Sip in Style: The Pastel Disney World Corkcicle Tumbler is Pure Magic
Looking for the perfect way to stay hydrated and stylish at Disney World? Look no further than the Pastel Disney World Corkcicle Tumbler! This isn’t just any ordinary cup; it’s a vibrant, magical accessory that’s practically a souvenir in itself. We found this stunning piece at Epcot, and let me tell you, it’s a must-have for any Disney fan. Retailing for $54.99, it’s an investment in both your hydration and your happiness!
This Corkcicle tumbler is a visual treat, boasting a beautiful pastel rainbow ombré design with a fun, sparkly finish. The colors are so dreamy, they almost look like cotton candy! The best part is that the colors actually vary depending on which side you’re looking at. One side features a serene blue shading, while the other is a mix of enchanting green and purple. It’s like having two tumblers in one.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a true Disney tumbler without some iconic magic. The tumbler features a sleek, silver-gray silhouette of Cinderella Castle on both sides, surrounded by a sprinkle of stars. It’s also adorned with the classic “Walt Disney World” and “The Most Magical Place on Earth” text, serving as a constant reminder of your happy place.
To complete the look, the lid and convenient handle are a lovely shade of pink, and it comes with a transparent straw. This tumbler is a beast when it comes to capacity, holding a whopping 40 ounces (1,200 milliliters), so you can stay refreshed all day long without constant refills. Just a heads-up: to keep this beauty looking its best, remember it’s not machine safe, so handwashing is the way to go. Get yours on your next trip and sip your way through the parks in true Disney style!
Seize Your Moment with the New Coco Collection at Disneyland!
Get ready to feel the music! If you’ve been to Disneyland lately, you’ve probably noticed the incredible new Coco merchandise taking over the shops. This vibrant and heartfelt collection is all about celebrating the things that matter most, family, music, and the beautiful traditions of Día de los Muertos. It’s the perfect way to bring a little piece of the Land of the Dead into your life.
First up, let’s talk about the incredible apparel. There’s a stunning white t-shirt featuring a beautiful embroidered design of Pepita, the majestic spirit guide. She’s surrounded by intricate flowers, guitars, and sugar skulls, and the embroidered flowers on the sleeves are such a perfect, colorful detail. For those who prefer a more subtle look, the black tee is a must-have. It shows off Miguel’s iconic guitar with a cool rainbow gradient, and the embroidered “Remember Me” text across the chest is a sweet tribute to the film’s most powerful song.
No Disneyland trip is complete without some new accessories, and this collection delivers. The Coco ear headband is a true standout. It’s made of faux leather and features dazzling sugar skull designs, with an embroidered bow at the center. It’s the perfect accessory to add a pop of color to your park outfit. To carry all your treasures, you’ll want to grab the Coco backpack. It’s absolutely gorgeous, with colorful floral patterns, guitars, and even a pocket on the front featuring Miguel in his disguise. The “Remember Me” text is a final touch that makes this bag a piece of art you can wear.
And don’t forget to hydrate in style! The new Coco water bottle is a total showstopper. It has a beautiful blue-to-orange ombré finish and is decorated with intricate black filigree, flowers, and your favorite characters like Miguel and Héctor. With its sleek black lid, handle, and a pop-up straw, it’s perfect for staying cool on a warm park day. Just remember to hand wash it to keep those vibrant designs looking their best!
This collection truly captures the magic and spirit of Coco. Whether you’re a fan of the music, the characters, or the beautiful art, you’ll definitely want to “seize your moment” and get your hands on these incredible pieces!
Grayson Smith Recognized for Embodying Walt Disney’s Core Values of Dream, Create, and Inspire
Grayson Smith, the talented pianist at Casey’s Corner in Magic Kingdom, has been honored with The Walt Disney Legacy Award. Smith, who is well-known for his cheerful demeanor and masterful musical performances, has been recognized for embodying the core qualities of Walt Disney’s enduring legacy.
For three years, Smith has delighted guests and colleagues alike with his music and positive attitude. His colleagues describe him as a Cast Member who consistently turns small interactions into magical memories, transforming a simple stroll down Main Street, U.S.A. into a moment of pure Disney magic.
The Walt Disney Legacy Award is a Cast Member-nominated honor that recognizes outstanding Cast Members, Imagineers, and crew members from around the world. The award is reserved for individuals who personify the three Legacy qualities of Dream, Create, and Inspire. With fewer than 1% of Cast Members across Disney Experiences selected, the honor is a testament to the recipient’s profound impact.
Upon receiving the award, Grayson Smith shared his gratitude. “I’m so grateful, and so thrilled, it’s an amazing feeling,” he said. “To be recognized in front of my friends and leaders, right here in Magic Kingdom, is something I’ll never forget.”
Magic Kingdom Vice President Sarah Riles commented on his achievement, stating, “Grayson has a gift for making every guest feel special. This Legacy Award is just a reflection of the magic he shares with all of us every single day.” She added that it is people like Grayson “whose passion and heart make every visit to Magic Kingdom unforgettable.”
Smith’s peers have praised him for exemplifying the award’s three qualities. For Dream, they noted how he creates happiness through his kind and entertaining interactions. For Create, they highlighted his ability to use music to evoke the emotions of Disney classics, compelling guests to dance and engage. For Inspire, they shared that Smith’s dedication to his craft encourages other Cast Members to be more engaging and provide an exceptional experience for every guest.
Construction Walls Rise Near Savi’s Workshop in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
A disturbance has been spotted in the Force, or at least in the walkway outside Savi’s Workshop at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. New tan construction walls and tarps have popped up in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, blocking off much of the courtyard space near the lightsaber-building experience.
Typically, this area serves as both a guest walkway and the check-in point for those lucky enough to have a reservation to craft their custom saber. But as of late August, walls stretch across the slope and narrow the path, forcing guests to squeeze through a much smaller entryway on the left-hand side of the courtyard. Even the umbrellas that usually shade waiting guests have been shifted or removed entirely.
The walls themselves are a neutral tan, blending with the land’s Batuu theming, and paired with tightly pulled tarps that obscure any sign of what’s happening inside. Disney hasn’t shared what the project involves, and Savi’s Workshop continues to operate normally with no change to hours or reservations.
This isn’t the only fresh construction Galaxy’s Edge has seen this summer. Additional walls were recently added on the Toy Story Land side of the outpost, and one tree remains wrapped in protective netting after guests damaged its bark with carvings. Whether these updates are simple cosmetic touch-ups or preparation for something bigger remains to be seen.
For now, Jedi hopefuls can still build their lightsabers under the guidance of the Gatherers — just be ready for a little extra traffic in the area while construction continues.
Gonzo is Gone-zo: MuppetVision Clock Tower Loses Its Daredevil Star
Say it ain’t so, Muppet fans! Disney’s Hollywood Studios has quietly bid farewell to one of its most iconic gags. Gonzo the Great, forever dangling from the hands of the MuppetVision 3D clock tower, has officially been removed as part of the transformation of Muppets Courtyard into the upcoming Monsters, Inc. land.
The flat cutout of Gonzo, inspired by Harold Lloyd’s 1923 silent film Safety Last!, has been a quirky detail for years and a favorite snapshot spot for Muppet lovers. But as of September 10, Gonzo has vanished, leaving behind only the bare clock tower facade. While the tower itself remains, Disney is expected to redress the exterior as the area undergoes its Pixar-powered makeover.
It’s not just Gonzo that’s gone. The theater marquee advertising MuppetVision 3D is now covered by a black tarp. The sign, first added in 2017 when the area was rebranded from Muppets Courtyard to Grand Avenue, was once proudly lit with “MuppetVision 3D Now Playing.” Though the marquee is hidden, the Lightning Lane and Wait Time signs are still visible above the construction walls, teasing the theater’s soon-to-be new role.
Disney has already demolished the Stage 1 Company Store, but the rest of the MuppetVision buildings will live on with fresh theming. According to concept art, the former theater may be renamed The Glob, though Disney has not yet confirmed what will officially replace the attraction. The land’s main draw will be a brand-new Monsters, Inc. door coaster, transporting guests into the laugh floor world of Sulley, Mike, Boo, and all their monster pals.
For now, guests can only reminisce about Gonzo’s daredevil stunt and the final curtain call of MuppetVision 3D. The beloved show’s farewell performance has already been documented online, giving fans one last chance to say “waka waka” before this corner of Hollywood Studios transforms into a whole new world of monster mayhem.
El Ranchito del Norte Reopens in EPCOT’s Mexico Pavilion
After a five-and-a-half-year closure, the El Ranchito del Norte merchandise kiosk has officially reopened in the Mexico Pavilion at EPCOT.
Closed since the Covid-19 Pandemic, El Ranchito del Norte has reopened with EPCOT’s Food & Wine Festival. Located on the World Showcase Promenade, this kiosk offers a variety of Mexican gifts and souvenirs, including flags, apparel, maracas, and more.
According to the Walt Disney World website, the kiosk’s hours are the same as the World Showcase, typically from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. The reopening, which reportedly occurred on August 28 alongside the return of the 2025 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, did not appear to include any new merchandise.
The kiosk sells many of the same merchandise items found inside the pavilion, including goods from La Cava de Tequila, Mexican artisanal items, and The Three Caballeros merchandise.
Are you excited to see this shopping location open once again?
Updates Are Coming to the Walt Disney Presents Exhibits
A new display is on its way to the Walt Disney Presents attraction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The old Disney Wish preview has been moved behind curtains, leaving fans to guess what new project or sneak peek will be revealed next.
The Disney Wish preview has been on display since November 2021, remaining long past the cruise ship’s maiden voyage in July 2022. This display space has a history of showcasing upcoming projects; in 2017, it housed a preview and scale model of Toy Story Land, and in 2018, it was taken over by an expanded preview of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
Disney & Pixar’s recent film, Elio, still has a display in the area. We don’t know what will be coming to the former Disney Wish display but we hope it’ll be something involved with the new Monsters Inc. Land coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Celebrate the holiday season in style at Disney Jollywood Nights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios! New and returning characters will be in attendance as well for guests to make festive memories with.
New in 2025 Encounter Miguel from Coco—new to this event in 2025! Find him at Holiday Fiesta en la Calle near Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith.
Embrace the ‘Orange Era’: Disney’s Pumpkin Spice Collection is Here for Fall
Autumn has officially arrived at the Disney Parks, and with it, a brand-new, must-have merchandise collection that is sure to satisfy every fall-loving Disney fan. From scented accessories to cozy apparel, the new Pumpkin Spice Collection and other festive finds are the perfect way to “spice up your style” this season.
This bold, harvest-hued collection is the perfect way to embrace the autumn thrills and chills. It features three standout pieces that will make you feel like you’ve just stepped into a magical pumpkin patch:
Pumpkin Spice Scented Loungefly Ear Headband: A fan-favorite accessory gets a seasonal twist! This ear headband features a puffy quilted design in a warm orange tone. To make it even more special, the glittery faux leather bow is pumpkin-scented, adding a delightful aroma to your park day.
Pumpkin Spice Scented Loungefly Mini Backpack: This mini backpack is the ideal companion for the ear headband, with a matching puffy quilted design and a pumpkin-scented bow. It’s the perfect size to carry all your essentials for a frightfully fashionable day at the park.
Pumpkin Spice Spirit Jersey: Stay cozy and comfortable this fall with this corduroy spirit jersey. It features the classic Disney logo spelled out in puff ink across the back shoulders, and flecks of sparkling thread woven throughout, making it a truly toasty trend for the season.
These items are available at DisneyStore.com, Disneyland Resort, and Walt Disney World Resort.
Halloween Home Haven Collection
For those who prefer to celebrate the season at home, the Halloween Home Haven collection offers playful pumpkin spice vibes. This collection, which was part of the “Hallo-week” merchandise drops, includes everything from home decor to loungewear. Key pieces include:
Mickey Mouse Pumpkin Sculpted Mug: The perfect vessel for your morning pumpkin spice latte.
Mickey Mouse Icon Robe: Ideal for a cozy night in, complete with your favorite fall movie like Hocus Pocus or Halloweentown.
Mickey Mouse Icon Waffle Matching Loungewear Set: Cuddle up in style with this comfortable and festive set.
You can find all of these pieces and more at DisneyStore.com.
Amazon Merch on Demand
Amazon is also joining in the fall fun with a dedicated collection of seasonal apparel and accessories. The “Merch on Demand” platform offers a wide variety of styles, including t-shirts, hoodies, and sweatshirts, so you can choose your own autumnal adventure.
Mickey & Friends Pumpkin Spice Latte Apparel: This adorable collection features Mickey and Minnie alongside fall leaves, gourds, and of course, a pumpkin spice latte. You can express your seasonal spirit with items like the “In My Pumpkin Spice Era” Fall Coffee T-Shirt or the “You’re the Pumpkin to My Spice” Fall Sweatshirt.
Pumpkin Spice Accessories: Take your pumpkin spice style on the go with insulated tumblers featuring the same charming designs. You can also find the “Autumn Fun and Fall Vibes” pattern on phone cases and throw pillows, showcasing a full cast of characters including Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Donald, Daisy, Chip, Dale, and Pluto.
Whether you’re visiting the parks or enjoying a fall day at home, these collections offer a perfect blend of Disney magic and seasonal charm. So, grab your gourd-eous gear, sip on something spiced, and get ready to treat yourself to a season full of magic, mischief, and merchandise. It’s time to embrace your orange era!
New ‘Epic Universe Mix’ Slush Debuts at Orlando-area McDonald’s
Theme park fans and slushie lovers in the Orlando area have a new reason to visit McDonald’s. A new drink called the Epic Universe Mix Slush is now available at select locations, offering a themed treat and a chance to win prizes.
Priced at $3.79 for a large, the new slush is a blend of two familiar flavors: Fanta Blue Raspberry and Sprite Lymonade. Unlike a swirled mix, the two flavors are layered in the cup, creating a distinct yellow layer at the bottom with a blue layer on top. While Epic Universe will have exclusive Coca-Cola Freestyle flavors within the park, this McDonald’s beverage is a simple but effective combination of existing drink options. The taste is a solid mix, blending the sweetness of the blue raspberry with the slightly sour, citrusy notes of the Sprite.
The biggest draw for collectors and park enthusiasts may be the exclusive Epic Universe cup. The clear plastic cup features the golden Epic Universe logo and the Universal Orlando Resort name on a blue background. It also includes the park’s tagline, “Five Immersive Worlds, One Amazing New Theme Park.”
On the other side of the cup is a “Scan to Win” QR code for an official Epic Universe Giveaway. The giveaway is branded with the logos of McDonald’s, Epic Universe, and Coca-Cola, making it a legitimate collaboration.
It’s worth noting that the themed cups may be limited. While ordering a large size seemed to guarantee getting the special cup, some who ordered medium sizes received their drinks in standard cups. Availability may vary by location.
While the beverage itself might not be a groundbreaking new creation—a similar “Michigan Mix” exists in other states—the themed cup and official giveaway make this a unique and fun release for those anticipating the new theme park. It’s a solid, refreshing snack and a cool piece of themed merchandise all in one.
Guest Arrested After Failing to Pay Bill at Walt Disney World Swan Resort
A business trip at Walt Disney World’s Swan Resort ended in handcuffs for one guest after he allegedly failed to settle a multi-thousand-dollar hotel bill.
According to court records from Orange County, 26-year-old Justin Isaiah Lara of New York checked into the Swan Resort on June 13, 2025, and stayed until June 23. During that time, his room racked up an outstanding balance of $2,220.59. Hotel managers told deputies that the credit card provided—under the name “Brian Smith”—was flagged as fraudulent, and multiple other attempted card charges were declined.
Security manager Steve English provided a sworn statement to deputies, pressing charges on behalf of the Swan Resort. Deputies with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office reported that Lara could not provide another form of payment, claiming his employer, a company he identified as “CHUCO” based out of New York, was responsible for covering the bill. Lara told deputies he was in town for a convention and believed his boss had already handled the charges.
When deputies attempted to reach the supposed employer by phone, no one answered. With Lara registered as the sole guest for the room and unable to pay, deputies placed him under arrest for grand theft by fraud.
The arrest affidavit also notes that when hotel staff inventoried Lara’s luggage for safekeeping, they reported finding multiple fake IDs, blank checks, and other suspicious items, which were turned over to authorities.
Lara was booked into the Orange County Jail on June 23, 2025, and now faces felony charges. He was subsequently released on a $2,500 bond.
Celebrating 30 Years of Toy Story: The Film That Changed Animation Forever
When Toy Story premiered on November 12, 1995, it did more than just revolutionize animation. The film was a lightning-in-a-bottle moment for its creative team—from its animators to its first production intern—laying the groundwork for Pixar to become the powerhouse studio it is today. At the time, no one knew how much of a game-changer the movie would be.
When Disney offered a $26 million deal to produce three features, Pixar’s small team—initially just three animators—had to decide on their first project. They pitched three ideas: two based on existing children’s books and a “half-baked” idea about a couple of toys. Disney chose the one about the toys.
At the time, Pixar had only created a few commercials and shorts, so the pressure was on to deliver. Despite this, the team’s approach was more experimental than stressful. As Pixar’s Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter recalls, “It felt like a bunch of people making a movie in their garage.” The team was still figuring things out, and the process felt like they were simply doing it for fun.
Taking the Story to Infinity… and Beyond!
According to Docter, the collegiate environment inspired everyone to pitch in and take risks. But one of the biggest stumbling blocks — an infamous Black Friday screening with Disney executives prior to the start of animation — almost got the entire project canceled. The team had two weeks to turn things around, and they worked overtime to make the necessary changes. Once the story issues were resolved, the team turned their attention to the two toys at the center of the film: Woody, a pull-string cowboy sheriff voiced by Tom Hanks, and Buzz Lightyear, a space ranger action figure voiced by Disney Legend Tim Allen.
“Beyond using new technology, one of the things we tried to do was expand the boundaries of storytelling,” Docter recalled. “Because at that point, if a film was animated, it was assumed that it was a musical, that it would have certain tropes. We didn’t want to do that.”
Woody, for example, was written to be loyal, protective, and witty. But filmmakers wanted to make him more multidimensional. “He has a fear of being replaced,” said Rivera, who is now Pixar’s Executive Vice President of Production. “Everyone has felt that way at some point, whether it’s a job or a relationship. And we wrapped it up in this Toy Story package.”
The filmmakers imbued their own personalities and quirks into the characters, which is why they felt real — and why they resonated with audiences of all ages, all around the world. “I’m partial to Woody, simply because I’ve written most of what he has to say in the films,” said Stanton, now Pixar’s Vice President of Creative. “He is very much an extension of me.”
Docter added, “The funny thing with Toy Story, and Woody specifically, is that there just seemed to be a lot of layers, a lot new discoveries to him. Even on the first film, we could sense that he had a history. Woody has some trauma — some baggage that he’s carrying.”
Audiences instantly clicked with Woody and Buzz, as well as Hamm, the know-it-all piggybank voiced by John Ratzenberger; Rex, the fearful Tyrannosaurus voiced by Wallace Shawn; Bo Peep, the porcelain shepherdess figurine voiced by Annie Potts; and all of the other toys. “The idea of toys coming to life always clicked with audiences,” Rivera said. “It was as if they collectively said, ‘Of course! This confirms what I always thought about toys.”’
Just the Beginning
When Toy Story was released in theaters, it was an immediate and sustained sensation, generating nearly $400 million at the global box office. Toy Story became the highest-grossing film of the year and, in the decades that followed, inspired sequels, shorts, specials, and spinoffs. (Toy Story 5 is in production, releasing in theaters on June 19, 2026.) What’s more, the characters and stories became fixtures at Disney Parks around the world.
Because toys are “kind of perennial,” Stanton explained, the franchise is “something you can grow with. People who watched it as kids became parents and now watch it with their kids. We’ve created a world and a group of characters that could easily keep going forever.”
In celebration of Toy Story‘s 30th anniversary, fans have the unique chance to experience the groundbreaking animated adventure on the big screen in its original format — and, for the first time ever, in 4DX — for a limited engagement beginning Friday, September 12.
“I just have to say thank you to the fans for loving this world as much as we do,” said Stanton, who contributed to each film in the franchise and is directing Toy Story 5. “It’s very clear how sincere everybody’s fondness for these characters is, how deep their connections to them are, and we feel the same way. We can’t wait to keep these stories coming for you.”
