Mickey and Minnie Trade Dinosaurs for Tropical Adventures in New Backdrop Update

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February 3, 2026

Mickey and Minnie Trade Dinosaurs for Tropical Adventures

Big changes are afoot at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and it looks like Mickey and Minnie are the first to officially update their travel logs. In a subtle but significant move, the Adventurers Outpost meet-and-greet location has debuted a brand-new backdrop, signaling the end of an era and the dawn of the Tropical Americas.

The Adventurers Outpost, located on Discovery Island, remains one of the rare spots in Walt Disney World where guests can meet the iconic duo together in their safari attire. Now, the tapestry-like background behind them reflects the park’s shifting geography.

Out With the Old, In With the New

For years, the meet-and-greet mural featured various lands from Animal Kingdom—including Discovery Island, Africa, and Asia. Previously, DinoLand, U.S.A. was represented by a skeletal brachiosaurus. That prehistoric icon has now been retired, replaced by a vibrant image of Casita from Encanto.

The update serves as a “living map,” acknowledging that the upcoming Tropical Americas land is now officially part of the park’s narrative, even as construction continues behind the scenes.

What to Expect in Tropical Americas

The transformation of the former DinoLand area into the village of Pueblo Esperanza is well underway. While we bid a final farewell to the DINOSAUR attraction—which officially saw its last day of operation on February 1—there is plenty to look forward to when the new land opens in 2027:

The Casita Attraction: A first-of-its-kind Encanto ride that takes guests inside the Madrigal family’s magical home.
Indiana Jones Adventure: A brand-new experience replacing DINOSAUR, featuring a unique story where Indy explores a perfectly preserved Maya temple.
Wood-Carved Carousel: A beautiful new family attraction featuring animals from various Disney stories.
A Massive Hacienda: Set to be one of the largest quick-service dining locations in all of Walt Disney World.

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A Transitional Time for Animal Kingdom

With the permanent closure of DinoLand attractions like the Boneyard and Chester & Hester’s Dino-Rama in 2025, and now the closure of DINOSAUR and Restaurantosaurus this February, the park is in a major state of transition. This simple backdrop change at Adventurers Outpost is a clever bit of “environmental storytelling,” ensuring that Mickey and Minnie’s world stays current with the real-world evolution of the park.

Whether you’re mourning the extinction of the dinosaurs or ready to dance with the Madrigals, one thing is certain: Mickey and Minnie are ready for the next adventure.

Dana Walden Named President and Chief Creative Officer of The Walt Disney Company

By

Chip

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February 3, 2026

Disney Appoints Dana Walden to New Enterprise-Wide Creative Leadership Role

In a historic move for the company, The Walt Disney Company Board of Directors has announced that Dana Walden, currently Co-Chairman of Disney Entertainment, has been named President and Chief Creative Officer of The Walt Disney Company.

Effective March 18, 2026, Walden will step into this newly created role, reporting directly to incoming CEO Josh D’Amaro.

EXECUTIVE PORTRAIT – Robert Langer, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Disney|ABC Television Group. (Disney|ABC)

A Historic First for Disney

This appointment marks the first time in the company’s history that a single executive will oversee creative expression across the entire enterprise. In her new capacity, Walden will be responsible for ensuring that Disney’s world-class storytelling and brand identity remain consistent across every audience touchpoint—from streaming and linear television to news and global content businesses.

The Board intends for this role to bridge the gap between creative vision and business objectives, driving enterprise-wide initiatives that translate Disney’s storied legacy into future growth.

Proven Creative Leadership

Since joining Disney, Walden has earned significant respect within the creative community while leading the company’s entertainment media and streaming businesses. Outgoing CEO Bob Iger highlighted her readiness for the position, noting her deep knowledge of Disney’s diverse brands and her ability to lead the heart of the company: its creativity.

“Dana Walden is an excellent leader who commands tremendous respect from the creative community,” said Bob Iger. “She has accumulated great knowledge about the many facets of our businesses and brands, and is very well prepared to be President and Chief Creative Officer.”

Continuity and Collaboration

Walden will work closely with Josh D’Amaro as he transitions into the CEO role, as well as Disney Entertainment Co-Chairman Alan Bergman and ESPN Chairman James Pitaro. Together, this leadership team is tasked with maintaining Disney’s creative momentum while navigating a rapidly changing global marketplace.

Before this promotion, Walden’s leadership helped guide Disney through a period of significant industry disruption, focusing on restoring financial discipline and delivering sustained profitability across the company’s streaming platforms.

Josh D’Amaro Named CEO of Walt Disney Company

By

Chip

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February 3, 2026

Josh D’Amaro Named Next CEO of The Walt Disney Company Josh D’Amaro to Succeed Bob Iger as Disney CEO in March 2026

The Walt Disney Company has officially named its next leader. In a unanimous vote, the Board of Directors has elected Josh D’Amaro, the current Chairman of Disney Experiences, to become the next Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company.

D’Amaro will officially take the helm on March 18, 2026, succeeding Robert A. Iger. Following the transition, Iger will continue to serve as a Senior Advisor and board member until his full retirement on December 31, 2026.

A New Leadership Structure

The announcement also included a significant new role for Dana Walden, the current Co-Chairman of Disney Entertainment. Effective March 18, Walden will become the President and Chief Creative Officer of The Walt Disney Company. This new position, a first for the company, will have Walden reporting directly to D’Amaro to ensure creative excellence and brand consistency across all Disney platforms.

Why Josh D’Amaro?

A 28-year veteran of the company, D’Amaro has become a favorite among fans and Cast Members alike during his time as President of Disneyland Resort, President of Walt Disney World Resort, and most recently as head of the Disney Experiences segment.

As Chairman of Disney Experiences, D’Amaro has overseen a period of massive growth, managing 12 theme parks, 57 resorts, Disney Cruise Line, and the popular Disney Vacation Club. He has been the primary architect of major expansions, including Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Avengers Campus, and the upcoming Villains Land and Cars expansion at Magic Kingdom.

“Josh D’Amaro possesses that rare combination of inspiring leadership and innovation, a keen eye for strategic growth opportunities, and a deep passion for the Disney brand and its people,” said James Gorman, Chairman of the Board.

Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro Remains Frontrunner for Next Disney CEO

The Road Ahead

D’Amaro takes over a company that Bob Iger describes as being in a “vastly stronger position” than it was just a few years ago. With major projects on the horizon—including the Monsters, Inc. land at Hollywood Studios and a new Avatar destination at Disneyland—D’Amaro’s background in the parks segment suggests a continued focus on “turbocharging” growth in the experiences division.

“I am immensely grateful to the Board for entrusting me with leading a company that means so much to me and millions around the world,” D’Amaro said. “There is no limit to what Disney can achieve.”

Disney World Slashes Annual Pass Down Payment for Florida Residents

By

Chip

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February 3, 2026

New Florida Resident Promotion: Pay Only $99 Down for Disney World Annual Passes

Walt Disney World has just launched a new limited-time promotion that makes becoming an Annual Passholder more accessible for Florida locals. Starting today, February 3, 2026, Florida residents can secure any of the four Disney Annual Pass tiers with a down payment of just $99.

This represents a 50% reduction from the standard down payment typically required for the monthly payment program.

How the Promotion Works

The total cost of the Annual Passes remains unchanged, but the initial barrier to entry is significantly lowered. Residents can pay $99 upfront and then spread the remaining balance across 12 monthly installments with 0% APR.

Here is the breakdown of the monthly costs following the $99 down payment:

Disney Pixie Dust Pass: $35.15 / month (Total: $489)
Disney Pirate Pass: $68.88 / month (Total: $869)
Disney Sorcerer Pass: $89.29 / month (Total: $1,099)
Disney Incredi-Pass: $136.33 / month (Total: $1,629)

Eligibility and Requirements

To take advantage of this offer, guests must meet the following criteria:

Must be a Florida resident with a valid state-issued ID.
Must be at least 18 years of age to enter the installment agreement.
The first monthly payment will be charged on the day of purchase.

New Zootopia Annual Passholder Magnet Coming to Disney's Animal Kingdom

Passholder Perks and Access

Regardless of the down payment promotion, all Disney World Annual Passes continue to offer standard benefits, including:

Standard theme park parking.
Up to 20% off select merchandise.
Discounts on select dining locations throughout the resort.

Passholders are still subject to the “Good-to-Go” day system and reservation requirements for weekend visits to Magic Kingdom.

New Playground Coming to Tropical Americas Expansion in Animal Kingdom

With new experiences like the Zootopia magnet currently available at Animal Kingdom and the Tropical Americas construction beginning soon, it’s a great time for locals to jump into the magic with a lower upfront cost.

EPCOT’s Impressions de France is Closing for Refurbishment in EPCOT

By

Sara

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February 3, 2026

Impressions de France Set for Temporary Closure

Impressions de France, the classic cinematic journey through the French countryside, is scheduled to undergo a routine refurbishment at EPCOT. Located in the heart of the France Pavilion, the theater will temporarily close its doors to ensure the long-standing fan favorite continues to shine for future guests.

Beginning February 22, 2026, the classic EPCOT attraction Impressions de France will close its doors for a scheduled refurbishment. While a specific reopening date has not yet been announced, this temporary hiatus will allow for essential maintenance on the beloved 18-minute cinematic journey.

Renowned for capturing the “grandeur, charm, and romance” of the French landscape, this fan-favorite film remains a staple of the France Pavilion. Guests planning visits in late February should keep an eye out for updates as Disney prepares to welcome travelers back to this enchanting tour of Europe.

The refurbishment will also require the temporary closure of the Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along, which shares the Palais du Cinéma theater. This 15-minute experience features a whimsical retelling of the animated classic, inviting guests of all ages to sing along to their favorite Disney hits.

Will this closure impact your next visit to Epcot?

Disney Adventure Becomes Largest Cruise Ship to Transit the Panama Canal

By

Sara

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February 3, 2026

Disney Adventure Shatters Panama Canal Records

Disney Cruise Line etched its name into the maritime record books as the Disney Adventure completed a historic transit of the Panama Canal. This monumental crossing sets a new milestone for the fleet, officially crowning the ship as the largest cruise vessel to ever navigate the legendary waterway.

Yesterday, the Disney Adventure officially shattered maritime records by becoming the largest cruise ship to ever transit the Panama Canal. Entering the locks at 7:30 a.m. EST, the newest Disney Cruise Line titan completed its historic journey by 8:00 p.m. EST, marking a monumental achievement for the fleet.

At 208,000 gross tons and 342 meters (1,122 feet) in length, the Adventure is the first cruise ship in history to exceed the 200,000-ton mark while navigating the canal. It unseats the previous record-holder, the Norwegian Bliss, which weighed in at 168,000 gross tons and measured 333 meters (1,093 feet).

Disney Cruise Line Debuts First Images of Disney Adventure’s Oceaneer Club

The Panama Canal serves as a vital 51-mile (82-kilometer) shortcut between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, utilizing a sophisticated lock system to lift massive vessels across the Isthmus of Panama.

The Disney Adventure navigated this historic waterway as part of an epic global relocation from its shipyard in Germany to its permanent homeport in Singapore. After departing in January, the ship made strategic stops at Port Canaveral for crew training and Curaçao for fueling. The Adventure is now bound for Los Angeles, arriving next Monday, February 9, before continuing its journey to Tokyo and finally to Singapore for its highly anticipated March 10 maiden voyage.

Man Takes off Clothes During Universal Studio Tour

By

Chris B

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February 2, 2026

Man Takes off Clothes During Universal Studio Tour

Guest Removed After Stripping Naked on Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour

An unexpected and unsettling incident unfolded aboard the World-Famous Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood on Monday, February 2, 2026, when a guest reportedly climbed off the tram after it came to a stop and stripped naked in front of more than 150 fellow passengers.

According to a witness who spoke with ABC 7 Eyewitness News, the individual appeared to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, rolled around on the ground, and taunted employees as the situation escalated.

Video circulating online shows the guest undressing and later being surrounded by Universal team members before security intervened and removed him from the area.

Universal security ultimately restrained and escorted the guest away, bringing the incident to an end. In an effort to make things right for those who witnessed the disruption, Universal Studios Hollywood reportedly provided Express Passes to affected guests. While the Studio Tour is known for its movie magic and surprises, this was clearly not the kind of behind-the-scenes moment anyone signed up for.

Disney World Expanding Ferry Boat Dock in the Magic Kingdom

By

Chris B

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February 2, 2026

Disney World Expanding Ferry Boat Dock in the Magic Kingdom

Disney Files Plans for Magic Kingdom Ferry Boat Queue Expansion at Seven Seas Lagoon

Walt Disney World is looking to smooth out those end of night crowds, as new permit filings reveal plans for a Magic Kingdom ferry boat queue expansion along Seven Seas Lagoon. According to documents filed with the South Florida Water Management District, the project includes expanded hardscape areas, dock improvements along the shoreline, and a required floodplain compensation area, all aimed at improving guest flow at one of the park’s busiest transportation hubs.

The ferry boats remain a primary way guests travel between the Transportation and Ticket Center and Magic Kingdom, especially during park opening and the nightly park dump after fireworks. This filing follows more than a decade of ferry related upgrades, including the addition of second ferry docks in 2014 and second level unloading access in 2021, both of which significantly increased capacity.

While no construction timeline has been announced yet, the expansion appears focused less on adding new boats and more on giving guests additional space to queue and move efficiently, particularly during peak times when crowds swell around the lagoon. With Magic Kingdom continuing to grow and expand, even the classic boat ride across Seven Seas Lagoon is getting a little extra breathing room.

Disney Removes Sign for DinoLand U.S.A. in Animal Kingdom

By

Chris B

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February 2, 2026

Disney Removes Sign for Dinoland USA in Animal Kingdom

Photos: DinoLand U.S.A. Is Officially Closed at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

DinoLand U.S.A. has officially gone the way of the asteroid at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and during our visit to the park on Monday, we were able to see the closure firsthand and snap photos of what remains. The land’s main entrance sign is now fully covered, with planters blocking off the pathways instead of construction walls, creating a quiet but unmistakable signal that this corner of the park is officially extinct.

These temporary barriers are in place as Cast Members received a final opportunity to ride DINOSAUR on February 2 before the attraction closed for good. The changes are not just physical either. The printed Animal Kingdom park map has been updated, completely removing DinoLand U.S.A. and marking the area as the future home of Tropical Americas, and even the braille map near the park entrance has been revised to reflect the land’s closure.

DinoLand originally opened with Animal Kingdom on April 22, 1998, back when DINOSAUR was still known as Countdown to Extinction. Looking ahead, Tropical Americas will bring a brand new Encanto themed attraction along with an Indiana Jones attraction that will reuse the existing DINOSAUR ride system, meaning the bones of the past are literally being recycled into Disney’s next big adventure.

While construction walls have not appeared just yet, Monday’s visit made one thing very clear. DinoLand U.S.A. is officially history, and the transformation of Animal Kingdom’s future is already underway.

Coming to California Adventure New 25th Anniversary Cake Shake & Other Offerings

By

Sara

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February 2, 2026

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Disney California Adventure Debuts 25th Anniversary Cake Shake & More

In honor of Disney California Adventure’s 25th anniversary, Schmoozies! is pulling out all the stops with a limited-time Anniversary Cake Shake. This decadent, birthday cake-inspired creation is the ultimate way to toast to a quarter-century of DCA magic—but catch it while you can, because this celebratory sip won’t be on the menu forever!

This showstopper is a festive confetti shake decked out with vibrant strawberry icing, a cloud of whipped topping, and a shower of celebratory sprinkles. The ultimate finishing touch? An actual full slice of cake perched right on top! Mark your calendars: this over-the-top treat is only available for a strictly limited window from February 6 through February 15, 2026.

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Specialty Food and Drinks at Downtown Disney

Select restaurants and dining locations at Downtown Disney District are serving specialty menu items in honor of the Disneyland Resort 70^th Celebration.

Beignets Expressed (available now through Aug. 9)

Bananas Foster beignet dipped in a banana rum glaze, sprinkled with cinnamon-sugar and served with a vanilla crème anglaise

Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio (available now through Aug. 9)

French “70”: an effervescent blend of gin, prosecco, lemon juice, and lavender simple syrup (for guests ages 21 and older)

Kayla’s Cake (available now through May 31)

Strawberry yogurt macaron croissant: crisp macaron batter baked on top of a butter croissant, filled with strawberry yogurt custard cream and topped with sprinkles
Pistachio macaron croissant: butter croissant topped with crisp macaron batter, filled with pistachio custard cream and dusted with edible gold glitter

Vista Parkside Market (available second Saturday of every month)

Parkside Birders Club: fun-filled opportunity for guests ages 21 and older to taste and learn how to make three cocktails, enjoy light bites, plus receive a $20 bounce back for Parkside Market and a collectible pin.

Wetzel’s Pretzels (available now through Aug. 9)

Incredi-Bitz: enhances the Original Bitz with tasty toppings, available in 3 flavors: Choco Churro Bitz, Bacon Ranch Bitz, or S’mores Bitz.

What limited-time foods do you want to try?

Josh D’Amaro Expected to be Named Next Disney CEO

By

Sara

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February 2, 2026

Josh D’Amaro Expected to Take the Helm at Disney

Major media outlets are reporting a seismic shift at the House of Mouse: Josh D’Amaro, current Chairman of Disney Experiences, is poised to become the next CEO of The Walt Disney Company. Sources indicate the Board of Directors is aligning on D’Amaro and is expected to formalize the decision with a vote as early as this week. Adding to the transition, current CEO Bob Iger reportedly intends to exit ahead of his December 2026 contract end to ensure his successor a “fresh start.”

Reports from major financial outlets, including Bloomberg and The Wall Street Journal, indicate that the Disney Board of Directors is “aligning” on Josh D’Amaro, current Chairman of Disney Experiences, as the company’s next CEO. A formal board vote is reportedly scheduled for this week at Disney’s Burbank headquarters.

While a Disney spokesperson cautioned that a final selection hasn’t been made, Bloomberg sources emphasize that D’Amaro has emerged as the clear frontrunner to conclude a high-stakes, three-year succession search.

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In a surprising twist, current CEO Bob Iger is reportedly planning to step down before his contract expires on December 31, 2026. According to the WSJ, Iger is eager to provide his successor with a “fresh start” rather than lingering as a “lame duck” leader.

Insiders suggest Iger is ready to trade the boardroom for the open seas. He has privately expressed a desire to move on from the daily “grind,” citing a wish to spend more time:

Sailing his new superyacht, Aquarius, which was delivered last summer.
Managing Angel City FC, the women’s soccer team he and his wife, Willow Bay, acquired in 2024.
Supporting his wife’s work at the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism.

Should the board confirm D’Amaro this week, Iger isn’t expected to vanish immediately. He likely will remain in the CEO role for several months to mentor and transition the new leader, ensuring a smoother handover than the tumultuous Chapek era.

Although the air is thick with “smoke,” nothing is official until the white smoke rises from Burbank.

Mexico City Couple Pulls Sweep at 2026 Disneyland Half Marathon

By

Sara

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February 2, 2026

Mexico City Couple Dominates 2026 Disneyland Half Marathon

In a truly magical display of athleticism, Mexico City’s own Ismiain Hernandez and Itzel Bautista dominated the Disneyland Half Marathon presented by HONDA, claiming both the men’s and women’s titles. The pair started their journey together at the starting line and ended it as a golden duo, conquering the 13.1-mile course through the heart of the Disneyland Resort.

Ismiain Hernandez set a blistering pace from the very first mile, never relinquishing his lead as he sprinted past Anaheim’s most iconic landmarks. Outpacing a massive field of over 14,000 runners, Hernandez crossed the finish line with a remarkable time of 1:12:20.

He finished over two minutes ahead of his closest competitor, Sean Caster of San Marcos, California (1:14:21), while Cody Draa of Canton, Ohio, rounded out the podium in third (1:14:29).

The excitement didn’t end with the men’s finish. Hernandez stayed at the finish line to cheer on his partner, Itzel Bautista, as she maintained a strong, steady rhythm throughout the race. Bautista officially secured the couple’s sweep, crossing the finish line in 1:20:53 to claim the women’s title.

She was followed by fellow Mexico City runner Brenda Guerrero Ruiz (1:23:44) in second and Jane Hughes of Rathdowney, Ireland, in third.

After a victory hug at the finish line, the champions swapped their running shoes for walking shoes. Hernandez and Bautista plan to celebrate their historic sweep exactly where they earned it: with a well-deserved victory lap through the Disneyland and Disney California Adventure parks!