Disney Drops a Kingdom Hearts Reference in New Key to Disneyland Video
In a playful nod to the beloved video game, Disney released a video for its Key to Disneyland experience that parodies the gameplay of Kingdom Hearts. The video transforms the classic park experience into a quest, complete with a Keyblade and memorable Disney-themed objectives, delighting fans with a creative crossover that blends the magic of the parks with the world of the games.
The video follows a “player” dressed in a Kingdom Hearts-inspired outfit, much like protagonist Sora’s attire from Kingdom Hearts III. The player is shown running and jumping around the Mickey flowerbed at the front of Disneyland Park, on a quest to find the key station. After locating it, they “unlock” the station with their key, which activates the station’s effects.
Adding to the game-like feel, the video also features on-screen graphics that perfectly emulate the iconic user interface from the Kingdom Hearts video games.
The Key to Disneyland experience is a special part of the resort’s 70th anniversary celebration. Guests can purchase a giant key to use at various stations across the park. Once a guest has “unlocked” every station, the key opens to reveal an exclusive trading pin.
Near the back of the Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond! show, a new retaining wall has been constructed for the future Encanto-themed attraction. The work zone is bustling with construction vehicles, pipes, and other materials as the area continues to take shape.
Arrow in this aerial photo where a retaining wall was recently added in the Encanto attraction site in Disney's Animal Kingdom. pic.twitter.com/48jcSTpW5k
In this comprehensive overview of the upcoming Tropical Americas land, it’s clear that most of the work is still in the preparatory phase. However, a small patch of new concrete has been poured just beyond the area that was formerly Chester & Hester’s Dino-Rama, which included TriceraTop Spin, the Fossil Fun Games, and the Cementosaurus.
Aerial overviews of construction of the Encanto attraction in Disney's Animal Kingdom. pic.twitter.com/juVgSkFqZp
Based on these new aerial shots, the upcoming Tropical Americas land appears to have a much larger footprint than the area it replaced, expanding into what were formerly backstage zones.
Mickey and Minnie to Greet Guests Together in Halloween Costumes for the First Time
Mickey and Minnie Mouse are joining forces for meet-and-greets at the Town Square Theater during this year’s Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party! It’s been years since they’ve appeared together for the event, and we’re thrilled to see them return as a duo.
Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is returning to Magic Kingdom in just a couple of weeks! Not only will guests attending get to experience trick-or-treating in the park and special Halloween entertainment, they’ll also get to meet Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse together in the Town Square Theater!
It’s been years since the pair have done meet & greets together during the Halloween party. Other exclusive characters will also be available for guests to meet and interact with. Stay tuned for the full list of characters coming to Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party!
There are still tickets available for this special Halloween event! Contact me today for help with booking your spooktacular visit. I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are free, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation!
Get Ready to Rock with Disney’s “Freakier Friday” Original Soundtrack
Get ready to rock out and switch things up because the official soundtrack for Disney’s highly anticipated film Freakier Friday is now available from Hollywood Records! Just in time for the film’s release on August 8, this new soundtrack is packed with fresh music and the original score from composer Amie Doherty.
The soundtrack brings back some classic tunes from the original 2003 movie, including a new version of the iconic Pink Slip song, “Take Me Away.” This updated track features lead vocals from returning cast member Christina Vidal Mitchell and was produced by Suzy Shinn, known for her work with artists like Panic! at the Disco and Fall Out Boy.
Another fan favorite, “Ultimate,” gets a fresh cover from Canadian alternative rock band The Beaches, who recently won Group of the Year at the Juno Awards. The soundtrack also features the original song “Baby,” which was written by multi-platinum songwriter Sarah Aarons and performed by returning star Lindsay Lohan and new cast member Julia Butters.
The complete track list includes:
“Baby (Acoustic)” – Lindsay Lohan
“Better Than the Last One (Ella)” – Chantry Johnson
“One Fine Day” – Maitreyi Ramakrishnan
“Baby” – Lindsay Lohan and Julia Butters
“Take Me Away” – Pink Slip and Christina Vidal Mitchell
Freakier Friday picks up years after the original, with Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan reprising their roles as Tess and Anna Coleman. This time, Anna has a daughter and a soon-to-be stepdaughter. As the two families try to navigate merging, Tess and Anna discover that they might be in for another major identity swap. The film, directed by Nisha Ganatra, also stars Julia Butters, Maitreyi Ramakrishnan, Manny Jacinto, and Mark Harmon.
Catch “Freakier Friday” Early!
Can’t wait until August 8? On Wednesday, August 6, fans can celebrate the anniversary of the original movie with exclusive “Fan First” screenings. As a special perk, Disney+ subscribers can purchase tickets through Fandango for a double feature of both Freaky Friday and Freakier Friday! These early screenings will also give fans a chance to grab limited-edition swag, like a Freakier Friday friendship bracelet set, while supplies last.
Don’t miss out on the music, the movie, and the magic! Grab your tickets now and get ready for a “Freakier” summer.
Disneyland Unveils New Fantastic Four Nighttime Show
In celebration of the new movie, Marvel Studios’ The Fantastic Four: First Steps, a new projection show is now being displayed for a limited time on the facade of Space Mountain at Disneyland.
The new projection show debuted on Friday, July 25, 2025, and will run through September 21. While it is not listed in the daily schedule for Disneyland Park, the show will be presented multiple times throughout the evening until its limited run concludes.
During the show, Space Mountain is transformed with the signature colors of the Fantastic Four’s uniforms. The display also features the team’s ship flying through space and a fiery “4” logo, a nod to Johnny Storm, the Human Torch.
This new show is one of several Fantastic Four offerings at Disneyland Resort. Guests can also enjoy character encounters with the team and their robot companion H.E.R.B.I.E., along with limited-time food, beverages, and merchandise, including a The Thing-inspired sipper and a Mr. Fantastic straw clip.
Texas Now a Departure Port for Marvel Day at Sea Cruises
For the first time ever, the Marvel Day at Sea cruise is setting sail from Galveston, Texas, in January 2026. Aboard the Disney Magic, guests can assemble their crew for a heroic vacation featuring an ultimate multiverse mashup at sea. The experience includes encounters with iconic heroes and villains from Spider-Man and Captain Marvel to Loki, Thor, and Black Panther.
Embark on an action-packed adventure at sea with Marvel Day at Sea, transporting your family into the thrilling world of heroes and villains. Available on select four- and five-night Disney Magic sailings, this experience features adventurous entertainment for all ages, including character encounters, themed dining, and special merchandise. The day culminates in a spectacular deck party where good and evil clash on the upper decks.
Marvel Day at Sea will bring dozens of favorite heroes and villains to life. Characters from across the multiverse, including Spider-Man, Captain America, Captain Marvel, Thor, Loki, and Black Panther, will collide for an unforgettable experience.
The Marvel Universe will come to life at sea with experiences for the entire family. In the Fathoms lounge, a big-band USO show will pay tribute to Captain America with vintage dance numbers and an appearance by the hero himself. In the atrium, young recruits of Wakanda can join warrior training with the mighty Okoye, the General of Dora Milaje. Aspiring heroes can also test their skills at the Avengers Training Initiative.
Even classic Disney characters get in on the action. Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and their friends will be dressed in their favorite Marvel gear for Mickey and Minnie’s Super Hero Celebration.
The day concludes with Marvel Heroes Unite, a signature nighttime spectacular on the upper decks. This thrilling show features stunts, special effects, and fireworks as heroes and villains from across the multiverse engage in a daring battle for destiny.
Ready to book your Marvel Day at Sea voyage? Contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are free, and I’d love to help you plan an amazing vacation!
Lil’ Boo and Mel’s Die-In Return to Rule the Merch Game at Halloween Horror Nights 2025
Spooky season is creeping closer, and Universal Orlando has dropped a killer wave of new Halloween Horror Nights 2025 merch online, headlined by fan-favorite pumpkin king Lil’ Boo and a gloriously gory revival of Mel’s Die-In! Whether you’re decking yourself out for your haunt nights or just want a little horror in your daily drip, the latest Shop Universal collection has plenty to scream about.
It wouldn’t be HHN without Lil’ Boo, and this year’s lineup has your Halloween pumpkin pal looking better (and spookier) than ever:
Lil’ Boo Youth T-Shirt – $25 A bright green tee perfect for pint-sized screamers who want to rep the Realm of the Pumpkin.
Lil’ Boo Adult T-Shirt – $33 Same iconic Boo, now in adult sizes with soft cotton comfort and a gray hue that screams haunted-chic.
Lil’ Boo Ladies Tank – $37 Breezy, comfy, and Boo-tiful. A perfect piece for surviving the Orlando heat or layering with your favorite flannel.
Lil’ Boo Strap Keychain – $14 A stylish way to keep your keys looking eerie-sistible. Bonus points for the “Realm of the Pumpkin” strap design.
Lil’ Boo Lenticular Framed Art – $28 Add instant haunted house vibes to your room with this spooky art piece that changes as you move.
Lil’ Boo Scented Candle – $23 (Currently Sold Out) With scent notes of apple, berries, cinnamon, green leaves, and sandalwood, this candle brought the fall vibes—but fans snatched it up fast. Fingers crossed for a restock!
🍔 Mel’s Die-In: Eat Your Heart Out… Literally
Inspired by HHN’s infamous haunted twist on the classic Mel’s Drive-In, the new Mel’s Die-In merch collection is a glorious mash-up of retro diner aesthetics and sinister style:
Mel’s Die-In Glow-in-the-Dark Adult T-Shirt – $33 Gray tee with chilling art and glow-in-the-dark ink? This shirt is dying to be part of your haunt night look.
Mel’s Die-In Acrylic Keychain – $12 A clear pick for your keys, this keychain brings some extra scream to your pocket.
Mel’s Die-In Pin – $16 A sharp collectible featuring a laser-printed design—perfect for jackets, bags, or your haunted lanyard.
Mel’s Decal Set – $8 Five reusable stickers that let you slap some HHN energy on your laptop, water bottle, or doom buggy.
You can find all of this fearsome fashion and killer collectibles now on Shop.UniversalOrlando.com while supplies last. As always, this exclusive Halloween Horror Nights merchandise tends to vanish faster than a scareactor in a fog-filled alley—so act fast, Boo Crew!
Indulge in Culinary Excellence with this Guide to Orlando Magical Dining
Orlando’s vibrant food scene is taking center stage with Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining. This annual event is a dream for food lovers, offering three-course, prix-fixe dinners at a fantastic value. It’s an opportunity to explore some of the area’s top restaurants, from high-energy steakhouses to modern American kitchens. This year’s program runs from August 15 to September 30, with participating restaurants offering menus at two price points: $40 and $60.
Here are two must-visit locations to add to your list:
STK Orlando Address: 1580 E Buena Vista Dr, Orlando, FL 32830
Description: Located in the heart of Disney Springs, STK Orlando offers a unique blend of a modern steakhouse and a high-energy lounge. This two-story restaurant provides an unforgettable “Vibe Dining” experience, complete with world-class steaks, fresh seafood, handcrafted cocktails, and a live DJ to set the mood.
The menu is a carnivore’s delight, featuring premium dry-aged steaks, while the sides, like the famous truffle mac & cheese, are just as memorable. With an elegant main dining room, a sleek indoor-outdoor bar, and a stunning rooftop terrace, STK Orlando is the perfect spot for a special celebration, a romantic date night, or a lively gathering with friends.
Offering + Price: Dinner $60 Days Offered: Everyday during the Magical Dining event.
Description: American Social Bar & Kitchen invites guests to “eat, drink, and be social” with its award-winning menu and lively atmosphere. The restaurant puts a bold, modern spin on American classics and is known for its high-energy vibe, signature handcrafted cocktails, and live entertainment. For Magical Dining, the menu features a fantastic lineup of shareables like the classic Spinach and Artichoke Dip.
Entrée options include Steak Frites and Green Goddess Salmon, with an indulgent Passion Mango Cheesecake for dessert. To complement your meal, American Social offers creative cocktails like the Kentucky Vaca and the Strawberry Buck, making for a truly delicious and festive dining experience.
Offering + Price: Dinner $38 Days Offered: Daily after 4:00pm during the Magical Dining event.
Don’t miss your chance to experience these incredible menus at a fantastic value while supporting a great cause. Every meal served during Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining benefits local charities, so you can treat your taste buds and give back to the community at the same time.
For more information and to view the full list of participating restaurants and their menus, visit the official Magical Dining website. Be sure to make reservations soon, as tables fill up fast for this popular annual event!
Star Wars: A New Hope Blasts Back Into Theaters for 50th Anniversary in 2027
Cue the crawl and crank up the John Williams score—Star Wars: A New Hope is heading back to the big screen for its golden anniversary!
Lucasfilm has announced that the original 1977 classic that started it all will return to theaters on April 30, 2027, just in time to celebrate its 50th anniversary and kick off a yearlong galactic celebration. The Force will be strong with this limited-time theatrical re-release, perfectly timed to run through Star Wars Day on May the 4th.
Whether you saw A New Hope at a drive-in in 1977 or you’ve only ever streamed it from your couch, this is your chance to experience the magic of Luke, Leia, Han, and that galaxy far, far away the way it was meant to be seen—on the big screen with a bucket of popcorn and a theater full of fans.
What to Expect:
Re-release Date:April 30, 2027
Where: Theaters across the galaxy (okay, planet Earth)
Why: Because 50 years of Star Wars deserves to be celebrated properly, and what better way than seeing the film that launched the franchise on the silver screen?
Big Breakfast Switcheroo at Hollywood & Vine: Minnie Mouse Takes Over October 12
There’s a character shakeup coming to the breakfast table at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and it’s one you’ll want to mark on your calendar—especially if you’ve got a little Disney Junior fan in your travel crew.
Starting October 12, 2025, Minnie Mouse and her fabulous friends will officially be stepping into the spotlight at breakfast for Minnie’s Seasonal Dining at Hollywood & Vine, replacing the current Disney Junior Play n’ Dine breakfast experience. That means you’ve got until October 11, 2025 to catch characters like Vampirina, Fancy Nancy, and Doc McStuffins serving up smiles with your scrambled eggs.
Hollywood & Vine, located in the Echo Lake area of Disney’s Hollywood Studios, has long offered a fun and flavorful character dining option with rotating themes for each season.
Previously, Disney Junior characters headlined breakfast, while Minnie’s Seasonal Dining filled in the lunch and dinner slots with seasonal parties featuring Minnie Mouse and pals dressed in themed outfits for spring, summer, Halloween, and the holidays.
But come mid-October, Minnie Mouse will rule the day from sunrise to sundown.
So whether you’re craving oven-roasted herbed chicken, carved beef tenderloin, spice-rubbed pork loin, or that crave-worthy seasonal bread pudding during lunch or dinner—or you want to start your morning with a dose of mouse magic—Minnie’s got your back (and your buffet).
Reservations are strongly encouraged, especially since this change is bound to bring a new wave of excitement.
While same-day reservations might be available, your best bet is to book in advance if you want to secure your spot for a breakfast with Minnie and crew—or to sneak in one last visit with the Disney Junior stars before October 11.
Whether you’re planning a Halloween-season visit or already dreaming of winter holiday vibes, this update makes Minnie’s Seasonal Dining a can’t-miss meal for character lovers of all ages.
The Recipe for Success: Disney Chefs Turn College Lessons into Culinary Careers
Every Disney trip needs a snack break… or maybe a few! From sweet treats to savory snacks and delicious meals that hit the spot, there’s no shortage of great eats at Walt Disney World. Behind each bite are talented culinary cast members from all over the world—including many who studied in Central Florida at Valencia College’s Walt Disney World Center for Culinary Arts & Hospitality.
This school has become a launchpad for chefs looking to turn their passion for food into lifelong culinary careers. Let’s take a deeper look at the school and meet some of the Disney chefs who started their journey there.
Inside Walt Disney World’s Center for Culinary Arts & Hospitality
Here are some of the ways that Walt Disney World provides support to the school:
Disney chefs frequent the school to give cooking demos, teach new skills, provide mentorship, and share important lessons from inside the kitchens at Walt Disney World.
Students are also invited on Disney World field trips to see firsthand the culinary magic that Disney chefs cook up every day.
Disney’s casting team brings special recruitment opportunities to Valencia College, giving students the chance to learn about open roles, apply, and interview without leaving campus.
In 2019, Disney invested $1.5 million to help Valencia College move its culinary arts and hospitality school to Downtown Orlando, bringing new technology and state-of-the-art classrooms to students.
Disney’s culinary team has taught and mentored students from the Walt Disney World Center for Culinary Arts and Hospitality for years. While classes on technique and skills are imperative, some of the most important insights shared are about what the future could look like after graduation.
“I love teaching at Valencia College because I know that my knowledge from inside Disney can help develop the next generation of chefs,” said Chef Amanda, the Chef de Cuisine of Pastry at EPCOT. “I always get questions about what really happens inside a kitchen, the equipment we use, what shifts look like—things that take real-world experience to know.”
These interactions with Disney chefs have helped many go on to have successful careers—some even at Disney. Chef Amanda has several people on her team who studied at the Walt Disney World Center for Culinary Arts and Hospitality, including Chef Shaqori, Chef Valarie, and Chef Christy.
“Disney chefs would always visit campus to encourage us and tell us about the opportunities we could pursue. Their lessons and visiting the parks helped me realize that I could see myself working at Walt Disney World one day,” Shaqori said. “Their support became my guiding light to my career.”
Want to try one of Shaqori’s creations? Visit Connections Eatery and try a Liege waffle!
The Walt Disney World Center for Culinary Arts and Hospitality is the only public culinary and hospitality school in Florida that offers an associate degree in Baking and Pastry Management. With Disney’s help, students receive unique learning and career opportunities that can’t be found anywhere else. This school is also special because so many students choose to study there because of their love for Walt Disney World.
Chef Molly is one of many Valencia College graduates who enjoyed visiting the parks as a child and dreamed of one day working at Walt Disney World. She accomplished that after graduating and landing a full-time position at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.
“I always knew that I wanted to work in baking, and I was also a huge Disney fan. My family and I were annual passholders and would visit the parks all the time to try different foods,” Molly explained. “I picked Valencia for my culinary training because I saw that Disney was partnered with them. It’s the perfect place to be if you want to do culinary and work at Disney one day.”
Interested in tasting one of Molly’s dishes? Try the Steakhouse 71 Signature Chocolate Cake.
The learning doesn’t stop after graduation, though. Chefs who go on to work at Walt Disney World continue to level up their culinary chops every day they work in the kitchen. Valencia College graduate and Disney Chef Jennifer shared that her favorite part of being a cast member is that she is always acquiring new skills as a line cook at Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts.
“I love working for Disney because it’s given me so many chances to grow new skills and take on new opportunities. My team has been an amazing support system for me and has taught me so much about working in a kitchen and being efficient,” Jennifer said.
Visit the Ale & Compass Restaurant at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort to try a dish from Jennifer.
It looks like these Valencia grads turned Disney chefs found the recipe for success!
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Refurbishment Begins October 2025
Walt Disney World will begin an extensive refurbishment of the guest rooms at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge this October. The refurbishment will begin at Kidani Village and continue through May 2026. Afterward, work will move to Jambo House, with room refurbishments scheduled from May 2026 through January 2027.
You may see or hear construction during this time, but rest assured that all resort amenities will remain open for guests.
Disney made the following announcement:
“From October 2025 through May 2026, Guest rooms at Kidani Village at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge will undergo refurbishment, followed by refurbishment work at Jambo House from May 2026 through January 2027. During these times, Guests may see or hear construction work in the area. All amenities will remain available throughout the refurbishment.”
Inspired by the beauty of Africa, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge features two main areas: Jambo House and Kidani Village. The resort’s standout feature is its savanna views, home to over 200 animals and birds. Guests can also enjoy amenities such as themed pools and popular dining options like Sanaa, Boma – Flavors of Africa, and Jiko – The Cooking Place.
Will this refurbishment impact your Disney World vacation?
