New Magic Is Coming to Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Disney World

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August 21, 2025

New Magic Is Coming to Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Disney World

Howdy, pardners! You folks oughta keep all hands, arms, feet, and legs inside the train, because this here’s the wildest ride in the wilderness—and it’s getting even wilder!

In 2026, the iconic Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will reopen with a touch of new magic, and today, we’ve got the latest details on what to expect the next time you ride the rails.

There’s Gold in That There Mountain

The story of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad dates back to the early days of America’s first major gold rush. When a mining magnate named Barnabas T. Bullion struck gold in the Big Thunder region, he saw a future full of riches and quickly started the Big Thunder Mountain Company. However, those shiny dreams rarely come without a cost, and Bullion soon found himself in a battle with the forces of nature.

Strange and unexplainable things started happening. Machines failed, and cave-ins shut down mines. No matter how deep the miners dug into the heart of the mountain, the forces of Big Thunder fought back. When the attraction reopens next year, unsuspecting passengers who board the runaway trains will learn just how wild the wilderness can get.

Shine and Polish on a Magic Kingdom Classic

The mountain attractions at Disney Parks around the globe are beloved for the stories they tell, the thrills they give, and the memories they make. The rumblin’, rollin’ fun of Big Thunder Mountain here at Disney World is currently undergoing a “mountain-top to cavern-deep” refurbishment, meant to keep the classic attraction in top shape for years to come. Crews have been hard at work replacing the track and refreshing the ride’s scenery and vehicles.

Large Piece of Track Removed on Big Thunder Mountain Railroad as Refurb Underway 3

New Magic Thunderin’ In

In addition to the action and adventure we know and love, Big Thunder Mountain will reopen with new details for fans to discover. One such moment comes when the trains rattle their way underground into spectacular natural caverns.

You’ll encounter the beautiful Rainbow Caverns, filled with phosphorescent pools that shimmer and illuminate iridescent stalagmites (the ones on the floor) and stalactites (the ones on the ceiling). But don’t let their beauty fool you—this new scene, inspired by a classic Disneyland attraction, isn’t as friendly as it first appears. That menacing rumble from deep within the mountain may just be a sign that you ain’t welcome.

There’s more new magic for guests to discover, but for now, you’ll have to hang on to your hats and stay tuned for more news!

A Wild Announcement! Zootopia: “Better Zoogether” Show Opening November 7!

By

Catherine

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August 21, 2025

Zootopia: “Better Zoogether” Show Opening November 7!

Get your paws ready, because a brand-new adventure is coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom! Officer Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde themselves just hopped over to give us some pawsitively wild news: the highly anticipated new show, Zootopia: Better Zoogether, is officially opening on November 7!

The new show promises to be a total treat for fans, taking us on a journey through the amazing biomes we glimpsed in the original movie. This isn’t just a simple story; it’s a full-on expedition with Judy, Nick, and all their friends. Guests will join the duo on a brand-new adventure that will explore everything from the icy Tundratown to the arid Sahara Square and the vibrant rainforest of the Mystic Springs Oasis. This immersive experience is set to bring the city’s diverse environments to life in a way not yet seen at the park.

The show’s opening date is just weeks before Zootopia 2 hits theaters on November 26! This strategic timing will allow Disney to build significant hype and excitement for the movie, giving fans a chance to immerse themselves in the world of Zootopia just weeks before the new cinematic story unfolds. It’s the perfect way to get your Zootopia fix and get hyped for the new film.

This fantastic new show, which takes over the theater at the base of the Tree of Life, is a major update to Disney’s Animal Kingdom and is sure to have guests of all ages saying, “It’s a good day to be a mammal!” So mark your calendars and get ready to go on an adventure that’s better, well, zoogether!

Yub Nub! Adorable Ewok Plush Joins the Crew at Galaxy’s Edge

By

Catherine

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August 21, 2025

A brand new plush shaped like an adorable Ewok has arrived at Toydarian Toymaker in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, bringing a piece of the forest moon of Endor to Batuu. This charming new toy is a must-have for Star Wars fans and collectors alike.

The new Ewok plush, priced at $29.99, features soft, tan fur and is dressed in a simple, brown head wrap. The body is made of faux leather and is stuffed, giving it a soft, plush feel. The creature’s face features an embroidered nose and mouth, with dark plastic eyes that give it a playful look.

One of the most unique features of this new plush is its construction. The feet and hands are made of a wooden material, which allows the Ewok to stand on its own for display and photo-ops. This handcrafted look and feel is in keeping with the authentic, in-universe merchandise found throughout Galaxy’s Edge. This particular Ewok is also branded specifically for the land, making it a special souvenir from your visit.

Ewoks are the furry, bipedal creatures from the forest moon of Endor, first introduced in the 1983 film, Star Wars: Return of the Jedi. These primitive, yet fiercely brave, inhabitants of the forest famously helped the Rebel Alliance defeat the technologically advanced Empire forces during the Battle of Endor.

The new Ewok plush joins a growing collection of new creature-themed plushes that have recently become available in Galaxy’s Edge. A new baby Bantha plush and a Merqaal plush have also recently been spotted in the land, adding to the ever-expanding menagerie of stuffed creatures for travelers to collect.

Whether you’re looking for a companion for your journey across the galaxy or a unique reminder of your time on Batuu, this new Ewok plush is a fantastic addition to the merchandise lineup at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.

EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival 2025 Merchandise Preview

By

Catherine

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August 21, 2025

EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival 2025 Merchandise Preview

With the aroma of delicious food and the clinking of glasses, the 2025 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival is almost here, and it’s bringing with it a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds! The festival, which runs from August 28 to November 22, 2025, is unveiling a delectable lineup of new merchandise that will have Disney fans reaching for their wallets. From iconic characters to fun new collaborations, here’s a sneak peek at the exciting new merch coming to the festival.

Muppet Labs Collection

Science and snacks collide in a new collection inspired by the Muppet Labs. Get ready to experiment with your style, as this line features Dr. Bunsen Honeydew and his long-suffering assistant, Beaker. The merchandise, including a bag, a tumbler, and a T-shirt, is adorned with blue hues and lab equipment, making it a perfectly quirky addition to any fan’s collection.

Chef Figment Collection

Figment, the lovable purple dragon of imagination, is stepping into the kitchen for the 2025 festival. His collection is full of cooking essentials that are as cute as they are functional. Look for a brand-new Figment apron and a chef’s hat, perfect for inspiring your own culinary creations. The collection also includes an oven mitt and a mug featuring the adorable character, ensuring that a “Figment of your imagination” is always present in your kitchen.

Chef Remy

It wouldn’t be a Food & Wine Festival without a tribute to everyone’s favorite culinary rat, Remy! The festival is celebrating the star of Ratatouille with a collection that is sure to delight. You’ll find an adorable Remy plush, as well as a T-shirt featuring Remy and his inspiration, Chef Gusteau, with the iconic and inspiring phrase, “Anyone can cook.”

Stylish and Functional Festival Must-Haves

Beyond the character-specific collections, the festival is releasing a variety of general merchandise perfect for any food and wine connoisseur.

Food & Wine Spirit Jersey: A fan-favorite item, the Spirit Jersey, is back in a beautiful wine color. This year’s design features Mickey Mouse on a Vespa, capturing the fun and adventurous spirit of the festival.

Matching Backpack: To complete the look, a matching backpack with the same Mickey Mouse on a Vespa design will also be available.

Wine and Cheese Plate: Perfect for sipping and snacking, this innovative plate features a special holder for your wine glass, allowing you to enjoy your treats hands-free as you explore the festival’s many booths.

Collectibles and Annual Passholder Exclusives

Pin collectors, get your lanyards ready! This year’s festival will feature an assortment of new pins, including designs for the various collections like Goofy, Mickey and Minnie and Donald and Daisy.

In addition, Annual Passholders will have their own exclusive merchandise to commemorate the event. This limited-release collection includes a new mug, a t-shirt, a zip hoodie, and exclusive pins that can only be purchased by Passholders.

Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak Returns

The popular scavenger hunt, Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak, is making a comeback this year. Guests can purchase a map and stickers to search for Remy statues hidden throughout World Showcase.

While the specific prize for 2025 is still a surprise, there’s a rumor that it’s a cute and functional food container, making the hunt even more rewarding.

Don’t Miss Out!

With a variety of unique and charming merchandise collections, there’s something for every Disney fan at this year’s EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival. Make sure to stop by Creations Shop and the festival markets around World Showcase to get your hands on these special items before they’re gone!

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2025 Dreaming Tree Gala on the Disney Family Farm

By

Sara

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August 21, 2025

Dreaming Tree Gala Returns to the Disney Family Farm in 2025

Get ready for a night of timeless magic as the 2025 Dreaming Tree Gala returns to the Disney Family Farm on September 20, 2025. This year’s event will celebrate the nostalgic spirit of Walt Disney’s classic film, Lady and the Tramp, and the small-town life that inspired Walt himself.

Attendees will be treated to a cozy spaghetti and meatballs dinner, directly inspired by the iconic scene at Tony’s Restaurant from the film. The evening will also feature Peg’s Speakeasy, a tribute to the film’s legendary songwriter, Peggy Lee.

As the sun sets over the very fields where Walt once played, the night will conclude with the signature Kiss Goodnight Fireworks. These fireworks will light up the same sky where a young Walt Disney saw them for the very first time.

The gala will feature a special lineup of guests, including filmmakers, authors, and family members connected to Walt’s legacy: Leslie Iwerks, Don Peri, Matt McKim, Marcy Carriker Smothers, and Holly Foster Wells.

This unforgettable evening offers a chance to celebrate the heart, history, and enduring magic of a story that continues to inspire the world, all from Walt Disney’s beloved hometown.

Special Guests

Leslie Iwerks
- Leslie Iwerks is an Academy Award–nominated filmmaker whose documentaries have beautifully preserved the magic of Disney history. With a deep passion for storytelling, she’s brought to life unforgettable films like The Hand Behind the Mouse: The Ub Iwerks Story, The Pixar Story, Industrial Light & Magic: Creating the Impossible, and The Imagineering Story. Leslie is also part of a truly magical legacy. She’s the granddaughter of Disney Legend and Missouri native Ub Iwerks, the brilliant innovator who played a key role in shaping Disney animation, developing groundbreaking special effects, and co-creating the beloved Mickey Mouse. Her father, Don Iwerks—another Disney Legend—carried that creative torch forward, pioneering film and camera innovations that transformed the way stories are brought to life on screen.
Don Peri
- Don Peri is a Disney historian and author whose work lovingly captures the voices behind the magic. Through his heartfelt and insightful books—Working with Walt: Interviews with Disney Artists, Working with Disney: Interviews with Animators, Producers, and Artists, and most recently, Directing at Disney: The Original Directors of Walt’s Animated Films—Don has preserved the stories of the talented individuals who helped bring Walt Disney’s vision to life.
Matt McKim
- Matt McKim is a retired Walt Disney Imagineer whose creative talents in sculpting, art direction, and dimensional design helped bring Disney’s immersive worlds to life. Carrying on a rich family legacy, Matt is the son of Disney Legend Sam McKim—affectionately known as the “Master Map Maker” of the Disney Parks. Matt has imagination and artistry in his DNA.
Marcy Carriker Smothers
- Marcy Carriker Smothers is the premier Disney food historian and author whose books serve up heaping helpings of Disney magic and nostalgia. With titles like Eat Like Walt: The Wonderful World of Disney Food, Walt’s Disneyland: A Walk in the Park with Walt Disney, and 100 Disney Adventures of a Lifetime, Marcy invites readers to experience Disney through the lens of flavor, history, and heart. She also happens to be the grand-niece of legendary singer and songwriter Peggy Lee.
Holly Foster Wells
- Holly Foster Wells is the devoted granddaughter of legendary singer and songwriter Peggy Lee. Through her work with Peggy Lee Associates, Holly has lovingly carried the torch, ensuring her grandmother’s incredible legacy continues to shine. Peggy Lee was a vital creative force behind Lady and the Tramp—not only writing and performing the film’s original songs, but also lending her voice to four unforgettable characters.

General Admission Tickets Include

Dinner on the Disney Family Farm
Access to Peg’s Speakeasy
Guided Tours of Marceline
Gift Bag
Walt Disney Hometown Museum Admission

General Admission Tickets Schedule

10 AM – 4 PM: Walt Disney Hometown Museum Open
1 PM – 4 PM: Guided Tours of Marceline
6 PM – 7 PM: Peg’s Speakeasy
7 PM – Dinner on the Disney Family Farm
8 PM – Guest Speaker Leslie Iwerks
9 PM – Kiss Goodnight Fireworks

VIP Admission Tickets Include

Access to Guest Speaker Panels
Dinner on the Disney Family Farm
Access to Peg’s Speakeasy
Guided Tours of Marceline
Gift Bag
Walt Disney Hometown Museum Admission

VIP Admission Tickets Schedule

10 AM – 4 PM: Walt Disney Hometown Museum Open
10 AM – 11 AM: Guided Tours of Marceline
1 PM – 4 PM: Guest Speakers Panel
- 1 PM – Marcy Carriker Smothers & Holly Foster Wells
- 2 PM – Matt McKim
- 3 PM – Don Peri
6 PM – 7 PM: Peg’s Speakeasy
7 PM – Dinner on the Disney Family Farm
8 PM – Guest Speaker Leslie Iwerks
9 PM – Kiss Goodnight Fireworks

Disney’s Most Complimented Disney World Cast Member Receives The Walt Disney Legacy Award

By

Sara

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August 21, 2025

A Well-Deserved Award: Disney World Cast Member Honored for Outstanding Service

Before a day of adventure at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, you might find a friendly PhotoPass Cast Member ready to capture a group picture. Whether you’re heading straight for a ride on Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway or to an early breakfast at Hollywood & Vine, they’re there to help kick off your vacation with a memorable shot.

With backdrops including the Chinese Theater, Toy Story Land, or even Gertie at Echo Lake, these cast members make you and your family the true center of the action at Hollywood Studios. And if you’ve ever taken a stroll down Hollywood Boulevard and noticed a cast member with an extra-bright smile, a welcoming wave, and the uncanny ability to make you feel like you are the star of the show, chances are you’ve met Willie Jackson, a PhotoPass photographer who has captured the hearts of guests and cast members alike with his positive attitude and outgoing work ethic.

For the past 15 years, Willie’s joyful spirit and pure enthusiasm has helped create countless magical moments that guests will cherish for a lifetime. Now, Willie will join an incredibly special group of cast members across The Walt Disney Company, as he receives the prestigious Walt Disney Legacy Award.

What is the Walt Disney Legacy Award?

Celebrating Walt Disney’s legacy by acknowledging outstanding cast, crew, and Walt Disney Imagineers worldwide, this global recognition program is inspired by Walt’s personal example and lasting legacy.

With this significant achievement, Willie joins a select group across Disney Experiences who put forth their very best for guests, fellow cast members, and the company as a whole, just as Walt would have.

This inspiring cast member-nominated award is reserved for rare individuals like Willie, who exemplify all three of the Legacy qualities: Dream, Create and Inspire.

Willie joins a very rare class of cast members who were selected for the Legacy Award this year, with fewer than 1% of cast members across Disney Experiences chosen. Over the next several weeks, deserving cast members around the globe will join this special group and experience surprise moments – just like Willie’s – when they learn they have been selected for this remarkable honor.

Willie Breaks the Record for Most Disney World Cast Compliments

Last year, Willie was named the most complimented cast member at Walt Disney World, where he officially hit a milestone moment with more than 1,000 Mobile Cast Compliments from guests.

With this record number of magical moments, thousands of guests visiting from around the world have been able to interact with Willie as he snaps photos as if he is directing a scene from a movie.

So, how was Willie able to collect all of these recognitions? To recognize a cast member who made a difference during your latest visit, open the My Disney Experience app, navigate to the bottom of the menu screen or search for “Cast Compliment,” and tell us how a Disney World cast member made your visit even more memorable.

Willie Receives His Surprise Fit for a Star

After 15 years at Walt Disney World, Willie remains a standout superstar who brings positivity and joy to his role each and every day. However, Willie had no idea what was in store when he started his shift today at Hollywood Studios.

Yesterday, over 100 PhotoPass photographers and Disney leaders gathered to surprise and honor Willie with a special moment as he became one of the newest Legacy recipients. Willie was as joyful as always during this recognition, and took some time to reflect on what this award means to him:

“I’m so joyful and grateful to receive The Walt Disney Legacy Award. I appreciate everyone who supported me from my leaders to peers, what an honor!”

As Willie prepares to don his well-deserved blue nametag, his journey reminds us all of something Walt himself believed, “You can dream, create, design and build the most wonderful place in the world… but it requires people to make the dream a reality.”

@disneyparks
Replying to @ashlieneverafter The most complimented Cast Member at Walt Disney World is now a recipient of the Walt Disney Legacy Award ✨ #DisneyCastLife
♬ original sound – Disney Parks

Direct Entrance from Pixar Place Hotel to Disney California Adventure Closing

By

Sara

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August 21, 2025

Pixar Place Hotel Entrance to Disney California Adventure Is Closing

The Pixar Place Hotel entrance to Disney California Adventure will close on January 5, 2026. While some reports suggest the closure is permanent, Disney has not made an official statement using that specific language, so it is not confirmed for sure.

Starting on January 5, 2026, the entrance from Pixar Place Hotel into Disney California Adventure will be unavailable. Guests can instead use the main park entrance or the entrance located inside Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa.

Interestingly, this closure comes just weeks after Disney installed brand new gates at the Pixar Place Hotel entrance. This shortcut, which opened in 2022 when the hotel was still Paradise Pier Hotel, previously used a Cast Member with a mobile ticketing cart instead of permanent gates. The entrance is located in Paradise Gardens Park, between Corn Dog Castle and Seaside Souvenirs.

Disney stated that the change is part of a strategy to “optimize the guest experience while also considering demand, popularity, and interest.” This suggests the entrance was not utilized enough to justify its continued operation.

The closure of the entrance also coincides with the end of early park entry for resort hotel guests.

Have you ever used this entrance into Disney California Adventure?

If you’d like to book your next visit to the Disneyland Resort, contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are free, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.

Universal CityWalk Hollywood to Celebrate ‘Jaws’ 50th Anniversary with Special Screening

By

Chris B

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August 20, 2025

Universal CityWalk Hollywood to Celebrate 'Jaws' 50th Anniversary with Special Screening

Celebrate 50 Years of JAWS with Special Screenings at Universal CityWalk Hollywood

Just when you thought it was safe to go back to the movies… Universal CityWalk Hollywood is inviting guests to celebrate the 50th anniversary of JAWS with a limited-time theatrical engagement at Universal Cinema, an AMC® Theatre. From August 28 through September 4, moviegoers can relive Steven Spielberg’s iconic thriller that changed the summer blockbuster forever.

The screenings are extra special thanks to Universal Cinema’s cutting-edge technology. The venue is the only theater in the world to feature both a six-story 70MM IMAX® with 4K laser projection and AMC PRIME®, which boasts 4K laser projection, enhanced acoustics, and heated recliner seats with subwoofers built right in. In other words, you’ll feel the suspense of John Williams’ legendary score in your bones.

Guests can also take advantage of a special parking deal during the run. With the purchase of a movie ticket, $5 parking is available via rebate on General Parking at CityWalk. Just present your parking receipt at the Universal Cinema ticket window for redemption.

And because no blockbuster is complete without dinner and a show, CityWalk offers more than 20 dining options to complete the night. Grab a shake at The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium, feast at VIVO Italian Kitchen or Antojitos Cocina Mexicana, or cheer with friends at NBC Sports Grill & Brew.

First released on June 20, 1975, Spielberg’s JAWS became an instant cultural phenomenon, redefining the movie industry and setting the gold standard for edge-of-your-seat thrills. Half a century later, the story of Amity Island, Chief Brody, Hooper, and Quint still bites just as hard.

For screening dates, times, and tickets, visit the Universal Cinema website.

Universal Orlando Unveils Full Look at New Menu for Halloween Horror Nights 2025

By

Chris B

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August 20, 2025

Universal Orlando Unveils Full Look at New Menu for Halloween Horror Nights

Every Ghoulish Bite and Sinister Sip on the Halloween Horror Nights 2025 Menu at Universal Orlando

Halloween Horror Nights is back at Universal Orlando starting August 29, and this year the scares aren’t the only things designed to make your heart race. Universal has revealed the full food and beverage lineup for HHN 2025 via reporting by the Today Show, and the event chefs have pulled inspiration straight from the haunted houses themselves. Expect everything from creepy-cute desserts to over-the-top savory creations, all designed to be “disgustingly delicious.”

Here’s a full look at what you’ll be sinking your teeth into this spooky season.

Haunted House-Inspired Food

Yum Yum Deviled Eggs (Fallout)
They look like traditional deviled eggs but don’t let the appearance fool you. These “eggs” are actually coconut panna cotta shells filled with pineapple whipped ganache and dusted with Tajín for a tangy kick.

Clown Café Bloody Popcorn (Terrifier)
A handheld fright fest: crunchy popcorn chicken tossed with pepperoni, smothered in marinara “blood” sauce, and topped with parmesan cheese.

Elotes (Jason Universe)
Grilled corn on the husk, your way. Choose between cotija cheese with Tajín or crushed Flamin’ Hot Cheetos for extra bite.

Huskus’ Muscle Man Slop (WWE Presents: The Horrors of the Wyatt Sicks)
A messy but delicious sloppy Joe layered with beef, jalapeño bacon, dill pickle chips, and gooey cheese sauce. A true Wyatt feast.

Artist’s Palette (El Artista: A Spanish Haunting)
A sweet treat that’s as artistic as the house itself — sugar-dusted churros served with three sauces: dulce de leche, raspberry jam, and Bavarian cream.

Death by a Cheese Stick (Cursed Carnival)
A giant mozzarella stick with a side of spicy marinara. Simple, melty, and satisfying.

Lyla’s Temper Tantrum Tendies (Dolls…Let’s Play Dead)
Golden fried chicken tenders with two sauce combos to choose from: garlic parmesan with spicy marinara or mesquite BBQ ranch with bourbon BBQ.

Birria Beef Walking Taco (The Cat Lady of Crooked Lane)
A grab-and-go option packed with birria beef, onions, scallions, consommé, and Tostitos Sabritas Salsa Verde for crunch and spice.

Five Nights at Freddy’s Cupcake (Five Nights at Freddy’s)
A creepy confection — chocolate cupcake filled with cannoli cream and raspberry insert, topped with cream cheese buttercream. Freddy-approved.

Returning Fan Favorites

Classic Pizza Fries
The HHN staple is back: crinkle-cut fries loaded with marinara, sausage, pepperoni, and melted cheese.

Twisted Tater Chips
Crispy, spiral-cut potato chips dusted with your choice of spicy cheddar or ranch & vinegar seasoning.

Sinister Sips & Cocktails

Radaway (Fallout)
A themed refresher — lemonade and chipotle pineapple with spiced brown sugar syrup. Comes in a souvenir bag styled after the Fallout video game series.

Starry Night Spritz (Terrifier)
Gran Gala orange liqueur, cranberry juice, and prosecco with a rosemary sprig for a haunting finish.

Crystal Lake Coffee (Jason Universe)
Cold brew spiked with Seagram’s 7 whiskey and DeKuyper Crème de Cacao, sweetened with toasted marshmallow syrup.

Light the Way (Wyatt Sicks)
A Bray Wyatt-inspired cocktail glowing with blue curaçao, Firefly Peach & White Lightning moonshine, Supasawa citrus, simple syrup, and tonic water.

Pack Mule
A mule cocktail with tequila, cassis liqueur, and ginger beer — simple but effective.

Bloody Sour
A twist on a whiskey sour, topped with a pour of pinot noir for a bloody finish. Available at all Universal Orlando hotels.

Spicy Jack-O-Rita
A fall favorite with a kick — pumpkin purée, reposado tequila, chile liqueur, and lime juice with a Tajín rim. Available at Swizzle Lounge in Cabana Bay.

Witches Brew
A dramatic French 75 variation with elderflower and prosecco, served over dry ice for a foggy presentation.

Final Thoughts

From savory sloppy Joes to creepy cupcakes and glowing cocktails, the HHN 2025 food lineup leans harder than ever into its haunted house theming. Whether you’re a foodie looking for inventive twists or a horror fan hoping to taste the terror, Universal’s chefs have made sure there’s something for everyone to devour between screams.

Halloween Horror Nights runs August 29 through November 2 at Universal Studios Florida. Food booths will be scattered throughout the park, with select specialty drinks available at Universal Orlando hotels.

Walt Disney Imagineering Teases the Return of Tom Morrow 2.0

By

Chris B

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August 20, 2025

Walt Disney Imagineering Teases the Return of Tom Morrow

Paging Mr. Morrow… Tom Morrow! Disney fans just got a blast from the past, as Walt Disney Imagineering has teased the return of the beloved robot host Tom Morrow 2.0. The yellow-and-black animatronic, who once served as both Innoventions mascot and Disney Channel personality, popped up in a new Imagineering video with the cheeky caption: “Guess who’s back…”

The video offered a quick look around an Imagineering desk, filled with Disney memorabilia, project notes, and posters for EPCOT classics like CommuniCore and World of Motion. Sitting front and center was a nametag sign for “Imagineering’s new hire” — none other than Tom Morrow 2.0 himself. The clip ended with the words “Coming Soon,” sending fans into speculation mode.

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For those who don’t remember, Imagineer That was a series of Disney Channel interstitials that aired from 1999 to 2001, featuring Tom Morrow 2.0 explaining Imagineering projects and theme park innovations to kids in a fun and futuristic way. Guests could also meet him in person at EPCOT’s Innoventions until his removal in 2007.

At this point, Disney hasn’t confirmed whether Imagineer That is making a straight comeback, whether a brand-new show is in the works, or if Tom Morrow 2.0 will be reintroduced in another way. Either way, it looks like fans will soon be reunited with one of EPCOT’s most nostalgic characters.

The Little Mermaid A Musical Adventure in Hollywood Studios Joining Lightning Lane Multi Pass

By

Chris B

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August 20, 2025

The Little Mermaid A Musical Adventure in Hollywood Studios Joining Lightning Lane Multi Pass

The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure Swims Into Lightning Lane Multi Pass at Hollywood Studios

Life is about to get even easier “under the sea” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios! Disney has confirmed that The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure will officially join the Lightning Lane Multi Pass lineup beginning September 11, 2025. Guests staying at eligible Disney Resort hotels will be able to book this fan-favorite stage show as early as August 20.

While the show debuted back in May as the splashy replacement for Voyage of the Little Mermaid, Lightning Lane access was never actually activated despite signage being in place. Until now, only Disability Access Service guests were able to use the Lightning Lane for return times. This update means everyone can finally skip the longer standby waits and secure guaranteed seating.

Here’s how it breaks down: The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure will be a tier two Lightning Lane option. That means when making selections, you can pick one headliner from tier one (like Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, Slinky Dog Dash, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, or Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster) and then two or three additional experiences from tier two. With Mermaid added, your choices in tier two now include classics like Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage, Toy Story Mania!, Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular, and Tower of Terror.

For those new to the system, Lightning Lane Multi Pass allows advance reservations for select attractions, with resort guests able to purchase and book up to 7 days prior to their arrival for the length of their stay (up to 14 days). Non-resort guests can purchase and book starting 3 days in advance. Pricing varies by date, with higher demand days carrying higher price tags.

This show has quickly become a guest favorite since opening on May 27. Featuring updated special effects, dazzling new musical numbers, and some returning moments that fans of the original will recognize, The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure has proven to be both a nostalgic tribute and a modern upgrade. Initially performed continuously, the show moved to scheduled performance times in June to better handle crowds.

Celebrate 70 Years of Fun with the Mickey Mouse Club 70th Anniversary Dooney and Bourke Collection!

By

Ana Leal

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August 20, 2025

Celebrate 70 Years of Fun with the Mickey Mouse Club 70th Anniversary Dooney and Bourke Collection!

Get ready to sing along because something super special has arrived to celebrate a big milestone: the Mickey Mouse Club’s 70th Anniversary! And what better way to commemorate seven decades of “M-I-C-K-E-Y” than with a stunning new Mickey Mouse Club 70th Anniversary Dooney and Bourke collection? If you’re a fan of classic Disney magic and stylish accessories, you’re going to want to check these out.

First up, we’ve got the Mickey Mouse Club 70th Anniversary Dooney & Bourke Tote for $298. Imagine a collage of iconic imagery from throughout the show’s incredible history. We’re talking Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy, Goofy, Pluto, and even the mischievous Huey, Dewey, and Louie. Plus, you’ll spot some deeper cuts like Morty, Ferdie, Chip ‘n Dale, Humphrey Bear, the Three Little Pigs, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, and even Figaro! Of course, no “Mickey Mouse Club” collection would be complete without the Mouseketeers themselves. With stitched leather finishings and a secure magnetic snap closure, this tote is both a stylish statement and a functional carry-all

If you’re more of a backpack person, you’re in luck! The Mickey Mouse Club 70th Anniversary Dooney & Bourke Backpack is here for $288. It’s the perfect way to “forever hold your banner high” with this upscale fashion backpack. Made with durable coated cotton and fine leather finishings, this backpack features an amazing kaleidoscope of artwork, logos, and fun ephemera from all the different eras of The Mickey Mouse Club. It’s so colorful and detailed, it’ll have you humming the theme song all day long. Plus, it’s practical with a zip-top closure and an exterior zip pocket, both with fancy leather pulls.

And to complete your collection, don’t forget the Mickey Mouse Club 70th Anniversary Dooney & Bourke Wallet for $188. This wallet is also decked out with a fantastic collage of imagery, including Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy, Huey, Dewey, Louie, Chip ‘n Dale, and Humphrey Bear, among others. It’s not just pretty to look at; it’s super practical with three billfold compartments, a whopping 12 card pockets, and an accordion-fold interior to keep all your essentials organized.

This collection is truly a fantastic way to celebrate the enduring legacy of The Mickey Mouse Club. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just love classic Disney, these pieces are a magical blend of nostalgia and high fashion. Which one are you eyeing first?

Credit: Disney Store