Disney Vacation Club Dues Rise Up to 9 Percent for 2026
Disney Vacation Club members are unwrapping some not so magical news for 2026 as next year’s dues have officially been released. Depending on your home resort, you’ll see increases ranging anywhere from 3.36 percent all the way up to 9.06 percent. Consider it the most un-wonderful time of the year for your wallet.
Leading the pack is Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, which just finished a fresh refurbishment and is now sporting the highest bump at a steep 9.06 percent. Shiny new rooms apparently come with shiny new price tags.
On the opposite end of the spectrum are The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness, which opened just this past summer. Thanks to their newcomer status, they’re only seeing a 3.36 percent rise, which in DVC terms practically feels like a holiday miracle.
The across-the-board increases fall within that mid-single-digit range for most properties, with a few nudging toward the higher end. Whether you call home Old Key West, Saratoga Springs, or Riviera, everyone’s feeling that little extra pinch.
While dues rising each year isn’t unexpected, the bigger jumps will definitely have some members making that classic DVC face that says “I love the magic but not the math.”
Dates and Details Announced for All 2026 Disneyland After Dark Parties
Get ready for magical nights! The 2026 Disneyland After Dark events are back with five themed evenings (including one all-new theme), running on select nights from January through June. These separately ticketed parties offer unique access to Disneyland after hours, featuring shorter wait times for attractions, special character encounters, exclusive merchandise, and imaginative entertainment.
What’s Included with a Disneyland After Dark Ticket
Each Disneyland After Dark event takes place at Disneyland park, beginning at 9 p.m. and continuing until 1 a.m. That is 4 hours to play the night away, after the park closes!
Pre-party park mix-in: Admission to Disneyland After Dark also includes entry to Disneyland park from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. — giving you a three-hour prelude before the party begins! During this time, be sure to check out offerings available during regular park hours.
Photos from the party: Enjoy unlimited digital downloads of Disney PhotoPass photos captured during the party. That means there’s literally no limit to the memories you can make! Simply scan the QR code on your event wristband via the Disneyland app** to access your photo gallery.
Commemorative event guide: In addition to the uniquely themed fun, your admission ticket also includes a commemorative keepsake and event guide map. The map is handy to reference during the party and so beautifully designed, you’ll want to keep it as a collectible souvenir to remember your visit.
Dates and Details for Disneyland After Dark: Sweethearts’ Nite
Disneyland After Dark: Sweethearts’ Nite is a joyful celebration for you and your valentine, whether spouse, family member, or bestie.
Sweethearts’ Nite 2026 Dates
Thursday, Jan. 22
Sunday, Jan. 25
Tuesday, Jan. 27
Tuesday, Feb. 3
Thursday, Feb. 5
Sunday, Feb. 8
Tuesday, Feb. 10
Thursday, Feb. 12
Tuesday, Feb. 17
Sweethearts’ Nite Entertainment
New for 2026, the “Celebrate Love Cavalcade” will glide down Main Street, U.S.A., in a grand celebration honoring loved ones: best friends, soulmates, and family alike. Look for Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and their pals to fill the air with love during this enchanting procession.
Also new for 2026, the romantic “Once Upon a Dream – A Musical Journey Through the Disney Songbook” show is a musical look at love and romance, featuring live singers and a variety of Disney royalty that culminates in a nighttime ball beneath the stars.
Partner up for the new Disney Duets festive karaoke in the beloved Golden Horseshoe in Frontierland with a uniquely Disney twist.
Swing, sway, and twirl to your heart’s content with Donald Duck and Daisy Duck at the Valentine’s Dance Party at Tomorrowland Terrace.
Scenic photo backdrops throughout the park invite you to “step into the scenes” of fan-favorite films such as Walt Disney Animation Studios’ The Aristocats, Tangled, Aladdin, Lady and the Tramp, and more.
Sweethearts’ Nite Specialty Food
As the saying goes, the way to the heart is through the stomach! Fall in love with specially curated sweets and savory treats.
New for 2026 at Galactic Grill is a triple berry slushy with a Mickey-shaped glow cube. Returning favorites include surf n’ turf loaded fries at Red Rose Taverne and a Mickey-shaped strawberry cream puff at Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante.
More specialty menu items will be available at table-service restaurants: Cafe Orleans, River Belle Terrace, and Carnation Café, subject to availability. Reservations are recommended for table-service restaurants and can be booked online closer to the event dates.
Sweethearts’ Nite Merchandise
The ultimate souvenir is one you can show off, both during the event and after! This year’s collection includes a Mickey Mouse & Minnie Mouse ear headband, trading pin, T-shirt, zip-up hoodie, and tumbler.
Sweethearts’ Nite Tickets
Magic Key pre-sale: On Tuesday, December 9, 2025 (no earlier than 9 a.m. PT), Inspire Key holders may purchase from a select number of pre-sale tickets for Disneyland After Dark: Sweethearts’ Nite on Disneyland.com. Then on Wednesday, December 10, (no earlier than 9 a.m. PT) all Magic Key holders will have the opportunity to purchase from a select amount of pre-sale tickets.
General: On Thursday, December 11, 2025 (no earlier than 9 a.m. PT), tickets will go on sale to the general public. Tickets are limited and subject to availability.
Dates and Details for Disneyland After Dark: 70 Years of Favorites
This all-new theme, 70 Years of Favorites, will take you on a sentimental journey commemorating seven decades of unforgettable moments at the beloved theme park. Inspired by the Disneyland Resort 70thCelebration, it weaves together the best of Disneyland happenings, including nods to favorite musical moments, shows, and characters.
Remembrance of Disneyland moments past will be all around you, as you take a figurative walk down memory lane with these offerings that pay tribute to the park’s history.
70 Years of Favorites 2026 Dates
Tuesday, March 3
Thursday, March 5
70 Years of Favorites Entertainment
Get ready to jitterbug and jive to the sweet beats of swing dancing at Royal Theatre in Fantasyland. Once upon a time, all the hepcats gathered here for the swingiest bands around. Now, it’s your chance to light up the dance floor!
Neon nostalgia will return in full force when you put on your boogie shoes at Videopolis Dance Party at Tomorrowland Terrace. The can’t-miss, ultimate throwback dance party of the ‘80s features a live DJ, nonstop ‘80s tunes, and iconic retro décor.
Kick up your heels for line dancing at The Golden Horseshoe — stepping in time at this fond tribute to “Woody’s Round Up,” the favorite cowboy show which graced the Frontierland stage in the late ‘90s and early 2000s.
Sentimental photo opportunities staged throughout Disneyland park will harken back to past entertainment such as “Mad T Party,” “Main Street Electrical Parade,” and Club Buzz, as well as some favorite attractions. Get ready to strike a pose!
Reminisce with characters from days gone by, as you encounter some of your favorite “Long Lost Friends” from Disney Afternoon, “Mother” and “Father” from Carousel of Progress, Merlin, Flik and Atta, and the Fantasmic! Monkeys.
70 Years of Favorites Food
Enjoy new themed food and beverage with a nod to Disneyland kitchens of yesteryear such as:
Mushroom Philly sandwich (plant-based) and maple bacon cinnamon roll at Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe
Birria mac and cheese in a bread bowl at Refreshment Corner
Gaston Brew at Red Rose Taverne
Plus, a new specialty item will be available at River Belle Terrace, blackened New York steak and prawns. Reservations are recommended for table-service restaurants and can be booked closer to the event dates.
70 Years of Favorites Tickets
Magic Key pre-sale: On Tuesday, December 9, 2025 (no earlier than 9 a.m. PT), Inspire Key holders may purchase from a select number of pre-sale tickets for Disneyland After Dark: 70 Years of Favorites on Disneyland.com. Then on Wednesday, December 10, (no earlier than 9 a.m. PT) all Magic Key holders will have the opportunity to purchase from a select amount of pre-sale tickets.
General: On Thursday, December 11, 2025 (no earlier than 9 a.m. PT), tickets will go on sale to the general public. Tickets are limited and subject to availability.
Dates and Details for Disneyland After Dark: Disney Channel Nite
Disneyland After Dark: Disney Channel Nite returns, with an engaging blend of entertainment, characters, and music celebrating beloved eras of the iconic TV channel.
Disney Channel Nite 2026 Dates
Sunday, April 12
Tuesday, April 14
Thursday, April 16
On-sale dates and additional details for Disneyland After Dark: Disney Channel Nite are forthcoming.
Dates and Details for Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite
Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite returns for epic nights in 2026. Navigate to a distant galaxy with friends, family, and fellow fans to enjoy a thrilling evening with impressive character gatherings, illustrious photo ops, and more.
Star Wars Nite 2026 Dates
Tuesday, April 28
Thursday, April 30
Monday, May 4
Wednesday, May 6
On-sale dates and additional details for Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite are forthcoming.
Dates and Details for Disneyland After Dark: Pride Nite
Join together in this celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community, bringing allies and community together for a festive evening featuring rainbow projections, lively décor, dazzling entertainment, and more.
Pride Nite 2026 Dates
Tuesday, June 16
Thursday, June 18
On-sale dates and additional details for Disneyland After Dark: Pride Nite are forthcoming.
Disneyland After Dark Pro Tips and Party Prep
To make the most of your special evening, consider the following tips:
Dress to impress: Tailor your outfit to the party theme, be it romantic, adventuresome, colorful, or one-of-a-kind. When planning your ‘fit, be sure to check the costume guidelines on Disneyland.com.
Extend the fun by booking a stay at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort or a Disney-approved Good Neighbor Hotel. These convenient accommodations are a short distance from the park.
Use the Disneyland app: Among its many features, mobile ordering is an easy way to plan ahead for treats both sweet and savory from select quick-service restaurants. You can place advanced orders for specialty menu items before the event starts.
New Adorable Zootopia 2 Plushies at Animal Kingdom!
If you’ve been eagerly waiting for a way to bring home the stars of the highly anticipated sequel, you are in luck! Animal Kingdom has just stocked up on the most adorable, huggable plushies from Zootopia 2, and let me tell you, they are a must-have for your collection. Whether you’re hitting the park or just browsing the Disney Store online, get ready to make some room on your couch because these guys are begging for cuddles.
Of course, we have to start with the dream team! Judy Hopps is back, and she’s looking fantastic in her new plainclothes officer look. This plush captures her perfectly, from those awesome embroidered details right down to her famously long, distinctive ears. She might have traded in the old uniform, but this sweet and super-cuddly bunny is still 100% lovable. And who’s right beside her? The one and only Nick Wilde! Our favorite former con-fox-turned-hero is looking dapper in his official Zootopia 2 gear: that signature floral shirt, tie, and pants. He’s officially one half of the city’s best duo, and now he’s ready to transition from hero to your new best friend, just try not to love him with your whole heart, I dare you!
But wait, there are some awesome new faces joining the crew! Meet Nibbles Maplestick, the buck-toothed beaver and a key ally to Judy and Nick. She’s got all the connections in Marsh Market, and she’ll totally steal your heart with her friendly demeanor. Seriously, this plush looks like she’s ready to welcome the biggest, warmest hug you can give! Then there’s Pawbert Lynxley, the youngest member of the influential Lynxley family. This cute and cuddly lynx is featured in his dapper signature sweater, and he’s one of those new colorful characters you’ll just want to squeeze right away. Give him a welcoming hug and make him feel right at home!
Finally, even the bad guys deserve a little love or at least a good squish! Say hello to Gary De’Snake, the coiled character and villainous viper from the sequel. Okay, yeah, reptiles are cold-blooded, but this colorful plush proves Gary can still enjoy a nice warm hug like everyone else! He even has his bright red hip pack, which is hilarious since, you know, he doesn’t exactly have any hips. Go ahead and show this soft side of the villain some affection.
So, whether you’re team bunny, team fox, or ready to embrace the newcomers and even the villain, head over to Animal Kingdom or the Disney Store and snag these amazing Zootopia 2 plushies before they slither, hop, or sprint away!
New Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde Ear Headbands at Animal Kingdom!
Get ready to look lawfully cute because Disney has dropped the absolute sweetest pair of ear headbands, and they’re bringing the unlikely police partnership of Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde straight to your style game. Forget subtle accessories, these headbands are soft, plush, and screaming, “You want to make the world a better place? Take a look at yourself and make a change!”
Both the Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde Plush Ear Headbands retail for $36.99 each. You can snag these beauties in person at Disney’s Animal Kingdom (because, well, Zootopia!), or you can skip the park lines and find them online at the Disney Store.
First up, we have the headband inspired by the ultimate go-getter, Officer Judy Hopps. As a cop, she knows how important it is to keep your ears open, and thankfully, as a bunny, she’s got some built-in advantages! This plush design features her signature big, soft rabbit ears, but the real star is the adorable detail: a little plush carrot dangling right there, complete with a tiny embroidered police badge. Seriously, the attention to detail is amazing. Pop this on, and you’ll instantly feel that optimistic, can’t-give-up energy of Zootopia’s finest. It’s an absolute must-have for anyone who wants to bring some determined bunny charm to their day.
Don’t worry, we didn’t forget the sly fox himself! The Nick Wilde Plush Ear Headband is here to let you channel your inner reformed con artist. Inspired by Nick’s glow-up from hustler to law-abiding police officer, this headband features his foxy plush ears in a warm reddish-orange color. And just like Judy’s, this one includes that official Zootopia Police badge attached right to the ear, proving he’s all charged up and ready to take on the world and probably crack a witty joke while doing it. It’s the perfect accessory for fans who love a good underdog story and a dash of charming mischief.
Whether you grab just one or decide to get both to share with your favorite pal (a little carrot-and-fox combo is essential for a complete look!), these plush ears are a super fun way to show your love for one of Disney’s best modern classics.
Starting January 1, Members joining or renewing their Gold Choice or Complete Plans will secure the returning fan-favorite 2026 D23 Gold Membership Kit. They will also receive their choice of incredible, exclusive D23 Premium Items—custom-created for D23 and tailored for passionate collectors.
Options feature the Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey Mouse Collector Statue and a stunning 10-piece D23 Gold Member Pin Box Set commemorating a decade of Disney magic. Also, debuting in a D23 Membership Kit, select a Disney Oswald backpack & ears bundle from Loungefly, or an exclusively designed Disney shirt from RSVLTS!
Pricing: the Essential Plan is $49.99/year—same price as 2025—and includes the D23 Membership Kit plus a $25 Savings Pass to use at one of our member-exclusive events (including D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event), access to special collectibles, and other savings and offers—a great value; the Choice Plan is $119.99/year and adds your pick of one Premium Item; and the Complete Plan is $329.99/year and includes all four Premium Items for the ultimate value.
The popular complimentary monthly Disney+ Perks D23 Gold Membership will continue in 2026.
Also in 2026, more great D23 events and experiences will be announced, here are what’s coming soon so far.
D23 Day at Angel Stadium – August 12, 2026 It’s back! Fans will fill the ballpark once again—this time with a Mickey Mouse bobblehead giveaway for the first 23,000 guests, including 2,300 ultra-rare gold variants. Plus, D23 Gold Members can snag discounted game tickets on sale Monday, November 24, 2025!
D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event – August 14–16, 2026 Earlier this year, we announced the dates for the biggest Disney fan celebration on Earth returning to Anaheim next summer. When tickets go on sale in Spring 2026, D23 Gold Members on Essential, Choice, and Complete Plans will receive priority access to purchase tickets!
Disneyland Handcrafted Premiere – January 8, 2026 D23 Gold Members will be among the very first to experience Leslie Iwerks’ documentary, Disneyland Handcrafted, celebrating the creation of the Disneyland® Resort—with a special screening on the historic Walt Disney Studios Lot.
D23 Gold Theater On Demand Our fan-favorite live digital event series is back and expanding! Beginning early 2026, Members will be able to catch up on select past episodes anytime, anywhere with D23 Gold Theater On Demand—a brand-new feature added by popular request.
Disneyland® Resort Savings + Additional Offers & Discounts Coming soon and for the first time ever, D23 Gold Members can save 5% on Disneyland® Resort Park Hopper Tickets, with the option to add Lightning Lane Multi Pass—all through a D23 Member-exclusive site. D23 Gold Members will also continue to enjoy incredible year-round savings on Disney experiences, hotels, shopping, and dining.
More Value and Experiences for D23 Gold Members And that’s just the beginning. Fans can also look forward to the return of Walt Disney’s Los Angeles Tour in the spring; D23 On the Road interactive screenings across the country; anniversary celebrations across the worlds of Disney; the D23 Spotlight Series; advance movie screenings; and The Official Tour of The Walt Disney Studios—all designed to bring fans closer to the magic wherever they are.
You can check out the details of the many great things coming to D23 at http://d23.com/
New Fantasyland Castle Holiday Tumbler Spotted at Animal Kingdom!
Let’s talk about the cutest piece of holiday merch we stumbled upon. Forget subtle; we’re embracing full-on festive flair with the Fantasyland Castle Holiday Tumbler! We spotted this bright beauty at Animal Kingdom, and while the price tag is a little steep at $44.99, trust us, this is a showstopper that screams “holiday glamour.” If you’re looking to sip your hot cocoa (or, let’s be real, your giant iced coffee) with some serious Disney style, this is your new must-have accessory.
What makes this tumbler such a standout? First off, the color! It’s a vibrant, eye-popping bright pink that ensures you won’t lose it, no matter how chaotic the park crowds get. And for all our road-tripping pals, it’s designed with a nice, slim base that actually fits perfectly into a car cup holder, a small detail, but a major win! Plus, carrying it around all day is easy thanks to the contrasting chunky white handle that gives it a fun, cozy, yet modern look.
But the real magic is in the details! The entire body is patterned with adorable pink bows and classic white snowflakes that have a little secret: they feature subtle Mickey icons! It’s the perfect blend of holiday charm and Disney magic. Front and center, you get a beautiful illustration of a Disney castle, naturally, with pink turrets and charming snow-covered pine trees, transporting you straight to a snowy Fantasyland. To top it all off (literally!), it has a matching pink translucent lid and straw, keeping your drinks safe and completing the monochromatic pink masterpiece.
Now for the important stuff! This gorgeous sipper is a fantastic size, holding a generous 30 oz (or approximately 887 mL) of your favorite beverage, meaning fewer trips to refill! A quick heads-up: to keep this gem looking pristine, you’ll need to treat it kindly, it is not dishwasher-safe or microwaveable, so stick to hand-washing! Seriously, though, this tumbler is the perfect way to bring a little bit of pink, sparkly, snow-covered castle magic into your everyday life.
Where to Meet Santa Claus at Walt Disney World This Holiday Season
The most wonderful time of the year has arrived at Walt Disney World Resort! With thousands of twinkling lights, merry music filling the air, and the scent of gingerbread all around, the holiday season is truly shining. And best of all? The jolliest man of all, Santa Claus, is making special stops across all four theme parks and Disney Springs before his big ride on Christmas Eve.
Whether your family is looking for that quintessential photo moment or just a chance to whisper a wish list, here is your essential guide to where to find Santa and all his festive fun this holiday season.
Lights, camera, holidays! Santa Claus is making a glamorous appearance in the newly decorated Walt Disney Presents.
Location:Walt Disney Presents in Animation Courtyard.
The Vibe: The attraction is decked out in a brand-new holiday installation celebrating favorite Disney Christmas stories. Guests can explore festive displays featuring props and artifacts from beloved films like Noelle, The Muppets Christmas Carol, and The Santa Clause before meeting the man himself in a truly welcoming space.
Bonus Cheer: The attraction’s theater offers a seasonal twist, showcasing limited-time “Holiday Shorts.” If you’re attending Disney Jollywood Nights, keep your eyes peeled for the rare sighting of Duffy dressed as Santa!
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park: A Dino-Sized Christmas
Disney’s Animal Kingdom celebrates the holidays with unique, globally-inspired décor. While the Merry Menagerie of life-sized animal puppets on Discovery Island and the holiday Tree of Life Awakenings projection show are dazzling, Santa has found his own quirky spot.
Location:Restaurantosaurus in DinoLand U.S.A.
The Vibe: For a photo op with a sense of humor, head to the Parasaurolophus Porch. Dinosaur fans will notice stockings, statues, and ornaments belonging to favorite paleontologists—with a prehistoric Christmas twist, of course! Keep an eye out high and low (there are tiny dinosaurs with tiny parachutes from the ceiling!) as you wait to meet Santa in a setting that’s dino-sized in charm and festive spirit.
EPCOT: A Global Festival of Holiday Cheer
EPCOT is putting the festive in festival when the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays begins on November 28. While you explore World Showcase and discover international holiday storytellers like Père Noël in France and Barn Santa in Norway, Santa Claus will have his own dedicated wintery home.
Location:CommuniCore Hall in World Celebration (during the Festival of the Holidays).
The Vibe: CommuniCore Hall will be fully decked out for the season. Be sure to check out an incredible Spaceship Earth gingerbread display before meeting Santa in a beautiful winter setting.
Extra Festive Fun: Swing by The Odyssey Pavilion, where Santa Goofy is ready to strike a pose with your family!
Magic Kingdom Park: Storybook Christmas
The Christmas season at Magic Kingdom is pure, nostalgic winter magic, from the iconic towering Christmas tree to the “snoap” flurries on Main Street, U.S.A.
Holiday merrymaking comes alive during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party with dazzling stage shows, fireworks, complimentary sweet treats and so much more. This separately ticketed event that has become a holiday tradition for families and kids of all ages takes place on 25 select nights from Nov. to Dec. at Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Bennett Stoops, Photographer)
Location 1 (Party Exclusive): Waving from his sleigh in Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party (select nights through December 21).
The Vibe: All guests can make their way to the newly-decorated Storybook Circus, which is decked out in fun and jolly decor for the first time! Santa will have his own dedicated spot under the big top to meet families hoping to cross things off their wish lists. For even more fun, experience the festive transformation of the Jungle Cruise into Jingle Cruise!
Disney Springs: A Virtual Queue to the North Pole
For a Santa stop without needing a park ticket, head to Disney Springs—one of the most popular photo ops of the season!
Location:Marketplace near Disney’s Pin Traders.
The Vibe: Guests will find Santa in his workshop, ready to hear your holiday wishes.
Pro Tip: Virtual Queue: To make your experience merry and efficient, guests must join a virtual queue through the My Disney Experience app for this experience. A standby queue will not be available. Be sure to check the app for multiple entry opportunities throughout the day and join once you have arrived at Disney Springs.
Behind the Magic: Capturing the Moment
It takes a village of Cast Members and Imagineers to ensure Santa’s visit is perfect. Cast Member Steve, a Senior Art Director, notes that they’ve filled the hallways with vintage holiday greeting cards to create that perfect nostalgic feeling and anticipation before you meet the Big Man himself.
No matter where you choose to visit Santa, from the theme parks to Disney Springs, be sure to utilize the Disney PhotoPass photographers, who are stationed throughout to help you capture every magical moment—perfect for your holiday cards!
Get ready to go wild, because the new Zootopia 2 merchandise collection has officially dropped, and it’s totally awesome. Whether you’re hitting up Animal Kingdom for your next park day or just browsing the Disney Store online, you can finally snag some seriously cute gear featuring all your favorite characters, old and new! Trust us, you’re going to want to clear some space on your shelves (and maybe in your closet, too).
The plushie lineup is a must-see! Of course, we have the dream team, Judy Hopps ($26.99) and Nick Wilde ($29.99). Our favorite bunny cop is trading her uniform for plainclothes, but she’s still ready for a snuggle. Nick, the sly fox turned detective, is looking dapper in his signature floral shirt and tie, and is absolutely ready for cuddles. But the real excitement is getting your paws on the new characters. There’s the lovable lynx Pawbert Lynxley ($29.99) rocking his signature sweater, just look at that face! You can also grab Nibbles Maplestick ($26.99), the buck-toothed beaver ally, who looks so friendly and huggable.
And for those who love a good villain, don’t miss Gary De’Snake ($26.99). This coiled, colorful viper even comes with his bright red hip pack, which, as the description points out, is hilarious since he has no hips! Reptiles may be cold-blooded, but Gary is clearly soft on the inside.
Step Up Your Headwear Game
Want to look lawfully cute or slyly cool? The headwear collection has you covered! The Judy Hopps Plush Ear Headband($36.99) is perfect, it has her distinctive ears, of course, and a little plush carrot with an embroidered police badge. Talk about a statement piece! If you’re more of a fox, the Nick Wilde Plush Ear Headband ($36.99) will let you channel your inner con man turned lawman, complete with plush fox ears and a Zootopia Police badge.
For something a little more everyday, there are plush baseball caps for both Judy and Nick($29.99 each). Judy’s cap has her embroidered face and ears, plus her badge on the bill, while Nick’s cap features his sly expression and a paw print. You’ll definitely steal some admiring glances in these!
Suit Up and Gear Up!
You can carry all your awesome new merch in the sleek Zootopia 2 Sling Backpack, it’s a perfect accessory for your next park adventure!
If you want to fully immerse yourself in the world of Zootopia, check out the kids’ apparel. Your little one can truly “slither” into character with the Gary De’Snake Costume Zip Hoodie. It’s so detailed, with his red belt bag, screen art scales, and embroidered fangs, the ultimate way to prove that “Snakes aren’t the bad guys.” There’s also the stylish Judy Hopps Dress, inspired by her uniform and featuring a fluffy bunny tail. For sleep time, the Zootopia 2 PJ PALS and Nightshirt feature the whole new crew (Gary, Pawbert, and Nibbles!) joining Nick and Judy for some adorable sleepwear. And don’t forget the Zootopia 2 T-Shirt, celebrating the whole cast and the city’s motto: “Where anyone can be anything.”
Gingerbread Castle Returns to Disney’s Contemporary Resort
The holiday season has officially arrived at Walt Disney World, bringing with it a heartwarming and delicious tradition! The Cinderella’s Dream Castle-inspired gingerbread display is now majestically installed at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, enchanting guests with its glittering spectacle and offering a variety of festive treats and merchandise.
This year marks the 14th year that the Contemporary Resort has hosted a gingerbread display, and they’ve pulled out all the stops. The stunning display is a replica of Cinderella Castle, beautifully decked out with the retired, iconic Dream Lights.
Standing at an impressive 17 feet tall and 25 feet wide, the castle is set against a magnificent backdrop of deep blue and white, depicting a sparkling night sky with a full moon and shooting stars. Adding a personal touch to the display, golden stars line the platform, each bearing the initials of the talented Cast Members from the creative and culinary teams who brought this sweet dream to life.
The Ingredients of a Masterpiece
The scale of the gingerbread castle is as impressive as its beauty. This colossal creation is crafted from an astonishing list of ingredients:
1013 pounds of flour
613 pounds of sugar
440 jars of honey
513 eggs
113 pounds of gingerbread spice
95 pounds of chocolate
60 pounds of fondant
43 pounds of royal icing
13 gallons of milk
The structure itself is composed of 1,200+ gingerbread bricks, held together with holiday magic and culinary expertise.
Part of the fun for guests is spotting the whimsical hidden details woven into the design:
14 Hidden Mickeys: One for each year the Contemporary has hosted the display.
1 Hidden 5-Legged Goat: A returning, beloved Contemporary Resort tradition.
14 Sprinklings of Magical Pixie Dust: Ensuring the castle shines just right.
Snacks and Souvenirs
Accompanying the display is a dedicated snack kiosk where guests can purchase an array of prepackaged snacks, specialty drinks, and merchandise inspired by the season and the gorgeous castle. Whether you’re looking for a holiday treat to enjoy immediately or a souvenir to take home, there’s something to sweeten your visit.
Guests can also look forward to other impressive gingerbread creations across Walt Disney World this season, with displays planned at:
BoardWalk Inn
Beach Club
Animal Kingdom Lodge
Wilderness Lodge
Make sure to stop by Disney’s Contemporary Resort to witness this spectacular, sweet tribute to Cinderella and the magic of the holidays!
Universal Orlando Resort Celebrates Mardi Gras: International Flavors Of Carnaval From February 7 Through April 4, 2026
Universal Orlando Resort is bringing the spirit of New Orleans and Carnaval celebrations from around the globe back to Universal Studios Florida with Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval. The event will run from February 7 through April 4, 2026.
The vibrant celebration promises dynamic culinary experiences, dazzling entertainment, and a returning fan-favorite dining experience. The festivities will feature a nightly parade complete with glittering floats, high-energy street performers, and massive amounts of colorful beads. On select nights, guests can also enjoy live concerts featuring some of the biggest names in music. Throughout the event, guests can savor a diverse array of international cuisine, alongside mouthwatering dishes inspired by New Orleans’ iconic flavors.
Guests can take their Mardi Gras celebration to the next level with the return of the popular Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine Experience. This unique offering includes a savory three-course meal on the day of their visit at one of five participating restaurants, followed by the thrill of riding atop a parade float. Participants will toss colorful beads to guests lining the streets of the park, joining the celebration in true New Orleans style.
The participating restaurants for the dining portion include The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar (Universal CityWalk), NBC Sports Grill & Brew (Universal CityWalk), Lombard’s Seafood Grille (Universal Studios Florida), Confisco Grille (Universal Islands of Adventure), and Antojitos Authentic Mexican Restaurant (Universal CityWalk).
The Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine Experience is available for purchase now, starting at $94.99 plus tax per person. Universal Orlando Passholders are eligible for a 15% discount off the ticketed price.
All the excitement of Universal Mardi Gras is included with regular admission to Universal Studios Florida or a valid Universal Orlando Annual or Seasonal Pass. Further details about the event, including the menu of food and beverage items and the highly anticipated concert lineup, will be revealed soon.
The Last Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party for 2025 is Sold Out
Bad news for late planners: The final remaining ticket for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2025 has officially been snagged, leaving the entire season sold out.
The entire 2025 lineup for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is now completely booked, with the final date of December 16th officially hitting capacity. Driven by overwhelming demand, the 2025 season sold out a full 10 days earlier than the previous year’s event, confirming its status as one of Disney World’s fastest-selling holiday events.
While tickets for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party are gone, those still hoping for a festive after-hours event can secure tickets for Disney JollywoodNights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, where availability remains for this year’s celebration!
Dynamic Pricing is Coming to Disney World & Disneyland, CFO Confirms
Disney Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Hugh Johnston has confirmed that the company is preparing to implement dynamic pricing across its domestic parks (Disney World and Disneyland), following encouraging preliminary results from a similar pricing test currently running at Disneyland Paris.
Speaking at the Wells Fargo Technology, Media, and Telecom Summit, CFO Hugh Johnston detailed Disney’s aggressive strategy to maximize revenue (“yield”) across its parks, covering everything from tickets to paid add-ons like Lightning Lane and VIP Tours.
Johnston confirmed the company is heavily investing in dynamic pricing—a system where prices fluctuate based on demand—with Disneyland Paris serving as the year-long test case. He noted that early results from Paris are strong, and Disney is now focused on optimizing the system before rolling it out to the U.S. domestic parks.
While the new dynamic pricing model is confirmed, Johnston clarified that guests should not expect a domestic launch in the near term. Although he sought to distance the new strategy from the unpredictable “airline-style model,” he acknowledged the similarities. He explained that Disney already uses variable pricing for hotels and date-based tickets, and the plan is to simply extend this existing, careful approach inside the parks while minimizing any potential negative guest reactions.
“This is basically just bringing it in the park. But done in a way that obviously, it doesn’t create guest experience issues or consumer negative feedback… and frankly so far in Paris, we haven’t seen any,” Johnston said.
Under the new dynamic pricing model, the cost of tickets (and potentially other park services) will no longer be set months ahead of time. Instead, prices will fluctuate in real-time based on demand, much like the variable pricing systems already utilized by airlines and hotels that change based on consumer interest and availability.
What do you think about the change to dynamic pricing?
