It’s Super Bowl Sunday, and while the Chiefs and Eagles battle for NFL glory, Disney just dropped a hilarious new teaser for the live-action Lilo & Stitch movie!
👽 Just like the original marketing, Stitch “hijacked” the Big Game broadcast!
Check it out and get ready for some ‘ohana!
Looking for the perfect way to unwind after a day of shopping and strolling through Disney Springs? Summer House on the Lake has you covered with its brand-new Martini Hour, offering delicious drinks and elevated bar bites at unbeatable prices.
From Monday through Friday, 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, guests can head to the bar and enjoy:
🍸 $10 Martinis – Sip on a classic cocktail with a smooth, refreshing twist.
🍷 $5 Glass of Wine – Perfect for wine lovers looking to indulge without breaking the bank.
🍺 $4 Draft Beer – A crisp and refreshing option to cool off from the Florida sun.
Pair your drink with specially crafted bar bites, designed to complement the laid-back yet sophisticated atmosphere of this California-style lakeside retreat.
Related: Jaleo Disney Springs Offers New Valentine’s Day Experience
Nestled on the West Side of Disney Springs, Summer House on the Lake brings breezy beach house vibes to the heart of Orlando. Whether you choose to relax inside amid its coastal-inspired decor or soak up the sun on the outdoor patio, every visit feels like a summer escape.
Beyond Martini Hour, guests can enjoy a diverse menu of fresh, seasonal flavors. Lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch showcase dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, from crisp salads and artisan sandwiches to flavorful pizzas and hearty entrées.
And for those with a sweet tooth, The Cookie Bar is a must-visit, serving up house-made pastries, brownies, and freshly baked cookies that make for the perfect indulgence.
Related: Captain America Photo Op at Disney Springs
For those on the go, Summer House on the Lake makes it easy to grab a drink and explore. The Cookie Bar also offers wine, beer, handcrafted cocktails, and nonalcoholic beverages to-go, letting you sip and stroll your way through Disney Springs.
With its relaxed yet refined atmosphere, fresh seasonal flavors, and now Martini Hour specials, Summer House on the Lake is shaping up to be the perfect spot to gather with friends, toast to the good life, and enjoy the endless summer vibes at Disney Springs. 🌞🍸✨
Paws were on parade, tails were wagging, and Disney magic was in full effect at this year’s Paws in the Park—the country’s largest pet festival, held right in the heart of Orlando! This beloved annual event isn’t just about cute pups in costumes and tail-chasing fun; it’s a fundraiser that helps the Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando provide care and shelter to thousands of animals in need.
Related: Disney Cast Members Say Farewell to DinoLand USA
And guess who showed up in a big way? Disney World cast members! More than 300 cast members took part this year, helping Disney place as one of the top fundraisers for the event. Whether they were walking their own rescue pups, volunteering at adoption booths, or just soaking up the puppy love, Disney’s team was all-in on making a difference for furry friends in need.
Supporting Paws in the Park is nothing new for Disney—Mickey and friends have been making tails wag for nearly two decades! Since 2014, Disney cast members have dedicated over 31,000 volunteer hours at Pet Alliance locations across Central Florida, doing everything from walking dogs to helping kittens find their forever homes. And they don’t just give their time—through Disney VoluntEARS Grants, cast members have turned their hard work into over $300,000 in donations since 2015!
“Disney and their extraordinary VoluntEARS have made a world of a difference for the animals at Pet Alliance,” said Steve Bardy, Executive Director at Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando. “Their years of support, unwavering dedication, and compassion have helped us so much. We are so grateful.”
With thousands of dogs and their humans gathering at Lake Eola, this year’s event was another huge success—raising over $200,000 for Pet Alliance! The festival also partnered with seven local shelters, giving pet lovers the chance to adopt and give a second chance to animals looking for a loving home.
For Disney cast members like Russ Brown, it’s more than just a fun day out. “I’ve brought my dog Barkley here every year since we rescued him. It’s our favorite annual tradition to do together because we get to support rescues and animals who are looking for their forever homes.”
And the event’s impact goes beyond just one weekend. “We create happiness in our community, whether that’s for people or pets,” said Tajiana Ancora-Brown, Director of External Affairs at Walt Disney World Resort. “Our cast love showing up and showing out at Paws in the Park every year. I’m always blown away by the impact they make.”
With another year in the books and thousands of animals benefiting from the event’s success, Paws in the Park proved once again that when Disney and the community come together, every tail wags a little bit brighter! 🐶✨
The Walt Disney Company has made a subtle but notable change in its latest corporate investor report—removing all references to its “Reimagine Tomorrow” initiative, according to reporting by NPR. This initiative, originally launched in 2021, was a key part of Disney’s diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts, aiming to amplify underrepresented voices in storytelling and increase inclusion across its content and workforce. However, the latest report, filed in November, omits any mention of the program, marking a shift in Disney’s corporate messaging.
Related: Walt Disney Company First Quarter Earnings for Fiscal 2025
According to NPR, Disney is not alone in scaling back DEI-related language, as several major companies have also removed similar phrasing from their filings. While some corporations have eliminated DEI references entirely, Disney chose to shorten the section, replacing the “Reimagine Tomorrow” branding with a new focus on hiring, training, and supporting U.S. military veterans under a program called Heroes Work Here.
The change comes after Disney’s DEI initiatives faced legal scrutiny last year. America First Legal (AFL), a conservative nonprofit organization, filed a federal civil rights complaint against Disney, alleging that the company’s hiring and promotion policies under “Reimagine Tomorrow” discriminated based on race, sex, religion, and national origin. The complaint accused Disney of prioritizing diversity quotas at the expense of fair employment practices, though no direct connection has been made between the complaint and the removal of the initiative from corporate filings.
Related: Disney Parks Revenue Strong in 2025 Despite Hurricane and Cruise Line Costs
Despite removing “Reimagine Tomorrow” from its investor reports, Disney has launched a new webpage reaffirming its commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce. The page highlights Disney’s continued efforts in hiring, culture, market reach, and community engagement, though with a more generalized approach to diversity than before. When asked for comment on the changes, Disney representatives declined to respond, according to NPR.
Exciting progress is underway at CityWalk as the Universal Studios Store expansion moves closer to completion! Construction crews have been hard at work transforming the space, and since our last update, the exterior of the building has received a significant facelift. One of the most noticeable changes is the fresh coat of bright orange paint covering the once-plain plywood walls. Not only has the color given the structure a bold new look, but the walls have also been smoothed and evened out, signaling the next phase of the project.
Related: Celebrate 30 Years of Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando Resort
Another major milestone is that the exterior of the building has now been fully enclosed. While this is great news for construction progress, it does mean that interior updates are currently out of sight. However, what we do know is that this expansion is set to bring some exciting additions to the Universal Studios Store. The revamped space will feature a dedicated Wizarding World of Harry Potter section—including a Butterbeer bar—along with a Super Nintendo World section near the entrance. Guests can also expect an expanded selection of Epic Universe merchandise, similar to the offerings currently available at the newly opened Universal Stella Nova Resort.
Related: First Look Inside Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras Tribute Store
The Universal Studios Store expansion replaces the former Cinnabon and Quiet Flight Surf Shop, both of which closed and were gutted earlier this year to make way for this exciting retail update. With construction moving along steadily, the expansion is expected to open around the same time as Universal Orlando’s highly anticipated Epic Universe in May.
Disney has teased the new Fab Five outfits in a social media video, revealing the looks that will debut on May 16 for the Disneyland 70th Anniversary Celebration.
The video begins with a black-and-white image of Mickey, transitioning to color with a hand-to-screen gesture, revealing his vibrant blue, purple, pink, and yellow outfit.
Minnie’s new dress is a vision of tiered toiles in a rainbow of pink, purple, blue, and yellow. She also sports a matching blue jacket and bow, and finishes her look with stylish light-blue tennis shoes.
Goofy’s outfit is a playful mix of colors and patterns. He wears blue ombré pants with vibrant stripes and details, a pink and yellow collared shirt, and a purple vest. His signature hat, while retaining its familiar shape, is now adorned with colors that complement the rest of the ensemble.
Donald’s signature look gets a festive update with a blue, colorfully striped shirt and matching beret. True to form, he’s skipping the pants. Pluto joins the celebration with a special new collar adorned with a 70th Anniversary medallion.
Dreaming of celebrating Disneyland’s 70th anniversary at the resort? Contact me to get your trip booked! I’m a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are free.
The return of the popular butterfly garden at the EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival is officially underway. After green scrims were spotted in EPCOT, crews have now begun setting up the exhibit for the 2025 festival.
Related – Disney Building New Playground in EPCOT
Near the Imagination Pavilion in EPCOT, to the right of the guest walkway, green scrims have appeared, marking the familiar location of the Butterfly Landing from previous festivals.
The green scrims in EPCOT appear to be fully installed, and the sounds of construction can be heard behind them. While the scrims obscure the lower portions of the white light posts along the walkway, the lights themselves will remain in place. Attaching the scrims directly to the railing along the guest walkway proved the most practical approach.
The framework for the large, semi-transparent tent that houses the Butterfly Landing is now being erected. Tent poles can be seen above the top of the green scrim.
Butterfly Landing offers a walkthrough garden experience within a large, semi-transparent tent. Guests can observe numerous butterfly species fluttering freely throughout the exhibit. Last year, Butterfly Landing remained open throughout the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, from park opening until dusk.
Families visiting EPCOT will soon have a new place to play! A playground is being built just around the corner from the Imagination pavilion, offering kids a fun and engaging space to explore while parents relax or enjoy the nearby attractions.
Related – Full Schedule for 2025 EPCOT Garden Rocks Concert Series Announced
A new playground is taking shape in EPCOT, adding another dimension to the park’s offerings. The playground is being built just behind the Expression Section, the interactive mural that’s a highlight of the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts. While guests create art at the mural, construction crews are busy behind a green scrim, preparing a new space for play.
This flexible space in EPCOT, after a year of construction, opened last summer. While it has primarily served as shaded seating for guests enjoying festival food from nearby booths, this area has a history of different uses, including temporary playgrounds and other offerings before the recent construction.
EPCOT often creates themed playgrounds to coincide with its festivals, giving younger guests a place to play and explore. The playground behind Creations Shop in World Discovery is a prime example, frequently changing its theme. In 2024, it transformed into the “Camp Get Out ‘N’ Play Garden Presented by OFF!” for the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, complete with a jungle gym and other fun activities. It’s likely that this new playground construction is also in anticipation of the 2025 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, which begins on March 5th.
Are you looking forward to a new playground coming to Epcot?
Love is in the air—and on the plate—at Jaleo Disney Springs! From February 14-16, 2025, the acclaimed Spanish restaurant by Chef José Andrés invites you to indulge in a romantic and flavor-filled Valentine’s Day celebration. Whether you’re toasting to a special someone, gathering with loved ones, or simply treating yourself, Jaleo’s exclusive Valentine’s Tasting Experience is the perfect way to savor the holiday with tapas, fine wine, and plenty of Cava!
Related: Captain America Photo Op at Disney Springs
For $59 per person, guests will embark on a shared culinary journey featuring an exquisite lineup of Jaleo’s signature dishes. Begin with the Pan de Cristal with paletilla ibérica, manchego cheese, and fresh tomato, followed by a delicate pastry brik cone filled with strawberry marmalade, goat cheese, and pistachios. Savor tuna tartare on a crispy cracker, endives with goat cheese, oranges, and almonds, and the always-popular croquetas mixtas—a delightful mix of chicken and Iberico pork fritters.
No Spanish feast is complete without patatas bravas and gambas al ajillo, and the Josper-grilled flat iron steak with confit piquillo peppers is sure to steal the show. End the evening on a sweet note with chocolate bon bons filled with strawberry ganache and a classic Spanish flan with espuma of Catalana cream.
Related: Volcom Store in Disney Springs Closing Due to Bankruptcy
With a vibrant atmosphere, romance-worthy flavors, and Jaleo’s signature Spanish hospitality, this is one Valentine’s celebration you won’t want to miss. Reservations are highly recommended, so secure your table now for an unforgettable evening of love, laughter, and legendary Spanish cuisine. ¡Feliz Día de San Valentín! ❤️🍷✨
Marvel fans, assemble! Ahead of the highly anticipated release of Captain America: Brave New World on February 14, a brand-new Captain America photo op has landed at Disney Springs! Located just outside the westernmost entrance to AMC Dine-In, across from Jaleo, this action-packed backdrop is the perfect place to snap a heroic shot before catching the latest Marvel blockbuster.
Related: Early Screening of Captain America: Brave New World at Disney Springs for D23 Gold Members
The photo op features Sam Wilson’s Captain America (Anthony Mackie) mid-battle with Red Hulk (Thaddeus Ross, played by Harrison Ford). In the dynamic scene, Cap is using his iconic shield to block a powerful punch from the monstrous Red Hulk, while a massive image of the shield decorates the ground beneath your feet. Fans can step into the scene and strike their best superhero pose, making it look like they’re right in the middle of the action!
Related: Volcom Store in Disney Springs Closing Due to Bankruptcy
With Captain America: Brave New World just around the corner, there’s no better way to get hyped for Sam Wilson’s first solo outing as the Star-Spangled Avenger. The film follows Cap as he uncovers the motives behind a dangerous international conspiracy, and if this photo op is any indication, he’s got some serious battles ahead. So grab your friends, channel your inner hero, and head to Disney Springs to experience the Marvel magic before the film hits theaters! 🛡️✨
The Volcom store in Disney Springs is set to close as part of a larger shutdown affecting all Volcom, Billabong, and Quiksilver locations across the U.S.. The closures come after Liberated Brands, the former operator of these stores, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, citing economic challenges, shifts in consumer spending, and inflationary pressures. The company, which rapidly expanded from 67 stores to 140 after a post-pandemic sales boom, is now liquidating its stores, including the Disney Springs location, which first opened in 2016 as part of the Town Center expansion.
Related: New Alice in Wonderland Themed Photo Op at Disney Springs PhotoPass Studio
Though Liberated Brands is ending its operations, the Volcom, Billabong, and Quiksilver brands will continue. Their parent company, Authentic Brands Group, had already ended its licensing agreement with Liberated in December 2024, transitioning to new partners to keep the brands alive. While no official closure date for the Disney Springs location has been announced, a liquidation sale is expected before the store shuts its doors.
Related: Early Screening of Captain America: Brave New World at Disney Springs for D23 Gold Members
The closure marks the end of an era for action sports retail at Disney Springs, where Volcom has long been a go-to spot for skateboarding, snowboarding, and surfing apparel. While fans of the brand will still be able to find its products through new license holders, the loss of a physical storefront in one of Disney’s most popular shopping districts is sure to be felt by longtime customers. Until then, visitors can still stop by to shop Volcom gear before the store’s final ride into the sunset.
Orlando International Airport (MCO) soared to new heights in 2024, welcoming nearly 800,000 more international passengers than the previous year! With Southwest, JetBlue, and Porter Airlines leading the charge, MCO solidified its status as Florida’s busiest airport, handling a staggering 57.2 million passengers over the year. The expansion of Southwest’s Caribbean hub, JetBlue’s new routes to the Dominican Republic, and Porter Airlines’ service to Ottawa and Toronto contributed to a remarkable 84% of MCO’s international passenger growth.
Related: Orlando International Airport Opens New Tuskegee Airmen Exhibit
Despite industry-wide challenges—including airline bankruptcies, aircraft delivery delays, and regulatory hurdles—MCO held strong, experiencing only a 0.9% decrease in overall traffic from 2023. Looking ahead, 2025 is shaping up to be another milestone year, with Discover Airlines launching flights to Munich on March 5 and Air France bringing nonstop service to Paris on May 21. Additional domestic and international routes from airlines like Breeze, Southwest, and Alaska Airlines will further enhance connectivity. Plus, with Epic Universe opening in May, a surge in travel demand is expected.
Related: Orlando International Airport will be Making Baggage Handling Easier in 2025
As air travel continues to grow, MCO reminds passengers to prepare for upcoming regulations, including the REAL ID Act, which goes into effect May 7, 2025. Travelers are also encouraged to explore trusted travel programs like TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and Mobile Passport Control for a smoother journey. Whether you’re flying to new destinations or welcoming travelers from around the world, Orlando International Airport is keeping the magic in motion! 🌟🛫
