Ariel Meet & Greet Relocating in Hollywood Studios
The current location for the live-action Ariel meet and greet at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will close later this month as the character moves to a new, temporary home.
The Walt Disney World website confirms that the “Meet Ariel at Walt Disney Presents” experience is temporarily relocating to a new spot. The website reads:
“Meet Ariel at Walt Disney Presents will be temporarily unavailable beginning October 28. Ariel will be greeting guests at Echo Lake, near 50’s Prime Time Cafe”
The current meet and greet location will be closed beginning October 28, and Ariel will then relocate to the new area to continue meeting guests.
Starting Tuesday, October 28, Ariel’s meet and greet will temporarily move to the Echo Lake area, near 50’s Prime Time Café. Disney has not provided further details on the change or the duration of her stay in this new temporary location.
The reason for Ariel’s relocation remains unconfirmed, as does whether the move signals further work near Walt Disney Presents. This area recently saw the installation of a new preview center highlighting upcoming Walt Disney World expansions, replacing the former Disney Cruise Line display.
After a month-long absence, the popular photo op car has officially returned to the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater at Hollywood Studios, ready for guests to pose with once more.
The Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater photo car, a popular prop found in front of the restaurant’s retro billboard, had been absent since at least September 19, leaving only marks on the pavement where it once sat. As of October 15, the car is officially back. While there are no dramatic alterations, the vehicle appears to have been thoroughly cleaned and repainted during its month-long refurbishment.
The car’s refurbishment is immediately noticeable: it boasts a bright blue exterior, fresh white seats, and shining silver accents on the bumper and “window” frame. Even the headlights look spotless. This pristine vehicle, which is nearly identical to the diner booths inside (minus the tables), provides a unique photo opportunity where guests can sit and pose, often with a Disney PhotoPass photographer nearby.
The timing of this refresh, just weeks before Disney Jollywood Nights begins, is notable. While the park hasn’t confirmed decorations this year, the deep cleaning and repaint were likely scheduled to ensure the popular prop is squeaky clean for the start of the holiday event, for which it has been decorated in previous years.
D23 Members Can Attend Overnight Taping for Disney Parks Holiday Special
Ready to kick off the holiday season? D23 members have an exclusive opportunity to attend an overnight taping of “The Wonderful World of Disney: Magical Holiday Celebration.” Come watch the park fill with special Disney magic as live performances bring the holiday spirit to life!
IMPORTANT EVENT INFORMATION
This is an overnight taping at the Disneyland Resort. Check in begins at 11:00 p.m. and the event concludes at 6:30 a.m. the next morning.
This event requires long periods of waiting, standing, and moving during the early hours of the morning.
Audience participation is required as part of the taping.
Weather can be colder at night during the taping, so please dress accordingly. You are encouraged to wear your best and favorite Disney holiday attire! No costumes will be permitted.
You will be on camera during the taping. No photos, audio, or video recording will be allowed.
It is encouraged that you remain for the entire duration of the taping.
Beverages and snacks will be provided. Those staying for the duration of the entire event will receive a light meal.
“The Wonderful World of Disney: Magical Holiday Celebration” is an annual television special that airs on ABC during the holiday season. It features musical performances, celebrity appearances, and festive segments from various Disney Parks around the world.
Sadly, this event is sold out. Were you able to get tickets?
Kristen Bell Confirms ‘Frozen 3’ Production is Starting Soon
Kristen Bell, the voice of Anna, recently told Variety that the cast of the hit animated musical franchise will “soon” begin production for Frozen 3. Though she has yet to hear any of the new songs, Bell confirmed that she has seen the script for the third movie.
“That’s all I can say. I’m under lock and key,” Bell stated about the details, but she did shed some light on the early stages of the script process. She explained that in the beginning, it’s mostly “concept stuff like, ‘Here’s where we think it should go.'” Bell emphasized the collaborative nature of Disney’s filmmaking, noting, “That’s the one great thing about Disney is it goes through a thousand filters… That’s why the movies plays so well because they hit every single mark because nothing has been missed.”
Frozen 3 is currently scheduled for release in 2027. Early visual development art, unveiled in August 2024, offered a peek at the sequel, showing Elsa (voiced by Idina Menzel) riding a white horse and Anna (Kristen Bell) on a brown stag.
The franchise’s first two films—Frozen (2013) and Frozen II (2019)—were set in the fictional kingdom of Arendelle. Both were co-directed by Chris Buck and written/co-directed by Jennifer Lee, and featured the beloved voice cast of Bell, Menzel, Jonathan Groff (as Kristoff), and Josh Gad (as Olaf). Frozen was also an Academy Award winner for Best Animated Feature.
Wicked: The Experience Getting Major Glow-Up at Universal Studios Florida with Dazzling New ‘For Good’ Overlay
Get ready to step back into the Land of Oz—this time, it’s bigger, brighter, and even more magical. Beginning October 31, Universal Orlando Resort will unveil an all-new version of Wicked: The Experience inside Universal Studios Florida, celebrating the upcoming Universal Pictures sequel, Wicked: For Good.
This immersive retail experience will take guests beyond the yellow brick road with an enchanting new overlay that brings key moments from the highly anticipated film to life. The reimagined space will feature stunning scenic design inspired by Shiz University and the Emerald City, as well as exclusive displays of costumes and props straight from the movie.
Fans will also find a wicked lineup of new merchandise—from plush and home décor to apparel, bag charms, and sparkling accessories—perfect for every kind of Oz devotee, whether you’re “perfectly pink” like Glinda or “positively emerald” like Elphaba.
And the magic doesn’t stop there. Guests can indulge in themed treats across the park, including the Yellow Road Shake made with Dulce de Leche ice cream and the Wizards Elixir Shake featuring Mint Chocolate Chip ice cream, both available at Schwab’s Pharmacy. More Wicked-inspired goodies will pop up throughout Universal Orlando for a limited time.
Between the new props, photo ops, and an extra dose of Oz-inspired sparkle, this year’s Wicked: The Experience is a must-visit for any fan ready to defy gravity—again.
Grand Floridian Traffic Circle Construction Takes Shape at Walt Disney World
Change is in motion—literally—around Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, where road work is progressing quickly on the widening and rerouting of Floridian Way. Thanks to new aerial photos from @bioreconstruct on X, we now have a clear look at the traffic circle that’s taking shape just west of the resort’s main parking lot.
The newly defined roundabout sits amid an active construction zone filled with machinery, staging areas, and fresh asphalt. One of @bioreconstruct’s images shows the connecting bridge and new roadway alignment, with the Magnolia Golf Course visible to the right—a clear sign that this reroute will help streamline traffic around the resort corridor.
This major infrastructure update will eventually serve as an improved link between the Magic Kingdom area resorts, including Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and the Grand Floridian, while also enhancing access to the Disney Wedding Pavilion. Once complete, the new route should ease congestion in this high-traffic zone, especially during peak guest arrival and departure times.
Meanwhile, work continues inside Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort as part of its resort-wide reimagining. The lobby has already seen refreshed furniture, lighting, and carpet installed, giving it a brighter and more modern look while maintaining that signature Victorian elegance.
New Permit Filed for 7 Acres at Lost Continent Project in Universal’s Islands of Adventure
Something big is stirring in the Lost Continent. Universal Orlando Resort has filed a brand-new construction permit for the long-dormant section of Universal’s Islands of Adventure, marking the next major step in what’s being called the “Lost Continent Project.”
The new permit, filed under the code UO P555, details plans for the “renovation of an existing commercial use” spanning seven acres of land. While Universal hasn’t confirmed what the future holds for this space, the language suggests a major redevelopment rather than a simple refurbishment.
This follows last month’s permit for the demolition of five acres within the same area. At the time, Universal’s Director of Public Relations, Kristen Smith, told the Orlando Business Journal that “construction activity” would take place in the Lost Continent “as part of site planning to ensure the area is ready for any future developments.”
The Lost Continent—once home to elaborate mythological theming and attractions like Poseidon’s Fury and The Eighth Voyage of Sinbad—has slowly faded into theme park legend. After The Wizarding World of Harry Potter took over much of the land in 2010, the remaining attractions closed in 2018 and 2023, leaving behind empty stages and silent temples. While the Sinbad theater still stands, it’s been gathering dust, and the latest permit could mean that its time is finally up.
As for what’s next? That’s where the speculation gets fun. Rumors have long swirled around potential replacements, from a Legend of Zelda expansion tied to Super Nintendo World to a possible Wicked-themed land (especially with the upcoming film adaptation). Universal Destinations & Experiences CEO Mark Woodbury has hinted at “continued growth across all Universal Orlando parks,” and this permit might just be the first visible sign of that ambition taking shape inside Islands of Adventure.
Cool Ship Prepares for Takeoff Again at Magic Kingdom
Tomorrowland is looking a little cooler these days—literally. The long-dormant Cool Ship snack kiosk is gearing up for its grand return at Magic Kingdom, with new menu boards now installed and construction crews putting the final touches on its futuristic facade.
Guests riding the Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover have had the best view of the progress, where the newly rebuilt teal-and-white structure gleams under the Florida sun. Two ordering windows have been added on the sides, with a central pick-up station—suggesting the return of those quick, grab-and-go treats Tomorrowland travelers have been missing.
Cool Ship, along with its neighbor Cool Scanner, originally closed back in May 2025 with no official explanation from Disney. The old structure was completely demolished to make way for this sleek replacement. While Disney hasn’t announced an exact reopening date, the company’s website confirms that the refreshed kiosk will reopen before the end of the year.
This marks yet another step in Tomorrowland’s ongoing transformation. The land has seen a steady series of updates in recent years, including the debut of TRON Lightcycle / Run in 2023 and the ongoing overhaul of Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, which will feature upgraded ride vehicles and enhanced show scenes.
The new Cool Ship design trades the land’s classic “retro-futuristic” flair for a more modern, streamlined look—a visual direction that’s becoming the new norm for Tomorrowland. Whether you’re a fan of the classic chrome-and-neon aesthetic or prefer this sleeker vision of the future, one thing’s for sure: guests will soon have a cool spot to refuel while exploring Disney’s land of tomorrow.
Filming Begins for ABC’s 2025 Disney Parks Holiday Specials at Walt Disney World
The most wonderful time of the year has officially arrived early at Walt Disney World, as filming is underway for ABC’s annual Disney Parks Holiday Specials. This year’s festivities kicked off at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, where singer-songwriter Mariah the Scientist was spotted performing in front of the park’s iconic Tree of Life.
Crews were seen setting up lighting and camera rigs throughout the central Discovery Island area as the R&B star recorded her segment, bringing a touch of holiday sparkle to the wild heart of the park. While details of her performance haven’t yet been revealed, the combination of her soulful sound and the park’s glowing, nature-inspired backdrop promises to be a visual and musical highlight of this year’s broadcast.
The Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade and The Wonderful World of Disney: Magical Holiday Celebration traditionally feature performances from across all four Walt Disney World theme parks and Disneyland Resort, blending celebrity appearances with scenes of park guests enjoying seasonal magic from around the globe.
Disney hasn’t yet confirmed the 2025 air dates or the full performer lineup, but historically, one special airs around Thanksgiving weekend, with another hitting screens on Christmas Day. These specials stream on Disney+ and Hulu in addition to their ABC broadcast, making them accessible for fans far and wide who want a little Disney cheer from home.
If you happen to be visiting Walt Disney World over the next week, keep an eye out — filming may continue at other parks, including Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. You never know when a festive performance might light up Main Street, U.S.A., or echo from Cinderella Castle.
Treat Yourself! D23 Reveals 8 Exclusive Halloween Discounts for Members
The spooky season is here, and to celebrate, D23 is inviting members to enjoy scary good savings! D23 has eight exclusive Halloween discounts designed to thrill and satisfy every kind of fan. These deals are only for D23 Members, so don’t be shy—take a peek for yourself (if you dare!).
Salt & Straw (10% Off at Downtown Disney & Disney Springs)
To commemorate the Halloween season, Salt & Straw is inviting D23 Gold Members to celebrate with a new slate of spooky ice cream flavors, available in both Downtown Disney and Disney Springs! Whether you’re feeling adventurous or want to stick with the classics this Halloween, Salt & Straw’s newest flavors have something for everyone:
The Great Candycopia: A trick-or-treater’s bag of chocolate candies dumped into our salted butterscotch ice cream.
Jack O’Lantern Pumpkin Bread: A secret family spell of pumpkin bread hunks folded into pumpkin spiced ice cream streaked with cream cheese frosting.
Creepy Crawly Critters: A swarm of edible candy-coated critters scattered throughout our sweet green matcha ice cream.
Essence of Ghost: A haunting combination of scotch-infused sherbert and dark chocolate ice cream.
Double Bubble Toil & Trouble (v): A blend of pineapple, banana, and pear in coconut cream, spiced with cinnamon and vanilla, for a just-like-bubble-gum flavor.
Lovepop (10% Off at Downtown Disney)
Share the Halloween spirit with fang-tastic Halloween designs everyone’s been howling about! These ghoulish designs inspired by Disney classics including Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas and Hocus Pocus are the perfect way to conjure up a frightfully fun Halloween season!
Whether you’re looking for unique, handcrafted cards or whimsical gifts that POP with personality, Lovepop offers a wide variety of imaginative designs perfect for any occasion. From beautiful, intricate pop-up cards to one-of-a-kind gifts that make a statement, there’s something special waiting for you.
eet by Maneet Chauhan (10% Off at Disney Springs)
It’s a grave mistake to celebrate Halloween on an empty stomach! Instead, trick or treat yourself to these new seasonal dishes at eet, available now through October 31:
Enchanted Noodles: Lo-mein noodles sautéed with crisp green peas and tender carrots, finished with a rich and savory Enchanted Umami Glaze, a balanced blend of hoisin, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a touch of mustard oil for depth and intrigue.
Monster Mein: Lo-mein noodles tossed with vibrant green peas and sweet carrots, coated in our bold and fiery Lava Garlic Umami Sauce, a robust mix of garlic chili sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and mustard oil for a spicy kick.
D23 Gold Members will enjoy modern Indian cuisine and a vibrant atmosphere, in addition to 10% off your check (excluding alcohol).
California Churro (10% Off at Downtown Disney)
Churros are a ghoul’s best friend! Stop by California Churro this October for the new Spooky Churro, a churro rolled in cinnamon sugar, cut in half, drizzled with peanut butter and chocolate sauce, and topped with peanut butter candy pieces. It’ll be love at first bite!
D23 Gold Members can receive 10% off their entire purchase at California Churro in Downtown Disney.
Sunshine Churros (10% Off at Disney Springs)
It’s time to eat, drink, and be scary at Sunshine Churros in Disney Springs! Enjoy their newest seasonal treat, the Trick or Treat Churro Donut, a churro donut rolled in chocolate sugar, drizzled with peanut butter and chocolate sauce, and topped with peanut butter chocolate candy pieces.
D23 Gold Members can receive 10% off their entire purchase at Sunshine Churros.
Bob Baker Marionette Theater Gift Shop (15% Off In-Store)
It’s showtime at the Bob Baker Marionette Theater Gift Shop! D23 Gold Members can receive 15% off in-store at the theater’s gift shop, full of vintage aesthetics and historic charm that are simply to die for, now through November 9.
Beignets Expressed (10% Off in Downtown Disney)
Beignets Expressed is the apple of our eye this Halloween season! Head to Downtown Disney during the month of October to try their new Caramel Apple Beignet, topped with candied apple icing, caramel drizzle, and spooky sprinkles. Boo-yah!
D23 Gold Members can savor a taste of New Orleans with a 10% discount for dine-in guests at Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio, as well as Beignets Expressed for a quick, indulgent treat. Discount applies to food and non-alcoholic drinks only and excludes alcohol, tax, and gratuity.
Joffrey’s Coffee (20% In-Store and Online)
You’ve had 999 cups of coffee in your lifetime, but there’s always room for one more…
For those who need to be coffin-ated to get through the day, the Disney Haunted Mansion Foolish Mocha Brew will awaken your spirit from somewhere beyond with flavor notes of sweet chocolate. Additionally, choose from a wide variety of flavors commemorating some of Disney’s most beloved characters and theme park resorts, available as grounds and, in special cases, single-serve cups. And if you can’t choose just one, check out one of Joffrey’s specialty trios, like the Disneyland Resort Coffee Trio or the Disney Holiday Trio Coffee Collection.
D23 Gold Members can enjoy 20% off their Joffrey’s Coffee order—valid both in-store and online at Joffreys.com.
Disney Store Releases Donald Duck Christmas Tree Sipper Online
The festive Donald Duck Christmas Tree Sipper is scheduled to be released online from the Disney Store later this month.
The Disney Store website confirms the Donald Duck Christmas Tree Sipper will be released online on October 27th, though an exact time for the drop has not yet been listed.
This highly popular sipper first debuted at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort in November 2023. The molded plastic figure showcases a festive Donald Duck dressed in a detailed Christmas tree costume, complete with ornaments and lights. His head peeks out from beneath a light-up star. The straw conveniently pops out of the back, and the figure stands on a clear base.
When originally sold in the parks, the sipper retailed for $14.50 to $26.75, with the price varying based on location and accompanying beverage. The official online price for the Disney Store release has not yet been announced.
Will you be snagging a sipper when it’s available online?
The Vintage Charm of Macy’s New Retro Mickey and Friends Ornament Set!
Are you ready to inject some serious vintage charm into your Christmas tree this year? Because Macy’s has dropped something truly special that’s going to make you feel all warm and fuzzy with nostalgia: the Retro Mickey and Friends Ornament Set!
Ready to snag this piece of holiday cheer? The Macy’s Retro Mickey and Friends Ornament Set retails for $59. You can pick up the set either online at Macy’s website or by heading into your nearest Macy’s store.
Forget those sleek, modern ornaments for a minute. This set is a gorgeous throwback, featuring four of your favorite classic characters: Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy. They’re crafted from glass and boast a delightful, throw-back feel that is just perfect for adding a bit of old-school Disney magic to your home. We’re talking about a vibe that makes you feel like you just stepped into a 1930s cartoon!
What makes these ornaments extra cool? They aren’t just generic retro designs; they are inspired by illustrations from the renowned Mickey Mouse comic strip artist, Floyd Gottfredson. That’s a serious piece of Disney history hanging on your tree! If you appreciate the artistry and origin of the characters, this detail alone makes the set a must-have.
Honestly, for the quality, the nostalgia factor, and that awesome connection to a Disney legend, this set is a fantastic way to upgrade your holiday decorations. Don’t let this limited-edition charm slip away!
