Disney Testing New Rope Drop Procedures at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Early mornings at Disney’s Animal Kingdom could soon look a little different. Disney has begun testing a new rope drop procedure that gives day guests more room to spread out before the park officially opens, and it could make those first few minutes of the day feel much less crowded.
Instead of holding non-resort guests in the Oasis, the area just inside the park entrance, Disney is now allowing them to enter Discovery Island before the official 8:00 a.m. opening. While the shops remain closed until the park opens, guests can take in the atmosphere, enjoy views of the Tree of Life, and even stop for early morning PhotoPass photos while they wait. Disney Resort hotel guests continue to receive Early Entry beginning at 7:30 a.m.
When it’s time for Early Entry, Disney has designated separate waiting areas throughout Discovery Island. Resort guests are verified by Cast Members before heading into the park through one of three access points leading toward Pandora – The World of Avatar, Expedition Everest, or the former DinoLand U.S.A. bridge. Non-resort guests wait at those locations until the park officially opens, creating a more organized flow into each land.
Disney has confirmed this is currently just a test, and Cast Members say procedures could change from day to day while the company evaluates the new system. If it proves successful, the updated rope drop process could become a welcome improvement for guests by reducing congestion near the entrance while giving everyone a little more breathing room before the adventure begins.
Whether you’re heading straight to Avatar Flight of Passage or racing toward Expedition Everest, our friends at Get Away Today can help you plan the perfect Walt Disney World vacation with great prices on resort stays, tickets, and vacation packages.
Win an Orlando Vacation With Disney Springs, Cirque du Soleil, and More in New Visit Orlando Sweepstakes
Dreaming of your next Orlando getaway? Visit Orlando is giving one lucky winner the chance to enjoy an incredible Central Florida vacation packed with Disney Springs dining, live entertainment, golf, and a deluxe hotel stay, all with flights and a rental car included.
The new Win an Orlando Family Vacation Sweepstakes is now accepting entries through October 13, 2026. The grand prize includes a five-day, four-night stay for four at the Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace, conveniently connected to Disney Springs. The prize package also includes daily breakfast, complimentary self-parking, and waived resort fees, making it an even sweeter stay.
Winners will also receive tickets for four to Drawn to Life Presented by Cirque du Soleil and Disney, along with the choice of a round of golf or a game of FootGolf at Walt Disney World Golf. To top it all off, the package includes a dining certificate to Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante at Disney Springs, $250 Frontier Airlines flight vouchers for the winner and three guests, and a five-day full-size rental vehicle from Enterprise so you can explore everything Orlando has to offer.
Best of all, there’s no purchase necessary to enter. The sweepstakes is open to legal U.S. residents in the 48 contiguous states and Washington, D.C., who are at least 21 years old. Guests may enter once per person, per day through October 13, giving you plenty of chances to score this magical getaway.
Whether you’ve been wanting to catch the breathtaking Drawn to Life show, spend an evening dining at Disney Springs, or simply enjoy a relaxing Orlando vacation, this sweepstakes is worth entering.
Of course, if you don’t want to leave your vacation plans up to luck, our friends at Get Away Today can help you book your own unforgettable Orlando getaway with great prices on Walt Disney World vacations, hotels, and tickets.
Guest Suffers Fatal Medical Emergency After Riding “it’s a small world” at Magic Kingdom
A medical emergency that occurred aboard one of Magic Kingdom’s most beloved attractions has been confirmed in newly released state records. A 54-year-old guest suffered a cardiac medical emergency while riding “it’s a small world” at Magic Kingdom on April 24, according to information released by the Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services and first reported by TMZ. The guest, who reportedly had a pre-existing medical condition, was transported to a local hospital where he was later pronounced dead.
The details of the incident were only recently made public through the state’s latest quarterly attraction incident report. While the medical emergency occurred during the attraction experience, there is no indication that the ride itself caused the incident. “it’s a small world” is one of Walt Disney World’s gentlest attractions, featuring a slow-moving boat ride through colorful scenes filled with hundreds of singing Audio-Animatronic dolls.
The news comes just weeks after the attraction made headlines for a separate incident when a guest’s portable phone charger caught fire near the loading area on July 1. Disney confirmed Cast Members quickly extinguished the small fire, evacuated guests as a precaution, and reopened the attraction shortly afterward. No injuries were reported in that incident.
Disney Jr. ‘Let’s Play!’ Party Returns to Disneyland Resort
If you are traveling to Southern California for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event 2026, you might want to pack a little extra energy for your youngest mouseketeers.
Disney has officially announced that the highly-anticipated Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party is returning to Disneyland Resort! This kid-focused, high-energy event will bring massive block parties, special stage shows, and rare character interactions to the resort from August 13 through August 16, 2026.
The best part? The party splits its time between a theme park and the main shopping district, meaning you don’t even need a park ticket for the entire weekend to join in on the fun.
Thursday, August 13: Fun Takeover at Disney California Adventure
Kickstarting the celebration on “D23 Day at the parks” (August 13), Disney California Adventure will host a lineup of exclusive, one-day-only entertainment centered around Hollywood Land.
Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Block Party (Cavalcade)
Keep your eyes peeled on the parade route! A colorful, high-energy cavalcade will roll down the street with two special show stops in Hollywood Land:
10:35 AM on Hollywood Boulevard
10:40 AM at the Carthay Circle Fountain
Confection Purrfection with the SuperKitties
Bring your little heroes to the Hollywood Backlot Stage for a fun, interactive culinary show! Kids can join in to decorate cupcakes alongside the SuperKitties.
Showtimes: 11:30 AM and 12:30 PM
Age Requirement: Kids must be ages 4 to 11 (accompanied by an adult 18 years or older).
How to Join: Spots are highly limited. You must sign up near the stage 45 minutes before showtime.
Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Live
If you miss the morning slots, don’t worry. The Hollywood Backlot Stage pivots to a high-energy stage show in the afternoon featuring upbeat music, dancing, and plenty of opportunities to move.
Showtimes: 2:00 PM, 3:00 PM, and 4:00 PM
Crafts, Sketches, & Rare Meet-and-Greets
Throughout the day, DCA is packing Hollywood Land with bonus activities for families:
Character Sightings: Say hello to Sofia the First, Spidey, Doc McStuffins, Vampirina, Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy, and Pluto.
Animation Academy: Take a seat inside the Disney Animation building to learn how to sketch Pepper, Princess Sofia’s beloved pet puppy-unicorn!
Craft Zone: Set up near the Hollywood Backlot Stage, kids can let their creativity run wild with hands-on crafting tables.
Photo Booth: Stop by the Hollywood Land photo booth to grab Disney Jr.-themed photo strips (available at two for $10).
August 14 – 16: The Party Moves to Downtown Disney
If you don’t have a theme park ticket for the weekend, you’re in luck! From Friday through Sunday, the celebration migrates out of California Adventure and over to the Downtown Disney District, where it’s entirely free to attend.
Event / Activity
Location
Timing
What to Expect
DJ Dance Party
Downtown Disney LIVE! Stage
12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Upbeat Disney Jr. hits played by a live DJ to keep kids dancing all day long.
The Bubbles Experience
LIVE! Stage Lawn
1:00 PM – 10:20 PM
A bubble-filled play area inspired by Sofia the First.
Sofia the First Photo Ops
LIVE! Stage Lawn
All Day
Beautiful Royal Magic backdrops perfect for family photos.
Craft Zone
Near LIVE! Stage
All Day
The popular DCA crafting tables move to Downtown Disney for the weekend.
Whether you are hitting the parks for D23 weekend or just popping by Downtown Disney for an afternoon of fun, this limited-time party is the perfect way to make magical memories with your little ones.
Are you planning to take your kids to the Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party this year? Contact our partners at Get Away Today to book your trip!
Disney+ Greenlights Brand-New ‘Mickey Mouse Club’ Series
Get ready to dust off your Mouseketeer ears! Disney has officially ordered a pilot for a brand-new reboot of The Mickey Mouse Club, set to air on Disney+.
The classic variety show, which first debuted in 1955, has a legendary history of launching young talent into superstardom. This latest modern iteration aims to capture that same magic for a new generation.
According to a report from Deadline, production on the pilot is scheduled to begin this month in Los Angeles. Disney is partnering with Fulwell Entertainment to produce the series. Fulwell is the production powerhouse behind several major Disney-related projects, including:
The Kardashians on Hulu
Encanto at the Hollywood Bowl
The Lion King at the Hollywood Bowl Live
Elton John Live: Farewell From Dodger Stadium
Disney told Deadline that the reimagined series is designed to be a “showcase for today’s most talented young performers, where music, innovation, and self-expression take center stage.”
Executive producing the pilot are Fulwell co-founder Ben Winston alongside Ashley Edens, Emma Conway, and Dave Piendak.
The reboot has already assembled a highly talented ensemble cast of young actors, singers, and performers, including a few familiar faces from upcoming Disney projects:
Hudson Stone, Casey Trotter, and Brooklynn Pitts (all starring in Disney’s upcoming Camp Rock 3)
Erianthe Akaata (Young Rock)
Scarlett London Diviney (Wicked, The Lion King National Tour)
Michael Cash (Black Rabbit)
Yonas Kibreab (Elio)
Varonica Mitchell
Kauani
Scarlett Grace Petty
Carter Barnes
This reboot marks the fifth major era for the franchise. Originally created by Walt Disney himself, The Mickey Mouse Club has been reinvented across multiple generations, consistently acting as a premier launching pad for Hollywood elite.
The Original Era
1955 – 1959
Walt Disney’s original black-and-white variety show runs for four incredibly successful seasons, introducing the world to the very first Mouseketeers, including breakout star Annette Funicello.
The New Mickey Mouse Club
1977 – 1979
The franchise gets its first color revival, updated with a disco-era beat and a diverse new cast.
The All-New Mickey Mouse Club (MMC)
1989 – 1996
The most famous revival of all. Airing on the Disney Channel, this iteration famously launched the global careers of Britney Spears, Justin Timberlake, Christina Aguilera, Ryan Gosling, and Keri Russell.
Club Mickey Mouse
2017 – 2018
A short-lived, digital-first version of the club that aired entirely on social media platforms.
The Disney+ Reboot
2026
Disney officially orders a pilot for a high-production-value revival, bringing the franchise back to a major streaming platform under Fulwell Entertainment.
With production kicking off in Los Angeles, Disney fans won’t have to wait long to see if this new crop of talent will yield the next generation of music and movie icons.
Are you excited for a new version of The Mickey Mouse Club?
Inside the Epic Spider Man Brand New Day Takeover at Silvercup Studios!
If you happened to look up at the Queens skyline recently, you might have caught a glimpse of everyone’s favorite web-slinger doing what he does best. Disney Consumer Products just gave Spider-Man the ultimate welcome home to Peter Parker’s old stomping grounds in Queens, NY. To gear up for the highly anticipated theatrical release of Sony Pictures Spider Man Brand New Day, they took over the historic Silvercup Studios and webbed up its iconic sign with an absolutely jaw-dropping, action-packed projection show.
Watching Spidey swing from letter to letter across the massive sign was the perfect tribute to the character’s Queens roots. Silvercup Studios, a legendary production hub where countless films and TV shows have come to life, served as the ultimate canvas for this high-flying light show. Best of all, lucky fans who gathered to watch the sign light up got the surprise of a lifetime when Spider-Man himself swung by for an actual face to face visit! If you are in the area and want to check out the spectacular display for yourself, you are in luck: the Silvercup sign takeover is running day and night through Sunday, July 19.
Of course, a massive celebration like this wouldn’t be complete without plenty of awesome gear to go with it. To mark the countdown to the movie’s big premiere on Friday, July 31, a stellar lineup of brands is dropping a mountain of new merch. Huge names like LEGO, Hasbro, Funko, Mattel, and Crocs along with cool fashion and lifestyle brands like Fossil, Civil Regime, and Bershka are releasing everything from toys and rare collectibles to stylish apparel and home decor.
If you’re looking to grab some of this Spidey swag right away, you can follow your Spidey-Sense straight to the Disney Store or check out DisneyStore.com. They have a massive assortment of movie-themed goodies waiting for you. A few of the coolest highlights to keep an eye out for include the talking Spider-Man action figure, an awesome light-up mask with built-in sound effects that kids will love, and a super cute, extra-chunky Spider-Man Big Feet Plush that is perfect for collectors.
Whether you are prepping your premiere-night outfit or looking to grow your toy shelf, there’s plenty of web-slinging fun to go around before the movie hits theaters!
New Moana Embroidered Tote Bag For A Wayfinder Style
If you’ve been waiting for the perfect sign to update your accessory game, consider this your official calling from the ocean! The Moana Embroidered Tote Bag has officially landed, and it is an absolute stunner. Retailing for $75 and available exclusively at Loungefly.com, this gorgeous bag is about to become your new daily go-to. If you want to channel your inner wayfinder while running errands, heading to class, or packing for a beach day, you’ll want to snag this before it sails away.
What makes this tote so special is the incredible attention to detail. Crafted with textured cotton raffia canvas, the bag features gorgeous embroidery and embossed details that bring Motunui straight to your wardrobe. The earthy, natural textures give it a perfect laid-back vibe, but the real magic is hidden in plain sight. If you look closely at the intricate patterns, you’ll spot a beautifully integrated Heart of Te Fiti design. It’s a subtle, elegant nod to Moana’s epic journey that fellow Disney fans will instantly recognize and obsess over.
Whether you’re voyaging across the sea or just navigating your weekly routine, this tote lets you carry a piece of Disney magic wherever you go. Head over to Loungefly.com and grab yours today, after all, the line where the sky meets the sea is calling, and this bag is too good to leave behind!
Disney Unveils Exclusive Show Floor Experiences for D23 Fan Event
The show floor for this year’s D23 event—the largest in history—will host an incredible lineup of newly unveiled experiences, bringing Disney’s iconic brands and franchises to life from August 14–16. Exclusively available to ticketholders at the Anaheim Convention Center, these expanded, immersive spaces will feature unprecedented shopping opportunities alongside more than 50 panels and shows throughout the weekend.
The Disney+ Hulu Experience
Step inside your favorite streaming worlds! This massive space features a signature 4D theater, exclusive merchandise, and a collectible mystery pin quest. You’ll also find immersive photo ops inspired by:
Percy Jackson and the Olympians
FX’s American Horror Story
Camp Rock 3
The Simpsons
Only Murders in the Building
Marvel Television’s VisionQuest
Disney & Pixar Animation Studios
Two legendary animation studios are joining forces for a massive joint pavilion! Celebrate Pixar’s 40th anniversary and get an inside look at highly anticipated upcoming films like Disney’s Hexed, Disney Animation’s Frozen 3, and Disney and Pixar’s Gatto and Incredibles 3.
Don’t Miss: Live artist demonstrations, autograph signings with top filmmakers, interactive displays, and exclusive fan giveaways!
Mundo Pixar: The D23 Experience(Presented by Disney Rewards Visa® Cards from Chase)
Get a special preview of this globally touring, life-size immersive exhibition! Step directly into beloved Pixar stories with larger-than-life photo moments and a dedicated merchandise shop.
The Simpsons Movie Booth
Celebrate the upcoming Simpsons movie (hitting theaters September 3, 2027!) with fun, shareable photo ops designed to commemorate your D23 weekend.
Marvel & Star Wars Galaxies
Marvel Studios’ TVA Experience: Your Next Assignment
The Time Variance Authority is recruiting! Step into the Marvel Cinematic Universe in this epic walkthrough adventure. Fans will join the TVA and travel across different worlds—both familiar and brand-new.
The Lucasfilm Pavilion
Journey to a galaxy far, far away! Explore a stunning gallery of props, costumes, and photo ops from current and upcoming Star Wars stories.
Fireside Chats: Sit in on intimate Q&As with the filmmaking teams behind your favorite films and series.
Exclusive Screening: Be among the first to see LEGO Star Wars: The Mandalorian during a special screening at the Anaheim Convention Center!
Theme Parks, Imagineering & History
Disney Experiences — Imagineering: Horizons
The fan-favorite Disney Parks pavilion is back and bigger than ever! In their largest pavilion in D23 history, Walt Disney Imagineering invites you to explore the groundbreaking progress shaping Disney Parks around the world. Get an up-close look at the people, the process, and the infinite possibilities being brought to life.
Walt Disney Archives: Uncrated
For the first time ever, take a journey into the vast, hidden warehouses of the Walt Disney Archives—spaces previously restricted to archivists alone! Discover incredible themed displays featuring recently “uncrated” shipments of iconic props, costumes, and puppets spanning generations of Disney history.
Interactive Experiences & Fan Fun
The Avatar Experience
Journey to the breathtaking, bioluminescent world of Pandora! Walk through a lush alien environment, experience an immersive 4D moment, and explore a gallery detailing the incredible artistry and craftsmanship behind the Na’vi culture.
Meet Bluey & Bingo!
For real life! Head over to The Bluey Movie booth at select times throughout the day to snap a photo with everyone’s favorite heelers, Bluey and Bingo. (Note: Reservations are required for this meet-and-greet!)
ESPN’s “We’re Going to the Super Bowl!”
Gear up for the Big Game on ESPN and ABC! Feel the rush of a Super Bowl championship with stadium-inspired photo ops, a confetti-filled victory celebration, digital keepsake content, and an exclusive ESPN Super Bowl D23 pin.
Disney Theatrical Group
Love Disney on Broadway? Go behind the curtain of Disney’s live stage productions, arena tours, and live experiences. Check out authentic Broadway sets, costumes, and props, and enjoy live presentations hosted by Disney on Broadway star Ryan McCartan!
Disney Music Group & Disney Music Emporium
Step up to the microphone in a classic radio booth to record your very own “Be Our Guest” segment—some of which will be featured on the Disney Hits SiriusXM channel! Plus, check out costumes from the Descendants/Zombies: Worlds Collide Tour, spin the prize wheel, and shop exclusive releases at the Disney Music Emporium.
Lights, Camera, Sparkle!(Presented by Disney Consumer Products)
Get ready to strike a pose! Walk or dance through two highly themed photo zones:
A delicious, snack-inspired world featuring Mickey & Friends.
A glittering spotlight inspired by Stitch and Angel’s hit “Glitter Glide” music video!
Disney VoluntEARS: Make a Difference!
Become an Honorary Disney VoluntEAR! Stop by the pavilion to help assemble 8,000 charity kits per day for incredible organizations:
Friday, Aug. 14: Build wish kits for children awaiting upcoming Disney Wishes with Make-A-Wish.
Saturday, Aug. 15: Assemble welcome kits for military families with Blue Star Families.
Sunday, Aug. 16: Build Disney-themed activity kits for hospitalized children with the Starlight Children’s Foundation.
Cap off your volunteering with a commemorative photo op as you exit the pavilion!
Hatbox Ghost Popcorn Bucket and Treats Revealed for D23 Day at Disneyland
August 13 is D23 Day at Disneyland and the celebration wouldn’t be complete without special tasty treats and fun novelty items to take home! Guests can take home a new popcorn bucket and enjoy some specialty foods at the parks and Downtown Disney District.
Take home the Haunted Mansion Hatbox Ghost Popcorn Bucket, a new novelty available for purchase for a limited time beginning Aug. 13, at Harbour Galley, Hungry Bear Barbecue Jamboree, Popcorn at Frontierland and Popcorn at New Orleans in Disneyland, and at Popcorn at Grizzly Peak Airfield and Popcorn Near Carthay Circle Restaurant in California Adventure. Available while supplies last; limit two (2) per person, per transaction. No discounts apply.
Indulge in the Sorcerer Apprentice Mickey Cake Pop, available for a limited time beginning Aug. 13 at Candy Palace in Disneyland, Trolley Treats in California Adventure, and Disney Wonderful World of Sweets in Downtown Disney, while supplies last.
Specialty Food and Beverage Items (These limited-time items are available to purchase for all guests at Downtown Disney District, Aug. 1-16):
Family Gold Ube Cheesecake from Parkside Market
Berry Bliss & Choco Crunch Duo from Beignets Expressed
Specialty drinks are also available at Ballast Point Brewery Co., Céntrico, Vista Parkside Market, and Paseo
D23 Offerings and Discounts at Downtown Disney
Beginning Aug. 1 through Aug. 16, select locations at the Downtown Disney District will have special offerings or discounts for guests that present their D23 Event badge or D23 Gold Membership Card.
Locations with discounts or special offers for D23 Members or D23 attendees:
Beignets Expressed
Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs
California Churro
Céntrico (food and non-alcoholic beverages only)
Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio (dine-in guests only)
Kawaii Slime Co.
Lovepop
Naples Ristorante e Bar (food and non-alcoholic beverages only)
Here’s Your First Look at the D23 Day Merch at Disneyland
Get your wallets ready because the ultimate kickoff party is almost here! D23 Day at Disneyland Resortis officially landing on August 13. Before the massive D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event gets underway, the Happiest Place on Earth is turning up the magic with an incredible lineup of exclusive, limited-edition merchandise. Whether you are a pin collector, a fashion lover, or just a die-hard Disney enthusiast, there is something in these collections that you’ll want to take home but remember, these are only available while supplies last!
The Big Logo Drop & Southern California Streetwear
First up is the D23 Day Logo Collection. If you want everyone to know you were part of this epic kickoff, this is the gear for you. You can snag a colorful tee, a trading pin, and a commemorative magnet featuring the official D23 Day at Disneyland Resort logo. Head over to the Emporium at Disneyland, Elias & Co. at California Adventure, or World of Disney in Downtown Disney to grab yours.
If you’re looking for something with a unique local flair, you are going to fall in love with the Disneylandia Collection. Disneyland has teamed up with Viva La Bonita, a fabulous Latina-owned, Southern California-based lifestyle and streetwear brand to bring us “Donde Empiezan Los Sueños” (Where Dreams Begin). This stunning, culture-infused collection weaves together beautiful storytelling and Disney magic. You can find it at the Emporium, Elias & Co., and The D-Lander Shop at Downtown Disney.
Milestone Anniversaries: Hunchback & Alice
Can you believe it has been 30 years since we first heard the bells of Notre Dame? To celebrate three decades of Disney Animation’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Disney is dropping a gorgeous, vibrant tribute collection. We are talking a colorful Spirit Jersey, a stunning ear headband, a trading pin, a mug, and more! Find it at the Emporium, Off the Page in California Adventure, and World of Disney. If you miss it at the parks, don’t worry, it will also pop up at the D23 Marketplace in the Anaheim Convention Center during the main event, and later on DisneyStore.com!
Not to be outdone, Alice in Wonderland is celebrating a massive 75-year milestone. Disney is bringing us a pastel-perfect apparel and accessory collection themed around the Queen of Hearts’ absolute favorite game: croquet! It is whimsical, classy, and available at Clothiers at Disneyland, Elias & Co., and The D-Lander Shop. Just like the Hunchback collection, this one will also be available at the D23 Marketplace during the convention and on DisneyStore.com down the road.
Shiny Collectibles & Freebies You Can’t Ignore
For the collectors out there, Disney is introducing D23 Day Medallions. For the very first time, these beautiful commemorative medallions will be available in individual capsules or as a complete four-medallion set. They feature four distinct, shiny designs with the D23 Day logo on the back. Make a bee-line to the Candy Palace at Disneyland, Kingswell Shop at California Adventure, or near the Star Wars Trading Post in Downtown Disney to secure yours!
Make sure you get to the gates early! Starting right at park opening on August 13, guests entering Disneyland or Disney California Adventure with a valid ticket and reservation can snag a complimentary Mickey Mouse ear hat featuring the D23 Day logo, plus a commemorative guide. They are highly limited, so do not sleep on this freebie!
Before D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event begins in Anaheim, Calif., guests are invited to the ultimate kickoff party when D23 Day at Disneyland Resort returns on Aug. 13, 2026. This one-day event will bring Disney fans together for imagination, storytelling and fandom. Adding even more excitement, the Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party also kicks off on Aug. 13, 2026, with a one-day event at Disney California Adventure park, followed by a multi-day event in the Downtown Disney District, Aug. 14-16, 2026. (Disneyland Resort)
Disneyland Shares First Look at D23 Day & Disney Jr. Let’s Play Party 2026
D23 Day at Disneyland Resort returns August 13, 2026, kicking off the ultimate fan celebration ahead of the main D23 event in Anaheim. All guests with valid theme park admission and reservations are invited to join the festivities.
The excitement expands with the Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party, which begins August 13 at Disney California Adventure before moving to the Downtown Disney District from August 14–16.
D23 Day at Disneyland Resort on Aug. 13, 2026, marks the countdown to D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in Anaheim. During this one-day event, all guests visiting Disneyland Resort can discover themed moments and fan-favorite experiences that celebrate the worlds of Disney.
From special entertainment to dance parties, themed merchandise, and more, there’s plenty of ways to express your fandom!
Complimentary Ear Hats and Commemorative Guides
Beginning at park opening on Aug. 13 and while supplies last, guests entering Disneyland park or Disney California Adventure park with valid park admission may receive a complimentary Mickey Mouse ear hat featuring the D23 Day at Disneyland Resort logo and commemorative guide. Limited quantities available.
Disney Legends Cavalcade at Disneyland
Experience a quintessential moment of D23 Day at Disneyland Resort and grab a seat along the parade route to see the Disney Legends Cavalcade, happening at Disneyland at 1:30 p.m. See if you can spot all 23 characters as they make their way down Main Street, U.S.A., with the Disneyland Band and select Disney Legends, who have been recognized for the unique and impactful legacies they have created at Disney.
D23 Day Entertainment
Explore the plethora of entertainment offerings across the resort on D23 Day, from dance parties to special character sightings and more.
Keep your eyes peeled for Merlin from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ The Sword and the Stone and Blue Fairy from Disney Animation’s Pinocchio, who you may encounter while wandering through Fantasyland in Disneyland.
Tomorrowland Terrace in Disneyland will feature music from day to night! From 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., young kids and their families can boogie down with Stitch and some of his friends at “Stitch’s Interplanetary Beach Party Bash.” In the evening, keep those dance moves grooving during the “Disney+ Hulu Throwbacks Dance Party” from 7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
Photo Opportunities
What better way to commemorate D23 Day than with a photo, or even a few! Pose in front of one of multiple D23 Day icon photo locations, located at Town Square at Disneyland, Pixar Pier in California Adventure, and in Downtown Disney.
If you’re looking for new photos to decorate your walls with at home, photo booths in the Hollywood Backlot in California Adventure and Fantasyland Theater in Disneyland will offer D23 Day-themed photo strips for an additional fee.
Complimentary Disney PhotoPass Digital Downloads
As part of the festivities, all park guests with valid park admission and theme park reservations on Aug. 13, 2026, may receive complimentary unlimited digital downloads of Disney PhotoPass photos taken that day.
Disney PhotoPass service will offer fun Magic Shots you can find that day.
Activities at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort
Discover where love meets magic on D23 Day! On Aug. 13, waltz down to Rose Court Garden at Disneyland Hotel with your loved one to enjoy immersive entertainment, unique photo opportunities, and explore how love stories come to life with Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings.
Throughout the month of August, Disneyland Hotel will feature a photo opportunity inspired by the upcoming film, Camp Rock 3.
“Disney Princess: The Ultimate Concert Celebration” Live Performance
As the culmination to the day and in anticipation of World Princess Week, a limited number of fans may have the opportunity to attend the live performance of “Disney Princess: The Ultimate Concert Celebration” in California Adventure on Aug. 13. This spectacular performance brings together the largest gathering of Disney Princess talent ever assembled, celebrating the iconic stories across animation, live-action, stage, and music. Attendance will be limited and may require additional steps.
This one-of-a-kind concert will transform the night with dazzling lights, sweeping projections, and sky-high fountains creating a truly immersive world where the music, magic, and legacy of Disney Princesses shine like never before. Fans can stream the concert on Disney+ and watch it on Disney Channel, Freeform, and The Wonderful World of Disney on ABC on Sunday, Aug. 16.
Time: Virtual queue enrollment begins at 12:00 p.m. PST. Concert performance times are 8:30 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. PST
Location: Paradise Gardens Park, California Adventure
A virtual queue confirmation, wristband and valid admission for California Adventure are required to participate in this experience.
On Aug. 13, you can request to join the virtual queue through the Disneyland app at 12:00 p.m. PST after entering California Adventure, or after entering Disneyland with a valid Park Hopper ticket.
You’ll be assigned an admittance group when joining a queue. When your group is called, and you receive a push notification, proceed to Hyperion Theater Courtyard between 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to scan your ticket or entry code to pick up your wristband.
Virtual queue admittance groups are extremely limited and available while supplies last. Wristbands will only be distributed to guests who have obtained a virtual queue admittance group entry code and have signed a filming release form. Wristbands have no cash value, may not be sold, and will not be replaced if lost, stolen, or damaged. Wristband availability and procedures are subject to change without notice.
Please be advised that photography, filming, and recording of “Disney Princess: The Ultimate Concert Celebration” will be taking place. Show times are subject to change or cancellation without notice.
Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party makes its return to Disneyland Resort in 2026, featuring entertainment and activities energized by iconic Disney Jr. stories and characters at Disney California Adventure park on Aug. 13, 2026, before extending the festivities into a three-day event at Downtown Disney District from Aug. 14 through Aug. 16, 2026.
This returning event kicks off alongside D23 Day at the Disneyland Resort, a one-day-only event featuring Disney fandom fun, special entertainment, and more on Aug. 13, in advance of D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in Anaheim.
Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party at California Adventure – Aug. 13, 2026
The Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party in Disney California Adventure returns Aug. 13, welcoming all park guests, including preschoolers and their families, to enjoy live entertainment, meet fan-favorite Disney Jr. characters, and more!
This special, one-day event, tailored to families with young children, celebrates favorite Disney Jr. characters, and stories from hit series including Sofia the First: Royal Magic, SuperKitties, and Spidey and his Amazing Friends.
Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Block Party
Don’t miss the highlight of the Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party – the “Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Block Party!” Starting at 10:30 a.m., the “Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Block Party!” will travel through Hollywood Land in California Adventure, making brief stops on Hollywood Boulevard and at Carthay Circle. This high-energy celebration is filled with music, grooves, and dressed-out vehicles, featuring Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and other iconic Disney Jr. characters.
Other Disney Jr. Offerings
The fun doesn’t stop there! Hollywood Land will host a multitude of Disney Jr. offerings for the entire family to enjoy. At the Hollywood Backlot Stage, kids can dance with Mickey Mouse and friends during “Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Live.”
You may even spot Sofia the First, from the Disney Jr. hit series, Sofia the First: Royal Magic, debuting her new attire, as well as Spidey and more characters making special, limited-time appearances.
Kids ages 3 through 11 can discover how the magic of food brings everyone together to save the day and decorate cupcakes with the help of the cat-tastic superheroes from the hit Disney Jr. animated series, SuperKitties, during “Confection Purrfection with the SuperKitties,” also at the Hollywood Backlot Stage.Space is limited, and participant sign-ups begin 45 minutes before each showtime.
Little ones and their families can get creative together at the Disney Jr. Let’s Play Craft Zone in Hollywood Land, and at Animation Academy, artists of all ages can learn to draw Pepper, Sofia’s adorable pet puppy-unicorn, from Sofia the First: Royal Magic as well as other Disney Jr. characters.
Take the fun home with you after stopping by the photobooth in Hollywood Land for a Disney Jr.-themed photo strip of you and your party for an additional fee, or pose for a picture at unique photo locations in the area. Disney Jr. merchandise is also available at Studio Store and Elias & Co. in California Adventure.
If you’re looking to cool off, head to the Disney Theater for an indoor dance party with Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and friends during “Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!,” part of the everyday offerings for families available at California Adventure.
Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party Continues at the Downtown Disney District – Aug. 14-16, 2026
From Aug. 14 through Aug. 16, Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party will continue at Downtown Disney with various offerings throughout the day. The Downtown Disney LIVE! Stage and Lawn will keep the fun flowing throughout the weekend, with a medley of family-friendly entertainment and activities.
Kids can keep dancing and grooving at DJ dance parties or live out their bubble dreams during The Bubbles Experience presented by Disney Jr. Family crafts will be available at the Disney Jr. Let’s Play Craft Zone near the Downtown Disney LIVE! Stage.
To top it all off, there will be even more unique photo locations in Downtown Disney for you and your “fan fam” to commemorate this special celebratory weekend.
Celebrate Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party at Disneyland Resort
Don’t miss out on all the Disney Jr. fun on Aug. 13 at California Adventure and from Aug. 14 through Aug. 16 at Downtown Disney! We can’t wait for all the kiddos and their families to join us for this unique celebration featuring favorite Disney Jr. stories and characters.
There’s still time to book your visit to D23 Day at Disneyland! Contact our partners at Get Away Today!
Cozy Up with the New Her Universe Disney Halloween Collection
Get your pumpkin spice lattes ready and prepare to swoon, because Her Universe has officially blessed us with a new Disney Halloween Collection! If your idea of spooky is more about cozy sweaters, cute pumpkin ears, and lots of candy corn stripes than actual terrors, this drop is literally made for you. We’re talking ultimate “Not-So-Scary” vibes that will take you straight from a breezy day at the Disney Parks to a movie night at home watching your favorite classic specials.
First up, let’s talk outerwear because Her Universe absolutely understood the assignment. For $61, the Disney Halloween Glow In The Dark Reversible Varsity Jacketis basically two jackets in one. One side gives you a spooky-cool ombré skeletal design complete with a Mickey Mouse pumpkin heart, while the other side keeps it classic with Mickey heads and spiderwebs. Plus, it has glow-in-the-dark candy corn stripes and a Mickey zipper pull that is the definition of it’s all in the details.
If you prefer cozy-chic, the Disney Halloween Light-Up Pumpkin Cardigan ($59) is about to be your new go-to. It features the Sensational Six knit as pumpkins all over the fabric, and get this: the front three pumpkins actually light up. Finished with candy-corn themed stripes and buttons, it is the perfect blend of nostalgic and high-tech festive wear.
If you are looking to add some literal “ch-ears” to your wardrobe, the Disney Halloween Fuzzy Hooded Cape ($35) is the softest way to creep through the pumpkin patch. This plush cape features an allover sweet-filled print of candy, Mickey, and Minnie in their best Halloween costumes. The hood has Mickey’s face embroidered right on it, complete with 3D ears, a bat wing trim, and handy front pockets to keep your hands warm.
To carry all your tricks and treats, you can pair it with the Disney Halloween Pumpkin Plush Shoulder Bag ($31). It is decorated with autumnal leaves and pumpkins on the front pockets, but the absolute best part is the clear window pocket on the front. It houses and perfectly displays an included removable Mickey Mouse pumpkin plush!
Finally, for a day out enjoying the crisp autumn air, the Disney Halloween Pumpkin Mickey Mouse Shortalls($43) are a total showstopper. Crafted from rich corduroy, they feature a giant pumpkin Mickey Mouse right on the front bib pocket. To keep the fall vibes strong, there is delicate embroidery of autumn foliage and pumpkins under the front pockets and on the back. With adjustable straps, rolled cuffs, and playful multicolor buttons, they are absolutely perfect for layering over your favorite long-sleeve tee.
