Fantasia Gardens Miniature Golf set to undergo refurbishment
Walt Disney World has announced that Fantasia Gardens and Fairways Miniature Golf will be getting a refurbishment this fall, but here’s the twist… the courses aren’t closing!
From September 9 to October 24, 2025, both whimsical 18-hole adventures, inspired by Mickey’s magical misadventures in Fantasia, will stay open while crews work their refurb magic. The only change? No advance tee time reservations. Instead, it’s all first-come, first-served, so if you’re hoping to putt past dancing hippos or dodge a broom brigade, you might want to line up early.
There will also be a temporary schedule tweak. From September 9 through September 23, the courses will open at 12 p.m. instead of 10 a.m., though closing time will remain 10 p.m. By September 24, regular hours should be back in full swing.
This keeps the trend going for Disney’s golf offerings. Just this summer, Winter Summerland Miniature Golf reopened after a two-month refurbishment (that one required a full closure). And over at the Palm Golf Course, the greens are undergoing verification work through August 15.
So whether you’re planning a Sorcerer Mickey showdown or just want an afternoon of putt-putt fun, Fantasia Gardens will still be ready to welcome you, even if the courses are getting a little behind-the-scenes TLC.
Gina Carano may be returning to the Star Wars universe
Gina Carano and Disney have officially closed the book on their years-long legal battle, and, in a twist worthy of a galaxy far, far away, both sides say they’re open to working together again.
Lucasfilm confirmed the settlement in a statement to Variety, saying the companies had reached an agreement to resolve Carano’s pending lawsuit over her 2021 firing from The Mandalorian. “Ms. Carano was always well respected by her directors, co-stars and staff… With this lawsuit concluded, we look forward to identifying opportunities to work together with Ms. Carano in the near future,” the statement read.
Carano’s departure from the hit Disney+ series came after a series of controversial social media posts, including one that compared being a Republican to being Jewish during the Holocaust. Her talent agency, UTA, also dropped her. In 2024, she filed a lawsuit in California federal court alleging wrongful termination and discrimination, demanding reinstatement in The Mandalorian and seeking at least $75,000 in punitive damages.
Disney’s legal team moved to dismiss the suit last year, arguing the company had a First Amendment right to distance itself from Carano’s public statements. Carano, whose legal fight was bankrolled by Elon Musk under his pledge to support people fired for their social media posts, fired back in a post on X, accusing Disney of trying to “control what you say [and] what you think” and claiming the company had “now admitted” to discrimination.
While Carano hasn’t directly commented on the settlement terms, she posted a brief message Thursday morning on X: “… and the truth shall set you free.”
The agreement closes a high-profile chapter in Star Wars TV history — and, if the statements from both parties are to be believed, could even lead to an unlikely reunion between Carano and Disney in the future. Whether that means Cara Dune could someday return to the galaxy far, far away remains to be seen, but in Hollywood, as in hyperspace, stranger things have happened.
To Infinity and Beyond! Regal Cinemas Unveils Toy Story 30th Anniversary Popcorn Bucket and Sipper
Get ready to go “to infinity and beyond” once more! To celebrate the 30th anniversary of Pixar’s original Toy Story, the film is returning to Regal Cinemas. Moviegoers can also get their hands on special commemorative collectibles, including a popcorn bucket and a sipper, to mark the occasion.
Regal will be offering a collectible popcorn container and a cup to celebrate the anniversary. Both items feature Woody and Buzz Lightyear figurines on their lids. A blue Toy Story 30th-anniversary logo is displayed on the side of the black cup and container. The bottom of the souvenirs appears to be decorated with the silhouettes of other beloved characters.
While Regal has not yet announced pricing, similar cups typically cost between $15 and $20, and popcorn buckets are usually priced between $25 and $35.
Get ready to go “to infinity and beyond” all over again! Pixar’s Toy Story is heading back to theaters on September 12, 2025, in celebration of its 30th anniversary. The film originally premiered on November 22, 1995, and launched a beloved franchise that includes multiple sequels, a Buzz Lightyear animated series, a variety of short films, and the spin-off movie Lightyear.
Are you looking forward to experiencing Toy Story in theaters once again?
More Chances to Goofy! D23 Adds New Dates for On the Road: A Goofy Movie Event
D23 has added new dates to its popular “On the Road: A Goofy Movie” event series, giving fans more opportunities to celebrate the film’s 30th anniversary.
The D23 On the Road series is a traveling event that brings a unique and interactive screening experience of A Goofy Movie to cities across the country. Fans can expect exclusive photo ops, trivia, and special event gifts like a commemorative Powerline concert ticket and a Lester’s Possum Park pennant.
Get ready to relive the film’s most iconic moments and songs—D23 style! Throughout the movie, you’ll be part of the magic with a special Activation Kit packed with fun surprises to use during interactive parts of the show.
The event ticket includes:
A big-screen presentation of A Goofy Movie (1995) with interactive, fan-powered moments
An exclusive Activation Kit filled with interactive surprises and themed goodies to make your movie experience extra magical
A limited-edition Lester’s Possum Park pennant
A commemorative Powerline concert ticket with lanyard
A limited-edition A Goofy Movie pin
Photo opportunities inspired by scenes from the film
Exclusive content, trivia, and more!
Cities and dates for this event series include:
Saturday, August 2 – Salt Lake City, UT – SOLD OUT
Megaplex Theatres – Valley Fair Mall – 3601 S 2400 W West Valley, UT 84119
Available Times:
12:30 p.m. MT
3:30 p.m. MT
Sunday, August 10 – Boston, MA – SOLD OUT
Coolidge Corner Theatre – 290 Harvard St Brookline, MA 02446
Available Times:
12:30 p.m. ET
3:30 p.m. ET
Wednesday, August 13 – St. Louis, MO – SOLD OUT
AMC Esquire 7 – 6706 Clayton Rd St. Louis, MO 63117
Available Times:
4:30 p.m. C.T.
7:30 p.m. C.T.
Saturday, August 16 – Chicago, IL
AMC Evanston 12 – 1715 Maple Ave Evanston, IL 60201
Available Times:
12:30 p.m. CT – SOLD OUT
3:30 p.m. CT – SOLD OUT
7:00 p.m. CT – NEW SHOW ADDED!
Thursday, August 21 – Detroit, MI
AMC Livonia 20 – 19500 Haggerty Rd Livonia, MI 48152
Available Times:
4:30 p.m. ET
7:30 p.m. ET – SOLD OUT
Saturday, August 23 – Cleveland, OH
Capitol Theatre – 1390 W 65th St Cleveland, OH 44102
Available Times:
12:30 p.m. ET
3:30 p.m. ET – SOLD OUT
Sunday, August 24 – Indianapolis, IN
Regal Village Park – 2222 E 146th St Carmel, IN 46033
Available Times:
1:30 p.m. ET – SOLD OUT
4:30 p.m. ET – SOLD OUT
8:00 p.m. ET
Thursday, August 28 – Orlando, FL
AMC Dine-In Disney Springs 24 – 1500 E Buena Vista Dr Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
Available Times:
12:30 p.m. ET – NEW SHOW ADDED!
Please note that the 12:30 p.m. ET show does not include the red carpet walk-through experience offered with A Goofy Movie Throwback Premiere
This isn’t just any treat. It’s a sweet, strawberry-flavored ice cream sandwiched between two strawberry crumble baked sugar cookies, all rolled in a delightful, crunchy strawberry crumble. It’s the perfect combination of textures and flavors that fans have been asking for.
You can enjoy this tasty sweet treat for $8.79. Will you be heading to Dino-Bite Snacks to grab this treat?
Wizards Beyond Waverly PlaceSeason 2 Gets a Premiere Date and Star-Studded Guest List
Fans of the magical Russo family, rejoice! The highly anticipated second season of Wizards Beyond Waverly Place, the continuation of the Emmy Award-winning series, is set to premiere on Friday, September 12, with two brand-new episodes on Disney Channel at 7:00 p.m. EDT/PDT and Disney Channel On Demand. For those who prefer to stream, all episodes will be available on Disney+ in the U.S. and select international markets starting Wednesday, October 8.
Season 2 promises a mix of new adventures and a healthy dose of nostalgia, with the return of several fan-favorite characters from the original Wizards of Waverly Place. Bill Chott will reprise his role as the eccentric Mr. Laritate, and Sean Whalen is back as the memorable Mantooth. Adding to the excitement, Amanda Tepe, who had several memorable roles in the original series, will make a special appearance in a Christmas-themed episode.
The guest star lineup for the new season is stacked with talent. Joining Selena Gomez (Alex Russo) in guest roles are Freya Skye from “ZOMBIES 4: Dawn of the Vampires,” Harvey Guillén from “What We Do in the Shadows,” Kirsten Vangsness from “Criminal Minds,” Recker Eans, Tobias Jelinek, Patrick Bristow, and Eleanor Sweeney.
In Season 2, the stakes are higher than ever for the Russo family. Billie (Janice LeAnn Brown) discovers that being a part of the family is more complicated than she thought, especially now that Roman (Alkaio Thiele) and Milo (Max Matenko) have their own magical powers. This leaves Justin Russo (David Henrie) with the challenging task of training three young wizards for the Family Wizard Competition. As the pressure mounts, a mysterious new threat emerges, one that could tear the Russos apart forever.
The series, from Disney Branded Television, is executive produced by Jed Elinoff, Scott Thomas, Gary Marsh, Jonas Agin, Selena Gomez, and David Henrie.
HamiltonHeads to Theaters with an Exclusive Prologue
Get ready to be in the room where it happens! Walt Disney Studios has announced that the filmed version of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s groundbreaking musical, Hamilton, will be released in theaters on September 5, 2025. Tickets are now on sale at Fandango and other ticketing platforms.
While fans have been able to stream the filmed production on Disney+ since 2020, this theatrical release offers a new, enhanced experience. The big-screen version will include an exclusive prologue titled “Reuniting the Revolution,” which features all-new interviews with the original cast and creators. In this special segment, they reflect on the musical’s profound impact on their lives and on the wider world of culture, politics, and education.
Director and producer Thomas Kail expressed his excitement for the theatrical release, stating, “When we filmed Hamilton, we wanted to try to capture the feeling of being in the Richard Rodgers Theatre during that first year on Broadway, and we’re thrilled that audiences will now have the opportunity to experience it on the big screen.”
The film, which was shot at The Richard Rodgers Theatre on Broadway in June of 2016, transports audiences into the world of the stage show in an intimate and thrilling way, blending the best elements of live theater and cinema. It stars the original Tony Award-winning cast, including Lin-Manuel Miranda as Alexander Hamilton, Leslie Odom, Jr. as Aaron Burr, and Renée Elise Goldsberry as Angelica Schuyler.
The theatrical release of Hamilton is part of a global rollout. It will premiere in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico on September 5. Following that, it will be released in the U.K. and Ireland on September 26, and in Australia and New Zealand on November 13.
Annual Passholders, Get a “Totally Sweet Sundae” at Animal Kingdom
New perks and extras are available for Disney World Annual Passholders! The Totally Sweet Sundae, one of those extras, is now available for a limited time at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Sweeten your day with a Passholder-exclusive sundae—available for purchase at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park.
The Totally Sweet Sundae is a tasty tribute to Crush—the totally tubular turtle from the Disney and Pixar film Finding Nemo. This decadent dessert features Butter Pecan Ice Cream topped with Hot Fudge, Caramel, Candied Pecans and Whipped Cream. It’s garnished with Sea Blue Sugar and served in a White Chocolate-dipped Waffle Bowl. Yum!
Location: Available at Dino-Bite Snacks, located in DinoLand U.S.A. at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
Dates: Now through September 27, 2025
Each Passholder must be present and show their valid Annual Pass card, linked MagicBand, MagicBand+ or Disney MagicMobile pass and a government-issued photo ID to purchase.
Just Keep Swimming Frost: A Cool New Treat for Disney World Passholders
Walt Disney World Annual Passholders can cool off with a new frost! The Just Keep Swimming frost is available for a limited time at Disney’s Animal Kingdom park.
This summertime beverage is made with Joffrey’s signature frozen lemonade, Minute Maid® lemonade and blue raspberry syrup, topped with SKITTLES® POP’d Original Freeze-Dried Candy.
This Passholder-exclusive beverage is available now through September 27, 2025, at Joffrey’s in Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park.
At the time of purchase, Passholders must present their valid Annual Pass ID from the Tickets and Passes section of their My Disney Experience app and a valid government-issued photo ID.
Make a Splash with New Annual Passholder-Exclusive PhotoPass Magic Shots at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Attention WDW Annual Passholders, it’s time to dive into some photo fun at Disney’s Animal Kingdom! Starting now, Passholders can enjoy three exclusive Disney PhotoPass Magic Shots inspired by everyone’s favorite underwater pals from Finding Nemo and Finding Dory. These limited-time photo ops are the perfect way to capture your memories and add a little aquatic magic to your next park day.
You’ll find these fin-tastic shots across from Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond!, and each one features a unique Pixar moment that’ll make your photo album sea-riously special.
Becky’s Overhead Adventure (Available now through September 27, 2025) Look up and smile—Becky the loon is flying overhead with a pail holding none other than Nemo and Marlin! This playful Magic Shot is perfect for anyone who loves the quirky humor of Finding Dory.
Mount Wannahockaloogie Postcard Shot (Available September 4 through September 27, 2025) Say “bub-bub-bub-bub-bubbles!” and strike a pose with a postcard backdrop featuring Mount Wannahockaloogie. Once your shot is captured, open the My Disney Experience app to reveal Peach the starfish making her surprise appearance!
Hangin’ with Hank (Also available September 4 through September 27, 2025) Hank the octopus is here to photobomb your vacation—Disney style. This clever, colorful Magic Shot is perfect for fans of the “septopus” and adds a quirky, nautical flair to your day.
How to Participate:
To take part in these photo ops, just find a Disney PhotoPass photographer stationed across from Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond! You’ll need to show your valid Annual Pass ID in the “Tickets and Passes” section of your My Disney Experience app, along with a government-issued photo ID.
Keep in mind that PhotoPass photographers can’t accept MagicBands, MagicMobile, or plastic Annual Pass cards for validation—only the digital pass in the app will do the trick.
A theme park reservation is required unless visiting on a “good-to-go” day or after 2:00 PM (subject to availability and blockout dates).
Magic Shots are available for download for 365 days from the date they’re taken—as long as your pass is still linked and valid at the time of capture.
These special shots are only available for Annual Passholders—so be sure to flash that digital pass before you strike a pose.
Whether you’re channeling your inner sea star, dodging a bird divebomb, or chilling with Hank, these Magic Shots are the perfect souvenir to remember your undersea adventure by.
Located on the historic Universal backlot, “Terror Tram: Enter the Blumhouse” will enable visitors to disembark the Studio Tour tram and set off on foot to encounter some of the most iconic villains from Blumhouse’s popular horror franchises over the past 15 years at Universal Studios Hollywood's Halloween Horror Nights.
Poltergeist, Purge, and Pure Terror: Universal Studios Hollywood Unleashes Full Halloween Horror Nights 2025 Lineup
This fall, Universal Studios Hollywood is dialing the screams up to eleven with the full reveal of its Halloween Horror Nights 2025 slate—and it’s downright diabolical. From supernatural classics to blood-soaked stunt shows and killer scare zones, this year’s event promises to be one of the most unrelenting fright fests in recent memory.
Amazon MGM Studios’ supernatural cult horror classic Poltergeist will bring guests “into the light” only at Universal Studios Hollywood’s Halloween Horror Nights event
Halloween Horror Nights 2025 kicks off Thursday, September 4, and continues on select nights through Sunday, November 2. And if you’re brave enough to step into the darkness, here’s what you’ll face…
🪦 Welcome to the Light: Poltergeist Haunted House
Only at Universal Studios Hollywood, Amazon MGM Studios’ iconic supernatural horror film Poltergeist is getting the haunted house treatment—and it’s pulling no punches. Guests will be lured “into the light” and into the Freeling family home, where eerie apparitions, ghostly chaos, and iconic moments from the 1982 cult classic are waiting to terrorize. This is not the suburban nostalgia trip you remember.
🚨 Terror Tram: Enter the Blumhouse
Backlot mayhem is back! This year’s Terror Tram invites you to step off the tour and walk straight into Blumhouse’s cinematic nightmares. Expect close encounters with:
The Grabber (The Black Phone)
M3GAN and her cold, calculating dance moves
The possessed from Exorcist: The Believer
Killers from The Purge, Freaky, Insidious, Happy Death Day… and more
R.I.P. Tour guests can even meet some of these maniacs (because apparently watching them stalk you isn’t enough).
🔥 “The Purge: Dangerous Waters” Stunt Show Returns
Over at the WaterWorld venue, prepare for pyrotechnics, jet-ski stunts, and chaos on the high seas in The Purge: Dangerous Waters. This high-octane, fire-fueled show drops you into the chaos of the Purge night, where survival is anything but guaranteed.
💀 Scare Zones Ready to Haunt Your Nightmares
Four sinister scare zones will make sure there’s no safe path through the park:
Chainsaw Clownz: They’re back, they’re loud, and they’re fast.
Carnival of Carnage: It’s all fun and games until someone gets slashed.
Noche de Brujas: A haunting tribute to Latin American folklore, where witches rule the night.
Murder of Crowz: Returning fan-favorites who really don’t want you near their nest.
🎃 Plus All the Houses You Already Fear
Joining the new announcements are a truly stacked haunted house lineup:
Fallout (Prime Video)
Five Nights at Freddy’s
Terrifier
WWE Presents: The Horrors of The Wyatt Sicks
Jason Universe
Scarecrow: Music by Slash
Monstruos 3: The Ghosts of Latin America
Yes, that’s 10 haunted houses of horror mayhem waiting for you.
Big style changes are setting sail at Magic Kingdom! Walt Disney World has unveiled brand-new cast member costumes for the beloved Pirates of the Caribbean attraction, and we must say—these looks are ready to plunder the hearts of guests and landlubbers alike!
The new wardrobe will debut across the ride, the adjacent gift shop, and the nearby tavern, giving the entire corner of Adventureland a unified, immersive refresh. And based on these photos, the crew looks sharp enough to make even Captain Jack do a double-take!
Each costume evokes the grit and rugged charm of a swashbuckling Caribbean port town, with rich textures and earthy tones. We’re talking weathered burgundy tunics, piratey pinstripes, and enough mix-and-match accessories to make Davy Jones envious. Belts, pouches, vests, sashes, and wide-brimmed hats round out the look—practical for treasure hunting and giving directions to the nearest rum (uh, we mean churro) stand.