runDisney Announces Disney Park Attractions Theme for 2025 Virtual Series

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March 19, 2025

runDisney 2025 Virtual Series: Park Attractions Theme Revealed

Embrace the summer spirit with the 2025 runDisney Virtual Series! This year, prepare to be inspired by iconic Disney Park attractions and entertainment as you run your own race, your own way. Join the 10th anniversary celebration from June 1st to August 31st.

runDisney Announces Disney Park Attractions Theme for 2025 Virtual Series

Virtual 5K: Disney Pirates of the Caribbean

Yo ho, yo ho! A pirate’s life for you awaits as you steer your course of 3.1 miles. Whether you jog, walk, or run – it’s sure to be a great time of swashbuckling fun.

Virtual 5K: Jungle Cruise

Cast off on your own tour as you chart a 3.1-mile course of high adventure, honoring the classic Jungle Cruise attraction at Disney Parks.

Virtual 5K: Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

It’s time to train! Speed through your own caverns as you take on 3.1 miles of the wildest race in the wilderness.

Virtual Challenge: Happily Ever After

Now, for the dazzling grand finale! When you register for the Virtual Challenge and finish all three races (totaling 9.3 miles), you’ll receive a fourth Challenge medal themed to the nighttime fireworks extravaganza in Magic Kingdom Park.

From start to finish, being part of a runDisney event means that you’re part of a supportive community of athletes who cheer each other on and help each other succeed, ensuring that Every Mile is Magic.

Event registration for the runDisney Virtual Series this summer opens April 1, 2025.

Will you be participating in the virtual races this summer?

First Look Inside Wonderful World of Sweets at Downtown Disney

By

Sara

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March 18, 2025

Step Inside a Candy Dream: First Look at Wonderful World of Sweets!

Step into Disney Wonderful World of Sweets, a delightful haven for dessert lovers of all ages, now open in Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort!

Indulge in freshly made treats like Werther’s Original Caramel popcorn, caramel apples, and churro toffee, all inspired by classic confections. Beyond these signature items, the shop boasts a vibrant array of lollipops, sour balls, and packaged desserts, ensuring every sweet craving is satisfied during your Disneyland Resort visit. Plus, meet the charming new candy characters, adding an extra touch of sweetness to your experience!

First Look Inside Wonderful World of Sweets at Downtown Disney

Search for Tasty Details Throughout the Shop

Once you walk through the doors of this wonderful place with the sweetest taste, you will enter a world where flowers are lollipops, clouds are fluffy marshmallows and magnificent desserts are everywhere!

Look up and you’ll spy swirled lollipops decorating the ceiling, while displays featuring Mickey-shaped treats fill every corner of the shop. One area of this candy wonderland even presents a pastel mural featuring colorful and scrumptious-looking versions of classic Disneyland park attractions such as “it’s a small world” and the Mark Twain Riverboat.

Disney Wonderful World of Sweets - Exterior

Viewable from inside the shop and the outdoor promenade, guests can also see delectable confections being freshly prepared by world-class cast members in an exhibition kitchen. Yet the fun isn’t just inside, as one of the outdoor window displays even features a nod to the past – a train traveling through a candy mountain is delivering treats to Marceline, Missouri: Walt Disney’s hometown.

Disney Wonderful World of Sweets - Poppi the Popcorn Bucket (1)

Scoop Up Poppi the Popcorn Bucket

Get ready for the Wonderful World of… Poppi!

An original Disney character developed for the new shop, Poppi the popcorn bucket brings a cute smile and an “a-maize-ing” personality as the newest superstar of Disney Wonderful World of Sweets. Popcorn has become an essential snack for so many guests to scoop up when visiting Disneyland over the years, and Poppi has already found a way to leave a mark as a ‘pop’culture icon.

Poppi the popcorn bucket is only available at Disney Wonderful World of Sweets and is limited to two buckets per guest. To add to the flavorful fun, guests who purchase Poppi the popcorn bucket can also enjoy their novelty with the same beloved and freshly made Werther’s Original Caramel popcorn that is also available at Karamell-Küche in EPCOT. Make sure to stop by and see this adorable new addition!

Pick Up Poppi and Friends Inside

While Poppi is prominently featured throughout the shop, there are even more friends joining in on the fun at this dreamy candy and sweets destination! Inside, you can spot new Disney characters scattered throughout the shop who inhabit this delectable wonderland and are available for purchase.

Jimmi, an adorable Mickey-shaped marshmallow, is named after the candy sprinkle “jimmies” on a white chocolatey blue hat
Lolli, a cute lemon cookie with a chocolatey face named after a lollipop
Fluffi, a charming cotton candy-flavored cake pop
Bonni, a lovable vanilla cake pop resembling a bonbon

Disney Wonderful World of Sweets - Interior (2)

Once you stop by to see Poppi and friends and would like to make any purchase inside the store, make sure to take a number before heading to the counter to check out. Mobile order is also available on the Disneyland app for all sorts of goodies and other delicious creations from Disney Wonderful World of Sweets throughout the day.

Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe Unveils Updated Menu Ahead of Disneyland Reopening

By

Sara

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March 18, 2025

Disneyland’s Jolly Holiday Bakery: Updated Menu

Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe is reopening in Disneyland on March 22! Today, Disney shared a look at the updated menu that will be available when the dining location reopens.

Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe Unveils Updated Menu Ahead of Disneyland Reopening

Beef Birria Toasted Cheese – pepper jack, onion, cilantro, and salsa verde on sourdough served with consome.

New! Donald Macaron – filled with cherry buttercream and vanilla bean crème

New! Pineapple Bundt Cake – topped with pineapple mousse and finished with a cherry.

New! Jolly Chopped Salad – with creamy Italian vinaigrette and a fresh breadstick

New! Toffee-Nut Cold Brew – with toffee-nut syrup and vanilla foam

The following guest-favorites are also returning March 22:

Chocolate Mousse Brownie
Banoffee Tart
Strawberry-Stuffed Croissant
Matterhorn Macaroon
S’mores Tart

What are you looking forward to trying?

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Adventure Awaits! The Up Adventure Book Mini Backpack is Here!

By

Ana Leal

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March 18, 2025

Adventure Awaits! The Up Adventure Book Mini Backpack is Here!

Alright, adventure seekers, listen up! If you’re like me and can’t get enough of Carl and Ellie’s heartwarming story from Disney’s Up, you’re gonna flip for this new mini backpack. Seriously, BoxLunch just dropped the Up Adventure Book Mini Backpack, and it’s everything you need to add a little whimsical travel charm to your life.

First off, it’s a BoxLunch exclusive, so you know it’s gonna be something special. And for $79.90, it’s a pretty sweet deal for a Disney-themed bag. The front pocket? It’s got this adorable applique of the Adventure Book itself, like you’re carrying a piece of their journey with you. But that’s not all! The whole bag is covered in these cute little photo and stamp appliques, all arranged in a fun pattern. It’s like a scrapbook you can wear!

And let’s talk details, because they nailed it. The side pockets match the overall design, so it’s a cohesive look from every angle. Plus, the adjustable straps mean you can get the perfect fit, whether you’re packing it full for a day at the Disney Parks or just carrying your essentials for a quick trip to the store. Honestly, this mini backpack is basically begging to go on adventures with you. It’s the perfect size for your park essentials, and it’ll definitely spark some conversations with fellow Disney fans.

You can pre-order it right now on BoxLunch.com, so if you’re a die-hard Up fan or just love cute backpacks, you might want to snag one before they’re gone. Trust me, this little bag is gonna fly away fast!

Credit: BoxLunch Gifts

Disney+ Launches 24/7 “Simpsons” Stream with 767 Episodes

By

Catherine

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March 18, 2025

Disney+ Launches 24/7 "Simpsons" Stream with 767 Episodes

D’oh! Disney+ Launches 24/7 “Simpsons” Stream

Springfield has officially arrived on Disney+ in a big way. Starting today, the streaming giant has launched a dedicated 24/7 “Simpsons” stream, offering a continuous loop of the beloved animated series’ vast library. With a staggering 767 episodes spanning seasons 1-35 programmed in chronological order, fans can now immerse themselves in nearly 300 hours of non-stop Simpson family antics.

This new addition addresses a long-standing request from fans, providing the ultimate “lean-back” viewing experience. “From day one, the fans have asked for a Stream of THE SIMPSONS, and we’re happy to oblige,” said Gabe Lewis, SVP of Programming & Content Curation, Disney+. “Streams on Disney+ have been a fantastic go-to experience for subscribers looking to sit back and relax with their favorite shows and movies, and we look forward to evolving the user experience and expanding the offering with more Streams, to more subscribers, later this year.”

Imagine, a never-ending marathon of Homer’s “d’ohs,” Bart’s pranks, Lisa’s wisdom, Marge’s patience, and Maggie’s… well, Maggie-ness. The stream, aptly named “THE SIMPSONS Stream,” promises an endless binge, ensuring that no matter when viewers tune in, they’ll be greeted with the familiar yellow faces and iconic humor.

“THE SIMPSONS Stream will deliver a SIMPSONS marathon all day, every day — no matter when you tune in, this ultimate SIMPSONS binge will be there,” added Matt Selman, THE SIMPSONS Show-runner and Binge-watcher.

This dedicated stream, available to Premium subscribers, will feature a monthly refreshed programming lineup, keeping the experience dynamic and engaging. It joins a growing roster of “lean-back” viewing options on Disney+, including:

HITS & HEROES: Action-packed stories from Disney’s marquee franchises.
THROWBACKS: A nostalgic trip down memory lane with classic pop culture content.
REAL LIFE: Traditional documentaries, biopics, and true stories.
ABC NEWS: Live newscasts, breaking news, and in-depth reports.
DISNEY+ PLAYTIME: All-time favorites for younger viewers.
Beyond the 24/7 stream, Disney+ remains the definitive home for “The Simpsons,” offering all 35 seasons on demand, “The Simpsons Movie,” exclusive full-length episodes, and a collection of shorts. Bundle subscribers can also catch the current season on Hulu via Disney+.

This new stream solidifies Disney+’s commitment to providing diverse and engaging content for its subscribers. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer to Springfield, the “Simpsons” stream offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of America’s favorite animated family.

To dive into the endless “Simpsons” marathon, visit the official Disney+ “Simpsons” collection!

Florida Bill Amendment Could Change Automatic Gratuity Rules at Disney World Restaurants

By

Chris B

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March 18, 2025

Florida Bill Amendment Could Change Automatic Gratuity Rules at Disney World Restaurants

Florida’s Proposed Tipping Law Could Change How You Dine at Disney and Universal

If you’ve ever dined at a table-service restaurant in Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando, you might soon notice a big change on your receipt. The Florida House is working on amending CS/HB 535, a law that governs Public Lodging and Public Food Service Establishments within the state. The initial updates to the bill were primarily focused on guest removal policies for hotels and restaurants, but a recent amendment has put automatic gratuities and service charges in the spotlight.

What’s Changing?

The amendment clarifies how automatic gratuities (typically added for large parties) and service charges (often seen at prix fixe dining or special events) are handled. Here’s what the proposed law would require:

Clearer Disclosures – Restaurants that include an automatic gratuity must explicitly state who is receiving it and what percentage they are getting on the menu, bill, and any receipt requiring a signature.
Gratuities Can’t Be Forced for Poor Service – If a guest complains about the quality of service, they cannot be required to pay an automatic gratuity or service charge.
Limited Auto-Gratuities – Restaurants may only apply an automatic gratuity for parties of six or more. Smaller groups will not be subject to automatic charges.
Pre-Tax Calculations – If an automatic tip is added, it must be calculated before taxes are applied.

How Will This Affect Dining at Disney and Universal?

Many popular table-service restaurants at Disney and Universal already apply automatic gratuities for larger parties. Under this new law, guests would receive more transparency about how service charges are distributed, and smaller groups wouldn’t be automatically charged extra.

It’s unclear how restaurants at signature dining locations (like Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian or Mythos at Universal’s Islands of Adventure) might adjust their policies, but expect clearer explanations on your bill.

Additionally, the provision allowing guests to refuse an automatic gratuity due to poor service could lead to more discussions between diners and restaurant managers.

When Will This Take Effect?

If passed, the new rules would take effect July 1, 2025. In the meantime, keep an eye out for updates—and always check your bill before you pay!

Would this change how you tip at Disney or Universal? Let us know in the comments!

Magic Kingdom’s Jungle Cruise No Longer Offering Complimentary ‘Safari Sack’ Ziploc Bag

By

Chris B

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March 18, 2025

Magic Kingdom's Jungle Cruise No Longer Offering Complimentary ‘Safari Sack’ Ziploc Bag

Jungle Cruise Retires Complimentary “Safari Sack” Ziploc Bags—Skippers Blame the Crocodiles

Bad news, adventurers! If you were hoping to grab a free “Safari Sack” Ziploc bag before setting sail on the world-famous Jungle Cruise, you might want to pack your own waterproof pouch instead. The complimentary bags, which have been available since 2022, are no longer being offered to guests at Magic Kingdom.

Introduced when Ziploc became a sponsor of the attraction, these cleverly themed bags were printed to resemble a rugged brown canvas sack—complete with pun-filled descriptions worthy of a Jungle Cruise skipper. Guests could stash their valuables inside while braving the very mild waters of this classic attraction. Despite the ride’s reputation for being more “pun-heavy” than “splash-heavy,” the sacks became a quirky souvenir for fans of Disney’s signature dad-joke-filled voyage.

For those unfamiliar, the bag’s hilarious descriptions included gems like:

🛶 “The survival sack that does it all!”
🛶 “Now featuring the exclusive Skipper Zipper!”
🛶 “Mostly backside-of-water resistant!”

And our personal favorite:

🛶 “Wild animal proof”* (With a small disclaimer excluding basically every animal in the jungle—including butterflies.)

Though the Safari Sack has sailed into the mist, guests looking for a splash-proof option at Magic Kingdom do have another choice—for a price. A branded wet bag is now available for purchase at Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, the upcoming ride replacing Splash Mountain. While it won’t come with a Skipper Zipper (or a free price tag), it’ll still help keep your essentials dry for when the bayou gets a bit too bumpy.

So, what’s the official reason for the Jungle Cruise bag’s disappearance? The skippers have a few theories. Some blame the crocodiles, others say it was the work of mischievous monkeys. But most agree: it was probably just another cost-cutting adventure from the folks back at headquarters.

For now, just remember—if you hear a skipper say, “You might get wet!”—they probably mean from your own tears of laughter. Happy cruising! 🌿🚤💦

Disney Begins Daytime Ride Testing at Test Track in EPCOT

By

Chris B

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March 18, 2025

Test Track Revs Up at EPCOT with Daytime Ride Vehicle Testing!

Start your engines, EPCOT fans—Test Track has hit a major milestone on the road to reopening! While construction crews have been hard at work behind the scaffolding, something exciting has shifted into high gear. After a week of overnight test runs, guests visiting EPCOT yesterday were treated to a thrilling (and familiar) sound—the unmistakable whoosh of Test Track cars tearing through the outdoor circuit under the Florida sun.

Disney Begins Daytime Ride Testing at Test Track in EPCOT

That’s right! Disney has begun daytime ride vehicle testing during regular park hours, signaling that progress on the reimagined Test Track is picking up speed. While we can’t hop in the driver’s seat just yet, this development puts us one step closer to experiencing the next evolution of EPCOT’s beloved automotive attraction.

What’s Next for Test Track?

Presented by General Motors and crafted in collaboration with Chevrolet, the new Test Track is set to reopen in late Summer 2025, and it’s shaping up to be a high-octane experience that blends nostalgia with cutting-edge innovation.

The updated attraction will feature a completely reimagined queue, where guests can explore six interactive exhibits celebrating the vehicles—and visionaries—that have propelled us forward. As you gear up for your ride, you’ll dive into the past, present, and future of mobility, highlighting the technology that has shaped the way we drive.

Once onboard, expect an adventure that fuses customization, personalization, and a high-speed thrill ride through new show scenes. From a deep dive into in-car technology to a breathtaking outdoor stretch that reminds us why we love hitting the open road, Test Track 3.0 promises to be a journey worth the wait.

Disney Imagineering and Chevrolet are working together to make sure the next generation of Test Track captures the excitement of innovation, the joy of driving, and the endless possibilities ahead. So buckle up, because the road to reopening is looking smoother (and faster) than ever!

Stay tuned for more updates as Disney gets ready to take the covers off this exciting reimagining. Until then, keep an ear out—Test Track’s signature roar is once again filling the air at EPCOT! 🚗💨

New DVC Lounge McKim’s Mile House Now Open in Magic Kingdom

By

Chip

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March 18, 2025

Disney Files New Permit for DVC Lounge Coming to Magic Kingdom 3

New DVC Lounge McKim's Mile House Now Open in Magic Kingdom

McKim’s Mile House DVC Lounge Opens at Magic Kingdom

Disney Vacation Club (DVC) members now have a dedicated space to relax and recharge at Magic Kingdom with the official opening of McKim’s Mile House in Frontierland today, March 18, 2025. This marks the first DVC member lounge within Magic Kingdom.

The lounge, designed to evoke the atmosphere of Gold Rush-era boarding houses, offers a variety of amenities to enhance the park experience. Members and their guests can enjoy comfortable seating, complimentary soft drinks from Coke Freestyle machines, free Wi-Fi, and charging cords available upon request. DVC Member Services Advisors are also on hand to provide assistance with membership-related queries.

A Name that Goes a “Long Way”: The Story Behind McKim

From the wood floors to the hand-carved stone fireplace, every aspect of this lounge tells a story, including its name!

The lounge’s namesake is Sam McKim, a Disney Legend and concept artist for the original Frontierland in Disneyland Park. To combine McKim’s everlasting contributions and the story of Frontierland, Imagineers were inspired by historic mile houses of the American West.

Mile houses were what we would now consider hotels. Spread across the frontier, travelers could check in to a mile house for a much-needed spell of rest and relaxation. Now, after an adventure with Princess Tiana or concert with the Country Bears, members and their guests can enjoy that same bit of respite in this new member lounge said to be operated by a fictional McKim family of hospitality pioneers.

As visitors gaze around the McKim house, they may notice stairs that appear to lead up to boarding rooms said to be occupied by some famous folks from around Frontierland. One room, for example, is designated as the host room of none other than the owner and founder of Big Thunder Mining Company, Barnabas T. Bullion. Just down the hall is the room occupied by M. Davis, a special recognition to Disney Legend Marc Davis.

Although members can’t access the lounge’s second floor, they can appreciate these Imagineering details from the comfort of the lounge’s seating area. And with a keen eye, they may even spot some original artwork and details from Sam McKim himself!

Lounge Highlights:

Comfortable seating areas
Complimentary soft drinks from Coke Freestyle machines (personal cups not permitted)
Free Wi-Fi access
Charging cords available by request
On-site DVC Member Services Advisors

Hours and Location:

Hours of Operation: Open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (subject to change)
Location: Frontierland, Magic Kingdom Park

Important Entry Details:

Valid DVC Membership Card and matching photo ID required for entry.
Members can bring up to four guests per Membership Card or the number of guests on their reservation.
All guests must remain accompanied by the DVC Member.
Automatic re-entry is not permitted; guests must follow the entry process upon each return.
Strollers must be parked in designated areas outside the lounge.
Children must be supervised at all times.
Valid Magic Kingdom theme park admission is required. Lounge access is a DVC Membership Extra benefit.

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Unlock Enchanted Slumber with the New Disney Sleep Sets!

By

Ana Leal

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March 18, 2025

Unlock Enchanted Slumber with the New Disney Sleep Sets!

Alright, pajama lovers, listen up! If you’re looking to add a little Disney magic to your bedtime routine, you’re in luck. The Disney Store’s got these super cute Disney sleep sets, and they’re perfect for anyone who wants to drift off to dreamland with their favorite characters.

We’re talking comfy, two-piece sets with button-down tops and pull-on shorts, and each one is rocking a unique Disney vibe. And get this, they’re only $39.99!

First up, we’ve got the Aurora Sleep Set. Imagine snoozing in a dreamy rose print, just like Sleeping Beauty herself! It’s got that classic, elegant feel, perfect for anyone who loves a bit of fairytale charm. The button-front top and comfy shorts mean you’ll be sleeping like royalty.

Then there’s the Winnie the Pooh Sleep Set. If you’re all about sweet dreams and honey pots, this one’s for you. It’s got a modern Pooh print that’s totally adorable, and you’ll be feeling as cozy as Pooh in his favorite tree. It’s just the thing for a chill night in.

Feeling a little pixie dust in the air? The Tinker Bell Sleep Set will have you flying off to Neverland in no time. The floral print with Tink and her story icons is just so cute, and you’ll be dreaming up adventures with Peter Pan before you know it. It’s perfect for anyone who believes in magic.

And finally, for all you mermaid fans, we’ve got the Ariel Pajama Set. Dive into a sea of comfort with this coral reef pattern featuring mermaid silhouettes. It’s super soft and cool, so you’ll be feeling totally relaxed and ready for underwater dreams. Seriously, you’ll be wanting to trade your fins for these pajamas.

So, whether you’re a princess, a bear, a fairy, or a mermaid at heart, there’s a Disney sleep set for you. Head over to the Disney Store online and snag your favorite before they’re gone! Sweet dreams!

Credit: Disney Store

New Winnie the Pooh Plush Robe To Wrap Yourself In Hunny!

By

Ana Leal

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March 18, 2025

New Winnie the Pooh Plush Robe To Wrap Yourself In Hunny!

Imagine this, you’ve just had a long, hot shower, and you’re ready to embrace ultimate coziness. Forget those boring, plain robes! We’re talking about the Winnie the Pooh Plush Robe from the Disney Store, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer.

For a cool $49.99, you can basically wrap yourself in a giant, huggable Pooh bear.

Seriously, this robe is ridiculously soft. It’s that plush material that makes you want to snuggle up on the couch with a mug of hot chocolate and binge-watch your favorite shows. And the details? Oh, the details! The hood has these adorable 3D ears that just make you smile, and the whole thing is a lovely, contrasting pink that’s super cute. Plus, it’s got a belt, so you can really get that secure, comfy feeling.

But the best part, hands down, has to be the pockets. They’re this cool blue and white combo, and they’re embroidered with “Hunny.” Yes, “Hunny”! It’s the perfect little nod to Pooh’s favorite treat, and it just adds that extra touch of Disney magic.

If you’re a Pooh fan, or just someone who appreciates a super comfy robe, you definitely need to check this out online at the Disney Store. It’s a “Hunny” of a deal!

Credit: Disney Store

“Moana 2” Reaches 27.3 Million Global Views on Disney+ in Five Days

By

Sara

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March 18, 2025

“Moana 2” Rides a Tidal Wave of Success, Shattering Streaming Records

“Moana 2” has made an extraordinary splash on Disney+, amassing a staggering 27.3 million global views within its first five days of streaming. This remarkable achievement solidifies its position as the biggest Walt Disney Animation Studios premiere since the beloved “Encanto” (2021) and the third-largest animated theatrical premiere of all time on the platform.

"Moana 2" Reaches 27.3 Million Global Views on Disney+ in Five Days

The sequel’s streaming success builds upon the monumental popularity of the original “Moana,” which has now exceeded 1.4 billion hours streamed on Disney+. To put that into perspective, that’s equivalent to streaming the film over 735 million times or listening to the iconic anthem “How Far I’ll Go” on repeat for more than 50,000 years. Notably, 2024 saw “Moana” achieve its most-streamed year ever, further cementing its status as the most-streamed film on Disney+ since the platform’s 2019 launch.

Before its streaming debut, “Moana 2” made waves at the box office, securing the biggest Thanksgiving weekend opening in history and the highest opening in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ history. With a “Certified-Fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes™, the film’s momentum surged, ultimately surpassing $1 billion worldwide and claiming the title of the third highest-grossing Walt Disney Animation Studios release of all time.

The combined success of “Moana” and “Moana 2” highlights the enduring appeal of the franchise, captivating audiences across the globe and setting new benchmarks for animated film success in both theatrical releases and streaming platforms.

Have you seen “Moana 2” yet?