Hoppers Tops Box Office as Best-Performing Original Since Coco

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March 9, 2026

Pixar’s ‘Hoppers’ Jumps to #1 With Biggest Original Debut Since ‘Coco’

After a challenging string of original releases that struggled to find their footing, Pixar has officially regained its stride. Hoppers didn’t just meet expectations—it leaped past them, dominating the weekend box office and proving the studio still has the magic touch for new stories.

Following a massive marketing blitz—headlined by a high-profile Super Bowl spot and even a custom Yogurtland flavor—Hoppers made its theatrical debut on March 6, 2026. The film introduces audiences to Mabel, a teenage environmentalist who uses cutting-edge tech to “hop” her consciousness into a robotic beaver in a high-stakes mission to save the wilderness from industrial development.

Hoppers has leaped to the top of the box office, making it a certified smash with a 94% critic score and a matching 94% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. By Sunday, March 8, the film brought in a stellar $46 million domestically and $88 million worldwide. This #1 debut marks the strongest opening for a Pixar original—and original animated films in general—since 2017’s Coco. Thanks to incredible word-of-mouth, Hoppers has already jumped past its initial $40 million projections!

This victory is a major turnaround for Pixar’s original slate. While recent entries struggled—with 2023’s Elemental having one of the studio’s lowest openings and 2025’s Elio unfortunately falling short as the studio’s lowest performer—Hoppers has proved that new stories still have massive drawing power. While Elio struggled to find its footing, Elemental eventually found success as a sleeper hit on Disney+, setting the stage for Hoppers to reclaim the theatrical throne.

Have you seen Hoppers yet?

These Disney World E-ticket Mints Are The Perfect Retro Souvenir!

By

Ana Leal

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March 9, 2026

These Disney World E-ticket Mints Are The Perfect Retro Souvenir!

If you’re a sucker for Disney nostalgia (and honestly, who isn’t?), you need to keep your eyes peeled for the E-ticket Mints next time you’re roaming Walt Disney World. For just $5.99, these are easily one of the coolest budget souvenirs you can snag. They aren’t just a snack; they’re a tiny, metallic tribute to the days when you actually had to budget your coupons to get onto Space Mountain.

The packaging is the real star here. The metal tin is designed to look exactly like a vintage Walt Disney World ticket book. While the “A” through “E” coupons are tucked away on the side, the front cover is perfectly legible and hits all those retro notes. You’ll see the classic “Welcome to Walt Disney World” greeting right above that iconic vintage Magic Kingdom logo, complete with the old-school text crowning Florida as the vacation capital of the world. It’s the kind of item that looks just as good sitting on your desk as it does tucked in your park bag.

Don’t let the pretty box distract you from the actual treats inside. Once you pop the lid, you’ll find white peppermints shaped like the Fabulous Five (Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, and Pluto). They’re the same character-molds you might recognize from other Disney mint tins, but don’t let their cute faces fool you, these things pack a serious punch.

In our experience, these are some of the strongest mints available on property. One Mickey-shaped peppermint is usually enough to clear your senses after a long afternoon of snacking on churros and DOLE Whip. Whether you’re buying them for the 1970s aesthetic or the breath-freshening power, they’re a total steal.

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Turning Red Director Domee Shi to Helm Pixar’s First-Ever Feature Musical

By

Sara

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March 9, 2026

Domee Shi Set to Direct Pixar’s First Feature Musical

Even as Pixar pivots toward its major franchises, the studio is still betting on bold, original ideas. Leading this charge is Domee Shi, who is set to break new ground by helming the studio’s very first full-length musical—a historic departure for the animation powerhouse.

A recent profile from The Wall Street Journal exploring Pixar’s evolving company culture and box office strategy has offered a first glimpse into a historic new project: the studio’s inaugural feature musical.

While Pixar has yet to officially announce the film, reports from “insiders familiar with the project” indicate it will be helmed by Domee Shi, the visionary director behind the streaming hit Turning Red and the Academy Award-winning short Bao.

Though specific plot details are still under wraps, Pixar’s Senior Vice President of Development, Lindsey Collins, hinted at a bold creative direction for the film:

“One of the things that brought the initial group together here was a desire to rebel against the traditional Disney musical,” Collins shared. “This next generation grew up on Pixar, and they’re figuring out their version of rebellion.”

Domee Shi has quickly emerged as a leading voice in what Pixar’s SVP of Development, Lindsey Collins, calls the studio’s “next generation” of filmmakers. Since joining Pixar in 2011, the Chinese-Canadian animator built an impressive resume as a storyboard artist on blockbusters like Inside Out, The Good Dinosaur, and Incredibles 2.

Shi’s directorial breakthrough came with the 2018 short Bao, a poignant blend of cultural heritage and family dynamics inspired by her own upbringing. The film made history as the first Pixar short directed by a woman and earned the Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film.

Building on that momentum, Shi made her feature directorial debut with Turning Red. The film, which centers on a 13-year-old girl in Toronto who transforms into a giant red panda when overwhelmed by emotion, continued Shi’s tradition of using personal, semi-autobiographical storytelling to explore complex themes of identity and generational pressure.

What do you think of a Pixar musical?

The Most Magical Pink and Purple Merch Finds at Walt Disney World

By

Ana Leal

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March 9, 2026

The Most Magical Pink and Purple Merch Finds at Walt Disney World

If you’re looking to add a splash of color to your collection, the latest pink and purple drops at Disney World are basically a dream come true. From cozy home decor to park-ready accessories, these pieces are giving all the magical, girly vibes we live for. Whether you’re strolling down Main Street, U.S.A. or just daydreaming about your next trip, these finds are the perfect way to keep the magic alive.

First up, let’s talk wardrobe essentials. If you’re a fan of those classic Mickey balloons, the Pink Balloons T-shirt ($39.99) is a total must-have. The front is cute and simple with the Walt Disney World logo, but the back is where the party is, the Sensational Six are posing right in front of Cinderella Castle inside a giant heart. It’s basically a hug in shirt form! For a bit of shimmer, the Purple Disney World Icons Graphic Tee ($34.99) features a silver and purple holographic design on a grey background. It hits all the high notes with icons like the Hollywood Tower Hotel and Spaceship Earth, making it the perfect “Most Magical Place on Earth” souvenir.

You can’t have a Disney outfit without the perfect ears, and the Minnie Mouse Balloon Loungefly Ear Headband ($44.99) is reaching new heights of cuteness. These aren’t your average ears; they’re shaped like pink metallic Minnie balloons and finished off with a signature polka dot bow. They are soft, padded, and give that designer touch to any park look. To keep your feet happy while you clock those park miles, the new Pink Mickey Icon Crocs ($59.99) are a literal blush pink dream. The best part? The ventilation holes are actually shaped like tiny Mickey icons. It’s all in the details, right?

Finally, for those who want to bring the park spirit into their living room, the Fantasyland Throw Pillow ($49.99) is the ultimate finishing touch. This rectangular beauty features “Living in a Fantasyland” embroidered in shades of purple and pink, complete with gold pixie dust and a delicate lilac filigree border. The back is a solid pink-purple, making it just as comfy as it is cute. It’s the perfect reminder that no matter where you are, a little bit of magic is always close by.

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We Are Melting For This Beaches and Cream Ice Cream Cone Crossbody Bag!

By

Ana Leal

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March 9, 2026

We Are Melting For This Beaches and Cream Ice Cream Cone Crossbody Bag!

If you’re looking to carry a literal scoop of Disney magic on your shoulder, look no further. The Beaches and Cream Ice Cream Cone Crossbody Bag has officially arrived, and it is every bit as sweet as the Kitchen Sink sundae it’s inspired by. Retailing for $80 at the Beach Club Marketplace, this Loungefly creation is the ultimate accessory for anyone who considers ice cream a primary food group.

This bag is a total head-turner, crafted from high-quality faux leather that perfectly mimics a classic summer treat. The bottom half features a crisp, printed waffle cone pattern, while the top scoops into a fluffy mound of white ice cream. Of course, it wouldn’t be Disney without the details: a pair of chocolate Mickey ears sit right on top, alongside a glossy red cherry and vibrant, embroidered sprinkles that add a nice pop of texture.

One of the best parts about this bag is that it’s actually practical. While it looks like a cone, the bottom is flat rather than pointed, so you can set it down on a table without it rolling away like a runaway dessert. On the front, you’ll find a beautiful appliqué of the iconic Beaches & Cream Soda Shop logo, complete with its own tiny Mickey cone. Flip it around, and you’ll see the classic Disney Parks | Loungefly metal label plate, proving this is the real deal.

The strap is where the retro soda shop vibes really kick in. It’s a sturdy, adjustable seatbelt-style material featuring red and white stripes with a fun blue squiggle running down the middle, reminiscent of a classic paper straw. The strap attaches cleverly just below the Mickey ears, keeping the bag upright while you’re wandering through EPCOT or lounging by Stormalong Bay.

To get to your essentials, you just unzip the top section right behind the cherry. The interior is just as cute as the exterior, lined with a bright blue fabric covered in an adorable ice cream pattern. It’s the perfect size for your phone, wallet, and maybe some extra napkins, because we all know things get messy when there’s real ice cream involved!

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Lush to Launch an out-of-this-world Collection for The Super Mario Galaxy Movie

By

Catherine

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March 8, 2026

Lush and Nintendo Power-Up with Out-of-This-World ‘Super Mario Galaxy Movie’ Collection

Get ready to turn your bathroom into a cosmic oasis. Lush has officially announced a brand-new, limited-edition collaboration with Nintendo, Illumination, and Universal Products & Experiences to celebrate the upcoming release of The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, hitting theaters on April 1, 2026.

Following the massive success of their first partnership in 2023, this second collection takes inspiration from the vast reaches of space and the beloved star-hopping adventure. Starting March 10 (MAR10 Day), fans can embark on a self-care journey across the galaxy via the Lush App, online, and in-stores.

Reach for the Stars: Product Highlights

This collection is packed with intergalactic aromas and “power-up” surprises designed to elevate your bath and shower routine:

Yoshi Egg Bath Bomb: Hatch a plan for the ultimate soak! This bath bomb hides one of four collectible “hidden shower gummies” inside, which are revealed as the egg fizzes away.

Protect The Galaxy Shower Gel: A celestial blend of twinkling blueberry, radiant rose, and airy apple aromas that will leave you smelling like a cosmic hero.

Lumas Shower Jelly: If you prefer a jiggly, playful texture, these grapefruit and juicy peach-scented jellies are shaped like the adorable star-creatures from the film.

Yellow Luma Bubble Bar: Create a blanket of peach-scented bubbles to float through during your next soak.

Princess Rosalina Range: The collection also introduces a Princess Rosalina Body Spray and Lip Scrub, featuring a sophisticated blend of blueberry and chamomile.

Fans can keep their entire haul organized in the new Question Block gift box, a perfect collectors’ item for Nintendo enthusiasts.

A Mission of Joy and Sustainability

The collaboration aims to blend the whimsy of the Mario universe with Lush’s commitment to fresh, handmade, and planet-friendly cosmetics.

“At Lush, we create products that spark joy and empower self-care,” says Kalem Brinkworth, Concepts and Collaborations Lead at Lush. “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie captures imaginations and wonder – themes that align beautifully with Lush’s mission to bring innovative, yet planet-friendly products to customers.”

Whether you’re a long-time fan of Rosalina and the Lumas or just looking for a way to brighten your morning routine, this collection offers a literal “star-powered” refresh.

Try the New March DOLE Whip Flight at Disney Springs

By

Catherine

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March 8, 2026

The New March DOLE Whip Flight Now Available at Disney Springs

If you’re a fan of Disney’s most iconic frozen treat, it’s time to head over to the Marketplace. The March DOLE Whip Sampler has officially landed at Swirls on the Water in Disney Springs, and it might just be the most well-rounded trio we’ve seen yet!

For $8.99, you get a three-cup flight that transitions perfectly from the classic flavors we love to adventurous new fruit combinations. Here is the breakdown of the current lineup:

1. The “OG” Classic

Pineapple DOLE Whip & Vanilla Swirl

The Vibe: Pure nostalgia.
The Details: Garnished with a fresh pineapple wedge, this is the gold standard. The tartness of the pineapple is mellowed out by the creamy vanilla soft-serve, creating that signature texture that never goes out of style.

2. The Standout Star

Peach & Raspberry DOLE Whip * The Vibe: A sophisticated fruit crumble in frozen form.

The Details: This swirl is the highlight of the flight. It’s topped with raspberry crisps for a satisfying crunch and a spoonful of peach pie filling that adds a jammy, chewy sweetness. The peach flavor is bold and authentic, while the raspberry provides a bright, zesty finish.

3. The Zesty Refresh

Strawberry & Lemon Swirl

The Vibe: A frozen strawberry lemonade.
The Details: Originally part of the Valentine’s sampler, this duo was so popular it earned a spot in the March flight. It’s light, icy, and incredibly refreshing—exactly what you need when that Florida sun starts to peak.

Why We Love This Flight

What makes this specific flight a winner is the variety of textures. Between the creamy vanilla in the first cup, the crunchy crisps and soft peach chunks in the second, and the crisp sorbet-style finish of the third, your palate definitely won’t get bored.

Whether you’re a DOLE Whip purist or looking for something experimental, this sampler covers all the bases.

Yoshi Bobblehead Coming to Dodger Stadium

By

Chris B

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March 8, 2026

Yoshi Bobblehead Coming to Dodger Stadium

Dodgers Team Up with Super Mario for Yoshinobu Yamamoto Yoshi Bobblehead Giveaway

The Los Angeles Dodgers are stepping into the Mushroom Kingdom this season with a fun crossover promotion that blends baseball and Nintendo magic. Later this month, the team will give fans a special Yoshinobu Yamamoto bobblehead featuring a very familiar green dinosaur from the Super Mario universe.

The collectible will be given away to the first 40,000 fans attending the Dodgers’ game against the Cleveland Guardians on March 31 at Dodger Stadium. The bobblehead is part of a collaboration celebrating the upcoming release of The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, which arrives in U.S. theaters on April 1.

The unique bobblehead features Yoshi sporting a white Dodgers home jersey styled after Yoshinobu Yamamoto, along with the team’s classic blue Dodgers cap. The design adds a few playful details, including Yamamoto’s No. 18 printed on the back of Yoshi’s iconic shell and the dinosaur holding a blue baseball glove, ready to take the mound or chase down a fly ball.

This is just one of several Yamamoto-themed giveaways planned for the 2026 season. On May 27, the Dodgers will distribute a “Game 7 Last Out” bobblehead commemorating Yamamoto’s clutch performance in Game 7 of the World Series that helped secure the team’s second straight championship last October. Later in the season, on September 5, fans can collect a Yamamoto “Starter Series” bobblehead honoring the Dodgers’ starting rotation.

Yoshinobu, meet Yoshi. 🥹

Join us at Dodger Stadium on 3/31 for the collab we’ve all been waiting for! Get your Yoshi Bobblehead presented by The Super Mario Galaxy Movie. Tickets are available now at https://t.co/DZQkfNeXIj. pic.twitter.com/wlfyVxn4lY
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) March 6, 2026

Still, the crossover between baseball and Nintendo might end up being the most collectible of the bunch. With Yoshi suiting up in Dodger blue and the release of The Super Mario Galaxy Movie right around the corner, this bobblehead giveaway is shaping up to be a home run for fans of both baseball and gaming.

Yoshi Popcorn Bucket Coming to AMC & Cinemark Theaters

By

Chris B

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March 8, 2026

Adorable Yoshi Popcorn Bucket Launching with ‘Super Mario Galaxy Movie’ at AMC and Cinemark

A new collectible popcorn bucket is powering up at theaters just in time for the debut of the upcoming Super Mario Galaxy Movie, and it features one of the Mushroom Kingdom’s most lovable sidekicks. Both AMC and Cinemark theaters have announced a brand-new Yoshi popcorn bucket that will arrive when the film hits theaters on April 1.

The collectible bucket is shaped like a bright green Yoshi holding one of his signature Yoshi Eggs. The popcorn actually goes inside the egg, making it both a fun display piece and a snack container worthy of a warp pipe journey to the concession stand. The bucket holds an impressive 105 ounces of popcorn, though theaters have not yet revealed the official price.

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie serves as the sequel to 2023’s massively successful The Super Mario Bros. Movie. Directors Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic return for the new adventure, alongside writer Matthew Fogel. The original voice cast is also returning, with a few exciting new additions joining the galaxy-sized journey.

Yoshi Popcorn Bucket Coming to AMC & Cinemark Theaters

Among the new characters arriving in the sequel is Yoshi himself, Mario’s loyal dinosaur companion who has been a fan favorite across decades of Nintendo games. The film also brings Brie Larson into the cast as Rosalina and Benny Safdie as Bowser Jr., expanding the colorful lineup of characters inspired by the beloved Super Mario Galaxy video games.

With a cute design and plenty of popcorn capacity, this Yoshi bucket looks ready to hatch into one of the must-have movie collectibles of the year for Nintendo fans and popcorn bucket collectors alike.

Disney Updates Park Calendar with Extended Evening Hours for March and April

By

Chris B

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March 8, 2026

Disney Updates Park Calendar with Extended Evening Hours for March and April

Walt Disney World Extends Park Hours for Busy Spring Break Week

Spring break crowds are about to bring the energy to Walt Disney World, and Disney is giving guests more time to soak up the magic. Park hours have officially been extended at three parks for the busy week beginning March 22, giving visitors extra time to ride, snack, and catch nighttime entertainment across the resort.

According to the My Disney Experience app, Magic Kingdom will see the largest increase in hours. From March 22 through March 26, the park will now remain open until 11 PM instead of the previously scheduled 9:30 PM closing. Even more pixie-dusted time arrives March 27 and 28, when Magic Kingdom will open earlier at 8 AM and stay open until 11 PM. That means extra nighttime spins on TRON Lightcycle / Run, late-night rides through Haunted Mansion, and more chances to watch the castle glow after dark.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios is also stretching its day slightly during the week. From March 22 through March 27, the park will remain open until 9:30 PM instead of 9 PM. On March 28, the park will open earlier at 8:30 AM and stay open until 9:30 PM. Guests visiting that evening will also have two opportunities to catch Fantasmic, with showtimes scheduled for 8:30 PM and 10 PM.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is also seeing expanded hours during the spring break rush. On March 22 and March 28, the park will operate from 8 AM until 8 PM instead of its previous 6 PM closing time. From March 23 through March 27, the park will stay open until 7 PM, giving guests an extra hour to explore Pandora, ride Expedition Everest, or grab a sunset view of the Tree of Life.

For now, EPCOT’s hours remain unchanged, though it would not be surprising to see adjustments as the busy travel period approaches.

Extended park hours are a common move during peak travel weeks like spring break, helping spread out crowds while giving guests more opportunities to experience attractions, dining, and entertainment. If you are planning a visit during this time, the extra evening hours could mean shorter wait times late in the day and more chances to enjoy the parks after dark.

Disney’s Monsters Inc. 3 Reportedly In-Development from Pixar

By

Sara

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March 8, 2026

Pixar Officially Developing Monsters, Inc. 3

Hold onto your hard hats, Disney fans! In a massive update that has the entire animation world buzzing, Pixar has officially confirmed that Monsters, Inc. 3 is in development! The news comes via a deep dive from Variety, detailing Pixar’s aggressive new strategy to lean into the beloved franchises we know and love while still pushing the boundaries of original storytelling.

While plot details for Monsters, Inc. 3 are currently being kept behind closed closet doors, the announcement marks a major shift for the studio. Following the record-breaking success of Inside Out 2, Pixar is doubling down on “high-concept” sequels. Fans are already speculating—will we finally see a grown-up Boo? Or perhaps a deeper look into how the laugh floor has evolved since the original film?

Monsters, Inc. isn’t the only big news. Pixar is officially stepping into the world of musicals with a brand-new original film titled Ono. Directed by Domee Shi (the creative force behind Turning Red), Ono is described as a “high-stakes” musical. This marks a historic first for the studio, which has traditionally left the “breaking into song” moments to Walt Disney Animation Studios.

Pixar Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter and the team are implementing a “one-for-them, one-for-us” strategy. This means we can expect a steady mix of sequels and brand-new stories over the next few years. Here is a quick look at what’s on the horizon:

Ghost Market: A newly announced original film that promises to dive into a whimsical and spooky world.
Toy Story 5: Coming in 2026.
Incredibles 3: Currently in the works with Brad Bird.
Elio & Hoppers: Two original films slated for 2025 and 2026.

After a few years of experimental releases on Disney+, Pixar is refocusing on the “Big Screen” experience. By utilizing “legacy” titles like Monsters, Inc., the studio hopes to ensure financial stability that allows them to take big creative risks on original projects like Ono and Ghost Market.

Are you excited for a third Monsters Inc movie?

Winnie the Pooh Photo Op Returns to Disney Springs After Refurbishment

By

Sara

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March 8, 2026

Winnie the Pooh Photo Op Reopens at Disney Springs

The popular Winnie the Pooh photo location has returned to Disney Springs following a short maintenance period. The display, which features Pooh and his iconic friends, was unavailable for approximately one week while it underwent a routine refurbishment to ensure it stays in top shape for visitors.

The charming 3D display—featuring life-sized figures of Pooh, Tigger, and Piglet perched on a rustic log—has returned looking noticeably more vibrant. Set against a backdrop of whimsical tree flats and framed by lush potted plants, the entire scene appears much brighter and cleaner than before. The crisp colors suggest a fresh coat of paint was part of the recent refurbishment, making the Hundred Acre Wood crew pop like never before.

You’ll find this charming photo op tucked away in the Marketplace section of Disney Springs, situated just beside The Art Corner.

Have you been to Disney Springs to see the refreshed photo op?