Victoria & Albert’s in Disney World Retains MICHELIN Star Status in 2025

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April 19, 2025

Michelin Star Still Shines for Victoria & Albert’s in Disney World

Nestled in Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Victoria & Albert’s, Walt Disney World’s MICHELIN starred jewel, is celebrating another year of culinary excellence.

Victoria & Albert’s in Disney World Retains MICHELIN Star Status in 2025

For over 20 years cast have provided a signature dining experience known for its lavish setting, offering a multi-course dining experience that features carefully curated menus with premium and sustainable ingredients sourced from around the world.

“The ingredients drive the menu,” Chef de Cuisine and Walt Disney Legacy Award Winner Matthew Sowers explains. “We use the freshest seafood and highest quality meat from across the globe as the base of our dishes. For example, the Glacier 51 Toothfish on the current menu can only be found in the Arctic more than one mile under the ocean’s surface.”

Creating an experience where timeless traditions seamlessly blend with modern culinary artistry takes teamwork, and there’s no shortage of it in the Victoria & Albert’s kitchen. Guests are served a wide range of small courses inspired by the culinary team’s travels, cultural backgrounds and personal stories.

“The Miyazaki A-5 Wagyu on the current menu is inspired by Chef Miguel’s Venezuelan roots. During the winter months, beef and cabbage are staple ingredients in his family’s meals,” shares Sharon, a cast member who has served at the restaurant for over 20 years. “And the Norwegian King Crab is a nod to Chef Gabriella’s home country of Norway. We have Chefs from all over the world bringing their stories to life in every dish – curating a fine dining experience in a way only Disney can.”

Always evolving, the menu of Disney’s MICHELIN star restaurant shifts with the season, delighting returning guests with new and unique flavors every time every visit. With a world-class wine collection boasting over 500 selections, each course is thoughtfully paired to enhance the experience from start to finish.

But ask the team what they believe is the secret to their success, and you won’t hear them talk about stars or awards.

“It’s because we’re a family. We all really do care for the restaurant and each other,” says Chef Nathan, who moved from Pennsylvania to Florida to join the Victoria & Albert’s culinary team due to its strong reputation. “Every single one of us goes above and beyond. We have a shared vision of excellence.”

Victoria & Albert’s remains the first and only restaurant owned and operated by a U.S. theme park destination to hold a MICHELIN Star. The cast are an incredible example of how Walt Disney World continues to raise the bar for exceptional dining – from iconic Disney-themed snacks and immersive restaurants in the parks, to unforgettable fine dining experiences like this one.

New Yzma as Cat Sculpted Mug For The Purr-fect Brew!

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Ana Leal

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April 19, 2025

New Yzma as Cat Sculpted Mug For The Purr-fect Brew!

Guess what cool thing we just stumbled upon? You have to see this Yzma as Cat Sculpted Mug! Seriously, if you’re even a tiny bit obsessed with The Emperor’s New Groove (and who isn’t, right?), this mug is calling your name.

You can snag this awesome piece of Disney magic online at the Disney Store, which is super convenient. But if you happen to be strolling through Walt Disney World, keep your eyes peeled – you might just spot it there too!

For just $24.99, you can bring home the one and only Yzma in her totally fabulous cat form. I mean, come on, that evil genius trapped in a kitty body? Iconic! And the best part is, she’s even holding that magic potion – you know, the one that turned Kuzco into a llama. Talk about a detail!

Whether you’re an early bird needing your caffeine fix or just waking up from a serious afternoon snooze (we’ve all been there), this mug is the purr-fect way to start your day. It’s a fully sculpted ceramic masterpiece, so it’s not just a regular old mug – it’s like a mini work of art on your desk or in your kitchen.

So go on, treat yourself (or a fellow Emperor’s New Groove lover) and get ready to sip your favorite drink while channeling your inner Yzma. Just don’t forget the maniacal laugh: “Ah-ha-ha-ha!”

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Thank you Mary M. for the photos.

Cap Toss and Castle Dreams: The New Class of 2025 Mickey Grad Tee is Here!

By

Ana Leal

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April 19, 2025

Cap Toss and Castle Dreams: The New Class of 2025 Mickey Grad Tee is Here!

Alright, listen up, future grads! You know that feeling when you’re this close to walking across that stage? Well, Disney’s got just the thing to help you celebrate that awesome milestone: the Class of 2025 Mickey Grad Tee!

This shirt is seriously fun. First off, it’s a super bright red, like Mickey’s iconic shorts – you definitely won’t get lost in a crowd wearing this bad boy! Right smack-dab in the middle is our main mouse himself, Mickey, looking all spiffed up in a royal blue graduation gown. How cute is that?! He’s even in the middle of tossing his matching blue cap way up in the air, looking totally stoked.

Above Mickey, in some cool rounded text, it says “Class of 2025” in a crisp white with a sunny yellow outline. You can’t miss it! And as if Mickey wasn’t enough, he’s standing in front of a cool, almost sketched-out picture of Cinderella Castle and some cute little round trees. It’s got that classic Disney magic all over it.

Now for the best part: you can snag this awesome piece of graduation memorabilia at Disney’s Pop Century Resort for $29.99. But, if you’re planning on grabbing one for yourself and maybe a bestie or a sibling who’s also graduating (or just loves Disney!), you can get them for just $25 each when you buy two. Talk about a sweet deal! So, what are you waiting for? Go grab your Class of 2025 Mickey Grad Tee and get ready to celebrate in Disney style!

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Thank you Mary M. for these photos.

Universal Fan Fest Nights Debuts a First Look Photo of Legendary Beholder Xanathar

By

Chris B

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April 18, 2025

Universal Fan Fest Nights Debuts a First Look Photo of Legendary Beholder Xanathar

Xanathar and Sylgar Make Their Universal Studios Hollywood Debut at Fan Fest Nights

Roll for initiative, because Dungeons & Dragons is casting a powerful spell on Universal Studios Hollywood!

Universal just unveiled a first look at Xanathar, the legendary beholder himself—and yes, his beloved pet goldfish Sylgar is floating right alongside him. These iconic characters will take center stage during the all-new “DUNGEONS & DRAGONS: Secrets of Waterdeep” in-world experience, debuting exclusively during Universal Fan Fest Nights, which kick off April 25 and run on select nights through May 18, 2025.

This jaw-dropping version of Xanathar isn’t your average monster under the bed. Universal Studios teamed up with Jim Henson’s Creature Shop—yes, that Jim Henson—to bring this many-eyed menace to life with full articulation and a whole lot of personality. The result? A larger-than-life, wildly detailed creation that feels like it leapt straight from a campaign map into our world.

What’s the quest? Guests will join the Harpers, a secretive spy network, in an immersive quest to stop Xanathar’s sinister schemes and save the magical city of Waterdeep. This exclusive adventure is tailor-made for fans of D&D, fantasy roleplay, and good ol’ dungeon-diving action.

But that’s just one roll of the D20…

Fan Fest Nights will also feature immersive experiences and character encounters across the entire park—drawing from fandom favorites like Star Trek, Back to the Future, Jujutsu Kaisen, One Piece, and more. You might even run into Wicked’s Elphaba and Glinda for a magical meet-and-greet. Plus, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ and SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ are getting special character enhancements just for this event.

And yes, cosplay is absolutely encouraged. Whether you’re coming as a bard, barbarian, or full-blown wizard, this is your time to shine.

Event-goers can also sink their teeth into themed food curated by Executive Chef Julia Thrash, snag exclusive merch, and ride select attractions like Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, Forbidden Journey, Revenge of the Mummy, and more—making Fan Fest Nights a full-on epic campaign across the park.

🎟️ Tickets are on sale now for the inaugural event running April 25–27, May 2–4, 9–11, and 15–18. So grab your party, prep your spell slots, and get ready to go on a quest like no other—Xanathar is watching…👁️🐟

New Permit Suggests Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Refurbishment Extended

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Chris B

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April 18, 2025

New Permit Suggests Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Refurbishment Extended

Big Thunder Refurb May Be a Longer Ride Than We Thought – New Permit Filed

Hold onto your hats and glasses—because this refurb just got a little wilder!

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Magic Kingdom has been closed since January for what Disney promised would be a rootin’-tootin’ refresh, set to reopen sometime in 2026. But with a new permit filed for “General Construction,” it looks like the timeline might be stretching out a bit longer than expected.

The permit, filed just this week, doesn’t give us too many details (this is Disney we’re talkin’ about), but it does contract DPR Construction, a company that’s been previously linked to Big Thunder-related permits. What’s especially interesting is the permit’s expiration date: April 15, 2026—later than the previous permits tied to the project. For context, earlier filings had expiration dates ranging from August 2025 to March 2026, and one for set work wraps in February 2026.

So, what does it all mean? While we still don’t have official word on the full scope of the refurb, the additional permit—and its longer expiration window—suggests the makeover could be more extensive than initially anticipated. With new track already confirmed and the attraction closed for over three months now, many fans are speculating this refurbishment could follow in the footsteps (or hoofprints?) of Disneyland’s Big Thunder revamp, which included track replacement, repainted scenery, and new ride vehicles.

For now, Disney continues to keep things mysterious, teasing only that the attraction will “reopen with a little bit of new magic” sometime in 2026.

Until then, Big Thunder Mountain remains quiet… but behind those canyon walls, the groundwork for an epic return is clearly underway. Stay tuned for more updates—this refurbishment might just turn out to be the most thrilling part of the ride! 🌩️⛰️

New Construction Walls Added to Queue of Haunted Mansion in Magic Kingdom

By

Chris B

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April 18, 2025

New Construction Walls Added to Queue of Haunted Mansion in Magic Kingdom

A New Spirit of Refurbishment? Haunted Mansion Queue Gets Spooky New Construction Wall

There’s something eerily interesting brewing over at the Haunted Mansion in Magic Kingdom—and this time, it’s not just the 999 happy haunts causing a stir.

Guests visiting the beloved spooky estate this week may have noticed a new addition to the queue… and no, it’s not a hitchhiking ghost. A fresh set of construction walls and a tan tarp have been added to a portion of the Haunted Mansion’s outdoor line area, hinting at some underworldly work underway.

The new construction wall has been installed near the famous ghostly hearse—the very spot where Disney PhotoPass photographers usually snap delightfully grim portraits of guests. The path behind the hearse is now blocked off, with a short dark brown wall (about chest-height) attempting to blend into the surrounding brickwork like a ghost trying to pass unnoticed.

On the other side? A large tan tarp, blanketing the entire stone path behind the hearse and stretching over toward the opposite side of the queue. The tarp likely serves to protect the ornate pavement from whatever refurbishment is in the cards—or in this case, the tarot cards.

Disney hasn’t revealed what this project entails or how long it might haunt the area, but for now, it’s safe to say that something is stirring just beneath the tombstones. Whether it’s a minor path update or a ghoulishly good enhancement, we’ll be keeping our third eye open and our EMF readers tuned.

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So if you’re planning to visit the Haunted Mansion soon, beware of hitchhiking detours—and stay tuned as this ghostly update unfolds. 👻

New Star Wars Products Revealed and Launching Today for STAR WARS Celebration

By

Catherine

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April 18, 2025

New Star Wars Products Revealed and Launching Today for STAR WARS Celebration

The galaxy far, far away has landed in Japan! As Star Wars Celebration Japan kicks off at Makuhari Messe, fans are being treated to a stellar array of new consumer products and publishing announcements, all unveiled today. From highly anticipated action figures to immersive books and even a galactic crossover in a popular mobile game, there’s something for every Star Wars enthusiast.

Leading the charge in exciting reveals is Hasbro, who took to the stage to announce fresh additions to their coveted Black Series and Vintage Collection figure lines. Collectors can look forward to adding the Black Series Cal Kestis, Turgle & Skoova Stev multi-figure pack and the Black Series Nightsister Merrin figure to their shelves.

For fans of the classic trilogy and beyond, the Vintage Collection Moff Gideon (Dark Trooper Armor) figure and the impressive Vintage Collection Bantha & Tusken Raider 2-Pack are also on their way. The best news? These new collectibles are available for preorder starting today, April 18th!

Not to be outdone, the LEGO Group unveiled a stunning new building set on the Star Wars Celebration LIVE! stage: the LEGO Star Wars K-2SO Security Droid. Attendees were even treated to a life-sized LEGO replica of the reprogrammed Imperial droid. This detailed set will be available for purchase starting August 1, 2025, both online at LEGO.com and in LEGO stores worldwide.

For fans unable to attend the celebration in person, Amazon has stepped in as the official retail partner of Star Wars Celebration Japan. For a limited time, fans at home can snag select licensed products and official Celebration merchandise, including exclusive Hasbro collectible figures and Star Wars Celebration Japan logo apparel.

In a surprising and exciting crossover, Scopely, the leading mobile games company in the US, announced that the Force is coming to MONOPOLY GO! From May 1st to July 2nd, players can dive into a galactic event spanning the entire Skywalker Saga and The Mandalorian. This massive collaboration will feature fan-favorite MONOPOLY GO! events like Treasures, Partners, Racers, and Adventure Club, all with a Star Wars twist. Players can look forward to unlocking a ‘Star Wars GO!’ sticker album with over 20 unique sticker sets, reliving iconic moments with beloved characters, racing through the Mos Espa Grand Arena, and collecting Star Wars-themed tokens, shields, and emojis.

Ubisoft also had exciting news to share, offering a first look at the second story pack for Star Wars™ Outlaws, titled “A Pirate’s Fortune,” with a trailer showcasing the new adventure launching on May 15th. For those yet to experience the game, a free demo featuring parts of the base game is now available on platforms where Star Wars Outlaws is already released. In a surprising announcement, Ubisoft also revealed that Star Wars Outlaws will be coming to Nintendo Switch 2 on September 4th. Furthermore, as part of the title update launching alongside “A Pirate’s Fortune” on May 15th, all players will receive cosmetic items inspired by the series Skeleton Crew for Nix and the speeder.

With a flurry of exciting announcements spanning collectibles, gaming, and more, Star Wars Celebration Japan is proving to be an unmissable event for fans. Today’s reveals offer a tantalizing glimpse into the new products and experiences heading our way from the Star Wars universe. May the Force (and your wallets) be with you!

Construction Walls Up Between Encanto Meet and Greet and Cheshire Cafe

By

Catherine

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April 18, 2025

Construction Walls Up Between Encanto Meet and Greet and Cheshire Cafe

Walls Go Up Near Encanto Meet & Greet and Cheshire Cafe in Magic Kingdom

Walt Disney World guests strolling between Fantasyland and Tomorrowland may notice a new addition to the scenery: construction walls. These temporary barriers have been erected in the walkway connecting the popular Encanto meet-and-greet location and the whimsical Cheshire Cafe, situated just across from Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe.

While Disney has yet to release official details, the presence of the walls suggests that some form of refurbishment or maintenance is underway in this well-trafficked area. Closer inspection reveals that the work appears to be focused on the pavement itself.

This particular stretch of walkway is often bustling with guests eager to meet Mirabel or grab a Cheshire Cat Tail. The placement of the construction walls may cause slight detours for those navigating between these attractions and dining locations.

It remains to be seen how long the construction will last and what the final improvements will entail. However, Disney routinely undertakes such projects to ensure the park remains in top condition for its visitors. Guests planning to visit Magic Kingdom in the near future should be aware of these temporary changes to the walkway and factor in a few extra moments when moving through this area.

Stay tuned for updates as more information about this project becomes available!

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More Details Revealed for 2025 V.I.PASSHOLDER Summer Days

By

Chip

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April 18, 2025

2025 V.I.PASSHOLDER Summer Days

Disney has unveiled additional details for the upcoming V.I.Passholder Summer Days at Walt Disney World, set to occur between May 14th and July 31st, 2025.

Passholders can look forward to exciting offerings during V.I.PASSHOLDER Summer Days, including:

An all-new magnet
Limited-time discounts
The return of the Passholder lounge

And much more! It’s a summer bash you won’t want to miss.

Check back soon for more information about V.I.PASSHOLDER Summer Days.

The 2024 lounge was located in EPCOT’s Restaurant Marrakesh, featuring complimentary snacks, water, charging, and Passholder buttons. The 2025 lounge location is currently unknown, but similar offerings are expected.

Disney is expected to provide further details soon, including lounge dates, discount specifics, and magnet distribution.

Lucasfilm’s Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith Returns to the El Capitan Theatre for the 20th Anniversary

By

Sara

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April 18, 2025

Revenge of the Sith Returns to El Capitan for 20th Anniversary

To commemorate its 20th anniversary, Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith is returning to the big screen at the El Capitan Theatre from April 24th to April 30th. Attendees will have the chance to take photos at a special themed setup and indulge in exclusive anniversary concessions.

Immerse yourself in The Prequel Trilogy with an exclusive movie marathon starting at 3 PM on Thursday, April 24th. For $50, guests can experience all three prequel films on the big screen: “Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace,” “Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones,” and culminating with “Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith.” The ticket price also includes a collectible tin with all-you-can-eat popcorn, three fountain drinks, and an event credential.

Lucasfilm’s Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith Returns to the El Capitan Theatre for the 20th Anniversary

Guests can also experience a Fan Event screening on Friday April 25^th at 8:30pm featuring a Galactic DJ Party! There are 3 special ticket packages available for this screening.

A General Ticket is $30 and includes a reserved seat and event credential
A Padawan Pack is $85 and includes a reserved seat, Death Star Popcorn Bucket with popcorn, fountain drink and event credential
A Jedi Knight Pack is $125 and includes a reserved ticket, Darth Vader Cup, Death Star Popcorn Bucket with popcorn, fountain drink and event credential

Daily showtimes for “Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith” are 10:00am, 1:30pm, 5:00pm, and 8:30pm. Tickets are $20 for guests of all ages. Dates and showtimes are subject to change.

Disney Cruise Line Releases Official Spotify Playlist for the Disney Destiny

By

Sara

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April 18, 2025

Disney Destiny Official Spotify Playlist Released

Disney Cruise Line has launched an official Spotify playlist dedicated to the upcoming Disney Destiny, allowing fans to immerse themselves in the ship’s theme through music.

Related – The Ultimate Disney Destiny News Roundup

To celebrate the upcoming launch of the Disney Destiny on its maiden voyage, November 20, 2025, Disney Cruise Line has unveiled an official Spotify playlist. This extensive collection boasts over 80 fan-favorite songs carefully selected to reflect the exciting onboard venues and the ship’s distinctive heroes and villains theme, encompassing music from classic Disney cinema, the “Star Wars” Main Theme, Marvel soundtracks, and memorable Disney park tunes.

Disney Cruise Line Releases Official Spotify Playlist for the Disney Destiny

Tracks from “The Lion King” on the Disney Destiny’s official Spotify playlist will set the stage for guests dining at the upcoming Pride Lands: Feast of The Lion King. This brand-new onboard restaurant will offer a unique dinner show experience, with its decor inspired by the African savanna. The full show will feature musicians and actors authentically retelling the story of “The Lion King” using traditional African instruments.

Tracks from “Hercules” on the Disney Destiny’s official Spotify playlist will build anticipation for the new Broadway-style stage show premiering onboard at the Walt Disney Theatre. First announced in 2024, this show promises to “stay true to the story and spirit” of the animated film while incorporating a contemporary flair. Notably, it will also debut “Shooting Star,” a ballad originally cut from the movie. Puppetry will be a significant element in the show’s storytelling, as concept art has revealed impressive creations like a large multi-headed Hydra puppet.

The Disney Destiny’s official Spotify playlist features tracks from “One Hundred and One Dalmatians,” setting the mood for the new adult-exclusive piano lounge, De Vil’s. Inspired by the iconic Cruella De Vil, this lounge will offer designer drinks themed around Disney characters and icons. Its ambiance will feature red and white sofas, vintage lamps, feathery decorations, and a striking black and white spotted piano at its center, where a pianist will provide live music.

You can find the new playlist on Spotify.

Disneyland to Release 2 New Star Wars Ride POV Videos for 70th Anniversary

By

Sara

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April 18, 2025

Disneyland Announces 2 New Star Wars POV Videos for 70th Anniversary Celebration

Disney+ will be joining the 70th anniversary celebration of Disneyland Park and the festivities of Star Wars Day by debuting two new POV videos offering a rider’s perspective of the thrilling attractions within Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.

Single Rider Line Returns to Star Wars- Rise of the Resistance 1

Disney+ is set to release an official point-of-view (POV) video offering a virtual ride-through experience of the popular Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance attraction.

“Celebrate 70 years of Disneyland imagination with a cinematic ride-along through Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. This P.O.V. journey shows how seven decades of innovation can bring science fiction to life! Your mission begins on Batuu and quickly escalates into a daring escape from the clutches of the First Order. Do you have what it takes to rise with the Resistance?”

Disneyland to Release 2 New Star Wars Ride POV Videos for 70th Anniversary

The other video will be a tour of Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland after hours.

“Celebrate 70 years of imagination and unforgettable storytelling at Disneyland Park by journeying through Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. This immersive P.O.V. experience invites you to explore Batuu after hours, where droids work diligently, heroes emerge, and the First Order looms around almost every corner.”

Both point-of-view (POV) videos are scheduled for release on May the 4th, Star Wars Day, coinciding with the debut of “Star Wars: Tales of the Underworld.”

Are you looking forward to seeing the new POV videos?