Young Guest Climbs Onstage with Sonny Eclipse at Magic Kingdom
Well, folks, nothing says “a galactic day at Disney” like an unexpected stage invasion with Sonny Eclipse at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café. A young guest made her own interstellar debut recently, hopping the small fence in front of Sonny Eclipse and climbing right onto the stage for a photo op that definitely wasn’t on the set list.
In a TikTok posted by @fortiffany, the child can be seen walking up to Sonny, touching both the beloved Zorkian crooner and his piano keys. The moment she started pressing buttons that weren’t meant for tiny Earthling hands, the animatronics instantly shut down. Cast Members responded quickly, escorting the guest off the stage while ensuring Sonny’s systems were safe from further mischievous remixing.
Sonny Eclipse is a genuine Tomorrowland treasure, performing his 26-minute loop of cosmic classics inside Cosmic Ray’s all day long. From “My Name Is Sonny Eclipse” to “Hello Space Angels,” his extraterrestrial lounge act brings stellar vibes to the quick-service hotspot. Fun fact: his backup singers are literal invisible Space Angels, adding that signature Tomorrowland charm we all know and love.
Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café has been dishing out burgers, chicken strips, and galactic good times since 1994 as part of Tomorrowland’s big refresh. And if you’ve ever wanted to take a piece of intergalactic entertainment home, there’s even a Sonny Eclipse plush floating around out there in the merchiverse.
Moral of the story? Stay behind the railings, Space Angels. Sonny may be from Zork, but he still needs his personal space.
Disney Confirms End Date for Meadow Swimmin’ Pool Expansion at Fort Wilderness
Pack your swimsuits and your patience, campers. Disney has finally splashed out some new details on the long-running Meadow Swimmin’ Pool expansion at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, giving us a clearer look at when this project will float to the finish line.
Disney first filed the permits way back in April 2024 for a new 5,500-square-foot building near the existing Meadow Swimmin’ Pool. Since then, construction walls, cranes, and lots of sandy churn have been the campground’s unofficial woodland critters. Now we finally know when the big refresh is wrapping up.
According to a brand-new update on the Walt Disney World website, the project is set to be completed by mid-2026. Yes, that means another summer with construction hums instead of cicadas. But both the Meadow Swimmin’ Pool and the Wilderness Swimmin’ Pool will remain open throughout the work, even if your favorite lounge chair might be temporarily traded for a more rustic patch of shade.
Guests should also expect limited seating around the Meadow pool, plus some construction noise. If you’re hopping off the internal bus loop, signs will help reroute guests around the work.
Jason Bateman Had No Clue He Was in Disney’s New Zootopia Show at Animal Kingdom
Only in Zootopia could a sly fox get outfoxed by his own theme park cameo. Jason Bateman, the voice behind everyone’s favorite con-artist-turned-cop Nick Wilde, apparently had no idea he appears in Disney’s brand-new Zootopia: Better Zoogether attraction at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. And honestly… same energy as finding out you’ve been voluntold for a meeting you didn’t know existed.
In a TikTok clip shared by @georgecbutler, Bateman is happily chatting about the Zootopia land over in Shanghai Disneyland when co-star Ginnifer Goodwin (aka Judy Hopps herself) breaks the news that Florida has hopped on board with a whole new show. Not only that, but Nick sings in it. Bateman’s reaction? Pure confused fox energy. He even pauses to ask the most relatable question ever: “Was I good?”
Goodwin then continues explaining the attraction with the same tone as a mom telling her teen where the dishwasher is kept. Their playful back-and-forth has the internet losing its mind, and honestly, we’re here for it.
Zootopia: Better Zoogether officially hopped into action on November 7, transforming the old It’s Tough to Be a Bug theater into a fully animated 4D adventure through Zooper charged mayhem. Guests join Judy and Nick for Zoogether Day, a celebration that quickly spirals into chaos thanks to a series of stage-ready mishaps. Naturally, our favorite bunny and fox step in to save the day.
And yes, Officer Clawhauser appears as an Audio-Animatronic inside the theater, serving big donut-loving energy. Many of the classic theater effects from the previous attraction stick around, making this both a familiar and fresh experience.
The show’s debut arrived alongside a brand-new Nick and Judy meet and greet, plus shelves of adorable Zootopia merchandise ready to waddle home with you.
Meanwhile, Zootopia 2 is proving mammals really do go nuts for a good sequel. The film pulled in an impressive $19.7 million on Thanksgiving Day, securing its place as the second-biggest Thanksgiving opening ever.
The sequel follows Judy and Nick as they go undercover to stop a mysterious reptile causing chaos across the city, pushing their partnership like never before. Returning cast members include Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman, Idris Elba, Shakira, Raymond S. Persi, and more, along with new voice talent like Ke Huy Quan, Quinta Brunson, Fortune Feimster, Andy Samberg, and Macaulay Culkin.
Have you seen Zootopia: Better Zoogether yet? Let us know what you thought of the show’s fox-tastic debut.
Wizarding World of Harry Potter Gets Festive Makeover
The holidays have arrived at Universal Studios Hollywood and that includes the Wizarding World of Harry Potter! Wizards celebrate too and it shows with the lights, garland, and more decorating the area.
Even in the perpetually snow-covered streets of Hogsmeade, the holidays bring an extra layer of magic, confirming that witches and wizards celebrate Christmas in style. While snow is a year-round feature, the village is now beautifully enhanced with festive decorations. Look for traditional wreaths and garlands woven with natural elements like bright red berries and pinecones, often adorned with cheerful red ribbons tied around the lampposts.
the village, with nearly every structure in Hogsmeade participating. The doorways of Hogsmeade Station and virtually every window are trimmed with lush garlands. Notably, The Three Broomsticks is completely decked out, featuring garlands lining its entrance and along all of its iconic gable roofs, with a festive wreath hanging just behind the three broomsticks above the entryway. Even the Owl Post gets a unique touch, featuring garlands intricately adorned with soft white feathers.
The magic extends to every shop’s façade, each with unique decorations. Gladrags Wizardwear is distinctively adorned with garlands and a matching wreath featuring cheerful pink ribbons. Meanwhile, Wiseacre’s Wizarding Equipment incorporates bright silver stars into its holiday décor. The sports-themed Spintwitches shop displays garlands and wreaths customized with miniature Golden Snitch decorations, while the adjacent Tomes and Scrolls bookshop keeps its décor simple and classic.
Even the main Hogwarts entrance gate is decorated with garlands on its columns, topped by festive red flowers, and one archway holds a bundle of mistletoe. Throughout the village, some garlands display Hogwarts house ribbons—inspired by student ties—to represent Gryffindor, Slytherin, Ravenclaw, and Hufflepuff.
On top of the festive decorations throughout the area, guests can end their night experiencing “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle.” It’s a beautiful projection and fireworks show with holiday-themed lights and effects.
Zootopia 2 and Wicked: For Good Fuel Record Thanksgiving Box Office Haul
Hollywood is celebrating a phenomenal Thanksgiving holiday weekend, driven by two major offerings: Disney’s animated sequel Zootopia 2 and Universal’s musical fantasy, Wicked: For Good. Both films helped keep movie theaters humming throughout the extended holiday period.
Disney’s animated sequel, Zootopia 2, dominated the domestic box office, taking in a mighty $156 million since its Wednesday debut across 4,000 venues. This total includes a strong $96.8 million over the traditional Friday-to-Sunday weekend frame.
This five-day performance is record-breaking, ranking as the second-best Thanksgiving launch of all time in domestic history. It trails only another Disney sequel, 2024’s Moana 2 (which earned $225 million over five days), but easily surpassed 2019’s Frozen II ($125 million). The original Zootopia, for context, opened to $75 million in March 2016 before growing into a massive hit, earning $341 million domestically and $1.02 billion worldwide.
Global Success and China’s Record
Zootopia 2 was an even bigger force internationally, securing $400 million from the global market. A massive chunk of this came from China alone, where the film earned a record-setting $272 million.
In total, the second Zootopia installment generated a staggering $556 million globally, cementing its place as the fourth-biggest opening weekend in history worldwide.
Alan Bergman, Disney Entertainment co-chairman, praised the film’s success: “The incredible response to Zootopia 2 reflects both its worldwide appeal and the remarkable work of our filmmakers and cast. It’s a proud moment for Disney Animation and all of us at Disney, not to mention a great way to start the holiday season.”
Wicked: For Good Continues Strong Run
Zootopia 2 wasn’t the only tentpole satisfying holiday audiences. Universal’s highly-anticipated sequel, Wicked: For Good, continued to dazzle in its second weekend of release, earning an impressive $93 million over the five-day Thanksgiving period.
While the second half of the Wicked saga wasn’t quite as front-loaded as its predecessor (the first Wicked earned $118 million over the same five-day holiday frame in 2024), Wicked: For Good remains a juggernaut. After just 10 days in theaters, the sequel has amassed $270.4 million domestically and $393.3 million globally, positioning it as a significant holiday hit.
Universal Studios Hollywood Grinchmas Character List
Guests visiting Universal Studios Hollywood can look forward to meeting The Grinch, his loyal dog Max, and a host of other friends during Grinchmas, running through January 4, 2026. While The Grinch and Max have dedicated meet-and-greet locations, characters like Cindy Lou Who and the Fa-Who 4 A’s musical group can be found greeting fans immediately following their stage performances. All other Whos roam freely throughout Universal Plaza, offering spontaneous photo opportunities.
Guests eager to meet The Grinch must enter through a festive red heart archway. This incredibly popular character encounter frequently involves an hours-long wait, so be sure to check the posted wait time outside the queue. When you finally reach the front, you’ll find The Grinch dressed in his classic Santa Claus attire, posing in a charming photo setting complete with a “Whoville Tree Trimmers” vehicle, a decorated Christmas tree, and wrapped presents.
Cindy Lou Who
Cindy Lou Who usually greets guests in a dedicated space next to the stage immediately after her scheduled performances. During these shows, she beautifully narrates How The Grinch Stole Christmas. Storytime performances are scheduled five times daily: 10:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 1:30 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. While she occasionally roams the area, the best time to ensure a meeting is right after one of her shows.
Postmaster Lou Lou Who
Keep an eye out for Cindy Lou Who’s father, the Whoville postmaster, as he roams Universal Plaza! While he moves around, you’ll most likely find him near the post office attraction. Don’t just meet him, participate in the holiday spirit: guests can mail a postcard from this location, and for every card sent, Universal Studios Hollywood will make a charitable donation.
Max the Dog
Guests can meet Max the dog, who is perched adorably atop a giant gift box wrapped in distinctive paw print paper. This photo opportunity is set directly in front of The Grinch’s iconic sleigh. Max is fully in character, wearing his signature reindeer “antler” fastened securely to his head with a bright red bow beneath his chin.
Betty Lou Who
Betty Lou Who, Cindy Lou Who’s mother, is easily recognizable in her festive outfit, which includes a dramatic red cape and a dress patterned with small Christmas trees. Completing her signature Whoville look are two distinct stand-up braids wrapped around a tiny teacup hat.
Mayor Augustus MayWho
The Mayor of Whoville can be found adding a touch of pomp and formality to Universal Plaza. He is instantly recognizable by his impressive official attire, including a grand fur-lined cape and a sash adorned with numerous medals of office. Guests are most likely to spot this distinguished character circulating near the main stage area, ready to greet his constituents.
Martha May Whovier
Keep an eye out for the glamorous Martha May Whovier, whose holiday style always steals the show! She is dressed in her iconic, dazzling Santa-inspired dress and matching hat. Her dramatic and festive ensemble makes her a captivating character to meet and a must-see during your Grinchmas visit.
Froodle the Weatherman
Guests can meet Froodle the Weatherman, a character created exclusively for Universal Studios Hollywood’s Grinchmas celebration. His eccentric look includes towering white, cyclone-like hair and a matching beard. Froodle’s suit jacket is appropriately festive, decorated with snowflakes, and he always carries a distinctive cane that cleverly doubles as weather-monitoring equipment.
Baker
Look for the jolly Whoville Baker wandering the area, bringing a sweet presence to Universal Plaza! This character carries a comically oversized tube of frosting and is dressed in a delightful outfit adorned with various gingerbread men. Their unique costume and amusing prop make for a great photo opportunity.
Star Macaulay Culkin Open to Reprising Kevin McCallister Role
Macaulay Culkin recently sparked excitement on his “A Nostalgic Night with Macaulay Culkin” tour by stating he is not “completely allergic” to reprising his iconic role as Kevin McCallister in a new Home Alone sequel. However, the star made it clear that any return would have to be “just right.” Fortunately, fans have reason to be hopeful, as Culkin already has an idea and a pitch for a continuation he would be genuinely interested in pursuing.
“I kind of had this idea,” Culkin said. “I’m either a widower or a divorcee. I’m raising a kid and all that stuff. I’m working really hard and I’m not really paying enough attention and the kid is kind of getting miffed at me and then I get locked out. [Kevin’s son] won’t let me in… and he’s the one setting traps for me.”
Culkin’s sequel concept offers a fascinating twist on the original premise: rather than battling external robbers, Kevin McCallister must contend with his own son in an attempt to reenter their family home during the holidays. The actor explained that the central conflict is deeply symbolic, viewing “the house [as] some sort of metaphor for our relationship,” with Kevin needing to “get let back into [his] son’s heart.” While only an “elevator pitch,” this idea represents the “right thing” that makes him open to revisiting the franchise.
The Home Alone franchise cemented Macaulay Culkin’s status as one of Hollywood’s biggest child stars in the 1990s. The original film was a global blockbuster, earning $476 million worldwide—making it the second-highest-grossing movie of 1990. Culkin reprised his iconic role for the 1992 sequel, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York. Interestingly, this potential return contrasts sharply with the recent comments made by original director Chris Columbus, who told Entertainment Tonight in August that a new Home Alone film should never be made.
“I think ‘Home Alone’ really exists as, not at this timepiece, but it was this very special moment, and you can’t really recapture that,” Columbus said. “I think it’s a mistake to try to go back and recapture something we did 35 years ago. I think it should be left alone.”
Both Culkin and Columbus stepped away after the first two films, noticeably absent from the largely forgotten 1997 installment, Home Alone 3. The franchise continued its decline with a 2002 direct-to-television movie, followed by Disney’s 2021 reboot attempt, Home Sweet Home Alone, starring Jojo Rabbit breakout Archie Yates, exclusively on Disney+. The overwhelmingly poor reviews for the remake may validate director Chris Columbus’s earlier assertion that the Home Alone series should be left alone.
Contemporary Resort Refurbishment Now Stretching Into Late 2027
Disney’s Contemporary Resort is getting a makeover that’s proving to be a marathon, not a sprint. What started as a fairly standard refurbishment timeline has now turned into a full-blown, three-year-plus project that will run all the way into late 2027. Yes, you read that right, the resort that brought us the Monorail-through-the-lobby flex is taking its time to look its best again.
Disney originally announced the project back in 2024, with work slated from September 2024 through Summer 2025. Even at that point, the timing raised a few eyebrows, but the Contemporary is one of Walt Disney World’s oldest resorts and has plenty of behind-the-scenes needs. The refurbishment was set to hit select areas across the main tower, Bay Lake Tower, and the convention center.
By mid-2025, it became clear summer wasn’t happening. Disney extended the end date to July 2026, shaving off the convention center from the notice but keeping the focus on Bay Lake Tower and infrastructure-heavy spaces around the resort.
Now Disney has quietly posted yet another update, pushing the end date to late 2027. The latest notice says refurbishments will continue in phases throughout select areas, including the atrium and Bay Lake Tower. That means some of the heart-of-the-hotel areas are still on the to-do list. All in all, the project has now stretched roughly 30 months beyond the original plan.
The good news for guests is that so far the impact has been surprisingly minimal. Current work is happening on the massive skylights atop the main tower, and while you may spot construction equipment or hear occasional noise, day-to-day operations remain unaffected. We’ll be checking in over the next few weeks for a closer look at what’s happening on-site.
Holiday Magic Hits Universal CityWalk Hollywood with Festive Eats, Drinks, and Wickedly Fun Decor
Universal CityWalk Hollywood is officially sleighing the season, and if you thought LA couldn’t get any merrier, wait until you see palm trees wrapped in twinkle lights and King Kong rocking his annual Santa hat. This is the kind of holiday glow-up that makes you want to grab a peppermint treat and defy gravity right into the night.
DECOR AND PHOTO OPS CityWalk goes all-out holly-jolly with massive wreaths, glittering garlands, and a showstopping 40-foot Christmas tree outside Universal Cinema. This year’s tree is Wicked-themed to celebrate “Wicked: For Good!” so expect a swirl of pink, green, and Broadway sparkle that would make Elphaba proud.
And don’t forget to look up. King Kong is back at it, sporting a bright Santa hat and holding mistletoe as he clings to IT’SUGAR. Over by the fountains, the water dances along to a red and green holiday light display. It’s like LA decided to combine Christmas cheer with Hollywood spectacle, and honestly, we’re here for it.
FOOD AND TREATS If dessert is your love language during the holidays, CityWalk is calling your name. The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium is serving the Winter Orchard Sundae, a cinnamon-kissed mountain of vanilla ice cream, apple soft serve, whipped topping, cotton candy, and candy canes. Or warm up with the cozy Jacques Hot Chocolate loaded with chocolate whipped topping and pearls.
Voodoo Doughnut is back with three limited-time treats: the Gingerbread doughnut, the Holiday Sprinkle Cake doughnut, and the Yuletide Ring. All are dangerously photogenic, naturally. And if cute eats are your thing, head to Hello Kitty and Friends Cafe for the Peppermint Mousse Dome, a vanilla-peppermint dream that pairs perfectly with holiday shopping next door at the Sanrio Smile Shop.
DRINKS Holiday spirits are flowing all season. NBC Sports Grill & Bar is pouring the Peppermint Mocha Martini for anyone looking to sip their way into seasonal cheer. At Antojitos Cocina Mexicana, you’ll find festive twists like the Apple Cider Margarita, Chestnut Horchata, and the super refreshing Mistletoe Mule. There’s even a non-alcoholic Champurrado for a warm, chocolatey hug on cooler LA nights.
VIVO Italian Kitchen adds to the list with the bubbly Cranmerry Prosecco and a comforting Spiced Apple Cider. Perfect for sipping while strolling under the lights.
ENTERTAINMENT CityWalk keeps the holiday vibes going strong with live music and performances throughout November and December. Expect everything from street performers and DJs to special shows from Toby Gad, TREVAN, Dakota Cohen, Andrea y Los Gallos, Laura Bryna, and even Drake Bell. Whether you’re on a festive date night or making merry with friends, the soundtrack here hits all the holiday highs.
Universal CityWalk Hollywood really packs the season with sparkle, sugar, and plenty of SoCal cheer. Let us know what you’re most excited to check out this year.
Santa Goofy Is Now Greeting Guests Inside the Odyssey Pavilion for EPCOT Festival of the Holidays
Santa Goofy has officially touched down at EPCOT, sleigh, gifts, giggles, and all. As part of the 2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays, guests can now meet the goofiest Santa in the galaxy inside the Odyssey pavilion, and this festive setup is one of the cutest character spots of the season.
The moment you step inside, you’re greeted by a storybook-style winter scene, complete with snowy trees, swirls of icy-blue flooring, and Goofy’s sleigh overflowing with presents. It feels like you’ve wandered into a whimsical holiday pop-up straight from a classic Disney Christmas special. The sleigh itself is beautifully designed with velvet seating, curling silver details, and stacks of oversized packages — the perfect backdrop for a holiday photo.
And then… in struts Santa Goofy. Decked out in his red suit, fluffy trim, and signature Santa hat, he brings the holiday cheer with that big Goofy energy only he can pull off. Whether he’s posing proudly beside his sleigh, waving guests over with a jolly smile, or goofing around to make little ones laugh, this meet-and-greet is pure holiday joy.
The Odyssey pavilion has been quietly leveling up its seasonal offerings in recent years, and Santa Goofy’s arrival adds even more holiday magic to the festival. It’s easy to swing by between Holiday Kitchens, grab a warm treat, and step into this charming photo spot before you continue around World Showcase.
If meeting characters is part of your Festival of the Holidays traditions, don’t skip this one. It’s festive, fun, indoors (a huge win on chilly or rainy days), and a perfect place to snag a family holiday photo that feels uniquely EPCOT.
First Look at the All-New Who-ville Tree Lot at Universal Orlando
Universal Orlando just unwrapped a brand-new slice of holiday cheer, and it’s straight out of a storybook. The all-new Who-ville Tree Lot has officially arrived, bringing a quirky, colorful, wonderfully wacky collection of Christmas trees inspired by your favorite Dr. Seuss characters.
Located in Seuss Landing at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, this festive walkthrough experience feels like stepping right into the pages of a classic Seuss holiday tale. Every tree has its own personality, each themed to a different Who-ville resident or moment — from the mischievous Grinch to the whimsical Cat in the Hat and beyond.
The moment you pass under the Who-ville Tree Lot banner, you’re greeted by a forest of brilliantly decorated trees packed with curls, swirls, fluff, sparkle, and Seussian silliness at every turn. No two trees are alike, and each is loaded with character.
The Grinch tree steals the spotlight with its bright green ornaments, red curls, and a grumpy Grinch face peeking out from the branches, clearly wondering who approved all this festive joy. Another tree is topped with the Cat in the Hat’s iconic striped hat, surrounded by bold red and blue ornaments and a swirl of whimsy that screams Seuss from the treetop down. Cindy-Lou Who’s pink-and-pastel tree is as sweet as she is, covered in candy-like baubles, fuzzy puffs, and delicate sparkles. You’ll also spot vibrant rainbow trees, yellow-themed trees, and designs filled with playful shapes and textures that make the whole area burst with color.
It’s one of the most charming new additions to Universal’s holiday offerings this year, and a perfect photo op for families, Seuss fans, and anyone who loves a little extra holiday magic. With Grinchmas already bringing big energy to Seuss Landing each season, the Who-ville Tree Lot is the perfect new companion, adding even more immersive charm to the land’s festive takeover.
Whether you’re stopping by before the Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular or just strolling Seuss Landing with a hot chocolate, don’t miss this delightful corner of Christmas cheer. It’s a Who-tastic way to brighten your holiday visit.
Scentsy Festive Fragrances Garden Returns to EPCOT Festival of the Holidays
The sweetest scents of the season are back at EPCOT! The Scentsy Festive Fragrances Garden has officially returned to the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays, filling the air with holiday magic.
You’ll find this charming little oasis tucked along the flex space walkway between the Imagination! Pavilion and World Showcase. The garden features four oversized ornament displays, each representing a different Scentsy holiday classic: Christmas Cottage, Sleigh Ride, Silver Bells, and Perfect Peppermint. Each ornament has a scent port at its base, so you can actually stop and smell the season.
Guests can wander through the garden sampling each fragrance — a fun and surprisingly immersive break between holiday kitchens. And for those who fall in love with a particular scent (or all of them, honestly), Disney has made it easier than ever to bring them home.
Once you’ve sniffed your way through the garden, head over to the Holiday Market kiosk located at the bridge to World Showcase. That’s where you’ll find all four scents available for purchase: Perfect Peppermint, Silver Bells, Christmas Cottage, and Sleigh Ride.
Each Scentsy Bar is priced at $8, making it an easy — and great-smelling — holiday souvenir. Whether you’re team peppermint, team cozy cottage, or team “I’m buying the whole set,” this is one of the cutest shopping add-ons of the festival.
With delicious food booths, festive entertainment, and now sweet seasonal scents drifting through the walkway, EPCOT’s Festival of the Holidays is hitting all the senses this year. Don’t miss this fragrant little gem on your next visit.
