Home Blog Page 44

New Disneyland 70th Anniversary Trading Cards Coming Soon from Topps

att bCEnqWVtmHNtzeZjqznsaiUhNKaCrQwuVY

Topps Announces Exclusive Disneyland 70th Anniversary Trading Card Series

In a historic first, Topps is debuting an official collaboration with the Disneyland Resort to launch the 2025 Topps Disneyland 70th Anniversary set. This landmark collection will include a highly coveted, Disney-exclusive version available in limited quantities. Fans can expect to find these rare packs at select locations throughout the Disneyland Resort and online at DisneyStore.com in the very near future.

Disneyland 70th

What’s in the 2025 Topps Disneyland 70th Anniversary Collection?

Designed for avid collectors and dedicated Disney fans alike, each Topps pack transforms Disneyland attractions, characters, food, and more into crafted collectibles that celebrate the longstanding tradition of the resort and looks toward a bright future over the next 70 years.

A blend of nostalgia, discovery, and historical Disneyland content, this assortment is filled with rare chases, original sketches, relics, memorable surprises, and more that capture the spirit and legacy of Disneyland.

This limited group of exclusive cards will only be available inside select locations across Disneyland Resort and online at DisneyStore.com later this month.

Autograph Cards - Mickey Mouse and r2-D2
Autograph Cards - Disneyland Monorail
Enchanted Relics Trading Cards
Enchanted Relics Disney Dollars Trading Cards

Relic and Talent Autograph Cards

From any pack, you may be able to pull rare Relic cards, which can include pieces of vintage Disneyland tickets and Disney Dollars. In addition, you may spot pieces of cast member costumes from legendary attractions such as Space Mountain, Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters, Haunted Mansion, and more, so be on the lookout for a chance at Disneyland history. 

Some packs also include rare Talent Autograph cards, featuring well-known faces (and voices) from many attractions across Disneyland. These cards feature autographs from voice talent featured in attractions, including Chris Diamantopoulos, a beloved yet recognizable voice from Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway.

Additionally, there is also a rare 1-of-1 card which can be pulled from any set that can be redeemed with Topps for an amazing prize package trip to Disneyland. One lucky collector will find a redemption for an unforgettable trip that brings the redemption holder and up to three guests to Disneyland Resort for a three-night, four-day vacation, complete with roundtrip airfare, a concierge-level stay, Park Hopper tickets, and more (including an $800 Disney gift card and reserved viewing for one showing of World of Color).

att HfPDUCxKgSEPWVCWwBXGeqcnRWWwxdpdukw

Base Set – Red and White Light Bulb Variation

A super-rare standout in the Disney-exclusive box available for purchase across the resort and online, find a special variant of the Topps Disneyland Base Set with the Red and White Light Bulb Variation. Featuring a red and white light bulb border and trim, this Base Set includes an assortment of 150 cards across four subsets: 

  • 🔙 Then/Now 
  • ⏰ Timeline 
  • 🎨 Concept Art 
  • 🌭 Snack Time 

Take a look above at cards from each of the four subsets – have any favorites? Disneyland popcorn and a ride on board the world-famous Jungle Cruise are always top of mind for me, so it’s exciting that there are now trading cards to highlight these and other park staples

Why the Red and White Light Bulbs?
  • Trimming the entrance of Refreshment Corner on Main Street, U.S.A., a lineup of red and white light bulbs have been glowing since the early days of Disneyland. On your next trip, between bites of your hot dog, look closely at the top-right corner of the front door to find the ever-so-hidden half red and half white bulb.
att VHzravsdHTfXjZAThPrYymtqnEDCfIURnl
Topps Disneyland 70th Card - Haunted Mansion

Happy Haunts Chrome

Haunted Mansion has a dedicated Disney fanbase unlike many others across Disney Parks, making this set an instant classic that you’ll be able to take with you to parks… and somewhere far beyond.

Only available in boxes at Disneyland Resort and DisneyStore.com, this silly and fun insert is a ghostly gem that showcases beloved characters from Haunted Mansion and delivers bold color and high-impact presentation worthy of the legendary attraction. This is a ghoulish delight for longtime fans of the attraction and for those who love a touch of Disney mischief – here’s to hoping my next pack features plenty of happy haunts ready to materialize!

On-Site Autographs - Elsa

Unsigned On-Site Autographs

Find Unsigned On-Site Autographs cards featuring beloved Disneyland characters such as Elsa, Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Chip, Dale, Ariel, Stitch, and more with a blank autograph spot on the front side of the card, giving you the chance to create your own personal keepsake at Disneyland. 

These cards are only available in boxes from Disneyland Resort and online at DisneyStore.com, so have a pen handy once you pull this card and before you meet a new friend across the resort. This is the type of card my younger self would have been eager to bring to the parks when meeting Mickey Mouse, so be on the lookout for some of your favorite pals inside each pack.

Big Thunder Gold Confetti Foil

Disneyland Foil Parallels

You also have the chance to pull two different foil parallels of the base set: the Purple Glitter Foil (unnumbered) and the Gold Confetti Foil (numbered to 50). These more-limited cards run parallel to the entire Topps Disneyland base set with a similar look and design but are distinguished by a unique physical quality (in this case, the Purple Glitter and Gold Confetti foils).

Where Are the Topps Cards at Disneyland?

Once these packs hit the shelves at Disneyland Resort and online at DisneyStore.com, look to purchase at this location, while supplies last:

Disney’s Pin Traders at Downtown Disney District

2025 Topps Disneyland 70th Anniversary

Earlier this month, Topps launched a pre-order sale for an initial Disneyland 70th Anniversary collection, featuring hobby boxes, hobby boxes with sealed cases, and value boxes. 

This collection features several additional subsets including Posters, From Silver Screen to Main Street, A Pirate’s Life Chrome, and Attraction Autographs (and yes, you can actually pull dedicated voice talent cards from iconic favorites such as the Disneyland Monorail and “Fantasmic!”), making this collection a must-have for Disney Parks fans across the country.

Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck Topps Disney Cards
2025 Topps Chrome Disney with Goofy

2025 Topps Chrome Disney

Meanwhile, if you’re a big baseball fan like me, catch Mickey Mouse slugging in a Dodgers jersey or Donald Duck preparing to throw off the mound in a Cubs uniform in official Major League Baseball uniforms for the very first time in the Topps Chrome Disney collection.

Mickey Mouse, Goofy, and Donald represent all 30 MLB teams with each character rotating through divisions for added collecting fun, joining an illustrious collection of well-known Disney characters in this creative Topps Chrome batch.

Elsa-and-Woody-Topps-Disney-Cards (1)
Maui-and-Jack-Topps-Disney-Cards (1)

Do you collect Topps cards?

Closer Look at Level99 Construction in Disney Springs

closer look at level Construction in Disney Springs

Steel Rising: A Closer Look at Level99 Construction at Disney Springs

Something big is leveling up at Disney Springs, and you can see it climbing skyward. Construction on the upcoming Level99 location is moving full steam ahead at the former NBA Experience building, with steel framework now stretching from the ground all the way to the roofline. What used to be a sleek basketball-themed venue is transforming into what promises to be one of the most interactive experiences at Disney Springs.

Related: Voices of Liberty Honor America Through Song and Service

Closer Look at Level99 Construction in Disney Springs

On a recent visit, we spotted expanded steel framing wrapping up the side of the building and even pushing above the existing roofline in certain sections. The metal structure gives the facade a bold, industrial look that feels right at home next to City Works and the surrounding West Side entertainment district. Some elements appear to extend onto the roof, hinting at possible exterior enhancements or architectural updates that could subtly reshape the skyline of this corner of Disney Springs.

Behind the construction walls, more framework is visible near the building’s centerline, suggesting at least a small facade expansion. While Disney has not detailed the full scope of the exterior changes, the visible steel skeleton makes it clear this is more than just an interior refresh. The bones of the building are being reimagined to support something entirely new.

Related: Disney Springs AMC Decorated for Upcoming Pixar Movie Hoppers

closer look at level Construction in Disney Springs

Level99, announced for Disney Springs back in early 2025, is an adult-oriented social gaming experience featuring more than 60 interactive challenge rooms and competitive duels. Think escape-room energy meets high-tech playground, with physical and mental challenges designed for teams. The concept already has four locations across the country, and the Disney Springs version is set to open in 2026, though an exact date has not yet been announced.

As steel continues to rise and construction walls stay firmly in place, the transformation of the former NBA Experience is clearly entering a new phase. If you are strolling through Disney Springs, take a peek at the growing framework and imagine the world of challenges that will soon fill that space.

Disney Springs AMC Decorated for Upcoming Pixar Movie Hoppers

Disney Springs AMC Decorated for Upcoming Pixar Movie Hoppers

Disney Springs AMC Goes Wild with “Hoppers” Takeover Ahead of Pixar’s March 6 Release

If you have been strolling through Disney Springs lately and suddenly felt like the animal kingdom was auditioning for the Oscars, you are not imagining things. The AMC at Disney Springs has rolled out the red carpet for Disney and Pixar’s upcoming feature film “Hoppers,” transforming the theater entrance into a bright yellow, character-filled celebration ahead of its March 6, 2026 theatrical debut.

Related: Voices of Liberty Honor America Through Song and Service

Disney Springs AMC Decorated for Upcoming Pixar Movie Hoppers

Guests approaching the AMC are greeted by a lineup of towering yellow banners flanking the entrance like a royal procession. Each banner spotlights a different character from the film, including Mabel, King George, Bird King, Insect Queen, Fish Queen, Amphibian King, Diane, and Tom Lizard. The bold design and roped stanchions give the whole walkway a premiere-night vibe, even if you are just popping in for popcorn. High above, a massive “Hoppers” poster features the film’s colorful animal cast gathered beneath a larger-than-life bear, inviting guests to “Act Natural” while counting down to opening day.

Disney Springs AMC Decorated for Upcoming Pixar Movie Hoppers

For those unfamiliar with Pixar’s latest adventure, “Hoppers” asks a wildly imaginative question. What if you could talk to animals and truly understand what they are saying? In the film, scientists develop technology that allows humans to “hop” their consciousness into lifelike robotic animals, creating the ultimate cross-species communication experiment. The story follows Mabel, an animal lover who jumps at the chance to use this groundbreaking tech, only to uncover secrets within the animal world that are far bigger than she ever expected.

Disney Springs AMC Decorated for Upcoming Pixar Movie Hoppers

Directed by Daniel Chong and produced by Nicole Paradis Grindle, “Hoppers” boasts a stacked voice cast including Piper Curda as Mabel, Bobby Moynihan as King George, and Jon Hamm as Mayor Jerry. They are joined by an impressive ensemble featuring Meryl Streep as the Insect Queen, Dave Franco as Titus, Kathy Najimy as Dr. Sam, Ego Nwodim as Fish Queen, Vanessa Bayer as Diane, Isiah Whitlock Jr. as Bird King, and many more. If the banners outside AMC are any indication, this cast of critters is ready to hop straight into box office history.

Related: Disney’s Blizzard Beach Reopens as Typhoon Lagoon Closes for Refurbishment

Disney Springs AMC Decorated for Upcoming Pixar Movie Hoppers

With its bright yellow takeover and character banners lining the walkway, the Disney Springs AMC has officially gone full animal mode. If you are planning a Springs visit, be sure to swing by, snap a few photos, and get ready to hop into theaters when “Hoppers” arrives March 6.

Voices of Liberty Honor America Through Song and Service

Voices of Liberty Honor America Through Song and Service

Voices of Liberty Echo Through EPCOT in Powerful Presidents’ Day Tribute to America

Presidents’ Day at EPCOT is never just another day in the park, and this year the harmonies hit even harder inside the stately rotunda of The American Adventure pavilion. The beloved Voices of Liberty delivered their special Echo Sets, a rare performance that doubles the singers and fills the dome with a soaring wall of sound that practically lifts you off the marble floor.

Related: More Topiaries Arrive in EPCOT ahead of 2026 EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival

Voices of Liberty Honor America Through Song and Service

With performers stationed on both the first and second levels, patriotic favorites like “Golden Dream” and “This Land is Your Land” echoed through the pavilion in a stirring tribute to service, storytelling, and the spirit of America. Since opening day on October 1, 1982, the Voices of Liberty have been the resident a cappella storytellers of The American Adventure, wrapping guests in rich harmonies that celebrate the nation’s past and present.

Voices of Liberty Honor America Through Song and Service

On special patriotic holidays including Memorial Day, Flag Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, Veterans Day, and of course Presidents’ Day, the Echo Sets bring the full ensemble together for a grand finale that feels like fireworks made of music. Cast members behind the scenes add to the magic, illuminating the rotunda in red, white, and blue as the final notes ripple through the dome.

Voices of Liberty Honor America Through Song and Service

For some performers, the tribute is deeply personal. Singer Aaron Stratton, a U.S. Marine Corps Reserve veteran, shared how certain songs once reminded him of his brother serving overseas and how meaningful it is to represent the country in this role. Entertainment technician and veteran Patrick Lienemann echoed that sentiment, describing the emotional impact of supporting these performances during America’s 250th anniversary celebration.

As part of the company-wide Disney Celebrates America initiative, these moments are more than just beautiful music. They are living reminders that the American story is carried forward by the voices who sing it and the guests who gather beneath that iconic rotunda.

Related: Fresh Blooms & New Magic: What’s Coming to the 2026 EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival

Voices of Liberty Honor America Through Song and Service

If you are planning a visit to EPCOT this year, carve out time for a Voices of Liberty performance. It is one of those quietly powerful experiences that sneaks up on you, wraps you in harmony, and leaves you standing just a little taller as you step back out into World Showcase.

Shining, Shimmering, Splendid: The New Princess Jasmine Moonlit Palace Mini Backpack is Here!

Princess Jasmine Moonlit Palace Mini Backpack

Shining, Shimmering, Splendid: The New Princess Jasmine Moonlit Palace Mini Backpack is Here!

If you’re ready to take your Disney style to a whole new world, you’ve got to check out the Princess Jasmine Moonlit Palace Mini Backpack. This isn’t just your average bag; it’s a total vibe that captures the magic of Agrabah after dark. Retailing for $90, this beauty is a web exclusive, meaning you won’t find it just anywhere, you’ll need to head straight to Loungefly.com to snag one before it vanishes like a puff of genie smoke.

Related – Sleeping Beauty and Maleficent Spinning Wheel Mini Backpack To Spin A New Style!

The design is seriously stunning. On the front, you’ve got a gorgeous circular pocket featuring Princess Jasmine herself, looking iconic as ever while hanging out with the magic lamp. To add that extra touch of wow, there’s a bold, golden crescent moon shining right behind her. It really makes the whole scene pop against the deep, midnight colors of the bag.

But wait, the details don’t stop there! Just below the pocket, you get a beautiful look at the Sultan’s palace nestled within a dreamy nighttime landscape. Even the straps get some love, they’re decked out with tiny lamp details that tie the whole look together. It’s the perfect, stylish way to show off your love for one of the most legendary Disney Princesses. Whether you’re heading to the parks or just want to add some royal flair to your daily errands, this exclusive bag is a total must-have.

Credit: Loungefly

New Disney Store Exclusive Mickey and Minnie Main Street Dooney and Bourke Collection

Mickey and Minnie Main Street Dooney and Bourke Collection

New Disney Store Exclusive Mickey and Minnie Main Street Dooney and Bourke Collection

If you’ve ever wished you could bottle up that walking down Main Street, U.S.A. feeling and carry it with you everywhere, Disney and Dooney and Bourke just heard your wish. Their latest exclusive collab is a total love letter to the heart of the parks, featuring everyone’s favorite power couple, Mickey and Minnie, having the ultimate date night or day! among the turn-of-the-century charm we all know and love.

Related – New Mickey and Minnie Main Street Dooney and Bourke Mini Backpack For Visa Card Members!

First up is the Main Street Tote Bag ($298), and honestly, it’s a showstopper. If you’re the type of person who needs to carry everything, snacks, ears, a light jacket, and maybe a few souvenirs, this is your new best friend. It features a gorgeous print of Mickey and Minnie exploring the storefronts, all tied together with those high-end touches Dooney is known for. We’re talking genuine leather finishings and goldtone hardware that make it feel less like a souvenir and more like a high-fashion statement. It’s the perfect way to bring a little Disney magic into your daily commute or your next flight.

Now, if you really want to turn heads in front of the castle, you’ve got to check out the Main Street Ear Headband ($198). I know, I know, it’s a splurge, but these aren’t your average park ears. These are crafted with padded ears featuring that adorable sauntering-down-Main-Street print and a genuine leather bow that’s chic enough to elevate any outfit. Plus, with the iconic embossed metal Dooney & Bourke label right on the side, everyone will know you’ve got impeccable taste. They’re basically wearable art for the Disney obsessed.

Since these are Disney Store exclusives, they tend to disappear faster than a Dole Whip on a July afternoon. If you’ve got your eye on them, don’t wait too long!

Credit: Disney Store

New Winnie the Pooh Collection Exclusively at the Disney Store!

Winnie the Pooh Collection

New Winnie the Pooh Collection Exclusively at the Disney Store!

Get ready to clear some space in your closet, because the Hundred Acre Wood just got a high-fashion makeover. The new Winnie the Pooh Collection has officially dropped exclusively at the Disney Store online, and it’s basically a warm hug in clothing form. Whether you’re headed out for a smackerel of honey or just want to channel your inner silly old bear, these pieces strike that perfect balance between nostalgic charm and grown-up style.

Related – The Winnie the Pooh Map Dress Has Arrived

First up, let’s talk about the Winnie the Pooh Cable-Knit Sweater ($74.99). If you’ve ever envied Pooh’s iconic red look but wanted something a bit more full-length, this is it. It’s a gorgeous, bold red knit that’s chunky enough for a breezy day but stylish enough to wear out. The best part? There are adorable embroidered Pooh appliqués right on the sleeves. It’s a total vibe, just maybe take Pooh’s advice and roll those sleeves up before you go face-first into a honey pot.

If you’re looking for something a little more whimsical, the Winnie the Pooh Dress by Her Universe ($69.99) is an absolute dream. This isn’t your average character merch; it’s a flowy, sophisticated piece designed for fans who’ve done a bit of growing up since the storybooks. It features:

  • Smocked bodice for a flattering, comfortable fit.
  • Draped sleeves that give off major picnic-in-the-meadow energy.
  • Enamel floral charms on the cord ties for a tiny pop of detail.
  • Allover print featuring everyone’s favorite honey-loving bear.

It’s the kind of dress that makes you want to go for a long stroll through the woods or at least the local park and wait for Eeyore or Tigger to show up. Since these are online exclusives, you won’t find them wandering around the theme parks, so grab them before they disappear!

Credit: Disney Store

First Look At The New Disney Adventure World Spirit Jerseys!

Disney Adventure World Spirit Jerseys

First Look At The New Disney Adventure World Spirit Jerseys!

Get those wallets ready, as we inch closer to the massive glow-up of Disney Adventure World and the highly anticipated debut of World of Frozen, Disneyland Paris has finally dropped a sneak peek at the must-have souvenir of the season. We’re talking, of course, about two brand-new Spirit Jerseys that are about to become the uniform of the park.

The best part? You don’t even have to wait for the grand opening on March 29 to start living your best Arendelle life. Both jerseys are hitting shelves on Friday, February 13, at the World of Disney store and the Walt Disney Studios Store. If you’re a Disneyland Pass holder, you get even luckier, you can snag early access on Thursday, February 12, from 8:00 to 9:00 a.m. at World of Disney. Just keep in mind there’s a limit of four items per pass, and no discounts apply for this exclusive pre-opening drop!

Related – New Disney World and Disneyland Rose Pearl Spirit Jerseys Now at the Disney Store!

The Disney Adventure World Spirit Jersey

The first design is a total tribute to the park’s new identity. On the front, you’ll find a sleek Disney “D” nestled inside a compass, perfect for those adventure is out there vibes. Flip it around, and the back showcases the full Disney Adventure World logo set against a cool outline of the park’s signature icons. It’s the ultimate “I was there first” flex for the rebrand.

The World of Frozen Spirit Jersey

If you’re more about that “In Summer” lifestyle, the second jersey is all about World of Frozen. The front features the land’s official logo and the year 2026, making it a true collector’s item for the opening year. The back is where the party really starts, featuring the logo again alongside everyone’s favorite snowman, Olaf, and a few mischievous Snowgies tagging along for the ride.

Credit: Disney

Snag the New Disney Store Easter Bunny Plush Collection Before It Hops Away

Disney Store Easter Bunny Plush Collection

Snag the New Disney Store Easter Bunny Plush Collection Before It Hops Away

Spring is officially in the air, and if your Easter basket is looking a little empty, the Disney Store has you covered with some seriously “egg-cellent” new arrivals. The 2026 Easter Bunny Plush collection has officially dropped, and whether you’re a classic Mickey fan or obsessed with Experiment 626, these are the perfect cuddly companions for the season. Each one retails for $29.99 and they are available right now online at the Disney Store.

Related – New Must Have Walt Disney Studios Mickey Mouse Director Plush!

The Classics: Mickey & Minnie

First up, we have the icons themselves. You’ll be happily hopping down the bunny trail with the new Mickey Mouse Easter Plush. He’s looking dapper in a soft blue fuzzy bunny suit complete with floppy ears and a floral satin tummy. He even has a matching pink bowtie to pull the whole look together! He’s the perfect plus-one for those spring break selfies or as the centerpiece for your family’s Easter brunch.

Not to be outdone, Minnie Mouse is also ready for her close-up. She’s rocking a soft pink fuzzy suit that is basically the definition of huggleable. With her blue-lined floppy ears, a matching blue satin bow, and a cute little skirt, she is ready to bring all the springtime vibes to your collection. Just like Mickey, she features beautiful satin trims and that signature 2026 embroidery on her foot to commemorate the year.

The “Eggstraterrestrials”: Stitch & Angel

If you’re looking for something a bit more out-of-this-world, you’ve got to check out the Stitch and Angel bunny plushes. Stitch is blasting down the bunny trail in a bright green fuzzy suit with yellow-lined ears and a yellow satin bowtie. He’s definitely ready to cause some adorable chaos during your holiday celebrations.

And of course, he’s joined by the heavenly Angel. She’s looking sweet as can be in a vibrant yellow bunny suit with green-lined ears and a satin skirt featuring a hibiscus flower detail. Whether you’re a lifelong Lilo & Stitch fan or just love a good eggstraterrestrial pun, these two are guaranteed to make your spring break celebrations feel a little more cosmic.

We love them all! Don’t miss the opportunity to add them to your Easter basket this year.

Credit: Disney Store

More Topiaries Arrive in EPCOT ahead of 2026 EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival

peterpan

First Topiaries Arrive for 2026 EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival

Spring is officially in the air at Walt Disney World! Although the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival doesn’t technically kick off until March 4, 2026, the park is already undergoing its annual floral transformation.

Horticulture teams have begun installing the first wave of character topiaries, and this year features a mix of returning favorites and some interesting new locations. Here is your first look at who has sprouted up around EPCOT so far:

Related-Flower & Garden Festival Topiaries Begin To Arrive in EPCOT

World Celebration & World Discovery

phineeas

The “hub” of the park is seeing significant activity as Disney prepares to welcome over 60 character topiaries this year.

  • Phineas & Ferb: Making a triumphant return after their 2025 appearance, the stepbrothers can be found in World Celebration. Look for them along the main walkway connecting the World Celebration Gardens to World Showcase, right near the CommuniCore Plaza area.
bambi
  • Bambi, Thumper, and Flower: This trio has a brand-new home this year! While usually spotted near the Canada Pavilion, they have relocated to a walkway connecting World Celebration to World Discovery, just south of the Creations Shop.
topiary-goofy
  • Goofy: Our favorite clumsy pal is back at his usual post along the Rosewalk pathway (the bridge area between the Imagination Pavilion and World Showcase). This specific topiary debuted in 2024 and features Goofy playfully blowing on dandelions.

Related-New Nighttime Experience Coming to 2026 EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival

panda

World Showcase

The global pavilions are also starting to “bloom” with classic Disney stories.

  • Pandas in China: In a festival tradition, the trio of playful pandas has returned to the lush gardens in front of the Temple of Heaven in the China Pavilion.
peterpan
  • Peter Pan, Captain Hook, and Tick-Tock: This iconic scene has moved! Instead of the walkway gardens where they’ve lived in recent years, you’ll now find them inside the United Kingdom Pavilion proper. The dynamic poses remain the same, with Hook and Pan locked in their eternal duel while Tick-Tock waits patiently nearby.
More Topiaries Arrive in EPCOT ahead of 2026 EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival

What’s Still to Come?

Disney has confirmed a massive lineup for 2026, including several characters we haven’t seen in topiary form for a while. Keep your eyes peeled for:

  • Toy Story Favorites: Buzz, Woody, Bo Peep, and Lotso are expected near the Main Entrance to celebrate the upcoming Toy Story 5 (releasing June 2026).
mike
  • Pixar Pals: Mike Wazowski and Sulley are set to return near the Creations Shop.
lightning
  • Lightning McQueen & Mater: The Cars crew will be “revving up” near Connections Café in World Discovery.

The festival runs from March 4 through June 1, 2026. With more than 30 themed gardens and dozens of topiaries still to be installed, EPCOT is going to look a little more colorful every single day between now and opening morning!

Closer Look at the New Sea Dragons in EPCOT

seadragon

New Leafy Sea Dragons Debut at EPCOT’s The Seas

To commemorate the 40th anniversary of The Seas pavilion (formerly The Living Seas), a group of Leafy Sea Dragons has officially moved into the Nursery on the pavilion’s second floor.

The news first made waves after Dr. Mark Penning, Vice President of Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment, shared a mesmerizing video of the newcomers gliding through their exhibit. For guests who enjoy the slower side of EPCOT, these “tiny floating dragons” are a must-see addition to the SeaBase aquarium.

Related-Baby Manatee Soleil Arrives in The Seas Pavilion at EPCOT

seadragon

Masters of Camouflage

Native to the southern and western coasts of Australia, Leafy Sea Dragons (Phycodurus eques) are close relatives of seahorses and pipefish. They are world-renowned for their incredible survival strategy:

  • Intricate Mimicry: Their bodies are covered in leaf-like appendages that allow them to blend perfectly with swaying kelp and seagrass.
  • Drifting Motion: They move with a slow, rhythmic grace, appearing more like floating vegetation than a living creature.
  • A “Wyrm” Appearance: With long, slender bodies, they resemble the mythical wyrm dragons of folklore, making them one of the most unique species in the pavilion.

Related-New Sea Dragons have Arrived at The Seas with Nemo & Friends

A Behind-the-Scenes Look

The arrival of these seven-month-old dragons adds a fresh layer of depth to the Nursery area. This section of the pavilion is designed to give guests a window into the “real work” of Disney’s marine scientists.

Expert Tip: If you visit soon, you may still see some curtains around the exhibit. This is a standard practice to help the young sea dragons acclimate to the crowds and the “paparazzi” (aka our cell phone cameras!) without getting stressed.

seadragon

Why You Should Visit

The Seas with Nemo & Friends remains one of the best “hidden gems” for escaping the Florida heat and the heavy crowds.

FeatureWhy It’s Worth the Stop
AtmosphereQuiet, dimly lit, and perfectly air-conditioned.
EducationLearn about Disney’s conservation efforts and manatee rehabilitation.
The New ResidentsThe sea dragons offer a rare, peaceful photography opportunity.
Hidden DetailsLook for the nearby sea urchins currently wearing berets for the Festival of the Arts!

If you’re planning an EPCOT day soon, don’t just stop at the clamobiles. Head upstairs to the second floor of SeaBase and take a moment to watch these delicate creatures drift by. It’s a beautiful reminder that sometimes the most impressive things in the park are the ones that require us to slow down and look a little closer.

Disney Character Warehouse in South Florida Closing This Spring

character

Disney Character Warehouse at Sawgrass Mills to Permanently Close This April

For years, Disney fans in South Florida have enjoyed a shortcut to the magic without making the trek to Orlando. However, that convenience is coming to an end. According to multiple social media reports and confirmations from Cast Members, the Disney Character Warehouse located in the Sawgrass Mills Mall is scheduled to permanently close its doors on April 15, 2026.

The closure marks the end of an era for the Sunrise location, which served as a primary hub for discounted Disney Parks merchandise outside of the immediate Walt Disney World area.

Related-Disney Character Warehouse Outlet Cracks Down on Resellers with New No Refund/Return Policy

character

Why is the Warehouse Closing?

While Disney hasn’t released a formal corporate statement, several factors have emerged through discussions with Cast Members and local retail analysts:

  • Lease Expiration: Reports indicate that Disney has elected not to renew its lease with Simon Property Group for the Sawgrass Mills location.
  • Geographic Distance: Located in Sunrise (near Fort Lauderdale), the store is approximately three hours away from Walt Disney World. This distance makes logistics more complex compared to the Orlando-based outlets.
  • Reseller Challenges: The store has long been a “battleground” for professional resellers and “live shoppers” who purchase high volumes of discounted items to flip for profit online. This activity often depletes stock for casual guests and creates operational headaches for staff.
character

Stricter Policies in Effect

The news of the closure follows a major shift in how Disney manages its outlet operations. As of February 1, 2026, a new, stricter return policy went into effect at all Disney Character Warehouse and Cast Connection locations.

This “nuclear option” was implemented specifically to combat resellers who would purchase large quantities of merchandise, list them online, and then return any unsold inventory within the previous 30-day window. By making all sales final, Disney has effectively introduced significant financial risk for those looking to exploit the outlet’s pricing.

Related-Disney Character Warehouse Outlet Cracks Down on Resellers with New No Refund/Return Policy

Disney World Annual Passholders 20% Discount at Disney’s Character Warehouse 1

Impact on Other Locations

Currently, there is no word on the future of the other two Character Warehouse locations in Central Florida. For now, shoppers can still find discounted ears, pins, and apparel at:

  1. Orlando International Premium Outlets (International Drive)
  2. Vineland Premium Outlets (near Walt Disney World property)

If you have been holding onto a gift card or have been waiting to snag that retired Spirit Jersey, you have until mid-April to visit the Sawgrass Mills location. Expect inventory to dwindle as the closing date approaches.

With the South Florida branch closing, the remaining Orlando stores are expected to see an increase in foot traffic—and potentially even more competition for the best deals.