Free Dining is Back for Late 2026 at Walt Disney World

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March 12, 2026

Get a FREE Dining Plan with This Delicious Deal

It’s the announcement every Disney foodie waits for! Walt Disney World has officially released one of its most popular promotions: the Free Dining Plan offer. For select arrival dates in the summer, fall, and winter of 2026, you can save hundreds—if not thousands—of dollars on your vacation by getting your meals and snacks included for free.

If you’ve been planning a trip for the second half of the year, now is the time to lock it in. Here is everything you need to know about the 2026 Free Dining offer.

Free Dining is Back for Late 2026 at Walt Disney World

The Dates

To qualify for this offer, your arrival must fall on a select night within one of the following windows:

June 28 to October 3, 2026
October 19 to October 31, 2026
December 6 to December 21, 2026

Note: While your arrival must be during these windows, your package can extend for a longer length of stay!

How the Offer Works

To snag this deal, you must purchase a nondiscounted 4-night, 4-day Walt Disney Travel Company package that includes:

A room at a select Disney Resorts Collection hotel.
A theme park ticket with a Park Hopper option.

The specific dining plan you receive for free depends on where you choose to stay. Generally, higher-tier resorts receive the full Disney Dining Plan, while Value and Moderate resorts receive the Quick-Service option.

Eligible Resorts and Dining Plans

What’s Included in the Plans?

Dining plans are designed to give you peace of mind by pre-paying for your meals.

Disney Dining Plan: Includes one Table-Service meal, one Quick-Service meal, and one snack or nonalcoholic drink per night of your stay. You also get a Resort-refillable drink mug.
Quick-Service Dining Plan: Includes two Quick-Service meals and one snack or nonalcoholic drink per night of your stay, plus a Resort-refillable drink mug.

Important Details and Exclusions

As with any major Disney promotion, there are some “fine print” items to keep in mind:

Excluded Room Types: 3-Bedroom Grand Villas, Campsites at Fort Wilderness, Cabins at Copper Creek, Bungalows/Penthouses at the Polynesian, Little Mermaid Standard Rooms at Art of Animation, and all Suites at Moderate and Deluxe resorts.
Park Hopping Required: You must have the Park Hopper option on your tickets to qualify.
Limited Availability: The number of packages allocated for this offer is limited, and they often sell out quickly for popular resorts like the Boardwalk or Animal Kingdom Lodge.
Advance Reservations: While your meals are free, you still need to make your Table-Service dining reservations in advance (up to 60 days before your trip).

Are you planning to take advantage of Free Dining this year? Let our friends at Get Away Today help you! Just click here and enter your details, and someone will message you with more details!

Disney Legend Josh Gad Takes Over Storybook Land Canal Boats at Disneyland

By

Sara

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March 12, 2026

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Josh Gad Surprises Guests on Storybook Land Canal Boats

Disney Legend Josh Gad has stepped back into a Cast Member uniform, trading the snowy peaks of Arendelle for the charming waters of Disneyland’s Storybook Land Canal Boats. In a magical surprise for fans, the voice of Olaf took the helm as a guest skipper, bringing his signature wit and Disney expertise to the classic Fantasyland attraction.

Josh Gad is finally living out his “dream” of becoming a professional storyteller! The Disney Legend was spotted playfully dodging his own fame, hilariously responding with a confused “Where?!” when a stunned guest asked, “Is that Josh Gad?”

The video captures Gad taking the helm of a Storybook Land canal boat, where he treats a boatload of lucky fans to a one-of-a-kind tour. From cracking jokes about the miniature landscapes to adding his signature flair to the classic attraction’s script, it was a “little boat ride” no one will ever forget.

As the boat drifted past the Frozen village of Arendelle, Gad couldn’t help but lean into the irony. He deadpanned to the guests that he was “completely unfamiliar” with the area before pivoting to protect his snowy costar.

Pointing at the local Disney Ducks, he jokingly pleaded with them not to snack on his friends, noting that the characters in the miniature display have already “been through enough trauma!”

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This isn’t Josh Gad’s first “day on the job”—he’s built quite the Disney resume! Before taking the helm at Storybook Land, the Disney Legend had already checked off a bucket list of iconic roles.

He’s previously lived out his lifelong dream as a Jungle Cruise Skipper, led guests through the savanna as a Kilimanjaro Safaris Guide, signaled the “all aboard” as a Disneyland Railroad Conductor, and even spent some time as a Caretaker at the Haunted Mansion.

Watch the full video below:

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Major Interior Refurbishment Coming to Saratoga Springs Treehouse Villas

By

Chris B

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March 11, 2026

Disney Confirms Treehouse Villas Refurbishment at Saratoga Springs Resort Through 2026

Disney has officially confirmed that the Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa will undergo a refurbishment project running in phases through mid-September 2026. The update follows a series of permits filed in December 2025 tied to the Treehouse Villas addresses, with Land-Ron Inc. listed as the contractor and permits that extend through early 2027, suggesting a sizable renovation effort.

Major Interior Refurbishment Coming to Saratoga Springs Treehouse Villas

Because the Treehouse Villas are made up of individual octagonal standalone buildings nestled throughout a wooded section of the resort, the refurbishment is expected to happen in phases. This means Disney will likely remove small groups of villas from inventory at a time rather than closing the entire Treehouse Villas area all at once. The villas originally opened in their current form in spring 2009 and notably were not part of the large Saratoga Springs room refurbishment completed around 2021, making this their first major refresh in more than a decade.

While Disney has not shared exact details about what will change, a typical Disney resort refurbishment often includes updates to furniture, fixtures, appliances, and décor. In some cases, projects also involve improvements to bathrooms, kitchens, or the overall layout of the rooms. The Treehouse Villas are known for their rustic cabin-style design tucked among the trees along the Sassagoula River, and many fans are hoping the update maintains that cozy woodland atmosphere.

Alongside the villa work, Disney has confirmed several temporary closures and operational changes around Saratoga Springs Resort during the project timeline. The tennis courts will close beginning March 23 for refurbishment and are expected to reopen in June 2026. The basketball court will also close during this same window.

Dining locations at the resort will also see adjustments. The Turf Club Bar and Grill and The Turf Club Lounge will undergo refurbishment beginning in early April and continuing through September 2026. During this period, The Turf Club Lounge will temporarily close from mid-April through early August.

The Turf Club Bar and Grill will remain open for much of the work with a modified menu and a temporary pop-up bar, although the patio will close for several weeks between early and mid-August. Later in the project, The Turf Club Bar and Grill will close from mid-August to mid-September while the lounge remains open.

The phased refurbishment will allow Disney to continue offering Treehouse Villa accommodations throughout the project while gradually refreshing the unique resort section. With their secluded forest setting and spacious multi-bedroom layouts, the Treehouse Villas remain one of the most distinctive lodging options available at Walt Disney World.

Sign Installation Permit Filed for Walt Disney Studios in Animation Courtyard at Hollywood Studios

By

Chris B

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March 11, 2026

New Construction Permits Filed for Signage Installation at Animation Courtyard in Hollywood Studios

Permit Filed for New “Walt Disney Studios” Sign at Animation Courtyard in Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Disney continues moving forward with the transformation of Animation Courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and a newly filed permit suggests the area is getting closer to its big debut. The latest permit references the fabrication and installation of a new “The Walt Disney Studios” marquee sign that will welcome guests into the reimagined space when it reopens later this summer.

New Permit Filed for Set Installation at The Magic of Disney Animation

The permit was filed by technical directors with Disney Live Entertainment and contracts the Jon Richards Company to fabricate and install the sign. This follows earlier permits from Walt Disney Imagineering that covered signage installation and electrical work in the same area. Because the permits were filed by different Disney divisions and involve different contractors, they could reference multiple elements of the new entrance signage, such as the structure itself and the illuminated lettering that will bring the marquee to life at night.

The new sign will sit at the location of the former Disney’s Hollywood Studios archway that once marked the entrance to Animation Courtyard. That archway was removed shortly after the area closed for its ongoing refurbishment, making way for the courtyard’s upcoming transformation into a space inspired by the real Walt Disney Studios lot in Burbank, California.

When Animation Courtyard reopens, it will introduce a refreshed experience centered around animation and classic Disney characters. The returning Magic of Disney Animation attraction will anchor the area, replacing the now-closed Star Wars: Launch Bay. This new version of the attraction takes inspiration from the animated short Once Upon A Studio, which celebrated the 100th anniversary of The Walt Disney Company.

Guests will enter the animation building just after the artists have stepped away, allowing beloved Disney characters to spring to life throughout the studio before watching the short film in a theater.

Disney Files New Construction Permit for Signage at Animation Courtyard

A new Animation Academy experience called Olaf Draws! will also debut inside the attraction, with the snowman from Frozen guiding guests through fun drawing lessons. The area will also feature six character meet and greet locations, giving guests plenty of opportunities to interact with Disney favorites.

The surrounding courtyard will see several new additions as well. A Mary Blair-inspired Alice in Wonderland playground will provide a whimsical play space for younger guests, while a brand-new Mickey Mouse Clubhouse stage show will bring interactive entertainment to the area. Outside, the redesigned courtyard will include expanded green space, character appearances, and a large sorcerer hat as a nod to the park’s animation roots.

Animation Courtyard is expected to reopen later this summer as part of the ongoing evolution of Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Easter Dining Options at Universal Orlando Resort Hotels

By

Chris B

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March 11, 2026

Easter Dining Options at Universal Orlando Resort Hotels

Hop Over to Universal Orlando Hotels for These Delicious Easter Brunches

Easter is hopping into Universal Orlando Resort soon, and if you are searching for the perfect place to celebrate with family, Loews Hotels across the resort are serving up a basket full of brunch options. From elegant buffets with seafood towers and carved ribeye to laid-back breakfast favorites and Caribbean-inspired dinners, there is something for every appetite this Easter Sunday. Whether you are a local looking for a festive brunch or visiting the parks for spring break, these dining spots offer a flavorful way to celebrate the holiday.

universal helios grand hotel a loews hotel exterior

One of the most exciting Easter brunch locations this year will be Flora Taverna at the new Universal Grand Helios Hotel, where guests can enjoy a brunch buffet in a bright, airy dining room with views overlooking Epic Universe. The spread includes made-to-order omelets, a charcuterie selection, chilled seafood, slow-roasted ribeye, and a tempting lineup of signature desserts. Brunch runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and costs $85 for adults and $40 for children ages 3 to 9, plus tax and gratuity. Parking is validated with a $50 minimum purchase for up to four hours.

HRH The Kitchen Breakfast Buffet Lifestyle

Music lovers may want to rock their Easter morning at The Kitchen inside Hard Rock Hotel. Designed to feel like a spacious kitchen inside a rockstar’s mansion, the restaurant will serve a gourmet Easter buffet featuring chilled snow crab legs, honey baked ham, Maine lobster rolls, smoked salmon displays, and more. The buffet runs from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and costs $85 for adults and $40 for children ages 3 to 9. Parking validation is available with a $40 minimum purchase.

If you are looking for a later Easter celebration, Amatista Cookhouse at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort will offer a Caribbean-inspired prix fixe menu for lunch and dinner from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. Guests can begin with a choice of salad, followed by entrées like red wine-pomegranate glazed lamb chops or oven-roasted chicken breast with chimichurri salsa. Dessert options include Caribbean rum cake or carrot cake tres leches. The three-course experience is priced at $55 per person, with parking validated with a $40 minimum purchase.

At Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Islands Dining Room will host an Easter buffet with Pan-Asian flair alongside American classics. Guests can enjoy sushi rolls, ginger-spiced chicken, pan-seared fish, oysters, omelet and waffle stations, charcuterie selections, and plenty of seasonal desserts. The buffet runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and costs $85 for adults and $40 for children ages 3 to 9, plus tax and gratuity. Parking is validated with a $40 minimum purchase.

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando

Finally, Trattoria del Porto at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel will extend the hours of its popular breakfast buffet for Easter Sunday. Guests can start the day with classic favorites like scrambled eggs, breakfast potatoes, French toast, pork sausage, smoked salmon, pastries, and more. The buffet runs from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. and is priced at $36 for adults and $18 for children ages 3 to 9. Parking is validated with a $40 minimum purchase.

With so many festive dining options across the Universal Orlando Resort hotels, Easter brunch might just become your new holiday tradition. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially as spring break crowds fill the parks and hotels.

New Video Reveals Details for Shrek, Trolls, and Puss in Boots at Universal Kids Resort

By

Chris B

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March 11, 2026

New Concept Art Revealed for Shrek, Puss in Boots, and Trolls Lands at Universal Kids Resort

Universal just peeled back the curtain on even more colorful fun coming to the upcoming Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, Texas, and this latest reveal is packed with ogres, glitter, and dancing Trolls. The third episode of Universal’s behind-the-scenes mini-series dives into three DreamWorks-inspired lands that will anchor the park’s lineup: DreamWorks’ TrollsFest, Puss in Boots Del Mar, and Shrek’s Swamp. Each area is designed with younger guests in mind, but the concept art shows plenty of playful details that families of all ages will enjoy when the park opens in 2026.

Over in DreamWorks’ TrollsFest, the party never stops. Guests will be able to dance along at the King Trollex Techno Dance Party, an indoor interactive experience that brings the colorful Trolls world to life with music and movement. A Trolls amphitheater stage show will let guests join Poppy and friends as they learn dance moves and help lead sound check for the performance.

Attractions include Rhonda’s TrollsFest Express, where guests hop aboard an armadillo bus ride through the festival grounds, and Hair in the Clouds, which lifts riders into the sky on whimsical balloon-style vehicles decorated with cheerful Troll faces. Guests who want the full Troll transformation can visit Sparkle Shine Glitter Glow for the Troll-ify Me! makeover experience, featuring vibrant hairstyles, sparkly accessories, and themed apparel.

Nearby, DreamWorks’ Puss in Boots Del Mar brings the swashbuckling feline’s world to life with colorful seaside flair. Families can catch Mama Luna’s Adopt a Kitty Day!, a playful puppet show featuring Puss and his friends. The main attraction in the area will be Swings Over Del Mar, which lifts riders high into the air for breezy views of the festive town.

Dining will be available at Comidas y Leche, while Mercado de Perrito will offer themed merchandise and apparel. Guests with a sweet tooth can stop by Tienda de Dulces for candy and treats. Characters including Puss in Boots, Mama Luna, and Perrito will also appear for meet and greets throughout the land.

DreamWorks’ Shrek’s Swamp invites guests straight into the ogre’s muddy backyard for some family-friendly chaos. The main attraction will be Shrek & Fiona’s Happily Ogre After, a ride built by Shrek himself that retells the story of how he and Fiona met and their life together with their triplets.

The area will also feature two interactive play zones: Shrek’s Swamp Rompin’ Stomp and Shrek’s Swamp Splash & Smash. One area will function as a splash zone perfect for cooling off, while the other takes place inside a whimsical “Swamp Castle” play structure. Guests will also be able to meet Shrek and Fiona during character encounters.

Beyond the rides and shows, Universal also teased several sensory gardens throughout the resort designed to give children and families a peaceful place to relax and recharge during their visit. These calming spaces will feature shaded seating areas and themed fountains, offering a quiet break from the excitement of the park.

This reveal is part of Universal’s ongoing mini-series introducing the lands of Universal Kids Resort. Earlier episodes showcased the Isle of Curiosity entrance area featuring Gabby’s Dollhouse, the park’s 300-room hotel, and additional lands like Jurassic World Adventure Camp and Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob SquarePants Bikini Bottom. A future episode will highlight Illumination’s Minions vs. Minions: Bello Bay Club.

Fuel the Magic: Disney and Formula 1 Shift into High Gear with New 2026 Collection Drops

By

Ana Leal

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March 11, 2026

Fuel the Magic: Disney and Formula 1 Shift into High Gear with New 2026 Collection Drops

And we’re off to the races!!! Disney and Formula 1 are officially shifting into high gear, expanding their “Fuel the Magic” collab for the 2026 season with some seriously sleek new drops. If you thought the Las Vegas teaser last year was cool, wait until you see what’s hitting the grid this time. We’re talking next-level streetwear, trackside character moments, and a global merchandise rollout that’ll have every fan, from the Paddock Club to the grandstands, reaching for their wallets.

The Core Collection: Streetwear Meets the Grid

The global Disney x Formula 1 collection, led by Global Creative Director Bobby Kim, this isn’t just your standard character on a shirt vibe. The Disney Creative Team has cooked up 10 elevated, street-driven silhouettes that blend F1’s technical precision with the nostalgia of Mickey & Friends. Think graphic race tees, tailored outerwear, and patchwork sweatshirts that look as good in the city as they do at the circuit. Plus, those structured 5-panel caps? Pure podium energy. You can snag these on F1.com, at select trackside locations, and at the Formula 1 Grand Prix Plaza.

Host City Capsules & Character Style

Starting with the Formula 1 Chinese Grand Prix, the collection is getting even more exclusive with host city inspired capsules. These limited-edition drops are designed to capture the unique vibe of each race location, meaning you’ll find gear you literally can’t get anywhere else. These will debut on-site at the Paddock Club (keep an eye out for the exclusive Mickey Mouse plush!), the Fan Zone, and the F1 Hub Store.

And speaking of Mickey, he and Minnie are debuting brand-new, F1-inspired outfits as the ultimate race-day superfans. Catch them trackside bringing that signature Disney magic to the high-octane world of motorsport.

MINISO & Culture Kings: Collectibles and Trendsetting

If you’re looking for something to deck out your desk or your closet, the MINISO and Culture Kings collabs are where it’s at. MINISO is dropping a massive 30+ piece lifestyle capsule that includes everything from stylized blind-box vinyl figures and racing-suited plush to patterned socks and tech accessories. It’s all about those bold red-and-black palettes and checkered details.

Meanwhile, streetwear powerhouse Culture Kings has already kicked things off in Australia with a drop of hoodies and tees. If you’re not in Melbourne or Chadstone, don’t worry, the global online rollout is coming in the next few weeks, with more designs sliding into the calendar all year long.

Credit: Disney

Nap Like a Royal: The Dreamiest Disney Princess Sleep Pants Just Dropped at BoxLunch!

By

Ana Leal

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March 11, 2026

Nap Like a Royal: The Dreamiest Disney Princess Sleep Pants Just Dropped at BoxLunch!

If you’ve ever wanted to feel like royalty while aggressively lounging on your couch, BoxLunch just dropped the ultimate collection for your happily ever after aka nap time. Their new line of Disney Princess Sleep Pants is here to turn your bedtime routine into a full-on royal event. Retailing for $29.90 each, these aren’t your average flimsy pajama bottoms, they’ve got that premium feel with piped hems, a comfy elastic drawstring waist, and, the holy grail of loungewear, pockets!

Whether you’re a dreamer or a bookworm, there’s a pair tailored to your specific vibe. The collection leans into a chic, vertical stripe aesthetic that keeps things looking organized even if your sleep schedule isn’t.

Aurora: These feature the Briar Rose herself paired with delicate crowns. Perfect for someone who takes their “Sleeping Beauty” title literally.
Belle: Decorated with enchanted roses and Belle’s iconic silhouette, these are the obvious choice for reading your way through a rainy afternoon.
Rapunzel: Brighten up your tower with these pants featuring the Corona sun crest and Rapunzel. No frying pan required.
Ariel: If you’re a mermaid on land who prefers shells to shoes, these under-the-sea stripes are calling your name.

We all know the Disney Princess lineup has some strict rules, but BoxLunch knows who really runs the show. Enter the Marie Striped Sleep Pants. She might be a kitten, but she’s a princess in our hearts and she’s certainly got the attitude to match. These pants feature the sassy Aristocats star alongside her signature pink bows, giving you all the Parisian flair you need for a cozy night in.

Aside from the $29.90 price point, which is honestly a steal for officially licensed gear with this much detail, the exclusivity is the real draw. You’ll only find these at BoxLunch Gifts, so they make a killer gift for the Disney adult in your life or a well-deserved treat for yourself. The drawstring ensures they actually stay put, and the piped hems give them a tailored look that says, “I have my life together,” even if you’re just three episodes deep into a binge-watch.

Credit: BoxLunch Gifts

New Rare Oliver and Company and Fox and the Hound Backpacks at BoxLunch!

By

Ana Leal

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March 11, 2026

New Rare Oliver and Company and Fox and the Hound Backpacks at BoxLunch!

If you’re anything like me, you know the struggle of hunting for merch from the underrated classics. While some movies get all the love, our favorites like Oliver & Company and The Fox and the Hound usually stay tucked away in the vault. Well, it’s officially time to clear some shelf space because BoxLunch just dropped two exclusive drawstring mini backpacks that are absolute game-changers for fans of Disney’s most iconic animal duos. At $79.90 each, these are the perfect way to show some love to the movies that deserve way more spotlight!

First up is the Oliver & Company Floral Drawstring Mini Backpack, and it is honestly super cool. The front flap features the legendary Dodger and the adorable Oliver hanging out among some gorgeous embroidered flowers. The detail on this one is so stinking cute, there are even little paw prints embroidered right onto the body of the bag! It’s got a drawstring top and a sturdy twist-lock closure to keep all your street savvy essentials safe while you’re exploring the city or just the mall.

If you’re looking for something that hits right in the feels, The Fox and the Hound Floral Mini Backpack is a total heart-melter. This bag captures Todd and Copper in a beautiful scene surrounded by intricate embroidery and debossed details that give it such a premium, textured look. Just like its NYC counterpart, this one features that classic drawstring and twist-lock combo, making it as functional as it is nostalgic.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just love a good floral aesthetic, these backpacks are a rare chance to celebrate these two films in style. Don’t wait on these, once they’re gone, who knows when we’ll see these best friends again!

Credit: Boxlunch Gifts

Miley Cyrus Shares Sneak Peek at Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special

By

Catherine

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March 11, 2026

Sweet Niblets! Miley Cyrus Steps Back Into the Blonde Wig for Hannah Montana’s 20th Anniversary

Get your sequins ready, because the “Best of Both Worlds” is officially coming back. After months of anticipation, Miley Cyrus has shared a full teaser trailer for the upcoming Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special, giving fans their first look at the pop star back in her iconic costume for the first time in 15 years.

The special arrives exactly two decades after the series first debuted on Disney Channel in 2006, making this a massive milestone for the generation that grew up with Miley Stewart.

A Walk Down Memory Lane

The teaser trailer is a pure nostalgia trip. In the footage, Cyrus is seen stepping back into a perfect recreation of the Stewart family living room. The emotional highlight for many fans is a playful hip-bump between Miley and her real-life father, Billy Ray Cyrus, reprising their famous father-daughter dynamic on the iconic green couch.

The special isn’t just a sit-down interview; it’s an immersive experience that brings the show’s most famous sets back to life:

The Stewart Living Room: Where all the family drama and “Sweet Niblets” moments happened.
The Legendary Closet: Recreated in all its Y2K glory, where the transition from “normal girl” to “pop star” always took place.
Archival Footage: Viewers will be treated to never-before-seen clips from the Disney vault, offering a look at the cast behind the scenes during the show’s 2006–2011 run.

Filmed in front of a live studio audience, the special is hosted by Alex Cooper. The teaser hints at an in-depth interview where Cyrus revisits the moments, music, and memories that defined an era. Cyrus explores the legacy of the character, the music that topped the charts, and what it feels like to put that blonde wig back on after all this time. Fans can also expect some “familiar notes” to find their way back into the spotlight, suggesting we might get some live musical performances of the show’s biggest hits.

Miley Cyrus Shares Sneak Peek at Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special

Premiere Details

The wait is almost over for fans ready to celebrate this “Hannah-versary.” The Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special is set to premiere exclusively on Disney+ on March 24, 2026.

Whether you were team Jake or team Jesse, this special is shaping up to be the ultimate love letter to the fans who have stood by Miley for twenty years.

Going back to where it all began. 🖤 The Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special premieres March 24 on @DisneyPlus. #MileysMemories pic.twitter.com/nC0dK9xqcE
— Miley Cyrus (@MileyCyrus) February 17, 2026

Painting Complete on Tomorrowland Rocks in the Magic Kingdom

By

Catherine

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March 11, 2026

Tomorrowland Rocks Futuristic Glow-Up Complete After Three-Years

If you’ve walked into Tomorrowland recently, you might have noticed something looks a little… brighter. After nearly three years of a “start-and-stop” renovation process, the iconic futuristic rocks at the entrance of Magic Kingdom’s Tomorrowland have finally been fully repainted.

This project has been a long time coming for fans who noticed the land’s entrance looking a bit mismatched since 2023.

A Project Three Years in the Making

The saga of the Tomorrowland rocks began back in 2023. While the rocks were originally a reddish-brown shade, they were updated in 2016 to a more modern, metallic blue-gray. When Disney decided to refresh them again a few years ago, the project hit a major snag.

The 2023 Stall: Crews successfully repainted the entryway rocks framing the bridge, giving them a sleek finish. However, work abruptly stopped, leaving the remaining rocks throughout the land in a faded, dull gray state for nearly two and a half years.
The 2026 Restart: In early February 2026, painters finally returned to the site. After a month of consistent work, the entire collection of rockwork is now unified in a vibrant, shiny blue hue.

Why Now? The Castle Connection

You might wonder why it took so long to finish a painting project. The answer lies in the Magic Kingdom moat.

To accommodate the massive repainting of Cinderella Castle (which is currently shedding its 50th-anniversary pink for a more classic gray and blue look), Disney drained the moat in early 2026. This rare operational move provided construction crews and painters with dry ground and easier access to the lower sections of the Tomorrowland rocks that are typically partially submerged.

By coordinating the two projects, Disney was finally able to reach those tricky spots and complete the futuristic aesthetic they started years ago.

A New Era for Tomorrowland

This refresh is part of a larger “glow-up” for Tomorrowland in 2026. Alongside the new paint, guests are seeing:

Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin Refresh: Including a new marquee and major technical upgrades like handheld blasters.
Pavement Updates: Fresh concrete work near the attraction entrances.
Cohesive Theming: A return to a cleaner, more metallic “Space Age” look that aligns with the nearby TRON Lightcycle / Run.

The “future” is finally looking a bit more polished at Magic Kingdom!

Arbitrator Rules Against Patina Group at EPCOT’s Italy Pavilion Over Button Dispute

By

Sara

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March 10, 2026

Patina Group Loses Arbitration Over Union Button Dispute at Italy Pavilion

Marking a notable win for labor advocates, Patina Group workers are once again permitted to wear union buttons during their shifts. This decision serves as a key milestone in the ongoing effort to secure stronger protections and rights for third-party restaurant staff across Disney property.

This ruling is the latest development in a high-stakes campaign led by UNITE HERE Local 737, representing workers across Walt Disney World and the Patina Restaurant Group. Following a massive rally in December, workers at the Italy Pavilion’s unionized locations—Tutto Italia, Tutto Gusto, and Via Napoli—have been pushing for a transformative new contract. Their demands include $8 raises over three years, free family health insurance, and a 20% automatic gratuity.

The specific “button dispute” began in late February when staff began wearing union insignia to show solidarity. Management’s immediate order for staff to remove the buttons or be sent home was challenged and ultimately overturned. A neutral arbitrator found that the ban violated both the existing union contract and the National Labor Relations Act. With their right to display union membership restored, employees now look toward their next round of critical negotiations scheduled for March 25, 2026.

Upon hearing of the arbitrator’s decision, Tutto Italia server and union leader Giandomenico Cardellini said, “Wearing our union button is our fundamental right as workers. Patina Group workers in the Italy Pavilion stick together, so I will proudly put my union button back on!”

Negotiations for a new union contract remain ongoing for Patina Group employees at the Italy Pavilion. Following the recent arbitration win, the bargaining committee is scheduled to return to the table on March 25, 2026, to continue pressing for their key demands.