Sulley and Mike Holiday Popcorn Bucket Brings the Frights and Delights!
Disney Parks has unveiled a new holiday treat that’s sure to delight fans of Monsters, Inc., the Sulley and Mike Holiday Popcorn Bucket. This adorable collectible is available at Hollywood Studios for $27.25 and includes a serving of popcorn at the time of purchase.
This festive popcorn bucket is inspired by the lovable blue monster, Sulley. Sculpted and painted with incredible detail, Sulley’s blue fur and purple polka-dots are instantly recognizable. He’s dressed for the holidays in a red Santa hat with white trim and is carrying a toy bag over his shoulder.
A closer look reveals a surprise, Mike Wazowski is hiding inside the toy bag! His signature eyeball is peeking out from the bag’s opening, adding a touch of humor to the design. Sulley is also holding a green ornament with horns, a nod to Mike’s iconic appearance.
The bucket itself is functional and festive. The toy bag serves as the opening for the popcorn compartment, while the top of the bucket, featuring Mike and the presents, lifts on a hinge. The strap, adorned with green holly leaves, red berries, eyeballs, and the Monsters, Inc. ornament, clips to Sulley’s shoulders for easy carrying.
With its intricate details, playful design, and practical function, the Sulley and Mike Holiday Popcorn Bucket is a must-have for any Monsters, Inc. fan. But hurry, as this limited-time offering is available while supplies last.
Stitch and Angel Gingerbread Plush: A Sweet and Mischievous Duo
Disney fans and Stitch enthusiasts alike can now add a pair of adorable and mischievous gingerbread-themed plush to their collections. The Stitch and Angel Gingerbread Plush duo, part of the Stitch Attacks Snacks Series, is currently available at merchandise locations throughout the Walt Disney World Resort and online at the Disney Store for $29.99 each.
In this latest installment of the Stitch Attacks Snacks Collection, the iconic alien duo is depicted indulging in a delicious gingerbread cookie treat. Stitch, ever the mischievous troublemaker, is seen gleefully munching on a mouse-eared gingerbread man, while Angel, his sweet and innocent counterpart, enjoys her own gingerbread snack with a smile.
With its soft and cuddly design, this gingerbread-themed plush is sure to delight fans of all ages. Whether you’re a collector or simply looking for a new addition to your Disney merchandise collection, the Stitch and Angel Gingerbread Plush is a must-have item.
Francisco the Flamingo Joins Giraffe and Zebra at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
The holiday season has arrived at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, bringing with it a delightful array of festive decorations and, of course, the highly anticipated annual gingerbread display. This year, the display welcomes a charming new addition: Francisco the Flamingo.
Standing an impressive seven feet tall, Francisco joins the beloved Gingeraffe and Debra the Zebra, replicating the size of a young giraffe found on the resort’s savannas. Crafted from a delectable blend of honey, flour, gingerbread spices, and artistry, Francisco embodies the spirit of the season with his vibrant pink hue and meticulously detailed black beak and belly. His elegant neck curves gracefully over his back, creating a captivating pose.
The addition of Francisco is a testament to the ever-evolving gingerbread tradition at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. Guests can expect to find Debra the Zebra sporting a fuzzy black and white mane, complete with detailed nostrils and eyelashes. Gingeraffe remains a fan favorite, showcasing her signature brown spots and thick black eyelashes. Adding to the playful spirit are two cleverly hidden Gingerbread Mickeys waiting to be discovered by eagle-eyed visitors.
Festive Flourishes Throughout the Lodge
The gingerbread display is just one facet of the immersive holiday experience at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. Guests are greeted by a captivating display of festive décor upon arrival. The porte-cochère columns are adorned with elegant green décor featuring African-inspired prints and lush greenery. Throughout the lobby, miniature trees sparkle with burlap bows, animal-print beads, and an array of ornaments, all bathed in the warm glow of yellow lights. Wreaths echoing the same theme adorn various locations, including a magnificent one above the entryway.
A Sweet Tradition Takes Flight
Francisco the Flamingo may be a newcomer, but he’s sure to become a cherished part of the holiday tradition at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. This year’s gingerbread display joins other captivating creations across Walt Disney World, with the awe-inspiring gingerbread Spaceship Earth set to debut at EPCOT’s Festival of the Holidays this coming Friday.
Disney Vacation Club Replaces Reflections with New Disney Lakeshore Lodge
Disney Vacation Club (DVC) has announced a new resort project, Disney Lakeshore Lodge, replacing the previously planned Reflections – A Disney Lakeside Lodge. The new resort, expected to open in 2027, will be located on the shores of Bay Lake near Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground.
Reflections – A Disney Lakeside Lodge was initially announced in 2018, with construction beginning after the demolition of Disney’s former water park, River Country. However, the project was halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic and was widely believed to be canceled. Despite this, Disney continued to file for construction permit extensions, and recent weeks have seen construction activity resuming at the site.
Inspired by Nature
Disney Lakeshore Lodge will embrace a new theme, drawing inspiration from “the majesty of nature and its enduring influence on Disney artists.” This suggests a focus on natural elements and artistic expressions of the natural world.
Details Remain Scarce
Specific details about Disney Lakeshore Lodge, including the number of rooms, amenities, and architectural style, are still limited. However, the announcement of this new DVC resort has generated excitement among Disney fans and vacation club members.
The location on Bay Lake offers a unique and tranquil setting, providing guests with a peaceful retreat while still being conveniently close to the magic of the Magic Kingdom and other Disney World attractions.
As construction progresses and more details are revealed, Disney enthusiasts will undoubtedly be eager to learn more about this exciting new addition to the Disney Vacation Club portfolio.
Step through the gates of the Haunted Mansion and discover a captivating new realm. The expanded grounds beckon with an enchanting aura, inviting you to explore their hidden secrets and immerse yourself in the mansion’s mysterious allure.
When entering this new part of the queue, before discovering the expanded grounds, you may notice a familiar Spanish fountain that once sat in the middle of Magnolia Park.
You’ll find that the new gardens are being closely guarded by a pair of stately ravens. Ravens often represent a connection between the world of the living and the spirit world.
You will also encounter the crouching figure of a cat. The statue sits tucked away among the wispy grasses, as he appears ready to pounce.
Around the bend, you’ll discover a personal garden retreat designed by one of the mansion’s inhabitants, Master Gracey. A fountain against the garden’s wall features the face of a sea maiden with unruly hair and startled eyes, as if she’s caught in a storm. Inside an old, wrought iron gazebo sits a bench, a well-read book, and astrological armillary sphere and a smoking pipe that has been left behind. It’s the perfect place for Gracey to rest and ponder his past.
Further along the path, you’ll find the eccentric garden of Madame Leota, the resident Seer. It seems as if the entire garden is dipped in a mystical energy; as if every plant, statue, and trinket is under Leota’s spell. There is a small statuary of oddities – frogs, lizards, rats and a cymbal-playing monkey – all frozen in time like they are under an incantation.
The garden has a repeating motif of fortune-telling orbs. The large oak tree that graces the center of the courtyard has been decorated by Leota with colorful ornaments, chimes and bells that ring out in the breeze.
And in the rear of the garden, you’ll find the Mansion Greenhouse, belonging to all the mansion’s ghosts. An ornate structure of iron and glass, it gives residents with a “green thumb” a chance to cultivate the most unusual of plant species.
Guests using a mobility device are now able to use the main queue and entrance to the Haunted Mansion. After riding, they will leave the attraction using a new, accessible elevator exit that extends the story of the attraction with a gallery of original Imagineering artwork and more.
The holiday season is just around the corner, and ABC is ready to bring back some of its most beloved holiday specials, giving fans plenty of reasons to gather around the TV. This year’s lineup includes a mix of cherished animated classics, festive game shows, and iconic films, starting Tuesday, December 10.
For fans of Disney magic, December 10 kicks off with Olaf’s Frozen Adventure at 8:00 p.m. EST. This heartwarming tale of Olaf and Sven searching for holiday traditions is followed by Toy Story That Time Forgot, a post-Christmas adventure featuring Woody, Buzz, and the gang. The fun continues with Disney Prep & Landing and its sequel, Prep & Landing 2: Naughty vs. Nice, bringing back the hilarious escapades of Santa’s elite elf team.
Game show lovers will get their holiday fix on Wednesday, December 11, when Celebrity Wheel of Fortune returns with stars like Chance the Rapper, Dionne Warwick, and Lil Jon spinning for charity. Celebrity Family Feud, featuring teams led by Rosie O’Donnell and Billy Porter, and the nostalgic Family Feud: Decades of Laughs complete the festive night.
Thursday, December 12, welcomes the return of The Great Christmas Light Fight, where families compete with dazzling holiday displays. Fans of over-the-top decorations will enjoy not one, but two new episodes showcasing spectacular homes. Later that night, Press Your Luck’s Holiday Extravaganza III brings even more festive cheer, complete with big prizes and a very mischievous WHAMMY.
The holiday cheer continues on Friday, December 13, with a seasonal twist on Shark Tank. Entrepreneurs step into a winter wonderland to pitch holiday-themed ideas to the Sharks, offering unique opportunities to celebrate the season
Finally, one of the most iconic holiday traditions returns on Sunday, December 15, when ABC airs The Sound of Music at 7:00 p.m. EST. The Oscar®-winning classic, featuring timeless songs like “My Favorite Things” and “Climb Every Mountain,” is a must-watch for families during the holidays.
ABC’s schedule ensures holiday favorites are back and better than ever, giving viewers plenty of opportunities to reconnect with these beloved specials and shows. Mark your calendars—now we know when the holiday magic begins!
D23: THE ULTIMATE DISNEY FAN EVENT PRESENTED BY VISA - The Sorcerer Hat dazzles guests out front of the Anaheim Convention Center at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event presented by Visa, taking place on August 9, 10, and 11, 2024. This one-of-a-kind, multi-day fan experience showcasing the very best in creative storytelling and unrivaled innovation from across the worlds of Disney has been reimagined to be more expansive and immersive than ever before, offering fans access to more of what they love. (The Walt Disney Company)
Disney has unveiled a host of updates for D23: The Official Disney Fan Club, including expanded membership plans and an exciting slate of events for 2025. The announcement was made during a special D23 Member event at The Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, California. Attendees enjoyed an advanced screening of Moana 2, introduced by animator Wayne Unten, and heard from Michael Vargo, head of D23, about what’s on the horizon for Disney fans worldwide.
Among the announcements were new Gold Membership options, set to roll out on January 1, 2025. Fans will now have three plans to choose from, each packed with exclusive perks and collectibles. The Gold Member Essential Plan ($49.99 annually) includes benefits such as the Disney twenty-three publication’s new interactive digital format, a Stitch collectible pin, a Goofy and Max car magnet, and a D23 Lorcana trading card featuring Iago from Aladdin. The Gold Member Choice Plan ($99.99 annually) adds a selection of premium items like a D23 Spirit Jersey or a Disneyland replica plaque, while the Gold Complete Plan ($299.99 annually) includes all premium items for the ultimate fan experience.
Signature events are also taking center stage. The much-anticipated Destination D23 will return from August 29–31, 2025, at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort in Walt Disney World®. The event promises to be the largest yet, featuring exclusive presentations, entertainment, and shopping. Other highlights include the launch of the new D23 Spotlight Series, monthly virtual presentations from the D23 Gold Theater, expanded tours of the Walt Disney Studios Lot, and the debut of Walt Disney’s Los Angeles Tour.
D23 will also celebrate milestone anniversaries with fans in 2025, marking the 70th anniversary of Disneyland Resort, the 30th anniversaries of Toy Story and A Goofy Movie, and the 25th anniversary of The Emperor’s New Groove. Additional experiences include fan-favorite screenings, D23 Night with the Anaheim Ducks, and D23 Day at Angel Stadium.
Michael Vargo shared the vision behind these enhancements: “We are always looking for ways to give fans more of what they want. From signature events to new virtual offerings, we’re excited to bring all of this and more in 2025.”
For fans eager to make the most of their D23 membership, these expanded offerings ensure a magical year ahead. With new experiences, collectibles, and events, 2025 is shaping up to be unforgettable for Disney fans everywhere.
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel Decorated for the Holidays 2024
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel is transformed into a festive destination during the holiday season. A towering Christmas tree adorned with elegant ornaments and twinkling lights takes center stage in the lobby, while the scent of freshly baked gingerbread fills the air. The hotel’s Craftsman-style architecture, combined with festive décor, creates a truly magical atmosphere.
While this year’s gingerbread house occupies an towards the back of the lobby, most guests will first be drawn to the massive Christmas tree standing in the center of the lobby. The tree is 35 feet tall and features lights and Craftsman-style ornaments.
The ornaments are in woodsy colors like different shades of green, golds, and dark reds. There are also lantern ornaments with stained glass designs. Christmas gifts wrapped in complementing colors surround the base of the tree.
Garland and wreaths decorate the banisters and upper levels around the lobby. Both feature lights, bows, and ornaments as well.
If you want to feel like you are staying in a homey lodge in the woods for the holidays (even though you’re in Southern California), Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel is the place to be!
First Look at the Disney Treasure Suites & Guest Rooms
The Disney Treasure offers a variety of stateroom options to suit every traveler’s needs. Guests can choose from standard inside staterooms, oceanview staterooms with picturesque sea views, or luxurious verandah staterooms with private balconies. For families, the ship offers spacious family staterooms with connecting doors, while those seeking ultimate luxury can indulge in the lavish concierge suites.
The Disney Treasure will feature 1,256 staterooms, each adorned with custom artwork and design elements inspired by beloved films such as Aladdin, Pocahontas, Up, and Encanto.
With more space than you’ll find in similar rooms on other cruise ships, Disney’s Standard accommodations are conveniently close to shipboard restaurants and lounges, so you’ll never be far from the action.
These staterooms sleep 3-4 guests and the design features include:
Attractive yet functional cabinetry in the living area
A sitting area with a couch, TV and desk
A heavy privacy curtain to separate the sitting and sleeping areas
A full bathroom with a vanity, sink, shower and tub with glass door
Elevated wooden bed frames for under-bed storage of suitcases and other large items
And to kids’ delight, a celestial scene featuring original artwork and an enchanting message from Genie reveals itself when the upper-berth bed is pulled down (applicable only for staterooms that sleep 4).
Oceanview Staterooms
Unwind in a magical stateroom adorned with iconic Disney elements. With a queen-size bed, pull-down bed, sitting area, split bathrooms, and luxurious amenities, it’s the perfect retreat.
The Deluxe Oceanview Staterooms sleep 3-4 guests while the Deluxe Family Oceanview Staterooms sleep 4-5 guests.
Both Oceanview Stateroom design features include:
A sitting area with a couch, TV and desk
A heavy privacy curtain to separate the sitting and sleeping areas (in most)
A 2-door “split bathroom,” with a vanity, sink, shower and combination tub/shower on one side and a vanity, sink and toilet on the other
Elevated wooden bed frames for under-bed storage of suitcases and other large items
Attractive yet functional cabinetry in the living area
Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah
Indulge in stunning sea views from your private balcony, then retreat to your luxurious stateroom. Unwind in comfort with a queen-size bed, pull-down bed, sitting area, split bathrooms, and upscale amenities.
Deluxe Oceanview Staterooms with Verandah sleep 3-4 guests while Deluxe Family Oceanview Staterooms with Verandah sleep 4-5 guests and are larger rooms.
Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah design features include:
A sitting area with a couch, TV and desk
A heavy privacy curtain to separate the sitting and sleeping areas
A “split bath” with a vanity, sink, shower and combination tub/shower on one side and a vanity, sink and toilet on the other
Elevated wooden bed frames for under-bed storage of suitcases and other large items
Attractive yet functional cabinetry in the living area
Bagheera Royal Suite
Indulge in ultimate luxury in one of two 2-story royal suites, inspired by Rajah and Bagheera. Each suite boasts an elegant spiral staircase and a breathtaking stained-glass window spanning two levels. These suites sleep up to 6 guests.
Guests of the Royal Suites have at their disposal:
2 main bedrooms
3 full bathrooms, including 2 main bathrooms with double sinks and a guest bathroom with a shower (one of the main bathrooms features a bathtub with a rain shower and the other contains a walk-in rain shower)
Private balcony with a whirlpool tub
Large living area
Open dining room
Pantry and wet bar stocked with water and sodas
Walk-in closet in both main bedrooms
Tomorrowland Tower Suite
Step into the future at the Tomorrow Tower Suite, a futuristic penthouse inspired by EPCOT. This 2-story suite offers breathtaking views, avant-garde design, dynamic art, and molten metal accents.
Boasting its own private elevator and glimpses to the open horizon through an expansive 2-story window, the Tomorrow Tower Suite truly embraces the adventures of tomorrow. And with nearly 2,000 square feet of living space, it can comfortably sleep up to 8 Guests.
Guests of the Tomorrow Tower Suite have at their disposal:
2 main bedrooms, a library/bedroom and a children’s room
4.5 bathrooms, including 2 main bathrooms with double sinks, stand-alone bathtubs and walk-in rain showers. The children’s room features its own bathroom with a shower. Library/bedroom area on Deck 14 offers a full bathroom with double sinks and a shower. There is also a guest bathroom at the entry.
Large, 2-story living area
Grand spiral staircase
A library that can serve as an additional bedroom with its own full bathroom with double sinks and a shower
Open dining salon
Pantry and wet bar stocked with water and sodas
Walk-in closet in both main bedrooms
What stateroom would you like to stay in on your cruise onboard the Disney Treasure? Are you ready to embark on your next Disney cruise? Contact me today to get your sailing booked! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are FREE, and I’d love to help you plan a magical Disney vacation.
Fine Dining Awaits You Onboard the Disney Treasure
The Disney Treasure offers a delightful array of fine dining experiences. Enchanté, an adult-exclusive restaurant, provides an elegant setting for French-inspired cuisine. For a unique twist, Palo Steakhouse combines Italian flavors with classic steakhouse fare in a charming atmosphere. These dining options, along with others, elevate the culinary experience on the Disney Treasure to new heights.
Indulge in a magical dining experience at Enchanté, an adult-only restaurant inspired by Lumiere from Beauty and the Beast. Savor a gourmet menu crafted by the renowned three-Michelin-starred Chef Arnaud Lallement.
A gourmet menu created with superior seasonal ingredients ensures dining at Enchanté is always an exceptional culinary affair. Selections are specially crafted by 3 Michelin-starred Chef Arnaud Lallement—of L’Assiette Champenoise, near Reims, France—who also created the menus for the celebrated Remy fine-dining restaurant on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.
Chef Arnaud’s menu employs high-quality ingredients sourced from around the world and in-season produce at the peak of ripeness. The result is an enticing collection of international dishes—all masterfully presented alongside a superlative wine list and first-class service.
In addition to fine dining at dinner, Enchanté also offers an elegant lunch experience. Savor a gourmet, French-inspired pre-fixe lunch or choose from a selection of a la carte offerings.
Palo Steakhouse
Get ready to dine like royalty at Palo Steakhouse! This signature adult-only restaurant, inspired by Cogsworth from Beauty and the Beast, will delight your palate with a fusion of Italian and steakhouse flavors.
Choose from a selection of exquisite Italian dishes and the world’s finest steaks—from the most elite American prime cuts and melt-in-your-mouth Australian wagyu to succulent Japanese Kobe and Miyazaki beef.
Palo Steakhouse’s show-stopping menu also features a timeless selection of fine Italian wines and bold craft beers to pair with your meal. And for dessert, a fan-favorite indulgence, our signature Palo chocolate souffle—prepared fresh-to-order and served piping hot with luscious vanilla bean and chocolate sauces.
Are you ready to embark on your next Disney cruise? Contact me today to get your sailing booked! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are FREE, and I’d love to help you plan a magical Disney vacation.
Founded by Miraphora Mina and Eduardo Lima, Studio MinaLima designed some of the most renowned and loved film props from the Harry Potter Film Franchise such as the Hogwarts Acceptance Letter, The Marauder’s Map, The Daily Prophet and the Black Family Tapestry.
At House of MinaLima in Universal Studios Hollywood, fans can shop an extensive range of authentic, magical keepsakes including stationery, home décor, accessories and more. The pop-up will also have a curated collection of limited-edition art prints, featuring MinaLima-created graphic designs.
House of MinaLima shops have delighted fans around the globe with its flagship headquarters in London, UK, along with pop-up stores in Osaka, Tokyo, Seoul, Paris, New York City and Orlando.
Are you looking forward to shopping at House of MinaLima?
A Hauntingly Chic Accessory: The Haunted Mansion Wallpaper Dooney and Bourke Satchel
Disney fans and fashionistas alike will be thrilled with the latest offering from Dooney & Bourke: The Haunted Mansion Wallpaper Satchel. This bewitchingly beautiful bag is inspired by the iconic wallpaper found within the beloved Disney Parks attraction.
Priced at $298, this stylish accessory is available for purchase online at the Disney Store. Its all-over pattern showcases the classic wallpaper design, making it a must-have for any Haunted Mansion enthusiast.
The satchel boasts both practicality and elegance. It features a detachable shoulder strap and leather carry handles, providing versatile carrying options. Additionally, multiple pockets allow for organized storage of your belongings.
So, if you’re looking to add a touch of spooky sophistication to your wardrobe, this Haunted Mansion-inspired satchel is the perfect choice.
