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2025 EPCOT Food and Wine Festival Dates Announced

May 12, 2025

Festival Dates and a Few Details to Nibble On: 2025 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival

It’s the tastiest time of year—almost! Disney just served up the first course of delicious details for the 2025 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, and we’re already loosening our belts and marking our calendars.

This year’s festival will run for a full 90 days, from August 28 through November 22, 2025. That’s just one day shorter than last year’s celebration, which ran from August 29 to November 23, 2024. But with all the flavor and fun packed into those 90 days, we’re not missing a bite!

With more than 35 global marketplaces, returning fan-favorite activities, and plenty of culinary surprises still to come, this year’s celebration of international flavors promises to be as delectable as ever.

The Global Marketplaces Return

World Showcase and beyond will once again transform into a savory stroll through six continents. With 35+ food booths expected throughout the park, guests can indulge in international bites ranging from spicy to sweet, plant-based to kid-friendly. Disney has confirmed some early highlights from this year’s menus, including:

Milled & Mulled: Fall Fruit Cheesecake featuring Boursin® Fig & Balsamic Cheesecake with Pomegranates and Candied Pecans
Brazil Booth: Pão de Queijo (Brazilian Cheese Bread)
Greece Booth: Griddled Cheese topped with Pistachios and Honey

Stay tuned for the full Disney Eats Foodie Guide, which will reveal every menu item, booth location, and snackable surprise.

Say Cheese! Emile’s Fromage Montage Is Back

Emile’s Fromage Montage, the fan-favorite cheese crawl, returns with another ooey-gooey trail of treats. Grab your Festival Passport and earn stamps by sampling select cheesy dishes across the park. Once you’ve completed your cheese mission (and possibly entered a dairy-induced bliss), you’ll be rewarded with a complimentary cheesy treat to cap off your montage.

Remy’s Hide & Squeak Scavenger Hunt

Everyone’s favorite pint-sized chef is back with another miniature adventure! In Remy’s Hide & Squeak, guests can purchase a scavenger hunt map and follow clues around World Showcase to locate Remy and his collection of ingredients. It’s an activity that blends culinary fun with a dash of detective work—and there’s a prize at the end for those who complete it!

Eat to the Beat Concert Series

The Eat to the Beat Concert Series returns to the America Gardens Theatre, where live music fills the air multiple times daily. The lineup has yet to be released, but we can expect a blend of returning favorites, new acts, and a mix of genres to satisfy every ear.

Guests can snag a seat for free with regular park admission, or guarantee their spot through the Eat to the Beat Dining Package, which includes:

Appetizer, entrée, dessert (or buffet) + a non-alcoholic or alcoholic drink
Reserved concert seating in the middle section of the theatre

Dining reservations can be made on the My Disney Experience app or the official Walt Disney World website. (Pro tip: Go early for the best seats!)

Living with the Land – Festival Edition

During the festival, the Living with the Land attraction features special Food & Wine displays highlighting seasonal ingredients and sustainable practices. It’s a flavorful fusion of fun and education, perfect for guests of all ages.

Planning Your Visit

Whether you’re craving global flavors, chasing Remy through the pavilions, or grooving to your favorite band, the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival is the ultimate recipe for a magical day (or week, or three).

Guests looking to stretch the magic should consider booking a Walt Disney World Resort vacation package, which includes perks like:

Early park entry each day
Admission to a Disney Water Park on arrival day
Easy access to the magic with complimentary resort transportation
Access to 25+ themed Disney resorts with activities and dining

Pack your appetite and stretchy pants—Food & Wine 2025 is coming in hot!

RSVLTS Disney Park Shirts Spotted at Hollywood Studios!

Ana Leal

May 12, 2025

RSVLTS Disney Park Shirts Spotted at Hollywood Studios!

We just stumbled upon some seriously cool shirts at Hollywood Studios, and you need to know about them. They’re from RSVLTS, and if you know the brand, you know the quality is top-notch. These are button-downs, and each one is packed with awesome Disney details. They’ll set you back $75 a pop, but trust us, they feel like they’re worth it.

First up, the Haunted Mansion shirt is a total must-have for any fan of the spooky but fun ride. It’s got this rich purple background that’s covered in all sorts of creepy-cool stuff. We’re talking characters peeking out from picture frames, just like in the mansion! You’ve got the “Tomb Sweet Tomb” sign with the clock striking 13 (of course!), the Groundskeeper looking all nervous, Madame Leota doing her thing, and even that opera singer from the graveyard.

But wait, there’s more! They didn’t forget about Constance Hatchaway (watch out for that axe!), the Hitchhiking Ghosts trying to hitch a ride, the Hatbox Ghost (so glad he’s back!), and even the gargoyle holding those spooky candles. Seriously, every time you look at this shirt, you’ll spot something new.

For all you rebels out there, the Star Wars shirt is calling your name. This one’s got a full-on explosion of “Star Wars” goodness. We’re talking Darth Vader in all his menacing glory, striking different poses and in different art styles. And of course, you can’t have “Star Wars” without the Death Star looming in the background and a TIE Fighter zipping through space. It’s a subtle way to show off your fandom without being over-the-top, you know?

Ready for a tropical escape? The Tiki Room shirt will transport you straight to Adventureland. This one’s got a vibrant green background covered in beautiful tropical flowers and those adorable singing birds. You’ll see Jose, Pierre, Michael, and the glamorous showgirl birds all over it. And hey, they even included Fritz! Plus, that little RSVLTS tag on the pocket is a nice touch. This shirt just screams “sunshine and good vibes.”

Last but not least, the Mickey shirt is pure classic Disney magic. This light blue button-down is covered in our main mouse, but with a fun twist! Mickey’s rocking all sorts of different outfits inspired by the lands of Magic Kingdom. We spotted him looking dapper in a blue Dapper Dans suit, ready for space in a spacesuit, looking regal in a Prince and the Pauper getup, and ready for adventure as a Jungle Cruise skipper.

And in the background, they’ve got these cool sketches of iconic Magic Kingdom stuff like Space Mountain, the “it’s a small world” clock, a popcorn box (gotta have snacks!), a Mad Tea Party teacup, a Pirates of the Caribbean skull and crossbones, an Astro Orbiter rocket, the Walt Disney World Railroad engine, and a Jungle Cruise boat. It’s like wearing a little piece of the whole park!

So yeah, these RSVLTS shirts are pretty awesome. They’re comfy, stylish, and packed with details that any Disney fan will appreciate. If you’re heading to Hollywood Studios, definitely keep an eye out for them. Your wardrobe (and your Disney spirit) will thank you!

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Jack Skellington is getting a SPOOKTACULAR new look for the 2025 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

Chip

May 12, 2025

Jack Skellington Gets a More Film-Accurate Look for 2025 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

Disney Parks has unveiled a significant update to the appearance of Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King, who will greet guests during the 2025 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. The character will debut a new, more accurate head, moving away from the half-mask design that performers have utilized in previous years.

The reveal came via a post on the official Disney Parks Instagram account, showcasing a brief video of the updated Jack Skellington. This new iteration features a complete, fully formed head, more closely resembling his iconic look from “The Nightmare Before Christmas.” While the video offered a limited view of its articulation, it was evident that the mouth is capable of movement, allowing for smiles and open expressions.

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In addition to Jack, it appears that Sally, his beloved companion, has also received a subtle refresh. The noticeable blue circles around her eyes and bright red lipstick from past appearances seem to have been replaced with a more understated look, featuring just stitches around her eyes and a darker lip color with black liner, aligning more closely with her Tim Burton film portrayal.

These updated character appearances were teased as part of the Monday morning announcements detailing the return of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party for 2025, which also included ticket information and confirmed entertainment offerings. While initially revealed for Walt Disney World, it is anticipated that this enhanced look for Jack and Sally will eventually extend to Disneyland Resort as well.

Historically, Jack Skellington’s in-park appearance utilized a half-mask that covered his eyes, nose, and the upper portion of his smile. This design featured an opening at the chin, allowing the performer to interact verbally with guests but resulted in a head shape that appeared more diamond-like than the rounded form seen in the movie. Sally’s previous look, while largely consistent with her film appearance, featured distinct blue circles around her eyes and brighter lipstick. The new changes aim for a greater degree of accuracy to the beloved animated film.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Ticket Prices Jump in 2025

Chip

May 12, 2025

Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party Ticket Prices Jump in

Ticket prices are going up for the 2025 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom.

Walt Disney World has released the pricing details for the 2025 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, revealing a notable increase at the higher end of the ticket spectrum. Guests looking to attend the popular after-hours event can expect to pay between $119 and $229 per person, plus tax. While date-specific pricing is yet to be announced, a comparison with last year’s costs indicates a significant $30 jump for 2025.

In 2024, the most affordable nights for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party were priced at $119, primarily on select dates in August (August 13, 16, 20, 23, and 27). Most September party nights ranged from $129 to $149, while October saw the highest demand and prices, peaking at $199 on several nights, including October 25, 27, 29, and 31.

For the 2025 season, Disney has maintained the entry-level price at $119 for the least popular dates. However, the maximum ticket price has now climbed to $229 per person, marking a clear increase for those aiming to attend the most sought-after Halloween nights. Based on historical trends, the final four party nights in October—including October 24, 26, 28, and 31—are the prime candidates for this premium $229 price point.

MNSSHP Fireworks Not So Spooky Spectacular

Ticket Sale Dates:

May 15, 2025: Tickets become available for guests staying at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels, the Swan and Dolphin Hotels, and Shades of Green.
May 22, 2025: Ticket sales open to the general public.

Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club members will receive a $10 discount on tickets for select nights in August and September. Tickets can be purchased at DisneyWorld.com/Halloween or by calling (407) 934-7639. The party runs from 7:00 PM to midnight, with admission starting at 4:00 PM.

2025 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Dates:

The 2025 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party will take place on the following nights, running from August 15th through October 31st:

August: 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 26, 29 September: 2, 5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 19, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30 October: 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 13, 14, 16, 17, 19, 23, 24, 26, 28, 30, 31

Details Revealed for 2025 Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party

Chris B

May 12, 2025

Details Revealed for Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party cover

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party 2025: Full Dates, Ticket Info, and Frightfully Fun Details Revealed

As the sun dips below Cinderella Castle, something wickedly fun this way comes. Magic Kingdom transforms into a ghoulishly delightful playground of tricks, treats, and toe-tapping terror. The music gets a little eerier, the lighting a little moodier, and the Haunted Mansion? Let’s just say she’s having her main character moment.

If you’re dreaming of Halloween magic with a pixie-dusted twist, it’s time to grab your broomsticks and mark your calendars. Here’s what to expect from Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party in 2025—including what’s different this year, party offerings, and a peek at some returning favorites.

Details Announced for Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party

What is Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party?
This after-hours event is one of Walt Disney World’s most beloved traditions. It’s a separately ticketed celebration that fills Magic Kingdom with exclusive entertainment, treat trails, character encounters, and villainous delights. Guests of all ages are encouraged to don costumes, collect candy, and enjoy Halloween overlays on select attractions. With spooky season vibes and zero fright factor, it’s the perfect family-friendly way to celebrate.

What’s Different About the 2025 Dates?
This year’s party dates run from August 15 through October 31, offering 38 event nights—the same number as 2024, but with some notable changes in scheduling:

Later start: 2024 kicked off early on August 9. This year, the party doesn’t begin until August 15, trimming the earliest offerings.
New Sunday nights: For the first time in recent memory, 2025 includes Sunday parties in August (17 & 24) and October (5 & 26)—a hauntingly helpful addition for weekend travelers.
No Labor Day party: Unlike 2024, there’s no event on Labor Day itself (Monday, September 1). Instead, the September run starts on Tuesday the 2nd.
October shifts: Several October 2024 dates (like the 1st, 4th, 6th, 11th, and 18th) are absent this year, with 2025 leaning harder into Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, and adding fewer Saturday parties overall.

The calendar still offers a healthy mix of weekday and weekend options, but with these subtle shifts, seasoned MNSSHP fans may want to double-check their spooky strategies when planning.

Character Greetings and Spooky Surprises
One of the biggest hits of the party? Character greetings you can’t get during regular park hours. This year, Mickey and Minnie will greet together in their Halloween costumes at Town Square Theater for the first time. Jack and Sally will return, and several classic Disney Villains are expected to creep into the party zones for eerie interactions and photo ops.

Trick-or-Treating Like a Pro
More than a dozen treat trails will be scattered throughout Magic Kingdom again this year, filled with Mars Wrigley favorites like M&M’s, Snickers, Skittles, and more. Guests with food allergies can collect teal tokens and redeem them for allergy-friendly options at special locations. And yes—everyone gets a complimentary treat bag!

Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade
The Headless Horseman returns to lead the way in this crowd-favorite parade, which kicks off at 8:15 PM—a perfect time for little ghouls and goblins. Expect rare characters like Pain & Panic and Vanellope, as well as dancing gravediggers, classic villains, and Halloween royalty.

Hocus Pocus Villains Spelltacular
Winifred, Sarah, and Mary are once again lighting up the Castle stage with their not-so-successful spellcasting and high-energy hijinks. The Sanderson Sisters will be joined by Disney’s most wicked icons—Hades, Jafar, Dr. Facilier, and more—for a live show that’s both hilarious and haunting.

Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular
Jack Skellington hosts this multimedia fireworks spectacular featuring castle projections, fireworks, and a spooky story starring Mickey and Friends as they explore a haunted house. It’s a stunning finale filled with creepy color and sky-high fun.

New Frights and Returning Favorites
Expect select attractions to get a seasonal glow-up with Halloween overlays, including lighting and sound effects. The fan-favorite Cadaver Dans will be back in Frontierland, while a new Zombies-themed dance party promises high-energy thrills in Tomorrowland. And yes—Disney’s culinary team is already cooking up some sinister snacks and specialty sips for the 2025 Foodie Guide.

Specialty Merchandise
Exclusive party merch is always a hot item, and this year’s lineup will include glow-in-the-dark gear, collectibles, and more spooky souvenirs that materialize only during the event.

Quick Ticket Reminder
Tickets for the 2025 party go on sale May 15 for guests of select Disney Resort hotels, Swan and Dolphin, and Shades of Green. General public sales begin May 22. Pricing varies by date and many nights sell out—so don’t ghost on your chance to get in. Click here for the most up-to-date info, including how to purchase tickets!.

Dates Announced for 2025 Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party

Chip

May 12, 2025

Dates & Details Announced for Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party

Dates Announced for 2025 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

Get ready for a spooktacular season of family-friendly fun! The highly anticipated Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is set to return to Magic Kingdom Park in Walt Disney World for select nights in August, 2025. Disney has just announced the dates for this beloved after-hours event, promising another year of delightful frights, enchanting entertainment, and exclusive treats.

The 2025 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party dates will run from Aug. 15 to Oct. 31. The party runs only on specific weekend or weekday nights, so be sure to consult the calendar of dates to plan your trip.

2025 Party Dates:

Aug. 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 26, 29

Sept. 2, 5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 19, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30

Oct. 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 13, 14, 16, 17, 19, 23, 24, 26, 28, 30, 31

For those unfamiliar with this special event, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party offers a unique way to experience Magic Kingdom. Guests of all ages are encouraged to don their favorite Halloween costumes and enjoy a night filled with trick-or-treating throughout the park, special character meet-and-greets (often featuring rare villains!), the spirited “Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade,” and the dazzling “Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular” fireworks show over Cinderella Castle.

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party ticket prices vary per date and will be available for purchase starting on May 15th for guests staying at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels, Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels, and Shades of Green.

Tickets will be available starting on May 22 for all other guests. Party dates often sell out, so our best tip is to plan early and purchase tickets in advance for your desired party date.

Ticket Prices
Event tickets are $119 to $229 per ticket, plus tax (prices vary by event date).

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Party Ticket discounts are once again available for Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members. To purchase tickets, visit Disneyworld.com/Halloween or call the Disney Reservation Center at 407-934-7639. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary guests can enter as early as 4:00 PM to enter Magic Kingdom before the party kicks off at 7:00 PM. This means guests have up to 8 hours to celebrate all across the park.

“Surprised, aren’t you?” Guests can meet Sally and Jack Skellington at Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party at one of the many character stops that feature exclusive meet-and-greet opportunities. At Town Square Theater, Mickey and Minnie will, for the first time, greet guests together in their Halloween costumes.

Stay tuned for details on which characters you can meet — and who will be in special festive attire.

For even more creepy character fun, keep your eyes peeled because you may see new and returning Disney Villains appear as you creep by through the streets.

Prepare for a night of not-so-scary thrills and unforgettable memories as Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party returns to Magic Kingdom in 2025!

Updated Character Costumes for Disney’s Paint the Night Parade

Sara

May 11, 2025

Fresh Threads! Updated Character Costumes Light Up Paint the Night

The long-awaited return of Disneyland’s Paint the Night Parade is just around the corner, answering years of fans’ hopeful question: “when can we do this again?”. Adding to the excitement, Disneyland has shared an early glimpse of the parade, showcasing a dazzling new costume designed for Tinker Bell.

The photo above is from 2015 when Paint the Night officially came to Disneyland. We compared Tinker Bell’s original costume to the new one Disney shared an image of below. It looks like she’s getting an update! From her hairstyle to her shoes, Tink’s outfit is looking fresh.

The dazzling Paint the Night Parade, a fan-favorite since its debut during Disneyland’s 60th anniversary, is set to make a grand return to Disneyland Park for the 70th celebration. Beginning May 16th, 2025, this spectacular nighttime parade will once again illuminate Main Street, U.S.A. with over a million brilliant LED lights, showcasing innovative floats, vibrant costumes, incredible special effects, unforgettable music, and energetic performances. Leading the way, Tinker Bell will sport a stunning updated costume, enhanced by technology now available a decade after the parade’s original premiere.

The magic unfolds as Mickey Mouse, fueled by his vivid imagination and Tinker Bell’s pixie dust, “paints the night” with beloved Disney and Pixar stories. Guests will be enchanted by characters and scenes from films like Monsters, Inc., Cars, Toy Story, The Little Mermaid, and Beauty and the Beast. Notably, the Frozen float, featuring Anna and Elsa in Elsa’s grand Ice Palace, will return to Main Street, U.S.A. for the first time since its initial run. This beloved float was absent during the parade’s time at Disney California Adventure due to height restrictions, where an Incredibles float took its place. It remains to be seen whether The Incredibles float will continue to be part of the dazzling nighttime spectacular.

Ready to book your visit to Disneyland for the 70th anniversary celebration? 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 magical vacation.

Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano is now Permanently Closed at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Sara

May 11, 2025

End of an Era: Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano Closes in Hollywood Studios

Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano at Disney’s Hollywood Studios has permanently closed, effective yesterday. The table-service restaurant served its last guests on May 10, 2025, making way for the phased development of the Grand Avenue area into the future Monsters, Inc. land.

The transition in the Grand Avenue area is becoming visible with the permanent closure of Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano. Today, guests will find the restaurant’s windows darkened and its menu board gone. Despite these clear signs of closure, the area has not yet entered the construction phase, as the entrance remains open for pedestrian access.

With Mama Melrose’s now closed, the first stage of a significant transformation of Grand Avenue is underway. This multi-phase project will also involve the future removal of other familiar spots, as PizzeRizzo and Muppet*Vision 3D are both scheduled to close later this month, on June 7, 2025.

As Disney progresses with preparations for the Grand Avenue redevelopment, more noticeable construction activity is anticipated in the weeks ahead. For now, Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano becomes the latest addition to the list of closed dining establishments at Hollywood Studios, as the park continues its evolution toward a significant future expansion.

Will you miss Mama Melrose’s?

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Photo Credit: Mary M.

How you can Save Up to 60% Off Merch at Universal Orlando

Chris B

May 11, 2025

How you can Save Up to 60% Off Merch at Universal Orlando

Exclusive Deals and Deep Nostalgia: New UOAP & Team Member Clearance Store Pops Up at Universal Studios Florida

Step right up, deal hunters! Universal Studios Florida has quietly debuted a brand-new Clearance Store exclusively for Universal Orlando Annual Passholders (UOAPs) and Team Members, and it’s already a must-visit for bargain-loving park fans. Tucked into the heart of the Hollywood section, the shop has taken over the Williams of Hollywood facade and stretches into the Studio Styles location—two iconic spots usually home to the seasonal Tribute Store.

This new discount destination is dishing out up to 60% off on a wide variety of Universal merchandise—from apparel and plushies to holiday décor and limited-edition collections. Unlike the previous clearance outlet in the nearby Brown Derby Hat Shop, this location offers a lot more space and stays open until park close, giving you more time (and square footage) to treasure hunt.

Entry Requirements and Store Layout

Access is limited to verified UOAPs and Team Members, so don’t forget to flash your valid pass or ID at the door. Once inside, guests are treated to room after room of discounted magic, themed with props, signs, and set pieces from past Tribute Stores, Halloween Horror Nights, and even Mardi Gras overlays.

We’re talking:

💀 The Curator cutout from HHN 32
🎄 Props from the Hogsmeade holiday collection
🧁 Banners from Major Sweets Candy Co.
🎃 Lil’ Boo peeking out from a past scavenger hunt
🎬 Vintage Universal Monsters and Shrek-inspired signage

None of the props are for sale, but they definitely add extra flair to your shopping experience—like walking through a living museum of Universal Studios lore.

What’s on Sale?

There’s no shortage of goodies in this store. Among the items spotted:

Harry Potter house scarves, hats, sweaters, and holiday ornaments
Marvel Loungeflys (including Loki and Spider-Man!)
Jurassic World plush, apparel, and bubble wands
Illumination merch: Minions plush, Bake My Day apparel, and Villain-Con swag
Cobra Kai, Shrek, and Captain America collections
Love is Universal pride merchandise
Collegiate Collection items from the 1912 line
Mardi Gras 2024 items, including signs and festive décor
Even Earl the Squirrel makes several cameo appearances in cutout form!

Some items may ring up even cheaper than expected thanks to pre-applied markdowns + the 60% clearance discount, so you might want to double-check your receipt for extra savings wins.

Final Room: A Tribute to the Tribute Stores

The final room of the shop brings the nostalgic vibes full circle with elevated props and nods to past events:

🎭 Busts wearing 3D glasses
🎥 Director’s chairs from The Mummy and The Wolfman
🛩️ A dismantled Earl Airways plane
🎃 Classic HHN tombstones and prop books
🕰️ Giant gears and clocks from “Back to the Future”

It’s not just a store—it’s a walk-through highlight reel of Universal’s creative history.

Limited-Time Only!

Universal hasn’t revealed how long the store will stay open, but with the summer Tribute Store possibly on hold this year, this pop-up may fill that void for now. Whether you’re a longtime Annual Passholder or a Team Member looking to snag some iconic merch for a fraction of the price, this shop is your golden ticket.

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So grab your ID, pack light, and shop it like it’s HHN opening night—because this clearance store is serving up thrills, deals, and nostalgia galore.

Epic Universe 3-Part Documentary about Universal Parks Coming to Peacock

Chris B

May 11, 2025

Epic Universe 3-Part Documentary about Universal Parks Coming to Peacock

Peacock Takes Fans on an “Epic Ride” Through Universal Theme Parks in New Docuseries

Get ready to grab your popcorn and hold onto your lanyards—because Peacock is rolling out the ultimate binge-watch for theme park fans this summer! Premiering July 24, Epic Ride: The Story of Universal Theme Parks is a three-part documentary that dives deep into the thrills, chills, and cinematic history of Universal’s legendary parks, while also giving fans an exciting sneak peek at what’s next… including the highly anticipated Epic Universe opening May 22 at Universal Orlando Resort.

Produced by Universal Television Alternative Studio, with John Marks and Jon Strong as executive producers, Epic Ride isn’t just a nostalgic look back—it’s a full-throttle celebration of the innovation and imagination that has defined Universal’s theme parks for decades. The docuseries is packed with never-before-seen archival footage, rare behind-the-scenes access, and exclusive interviews with the creative minds behind the magic—including directors, producers, top Universal execs, and even a few A-list fans.

A Journey Through the Past, Present, and Future

Each episode of Epic Ride takes viewers through a different chapter of the Universal Parks story—from the early days of the Studio Tour in Hollywood, to the birth of Islands of Adventure, to the game-changing addition of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. But the crown jewel of the series? A behind-the-curtain look at Epic Universe, Universal Orlando’s boldest expansion yet.

With the countdown to opening day ticking away, the docuseries captures the final stages of preparation for this next-generation park, offering fans a glimpse at what it takes to bring such an epic vision to life.

Here’s What Viewers Can Expect to See in the Series:

Celestial Park – The glittering heart of Epic Universe, featuring the dual-launch coaster Stardust Racers, the whimsical Constellation Carousel, and the luxurious Helios Grand Hotel, which offers exclusive park access.
Super Nintendo World – Gamers, this one’s for you! From Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge to Mine-Cart Madness, plus meet-and-greets and interactive gameplay zones, this land is pure pixel perfection.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic – Take a magical journey through 1920s Paris and 1990s London on Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, a brand-new dark ride anchoring this immersive land.
How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk – Explore a fully realized Viking village complete with dragon rides, splash zones, and high-flying live shows.
Dark Universe – Enter a haunting world where Universal’s classic monsters roam. Expect gothic thrills in Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment and spine-tingling chills from Curse of the Werewolf.

With Epic Universe set to transform the theme park landscape when it opens in just days, Epic Ride is arriving at the perfect time to rev up the hype and celebrate Universal’s past while charging full-speed into the future.

Whether you’re a lifelong Universal fan or new to the excitement, this docuseries promises something for everyone—from nostalgic deep dives to first looks at the park that’s poised to redefine the word “epic.”

Aerial View of the Tropical Americas Construction Site in Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Chris B

May 11, 2025

Aerial View of the Tropical Americas Construction Site in Disney's Animal Kingdom

Bird’s-Eye View of Progress: Tropical Americas Takes Shape at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

While all eyes are on Universal’s Epic Universe opening later this month, Disney is quietly laying the groundwork—literally—for one of its biggest transformations yet. High above Disney’s Animal Kingdom, new aerial photos by X user bioreconstruct give us a jaw-dropping look at the future home of the Tropical Americas-themed expansion, currently under construction on the former footprint of DinoLand U.S.A.

This sweeping reimagining will eventually wipe out DinoLand’s dinosaur theming, replacing it with lush landscapes and immersive storytelling inspired by Central and South America. Disney has already confirmed two brand-new attractions plus a reimagined version of the current DINOSAUR ride—which will be transformed into an Indiana Jones-themed adventure.

First Up: ¡Encanto!

The Encanto-themed ride is leading the charge in the expansion’s phased construction plan. According to aerial views, the demolition phase for this part of the project appears nearly complete. The site is now a flat, dirt-covered canvas—ready for the next stage of construction. The future ride will take guests through the magical, shape-shifting Casita Madrigal, bringing the vibrant world of Encanto to life in an all-new way.

What’s Still Standing?

If you look closely at the central portion of the construction site, a handful of buildings from the old Dino-Rama area remain. These structures—formerly home to a gift shop and restrooms—appear to be spared the wrecking ball. While Disney hasn’t announced future uses for them just yet, the restrooms are almost certainly staying (because let’s face it, plumbing is a precious resource in theme park construction). These buildings will likely receive new facades to match the future Tropical Americas aesthetic.

Backstage to Frontstage Transformation

In the rear portion of the construction site, you can see grading equipment and early staging materials in what used to be a backstage support area. Previously dotted with trailers and maintenance equipment, this zone is now being prepped for heavy infrastructure work and future development. Expect it to level out over time to accommodate new pathways and show buildings for the reimagined land.

Three Rides in Total

Eventually, the Tropical Americas area is expected to include:

An Encanto-themed dark ride through Casita Madrigal (currently under development)
A brand-new ride built from scratch (rumors suggest something exploration- or nature-themed)
A rethemed version of DINOSAUR, utilizing the same ride system but reimagined with Indiana Jones at the helm

Disney has yet to commit to a firm timeline for the completion of the new land, but insiders suggest the transformation will roll out in phases over the next several years.

So while dinos may be on the extinction list, Disney is clearly evolving the land into something fresh, colorful, and culturally rich. And thanks to these latest aerial photos, we’re getting our first real glimpse at what’s to come.

Muppets 70th Anniversary Gondola Debuts on Disney’s Skyliner

Chris B

May 11, 2025

Muppets th Anniversary Gondola Debuts on Disney's Skyliner

Wocka Wocka in the Sky! Muppets 70th Anniversary Gondola Debuts on Disney’s Skyliner

It’s time to play the music… it’s time to light the lights… it’s time to take to the skies with the Muppets on the Disney Skyliner tonight! Walt Disney World has officially rolled out a hilarious new tribute to our favorite felt friends as part of the Muppets’ 70th anniversary celebration. That’s right—your next flight on the Skyliner might just include a very special cast of characters.

The brand-new Muppets-themed gondola joins the colorful fleet soaring above Walt Disney World Resort, and it’s decked out with commemorative decals honoring 70 years of Muppet mayhem. The exterior artwork makes it look like the Muppets are enjoying the ride right along with you—and naturally, they’ve claimed the best seats in the house.

On one side, you’ll find a joyful group including:

Fozzie Bear bringing the jokes
Miss Piggy serving diva realness with glam and pearls
Sam the Eagle looking appropriately unamused

Spin around to the side and you’ll see Kermit the Frog, banjo in hand, serenading the skies beneath a rainbow. (Go ahead and hum “The Rainbow Connection”—we know you want to.)

And what would a Muppets tribute be without some classic heckling? One end of the gondola features the balcony-bound comedy critics Statler and Waldorf, no doubt judging your vacation choices from above.

This special gondola, cabin number 244, proudly wears a green badge that reads “Muppets 70 Years” on the door side, honoring the debut of Sam and Friends back on May 9, 1955. That early TV experiment eventually evolved into the zany, heartwarming, and wildly imaginative Muppet crew we know today.

While Muppet*Vision 3D is set to take its final bow at Disney’s Hollywood Studios next month (to make way for the upcoming Monstropolis land), this Skyliner addition ensures the Muppets will still have a sky-high presence at the resort. And don’t worry- the Muppets will be back with a vengeance (and some rock ‘n’ roll) when they eventually take over Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster.

So next time you board the Skyliner, keep your eyes peeled for this cheery yellow gondola. Whether you’re heading to EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, or just floating between resorts, you might find yourself laughing all the way thanks to the Muppets and their timeless charm.

Wocka wocka—and happy anniversary to the gang!

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