Enjoy Extra Magic: Animal Kingdom’s Extended Evening Hours on May 5th
Guests at Walt Disney World will have a unique opportunity to experience Disney’s Animal Kingdom after hours on May 5, 2025, as it hosts the coveted Extended Evening Hours.
Normally reserved for EPCOT and Magic Kingdom, Extended Evening Hours provide eligible guests with bonus time in those parks after their standard operating hours.
On May 5, Animal Kingdom’s hours will be:
7:30 am – 8:00 am: Early Entry for Disney Resort Hotel guests
8:00 am – 6:00 pm: Regular park hours
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm: Extended Evening Hours
Guests staying at Deluxe Resorts, Deluxe Villas, and select other Disney hotels can enjoy Extended Evening Hours. While Disney has yet to announce specific attractions for this event, previous after-hours experiences at Animal Kingdom have featured popular rides like Avatar Flight of Passage, Na’vi River Journey, Expedition Everest, and Kilimanjaro Safaris.
As of now, May 5th is the only date Extended Evening Hours is being offered at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Get ready to party like it’s the 90s! Disneyland just dropped some exciting news on Instagram: a Powerline Max popcorn bucket and some totally rad food and drink items, all coming exclusively to next week’s 90s Nite event.
Guests attending Disneyland After Dark: 90s Nite will have the first opportunity to purchase the Powerline Max popcorn bucket, available at multiple locations throughout the park. While debuting at the event, this unique bucket will become available to all Disneyland Resort visitors later this spring. The design features Max in his Powerline outfit, and the accompanying strap proudly displays the Disney Parks logo alongside Powerline’s name.
Fried Apple Pie Sundae at Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor: Fried apple pie, vanilla ice cream, spiced caramel and whipped cream
After School Fruit Punch at Little Red Wagon: Apple juice with pineapple and cherry flavors served with a themed glow cube (Non-alcoholic)
Lemon-Lime Punch at Galactic Grill and Red Rose Taverne: POWERADE and Sprite with a creamy mango topper (Non-alcoholic)
Chicken-Bacon Cheesy Garlic Pretzel Bread at Edelweiss Snacks and Maurice’s Treats: Chicken and bacon-stuffed cheesy pretzel bread
Loaded Taco Fries at Galactic Grill: Crinkle-cut fries topped with refried beans, seasoned ground beef, spiced cheese sauce, shredded lettuce, tomatoes, olives, green onions, and sour cream drizzle
Crunchy Taco at River Belle Terrace: Ground beef and jalapeño-cheese sauce over crispy tortilla chips with pico de gallo
Orange-glazed Chicken Bowl at Bengal Barbecue: Garlic fried rice, scallions, and orange sauce
Monte Cristo Pizza at Cafe Orleans: Puff pastry with house-made blueberry thyme jam, rosemary ham, turkey breast, gruyère, brie and Swiss (Reservations recommended as walk-ins will be limited)
Will you be attending Disneyland After Dark: 90’s Nite next week?
Champion Style: The Toy Story Racing Jacket Lands at the Disney Store
Rev up your wardrobe with the coolest new arrival at the Disney Store, the Toy Story Racing Jacket! This stylish and fun jacket is perfect for any fan of the beloved Pixar franchise and is sure to keep you warm and looking great all winter long. Imagine crossing the finish line ahead of the pack, sporting this unique piece of Toy Story apparel.
The design doesn’t stop there. The jacket also boasts Pixar logo shoulder art, a subtle nod to the studio behind the magic. And the “splashy” sleeves add an extra touch of flair, ensuring you’ll be a crowd-pleaser wherever you go. This jacket is a must-have for any Toy Story enthusiast looking to add a touch of playful style to their wardrobe.
Don’t miss out on the chance to own this unique and stylish piece of Toy Story memorabilia. It’s the perfect way to show your love for Woody, Buzz, and the whole gang while staying warm and looking great. Get yours today and get ready to race into style!
The Cinderella 75th Anniversary Plush Doll Is A Timeless Treasure!
Celebrate 75 years of enchantment with the dazzling Cinderella 75th Anniversary Plush Doll! This commemorative plush captures the timeless magic of Disney’s beloved princess, making it a perfect addition to any collection or a cherished gift for a young dreamer.
Ready to add a touch of royal magic to your life? The Cinderella 75th Anniversary Plush Doll retails for $39.99 and is available at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and online at the Disney Store.
Dressed in her iconic stardusted satin gown, Cinderella is ready to make all your playtime dreams come true. The gown features exquisite silver embroidered filigree that catches the light, while shimmering organza layers add depth and dimension to her fairytale look.
This isn’t just any plush doll; it’s a celebration of a classic. The attention to detail is truly remarkable, from Cinderella’s delicately embroidered features to her sweetly “airbrushed” cheeks. These thoughtful touches bring her to life, making her seem ready to step straight out of the animated film.
Whether displayed on a shelf or cuddled during bedtime stories, this plush is sure to evoke feelings of nostalgia and wonder.
Mickey Mouse Ice Hockey Jersey To Score a Goal with Style!
Get ready to hit the ice in style with the new Mickey Mouse Ice Hockey Jersey. This sporty and fun jersey is a must-have for anyone who loves Mickey and the thrill of the game. It’s the perfect way to show your Disney spirit while staying comfortable and cool.
You can find the Mickey Mouse Ice Hockey Jersey at Epcot and online at the Disney Store. It retails for $74.90, so grab yours before they’re gone!
Modeled after a classic oversized hockey jersey, this shirt offers a relaxed and comfortable fit, perfect for game days or just chilling out. The design features a dynamic, standing Mickey Mouse on the front, ready to take the ice. Turn the jersey around, and you’ll find Mickey’s name and number proudly displayed on the back, just like a real hockey player.
The vibrant, pieced design adds a touch of classic hockey style with its bold stripes and sporty v-neck. The colorful accents make this jersey a standout piece that’s sure to turn heads.
Whether you’re at the rink or just hanging out, this Mickey Mouse Ice Hockey Jersey is a great way to express your love for Disney and hockey.
You will have plenty to crow about when you give the adorable Hei Hei plush a hug. This soft, stylized version of Moana’s stowaway rooster captures his quirky charm and vibrant plumage. With his bright eyes and colorful feathers, this plush is ready for adventure and sure to wing its way into your heart.
This charming companion is perfect for snuggling up with and recreating favorite scenes from the movie. Whether you’re setting sail on a daring voyage or simply relaxing at home, Hei Hei is the perfect pal to have by your side. Kids and collectors alike will adore this lovable rooster.
Available at Disney Springs for $19.99, the Hei Hei plush is a must-have for any Disney fan. Don’t miss out on adding this clucking good companion to your collection!
Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Buy The Cinderella 75th Anniversary Tote Bag by Harveys!
The clock strikes twelve, and your carriage awaits, but not before you grab the stunning Cinderella 75th Anniversary Tote Bag by Harveys! This isn’t just any bag; it’s a piece of Disney magic you can carry with you every day.
Retailing for $228, this premium tote is a must-have for any Cinderella fan and can be found at select locations around Walt Disney World Resort. Imagine strolling through the parks, showcasing your love for this classic fairytale with a touch of vintage flair.
This special anniversary tote features a captivating design inspired by the original movie poster for Walt Disney’s Cinderella. The vibrant artwork is beautifully printed on Harveys’ signature seatbelt fabric, known for its durability and unique texture. The detailed imagery captures the essence of the beloved story, making it a true collector’s item. It’s a nostalgic nod to the film’s timeless charm and a perfect way to celebrate 75 years of enchantment.
Adding to the bag’s charm is a dazzling Disney charm that dangles playfully from the accessory loop. This small but significant detail elevates the tote’s design, adding a touch of sparkle and whimsy.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Cinderella 75th Anniversary Tote is also incredibly practical. It boasts an adjustable and detachable crossbody strap, offering versatility and comfort for carrying your essentials. Whether you’re exploring the parks or attending your own “royal ball,” this tote is the perfect companion.
So, Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo! Transform your look from everyday to extraordinary with this enchanting accessory.
Howdy, folks! Feeling hungry? Mosey on over to Trails End at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and get ready to experience an incredible meal! Whether you’re hankerin’ for a hearty breakfast to start your day or a satisfying dinner after a day of exploring, Trails End has got you covered.
When the sun peeks over the horizon and your stomach starts rumblin’, head on down to Trails End for a bountiful breakfast. Choose from a variety of options, including breakfast sandwiches, an assortment of mouthwatering muffins, classic Mickey Waffles, and wholesome oatmeal. And for a true Southern treat, don’t miss the biscuits and gravy! Wash it all down with your favorite beverage, whether it’s tea, hot cocoa, or a steaming cup of coffee. There’s also a great selection bakery items like the Mickey Cinnamon Roll, Trail Mix Cookie, and Mickey S’more Brownie.
The refreshed marketplace at Trails End now features an on-stage pizza station! Grab a slice or a whole pie to satisfy your pizza cravings. Two exciting new options join the classic pepperoni and cheese: a smokehouse-style pizza topped with house-smoked brisket, sausage, and pepperoni, and a delicious roasted vegetable pie. For a lighter lunch, consider options like the fresh Fort Wilderness garden salad.
Market-Style Selections and Hot Grab-and-Go
Trails End also offers a variety of market-style selections, allowing you to customize your meal with all the fixin’s. Heading back to your campsite? Swing by the Hot Grab and Go section for convenient proteins like pecan-smoked whole chicken or brisket, and a rack of pork ribs.
Dinner Delights and Family Favorites
As the day winds down, Trails End is the perfect place to grab dinner. A true crowd-pleaser is the fried chicken dinner – crispy, juicy, and oh-so-delicious. Beyond the specialty items, Trails End also serves up classic comfort food favorites. Enjoy cheeseburgers, plant-based vegetable burgers, chicken nuggets, and mac n cheese, and french fries. For a homestyle meal, try the Homestyle Meals, featuring cornbread, coleslaw, mashed potatoes with gravy, and your choice of half a slab of barbecued ribs or two pieces of fried chicken. And don’t forget dessert!
The Best-Kept Bread Secret in Disney World!
While you’re at Trails End, you absolutely must check out the best-kept bread secret in Disney World: the Buckaroo Bread! This warm, fresh, and cinnamon-y delight is available in family size perfect for sharing-or not sharing! If you’ve ever made “monkey bread,” this is a very similar treat. It’s made with biscuit dough coated in butter and cinnamon sugar, then baked on top of a caramel that coats the bottom of the pan. YUM!
So, whether you’re campin’ or just passin’ through, rustle up some grub at Trails End – you’re sure to find somethin’ to satisfy your appetite!
New DVC Preview Center Coming to Disney’s Fort Wilderness Campground
During a recent visit to Fort Wilderness, we discovered site work beginning for an all-new Disney Vacation Club Preview Center for the Disney Lakeshore Lodge Resort. Located near Pioneer Hall, this exciting addition will soon give guests a dedicated space to explore the benefits of DVC membership while enjoying the rustic charm of Fort Wilderness.
According to cast members on site, the new Preview Center will shine a spotlight on the currently-under-construction Disney Lakeshore Lodge, offering visitors their first peek at the reimagined resort plans since its phoenix-like resurrection following the COVID shutdown. Originally branded as “Reflections: A Disney Lakeside Lodge,” the project has undergone a transformation behind Disney’s creative curtains, with the available concept art representing only its previous incarnation.
While the resort appears to be maintaining the same general footprint as its pre-pandemic predecessor, the finer details of how closely the new vision mirrors the original remain as mysterious as the depths of Bay Lake itself. This DVC showcase could finally bridge the gap between what was initially envisioned and what guests can actually look forward to experiencing when Lakeshore Lodge eventually welcomes its first vacationers.
DVC Preview Centers are designed to give guests a no-pressure environment to learn about the Disney Vacation Club program, ask questions, and potentially schedule tours of available accommodations. They typically feature interactive displays, model rooms, and knowledgeable staff to help visitors understand the points-based system and membership benefits.
Currently, there is no announced timeline for when the Fort Wilderness Preview Center will open to guests. As construction progresses, we’ll continue to monitor developments and provide updates on this new addition to Disney’s beloved wilderness-themed resort.
Stay tuned for more information about this exciting new way to explore DVC membership at Fort Wilderness!
Is Hagrid’s Express Pass Finally on the Horizon? Rumors Gain Steam at Universal Orlando
The wizarding rumor mill is churning once again as speculation about Express Pass coming to Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure reaches a fever pitch. This beloved attraction at Universal’s Islands of Adventure has remained the sole major experience across both Universal Orlando theme parks without the coveted queue-skipping service, despite continuing to bewitch guests as it approaches its 6th anniversary.
Hagrid’s is currently the sole major attraction across both Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure without Express Pass access, despite being open for 6 years. Jurassic World Velocicoaster, which opened in 2021, has had Express Pass since 2023, following the typical Universal pattern of adding the skip-the-line service to new attractions about 2 years after opening. The popularity of Hagrids, combined with intermittent down times due to the complexity of the attraction, are the likely reasons behind why Express as not yet been added to the ride.
Recent operational shifts have cast a new spell on these longstanding rumors. Universal has seemingly placed the Single Rider line behind an invisibility cloak, and is now summoning solo visitors directly from the standby queue’s final chamber to fill empty seats. This modification leaves the former Single Rider pathway mysteriously vacant—perhaps preparing for a charm that transforms it into an Express Pass entrance.
The existing Single Rider queue offers a significant advantage, bypassing most of the standard line experience before merging at the final pre-boarding area. This established infrastructure could seamlessly transform into an Express Pass entry point without major reconfiguration.
The Single Rider line hasn’t always been the time-turner guests hoped for. Due to Hagrid’s unique vehicle configuration—two riders per motorbike or sidecar, with 14 passengers per magical convoy—single riders often found themselves waiting for parties with odd numbers, occasionally resulting in longer waits than those in the standard queue. This operational quirk might have influenced Universal’s decision to brew something new with this underutilized space.
The potential Express Pass addition has divided the Universal community faster than a Sorting Hat ceremony. Some visitors are accio-excited about potentially bypassing the notoriously long standby queue, while others fear that dedicating capacity to Express Pass users might make wait times for standard guests drag on longer than a History of Magic lecture.
What do you think about possibly adding Universal Express Pass to Hagrid’s? Would this enhancement cast a charm on your next visit, or would it spell trouble for standby wait times? Apparate to our comments section and share your thoughts!
Disney Lakeshore Lodge Reaches New Heights: Construction Now Going Vertical
Disney’s newest resort project is reaching for the sky as construction on Disney Lakeshore Lodge, a Disney Vacation Club resort, has officially gone vertical. The structure, which now stands approximately three stories tall, is making impressive progress after being revived from its pandemic-induced hibernation.
In November 2024, Disney announced plans to resurrect what was formerly known as “Reflections – a Disney Lakeside Lodge,” a project that had been paused since the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Now rebranded as “Disney Lakeshore Lodge,” construction crews have wasted no time getting back to work on this promising addition to Walt Disney World’s resort portfolio.
When completed, the ambitious structure is expected to rise up to 12 stories, creating a commanding presence along the shoreline of Bay Lake. Disney has targeted 2027 for the grand opening, giving Imagineers plenty of time to shore up all the details.
The new resort is nestled in a prime location between Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground and Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, occupying the former site of River Country water park. This positioning allows Disney Lakeshore Lodge to continue the outdoor-themed aesthetic that has made this corner of Walt Disney World so beloved by nature enthusiasts.
While Disney has confirmed that Lakeshore Lodge will utilize the same footprint as the original Reflections concept, it remains unclear whether the overall design will mirror the concept art that was shared during the project’s initial development phase. Fans are eagerly awaiting more details about potential theming changes that may have occurred during the project’s revival.
Are you excited to see the old River Country site finally be put to good use? Leave us a comment and let us know!
Ravensburger continues its rapid release schedule with Archazia’s Island, the highly anticipated seventh expansion set for Disney Lorcana. This time, the spotlight shines on two brand-new 60-card single-player starter decks that push fresh lines of play and introduce mechanics sure to shake up the meta. With Ravensburger showing no signs of slowing down, competitive and casual players alike have much to look forward to when these decks arrive at local game stores on March 7th and major retailers on March 21st for just $16.99.
Each starter deck comes ready to play and includes everything you need: a Damage Counter, 1 Paper Playmat, 1 Paper Tracker Token, Game Rules, and a Bonus Pack of 12 randomized cards from Archazia’s Island. These decks also feature dual ink cards—a standout inclusion—boasting unique flavor ability text that offers versatile and strategic gameplay options.
The first deck brings together the Sapphire (Blue) and Ruby (Red) inks, focusing heavily on Items and introducing powerful new cards featuring beloved characters Belle and The Beast. What makes this deck a must-have for competitive players is the inclusion of threecopies of “Belle, Apprentice Inventor”—a card that’s already making waves in the Lorcana community.
“Belle, Apprentice Inventor” is poised to redefine the meta this cycle. Her synergy with Item-based strategies allows for efficient resource management and explosive turns. Players will find themselves crafting clever combos, leveraging Belle’s inventive abilities to gain significant board control. The deck also pairs Belle’s tactical approach with The Beast’s raw power, resulting in a well-rounded gameplay experience that rewards both strategic planning and bold aggression.
For players who love decks that generate value over time and punish opponents who fail to disrupt key setups, this Sapphire/Ruby deck delivers. Expect this combination to become a staple in tournament settings as players explore how Belle’s impact reshapes competitive strategies.
Amethyst & Steel Deck: Feathered and Feared
The second deck pairsAmethyst (Purple) and Steel (Black) inks and introduces a brand-new card type: Vanish. These Vanish cards come into play with beefy stat lines, and they can wreak havoc on the board if they go unchecked. The cards will be banished from play when targeted by an ability-balancing them out. Players will need to rethink their deck designs to counter dangerous cards with this flavor text.
The Amethyst/Steel deck thrives on disruption and durability. The Steel ink provides strong defensive capabilities, while Amethyst grants access to tricksy, evasive characters and actions. Together, they form a deck that can stall opponents’ plans while executing devastating Vanish plays that opponents will struggle to counter.
The introduction of Vanish is particularly exciting for the competitive scene. Players who master the timing of these cards will dominate games, as opponents scramble for answers. This deck is ideal for those who enjoy controlling the pace of the game while keeping their adversaries guessing.
Dual Ink Cards and Meta Impact
One of the most exciting features of Archazia’s Island is the inclusion of dual ink cards that contain unique flavor ability text. These cards offer flexible deck-building opportunities, allowing players to balance two inks without compromising consistency. The strategic depth provided by these dual ink cards will undoubtedly influence deck construction in the coming meta, as players experiment with new combinations and synergies.
Final Thoughts: Essential Pickups for Lorcana Fans
With two dynamic single-player decks, game-changing mechanics, and the introduction of the highly anticipated Vanish and Dual Ink card types, Archazia’s Island is shaping up to be one of Disney Lorcana’s most impactful expansions yet. The Sapphire/Ruby deck featuring Belle, Apprentice Inventor will attract competitive players eager to leverage Item strategies, while the Amethyst/Steel deck’s Vanish card will appeal to those who love control and disruption.
At an affordable $16.99, these decks offer tremendous value with everything needed to jump into the action, including a bonus 12-card pack that could contain some of the set’s most powerful additions. With Ravensburger maintaining a whirlwind release schedule, March 7th can’t come soon enough for local game store enthusiasts, while March 21st will open the floodgates for casual fans at major retailers.
Archazia’s Island starter decks promise hours of engaging gameplay and strategic discovery. Don’t miss out on what could be the most meta-defining expansion yet.
