New Peppermint Brownie Treat from Creature Comforts in Disney’s Animal Kingdom
If you’re looking for a festive and delicious snack to fuel your wild adventure, look no further than Creature Comforts (the park’s Starbucks location) in Disney’s Animal Kingdom! We just tried the new Peppermint Ganache Brownie, and it is absolutely adorable and worth a stop.
This seasonal delight starts with a rich, fudge brownie base—the perfect dense and chocolatey foundation. It’s then crowned with a generous swirl of peppermint-white chocolate ganache that is incredibly smooth and definitely rich! For a final holiday touch, the top is dusted with crunchy peppermint pieces that add a nice textural contrast.
The peppermint flavor is present but pleasantly light and not overpowering, making it a great option even for those who might be hesitant about strong mint flavors. The white chocolate ganache is the dominant flavor, which is decadent and creamy.
Where to Find It: Creature Comforts (Starbucks), Disney’s Animal Kingdom
We loved the richness and the beautiful presentation! Our only minor critique is that we wished for just a little more peppermint punch in the ganache to make it a true five-star holiday knockout. If you prefer a subtler hint of mint with a strong, rich chocolate backbone, this is the treat for you!
New Disney World Black Base for Create Your Own Headband!
Remember those adorable, customizable headbands that hit Walt Disney World last year? The ones where you could choose your base and then totally load it up with mini plush character accessories? Well, get ready for an upgrade because there’s a new black Disney World create your own headband base in town, and it’s looking seriously chic!
The original headband base had a bit of a contrasting vibe, black on the outside, but with a blue velour lining. Cute, sure, but maybe not the sleekest foundation for your epic character collection. Say goodbye to that flash of blue because the new version is all black, all the time! It’s a clean, monochromatic look that makes your chosen plushies really pop. Plus, there’s a little bit of extra magic: the Walt Disney World wordmark is now embroidered in crisp white right on one side. It’s subtle, stylish, and a great way to rep your favorite vacation spot. We spotted this new, dark beauty over at Star Traders in Magic Kingdom, so keep your eyes peeled!
If you haven’t jumped on the “Create Your Own Headband” trend yet, here’s the lowdown: you grab the base, which will only set you back a reasonable $9.99, and then you go wild picking out the mini plush pals you want. Each character accessory attaches easily with a Velcro strap on the back, so you can mix, match, and swap them out depending on your mood or outfit! At $11.99 per plush, you can build a small, personalized masterpiece for a fun price, especially compared to some of the fancier, pre-made ears around the parks. This new all-black base is the perfect way to start building your own, unique Disney style!
Disney Extends Jimmy Kimmel’s Contract Through 2027
The host of ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel Live! has finalized a new agreement with Disney, securing the show’s presence on the network until 2027, according to sources close to the negotiations.
Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel is staying with ABC, according to a Variety report. The comedy veteran has reportedly signed an extension deal with Disney that secures his tenure hosting Jimmy Kimmel Live! until sometime in 2027, pushing his previous contract expiration date (believed to be 2026) further out.
Despite recent challenges, Jimmy Kimmel remains a cornerstone of ABC’s programming. Having joined the network in 2003, Kimmel has secured his place as one of network television’s longest-running late-night hosts, a commitment now solidified through a newly renewed deal with Disney lasting until 2027.
This renewal comes months after the host faced controversy and a brief “indefinite preemption” on over 30 Sinclair-owned ABC stations following comments made on his show in September 2025. Interestingly, the deal was reportedly signed last summer, before the drama occurred, and its public announcement was delayed out of respect for the news of Stephen Colbert’s show ending in May 2026.
Lindsay Lohan Shares Fun Photos Meeting Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde
Lindsay Lohan brought her family to Walt Disney World for a recent visit, which included some special character encounters. She was spotted at Disney’s Animal Kingdom enjoying the holiday cheer and meeting up with Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde.
Lohan documented her trip on Instagram, captioning her vacation photos with “Fairytales, family, and a touch of #zootopia magic.” This character meeting was timely, as the Nick and Judy meet-and-greet debuted just this November with the launch of Zootopia: Better Zoogether at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Beyond the Zootopia meet-and-greet, Lohan’s visit included riding TRON Lightcycle Run (complete with its TRON: Ares overlay) and experiencing the classic Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster just before its upcoming Muppet-themed renovation.
Lindsay Lohan is currently starring alongside Jamie Lee Curtis in the highly anticipated Disney sequel, Freakier Friday, reprising her role from the 2003 hit Freaky Friday. Her previous work with Disney includes beloved titles such as The Parent Trap, Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen, and Herbie: Fully Loaded.
Universal Orlando Hotels Unwrap Festive Christmas Eve & Christmas Day Dining for 2025
Universal Orlando’s hotels are decking the halls, the buffets, and the prix fixe menus this holiday season with an impressive lineup of Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dining offerings across the entire resort. From elegant chef-driven feasts at the all-new Universal Helios Grand Hotel to tropical holiday buffets at Sapphire Falls, guests will find plenty of merry, bright, and downright delicious ways to celebrate December 24 and 25.
At Universal Helios Grand Hotel, Flora Taverna is hosting not one but three holiday dining events. Christmas Eve brings a five-course prix fixe menu featuring Ora King salmon, grilled beef tenderloin, or braised lamb shank, followed by Christmas Morning Brunch packed with slow-roasted ribeye, made-to-order omelets, artisanal pastries, and dessert favorites like eggnog panna cotta and a chocolate yule log. Christmas Night returns to a five-course feast including artisanal focaccia, your pick of the main entrées, and a trio of dreamy desserts ranging from honey lavender panna cotta to white chocolate cranberry cheesecake.
Over at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Trattoria del Porto will host a lavish Christmas Day buffet filled with beef rib roast, pineapple-glazed ham, seafood classics, and live music to set the holiday mood. Mama Della’s Ristorante invites families to gather for a three-course Italian-style prix fixe dinner with options like gamberi scampi, zuppa di pesce, veal osso bucco, and a lemon mascarpone cheesecake finale.
Loews Royal Pacific Resort is offering a Christmas Day buffet at Islands Dining Room, where traditional holiday dishes meet South Seas inspiration. Family entertainment including a ukulele player, balloon artist, and hula dancer keeps the festive spirit lively. Meanwhile, at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, Amatista Cookhouse brings a tropical twist with Caribbean-inspired cuisine, a churrasco display, ceviche, decadent sides, and steel drum music. Kids will love the face painter and balloon artist between bites.
Hard Rock Hotel is turning up the volume with a classic Christmas Day brunch at The Kitchen, where carved turkey, honey baked ham, seafood stations, and show-stopping desserts are served with live entertainment to amp up the atmosphere. Guests at the value and prime value resorts aren’t left out either. Stella Nova and Terra Luna are dishing up honey and tangerine-glazed ham or roasted turkey breast meals at their cafés, while Cabana Bay Beach Resort, Aventura Hotel, Surfside Inn and Suites, and Dockside Inn and Suites will all offer special holiday plates featuring turkey or ham with seasonal sides.
As a little festive bonus, Loews Portofino Bay, Royal Pacific, Sapphire Falls, and Universal Helios Grand guests can enjoy a special Cozy Earth discount of 40 percent off sitewide through December 31. Holiday dining paired with luxury pajamas? Now that’s a Christmas treat.
Universal Orlando has created a menu lineup full of festive flavors, elegant touches, family-friendly fun, and unique holiday vibes across each hotel. Whether you’re craving a refined prix fixe dinner, a beachy Caribbean buffet, or just the comfort of holiday favorites, there’s a seat at the table waiting for you.
Kali River Rapids Sets Mid-December Reopening at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Guests heading to Disney’s Animal Kingdom this holiday season can officially add one of the park’s splashiest adventures back to their must-do list. Kali River Rapids is set to reopen on December 12, 2025, following its annual refurbishment. The attraction has been closed since October 6 as part of its routine multi-week upkeep, though this year’s closure arrived earlier than usual to fit into the park’s shifting refurbishment priorities.
In previous years, Kali typically went down in January and returned in late February or early spring. Disney bumped this year’s work forward to ensure the raft ride is back online before the upcoming February 2, 2026 closure of DINOSAUR and the rest of DinoLand U.S.A., which will be transforming into the Tropical Americas project. With that entire corner of the park soon behind construction walls, keeping Kali available is a smart move to maintain capacity and preserve one of Animal Kingdom’s few true family thrill options.
Located in the Asia section of the park, Kali River Rapids takes guests through lush forest scenery, logging sites, and churning whitewater moments, ending with the classic “who’s going to get absolutely soaked?” finale that has made it a hot-weather favorite for years. With the December 12 reopening date, the attraction will be ready just in time for the holiday crowds, even if riders may want to pack an extra layer for those cooler Florida winter days.
Hostile Takeover Bid Aims to Stop Netflix’s Warner Bros. Deal Amid DC Theme Park Shake-Up
Hollywood just added another wild twist to an already blockbuster-sized saga, and the plot thickens faster than you can say “extended universe.” Paramount Skydance has officially launched a hostile takeover bid for all of Warner Bros. Discovery, aiming to derail Netflix’s recently announced deal to buy the studio and streaming assets. Instead of watching Netflix’s move from the balcony, Paramount charged straight onto the stage with a $74.4 billion all-cash offer, a staggering $18 billion more than Netflix’s bid.
Netflix’s original agreement targeted only the Warner Bros. studio and HBO Max operations, but Paramount wants the entire enchanted castle, encompassing Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group and DC Studios, as well as cable heavyweights like CNN, TNT Sports, and Discovery. In its pitch to shareholders, Paramount emphasized that its $30-per-share all-cash proposal is clearer, richer, and far less volatile than Netflix’s mix of cash and stock.
This dramatic bidding war comes at a moment when Warner Bros. is already making headlines for an entirely different reason: its theme park rights to the DC Universe. Recent reporting suggests the company has been shopping those rights to outside operators, and rumors are flying that Universal, already home to some of the biggest franchises in Orlando, is very interested in bringing Batman, Superman, and the Justice League into the Universal Orlando Resort family. If that unfolds, it could mean Gotham, Metropolis, or even Themyscira joining the neighborhood near Epic Universe. With Warner potentially shifting ownership and IP strategies, every move in this corporate chess match could ripple through theme parks as well as streaming libraries.
Warner had previously announced plans to split into two entities by late 2026: one housing streaming and studios like HBO, HBO Max, DC Studios, and Warner Bros. Television, and another called Discovery Global that would include cable networks like CNN, Discovery+, TNT Sports, and Bleacher Report. Netflix’s deal had already raised eyebrows because it would consolidate massive franchises like Game of Thrones, The Sopranos, The Wizard of Oz, and the full DC catalog under one streamer. Now Paramount has entered the arena, and suddenly the battle for Warner Bros. is a three-act epic.
Washington is watching, too. President Donald Trump has already said the Netflix arrangement “could be a problem,” and the Senate is preparing for an antitrust hearing. With Paramount upping the stakes and DC’s theme park future hanging in the balance, this story is shaping up to be one of the most consequential Hollywood showdowns in decades. And like any good franchise cliffhanger, the next chapter is guaranteed to bring even more twists.
Porto’s Bakery Reveals Exciting Downtown Disney Concept Art
The long wait is getting shorter! Construction is finally underway for the highly anticipated Porto’s Bakery in the Downtown Disney District, and to fuel the excitement, brand new concept art has just been revealed!
Construction is confirmed to be underway via collaborative Instagram posts from Porto’s Bakery, Downtown Disney, and Disney Eats. While one piece of concept art was previously known, a newly revealed second photo offers an exciting new angle of the building, clearly showcasing the extensive outdoor patio space on both the ground and second floors.
The design details include the distinctive white “Porto’s” lettering featured on the building itself and on a large awning intended to shade part of the outdoor seating area. Notably, trees will be integrated into the middle of the seating space, strategically planted between the awning and the main building to enhance the atmosphere.
First announced in 2022, the arrival of Porto’s Bakery at the Downtown Disney District has been highly anticipated, with long periods of silence causing many to fear the project was scrapped—until the bakery confirmed its commitment last year. The excitement is understandable: Porto’s, founded by Rosa Porto and her family, is a Southern California staple known for its unique Cuban treats like signature cheese rolls, empanadas, and cakes. Though an initial 2025 opening was mentioned, the date has been delayed as construction continues.
The Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort is currently undergoing a multi-year refurbishment, with several major projects now advancing. Construction is underway on a permanent Earl of Sandwich location, which will feature a quick-service area on the ground floor and a new table-service restaurant upstairs. This development accompanies a host of other changes, including lululemon replacing the former ESPN Zone, and recent announcements confirming additions like Nectar Life, Bopo Go!, and Arthur & Sons steakhouse (replacing the former Tortilla Jo’s and Taqueria space).
New Disney Harveys Tote Bags Dropped at the Disney Store
Get ready to buckle up, because the Disney Store just dropped two absolutely must-have Disney Harveys Tote Bags that are magical. If you’ve ever wanted a bag that’s practically indestructible and screams nostalgia, Harveys’ signature seatbelt fabric construction is your jam. These totes aren’t just for carrying your park essentials; they’re wearable pieces of art that celebrate classic Disney magic in the coolest way. Let’s dive into these beauties!
First up, for $228, you can take a trip down memory lane with the Peter Pan’s Flight Tote Bag. This bag is total Fantasyland goals, featuring gorgeous vintage poster art from the OG Disneyland attraction. It captures that dreamy flight to the Second Star to the Right aboard a pirate galleon, seriously, who doesn’t want that vibe? But the real deep-cut detail here? The artwork also gives a shout-out to other opening-day Fantasyland dark rides like Snow White’s Adventures and Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride. Talk about a historical nod! It’s perfect for Park days with its hands-free, detachable crossbody strap, making it easy to zoom from Tomorrowland to Adventureland. Just like Peter himself said: “C’mon everybody. Here we go!”
Then we have the super playful Mickey and Minnie Mouse “The Whoopee Party” Tote, coming in at $198. This one is pure vintage cartoon joy! The front of the bag showcases Mickey and Minnie having a blast, with the artwork adapted from the original 1932 movie poster for their short, The Whoopee Party. It’s a retro, feel-good design that will definitely spark a conversation. The rest of the sturdy and spacious tote is covered in Minnie’s iconic polka dots, a timeless pattern that adds a pop of fun.
Like the Peter Pan bag, this tote includes a detachable shoulder strap, so you can keep the party going hands-free. If you’re looking for a bag that’s classic, sturdy, and guaranteed to make you smile, this is it!
Zootopia 2 Spirit Jersey: Your New Favorite Way to Show City Pride!
Okay, Zootopia fans, clear some space in your closet because you are going to need this. Forget your regular hoodies, the brand new Zootopia 2 Spirit Jersey has officially dropped, and it’s seriously the coolest tribute to the city and the characters we love. This isn’t just a shirt; it’s a wearable piece of the heart and humor from Judy and Nick’s latest adventure. It’s got that signature oversized, super-cozy Spirit Jersey fit that everyone knows and loves, making it perfect for binge-watching your favorite animated movies or heading out on your own busy day.
What makes this jersey a must-have? It’s all about the details! You get that classic Spirit Jersey comfort with dropped shoulders, long cuffed sleeves, a comfy banded neckline, and a curved hem. But the real magic is in the artwork. It features bold, crisp graphics of your favorite characters, all screen-printed with awesome puff paint details that give it a cool, textured, and slightly retro vibe. When you rock this, you’re not just wearing merchandise; you’re celebrating the amazing city they protect. Plus, it has the little flag label at the side, so you know it’s the real deal!
Ready to snag one for yourself? It retails for $89.99, which is a totally fair price for the quality and the major style points you’ll be earning. The best part is that you don’t even need to brave the crowds at a convention or theme park shop! This comfy piece of Zootopia goodness is available right now, online at the official Spirit Jersey website. So, go ahead and treat yourself to a piece of wearable comfort that shouts your love for Judy, Nick, and the whole crew!
Everybody Wants to Celebrate: The Aristocats 55th Anniversary Merch Is Here!
Can you believe it? Our favorite Parisian kitties, Duchess, Marie, Toulouse, and Berlioz, are celebrating 55 jazzy years since The Aristocats first graced our screens! To mark this très chic milestone, Disney has dropped a collection of merchandise that is just as elegant, sassy, and fun as the movie itself. Get ready to tap your paws, because this gear is purr-fection!
First up, let’s talk wardrobe. You can bring a little melody to your everyday style with The Aristocats Spirit Jersey. This rosy pink number is totally in tune, with bold, musical lettering across the back and playful notes on the front. It’s the ultimate chic way to show off your classic Disney love. And what’s a Parisian look without the perfect bag? The Aristocats Fluffy Handbag is oh-so-soft and features Marie, Toulouse, and Berlioz in a cosy, characterful design. It’s ideal for holding your essentials, and let’s be honest, who doesn’t want an excuse to carry something this fluffy?
A lady always drinks in style, and Marie certainly knows it! Elevate your next tea party with the Marie Eiffel Tower Mug. This isn’t just any mug, it features Marie’s classic artwork, heart and cloud details, and, best of all, four adorable little feet! Talk about luxury. If you’re heading out, the Marie Water Bottle is your new best friend. Decked out in pink with Marie’s iconic pose and a bold ‘Très Chic’ design, this bottle ensures your hydration game is as elegant as your style.
Time to get organized in true Aristocat fashion! The Marie Weekly Planner is an elegant set that unfolds to reveal a chic planner, sticky notes, and notepads, all secured with a magnetic closure. Planning your week has never looked so purr-fect! To keep your writing tools just as refined, grab the Marie Pencil Case. It’s as soft and refined as Marie herself, featuring her signature pink bow and embroidered details. And for turning every jotting into a work of art, the Marie A5 Notebook boasts a gorgeous hardcover, ribbon bookmark, and super chic interior pages. Your ideas are about to get a serious Parisian upgrade!
For the serious collectors, the 55th anniversary pins are a must-have! The Limited Release Pin beautifully captures a classic family moment, featuring Duchess and her three kittens nestled in a basket, a delightful tribute to Parisian elegance. Then there’s the Limited Edition Jumbo Pin, which is ready to strike up the band! It showcases the whole feline crew in a groovy musical moment, the ultimate collector’s piece for anyone who knows the best place to be is where the jazz is at!
Finally, add some sparkle to your holiday decor with The Aristocats Light-Up Living Magic Sketchbook Ornament. Watch Marie, Toulouse, and Berlioz swing on a Tiffany lamp that actually lights up! It’s a truly unique, mesmerizing piece that proves everybody wants to be a cat who knows where it’s at!
Are you ready to bring home some of these très chic items? Which piece from the 55th Anniversary collection is catching your eye the most?
Get Ready to Slay the Holidays: Lilly Pulitzer Disney Holiday Collection Just Dropped!
Seriously, stop what you’re doing because Lilly Pulitzer just launched the cutest, most sunshine-y holiday collection you could imagine, and it’s a total game-changer. They teamed up with Disney to bring us a collaboration that is absolutely bursting with color and joy! Forget the snowy winter blues, this collection is all about a “sun-drenched holiday adventure” starring none other than Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse!
The new print, aptly named “Mickey’s Island Escapade,” captures the iconic duo in Lilly’s bright, happy, resort-inspired world. It’s like a little dose of tropical vacation that lasts from December all the way through Valentine’s Day!
This is not some quiet, subtle launch, friends. This is a bold, bright, and cheerful assortment designed to spark instant delight! The collection features 10 giftable pieces for both women and girls, meaning you can absolutely treat yourself and your mini-me to some adorable matching moments. The star of the show is definitely the “Mickey’s Island Escapade” print, which comes in a vibrant, multicolored French Terry with playful pops of yellow, blue, pink, and green.
But wait, there’s more! You can also snag a white-grounded half-drop lounge set and a dress for a slightly different vibe, plus a super sweet pink striped pajama setdecked out with heart-shaped motifs, perfect for cozy holiday mornings.
The best part? These pieces are designed to be incredibly versatile! They’re perfect for holiday gifting (hint, hint!), but their bright, resort aesthetic means they’ll transition seamlessly into spring and beyond. You’ll definitely get your money’s worth. With prices ranging from $58 to $178, there’s something to treat every Disney or Lilly Pulitzer fan on your list. And guess what? You don’t have to wait! The collection is available right now on lillypulitzer.com and online at the Disney Store!.
Honestly, this is one of those collabs that is going to fly off the shelves, so you might want to click over there before the best pieces are gone! Get ready to make your holidays brighter than ever!
