From Cinderella Castle to Pixar Pier: Hallmark Drops Epic New Disney Parks Ornaments

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July 11, 2026

From Cinderella Castle to Pixar Pier: Hallmark Drops Epic New Disney Parks Ornaments

If you’re anything like me, your Christmas tree is basically a secondary passport stamped with memories of churros, castle selfies, and rope-drop rushes. Well, Hallmark just dropped their latest batch of Disney Parks Keepsake ornaments, and they are bringing serious theme park magic straight to your living room. From high-flying rides to iconic landmarks, this year’s lineup feels like a VIP tour for your tree.

First up, if you’ve ever wanted to skip the lightning lane and head straight for the skies, the Disney Soarin’ Around the World “Prepare for Liftoff!” Ornament ($23.99) is your ticket. It features Mickey Mouse strapped right into that iconic hang-glider, looking ready to catch a breeze and maybe that whiff of Fiji or grass we all love. It’s a super fun, affordable little nod to one of the best flight simulators on the planet.

SHOP NOW – Soarin Ornament

For the hardcore historians, the big showstopper is the Disney Parks Memories 70 Years of Disneyland Dumbo the Flying Elephant Ornament ($69.99). This is actually the very first entry in a brand new series, and Hallmark did not play around. It’s styled after the original 1955 attraction facade, and when you hook it up to a Keepsake Power Cord, it lights up, plays circus music, and actually moves while Timothy Q. Mouse narrates. It’s pure nostalgia wrapped in a hefty price tag, but totally worth it for a milestone anniversary.

SHOP NOW – Dumbo Ornament

Speaking of anniversaries, West Coast fans get some major love with the Disney California Adventure Park 25th Anniversary Pixar Pal-A-Round Ornament ($39.99). Love it or fear it, those swinging gondolas are no joke!, this miniature version of the iconic Pixar Pier Ferris wheel features Mickey’s classic smiling face and dangling cars. Even better? It’s battery-operated and lights up at the push of a button to give your pine needles that warm California glow.

SHOP NOW – Pixar Pal-A-Round Ornament

If your vibe is a bit more fairy tale, the Disney Princess Dreams Go Round Ornament ($69.99) is an absolute stunner. It puts Cinderella, Ariel, and Jasmine on a royal carousel ride, complete with their own custom mounts (shoutout to Jasmine riding Rajah!). This one is also battery-powered and boasts light, full-circle motion, and three iconic tunes: “A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes,” “Part of Your World,” and “A Whole New World.”

SHOP NOW – Disney Princess Ornament

Finally, if you want to completely dominate your holiday decor, you have to look at the Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom Cinderella Castle Tree Topper ($199.99). Standing at nearly 11 inches tall, this thing is a masterpiece. It comes with a remote that lets you trigger three different light and sound shows inspired by a perfect day at the park. We’re talking classic Walt Disney dialogue paired with “When You Wish Upon a Star” and fireworks sound effects, the legendary “Main Street Electrical Parade” synth-music, and a festive holiday track. It’s a massive splurge, but it essentially transforms your entire living room into the Magic Kingdom.

SHOP NOW – Magic Kingdom Castle Tree Topper

Grab your favorites before they sell out, your tree is about to become the happiest place on earth!

Credit: Hallmark

Legendary Disney Innovator Don Iwerks Passes Away at Age 96

By

Chip

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July 11, 2026

Legendary Disney Innovator Don Iwerks Passes Away at Age

The Disney community is mourning the loss of a true pioneer. Disney Legend Don Iwerks passed away on the evening of July 9 at the age of 96.

The son of legendary animator and special effects genius Ub Iwerks, Don built a massive 35-year legacy of his own at Walt Disney Productions. He began his career at the studio in 1950 as a lab technician before serving in the Korean War. Upon his return, he joined the Studio Machine Shop and quickly became one of the company’s most important technical minds.

Don’s work completely changed how guests experience Disney movies and theme parks. He helped develop the revolutionary 360-degree Circle-Vision camera system used for classic attractions like America the Beautiful at Disneyland and Magic Kingdom, as well as films for Epcot, Tokyo Disneyland, and Disneyland Paris.

His engineering genius was behind some of Disney’s most iconic attractions and films, including:

The unique projection system built for the Star Tours attraction
The specialized cameras and optical printers used to seamlessly blend live-action and animation in Mary Poppins
The 3-D film and in-theater effects engineered for Captain EO
Innovative film equipment utilized at the 1964–1965 New York World’s Fair

In recognition of his massive contributions to film technology, Don received the Gordon E. Sawyer Award from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in 1997. He was officially inducted as a Disney Legend at the inaugural D23 Expo in 2009. Today, his handprints rest in Legends Plaza in Burbank, and his name is immortalized alongside his father’s on a Main Street, U.S.A. window at Magic Kingdom that reads “Iwerks–Iwerks Stereoscopic Cameras.”

Following his retirement from Disney, he co-founded Iwerks Entertainment to continue pushing the boundaries of giant-screen and 3D theater experiences.

Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to his wife, Betty, his children John, Larry, and Leslie, and all of his family and friends during this time.

Josh Gad Interviews Disney CEO Josh D’Amaro After First 100 Days in Role

By

Sara

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July 11, 2026

Josh Gad Interviews Disney CEO Josh D'Amaro After First Days in Role ()

Josh Gad Grills New Disney CEO Josh D’Amaro on the Future of the Company

What happens when a Disney Legend sits down to grill the grand poobah of the company? You get a whole lot of laughs, a little bit of playful chaos, and some hilariously honest answers!

To celebrate current CEO Josh D’Amaro hitting his milestone first 100 days in office, fan-favorite actor and beloved voice of Olaf, Josh Gad, stopped by the historic Walt Disney Studios lot in Burbank. Sharing the video on his official Instagram feed, Gad made it clear he was there to ask the truly “hard-hitting” questions Disney fans have been demanding answers to.

D’Amaro, who officially stepped into the CEO role on March 18th, proved he’s a true fan at heart by completely holding his own against Gad’s quick wit. Here are some of our favorite takeaways from their candid conversation:

The Dream Park Access: When asked which Disney ride he would want to shut down for an entire hour just to ride by himself, D’Amaro didn’t hesitate: Pirates of the Caribbean. In fact, he casually admitted he has already done it!

The Secret Villain Allegiance: Which Disney villain does the CEO secretly root for? Maleficent—because according to D’Amaro, “she’s just misunderstood.”

The Tear-Jerker: The Pixar movie that makes him cry every single time is Up. He noted it’s a film he and his wife can turn on, and they’ll both be in tears.

The Late-Night Binge: What is the CEO watching when he isn’t running the company? He’s currently binging The Bear and the Emmy-nominated Star Wars series Maul – Shadow Lord.

Words to Live By: His ultimate favorite quote from Walt Disney himself? “It’s fun to do the impossible.”

The conversation kept a fun, lighthearted tone throughout, with Gad jokingly worried about getting his car towed by the “Mickey Police” while on the lot. Naturally, Gad also made sure to ask D’Amaro who his absolute favorite snowman-playing Disney Legend was—though we all know there’s only one right answer to that question!

As the interview wrapped up, Gad warmly congratulated D’Amaro on navigating his first 100 days as Chief Executive Officer, sharing wishes that his next 100 days are just as magical. With D23 just around the corner, we can’t wait to see what else the executive has up his sleeve for the future of the parks and the company.

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Discover Everywhere You Can Celebrate Moana Across the Disney Parks and Beyond

By

Catherine

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July 10, 2026

Celebrate Moana Across the Disney Parks

Pushing far beyond the horizon, Moana’s inspirational story continues to resonate with Disney fans around the world. Across Disney Parks, her presence has grown through live entertainment, relatable character encounters, immersive environments, and more, appearing in vibrant new ways since the original Walt Disney Animation Studios film debuted in 2016.

Now, with Disney’s Moana hitting theaters on July 10, fans are eager to find out where to find Moana, Maui, Heihei, and friends across global Disney destinations. There’s so much more beyond the reef—let’s take a look at how you can plan your next wayfinding vacation across Disney Parks and beyond!

Journey-of-Water-Inspired-by-Moana-Added-to-EPCOT-Map-2

Moana Experiences at Walt Disney World Resort

If you’re drawn to the ocean, passionate about live entertainment, or hoping to meet the leader of Motunui up close, Florida is the perfect place to start your journey.

Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana (EPCOT): Step onto a self-guided outdoor exploration trail and discover the wonders of water. This whimsical, interactive environment offers two paths for discovery: a dry path and a path where you can choose to get wet. Keep an eye out for hidden film elements, and be sure to check out footage of Catherine Laga’aia, who stars as Moana in Disney’s live-action film, experiencing this unique trail!

The Magic of Disney Animation (Disney’s Hollywood Studios – Coming Soon): Opening later this year, you can learn how to sketch Moana during the popular “Olaf Draws!” animation academy sessions, with lessons taught by story artist Samantha Vilfort.

Meet Moana Across the Resort: Search for the voyager from Motunui at select times at World Nature in EPCOT or at Character Landing in Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Nighttime Spectaculars: Watch Moana shine under the stars! Catch her during “Fantasmic!” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, or witness her story come alive in “Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away” at Magic Kingdom—a shimmering nighttime processional inspired by the classic Main Street Electrical Parade.

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort: Stay right in the heart of the magic with Moana-inspired guest rooms. Families will love the kid-friendly splash pad at the new Island Tower, featuring life-sized sculptures of Moana and her iconic canoe. Don’t forget to stop by the second floor of the Grand Ceremonial House to discover an oceanic outpost filled with playful merchandise.

Limited-Time Motunui Treats

Motunui Ube Sundae: Ube soft-serve with tropical fruits, coconut, raspberry crumbs, and macadamia (Anandapur Ice Cream Truck, Disney’s Animal Kingdom).
Heihei Delight: A tropical blend of pineapple and coconut topped with a pineapple slice and SKITTLES POP’d Original Freeze Dried Candy (The Land Cart, EPCOT).

Moana Experiences on Disney Cruise Line

Chart your course across the open ocean, where Moana’s story takes shape through broadway-style entertainment and beautifully themed spaces across the fleet.

“Disney The Tale of Moana” (Disney Treasure): Watch the ocean literally come to life in this adventurous Broadway-style stage show. The production explores Moana’s journey to restore the heart of Te Fiti through vibrant choreography and songs performed in a mix of languages, including Tuvaluan, Tokelauan, and Samoan.

“Moana: Call of the Sea” (Disney Adventure): Join Moana in a show-stopping musical adventure at Wayfinder Bay. Tip: Space is limited for these performances, so be sure to arrive early to secure your seat!
“Disney Seas the Adventure”: On your first night aboard the Disney Adventure, Disney Destiny, Disney Treasure, and Disney Wish, enjoy an original stage show where heroines Elsa, Moana, and Merida perform a powerful medley that emboldens Goofy to sail into the unknown.
Themed Dining & Cafés: Indulge in vibrant South Pacific-style art and backgrounds at Gramma Tala’s Kitchen on the Disney Adventure, or grab a casual treat at the playful, Heihei-inspired Heihei Café on the Disney Treasure.
Character Appearances: Set sail and celebrate the spirit of courage, discovery, and wayfinding with Moana herself during select character greetings across the fleet.

Moana Experiences at Disneyland Resort

From stunning projections to hands-on art classes, the West Coast offers beautiful ways to connect with the spirit of Motunui.

Nighttime Spectacles: Look for Moana in “Wondrous Journeys” (running through August 20, 2026), which brings Sleeping Beauty Castle and Main Street, U.S.A. to life. You can also catch her in “Tapestry of Happiness” on the “it’s a small world” facade, as well as select “World of Color” productions at Disney California Adventure—including “World of Color Happiness!” (through August 9, 2026) and “World of Color – ONE” (returning for a limited time beginning August 10, 2026).
Animation Academy: Drop by the Disney Animation Building at Disney California Adventure to learn how to draw Heihei and Pua! Classes take place every 30 minutes throughout the day, with no reservations required.
Emporium Window Display: As you stroll down Main Street, U.S.A., look closely at the animated window display outside the Emporium to spot Moana, Maui, Pua, Heihei, Te Fiti, and even some hidden Kakamora.

Moana Across Disney’s International Parks

Hong Kong Disneyland Resort

“Moana: A Homecoming Celebration”: Be part of the story in Adventureland during this atmospheric stage show featuring music, dancing, puppetry, and traditional storytelling.
Castle of Magical Dreams & Spectaculars: See Moana represented on the majestic castle structure, which pays tribute to 13 courageous Disney heroines. At night, catch her during “Momentous,” a nighttime spectacular using 3D projection mapping and illuminated water fountains.

Wayfinders’ Table: Fuel up for your next voyage with a delicious island-inspired menu featuring Voyagers’ Chicken Naan Pizza, Massaman Prawn Curry, and Seafood Laksa Noodle Soup.

Tokyo Disney Resort

Parades & Stage Shows: Wave to Moana in the vibrant “Disney Harmony in Color” daytime parade, or watch her take the stage during “Dreams Take Flight” at Tokyo DisneySea.
“Believe! Sea of Dreams”: Watch Mediterranean Harbor transform into a sea of wishes in this stunning nighttime spectacular featuring live characters, music, and animation.

Shanghai Disney Resort

Mickey’s Storybook Adventure: Dive into 13 beloved Disney tales during this live theater performance at Shanghai Disneyland, featuring special appearances by Moana alongside Mickey, Rapunzel, and the Frozen sisterhood.
“ILLUMINATE! A Nighttime Celebration”: End your day with incredible castle projections featuring Moana-themed visuals and music.

Disneyland Paris

“Disney Cascade of Lights”: Head to Disney Adventure World for a brand-new, state-of-the-art nighttime show featuring fireworks, drone displays, and water screen projections across the lake starring Moana, Mulan, and Hercules.
More Magical Parades: Spot Moana in the high-energy “A Million Splashes of Colour” daytime celebration, the nighttime “Disney Tales of Magic”, or the enchanting “Disney Princess Cavalcade” (opening July 24). You can even dine like royalty and spot her at the Regal View Restaurant & Lounge inside the Disneyland Hotel!

Moana Experiences at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa

For the ultimate immersive experience, visit Hawaiʻi, where Moana’s story deeply honors the culture and traditions of the islands.

Experience	Best For	What to Expect
Character Greetings	All Ages	Meet Moana, say aloha, and hear firsthand tales of her voyages with Maui.
Wayfinding with Moana	Kids (Ages 4–12)	A premium experience at Aunty’s Beach House where kids learn the sacred art of Polynesian voyaging and craft their own miniature double-hulled canoe (wa‘a).
Painted Sky: HI Style Studio	Kids (Ages 3–12)	A fun island makeover experience featuring signature hairstyles like the Moana Beach Bun, Moana Wave, or Lū’au Bound.

No matter which horizon you choose to follow, Disney Parks and Cruise Line offer the perfect way to step into the story, find your inner wayfinder, and celebrate the enduring spirit of Moana!

Disney Shares New Pool Area and Refreshed Lobby at Fort Wilderness

By

Chris B

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July 10, 2026

Disney Shares New Pool Area and Refreshed Lobby at Fort Wilderness' ()

Disney Shares Closer Look at Fort Wilderness’ Expanded Pool and Refreshed Check-In Experience

Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground has welcomed guests for more than 50 years, and now this beloved woodland retreat is offering even more reasons to spend time away from the parks. Disney has shared a closer look at the resort’s newly expanded Meadow Swimmin’ Pool area and refreshed Reception Outpost, both of which recently debuted for guests.

The biggest addition is the expanded Meadow Swimmin’ Pool complex. A brand-new zero-entry pool and additional deck space have been added alongside the existing pool, nearly doubling the available swimming and lounging area for guests. The original 67-foot corkscrew waterslide remains a centerpiece of the pool, giving families even more room to splash, relax, and enjoy a resort day.

Disney also included a fun tribute to the resort’s history. Guests visiting the pool area will find a vintage-style barrel carriage featuring Mickey Mouse dressed in camping gear, along with a nostalgic nod to River Country, Walt Disney World’s very first water park, which once operated adjacent to Fort Wilderness.

The updates continue inside the Reception Outpost, where guests now enjoy a refreshed arrival experience. New artwork above the fireplace features Mickey Mouse and friends enjoying the outdoors, while additional decorative scenes showcase Huey, Dewey, and Louie taking part in classic Fort Wilderness activities like fishing, camping, and archery.

Of course, Fort Wilderness remains much more than just a place to sleep. Guests can spend the day horseback riding, canoeing, exploring the Wilderness Back Trail Adventure, trying their hand at archery, or cruising the sprawling resort by golf cart or bicycle. As evening falls, favorites like Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Campfire Sing-A-Long and the legendary Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue continue to make Fort Wilderness one of the most unique resort experiences anywhere at Walt Disney World.

Whether you’re camping, staying in one of the Disney Vacation Club cabins, or simply looking for a peaceful escape between park days, these newest enhancements make Fort Wilderness an even more inviting destination. If you’re ready to plan your own woodland getaway, be sure to contact our friends at Get Away Today for great deals on Walt Disney World vacation packages.

Epcot Prepares for 2026 Food and Wine Festival as Global Marketplaces Arrive

By

Chris B

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July 10, 2026

Epcot Prepares for Food and Wine Festival as Global Marketplaces Arrive

Food & Wine Festival Booths Begin Appearing Around EPCOT Ahead of 2026 Event

The countdown to one of EPCOT’s tastiest traditions is officially underway! With the 2026 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival still nearly two months away, the first festival marketplace booths have already started popping up around World Showcase and World Discovery.

Guests visiting EPCOT can already spot several familiar marketplace locations taking shape. Booths for Spain, Greece, Belgium, Brazil, Hawai’i, The Alps, India, Coastal Eats, Flavors From Fire, and Gyozas of the Galaxy have all been installed, although most are still waiting on their official signs and menu displays. Their arrival is one of the first visible signs that festival season is just around the corner.

The 2026 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival runs from August 27 through November 21, bringing nearly three months of global flavors, live entertainment, exclusive merchandise, and culinary experiences to the park. Disney has already confirmed the return of the popular Chefs de France breakfast buffet, unveiled this year’s festival ear headband, and announced the lineup for the Eat to the Beat Concert Series.

While there’s still plenty of work to be done before opening day, seeing the booths arrive always builds excitement for Disney foodies eager to sample returning favorites and discover new dishes from around the world.

If you’re planning to visit EPCOT this fall, Food & Wine Festival season is shaping up to be another delicious reason to make the trip. And when you’re ready to book your culinary adventure around World Showcase, our friends at Get Away Today can help you plan the perfect Walt Disney World vacation.

Disney World Hiring for Comedic Actors for What’s This? TIM BURTON’S The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-Along

By

Chris B

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July 10, 2026

Disney World Hiring for Comedic Actors for What's This TIM BURTON'S The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing Along ()

Disney Audition Posted for “What’s This? Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-Along” at Hollywood Studios

Disney is already getting ready for the holiday season! Disney Live Entertainment has officially posted a casting call for performers to join the upcoming What’s This? Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-Along at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, giving fans another peek behind the curtain at this returning seasonal favorite.

According to the audition posting, Disney is searching for male and female presenting comedic actors who move well and excel at expressive physical storytelling. Performers should have a playful, childlike sense of curiosity, with strong comedic instincts and the ability to connect with audiences through physical movement. Experience with clowning or pantomime is listed as a bonus.

The show, which takes place inside the Hyperion Theater, follows two friends on a dreamlike journey through the world of Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas. Throughout the sing-along experience, guests can expect appearances from beloved characters including Jack Skellington and Oogie Boogie as they join in on the film’s iconic songs.

Applicants are being asked to submit two audition videos. The first is a 60-second comedic monologue featuring energetic physicality. The second is a non-verbal storytelling exercise in which performers discover a mysterious box, uncover an object that sparks a memory, and tell a complete story using only expressions and movement while engaging the audience.

Online submissions will be accepted through July 20, 2026, with potential in-person callbacks scheduled for August 20 in Orlando. Disney says performers invited to callbacks will be notified by August 4. Contracts are expected to begin in early October and continue through early January, covering the holiday entertainment season at Walt Disney World.

While this casting notice is aimed at performers, it also signals that guests can once again look forward to celebrating Halloween and Christmas with Jack Skellington and friends at Disney’s Hollywood Studios later this year.

If you’re planning a holiday visit to Walt Disney World to experience festive entertainment like What’s This? Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-Along, our friends at Get Away Today can help you plan a frightfully fun vacation with great prices on tickets and vacation packages!

New Pandora Counter Is Now Open at Epcot’s Port of Entry

By

Chris B

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July 10, 2026

New Pandora Counter Is Now Open at Epcot's Port of Entry

New Pandora Charm Counter Now Open Inside EPCOT’s Port of Entry Shop

Disney guests looking to add a little extra sparkle to their World Showcase stroll now have a new place to shop. A brand-new Pandora counter has officially opened inside the Port of Entry store at the front of World Showcase in EPCOT, giving guests another convenient location to browse Disney’s popular charm jewelry.

The new counter replaces a former checkout area inside Port of Entry and features a warm wood-toned design that blends nicely with the shop’s existing aesthetic. A decorative World Showcase medallion sits at the center of the counter, tying the display into EPCOT’s international theme.

While this new location isn’t a full-sized Pandora boutique like those found elsewhere around Walt Disney World Resort, it offers a curated selection focused primarily on Pandora charms. It’s a great stop for guests hoping to pick up a Disney-themed keepsake or add another charm to their growing collection without making a special trip to Disney Springs or another resort location.

The addition continues Disney’s partnership with Pandora, whose jewelry collections have become a favorite souvenir for many Walt Disney World fans over the years. Whether you’re commemorating your latest EPCOT adventure or searching for the perfect gift, this new counter provides another easy shopping option while exploring World Showcase.

If you’re planning your next EPCOT visit and hoping to bring home a little extra magic, be sure to stop by the new Pandora counter at Port of Entry. And when you’re ready to plan your next Walt Disney World vacation, our friends at Get Away Today can help you create the perfect getaway from start to finish!

Disney Planning Massive Space Mountain Rebuild Including Full Track Replacement

By

Chris B

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July 10, 2026

Disney Planning Massive Space Mountain Rebuild Including Full Track Replacement

Rumor: Space Mountain Could Be Next for a Massive Rebuild at Magic Kingdom

Space Mountain may be preparing for its biggest launch sequence yet… if new reports prove true. According to sources cited by WDWMagic, Walt Disney World’s iconic Tomorrowland coaster is reportedly in the planning stages for an extensive overhaul that would go far beyond a typical refurbishment.

The reported project would include a complete retrack of the attraction, similar to the work currently underway on Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, along with significant updates to the queue, load stations, and other interior elements. While Disney has not confirmed any of these plans, the scope being discussed suggests this would be one of the largest projects in Space Mountain’s more than 50-year history.

Unlike the attraction’s 2009 refurbishment, which replaced select sections of track and modernized ride systems without changing the entire coaster, this rumored project could involve replacing the entire track. There is also speculation that Disney could revisit the ride vehicles, potentially replacing the current single-file seating with side-by-side vehicles similar to those at Disneyland. Onboard audio has also been mentioned as a possible addition if the project moves forward.

Timing remains one of the biggest questions. Reports suggest an announcement could potentially come during this year’s D23 event, with construction possibly beginning in late 2026 or early 2027. If that timeline holds, Space Mountain could remain closed for nearly two years before reopening around late 2028 or early 2029. It’s important to note that Disney has not announced any closure dates or confirmed that this refurbishment is happening. At this stage, everything remains in the planning and rumor phase.

A lengthy closure would come during a period of major transformation for Magic Kingdom. Tomorrowland is already seeing the refurbishment of Carousel of Progress, while Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin recently reopened after its own extensive update. Across the park, work continues on Piston Peak National Park and Villains Land, making the rumored Space Mountain rebuild another piece of what could become one of the biggest eras of change in Magic Kingdom history.

We’ll be keeping a close eye on this story as it develops, especially with D23 just around the corner. Until Disney makes an official announcement, fans may want to keep this one filed under “rumor,” but it’s certainly an exciting possibility for one of Walt Disney World’s most beloved attractions.

Whether you’re racing through the stars on today’s Space Mountain or hoping to experience whatever tomorrow brings, our friends at Get Away Today can help you plan the perfect Walt Disney World vacation.

Hallmark Just Dropped a Haunted Mansion Collection, and Yes, It Glows in the Dark

By

Ana Leal

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July 10, 2026

Hallmark Just Dropped a Haunted Mansion Collection, and Yes, It Glows in the Dark

Calling all foolish mortals and ghost hosts in training! If your home decor style leans less live, laugh, love and more grim grinning ghosts, Hallmark’s new Haunted Mansion Collection is about to drain your wallet in the best way possible. They have dropped a wonderfully spooky lineup of home goods that will make your living space feel like the 1,000th room of Disney’s most iconic retirement home for the undead.

First up, you can give your couch a majorly eerie upgrade with The Haunted Mansion Gargoyle Throw Pillow ($39.99). Shaped exactly like the infamous gargoyle statue from the ride, this plush beauty features the ominous little guy clutching glowing candlesticks against a gray, wallpaper-inspired damask pattern. It’s perfect for adding a bit of spooky elegance to your Halloween setup or honestly, just leaving it out year-round if you’re a true Disney goth.

When the night chill sets in, you can wrap yourself in The Haunted Mansion Glow-in-the-Dark Two-Sided Throw Blanket ($39.99). This thing is pure nostalgia. One side features those iconic, watchful wallpaper eyes that literally glow in the dark after you charge them up in the light. Flip it over, and you’re treated to the Ghost Host’s legendary monologue printed across a rich maroon background. It is the ultimate companion for a spooky movie marathon.

For those who need to take their phantom fandom on the road, the collection delivers two perfect caffeine containers. Keep your ice water (or a hot potion) locked down in The Haunted Mansion Insulated Travel Cup ($29.99), a massive 40-ounce tumbler wrapped in a raised black-and-green damask pattern with eyes that glow in the dark. It even sports a maroon handle and a bat-shaped straw topper that is frankly adorable. If you prefer a slow morning inside, The Haunted Mansion Color-Changing Mug ($16.99) is a total trip. It features a tombstone-shaped handle and a graveyard scene with glowing yellow eyes on one side, but pouring in hot coffee causes the hitchhiking ghosts to magically materialize on the other.

Finally, you can bring the ride’s legendary dark humor straight to your mantle with The Haunted Mansion Fold-Out Tombstones Decoration ($39.99). Made from dark- and light-gray stained wood, this accordion-style, hinged display features five distinct tombstones with those hilarious, laser-etched rhyming tales honoring the mansion’s dearly departed. It’s a fantastic, high-quality centerpiece that screams classic Disney Parks.

Whether you want a few subtle nods or a full-blown supernatural takeover, this collection has everything you need to welcome the spirits home. You can find everything right now online on the Hallmark website, so don’t wait!

Credit: Hallmark

Gideon’s Bakehouse Art Director Departs Leading to Closure of Terribly Odd Brand

By

Chris B

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July 10, 2026

The Artist Behind Gideon’s Bakehouse’s Iconic Look Is Moving On After More Than a Decade

One of the creative minds responsible for the unmistakable gothic charm of Gideon’s Bakehouse is turning the page on a new chapter. Michael Reyes, better known to fans as Mr. Eyes, has announced that he is stepping away from Gideon’s Bakehouse after more than 10 years helping shape the beloved brand’s spooky identity.

In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Reyes reflected on his journey with Gideon’s, explaining that he joined the company when it consisted of just two people. Over the years, his role expanded from creating logos and branding to designing the distinctive artwork and atmosphere that helped make Gideon’s Bakehouse, including its wildly popular Disney Springs location, a destination all its own.

Reyes described the decision as bittersweet, saying he poured “every ounce of my soul” into the project but felt it was time to focus on his own personal growth and future creative endeavors. He also thanked Gideon’s founder Steve Lewis for believing in his vision and allowing him to help build the brand into what it is today.

The announcement comes not long after Reyes also officially closed his longtime personal brand, Terribly Odd, which had been creating gothic-inspired artwork and collectibles since 2003. Earlier this year, he explained that rising costs, limited time, and declining sales made it impossible to continue operating the brand independently. Rather than disappearing completely, many of those creations and future projects will now fall under his Mr. Eyes identity.

Fans visiting Gideon’s Bakehouse at Disney Springs will instantly recognize Reyes’ influence. From the eerie portraits lining the walls to the hauntingly whimsical packaging and atmospheric storytelling, his artwork has become as much a part of the Gideon’s experience as the famous half-pound cookies and towering cake slices.

At this time, Gideon’s Bakehouse has not publicly commented on Reyes’ departure or announced whether another artist will take over the brand’s creative direction. While guests can still enjoy the same immersive atmosphere during their visits, many longtime fans are taking a moment to recognize the artist whose vision helped make Gideon’s one of Disney Springs’ most unique destinations.

Whether this marks the end of an era or simply the beginning of a new creative chapter, fans will undoubtedly be watching to see what Mr. Eyes creates next.

If you’re planning a visit to Disney Springs to grab a cookie, cake slice, or simply soak in the wonderfully eerie atmosphere of Gideon’s Bakehouse, our friends at Get Away Today can help you save on your next Walt Disney World vacation package.

Stray Firework Lands in the Crowd at Fantasmic in Hollywood Studios

By

Chip

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July 10, 2026

Stray Firework Lands in the Crowd at Fantasmic in Hollywood Studios

Stray Firework Shoots Toward Fantasmic Audience at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Guests at Disney’s Hollywood Studios got a bit more excitement than they bargained for during last night’s performance of Fantasmic.

During the July 9th show, a stray pyrotechnic effect misfired from the lagoon stage and shot directly into the amphitheater seating area. A video captured by an audience member and shared on Reddit from user Pajamaetchi shows the moment the small firework traveled across the water and into the crowd, appearing to fizzle out just as it reached the stands.

Firework Shot Into Fantasmic Crowd Tonight (SFW)
by
u/Pajamaetchi in
WaltDisneyWorld

Despite the freaky visual, eyewitnesses in the center stage viewing area report that the incident did not cause any panic. Guests sitting near the landing zone noted that the firework seemed to burn out safely in the air before making physical contact with anyone.

The performance continued without interruption, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios cast members kept the show running right through to the finale. No injuries have been reported, and the show went on just as normal for the rest of the evening.