First Look: New Butterbeer Treats Coming to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Epic Universe

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March 8, 2025

First Look: New Butterbeer Treats Coming to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Epic Universe

A Très Magique Twist: Butterbeer Heads to Paris in Universal’s Epic Universe!

Hold onto your wands, witches and wizards—Butterbeer is getting a French makeover when it debuts at Universal Epic Universe on May 22, 2025! The Wizarding World is expanding once more, and this time, guests will step into Place Cachée, a 1920s Parisian magical district straight out of Fantastic Beasts. This stunning new area will be part of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, bringing the iconic British Ministry and Parisian wizarding culture to life. And what better way to toast to the occasion than with a frothy mug of Bièraubeurre—yes, that’s Butterbeer en français!

A Butterbeer Feast Worthy of a Gringotts Vault

We already knew about the Butterbeer crêpe from Café L’Air De La Sirène and the classic Butterbeer from the Bièraubeurre Cart, but Universal just hit us with a spellbinding surprise—a full lineup of Butterbeer-inspired treats! Prepare your taste buds for flavored macarons, rich truffles, Butterbeer candy bars, and caramel-filled chocolate barrels. If you’ve ever wished for a Galleon’s worth of sweet, buttery goodness, Epic Universe is making your dreams come true.

And for those looking to sip their Butterbeer in true wizarding elegance, the park is also introducing a brand-new stemmed stein—a must-have for collectors and anyone hoping to drink like a dignified member of the Ministry of Magic. No Confundo charm needed—this is the Butterbeer merch we really want!

Butterbeer Season is Brewing at Universal Orlando

The magic isn’t stopping at Epic Universe! Right now, Butterbeer Season is in full swing at Universal Orlando Resort, running through May 31. Guests can get a head start on the celebration with exclusive Butterbeer-themed treats and merchandise, making it the perfect way to prepare for the enchanting expansion coming next year.

So, are you ready to raise a glass of Bièraubeurre and say Accio Butterbeer? Epic Universe is shaping up to be très magique, and we can’t wait to apparate into this spellbinding new world. Will you be visiting Place Cachée when it opens in 2025? Let us know in the comments!

Watch 4 Hours of Walt Disney World Monorail Ambience

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Chris B

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March 8, 2025

Watch 4 Hours of Walt Disney World Monorail Ambience

All Aboard! Disney Declares March 6 as National Monorail Day

For many Disney fans, the iconic whoosh of the monorail gliding through Walt Disney World is as magical as Cinderella Castle itself. Since opening in 1971, the monorail has transported millions of guests between Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and nearby resorts, becoming a beloved part of the Disney experience. Now, Disney has given this legendary mode of transportation its very own holiday—March 6 is officially National Monorail Day!

To mark the occasion, Disney Parks released a four-hour Monorail ambience video on YouTube, offering fans the chance to virtually ride the rails from home. The video, filmed entirely aboard a Mark VI monorail, loops around EPCOT and the Transportation and Ticket Center, letting viewers soak in the sights and sounds of this futuristic transit system. While it doesn’t include the Resort or Express lines to Magic Kingdom, it’s still a relaxing ride through Disney nostalgia.

Walt Disney World’s Monorail System has been a staple of the resort since day one, with its original Mark IV trains serving guests until the current Mark VI fleet debuted in 1989. Today, twelve monorails operate across three service lines: Express (direct to Magic Kingdom), Resort (serving Magic Kingdom-area hotels), and EPCOT. The system remains one of the most unique and efficient ways to travel around Disney’s sprawling property, embodying the innovative spirit of Walt Disney himself.

Whether you’re a longtime monorail fan or just love a good Disney deep cut, National Monorail Day is the perfect excuse to appreciate this classic piece of Disney magic. So, next time you hear “Please stand clear of the doors” (or “¡Por favor manténganse alejado de las puertas!”), take a moment to enjoy the ride! Will you be celebrating by hopping aboard the monorail or watching Disney’s new ambiance video? Let us know in the comments!

Baby Tiger Bakso Delights Wilderness Explorers at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

By

Chris B

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March 8, 2025

Baby Tiger Bakso Delights Wilderness Explorers at Disney's Animal Kingdom

Up Characters Meet Baby Bakso in a Wild Animal Kingdom Adventure!

Adventure is out there—and so is Disney’s newest and most adorable tiger cub! Up’s Dug, Russell, and Carl recently took a journey through the jungles of Asia at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, where they caught a glimpse of Bakso, the playful Sumatran tiger cub, and his mother, Sohni. The trio marveled at the mother-and-son duo as they explored their lush habitat, complete with cascading waterfalls, trees, and logs—perfect for pouncing, prowling, and playing!

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Just like Russell, young explorers visiting Animal Kingdom can embark on their own adventure through the Wilderness Explorers program. This interactive experience allows guests to earn over 20 badges while discovering nature’s wonders, learning about conservation efforts, and spotting incredible wildlife. One of the most exciting stops? The Tiger Badge, located along the Maharajah Jungle Trek, where guests can learn about Sumatran tigers and the challenges they face in the wild. Since Bakso is the first tiger cub born at Animal Kingdom in seven years, guests have flocked to see him in action, making him one of the park’s most exciting new stars!

Bakso’s arrival is more than just cute—it’s a vital reminder of the importance of conservation. With fewer than 600 Sumatran tigers left in the wild, his playful presence helps educate guests about the species’ plight and Disney’s ongoing efforts to protect them. His curious and energetic personality has already won over the hearts of visitors, including our Up adventurers!

Whether you’re trekking through Animal Kingdom, sailing on the Jungle Cruise at Magic Kingdom, or diving into The Seas with Nemo & Friends at EPCOT, Walt Disney World offers endless adventures for explorers of all ages. And with Disney Resort hotels offering perks like early access to parks, complimentary transportation, and immersive theming, families can enjoy even more magic at a great value. Ready to start your adventure? Pack your bags, grab your Wilderness Explorers handbook, and get ready to explore!

Video: Disney World Guest Poops on Floor and Walls of Cosmic Rewind in EPCOT

By

Chris B

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March 8, 2025

Video: Disney World Guest Poops on Floor and Walls of Cosmic Rewind in EPCOT

Chaos in the Queue: Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind Becomes the Scene of an Unfortunate Accident

Guests waiting in line for Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at EPCOT recently got more than they bargained for when an unpleasant surprise hit the queue—literally. A now-viral TikTok video posted by @araineyday shows guests visibly reacting to a foul odor, covering their faces and holding their noses before the footage cuts to a section of the queue with a dark brown substance smeared on the floor and walls. One guest can be heard exclaiming, “Ew!” in the background, summing up the situation perfectly.

@araineyday
Flower and garden festival didn’t sit well with somebody 😳 **update: it looks like it might’ve been a colostomy bag that burst in line. Please make Disney aware that DAS should be inclusive to all people with serious medical conditions 🫶🏼#guardiansofthegalaxy #guardians #cosmicrewind #disney #disneyworld #waltdisneyworld
♬ original sound – Ariel Backlin Rainey

Despite the undeniable stench, the incident wasn’t enough to deter dedicated riders, with many guests simply attempting to avoid the scene rather than making a run for the exits. It remains unclear how long the mess remained before Disney custodial swooped in for cleanup, or the identity (or age) of the unfortunate individual responsible.

However, some online commentators have speculated that recent changes to Disney’s Disability Access Service (DAS) might have contributed to the situation, as some guests who need frequent and urgent restroom access have reportedly been denied the service under the new policies.

While there are no restrooms inside the Cosmic Rewind queue, guests do have options nearby, with facilities available at Connections Eatery and just outside Club Cool. Cast Members also allow guests to temporarily leave a queue for bathroom breaks, provided someone from their party remains behind. Regardless of what led to this messy mishap, it serves as an unfortunate reminder that sometimes, even the most thrilling rides come with unexpected surprises.

Have you ever experienced a queue catastrophe at a theme park? Let us know in the comments—but hopefully, nothing quite this messy!

Michelin-Starred Chef Jean Imbert Opens NEW Restaurant in Disneyland Paris

By

Chris B

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March 8, 2025

Michelin-Starred Chef Jean Imbert Opens NEW Restaurant in Disneyland Paris

A Michelin-Starred Disney Dining Experience Debuts at Disneyland Paris

For the first time ever, a Michelin-starred chef has taken over a Disneyland Paris restaurant, bringing French fine dining to the heart of the magic. La Forêt Secrète par Jean Imbert, now open at Disneyland Hotel, blends gourmet cuisine with Disney storytelling in a stunning forest-inspired setting. A lifelong Disney fan, Chef Jean Imbert has crafted a menu inspired by classic films, making this an unforgettable culinary journey.

Dishes pay tribute to beloved Disney stories, with options like Under the Sea seafood from The Little Mermaid and Mrs. Potts’ Brew truffle broth from Beauty and the Beast. Guests can savor Prince Ali’s Tagine from Aladdin, a Caribbean Casserole inspired by Pirates of the Caribbean, and, of course, Remy’s Ratatouille. Even the children’s menu brings a playful twist, featuring Fairy Godmother’s Soup and The Lantern Festival Fish & Chips from Tangled.

Desserts are just as enchanting, with Lost Art Shortbread from Indiana Jones and Mickey’s Soufflé, a decadent chocolate creation. Younger guests can indulge in Chip ’n’ Dale’s Hazelnut Ice Cream or Little Jean’s Fruit Salad. The immersive setting, featuring lush murals and botanical-themed dining ware, enhances the fairytale experience.

This one-of-a-kind restaurant is a must-visit for Disney fans and food lovers alike. With limited seating available, reservations are highly recommended. Will you be dining at La Forêt Secrète on your next Disneyland Paris visit? Let us know!

New Disneyland 70th Anniversary Merchandise Revealed

By

Sara

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March 8, 2025

First Look: New Disneyland 70th Anniversary Merchandise

Guests can now get their first glimpse of the upcoming Disneyland 70th anniversary merchandise collection, unveiled by Disneyland Resort and set to arrive this summer.

New Disneyland 70th Anniversary Merchandise Revealed

In this most recent reveal, we got a look at a new Disneyland Resort spirit jersey. It’s black with a colorful Disneyland Resort logo on the back. The front features the number 70 with a castle above it and “Disneyland Resort” below.

A blue long-sleeve crew neck was also shown. Mickey and Minnie appear on the front in their new 70th anniversary attire. Also pictured in the above image is a hat that looks like a gold conductor cap with Mickey ears.

For those who love bags, Lug will have a special 70th anniversary crossbody bag. The bag is black with Mickey heads outlined in purple. The front also has a smaller pocket in the shape of a Mickey head. One ear is pink while the other is purple. The “head” of Mickey features a large “D” in the center with colorful pixie dust around the edges. The years “1955” and “2025” are on each side of the “D” with “Disneyland 70” at the bottom.

In another image shared by Disney, it looks like a new Mickey ear hat will be available. It’s black with colorful ears and a colorful rim. It also features a 70 and castle on the front.

What Disneyland 70th merchandise are you looking forward to seeing?

All-New Beauty and the Beast LEGO Castle

By

Sara

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March 7, 2025

All-New Beauty and the Beast LEGO Castle

Introducing the All-New LEGO Beauty and the Beast Castle Set

LEGO has unveiled the initial images of an upcoming, exclusive Beauty and the Beast Castle set, which will soon be available at retail locations and online.

Comprising 2,916 pieces, this intricate LEGO set is recommended for builders aged 18 and up. The completed Beauty and the Beast Castle will stand at an impressive 21 inches tall from base to tower, with a 13-inch wide base.

The official LEGO website describes the set in more detail:

“The buildable model features a 4-level castle with multiple rooms, including a ballroom with a spinning floor and a dining room with a table and spinning platters. There’s a removable grand staircase section and a tower room with an enchanted rose and hidden storage, plus a range of curated movie references and details.”

The castle’s interior showcases several iconic rooms, including the grand ballroom, the elegant dining room, the well-stocked library, and the mysterious West Wing. Nestled adjacent to the library is an alcove housing the Wardrobe, complemented by a cozy seating area featuring a chair, sofa, and fireplace.

The LEGO set features ten beloved characters from “Beauty and the Beast.” Belle, the Beast, Gaston, LeFou, and Maurice are included as classic LEGO minifigures. Lumière, Fifi, Cogsworth, Chip, and Mrs. Potts are creatively constructed using blocks and stickers. Belle and the Beast are dressed in their iconic ballroom attire, and the set includes a spinning dance floor in the ballroom corner, allowing them to “dance” together.

The ballroom’s staircase is cleverly designed on a sliding platform, allowing for easy scene adjustments. Behind the red staircase, a window reveals a serene starry night sky. The set also includes LEGO versions of the Beast’s magic mirror and enchanted rose, along with a sticker depicting his iconic slashed portrait. The dining room features a chandelier of silverware suspended above a table laden with dishes, including the signature Gray Stuff.

You can purchase the LEGO Beauty and the Beast Castle set online beginning April 4, 2025, for $279.99.

Walls Up Around “it’s a small world” in Disneyland as Refurbishment is Underway

By

Sara

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March 7, 2025

Construction Walls Up as “it’s a small world” Undergoes Refurbishment in Disneyland

Guests visiting Disneyland should note that “it’s a small world” is closed for a significant refurbishment and is not anticipated to reopen until sometime in spring 2025.

Walls Up Around "it's a small world" in Disneyland as Refurbishment is Underway

With “it’s a small world” now closed for an extensive refurbishment, construction walls have been erected around the entire building facade. While an exact reopening date is yet to be announced, the attraction is anticipated to return sometime in the spring.

The construction walls surrounding “it’s a small world” are a grey backdrop accented with blue stripes. To ensure adequate lighting at night, ornate lanterns have been installed along the walls. Several walls also feature small signs displaying the attraction’s official wordmark and artwork, along with the message, “Our Musical Voyage Resumes this Spring.”

While “it’s a small world” typically closes briefly in early January for holiday overlay removal, this year’s closure was delayed to accommodate the removal of the Haunted Mansion Holiday overlay and its return to regular operation. Moreover, this closure is significantly longer than the usual post-holiday downtime, suggesting that additional repairs and maintenance are being conducted.

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Enchanted Elegance On-the-Go: Pre-Order the Belle Stained Glass Portrait Mini Backpack Now!

By

Ana Leal

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March 7, 2025

Enchanted Elegance On-the-Go: Pre-Order the Belle Stained Glass Portrait Mini Backpack Now!

Looking for a way to add a little bit of fairytale magic to your everyday life? You need to check out the Belle Stained Glass Portrait Mini Backpack. Seriously, this thing is gorgeous. It’s a BoxLunch exclusive, which means you know it’s gonna be something special, and it’s up for pre-order right now for $79.90.

Think about it: you, strolling through the park, maybe even a Disney park, with this beauty slung over your shoulder. Pure princess vibes.

Let’s talk details, because they’re what really make this backpack pop. The front is covered in this stunning stained glass design, and it’s not just a print! They’ve gone all out with appliques of Belle herself and some lovely roses on the front pocket. It’s like a little piece of the movie is always with you. And it doesn’t stop there! The side pockets and adjustable straps have even more matching designs, so you’re getting a full dose of Beauty and the Beast goodness. It’s the perfect size for carrying your essentials, whether you’re heading to the parks or just running errands.

Honestly, this backpack is a total conversation starter. People are gonna be stopping you to ask where you got it. And if you really wanna go all-in on the Disney princess aesthetic, BoxLunch also has a matching crossbody and wallet, sold separately, of course. You could have the whole set!

So, if you’re ready to add a touch of Belle’s elegance to your wardrobe, don’t sleep on this pre-order. You know these BoxLunch exclusives can sell out fast, and you don’t wanna miss out on this little piece of enchanted style.

Credit: BoxLunch Gifts

Hydration Meets High Style with the Minnie Mouse Floral Water Bottle Holder Crossbody Bag

By

Ana Leal

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March 7, 2025

Hydration Meets High Style with the Minnie Mouse Floral Water Bottle Holder Crossbody Bag

Okay, so picture this: you’re trekking through Disney, the sun’s blazing, and you’re parched. Dragging a water bottle around? Total buzzkill. That’s where this adorable Minnie Mouse Floral Water Bottle Holder Crossbody Bag from BoxLunch swoops in to save the day! Seriously, for $29.90, you’re getting both cuteness and practicality.

First off, it’s Minnie! Like, hello, iconic. She’s right there on the front pocket with these super cute applique flowers, making it look like she’s frolicking in a garden. It’s got that classic Disney charm, but in a totally functional way. You’ve got a zippered pocket up front for your phone or park tickets, and then those handy side pockets? Perfect for stashing lip balm or whatever little things you need.

But here’s the best part: it holds your water bottle! No more lugging it around or stuffing it in a backpack. The drawstring cinch closure keeps it secure, so you don’t have to worry about it bouncing out on rides or while you’re rushing to catch a parade. And you’ve got options! Top handles for carrying it like a little tote, or a removable crossbody strap if you want to go hands-free.

Honestly, it’s perfect for those long park days when you need to stay hydrated but also want to look cute doing it. Seriously, if you’re a Disney fan, this is a must-have!

Credit: BoxLunch

Ditch the Bulky Bags, Embrace the Magic With BoxLunch’s Exclusive Disney Belt Bags!

By

Ana Leal

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March 7, 2025

Ditch the Bulky Bags, Embrace the Magic With BoxLunch’s Exclusive Disney Belt Bags!

If you’re tired of lugging around a giant purse at the parks or just want to add a little magical flair to your everyday look, BoxLunch has got you covered. They’ve dropped these adorable Disney belt bags, and honestly, they’re a total game-changer.

For just $34.99, you can snag one featuring your favorite characters, and trust me, the choices are chef’s kiss. We’re talking Marie, Angel, Heihei and Pua, Pooh and Tigger, and even an Atlantis one for the real deep-cut Disney lovers.

Let’s dive into the details, because these aren’t just your average fanny packs. First up, we’ve got the Marie Heart Belt Bag. Picture this: a sweet little metal Marie badge right on the front, and inside, a cute matching print with mesh pockets to keep your stuff organized. Plus, the adjustable strap has “Bonjour” written on it, so you can show off your Aristocats love. It’s basically the purr-fect accessory for any Disney outing.

Now, if you’re feeling a little more adventurous, the Pua & Hei Hei Belt Bag is calling your name. It’s got a metal charm of those lovable Moana sidekicks, and the inside has a matching print with (you guessed it!) mesh pockets. The ombre strap is adjustable, so you can wear it however you want, which is super handy. And for all you Stitch fans, the Angel Belt Bag is a must-have. It features an enamel badge of Angel, a matching interior print, and her name printed right on the adjustable strap. It’s like having a little piece of Experiment 624 with you wherever you go!

But wait, there’s more! If you’re into exploring lost cities, the Atlantis: The Lost Empire Logo Badge Belt Bag is right up your alley. With a metal badge of the film’s title and symbols on the strap, it’s a subtle nod to a classic. And for those who love a classic duo, the Tigger & Pooh Bear Belt Bag is adorable. It’s got an enamel charm of them hugging, a back pocket for extra storage, and a Tigger-striped belt strap. How cute is that?

Basically, these BoxLunch exclusive belt bags are a fun and practical way to show off your Disney love. They’re perfect for keeping your essentials close without sacrificing style, and at $34.99, they won’t break the bank. So, what are you waiting for? Go grab your favorite character and get ready to rock that Disney magic!

Credit: BoxLunch Gifts

Tiana Disney+ Series Canceled as New ‘Princess and the Frog’ Special Planned Instead

By

Catherine

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March 7, 2025

Tiana Disney+ Series Canceled as New ‘Princess and the Frog’ Special Planned Instead

Disney Shifts Gears on “Princess and the Frog” Story

Disney has made a significant change to its plans for expanding the “Princess and the Frog” universe, scrapping the highly anticipated “Tiana” series for Disney+ and replacing it with a new short-form special. This decision, reported by The Hollywood Reporter, comes alongside the cancellation of another, undisclosed feature-length project intended for the streaming platform.

The “Tiana” series, announced with much fanfare during Disney’s 2020 investor day, was set to follow the beloved Princess Tiana on new adventures in Maldonia, while still drawing on her roots in New Orleans. A captivating first look was unveiled on Disney+ Day 2021, featuring the iconic character in her princess attire. Originally slated for a 2023 release, the series was later pushed to 2024, before its release year was removed entirely, leaving fans with a vague “Coming soon.”

Anika Noni Rose Celebrates Opening of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Disneyland Park

Stella Meghie was attached to direct and write the series, with Anika Noni Rose reprising her voice role as Princess Tiana. However, according to THR’s sources, the series struggled to meet production cost expectations, despite adjustments to the creative team. This ultimately led to its cancellation.

Despite the series’ demise, Disney is not abandoning “The Princess and the Frog” entirely. With the successful launch of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Disneyland and Magic Kingdom, the company is continuing to invest in the franchise. Walt Disney Animation Studios is now in early development on a short-form special, offering a new story set within the “Princess and the Frog” world. Joyce Sherri and Steve Anderson are attached as directors, with Sherri also serving as writer.

This shift reflects a broader change in Disney’s streaming strategy. During the early days of Disney+, launched in November 2019, the company prioritized original content for the platform, particularly as audiences were confined to their homes due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the focus has now shifted away from large-scale streaming series.

This strategic change is evidenced by the evolution of “Moana 2.” Initially announced as a Disney+ series during the 2020 investor day, it was ultimately reworked into a feature film. This decision proved successful, with the film grossing over $1 billion. “Moana 2” is now set to debut on Disney+ later this month.

While the cancellation of the “Tiana” series may disappoint fans, the new short-form special promises to offer a fresh and exciting chapter in Tiana’s story. Disney’s strategic pivot underscores the evolving landscape of streaming entertainment, with a focus on maximizing return on investment and delivering high-quality content to its audiences.