A ride vehicle at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom caught fire on Friday, December 13, 2025, shocking guests waiting in line for the Tomorrowland Speedway.
Footage of the incident was captured and shared by TikTok user @traveling_throuple. The video shows visible flames erupting from the rear engine area of an empty orange-and-white striped speedway car. In the clip, Disney Cast Members can be seen quickly directing guests away from the vehicle to ensure safety.
The video cuts to a Cast Member utilizing a fire extinguisher from the guest queue area to successfully suppress the flames. The text overlaid on the social media post reads, “Fire in Magic Kingdom 12/13/2025.”
Photo Credit TikTok user @traveling_throuple
It appears the vehicle was unoccupied at the time of the fire, and no injuries were reported in the video.
The Tomorrowland Speedway, an opening-day attraction at the Magic Kingdom, allows guests to drive gas-powered cars along a guided track. While the attraction is known for the loud hum and exhaust smell of its engines, open flames are a rare occurrence. This is not the first time a vehicle on the track has experienced mechanical issues, but the quick actions of the operations team appear to have prevented the situation from escalating.
New Affogato Stand Opens Early at Disney Springs for a Sweet Espresso Fix
Disney Springs just got a little sweeter and a lot more caffeinated. A brand-new Affogato Stand operated by Vivoli il Gelato has officially opened early, giving guests a new way to cool off while also fueling up with espresso.
Originally scheduled to open later, the stand is now welcoming guests and serving up classic affogato creations featuring creamy gelato topped with hot espresso. Vivoli il Gelato fans will recognize the quality right away, as the main gelato shop is located in The Landing at Disney Springs and is already a go-to for Italian-style frozen treats.
The Affogato Stand menu includes several flavor options, including Original cream custard, Pistachio, Double Chocolate, Cookies and Cream with Hot Chocolate, and a rotating Seasonal option. If you are not in the mood for an affogato, you can also grab a two-scoop cup, cornetto, biscotti, espresso, or bottled water.
The stand is located in the Marketplace section of Disney Springs, conveniently positioned between the Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop and the World of Disney store, making it a dangerously easy stop while shopping. Guests should note that the Affogato Stand accepts contactless payment only.
If you are looking for a new dessert break or an espresso pick-me-up while wandering Disney Springs, this new stand might be worth adding to your snack list.
Stars Sleigh the Holidays at Walt Disney World This Season
The holidays at Walt Disney World are already packed with twinkling lights, festive treats, and seasonal magic, but this year the parks also welcomed a wave of celebrity visitors adding some extra sparkle to the season. From holiday parades to new attractions and character encounters, familiar faces have been soaking in the Christmas cheer across the resort.
The festivities were front and center during The Wonderful World of Disney: Holiday Spectacular, narrated by Ginnifer Goodwin and hosted by Derek Hough. Performances by Coco Jones, Nicole Scherzinger, Iam Tongi, and more were filmed at Walt Disney World, bringing the park’s holiday magic to screens everywhere. The special is now streaming on Disney+, Hulu, and Disney YouTube.
Lindsay Lohan made a festive stop at Walt Disney World, sharing a sweet moment with Nick Wilde and Judy Hopps while talking about Freakier Furday. She also experienced the new Zootopia: Better Zoogether 4D show and added some thrills to her visit with rides on TRON Lightcycle Run and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom welcomed actor Nate Torrence, who stopped by to check out the new Clawhauser animatronic featured in Zootopia: Better Zoogether. The visit turned into a fun moment as Torrence joked about seeing a bit of himself in the paw-some police officer.
Holiday excitement is also building around the 2025 Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade, filmed at Magic Kingdom. Alfonso Ribeiro and Ginnifer Goodwin return as hosts, with Maia Kealoha covering the parade along Main Street, U.S.A. The special features performances by Lady A, Bebe Rexha, and Coco Jones and airs Christmas morning on ABC, with same-day streaming on Disney+, Hulu, and Disney YouTube.
From thrilling attractions to festive entertainment and holiday parades, Walt Disney World continues to be a magnet for holiday cheer and celebrity visits alike this season.
Ring in 2026 in Style with California Grill’s Magical New Year’s Eve Dining Experience
If you are looking to toast the New Year with fireworks, fine dining, and a little Disney magic sprinkled on top, California Grill has officially entered the chat. Walt Disney World has announced The Magic of New Year’s Eve, a limited two-day dining experience taking place December 30 and December 31 at the signature restaurant perched high atop Disney’s Contemporary Resort.
This special celebration includes an elegant four-course prix fixe menu crafted with premium ingredients and inspired by California Grill’s 30 years of culinary excellence. Guests will enjoy live music throughout the evening, photo opportunities with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, and a complimentary champagne toast for guests 21 and over. The night wraps up with a prime fireworks viewing of Magic Kingdom’s New Year’s Eve spectacular, viewed from the restaurant at the end of each seating, weather permitting.
The menu starts strong with a Japanese Wagyu Futomaki Roll before moving into a choice of market-inspired second courses like BBQ European Quail, Sonoma Goat Cheese Ravioli, Norwegian Brown King Crab, or Sweet Potato Bisque. The third course is where things really shine, with options including a 30-Day Dry-Aged Wagyu Filet, Butter Poached Maine Lobster, Truffled Poulet Rouge, Berkshire Pork Tenderloin, or Glacier 51 Toothfish Mosaic. Dessert lovers can finish the night with sweet creations like Celebration of Citrus, Chocolate Blossom, Blueberry-Goat Cheese Cheesecake, or Muscavado Brown Sugar Crème Brûlée.
Specialty cocktails will also be available for purchase, including a Black Truffle and Fig Old-Fashioned, Blueberry and Thyme Gin Smash, Heirloom Apple 75, and a Cosmopolitan Highball. Optional add-ons will be offered to further elevate the experience.
Pricing varies by date and seating. Dinner on December 30 is priced at $229 per person. On December 31, early seating is $299 per person, while late seating is $349 per person. Guests should note that California Grill’s New Year’s Eve cancellation policy applies, with full price charged for cancellations within 24 hours or no-shows.
Reservations for The Magic of New Year’s Eve at California Grill must be made by phone by calling 407-824-2284. Availability is limited, and this experience is only offered for these two dates.
Dunk the Halls Returns to Magic Kingdom as Disney, ESPN, and the NBA Team Up for a Christmas Day Slam Dunk
Disney, ESPN, and the NBA are bringing the holiday magic back to Main Street, U.S.A. with the return of Dunk the Halls, the real-time animated NBA game airing on Christmas Day. This festive alt-cast debuts at noon ET on December 25 and transforms the New York Knicks vs. Cleveland Cavaliers matchup into a fully animated experience set inside Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World.
Once again, the action unfolds in a virtual recreation of Main Street, U.S.A., complete with snowfall, glowing holiday décor, and Cinderella Castle shining in the background. Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, Goofy, Pluto, and Chip and Dale all return to cheer from the sidelines, but this year comes with a big, blue twist. Stitch joins Dunk the Halls for the very first time, bringing his signature chaos and becoming the breakout star of the broadcast.
The animated storyline begins with Mickey making a Christmas wish to Santa, which magically brings the NBA back to Magic Kingdom. Stitch’s arrival quickly turns the celebration upside down, leading to unpredictable antics throughout the game and a brand-new animated Christmas Parade during halftime. The parade competition features floats from Mickey and Minnie, Donald and Daisy, Goofy and Pluto, and Stitch himself as they battle it out for the title of Best Christmas Parade Float.
Every play from Madison Square Garden will be recreated live using Sony’s Beyond Sports technology and Hawk-Eye Innovations, allowing players to appear as motion-tracked animated versions of themselves in real time. Viewers will see every dunk, pass, and layup as it happens, all wrapped in Disney holiday flair.
Production highlights include Daisy Duck returning as sideline reporter with a special interview featuring NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, Santa’s elves serving as camera operators, and Santa himself piloting ESPN’s SkyCam. Disney characters will also take part in pregame and halftime moments, decorate a massive Christmas tree during the broadcast, and keep fans guessing with surprises like snowfall on Main Street and Goofy’s ever-growing churro count.
The animated broadcast will once again be called by Drew Carter and Monica McNutt, who return for their second year together in the Dunk the Halls booth. Daisy Duck also returns as sideline reporter, and all three commentators will appear animated while using Meta Quest Pro headsets to experience the game virtually from Main Street, U.S.A. The traditional Cavaliers vs. Knicks broadcast will air simultaneously with Ryan Ruocco and Doris Burke on commentary and Jorge Sedano reporting.
Dunk the Halls continues ESPN’s growing slate of innovative animated sports presentations, following recent successes like Monsters Funday Football and paving the way for upcoming animated NHL and WNBA telecasts during the 2025 to 2026 season.
Fans can catch Dunk the Halls on ESPN2, Disney+, Disney Channel, Disney XD, and the ESPN App, while the traditional game airs on ABC, ESPN, Disney+, and the ESPN App. It is all part of ESPN’s full NBA Christmas Day lineup airing December 25.
Disneyland Resort: Characters in Must-See Holiday Outfits
The holiday season at Disneyland Resort is truly enchanting, filled with dazzling lights and ornaments. The best part? Characters in holiday outfits are ready to meet you across both theme parks and the Resort hotels! If you plan to take festive photos or want to see them in a seasonal performance, check out these highlights when you visit Holidays at the Disneyland Resort and Disney Festival of Holidays at Disney California Adventure Park.
Where to Find Santa Claus at Disneyland Resort
Direct from the North Pole, Santa Claus himself makes stops around Disneyland Resort for photo opportunities and to hear families’ holiday wishes. Say ho-ho-hello to St. Nick through December 24, 2025.
Redwood Creek Challenge Trail at California Adventure transforms into a jolly playground with games, festive activities, and a fun search for brightly colored presents along the trail.
From November 27 through December 24, Santa adds the Disneyland Hotel, Pixar Place Hoteland Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa to his route around the resort.
Holiday Characters at California Adventure
At California Adventure, some characters sport Santa hats, dress up in classic holiday outfits, or add festive accessories. These photo ops and sightings are unique to Holidays at the Disneyland Resort.
On Buena Vista Street, you may find classic Disney characters dressed in retro-inspired wintry wear. Their outfits complement the nostalgic décor on the park’s 50-foot-tall Christmas tree.
In Cars Land,Mater gets into the spirit by sporting a giant Santa hat. You “auto” stop by to see for yourself!
Holiday Characters on Buena Vista Street
Mickey Mouse
Minnie Mouse
Goofy
Donald Duck
Daisy Duck
Pluto
Clarabelle Cow
Holiday Characters at Grizzly Peak
Carl
Russell
Dug
‘The Story Time with Deadpool Holiday Special’
After making his Disneyland Resort debut last year, Deadpoolis back for more holiday hilarity and super special seasonal stories. You can see him during “The Story Time with Deadpool Holiday Special” near Avengers Campus.
This limited-time entertainment offering celebrates the season in the way only Deadpool can. At select performances, Wolverine may also stop by.
Disney Festival of Holidays at California Adventure
Culinary creations, cultural entertainment and, of course, many Disney characters can be found throughout California Adventure during the vibrant Disney Festival of Holidays, November 14, 2025, through January 7, 2026.
‘Mickey’s Happy Holidays’
Groove along to magically merry rhythms of the Holiday Toy Drummers as they travel along the streets of California Adventure. You’ll also spot Disney friends and Pixar pals during this daily, high-energy holiday procession.
Featured Characters May Include:
Mickey Mouse
Minnie Mouse
Joy
Mr. & Mrs. Incredible
Frozone
Woody
Jessie
Bo Peep
‘Mirabel’s Gifts of the Season’
The greatest holiday gifts are the memories created with people we love. On select days, Mirabel and her friends gather at Paradise Gardens Park for their own Fiesta de Navidad celebration.
During this whimsical returning street performance, sing along to “Surface Pressure,” “We Don’t Talk About Bruno,” and other catchy tunes from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Encanto.
‘A Musical Christmas with Mariachi Alegría de Disneyland & Miguel!’
Also on select days, you may encounter Miguel from Pixar Animation Studios’ Coco at Carthay Circle as he joins Mariachi Alegría de Disneyland for heartfelt stories and holiday songs.
“A Musical Christmas with Mariachi Alegría de Disneyland & Miguel!” is an evening street performance with beautiful, bilingual renditions of holiday songs.
Disney ¡Viva Navidad!
The daily cultural celebration at Paradise Gardens Park features live music, specialty dishes, and character appearances inspired by Latin American traditions – with a touch of Disney flair.
Meet Mirabel at the Paradise Gardens gazebo. On select days, other members of the Madrigal family may make appearances as well.
Sing, samba and shout “ay caramba!” On Saturdays and Sundays, The Three Caballeros – Jose Carioca, Panchito, and Donald Duck – are joined by folklorico dancers, mariachis, Brazilian samba dancers, and more during the “Disney ¡Viva Navidad! Street Party.”
Holiday Characters at Disneyland Park
Disney characters are dressed for the occasion at Disneyland park! When making stops at Main Street, U.S.A., Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and their pals are wearing newly designed, festive outfits that put a “holiday spin” on their looks from the 70th Celebration.
In New Orleans Square, Santa Jack and Sally are sharing season’s screamings at the Royal Courtyard through December 24.
‘A Christmas Fantasy Parade’
A treasured tradition, “A Christmas Fantasy Parade” celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2025. It features many Disney characters and a procession of prancing reindeer, marching toy soldiers, and dancing gingerbread cookies.
Characters in the Parade May Include:
Buzz Lightyear and Woody
Green Army Men and Jessie
Anna, Elsa, and Olaf
Max Goof
Belle and Beast
Snow White and The Prince
Princess Aurora and Prince Phillip
Cinderella and Prince Charming
‘Holiday Fun with Santa and Friends!’
This returning experience at the Fantasyland Theatre in Disneyland features festivities throughout each day through December 24. In addition to greeting Disney characters, you can watch animated shorts, sing along to holiday songs, and more.
Characters You May Spot at the Fantasyland Theatre
Chip ‘n’ Dale
Goofy
Pluto
Elsa
Jiminy Cricket (on select days)
‘Disney Holiday Dance Party’ in Tomorrowland
Dance along to holiday tunes and upbeat jams, while Disney characters appear on stage, during a holiday dance party for the whole family at Tomorrowland Terrace.
The dance party begins at 5:30 p.m. and continues through 9:30 p.m., daily during the holiday season. Drop by at different times throughout the party. Who knows which characters you’ll encounter and songs you’ll hear?
Characters You May Find at Tomorrowland Terrace
Chip ‘n’ Dale
Stitch
Goofy
Pluto
Holiday Character Dining at Disneyland Resort Hotels
For a limited time, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa and Disneyland Hotel are hosting holiday buffets, with a selection of scrumptious, seasonal menu items. Disney characters make appearances throughout the meal, showing off festive outfits.
These experiences are an amazing value for all the delicious food you care to enjoy and the opportunity to meet multiple characters at one location. Advanced reservations are highly recommended.
Character Dining at Storytellers Cafe
At Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa from November 17, 2025, through January 6, 2026, Daisy’s Holiday Pajama Party breakfast and brunch features Disney friends in festive colors and plaid fabrics. You’re welcome to dine in your coziest fashion, including your pajamas.
For a memorable yuletide dinner, Storytellers Cafe presents Mickey’s Christmas Carol Feast from November 17, 2025, through January 6, 2026. Mickey Mouse, Scrooge McDuck, and more characters come together in looks inspired by the classic Christmas story.
Goofy’s Kitchen Celebrates the Holidays!
Over at the Disneyland Hotel, Goofy’s Kitchen joins the seasonal festivities with a holiday breakfast, brunch, and dinner, November 17, 2025 through January 6, 2026. Goofy and his pals put on their merry best, mixing classic red and green colors with pastels, print, and snowy sparkles.
Douglas Fir at Downtown Disney District
New this year, you may encounter Douglas Fir, a talking Christmas tree, roaming around Downtown Disney District daily throughout the holiday season.
What character(s) are you excited to see at the Disneyland Resort this holiday season?
Haul-o-ween to Holly Jolly! See the Cars Land Transformation on Disney Unscripted
The new Disney Unscripted episode on YouTube goes behind the scenes to document the spectacular shift of Cars Land from its normal look to a fully decked-out holiday masterpiece at Disney California Adventure.
The transformation of Cars Land is a feat of coordination, unfolding over several nights. Crews work tirelessly to ensure the changeover is perfectly seamless—avoiding any clash between the Halloween and holiday décor—all while making sure every trace of construction equipment is gone before guests arrive when the park gates open each morning.
The 15-minute episode offers unique insights from the team, primarily following resort enhancement manager Tristen Tierney. A standout moment features the iconic Cars Land billboard: Tierney reveals they swapped the old overlay method for a new, replaceable vinyl, which park decorator Nick Stauf expertly stretches into position for the holiday season.
The lighting in Cars Land, a major feature year-round, has been significantly upgraded. In the past two years, the team stopped the time-consuming process of re-stringing trees for the holidays. Instead, they now utilize new technology that allows them to instantly change the light colors with the push of a button—a task handled by park decorator and “King of Strings,” Jesus Hernandez—dramatically saving time and effort.
Escape the Chill: Four Flamingos Introduces New Winter Cocktails and Mixology Class
Four Flamingos: A Richard Blais Florida Kitchen at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress is inviting guests to celebrate winter in a decidedly tropical style. The acclaimed restaurant has unveiled a new seasonal line-up of cocktails and mocktails and is offering a unique, interactive cocktail class—the perfect post-Christmas treat.
Attendees will discover the secrets behind crafting holiday-inspired drinks that flawlessly blend classic Christmas cheer with vibrant island vibes. Led by the restaurant’s talented Chief Mixologist, Macarena Portales, this interactive session will teach guests how to blend festive flavors like vanilla, coconut, and even Nutella for the ultimate holiday treat.
What: Santa’s on Vacation Cocktail Class
When: December 26 at 4 p.m.
Where: Four Flamingos at Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress (1 Grand Cypress Blvd, Orlando, FL)
Cost: $40 (Includes four specialty holiday craft cocktails)
To Book: Guests can secure their spot via the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress booking link.
The new winter line-up of drinks at Four Flamingos is designed to ward off the winter blues with distinct Florida flavors:
Frosted Keylime: A tropical delight featuring vanilla vodka, coconut rum, key lime juice, and rich coconut cream, bringing sunshine to every sip.
Gingerbread Old Fashion: A holiday twist on the popular bourbon classic, infusing the warm, comforting flavor of gingerbread.
For those looking for non-alcoholic options, the new mocktails, Snowy Key and Christmas Envy, provide the perfect blend of refreshing, tropical flavors.
Holiday Dining: Christmas and New Year’s Celebrations
Four Flamingos is also the ideal destination for special holiday dining experiences:
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
From December 24–25, the restaurant will offer an exclusive El Jibarito Holiday Feast, featuring Christmas specials inspired by Puerto Rican traditions and Florida’s coastal bounty.
Highlights include:
Puerto Rican Hushpuppies ($26)
Caribbean Prime Rib ($60)
Banana Leaf Snapper ($48)
Passionfruit Coquito Cheesecake ($16)
The traditional à la carte menu will also be available alongside these festive specials.
New Year’s Eve Feast
Ring in the New Year with a luxurious four-course prix-fixe New Year’s Eve Feast on December 31.
Menu highlights include:
Cold Smoked Hamachi
Smoked Swordfish Belly
King Crab Provençal
Baked Florida for two
The New Year’s Eve dining experience is priced at $195 plus taxes and fees.
From interactive mixology classes to exquisite holiday feasts and refreshing tropical drinks, Four Flamingos at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress offers a distinctively Floridian way to celebrate and savor the winter season.
Disney Offers Up Support of the Gary Sinise Foundation
In collaboration with the Gary Sinise Foundation, Walt Disney World Resort was once again honored to welcome families of fallen military service members for the annual “Snowball Express” healing retreat. This five-day event brings together hundreds of military families to bond with others who share similar experiences, finding comfort and connection during their journey of healing.
A Century of Support: Disney’s Enduring Commitment
Disney’s unwavering support for active-duty military, veterans, and their families spans over a century. This tradition began with our founders, Walt and Roy O. Disney, who both contributed to war efforts during World War I—a legacy of respect and gratitude that continues today.
At Disney, we understand that military service is a family commitment. Through impactful programs like Snowball Express, we take immense pride in creating magical holiday memories for those who have lost loved ones in service to our nation.
The Snowball Express was inspired by a simple, heartfelt wish. In 2003, U.S. Army Private First-Class Jesse Givens wrote a letter to his wife and children before deploying to Iraq, sharing his wish that they visit Disneyland, knowing he would be with them in spirit.
After Jesse made the ultimate sacrifice during Operation Iraqi Freedom, his wish became a symbol of hope. In 2006, his family joined other Gold Star families for a special visit to Disneyland Resort, marking the official start of the Snowball Express.
A year later, actor and humanitarian Gary Sinise learned of the mission and joined the cause, performing for the families with his Lt. Dan Band. In 2017, the Gary Sinise Foundation officially adopted Snowball Express, ensuring Jesse’s dream lived on. The annual tradition expanded to Walt Disney World Resort in 2018, where hundreds of families now gather each December for an experience filled with hope, healing, and Disney magic.
VoluntEARS Show Support During the Walk of Gratitude
During a special sunrise event known as the “Walk of Gratitude” on December 9, hundreds of Disney VoluntEARS gathered in Magic Kingdom to welcome and cheer on more than 1,600 children, surviving spouses, and families.
The families embarked on a solemn and heartwarming journey down Main Street, U.S.A. toward Cinderella Castle. This heartfelt gathering offers moments of remembrance, connection, and joy.
A Touching Moment: The families send personalized letters up to heaven for their fallen heroes to read during a special Disney magic moment near the Castle, often joined by Gary Sinise and Mickey Mouse.
Veteran Support: Nearly 1,000 Disney VoluntEARS, including many who are military veterans themselves, gathered before dawn to cheer on the families, offering a powerful display of respect for their sacrifice.
“While our hearts are heavy at the circumstances that brought these families together, I am grateful we can wrap our arms around them, that we can honor them while remembering their loved ones who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of freedom,” said Gary Sinise.
Disney’s Avalanche of Kindness
Since the retreat began at Walt Disney World in 2018, more than 23,000 children of fallen military and first responder heroes and their surviving parents and guardians have participated in Snowball Express.
The Gary Sinise Foundation has also expanded this annual program to include a second Snowball Express event at Walt Disney World for families of fallen first responders, recognizing the sacrifice of those heroes as well.
“We thank the Gary Sinise Foundation for all the work they do to support military families who have given so much. We’re honored to help them make happy new memories during their visit to the Walt Disney World Resort,” said Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences.
Mickey & Minnie’s ‘Vacation Fun’ Animated Short Sets Reopening Date
Get ready to laugh! Vacation Fun — An Original Animated Short with Mickey & Minnie is officially returning to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. After a brief hiatus that began earlier this fall, the hilarious short is set to welcome guests back starting December 27.
Upon its return on December 27, Vacation Fun will operate from 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM. This reopening is a major win for holiday travelers, providing a much-needed indoor retreat just as the peak New Year crowds begin to swarm Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Situated right near Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, this experience features original shorts in the same iconic animation style as the ride. It’s not just about the movies, though—the theater exit also boasts adorable, themed photo backdrops where you can star in your own Mickey cartoon!
Rapid Success: ‘Zootopia 2’ Zooms Past $1 Billion in Record Time
In just 17 days, Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Zootopia 2 is officially crossing the $1 billion global box office threshold. With current totals at $986.1 million—split between $232.7 million domestic and $753.4 million international—the sequel is making history. It now holds the record as the fastest animated MPA release and the fastest PG-rated film to ever reach this milestone.
“Everyone at Disney Animation put their heart, soul and passion into this film to tell a story full of joy, imagination, and incredible thoughtfulness,” said Jared Bush, Chief Creative Officer, Walt Disney Animation Studios. “This milestone means the world to us, because more than anything, it means audiences are coming to theaters for a shared experience of watching this movie on the big screen, everyone together, from all walks of life around the world — and that is a Zootopia dream come true.”
Since its November 26 debut, Zootopia 2 has become a historical box office juggernaut. It launched with a record-shattering $559.5 million five-day opening, securing its place as the highest global animated opening of all time and the biggest debut of 2025. Audiences are clearly in love, reflected by a 96% Certified Hot audience score on Rotten Tomatoes and an A CinemaScore, making it the top international MPA release of the year.
Zootopia 2 has achieved legendary status in China, shattering multiple historic records. It now holds the title for the highest animated opening for a non-local film with a staggering $272 million and became the highest-grossing non-local animated film in just five days. Currently, with an estimated $447 million to date, it sits as the #2 MPA release of all time in China, trailing only Avengers: Endgame. This success cements Disney’s dominance in the region, with the studio now claiming three of the top five highest-grossing MPA titles ever released in the Chinese market.
This theatrical momentum has sparked a massive franchise revival on Disney+. Global interest in the world of Zootopia has skyrocketed, with fans clocking over 725 million hours of viewership for the original Zootopia and the Zootopia+series combined.
MCO Is Upgrading Its Gate Link Trams in a Massive $253 Million Modernization Project
Orlando International Airport is gearing up for a glow-up of theme-park proportions as the airport begins a major $253 million project to replace its aging Gate Link tram system. If you have ever zipped from the North Terminal to your gate on one of those familiar automated shuttles, get ready for a smoother, faster, and far more reliable ride once this upgrade wraps up. The project has just officially kicked off and is set to finish in late 2027, giving MCO a serious boost right as Central Florida continues to welcome record crowds.
The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority approved the project to overhaul the Gate Link routes serving Gates 70 through 129 at Airside 2 and Airside 4. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America landed the design, build, operate, and maintain contract, and they are replacing pretty much everything. New vehicles, new running surfaces, new operating systems, new power distribution, new communications, and even new platform screen doors are all part of the plan. Mitsubishi will also keep passengers moving throughout construction and limit how long each Gate Link lane goes offline.
These trams are a big deal for MCO because they tie the North Terminal Complex, including Terminals A and B, to the gate areas. With Orlando’s passenger volume growing every year, the airport needs a people mover system that performs like a champ even on holiday weekends when the crowds resemble Main Street at fireworks o’clock.
The benefits of this project read like an airport wish list. The new vehicles are designed for higher reliability and smoother performance. The upgraded systems increase capacity to handle heavier traffic. Safety is improved with modern controls and technologies that help protect passengers. The new setup is more energy efficient too, which lowers the environmental footprint while also keeping operations resilient.
Construction will be phased so most guests only see very minor impacts. MCO expects most passengers will simply notice an extra couple of minutes in their journey. Overnight work will occasionally require travelers to use shuttle buses between terminals and airsides. Anyone planning to use rental cars or pick up ground transportation should build in an additional thirty minutes just in case. Throughout the entire process, the airport will deploy extra guest service ambassadors, enhanced signage, and plenty of support to guide passengers through any temporary changes.
A few fun facts help put the project in perspective. Airside 2’s system dates back to 2000, while Airside 4 has been serving passengers since 1990 and last received new tram cars in 2008. Both Gate Link routes are dual-lane shuttles stretching about 2,000 feet each. Each new tram can carry up to 240 passengers, and a one-way trip takes only ninety seconds with forty seconds of dwell time at the platforms.
This modernization keeps Orlando in step with other leading airports and shows GOAA’s commitment to investing in infrastructure that supports future growth. It also follows the successful overhaul of the Gate Link systems at Airside 1 and Airside 3 in 2017. When the dust settles in 2027, MCO will have a people mover system ready for the crowds that flock to Central Florida for vacations, conventions, sporting events, and of course, the theme park magic just beyond the airport doors.
