Big Top Souvenirs Closed for LONG Refurbishment at the Magic Kingdom

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February 20, 2026

Big Top Souvenirs Closed for LONG Refurbishment at the Magic Kingdom

Big Top Souvenirs at Magic Kingdom Closes for Extended Refurbishment

Step right up… to construction walls. 🎪 Big Top Souvenirs in Storybook Circus at Magic Kingdom has officially closed for refurbishment, and this looks like more than just a quick paint touch up. According to Walt Disney World’s website, the large circus tent gift shop is expected to reopen “later this year,” hinting at a fairly lengthy timeline for the colorful retail staple.

If this feels familiar, it is because permits were filed last fall for both Big Top Souvenirs and nearby Pete’s Silly Sideshow. Pete’s closed in early January, and its tent roof has since been completely removed. Character meet and greets were relocated outside, and now Big Top has followed suit with construction walls wrapping entirely around the tent structure, even stretching past the entrance to Storybook Circus. Minnie and Goofy are still greeting guests near the land’s entrance, just with a slightly more construction chic backdrop.

The refurbishment is expected to focus primarily on the exterior. The tent roof has noticeably faded from its once vibrant green, thanks to constant Florida sunshine and storms. With Pete’s roof already stripped down, it would not be surprising to see similar work take place here in the coming weeks.

The walls also temporarily block two figures from the Smellephants on Parade experience that debuted in 2024. The ticket booth where guests picked up their map and sticker sheet is also behind the barriers. The scavenger hunt is still running from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and cast members are assisting guests in front of the walls. There are even playful “casting” signs on the construction walls to keep the circus spirit alive.

A few operational shifts are worth noting. The FuelRod and custom ID tag machines previously inside Big Top Souvenirs have been relocated to the tent next to Pete’s Silly Sideshow. The pressed penny machine has moved outside the restrooms near the Walt Disney World Railroad station. As for the merchandise and sweets Big Top is known for, guests can still find toys, plush, and pins throughout the park, and confectionery cravings can be satisfied at the Main Street Confectionery.

New Norway Pavilion Snack Kiosk Opens in EPCOT

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Chris B

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February 20, 2026

New Norway Pavilion Snack Kiosk Opens in EPCOT

New Norway Pavilion Snack Kiosk Opens at EPCOT featuring School Bread and Trollkrem

After sitting behind planters and scrim for what felt like a full Frozen winter, the new snack kiosk in the Norway Pavilion at EPCOT is finally open for business. Located near the Stave Church, this cozy little stand replaces the former beverage cart and brings some much-needed snack relief to this corner of World Showcase. The kiosk officially opened around 11 a.m., and that timing is expected to stick for now.

The exterior leans heavily into Nordic vibes, with faux wood beams, intricate Scandinavian carvings, and even a foliage-covered roof that looks like it belongs in Arendelle’s countryside. There are still rolling planters nearby, and some patched pavement that stands out a bit, but the space is fully operational. It is also completely cashless, so plan to pay with a credit or debit card, Disney Gift Card, or mobile payment.

The real headline here is School Bread. The beloved sweet roll filled with custard and dipped in coconut is now available at this kiosk for $5.49, giving guests a second spot to grab the iconic treat outside of Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe. If you have ever stared down that bakery line stretching toward the lagoon, this new location may feel like a gift from the snack gods.

Beyond School Bread, the kiosk serves up classic park treats like Mickey’s Premium Ice Cream Bar and Ice Cream Sandwich for $6.49, an Outshine Strawberry Fruit Bar for $5.99, and an Olaf Frozen Lemonade Strawberry Bar for $6.29. On the beverage side, guests can grab Voss Artesian Water for $5, Coca-Cola products for $5.59, or a refreshing Trollkrem for $5.79, a frozen blend of cranberry and vanilla that tastes like a Nordic smoothie with attitude.

If you are looking to sip around the world, the kiosk also offers alcoholic options, including Norsk Jordbærkrem Strawberry Cream Ale for $13.75, Kornøl Farmhouse Ale for $13, Juniper Pilsner for $13.75, and an adult version of Trollkrem for $16.50 topped with Bacardí Dragonberry Rum. It is a small menu, but it packs a flavorful punch.

With Flower and Garden crowds blooming and World Showcase lines getting longer by the hour, this new kiosk feels like a strategic snack expansion. Fewer bakery bottlenecks and more coconut custard for everyone sounds like a win in our book.

New Electrical Permit Filed for Bluey Experience at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

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Chris B

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February 20, 2026

New Electrical Permit Filed for Bluey Experience at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Electrical Permit Filed for Bluey Takeover at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Change is in the air at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and this time it comes with a little Aussie accent. Disney has filed another electrical permit tied to the upcoming Bluey takeover of Conservation Station, signaling that the transformation of Rafiki’s Planet Watch is officially powering up. The Notice of Commencement, filed by Disney’s Sourcing and Procurement division, calls for Buena Vista Construction Company to provide labor, materials, and electrical work at Conservation Station. This follows an earlier permit for general construction at the location, so the refurb train is definitely leaving the station.

The Bluey experience is expected to replace The Animation Experience at Conservation Station largely. While guests will say goodbye to drawing Disney characters in this space, Disney has confirmed that current favorites like the Veterinary Treatment Room will remain once the dust settles. Outside the building, there is another major change on the horizon. Animals from Bluey’s home country of Australia will move into the Affection Section petting zoo, and the current animals will be re-homed as part of the update. It is a pretty big shift for this quiet corner of the park.

Rafiki’s Planet Watch will operate through February 22 before closing for refurbishment. When it reopens this summer, guests will be able to dance and play games with Bluey and Bingo and meet the Heeler siblings in person. Meanwhile, The Animation Experience will relocate to The Magic of Disney Animation at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, also set to debut this summer. Between Tropical Americas construction and now Bluey bouncing into Animal Kingdom, 2026 is shaping up to be one wild year.

New Bluey Coaster “Here Come the Grannies!” Coming to the UK

By

Chris B

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February 20, 2026

New Bluey Coaster Here Come the Grannies! Coming to the UK cover

Bluey the Ride: Here Come the Grannies! Is Racing Into Alton Towers in Spring 2026

Get ready to shout “Nice parking spot, Rita!” because Alton Towers Resort is adding a dose of backyard brilliance in Spring 2026 with Bluey the Ride: Here Come the Grannies! For the very first time ever, a Bluey-themed junior coaster is rolling into CBeebies Land, and it is tailor-made for little thrill seekers with big imaginations. Bluey and Bingo, dressed as their iconic alter egos Janet and Rita, will whisk families through Bluey’s colorful backyard with gentle dips, playful turns, and plenty of giggle-worthy surprises along the way. Think first coaster memories with a side of granny energy.

New Bluey Coaster Here Come the Grannies! Coming to the UK

The fun actually starts before you even board. The interactive queue lets guests spot Bluey’s house, snap selfies, and enjoy hands-on play elements that turn waiting into part of the adventure. And once you hop off the ride, the Bluey celebration keeps going. Families can catch Bluey and her family at the Bluey Live experience inside Big Fun Show Time or book the ultimate sleepover at the award-winning CBeebies Land Hotel, where themed Bluey rooms surround guests with Bluey, Bingo, Bandit, and Chilli. Keep your eyes peeled for long dog while you are there.

Planning ahead? One-day passes start online from £32, compared to a £68 walk-up price, and short breaks begin from £42 per person. With Spring 2026 bookings already open and Bluey fans counting down the days, this new coaster is shaping up to be the must-do family ride of the season. Grannies, goggles, and giggles are officially on the way.

Disneyland Pushes Monsters Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue Closure to 2027

By

Sara

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February 20, 2026

Disneyland Extends Monsters Inc. Attraction Closure into 2027

As the ambitious DisneylandForward project begins to take shape, a major shift in the transformation of Disney California Adventure has been revealed. While a portion of the Hollywood Backlot—including the current site of Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!—is destined to become the breathtaking new Pandora – The World of Avatar, the monsters aren’t leaving just yet.

Originally slated to close in early 2026 to break ground on the Na’vi’s new home, Disney has officially pushed the attraction’s closure date into 2027. This decision was made with younger families in mind, ensuring that those with little ones still have a full lineup of accessible experiences to enjoy while the park prepares for its massive Avatar-themed evolution.

Related – Disneyland Removing Park Hopping Rule

Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue! has been a Hollywood Land staple since 2006, famously replacing the short-lived Superstar Limo during Disney California Adventure’s first major overhaul. While this specific dark ride’s days are numbered on the West Coast, Monstropolis is far from gone; a brand-new Monsters, Inc. door coaster is officially coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida.

Despite the attraction’s impending removal to make way for Pandora – The World of Avatar, Disney leadership has confirmed that keeping the monsters in town through 2026 won’t delay the Na’vi’s arrival. By cleverly re-sequencing construction phases, Imagineers found a way to keep the doors open into 2027 without pushing back the Avatar project. While some fans remain skeptical about how such a massive project can proceed without immediate access to the Hollywood Backlot, the lack of an official opening date for the new land means the internal timeline remains a closely guarded secret.

Pandora – The World of Avatar was first teased during a 2023 earnings call, with more concrete details emerging at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in 2024. Guests were treated to a first look at concept art and a detailed model showcasing an all-new boat ride. This version of Pandora will draw inspiration from Avatar: The Way of Water and future sequels, offering a unique experience that differs from the existing land at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

The decision to grant Mike and Sulley a “stay of execution” is a strategic move to prioritize young families. Recognizing that DCA currently has limited options for small children, Disney is keeping the ride operational to ensure parents have a reliable, kid-friendly attraction while new offerings—like the upcoming “Bluey’s Best Day Ever!” celebration—get up and running.

Disneyland Removing Park Hopping Rule

By

Sara

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February 20, 2026

Disneyland Set to Scrap 11 AM Park Hopping Rule

For years, the 11:00 AM rule has been a staple of the Disneyland experience, requiring Park Hopping to wait until midday to switch between parks. That restriction is finally being retired! Disneyland has announced it will soon lift the time limit, granting guests the freedom to park hop whenever they please—no more watching the clock to cross the Esplanade.

Whether you hold a Park Hopper ticket or a Magic Key, you can experience the magic of both parks on the same day (pending availability). Under the updated rules, once you’ve scanned into your first reserved park, you are free to cross over to the second park at any time! This officially ends the long-standing 11:00 AM restriction, though hopping remains subject to park capacity, operational hours, and potential closures.

To ensure a smooth day, always check the Disneyland app or the Park Hours calendar, as hopping windows can still vary based on special events or park schedules. Currently, a reservation for your second park is not required after visiting your first, though Disney notes this policy is subject to change.

This major update was first revealed during a Disneyland Resort Business Update on February 19, 2026. While a specific “go-live” date hasn’t been set yet, the news has sparked huge excitement among fans. We expect a formal announcement with an official start date to drop very soon!

Disney Reveals First Look at ‘Descendants: Wicked Wonderland’ Ahead of Summer Release

By

Catherine

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February 20, 2026

Disney Unveils First Look at ‘Descendants 5’

The VKs are officially headed back down the rabbit hole. Today, Disney offered a thrilling first look at “Descendants: Wicked Wonderland,” the fifth installment in the global phenomenon franchise. The teaser made its grand debut just ahead of the “Descendants/ZOMBIES Worlds Collide: Concert Special,” which is now available for streaming on Disney+.

Set to premiere on Disney+ and Disney Channel this summer, the film picks up right where the 2024 hit The Rise of Red left off—proving that even in a magical kingdom, you can’t mess with the timeline without making a few enemies.

The Fabric of Time Unravels

After their whirlwind time-traveling adventure to save Auradon, Red (Kylie Cantrall) and Chloe (Malia Baker) are learning that “happily ever after” is a lot more complicated when you’ve altered history.

The story moves the action to present-day Wonderland, where the duo attempts to bury the past by hiding the infamous time-traveling pocket watch inside the Royal Vault. However, their secret isn’t as safe as they think. A new threat is emerging from the tea leaves: Maddox Hatter (Leonardo Nam). No longer just a quirky inventor, Maddox has turned ruthless, seeking the watch to bend the very fate of Wonderland to his will.

New Descendants 3 Music Video "Good to Be Bad"

New Faces and Returning Royalty

The cast for Wicked Wonderland is a massive blend of returning favorites and a new generation of VKs (Villain Kids) and AKs (Auradon Kids):

Category	Cast Members
Returning Leads	Kylie Cantrall (Red), Malia Baker (Chloe)
The Legends	Brandy (Cinderella), Paolo Montalban (King Charming), Rita Ora (Queen of Hearts)
Returning Favorites	Melanie Paxson (Fairy Godmother), Leonardo Nam (Maddox Hatter)
The New Generation	Liamani Segura (Pink), Alexandro Byrd (Luis Madrigal), Brendon Tremblay (Max Hatter), Kiara Romero (Hazel Hook), Joel Oulette (Robbie Hood), Zavien Garrett (Felix Facilier)

Fans will also see the return of the Smee legacy, with Ryan McEwen and Dayton Paradis stepping into the roles of Squirmy and Squeaky Smee.

Since its 2015 debut, the Descendants franchise has been an unstoppable force in youth entertainment. The Rise of Red solidified this dominance in 2024, becoming the most-watched original movie for its target demographic and sparking billions of views across social platforms.

Behind the scenes, the creative team is leaning into the franchise’s signature high-energy style:

Direction: Kimmy Gatewood (Muppets Mayhem) takes the helm.
Choreography: Emmy® Award-winner Emilio Dosal (Wicked) will lead the brand-new music-and-dance sequences.
Production: Franchise veterans Suzanne Todd and Gary Marsh return as executive producers.

What’s Next for Fans?

While the wait for summer begins, fans can get their musical fix right now. The “Descendants/ZOMBIES Worlds Collide: Concert Special” is officially streaming on Disney+, capturing the energy of the sold-out 2025 arena tour.

With the stakes higher than ever and the timeline in jeopardy, Wicked Wonderland is shaping up to be the franchise’s most ambitious chapter yet.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Remains Hidden Behind Construction Walls

By

Chris B

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February 20, 2026

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Remains Hidden Behind Construction Walls

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Refurbishment Reveals Expanding Footprint for Villains and Cars Lands

Over at Magic Kingdom, the wildest ride in the wilderness is still temporarily out of commission as Big Thunder Mountain Railroad undergoes an extensive refurbishment. Scaffolding now hugs sections of the iconic red rock spires and surrounding show buildings, giving the mountain a bit of an industrial accessory moment.

From the guest side of the construction walls, you can spot crews working on rock work detailing and structural elements around the attraction. The wooden facades and mining structures appear to be getting some much-needed attention, likely refreshing both the visual texture and the ride infrastructure before trains roll again.

But the real headline may be what lies beyond Big Thunder.

big thunder arial photo — photo by @bioreconstruct on X

Past the berm and trees, a wide stretch of cleared land is now visible, with dirt mounds, grading work, and open space that marks the future home of Villains Land and Cars Land. The area looks fully prepped for vertical construction, signaling that this expansion is more than just blue sky concept art at this point.

This stretch of land represents one of the most ambitious expansions in Magic Kingdom history. Cars Land will bring high octane energy inspired by Lightning McQueen and friends, while Villains Land promises a darker twist, finally giving Disney’s iconic baddies a kingdom of their own. With Big Thunder sitting right at the edge of it all, the refurbishment could also help the classic coaster blend seamlessly into its new neighbors once everything opens.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Remains Hidden Behind Construction Walls Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Remains Hidden Behind Construction Walls

No reopening date has been announced yet for Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, but progress is clearly moving forward. Between refreshed rock work and acres of newly cleared space, Frontierland is quietly transforming into the launch pad for Magic Kingdom’s next era.

Potential Closures Ahead? New Permits Filed for Several Frontierland Food Locations

By

Chris B

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February 20, 2026

Potential Closures Ahead New Permits Filed for Several Frontierland Food Locations

Magic Kingdom Permits Filed for Big Al’s, Westward Ho, and Frontierland Churro Cart as Cars Expansion Rolls On

Frontierland might be about to lose a few familiar faces as new permits hint at possible demolition for Big Al’s, Westward Ho, and the beloved Churro Wagon in Magic Kingdom‘s Frontierland. With Piston Peak and the Cars Land expansion racing ahead next door, these longtime kiosks could soon ride off into the sunset. We break down what the filings reveal and what it could mean for your next snack stop. Check the comments for the link to the full story.

If you have strolled through Magic Kingdom lately, you know Frontierland is already in the middle of a transformation. Now, new Notices of Commencement have been filed for addresses tied to Big Al’s, Westward Ho, and the Frontierland Churro Wagon, signaling that change may be rolling in faster than a runaway mine train.

The permits list Buena Vista Construction Company as the contractor, which is Disney’s in-house crew, and the scope includes providing labor, materials, and electrical work. While that language does not officially confirm demolition, the timing lines up perfectly with continued work on the upcoming Piston Peak area that will anchor the new Cars-themed expansion just beyond Frontierland.

Big Al’s has long served as a quirky merchandise stop, Westward Ho has been a go-to for quick bites, including those surprisingly solid breakfast sandwiches, and the Churro Wagon has fueled countless rope drop warriors with cinnamon sugar confidence. For many fans, this trio is pure Frontierland comfort food and nostalgia rolled into one paper tray.

Disney has not announced closure dates yet, and permits are typically filed in advance of work beginning, so the timeline could still stretch a bit. Still, with Cars Land construction accelerating, it feels like the writing may be on the wooden Frontierland sign.

Cinderella Castle Repainting Continues in the Magic Kingdom

By

Chris B

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February 20, 2026

Cinderella Castle Repaining Continues in the Magic Kingdom cover

Cinderella Castle Repainting Moves to the Front at Magic Kingdom

The glow-up continues at the heart of Magic Kingdom as crews have officially moved to the front of Cinderella Castle, restoring the park icon to its classic pre-50th anniversary color scheme.

magic kingdom castle cinderella painting

Gold trim around the main entrance has now been painted a soft pale gray, matching the stage columns and existing accents. The transformation is especially noticeable around the archway guests walk through each day. While some decorative elements like the coat of arms above the entrance and intricate balcony trim remain gold for now, more and more of the metallic accents are being replaced with the cooler gray tone.

Cinderella Castle Repaining Continues in the Magic Kingdom

One of the tallest towers has been fully repainted gray, though it still features metallic gold around the blue roof and railings. Another nearby tower is mostly gray, with lingering pink on the front that has yet to be covered. The change is spreading steadily, with ramparts between towers losing their gold and additional walls on both the east and west sides shifting to gray seemingly overnight.

The castle debuted a bold pink and shimmering gold makeover in 2020 for the 50th anniversary celebration. Now, as the park moves further away from that milestone era, Cinderella Castle is slowly stepping back into its more timeless, storybook palette.

The repainting project is clearly still underway, but each day reveals a little more gray and a little less gold. Whether you loved the 50th anniversary sparkle or prefer the classic fairytale look, one thing is certain, the castle remains the crown jewel of Magic Kingdom.

NBCUniversal Confirms Future Expansion Plans for Universal Epic Universe

By

Chris B

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February 20, 2026

Universal Secures Permits for Upcoming Epic Universe Attraction

Universal Teases Epic Universe Expansion in 100th Anniversary Announcement

Universal just dropped a line that has theme park fans reading between every single word. In a press release celebrating the 100th anniversary of NBCUniversal, the company casually mentioned that Universal Epic Universe is expanding.

NBCUniversal Confirms Future Expansion Plans for Universal Epic Universe

Yes. Expanding.

Epic Universe officially opened on May 22, 2025 at Universal Orlando Resort, and while the park is still ramping up toward full operational capacity, Universal is already signaling that more is on the way. In a recent anniversary release, NBCUniversal stated it is continuing to scale immersive experiences, specifically calling out expansion of Epic Universe, development of a brand new theme park in the United Kingdom, and new concepts like a Universal Kids Resort along with year round horror experiences in Chicago and Las Vegas.

Universal did not share specific details about what the Epic Universe expansion will include. However, we already know that permits have been filed for an event space in Celestial Park, and construction has begun on an expansion to The Wizarding World area within the park. If you have visited recently, you have likely seen active work beyond the existing lands, suggesting Universal has been planning for growth from day one.

The timing is interesting. Epic Universe is barely celebrating its first birthday, and Universal is already publicly using the word expanding. That signals long term confidence in the park and a clear strategy to keep building momentum in Orlando’s theme park arms race.

Between new international parks, horror destinations, and Epic Universe’s continued development, Universal is not exactly coasting into its second century. If anything, they are stepping on the accelerator.

Realistic Scrim Up Around Haunted Mansion as Exterior Work Continues at Magic Kingdom

By

Chris B

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February 20, 2026

Realistic Scrim Up Around Haunted Mansion as Exterior Work Continues at Magic Kingdom

Haunted Mansion Gets a Ghostly Glow-Up with Photo-Realistic Scrim at Magic Kingdom

The exterior refurbishment of The Haunted Mansion at Magic Kingdom has leveled up thanks to a photo realistic scrim that now covers a large section of the facade. Instead of plain green tarps fluttering like ghostly laundry, guests are now greeted by a printed panel that mirrors the Mansion’s stately exterior, complete with its eerie charm.

Disney typically rolls out these decorative scrims when work is expected to last more than just a quick polish and paint touch up. Translation for Doom Buggy devotees: this may be a months long makeover. The scrim coverage has expanded since refurbishment first began, signaling that this is more than a quick landscaping refresh. Even so, the attraction remains fully operational, and you can still step into your Doom Buggy without detouring through construction chaos.

This corner of the park is already buzzing with activity thanks to the upcoming Cars and Villains Land projects nearby, making this stretch of Liberty Square one of the busiest construction zones in Walt Disney World right now. Between Piston Peak rumblings and Mansion maintenance, it is a spirited season of change. The good news is Disney opted for a photo wrap that keeps the Mansion looking mostly mansiony from a distance. It is not quite invisible, but it beats staring at scaffolding while humming Grim Grinning Ghosts under your breath.

No official completion date has been announced for the exterior restoration, so for now the caretaker and his trusty dog stand watch… in printed form. If you are visiting soon, expect walls to the left, scrims to the right, and 999 happy haunts still materializing on schedule.