First look at 2025 Oogie Boogie Bash Specialty Map

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August 17, 2025

Revealed: The 2025 Oogie Boogie Bash Specialty Map

Oogie Boogie Bash has returned to Disney California Adventure for the 2025 Halloween season! Guests attending this special event can access a specialty map just for the after hours Halloween party.

The 2025 Oogie Boogie Bash map features a striking photo of the event’s iconic prop: the large flat installed annually at Disney California Adventure. The prop showcases a silhouette of Oogie Boogie set against a full moon, with the event’s logo placed directly over the image.

Upon unfolding, the back of the map reveals a combination of event information and advertisements. The inside of the map features a detailed guide to the park, with all of the event’s entertainment, treat trails, and character locations clearly marked for guests’ convenience. A digital version of the map is also accessible through the Disneyland app.

One side of the map provides information for Disney Vacation Club Members and Magic Key Holders, detailing their exclusive perks. It also lists the showtimes for the Frightfully Fun Parade and offers information about Villains Grove. The opposite side includes a legend, allergy-friendly information, and a complete list of all the treat trails for this year’s event.

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Tickets for Oogie Boogie Bash are still available! Contact me today to book your Halloween visit to the Disneyland Resort. I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are free, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.

More Halloween Horror Nights Scare Zones Props Arrive at Universal Studios

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Chris B

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August 17, 2025

More Halloween Horror Nights Scare Zones Props Arrive at Universal Studios

More Scare Zone Props Installed as Halloween Horror Nights 34 Draws Near

Halloween Horror Nights 34 is almost here, and Universal Studios Florida is wasting no time transforming its streets into immersive nightmares. With opening night just under two weeks away, scare zone props and set dressings are being installed throughout the park, giving fans an early peek at what awaits once the fog rolls in.

Here’s a breakdown of the scare zones confirmed for this year — and what we’re spotting so far:

The Origins of Horror (Entrance/Minions Land Area)

The park entrance is becoming a decaying conservatory overrun with twisted vines, eerie foliage, and monstrous décor. Props include gnarled structures draped with moss and gothic-style carvings hinting at gargoyles and sinister crows. This zone feels like a twisted tribute garden to Halloween Horror Nights itself — an ominous shrine to past nightmares.

Masquerade: Dance with Death (Hollywood)

The Hollywood area is already filling with ornate stages and eerie props that resemble the grandeur of a ballroom with a sinister twist. Expect elegant set pieces hiding plenty of bloodthirsty vampires behind their masks. The installations here suggest a hauntingly glamorous setting, perfect for a deadly masquerade.

The Cat Lady of Crooked Lane (Central Park)

Central Park’s winding, tree-covered pathway is being dressed with props straight out of a dark fairytale. Lanterns, fences, and overgrown décor hint at the spooky crooked lane where trick-or-treaters are doomed to transform into feral felines. Even in daylight, the setup gives off a delightfully eerie, Halloween-classic vibe.

Mutations: Toxic Twenties (New York)

In New York, large set pieces are already in place to recreate the chaotic aftermath of a BuzzCon truck colliding with a mobster getaway car. Props suggest a bustling 1920s neighborhood gone horribly wrong, with radioactive chaos about to infect everyone in its path. Look for art deco styling with a toxic twist as Universal prepares to unleash mutated mobsters into the streets.

With towering structures, creeping vines, and vintage vehicles being installed, each scare zone is rapidly taking shape. Soon, lighting, sound effects, and scareactors will complete the transformation, turning Universal Studios Florida into a living nightmare playground.

Halloween Horror Nights 34 kicks off August 29, and if these early props are any indication, this year’s scare zones are set to be some of the most immersive yet!

More Halloween Horror Nights Merchandise Lands at Universal Orlando

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Chris B

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August 17, 2025

More Halloween Horror Nights Merchandise Arrives at Universal Orlando Ahead of Opening Scaremonies

We’re just under two weeks away from the first bone-chilling scaremonies of Halloween Horror Nights 34, and Universal Orlando has stocked the shelves with even more must-have merchandise for the spooky season. From creepy collectibles to stylish apparel, the latest arrivals give fans plenty of ways to show off their HHN pride before the fog rolls in.

Guests can now find an expanded lineup of house-specific tees, including designs inspired by Blumhouse, Terrifier, and the return of HHN icons. The Terrifier collection in particular has already caught plenty of attention, featuring Clown Café–themed shirts with Art the Clown in all his gory glory.

The “Never Go Alone” tagline has returned for 2025 as well, decorating everything from tank tops and t-shirts to shot glasses, hats, and even scented candles that bring a little eerie ambiance home with you. For those who love a more autumn vibe, pumpkin-themed mugs, tees, and house décor are also available.

Universal has also leaned into nostalgia this year with a new line inspired by Mel’s Drive-In. Fans can grab denim backpacks, tumblers, retro-style tees, and trays featuring the iconic diner logo with a Halloween Horror Nights twist—perfect for anyone who likes their scares with a side of milkshakes.

And of course, it wouldn’t be HHN without bold graphic tees. From the electric neon look of the HHN 34 event shirt to the more stylized haunted artwork of Blumhouse and Universal Monsters, there’s something for every horror fan to sink their teeth into.

With scare zone sets popping up across Universal Studios Florida and the Tribute Store still to come, the HHN hype is at an all-time high. This new wave of merchandise is sure to fly off shelves as fans prepare for opening night on August 29.

Farewell to Rip Ride Rockit from the Final Day of Operation

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Chris B

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August 17, 2025

Farewell to Rip Tide Rocket from the Final Day of Operation cover

Farewell to Rip Ride Rockit from the Final Day of Operation

Farewell to Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit: Final Day of Operation Has Come and Gone at Universal Studios Florida

The music has stopped for one of Universal Studios Florida’s most recognizable coasters. After more than 15 years of thrills, Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit took its final bow yesterday, August 18, 2025. Fans lined up for one last ride, braving summer heat and stormy skies to say goodbye to a Universal original, complete with characters from the ride video welcoming guests in the entry queue!

Opening in 2009, Rip Ride Rockit quickly became a park icon with its towering 167-foot vertical lift hill and the unique ability to let riders choose their own soundtrack. From classic rock to pop hits (and even hidden “secret tracks” for those in the know), the coaster blended music and adrenaline like no other. Its glowing track above the New York and Production Central areas of the park made it a fixture of the skyline—and a must-do for thrill seekers.

On its last day, the coaster reminded everyone why it left such a lasting mark. Afternoon thunderstorms rolled into Orlando, forcing the ride to close multiple times throughout the day due to lightning in the area. But that didn’t deter fans—every time the coaster reopened between weather delays, the queue immediately swelled to a 2+ hour wait as guests scrambled to secure one last spin through the non-inverting loop.

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Rip Ride Rockit was more than just a roller coaster; it was part of the park’s personality. From the moment you strapped in and hit your music selection button, you knew you were in for a one-of-a-kind experience. Whether you were belting out Gloria Gaynor’s “I Will Survive,” jamming to The Beastie Boys, or discovering a hidden gem in the secret playlist, the ride turned every trip into your own private concert.

Now, as Rip Ride Rockit officially closes, Universal looks ahead to the future. The resort has already confirmed the site will make way for a brand-new experience, though details remain under wraps we do know some type of roller coaster will be installed in this area. For longtime fans, though, the coaster’s legacy will always be tied to its unforgettable mix of music, thrills, and memories.

Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit may be gone, but it won’t be forgotten. As the final trains returned to the station, the lyrics of one of its most famous tracks seemed to ring truer than ever: Don’t stop believin’.

Chief Brody’s Truck from JAWS Parked in San Francisco area of Universal Studios Florida

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Chris B

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August 17, 2025

Chief Brody’s Truck from JAWS Parked in San Francisco area of Universal Studios Florida

Chief Brody’s Truck Arrives in San Francisco at Universal Studios Florida

Chief Brody is back on duty in Amity, or at least in Universal Studios Florida’s San Francisco area! Fans of the classic Jaws film have a brand-new photo op to enjoy as Sheriff Brody’s iconic truck has rolled into the park, perfectly timed to keep the 50th-anniversary celebration swimming along.

Earlier this summer, Universal Orlando went all out for Jaws’ milestone birthday with themed food booths, special treats, and nostalgic displays. Those limited-time offerings have now been cleared away to make space for the upcoming Halloween Horror Nights, which kicks off in just two weeks. But while the booths have sailed off into the sunset, Brody’s truck has pulled in to carry on the celebration.

Parked right in the San Francisco area, the truck is a fantastic nod to Amity’s most famous shark hunter. It’s already catching the attention of guests looking for that perfect shark-bite of nostalgia and an Insta-worthy shot. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the 1975 classic or just love a good throwback, this is one photo op you won’t want to miss.

The appearance of Chief Brody’s truck feels like Universal’s way of giving fans a little something extra even as the park shifts gears into full HHN mode. With fog machines and scare zones soon taking over the streets, it’s a clever move to keep a piece of summer’s Jaws celebration alive for a little while longer.

Smile, you son of a gun—because you can now snap a pic with Chief Brody’s ride before it swims off again!

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Radiator Springs Racers Closing for Extended Refurbishment Starting Tomorrow

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Sara

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August 17, 2025

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Radiator Springs Racers Begins Extended Refurbishment

Radiator Springs Racers at Disney California Adventure will close for an extended refurbishment starting tomorrow, August 18, 2025.

Disney previously announced that the Radiator Springs Racers attraction in Cars Land would close for refurbishment this summer, without specifying a reopening date. However, recent updates have confirmed that the closure will officially begin on Monday, August 18.

According to the Disneyland website, Radiator Springs Racers is scheduled to reopen on September 26, a little over a month after its closure. As with any construction, this timeline may change. The refurbishment will reportedly include track resurfacing, lighting enhancements, and audio/visual upgrades.

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The last extended refurbishment for Radiator Springs Racers was in 2023, which also lasted several weeks to allow for the repainting of rockwork and replacement of the exterior track.

In addition, the area between Cars Land and Avengers Campus has been blocked by construction walls. This path is being prepped for the planned Avengers Campus expansion and is expected to remain closed until next summer.

Will your trip be impacted by this closure?

Ready 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!

Harry Potter Doughnuts Coming to Krispy Kreme TOMORROW

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Chris B

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August 17, 2025

Harry Potter Doughnuts Coming to Krispy Kreme TOMORROW

Accio doughnuts! Krispy Kreme is bringing a little Hogwarts magic to the muggle world with a brand-new lineup of Harry Potter–themed doughnuts and drinks, launching Monday, August 18. Perfect for “Back to Hogwarts” season, these spellbinding treats let fans show off their house pride in the sweetest way possible.

Related:

Each Hogwarts house gets its own signature doughnut:

Gryffindor Doughnut – A cookie butter–filled shell dipped in red icing and Biscoff crumble, finished with golden drizzle and the Gryffindor crest.
Slytherin Doughnut – The classic Original Glazed topped with chocolate and green buttercreme swirls, chocolate cookie sugar, and the Slytherin crest.
Hufflepuff Doughnut – A brown butter toffee custard–filled shell with golden icing, chocolate drizzle, cookie crunch, and the Hufflepuff crest.
Ravenclaw Doughnut – An Original Glazed dipped in blueberry icing, topped with Ravenclaw sprinkles and crest.

For those who prefer to leave their fate to the Sorting Hat, Krispy Kreme is also offering a limited-edition Sorting Hat Doughnut. This chocolate-dipped treat is filled with a mystery Kreme color that reveals your Hogwarts house with one bite—no Professor McGonagall required!

To wash it all down, fans can sip on the Golden Snitch Latte, a caramel-toffee inspired drink topped with whipped cream, Biscoff crumble, and a dusting of golden shimmer sugar.

And the fun doesn’t stop there. On August 23, Krispy Kreme will host a special Houses of Hogwarts Day. Fans who show up repping their house colors will score one free Original Glazed doughnut, no purchase necessary (while supplies last).

Then, starting September 1, the official day Hogwarts students return to school, Krispy Kreme kicks off a magical giveaway. Fans will have the chance to win a trip to either Universal Studios Hollywood or Universal Orlando Resort, with airfare included. And if you win the Orlando trip? You’ll get to spend a day exploring the all-new Epic Universe!

Whether you’re a brave Gryffindor, loyal Hufflepuff, clever Ravenclaw, or ambitious Slytherin, this is one magical snack run you won’t want to miss.

Disney is Looking for Tall Characters Performers for Walt Disney World

By

Chris B

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August 17, 2025

Disney is Looking for Tall Characters Performers for Walt Disney World

Ready to trade in your Jedi robes or Sith cloaks for a steady gig at Walt Disney World? Disney Live Entertainment has just put out an open call for tall performers to bring Star Wars™ characters (and other Disney icons) to life at the Most Magical Place on Earth!

The audition is set for Saturday, August 30, 2025, at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Wardrobe/Rehearsal Facility in Kissimmee, FL. Check-in runs from 8:30 to 9:00 a.m. sharp—late arrivals won’t be accepted, so don’t hit hyperspace snooze.

Disney is looking for performers between 5’10” and 6’3.5” who are athletic, energetic, and ready to throw themselves into a full range of movement. While the listing highlights Star Wars™ roles, auditionees may also have the chance to portray other beloved Disney characters across the resort.

Some key details for hopeful recruits:

Age & Eligibility: Applicants must be at least 18, authorized to work in the U.S., and hold a valid driver’s license.
Cast Member Restrictions: Current WDW Character Cast Members and International Program participants are not eligible.
Audition Process: A movement routine will be taught, so wear comfy clothes and closed-toe shoes (leave the sandals at home).
Timeline: Disney is looking to fill roles within the next eight months.
Extras: Applicants may be asked to return for a callback fitting.

Whether you dream of wielding a lightsaber, marching as a stormtrooper, or surprising guests as one of Disney’s world-famous characters, this audition could be your chance to step into the story.

May the Force—and a little pixie dust—be with all auditionees!

Pirates of the Caribbean Producer Jerry Bruckheimer Wants Johnny Depp to Return to the Franchise

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Chris B

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August 17, 2025

Pirates of the Caribbean producer Jerry Bruckheimer wants Johnny Depp to Return to the Franchise

The seas of Hollywood may be stirring again for Captain Jack Sparrow!

Pirates of the Caribbean producer Jerry Bruckheimer has confirmed he’s been in talks with Johnny Depp about a potential return to the high seas for the franchise’s long-rumored sixth film. While Bruckheimer has repeatedly described the project as a reboot, he’s made it clear he’d love to see Depp slip back into the boots, beads, and swagger of Captain Jack Sparrow—if the script wins him over.

“If he likes the way the part’s written, I think he would do it,” Bruckheimer told Entertainment Weekly, emphasizing that Depp’s creative spin—part Pepé Le Pew, part Keith Richards—wasn’t just acting, but a total reinvention of the character.

Pirates 6 has been bobbing in development waters for years, with multiple scripts rumored, including one that could star Margot Robbie and another that might bring back Orlando Bloom. Writers have shifted, from Craig Mazin and Ted Elliot before the 2023 Hollywood strikes to current writer Jeff Nathanson, who penned Dead Men Tell No Tales.

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Disney famously cut ties with Depp after the 2017 release of Dead Men Tell No Tales, following public legal battles with ex-wife Amber Heard, but fan calls for his return have never died down. Now, with Bruckheimer hinting they’re “close” to a finished script, the Black Pearl’s sails might just catch wind once again.

If Depp does come back, could we see a mix of old faces and fresh talent? Or will Disney chart an entirely new course? Either way, it looks like the compass might finally be pointing toward Pirates’ next adventure.

Tickets are on-sale now for the Annual Breakfast with Santa at Maria & Enzo’s

By

Catherine

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August 17, 2025

Breakfast with Santa Returns to Maria & Enzo’s at Disney Springs

Get ready to make holiday memories with a festive meal and a special visit from the big man in red! Tickets are officially on sale for the beloved Breakfast with Santa at Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante at Disney Springs. This annual event offers families a magical experience with a delicious family-style breakfast, beautiful holiday decor, and stunning views of Lake Buena Vista.

After you’ve enjoyed your meal, each family will get a special visit with Kris Kringle himself. It’s the perfect opportunity for kids to share their holiday wishes and for the whole family to get a keepsake photo to remember the moment.

New Treats and Early-Bird Pricing

This year’s event has some exciting new additions to make your celebration even more special. You can enhance your experience with indulgent treats, including:

A double crisp chocolate Santa coal
Hot chocolate spoons
Hot cocoa bombs with marshmallows
A limited-edition collectible Christmas tree cup

This popular event will be hosted on multiple dates throughout December: the 13th, 14th, 20th, 21st, 23rd, and 24th.

Don’t wait to book! Special early-bird summer pricing is available now through October 1. Prices start at $84 per adult for Platinum seating, which includes a prime table and first-in-line access to meet Santa. Gold seating starts at $74 per adult, with special rates available for children.

Secure your spot now and start your holiday season off with a truly unforgettable experience!

Disney Team Up with La La Land Kind Café to Launch New Kids’ Menu

By

Catherine

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August 17, 2025

Disney and La La Land Kind Café Brew Up a New Kids’ Menu

Disney’s Mickey & Friends are teaming up with the beloved La La Land Kind Café to launch its first-ever Kids’ Menu. Starting Tuesday, August 19, you and your little ones can enjoy this new offering at all 23 La La Land locations across Los Angeles, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, Austin, and Nashville.

The new Kids’ Menu is mini in size but packed with fun, featuring five delicious drinks and two tasty toasts. Your kids can choose from:

Drinks:

Mini Fruit Punch
Mini Super Strawberry Milk
Mini Cocoa Cuddles
Mini Bloom Milk
Chocolate Covered Banana Cloud Latte

Toasts:

Mini Eggy Avo Toast
Strawberry Banana Slam

Special Surprises and Treats

The fun doesn’t stop with the menu. On Friday, August 22, the first 300 guests at every location will receive a limited-edition Mickey & Friends reusable coffee cup with any purchase.

La La Land Kind Café is also making sure your furry friends feel included with a Pluto-inspired pup cup. And while supplies last, you’ll get a complimentary pet bandana with the purchase of a pup cup.

Look out for extra Disney magic with custom Mickey & Friends beverage sleeves and drink stoppers, and you might even snag a “Be Kind” tote bag or a Disney Munchlings plush toy.

This partnership is all about spreading joy and kindness, combining the iconic yellow cups of La La Land with the cheerful spirit of Mickey & Friends. So grab your family and friends, and head to a La La Land Kind Café to share a cup and a smile!

Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend Merchandise

By

Sara

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August 16, 2025

Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend: A Guide to the Merchandise

Get ready to run on the wicked side! The 2025 Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend, themed after Disney’s most notorious villains, returns September 4–7, 2025. This year, you can channel your inner troublemaker alongside iconic villains like Ursula, Cruella de Vil, and Maleficent. The official runDisney merchandise for the event is here to help you celebrate your mischievous miles in style.

Whether you’re diving into the Disneyland Halloween 5K with Ursula, striding through the Disneyland Halloween 10K with Cruella, or conquering the Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon with Maleficent, the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo is your go-to destination for exclusive event merchandise. This year’s collection is packed with attitude and flair, capturing the essence of each villain and the spirit of the Halloween season.

You’ll find a wide selection of performance apparel and finisher gear, including shirts and jackets in multiple styles. Accessory lovers can look forward to themed Loungefly Mini Backpacks (perfect for stashing your medals), matching Minnie Mouse Ear Headbands with a villainous twist, and more race weekend-themed gear that’s as bold as the characters who inspired it. Magic Key Holders—don’t miss out on your exclusive event merchandise, designed just for you!

Whether you’re taking on the Chills & Thrills Challenge or stretching it out with the Queen of Hearts at runDisney Yoga, this year’s event is packed with personality, power, and a little bit of playful wickedness. And with this year’s merchandise, you’ll be ready to celebrate your finish line moment in true villain fashion.

These commemorative items and more will be available at the Disneyland Hotel during the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo. All guests, runners and non-participants are invited to attend during the following dates and times:

Thursday, Sep. 4, 2025: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Friday, Sep. 5, 2025: 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Saturday, Sep. 6, 2025: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend Virtual Queue Details

Looking to access the first day (Sep. 4, 2025) of the runDisney Merchandise Shop? Expo attendees can do so by joining the virtual queue on the Disneyland app from the comfort of their hotel room or home, up to approximately 90 miles away from Disneyland Resort. Keep in mind, the virtual queue will be the only way to access the shop on the first day of the expo and will be implemented as needed on the following expo days.