Disney Parks teased the Jedi Master’s arrival with a short video on social media, featuring Luke and R2-D2 in front of the Millennium Falcon. The video hints that Luke will appear as his younger self, sporting his black Jedi outfit and a black glove on his right hand, placing him within the same timeframe as “The Mandalorian.”
While details are still under wraps, Disney promises more information on February 10th, 2025. They included the hashtags #SeasonOfTheForce and #Disneyland in their social media post, suggesting that this meet-and-greet opportunity will be exclusive to Disneyland in California and likely connected to the upcoming “Season of the Force” event.
This annual “Star Wars” celebration at Disneyland honors May the 4th (aka “Star Wars Day”) and is scheduled to run from March 28th through May 11th, 2025.
The arrival of Luke Skywalker marks a significant addition to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. While R2-D2 has made occasional appearances, Luke has never been a part of the land’s character experiences. This new meet-and-greet opportunity will undoubtedly be a major draw for fans eager to interact with the iconic Jedi.
Stay tuned for more details on Luke Skywalker’s arrival in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and the exciting experiences planned for “Season of the Force” at Disneyland!
Disney has launched an “LA Strong” t-shirt to aid those impacted by the Los Angeles wildfires. “It was devastating to witness the impact…The Disney LA Strong shirt represents our collective show of support…together, we have the strength to rebuild and heal,” said Tasia Filippatos.
For each Disney LA Strong t-shirt sold in the U.S. through December 31, 2025, Disney will donate $25 to the American Red Cross. These donations will help those affected by the California wildfires during 2025, providing much-needed relief like food, shelter, emotional support, and recovery assistance today and in the coming months.
The Story Behind the Design
The Walt Disney Company’s roots are deeply intertwined with the Los Angeles community, making the destruction caused by these wildfires especially heartbreaking. The idea for the Disney LA Strong t-shirt emerged from the desire of Disney employees to give back and show support to those who have been impacted by the fires.
The design is minimalist yet meaningful: the iconic Mickey Mouse, is paired with bold, straightforward LA Strong lettering in either black or white. It’s a tribute to the Los Angeles community’s resilience—their strength, spirit, and ultimately their ability to rise from adversity.
Relief Efforts Across Disney
The Disney LA Strong t-shirt is one of the many ways The Walt Disney Company is supporting relief efforts in the community. Last month, the company announced a $15 million commitment for immediate response and rebuilding efforts in the Los Angeles area, along with donation drives hosted by Disney VoluntEARS to collect more than 200,000 essential items for impacted individuals and families.
Disney Animator & ‘Black Cauldron’ Producer Joe Hale Dies at 99
Joe Hale, whose 35-year Disney career included work as an animator, layout artist, and producer, and who received an Oscar nomination for his effects work on The Black Hole (1979), has died. He was 99.
Hale passed away on January 29 at his home in Atascadero, California, from natural causes, according to his wife of nearly 60 years, Beverly Hale, who spoke with The Hollywood Reporter.
Joe Hale began his Disney career as an inbetweener on Alice in Wonderland (1951) and contributed to numerous classics, including Peter Pan (1953), Lady and the Tramp (1955), Sleeping Beauty (1959), One Hundred and One Dalmatians (1961), Mary Poppins (1964), The Jungle Book (1967), Bedknobs and Broomsticks (1971), Pete’s Dragon (1977), and The Fox and the Hound (1981).
In 1980, Joe Hale became a first-time producer on The Black Cauldron (1985), a project Disney had been developing for about seven years. Overseeing a staff of 300 artists, including a young Tim Burton, and a budget of $44 million, Hale faced challenges when test screenings revealed some scenes were too disturbing for children. New Disney Studios chairman Jeffrey Katzenberg ordered re-edits against Hale’s wishes, delaying the release from Christmas 1984 to the following July. Ultimately, The Black Cauldron grossed less than $22 million, and Hale was fired in 1986.
Following The Black Cauldron, Hale and his team began work on a film adaptation of T.H. White’s Mistress Masham’s Repose, a sequel to Gulliver’s Travels. However, Jeffrey Katzenberg rejected the project, leading to layoffs for Hale and his staff. Despite this setback, Hale was recognized with an honorary Disney Legend Award in 2008.
After leaving Hollywood, Hale dedicated his time to sculpting, his wife said. He is survived by his son, Steven, and grandchildren, Camille and Travis.
D23 Announces Florida Spotlight Event Commemorating Space Mountain’s 50th Anniversary
D23 has announced a special event in Orlando as part of its Spotlight Series. This inaugural Orlando Spotlight event will celebrate the 50th anniversary of Space Mountain.
Mark your calendars! D23 has revealed details for its next in-person Spotlight Series event, and it’s a first: the event will be held at the AMC Dine-In movie theater in Disney Springs. The gathering is set for 11 a.m. on March 8, 2025.
The March event will focus on the history of Space Mountain, commemorating its recent 50th anniversary. The iconic attraction first launched at Magic Kingdom on January 15, 1975.
The event description reads:
“All personnel, clear launch platform.” Get ready to blast off in a one-of-a-kind presentation celebrating Space Mountain, Walt Disney World’s first thrill ride! Join a panel of Imagineers to celebrate the Walt Disney World attraction’s 50th anniversary, along with exciting behind-the-scenes stories about other thrill attractions at Walt Disney World Resort!”
Tickets for the in-person D23 event are $29, which includes a $26 ticket price and a $3 handling fee. Only D23 Gold Members can purchase tickets, with a limit of two tickets per member (one for the member and one for a non-member guest). The event will include:
Access to a special presentation on Space Mountain’s five incredible decades, as well as other thrill attractions at Walt Disney World Resort, led by a panel of Walt Disney Imagineers at AMC Disney Springs 24.
One (1) D23 Member-exclusive event gift.
One (1) complimentary beverage
One (1) complimentary popcorn
Tickets for the “Space Mountain and Beyond” event will be available starting Friday, February 7 at 10 a.m. Pacific Time (1 p.m. Eastern Time). Visit the D23 website for the purchase link.
All Aboard! Disney Magic’s Alaskan Adventure Begins in 2026
The wonders of Alaska are calling! Disney Cruise Line is heading back in summer 2026, and the Disney Magic will be making its Alaskan debut, ready to explore the stunning glaciers, wildlife, and natural beauty of this incredible frontier.
Joining the Disney Wonder, which has explored Alaska each summer since 2011, the Magic will expand Disney Cruise Line’s presence in the region. The Wonder’s Alaskan itineraries will continue through the summer of 2025.
Prior to the Magic’s arrival, the Disney Wonder has been Disney Cruise Line’s only ship to explore Alaska. A 2016 refurbishment, including a reinforced hull, prepared the Wonder for navigating icy waters. Reflecting the cruise industry’s commitment to environmental stewardship, the Wonder, in line with CLIA guidelines, utilizes advanced wastewater and air emissions technology and has banned single-use plastics.
The Disney Wonder’s long-standing presence in Alaska may explain why it’s the only Disney Cruise Line ship without a major water slide like the AquaDunk found on the Disney Magic. As the Magic prepares for its Alaskan debut, it’s expected to follow the Wonder’s lead in prioritizing environmental protection. While the Magic underwent a brief refurbishment in 2023, Disney hasn’t publicly announced any Alaska-specific upgrades, such as a reinforced hull. However, such modifications may have already been made or could be implemented before its inaugural Alaskan voyage.
Disney Magic’s Alaskan Cruises (Summer 2026 – from Vancouver):
5-Night Cruise:
Glacier Viewing (Stikine Icecap), Alaska
Ward Cove (Ketchikan), Alaska
May 16-21, 2026
7-Night Cruises:
Glacier Viewing (Stikine Icecap), Alaska
Skagway, Alaska
Icy Strait Point, Alaska
Ketchikan, Alaska
June 4-11, 2026
June 18-25, 2026
July 2-9, 2026
July 16-23, 2026
August 6-13, 2026
August 13-20, 2026
August 27-September 3, 2026
September 3-10, 2026
September 10-17, 2026
7-Night Alaskan Cruises from Vancouver (2026):
Glacier Viewing (Stikine Icecap), Alaska
Skagway, Alaska
Icy Strait Point, Alaska
Ward Cove (Ketchikan), Alaska
May 21-28
May 28 – June 4
June 11-18
June 25 – July 2
July 9-16
July 23-30
July 30 – August 6
August 20-27
Disney Wonder: 7-Night Alaskan Cruises from Vancouver (2026)
Pearl Castaway Club Members: Monday, February 10, 2025
Platinum Castaway Club Members: Tuesday, February 11, 2025
Golden Oak Club Members: Tuesday, February 11, 2025
Gold Castaway Club Members: Wednesday, February 12, 2025
Silver Castaway Club Members: Thursday, February 13, 2025
Disney Vacation Club Members: Thursday, February 13, 2025
Adventure Insiders: Thursday, February 13, 2025
General Public: Monday, February 17, 2025
Ready to explore the Last Frontier on a Disney cruise? Contact me to get your voyage on the books! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are free, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.
Get Ready to Sail: Disney Cruise Line Announces Summer 2026 Itineraries
Disney Cruise Line invites families on unforgettable summer adventures to favorite ports of call around the world during the 2026 season. With an expanded fleet of eight ships, guests will have more itineraries than ever before to choose from, ranging from Alaskan explorations and European journeys to Caribbean escapes and Southeast Asian adventures.
With the introduction of a second ship to Alaska, Disney Cruise Line will return with even more sailings bound for the picturesque glacial landscape of North America. Beginning in May, both the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder will embark on seven-night voyages from Vancouver, Canada. Ports of call will include Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan, all famous for their prehistoric glaciers, rich histories and eclectic shopping. Cruisers will also discover the incomparable natural beauty of Alaska when they visit Dawes Glacier, a majestic tidewater glacier that towers over 600-feet tall.
New European Escapes
For the first time, the Disney Dream will call on the island city of Cagliari, located in Sardinia, Italy, a brand-new destination for Disney Cruise Line. As the Disney Dream returns to Europe for the summer, it will invite guests to travel to picture-perfect ports across Italy, Greece, Croatia, Malta, France, Spain, the Netherlands, Norway, Belgium, and the United Kingdom.
The Disney Dream will kick off summer with a 14-night transatlantic crossing from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida to Barcelona, Spain. Departing from Barcelona or Civitavecchia, Italy, the Disney Dream will then set sail on seven- to twelve-night Mediterranean cruises. Guests will call upon popular Greek islands to visit the blue-topped spires in Santorini, the famous windmills of Mykonos, ancient landmarks in Rhodes, and many more scenic locales.
The Disney Dream will finish out the season with three-, four-, and seven-night sailings out of Southampton, United Kingdom to Northern Europe and the Norwegian Fjords. Exploration awaits guests in the quaint, idyllic village of Olden, Norway; the seaside capital of Copenhagen, Denmark; the rocky shores of Portland, United Kingdom; and many more exciting ports of call.
Tropical Getaways from Central Florida
Guests seeking a sunny escape will be able to depart from Port Canaveral, Florida on three different Disney Cruise Line ships to destinations in The Bahamas and Eastern or Western Caribbean, including stops at Disney’s tropical retreats, Disney Castaway Cay and Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.
Both offering Bahamian itineraries, the Disney Fantasy will set sail on four- and five-night voyages and the Disney Wish will depart on three- and four-night voyages. The Disney Fantasy will also offer a 10-night cruise to the Southern Caribbean. Meanwhile, the Disney Treasure will embark on seven-night sailings to Eastern or Western Caribbean, giving guests a chance to soak up rays on the beautiful beaches of Tortola, British Virgin Isles; Falmouth, Jamaica; Cozumel, Mexico and more.
Sunny Vacations from South Florida
Departing on four- and five-night cruises to The Bahamas and Western Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale, the Disney Destiny, which launches in November of 2025, will visit Nassau, The Bahamas, Disney Castaway Cay and Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. The Disney Destiny will also offer two seven-night itineraries to the Eastern and Western Caribbean during the summer season.
Explorations at Sea from Singapore
The Disney Adventure, which is set to launch in December 2025, will offer a lineup of three- and four-night itineraries from the celebrate beloved stories from Disney, Pixar and Marvel. From three brand-new, Marvel-themed attractions at sea to an array of dining options and Broadway-style musical spectaculars including “Remember,” developed exclusively for the Disney Adventure, there is much in store for future guests to discover.
Booking windows include:
Monday, Feb. 10: Open for Pearl Castaway Club
Tuesday, Feb. 11: Open for Platinum Castaway Club, Golden Oak and WDW Club 33
Wednesday, Feb.12: Open for Gold Castaway Club
Thursday, Feb. 13: Open for Silver Castaway Club, Disney Vacation Club + AbD Insiders
Monday, Feb. 17: Open for General Bookings
Dreaming of a voyage with Disney Cruise Line? Contact me today to get your sailing on the books! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are free. I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation!
Something for Every Disney Lover: Discover the Perfect Valentine’s Day Gift at BoxLunch
Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and BoxLunch Gifts has you covered with their adorable Disney themed Valentine’s Day gift guide. Whether you’re shopping for your sweetheart, a friend, or even yourself, there’s something for every Disney fan.
From classic characters like Mickey and Minnie to beloved Pixar and Princesses, BoxLunch has curated a collection of charming and unique items perfect for celebrating the season of love.
For the Mickey and Minnie Mouse enthusiast, BoxLunch offers a range of sweet and stylish options. The Minnie Mouse Bow Heart Women’s Cable Knit Cardigan is a must-have, featuring satin bows, pearl buttons, and velvet appliques for a touch of feminine flair. Pair it with the Minnie Mouse & Friends Hearts Crewneck, showcasing Minnie, Clarabelle, and Daisy in a heart-filled design, for a perfectly coordinated look.
For a matching couples’ vibe, grab the Mickey and Minnie Ring Tees in pink and red. And don’t forget the Minnie Mouse Sweetheart Confetti Ears, complete with a polka dot bow and heart-shaped confetti ears, for a touch of whimsical charm.
Pixar lovers can celebrate their favorite films with unique Valentine’s Day gifts. The Carl & Ellie Heart Tee from “Up” offers a casual yet romantic look with its slightly cropped design and “Thanks for the adventure” lettering. Quench your thirst with the “Finding Nemo” Will You Be Mine Mine Mine Tritan Cup. For a fun and playful option, the Pixar Cars Guido & Luigi Women’s T-Shirt celebrates friendship with a floral design featuring the iconic duo.
Disney Princess fans will feel like royalty with BoxLunch’s enchanting offerings. The Disney Princesses Denim Women’s Bomber Jacket is a stylish statement piece, featuring an embroidered tiara, a group portrait of the princesses, and a castle patch. Or wrap yourself in fairytale charm with the Tangled Rapunzel Initial Crochet Cardigan, featuring Rapunzel’s initial, crocheted details, and an embroidered design of Pascal and the lanterns.
Death Star Ear Headband: A Must-Have for Star Wars Fans
Show your allegiance to the dark side with the Death Star Ear Headband, a stylish and unique accessory that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re visiting a Disney park, attending a Star Wars convention, or simply want to add a touch of galactic flair to your everyday look, this headband is a must-have for any fan of the franchise.
The Death Star Ear Headband features a sleek design inspired by the iconic space station. The ears are adorned with a detailed pattern that mimics the Death Star’s surface, while the headband is topped with a black satin bow and an Imperial logo medallion. The headband is made from high-quality materials and is designed for comfort, making it perfect for all-day wear.
This ear headband is a great way to express your love for Star Wars and stand out from the crowd. It’s also a perfect gift for any Star Wars fan in your life. So what are you waiting for? Grab your Death Star Ear Headband today and join the dark side!
Step Into Wonderland: New Alice in Wonderland Photo Op Debuts at Disney Springs
Guests visiting Disney Springs can now tumble down the rabbit hole into a whimsical Alice in Wonderland-themed photo op at the Disney PhotoPass Studio! Located between Marketplace Co-Op and Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop, this new backdrop brings the world of Alice to life, featuring iconic props and imagery straight from the beloved Disney classic.
The enchanting setup captures the film’s curious and topsy-turvy world, with a black and white checkered floor, a whimsical brown chair with a green back blending into the shrubbery, and a white fence adorned with the Mad Hatter’s signature green hat. Scattered throughout are large clocks, vibrant red and white roses, and playful arrow signs pointing in all directions—perfectly fitting for fans of the Mad Hatter’s tea party and the classic tune “Painting the Roses Red.” Adding to the fun, an Ace of Spades Card Soldier stands guard, reinforcing the Wonderland aesthetic.
For guests looking to enhance their photos, props like a tea set and a bouquet of roses are available, adding to the immersive experience. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Alice in Wonderland or just love a unique Disney photo op, this whimsical setup is a must-visit.
The Disney PhotoPass Studio is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., offering guests the chance to capture magical moments with a variety of rotating themed backdrops. Recent offerings have included a festive holiday tree farm, making this ever-changing space a fun stop for Disney visitors year-round.
The Super Bowl LIX MVP will be visiting Magic Kingdom on Monday!
It’s official—Super Bowl magic is heading to Magic Kingdom next week! After much speculation about which Disney theme park would host the Super Bowl LIX MVP, Walt Disney World has now confirmed via social media that the Super Bowl Champions Parade will take place at Magic Kingdom on Monday, February 10, 2025. While the exact parade time has yet to be announced, fans can expect to see the game’s MVP celebrating their big win down Main Street, U.S.A. in classic Disney fashion.
Each year, the Super Bowl MVP keeps tradition alive by declaring, “I’m going to Disney World!”, immediately following the game’s conclusion. With New Orleans as this year’s Super Bowl host city, many believed the celebration would head to Walt Disney World rather than Disneyland due to its proximity. Now, Disney has put that speculation to rest, and fans attending Magic Kingdom on Monday are in for an unforgettable experience.
Super Bowl LIX, scheduled for Sunday, February 9, 2025, at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, will feature a high-stakes rematch between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles. The Chiefs, led by Patrick Mahomes, are chasing history as they aim for their third consecutive Super Bowl victory, a feat never before achieved in the NFL. Meanwhile, the Eagles, under head coach Nick Sirianni and quarterback Jalen Hurts, are determined to claim their second Super Bowl title after their 2017 Super Bowl victory over the New England Patriots. This game is a rematch of Super Bowl LVII, where the Chiefs narrowly edged out the Eagles 38-35 in a thriller that came down to the very final seconds of the game.
As the excitement builds for the big game, Disney fans and football enthusiasts alike can start making plans to witness the Super Bowl LIX MVP Parade at Magic Kingdom next week. Whether it’s Mahomes leading the celebration once again or Hurts bringing the Lombardi Trophy to Philly, one thing is certain—there’s no victory celebration quite like one at Disney World! 🏈🏰
Will you be at Magic Kingdom for the Super Bowl parade? Let us know in the comments! 🎉
New LEGO NINJAGO Rooms Coming to LEGOLAND Florida Hotel This Spring!
Families heading to LEGOLAND Florida will soon have an exciting new way to immerse themselves in the world of LEGO! This spring, LEGOLAND Hotel is unveiling newly themed LEGO NINJAGO rooms, designed to transport guests straight into the action-packed universe of Lloyd and his ninja friends. These bold and colorful rooms feature immersive LEGO models, ninja-inspired decor, and a separate children’s sleeping area, making them the perfect retreat for young warriors after a day of adventure at the park.
But that’s not all! LEGOLAND Hotel is also introducing brand-new LEGO DUPLO rooms, specially designed for younger builders ages 18 months to 5 years old. These vibrant rooms bring the playful world of DUPLO to life, with interactive LEGO models and plenty of space for little ones to explore. Additionally, fans of Heartlake City can enjoy a revamped LEGO Friends room, updated with today’s LEGO Friends characters and stories to create the ultimate Creative Clubhouse sleepover experience.
With 152 themed rooms and suites, LEGOLAND Hotel is known for its over-the-top LEGO designs and kid-friendly atmosphere. Located just steps from the park entrance, it offers families an unforgettable stay with interactive play areas, character meet-and-greets, and exclusive early park access.
Excited to book your LEGO NINJAGO, LEGO DUPLO, or LEGO Friends room? Availability for these new themes opens soon—so don’t sleep on it (unless you’re ready to sleep IN them)! 🚀🏨
Would you love to stay in one of these new themed rooms? Let us know in the comments! 🎉
The gates have officially swung open on a whole new era of Jurassic World! Just 24 hours after the thrilling first trailer for Jurassic World Rebirth dropped, we’re giving you a sneak peek at the exciting merchandise inspired by the film and its prehistoric stars. Get ready to roar with excitement!
Mark your calendars, because more information about these items and where you can purchase them will be revealed soon, with many items hitting shelves and online stores starting June 1st.
But the prehistoric party starts even sooner! A select few items are available for pre-order today, February 6th:
Mattel Jurassic World Rebirth Bite N’ Blast Mosasaurus: This colossal creature is ready to make a splash in your collection! Pre-order yours now here!
Jurassic World Rebirth Logo Apparel: Show your Jurassic World pride with stylish logo apparel available at Amazon.com. Grab your shirts, hoodies, and more!
And that’s not all! Starting February 10th, you can snag these exclusive items:
Jurassic World Rebirth Logo Tee and Hat: Head to Universal Orlando Resort, Universal Studios Hollywood, or shop online at shop.UniversalOrlando.com to grab these must-have logo items.
Get ready to unleash your inner paleontologist and add these incredible Jurassic World Rebirth collectibles to your collection! Stay tuned for more updates, details, and product reveals in the coming weeks.
The Jurassic World Rebirth merchandise is just beginning to emerge! Check out the Official Trailer for Jurassic World Rebirth below!
