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New Mickey and Minnie Italian Carnevale Collection is Here!

December 1, 2025

New Mickey and Minnie Italian Carnevale Collection is Here!

Get ready to say ciao to a seriously fun new Mickey and Minnie Italian Carnevale collection! Mickey and Minnie Mouse have rolled into EPCOT’s Italy pavilion with stunning products that celebrates the magic and mystery of Carnevale. If you love Disney, gorgeous Italian vibes, and a pop of color, you’re going to want to check this out. It’s the perfect way to bring a little bit of that World Showcase sparkle home with you.

The apparel in this collection is definitely ready for a celebration. If you want to go all out, the Button-Up Shirt ($69.99) is a total eye-catcher. It’s a light blue with a cool all-over diamond pattern, covered in Italian phrases like “Italia Carnevale” and “Buongiorno Carnevale.” Plus, there are cute light teal masks sprinkled everywhere! For a more casual look, grab the Arrivederci Italia T-Shirt ($36.99). It features a dapper Mickey in his purple jacket and giant feather hat, holding a mask, with “Arrivederci Italia EPCOT World Showcase” front and center.

If you’re planning a trip during the warmer months, the pink Buongiorno Tank Top ($46.99) is a must-have. It shows a glamorous Minnie in a red and gold gown standing in front of those iconic Venetian buildings, with “Carnevale D’Italia” written in shiny gold text. And for another adorable pink option, the Buongiorno Ruffle Shirt ($44.99) has a fun ruffle detail on the bottom, with Mickey and Minnie in their outfits right above the “Buongiorno Carnevale Italy EPCOT World Showcase” text. So much style, so little time!

No Disney collection is complete without the perfect ears! The Ear Headband ($36.99) is a rich, dark teal with Minnie on one ear and Mickey on the other. It’s tied together with a dark blue bow that has a mask print, so festive! The back even has that cool diamond print with some gold swirls. If you want to add a little sparkle to your jacket or bag, the set of Brooches ($29.99) is too cute; you get both Mickey and Minnie in their Carnevale gear, covered in glittery beads.

You can even add a touch of EPCOT to your kitchen! The Platter/Tray ($34.99) is a vibrant teal that features Mickey and Minnie, and even sneakily includes Donald and Goofy on two of the masks! It says “Buongiorno Carnevale Italy EPCOT World Showcase” right underneath. And for your morning coffee or evening tea, the Mug ($24.99) is perfect, showing Mickey and Minnie in front of a Venetian scene with gondolas and the word “Buonasera” on the front.

Don’t forget the Shot glass ($19.99) with its “Italia Carnevale” text, or the Tea Towel ($19.99) with its bright diamond pattern!

Finally, the fully-sculpted Ornament ($24.99) is a sweet way to remember your trip, showing the pair holding masks in front of a gorgeous city backdrop.

This whole collection is absolutely bursting with color and Italian flair, it really captures the fun spirit of Carnevale and World Showcase!

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Why the Cookie Stroll Needs to be an Epcot Must Do!

Catherine

December 1, 2025

The Epcot Holiday Cookie Stroll: A Delicious Scavenger Hunt

The holidays at Walt Disney World are pure magic, but for many, the true star of the season is the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays. And nestled within this festival is an activity that turns mere treat-tasting into a quintessential festive adventure: The Holiday Cookie Stroll!

Running from November 28 to December 30, 2025, the Cookie Stroll is far more than just buying sweets; it’s a delightful, delicious scavenger hunt that is a “must-do” for guests of all ages.

How to Embark on Your Sweet Journey

The concept is simple, yet brilliantly fun. Think of it as a sweet passport to the world!

Grab Your Guide: Pick up your complimentary Festival Passport—this is your map and your stamping sheet.
Find the Kitchens: Use your passport to locate the select Holiday Kitchens and EPCOT eateries offering the official Cookie Stroll menu items.
Collect and Stamp: Purchase any 5 of the qualifying Holiday Cookie Stroll cookies and be sure to get your Festival Passport stamped for each one!

Claim Your Prize: Once you’ve collected all five stamps, head to Holiday Sweets & Treats (near Port of Entry) to receive your special complimentary treat: a delightful dessert featuring M&M’S® Minis Milk Chocolate Candies Holiday Blend.

The best part? You can complete this sugary expedition at your own leisure, taking a few days if needed, but only during the festival dates!

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What Makes It a Must-Do?

1. The Fun of the Hunt

The Stroll is a perfectly crafted, self-paced activity that adds an interactive layer to the festival. It encourages you to explore booths and locations you might otherwise skip, transforming your day into a festive mission. It’s an easy, low-commitment activity that offers a high reward of fun for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

2. The Excitement of New Flavors

This year’s lineup features an incredible array of new and returning favorites, ensuring every stop is an exciting discovery. The diversity of flavors truly showcases the culinary creativity of Epcot’s Holiday Kitchens.

Experimental Bites: The Experimental Prototype Cookies of Tomorrow booth introduces two exciting new cookies: the Prototype Cookie and the rich Ginger-Molasses Cookie, alongside the returning Salted Caramel Spaceship Earth Cookie.

World Showcase Delights: Travel the World Showcase for unique cultural takes, including the Maple Leaf Shortbread Cookie (NEW!) from the Yukon Holiday Kitchen, and the returning favorites like the Rugelach and the Mickey-Shaped Almond Black and White Cookie (NEW!) from L’Chaim! Holiday Kitchen. Don’t miss the Cinnamon-Spiced Chocolate Crinkle Cookie from Nochebuena Cocina or the traditional Hazelnut Linzer Cookie from Bavaria Holiday Kitchen.

Park Favorites: Round out your collection with the Chocolate Cookie (NEW!) from American Holiday Table, the Coffee-Mocha Cookie from Mele Kalikimaka Holiday Kitchen, the Cranberry-Oatmeal Cookie (NEW!) from Holiday Hearth Desserts, the Holiday Sugar Cookie from Connections Café, and the comforting Peanut Butter Cookie from Sunshine Seasons.

This list of cookies makes for a fun, delicious way to try new treats and experience the full scope of the festival’s sweet offerings.

It’s a Delicious Deal

The value is exceptional. By completing the Stroll, you get to sample five distinct, high-quality holiday cookies from around the park, and then you are rewarded with a sixth special treat. It truly is a fun, delicious, and memorable way to celebrate the holidays at Epcot!

Don’t just walk the park—Stroll the park and make the Epcot Holiday Cookie Stroll your newest tradition.

New Chip and Dale Canada Pavilion Merch Spotted at EPCOT!

Ana Leal

December 1, 2025

New Chip and Dale Canada Pavilion Merch Spotted at EPCOT!

if you’re heading up to the Canada Pavilion in EPCOT, you absolutely need to check out the new Chip and Dale merchandise. Seriously, this stuff is adorable and leans hard into those cozy, Canadiana vibes. We’re talking red plaid, maple leaves, and the cheekiest little chipmunks you ever did see, all bundled up for a perpetual winter. It’s the perfect blend of World Showcase sophistication and pure Disney fun, so prepare your wallets!

One of the standout sets is the kitchen gear, which is perfect for bringing a little bit of EPCOT back to your home. First up is the Chip and Dale Apron for $39.99, it’s got a cool red and blue check pattern with little maple leaves, and Chip and Dale are embroidered right on the side pockets, rocking their fur-lined winter hats. Then, you’ve got the matching Dish Towel for $19.99, which is the definition of relatable: it features the boys next to a massive pile of poutine with the phrase, “Poutine is my routine” printed right on it.

Speaking of the chipmunks’ heads, you can grab the Chip and Dale Mugs set for $39.99, which are sculpted to look like their faces, complete with little red plaid “fur” hats. They’re honestly too cute to put in a cabinet.

Now, let’s talk about the apparel and accessories, because there are some real gems. For the ultimate poutine devotee, the Poutine Hoodie for $59.99 is a must-buy. This off-white pullover declares, “Only Here For Poutine” in bold artwork centered around a beautifully messy cup of the French-Canadian delight. If you’re more of a hockey fan (or just wish you were), the ‘I’d Rather Be Playing Hockey’ T-Shirt for $34.99 has that classic double ringer look and is just a fun, simple way to show your Canadian spirit.

Don’t forget the accessories, like the Chip Lug Bag for $60. It’s a stylish buffalo plaid print with Chip’s whole face on the front pocket and his little tail on the back, plus, you can wear it as a crossbody or a belt bag. Talk about versatile!

Finally, for the finishing touches, they’ve got a couple of great home goods. There’s another mug option, the Canada Mug with Hockey Stick Spoon for $19.99, which has a cool red plaid pattern and a Mickey head decorated like the Canadian flag. The best part, though, is the spoon, it’s shaped like a little hockey stick! To top it all off, you can cozy up with the Pillow for $39.99. It features the bold Canada logo with plaid trim, and the back is that super-soft, white Sherpa-style material. It’s truly a great collection that gives a fun, Disney spin on all the best parts of the Canada Pavilion. Go snag these goodies before they’re gone, eh!

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Guest Jumps on Stage with Sonny Eclipse in Tomorrowland

Chris B

November 30, 2025

Guest Jumps on Stage with Sonny Eclipse in Tomorrowland

Young Guest Climbs Onstage with Sonny Eclipse at Magic Kingdom

Well, folks, nothing says “a galactic day at Disney” like an unexpected stage invasion with Sonny Eclipse at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café. A young guest made her own interstellar debut recently, hopping the small fence in front of Sonny Eclipse and climbing right onto the stage for a photo op that definitely wasn’t on the set list.

In a TikTok posted by @fortiffany, the child can be seen walking up to Sonny, touching both the beloved Zorkian crooner and his piano keys. The moment she started pressing buttons that weren’t meant for tiny Earthling hands, the animatronics instantly shut down. Cast Members responded quickly, escorting the guest off the stage while ensuring Sonny’s systems were safe from further mischievous remixing.

@fortiffany
Child stopped Sonny Eclipse after jumping fence and climbing up on stage. Mom told her to do if for a photo……. #cosmicraysstarlightcafe #why #sonnyeclipse #disneyfail
♬ STOP！ – Official Sound Studio

Sonny Eclipse is a genuine Tomorrowland treasure, performing his 26-minute loop of cosmic classics inside Cosmic Ray’s all day long. From “My Name Is Sonny Eclipse” to “Hello Space Angels,” his extraterrestrial lounge act brings stellar vibes to the quick-service hotspot. Fun fact: his backup singers are literal invisible Space Angels, adding that signature Tomorrowland charm we all know and love.

Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café has been dishing out burgers, chicken strips, and galactic good times since 1994 as part of Tomorrowland’s big refresh. And if you’ve ever wanted to take a piece of intergalactic entertainment home, there’s even a Sonny Eclipse plush floating around out there in the merchiverse.

Moral of the story? Stay behind the railings, Space Angels. Sonny may be from Zork, but he still needs his personal space.

Completion Date Announced for Pool Expansion at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort

Chris B

November 30, 2025

Completion Date Announced for Pool Expansion at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort

Disney Confirms End Date for Meadow Swimmin’ Pool Expansion at Fort Wilderness

Pack your swimsuits and your patience, campers. Disney has finally splashed out some new details on the long-running Meadow Swimmin’ Pool expansion at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, giving us a clearer look at when this project will float to the finish line.

New Signage Installed at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campgrounds copy

Disney first filed the permits way back in April 2024 for a new 5,500-square-foot building near the existing Meadow Swimmin’ Pool. Since then, construction walls, cranes, and lots of sandy churn have been the campground’s unofficial woodland critters. Now we finally know when the big refresh is wrapping up.

According to a brand-new update on the Walt Disney World website, the project is set to be completed by mid-2026. Yes, that means another summer with construction hums instead of cicadas. But both the Meadow Swimmin’ Pool and the Wilderness Swimmin’ Pool will remain open throughout the work, even if your favorite lounge chair might be temporarily traded for a more rustic patch of shade.

Guests should also expect limited seating around the Meadow pool, plus some construction noise. If you’re hopping off the internal bus loop, signs will help reroute guests around the work.

Jason Bateman Finds Out he is in Zootopia: Better Zoogether at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Chris B

November 30, 2025

Jason Bateman Finds Out he is in Zootopia Better Zoogether at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Jason Bateman Had No Clue He Was in Disney’s New Zootopia Show at Animal Kingdom

Only in Zootopia could a sly fox get outfoxed by his own theme park cameo. Jason Bateman, the voice behind everyone’s favorite con-artist-turned-cop Nick Wilde, apparently had no idea he appears in Disney’s brand-new Zootopia: Better Zoogether attraction at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. And honestly… same energy as finding out you’ve been voluntold for a meeting you didn’t know existed.

In a TikTok clip shared by @georgecbutler, Bateman is happily chatting about the Zootopia land over in Shanghai Disneyland when co-star Ginnifer Goodwin (aka Judy Hopps herself) breaks the news that Florida has hopped on board with a whole new show. Not only that, but Nick sings in it. Bateman’s reaction? Pure confused fox energy. He even pauses to ask the most relatable question ever: “Was I good?”

@georgecbutler
Jason Bateman finds out he’s in a DISNEY WORLD attraction!! Have you seen it? #animalkingdom #wdw #zootopia #jasonbateman #ginnifergoodwin
♬ Zoo – From “Zootopia 2” – Disney & Shakira

Goodwin then continues explaining the attraction with the same tone as a mom telling her teen where the dishwasher is kept. Their playful back-and-forth has the internet losing its mind, and honestly, we’re here for it.

Zootopia: Better Zoogether officially hopped into action on November 7, transforming the old It’s Tough to Be a Bug theater into a fully animated 4D adventure through Zooper charged mayhem. Guests join Judy and Nick for Zoogether Day, a celebration that quickly spirals into chaos thanks to a series of stage-ready mishaps. Naturally, our favorite bunny and fox step in to save the day.

And yes, Officer Clawhauser appears as an Audio-Animatronic inside the theater, serving big donut-loving energy. Many of the classic theater effects from the previous attraction stick around, making this both a familiar and fresh experience.

The show’s debut arrived alongside a brand-new Nick and Judy meet and greet, plus shelves of adorable Zootopia merchandise ready to waddle home with you.

Meanwhile, Zootopia 2 is proving mammals really do go nuts for a good sequel. The film pulled in an impressive $19.7 million on Thanksgiving Day, securing its place as the second-biggest Thanksgiving opening ever.

The sequel follows Judy and Nick as they go undercover to stop a mysterious reptile causing chaos across the city, pushing their partnership like never before. Returning cast members include Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman, Idris Elba, Shakira, Raymond S. Persi, and more, along with new voice talent like Ke Huy Quan, Quinta Brunson, Fortune Feimster, Andy Samberg, and Macaulay Culkin.

Have you seen Zootopia: Better Zoogether yet? Let us know what you thought of the show’s fox-tastic debut.

Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood Decorated for the Holidays

Sara

November 30, 2025

Wizarding World of Harry Potter Gets Festive Makeover

The holidays have arrived at Universal Studios Hollywood and that includes the Wizarding World of Harry Potter! Wizards celebrate too and it shows with the lights, garland, and more decorating the area.

Even in the perpetually snow-covered streets of Hogsmeade, the holidays bring an extra layer of magic, confirming that witches and wizards celebrate Christmas in style. While snow is a year-round feature, the village is now beautifully enhanced with festive decorations. Look for traditional wreaths and garlands woven with natural elements like bright red berries and pinecones, often adorned with cheerful red ribbons tied around the lampposts.

the village, with nearly every structure in Hogsmeade participating. The doorways of Hogsmeade Station and virtually every window are trimmed with lush garlands. Notably, The Three Broomsticks is completely decked out, featuring garlands lining its entrance and along all of its iconic gable roofs, with a festive wreath hanging just behind the three broomsticks above the entryway. Even the Owl Post gets a unique touch, featuring garlands intricately adorned with soft white feathers.

The magic extends to every shop’s façade, each with unique decorations. Gladrags Wizardwear is distinctively adorned with garlands and a matching wreath featuring cheerful pink ribbons. Meanwhile, Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment incorporates bright silver stars into its holiday décor. The sports-themed Spintwitches shop displays garlands and wreaths customized with miniature Golden Snitch decorations, while the adjacent Tomes and Scrolls bookshop keeps its décor simple and classic.

Even the main Hogwarts entrance gate is decorated with garlands on its columns, topped by festive red flowers, and one archway holds a bundle of mistletoe. Throughout the village, some garlands display Hogwarts house ribbons—inspired by student ties—to represent Gryffindor, Slytherin, Ravenclaw, and Hufflepuff.

On top of the festive decorations throughout the area, guests can end their night experiencing “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle.” It’s a beautiful projection and fireworks show with holiday-themed lights and effects.

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Have you experienced the holidays in the Wizarding World?

Zootopia 2 Shatters Records with Fourth-Biggest Global Opening in History

Chip

November 30, 2025

Zootopia 2 and Wicked: For Good Fuel Record Thanksgiving Box Office Haul

Hollywood is celebrating a phenomenal Thanksgiving holiday weekend, driven by two major offerings: Disney’s animated sequel Zootopia 2 and Universal’s musical fantasy, Wicked: For Good. Both films helped keep movie theaters humming throughout the extended holiday period.

Zootopia 2 Secures Historic Second-Best Thanksgiving Launch

Disney’s animated sequel, Zootopia 2, dominated the domestic box office, taking in a mighty $156 million since its Wednesday debut across 4,000 venues. This total includes a strong $96.8 million over the traditional Friday-to-Sunday weekend frame.

This five-day performance is record-breaking, ranking as the second-best Thanksgiving launch of all time in domestic history. It trails only another Disney sequel, 2024’s Moana 2 (which earned $225 million over five days), but easily surpassed 2019’s Frozen II ($125 million). The original Zootopia, for context, opened to $75 million in March 2016 before growing into a massive hit, earning $341 million domestically and $1.02 billion worldwide.

Global Success and China’s Record

Zootopia 2 was an even bigger force internationally, securing $400 million from the global market. A massive chunk of this came from China alone, where the film earned a record-setting $272 million.

In total, the second Zootopia installment generated a staggering $556 million globally, cementing its place as the fourth-biggest opening weekend in history worldwide.

Alan Bergman, Disney Entertainment co-chairman, praised the film’s success: “The incredible response to Zootopia 2 reflects both its worldwide appeal and the remarkable work of our filmmakers and cast. It’s a proud moment for Disney Animation and all of us at Disney, not to mention a great way to start the holiday season.”

Wicked: For Good Continues Strong Run

Zootopia 2 wasn’t the only tentpole satisfying holiday audiences. Universal’s highly-anticipated sequel, Wicked: For Good, continued to dazzle in its second weekend of release, earning an impressive $93 million over the five-day Thanksgiving period.

While the second half of the Wicked saga wasn’t quite as front-loaded as its predecessor (the first Wicked earned $118 million over the same five-day holiday frame in 2024), Wicked: For Good remains a juggernaut. After just 10 days in theaters, the sequel has amassed $270.4 million domestically and $393.3 million globally, positioning it as a significant holiday hit.

Full List of Grinchmas Character Meet & Greets at Universal Studios Hollywood

Sara

November 30, 2025

Universal Studios Hollywood Grinchmas Character List

Guests visiting Universal Studios Hollywood can look forward to meeting The Grinch, his loyal dog Max, and a host of other friends during Grinchmas, running through January 4, 2026. While The Grinch and Max have dedicated meet-and-greet locations, characters like Cindy Lou Who and the Fa-Who 4 A’s musical group can be found greeting fans immediately following their stage performances. All other Whos roam freely throughout Universal Plaza, offering spontaneous photo opportunities.

The Grinch

Guests eager to meet The Grinch must enter through a festive red heart archway. This incredibly popular character encounter frequently involves an hours-long wait, so be sure to check the posted wait time outside the queue. When you finally reach the front, you’ll find The Grinch dressed in his classic Santa Claus attire, posing in a charming photo setting complete with a “Whoville Tree Trimmers” vehicle, a decorated Christmas tree, and wrapped presents.

Cindy Lou Who

Cindy Lou Who usually greets guests in a dedicated space next to the stage immediately after her scheduled performances. During these shows, she beautifully narrates How The Grinch Stole Christmas. Storytime performances are scheduled five times daily: 10:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 1:30 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. While she occasionally roams the area, the best time to ensure a meeting is right after one of her shows.

Postmaster Lou Lou Who

Keep an eye out for Cindy Lou Who’s father, the Whoville postmaster, as he roams Universal Plaza! While he moves around, you’ll most likely find him near the post office attraction. Don’t just meet him, participate in the holiday spirit: guests can mail a postcard from this location, and for every card sent, Universal Studios Hollywood will make a charitable donation.

Max the Dog

Guests can meet Max the dog, who is perched adorably atop a giant gift box wrapped in distinctive paw print paper. This photo opportunity is set directly in front of The Grinch’s iconic sleigh. Max is fully in character, wearing his signature reindeer “antler” fastened securely to his head with a bright red bow beneath his chin.

Betty Lou Who

Betty Lou Who, Cindy Lou Who’s mother, is easily recognizable in her festive outfit, which includes a dramatic red cape and a dress patterned with small Christmas trees. Completing her signature Whoville look are two distinct stand-up braids wrapped around a tiny teacup hat.

Mayor Augustus MayWho

The Mayor of Whoville can be found adding a touch of pomp and formality to Universal Plaza. He is instantly recognizable by his impressive official attire, including a grand fur-lined cape and a sash adorned with numerous medals of office. Guests are most likely to spot this distinguished character circulating near the main stage area, ready to greet his constituents.

Martha May Whovier

Keep an eye out for the glamorous Martha May Whovier, whose holiday style always steals the show! She is dressed in her iconic, dazzling Santa-inspired dress and matching hat. Her dramatic and festive ensemble makes her a captivating character to meet and a must-see during your Grinchmas visit.

Froodle the Weatherman

Guests can meet Froodle the Weatherman, a character created exclusively for Universal Studios Hollywood’s Grinchmas celebration. His eccentric look includes towering white, cyclone-like hair and a matching beard. Froodle’s suit jacket is appropriately festive, decorated with snowflakes, and he always carries a distinctive cane that cleverly doubles as weather-monitoring equipment.

Baker

Look for the jolly Whoville Baker wandering the area, bringing a sweet presence to Universal Plaza! This character carries a comically oversized tube of frosting and is dressed in a delightful outfit adorned with various gingerbread men. Their unique costume and amusing prop make for a great photo opportunity.

Who are you most excited to meet?

Macaulay Culkin Open to New Home Alone Sequel

Sara

November 29, 2025

Star Macaulay Culkin Open to Reprising Kevin McCallister Role

Macaulay Culkin recently sparked excitement on his “A Nostalgic Night with Macaulay Culkin” tour by stating he is not “completely allergic” to reprising his iconic role as Kevin McCallister in a new Home Alone sequel. However, the star made it clear that any return would have to be “just right.” Fortunately, fans have reason to be hopeful, as Culkin already has an idea and a pitch for a continuation he would be genuinely interested in pursuing.

“I kind of had this idea,” Culkin said. “I’m either a widower or a divorcee. I’m raising a kid and all that stuff. I’m working really hard and I’m not really paying enough attention and the kid is kind of getting miffed at me and then I get locked out. [Kevin’s son] won’t let me in… and he’s the one setting traps for me.”

Culkin’s sequel concept offers a fascinating twist on the original premise: rather than battling external robbers, Kevin McCallister must contend with his own son in an attempt to reenter their family home during the holidays. The actor explained that the central conflict is deeply symbolic, viewing “the house [as] some sort of metaphor for our relationship,” with Kevin needing to “get let back into [his] son’s heart.” While only an “elevator pitch,” this idea represents the “right thing” that makes him open to revisiting the franchise.

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The Home Alone franchise cemented Macaulay Culkin’s status as one of Hollywood’s biggest child stars in the 1990s. The original film was a global blockbuster, earning $476 million worldwide—making it the second-highest-grossing movie of 1990. Culkin reprised his iconic role for the 1992 sequel, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York. Interestingly, this potential return contrasts sharply with the recent comments made by original director Chris Columbus, who told Entertainment Tonight in August that a new Home Alone film should never be made.

“I think ‘Home Alone’ really exists as, not at this timepiece, but it was this very special moment, and you can’t really recapture that,” Columbus said. “I think it’s a mistake to try to go back and recapture something we did 35 years ago. I think it should be left alone.”

Both Culkin and Columbus stepped away after the first two films, noticeably absent from the largely forgotten 1997 installment, Home Alone 3. The franchise continued its decline with a 2002 direct-to-television movie, followed by Disney’s 2021 reboot attempt, Home Sweet Home Alone, starring Jojo Rabbit breakout Archie Yates, exclusively on Disney+. The overwhelmingly poor reviews for the remake may validate director Chris Columbus’s earlier assertion that the Home Alone series should be left alone.

Would you go see another Home Alone movie?

Disney’s Contemporary Resort Refurbishment Extended to Late 2027

Chris B

November 29, 2025

Disney's Contemporary Resort Refurbishment Extended to Late

Contemporary Resort Refurbishment Now Stretching Into Late 2027

Disney’s Contemporary Resort is getting a makeover that’s proving to be a marathon, not a sprint. What started as a fairly standard refurbishment timeline has now turned into a full-blown, three-year-plus project that will run all the way into late 2027. Yes, you read that right, the resort that brought us the Monorail-through-the-lobby flex is taking its time to look its best again.

Disney originally announced the project back in 2024, with work slated from September 2024 through Summer 2025. Even at that point, the timing raised a few eyebrows, but the Contemporary is one of Walt Disney World’s oldest resorts and has plenty of behind-the-scenes needs. The refurbishment was set to hit select areas across the main tower, Bay Lake Tower, and the convention center.

By mid-2025, it became clear summer wasn’t happening. Disney extended the end date to July 2026, shaving off the convention center from the notice but keeping the focus on Bay Lake Tower and infrastructure-heavy spaces around the resort.

Now Disney has quietly posted yet another update, pushing the end date to late 2027. The latest notice says refurbishments will continue in phases throughout select areas, including the atrium and Bay Lake Tower. That means some of the heart-of-the-hotel areas are still on the to-do list. All in all, the project has now stretched roughly 30 months beyond the original plan.

The good news for guests is that so far the impact has been surprisingly minimal. Current work is happening on the massive skylights atop the main tower, and while you may spot construction equipment or hear occasional noise, day-to-day operations remain unaffected. We’ll be checking in over the next few weeks for a closer look at what’s happening on-site.

Guide to the Decorations, Treats and More at Universal Hollywood for the Holidays

Chris B

November 29, 2025

Guide to the Decorations Treats and More at Universal Hollywood for the Holidays

Holiday Magic Hits Universal CityWalk Hollywood with Festive Eats, Drinks, and Wickedly Fun Decor

Universal CityWalk Hollywood is officially sleighing the season, and if you thought LA couldn’t get any merrier, wait until you see palm trees wrapped in twinkle lights and King Kong rocking his annual Santa hat. This is the kind of holiday glow-up that makes you want to grab a peppermint treat and defy gravity right into the night.

DECOR AND PHOTO OPS
CityWalk goes all-out holly-jolly with massive wreaths, glittering garlands, and a showstopping 40-foot Christmas tree outside Universal Cinema. This year’s tree is Wicked-themed to celebrate “Wicked: For Good!” so expect a swirl of pink, green, and Broadway sparkle that would make Elphaba proud.

And don’t forget to look up. King Kong is back at it, sporting a bright Santa hat and holding mistletoe as he clings to IT’SUGAR. Over by the fountains, the water dances along to a red and green holiday light display. It’s like LA decided to combine Christmas cheer with Hollywood spectacle, and honestly, we’re here for it.

FOOD AND TREATS
If dessert is your love language during the holidays, CityWalk is calling your name. The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium is serving the Winter Orchard Sundae, a cinnamon-kissed mountain of vanilla ice cream, apple soft serve, whipped topping, cotton candy, and candy canes. Or warm up with the cozy Jacques Hot Chocolate loaded with chocolate whipped topping and pearls.

Voodoo Doughnut is back with three limited-time treats: the Gingerbread doughnut, the Holiday Sprinkle Cake doughnut, and the Yuletide Ring. All are dangerously photogenic, naturally. And if cute eats are your thing, head to Hello Kitty and Friends Cafe for the Peppermint Mousse Dome, a vanilla-peppermint dream that pairs perfectly with holiday shopping next door at the Sanrio Smile Shop.

Guide to the Decorations, Treats and More at Universal Hollywood for the Holidays Guide to the Decorations, Treats and More at Universal Hollywood for the Holidays

DRINKS
Holiday spirits are flowing all season. NBC Sports Grill & Bar is pouring the Peppermint Mocha Martini for anyone looking to sip their way into seasonal cheer. At Antojitos Cocina Mexicana, you’ll find festive twists like the Apple Cider Margarita, Chestnut Horchata, and the super refreshing Mistletoe Mule. There’s even a non-alcoholic Champurrado for a warm, chocolatey hug on cooler LA nights.

VIVO Italian Kitchen adds to the list with the bubbly Cranmerry Prosecco and a comforting Spiced Apple Cider. Perfect for sipping while strolling under the lights.

ENTERTAINMENT
CityWalk keeps the holiday vibes going strong with live music and performances throughout November and December. Expect everything from street performers and DJs to special shows from Toby Gad, TREVAN, Dakota Cohen, Andrea y Los Gallos, Laura Bryna, and even Drake Bell. Whether you’re on a festive date night or making merry with friends, the soundtrack here hits all the holiday highs.

Universal CityWalk Hollywood really packs the season with sparkle, sugar, and plenty of SoCal cheer. Let us know what you’re most excited to check out this year.

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