Air Force Veteran Helps Refresh the Norway Pavilion in EPCOT

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February 18, 2026

Air Force Veteran Helps Refresh the Norway Pavilion in EPCOT

Air Force Veteran Leads Stunning Norway Pavilion Refresh at EPCOT

If you have strolled through the Norway Pavilion at EPCOT lately and thought, “Wow, this place feels timeless,” you can thank a little Disney magic and a whole lot of leadership. An Air Force veteran is helping guide a major refresh of the pavilion, ensuring every cobblestone, waterfall rock, and weathered beam still whispers authentic Norwegian charm.

Rosa, an Associate Project Manager with Facility Asset Management, is leading the effort to enhance the Norway Pavilion’s immersive details. Before bringing her talents to Walt Disney World, she served 24 years in the United States Air Force. Now, through Disney’s Heroes Work Here initiative, she is channeling that same dedication into keeping World Showcase looking storybook perfect. Rosa and her team worked with artisans using more than 200 colors and stains to achieve the layered, aged finishes that make Norway feel like it has stood for generations. From subtle rust drips to refreshed rockwork around the waterfall, every detail matters.

Guests will also notice a brand new beverage kiosk inspired by traditional Norwegian stabbur cabins. Designed by Walt Disney Imagineering, the kiosk blends seamlessly into the pavilion’s journey from bustling Oslo architecture to Bergen influences and up toward the Setesdal mountain hamlets near the Stave Church. It is not just a snack stop, it is a scenic detour straight into the Norwegian countryside.

And the refresh does not stop at the streets. Over at Frozen Ever After, guests will spot enhanced Audio Animatronics of their favorite characters, giving Anna, Elsa, and friends an extra sparkle on their voyage through Arendelle. It is a subtle update that adds even more life to one of EPCOT’s most beloved attractions.

Nearly 350 cast members work in Facility Asset Management across Walt Disney World, and stories like Rosa’s highlight the heart behind the upkeep. From military service to Disney service, she is helping preserve the magic so families can feel transported the moment they cross into Norway.

EPCOT Extends George W. Bush’s ‘Portraits of Courage’ Exhibit Through 2026

By

Chris B

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February 18, 2026

EPCOT Extends George W Bush’s ‘Portraits of Courage’ Exhibit Through

Portraits of Courage Extended at EPCOT Through Fourth of July 2026

An inspiring tribute is sticking around at EPCOT. Portraits of Courage: A Commander in Chief’s Tribute to America’s Warriors has officially been extended through the Fourth of July weekend in 2026 at the American Adventure Pavilion, giving guests even more time to experience this powerful collection inside American Adventure Pavilion.

The exhibit features more than 60 vibrant oil portraits painted by former U.S. President George W. Bush, honoring post 9/11 veterans and service members. Each portrait tells a story of courage, sacrifice, resilience, and continued service beyond the battlefield. The extension aligns with Disney’s celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, allowing guests visiting Walt Disney World during the patriotic holiday season to reflect on the men and women who have served our country.

EPCOT Extends George W Bush’s ‘Portraits of Courage’ Exhibit Through EPCOT Extends George W Bush’s ‘Portraits of Courage’ Exhibit Through

Since debuting at EPCOT in June 2024, the exhibit has welcomed guests from around the world. One of the veterans featured, U.S. Army Sgt. Matthew S. Ayers, recently visited the exhibit with his family, giving his daughter the chance to see her father’s portrait in person for the first time. Stories like his add a deeply personal layer to the gallery, transforming it from a collection of paintings into a living tribute.

The experience also connects guests to helpful resources for veterans and military families, including Check-In, a tool that links post 9/11 veterans and service members with no cost mental and brain health care. In addition, a special titled Our America: Portraits of Courage dives deeper into several of the veterans’ stories and is available on ABC News Live, Localish Networks, and Hulu.

With its blend of artistry, history, and heartfelt storytelling, Portraits of Courage continues to offer a meaningful pause amid the thrills of the parks. If you are planning a visit to EPCOT this spring or summer, consider carving out time for this moving tribute inside the American Adventure.

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Files New Steel Permit as Muppets Make Their Move at Hollywood Studios

By

Chris B

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February 18, 2026

New Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Construction Permit Revealed Ahead of Closure

Things are getting structurally sound and musically unsound in the best way possible over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. A brand new Notice of Commencement has been filed for Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, and this one brings in Coastal Steel Inc. for general construction work. If that name rings a bell, it should. Coastal Steel has a long history with Walt Disney World, especially when it comes to roller coaster infrastructure, structural steel, and ride support systems. In other words, when steel shows up on a permit, it is not just hanging around for vibes.

Construction Permit Reveals More Details for Reimagining Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster into Muppets Coaster

This latest filing lands just ahead of the attraction’s March 2, 2026 closure, with March 1 set as the final day to rock out with Aerosmith. When it reopens in summer 2026, the headliners will be swapping scarves for fur as the ride transforms into Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets.

Another Permit Filed for Muppets Transformation of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Hollywood Studios

Previous permits have already covered electrical updates, signage, and set elements, but this steel-focused permit has fans buzzing about whether any track or structural modifications could be part of the makeover.

While Disney has not announced any major layout changes, Coastal Steel’s involvement suggests work tied to ride infrastructure or themed elements surrounding the track. Given the tight turnaround to a summer reopening, a full retrack seems unlikely, but enhancements to support new show scenes, lighting rigs, or set pieces for the Electric Mayhem’s high-speed Hollywood dash feel very on brand. Expect updated visuals, new scenes, and a fresh soundtrack performed by Dr. Teeth and the gang as you blast off toward their concert in true backstage chaos fashion.

With preshow changes already underway and multiple permits stacking up, this Muppets transformation is clearly shifting into high gear.

Disney Unveils New 2026 Fairy Tale Weddings Gown Collection for 35th Anniversary

By

Catherine

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February 18, 2026

The 2026 Disney Fairy Tale Weddings Collection is Here

The wait is officially over for brides-to-be who have always dreamed of a “happily ever after.” The 2026 Disney Fairy Tale Weddings Collection has arrived, bringing a new wave of enchantment to the bridal world with gowns inspired by the timeless spirit of Disney Princess characters.

This year’s collection features 24 stunning wedding dresses, each meticulously designed to capture the heart and personality of the icons who inspired them. Whether you see yourself in the adventurous spirit of Jasmine or the classic elegance of Cinderella, there is a silhouette in this collection for every bride’s unique vision.

A Gown for Every Heroine

The 2026 lineup draws inspiration from nine beloved Disney Princesses, blending high-fashion bridal trends with the “magic in every stitch” that Disney is known for. Featured characters include:

Jasmine & Rapunzel: For the bold and the spirited.
Tiana & Snow White: Celebrating grace and classic beauty.

Aurora & Cinderella: Timeless silhouettes for the ultimate fairy tale moment.

Pocahontas, Ariel & Belle: Capturing wonder, curiosity, and strength.

Through exquisite detailing—from shimmering beadwork that mimics the ocean’s surface to delicate floral appliqués reminiscent of an enchanted forest—the collection offers a diverse range of styles, from sleek modern cuts to voluminous ballgowns.

35 Years of Magic: Two Special Anniversary Gowns

In addition to the main collection, Disney is celebrating a major milestone. To honor 35 years of Disney Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons, the 2026 collection introduces two exclusive anniversary gowns.

These special-edition dresses are inspired by the enduring magic of fairy tales and the iconic love stories that have defined generations. They serve as a tribute to over three decades of making wedding dreams come true at Disney parks and beyond.

How to Say “Yes” to the Dress

Ready to find your own fairy tale fit? The 2026 Disney Fairy Tale Weddings Collection is now available for try-ons in bridal boutiques.

For many, these gowns represent more than just a dress; they are a way to weave the nostalgia and wonder of Disney into one of life’s most significant moments. To explore the full gallery of 24 gowns and find a participating boutique near you, visit the official Disney Weddings website.

This Baublebar Disney St. Patricks Day Collection Will Become Your Lucky Charm!

By

Ana Leal

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February 18, 2026

This Baublebar Disney St. Patricks Day Collection Will Become Your Lucky Charm!

If you’re looking to dodge that annual St. Paddy’s Day pinch while staying on-brand for your next Disney Parks trip, BaubleBar has officially entered the chat. Their latest Disney St. Patrick’s Day Collection is basically a pot of gold for jewelry lovers, mixing that classic leprechaun luck with our favorite animated icons. Whether you’re a Pooh Bear fan or a Stitch devotee, these pieces are the perfect way to add some green to your gear without looking like you’re wearing a cheap costume.

First off, we have to talk about the Winnie the Pooh earrings ($44). Honestly, is there anything cuter than Pooh dressed as a leprechaun? He’s swapped his usual honey pot for a shamrock-themed one, and the high-gloss enamel makes the colors pop.

If you want something a bit more chaotic-neutral, the Stitch earrings ($48) are a vibe. Experiment 626 is literally sitting in a pot of gold wearing a tiny green bowtie and a leprechaun hat, it’s peak Stitch mischief.

And of course, you can’t go wrong with the Mickey Mouse earrings ($44). Mickey is decked out in full leprechaun attire with a pot of gold and just enough pavé detailing to give you that Disney adult sparkle.

If you want to go big, the Minnie Mouse St. Patrick’s Day Ears Headband ($49.99) is the ultimate statement piece. These aren’t your average park ears; they are completely encrusted in green crystals and topped with a mesh bow and a crystal shamrock crown. It’s basically royalty status for the holiday.

To round out the look, the Mickey & Friends Charm Bracelet ($48) is a total steal. It’s got the whole gang, Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy, and Goofy, all dressed in their Sunday best (green, obviously) and strung alongside some seriously sparkly pavé beads.

Credit: BaubleBar

New Starbucks 1971 Roast Collection at Disney Springs!

By

Ana Leal

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February 18, 2026

New Starbucks 1971 Roast Collection at Disney Springs!

Get ready to clear some shelf space, because Starbucks is taking a serious trip down memory lane. To celebrate where it all began, they’ve just dropped the 1971 Blend, a bold new dark roast that pays direct homage to the year those green doors first opened at Seattle’s Pike Place Market. If you’re a fan of a cup that actually wakes you up, this one is a heavy hitter with deep, cozy notes of toasted sugar and rich walnut.

This isn’t just another bag of beans; it’s basically a liquid history lesson. Starbucks went back to its roots of sourcing and roasting the good stuff to create a blend that feels like a throwback. By mixing premium beans from Colombia, Sumatra, and Brazil, they’ve captured that classic, robust profile that defined the early days of bean-scooping in Seattle. It’s dark, it’s intense, and it’s a massive “thank you” to the coffee culture they helped build over the last five decades.

Of course, you can’t have a new roast without some fresh gear to drink it out of. Alongside the coffee, Starbucks is unveiling a limited-edition 1971 drinkware collection. We’re talking:

Classic Tumblers for your morning commute.
Sturdy Mugs for those slow Sunday sessions.
Sleek Cold Cups for the iced coffee regardless of the weather crowd.

Every piece features designs that nod to the brand’s 1971 origins, giving off a vintage-meets-modern aesthetic that looks just as good on a bookshelf as it does in your hand.

These are hitting participating Starbucks stores including the Disney Springs location, starting now, and since it’s a heritage collection, they’re strictly while supplies last. If you want to snag a piece of history or just a really cool new mug, you’ll want to get there sooner rather than later.

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First Two Episodes featuring ‘ZOMBIES’ Now Available on Disney+

By

Catherine

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February 18, 2026

First Two Episodes featuring ‘ZOMBIES’ Now Streaming on Disney+

Disney is giving fans a literal “peek” into the lives of their favorite characters with the launch of “Locker Diaries,” an all-new short-form anthology series. Featuring heavy hitters from the Disney Channel pantheon—including ZOMBIES, Descendants, and Phineas and Ferb—the series reimagines storytelling for the digital age.

The concept is simple but addictive: every time a locker door opens, a new “bite-sized” adventure begins. Whether the story is spooky, dramatic, or hilarious, each episode offers a fresh perspective on the characters we know and love.

Now Streaming: “Locker Diaries: ZOMBIES”

The series officially kicks off with 11 live-action episodes centered around the drama of Sunnyside and Shadyside. Fans of the franchise will be thrilled to see familiar faces returning to the halls.

The Returning Cast:

Malachi Barton as Victor
Freya Skye as Nova
Swayam Bhatia as Vera
Julian Lerner as Ray
Mekonnen Knife as Vargas

These stars reprise their roles from the recent hit ZOMBIES 4: Dawn of the Vampires, ensuring the continuity of the monster-filled drama fans crave.

A Digital-First Experience

In a nod to how modern audiences consume content, “Locker Diaries” is specifically designed for vertical viewing. By framing the narrative through the narrow opening of a school locker, the series feels tailor-made for mobile platforms like TikTok and Instagram, while still feeling right at home on Disney+.

Where to Watch:

Digital: Episodes 1 and 2 are available now on Disney+, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok.
Broadcast: Look for episodes to air on Disney Channel and Disney Channel On Demand starting next month.
Schedule: New episodes will roll out every Saturday through mid-April.

Coming Soon: More Franchises to Explore

The lockers aren’t staying closed for long. Later this year, Disney will premiere additional installments of “Locker Diaries” featuring the chaotic inventions of Phineas and Ferb and the royal (and villainous) drama of Descendants.

While you wait for those premieres, there is plenty of content to keep your feed full:

“Cartoonified! with Phineas and Ferb”: Available now on Disney+ and YouTube.
“Descendants / ZOMBIES Worlds Collide Tour: Concert Special”: Premiering Friday, Feb. 20, on Disney+.
Full Library: All seasons and movies from these franchises are currently streaming on Disney+.

Cottage Door Press Expands Luna StoryTime Projector Library with Disney & Pixar Characters

By

Catherine

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February 18, 2026

Cottage Door Press Expands Luna StoryTime Projector Library

Cottage Door Press, the award-winning children’s publisher, is officially bringing the “Happily Ever After” home. This summer, the Luna StoryTime Projector library will undergo a magical expansion with the introduction of officially licensed Disney and Pixar Content Characters.

Starting in July 2026, families can transform their ceilings and walls into a cinematic storybook featuring icons like Mickey Mouse, Elsa, Moana, and Simba.

A New Era of Immersive Bedtime Stories

Designed to bridge the gap between traditional reading and digital engagement, the Luna StoryTime Projector is a 3-in-1 device that combines:

Projected Illustrations: Vivid artwork that brings scenes to life.
Audio Narration: Expressive storytelling that guides children through the plot.
Built-in Night Light: A comforting glow for quiet play and bedtime transitions.

By integrating Disney’s legendary storytelling into the Luna ecosystem, Cottage Door Press aims to make bedtime routines more interactive and memorable than ever before.

“Disney’s stories have captivated generations of families, and at Cottage Door Press we specialize in bringing stories to life for young readers,” said Dick Maddrell, CEO and founder of Cottage Door Press. “This collaboration allows us to expand Luna’s content library with some of the most iconic characters in the world while continuing to innovate how children experience storytime.”

What to Expect: Content & Early Learning

Each Disney Luna Content Character provides over 30 minutes of story-driven content. The experiences are meticulously crafted to support early literacy, blending projected words with gentle animations and rich illustrations.

Whether it’s racing alongside Lightning McQueen or exploring the Pride Lands with Simba, the content is designed to spark imagination while maintaining the calm, soothing atmosphere required for wind-down time.

The Magic Timeline: 2026 Release Schedule

The expansion kicks off with the Disney Princess Collection this summer, followed by a steady rollout of fan-favorite franchises through early 2027.

Release Date	Featured Stories & Characters
July 2026	Disney Princess Collection (Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, Mulan, Tangled, The Little Mermaid, The Princess and the Frog)
Sept. 2026	Moana and Frozen
Nov. 2026	Mickey Mouse
Dec. 2026	Toy Story and Cars
Jan. 2027	The Lion King

Where to Buy

The Luna StoryTime collection is widely available for families looking to upgrade their nightly routine. You can find Luna products at the following retailers:

Online: Amazon and LunaStoryTime.com
In-Store: Target, Walmart, Kohl’s, and Barnes & Noble

For the latest updates on Disney Luna Content Characters and to explore the full library, visit cottagedoorpress.com.

New Winnie the Pooh Vera Bradley Collection Is Here To Celebrate A Hundred Years of Hunny!

By

Ana Leal

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February 18, 2026

New Winnie the Pooh Vera Bradley Collection Is Here To Celebrate A Hundred Years of Hunny!

Get your honey pots ready, because the most nostalgic collaboration of the year has finally landed! To celebrate the 100th anniversary of everyone’s favorite silly old bear, Vera Bradley is officially dropping their all-new Winnie the Pooh collection today, February 19th. Whether you’re a lifelong resident of the Hundred Acre Wood or just a sucker for a good floral print, this 18-piece lineup is basically a warm hug in bag form.

You can snag these pieces right now on VeraBradley.com or at select stores, but you’ll want to move fast, Pooh and friends have a habit of wandering off!

This isn’t just a random drop; it’s a total full-circle moment for the brand. Believe it or not, one of Vera Bradley’s very first Disney collabs way back in 1990 featured Pooh, so bringing him back for the centennial feels like a sweet trip down memory lane. The collection does a masterful job of blending Vera’s iconic, vibrant patterns with the whimsical charm of Pooh, Piglet, Tigger, and Eeyore. It’s the perfect mix of functional adult and inner child, making it easy to carry a bit of childhood magic without sacrificing style.

The variety in this release is honestly impressive. They’ve given the Pooh treatment to some of their heavy hitters, including the Becker Camera Bag Crossbody for your daily adventures and the Hathaway Tote for those busier days. If you’re planning a getaway (perhaps to a certain bridge for a game of Poohsticks?), the Large Original Duffel and the Miramar Weekender are the ultimate travel companions. It’s a gorgeous tribute to Pooh’s 100-year legacy, and quite frankly, we can’t think of a better way to celebrate.

Credit: Vera Bradley

Disney Junior Unveils First Look at ‘Sofia the First: Royal Magic’

By

Catherine

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February 17, 2026

First Look at ‘Sofia the First: Royal Magic’

Dust off your tiaras and ready your wands—Enchancia is expanding! Disney Jr. has officially pulled back the curtain on “Sofia the First: Royal Magic,” a brand-new sequel series that promises to take our favorite princess-in-training to enchanting new heights.

Set to premiere this May on Disney+ and Disney Jr., the series marks a grand return to the beloved franchise that first captured hearts over a decade ago.

Disney Junior Unveils First Look at ‘Sofia the First: Royal Magic’

A New Chapter at Charmswell School

The new series finds Sofia stepping away from the familiar halls of Royal Prep and into a much larger world of sorcery. According to the official synopsis:

“Sofia the First: Royal Magic” follows Sofia as she attends The Charmswell School for Royal Magic, where she discovers she is the most magical princess in the realm. Sofia must learn how to master her newfound powers while navigating the ups and downs of making new royal friends.

Familiar Voices & Fresh Faces

Fans can breathe a sigh of relief: Ariel Winter is officially returning to voice Princess Sofia. She isn’t the only returning royal, as the voice cast is packed with original favorites and exciting newcomers:

Role	Voice Actor	Status
Princess Sofia	Ariel Winter	Returning
Princess Amber	Darcy Rose Byrnes	Returning
Cedric the Sorcerer	Jess Harnell	Returning
Pepper (Puppy-Unicorn)	Nate Torrence	New Cast
Clover	Wayne Brady	Returning
Minimus	Eric Stonestreet	Returning
Layla, Zane, & Camila	Mela Pietropaolo, Kai Harris, & Aaliyah Magcasi	New Friends

The addition of Pepper, Sofia’s “adorable yet mischievous” pet puppy-unicorn, is sure to be a hit with younger viewers and toy collectors alike.

Relive the Beginning

Before the magic begins in May, Disney is giving fans a chance to brush up on their royal history. For the first time ever, the original television movie “Sofia the First: Once Upon a Princess” will debut on Disney+ on February 27.

Whether you’re a “legacy” fan who grew up with the 2012 premiere or a parent introducing the series to a new generation, the timing is perfect. Since its debut, Sofia the First has remained a powerhouse for Disney, holding the record for the top three cable TV telecasts of all time for girls ages 2-5.

Where to Watch Now

Can’t wait until February 27? You can currently stream Seasons 1-4 of the original series on Disney+, or catch Season 1 on Disney Jr. On Demand.

Disneyland Reroutes Crowds as Downtown Disney Porto’s Construction Tightens Walkways

By

Robbie

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February 17, 2026

Disneyland Resort has implemented a temporary backstage bypass during peak exit hours to alleviate significant foot traffic congestion in Downtown Disney. This strategic reroute is a direct response to the ongoing construction of the highly anticipated Porto’s Bakery & Cafe, which has narrowed primary thoroughfares.

According to Disneyland officials, the resort is proactively managing guest flow on select high-attendance days. The shift ensures that the “rush hour” crowds—typically seen following nighttime spectaculars—can exit the parks safely without getting stuck in bottlenecks near the construction site.

To assist with the transition, clear signage has been installed throughout the area, and Disneyland Cast Members are stationed along the route to provide directions. Officials expect this detour to remain active for approximately one month as heavy infrastructure work continues.

The transformation began in December with the demolition of the former La Brea Bakery site. To bypass the current “human traffic jam,” guests heading toward the esplanade are directed through the “elephant doors” near World of Disney, traveling behind the Soarin’ attraction before emerging near the Disney California Adventure entrance.

The current construction walls for the Porto’s project have significantly compressed the walking space near the iconic poppy fountain. This reduction in square footage previously caused major gridlock for guests moving between the theme parks and the Downtown Disney parking lots.

Once completed, the new Downtown Disney Porto’s will be a premier destination for fans of the iconic Southern California brand. The expansive location is set to house a traditional bakery, a quick-service cafe, a full-service sit-down restaurant, and a dedicated bar.

Luke Combs to Open New Entertainment Venue in CityWalk at Universal Orlando Resort

By

Chris B

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February 17, 2026

Luke Combs to Open New Entertainment Venue to Citywalk at Universal Orlando

Luke Combs’ Category 10 Is Bringing a Country Storm to Universal CityWalk

Hold onto your cowboy hats, CityWalk is about to get a little more country and a whole lot louder. 🎸🌪️ Today, Opry Entertainment Group and Grand Ole Opry member Luke Combs announced plans to bring Category 10 to Universal CityWalk Orlando at Universal Orlando Resort, with an opening targeted for late 2027.

“I have a line in my song ‘1, 2 Many,’ ‘there’s no stopping me once I get goin’. Well, I guess you can say the same about Cat 10 now,” Combs shared. With Orlando being a global vacation hotspot and his wife hailing from Florida, the country superstar said bringing his brand to the Sunshine State feels extra special. Expect first class service, awesome tunes, and a little Carolina soul mixed into the Florida fun.

The Orlando venue will clock in at an impressive 33,000 square feet spread across three stories. Inspired by Combs’ 8x platinum debut hit Hurricane, the Category 10 name nods to a storm of sound and good times. Guests can expect immersive spaces influenced by Combs’ music and passions, turning a night out into a full blown country concert vibe. This will mark the third Category 10 location, joining the flagship in Nashville which opened in 2024 and a Las Vegas spot set to debut in fall 2026.

Opry Entertainment Group is no stranger to Orlando’s entertainment scene. The company also operates Blake Shelton’s Ole Red right here at CityWalk, giving country fans another honky tonk hotspot. According to Colin Reed of Ryman Hospitality Properties, country music is reaching more fans than ever worldwide, and Orlando’s millions of annual visitors make it the perfect stage for this next expansion.

Groundbreaking for Category 10 Orlando is set for summer 2026, with more details to roll out as the project develops. One thing is clear, when this storm rolls into CityWalk, it is going to make some thunder.