The New Ewoks Endor Ear Headband Is A Forest Moon Must Have!
If you’re looking to channel your inner forest-dweller without actually living in a hollowed-out tree, you’ve got to check out the Ewoks Endor Ear Headband. These aren’t your standard, shiny mouse ears; they’re a rustic, textured tribute to the bravest little warriors in the galaxy. Featuring a serene green Endor backdrop, the ears showcase beautifully embroidered silhouettes of our favorite furry rebels marching across the scene.
The details are what really sell the forest moon aesthetic. Instead of a glitzy sequin bow, Disney opted for a textured fabric bow that feels much more at home in the wilderness of Endor. It’s the perfect endor-be-all accessory for anyone who wants to add a bit of Star Wars whimsy to their park outfit without losing that earthy, organic vibe.
Ready to start singing “Yub Nub” at the top of your lungs? You can snag a pair of these for $36.99. They are currently available to grab online at the Disney Store, or if you’re wandering through the parks, you can find them tucked away at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Whether you’re riding Star Tours or just lounging in your own village, these ears are a total must-have for the tribe!
New Arches Rise at Former PizzeRizzo as Monstropolis Transformation Takes Shape at Hollywood Studios
Something is definitely cooking in Monstropolis… and this time, it’s not just pizza. Over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, construction crews are giving the former PizzeRizzo building a fresh new look as the park continues its massive transformation of Muppets Courtyard into a city powered by screams and laughs.
Five brand-new arches have been installed along the length of the building’s facade, stretching across the patio area where guests once grabbed a slice under Rizzo the Rat’s watchful eye. The architectural update adds a whole new layer of visual intrigue, even if Disney is keeping the final theme of this location tucked behind a Monsters, Inc. door for now.
The former quick-service spot has quite the glow-up history. It originally opened as Pizza Planet Arcade before being reimagined as PizzeRizzo in 2016, then ultimately closed in June 2025 alongside the rest of Muppets Courtyard, including MuppetVision 3D.
Now, the entire area is being reborn as Monstropolis, inspired by Monsters, Inc., and it’s shaping up to be one of the biggest changes at the park in years. Just beyond the former courtyard, construction is underway for a brand-new coaster that will feature Disney’s first-ever suspended ride system and a vertical lift. Yes, doors won’t just be for scaring anymore, they’ll be sending you skyward.
While Disney hasn’t officially revealed what this particular building will become, it’s widely expected to return as a quick-service restaurant with a completely new theme. Meanwhile, nearby Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano is set to transform into Harryhausen’s, the iconic sushi spot seen in the Monsters, Inc. film.
As for the former MuppetVision 3D theater, that space remains a mystery for now. One thing is clear though, Monstropolis is slowly but surely coming to life, one arch at a time.
Final Curtain Call: Universal’s Horror Make-Up Show Closing May 12 Ahead of Spooky Reimagining
One of Universal Studios Florida’s most iconic (and delightfully gory) live shows is about to take its final bow… but don’t scream just yet, this isn’t the end of the horror story
Universal Orlando has officially confirmed that the long-running Horror Make-Up Show will close on May 12, 2026, inside the Pantages Theater, wrapping up decades of blood-curdling laughs and behind-the-scenes movie magic. If you’ve ever watched a volunteer “lose a limb” in the name of entertainment, you know this show has been equal parts educational and hilariously chaotic.
The closure has been on the radar since late 2025, when plans were announced to “reimagine” the experience. While the timeline hit a few delays, the transformation is now firmly back on track, with a refreshed version expected to debut later in 2026.
The current show has long been a fan-favorite peek behind the curtain of classic Universal Pictures horror, showcasing practical effects, makeup artistry, and plenty of audience participation. It’s the kind of show where you laugh, cringe, and suddenly feel very grateful you stayed in your seat.
What’s next sounds like a monster-sized upgrade. Universal has teased that the new version will feature both classic and modern horror properties, while keeping the same comedic, slightly unhinged energy that made the original a staple. That could open the door for newer franchises to creep in alongside legacy icons, giving the show a fresh pulse for a new generation of scream fans.
For now, the current iteration still features scenes inspired by films like The Mummy, but the reimagining hints at a broader, more modern horror lineup when it returns.
So if you want one last look at the show that turned fake blood into an art form, you’ve got until May 12 to catch it before it disappears into the fog… only to rise again later this year with a brand-new face.
Walls Come Down at Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets as Iconic Guitar Revealed at Hollywood Studios
The countdown to curtain call is officially on, and things are getting electric over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. After two months behind construction walls, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster starring The Muppets has stepped back into the spotlight, and yes, that legendary guitar is finally ready for its encore.
Construction walls have officially come down around the attraction, giving guests their first full look at the refreshed entrance since the ride closed on March 1 to swap out Aerosmith for a full-on Muppets jam session. The transformation has been moving right along, and now the headlining prop is back in full view with a vibrant, Electric Mayhem-inspired makeover.
The giant guitar is looking stage-ready with bold colors, polished details, and a fresh coat of rock ‘n’ roll personality. From the gleaming knobs to the revamped paint job, it’s clear this isn’t just a touch-up, it’s a full-on band reunion vibe led by Dr. Teeth and the rest of The Electric Mayhem.
While the walls are gone, wheeled planters are still holding their ground near the entrance, hinting that a few finishing touches are still underway. A peek through the greenery reveals that some elements, including the piano key theming, are still being fine-tuned before opening night.
Inside, the story stays familiar but gets a Muppet-style remix. Guests will once again find themselves heading into G-Force Records, now owned by Scooter’s uncle, for a high-speed dash through Los Angeles. The queue is set to feature Muppet props, posters, and even celebrity cameos, blending classic coaster thrills with that signature chaotic charm.
The reimagined attraction is set to open Memorial Day weekend, with Cast Member previews kicking off as early as May 6. Safe to say, the band is almost ready to hit the road… at 60 miles per hour.
15 Teachers Receive Disney Parade Honors and $150K in Grants During Magical Celebration at Walt Disney World
Some heroes wear capes… others carry lesson plans and a stash of dry erase markers. This week, Walt Disney World Resort rolled out the red carpet, Main Street style, for 15 extraordinary educators who were celebrated in a way only Disney can deliver.
As part of Teacher Appreciation Week, these standout teachers were named honorary Grand Marshals and led a special parade straight down Main Street, U.S.A. inside Magic Kingdom on May 1, 2026. Talk about a class act with a castle backdrop.
The celebration was tied to Disney Imagination Campus and the hit ABC show Abbott Elementary, blending real-world inspiration with a little TV magic. These educators weren’t just waving to crowds, they were being recognized as the real MVPs of imagination and innovation.
And Disney didn’t stop at a parade float and pixie dust. Each teacher received a full VIP-style getaway including round-trip airfare, a three-night stay at a Disney resort hotel, and Park Hopper tickets to soak in the magic across the parks. They also enjoyed a private reception complete with fireworks viewing, because if you’re shaping the future, you deserve a sky full of sparkle.
During their stay, the teachers participated in immersive workshops through Disney Imagination Campus, diving into subjects like performing arts, science, and technology. It’s basically like leveling up your teaching toolkit with a little Disney storytelling magic mixed in.
Then came the grand finale moment. In partnership with General Motors and DonorsChoose, a total of $150,000 in grants was awarded to support STEAM projects in their classrooms and communities. That’s the kind of happily ever after that keeps on giving long after the parade confetti settles.
From Main Street cheers to meaningful classroom impact, this celebration proves that when it comes to inspiring the next generation, these teachers are the real headliners.
New Sweet Treats Have Arrived at EPCOT and They’re Serving Dessert Goals Around the World
If your EPCOT stroll today suddenly turns into a full-on dessert crawl, you’re not alone. New sweet treats have officially debuted across multiple dining locations at EPCOT, and let’s just say your snack strategy might need a sugary upgrade.
Over in the Norway Pavilion, Akershus Royal Banquet Hall is now offering a Royal Chef’s Dessert Plate that looks like it came straight out of a fairytale. The spread includes themed treats inspired by Belle and Ariel, adding a little storybook sparkle to your dining experience.
Meanwhile, across the lagoon in the U.K. Pavilion, Rose & Crown Dining Room is dishing out a classic Eton Mess, a delightfully chaotic mix of cream, berries, and meringue that feels like summer in a cup. There’s also a Chocolate Caterpillar Cake making its way onto the kids’ menu, and honestly, that one might tempt a few adults too.
Back in World Nature, Garden Grill Restaurant is welcoming back a couple of fan-favorite sweets, including a Dirt Cup and Strawberry Shortcake. It’s a return that feels like comfort food with a Disney twist, especially after a spin through Living with the Land.
And if you’re just looking for a quick grab-and-go treat, Sunshine Seasons is bringing back a fan favorite with the return of the Mickey-shaped Cinnamon Roll. Because let’s be honest, everything tastes better when it’s shaped like Mickey.
From elegant plated desserts to nostalgic sweets and park icon pastries, EPCOT’s dessert game just leveled up across the board. Whether you’re dining around the world or just popping in for a quick bite, there’s now even more reason to save room for something sweet.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Rides Again Soon at Magic Kingdom as Disney Digs Into Its Wild West Lore
Hold onto your hats and keep your hands inside the train, because the wildest ride in the wilderness is getting ready to roar back to life. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is gearing up for its return to Magic Kingdom, and Disney is taking this moment to shine a lantern on the deep, dusty legend that’s been rumbling beneath the mountain for decades.
Starting May 3, guests will once again board those runaway mine trains as they thunder through the canyons of Frontierland. But behind every twist, turn, and bat-filled tunnel is a story that’s been quietly building since the days of gold rush fever and boomtown dreams.
At the heart of it all is Barnabas T. Bullion, a mining magnate whose ambition helped spark the rise of the Big Thunder Mining Company. With dreams of striking it rich, Bullion and his crew dug deeper and deeper into the mountain, chasing gold… and waking something far less friendly. Soon, equipment began failing, cave-ins became common, and the mountain itself seemed to push back, almost like it had a mind of its own.
That eerie energy is what fuels the ride today. Those runaway trains? They’re not just a thrill gimmick. According to the story, they’re operating without any human control, racing through the mountain as if something unseen is pulling the strings.
And the lore doesn’t stop in Florida. Across Disney parks around the world, Big Thunder Mountain tells slightly different versions of the same legend. Over at Disneyland, the nearby town of Rainbow Ridge rose and fell with the fortunes of the mine, while Disneyland Paris introduces the Ravenswood family and a darker connection tied to Phantom Manor. In Tokyo, the story leans into supernatural forces and abandoned mining operations, where the mountain clearly has the final word.
Back in Magic Kingdom, the queue itself is packed with story details that many guests walk right past. From Bullion’s land grant signed by President James K. Polk to warnings posted around the mining offices, every corner adds another layer to the mystery before you even step onto the train.
So when Big Thunder reopens in just a few days, it’s not just a ride coming back. It’s a living legend firing up again, with every rattle of the track echoing the same warning Frontierland has whispered for years… maybe don’t dig too deep.
Closing Dates Revealed for Big Al’s and Westward Ho as Frontierland Preps for Cars Expansion
Frontierland is about to trade in its coonskin caps for carburetors, and two longtime Magic Kingdom spots are getting ready to ride off into the sunset. New updates suggest that both Big Al’s and Westward Ho are closing soon to make way for the upcoming Cars-themed expansion, Piston Peak National Park, at Magic Kingdom.
According to current operating hours on the Walt Disney World website, Big Al’s is expected to close after May 10, while Westward Ho appears to follow shortly after June 21. Both locations have already vanished from the park’s digital map, which is usually Disney’s not-so-subtle way of saying change is rolling in.
Big Al’s, located just outside the Country Bear Musical Jamboree, has a surprisingly deep Frontierland backstory. It originally opened as a ticket booth back in 1971 before evolving into a carving stand and eventually the gift shop we know today, stocked with everything from cowboy hats to bubble wands. In-story, it’s Big Al’s own cabin turned merch hustle, because even bears know how to cash in on fame.
Meanwhile, Westward Ho has been a go-to snack stop for guests needing a quick pick-me-up, serving frozen lemonade, cold brew, and classic park bites like mini corn dogs. It’s one of those blink-and-you-miss-it spots that somehow becomes a tradition without you realizing it.
As these locations close and nearby snack carts are relocated, construction walls are expected to push further into the riverwalk area. A temporary pedestrian path will be added along the promenade to keep traffic flowing and maintain parade viewing during what’s expected to be a multi-year transformation.
This all ties into the upcoming Piston Peak National Park expansion, a Cars-inspired reimagining of this section of Frontierland that will bring a whole new story and setting to the area. While it’s always tough to say goodbye to classic corners of the park, this is one of those moments where the road ahead is clearly being paved for something big.
For now, if you’ve got a soft spot for Big Al’s or a craving for one last Westward Ho snack run, the clock is officially ticking.
New Monstropolis Permits Filed as Disney Begins Theming Work in Hollywood Studios
Something is definitely brewing behind the construction walls at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and this time, it’s not just dirt moving or foundations going in. Walt Disney Imagineering has now filed new permits that signal the next big step for the upcoming Monstropolis land, and it looks like we’re officially entering the theming phase.
The permits were filed for two key locations along Cypress Drive, including the former Mama Melrose’s Ristorante and the now-demolished Stage 1 Company Store, also known to many as the Muppets Store. Both permits call for the installation of set elements, which is essentially Imagineering’s way of saying the world of Monsters, Inc. is about to start taking physical shape.
Bringing that vision to life is Adirondack Scenic, Inc., a company with a strong Disney résumé that includes work on attractions like Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. In other words, this is the team that helps turn blueprints into believable, immersive environments, and their involvement is a pretty strong sign that things are getting real.
One of the most exciting details tied to these permits is the transformation of the former Mama Melrose’s into Harryhausen’s, the iconic restaurant straight out of Monsters, Inc. If you’ve ever wanted to dine where Mike and Celia had their not-so-romantic dinner, this is your moment, just without the surprise of a certain one-eyed guest crashing the evening.
Meanwhile, the former Stage 1 Company Store location is expected to play a role in expanding the footprint of the land, following its demolition last summer. With both sites now moving into set installation, the bones of Monstropolis are about to get their personality.
The permits are valid for a year, giving Imagineering plenty of runway to build out the details that will bring this animated city to life. And if this phase is any indication, we’re getting closer to seeing doors, streets, and maybe even a few lurking laughs take over this corner of the park.
For now, the construction walls are still up, but behind them, Monstropolis is starting to feel a lot less like a concept and a lot more like a place you’ll soon be able to walk into.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Returns with New Magic Following Refurbishment
The wait is over for fans of Frontierland high-adventure. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad has officially returned to service today, May 3, at Magic Kingdom Park. After a short period of downtime for planned maintenance and updates, the runaway mine train is once again racing through the abandoned mining town of Tumbleweed.
Disney has shared that this recent refurbishment was a comprehensive “mountain-top to cavern-deep” effort. This type of maintenance is essential for classic attractions like Big Thunder, ensuring that everything from the ride track to the complex animatronics and special effects are operating at peak performance. Guests returning to the attraction today can expect the same thrills they love, backed by the “new magic” of a freshly polished experience.
Whether you are dodging falling boulders in the lift hill or spiraling through the dinosaur bones, the attraction looks and feels better than ever. These periodic refreshes allow Disney to preserve the storytelling and atmosphere that make Big Thunder Mountain a fan-favorite while incorporating modern technical updates behind the scenes.
If you are visiting Magic Kingdom this week, be sure to check the My Disney Experience app for the latest wait times or to secure a Lightning Lane entry. With the mountain back in action, Frontierland is officially firing on all cylinders once again.
Check out the video below to see the wildest ride in the wilderness back in action!
🎬 Hold onto your hats and glasses, because the wildest ride in the wilderness is BACK! 🤠🚂 Big Thunder Mountain Railroad has officially reopened at Magic Kingdom today, May 3rd, after a “mountain-top to cavern-deep” refurbishment. The trains are running smooth, the boulders are shaking, and that Frontierland wind feels better than ever! 🌵✨🎢💥 #DisneyWorld#BigThunderMountain#MagicKingdom#DisneyParks#Frontierland
Suit Up with the New Mandalorian and Grogu Collection from Bath and Body Works
This is the way to a completely refreshed home and body care routine. To honor the upcoming arrival of Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu in theaters, Bath & Body Works is debuting a limited-edition line inspired by the famous bounty hunter and his young companion.
This debut represents the very first Star Wars collaboration for the brand, merging cinematic adventure with expert fragrance design. The result is a massive 26-product lineup including everything from body care and home scents to candles and unique collectible accessories. Each item takes its cue from the characters and their journey, aiming to transport your senses to a galaxy far, far away.
As enthusiasts of both the brand and the franchise, we were thrilled to dive into the details of what fans can expect to find on the shelves. Below is a look at the specific scents inspired by the duo, along with a few of the iconic accessories and home decor items that will be part of the launch.
When and Where to Secure the Collection
The Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu collection makes its debut on May 4th, specifically for Bath & Body Works rewards members. Following that early access, the full lineup will arrive in physical stores and at the official website for all shoppers starting on May 11th.
A global release is also scheduled for later in 2026, which will bring these galactic fragrances to fans all around the world. Since the timing falls right before Father’s Day, this collection is an ideal gift for the “guardians” and mentors in your own life—though we certainly won’t blame you if you decide to treat yourself to a few items instead.
Two Scents, One Iconic Duo
The heart of this new collection is built around two primary fragrances known as Force Flow and Bounty Hunter. Each one is meant to represent the unique relationship between Mando and Grogu, using the power of scent to capture their personalities and their travels through space.
Force Flow is a vibrant and fresh fragrance that is a great fit for the spring season. It features a blend of green apple, salted lavender, and cosmic sage to mirror Grogu’s sense of balance and curiosity. The scent feels very grounded but has a crispness from the apple that keeps things energetic, much like a quick getaway in a hover pram.
On the other hand, Bounty Hunter offers a more rugged and edgy profile that highlights the Mandalorian’s protective and resilient nature. Notes of Beskar sea salt, solar woods, and patchouli come together to create a bold, adventurous aroma. It is a great choice for anyone looking for a strong fragrance that still has a slightly softer side.
The design team at Bath & Body Works looked at everything from the environment to the emotions of the film to create these layered scents. Depending on your shopping list, you can find these fragrances in several formats like body spray, 3-in-1 body wash, cologne, 3-wick candles, and the famous gentle foaming hand soaps.
Galactic Accessories
In addition to the scents, this launch includes several functional and decorative accessories to add some Star Wars flair to your daily life. These items make it easy to display your fandom whether you are at home, in the office, or out and about.
Some of the stand-out accessories you can look for include a Mandalorian and Grogu PocketBac holder, a themed 3-wick candle pedestal, and a Mandalorian Wallflower heater to keep your space smelling great.
Loyalty-Exclusive Products Members of the Bath & Body Works rewards program will have access to even more exclusive magic. This includes a special scent called Ice Planet, which is available as a 3-wick candle and features notes of frozen cypress, glistening water, and amber to evoke the feeling of remote, snowy landscapes.
Rewards members can also get their hands on a few online-only collectibles designed with fans in mind. These include a Grogu Snacks collectible tin, a themed canvas bag, a character coin purse, and a very fun Mandalorian “extendable arm” PocketBac holder.
Captain America Welcomes Coen for a Special Wish Visit at Disneyland
Captain America—specifically Sam Wilson—stepped off the screen and into real life for 9-year-old Make-A-Wish kid Coen during an unforgettable visit to the Disneyland Resort. For those who are brave, bold, and courageous, moments like these at Disney are legendary from the very start, but for Coen, the excitement hit all at once as he experienced a truly unreal encounter. During Disney’s Week of Wishes, Coen saw his favorite hero come to life when he met actor Anthony Mackie, creating a memory of a granted wish that he will cherish forever.
“It felt crazy,” Coen said, still beaming. “I was so excited.” While the polished shield, positive attitude, and the “pretty cool vibranium wings” immediately stand out, it’s something deeper that draws him in. For Coen, Sam’s courage is what truly makes him a hero.
That courage is what made the moment even more meaningful for Coen and his family. During a special Week of Wishes event held at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, Coen was surprised when Mackie appeared before a stunned crowd and handed out an assortment of Super Hero action figures to kids, turning admiration into a beloved core memory for Coen and his loving family.
Coen’s connection to these dynamic characters goes far beyond the silver screen. At home, he especially loves playing with action figures (he even recalled that he has four different action figures of Captain America and Falcon), creating his own adventures fueled by imagination, escape, and creativity. One of his favorites even came from his brother (a chiseled Falcon figure), adding an extra layer of meaning to the heroic stories Coen dreams up during playtime.
Disneyland Resort has also been a source of special memories for Coen and his family in the past, even recalling a fun visit about three years ago when his family boarded Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! at Disney California Adventure park. Fast forward to today, and Coen was thrilled to experience the adventure once again, but this time, he was joined by his new Super Hero buddy in Mackie.
Laughing and enjoying their time together on the attraction’s rapid gantry lift drops while the beat of throwback music filled the air, Coen mentioned that the up‑and‑down drop moments were still his favorite part.
The heroic highlights didn’t stop there. Following their wild adventure and eventual escape from the Collector’s fortress, Coen was able to scoop up a perfect mid-day churro and enjoy a personal experience with Iron Man inside of Avengers Campus. Yet the icing on the cake for this inspirational hero? Being gifted his own red, white, and blue Captain America shield to take home with him, marking his official status as one of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes with the courage and bravery of an Avenger.
Once Coen bid farewell to Mackie, he also shared how much he was looking forward to experiencing classic Disneyland park attractions, including Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean. Together, the day became a string of milestone momentsfor Coen and his family, with each one adding even more memories to this instantly iconic visit.
