Enchanted Tiki Room Closing Again for Refurbishment After Only 2 Months of Operation in Disneyland

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July 29, 2025

Disneyland’s Enchanted Tiki Room Closing for Another Refurbishment

Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room at Disneyland Park is heading back for another refurbishment, a rather unexpected turn of events given its recent reopening.

Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room at Disneyland Park, which only just reopened on July 1 after an extended closure that began in early May, is surprisingly slated for another refurbishment. Its previous reopening came merely days before the resort’s 70th anniversary.

This lengthy refurbishment involved a complete rebuild of the original Tangaroa Tree situated outside the building, which had been non-functional for years. Additionally, outdoor effects like Hina Kulua’s water feature and Pele’s fire effect were restored to ensure consistent operation. Inside the actual show, the theater received entirely new lighting, making the space feel significantly more vibrant.

Despite its recent July reopening, Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room appears headed for another refurbishment. According to the Disneyland Resort website’s attraction calendar, no operating times are scheduled for the Enchanted Tiki Room starting Sunday, September 7, 2025, and extending through September 8 (the last day currently visible on the schedule). Furthermore, the attraction has been added to the “Closed for Refurbishment” list on the Daily Events Schedule page, effective from that same date.

The absence of operating hours and the attraction’s inclusion on the refurbishment list confirm that the Enchanted Tiki Room will indeed close for at least a brief refurbishment starting in early September. While the current refurbishment list extends only until September 8, the total duration of this closure remains unknown. It’s possible this could be for minor technical adjustments, resulting in just a few days of closure, or the refurbishment might last longer once more dates are added to the calendar.

The Stitch Halloween Plush Has Landed (and He’s Adorable!)

By

Ana Leal

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July 28, 2025

The Stitch Halloween Plush Has Landed (and He’s Adorable!)

It’s that time of year again when spooky delights and adorable characters collide, and this year, Stitch is leading the charge! Everyone’s favorite mischievous space alien is embracing another unique Earthling tradition by getting all dressed up for Halloween, and honestly, he’s never looked cuter.

This special Stitch Halloween Plush, retailing for just $29.99, is available right now online at the Disney Store.

He’s perfectly outfitted for a night of trick-or-treating with his super fun candy corn-colored hat, a dramatic black cape, and of course, a quintessential trick-or-treat bag. You just know with his notoriously voracious appetite, he’s ready to scare up some serious sweets and snacks!

But here’s a little secret about this cuddly companion: his trick-or-treat bag isn’t just for show! It’s designed to hide some real surprises, making him perfect for gift-giving. Imagine tucking a little something special in there for a friend or family member! And if you’re looking for a unique touch for your holiday decor, Stitch can even function as a super soft candy dish for your Halloween centerpiece. He’s got all the spooky season bases covered!

Credit: Disney Store

Get Spooky and Cuddly with the Mickey and Minnie Pumpkin Pillow!

By

Ana Leal

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July 28, 2025

Get Spooky and Cuddly with the Mickey and Minnie Pumpkin Pillow!

It’s time to get your spooky season on, and what better way to do it than with a touch of classic Disney magic? Forget those plain old orange pumpkins; this year, Mickey and Minnie are here to give your couch a major upgrade!

Seriously, you’re going to want to carve out a spot (see what we did there?) for the Mickey and Minnie Mouse Pumpkin Halloween Throw Pillow. For just $29.99, you can snag this online at the Disney Store and bring some serious cuteness into your home.

Mickey and Minnie are reimagined as the most adorable corduroy pumpkins you’ve ever seen, complete with awesome embroidered detailing and even 3D ears! They’re together as one, bringing double the charm and guaranteed to give you a soft spot in both your heart and your humble abode. Get ready for some seriously cozy and cute Halloween vibes!

Credit: Disney Store

Unleash Your Inner Character: The Disney Store 2025 Costume Shop is Here!

By

Ana Leal

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July 28, 2025

Unleash Your Inner Character: The Disney Store 2025 Costume Shop is Here!

It’s that time of year again when the magic of dress-up descends upon us, and the Disney Store 2025 Costume Shop has finally arrived online to DisneyStore.com! Forget your worries, because it’s time to dive into a treasure trove of incredible outfits for the entire family. We’re talking brand-new looks and some fan-favorite returns from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars. Get ready to transform!

First up, let’s talk about some of the fresh faces hitting the costume scene. Ever wanted to feel like an out-of-this-world alien troublemaker? Now you can with the Stitch Inflatable Costume for Kids! For just $59.99, your little one can “blow up” into Experiment 626, complete with a self-inflating fan. Seriously, they’ll impress the whole “Ohana” this Halloween. And for those who love to smash things (in a heroic way, of course!), the Wreck-It-Ralph Deluxe Costume for $69.99 is here. This bad boy comes with a muscled jumpsuit, padded gloves, a wild wig, and even furry eyebrows. You’ll be ready to break the competition at any costume contest! Don’t forget Ralph’s sweet sidekick, Vanellope! The Vanellope Van Schweetz Deluxe Costume ($69.99) is perfect for a “Sugar Rush” of fun, featuring her signature top, skirt, leggings, and even that awesome “candy” laced wig.

And for our littlest Halloween sweeties, the Minnie Mouse Witch Costume for Kids ($54.99) is an absolute dream, with spellbinding puffed sleeves, shimmering organza, and a cute batwing bow. If classic charm is more your speed, the Bo Peep Costume for Kids ($69.99) from Toy Story is back, complete with a dress, puffed sleeves, metallic polka dots, and that perfectly pretty bonnet (sheep not included, sorry!).

Now, for all you superhero and galaxy-far-far-away fans, the Disney Store has seriously delivered. Swing into action with the Miles Morales Costume ($59.99), perfect for fans of Marvel’s Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. This zentai suit has awesome screen art and a detachable mask for a full transformation. Or, if you prefer to suit up in something a little more metallic, the Iron Man Costume is ready for action with a padded jumpsuit and iconic plastic mask. And for the young Jedi in training, the Luke Skywalker Costume for Kids is a must-have. Inspired by his rugged farmer’s look, it includes a tunic, pants, boots, and a utility belt. Your young rebel will be a force to be reckoned with!

And let’s not forget the tiniest members of your crew! The baby options are just too adorable for words. Your little super can become the one and only Jack-Jack with a comfy two-piece bodysuit and glasses. Or, if you want to bring the cuteness of Endor to your home, the Ewok Costume is here! This hooded bodysuit is super soft and cozy, proving you’re never too young to save the galaxy. And for the future leader of the Rebel Alliance, the Princess Leia Costume will have your baby ready for diplomatic missions and epic escapes, complete with a tunic, pants, character cap, and booties.

Oh, and guess who’s back by popular demand? That’s right, the Anger Costume from Disney and Pixar’s Inside Out 2 is making a fiery return! Last year it was a total sell-out, and it’s easy to see why. This two-piece costume, with its dimensional headpiece and signature snarl, is perfect for anyone who wants to embrace their hot-headed side.

So, what are you waiting for? The 2025 Disney Store Costume Shop is bursting with magic, mischief, and heroism for everyone. Head over to DisneyStore.com and get ready to make this year’s dress-up dreams come true!

Credit: Disney

‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ Tops Box Office as Disney Hits $3 Billion in Ticket Sales in 2025

By

Chris B

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July 28, 2025

‘The Fantastic Four First Steps’ Tops Box Office as Disney Hits $ Billion in Ticket Sales in

“The Fantastic Four: First Steps” Rockets to No. 1 as Disney Surpasses $3 Billion at Global Box Office

It’s clobberin’ time at the box office! Marvel Studios’ The Fantastic Four: First Steps has stormed into theaters with a cosmic-level debut, earning a mighty $218 million in its opening weekend and securing the No. 1 spot globally. The film marks the long-awaited arrival of Marvel’s first family into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and audiences are showing up in super-powered numbers.

Related: ESPN8: The Ocho to Bring Dodgeball, Pillow Fighting, Slippery Stairs to Wide World of Sports

Breaking it down:

$118 million came from the domestic box office
$100 million from international markets
It’s the 37th straight MCU film to open at No. 1
46% of ticket sales came from premium formats like IMAX, 4DX, and ScreenX
Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes with an 88% Critics Score and a 93% Audience Score

With this mega launch, First Steps helped push The Walt Disney Company past $3 billion in ticket sales for 2025, currently sitting at $3.19 billion. That’s the fourth consecutive year Disney has achieved this milestone.

The Team Behind the Triumph

The new Fantastic Four lineup includes:

Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards / Mister Fantastic
Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm / Invisible Woman
Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm / Human Torch
Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm / The Thing

Set in the alternate-universe Earth-828, the film has a distinct 1960s retro-futuristic style that’s turning heads—and filling theaters. The story picks up four years after the team’s transformation via cosmic rays. Now beloved celebrity-heroes on their Earth, the group must band together once more when the world faces annihilation by none other than Galactus, played with chilling gravitas by Ralph Ineson.

But it’s not just about battling cosmic threats; at its heart, First Steps is about family. Kevin Feige, President of Marvel Studios, notes the emotional core: “They stretch themselves too thin. They don’t always feel seen. But at the end of the day, they always have each other’s backs.”

From the Big Screen to the Parks

The Fantastic Four’s presence isn’t limited to the multiplex. Disneyland guests can now spot the iconic foursome making appearances in Tomorrowland, complete with their robotic buddy H.E.R.B.I.E. Similar experiences are on the way at Disneyland Paris and Hong Kong Disneyland, extending the reach of the super-family across the globe.

With its stylish design, powerful performances, and long-overdue MCU debut, The Fantastic Four: First Steps is proving to be a hit with critics and fans alike—and a major win for Disney’s box office ambitions.

Magic Kingdom Theme Park Reservation Restrictions Lifted for Disney Annual Passholders

By

Chris B

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July 28, 2025

Magic Kingdom Theme Park Reservation Restrictions Lifted for Disney Annual Passholders

Magic Kingdom Reservation Rules Roll Back for Annual Passholders After Disney Starlight Premiere

The curtain has come down on a short-lived reservation requirement at Magic Kingdom, and Annual Passholders can breathe a sigh of Main Street relief.

After a temporary policy was put in place from July 20–27 to manage surging demand for the debut of Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away, Disney has now lifted the all-day reservation requirement for Magic Kingdom. That means Passholders are once again free to visit without a theme park reservation on “Good-to-Go” days or after 2:00 PM—except on Saturdays and Sundays, when reservations are still required for Magic Kingdom.

The brief restriction was implemented to keep crowds manageable during the launch of the highly anticipated nighttime parade, which lit up Main Street, U.S.A. with glowing floats, dazzling characters, and a whole lot of pixie dust. Now that the initial rush has settled, Disney has rolled back the extra layer of reservation control.

Here’s a refresher on the current Annual Passholder rules:

Magic Kingdom:
- No reservation needed after 2:00 PM on weekdays or on a “Good-to-Go” day
- Reservation still required before 2:00 PM or on weekends
EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom:
- No reservation required after 2:00 PM any day
- Reservation still required for earlier entry unless it’s a “Good-to-Go” day

While this might not seem like a significant change, many Passholders viewed the temporary restriction as a frustrating hiccup in an already complex reservation system. The move to lift it so quickly shows Disney is paying attention to crowd flow and operational needs, and is willing to make real-time changes when things smooth out.

For now, the parks are operating under standard Passholder rules, but with popular entertainment like Disney Starlight in full swing, don’t be surprised if Disney plays with reservation requirements again down the line. As always, it pays to check the “Good-to-Go” calendar before you roll out toward the kingdom.

Until then, you’re free to follow the glow of the Starlight parade once more—no reservation required (most days)!

NEW! Disney Princess Whimsical Collector Dolls Inspired by Belle, Tiana and Ariel

By

Catherine

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July 28, 2025

NEW! Disney Princess Whimsical Collector Dolls: A High-Fashion Fairytale from Mattel

Get ready to celebrate World Princess Week in style! August is all about honoring the Disney Princesses, and the festivities are kicking off early with the enchanting release of Mattel’s Disney Once Upon A Whimsy™ Collection. This brand-new line reimagines beloved princesses Belle, Tiana, and Ariel with a truly unique, high-fashion twist that’s sure to delight collectors and fans alike.

Whimsy Meets Couture: A Dream Come True for Collectors

What happens when you mix Disney Princesses with whimsy and high fashion? Pure magic! Each doll in this collection is a stunning work of art, featuring intricate designs and playful nods to iconic moments from their animated films. From head to toe, their “encore-worthy” looks are designed to add fairy-tale flair to any doll collection, just in time for World Princess Week, happening August 24 through 31.

These fashion-forward dolls are now available for pre-sale on MattelCreations.com, with official availability beginning August 1. Each doll has a suggested retail price of $75.

A Closer Look at the Whimsical Royalty:

Disney Once Upon a Whimsy™ Collection Belle Doll

Inspired by the joyous “Be Our Guest” moment from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Belle’s extravagant gown is a whimsical celebration of dancing dishware and welcoming tea service. Her dress cascades in topsy-turvy tiers of gold-trimmed satin, complete with a dramatic draped neckline cinched by a sweet bow. The most charming detail? An oversized teacup becomes a playful hat, “pouring out” a tea-like stream of Belle’s long, brown locks. Sparkling elbow-length gloves complete this enchanting ensemble.

Disney Once Upon a Whimsy™ Collection Tiana Doll

Tiana’s design draws inspiration from the magical “Ma Belle Evangeline” moment in Disney’s The Princess and the Frog, evoking the lush beauty of the bayou where she first dances with Prince Naveen. Her stunning fitted satin gown features an art deco graphic that bursts into pleated, lily pad-inspired layers, topped with a delicate pink-petaled flower. An oversized lily pad transforms into a playful headpiece, showcasing a sculpted fleur-de-lis hairstyle, while elbow-length gloves draped with fantastical fringe provide the final flourish.

Disney Once Upon a Whimsy™ Collection Ariel Doll

Inspired by the “We Are the Daughters of Triton” moment in Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Ariel’s whimsical fashion playfully nods to the surprise reveal of her missing from the performance. Her ruched gown flows into a mesmerizing mermaid tail-like train and is accented with an oversized satin ruffled shrug, recalling the very shell Ariel was meant to make her musical debut in. Ariel’s adventurous spirit is beautifully captured in a stunning side-parted bubble braid, with a long, layered pearl necklace providing the final, elegant touch.

Don’t miss your chance to add these truly unique and fashion-forward Disney Princess collector dolls to your collection! Which whimsical look are you most excited about?

Savor the Flavors of Summer with the NEW Disney World Swan & Dolphin Sipper

By

Catherine

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July 28, 2025

Savor the Flavors of Summer with the NEW Disney World Swan & Dolphin Sippers!

Walt Disney World Resort guests have a delightful new way to quench their thirst and commemorate their magical summer visit! The iconic Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resorts have just unveiled their brand-new, must-have sipper cups, and they are making waves across the property.

These charming sippers are a fantastic addition to any Disney fan’s collection, each boasting a distinct topper: one featuring the elegant Swan and the other, the majestic Dolphin. We spotted both designs readily available at the Swan Resort, making it easy for guests to complete their set or pick their favorite.

Retailing at $15.00 each, these highly anticipated sippers are sold individually and do not include a beverage. However, their unique design and limited-time availability make them a desirable souvenir for anyone looking to add a touch of resort-specific magic to their Disney experience.

As with many sought-after Disney collectibles, these Swan & Dolphin sippers are a limited-time offering. This means eager collectors and resort enthusiasts should make their way to the Swan Resort soon to ensure they don’t miss out on these delightful summer accessories.

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They’re perfect for enjoying your favorite refreshing drinks while strolling through the beautiful grounds of the Swan and Dolphin, or as a fun reminder of your enchanting stay at the heart of Walt Disney World.

ESPN8: The Ocho to Bring Dodgeball, Pillow Fighting, Slippery Stairs to Wide World of Sports

By

Catherine

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July 28, 2025

ESPN8: The Ocho Descends on Walt Disney World with Zany Sports Showcase!

Get ready for a day of unexpected athleticism and hilariously competitive action, because ESPN8: The Ocho is bringing its unique brand of seldom-seen sports to the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort this Friday, August 1! For its ninth year, The Ocho is bigger and better than ever, promising a spectacle of skills in everything from dodgeball to pillow fighting, all free to attend.

Imagine watching competitors race up a flight of soapy stairs, battling gravity and each other, or witnessing a scoring system for a full-contact pillow fight – this is the world of The Ocho. Beyond the amusement, these athletes are serious about their sports, aiming to impress on a national stage.

The ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex will be buzzing with energy as some of the world’s best kickballers, electronic dart masters (bullshooters), and more gather to showcase their incredible talents. The competitive atmosphere will be broadcast live across the ESPN family of networks, ensuring viewers at home don’t miss a single zany moment. ESPN will be on-site broadcasting each competition, alongside “The Ocho Show” and a special edition of their iconic highlight program, “SportsCenter,” allowing fans to potentially be part of the televised experience of these obscure sports.

This year’s event at Walt Disney World is part of a larger, four-day celebration of absurd athleticism taking place across the country from July 31 through August 3. Over 65 hours of unique competitions will be featured on ESPN channels, including two live primetime Savannah Bananas baseball games from Oriole Park at Camden Yards in Baltimore.

Here’s a sneak peek at the action-packed schedule for this one-of-a-kind day at Walt Disney World on August 1:

10 a.m.: Major League Paintball – The day kicks off with elite paintball teams adding a splash of color to the festivities with their precision combat techniques.
11 a.m.: NWLA Wiffleball – Forget your backyard wiffleball! These athletes will astound with their ability to make the ball virtually unhittable.
12 p.m.: Omegaball – A fast-paced, high-scoring version of soccer where three teams compete simultaneously with three different goals.
1 p.m.: TurfWars Adult Kickball – Good old-fashioned adult kickball, played at its most competitive level.
2 p.m.: SportsCenter – ESPN’s signature highlight show, hosted by Randy Scott and Gary Striewski, providing updates and recaps.
3 p.m.: Bullshooter – Electronic darts taken to the next level, showcasing athletes with unparalleled aim.
4 p.m.: The Ocho Show – Hosted by Clinton Yates, Arda Öcal, and Cristina Alexander, this show offers interviews, behind-the-scenes moments, and coverage from across the venue.

5 p.m.: The Popdarts Championship presented by APL – Combining the fun of suction cups with the excitement of throwing things at a small target, this could be your next favorite party game!
6 p.m.: Slippery Stairs – Gravity and ultra-slippery soap are the true opponents in this hilarious head-to-head competition, featuring multiple competitors attempting to ascend a challenging staircase.
7 p.m.: Extreme Archery Championship presented by Archery Tag – A thrilling cross between archery and sports like paintball or laser tag, using soft arrows and plenty of protective gear.
8 p.m.: Dodgeball – The high-octane team sport of your youth, played by world-class athletes, promising intense competition.
9 p.m.: Pop-A-Shot 2025 National Championship – The classic basketball arcade game in a head-to-head format. Last year’s winner, a 37-year-old, impressively averaged 69 shots per round!
10 p.m.: Pillow Fighting – Watch competitors battle it out with pillows! Will they wear uniforms or adult onesie pajamas? You’ll have to tune in to find out.

The live competitions of ESPN8: The Ocho at Walt Disney World promise an unforgettable day of fun for the entire family. With free entry and food, drinks, and special merchandise available for sale, it’s the perfect opportunity to experience the world’s best seldom-seen sports! Head to the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex this Friday, August 1, and be part of the magic of The Ocho! Sources

First Trailer for Avatar: Fire and Ash Out Now!

By

Chip

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July 28, 2025

‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ Trailer Released, Promising a Fiery Return to Pandora

The wait is over. 20th Century Studios has released the first official trailer for James Cameron’s “Avatar: Fire and Ash,” the highly anticipated third chapter in the blockbuster saga. The trailer offers a stunning, action-packed glimpse into a new conflict on Pandora and confirms the film’s exclusive theatrical release on December 19, 2025.

The footage marks the return of Marine-turned-Na’vi leader Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) and warrior Neytiri (Zoe Saldaña) as they continue to protect their family and their world. The title, “Fire and Ash,” strongly hints at the introduction of a formidable new fire-based Na’vi clan, known as the “Ash People,” who are expected to challenge the Sullys and their way of life.

The trailer’s breathtaking visuals not only promise a cinematic spectacle but also deepen the connection to the world guests can explore at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Pandora – The World of Avatar allows visitors to step directly into the film’s universe, and the new landscapes and creatures teased in “Fire and Ash” will undoubtedly add a new layer of context and excitement for those experiencing the land’s signature attraction, Avatar Flight of Passage. The film’s expansion of Pandora’s lore enhances the immersive feeling of soaring on a banshee over the very world that continues to grow on screen.

In addition to Worthington and Saldaña, the film sees the return of franchise veterans Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, and Kate Winslet. Newcomer Oona Chaplin joins the cast, reportedly as the leader of the new fire clan.

As the third installment in James Cameron’s multi-billion-dollar franchise, “Avatar: Fire and Ash” is poised to be one of the biggest cinematic events of 2025. The film is directed by Cameron, who co-wrote the screenplay with Rick Jaffa & Amanda Silver.

Third Date Sold Out for 2025 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

By

Sara

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July 28, 2025

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Adds Third Sold Out Date for 2025

Another date for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party 2025 has officially sold out. This marks the third sold-out date for the popular event, and notably, it was one of the last remaining “least expensive” nights available for the Halloween festivities.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party 2025 is set to kick off on August 15th, with events scheduled on select Fridays, Sundays, Tuesdays, and (from September 25th onward) Thursdays. Ticket prices for the highly anticipated event vary, ranging from $119 for early dates like August 17th and 19th, up to $229 for the peak nights of October 30th and 31st.

Demand for the party has been high, with the least expensive dates of August 17th and 19th now completely sold out. This follows the rapid sell-out of Halloween night itself (October 31st), which was gone just hours after tickets became available.

As of now, all Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party dates in September are still available for purchase. For comparison, every date for the 2024 party was completely sold out by September 24th. Annual Passholders can also snag a $10 discount on select dates in August and September.

This year’s Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party will once again feature beloved character greetings, including Jack Skellington and Sally, who are set to debut a brand-new look for the Halloween season. A first for the event, Mickey and Minnie Mouse will greet guests together at Town Square Theater in their festive Halloween costumes. Disney has also promised to announce more character encounters, including those donning special Halloween attire, at a later date.

Ready to book your Halloween Disney vacation? 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 spooktacular trip!

Walls Up Around Garden House in the Japan Pavilion Outdoor Sake Bar

By

Sara

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July 28, 2025

Japan Pavilion’s Garden House Undergoing Transformation

Construction has officially begun in EPCOT’s Japan Pavilion, with walls now surrounding the Garden House. Two rarely used snack kiosks that once occupied the space have been removed. While these kiosks, which previously sold bagged snacks, haven’t been in operation for quite some time, their removal, coupled with the new construction walls, strongly suggests an exciting new development is on the horizon for the pavilion.

According to data from the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District address database, this area is designated as the “Gashapon Kiosk,” with the address having been established earlier this year, potentially hinting at its future use. Gashapon refers to Japanese capsule toys dispensed via vending machines. While the exact nature of the new establishment remains to be seen, it is assumed that the space will house something more substantial than just a simple vending machine. Observers will need to monitor the ongoing construction for further developments.

The Garden House appears to still be open during the construction. Guests can enjoy a beverage (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) from the kiosk while strolling around the Japan Pavilion.