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Walt Disney World Railroad to Operate in ‘Shuttle Mode’ as Frontierland Station Closes July 7th

Disney World Railroad - Frontierland
Disney World Railroad

Walt Disney World Railroad Frontierland Station Closing on July 7th

Walt Disney World has confirmed upcoming operational adjustments for the iconic Walt Disney World Railroad at Magic Kingdom, coinciding with the significant Frontierland expansion. Beginning July 7th, the day after the Rivers of America attractions permanently close, the railroad’s Frontierland station will also close, and the trains will operate in a limited “shuttle mode.”

During this period, the Walt Disney World Railroad will not complete its traditional grand circle tour of the park. Instead, it will travel backward and forward on the track exclusively between the Fantasyland station (located in Storybook Circus) and the Main Street, U.S.A. station.

Disney World Railroad

To enhance guest comfort during these altered operations, Disney Imagineers will be modifying some of the seating. A number of the train benches will be flipped to face in the opposite direction, accommodating guests who prefer not to face backwards relative to the train’s primary forward motion when it operates in reverse.

These changes are being implemented to facilitate the major construction involved in the Frontierland expansion. This ambitious project is set to transform the land currently occupied by the Rivers of America, the Liberty Square Riverboat, and Tom Sawyer Island, and will notably bring the popular “Cars” franchise to Magic Kingdom for the first time. The Frontierland railroad station itself had undergone a refurbishment recently as part of the area’s transition from Splash Mountain to the upcoming Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.

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By operating in “shuttle mode,” Disney aims to keep the beloved railroad accessible to guests for a portion of their Magic Kingdom visit, avoiding the kind of extended full closure experienced during the construction of TRON Lightcycle / Run. The Walt Disney World Railroad was famously closed for four years during that project, reopening in December 2022 after an extensive refurbishment which included track replacement.

Disney has not yet announced how long the railroad will operate in this shuttle mode, nor has an opening timeframe for the complete Frontierland expansion been detailed. Guests are advised to check the My Disney Experience app for the latest operational updates.

Walt Disney Imagineers Explain How “Cars” Will Fit Into Magic Kingdom’s Frontierland

pistonpeak
pistonpeak

Piston Peak National Park Will Be A New Chapter in Magic Kingdom’s Frontier Story

Get ready to hit the road and explore the “wheelderness” at Magic Kingdom! Disney Parks has announced exciting details about how the upcoming Piston Peak National Park, inspired by Disney and Pixar’s Cars universe, will seamlessly build upon the rich storytelling of Frontierland and Liberty Square. This highly anticipated expansion promises to blend the excitement of a big rally race with the majestic landscapes and enduring narratives of the American Frontier.

Related-New Permit Filed for Temporary Walt Disney Imagineering Offices for Cars Land Expansion

pistonpeak

Westward Ho! Crossing into New Frontiers at Magic Kingdom

Since Magic Kingdom’s opening day, adventurous guests have traveled across space and time as they journey from Liberty Square to Frontierland. This immersive storytelling begins with the architectural influences of upstate New York and colonial America in Liberty Square, before meandering towards a “bear-y fun concert” in the North Woods. The journey then takes a vibrant detour through New Orleans at the soon-to-open Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, culminating in the iconic Arizona bluffs that are home to Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.

Related-Disney Imagineering Develops Innovative Ride Vehicle for New Cars Land at Magic Kingdom

Walt Disney Imagineers Explain How “Cars” Will Fit Into Magic Kingdom’s Frontierland

At the heart of all these narratives are heroic characters, embodying a belief in themselves that helps forge paths to their dreams. To continue this journey in great American storytelling, Piston Peak National Park will be part of the largest expansion in the history of Magic Kingdom, extending this sweeping tradition.

pistonpeak

Welcome to Piston Peak National Park

Imagine an awe-inspiring wilderness filled with towering trees, snowcapped mountains, breathtaking waterfalls, roaring rivers, and impressive geysers. While fictional, Piston Peak is directly inspired by the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountain area and pays homage to the history and iconic sights of the American Frontier and its revered national parks.

Inside Piston Peak, guests will be able to see and explore familiar elements from the Cars universe, including the visitor lodge, Ranger HQ, and various trails. To ensure these new structures fit naturally within the majestic surrounding landscapes, Imagineers are utilizing a distinctive architectural style known as “Parkitecture.” This approach, developed by the National Park Service, focuses on creating buildings that harmonize seamlessly with the natural environment, enhancing the immersive experience.

From the outside, towering trees will provide a natural barrier, subtly separating the off-road rally area from other parts of Frontierland and Liberty Square. Rugged mountains with dramatic peaks will be nestled along a calming waterway across from Grizzly Hall, while soaring geysers from the famed Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will stretch into the trails of this thrilling new off-road rally.

Walt Disney Imagineers Explain How “Cars” Will Fit Into Magic Kingdom’s Frontierland

Cruising Just Around the Bend

As work on this ambitious expansion revs into high gear this summer, guests should note some temporary operational changes. The Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island, and the Liberty Square Riverboat will temporarily close beginning July 7, 2025, to facilitate ongoing construction.

Beyond Piston Peak, Imagineers are also hard at work on other groundbreaking projects. Just beyond Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, an entirely new land inspired by the Disney Villains is coming to life, promising two major attractions, unique dining, and shopping, all on an incredibly twisted grand scale.

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But that’s not all happening at the Magic Kingdom! Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is set to reopen next year with exciting new magic, and later this summer, the dazzling Disney Starlight will grace the streets of Magic Kingdom with its grand debut on July 20, 2025. Additionally, pirates of all ages will soon be welcomed to The Beak and Barrel.

Piston Peak National Park isn’t just a new land; it’s a thoughtful continuation of Magic Kingdom’s celebrated storytelling, inviting guests to embark on new adventures within a cherished narrative tradition. Get ready to experience the wild, wild “wheelderness” when Piston Peak National Park opens its trails!

Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island and the Liberty Square Riverboat will close on July 7th

Disney has been Given the Green Light for the Rivers of America Demolition 1
Disney has been Given the Green Light for the Rivers of America Demolition 1

Magic Kingdom’s Rivers of America, Riverboat, and Tom Sawyer Island to Close Permanently July 7th

Disney has officially announced the permanent closure date for several iconic attractions within Magic Kingdom’s Rivers of America. The last day of operation for the Liberty Square Riverboat, Tom Sawyer Island, and the surrounding Rivers of America will be July 6, 2025.

Related – New Permit Filed for Temporary Walt Disney Imagineering Offices for Cars Land Expansion

Rivers of America

Starting July 7, 2025, these classic experiences will no longer be available to guests. While the attractions will close on this date, construction walls are not expected to be erected for a few weeks following. An Imagineering representative indicated that when these walls are in place, they will be positioned so as not to obstruct guest pathways or parade viewing areas for the immediate future. Demolition permits for work in the area were approved earlier this year.

Rivers of America

The Rivers of America has been a picturesque part of the Frontierland landscape since Magic Kingdom’s opening day in 1971. The Liberty Square Riverboat and Tom Sawyer Island, however, both debuted in May 1973. The riverboat provided guests with a scenic tour around the waterway, featuring narration and show scenes depicting the American frontier.

Over the years, the Rivers of America has hosted other attractions that have since been retired. The Davy Crockett Explorer Canoes ceased operations in 1994, and the Mike Fink Keelboats were closed in 2001. As part of the upcoming project, the original dock for the Mike Fink Keelboats in Liberty Square, which has more recently served as extended queue space for The Haunted Mansion, is also slated for demolition.

The closure of these attractions marks a significant transformation for Magic Kingdom, paving the way for future developments in the park.

Best Spots to get Shareable Pizzas at Walt Disney World

pizzalead
pizzalead

Where to Find Delicious Shareable Pizzas at Walt Disney World

Who doesn’t love pizza? You can never go wrong with treating yourself and your loved ones to a shareable pie, and wow, do we have options to choose from! Not only is the joy of enjoying a slice of cheesy and saucy goodness unbeatable, but it’s also a great way to share a meal together with friends and family. Walt Disney World Resort offers a fantastic array of locations where you can grab a delicious pie perfect for sharing.

Related-Pepperoni Pizza Spring Rolls Returning to Magic Kingdom TODAY

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EPCOT

Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria: If you’re looking for authentic Italian cooking, fresh pizza, and a cozy atmosphere where you can spend with your family, then this is the place for you! Via Napoli offers individual, large, and Mezzo Metro (half-meter) sizes, making it ideal for groups of all sizes.

  • Capricciosa Pizza: Tomato sauce, mozzarella, Parmacotto ham, olives, artichokes, mushrooms, and oregano
  • Carciofi Pizza: White pizza with artichoke, fontina, mozzarella, and truffle oil
  • Margherita Pizza: Tomato sauce, mozzarella, and basil
  • Meat Lover Pizza: Tomato sauce, mozzarella, Italian spicy sausage, pancetta, Parmacotto ham, and pepperoni
  • Prosciutto e Melone Pizza: White pizza with fontina, mozzarella, prosciutto, cantaloupe, and arugula
  • Quattro Formaggi Pizza: White pizza with mozzarella, parmesan, fontina, and provolone

Related-Celebrate National Pizza Day Next Week at Walt Disney World Resort

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Disney Resorts Collection

You’ll find classic large cheese or pepperoni pizzas available for mobile order at various resort food courts, making it a convenient option for a quick and satisfying meal after a long day in the parks.

  • Centertown Market at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
  • End Zone Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
  • Everything POP Shopping & Dining at Disney’s Pop Century Resort
  • Intermission Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
  • Landscape of Flavors at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
  • Riverside Mill Food Court at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
  • Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
  • World Premier Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort

At Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, you can discover unique pizza options at Trail’s End Restaurant. This rustic Old West eatery is the perfect place to refuel before heading back out and exploring during your campground adventure. Mobile order is available here as well.

  • Large Smokehouse Pizza: House-smoked brisket, sausage, and pepperoni
  • Large Vegetable Pizza: Garlic-seasoned blend of red pepper, green pepper, red onion, yellow squash, and mushrooms
pizzawdesprings

Disney Springs

Disney Springs is a haven for diverse dining experiences, and pizza is no exception!

Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza: Blaze Pizza is known for its famous crust and the 24-hour fermentation period that gives it a signature flavor. They’re proud of their artisanal pies, made only with clean, simple ingredients and no artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, or sweeteners. Dietary restriction options are also available, including cauliflower crust, gluten-free dough, and vegan cheese.

  • Art Lover: Artichokes, mozzarella, ricotta, garlic, and red sauce dollops
  • BBQ Chkn: Chicken, mozzarella, red onion, banana peppers, gorgonzola, and BBQ sauce drizzle
  • Green Stripe: Pesto drizzle, chicken, garlic, red peppers, mozzarella, and arugula
  • Hot Link: Spicy red sauce, jalapeño, sausage, black olive, red onion, banana pepper, and mozzarella
  • Meat Eater: Pepperoni, meatballs, red onion, mozzarella, and red sauce
  • Red Vine: Ovalini mozzarella, tomatoes, parmesan, basil, red sauce, and olive oil drizzle
  • Veg Out: Seasonal veggies, mushrooms, red onion, mozzarella, gorgonzola, and red sauce dollops
  • White Top: White cream sauce, mozzarella, bacon, garlic, oregano, and arugula
  • Build Your Own Pizza: Choose any toppings (Additional versions available)
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Terralina Crafted Italian: You’ll feel like you’re stepping into the Italian countryside while enjoying hand-tossed pizzas, from-scratch sauces, and craft food.

  • Artisan Pepperoni: Pepperoni, mozzarella, basil, and roasted garlic
  • Bacon with Mushroom: Leeks, roasted garlic, and mozzarella
  • Breakfast Pizza: Fennel sausage, roasted red peppers, mozzarella, and a sunny side up egg (Only available at brunch)
  • Bruschetta: Basil Pesto, mozzarella, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic glaze
  • Margherita: Fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil
  • Sausage: Mozzarella, roasted red peppers, pickled red onions, and tomato
  • Spicy Capicola: Capicola ham, pickled vegetables, roasted garlic, mozzarella, herbed ricotta, balsamic glaze, and arugula
pizzasplitsville

Splitsville Dining Room: Enjoy modern decor, delicious food, and an entertaining ambiance when dining at this luxury bowling alley restaurant experience. NY-Style thick crust options are available.

  • BBQ Chicken: Grilled chicken, BBQ sauce, smoked Gouda, mozzarella, cilantro and red onion
  • Cheese: House-made crust, mozzarella and fresh tomato sauce
  • Hawaiian: House-made crust, tangy BBQ sauce and mozzarella cheese topped with Canadian bacon, fresh pineapple and cilantro
  • Meat Lovers: Smoked sausage, pepperoni, bacon and Italian meatballs
  • Pepperoni: House-made cheese pizza with pepperoni
  • Sicilian Four Cheese: Mozzarella, provolone, pecorino romano, and parmesan with tomato sauce on a signature thick crust
  • Spicy Pepperoni: Mozzarella, pepperoni, and torn basil, drizzled with hot honey
  • Veggie: Mozzarella, mushrooms, red and green peppers, onions, and broccoli
pizzasummerhouse

Summer House on the Lake: The California-inspired menu at Summer House on the Lake is made with simple, sustainable ingredients – served alongside lakeside views.

  • Classic Cheese: Mozzarella, parmesan, and tomato sauce
  • Margherita: Fresh mozzarella, tomato sauce, olive oil, sea salt, and basil
  • Hobbs Pepperoni: Mozzarella, parmesan, and tomato sauce
  • Shaved Mushroom: Gruyère, caramelized onion, truffle, rosemary, scallions, parsley, and parmesan cream
  • Sausage & Peppers: Mozzarella, roasted sweet peppers, and tomato sauce
Disney Springs Wolfgang Puck

Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill: Wolfgang Puck, known for its exemplary service, distinct atmosphere, delicious cuisine, and attention to detail, features a wide array of pizza choices crafted to perfection.

  • Bar & Grill “Margherita”: Fior di latte, roasted tomatoes, pesto, and basil
  • BBQ Chicken: Onions, cilantro, and jalapeños
  • Italian Sausage: Smoked mozzarella, shishito peppers, and basil pesto
  • Prosciutto di Parma: Roasted tomato, shaved onions, and goat cheese
  • Wild Mushroom: Roasted garlic, baby spinach, and oregano
  • Wolfgang’s Classic Smoked Salmon: Dill cream, red onion, chives, and salmon caviar

These shareable pie options have stolen a pizza our hearts! With these tasty adventures, the possibilities are endless when you visit Walt Disney World Resort!

Corazón by Baires Unveils Kali Dining Room: An Immersive Culinary Journey in Orlando

Corazón by Baires Unveils Kali Dining Room
Corazón by Baires Unveils Kali Dining Room

Kali Dining Room: Orlando’s New Immersive Culinary Experience Blooms at Corazón by Baires

Prepare for a dining experience where the ambiance transforms with your evening. Corazón by Baires, a celebrated fixture in Orlando’s culinary scene, has officially opened its breathtaking new Kali Dining Room. Promising more than just a meal, this innovative space is designed as an immersive journey, guiding guests from serene natural beauty to an electrifying, high-energy celebration.

The Kali Dining Room captivates from the moment you enter. Initially, guests are enveloped in a tranquil atmosphere, with stunning, moving projections of vibrant flowers and lush natural landscapes adorning the walls and ceilings. This creates a sophisticated and serene backdrop perfect for starting your culinary adventure.

Related – New Update on SunRail Train Connecting Orlando Airport to Disney World and Universal Orlando

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As the evening unfolds, the carefully curated music subtly shifts and builds, and the visual environment transforms in tandem. The peaceful garden gives way to a “techno magic” space, where dynamic and exhilarating digital displays pulsate with energy, offering a unique and evolving sensory experience throughout your meal.

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While the setting offers a new dimension of excitement, fans of Corazón by Baires will be delighted to know that the exceptional menu remains a beloved constant. The Kali Dining Room will continue to serve the same delicious culinary creations that have established Corazón as a local favorite. Guests can indulge in renowned empanadas, enjoy the theatrical presentation of a tableside Tomahawk steak, and explore a menu rich with passion and authentic flavors. The vibrant, “Miami vibes” of the new space are a perfect complement to the flavorful dishes.

Beyond its nightly allure, the Kali Dining Room also presents itself as an ideal venue for private gatherings. From corporate events and milestone birthday celebrations to intimate wedding receptions, the versatile and transformative space can be rented to create truly unforgettable special occasions. The blend of exquisite food and a dynamically shifting environment ensures a memorable event for all attendees.

To discover more about the unique experience offered at the Kali Dining Room, view the full menu, or make inquiries about booking your next special event, visit their dedicated website at https://www.corazonbybaires.com/kalidiningroom. Prepare for an evening where culinary excellence meets visual enchantment.

Disney Vacation Club to Crackdown on Members Renting Points

dvc
disney vacation club

Cracking Down: Disney Vacation Club Targets Point Rental Abuses

The Disney Vacation Club (DVC) just dropped a sudden update, and it looks like they’re trying to put the brakes on members renting out their points to other guests.

Related – Disney Vacation Club Bringing Back its “Welcome Home Weeks” in August

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Effective June 2, 2025, Disney Vacation Club is making members confirm that their reservations are for “personal use.” When booking online, you’ll now see a checkbox to confirm this. If you’re booking over the phone, Cast Members are directly asking if the reservation is for you, your friends and family, or a rental guest. DVC is now framing point rentals as a potential “commercial activity,” indicating a shift in how they view this practice. The new rules primarily target guests who rent out points as a business venture.

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The updated terms and conditions read:

“You agree that any reservations made under your membership are solely for personal use and not for commercial purposes, as required by governing documents for each DVC Resort, including but not limited to the Declaration of Condominium and Membership Agreement. DVCM reserves the right to interpret personal use and determine if reservations are booked for personal or commercial purposes in its sole discretion.

Personal use may include enjoying the benefits of a DVC Membership with family or allowing use of any reserved Vacation Home to friends and family on occasion. Additionally, personal use means that the member does not regularly or frequently rent/sell reservations booked using their membership.”

What do you think of these changes?

Your Fairytale Wardrobe Awaits: The Happily Ever After Spirit Jersey is Here!

Happily Ever After Spirit Jersey
Happily Ever After Spirit Jersey

Your Fairytale Wardrobe Awaits: The Happily Ever After Spirit Jersey is Here!

Get ready to snuggle up in pure Disney magic, because the Happily Ever After Spirit Jersey has officially arrived, and it’s here to make all your fairytale dreams come true! This super comfy, stylishly loose-fitting pullover is available right now online at the Disney Store, and it’s a steal at just $74.99. Seriously, your wardrobe is begging for this.

Related – Shimmer and Shine! Discover the New Opalescent Disney Collection!

Happily Ever After Spirit Jersey

Imagine slipping into this beauty: the dropped shoulders give it that effortlessly cool vibe, and the puffy ink graphics are just the sweetest touch. But the real showstopper? The back, where it boldly declares “Happily Ever After.” Just like your favorite Disney characters, you’ll be feeling those good vibes every time you wear it.

It’s more than just a top; it’s a reminder to embrace the magic and live out your own personal fairytale, one cozy moment at a time. Don’t wait to grab yours and start living that happily ever after life!

Credit: Disney Store











Shimmer and Shine! Discover the New Opalescent Disney Collection!

Opalescent Disney Collection
Opalescent Disney Collection

Shimmer and Shine! Discover the New Opalescent Disney Collection!

Guess what, Disney fashionistas?! There’s a new color story in town, and it’s absolutely dreamy. Get ready to shimmer and shine with the New Opalescent Color Story Collection! This collection is all about those gorgeous iridescent hues and soft lavender tones, and trust us, you’re gonna want every single piece.

Related – Symphony of Style: Discover the New Disney Music Festival Collection at Disneyland Paris!

Opalescent Disney Collection

First up, let’s talk about the Opalescent Minnie Ears! For just $34.99, you can rock these beauties with their stunning lavender sequin-covered ears. But the real showstopper? That iridescent bow that shimmers with every move you make. It’s a simple design, but it’s pure magic and will have you feeling like you just stepped out of a fairytale.

Opalescent Disney Collection

Next on our must-have list is the Opalescent Loungefly Mini Backpack, retailing for $99. Seriously, how cute is this thing?! It’s covered in those dazzling iridescent and lavender sequins, and the tiny Minnie ears on the front, complete with an iridescent bow, are just too precious for words. And it’s not just a pretty face, this backpack has all the features you already love about your Loungefly bags. We’re talking a zippered front compartment, a spacious main compartment for all your essentials, handy side pockets, a top handle, and adjustable straps for maximum comfort.

But wait, there’s more! The contrasting interior is a delightful surprise, featuring lavender and white images of Minnie. It’s the perfect blend of style and practicality!

Opalescent Disney Collection

And finally, get ready to cozy up in style with the Opalescent Spirit Jersey for $79.99. This lavender Spirit Jersey is not only a fantastic look but also perfect for those cooler days and nights. The front proudly displays the classic “D” logo in a cool iridescent, puffy ink. And when you turn around, “Walt Disney World” shimmers subtly across the shoulders, adding that extra touch of magic. With its loose fit and comfy drop sleeves, this Spirit Jersey is going to be your new favorite go-to for all your park adventures or just lounging at home, dreaming of Disney.

Which piece of the Opalescent Color Story Collection are you most excited to add to your Disney wardrobe?

Credit: Disney

Unleash Your Imagination with the Figment Canvas Backpack!

Figment Canvas Backpack
Figment Canvas Backpack

Unleash Your Imagination with the Figment Canvas Backpack!

Are you ready to add a splash of playful whimsy to your park hopping or everyday adventures? Because we just stumbled upon the most adorable accessory at Disney Springs that’s going to have your imagination soaring: the Figment Canvas Backpack! And trust us, this isn’t your typical Loungefly.

Related – Spark Your Imagination with the New Pastel Figment Loungefly Mini Backpack!

Figment Canvas Backpack

This delightful bag retails for around $80, and it’s worth every penny. You’ll immediately notice its charming light pastel purple hue, which perfectly sets off the contrasting black straps. But the real magic? It’s all about Figment! His iconic, friendly head is embroidered in a repeating pattern all over the bag, giving it a subtle yet undeniable Disney touch. And for all you collectors out there, the Disney Parks | Loungefly enamel badge near the top zipper is a matching pastel purple, a lovely detail that ties the whole look together.

Figment Canvas Backpack

Now, here’s where this Figment backpack deviates from the usual Loungefly suspects. You won’t find any exterior slip pockets on this one, which gives it a sleek, streamlined look. But don’t worry, the adorable Figment embroidery continues on both sides, ensuring our favorite purple dragon is always in sight! Plus, the silvertone zipper hardware adds a touch of understated cool. The black straps are super comfy and adjustable, matching the carry handle for easy grab-and-go moments.

Figment Canvas Backpack

But the fun doesn’t stop on the outside! Open this beauty up, and you’ll be greeted by a vibrant orange fabric lining that continues the Figment theme with another repeating head pattern. It’s like a little burst of joy every time you reach for your essentials! So, if you’re looking for a unique and utterly charming way to show your love for Figment and EPCOT, this canvas backpack is an absolute must-have. Don’t let your imagination miss out!










Disney Announces New Round of Mass Layoffs Affecting Film, TV, and Corporate Teams

Mass Layoffs Across TV, Film And Corporate Finance
Mass Layoffs Across TV, Film And Corporate Finance

Another wave of layoffs is coming to the Walt Disney Company

The Walt Disney Company is implementing another wave of layoffs, this time affecting several hundred employees across its global operations. As reported by Variety, the cuts span multiple departments, including film and TV marketing, publicity, casting, development, and corporate finance.

Related: Pixar Studios Hit with More Layoffs as Part of Disney’s Company-Wide Cost-Cutting Measures

Disney Announces New Round of Mass Layoffs Affecting Film, TV, and Corporate Teams

While Disney has framed the layoffs as part of an effort to operate more efficiently, the impact will be felt across various teams—notably without eliminating any specific department. The company has not confirmed the exact number of affected employees, and Disney representatives have declined to comment further on the scale of the cuts.

This latest round adds to a growing list of workforce reductions over the past year:

  • March 2025: Nearly 200 roles eliminated across ABC News and television divisions
  • October 2024: 75 staffers laid off from ABC News and local stations
  • September 2024: 300 cuts across corporate departments including HR, legal, and finance
  • July 2024: 140 layoffs, primarily from National Geographic, Freeform, and local stations

These latest layoffs are seen as more surgical compared to the massive restructuring in 2023, when more than 8,000 jobs were slashed shortly after Bob Iger returned as CEO.

Related: Legoland Florida Layoffs for Many in Entertainment Department

disney layoffs

Despite the staffing cuts, Disney has posted strong financials in 2025 so far. The company beat Wall Street expectations in the first quarter and is forecasting 16% year-over-year growth in earnings per share, along with double-digit increases in operating income for its entertainment and sports divisions. Its theme park and consumer products business is also expected to grow between 6% and 8%.

As of its last annual report in September 2024, Disney employed approximately 233,000 people globally, including about 171,000 in the United States.

The ongoing layoffs suggest that while Disney is financially optimistic about its future, it remains focused on streamlining operations and adjusting its workforce to match a rapidly evolving entertainment landscape.

Universal Orlando Resort Celebrates Pride Month with Exclusive Treats, Merch and More

Universal Orlando Resort Celebrates Pride Month with Exclusive Treats, Merch and More
Universal Orlando Resort Celebrates Pride Month with Exclusive Treats, Merch and More

Celebrate Pride at Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando Goes All Out for Pride Month 2025 — Here’s Everything to Celebrate with Style and Love!

At Universal Orlando Resort, Love is Universal isn’t just a slogan—it’s a celebration. And this June, the rainbow is shining a little brighter as Pride Month festivities return in full technicolor glory. Whether you’re looking to show off your fabulous fit, sip something sweet (or spicy), or dance under a sea of stilt walkers, Universal has created a dazzling array of experiences to honor the LGBTQIA+ community and its allies.

Related: Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit at Universal Studios Florida Closing on August 18

Universal Orlando Resort Celebrates Pride Month with Exclusive Treats, Merch and More

Here’s your ultimate Pride Month rundown at Universal Orlando:

🌈 Love Is Universal… Merch and Meaning
You can wear your pride on your sleeve—and your head, your waist, and even your hand fan. The Love is Universal merchandise line is front and center this summer with everything from rainbow-striped fanny packs and bold message tees to snap-worthy accessories. Even better? 100% of profits from Pride merch sold through August will go to nonprofits that support LGBTQIA+ and local communities. Fashion with purpose? Yes, please.

🍭 Rainbow Treats That Taste Like Love

  • Pride Shake at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium: Huckleberry milkshake, rainbow candy, boba, whipped cream, and a sugar cookie on top.
  • Love Is Universal Doughnut at Voodoo Doughnut: Cheesecake-filled with a rainbow sour belt and gummy bear toppers.
  • Taste of the Rainbow at Cowfish: A rainbow vanilla cake roll with white chocolate ganache.
  • Prideful Focaccia at VIVO: House-baked bread topped with colorful jams and sauces.
  • Strawberry Shortcake, Diver Scallops, and more seasonal dishes round out the sweet and savory offerings.

🍹 Sip, Sip, Hooray — Exclusive Pride Cocktails
From Gleaming Glory at Red Coconut Club to the glitter-filled Sizzle & Serve at Toothsome, the Pride beverage lineup is as vibrant as the community it celebrates. Other standouts include:

  • Petals and Pride at Volcano Bay
  • Pink Pegasus at Mythos
  • Tranquility at Sea at Margaritaville
  • LOVE is Loopy (yes, it’s as fun as it sounds!)
Universal Orlando Resort Celebrates Pride Month with Exclusive Treats, Merch and More

🎉 Love Is Universal Nights — Back and Bigger Than Ever
For the third year running, Red Coconut Club transforms into the ultimate Pride party hub every Thursday through Saturday in June. Picture this: eleven stilt walkers repping the Progress Pride Flag, exclusive themed drinks, and a dance floor alive with energy and inclusivity. Best of all? It’s free admission for guests 21 and up. Expect music, magic, and moments you’ll never forget.

Related: Five Nights at Freddy’s Coming to Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood & Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando Resort Celebrates Pride Month with Exclusive Treats, Merch and More

🎵 Stay Loud and Proud at Hard Rock Hotel
Make it a full-on celebration with an overnight at Hard Rock Hotel, where the WAX program offers in-room turntables and curated vinyl from LGBTQIA+ artists. The lobby’s Rock Shop features Pride merch, and playlists around the property crank up the love with rainbow-hued soundtracks.

From glam gear to gourmet eats, from dance nights to daily delights—Universal Orlando is truly the place to be this June. So grab your squad, shine your light, and celebrate Pride the Universal way.

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort will Undergo Exterior Refurbishment this Summer

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort will Undergo Exterior Refurbishment this Summer
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort will Undergo Exterior Refurbishment this Summer

Refurbishment Ahoy! Updates Coming to Disney’s Yacht Club Resort This Summer

Set sail for some updates! Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, the charming seaside-style retreat nestled along Crescent Lake, will be undergoing a wave of routine refurbishments starting this summer—and while the ambiance may get a slight facelift, the magic will stay anchored.

According to Disney’s official website, routine exterior maintenance will begin in early July 2025 and is expected to run through October 2025. This will include work around the porte cochere areas, which will be temporarily closed. While that grand nautical arrival moment might look a little different, guests can rest easy knowing that valet, luggage assistance, and all transportation options will still be available throughout the work.

Related: Officially the FINAL WEEK to Enjoy Muppets Courtyard before it Closes Forever

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort will Undergo Exterior Refurbishment this Summer

Here’s what you need to know:

  • Construction Schedule: Work will take place during daytime hours only, and Disney promises to keep disruptions to a minimum.
  • Exterior Maintenance: Expect visible scaffolding or equipment as the resort gets a bit of a touch-up.
  • Amenities Still Shipshape: Most amenities and services will remain open during the refurbishment—so don’t worry, your vacation won’t be adrift!

Related: First Look: Inside EPCOT’s New Adults-Only GEO-82 Lounge

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort will Undergo Exterior Refurbishment this Summer

But don’t forget: the Stormalong Bay pool complex and Shipwreck Pool slide, shared with sister resort Disney’s Beach Club, are currently closed through June 2025 for their own maintenance voyage. If you’re visiting before July, plan to splash around in one of the leisure pools instead.

While these refurbishments may briefly change the view from the deck, they’re all part of keeping Disney’s Yacht Club looking crisp and timeless for future voyages. Here’s hoping the updated look will make you want to drop anchor for another stay!