A large crane has moved into The Wildest Ride in the Wilderness
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is gearing up for a major transformation, and construction activity is heating up! A towering yellow crane has arrived behind the attraction, signaling significant progress in Magic Kingdom’s Beyond Big Thunder expansion.
From the ride queue to the Walt Disney World Railroad, the crane is hard to miss, rising above the red rocks and geysers like a towering prospector on the hunt for gold. While the scrim walls and excavators that were recently installed have taken their final ride, this heavy machinery is here to stay as the wildest construction project in the wilderness kicks into high gear.
The exact purpose of the crane remains a bit of a mystery, as we do not know if this is site work prepping for the Villains land expansion, work related to the upcoming Big Thunder Mountain refurbishment, or both! Whether Disney is laying tracks for Villains land or reimagining Big Thunder’s legendary frontier, the future is looking dynamite. Stay tuned, because this expansion is bound to be a rootin’-tootin’ adventure!
Immerse Yourself in Art and Entertainment at EPCOT’s 2025 Festival of the Arts
The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts is gearing up for another magical year, celebrating creativity, entertainment, and culinary artistry from January 17 to February 24, 2025. Walt Disney World recently revealed an exciting lineup of returning fan-favorite activities, making this year’s festival a can’t-miss event for guests of all ages. From interactive art experiences to immersive performances, here’s what to look forward to at this vibrant celebration.
Guests can channel their inner artist with the returning Expression Section Paint-by-Numbers Mural, located near the Imagination! pavilion. Pick up a brush and paint a few squares in a massive community-created mural that transforms into a colorful masterpiece as the festival progresses. This activity is a hit for all ages and is open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., weather permitting.
Figment’s Brush with the Masters Scavenger Hunt
Everyone’s favorite purple dragon, Figment, is back with his beloved scavenger hunt! For just $9.99, guests can purchase a map and stickers from Creations Shop, Port of Entry, or World Traveler and set off to find Figment-themed art pieces hidden throughout the World Showcase. Complete the map and return it to receive a fun surprise gift. This family-friendly activity is a wonderful way to explore the park while enjoying Figment’s playful charm.
Kids Chalk Art
Young artists can unleash their creativity with Kids Chalk Art, located on the World Showcase bridge. With chalk provided by Cast Members, kids can create unique masterpieces on the pavement, turning the bridge into a whimsical canvas of imagination.
Artful Photo Ops
Step into famous works of art with the returning Artful Photo Ops around EPCOT. Guests can pose within iconic art pieces or Disney-inspired scenes, perfect for creating Instagram-worthy memories. This year’s announced locations include:
International Gateway: Luncheon of the Boating Party
American Adventure Pavilion: Washington Crossing the Delaware
Between Italy and Germany Pavilions: Mona Lisa
Bridge to World Showcase: Mary Poppins and Sleeping Beauty
Near Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana: Moana
Chalk Full of Characters
Hidden chalk murals of Disney characters will once again pop up throughout World Showcase in the Chalk Full of Characters activity. Keep your eyes peeled for these delightful creations, featuring both returning favorites and potential new surprises for 2025.
Animation Academy
Learn to draw a Disney character under the guidance of talented animators during the Animation Academy sessions at the America Gardens Theatre. With sessions at 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. daily, it’s the perfect opportunity to pick up sketching tips from Disney pros like Lon Smart, Alex Maher, and Sarah Schmidt.
The Disney on Broadway stage will once again light up the America Gardens Theatre with show-stopping performances. Featuring a rotating lineup of Broadway stars performing iconic Disney songs, this series is a festival highlight. Dining packages are available for those looking to secure premium seating, with bookings opening December 18.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re painting murals, hunting for Figment, or enjoying world-class performances, the 2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts offers something for everyone. With its focus on creativity and inspiration, this annual event is the perfect way to kick off the new year at Walt Disney World. Don’t miss your chance to immerse yourself in the art and magic of EPCOT this winter!
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As 2025 approaches, Disneyland Paris is set to captivate visitors with an enchanting lineup of new experiences, entertainment, and transformations. From dazzling nighttime spectaculars to an immersive musical festival and the opening of World Premiere, 2025 promises to be a year of unforgettable magic. Here’s everything you need to know about what’s in store!
Kicking off the year in grand style, the all-new nighttime spectacular, Disney Tales of Magic, will debut on January 10, 2025 at Disneyland Park. This breathtaking show celebrates the timeless worlds of Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios, combining storytelling, pyrotechnics, fountain displays, and cutting-edge illuminated drones. Creative Director Tim Lutkin and Senior Manager of Creative Development Morgane Keesling have shared fascinating behind-the-scenes insights, including the creation of more than 300 hand-drawn elements brought to life through digital artistry.
The show unfolds across Sleeping Beauty Castle and, for the first time, the facades of Main Street, U.S.A., immersing guests in Disney magic like never before. Featuring a mesmerizing original score inspired by classic musical prologues, the story begins with a silent scene of Geppetto traversing the castle, eventually crescendoing into a triumphant orchestral anthem for Cinderella.
Prepare to be spellbound by this dazzling tribute to the visual and musical storytelling that Disney fans adore.
Disney Music Festival
From April 19 to September 7, 2025, Disneyland Park will be transformed into a vibrant, melody-filled celebration with the debut of the Disney Music Festival. This all-new seasonal event invites guests to experience musical moments from beloved Disney and Pixar films through live performances, interactive experiences, and themed entertainment.
The festival will begin on Main Street, U.S.A., where Mickey and Minnie will welcome visitors in dazzling festival attire. Highlights include Mary Poppins and Bert performing in Town Square, Goofy fulfilling his dream of conducting fountains as if they were an orchestra, and themed performances like “Miguel’s Fiesta Latina” and “Timon’s Matadance.” A new original festival anthem will connect these musical moments, ensuring an unforgettable journey through the magic of Disney music.
Exclusive merchandise and surprises will round out the experience, making it a must-visit event for Disney fans of all ages.
World Premiere
The excitement doesn’t stop there. Spring 2025 will mark the grand opening of World Premiere, an all-new area at the entrance of Disneyland Paris’s second park. Paying homage to the golden age of Hollywood and the entertainment industry, World Premiere promises an immersive experience with nods to Los Angeles landmarks, Disney history, and even the iconic Animation Building on the Walt Disney Studios lot.
Guests can indulge in quick-service delights at the Hollywood Gardens Restaurant, grab snacks and drinks at the Searchlight kiosk, and shop for unique treasures at Mickey’s of Hollywood Boutique, a stunning Art Deco-inspired retail space that celebrates Mickey Mouse with details crafted by legendary Disney animator Eric Goldberg.
At the heart of World Premiere Plaza, Imagineering teams are crafting a warm, inviting space that sets the stage for the park’s next chapter in 2026: the debut of Disney Adventure World.
With these incredible additions, Disneyland Paris is poised to deliver a year filled with magic, music, and memories. Whether you’re marveling at the nighttime artistry of Disney Tales of Magic, dancing through the Disney Music Festival, or exploring the cinematic charm of World Premiere, 2025 will be a year to remember.
Start planning your visit now and get ready to experience the wonder that awaits at Disneyland Paris!
Disney’s “Mufasa: The Lion King” Original Motion Picture Soundtrack Available Now
Walt Disney Records released the songs-only and deluxe versions of the “Mufasa: The Lion King” original motion picture soundtrack on Friday, ahead of the film’s highly anticipated theatrical debut on December 20th.
The soundtrack features original songs written by Lin-Manuel Miranda, produced by Mark Mancina and Lin-Manuel Miranda, with additional music and performances by Lebo M. The album was produced by Miranda, Mancina, and Tom MacDougall. The Deluxe version includes the score composed by Dave Metzger.
Walt Disney Studios also unveiled two new special looks at the film’s music:
A “Backstage Music” video: Featuring Lin-Manuel Miranda and the cast, this video introduces the brand-new song, “I Always Wanted a Brother.”
A new featurette, “The Godfather of The Lion King Music: Lebo M.”: This piece celebrates the singer, songwriter, and composer who has been involved with every major release in the “Lion King” franchise.
Christmas has Arrived at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
The “Mele Kalikimaka” spirit is alive at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, where the Great Ceremonial House is adorned with festive decorations for Christmas. Stitch, the mischievous alien, is causing a delightful holiday commotion, adding a touch of chaos to the festive atmosphere.
The Great Ceremonial House, housing the resort’s lobby, Monorail station, and restaurants, is adorned for the holidays. The 2021-constructed porte-cochère is draped in festive green garlands, while illuminated garlands and wreaths brighten the lobby. Small trees punctuate corners and window spaces, and the centerpiece is a Christmas tree nestled in a bamboo box.
This tree showcases large snowflake decorations crafted from white mesh and accented with red poinsettias. Other decorations include strings of bells, bowls, and playful ornaments like a lute, a carved turtle, and miniature surfboards tucked among the branches.
Stitch has also arrived and is spreading holiday cheer (in the best way possible) at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, home to the new Island Tower addition! Be on the lookout for the silly alien dressed as Santa Claus.
An all-new Mufasa-inspired projection show is coming to Animal Kingdom
Disney’s Animal Kingdom recently unveiled a captivating new Tree of Life Awakening projection show inspired by the upcoming film, Mufasa: The Lion King.
To coincide with the release of the “Mufasa: The Lion King” soundtrack, Disney’s Animal Kingdom has introduced a new pre-show for Tree of Life Awakenings. This limited-time experience showcases the magic of “The Lion King” and the story of Mufasa through captivating light and projection displays. Each evening, guests can witness mystical animal imagery and a new musical score featuring the song “Milele,” performed by Disney Legend Anika Noni Rose. The show incorporates imagery from both the classic animated “The Lion King” and the recent live-action film.
The “Mufasa” pre-show begins at dusk. Following the “Mufasa” presentation, guests can continue to enjoy the holiday-themed editions of the Tree of Life Awakenings.
Are you looking forward to seeing Mufasa: The Lion King?
Soft Opening for Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
Get ready to say “Aloha” to paradise! The Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows is opening NEXT WEEK on December 17th! This stunning new addition will transport you to the enchanting world of the South Pacific with its vibrant theming and breathtaking views.
Featuring over 260 beautifully designed rooms, breathtaking interior spaces, and brand-new amenities, the Island Tower is the perfect place to create unforgettable vacation memories.
Vibrant Villas for Families of Different Sizes with Breathtaking Views
Traveling with a small group? You can enjoy a cozy duo studio for two or a deluxe studio that sleeps up to four.
Need more room to stretch out? One- and two-bedroom villas are perfect for larger groups, sleeping five and nine respectively. The villas come complete with a full kitchen, comfy living area, outdoor patio, and even a washer and dryer.
Disney Vacation Club is debuting a stunning new type of accommodation in the new Tower: two-bedroom penthouse villas. Sleeping up to eight guests, these spaces will boast a spacious living room, dining room and gorgeous views of the Seven Seas Lagoon and Magic Kingdom park or Disney’s Oak Trail and Magnolia Golf Courses.
Escape in the Terrace Gardens
Get ready to relax in four tropical garden hideaways, exclusively for guests and members staying at the tower. Each space will be inspired by the lush beauty of the Polynesian Islands and will offer unbeatable views of Walt Disney World Resort.
You will be able to catch the Magic Kingdom fireworks from two Terrace Gardens facing the park and a spectacular sunset over Disney’s scenic golf courses from the other two gardens. Trust us—you’ll want to see it to believe it!
Finding the Way…to More Play
Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows has long been a fan-favorite with close proximity to Magic Kingdom, whimsical pools, a collection of beloved restaurants, and, of course, an abundance of DOLE Whip! But get ready to soak up even more fun, because the new tower will be adding some incredible new features.
Guests will be able to unwind at the brand-new Cove Pool area, featuring a zero-entry swimming pool, or let little ones explore “Moana’s Voyage,” a splash area with life-size sculptures of Moana and her iconic canoe. The new tower will also be home to the resort’s first and only fitness center, which is sure to be a welcome addition to the many recreation activities offered today that are included in member and guest stays.
And if you’re still hungry for more, then you will be able to head to our next must-do…
Treat Yourself at Wailulu Bar & Grill
A flavorful journey awaits at Wailulu Bar & Grill, the tower’s new casual dining venue. Drawing inspiration from the rich flavors of the Polynesian islands, the all-day Wailulu menu will offer delicious signature dishes like spiced ham musubi and beef short rib loco moco.
Whether grabbing lunch or settling in for dinner, Wailulu Bar & Grill will be the perfect spot to savor breathtaking views of the Seven Seas Lagoon. Plus, it will be a huge hit for those looking for a new spot to catch the Magic Kingdom fireworks!
Disney World has 1,600 amazing resort cast members ready to welcome you to the new tower beginning on December 17, including a few who originally started at the Polynesian in the 1970s!
And with so many new and future experiences at Walt Disney World, Island Tower is another great option for families vacationing at The Most Magical Place on Earth.
Cowboy Chicken Kissimmee, nestled in the Promenade at Sunset Walk, is making holiday gatherings easy and delicious this year with a variety of turkey meals tailored to every celebration size. Whether you’re hosting a festive office party, gathering with family, or enjoying a cozy dinner for two, the wood-fire rotisserie chicken restaurant has you covered with seasonal favorites available now through December 31.
At the heart of Cowboy Chicken’s holiday offerings is their signature rotisserie turkey, seasoned by hand and marinated for 24 hours with a secret blend of spices before being cooked over a wood-fire flame for four hours. Choose from these enticing options:
The Rotisserie Turkey Package ($145): Perfect for feeding up to 10 people, this package includes a 10- to 12-pound wood-fire rotisserie turkey, mashed potatoes, green beans, country-style stuffing, 12 dinner rolls, and peach cobbler for a sweet finish.
The Oven-Roasted Turkey Breast Package ($155): This package also serves 10 and features juicy all-white meat turkey breast with the same hearty sides and peach cobbler.
The Sliced Turkey Breast Family Meal ($44): Ideal for smaller gatherings of up to four, this meal includes sliced turkey breast, two sides, stuffing, rolls, and your choice of dessert.
For individual portions or office lunches, Cowboy Chicken offers:
The Turkey Plate: A comforting single-portion meal with sliced turkey breast, stuffing, green beans, and a roll, great for quick lunches or gifting to friends and neighbors.
The Turkey Box Lunch: Packed with comforting holiday flavors, this box is perfect for treating the office team or sharing holiday cheer on the go.
For even larger celebrations, Cowboy Chicken also provides catering options featuring their wholesome and flavorful menu items.
Cowboy Chicken is also spreading extra holiday cheer with exclusive deals:
Double Points on Turkey Tuesdays: Earn double rewards when you order a Turkey Family Meal or Turkey Plate through the app.
Gift Card Bonus: Get a $10 bonus card with every $50 in gift card purchases—perfect for gifting or treating yourself.
About Cowboy Chicken Kissimmee
Located at 3290 Margaritaville Blvd., Cowboy Chicken offers indoor and covered patio seating and ample free parking. Regular hours are 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
Make this holiday season stress-free and delicious with Cowboy Chicken’s festive turkey meals. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or savoring a solo moment, their wood-fire rotisserie turkey is the perfect way to celebrate the season.
Park hours have been extended at Walt Disney World for the week of Dec 31
As the holiday season approaches its grand finale, Walt Disney World is gearing up for the busy New Year’s Week with extended park hours and earlier entry times to accommodate the large crowds expected during this festive period. The updated operating hours, running from December 29, 2024, through January 4, 2025, offer guests more time to enjoy the parks and make the most of their visit during this magical time of year. Here’s a breakdown of the changes across the parks:
Animal Kingdom will now close later during New Year’s Week, allowing more time to explore its unique attractions:
December 29–31: Closing extended from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
January 1: Closing extended from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm, with extended evening hours from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
January 2–4: Closing extended from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Hollywood Studios will see earlier openings and extended evening hours during the holiday week, making it easier to enjoy favorites like Rise of the Resistance and Fantasmic!:
December 29–31: Early entry now starts at 8:00 am, with park opening at 8:30 am and closing at 9:00 pm.
December 31: A special late-night schedule keeps the park open until midnight.
January 1–4: Early entry at 8:00 am, with park hours from 8:30 am to 9:00 pm.
Magic Kingdom
Magic Kingdom will have some of the earliest openings and latest closings of any park during New Year’s Week, ensuring guests can ring in the new year in style:
December 29: Opening moved to 8:00 am, with a closing time of 11:00 pm.
December 30: Open from 8:00 am to midnight.
December 31: Open from 8:00 am to 1:00 am for a late-night celebration to welcome 2025.
January 1–4: Hours extended from 8:00 am to 11:00 pm daily.
The extended park hours give guests additional opportunities to enjoy popular attractions, nighttime entertainment, and special New Year’s celebrations. Whether you’re watching Happily Ever After fireworks at Magic Kingdom or soaking in the atmosphere at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, these extended hours are designed to make your holiday visit unforgettable.
For a complete look at Walt Disney World’s operating hours through February 2025, visit our operating hours calendar. Don’t forget to discuss your plans and strategies with fellow Disney fans on our forums!
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Takes a Big Step Toward Tropical Americas Expansion
Exciting progress is underway at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, as Walt Disney Imagineering (WDI) filed a Notice of Commencement for the site previously occupied by Primeval Whirl. This marks a significant step in the transformation of DinoLand U.S.A. into the highly anticipated Tropical Americas expansion, a new area inspired by the rich cultures and ecosystems of Central and South America.
The filing, which names Whiting-Turner as the contractor, sets an expiration date of December 30, 2025. Whiting-Turner is a trusted firm known for managing large-scale projects for Disney, and their involvement signals that “Area Development” work will begin soon. This phase likely includes site preparation, infrastructure improvements, and landscaping to lay the groundwork for the new land. While details remain under wraps, this development aligns with Disney’s ambitious plans for Animal Kingdom, blending immersive theming with beloved franchises like Encanto and Indiana Jones.
Primeval Whirl, once a centerpiece of DinoLand U.S.A., permanently closed in 2020, leaving the site inactive until now. The transformation into Tropical Americas will breathe new life into the space, delivering attractions, experiences, and design elements that celebrate the beauty and biodiversity of South America’s jungles and cultures. Concept art and models reveal vibrant landscapes and thematic touches that promise a fully immersive experience for park guests.
The December 2025 expiration date on the filing suggests that the area development phase could wrap up by then. However, construction on individual attractions and experiences is expected to continue into later phases, with the full Tropical Americas expansion debut anticipated around 2027.
Disney Vacation Club (DVC) has announced its purchase incentives for the winter season, running through February 10, 2025. During this promotional period, prospective buyers can take advantage of limited-time discounts on points purchases across Disney’s five resorts currently in active sales. However, after February 10, not only will these incentives change, but the base price for purchasing DVC points directly from Disney is set to increase.
The price adjustments will impact the following resorts:
Aulani, Disney Vacation Club Villas: $225 per point rising to $235.
Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows: $225 per point rising to $235.
Disney’s Riviera Resort: $225 per point rising to $235.
The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort – A Disney Vacation Club Resort: $225 per point rising to $235.
The Villas at Disneyland Hotel: $239 per point increasing to $245.
These changes mark a $10 per point increase for most resorts, with the Disneyland-based Villas seeing a $6 rise. It’s worth noting that older, “sold-out” DVC resorts, such as Disney’s Beach Club Villas or Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, are priced individually, and their rates remain subject to change at any time.
What Is Disney Vacation Club? Disney Vacation Club (DVC) is a vacation ownership program offering members the flexibility to enjoy Disney’s world-class resorts and beyond. Rather than traditional timeshares, members purchase points that can be used to book accommodations at DVC resorts and other destinations, with options ranging from studio rooms to multi-bedroom villas. Members also gain access to exclusive benefits like discounts, special events, and member-only lounges. It’s a unique way for Disney fans to create magical vacation memories year after year while customizing their travel experiences to suit their family’s needs.
Float Into The New Year: The Whimsical 2025 Mickey Mouse Balloon Pandora Charm Is Available Now!
The 2025 Mickey Mouse Balloon Pandora Charm is a must-have for any Disney fan with a love for all things Mickey. This adorable charm, retailing for $80, is currently available at Walt Disney World and is sure to bring a touch of magic to your Pandora bracelet.
This delightful charm is a celebration of Mickey Mouse’s enduring popularity and a reminder of the joy and wonder that Disney brings to the world.
The front of the charm features Mickey’s iconic face beaming from a vibrant pink and blue Mickey-shaped balloon. A playful chain dangles from the charm, reminiscent of a balloon string, adding a whimsical touch to the design. At the end of the chain, a smaller Mickey charm dangles, completing the festive balloon motif.
The back of the charm showcases the year 2025 in a stylish square format, making it a perfect keepsake for the upcoming year. The chain with the miniature Mickey charm is also visible on the back, adding to the overall charm of the piece.
Whether you’re a lifelong Disney fan or simply looking for a unique and charming addition to your Pandora collection, the 2025 Mickey Mouse Balloon Charm is sure to bring a smile to your face.
