Disney Dreamers Academy Celebrates 18th Year with Transformative Commencement and Life-Changing Opportunities

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March 31, 2025

Disney Dreamers Academy Celebrates 18th Year with Transformative Commencement and Life-Changing Opportunities — (Omark Reyes, photographer)

Disney Dreamers Academy Concludes 18th Year with Magical Commencement and Life-Changing Opportunities

The 18th year of the Disney Dreamers Academy culminated in a magical commencement ceremony at Walt Disney World Resort, marking the end of a transformative five-day experience and the beginning of extraordinary journeys for its 100 participants.

The ceremony, filled with energetic Disney entertainment, beloved characters, and emotional moments, saw students, parents, and chaperones celebrating the culmination of the program. Beyond the ceremony, several students were awarded unique, life-altering opportunities.

Sydney Gilmore and Zane Stevenson received personal invitations from Tyler James Williams, the program’s “DREAMbassador” and star of “Abbott Elementary,” to visit the show’s set in Los Angeles. Colin Sproles, named Disney Dreamer of the Year for his leadership and inspirational spirit, earned a family vacation to Walt Disney World and a Disney Cruise Line voyage, courtesy of Delta Airlines.

The surprises continued with Alex Onwuli receiving an educational trip to Washington D.C. with National Geographic; Tristian Williams experiencing a Zero-G Astronaut Experience, and Charlie Arnold gaining a private tour of Dolby Studios in Hollywood.

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Throughout the five-day event, students were immersed in workshops and presentations led by celebrities like Rickey Smiley, David and Tamela Mann, Kelvin Harrison Jr., and Tyler James Williams, as well as educators, business executives, and community leaders.

The program, which selects 100 students from thousands of applicants nationwide, provides an all-expenses-paid trip to Walt Disney World, offering valuable life skills, leadership training, communication techniques, and networking strategies. Students explored diverse career paths in business, entertainment, and the sciences, including opportunities within The Walt Disney Company.

The Disney Dreamers Academy, now in its 18th year, underscores Walt Disney World’s commitment to empowering the next generation. The program has inspired over 1,800 students, many of whom have gone on to successful careers and returned as mentors.

For more information, visit DisneyDreamersAcademy.com.

Disneyland’s Fantasmic! Returning to Full Week of Performances in May

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Sara

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March 31, 2025

Disneyland’s Fantasmic! to Resume Full Week of Shows This May

Disneyland Park’s entertainment schedule has been updated, revealing that the beloved nighttime spectacular, Fantasmic!, will be increasing its performance frequency starting in late May. This adjustment signals a return to more consistent showtimes, offering guests greater opportunities to witness the magical water and light show.

Fantasmic Dining Package Sees Price Increase 2

Starting in early 2025, Disneyland Park significantly reduced Fantasmic! performances, primarily scheduling the show for weekends. This weekend-centric schedule, with performances mostly on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, remained consistent throughout January, February, and March. To accommodate the anticipated Spring Break crowds, the show temporarily expanded to two full weeks of operation in mid-March. However, following the peak season, Fantasmic! returned to its primarily weekend schedule in April.

Peter Pan Returns to “Fantasmic!” at Disneyland Resort

The Disneyland Resort app has revealed a significant update: Fantasmic! is set to return to a full seven-day performance schedule starting in late May 2025. The app’s calendar now lists showtimes not only for May 23-25, but also for Monday, May 26 through Wednesday, May 28, with the implication that this schedule will continue through May and into June. Notably, this change is not yet reflected on the official Fantasmic! webpage, which currently only displays dates through May 10. However, the extended schedule becomes visible when attempting to book a Fantasmic! Dining Package, offering reserved seating with a meal. Currently, Fantasmic! performs on most Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 9 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.

Are you looking forward to seeing Fantasmic! return to a full schedule this summer?

Powerline Max Popcorn Bucket Available to All at Disneyland For a Limited Time

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Sara

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March 30, 2025

Powerline Max Popcorn Bucket: Disneyland Limited Release

Fans rejoice! Disney has revealed that the wildly popular Powerline Max popcorn bucket will be available to all Disneyland Resort visitors throughout a limited period in April.

Powerline Max Popcorn Bucket Available to All at Disneyland For a Limited Time

Initially exclusive to attendees of the sold-out Disneyland After Dark: 90s Nite events in early March, the Powerline Max popcorn bucket, shaped like Max in his iconic yellow Powerline jumpsuit and sunglasses, is now being offered to all guests. The 90s Nite events, which featured special appearances like Susan Egan (the voice of Megara), saw rapid ticket sell-outs.

A recent post on the official Disney Eats (@disneyeats) Instagram account has revealed that the Powerline Max popcorn bucket will be available for purchase to all Disneyland Resort guests from April 4 to April 7, 2025. The announcement was accompanied by a video showcasing the popular item.

The bucket will be available on mobile order from the following locations:

Galactic Grill’s Seasonal Novelty Release
Hollywood Land Seasonal Novelty Store
Paradise Gardens Park Seasonal Novelty Store

In addition to the limited-time availability, Disney has also announced three other locations within Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure that will begin selling the bucket on April 4th, with no specified end date. The bucket will also be available on mobile order at:

Popcorn at Grizzly Peak Airfield
Café Daisy
Troubadour Tavern

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Disney’s “A Goofy Movie” Rocks Out at the El Capitan Theatre for a One Night Only 30th Anniversary Screening

By

Sara

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March 30, 2025

“A Goofy Movie” 30th Anniversary Screening at El Capitan

Celebrate the 30th anniversary of “A Goofy Movie” with a special screening presented by Disney Plus at the El Capitan Theatre on Saturday, April 12th at 8 PM. Tickets are now available! This exclusive event features a panel with Bill Farmer (Goofy’s voice), Director Kevin Lima, and other special guests, moderated by Don Hahn. Plus, get ready to dance at a DJ pre-show party channeling your inner Powerline!

There are 3 special ticket packages available for this screening.

A General Ticket is $30 and includes a reserved seat and event credential
A Standout Pack Ticket is $75 and includes a reserved seat, Powerline Max Popcorn Bucket with popcorn, fountain drink and event credential
A Max Pack Ticket is $150 and includes a reserved ticket, 30^th Anniversary A Goofy Movie Vinyl, Powerline Max Popcorn Bucket with popcorn, fountain drink, candy, event credenmtial and priority entry

Tickets are on sale now at www.elcapitantheatre.com and https://www.fandango.com/el-capitan-theatre-aacon/theater-page. All seats are reserved.

70th Anniversary Merchandise has Arrived at Disneyland

By

Sara

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March 30, 2025

70th Anniversary Collection Launches at Disneyland

Get ready to celebrate! Disneyland’s year-long 70th Anniversary party, kicking off May 16, 2025, promises a wave of “happy.” Beloved entertainment like “Paint the Night” and “Wondrous Journeys” will return, alongside the debut of the new nighttime spectacular, “World of Color – Happiness!”

On July 17th, Disneyland’s official birthday, guests can experience the nostalgic “Walt Disney – A Magical Life.” The celebration has already begun in the parks with the vibrant, pink-themed 70th Anniversary Countdown Collection merchandise. This is just a taste of what’s to come, so stay tuned for more exciting announcements.

70th Anniversary Merchandise has Arrived at Disneyland

The collection features a striking neon palette against a dark backdrop, showcasing vibrant pinks, purples, yellows, and blues. This color scheme directly reflects Mickey and Minnie’s 70th Anniversary outfits. What are your thoughts on these celebratory hues?

The 70th Anniversary merchandise collection offers a wide range of items, including the sought-after spirit jersey, t-shirts, drinkware, bags, and collectible pins. Magic Key holders will also find a couple of exclusive, special items.

Kicking off the apparel offerings is the tie-dye Spirit Jersey ($79.99). This piece showcases a tribute to Sleeping Beauty Castle and the 70th anniversary logo on the front, while the back proudly displays “Disneyland Resort” alongside Mickey Mouse. The jersey features a dynamic tie-dye pattern of pink, purple, and yellow against a dark backdrop.

To keep cool during Disneyland’s 70th summer celebration, two t-shirt options are available: a black tee ($39.99) with 12 rainbow-colored Mickey Mouse images and blue neckline trim, and a pink tee ($49.99) featuring the 70th logo, Sleeping Beauty Castle, and the years 1955 and 2025.

The Lug Bag ($65.00) is a celebration of Mickey Mouse, featuring numerous ears throughout its design. The front zipper pocket displays pink and purple ears, while the main body is adorned with purple embroidered Mickeys. The back showcases the iconic original Mickey Mouse. Both sides have unique designs and the Disneyland 70 logo, making it a reversible bag, effectively offering two looks in one.

The CORKCICLE ($44.99) is a must-have for Disney enthusiasts, featuring a truly unique and festive design. With the 70th anniversary logo on the front and Mickey Mouse on the back, this drinkware is sure to bring smiles.

Pin collectors, prepare your boards! New designs are now available in the parks, notably with a significant size and price difference. The blue pin, much larger, is priced at $49.99, while the black pin is $19.99.

Magic Key holders can snag exclusive merchandise, including a t-shirt and pin. The t-shirt ($39.99) features a striking blue color with a neon Mickey and the Disneyland 70 logo, complemented by “Magic Key, Disneyland Resort” in neon hues on the sleeve.

The Magic Key pin ($19.99) stands out from the others with its classic Mickey Mouse design. Featuring Mickey in purple trousers, the pin also includes “Magic Key, Disneyland Resort,” a standalone “70,” and the years ’55 and ’25.

What item(s) do you hope to get your hands on?

Enter for a Chance to Win a Two-part, 7-night Disney Dream Vacation with Castle to Cruise Sweepstakes

By

Chip

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March 30, 2025

Disney Vacation Club Castle to Cruise Sweepstakes

Enter for a chance to win a two-part, 7-night Disney dream vacation!

Disney Vacation Club is giving one lucky winner and up to three Guests the chance to win a 7-night dream vacation! Experience the magic of the Disneyland^® Resort with a 3-night stay at The Villas at Disneyland^® Hotel, where Disney storytelling meets contemporary design. Then, set sail on a 4-night Disney Cruise Line vacation aboard the Disney Wonder, traveling from sunny San Diego to the beautiful Baja Peninsula.

Prize includes:

A 3-night stay in a One-Bedroom Villa (maximum occupancy: 4 people) at The Villas at Disneyland^® Hotel
A 4-night Disney Cruise Line vacation in one stateroom (maximum occupancy: 4 people) aboard the Disney Wonder
Four (4) 4-day Disneyland^® Resort Theme Park Tickets, with Park Hopper^® Option
Four (4) round-trip coach airfares
Ground transportation

Earn one entry to complete registration and bonus entries to watch videos!

Enter Here!

For details about the sweepstakes and vacation prizes, please view the Official Rules.

Disney Dreamers Academy Delivers Once-in-a-Lifetime Mentorship Experiences with Tyler James Williams and Kelvin Harrison Jr.

By

Chip

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March 30, 2025

Disney Dreamers Academy Delivers Once-in-a-Lifetime Mentorship Experiences with Tyler James Williams and Kelvin Harrison Jr. — (Mark Ashman, photographer)

Tyler James Williams of “Abbott Elementary” and Kelvin Harrison Jr. of “Mufasa: The Lion King” surprised teens with unforgettable, inspirational experiences as part of
Walt Disney World’s mentoring program

Walt Disney World Resort’s 18th annual Disney Dreamers Academy provided a series of unforgettable, inspirational experiences for participating teens, highlighted by surprise appearances from acclaimed actors Tyler James Williams and Kelvin Harrison Jr.

Golden Globe-winning actor Tyler James Williams, known for his role in the comedy “Abbott Elementary,” took on the role of “DREAMbassador” to deliver a life-changing opportunity. On Friday, Williams surprised aspiring young filmmakers Sydney Gilmore, 17, from Arlington, TX, and Zane Stevenson, 14, from Manvel, TX, with an invitation to join him on the set of his show. The teens will travel to Los Angeles to witness the production of an episode from the upcoming season, gaining invaluable firsthand experience in the television industry.

The surprise left Gilmore and Stevenson “in awe,” according to Disney representatives.

Meanwhile, Kelvin Harrison Jr., who voices Taka/Scar in the upcoming “Mufasa: The Lion King,” offered a different kind of mentorship. He joined a group of students passionate about animal sciences on a special ride through Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s Kilimanjaro Safaris. During the excursion, the students observed a variety of animals, including giraffes, crocodiles, and flamingos, within the Harambe Wildlife Reserve, home to over 30 species.

The Disney Dreamers Academy, supported by sponsors Sprite and Delta Airlines, is a transformational mentoring program designed to inspire high school students from diverse backgrounds to pursue their dreams. This year, 100 students were selected from thousands of applicants nationwide for the all-expenses-paid program at Walt Disney World Resort.

The program includes career-oriented workshops, leadership seminars, and presentations by celebrity guests, community leaders, educators, and Disney executives. Participants, accompanied by a parent or guardian, receive a unique opportunity to learn and grow.

This 18th year of the program continues to emphasize the importance of mentorship and the power of dreams.

Snow White Joffrey’s Truck Debuts at Disney Springs

By

Chris B

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March 30, 2025

Snow White Joffrey's Truck Debuts at Disney Springs

Brewing Up Some Magic: Joffrey’s Rolls Out a Snow White Coffee Truck at Disney Springs

Mirror, mirror on the wall, who has the fairest brew of all? It’s Joffrey’s, of course! The official specialty coffee of Walt Disney World just rolled up in style with a brand-new, Snow White-themed coffee truck—and it’s serving up more than just happily-ever-caffeine.

Now parked near the AMC Theater and Orange Garage escalator in Disney Springs, this limited-time coffee cart is steeped in fairy-tale flair, with imagery from Disney’s new Snow White film wrapped across both sides. With black stanchions ready for royal-sized lines, this charming little cart is quickly becoming the fairest stop in all the land.

And speaking of fairy-tale flair, there’s even a themed photo-op next to the truck featuring Snow White in the forest with her woodland friends—perfect for snapping a “Just One Sip” selfie while you sip your brew and channel your inner princess.

But let’s talk about the real magic: the drinks. Joffrey’s is casting two limited-time spells for Snow White fans:

🍎 Enchanted Apple Lemonade – A refreshing mix of Minute Maid lemonade, Granny Smith apple syrup, tart cherry syrup, and green apple popping boba. We tried it, and it was refreshingly crisp without being too sweet—just the right amount of “poison apple” punch.

☕ Just One Bite Brew – This brand-new ground coffee blend is served hot from the truck and also available in beautifully themed blue bags for $13.99. The bag features Snow White in stained glass art style, making it a brew-tiful souvenir for fans and coffee lovers alike.

The full menu also includes classic Joffrey’s favorites like Shakin’ Jamaican Cold Brew, flavored lattes, hot cocoa, apple fritters (naturally), and more. Whether you’re Team Latte or Team Lemonade, there’s a magical sip for every taste.

So if you’re heading to Disney Springs, don’t miss your chance to brew your dreams at the Snow White coffee truck. It’s the perfect spot to take a break, grab a bite (just maybe not a cursed one), and sip something spellbinding. But hurry—like all good fairy tales, this one won’t last forever! 🧃☕🍎

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Kermit the Frog to Deliver commencement address at Jim Henson’s alma mater

By

Chris B

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March 30, 2025

Kermit the Frog to Deliver commencement address at Jim Henson's alma mater

It’s Not Easy Being Green—But It Is Easy Being Inspirational: Kermit the Frog to Deliver University of Maryland Commencement Speech

It’s a beautiful day in College Park, and it’s about to get a whole lot greener—because Kermit the Frog has officially been announced as the 2025 commencement speaker at the University of Maryland! That’s right, the world’s most beloved amphibian and kindness connoisseur will take the stage on Wednesday, May 21, to send off a brand-new class of Terrapins with heart, humor, and maybe even a banjo ballad.

The announcement came straight from the university this week and has already sparked Muppetational levels of excitement. Billed as an “international superstar” and a champion of creativity and compassion, Kermit is set to honor the legacy of Muppets creator Jim Henson, a 1960 graduate of UMD’s College of Home Economics. It’s a full-circle moment that feels as poetic as the lyrics to “Rainbow Connection.”

In a cameo at the end of the university’s announcement video, Kermit humbly responded to the big news with his classic charm: “Uh, I guess it’s me.” And in a more formal (but still wonderfully froggy) statement, he said, “Nothing could make these feet happier than to speak at the University of Maryland. I just know the class of 2025 is going to leap into the world and make it a better place, so if a few encouraging words from a frog can help, then I’ll be there!”

University President Darryll J. Pines echoed the excitement, sharing, “I am thrilled that our graduates and their families will experience the optimism and insight of the world-renowned Kermit the Frog at such a meaningful time in their lives.” With Henson’s creative spirit forever tied to the Maryland campus, this guest of honor couldn’t be more fitting.

He may be short in stature, but Kermit’s wisdom is sky-high—and his message of kindness, resilience, and believing in the impossible is just the sort of inspiration graduates need as they hop into the next chapter.

So mark your calendars, Terrapins: on May 21, 2025, the University of Maryland will hand over the mic (and maybe a lily pad) to the greenest legend in the game. One thing’s for sure—this commencement speech is going to be a ribbiting good time. 🐸🎓💚

Cue the banjo music…

Walls Up Around DinoLand Construction Feature Tropical Americas Concept Art

By

Chris B

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March 30, 2025

Walls Up Around DinoLand Construction Feature Tropical Americas Concept Art

The Dinosaurs Have Left the Building—Construction Walls Go Up as Tropical Americas Begins to Take Shape at Animal Kingdom

It’s the end of an era—and the beginning of a vibrant new one—at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Construction walls have officially gone up around DinoLand U.S.A., signaling the start of work on the highly anticipated new land: Tropical Americas. And while the dinos may be extinct (again), guests now have something new to marvel at—fresh concept art and colorful quotes decorating the walls as the transformation gets underway.

The construction zone isn’t just blocked off—it’s been Disneyfied. The construction walls are now decked out with concept art showing off the stunning, story-rich environment of Pueblo Esperanza, the fictional village that will serve as the heart of Tropical Americas. If the name sounds familiar, that’s because the art appears to be the same dreamy rendering Disney previously released during its announcements. Still, seeing it up close and larger-than-life along the walkway into the park makes it all feel that much more real.

And the walls aren’t just pretty—they’re playful, too. Fans of Encanto will spot familiar quotes like “Got your party pants on?” and “Of course they can come,” splashed across the wall, the latter accompanied by a vibrant image of a toucan while the former includes an image of the famous candle from the film. This heartfelt callback comes straight from the film’s memorable moment when Antonio, having just received his gift of talking to animals, invites a toucan to join the celebration. It’s the kind of Disney detail that fans live for.

We are also getting our first look at the logo for the land. A sign has appeared on the green construction walls that contains the words Tropical Americas in a fun font. The dark letters appear on a light purple background, and are flanked by a tile-like design similar to the design seen in the Encanto Casita.

Speaking of Encanto, the new land promises to be bursting with adventure and magical charm. Confirmed attractions include a brand-new “Encanto” experience, an Indiana Jones attraction (replacing the now-closed DINOSAUR ride), and a whimsical carousel featuring Disney creatures—because every good village needs a festive centerpiece!

With an opening date set for 2027, there’s still plenty of work to be done, but the walls going up mark a major step in this exciting reimagining of one of Animal Kingdom’s original lands. So if you’re visiting soon, be sure to swing by and take a peek at the artwork—and snap a photo or two with your party pants on.

Disney Springs Debuts New Interactive Map

By

Sara

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March 30, 2025

Explore Disney Springs with a New Interactive Map

Disney Springs has significantly enhanced its guest navigation experience with the introduction of newly interactive digital directory screens. Beyond simply replacing static signage, these updated displays now feature advanced, dynamic maps, allowing visitors to explore the sprawling entertainment district with unprecedented ease.

Disney Springs Debuts New Interactive Map

Recognizing the deterioration of its directory displays, Disney Springs replaced several units in January. These initial digital replacements, while an improvement over the old, functioned primarily as standard directories—offering a static map and location index. However, Disney Springs has now evolved this system, introducing a fully interactive experience that significantly expands upon the original functionality.

Located strategically near the Disney Resort bus stop (in front of Sephora) and at the Lime Garage entrance, two of the new interactive directories are now operational. Similar to their predecessors, these screens display advertisements when idle, but transform into interactive maps upon touch, offering guests enhanced navigation capabilities.

The redesigned directories feature a split-screen layout: a map on the top half and a search/category section on the bottom. The top banner provides real-time information like date, time, and temperature. The bottom section offers a search bar and six category buttons (shopping, dining, etc.) for quick navigation. An accessibility option is also included. The map displays the user’s location with a prominent black dot and offers a reset button. A full-screen option expands the map, removing the bottom search panel.

Selecting a category (like “Shop”) on the directory screen populates the bottom half with a comprehensive list of relevant locations. These lists, arranged alphabetically and scrollable via side arrows, display each venue’s name and estimated walking time from the directory’s location. Tapping a venue reveals detailed information, including its logo, walking time, and a brief description. This functionality applies consistently across all categories, such as “Dine” and “Play”.

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What do you think of the new directories at Disney Springs?

Death Star Galactic Creation at Disney’s Grand Californian Resort

By

Sara

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March 29, 2025

Death Star Display at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa

The lobby of Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is now home to a stunning Death Star display, a masterful piece of artistry created for Disneyland Resort’s Season of the Force. This mesmerizing centerpiece captures the epic scale of the Star Wars universe.

Death Star Galactic Creation at Disney's Grand Californian Resort

The rotating Death Star display captivates guests with its dynamic depiction of the iconic trench run, showcasing Rebel Alliance X-wings in mid-flight. This year’s striking centerpiece offers a distinct departure from last year’s Millennium Falcon feature.

The culinary marvel took the pastry team 240 hours to create and includes:

– 160 pounds of crisped rice cereal
– 150 pounds of fondant
– 80 pounds of powdered sugar
– 80 pounds of marshmallows
– 40 pounds of chocolate
– 30 pounds of butter
– 24 pounds of egg whites

What do you think of the massive Death Star?

Disney Dreamers Academy Concludes 18th Year with Magical Commencement and Life-Changing Opportunities

Disneyland’s Fantasmic! to Resume Full Week of Shows This May

Powerline Max Popcorn Bucket: Disneyland Limited Release

“A Goofy Movie” 30th Anniversary Screening at El Capitan

70th Anniversary Collection Launches at Disneyland

Disney Vacation Club Castle to Cruise Sweepstakes

Enter for a chance to win a two-part, 7-night Disney dream vacation!

Tyler James Williams of “Abbott Elementary” and Kelvin Harrison Jr. of “Mufasa: The Lion King” surprised teens with unforgettable, inspirational experiences as part ofWalt Disney World’s mentoring program

Brewing Up Some Magic: Joffrey’s Rolls Out a Snow White Coffee Truck at Disney Springs

It’s Not Easy Being Green—But It Is Easy Being Inspirational: Kermit the Frog to Deliver University of Maryland Commencement Speech

The Dinosaurs Have Left the Building—Construction Walls Go Up as Tropical Americas Begins to Take Shape at Animal Kingdom

Explore Disney Springs with a New Interactive Map

Death Star Display at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa

Tyler James Williams of “Abbott Elementary” and Kelvin Harrison Jr. of “Mufasa: The Lion King” surprised teens with unforgettable, inspirational experiences as part of
Walt Disney World’s mentoring program