Ashley Tisdale Celebrates Daughter’s First Birthday at Disneyland
Actress Ashley Tisdale and her family recently celebrated a special milestone at Disneyland Resort for her daughter Emerson’s first birthday.
On Wednesday, September 3, 2025, Tisdale, along with her husband Christopher and their four-year-old daughter Jupiter, dined at Mickey’s Autumn Adventures Breakfast Buffet, a seasonal offering at Storytellers Cafe in Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa.
During the celebration, the family enjoyed a special moment posing with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, who were both dressed in their best fall attire. The birthday visit took place during Halloween Time at Disneyland, an annual event that runs through October 31, 2025.
Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort is in full swing, running now through Oct. 31, 2025. The fall season brings festive decor, special entertainment, attraction overlays, themed food and beverages, and merchandise. Plus, select entertainment and elements of the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration also continue during the season, making a visit this fall a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Frequent visitors to Disneyland Resort have likely passed through a K-9 security checkpoint. While their adorable appearance might be the first thing you notice, these furry cast members are part of a tireless team dedicated to keeping the resort safe. Lovingly dubbed the Pluto unit, this K-9 team is comprised of various roles, each vital to its overall success.
Kennel Technicians
This dedicated team of detail-oriented cast is integral to fostering the relationship between K9 handlers and their dogs. They do this by ensuring the dogs are taken care of while they are off-duty and preparing them for every shift.
Doing daily health checks on the dogs, feeding them, and keeping their environment clean and calm are amongst the kennel technicians’ responsibilities. The kennel technicians get to know every dog’s unique personality from spending a lot of time with them at the kennel. This is an important part of the role, as it helps the technicians identify if a dog needs adjustments to their regular routine.
Meet Nicholas Hernandez, a kennel technician of four years now. Nicholas started his journey with the company as a security guest screener, and right away he knew he wanted to expand his knowledge of security at the resort.
Through guidance from leadership, Nicholas learned that the best way to become a K9 handler was to gain experience working with security dogs as a kennel technician. Since transferring in 2021, Nicholas has learned so much about working with security dogs as a kennel technician.
“Being a kennel tech is so rewarding because you get to work alongside our amazing K9 handlers, as well as a human’s best friend – what more can you ask for?” said Nicholas.
K9 Handlers
K9 handlers have the closest relationship with the security dogs at the resort. Each K9 handler is assigned a security dog to work with, making the pair a certified team. In most cases, K9 handlers remain with the same dog until the dog, or handler’s, retirement.
K9 handlers are responsible for working the security checkpoints with their dogs and consistently practicing with their dogs so their skills remain sharp.
Meet Joey Santos, a K9 handler who works as a team with security dog Thor. Joey started his journey as a security host cast member. He first learned of the K9 unit in a training course at the resort, where they were introduced to various roles across the security department.
Joey was first accepted to join the kennel technician team as part of the opening team in 2019! Through guidance from the K9 handlers he supported and through opportunities he was given to practice working with the security dogs, he was able to achieve his dream of becoming a K9 handler in 2020. After six months of rigorous training, Joey was assigned his first canine partner, Thor.
Joey continues to be grateful to be in his dream role, and says, “I would like to thank all the handlers that guided me into this exciting role. What I learned from this experience is that if you give it your all…in the end it will pay off.”
Security Dogs
Now, onto the furriest members of the unit! Disneyland Resort is currently home to 28 trained security dogs of various breeds. Before beginning their roles here, they are trained at an offsite facility and must pass multiple tests to achieve certification. They meet their assigned K9 handler while still at the facility, so their transition to the resort is comfortable and their bond is already established.
Once at the resort, these accomplished canines are inducted as official Disneyland Resort cast members! They receive their own ID card and nametag and even get their own personalized retirement parties.
Part of what makes security dogs great at their job is their energy, endless curiosity and excitement to perform their assigned tasks. Working becomes a game for the K9s – a game that they take seriously and work to perform to the best of their ability. These dedicated dogs are truly safety stars at our resort!
The K9 unit provides cast members with a unique career journey where they can learn and grow through their various roles. Next time you pass through a security checkpoint at Disneyland Resort, take a moment to appreciate the amazing team behind those lovable K9s and the passion they bring to keeping cast members and guests safe every day.
The Sound of Music Gets 4K Restoration, Coming September 23
One of the most beloved movie musicals of all time is celebrating its 60th anniversary with a dazzling new 4K Ultra HD release. Arriving on September 23, Rodgers & Hammerstein’s The Sound of Music delivers a breathtaking home entertainment experience with a brand-new restoration, remastered sound, and hours of bonus features. This is the ultimate edition for fans, whether you’ve sung along a hundred times or are discovering Maria and the von Trapps for the first time.
The 4K transfer was lovingly restored by Disney’s award-winning film restoration team. It showcases every mountain peak, every twirl, and every soaring note with stunning clarity and richness. It’s The Sound of Music as you remember it—more vivid, more moving, and more magical than ever before.
The celebration doesn’t stop there. This fall, the anniversary will be marked around the globe with special theatrical screenings, live concert events, and fan experiences, inviting audiences everywhere to join in the joy of The Sound of Music.
60th Anniversary Celebration Highlights:
North American Stage Tour (Beginning Sept. 5, 2025): Directed by three-time Tony Award® winner Jack O’Brien (Hairspray), this critically acclaimed production of The Sound of Music will tour more than 80 cities. With fresh staging and a cast of rising stars, this production breathes new life into the enduring tale of Maria and the von Trapp family. Learn more: www.soundofmusicontour.com
Back on the Big Screen in 4K (Sept. 12-17 – U.S. & Beginning Sept. 20 – Internationally): The restored film returns to cinemas worldwide in stunning 4K, thanks to Fathom Entertainment & Trafalgar Releasing. Showings will take place in more than 1,000 cinemas across more than 30 countries. The film also returns to Canada in 4K Sept. 13-14 and 17. For tickets, go to: soundofmusicfilm.com
Hollywood Bowl Sing-A-Long – Los Angeles, CA (Sept. 20): Join 18,000 fans under the stars for the beloved Rodgers & Hammerstein’s The Sound of Music Sing-A-Long at the Hollywood Bowl amphitheater, hosted by Melissa Peterman. Costumes welcomed, lyrics provided.
4K Ultra HD Digital & Blu-ray (Sept. 23): For the first time ever, The Sound of Music is available worldwide in 4K Ultra HD Digital & Blu-ray disc. Featuring remastered sound, restored visuals and bonus content.
Get into the Holiday Spirit with the Mickey and Minnie 4ft Animated Holiday Figures!
Looking to add some serious festive cheer to your holiday setup? Well, hold onto your Santa hats because Mickey and Minnie are back and ready to light up your home! The Home Depot has brought back these incredible Mickey and Minnie 4ft Animated Holiday Figures, and they are an absolute must-have for any Disney fan. At just $199 each, you can bring a little bit of magic to your front yard, entryway, or even your living room.
Let’s talk about Minnie first. She’s dressed to impress in a gorgeous velvet Christmas outfit that is just perfect for the season. But she’s not just a pretty face! With a built-in motion sensor, she comes to life, moving her head and waist as she sings “Jingle Bells” and says four different holiday phrases. It’s like having your very own holiday concert right at home! Her realistic head movements make her feel so lifelike, and she’s the perfect partner for Mickey to create a truly magical scene.
And speaking of Mickey, he’s back and better than ever! He’s rocking his classic shoes and shorts, but he’s all decked out for the holidays with a festive scarf and hat. Just like Minnie, Mickey has a motion sensor that brings him to life. He moves his head, waist, and even his right hand as he sings “Deck the Halls” and says four fun phrases. He’s an icon for a reason, and this animated figure is guaranteed to bring a smile to everyone’s face.
So, whether you’re a lifelong Disney fan or just looking to make your holiday decorations extra special, these 4-foot animated figures of Mickey and Minnie are the perfect addition. They’re fun, festive, and guaranteed to fill your home with joy. They’re available at Home Depot for $199 each, but you’ll want to grab them before they disappear faster than a candy cane in a snowstorm!
Sweeten Your Holiday Decor with The Mickey Mouse Peppermint Candy LED Figures
Hold on to your Santa hats, Disney fans and holiday decorators! We’ve got the scoop on some of the cutest, most festive figures to hit the shelves this season. Get ready to sprinkle some serious Christmas magic into your home with the new Mickey Mouse Peppermint Candy LED Figures, exclusively available at Target. These aren’t just any decorations; they’re a perfect blend of nostalgic blow mold charm, modern LED sparkle, and that timeless Disney magic we all love.
First up, let’s talk about the details. These adorable figures reimagine our favorite mouse, Mickey, as a giant, swirling peppermint candy. How cute is that? Standing tall and proud, Mickey’s classic silhouette is transformed with a vibrant, candy-striped design that just screams “holiday cheer.” And the best part? They light up! Thanks to energy-efficient LED lights inside, these figures cast a warm, festive glow that will make any room feel instantly cozier and more magical. They’re made of durable plastic, so you know they’re built to last through many Christmases to come.
Now, for the fun part, you get to choose! These peppermint cuties come in two different sizes and colors, so you can pick the perfect one (or both!) for your space. There’s the medium-sized Mickey, standing at a delightful 12 inches tall, dressed in a whimsical light blue and white peppermint pattern for $50. Or, if you want to make a bigger statement, go for the large Mickey, a grand 17 inches tall, sporting a classic red and white candy cane look for $65.
Whether you’re decking out a mantle, a bookshelf, or creating a show-stopping display in your entryway, these Mickey Peppermint Candy LED Figures are guaranteed to be the sweetest addition to your holiday decor this year. Head over to Target to grab yours before they’re gone!
Step Into Halloween Town: Gap’s Nightmare Before Christmas Collection is Here!
Hold onto your pumpkins, people, because Halloween Town just opened a portal straight into your wardrobe! Gap has dropped a jaw-dropping, limited-edition collection inspired by Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas, and it’s everything we’ve ever wanted.
This 24-piece lineup is a love letter to the weirdos and the wonderfully strange among us, blending Gap’s classic comfy fits with the iconic spooky-chic style of Jack, Sally, and all our favorite ghouls. From skull-covered tees to cozy fleece hoodies, this is the perfect gear for your next pumpkin patch adventure or for plotting a scheme to take over Christmas, we don’t judge!
Ready to get spooky year-round? You totally can. Layer the Modern Shrunken T-Shirt or the “Nightmare” Mini Rib Tank Top under the super-soft CashSoft Skull Cardigan for a look that would absolutely get Dr. Finkelstein’s stamp of approval. Go for that perfect ’90s grunge feel with the ’90s Loose Jeans, or get a little more polished with the Mid Rise UltraSoft Barrel Jeans. And of course, no outfit is complete without the Stripe Denim Jacket, a perfect homage to Jack Skellington’s legendary pinstripes. You’ll be ready for a moonlight stroll on Spiral Hill in no time.
The Cutest Terrors in Town
The tiny terrors aren’t left out of the fun! Gap has the next generation of Halloween Town citizens covered with some seriously cool styles. Pair the light purple Kids Shrunken Graphic T-Shirt with the dark blue Kids Mid Rise Baggy Jeans for a look that’s ready for any haunted playground. The Kids Skull T-Shirt is a must-have for everyday mischief, while the VintageSoft Crop Hoodie is the ultimate cozy layer for those chilly autumn days. The adorable Sailor Top is a direct nod to Sally’s stitched-up charm, and the Kids Skull Baseball Hat is the perfect finishing touch, giving off major Lock, Shock, and Barrel vibes.
Comfy and Spooky: Perfect for a Movie Marathon
Get ready for the coziest movie night ever! Whether you’re hosting a viewing party of The Nightmare Before Christmas or just chilling with some cocoa and candy corn, this collection is built for peak comfort. The Heavyweight Skull Hoodie and Heavyweight Zip Hoodie are oversized and ridiculously soft, and they’re a perfect match for the Heavyweight Skull Baggy Joggers. And you’ll want to dance along with Oogie Boogie in the Skull Flannel PJ Pants. Plus, the Organic Cotton Stripe Skull Boxers and the Baby & Toddler Organic Cotton PJ Set are so comfortable, you just might dream you’ve landed in Christmas Town yourself.
Permit Filed at Disney Springs Sparks Speculation of Drone Show Return
A new permit has fans buzzing at Disney Springs, and not just from the hum of shopping crowds. This week, Disney filed a Notice of Commencement to install 870 feet of fencing and five gates behind Cirque du Soleil, a setup that looks strikingly familiar.
Why familiar? Because it is nearly identical to a 2024 permit that later became the launch site for Disney Dreams That Soar, the wildly popular nighttime drone spectacular. That show ran from May to September 2024, dazzling guests with 800 drones forming Disney characters over Lake Buena Vista.
The possibility of a drone comeback is exciting, but not without complications. Last year’s run brought heavy crowds to Disney Springs, gridlocked parking lots, and a big demand for Cast Members to handle crowd control. While guests adored the unique show, some wondered whether the operational headaches meant it would never return. Could this new permit mean Disney is preparing for a holiday-season encore?
There is also another possibility. The fenced staging area could be tied to Level99, the massive interactive entertainment venue taking over the former NBA Experience building. Announced earlier this year, Level99 will feature 60+ challenge rooms, competitive arena duels, and a two-story bar with Detroit-style pizza on the menu. With construction ongoing, the fenced area might serve as prep space for that project instead.
For now, Disney has not said a word, leaving fans speculating if it is “Dronemas” on the horizon or simply construction logistics. Either way, something big is brewing behind the Cirque tent, and we will be keeping our eyes on the skies.
More Reservations Open for Disney’s New Beak and Barrel Tavern at Magic Kingdom
Good news, Disney guests: snagging a seat at the Beak and Barrel Tavern just got a little easier! After opening on August 29 and instantly becoming one of Walt Disney World’s toughest reservations, the new Pirates of the Caribbean–themed lounge has released a wave of new availability, especially for smaller groups.
According to the latest booking calendar, most September and October 2025 dates now show openings for parties of two. That’s a big shift from opening week, when reservations disappeared faster than you could say “Yo Ho” and were booked solid through mid-October.
Larger parties, however, may still find themselves walking the plank. Tables for four remain scarce, with only limited availability appearing in the system. For groups determined to experience the tavern together, the best bet may be splitting into multiple smaller reservations or keeping a weather eye out for cancellations.
The Beak and Barrel has quickly become a fan favorite. Nestled in Adventureland, this 45-minute immersive lounge experience combines themed cocktails, small plates, pirate storytelling, and rollicking sea shanty sing-alongs. It’s been described by fans as a cross between Trader Sam’s, Pirates of the Caribbean, and a dash of the old Adventurers Club — making it one of Disney’s most inventive new offerings in years.
Reservations required: Available through the My Disney Experience app or website
Experience length: Limited to 45 minutes per party
Age restrictions: Guests must be 21+ with valid ID to order alcoholic beverages
Drink policy: Two-drink maximum per person
For now, Disney has not indicated whether more seating or extended hours might be added. But this new drop in availability offers a golden opportunity for duos hoping to enjoy a night of rum, revelry, and pirate lore inside Magic Kingdom.
Disney World Responders Handle Dozens of Heat Emergencies During Brutal July Heat Wave
Florida’s summer heat hit like a fire-breathing dragon this July, and Walt Disney World area first responders were kept busier than ever. New records from the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District show that during an 11-day stretch of last month’s heat wave, emergency teams rushed to 86 heat illness calls across the Walt Disney World Resort, with about one in four ending in a hospital trip, according to reporting by Florida Politics.
The heat spared no age group. The youngest patient was a baby boy who spiked a fever while on Epcot’s Ratatouille ride. Thankfully, he was treated and released on-site. At the other end of the spectrum, an 81-year-old woman collapsed from heat exhaustion at the Disney Springs food trucks and was hospitalized. In between, children, teens, and adults of all ages felt the toll of Central Florida’s record-breaking summer.
July 29 proved to be the most dangerous day of all. That’s when Orange County recorded a blistering heat index of 113 degrees, prompting an extreme heat warning — only the fifth time in history that the county has experienced heat that severe. “Heat is a silent killer,” warned Will Ulrich of the National Weather Service. “You can feel it, but you can’t see it.”
The reports paint a sobering picture. Guests fainted in Epcot’s France pavilion, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, and Disney Springs. At Animal Kingdom, a 14-year-old got sick in Asia and needed hospital care. Over in Magic Kingdom, a 44-year-old woman flagged down help when her Apple Watch showed her heart rate had spiked to 160 beats per minute.
Disney has long recognized the risks of summer heat. The resort offers free ice water at quick-service restaurants, keeps umbrellas, misters, and fans running throughout the parks, and stations water refill areas and first aid centers within easy reach. Cast members get scheduled hydration breaks and wear more breathable costumes designed for Florida summers. Despite these efforts, this July’s intense heat still pushed the parks — and their guests — to the limit.
And Disney wasn’t alone. Orange County Fire Rescue logged multiple heat-related calls at SeaWorld, and even Universal’s under-construction Epic Universe had at least one emergency. SunRail slowed its trains to prevent warped tracks, while cooling centers opened across the county.
Medical experts warn the danger doesn’t always end after a hospital visit. Dr. Ariel Mejia of UCF noted that heat exhaustion is common but manageable if caught early, while heatstroke can cause lasting organ damage. New research from UF professor Thomas Clanton even suggests possible long-term health impacts of heatstroke, with patients across the country reporting symptoms years later.
With July officially ranking as the 14th-hottest on record for Florida, and heat advisories climbing compared to past years, the warning is clear: whether you’re visiting a theme park, catching a train, or just strolling outside, extreme heat is no fairy tale villain — it’s a very real danger.
Score a Deal on Disney Magic: The 14″ Mickey Mouse Halloween Pumpkin Light at Target
Mickey Mouse fans and Halloween enthusiasts, get ready to add a little extra magic to your spooky season! Target is bringing the ultimate dose of Disney charm with their 14″ Mickey Mouse Halloween Pumpkin Light, and it’s a must-have for your decorations this year.
And here’s the best part: while this charming piece normally retails for $40, you can snag it right now for just $30 online at Target! That’s a deal you won’t want to miss.
This isn’t just any pumpkin light; it’s an enchanting fusion of two beloved classics: Mickey Mouse and a grinning jack-o-lantern. At a glance, you’ll instantly recognize that iconic silhouette, those perfectly round ears and a cheerful, familiar face that’s guaranteed to bring a smile to anyone’s face. It’s the kind of decoration that captures the timeless magic of Disney and the mischievous fun of Halloween all in one delightful package.
Crafted from durable plastic, this Mickey light is ready to welcome all your guests and trick-or-treaters with a warm, friendly glow. Whether you place it on your porch, in a window, or as a centerpiece for your Halloween party, it’s sure to be a showstopper. It’s a decoration that appeals to both kids and adults, making it the perfect addition to any home looking to celebrate the season with a touch of nostalgia and fun.
So, if you’re looking to light up your Halloween with some enchanting Disney magic, head over to Target’s website and grab your Mickey Mouse Halloween Pumpkin Light before they’re gone!
Your Childhood is Calling: Disney Channel Graphic Tees at Five Below for $5.55!
Five Below is taking us on a trip down memory lane with a new collection of Disney Channel graphic tees that are an absolute blast from the past. And the best part? They’re just $5.55 each, so you can grab a few and still have some cash left over for a smoothie. If you grew up with Disney Channel in the early 2000s, get ready for a serious dose of nostalgia.
Feeling like you’re caught between two worlds? The High School Musical Troy Graphic Tee is here to get your head in the game! This shirt is soft, comfy, and features the one and only Troy Bolton. Whether you’re a jock, a theater kid, or just a huge fan of the classics, this tee is a must-have for representing the Wildcats. And come on, who can really resist Troy?
But maybe you’re more of a style icon with an animated alter ego. Good news, there are two Lizzie McGuire tees! One is a faded orange shirt with Lizzie herself, capturing those perfectly relatable, sometimes-dramatic feelings we all had as teens. The other is a super Y2K ‘Booked & Busy’ tee that totally speaks to our modern-day schedules while giving us that classic early 2000s vibe. You’ll be living for it.
And let’s not forget the psychic fashionista, Raven Baxter. The That’s So Raven Graphic Tee is perfect for vibing out, with Raven on the front and the text “Psychic in the house” to let everyone know you’ve got that sixth sense. If girl power is more your thing, you’ll want to rock the The Cheetah Girls Graphic Tee. This shirt lets you rep the most iconic Y2K girl group, so you can stay “Cheetahlicious” all day long.
Last but not least, we have a tee for fans of a certain silent, crime-fighting platypus. The Phineas And Ferb Platypus Graphic Tee is the answer to the classic question, “Where’s Perry?” It’s a retro toon with major throwback energy, perfect for anyone who appreciates a good mix of catchy songs and secret agents.
So head to Five Below and grab these nostalgic tees while you can. At this price, they won’t last long, and your wardrobe could use a little more early 2000s magic!
Treat Your Feet to These Exclusive Disney Halloween Socks from BoxLunch
Looking to add a little spooky, yet stylish, flair to your Halloween wardrobe? Well, look no further than BoxLunch, because they’ve just dropped some seriously cute and exclusive Disney Halloween socks! And the best part? Each pair is only $9.99!
First up, we have the Mickey Mouse Ghosts Allover Print Crew Socks. These are a must-have for any Mickey fan who loves a good haunting. The black socks feature an allover print of little Mickey ghosts and spiderwebs, making them the perfect way to add a subtle and spooky touch to your outfit. Whether you’re heading to a Halloween party or just want to feel the spirit of the season, these socks are a perfect choice.
Next, for all you Aristocats lovers out there, get ready to swoon over the Marie Pumpkins Allover Print Crew Socks. These are so incredibly cute, with a soft pink background featuring Marie herself surrounded by pumpkins. They’re the perfect blend of sweet and spooky, and they’ll definitely add a touch of ladylike charm to your Halloween look. They’re practically purr-fect for any fall outing!
And last but not least, we have the Winnie the Pooh Halloween Allover Print Crew Socks. These are for the Pooh Bear fans who want to bring a little bit of the Hundred Acre Wood into their Halloween festivities. The socks are covered in an adorable print of Pooh’s face and smiling jack-o’-lanterns. They’re so wholesome and charming, you’ll want to wear them all season long, whether you’re trick-or-treating or just enjoying a cozy autumn day.
So, what are you waiting for? Head over to BoxLunch and snag a pair (or all three!) of these exclusive Disney Halloween socks before they disappear like a ghost in the night. At just $9.99 a pair, they’re an absolute steal!
