Voices of Liberty Honor America Through Song and Service

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February 16, 2026

Voices of Liberty Honor America Through Song and Service

Voices of Liberty Echo Through EPCOT in Powerful Presidents’ Day Tribute to America

Presidents’ Day at EPCOT is never just another day in the park, and this year the harmonies hit even harder inside the stately rotunda of The American Adventure pavilion. The beloved Voices of Liberty delivered their special Echo Sets, a rare performance that doubles the singers and fills the dome with a soaring wall of sound that practically lifts you off the marble floor.

With performers stationed on both the first and second levels, patriotic favorites like “Golden Dream” and “This Land is Your Land” echoed through the pavilion in a stirring tribute to service, storytelling, and the spirit of America. Since opening day on October 1, 1982, the Voices of Liberty have been the resident a cappella storytellers of The American Adventure, wrapping guests in rich harmonies that celebrate the nation’s past and present.

On special patriotic holidays including Memorial Day, Flag Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Veterans Day, and of course Presidents’ Day, the Echo Sets bring the full ensemble together for a grand finale that feels like fireworks made of music. Cast members behind the scenes add to the magic, illuminating the rotunda in red, white, and blue as the final notes ripple through the dome.

For some performers, the tribute is deeply personal. Singer Aaron Stratton, a U.S. Marine Corps Reserve veteran, shared how certain songs once reminded him of his brother serving overseas and how meaningful it is to represent the country in this role. Entertainment technician and veteran Patrick Lienemann echoed that sentiment, describing the emotional impact of supporting these performances during America’s 250th anniversary celebration.

As part of the company-wide Disney Celebrates America initiative, these moments are more than just beautiful music. They are living reminders that the American story is carried forward by the voices who sing it and the guests who gather beneath that iconic rotunda.

If you are planning a visit to EPCOT this year, carve out time for a Voices of Liberty performance. It is one of those quietly powerful experiences that sneaks up on you, wraps you in harmony, and leaves you standing just a little taller as you step back out into World Showcase.

Shining, Shimmering, Splendid: The New Princess Jasmine Moonlit Palace Mini Backpack is Here!

By

Ana Leal

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February 16, 2026

Shining, Shimmering, Splendid: The New Princess Jasmine Moonlit Palace Mini Backpack is Here!

If you’re ready to take your Disney style to a whole new world, you’ve got to check out the Princess Jasmine Moonlit Palace Mini Backpack. This isn’t just your average bag; it’s a total vibe that captures the magic of Agrabah after dark. Retailing for $90, this beauty is a web exclusive, meaning you won’t find it just anywhere, you’ll need to head straight to Loungefly.com to snag one before it vanishes like a puff of genie smoke.

The design is seriously stunning. On the front, you’ve got a gorgeous circular pocket featuring Princess Jasmine herself, looking iconic as ever while hanging out with the magic lamp. To add that extra touch of wow, there’s a bold, golden crescent moon shining right behind her. It really makes the whole scene pop against the deep, midnight colors of the bag.

But wait, the details don’t stop there! Just below the pocket, you get a beautiful look at the Sultan’s palace nestled within a dreamy nighttime landscape. Even the straps get some love, they’re decked out with tiny lamp details that tie the whole look together. It’s the perfect, stylish way to show off your love for one of the most legendary Disney Princesses. Whether you’re heading to the parks or just want to add some royal flair to your daily errands, this exclusive bag is a total must-have.

Credit: Loungefly

New Disney Store Exclusive Mickey and Minnie Main Street Dooney and Bourke Collection

By

Ana Leal

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February 16, 2026

New Disney Store Exclusive Mickey and Minnie Main Street Dooney and Bourke Collection

If you’ve ever wished you could bottle up that walking down Main Street, U.S.A. feeling and carry it with you everywhere, Disney and Dooney and Bourke just heard your wish. Their latest exclusive collab is a total love letter to the heart of the parks, featuring everyone’s favorite power couple, Mickey and Minnie, having the ultimate date night or day! among the turn-of-the-century charm we all know and love.

First up is the Main Street Tote Bag ($298), and honestly, it’s a showstopper. If you’re the type of person who needs to carry everything, snacks, ears, a light jacket, and maybe a few souvenirs, this is your new best friend. It features a gorgeous print of Mickey and Minnie exploring the storefronts, all tied together with those high-end touches Dooney is known for. We’re talking genuine leather finishings and goldtone hardware that make it feel less like a souvenir and more like a high-fashion statement. It’s the perfect way to bring a little Disney magic into your daily commute or your next flight.

Now, if you really want to turn heads in front of the castle, you’ve got to check out the Main Street Ear Headband ($198). I know, I know, it’s a splurge, but these aren’t your average park ears. These are crafted with padded ears featuring that adorable sauntering-down-Main-Street print and a genuine leather bow that’s chic enough to elevate any outfit. Plus, with the iconic embossed metal Dooney & Bourke label right on the side, everyone will know you’ve got impeccable taste. They’re basically wearable art for the Disney obsessed.

Since these are Disney Store exclusives, they tend to disappear faster than a Dole Whip on a July afternoon. If you’ve got your eye on them, don’t wait too long!

Credit: Disney Store

New Winnie the Pooh Collection Exclusively at the Disney Store!

By

Ana Leal

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February 16, 2026

New Winnie the Pooh Collection Exclusively at the Disney Store!

Get ready to clear some space in your closet, because the Hundred Acre Wood just got a high-fashion makeover. The new Winnie the Pooh Collection has officially dropped exclusively at the Disney Store online, and it’s basically a warm hug in clothing form. Whether you’re headed out for a smackerel of honey or just want to channel your inner silly old bear, these pieces strike that perfect balance between nostalgic charm and grown-up style.

First up, let’s talk about the Winnie the Pooh Cable-Knit Sweater ($74.99). If you’ve ever envied Pooh’s iconic red look but wanted something a bit more full-length, this is it. It’s a gorgeous, bold red knit that’s chunky enough for a breezy day but stylish enough to wear out. The best part? There are adorable embroidered Pooh appliqués right on the sleeves. It’s a total vibe, just maybe take Pooh’s advice and roll those sleeves up before you go face-first into a honey pot.

If you’re looking for something a little more whimsical, the Winnie the Pooh Dress by Her Universe ($69.99) is an absolute dream. This isn’t your average character merch; it’s a flowy, sophisticated piece designed for fans who’ve done a bit of growing up since the storybooks. It features:

Smocked bodice for a flattering, comfortable fit.
Draped sleeves that give off major picnic-in-the-meadow energy.
Enamel floral charms on the cord ties for a tiny pop of detail.
Allover print featuring everyone’s favorite honey-loving bear.

It’s the kind of dress that makes you want to go for a long stroll through the woods or at least the local park and wait for Eeyore or Tigger to show up. Since these are online exclusives, you won’t find them wandering around the theme parks, so grab them before they disappear!

Credit: Disney Store

First Look At The New Disney Adventure World Spirit Jerseys!

By

Ana Leal

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February 16, 2026

First Look At The New Disney Adventure World Spirit Jerseys!

Get those wallets ready, as we inch closer to the massive glow-up of Disney Adventure World and the highly anticipated debut of World of Frozen, Disneyland Paris has finally dropped a sneak peek at the must-have souvenir of the season. We’re talking, of course, about two brand-new Spirit Jerseys that are about to become the uniform of the park.

The best part? You don’t even have to wait for the grand opening on March 29 to start living your best Arendelle life. Both jerseys are hitting shelves on Friday, February 13, at the World of Disney store and the Walt Disney Studios Store. If you’re a Disneyland Pass holder, you get even luckier, you can snag early access on Thursday, February 12, from 8:00 to 9:00 a.m. at World of Disney. Just keep in mind there’s a limit of four items per pass, and no discounts apply for this exclusive pre-opening drop!

The Disney Adventure World Spirit Jersey

The first design is a total tribute to the park’s new identity. On the front, you’ll find a sleek Disney “D” nestled inside a compass, perfect for those adventure is out there vibes. Flip it around, and the back showcases the full Disney Adventure World logo set against a cool outline of the park’s signature icons. It’s the ultimate “I was there first” flex for the rebrand.

The World of Frozen Spirit Jersey

If you’re more about that “In Summer” lifestyle, the second jersey is all about World of Frozen. The front features the land’s official logo and the year 2026, making it a true collector’s item for the opening year. The back is where the party really starts, featuring the logo again alongside everyone’s favorite snowman, Olaf, and a few mischievous Snowgies tagging along for the ride.

Credit: Disney

Snag the New Disney Store Easter Bunny Plush Collection Before It Hops Away

By

Ana Leal

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February 16, 2026

Snag the New Disney Store Easter Bunny Plush Collection Before It Hops Away

Spring is officially in the air, and if your Easter basket is looking a little empty, the Disney Store has you covered with some seriously “egg-cellent” new arrivals. The 2026 Easter Bunny Plush collection has officially dropped, and whether you’re a classic Mickey fan or obsessed with Experiment 626, these are the perfect cuddly companions for the season. Each one retails for $29.99 and they are available right now online at the Disney Store.

The Classics: Mickey & Minnie

First up, we have the icons themselves. You’ll be happily hopping down the bunny trail with the new Mickey Mouse Easter Plush. He’s looking dapper in a soft blue fuzzy bunny suit complete with floppy ears and a floral satin tummy. He even has a matching pink bowtie to pull the whole look together! He’s the perfect plus-one for those spring break selfies or as the centerpiece for your family’s Easter brunch.

Not to be outdone, Minnie Mouse is also ready for her close-up. She’s rocking a soft pink fuzzy suit that is basically the definition of huggleable. With her blue-lined floppy ears, a matching blue satin bow, and a cute little skirt, she is ready to bring all the springtime vibes to your collection. Just like Mickey, she features beautiful satin trims and that signature 2026 embroidery on her foot to commemorate the year.

The “Eggstraterrestrials”: Stitch & Angel

If you’re looking for something a bit more out-of-this-world, you’ve got to check out the Stitch and Angel bunny plushes. Stitch is blasting down the bunny trail in a bright green fuzzy suit with yellow-lined ears and a yellow satin bowtie. He’s definitely ready to cause some adorable chaos during your holiday celebrations.

And of course, he’s joined by the heavenly Angel. She’s looking sweet as can be in a vibrant yellow bunny suit with green-lined ears and a satin skirt featuring a hibiscus flower detail. Whether you’re a lifelong Lilo & Stitch fan or just love a good eggstraterrestrial pun, these two are guaranteed to make your spring break celebrations feel a little more cosmic.

We love them all! Don’t miss the opportunity to add them to your Easter basket this year.

Credit: Disney Store

More Topiaries Arrive in EPCOT ahead of 2026 EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival

By

Catherine

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February 16, 2026

First Topiaries Arrive for 2026 EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival

Spring is officially in the air at Walt Disney World! Although the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival doesn’t technically kick off until March 4, 2026, the park is already undergoing its annual floral transformation.

Horticulture teams have begun installing the first wave of character topiaries, and this year features a mix of returning favorites and some interesting new locations. Here is your first look at who has sprouted up around EPCOT so far:

World Celebration & World Discovery

The “hub” of the park is seeing significant activity as Disney prepares to welcome over 60 character topiaries this year.

Phineas & Ferb: Making a triumphant return after their 2025 appearance, the stepbrothers can be found in World Celebration. Look for them along the main walkway connecting the World Celebration Gardens to World Showcase, right near the CommuniCore Plaza area.

Bambi, Thumper, and Flower: This trio has a brand-new home this year! While usually spotted near the Canada Pavilion, they have relocated to a walkway connecting World Celebration to World Discovery, just south of the Creations Shop.

Goofy: Our favorite clumsy pal is back at his usual post along the Rosewalk pathway (the bridge area between the Imagination Pavilion and World Showcase). This specific topiary debuted in 2024 and features Goofy playfully blowing on dandelions.

World Showcase

The global pavilions are also starting to “bloom” with classic Disney stories.

Pandas in China: In a festival tradition, the trio of playful pandas has returned to the lush gardens in front of the Temple of Heaven in the China Pavilion.

Peter Pan, Captain Hook, and Tick-Tock: This iconic scene has moved! Instead of the walkway gardens where they’ve lived in recent years, you’ll now find them inside the United Kingdom Pavilion proper. The dynamic poses remain the same, with Hook and Pan locked in their eternal duel while Tick-Tock waits patiently nearby.

More Topiaries Arrive in EPCOT ahead of 2026 EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival

What’s Still to Come?

Disney has confirmed a massive lineup for 2026, including several characters we haven’t seen in topiary form for a while. Keep your eyes peeled for:

Toy Story Favorites: Buzz, Woody, Bo Peep, and Lotso are expected near the Main Entrance to celebrate the upcoming Toy Story 5 (releasing June 2026).

Pixar Pals: Mike Wazowski and Sulley are set to return near the Creations Shop.

Lightning McQueen & Mater: The Cars crew will be “revving up” near Connections Café in World Discovery.

The festival runs from March 4 through June 1, 2026. With more than 30 themed gardens and dozens of topiaries still to be installed, EPCOT is going to look a little more colorful every single day between now and opening morning!

Closer Look at the New Sea Dragons in EPCOT

By

Catherine

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February 16, 2026

New Leafy Sea Dragons Debut at EPCOT’s The Seas

To commemorate the 40th anniversary of The Seas pavilion (formerly The Living Seas), a group of Leafy Sea Dragons has officially moved into the Nursery on the pavilion’s second floor.

The news first made waves after Dr. Mark Penning, Vice President of Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment, shared a mesmerizing video of the newcomers gliding through their exhibit. For guests who enjoy the slower side of EPCOT, these “tiny floating dragons” are a must-see addition to the SeaBase aquarium.

Masters of Camouflage

Native to the southern and western coasts of Australia, Leafy Sea Dragons (Phycodurus eques) are close relatives of seahorses and pipefish. They are world-renowned for their incredible survival strategy:

Intricate Mimicry: Their bodies are covered in leaf-like appendages that allow them to blend perfectly with swaying kelp and seagrass.
Drifting Motion: They move with a slow, rhythmic grace, appearing more like floating vegetation than a living creature.
A “Wyrm” Appearance: With long, slender bodies, they resemble the mythical wyrm dragons of folklore, making them one of the most unique species in the pavilion.

A Behind-the-Scenes Look

The arrival of these seven-month-old dragons adds a fresh layer of depth to the Nursery area. This section of the pavilion is designed to give guests a window into the “real work” of Disney’s marine scientists.

Expert Tip: If you visit soon, you may still see some curtains around the exhibit. This is a standard practice to help the young sea dragons acclimate to the crowds and the “paparazzi” (aka our cell phone cameras!) without getting stressed.

Why You Should Visit

The Seas with Nemo & Friends remains one of the best “hidden gems” for escaping the Florida heat and the heavy crowds.

Feature	Why It’s Worth the Stop
Atmosphere	Quiet, dimly lit, and perfectly air-conditioned.
Education	Learn about Disney’s conservation efforts and manatee rehabilitation.
The New Residents	The sea dragons offer a rare, peaceful photography opportunity.
Hidden Details	Look for the nearby sea urchins currently wearing berets for the Festival of the Arts!

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If you’re planning an EPCOT day soon, don’t just stop at the clamobiles. Head upstairs to the second floor of SeaBase and take a moment to watch these delicate creatures drift by. It’s a beautiful reminder that sometimes the most impressive things in the park are the ones that require us to slow down and look a little closer.

Disney Character Warehouse in South Florida Closing This Spring

By

Catherine

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February 16, 2026

Disney Character Warehouse at Sawgrass Mills to Permanently Close This April

For years, Disney fans in South Florida have enjoyed a shortcut to the magic without making the trek to Orlando. However, that convenience is coming to an end. According to multiple social media reports and confirmations from Cast Members, the Disney Character Warehouse located in the Sawgrass Mills Mall is scheduled to permanently close its doors on April 15, 2026.

The closure marks the end of an era for the Sunrise location, which served as a primary hub for discounted Disney Parks merchandise outside of the immediate Walt Disney World area.

Why is the Warehouse Closing?

While Disney hasn’t released a formal corporate statement, several factors have emerged through discussions with Cast Members and local retail analysts:

Lease Expiration: Reports indicate that Disney has elected not to renew its lease with Simon Property Group for the Sawgrass Mills location.
Geographic Distance: Located in Sunrise (near Fort Lauderdale), the store is approximately three hours away from Walt Disney World. This distance makes logistics more complex compared to the Orlando-based outlets.
Reseller Challenges: The store has long been a “battleground” for professional resellers and “live shoppers” who purchase high volumes of discounted items to flip for profit online. This activity often depletes stock for casual guests and creates operational headaches for staff.

Stricter Policies in Effect

The news of the closure follows a major shift in how Disney manages its outlet operations. As of February 1, 2026, a new, stricter return policy went into effect at all Disney Character Warehouse and Cast Connection locations.

This “nuclear option” was implemented specifically to combat resellers who would purchase large quantities of merchandise, list them online, and then return any unsold inventory within the previous 30-day window. By making all sales final, Disney has effectively introduced significant financial risk for those looking to exploit the outlet’s pricing.

Disney World Annual Passholders 20% Discount at Disney’s Character Warehouse 1

Impact on Other Locations

Currently, there is no word on the future of the other two Character Warehouse locations in Central Florida. For now, shoppers can still find discounted ears, pins, and apparel at:

Orlando International Premium Outlets (International Drive)
Vineland Premium Outlets (near Walt Disney World property)

If you have been holding onto a gift card or have been waiting to snag that retired Spirit Jersey, you have until mid-April to visit the Sawgrass Mills location. Expect inventory to dwindle as the closing date approaches.

With the South Florida branch closing, the remaining Orlando stores are expected to see an increase in foot traffic—and potentially even more competition for the best deals.

Disney Loses $170 Million from Live Action Snow White

By

Sara

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February 16, 2026

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Snow White Officially Becomes a $170M Disaster for Disney

According to new financial reports from early 2026, Disney’s live-action Snow White remake has officially become a “poison apple” for the studio’s bottom line, netting an estimated $170 million loss. Recent filings first highlighted by Forbes reveal that production costs ballooned to a staggering $336.5 million, driven up by a series of on-set setbacks—including a major fire at Pinewood Studios—and extensive reshoots. Despite a decade of development and high-profile casting, the film’s $205.7 million global box office return wasn’t enough to pull the project out of the red.

This financial transparency was made possible only because the film was produced in the United Kingdom. While the UK offers a generous 25.5% tax reimbursement to attract major studios, the incentive comes with strict transparency requirements. To qualify, Disney had to establish a dedicated UK subsidiary, Hidden Heart Productions, to manage the project. Unlike in the United States, where production costs are typically kept under lock and key, UK law mandates that these subsidiaries file detailed public financial statements—effectively pulling back the curtain on Disney’s massive expenditures.

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Forbes contributor Caroline Reid, who first broke news of the film’s soaring costs in the Daily Mail, notes that Disney had already burned through $183.3 million before the cameras even stopped rolling in 2022. According to Reid, the latest financial filings—covering the period up to December 31, 2024—provide an almost definitive look at the total investment, as they were submitted just months before the film’s 2025 debut.

The sheer scale of the $336.5 million price tag is unprecedented; Reid points out that Snow White was more expensive to produce than Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy, and the 2017 live-action Beauty and the Beast—a film that grossed a massive $1.3 billion. Even with a substantial tax reimbursement from the UK government, the author argues that the subsidy simply couldn’t save the production from its own financial weight.

Guest Ignores Signage and Enters Restricted Garden in EPCOT Canada Pavilion to Put Feet in Water

By

Chip

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February 16, 2026

Guest Ignores Signage and Enters Restricted Garden in Canada Pavilion to Put Feet in Water — @therideview

Security Intervenes After Guest Enters Off Limits Victoria Gardens at EPCOT

An incident at EPCOT’s Canada pavilion has gone viral after a guest was filmed entering a restricted area to dip their feet into the water. The individual bypassed clear signage and barriers to access the Victoria Gardens stream, an area strictly off-limits to the public.

According to a video shared by Instagram user @therideview, the guest made their way down to the water’s edge, removing at least one shoe to dip their hands and feet into the stream. Eyewitnesses reported that Disney Cast Members and security personnel responded swiftly to the situation. The incident was resolved without major disruption to the surrounding area, though it serves as a stark reminder of the park’s strict safety protocols.

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Disney’s official policy prohibits guests from jumping over railings or entering any unauthorized areas. Such actions can result in immediate removal from the park and, in some cases, a permanent ban from Walt Disney World Resort. While the Victoria Gardens are designed to be enjoyed from designated walkways and bridges, the landscaping and water features are not intended for guest interaction.

Aerial View of Carousel Construction in Tropical Americas at Animal Kingdom

By

Chris B

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February 16, 2026

Aerial View of Carousel Construction in Tropical Americas at Animal Kingdom

Tropical Americas Carousel Foundation Takes Shape at Animal Kingdom

Something magical is starting to take shape at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and this time, it is perfectly circular. New aerial photos from @bioreconstruct show concrete footers and foundation work well underway for the Tropical Americas carousel, giving us our clearest look yet at how this new land is rising from the dust of DinoLand.

Front and center is a large circular form that unmistakably marks the base of the carousel structure. Surrounding it are rectangular foundation sections that will likely support ride infrastructure and nearby buildings. From above, you can already see the footprint of what will soon become a vibrant gathering spot inside Pueblo Esperanza, the fictional village anchoring the 11 acre Tropical Americas expansion.

Disney has described this attraction as a fresh take on the classic carousel, featuring hand-carved wooden animals inspired by Disney stories and crafted by a fictional artisan from Pueblo Esperanza. Think less standard horses and more beautifully detailed creatures that reflect the biodiversity and folklore of northern South America and Central America. It is old school charm with a new world heartbeat.

The carousel is one of three major attractions coming to Tropical Americas, set to open in 2027. It will spin alongside a brand new Indiana Jones Adventure set inside a Maya temple and the first-ever attraction inspired by Encanto, which centers on Antonio Madrigal receiving his gift and inviting guests into Casita for a celebration.

Pueblo Esperanza itself is shaping up to be a lush open-air village complete with a central fountain, market spaces, and what Disney says will be one of the largest quick-service restaurants at Walt Disney World. As foundations pour and forms take shape, it is getting easier to imagine families gathering here, music drifting through the air, and carved animals rising and falling in the Florida sun.

Animal Kingdom is about to trade carnival chaos for colorful culture, and this carousel looks ready to be the spinning heart of it all.