The Limited-Edition Brooks x runDisney Stitch Glycerin 22 Shoes Debuts at Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend
Get ready to lose your mind (and maybe your money!) because the latest Brooks x runDisney collaboration is an absolute must-have! They’re dropping a limited-edition running shoe featuring everyone’s favorite mischievous alien: Stitch. That’s right, Experiment 626 is taking over the roads, and we are here for it. This isn’t just any shoe, it’s the super-cushy Glycerin 22 shoes, decked out in all things Stitch.
Seriously, Brooks didn’t hold back on the design. The shoe itself is a vibrant, bold blue that screams “alien invasion,” but in the best way possible. Keep an eye out for those incredible little details that make these so unique: you’ve got Stitch’s actual signature, some cheeky bite marks, and the little guy himself popping up on the shoe. And for the ultimate fan flex, they’ve got “Experiment 626” hidden in there, too! But let’s be real, while they look amazing, they feel even better. The Glycerin 22 is famous for its luxurious cushion, so you’ll be treated to supreme softness with every single step, making those half-marathon miles feel like a walk on the beach.
Ready to snag a pair? Mark your calendars! These limited-edition kicks will retail for $175 and will debut at the Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend. The absolute first day you can get your hands on them is Thursday, October 23, which is the start of the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo at ESPN Wide World of Sports. Since they’re a limited drop, you’ll want to head straight there! They’ve got a great size range, too, with Men’s sizes 7-15 and Women’s sizes 5-12, and they’ll even be available in wide! And hey, if you love this design, keep your eyes peeled, because a full lineup of Brooks x runDisney gear will be available throughout the 2025 Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend.
Which detail are you most excited to see on the shoe? The bite marks or his signature?
Salute in Style! New Military-Inspired Mickeyflage Collection Drops at Disney Parks
Get ready to salute service in style because the brand-new annual military-inspired Mickeyflage collection just dropped at select spots in Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort! Just in time for the awesome autumn celebrations and right before National Veterans and Military Families Month, this year’s collection is back for its third year, keeping up Disney’s tradition of honoring our U.S. military service members, veterans, and their families with a little bit of magic. Head to the parks today to snag your favorites, because like all the best limited-edition goodies, they’re only available while supplies last!
This collection is super special because it brings back the fan-favorite “Mickeyflage” design. If you haven’t seen it, it’s a specially designed camouflage pattern that secretly weaves hidden Mickeys throughout the whole thing, a perfect Disney twist on a classic, respectful look. It was first developed by the Disney Parks merchandise team back in 2023, and it’s quickly become an exciting annual tradition that gets both Cast Members and guests totally pumped up.
What’s in the haul this year? Well, for the very first time, the “Mickeyflage” is making its debut as an official Disney trading pin! That’s a huge deal for pin traders, especially since this year marks the 25th anniversary of Disney Pin Trading, talk about perfect timing!
Beyond the inaugural pin, the collection is rounded out with four other must-have items: a comfy T-shirt, a cozy zip hoodie, a practical mug, and a slick baseball hat. Each piece is decked out in that unique “Mickeyflage” to show off your respect and admiration for all who serve.
Whether you’re a veteran, a military family member, or just someone who wants to show their appreciation, this collection is a meaningful way to bring a piece of that admiration home with you. It’s more than just merch; it’s a stylish salute. So, if you’re hitting the parks this fall, make sure to seek out these awesome items and join Disney in saying a huge “thank you” to our heroes!
The Paddock Grill & Pool Closing for Lengthy Refurbishment at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort
Guests heading to Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa may want to pack a little extra patience — and maybe their walking shoes — as The Paddock Pool and The Paddock Grill are both set to close for a lengthy refurbishment starting October 13, 2025.
According to the official Walt Disney World website, this closure includes the main pool area, the aquatic play zone, and the beloved Paddock Grill. Disney expects the refurbishment to last through “early December,” though no specific reopening date has been announced.
The Paddock Grill has long been a fan-favorite for its convenient poolside dining, offering hearty breakfast plates, burgers, sandwiches, salads, and an assortment of frozen drinks that taste even better under the Florida sun. Its location beside the 146-foot waterslide and zero-entry pool made it a prime spot for families spending the day at Saratoga Springs.
While the pool and grill are under refurbishment, guests will still have plenty of ways to cool off. The larger High Rock Spring Pool will remain open, featuring a 128-foot water slide built into rocky theming and a bubbling spa. Three leisure pools across the resort — at the Treehouse Villas, Congress Park, and The Grandstand — will also stay available. Both Congress Park and The Grandstand pools include playgrounds and barbecue areas, offering solid alternatives for families looking to relax closer to their villas.
On the dining side, The Artist’s Palette will serve as the resort’s main quick-service option during the closure, while table-service fans can head to The Turf Club Bar & Grill for classic American fare. The Turf Club Lounge and other pool bars will remain open for guests looking for a cocktail or a quick bite between dips.
Saratoga Springs Resort, inspired by the historic upstate New York retreat known for its horse racing and spa culture, remains one of the most picturesque Disney Vacation Club properties — nestled beside Lake Buena Vista and surrounded by lush golf greens. Earlier this summer, Disney also filed permits for mechanical work in the resort’s Carriage House lobby, signaling ongoing refresh efforts resort-wide.
Disney’s 4-Foot Animated Stars are Back! Mickey, Minnie, and Olaf Bring the Magic Home for the Holidays
They’re back and officially bigger (and more adorable) than ever! Get ready to sprinkle some serious Disney magic into your holiday season, because the beloved 4 ft. Animated Holiday Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and Olaf have returned to bring festive cheer to your home.
These classic Disney friends are dressed in their holiday best and are all set to become the centerpiece of your indoor Christmas decor. But these aren’t just figures—they’re fully animated pals designed to delight everyone who walks through your door!
These towering four-foot figures come to life thanks to a built-in motion sensor, guaranteeing that your guests—both big and small—are treated to an instant burst of holiday entertainment.
They Move: Watch as they come alive with realistic head movement, acknowledging their surroundings and interacting with your family.
They Sing: They fill your home with the sound of classic Christmas songs, creating the perfect festive soundtrack.
They Speak: Each character is ready to chat up a storm, greeting you with 4 different holiday phrases to add a personal touch to your decorations.
Priced at just $199 each, these animated Disney pals are the perfect investment to instantly fill your home with a magical atmosphere. They are more than just a decoration; they are an interactive addition that is ready to start a new, favorite holiday tradition for your family. You can find these adorable Disney Pals at your local Home Depot.
Whether you’re a lifelong Disney fan or simply looking for a fun and engaging way to decorate, Mickey, Minnie, and Olaf are guaranteed to spread joy and nostalgia.
Will Mickey, Minnie, or Olaf be joining your holiday festivities this year? Don’t miss your chance to bring home the magic!
Walt Disney World Annual Passholders to Receive Limited-Time Online Shopping Discount
Walt Disney World Annual Passholders will soon be able to use their merchandise discount outside of the parks. For a limited time this October, Disney is extending a 20% discount to Passholders for select purchases made online at DisneyStore.com.
The promotion runs from October 15 through October 26, 2025, giving Passholders an opportunity to shop for holiday gifts or new merchandise from home. To receive the discount, shoppers must use the promo code WDW20 at checkout.
This offer is exclusively for current Walt Disney World Annual Passholders and requires them to be logged into the MyDisney account that is linked to their pass.
To ensure the discount applies, Passholders should follow these steps:
Log into your MyDisney account on the Walt Disney World website and verify that your Annual Pass is linked under the “Membership & Passes” section.
Visit DisneyStore.com and sign in using the same MyDisney account credentials.
Add eligible merchandise to your online shopping bag.
During checkout, enter the code WDW20 into the “Add Promotion Code” field. The 20% discount will be applied to all qualifying items.
Important Exclusions:
It is important to note that this discount is not valid for purchases made at physical Disney Store locations, within the theme parks, or through third-party retailers. Additionally, the offer excludes several high-demand brands and collections, including Dooney & Bourke, Pandora Jewelry, LEGO, Columbia, and Lululemon. Merchandise for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is also excluded from the promotion.
The offer begins at 12:01 AM Pacific Time on October 15 and ends at 11:59 PM Pacific Time on October 26, 2025.
Taylor Swift Brings the Streaming Event of an Era to Disney + December 12
The 14-time GRAMMY-winning artist, Taylor Swift, is set to dominate Disney+ this December with two brand-new projects offering unprecedented access to her record-breaking The Eras Tour. Following the monumental success of her latest album, “The Life of a Showgirl,” Swift returns to the streaming platform with both a six-episode behind-the-scenes docuseries and a complete concert film of the final show, which includes the entire set for “THE TORTURED POETS DEPARTMENT” for the first time.
The dual event kicks off on December 12 exclusively on Disney+.
Unprecedented Access in “The End of an Era” Docuseries
Headlining the new offerings is “Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour | The End of an Era,” an illuminating six-episode docuseries event. The series chronicles the development, impact, and inner-workings that created the global phenomenon that was The Eras Tour, providing an intimate look at Taylor Swift’s life as her tour captivated fans worldwide.
The docuseries promises never-before-seen insight, spotlighting performers, family members, and friends, including fellow artists such as Gracie Abrams, Sabrina Carpenter, Ed Sheeran, and Florence Welch. The first two episodes of the series will premiere on December 12, with two new episodes debuting each week thereafter. The series is directed by Don Argott, co-directed by Sheena M. Joyce, and produced by Object & Animal.
Simultaneously debuting on December 12 is the full concert film, “Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour | The Final Show.” Captured during the tour’s final stop in Vancouver, B.C., this film is a must-see for fans as it features the entire set dedicated to her album, “THE TORTURED POETS DEPARTMENT,” which was added to the show following its 2024 release and was not included in the original theatrical concert film.
“The Final Show” is directed by Glenn Weiss and produced by Taylor Swift Productions in association with Silent House Productions.
With both a deep-dive docuseries and the final, most complete concert film, December 12 marks a day when the music superstar officially closes the book on her most challenging and significant chapter, inviting fans to relive and explore every detail of the history-making Eras Tour phenomenon.
Lights, Camera, Aloha: National TV Production to Film at Disney’s Aulani Resort in January
Disney’s Aulani Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaii, will host a national television production for one week in January 2026.
Filming is scheduled to take place from January 25 through January 31, 2026. During this time, the production team will utilize a portion of the Ko Olina beach area at the resort.
While guests may see or hear some of the setup, interviews, production, and performances, Aulani activities and amenities will remain available along the rest of the beach. Importantly, the resort has confirmed that no production noise should be heard between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. to minimize disturbance during late-night and early-morning hours.
Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa is a luxurious, family-focused destination nestled on the tranquil beaches of Ko Olina on the island of Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi. Designed by Walt Disney Imagineers in close collaboration with local cultural experts, the resort masterfully blends Disney magic—including Character Greetings and Menehune scavenger hunts—with a deep commitment to Hawaiian culture, art, and traditions. The beachfront complex offers extensive amenities, such as multiple pools, the thrilling Waikolohe Stream lazy river and water slides, a saltwater snorkeling lagoon called Rainbow Reef, the Laniwai Spa, and the supervised kids’ club, Aunty’s Beach House, providing an upscale and immersive island getaway for all ages.
Construction Walls Now Completely Enclose Animation Courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Animation Courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is now largely inaccessible, with new construction walls completely installed across the area. The majority of the courtyard has been blocked off to accommodate construction for future park experiences.
The majority of Animation Courtyard closed permanently on September 24, 2025, with construction walls immediately going up the following morning. Initially, the main and left entryways remained open, but now, temporary walls completely block off the entire courtyard.
Only The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure attraction and gift shop remain operational. To reach them, guests must use the stairs or ramp located to the right of Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, then follow the winding walkway around the area. Because the original entrance ramp near the archway is now fully blocked, both a temporary ramp and the regular ramp are being utilized. Cast Members are on hand with signs to direct guests and manage the increased congestion in the area.
This entire area is being reimagined to resemble a classic Walt Disney Studios lot. As part of this overhaul, Star Wars: Launch Bay will be replaced by a new version of The Magic of Disney Animation. Ironically, The Magic of Disney Animation was an opening-day attraction that Star Wars: Launch Bay originally replaced.
What do you think of the changes coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios?
New Role: Disney World President Jeff Vahle Appointed to UCF Board of Trustees by Governor DeSantis
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has appointed Jeff Vahle, President of Walt Disney World Resort, to the University of Central Florida (UCF) Board of Trustees. This decision marks a noteworthy development, given the recent, high-profile disagreements between the state and Disney.
The appointment of Jeff Vahle is currently pending confirmation by the Florida Senate. Vahle, who has been the President of Walt Disney World Resort since 2020, brings a strong academic background, holding a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Auburn University and an MBA from Rollins College. He also serves on the Rollins College Board of Trustees and supports major Central Florida organizations, including Give Kids the World Village.
Governor DeSantis’ decision to appoint a high-ranking Disney executive to the University of Central Florida (UCF) Board of Trustees is a notable development, especially considering the recent, highly publicized conflict between his administration and the company.
That dispute began after Disney publicly opposed the Parental Rights in Education law in 2022. In retaliation, the Governor and the Florida Legislature replaced the board of the former Reedy Creek Improvement District (Disney’s self-governing body) with state appointees, renaming it the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District. The ensuing legal battle drew national attention before being settled in 2024, signaling a shift in relations.
Since the settlement, the Governor has appointed members to the oversight district who are seen as more willing to work with Disney. Vahle’s appointment continues this trend and may be viewed as an ongoing effort to reduce friction between the company and the state government.
As a member of the UCF Board of Trustees—which oversees the operations and strategic planning for one of the nation’s largest universities—Vahle will help guide key policy decisions, assuming he is confirmed by the Senate.
While some see this move as a practical step toward repairing relations with one of Florida’s biggest employers, others have noted the irony given the years of very public conflict between the two sides. The Florida Senate is expected to consider Vahle’s appointment during an upcoming session, though a confirmation date has not yet been set.
First Look! Disney World Previews Cars Land, Monsters, Inc., etc. Updates at Walt Disney Presents
Disney’s Hollywood Studios has transformed Walt Disney Presents into a new preview center showcasing exciting additions coming to Walt Disney World, including a Monsters, Inc. land, the Cars area, and the reimagined Tropical Americas land.
The display case previously used by Walt Disney Imagineering Presents to showcase the Disney Cruise Line ship, the Disney Wish, has been updated. Since 2021, it featured the cruise ship, but the exhibit closed last month. It now holds models and concept art (“assets”) for exciting new park projects: Monstropolis, Tropical Americas, and Piston Peak.
Monstropolis is coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, anchored by the long-anticipated Monsters, Inc. door coaster. This new land will replace the former Muppets Courtyard, including MuppetVision 3D, which closed this past summer. Here is the official description of the land from the current display:
“Monstropolis
After years spent scaring us, monsters are finally welcoming humans into Monstropolis with an all new themed land inspired by the beloved Monsters, Inc. film franchise. Coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the land will feature shopping, dining, and the first-ever suspended coaster in a Disney park. As in the film, guests will first be hoisted into the air — via a unique vertical-lift system — before zooming off on a thrilling ride through the iconic Door Vault.”
The exhibit features full-color maquettes of Sulley and Mike, which are actually repurposed models from Monsters University. On the surrounding walls, you’ll find all the previously released concept art for Monstropolis. This includes several key pieces: a detailed look at the scream canister-inspired ride vehicles speeding past Mike, Sulley, and Boo with her door; a clear view of the new Monsters, Inc. façade; the wide aerial concept art that has already been displayed on the construction walls around Muppets Courtyard; and a piece showing Sulley interacting with human guests on the ground in the town.
While other specific attractions haven’t been officially announced, the concept art strongly suggests a reimagining of the MuppetVision 3D theater and PizzeRizzo. The current Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano is also slated to become Harryhausen’s. Although many of the Muppets Courtyard buildings will be reused in the new land, the Stage 1 Company Store was completely demolished.
Tropical Americas is set to replace DinoLand U.S.A. at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. The new land will feature several major additions, including the world’s first Encanto ride and a carousel showcasing Disney animals. A headlining attraction will be an Indiana Jones ride, which is a reimagining of DINOSAUR, the attraction scheduled to close permanently next February. The detailed model of the land currently in the display case was originally unveiled at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event.
The display sign reads:
“Tropical Americas
A vibrant new land is coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, transporting guests into the lush rainforests and exciting stories of the Tropical Americas. Extensive Imagineering research has produced a sprawling land, rich with detail and authenticity. It will feature a central fountain, a quick-service restaurant, a hand-carved carousel and two signature attractions — the first-ever Encanto-themed ride-through experience and a new Indiana Jones adventure unlike any other in the world.”
The Tropical Americas land will feature the fictional, “lived-in” village of Pueblo Esperanza, centered around a fountain where villagers gather to share stories. According to the lore, a local woodcarver created the land’s carousel, with seats representing beloved animals like Kevin from Up.
Like Monstropolis, Tropical Americas will reuse several existing DinoLand buildings, including Restaurantosaurus, while guests enter the land through an archway and pass a clocktower. The area will also introduce a new playground to replace The Boneyard.
The headlining Encanto ride will focus on the day Antonio received his gift of speaking to animals. Guests will enter the magical Casita and board furniture-themed ride vehicles. This attraction will occupy the former site of Chester & Hester’s Dino-Rama at the back of the land.
The Indiana Jones ride, expected to be similar to the iconic attractions at Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea (since it uses the same ride system and track as the current DINOSAUR attraction), will feature a brand-new story. The ride will be set in a Mayan temple (complete with a new façade shown on the model) where Indy investigates rumors of a mythical creature. Previously released concept art on the back wall showcases the temple, Indiana Jones, the carousel, Casita, and Encanto characters. Tropical Americas is slated for completion in 2027.
Piston Peak is an expansion coming to Frontierland in Magic Kingdom. This Cars-themed area will occupy the former site of Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island, which permanently closed this past July.
The sign at this display reads:
“Frontierland – Piston Peak
Get those all-terrain tires ready, because Piston Peak National Park is coming to Magic Kingdom. Inspired by the Disney and Pixar Cars universe, this reimagined area of Frontierland will invite guests to explore the natural wonders of the American “wheelderness.” In addition to stunning views and iconic characters, the area will feature two all-new original attractions — a thrilling rally race around the park and a second experience that will be fun for the whole family.”
Piston Peak, an extension of Frontierland at Magic Kingdom, is inspired by the Rocky Mountains and designed to represent a distinct American landscape, carefully crafted with strategic sightlines by Imagineers. A “fun map” of the area reveals planned water features and a barrel bridge, paying tribute to the former Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island.
The exhibit includes two pieces of previously released concept art for the area’s off-road rally race ride, showing cars speeding through a wilderness setting. On display are concept sketches of the ride vehicles, each designed to have a unique personality.
The area will also feature maquettes of Lightning McQueen and Mater, as well as an original character, Ranger J. Autobahn Woodlore, who is based on Ranger J. Audubon Woodlore from classic Disney cartoons. While specific details about the family-friendly attraction have yet to be announced, the artwork confirms its thrilling racing theme.
Which new area are you most looking forward to at Disney World?
TRON ARES Box Office Tally: Opening Weekend Figures Released
Disney’s sci-fi sequel, Tron Ares, stumbled out of the gate, earning a weak $33.5 million from 4,000 North American theaters in its opening weekend. This is a particularly poor showing given the film’s massive $180 million production budget (not counting marketing costs). Compounding the issue, the decades-old franchise has never been a commercial powerhouse. Internationally, the film fared only slightly better, adding just $27 million for a disappointing $60 million global total through Sunday.
While the studio had aimed for a solid domestic opening of $45 million to $50 million, Tron: Ares ultimately fell short of expectations. The film, a PG-13 visual spectacle known for its neon-hued action, did manage to draw crowds to premium large formats. Screens like Imax, Dolby, and 3D accounted for a significant 67% of total ticket sales.
Although Tron: Ares received a respectable “B+” CinemaScore from exit polls, suggesting general audience approval, the futuristic adventure struggled to expand beyond its core demographic. The audience skewed heavily male (nearly 70% of opening weekend crowds), which limited its box office potential. As a result, the film’s final weekend tally significantly underperformed the prior installment, 2010’s Tron: Legacy, which opened to $44 million (unadjusted for inflation).
However, it did massively outperform the 1982 original, which launched with $4.7 million before becoming a cult classic. The newest installment stars Jared Leto, Greta Lee, and Evan Peters, and was directed by Pirates of the Caribbean alum Joachim Rønning. It follows a timely plot about humanity’s first contact with AI as an advanced program enters the physical world.
According to David A. Gross of Franchise Entertainment Research, although Tron: Ares was “tracking well,” interest “stalled during the last 10 days and the opening dropped.” However, Gross remains optimistic about the film’s international prospects. He points out that the science fiction genre generally performs well overseas, stating, “This is effects-driven, good-guys-versus-bad-guys storytelling that’s understood and well-liked across all cultures.”
Sigourney Weaver Teases ‘Extraordinary’ New Alien Script — and Confirms Talks with Disney and Fox
Nearly half a century after Ellen Ripley first faced off against a xenomorph, Sigourney Weaver says she’s seen the start of a new chapter for the Alien franchise — and it’s “quite extraordinary.”
Speaking at a New York Comic Con “Alien” reunion panel, Weaver revealed that longtime Alien producer Walter Hill has written the first 50 pages of a script exploring “where Ripley would be now.” She called the material “very strong” and said she’s already had a meeting with Fox and Disney executives about the project. This, according to reporting by Variety.
“I don’t know if it’s going to happen,” Weaver said during the panel, moderated by Josh Horowitz. “I’ve never felt the need [to reprise the role]. I was always like, ‘Let her rest, let her recover.’ But what Walter has written seems so true to me… it’s about the society that would incarcerate someone who tried to help mankind, but she’s seen as a problem to them, so she’s sort of tucked away.”
Weaver appeared alongside co-star Veronica Cartwright, who played Lambert in the original 1979 film. The two reflected on the Alien legacy and the film’s early reception, with Cartwright recalling how audiences “got up out of their seats and left the theater” during the now-iconic chestburster scene.
Weaver last portrayed Ripley in Alien: Resurrection (1997), though she’s remained closely associated with the franchise through various anniversary events and collaborations. Her comments mark the strongest indication yet that the character could make a return under Disney’s stewardship of the property, which now includes the FX series Alien: Earth and an upcoming Alien: Romulus sequel.
In the meantime, Weaver’s staying plenty busy across the galaxy — she’ll next appear as Kiri in James Cameron’s “Avatar: Fire and Ash” this December, and she’s also set to join the Star Wars universe in next summer’s The Mandalorian & Grogu.
So, is Ripley ready to wake up from cryosleep one last time? As Weaver herself said, it all depends on whether those “extraordinary” first 50 pages find their way to the big screen.
