Fore-warning: Disney’s Palm Golf Course Temporarily Closed for Aerification August 4–15
Heads up, golfers! If you’re planning to tee off at Walt Disney World Resort this August, you’ll want to take note of a temporary change to the greens. Disney’s Palm Golf Course will be closed for scheduled aerification starting Monday, August 4th, 2025, and is expected to reopen on Friday, August 15th.
According to a notice posted on the official Walt Disney World Golf website, this short-term closure is all about long-term benefits—enhancing turf health and course conditions to ensure that future rounds are as magical as ever. Aerification might sound like a villainous spell from a Disney movie, but it’s actually a key part of golf course maintenance, helping the grass breathe and recover from wear and tear.
While Palm is getting its royal refresh, guests are encouraged to book tee times at either Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course or Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course—both of which will remain open and ready to welcome players during the Palm closure.
Full Menu and Prices Revealed for The Beak and Barrel, Magic Kingdom’s Newest Tavern
Arrr, mateys! The wait is nearly over for fans of swashbuckling adventures and delicious provisions. Walt Disney World has officially released the full menu and prices for The Beak and Barrel, a new Pirates of the Caribbean-themed tavern opening at Magic Kingdom. Taking over the former space of The Pirates League, this new venue is scheduled to open its doors on August 29, 2025.
Reservations for The Beak and Barrel will open to the public on August 14, and Disney has confirmed that the tavern will be operating during special ticketed events, including Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party nights.
The menu promises a unique blend of island-inspired flavors, with a focus on shareable small plates, creative cocktails, and a robust selection of rums.
From the Galley: Provisions and Small Plates
The food menu features three distinct small plates designed for sharing. The Island Provisions ($16) platter offers plantain chips, blue corn tortillas, and toasted flatbread with a variety of dips including Mango Chutney and Spiced Guava.
For a heartier option, the Cook’s Corn Griddle Cakes come with a choice of either Chipotle-braised Chicken ($14) or Roasted Corn and Poblano Peppers ($12), both stuffed with melted cheese and served with lime sour cream.
Adventurous eaters can try the Kraken’s Catch ($18), featuring octopus tentacles marinated in lemon and lime juice. Disney has also included a detailed allergy-friendly menu for each of these items.
Libations Fit for a Pirate
The Beak and Barrel lives up to its tavern name with a drink menu that is both extensive and imaginative. The signature cocktails are a major highlight, with intriguing names and ingredients.
The Siren’s Whisper ($20) is a rum blend with Blue Curaçao and peach liqueur, while the Port of Call ($19) mixes London Dry Gin with Ruby Port.
For a truly unique experience, the Plunderer’s Punch ($46) is a Kraken Black Spiced Rum concoction served in a souvenir pirate skull mug.
Beyond the cocktails, the menu includes a selection of fine wines, draft beers like Victory Brewing Co.’s Pirate’s Paradise Blonde Ale ($11.50), and bottled options such as Modelo Especial Lager ($10.25).
For rum connoisseurs, the Reserve Rum Selections offer a 2-oz pour of premium spirits like Flor de Caña 25 yr Rum for $45.
The Lit Fuse ($18.50) features Mezcal, Crème de Banane Liqueur, and smoked chili bitters, while Barrels Ablaze ($19) combines Jack Daniel’s Bonded Bourbon with honey, lemon, and chile.
The Hibiscus Rum Punch Royale ($19) offers a refreshing mix of rum, hibiscus, and lime topped with Prosecco, and the Salty Seas mARRRgarita ($20) is a unique take on the classic with tequila, Cointreau, and Ube.
Non-alcoholic specialty beverages are also available, including the Treasure Trove ($13.75), a vibrant Ube, lemon, and coconut concoction served with a vanilla cake plank, and the sweet Cursed Treasure ($7.75) with coconut milk and cookie crumbs.
Finally, guests can snag some exclusive merchandise, including a new Barker Bird shoulder plush, to commemorate their visit. Get ready to set sail for a culinary adventure when The Beak and Barrel officially opens later this month!
Get ready, Bingo and Bandit fans! LEGO and Bluey are joining forces for a free in-store event at your local Barnes & Noble that promises to be a blast for the whole family. From August 22nd to August 24th, kids and their grown-ups are invited to a special building event where creativity and fun are the main ingredients.
The star of the show is the chance for kiddos to build their very own LEGO Duck Cake to take home. Inspired by the famous and hilarious episode of Bluey, this free-to-build activity is designed for children aged 4 and up, but the entire family is encouraged to join in the fun and build together. It’s the perfect opportunity for little ones to get hands-on with LEGO bricks and for everyone to enjoy a memorable Bluey-themed experience.
But the fun doesn’t stop at the build! As a sweet bonus, all weekend long, Cake Pops will be BOGO 50% off at the in-store cafés. It’s the perfect treat to enjoy after building your masterpiece.
To make sure you don’t miss out on this fantastic collaboration, be sure to check here to find the specific dates and times for your local event. Mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate with two of the most beloved brands in entertainment and play!
Revenge of the Mummy to Close Briefly for Refurbishment at Universal Studios Florida
Looks like the curse is taking a quick nap! Revenge of the Mummy, the fan-favorite indoor coaster at Universal Studios Florida, will be temporarily closed from August 11–13, 2025, for a short refurbishment.
According to the Universal Orlando Resort Theme Park Hours page, the closure appears to be for routine maintenance, with no major changes or enhancements announced at this time. So if you’re planning to tour the tombs of Imhotep next week, you might want to adjust your itinerary—or risk awakening his wrath another day.
For those unfamiliar, Revenge of the Mummy plunges guests into an ancient curse with fireballs, scarab beetles, and more twists than a scroll of hieroglyphs. It’s a must-do for thrill seekers and Brendan Fraser fans alike!
While it’s always a bummer when a headliner goes down, the good news is that this is only a three-day closure. If you’re visiting later in the month, you should still be able to brave the tomb and escape the curse—if you’re lucky.
It’s Alive… and Popular! Monsters Unchained Hits 1 Million Riders at Universal Orlando
Break out the lightning bolts and crank up the Tesla coils—Epic Universe’s Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment has officially welcomed 1 MILLION riders since opening to the public in May!
The milestone was revealed in a celebratory tweet by Gregory Hall, Creative Director behind the attraction (as well as heavy-hitters like VelociCoaster, Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, and The Incredible Hulk Coaster). Hall proudly shared the news via X, which is incredibly impressive considering that Monsters Unchained hit the mark just a few months after its debut.
This electrifying dark ride, located in Dark Universe at Epic Universe, has quickly become a fan favorite—and it’s no mystery why. With larger-than-life animatronics, next-level practical effects, and a story that plunges guests deep into Dr. Frankenstein’s twisted experiments, the attraction reimagines Universal’s classic monsters for a new generation of scream-seekers.
Despite its immense popularity, Monsters Unchained has managed to keep wait times shockingly low, thanks to its high throughput of more than 2,000 riders per hour. That’s efficiency worthy of Victor Frankenstein himself!
From Frankenstein’s Monster to the Wolfman and Dracula, the attraction is a spine-tingling love letter to the Universal Monsters legacy—balancing horror and spectacle in a way only Universal can.
With a million riders already zapped into the lab, it’s clear: this monster is no misfire—it’s a monster hit!
Permit Activity Picks Up Around The Magic of Disney Animation as Hollywood Studios Preps for Major Transformation
A little Disney magic is brewing behind the scenes at Disney’s Hollywood Studios! A new construction permit has been filed for the Feature Animation building, marking the latest sign that big changes are underway in the Animation Courtyard area—home to the now-closed Star Wars Launch Bay and the former Magic of Disney Animation attraction.
Filed on August 5th, the new permit references the address 200 Showbiz Blvd., a location with deep Disney roots. This backstage building was once part of a working animation studio where films like Lilo & Stitch were brought to life. Disney Parks Blog even recently gave fans a rare glimpse inside the historic facility, stoking excitement for what’s to come.
This is actually the second permit filed this week in the same zone, following one at nearby 190 Showbiz Blvd., and continues a flurry of activity that began in July. Other permits have included updates to the entrance archway and even a popcorn kiosk, all indicating that this area is about to get a serious glow-up.
The new permit, like others before it, lists a general scope of “provide labor, material and/or electrical for construction,” and once again names Buena Vista Construction Company as the contractor. That’s typically Disney’s go-to team for smaller or prep projects—suggesting this is early groundwork before the main event begins.
A Return to Animation Roots
So what exactly is coming? In a delightful full-circle moment, Disney previously announced that the Animation Courtyard building will return to its animation-focused origins as part of a larger reimagining of the space. The updated attraction will be called The Walt Disney Studios and is inspired by Disney’s real-world animation campus in Burbank, California.
This new experience is designed to celebrate the spirit of creativity seen in the Once Upon a Studio short film, and will include:
An indoor Alice in Wonderland-themed playground, based on Mary Blair’s whimsical concept art
A reimagined Mickey’s Sorcerer Hat façade, modeled after the one on the Roy E. Disney Animation Building
Interactive areas for guests of all ages to laugh, draw, and dream alongside their favorite characters
It’s not just the animation building getting some TLC. The nearby Disney Junior Play & Dance! show is ending on September 24, with a new Disney Junior show slated to debut sometime next year. Meanwhile, Star Wars Launch Bay will officially close on September 25, making way for this animated rebirth.
This marks a major shift in Hollywood Studios’ identity, leaning into its heritage while embracing new, family-friendly experiences—and we’re totally here for it!
Live-Action ‘Lilo & Stitch’ Movie Gets Disney+ Premiere Date
After its monumental success at the box office this summer, the live-action Lilo & Stitch movie is set to make its streaming debut on Disney+ on September 3, 2025. It became the first Hollywood film of the year to cross the $1 billionmark globally, and fans will soon be able to watch the film at home.
According to a report from Deadline, the live-action Lilo & Stitch movie is set to premiere on Disney+ on Wednesday, September 3, 2025. This streaming date comes after a “massive” 124-day theatrical window, as the film originally debuted in theaters on May 23.
The film has indeed been a box office success, reportedly crossing the $1 billion mark globally. It is currently the highest-grossing MPA title of 2025 and the second-highest-grossing movie in the U.S. this year.
The live-action film was directed by Dean Fleischer Camp (known for Marcel the Shell With Shoes On), with a screenplay by Chris Kekaniokalani Bright and Mike Van Waes. A sequel is already in the works, and the original animated film’s co-director and the voice of Stitch, Chris Sanders, is set to write the script.
Get Spooky with the Glow-in-the-Dark Skeleton Dance Loungefly Mini Backpack!
Get ready to do a “danse macabre” with the coolest accessory to drop, the The Glow-in-the-Dark Skeleton Dance Loungefly Mini Backpack! This isn’t just any backpack; it’s a full-on throwback to Walt Disney’s very first Silly Symphony cartoon, The Skeleton Dance. How awesome is that?
For just $80, you can snag this must-have online at the Disney Store. And trust me, it’s worth every penny for the sheer amount of creepy-cute detail packed into it.
The star of the show? A jointed, glow-in-the-dark skeleton that literally rises from the grave and sways back and forth. Seriously, you’ll be giving everyone a little rhythmic bone-rattling action as you stroll by.
But the fun doesn’t stop there! This backpack is a whole haunted party on your back. You’ll find owls, black cats, and bats adding to the eerie, yet totally charming, scenery all around. It’s got all the spooky vibes you need, whether you’re heading to the parks, a Halloween party, or just adding a touch of ghoulish delight to your everyday look.
So, if you’re ready to embrace your inner skeleton dancer, you know what to do, grab this Loungefly gem before it disappears into the graveyard!
This Jack Skellington and Zero Christmas Countdown Ornament Will Be Your New Holiday Obsession
Oh man, have I got something cool to tell you about that’ll make your spooky little heart sing, even during the holidays! We’re talking about the Jack Skellington and Zero Christmas Countdown Ornament, and trust me, it’s a game-changer for all you Nightmare Before Christmas fans out there.
For just $29.99, you can snag this awesome piece of Disney magic online at the Disney Store. Seriously, if you’re like Jack and you’re always looking ahead, dreaming up new ways to celebrate, this ornament is practically a must-have.
First off, let’s talk about the absolute cuteness overload. You’ve got Jack Skellington himself, dressed up as “Sandy Claws” (because, you know, he tried!), alongside his loyal, glowing-nosed pal, Zero. It’s a beautifully sculpted ornament that’ll look awesome on your tree, or honestly, anywhere you want a little bit of Halloween-Christmas mashup magic.
But here’s where it gets really fun: this isn’t just a pretty face. This bad boy is a countdown ornament! And not just for the measly 25 days of December. Oh no, you can literally count down up to 364 days a year. Imagine the possibilities! Starting your Christmas countdown in January, anyone? The ornament has these cool, manually functional hands that turn to mark the months, and little dials that let you punch in the exact number of days. It’s so satisfying to click those numbers down, knowing you’re one step closer to that magical day.
Get Your Head in the Game: High School Musical Merch Lands at BoxLunch!
You want to get your head in the game? Good, because BoxLunch Gifts has some super cool High School Musical merchandise that’ll have you singing “We’re All in This Together” in no time! These items are BoxLunch exclusives, meaning you won’t find them anywhere else, and you can snag them both online and in stores.
First up, for all you true Wildcats, you have to check out the High School Musical East High Varsity Jacket for $99.90. This isn’t just any jacket; it’s got that classic “EHS” embroidered right on the front, so everyone knows where your loyalty lies. Turn around, and you’ll see the fierce wildcat mascot chilling between “East High Wildcats” lettering, iconic! And get this, one sleeve boasts matching lettering while the other is decked out with awesome drama club patches. Talk about hitting a high note with your style!
If you’re looking for something a bit more casual but still packed with school spirit, the High School Musical Wildcats Long Sleeve T-Shirt for $49.90 is calling your name. It features an embroidered East High logo on the front, subtle but stylish. But the real showstopper is on the back with “Wildcats” lettering in a cool puff print. Plus, it’s got panel details and a woven logo patch, adding those extra touches that make it stand out. This shirt is perfect for rocking out whether you’re at a pep rally or just chilling with friends.
And for those who want to stay comfy while channeling their inner Sharpay or Gabriella, the High School Musical East High Active Dress for $47.90 is a total must-have. This dress comes in East High’s signature colors and features the school’s initials and logos embroidered near the front zipper. With a crisp white border print on the collar and sleeves, it’s a super cute and comfy way to show off your love for all things High School Musical. Imagine rehearsing your next lunchroom musical number in this!
So, whether you’re a jock, a brainiac, or somewhere in between, BoxLunch has the perfect High School Musical gear to help you show off your Wildcat pride. Which piece are you most excited to add to your collection?
Get Spooked! The Nightmare Before Christmas Collection Has Arrived To The Disney Store!
Alright, spooky season fans and everyday ghouls, listen up! The Disney Store has just dropped a collection inspired by Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas, and trust me, it’s so good it’s scary. Whether you’re all about Halloween Town vibes or just love a bit of quirky charm, there’s something here for everyone.
Let’s dive into the apparel and accessories, because who doesn’t want to channel their inner Pumpkin King (or Queen)? First up, the Jack Skellington Cardigan for $69.99. This isn’t just any cardigan; it’s got Jack’s signature pinstripes and an adorable embroidered patch of his face. You’ll be looking frightfully chic rocking this, whether you’re strolling through town or just hanging out in your own personal Halloween Town. And if you’re feeling a bit more formal, the Jack Skellington Dress for $128 is a must-have. It’s a chic, sleeveless cotton-blend dress inspired by his pinstriped suit, complete with a bat tie appliqué and pearl buttons. Perfect for the parks, a night out, or honestly, anytime you want to make a statement.
To carry all your haunting essentials, check out the Jack Skellington Loungefly Mini Backpack for $80. This beauty shines with an allover iridescent print featuring all of Jack’s many expressions. Plus, it’s lined with a super cute print of Jack and Zero. Talk about a stylish way to carry your stuff, whether it’s haunting season or just a regular Tuesday. And for a little something extra, the Oogie Boogie Earrings for $26.99 are a scream! These acrylic dangle earrings feature the bug-filled villain himself. They say keep your friends close and your enemies closer, so now you can literally keep Oogie Boogie hanging around.
Now, let’s talk about making your home a little more Nightmare-y. The Santa Jack Skellington Figural Pillowfor $39.99 is super soft and cuddly, complete with his handsome features and a plush “Sandy Claws” hat. He’s ready to add a cozy thrill to your holiday decor. To really get snug, grab The Nightmare Before Christmas Throw Blanket for $39.99. This velvety blanket features Santa Jack, wreaths, presents, and some classic Halloween Town icons like skulls and black cats. You’ll want to snuggle up under this from Halloween through the holidays and beyond.
For your hot beverage needs, the Santa Jack Skellington Figural Mug for $24.99 is just the thing. Featured in his Sandy Claws hat, Jack is ready to make any drink, even frog’s breath (if you’re brave enough!), feel more festive. And to stay hydrated on the go, the Oogie Boogie 32 oz. Stainless Steel Water Bottle and Carrier for $59.99 is a total game-changer. This clever set includes a colorful water bottle that fits perfectly in a neoprene carrier with an adjustable strap and an attached Oogie Boogie zip pouch. Staying hands-free and thirst-free while you boogie has never been easier!
Finally, for the collectors and the kids at heart, there are some awesome plush and toys. The Nightmare Before Christmas 13-Day Countdown Calendar for $159.99 is a chillingly fun way to count down to Halloween or the holidays. Each door in this coffin-shaped calendar hides a cute mini plush of characters like Santa Jack, Sally, and more! And for a loyal companion, the Zero Magnetic Shoulder Light-Up Plush for $29.99 is amazing. This light-up plush Zero sits on your shoulder with a magnetic disc and even illuminates with a haunting glow. Last but not least, the Sally Cuddleez Plush for $29.99 is super soft and squishy, with embroidered details. She’s destined to be your flat-out favorite snuggle buddy.
So, what are you waiting for? Head over to the Disney Store and snag these frightfully fantastic items before they vanish like ghosts in the night!
Oh, Bother! It’s the Adorable Winnie the Pooh Halloween Collection!
If you’re anything like us, you’re already counting down the days until spooky season. And what better way to get into the Halloween spirit than with some adorable gear featuring our favorite Hundred Acre Wood pals? The new Winnie the Pooh Halloween Collection is here, and it’s full of treats (no tricks!) that’ll make you say “Oh, bother!” with delight.
First up, we’ve got the Winnie the Pooh and Tigger Halloween T-Shirt for just $29.99. This all-cotton tee is pure cuteness! Tigger’s doing his best pouncing pumpkin impression on the back, while Pooh’s looking absolutely “gourd-geous” in his costume on the front. The oversized screen art on this shirt means you’ll be celebrating Halloween in a big, adorable way. It’s perfect for a trip to the pumpkin patch or just chilling out with some candy corn!
When the evenings get a little chilly, you’ll want to snuggle up in the Winnie the Pooh and Piglet Halloween Pullover Hoodie, priced at $59.99. Pooh seems to have gone a little batty for Halloween on the front of this cozy, heathered sweatshirt. But flip it around, and you’ll see him holding his sweet pal Piglet in front of a giant spiderweb. With embroidered appliqué and screen art, this hoodie is so cute it’s scary, in the best way possible!
Need a new bag for all those Halloween goodies (or just your everyday essentials)? Look no further than the Winnie the Pooh and Piglet ”Happy Hunny Ween” Tote Bag for $39.99. Pooh, dressed as a honey bee, and Piglet, perched on a pumpkin, are absolutely ready for “Hunny Ween” (or whatever you want to call it!). This corduroy carryall isn’t just visually delightful; it’s smart too, with a roomy compartment, an interior pocket, and a snap closure.
Youth Pullover Sweatshirt
And let’s not forget the little ghouls and goblins! The Youth Pullover Sweatshirt, at $39.99, is perfect for them. This white sweatshirt features a printed image of Winnie the Pooh, Piglet, Eeyore, and Tigger. Tigger’s sporting some homemade wings, while Pooh, Piglet, and Eeyore are holding “Boo” bunting. Plus, there’s “Eeeeeek!” in puffy black and orange lettering with a spider above the characters. It’s just the right amount of spooky fun for the younger fans!
This collection is seriously the sweetest way to get into the Halloween spirit. Which piece are you most excited to add to your wardrobe?
