
  • Accessories & Pins: Perfect for collectors looking for rare Halloween finds.
  • Home Décor & Drinkware: To keep the spooky vibes alive long after your vacation.
  • Annual Passholder Exclusives: Specially designed items only for our AP family. Please note that merchandise is available while supplies last, so be sure to shop early in the evening!
Greenshot

Specialty Sips and Bites

What is a Halloween party without some “wicked” treats? This year, Disney is leaning into some creative and returning favorites that we can’t wait to try. Some of the highlights from the 2026 menu include:

  • Minnie Witch Hat: A sweet and stylish treat found at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café.
  • Bowl of Bones: A savory fan-favorite returning to The Friar’s Nook (perfect for fueling your night!).
  • Buzzard Wings: A spicy and savory bite over at Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn & Café.
Sneak Peek at Food & Merch Coming to Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party

Quick-Service Haunted Haunts

You won’t have to go far to find a bite to eat. Most of your favorite Magic Kingdom locations will remain open throughout the party, serving up both their familiar menus and event-exclusive fare. Keep an eye on locations like Casey’s Corner, Sleepy Hollow, Storybook Treats, and the Main Street Bakery for seasonal surprises!

Maleficent

Enhance Your Night with Table-Service Dining

For those looking for a more formal seat at the table, advance reservations are highly recommended for the following locations:

  • Be Our Guest Restaurant & Cinderella’s Royal Table: Both will serve party-exclusive menu items starting at 4:00 PM on event nights.
  • The Plaza Restaurant: Offering a selection of Halloween-themed items throughout the day and evening.
  • The Beak & Barrel: This newer swashbuckling tavern in Adventureland will be serving up “seaworthy” sips and snacks for guests of all ages!
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Fireworks Dessert Parties

For the ultimate “treat-yourself” experience, don’t forget to book a spot at a Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular Dessert Party. You can choose between seating at Tomorrowland Terrace or the Plaza Garden Viewing area. Both offer a spread of delicious desserts and a prime view of Jack Skellington’s incredible fireworks show.

Dates and Details for 2026 Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Announced

Dates and Details for Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party Announced

2026 Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Dates and Details

The Spooky Season is Officially Calling! Get ready to grab your costumes and head to the Magic Kingdom! Disney has officially revealed the dates and details for the 2026 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. This fan-favorite, separate-ticket event is returning to bring “frightful fun” to guests of all ages on select nights this fall.

Related – Save Big on Disney Parks with Get Away Today!

Mickeys Not So Scary Halloween Party

2026 Event Dates

This year, the party will kick off on August 7th and run through October 31st. As always, the event takes place after regular park hours, allowing guests to enjoy the Magic Kingdom with shorter wait times and exclusive seasonal entertainment.

Planning Tip: To help conjure your fiendish pursuits, note that in August, party dates occur on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. This is also true for September with the addition of one Thursday date on September 24. In October, ghouls can descend upon Magic Kingdom every Thursday; most Fridays, Sundays, most Tuesdays; and Saturday on Halloween.

Dates and Details for Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party Announced

Ticket Pricing and On-Sale Dates

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party ticket prices vary per date and will be available for purchase starting on May 5 for guests staying at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels, Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels, and Shades of Green.

Tickets will be available starting on May 12 for all other guests. Party dates often sell out, so our best tip is to plan early and purchase tickets in advance for your desired party date.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Party Ticket discounts are once again available for Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members. To purchase tickets, visit Disneyworld.com/Halloween or call the Disney Reservation Center at 407-934-7639.

Event tickets are $119 to $229 per ticket, plus tax (prices vary by event date).

Planning Tip: Mickey’s Not-So-Scary guests can enter Magic Kingdom as early as 4:00 PM before the party kicks off at 7:00 PM. This means guests have up to 8 hours to celebrate all across the park.

Dates and Details for Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party Announced

Frightful Entertainment and Guest Favorites

Many of the classic staples that make this party a “must-do” are officially returning for 2026. Guests can look forward to:

  • Mickey’s “Boo-To-You” Halloween Parade: Featuring the Headless Horseman and your favorite Disney characters in their best costumes.
  • Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular: The incredible nighttime fireworks show hosted by Jack Skellington.
  • Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular: The Sanderson Sisters are back on the castle stage to stir up some trouble!
  • Trick-or-Treating: Plenty of candy stations will be located throughout the park for guests to collect treats all night long.
Dates and Details for Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party Announced

New and Returning Surprises

Beyond the classic favorites, Disney has hinted at several new character meet-and-greets and themed “overlays” for popular attractions. Whether you are there for the rare villain appearances or the specialty seasonal snacks, there is something for every ghost and ghoul in the family.


Guests can meet Sally and Jack Skellington at Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party at one of the many character stops that feature exclusive meet-and-greet opportunities. At Town Square Theater, Mickey and Minnie will greet guests together in their Halloween costumes. Pooh will be in his bumblebee costume, and you may spot festive royal couples ready to say hello, like Ariel and Eric and Aladdin and Jasmine.

Stay tuned for our complete guide on which characters you can meet — and who will be in special festive attire.

Dates and Details for Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party Announced

Planning Your Visit

Remember that Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is a limited-capacity event and nights (especially Halloween night) frequently sell out months in advance. We recommend securing your tickets as early as possible to ensure you don’t miss out on the most “spooktacular” event of the year! We have partnered up with Get Away Today to be the official Disney Travel Planner here on Chip and Company. Just click this link and let them handle all of the planning for you. Did we mention it is 100% Free to use their services!

New Butterbeer Inspired Treats Arriving at Cinnabon for a Limited Time

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Cinnabon Debuts Limited-Edition Butterbeer Treats

The wizarding world is officially meeting the bakery world! Cinnabon has announced a magical partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products to celebrate Butterbeer Season. For a very limited time, fans won’t need to visit Hogsmeade to get their fix—they can just head to their local mall.

Cinnabon is making history as the first national restaurant brand in the U.S. to join the Butterbeer Season festivities, and they are doing it with two brand-new, mouthwatering menu items.

Related – Universal Celebrates Butterbeer Season in Wizarding World

butterbeer

Starting May 4, 2026, through May 17, 2026, you can find these “bewitching” treats at participating Cinnabon locations:

  • Butterbeer-flavored Classic Roll: The world-famous Cinnabon Classic Roll gets a wizarding upgrade! This legendary cinnamon roll is topped with a special Butterbeer-infused frosting, blending the cozy spices of Cinnabon with the nostalgic, butterscotch-like flavor of the iconic drink.
  • Butterbeer-flavored Chillatta: Looking for something cool and creamy? This blended beverage combines the signature Butterbeer flavor with smooth vanilla goodness for the ultimate refreshing treat.
prizes

Cinnabon is leaning into the Harry Potter lore with some incredible offers for their Rewards members. If you’re a fan, you’ll want to have your app ready on May 4th:

  • The “Platform 934” Discount: The first 934 guests to enter the code “Platform934” into the Cinnabon app will unlock an offer for $2 off a Butterbeer Bon.
  • Magic Sweepstakes: 50 lucky loyalty members who sign up through the official landing page during the promotion window will win an exclusive Harry Potter x Cinnabon shirt.
  • The Grand Prize: Ten lucky winners will win Free Classic Rolls for a Year!
cinnabon

“By pairing our signature cinnamon rolls with the nostalgic flavors of Butterbeer, we’re giving fans a completely new way to experience the iconic flavor,” says Urvi Patel, Chief Brand Officer at Cinnabon.

These treats are as elusive as a Golden Snitch! They will only be available until May 17th (or while supplies last), so you’ll want to move fast. Whether you’re a Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff, or Ravenclaw, this is one flavor crossover you won’t want to miss. Head to your nearest Cinnabon starting May 4th to experience the magic for yourself!

Are you planning to try the new Butterbeer Roll or the Chillatta first?

Disney and Vogue are Teaming Up to Give Mickey Mouse a High Fashion Makeover

mickey vogue

Disney and Vogue to Debut High-Fashion Mickey

In anticipation of Mickey Mouse’s centennial, Disney and Vogue have launched a multi-year creative alliance that reimagines the icon through the eyes of fashion’s most visionary designers. This collaboration grants creators exclusive access to the Disney archives, inviting them to draw from decades of vintage silhouettes and classic storytelling. The result is a series of contemporary reinterpretations that blend Mickey’s timeless heritage with modern, high-fashion sensibilities.

vogue

Vogue’s Mark Holgate curated a roster of designers defined by their boundary-pushing aesthetics and genuine connection to the Disney legacy. Reflecting on the project, Holgate noted that pairing a global icon like Mickey Mouse with diverse international talent serves as a powerful reminder that “creativity is always at its best when there’s an openness to reimagining what we all already know and love.”

Leading the charge is Alexandre Mattiussi, founder of Ami Paris, whose collection debuts in early 2027. For Mattiussi, the project is a full-circle moment: “Working with Disney feels both surreal and deeply personal,” he shared, noting that Disney’s storytelling shaped his creative DNA. Through the lens of Ami Paris, Mattiussi aims to blend Mickey’s universal symbolism with his own signature “human warmth” and modern Parisian style, celebrating a character that transcends both borders and generations.

partnership

Launching the countdown to Mickey Mouse’s 100th anniversary, this partnership honors both a storied legacy and a bold creative future. It highlights Disney’s dedication to evolving its most legendary icon through the lens of high fashion. A century since his debut, Mickey remains a permanent fixture in pop culture, maintaining a perfect equilibrium between heritage and reinvention that feels as fresh on the runway as it does on the street.

“This collaboration celebrates Mickey Mouse as a perennial style icon,” says Lisa Baldzicki, President of Disney Consumer Products. “By partnering with Vogue, we are honoring his status as a global symbol while inviting fresh, fashion-forward interpretations that reflect his ongoing influence on world-class creativity.”

vogue

This partnership expands on Disney’s recent appearance at Vogue World: Hollywood, an event that showcased the brand’s deep-rooted influence on cinema and style. That star-studded runway serves as the blueprint for the creative synergy now unfolding between these two powerhouses. For decades, Disney and Vogue have acted as cultural architects, using storytelling and artistry to captivate a global audience. Together, they are positioning Mickey Mouse not just as a character, but as a timeless pioneer of self-expression whose fashion legacy continues to dominate the world stage.

disney vogue

This multi-year initiative will see Disney working hand-in-hand with a diverse roster of designers to translate their unique perspectives into the world of Mickey & Friends. The collaboration will come to life through exclusive collection drops and high-impact cultural moments, inviting audiences to explore Mickey’s “creative futurism” through a blend of products, immersive experiences, and community engagement. Throughout this journey, Vogue will act as a creative consultant, steering the cultural dialogue and spotlighting each designer’s visionary work.

To mark the start of this partnership, Disney and Vogue hosted an intimate launch reception on April 23 at Canal in London’s Notting Hill.

New Aerial Photos Show Massive Construction Progress in Monstropolis at Hollywood Studios

New Aerial Photos Show Massive Construction Progress in Monstropolis at Hollywood Studios

Monstropolis Construction Levels Up at Hollywood Studios with Major Coaster Progress

It’s scream-come-true progress over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios as new aerial photos from @bioreconstruct reveal some monster-sized construction milestones for the upcoming Monstropolis land.

Related: New Aerial Photos Show Construction Progress at Disney Lakeshore Lodge

New Aerial Photos Show Massive Construction Progress in Monstropolis at Hollywood Studios

The former Muppets Courtyard is now deep into its transformation, with the area essentially wiped clean and prepped for its new identity. The exterior of the MuppetVision 3D theater is currently wrapped in scrim and scaffolding, while nearby buildings like the old Company 1 Studio Store have been stripped down to a neutral gray, ready for their next act in the Monsters, Inc. universe.

But the real headline-grabber? The upcoming door coaster is officially rising from the ground.

Support columns are now being installed across the coaster site, marking a major shift from groundwork to vertical construction. Just days ago, these columns were staged nearby, and now they’re being placed into position like the skeletal frame of something big… and fast.

Across the site, the groundwork tells its own story. Sections of conduit and rebar grids are still visible, while other areas have already been paved over, showing a clear pattern of progress as crews build and seal each section step by step. Based on the latest aerials, foundational work for the coaster appears to be more than halfway complete.

And this isn’t a small footprint either. The new attraction stretches into what was once a backstage Cast Member parking lot, giving Disney plenty of space to bring Monstropolis to life in a big way. When complete, this will be Disney’s first suspended coaster and its first vertical lift coaster… meaning this ride is about to open some doors in a whole new way.

Related: Disney World Cast Member Celebrates 40 Years of Gardening Excellence at EPCOT

New Aerial Photos Show Massive Construction Progress in Monstropolis at Hollywood Studios

Elsewhere in the land, the ground near MuppetVision 3D has been leveled, likely setting the stage for new landscaping that will help tie the area together. Concept art suggests this space will feature a row of trees, adding a bit of “monster metropolis meets city park” energy to the environment.

We’re also starting to see the future dining lineup take shape. Mama Melrose’s is set to transform into Harryhausen’s, a nod to the iconic sushi restaurant from Monsters, Inc., while PizzeRizzo is expected to evolve into a new quick-service location. As for the MuppetVision 3D theater itself, Disney hasn’t announced its long-term plans just yet.

With steel rising, foundations setting, and facades getting their monster makeover, Monstropolis is officially moving from concept art into concrete reality. And if this pace keeps up, we may be hearing doors whoosh open sooner than we think.

New Aerial Photos Show Construction Progress at Disney Lakeshore Lodge

New Aerial Photos Show Construction Progress at Disney Lakeshore Lodge

Lazy River Loop Completed at Disney Lakeshore Lodge as Construction Surges Toward 2027 Opening

Things are flowing nicely over at Disney’s newest resort project, as construction crews have officially completed the full loop of the lazy river at Disney Lakeshore Lodge… and yes, it’s already shaping up to be the chillest spot on property.

Related: New Wall Supports Spotted Dividing Big Thunder Mountain and Piston Peak National Park

New Aerial Photos Show Construction Progress at Disney Lakeshore Lodge

New aerial photos from X user @bioreconstruct reveal that concrete has now been poured for the entire lazy river, connecting what was previously just a half-finished stretch into one continuous loop. Just last month, only part of the river had taken shape, but now the full winding path is clearly visible, giving us our best look yet at what will soon be a float-worthy oasis.

Right next door, the main pool area is also coming together, with concrete already in place. Another nearby pool, likely a quieter retreat tucked away from the main action, is also under construction, offering future guests multiple ways to soak up the laid-back lakeside vibes.

Set along the shores of Bay Lake, this new resort is rising on the former site of River Country, nestled between Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground and Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. When it opens in summer 2027, Lakeshore Lodge is expected to feature 967 rooms, including a mix of studios, suites, and brand-new waterfront “Lake Houses.”

Related: Disney World Cast Member Celebrates 40 Years of Gardening Excellence at EPCOT

New Aerial Photos Show Construction Progress at Disney Lakeshore Lodge

The design leans heavily into nature-inspired storytelling, blending rustic charm with Disney magic. And if that sounds familiar, it should. The project builds on the original Reflections – A Disney Lakeside Lodge concept, breathing new life into a long-planned vision for this scenic corner of Walt Disney World.

Guests staying here can expect stunning views of Bay Lake by day and Magic Kingdom fireworks lighting up the sky at night. Add in that now fully formed lazy river, and this resort is already floating toward must-stay status.

Construction is still moving at a steady pace, but with major structural elements like the lazy river now complete, the picture is becoming clearer. This lakeside escape is less “blue sky Imagineering” and more “pack your swimsuit” with every passing update.

New Wall Supports Spotted Dividing Big Thunder Mountain and Piston Peak National Park

New Wall Supports Spotted Dividing Big Thunder Mountain and Piston Peak National Park

Walls Rise as Magic Kingdom Expansion Charges Ahead Near Big Thunder Mountain

If you’ve been wandering through Magic Kingdom lately and thought, “That’s a whole lotta wall,” you’re not wrong. Construction is kicking into high gear as crews continue transforming Frontierland’s edges into the future home of Piston Peak National Park and the highly anticipated Villains Land.

Related: Disney World Unveils Newly Rethemed Wish Lounge at Magic Kingdom

New Wall Supports Spotted Dividing Big Thunder Mountain and Piston Peak National Park

The biggest visual change this week? Fresh concrete has officially filled in sections of a growing retaining wall near Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. What was recently just a skeletal rebar frame is now a solid structure, with crews actively working to reinforce additional sections. The tallest portion of the wall closest to Big Thunder is nearly complete, hinting at a major permanent boundary taking shape.

And then there are the steel supports. Rising just beyond the scrim-lined fencing near the Big Thunder exit, these towering beams look like the early bones of a long-term divider that will separate Frontierland from Piston Peak and the future Villains Land expansion. Similar supports are popping up on the opposite side of the mountain as well, creating a clear footprint of what’s to come.

Meanwhile, there’s fresh excavation happening nearby, adding even more fuel to the “this is happening fast” fire. It’s not just vertical progress, either. Work continues all around the area as Imagineering reshapes this corner of the park into something entirely new.

Over at Big Thunder itself, the attraction is just about ready to roll again, with reopening expected in a little over a week. Final touch-ups are underway, including work on the iconic entrance sign. Consider it a quick polish before the Wildest Ride in the Wilderness welcomes guests back into the chaos.

Related: Disney World Cast Member Celebrates 40 Years of Gardening Excellence at EPCOT

New Wall Supports Spotted Dividing Big Thunder Mountain and Piston Peak National Park

Elsewhere in Frontierland, construction walls are spreading like tumbleweeds in a windstorm. Near Big Al and the Country Bear Musical Jamboree, walls have expanded to cover more ground, and a few familiar spots are marked for demolition. Both a merchandise kiosk and the Westward Ho food kiosk are on the chopping block, clearing space for future updates.

Even the landscaping isn’t safe from the overhaul. Sections of plants have been removed, with scrim covering the ground where new work is likely about to begin. The boardwalk will remain, though it’s expected to get a refresh as construction continues.

All signs point to a massive transformation underway, with each new wall and support beam acting like puzzle pieces snapping into place. Frontierland is slowly but surely making room for its next chapter… and it’s shaping up to be a wild one.

Court Documents Indicate Disney Delayed Major Magic Kingdom Expansion Amid DeSantis Dispute

Court Documents Indicate Disney Delayed Major Magic Kingdom Expansion Amid DeSantis Dispute

Court Records Reveal Disney Hit Pause on Massive Magic Kingdom Expansion Amid Political Feud

In a plot twist worthy of a behind-the-scenes Imagineering documentary, newly surfaced court records reveal that The Walt Disney Company quietly pressed pause on what would become the largest expansion in Magic Kingdom history during the height of its clash with Florida leadership. And yes… this is the same expansion that would later bring us the long-rumored Villains Land.

Related: Closer Look at the Tropical Americas Construction in Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Court Documents Indicate Disney Delayed Major Magic Kingdom Expansion Amid DeSantis Dispute
photo by bioreconstruct on X

According to a deep dive into hundreds of pages of depositions, Disney leadership grew increasingly cautious as control of the former Reedy Creek Improvement District shifted to a board appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis. The concern? Whether critical approvals, including wetland mitigation credits, would actually move forward. When billions are on the line, even Disney prefers not to roll the dice like it’s a Main Street carnival game.

Testimony from Disney’s Master Planning Executive made it clear that uncertainty was the ultimate dealbreaker at the time. The expansion, which had not yet been publicly announced, was essentially put on ice while the company assessed whether it could confidently move forward under the new governing structure.

Behind the curtain, Disney was also playing a strategic legal game. The company reportedly worked with a law firm connected to the DeSantis administration to draft a development agreement that would lock in future expansion rights before the board transition. That process moved quickly and quietly, with some key players intentionally distancing themselves from documentation to avoid political blowback.

Meanwhile, the outgoing board approved the agreement just before the new leadership stepped in, leaving incoming members less than thrilled. One board chair famously compared the move to something straight out of a Scrooge McDuck caper, which honestly feels pretty on-brand for Disney-level drama.

Related: Disney World Cast Member Celebrates 40 Years of Gardening Excellence at EPCOT

Court Documents Indicate Disney Delayed Major Magic Kingdom Expansion Amid DeSantis Dispute Court Documents Indicate Disney Delayed Major Magic Kingdom Expansion Amid DeSantis Dispute

The ripple effects of the feud are still visible across Walt Disney World today. One major infrastructure project, the World Drive Phase III expansion near the Grand Floridian and Polynesian, stalled when funding bonds were not approved. As of now, construction is still ongoing, leaving a very real reminder that even in the Most Magical Place on Earth, politics can slow things down.

The good news? The feud has since cooled. Disney and the now-renamed Central Florida Tourism Oversight District have reached a settlement, and the company says development is now moving “full speed ahead.” With all original board appointees replaced and DeSantis nearing the end of his term, the path appears clearer for those long-awaited expansions to finally come to life.

So if you’ve been wondering why Villains Land took a little longer to step out of the shadows… turns out the real story had a few more twists than a Haunted Mansion hallway.

New Disney Sweepstakes Offers a Chance to Win a Magical VIP Weekend While Supporting Make A Wish

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Enter the Newest Sweepstakes Supporting Make-A-Wish!

Support a wonderful cause and treat yourself to some magic in the process. In honor of Make-A-Wish, a new Disney VIP sweepstakes has officially kicked off today, April 27. Entries are open through November 15, 2026, giving you plenty of time to support the charity and put yourself in the running for a once-in-a-lifetime VIP experience!

Related – Disney Celebrates Decades of Partnership with Make A Wish and Childrens Hospitals

week of wishes

The sweepstakes was announced today as part of the “Disney Week of Wishes” launch. This is an annual celebration of its longstanding relationship with Make-A-Wish that harnesses the full power of Disney’s stories, characters, and experiences across the company to grant life-changing wishes for children around the globe.

sweepstakes

The winner will be drawn on November 16 and will win:

  • Round-trip airfare for up to four guests
  • Up to four 2-Day Disneyland Resort Park Hopper Tickets
  • A 2-night stay in The Pirates of the Caribbean Suite at the Disneyland Hotel for up to four guests
  • An official VIP tour of the Disneyland Resort with a private tour guide, including a special visit to Walt’s Apartment for up to four guests
  • Dinner for four at Napa Rose at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
  • Four tickets to the global premiere of Marvel Studios: Avengers: Doomsday with red carpet access
  • Private glam squad services for up to four guests before the premiere
  • Private ground transportation

If you’d like to enter the sweepstakes, you can do so here.

Relive the Magic of 1995 with New Toy Story Apparel

Toy Story Apparel

Relive the Magic of 1995 with New Toy Story Apparel

It feels like just yesterday we were sitting on the living room floor, clutching our pull-string sheriffs and dreaming of Pizza Planet. While we might be a little taller now, the Disney Store is making sure we never actually have to grow up. Their latest Toy Story apparel drop is a total blast from the past, blending that 1995 magic with a rugged, Woody’s Roundup aesthetic that’ll have you feeling like the rootinest, tootinest adult in the room.

Related – Hey Howdy Hey! Your Ultimate Guide to the Toy Story 5 Merch Roundup Is Here

The Cowboy Classics

If you’ve still got a soft spot for the gang from the TV show within the movie, the Toy Story Denim Vest ($69.99) is your new go-to. It features Woody and Jessie and sports some serious fringed detailing that’s perfect for a Woody’s roundup watch party or just looking effortlessly cool at the parks.

To keep the western vibes going, there’s a Toy Story Button Down ($64.99) and a matching Boxy Fit V-Neck Tee ($34.99). Both feature an all-over print of the whole crew, including Bullseye, Rex, and even that old rascal Stinky Pete. Trust us, you’ll look way cooler than a cactus.

Toy Story Apparel

For the true vintage collectors at heart, the Woody and Bullseye Ringer T-Shirt ($36.99) is the standout piece. It’s styled like a retro souvenir tee from the “Dry Gulch Rodeo,” giving off those authentic county fair vibes we all remember from the films. It’s a rodeo with the best, and honestly, wearing it feels like finding a hidden gem in Al’s Toy Barn.

To Infinity and the Outfield

Not a fan of the dusty trails? No worries, Buzz Lightyear has you covered for the space race. The Buzz Lightyear Baseball Jersey ($74.99) is a total home run for anyone who prefers a jetpack to a lasso. This isn’t just a basic shirt; it’s an authentic sporting design with perforated fabric and contrast trim inspired by the legendary Space Ranger uniform.

The best part? The back features Buzz’s name in appliqué lettering above the #95, a subtle and sweet nod to the year the original movie changed our lives forever. Whether you’re heading to the ballpark or just heading to infinity and beyond, this jersey is the ultimate way to suit up.

Credit: Disney Store