Sweeten Your Space With The Winnie the Pooh Kitchenware Collection That Just Landed!

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February 23, 2026

Sweeten Your Space With The Winnie the Pooh Kitchenware Collection That Just Landed!

Oh, bother… is your kitchen looking a little bit too serious? If your tummy is rumbly for a decor refresh, the new Winnie the Pooh Kitchenware Collection at the Disney Store is exactly the sweet treat you need. Whether you’re harvesting veggies from your own Hundred Acre Wood or just trying to organize your snack stash, these pieces are practically overflowing with charm.

First up, let’s talk organization. You can’t have a kitchen without a spot for your grains, snacks, or let’s be real, cookies. The collection features two Glass Kitchen Canisters that are as cute as they are handy.

The Large Canister ($34.99): Holds a whopping 42.2 oz.
The Small Canister ($29.99): Perfect for a 31.8 oz. stash.

Both sizes come with a push-tight wooden lid featuring a beautiful burnished illustration of Pooh and Piglet. It’s the perfect way to keep your edibles fresh while making your countertop look like a page out of a storybook.

Cooking can be a chore, but it’s hard to stay grumpy when your kitchen tools are this cute. If you’re tossing a salad or serving up something hot, the Winnie the Pooh Kitchen Tongs ($19.99) are a must-have. They feature adorable artwork of Pooh hiding in a field of daisies, honestly, it’s almost too precious to put in the drawer.

And for the prep work? We’ve got some character for your counters:

Winnie the Pooh Egg Slicer ($19.99): This one is hilariously cute. It’s a sculpted Pooh waiting to be fed, and you slice your hard-boiled eggs right through his tumbly.
Piglet Vegetable and Fruit Peeler ($19.99): Our favorite timid friend makes a very a-peel-ing helper! With a figural sculpted handle, Piglet is ready to help you tackle those potatoes and carrots.

This collection is a total dream for anyone who wants to bring a little bit of Disney magic into their daily routine. Head over to the Disney Store and grab your favorites before they disappear like a pot of honey!

Credit: Disney Store

BoxLunch Just Dropped the Dreamiest Disney Princess Sketch Icons Collection And We’re Obsessed

By

Ana Leal

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February 23, 2026

BoxLunch Just Dropped the Dreamiest Disney Princess Sketch Icons Collection And We’re Obsessed

If you’ve been looking for a reason to treat your inner child and your outer fashionista, BoxLunch just dropped a collection that is basically a royal daydream. The Disney Princess Sketch Icons Collection is an exclusive release that ditches the bright, bold colors of traditional merch for a chic, hand-drawn aesthetic. It feels less like theme park souvenir and more like couture storyboard, making it perfect for those of us who want to rep our favorite royals with a bit of a sophisticated edge.

First up is the Disney Princess Sketch Icons Mini Backpack, and honestly, the details are doing all the heavy lifting here. Priced at $79.90, it’s covered in an allover print of delicate princess sketches, think Cinderella, Belle, Rapunzel and Tiana looking like they stepped right off an animator’s desk. But the real happily ever after is in the texture; it features a quilted heart front pocket that adds some serious dimension, plus adorable bows on the straps to keep things whimsical. It’s the kind of bag that says, I have errands to run at 2:00, but I’m reclaiming my kingdom at 3:00.

You can’t have the carriage without the horses, right? To round out the look, there’s the Disney Princess Sketch Icons Wallet for $39.90. It carries over that same gorgeous sketch pattern but adds a little extra flair with a metal bow charm that feels surprisingly high-end. Functionality-wise, it’s a total win, it’s packed with card slots, a zippered pouch for your loose gold doubloons or just change, and a clear ID sleeve. It’s compact enough to toss into the backpack but stylish enough to carry on its own when you’re traveling light.

This collection is a BoxLunch exclusive, so if these sketches are calling your name, you might want to move fast before they disappear into the enchanted forest.

Credit: BoxLunch Gifts

New Era of Animation: “The Magic of Disney Animation” Coming to Hollywood Studios in 2026

By

Chip

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February 23, 2026

A New Era of Animation: “The Magic of Disney Animation” Coming to Hollywood Studios in 2026

Disney’s Hollywood Studios is preparing for a monumental transformation as the Animation Courtyard evolves into a brand-new, immersive district: The Walt Disney Studios. Taking direct inspiration from the legendary Burbank lot, this reimagined area will invite guests to step behind the scenes—and into the stories—of the world’s most iconic films.

“Olaf Draws!” Animation Academy

The centerpiece of the reimagined building is “Olaf Draws!“, a high-tech evolution of the fan-favorite Animation Academy. In this new version, everyone’s favorite snowman takes center stage as your cheerful host.

The Olaf Audio-Animatronic: Brought to life as an all-new, sophisticated figure, Olaf is seated at a classic animator’s desk (inspired by his discovery of art in the short Once Upon A Studio).
A Familiar Voice: To ensure the character feels authentic, Josh Gad recorded original dialogue for the experience, designed to encourage and inspire aspiring artists of all ages.
The Studio Setting: Guests will sit at “sleigh-themed” tables for kids or professional animator-style workstations for adults, making you feel like you’ve truly stepped onto the studio lot.

Since Olaf “can’t quite draw on his own,” he introduces legendary Disney Animation artists (via pre-recorded video) who walk you through a rotating roster of characters, including Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Genie, Moana, Stitch, Ursula, and Judy Hopps.

Immersive Experiences: “Once Upon A Studio”

The magic continues with two other major components designed to celebrate Disney’s 100-year legacy:

Once Upon A Studio Theater: A dedicated space showing the Emmy-winning short film. The experience is enhanced by special theater effects, including characters appearing within the artwork on the theater walls, making it feel like the characters are in the room with you.
The Enchanted Art Gallery: A curated gallery where “pixie dust” brings standard artwork to life. Portraits will move and interact, mimicking the magical “after-hours” vibe of the Burbank studio seen on screen.

Fun for Little Ones: “Drawn to Wonderland”

For younger guests, the building will house “Drawn to Wonderland,” a whimsical indoor playground. This space is a tribute to Disney Legend Mary Blair, featuring oversized flowers, musical instruments, and a Tulgey Wood exploration area based on her original Alice in Wonderland concept art.

Rapunzel at Off the Page at Disneys Hollywood Studios ()

“Off the Page!” Character Greetings

The magic extends to “Off the Page!,” a stunning meet-and-greet area themed to six unique studio departments:

Story & Layout: Meet Mulan in front of massive storyboard panels.
Backgrounds: Join Rapunzel in a setting inspired by the classic multiplane camera, where you can align your photo to see layers of backgrounds and painted cells come together.

A Reimagined Walt Disney Studios Lot

The entire courtyard is being redesigned to mirror the Walt Disney Studios Lot in Burbank, complete with lush trees, relaxing seating areas, and a few “Easter eggs” in the landscaping. The lot will also feature “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” in the Studio Theater and a fresh Disney Jr. production in the soundstage.

Opening Summer 2026

This massive collaboration between Walt Disney Imagineering and Walt Disney Animation Studios is set to open in Summer 2026. As Dan Abraham, director of Once Upon A Studio, shared, the goal is to celebrate the history of the studio while inspiring the next generation of animators to carry on the legacy.by streaming Once Upon A Studio on Disney+.

Learn to Draw with Olaf Coming to NEW Animation Academy

By

Chip

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February 23, 2026

Olaf Comes to Life as the New Host of Animation Academy at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Disney has shared an exciting first look at the future of The Magic of Disney Animation at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, revealing that everyone’s favorite snowman is moving in to teach us how to draw.

As part of the broader transformation of the Animation Courtyard into a reimagined Walt Disney Studios area, a new experience titled “Olaf Draws!” will serve as the centerpiece for the returning Animation Academy.

A New Kind of Host

The highlight of the experience is an all-new, state-of-the-art Audio-Animatronic Olaf. Inspired by his appearance in the award-winning short film Once Upon A Studio, Olaf will be found seated at a classic animator’s desk, appearing to joyfully discover the art of drawing right alongside guests.

To ensure the character’s signature wit and warmth are preserved, Josh Gad returned to record original dialogue specifically for this attraction. Gad expressed his excitement for the project, noting that he hopes the experience inspires a new generation of children to dream of becoming Disney animators.

The Experience: Step into the Studio

The drawing space itself has been completely reimagined to feel like a working animation studio with a Frozen twist.

Children will be invited to spark their creativity at specially themed sleigh tables. Adults and older kids can use professional animator-style workstations, designed to make guests feel as though they have stepped onto a real studio lot.

Since Olaf “can’t quite draw on his own,” he will introduce a rotating roster of legendary Disney Animation artists via pre-recorded instruction. These artists will guide guests step-by-step through the process of bringing characters to life while sharing behind-the-scenes stories from their time at the Walt Disney Animation Studios.

New Construction Permits Filed for Signage Installation at Animation Courtyard in Hollywood Studios

A Star-Studded Lineup

Guests will have the chance to learn how to draw eight different characters, depending on which class they attend. The lineup includes:

Mickey Mouse with Dan Abraham (Once Upon A Studio)
Genie with the legendary Eric Goldberg (Aladdin)
Moana with Samantha Vilfort (Encanto)
Ursula with Michael Woodside (The Little Mermaid)
Stitch with Fawn Veerasunthorn (Wish)
Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Judy Hopps & Nick Wilde will also be part of the rotation.

More to Explore in The Magic of Disney Animation

The “Olaf Draws!” experience is just one part of the building’s massive refresh. When it reopens, guests can also enjoy:

The Enchanted Art Gallery: A space where classic artwork comes to life with “pixie dust” and new animations.
Once Upon A Studio Theater: A dedicated home for the Once Upon A Studio short film, featuring enhanced theater effects that place the audience inside the story.

Opening Summer 2026

While a specific date has not yet been set, Disney has confirmed that The Magic of Disney Animation will reopen its doors in Summer 2026. This project is a major step in the ongoing revitalization of the Animation Courtyard, signaling a return to the park’s roots as a place where guests can celebrate the actual craft of filmmaking and animation.

Vin Diesel Tours Construction of ‘Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift’

By

Sara

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February 23, 2026

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Vin Diesel Checks in on Universal’s New High-Speed Coaster

The family is getting a front-row seat to the action! Vin Diesel recently made a high-octane appearance at Universal Studios Hollywood, touring the construction site of the highly anticipated Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift.

Scheduled to shift into high gear in Summer 2026, this groundbreaking attraction isn’t just a new ride—it’s a game-changer for the park’s skyline. Diesel’s visit highlights his deep-rooted partnership with Universal Parks & Resorts as they bring the $7 billion franchise to life in a way fans have never experienced before.

This isn’t your average coaster. Universal is pulling out all the stops to ensure “Hollywood Drift” lives up to the name:

Top Speed: Reaching a staggering 72 mph, it will officially become the fastest roller coaster in the entire Universal Destinations & Experiences portfolio.
The Track: Spanning over 4,100 feet, the ride winds over the park’s Upper Lot and even plunges over the iconic Starway escalator.
The Tech: Featuring 360-degree rotation technology, the ride vehicles are programmed to “drift” sideways through turns, mimicking the high-stakes street racing from the films.
The Vibe: Guests will queue in a massive red brick, garage-style structure filled with iconic cars and franchise easter eggs.

The coaster’s Summer 2026 debut is perfectly timed to kick off the 25th anniversary of the Fast & Furious franchise. To keep the hype building, Vin Diesel is also narrating a brand-new media campaign for the ride, with commercials set to air during major events like Super Bowl LX and the Winter Olympics.

West Coast fans aren’t the only ones getting in on the action. Universal has confirmed a sister attraction will open at Universal Studios Florida in 2027. While the Hollywood version navigates the hillside, the Florida version is expected to feature a massive 170-foot vertical spike!

New Construction Permits Filed for Projector Installation at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland

By

Sara

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February 22, 2026

New Permits Reveal Massive Projector Installation Coming to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

Recent permit filings for Disneyland’s Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge reveal plans to install advanced new projectors across major locations, including Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, Oga’s Cantina, and the Souk Market. These high-tech upgrades appear to be groundwork for the land’s massive timeline expansion on April 29, 2026, which will finally bring Original Trilogy icons like Darth Vader and Luke Skywalker to Batuu. The new equipment will likely enhance atmospheric projection shows like “Shadows of Memory: A Skywalker Saga,” allowing the land to visually shift between the eras of the Rebellion and the Resistance.

New construction permits filed on February 19, 2026, indicate that a major visual upgrade is coming to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland. These filings detail the installation of advanced projectors on new “high curbs” across four key structures: Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, the Village Shops, Oga’s Cantina, and the Souk Market. The work includes structural enhancements like new steel platforms, maintenance ladders, and passive railings to support the heavy-duty electrical and mechanical hardware.

These permits follow a similar round of technical upgrades from late 2024, which paved the way for the “Shadows of Memory: A Skywalker Saga” projection show that debuted in March 2025. While that show remains a staple of the land’s nighttime atmosphere, these latest installations likely signal an evolution of the experience. With the land’s official timeline expansion just around the corner, these projectors will likely be used to seamlessly transition Batuu between the eras of the Resistance and the Original Trilogy.

Are you looking forward to the changes coming to Galaxy’s Edge?

Tokyo Disneyland Breaks Records with Most Expensive Attraction Ever

By

Sara

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February 22, 2026

Tokyo Disneyland’s New Space Mountain Most Expensive Ride in Disney History

Tokyo Disneyland is undergoing a massive transformation, breaking records well before its 2027 debut. Official financial results from the Oriental Land Company reveal that the budget for the reimagined Space Mountain and its surrounding Tomorrowland plaza has risen to a staggering ¥70.5 billion—approximately $460 million. This historic investment officially makes the project the most expensive single-attraction development in Disney history.

Even accounting for the complexities of inflation and shifting exchange rates, this massive investment solidifies the project as the most expensive attraction ever developed by Walt Disney Imagineering. While the original Space Mountain officially closed its doors in July 2024, its successor is already making its mark on the skyline, with the massive new show building and signature white spires now clearly visible. Rumored to be titled Space Mountain: Earthrise, the attraction is being completely rebuilt from the ground up to offer an entirely reimagined experience.

“It’s not only a whole new ride experience, but the story also has so much emotion,” says Kathleen Davis, a producer for Walt Disney Imagineering. “Through the queue and then on the ride, we see our connection to our planet and gain a new perspective for how special it is in all the universe. It’s a roller coaster with both thrill and heart.”

The record-breaking budget extends beyond the coaster itself, covering an all-new plaza designed to represent a future where humanity lives in harmony with nature. Owen Yoshino, Senior Creative Director for Walt Disney Imagineering, notes that the overarching theme focuses on appreciating and caring for our “home” (Planet Earth). At night, the area will transform into an immersive world of light and soundscapes, offering a hopeful and relaxing environment for guests.

Travelers should mark their calendars for 2027, when the new Space Mountain is scheduled to make its historic debut. However, the high-speed coaster isn’t the only update coming to the land. Tomorrowland is also set to welcome:

Wreck-It Ralph Attraction: A $200 million reimagining of the former Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters space.
Timeline: Slated to open in Spring 2027, shortly before or alongside the new Space Mountain.

Main Entrance Refurbishment for Toy Story Mania is Now Complete

By

Chris B

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February 22, 2026

Main Entrance Refurbishment for Toy Story Midway is Now Complete

Toy Story Mania Entrance Refurbishment Complete at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Andy’s backyard is looking fresh and ready for playtime again. The entrance refurbishment for Toy Story Mania! at Disney’s Hollywood Studios appears to be officially complete, with the final decal now added back to the colorful circus tent marquee.

Main Entrance Refurbishment for Toy Story Mania is Now Complete

The refurbishment began late last year and gradually worked its way around the entire entrance façade. Rolling planters lined the front while crews refreshed the weather worn marquee and columns that had taken a beating from years of Florida sunshine. Now, the bold colors and playful carnival details are shining again, making the entrance pop against the bright blue Toy Story Land sky.

Toy Story Mania first opened at Hollywood Studios in 2008, with its original entrance located in what is now Pixar Plaza. When Toy Story Land debuted in 2018, the attraction’s entrance moved into Andy’s backyard, complete with the oversized toys and circus inspired theming we know today.

The 4D shooting attraction places guests inside a playset Andy has assembled, blending carnival games with digital targets as riders compete for the highest score. A third track was added in 2016 to increase capacity, giving more guests the chance to step right up and take aim.

Pixar’s Hoppers Preview Now Open in Walt Disney Presents in Hollywood Studios

By

Chris B

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February 22, 2026

Pixar's Hoppers Preview Now Open in Walt Disney Presents in Hollywood Studios

Hoppers Exhibit and Sneak Preview Hop Into Walt Disney Presents at Hollywood Studios

There is something new hopping into Walt Disney Presents at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and it is bringing beavers, robots, and a whole lot of Pixar heart along for the ride. The upcoming Pixar film Hoppers now has a dedicated exhibit and limited time sneak preview inside the theater, giving guests an early look before the movie bounds into theaters.

The marquee outside Walt Disney Presents now proudly displays a Hoppers poster teasing the preview, while the other side continues to promote the Ariel meet and greet that recently returned after its holiday overlay. Step inside and you will find two detailed character displays that feel straight out of the Pixar story vault.

The first showcase spotlights King George, voiced by Bobby Moynihan, complete with a character model and plaques that break down both his role in the film and the concept art journey that shaped him. Concept sketches fill the backdrop, giving guests a peek at the creative process from early pencil strokes to finished fur.

Across the room, Mabel takes center stage in her robotic beaver form. Mabel, voiced by Piper Curda, is a 19 year old animal lover who uses new technology to hop her consciousness into lifelike robotic animals. Her display includes a brief character description and a synopsis of the film, along with additional concept art that adds depth to her woodland world.

Inside the theater, the usual presentation of One Man’s Dream has temporarily made way for the Hoppers sneak preview. The doors even feature colorful decals of characters from the film, setting the tone before you take your seat.

Directed by Daniel Chong, known for We Bare Bears, and written by Jesse Andrews, Hoppers boasts an all star voice cast that includes Jon Hamm, Meryl Streep, Dave Franco, Kathy Najimy, Melissa Villaseñor, Ego Nwodim, Vanessa Bayer, Sam Richardson, Aparna Nancherla, and more. The late Isiah Whitlock Jr. lends his voice to the Bird King. We also recently got a tease of an original song by SZA, adding even more buzz to this woodland tech adventure.

TSA Global Entry Services Paused Due to Government Shutdown in US, PreCheck Services Continue

By

Chris B

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February 22, 2026

TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Services Paused Due to Government Shutdown in US

DHS Reverses TSA PreCheck Suspension After Travel Confusion

Well, that security plot twist did not last long. After initially announcing that TSA PreCheck would be suspended amid the partial government shutdown, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has officially reversed course. Travelers can breathe a little easier as PreCheck lanes remain operational, at least for now.

The confusion began when DHS stated that both PreCheck and Global Entry would shut down at 6 a.m. ET due to the ongoing funding lapse affecting the department. However, travelers Sunday morning were still moving through dedicated PreCheck lanes at airports including Ronald Reagan Washington National and Dulles International, prompting questions about what was actually happening at security checkpoints.

By midday, DHS clarified that TSA will evaluate operations on a case by case basis depending on staffing levels. In short, PreCheck is staying in place, though adjustments could happen if workforce shortages intensify. Global Entry’s status remains less clear, with Customs and Border Protection yet to provide a definitive update.

Both programs are funded by member fees, not general tax dollars, which sparked criticism from the travel industry. The U.S. Travel Association applauded the decision to keep PreCheck operational and urged DHS to maintain Global Entry as well. With more than 20 million active PreCheck members and over 12 million Global Entry enrollees, suspending these trusted traveler programs would have sent security lines into full theme park opening day mode.

For Orlando bound travelers heading to Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando, this reversal is good news. PreCheck lanes mean shoes stay on, laptops stay packed, and your airport experience can remain a pre show instead of a three hour queue. That said, the partial shutdown continues, and essential TSA officers are still working without pay, so operational hiccups are possible.

Universal Orlando Rolls Back Epic Universe Expansion News

By

Chris B

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February 21, 2026

Universal Secures Permits for Upcoming Epic Universe Attraction

Universal Backtracks on Epic Universe Expansion Language, But Growth Is Still Happening

Universal may have pulled back on a single word, but the bigger picture around Universal Epic Universe is still very much about growth.

Earlier this week, NBCUniversal released a press statement celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026. In that original release, the company described itself as “expanding Universal Epic Universe” alongside plans for a new UK theme park, a Universal Kids Resort, and year round horror experiences in Chicago and Las Vegas. That phrasing immediately raised eyebrows, as it marked the first official instance of Universal publicly using the word “expanding” in connection with Epic Universe.

Universal Orlando Rolls Back Epic Universe Expansion News

However, Universal has since updated the release and quietly removed the word. The revised statement now simply references Universal Epic Universe without describing it as expanding. The correction suggests that no formal expansion announcement was intended, despite the initial wording.

That said, this feels a bit like a distinction without a difference. We already know Epic Universe is growing beyond its five current portals. A $20 million event venue is actively under construction adjacent to Celestial Park, adding flexible space for corporate events and large gatherings. So while Universal may not be ready to confirm a brand new land or attraction, the footprint of the resort is undeniably increasing.

Epic Universe currently features five immersive worlds: Celestial Park, Super Nintendo World, Dark Universe, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, and How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk. There is also visible undeveloped land surrounding the park, with aerial photography from trusted sources showing site preparation work already underway. Universal executives have repeatedly hinted that there is room for more storytelling and future additions, even if nothing concrete has been officially unveiled.

NBCUniversal Confirms Future Expansion Plans for Universal Epic Universe

Financially, the park has already made a major impact. When Comcast reported fourth quarter 2025 earnings, Universal theme parks posted $2.9 billion in revenue, up 22 percent year over year, with Epic Universe cited as a key driver of that growth. In other words, whether the word “expanding” appears in a press release or not, Epic Universe is clearly a living, evolving project.

We will be watching closely to see when Universal decides to make its next move official. If this is just the first chapter, the sequel could be epic in every sense of the word.

New Permit Reveals Upcoming Maintenance for the Typhoon Lagoon Storm Slides

By

Chris B

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February 21, 2026

New Permit Reveals Upcoming Maintenance for the Typhoon Lagoon Storm Slides

New Permit Filed for Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon as Refurbishment Continues

Another wave of updates is rolling into Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park as Disney has filed a new permit tied to the park’s ongoing refurbishment. While the water park closed for the season on February 14 due to colder weather, work behind the scenes is clearly heating up in preparation for its return later this spring.

The newly filed permit was submitted by Disney’s Sourcing & Procurement team and contracts Buena Vista Construction Company to provide labor, materials, and electrical work for construction. The permit is valid for one year and appears to be connected to the Storm Slides, the trio of body slides that send guests racing through twisting tubes before splashing into the catch pool below. Earlier this month, another permit was filed for general maintenance at the park, signaling that multiple projects may be happening simultaneously.

Typhoon Lagoon is scheduled to reopen by May 26 and will operate at the same time as Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park through September 8 as part of Cool Kids’ Summer. Even better, guests staying at a Disney Resorts hotel can enjoy complimentary water park admission on their check in day during that window. Two water parks open at once feels like a throwback summer flex, and we are here for it.

In addition to the Typhoon Lagoon filings, recent permits have also popped up for Frontierland and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, suggesting a busy construction season across Walt Disney World. With May just a few months away, it looks like the tropical shipwreck theme will be polished and ready for swimmers, sliders, and wave riders alike.