Mickey’s PhilharMagic Taking a Three-Week Refurbishment Break This November at Magic Kingdom
Get ready for a brief intermission at Mickey’s PhilharMagic in Magic Kingdom! The fan-favorite 4-D musical adventure will be temporarily closing for refurbishment starting November 1, 2025, with its last day of operation on October 31.
According to the Walt Disney World website, showtimes return beginning November 23, just in time for the busy Thanksgiving week. That gives Donald and the gang about three weeks to tune up their instruments (and maybe rein in some of that musical mischief).
Disney has not shared details about what this refurbishment will include, but it’s expected to be a routine refresh rather than a major overhaul. These short closures often involve updates to projection systems, theater effects, or minor maintenance to keep the show running smoothly for future performances.
For those unfamiliar, Mickey’s PhilharMagic is a whimsical 4-D experience featuring Donald Duck causing magical mayhem when he takes over Mickey’s orchestra. With immersive effects, flying instruments, and splashes of scent and water, guests are whisked through a medley of beloved Disney scenes from The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, Peter Pan, The Lion King, and Coco.
Trilo-Bites and Dino Bite Snacks Set to Close Permanently as Harambe Market Prepares for Temporary Shutdown at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Disney’s Animal Kingdom is getting ready for some major menu shakeups as the park continues its transformation from DinoLand U.S.A. into the brand-new Tropical Americas. Disney has officially announced that two longtime snack spots, Trilo-Bites and Dino Bite Snacks, will close permanently later this month, while Harambe Market in the Africa section will undergo a temporary closure for refurbishment.
The final day to grab your favorite snacks from Trilo-Bites or Dino Bite Snacks will be October 19, 2025, with both locations closing for good on October 20. Trilo-Bites, located near the main entrance to DinoLand, is best known for its buffalo chicken chips and refreshing floats. Dino Bite Snacks, tucked next to Restaurantosaurus, has long been a go-to for hand-scooped ice cream sandwiches.
These closures mark another major milestone in the phased retirement of DinoLand U.S.A., which is being reimagined into a vibrant new Tropical Americas land inspired by regions of Central and South America — a setting that will include the upcoming Indiana Jones adventure ride (a reimagining of DINOSAUR) and a new quick-service restaurant in place of Restaurantosaurus. While both snack stands are closing in their current form, there’s a chance they could return with a fresh look and new menu items to match the land’s tropical theme rather than being demolished completely.
Over in Africa, Harambe Market will also serve its last meal of the year on October 19, before temporarily closing for refurbishment. Disney plans to reopen it in early 2026, reportedly with a new menu featuring hamburgers and chicken nuggets — likely to help fill the quick-service gap once Restaurantosaurus closes after February 1, 2026.
As Animal Kingdom’s evolution continues, the park’s food landscape is clearly shifting right along with it. From dino-sized bites to tropical flavors, guests can expect a totally new dining experience when these refreshed locations reopen next year.
Marvel Television’s ‘VisionQuest’ Concludes the Trilogy That Started with ‘WandaVision’
Marvel Television saved its biggest surprise for last at New York Comic Con, officially announcing VisionQuest, a new series centered on the fan-favorite synthezoid. MCU veteran Paul Bettany appeared on stage to help reveal the project, which will serve as the final installment in the thematic trilogy that began with WandaVision and continued with Agatha All Along.
During the Marvel Animation and Marvel Television panel, Head of Television Brad Winderbaum brought out Bettany to thunderous applause, confirming the avenging android’s return.
Attendees were then treated to exclusive first-look footage from the upcoming show, which also unveiled a significant portion of the cast. The series appears to delve deep into the world of artificial intelligence, with James D’Arcy reprising his role as the original human-form J.A.R.V.I.S. from Agent Carter, and James Spader making a shocking return as the voice of Ultron, the titular villain from 2015’s Avengers: Age of Ultron.
The cast revealed in the footage also includes Henry Lewis as D.U.M.-E, Jonathan Sayer as U, Orla Brady as F.R.I.D.A.Y., and Emily Hampshire as E.D.I.T.H., all familiar A.I. entities from the MCU.
The sneak peek concluded with a final, tantalizing reveal: a CCTV recording of a character identified as Thomas Shepherd, who will be played by Ruaridh Mollica. In the Marvel comics, Thomas Shepherd is one of Wanda Maximoff’s twin sons, the super-speedster known as Speed, signaling a potential reunion for the fractured family at the heart of WandaVision.
No release date for VisionQuest has been announced.
SeaWorld Orlando’s Howl-O-Scream Ranked Among Nation’s Best Halloween Events
Halloween lovers rejoice! SeaWorld Orlando’s Howl-O-Screamis officially recognized as one of the elite Halloween events in the nation. The event has been named among the Top 5 Best Theme Park Halloween Events in the Country by USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, cementing its status as the No. 1 Halloween Event in Florida in this year’s rankings.
To mark this bone-chilling national honor, Howl-O-Scream is unleashing its limited-time Slash Sale, with tickets starting at just $45.99 on select nights. This is the must-experience Halloween event of 2025, promising a night where chaos is worshipped and fear fuels the fun.
A Reign of Terror: Meet Havoc
Now in its fifth year, Howl-O-Scream raises the stakes with the introduction of its fearsome new icon: Havoc. Once bound by the Sirens, he now rides free as the face of fear, leading guests into a night of fire, fury, and no mercy.
Havoc’s reign comes to terrifying life in the brand-new stunt show, Throttle. This high-energy performance features motorcycles, spectacular fire effects, and bone-rattling action that brings the new icon’s chaotic persona to the stage.
The limited-time Slash Sale offers guests access to a terrifying lineup of attractions and experiences at an unbeatable price. Starting at just $45.99 on select nights, your ticket unlocks:
Five Haunted Houses: Experience five houses in total, including three brand-new houses making their debut this year, each featuring twisted storylines and sinister surprises lurking in the dark.
Six Immersive Scare Zones: Creatures and characters wait throughout the park, creating six distinct environments designed to keep guests on edge.
Four Thrill Rides at Night: Experience a pulse-pounding perspective on some of Orlando’s tallest and fastest roller coasters, which remain open late.
Roaming Hordes: Keep your head on a swivel as two roaming hordes of scare actors appear without warning, ensuring the scares follow you wherever you go.
Themed Food & Drink: Guests can indulge in limited-time culinary offerings like the Spooky Teriyaki Chicken and stop by Five Themed Bars for specialty cocktails that are “to die for,” such as the Solar Flare Margarita.
Live Entertainment: The park features various live entertainment throughout the evening, headlined by the debut of the Throttle stunt show.
With nationally ranked thrills, bone-chilling scares, and the limited-time Slash Sale, SeaWorld Orlando’s Howl-O-Scream is positioned as Orlando’s premier Halloween destination for 2025.
Unwrap the Cheer: Holiday Events and Offerings Coming to Evermore Orlando Resort
This holiday season, Evermore Orlando Resort, Orlando’s first-of-its-kind destination, is inviting families and groups to experience more cheer, more fun-packed adventure, and more cherished moments together. With offerings ranging from jolly activities with Santa and his elves to personalized meal delivery, Evermore is crafting an unparalleled setting for creating lasting memories with loved ones.
“The holidays are a time to create lasting memories and traditions with loved ones, and our resort offers the perfect backdrop to do just that,” said Fred Sawyers, managing director, Evermore Orlando Resort. “From festive dining to unique immersive holiday activities for all ages, every experience at Evermore has been crafted to bring families and friends closer in an extraordinary setting unlike anywhere else.”
Across the 1,000-acre resort, conveniently located next to Walt Disney World, guests can enjoy a plethora of curated offerings. These take place across the property, including along the beautiful Evermore Bay, Orlando’s only 20-acre white sand beach with crystal-clear waters, and at Conrad Orlando at Evermore, the world-class luxury hotel on the North Shore.
Evermore is decking the halls with a variety of all-ages activities, from self-guided tours to meeting the man in red himself.
Glow n’ Stroll (Available Daily): Discover the property’s festive holiday décor on this new self-guided walking tour. Guests can find twinkling lights, seasonal displays, and elegant touches thoughtfully placed throughout the grounds.
Santa and Mrs. Claus Evening Meet & Greets (December 19 – December 21): Head to The Landing to share your wish list, snap a selfie, and soak up the holiday cheer with Santa and his special someone, Mrs. Claus.
New Year’s Noon Party at Evermore Bay (December 31): Families can ring in the New Year early with a festive afternoon party designed for all ages. Enjoy fun-filled activities, lively music, and a sparkling countdown to midday by Evermore Bay.
Conrad Orlando Exclusives:
Guests of the luxury hotel can enjoy special services for an elevated holiday experience.
Private Holiday-Themed Cabana (December 5 – January 4): Book a premium cabana on the North Shore featuring festive appointments, including holiday cookies, beverages, a holiday-themed pool float, décor, and more. Available exclusively for Conrad Orlando guests.
Special In-Room Elf Visit (December 12 – December 24): Bring the magic right to your door with a special in-room appearance by one of the hotel’s resident elves. Children will read a Christmas-themed story and pick a toy from the elf’s magical bag.
Kids, Teens & Playful Celebrations
The resort has a packed schedule of hands-on fun and themed parties just for the younger guests.
Themed Holiday Crafts & Events (Available Daily): Kids can get creative with a variety of festive crafts, including ornament decorating, holiday ceramic painting, pinecone Christmas tree making, and other winter-themed activities.
Rudolph’s Reindeer Games (Every Weekend in December): Head to The Landing Lawn for a Santa Scavenger Hunt and the chance to share your best elf impressions to win a prize.
Sunny’s Merry Little Christmas Party (December 20 – December 21): Celebrate at Spartina Court with a photo opportunity with Santa (to benefit Give Kids The World Village), cookie decorating, wreath making, and enjoying warm cocoa or cider.
Gingerbread House Decorating Competition (December 24): Families can participate in this festive competition for fun prizes and sweet bragging rights. A gingerbread kit, candy, and frosting will be provided.
Elevated Holiday Dining Experiences
From traditional feasts to chic rooftop celebrations, Evermore’s restaurants are preparing exclusive seasonal menus to delight every palate.
Christmas Eve Feast of the Seven Fishes at Sophia’s Trattoria (December 24): Indulge in the Italian American tradition with an exquisite six-course meal and wine pairing at Sophia’s Trattoria.
Holiday Celebrations at Twin View (December 24 – December 31): Enjoy unforgettable dining moments above the twinkling lights of Evermore Bay at Twin View, offering exclusive seasonal menus for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve.
Christmas Day Brunch at Sophia’s Trattoria (December 25): Celebrate Christmas morning with brunch featuring holiday favorites and delicious Italian dishes for all ages.
New Year’s at Ceiba (December 31): Ring in 2026 with panoramic views of Evermore Bay and spectacular fireworks at Ceiba, Conrad Orlando’s premier rooftop venue. Enjoy a bold dinner, an exclusive beverage package, a midnight champagne toast, and live entertainment. Reservations are require
Relax, Recharge & Reside
Evermore offers ways to unwind and special accommodations to make your holiday stay feel truly magical.
Holiday Spice and Everything Nice Massage (Available in December): Parents can unwind at Conrad Spa Orlando with a relaxing massage featuring holiday-inspired aromatherapies like balsam, cinnamon clove, or peppermint.
Festive Accommodations: A select number of Evermore Residences (Houses and Flats) can be booked pre-decorated with holiday décor by calling the Evermore Reservations department.
Professional Gift Wrapping: Both Evermore Residences and Conrad Orlando guests can take advantage of a professional gift wrapping service provided by the resort’s “elves.”
In-Suite Décor at Conrad Orlando: Guests can also have their Conrad Orlando suite embellished with breathtaking holiday décor and expertly wrapped presents (pricing available upon request).
From twinkling light tours and competitive gingerbread house decorating to elegant holiday feasts at Sophia’s Trattoria and spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks at Ceiba, Evermore Orlando Resort is set to deliver an extraordinary and effortless holiday experience. By providing both festive activities along Evermore Bay and personalized luxury services at Conrad Orlando, Evermore is offering families and groups a memorable backdrop to connect, celebrate, and create cherished new traditions this season.
First Look: The Grand Californian Lobby’s Stunning Fall & Halloween Decorations
The Halloween transformation is complete at the Grand Californian Hotel & Spa! Guests can now enjoy the hotel’s stunning seasonal decor, including an impressive giant edible display crafted by the pastry team. This year’s theme features characters from The Nightmare Before Christmas.
This massive, edible display features Jack Skellington and Sally holding hands at the peak of the iconic Spiral Hill, silhouetted against a full moon backdrop. The base of the mountain is decorated with gathered jack-o’-lanterns and twisting vines on one side, while the other side showcases a spooky graveyard, complete with tombstones and Jack’s ghostly dog, Zero, flying overhead.
The opposite side of the display features a chilling scene with Oogie Boogie himself, towering over a graveyard dotted with carved jack-o’-lanterns, the moon hanging ominously behind him. A detailed sign nearby gives guests all the specifics on the impressive creation, including a list of its key edible ingredients.
The sign reads:
“Over the course of 800 hours, our talented pastry team brought to life a creation fit for the Pumpkin King himself, crafted from:
140 pounds of fondant
175 pounds of chocolate
150 pounds of powdered sugar
105 pounds of rice cereal
38 pounds of cereal
Share your nightmare-ish photos using #GrandCalifornianHotel #Disneyland #DisneyEats”
In another part of the lobby you can see Jack Skellington’s work area where he performed his Christmas experiments. A chalk board is in the back with his formulas and equations. Shelves hold jars with “interesting” ingredients and books while the table has a microscope and potions.
Devil Donald Duck Character Meet-and-Greet at Disney California Adventure
Halloween Time is famous for transforming the Disneyland Resort into a spooky-good spectacle, but nothing quite compares to meeting the Disney characters in their seasonal best. While Mickey and Minnie always look darling, it’s the transformation of everyone’s favorite grumpy duck that truly steals the show at Disney California Adventure: the legendary Devil Donald Duck!
Devil Donald Duck is a quintessential part of the Disneyland Halloween Time experience, and he makes his fiendishly fun appearance daily in Disney California Adventure (DCA). Clad in a red shirt and cape, complete with pointy horns, and red spats, this character meet is a must-do for fans.
We were lucky enough to catch him on Buena Vista Street, where the Art Deco architecture and autumn décor of the park’s entrance provide the perfect vintage, spooky backdrop for his mischief. The setting, with the Carthay Circle Theatre towering behind him, adds a dash of old Hollywood glamour to the seasonal fun.
What makes Devil Donald so special isn’t just the costume—it’s the attitude.
While Donald is always known for his spirited nature, the devil costume seems to amplify his famous temper! He poses with an extra dose of sass and still declares that he is number one. It’s the perfect mix of Disney whimsy and seasonal mischief.
Crispy Elote Corn on the Cob: A Must-Try at Disneyland’s Corn Dog Castle
A delicious new indulgence has landed at Corn Dog Castle in Disney California Adventure! We recently got to try the Fried Elote Corn on the Cob, and it’s a must-have snack. This unique twist on the classic Mexican street food features a whole corn cob dipped in batter, fried to a perfect golden-brown, then drizzled with a creamy chipotle aïoli. It’s finished off with a generous topping of savory chile-lime queso fresco and fresh cilantro, offering a burst of flavor in every bite.
This new treat is incredibly substantial—it’s easily double the size of a typical corn dog and has a satisfying weight to it. The sweetness of the corn perfectly balances the smoky kick from the chipotle aïoli, creating a wonderful blend of flavors. Just be sure to grab extra napkins, as this generous and delicious snack can be wonderfully messy! You can enjoy this limited-time item from now until January 7th.
You can purchase this large corn treat for $9.79. For a complete snack, it comes served with your choice of a Cuties mandarin orange or a small bag of chips.
Condé Nast Traveler Readers Name Disney Cruise Line the Best Large Ship Cruise Line for 2025
Disney Cruise Line has once again been recognized for its excellence, securing the prestigious title of #1 Large Ship Cruise Line in the Condé Nast Traveler 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards. This accolade, determined by the votes of over 757,000 readers, highlights Disney’s consistent delivery of exceptional guest service, world-class entertainment, and family-friendly ship design.
The travel outlet received more than 757,000 survey responses from readers across the United States rating their travel experiences across the globe. Condé Nast Traveler’s readers recognized Disney Cruise Line’s exceptional guest service, world-class entertainment, and family-focused design of the ships as some of the many qualities that set Disney Cruise Line apart.
The Readers’ Choice Awards, with their unparalleled legacy as the travel industry’s longest-running and most prestigious accolades from readers, remain the ultimate symbol and acknowledgment of excellence within the travel sector.
Disney Cruise Line’s success is rooted in its ability to translate its renowned theme park hospitality to the high seas. The company has expertly leveraged decades of experience from its resort operations to elevate the cruise experience across its fleet. These ships, including the 4,000-passenger vessels like the Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, and Disney Wish, are meticulously designed to be family-centric, offering daily themed activities ranging from character meet-and-greets to lively deck parties.
Crucially, they also cater to adults with numerous dedicated, tranquil spaces for a perfect getaway. With an expansive list of itineraries, the fleet sails to the Caribbean, the Bahamas (featuring their private island, Castaway Cay), Alaska, Europe, and the Panama Canal. This award-winning brand continues to grow, having recently added the Disney Treasure in late 2024, with the highly anticipated, “heroes and villains”-themed Disney Destiny set to debut in November 2025.
Level 99 Lights Up Disney Springs with New Digital Signage Ahead of Grand Opening
Things are getting “next level” at Disney Springs — literally. A massive new digital sign has officially gone live above the future home of Level 99, the upcoming interactive gaming experience opening soon on the West Side.
The curved LED screen now plays a two-minute promotional video in a constant loop, showcasing energetic scenes of guests tackling timed puzzles, team-based challenges, and illuminated obstacle courses that look straight out of a sci-fi movie. Between the action shots, phrases like “Game On,” “Play Hard,” and “Built to Thrill” flash across the screen — setting the tone for what’s sure to be one of Disney Springs’ most dynamic new additions.
The end of the video teases that Level 99 won’t just be about the games. The two-story venue will also feature hand-crafted cocktails and chef-created dishes, making it as much a social hangout as it is a gaming arena. Designed for adults, Level 99 blends immersive “challenge rooms” and high-tech duels with a bar atmosphere — think escape room meets nightlife.
The new location will take over the massive space once occupied by the NBA Experience and, before that, DisneyQuest, bringing new life to one of the most storied corners of the West Side. A construction permit filed earlier this year confirmed that work is actively underway, even though the exterior still appears mostly unchanged.
When it opens, Level 99 will offer over 60 interactive challenges across a sprawling, multi-level environment that can host up to 1,000 players at once. Guests can expect everything from team puzzles and light-reactive games to large-scale physical activities — all designed to test both skill and collaboration.
Alexa Bliss Joins the Fright: WWE Superstar Steps Into the Fog at Halloween Horror Nights
Fans of both WWE and Halloween Horror Nights got the surprise of the season when WWE superstar Alexa Bliss stepped out of the ring and into the shadows of Universal Orlando’s “WWE Presents: The Horrors of the Wyatt Sicks” haunted house — this time as a scareactor herself.
Bliss, known for her ability to switch from charming to chilling in the blink of an eye, reprised her eerie, Fiend-inspired persona for one terrifying night only. Guests lucky enough to walk through the haunted house during her appearance were greeted not by a scareactor, but by the Goddess herself — blending her real-life wrestling legacy with the sinister theatrics that made her a perfect fit for the maze.
Since her WWE debut in 2016, Bliss has made history as the first woman to win both the Raw and SmackDown Women’s Championships in her rookie year. But fans know there’s another side to her — the darker, more twisted presence that emerged during her alliance with The Fiend. That haunting energy was on full display at HHN, where she slipped back into character among the fog, flashing that same unsettling smile that once haunted WWE arenas.
The “Horrors of the Wyatt Sicks” house is a collaboration between Universal Creative and WWE, paying tribute to the late Bray Wyatt (Windham Rotunda) and his groundbreaking horror-fueled storytelling. Inside, guests follow the flickering glow of Wyatt’s signature lantern into the Wyatt Family Compound, navigating through eerie sets inspired by the “Firefly Fun House” and the dark domains of each Wyatt Sicks member — Uncle Howdy, Abby the Witch, Mercy the Buzzard, Ramblin’ Rabbit, and Huskus the Pig.
At Universal Orlando’s version of the house, guests even step through a recreation of the Monday Night Raw stage, complete with backstage chaos as the Wyatt Sicks’ terrifying takeover unfolds. The attraction feels like a horror movie come to life — one that’s equal parts WWE spectacle and emotional tribute.
“It’s more than just a haunted house — it’s an homage,” said Mike Aiello, Universal Orlando’s Senior Director of Entertainment and Creative Development. “There’s a moment in the house where we show old Bray Wyatt promos projected inside the shack. It hit me pretty hard. He’s not here anymore, but you feel his presence in that space.”
For longtime WWE fans, seeing Alexa Bliss return to the fog of Bray Wyatt’s world is a full-circle moment — a reminder of how seamlessly wrestling and storytelling blend when fear meets performance art. And for Halloween Horror Nights guests, it was the kind of surprise that makes you question what’s real… and what’s waiting just around the corner.
Follow the lantern, and maybe you’ll catch a glimpse of Alexa lurking in the darkness — ready to whisper, “Let… Him… In.”
Classic Harambe Market Favorites Moving as Disney’s Animal Kingdom Prepares Menu Makeover
Some flavorful shakeups are coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and it’s going to change the way you dine in the park for a while. Harambe Market in the Africa section will temporarily close on October 20, 2025, and when it reopens in early 2026, it’ll be trading its African-inspired dishes for classic American theme park fare like burgers and chicken strips.
The switch is part of a bigger shuffle following the upcoming permanent closure of Restaurantosaurus in DinoLand U.S.A. this February. When the dino-themed eatery closes, Harambe Market will step in as the park’s go-to spot for those quick and familiar bites.
Thankfully, the flavorful Harambe favorites aren’t disappearing entirely. Kusafiri Coffee Shop & Bakery will expand its hours and begin serving select dishes from the old Harambe Market lineup, including the Chicken Rice Bowl, Plant-Based Picadillo Rice Bowl, and Harissa Chicken Wrap. It’s a welcome move for anyone craving those bolder, spiced flavors that made the original Harambe menu such a hit.
The closures don’t stop there. Trilo-Bites in DinoLand U.S.A. will also permanently close this month, but fans of its famous Buffalo Chicken Chips can still find them over at Eight Spoon Café on Discovery Island. A variety of DOLE Whip floats will also survive the change, moving to Warung Outpost in Asia. Meanwhile, Dino-Bite Snacks is also set to close this month, meaning hand-scooped ice cream won’t return to Animal Kingdom until February. In the meantime, you can still grab soft-serve, sundaes, and floats from Tamu Tamu Refreshments in Africa or the Anandapur Ice Cream Truck in Asia.
With Harambe Market, Trilo-Bites, and Dino-Bite Snacks all closing on October 20, things will look a little different across the park this fall. It’s all part of a broader refresh as Animal Kingdom gears up for the debut of the new Tropical Americas expansion in 2026.
