Brings the Holiday Cheer with The Eeyore Holiday Wreath Convertible Light-Up Backpack!
Just in time for the holiday season, BoxLunch Gifts has introduced a charming new accessory that is sure to delight fans of Winnie the Pooh. The Eeyore Holiday Wreath Convertible Light-Up Backpack is a whimsical and functional piece that combines the adorable character of Eeyore with festive holiday elements.
This versatile bag can be worn as both a crossbody and a backpack, thanks to its detachable straps. The design features a delightful applique of Eeyore peeking out from a beautifully decorated holiday wreath. To add an extra touch of magic, Eeyore’s tail moves playfully on the other side of the backpack. The ornament appliques are embellished with light-up details, creating a sparkling and festive effect.
Adding to the holiday spirit, the backpack also features a velvet bow and a detachable coin purse. These thoughtful details make it the perfect accessory for any holiday outing.
So what are you waiting for? Head over to BoxLunch Gifts to pre-order yours!
New Mickey Mouse Caramel Apple Ear Headband For A Sweet Style!
If you have a sweet tooth, you will love the new Mickey Mouse Caramel Apple Ear Headband available at The Emporium in Magic Kingdom. This adorable headband features two Mickey-shaped chocolate-coated candy apples as the “ears.” The candy apples are the same on the front and back, and they are sure to make you feel like a kid again.
The front of the candy apples depicts a red bottom and yellow buttons, just like Mickey Mouse’s iconic red shorts. The candy apples have been dipped in chocolate sauce, which drips down on all sides. A “wooden stick” sticks out from the top of the apple. The back of the candy apple ears are plain, with the red and dripping chocolate continuing from the front.
The Mickey Mouse Caramel Apple Ear Headband is the perfect way to show your love for Disney and your sweet tooth. It is also a great souvenir to bring home from your trip to Magic Kingdom. The headband retails for $39.99, and it is sure to sell out quickly. So be sure to head to The Emporium and pick one up before they are gone!
New Mickey and Friends Winter Wonderland Loungefly Collection Coming Soon!
Get ready to bundle up in style! The new Mickey and Friends Winter Wonderland Loungefly Collection is here, and it’s filled with adorable and cozy accessories perfect for the chilly season.
This charming mini backpack is the perfect way to add a touch of magic to your winter wardrobe. Featuring a snowy scene with Mickey and his friends, the backpack is adorned with iridescent details for a sparkling finish. The best part? It comes with a matching Minnie ear headband, so you can complete your look with a cohesive and stylish touch.
This versatile bag can be worn as a backpack, tote, or shoulder bag, making it perfect for any occasion. The icy colorway and iridescent details give it a wintery feel, while the spacious interior ensures you can carry all your essentials.
This playful crossbody bag features Mickey and Minnie riding a sled, adding a fun and whimsical touch. The iridescent details make it a stylish accessory that will complement any outfit.
Keep your essentials organized in style with this adorable zip-around wallet. The icy colorway and snowy scene with Mickey and his friends make it a perfect addition to your winter accessories.
Whether you’re heading to the park or simply running errands, the Mickey and Friends Winter Wonderland Loungefly Collection has something for everyone. With its adorable designs, cozy materials, and functional features, these accessories are sure to keep you looking and feeling your best all season long.
Nickelodeon Celebrates 25 Years of SpongeBob at NYCC 2024
Nickelodeon is continuing its celebration of the 25th anniversary of SpongeBob SquarePants with an immersive experience at its booth during New York Comic Con 2024. The booth, located at #1523, will pay tribute to the iconic first episode of the beloved yellow sea sponge by transporting fans into the “Help Wanted” pilot through 3D animation, augmented reality (AR), and detailed replicas of SpongeBob’s pineapple house and The Krusty Krab.
In addition, Nickelodeon and Paramount will host three panels: “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Video Games and Virtual Worlds,” highlighting the popular gaming universe; “Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob SquarePants 25th Anniversary Celebration,” offering an inside look at Bikini Bottom; and “Nickelodeon’s brand-new fantasy series, Max & the Midknights!,” providing a behind-the-scenes peek at the upcoming animated show.
Here’s a summary of Nickelodeon’s planned activities:
PANELS
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Video Games and Virtual Worlds Thursday, 10/17, 8 – 9pm (Room 408) The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have powered through decades of video games on platforms ranging from PC and console to mobile and virtual worlds, with more to come. Join Doug Rosen, Paramount’s SVP of Games & Emerging Media, along with representatives from Outright Games, Super Evil Megacorp, and others, for a sneak peek at upcoming TMNT titles and exciting insights into the world of Turtle Power.
Nickelodeon’s SpongeBob SquarePants 25th Anniversary Celebration Friday, 10/18, 11am – 12pm (Empire Stage) Celebrate 25 years of SpongeBob SquarePants! Join the iconic voice cast, including Tom Kenny (SpongeBob), Bill Fagerbakke (Patrick), Carolyn Lawrence (Sandy), Rodger Bumpass (Squidward), Clancy Brown (Mr. Krabs), and Mr. Lawrence (Plankton), as well as executive producers Marc Ceccarelli and Vincent Waller, for a look back at SpongeBob’s origins and an exciting preview of what’s to come in Bikini Bottom. It’s going to be F.U.N.!
Nickelodeon’s Brand-New Fantasy Series, Max & the Midknights! Sunday, 10/20, 11am – 12pm (Room 405) Join Max & the Midknights! creator Lincoln Peirce, showrunners Sharon Flynn and David Skelly, and other panelists for an inside look at how this best-selling book series was brought to life as a groundbreaking new TV show. Expect dragons, monsters, and plenty of sword and sorcery!
SpongeBob’s Interview Prep Experience Step inside SpongeBob’s pineapple home to get ready for your big job interview at The Krusty Krab. Fans can train in SpongeBob’s weight room to get into top fry-cook shape, and after completing the exercises, scan a QR code to receive a shareable video file.
SpongeBob’s Hungry Anchovy Frenzy In this digital whack-a-mole-style game, grab a spatula and take control of the virtual grill to serve as many Krabby Patties as possible to the hungry anchovy crowd in just one minute. Prove your skills and secure your spot as The Krusty Krab’s top fry cook!
The Krusty Krab Mast Photo Moment Ascend from SpongeBob’s pineapple to The Krusty Krab and pose by the iconic Krusty Krab mast—just like in the pilot episode. Be sure to watch out for those hungry anchovies!
Costumed Character Appearances: Hot off their appearance at the Kids Choice Awards, SpongeBob SquarePants and Patrick Star will appear at the Nickelodeon booth at select times throughout the convention.
Since its debut on July 17, 1999, SpongeBob SquarePants has remained the most-watched animated series for 22 consecutive years, creating a universe filled with beloved characters, unforgettable catchphrases, and iconic memes. The franchise has expanded far beyond television, with multiple theatrical releases, consumer products, a Tony Award-winning Broadway musical, and a massive global fan base.
As one of Paramount’s most widely distributed properties, SpongeBob SquarePants is broadcast in over 180 markets and translated into more than 30 languages, attracting an average of 90 million viewers each quarter. Created by Stephen Hillenburg and produced by Nickelodeon in Burbank, California, the show follows the whimsical, nautical adventures of SpongeBob, an ever-optimistic sea sponge, and his friends in the undersea world of Bikini Bottom.
This year’s New York Comic Con promises to be an unmissable celebration of SpongeBob SquarePants and its 25-year legacy. With exclusive panels, immersive experiences, and exciting giveaways, this is your chance to connect with fellow fans, meet the legendary voice cast, and get an inside look at what’s coming next in the world of SpongeBob. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to be part of the magic and celebrate one of the most iconic animated shows of all time at NYCC 2024! We’ll see you on the show floor!
Get Ready to Rock the Universe at Universal Orlando in 2025!
Mark your calendars because Universal Orlando Resort’s Rock the Universe is returning for an unforgettable weekend of powerful music and faith-filled fun on January 24 and 25, 2025! As Florida’s biggest Christian music festival, this event is set to deliver a stellar lineup of today’s top Christian artists, heart-pumping worship, and access to some of Universal Studios Florida’s most thrilling attractions. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Rock the Universe or planning your first trip, this weekend promises an uplifting experience you won’t want to miss!
This year’s lineup is headlined by GRAMMY award-winning singer Brandon Lake, Christian chart-topper Forrest Frank, and fan favorites like Bethel Music, Matthew West, and Rend Collective. These incredible performers will lead a weekend packed with soul-stirring music, sure to inspire all in attendance. With additional artists like Elevation Rhythm, KB, Josiah Queen, Katy Nichole, and many more, there’s something for everyone during this musical celebration.
Here’s a look at the Rock the Universe 2025 lineup:
Friday, January 24:
Brandon Lake
Matthew West
Rend Collective
Elevation Rhythm
KB
Katy Nichole
Caleb Gordon
Consumed by Fire
Coqui
Aaron Cole
Saturday, January 25:
Forrest Frank
Bethel Music
Taya
Tasha Layton
Josiah Queen
Iveth Luna
Coqui
Allison Eide
But the fun doesn’t stop with the concerts! You’ll also get to experience moving worship sessions, including a powerful Sunday morning service on January 26 to close out the weekend. The fan zone will be buzzing with live performances from up-and-coming acts, autograph sessions with the artists, and plenty of ways to connect with fellow festival-goers. Plus, you’ll have access to Universal Studios Florida’s world-class rides, like Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, Revenge of the Mummy, and the new Villain-Con Minion Blast.
Ready to join the fun? Tickets are on sale now, and you can grab a 3-Park Rock Your Weekend ticket starting at $163.99, which includes admission to Rock the Universe on both Friday and Saturday, plus three days of access to Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay. Special pricing is also available for youth group ministries, with exclusive vacation packages that make it even easier to bring your whole group for an amazing weekend of music and ministry.
With so much to look forward to, Rock the Universe 2025 is shaping up to be a weekend full of faith, fun, and unforgettable memories.
Get ready to light up your Halloween with the latest Disney collectible! The popular Mickey Jack-o’-lantern sipper, which first debuted at Disneyland Resort, is now available at Walt Disney World.
The Mickey Jack-o’-lantern sipper is “carved” out with Mickey’s iconic eyes, nose, and cute smile! A green leaf and stem sit atop two pumpkin ears, completing the jack-o’-lantern look. The sipper lights up from the inside, illuminating the carved features and creating a truly magical experience.
An orange straw pops out of the top behind the stem, and a purple lanyard with green vines, candy, and Mickey jack-o’-lanterns is included. The black plastic clip makes it easy to attach to your bag or wear around your neck.
In addition to the Mickey Jack-o’-lantern sipper, Walt Disney World is offering other Halloween-themed souvenirs this fall. Be sure to check out the “Hocus Pocus” Minnie as Winnie sipper and Mickey pumpkin popcorn bucket, both exclusive to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom. Make sure to get yours today before they run out!
Universal Orlando Resort Hotels are turning up the excitement this fall with an incredible lineup of signature events that will have something for everyone—whether you’re a craft beer lover, foodie, wine enthusiast, or live music fan. From a South Seas-inspired beer festival to an elegant Italian evening, here’s what’s on tap for the season:
Jake’s Beer Festival at Loews Royal Pacific Resort For beer enthusiasts and foodies, Jake’s Beer Festival at Loews Royal Pacific Resort is a can’t-miss event. Set against the backdrop of a South Seas paradise, this festival offers over 50 craft beers and hard seltzers paired with mouthwatering bites like crispy chicken and waffles, grilled prawns, and Jake’s famous pretzel rods with four cheese stout fondue. Indulge in a delectable all-you-can-eat menu, featuring dishes like braised short ribs and desserts such as a German chocolate stout cake. VIP attendees will enjoy exclusive gourmet offerings like chipotle salmon and sous vide veal tenderloin. Mark your calendars for Friday, October 4th!
Harbor Nights at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel Looking for the perfect date night or a lively evening out with friends? Harbor Nights at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel brings Italian charm to life with delicious food, fine wines, live music, and dancing. Experience “la dolce vita” as you savor Italian-inspired dishes like ricotta cavatelli pasta and seared ocean bass, all while sipping on a curated selection of wines, including Lunetta Prosecco and Banfi Chianti Superiore. This unforgettable evening takes place on Friday, October 18th.
Velvet Unplugged at Hard Rock Hotel Music lovers won’t want to miss Velvet Unplugged at Hard Rock Hotel, where the British pop/rock band BBMAK will perform live in the hotel’s lobby. Enjoy an intimate acoustic set with hits like “Back Here” and “Still On Your Side.” Known for their smooth harmonies and catchy guitar melodies, BBMAK promises a night of nostalgia and great tunes. The show is on Friday, November 22nd.
Wantilan Luau at Loews Royal Pacific Resort Experience a taste of Polynesian culture at the Wantilan Luau, a weekly dinner show at Loews Royal Pacific Resort. Feast on a delicious Hawaiian-inspired buffet, complete with pit-roasted pig, fire-grilled beef, ahi poke salad, and more, while enjoying traditional Polynesian music and fire dancing. This event is perfect for families, with a special kid-friendly buffet available. The Wantilan Luau runs every Saturday evening year-round, so there’s plenty of time to join in the fun!
Whether you’re in the mood for a beer festival, a romantic evening of Italian cuisine, or live music with BBMAK, Universal Orlando Resort Hotels have something special for you this fall. Tickets for these events are on sale now, so don’t miss out on an unforgettable season of entertainment!
Disney’s highly anticipated Cars expansion at Magic Kingdom has hit a minor roadblock as the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) has returned Disney’s initial permit application and is requesting additional information and modifications before Disney can re-submit. The permit, which was a necessary early step in preparing the land for the new Cars-themed area, requested additional information and revisions before the project can move forward. This delay centers around modifications to the stormwater management system behind Tom Sawyer Island and Big Thunder Mountain, key areas that will be impacted by the expansion.
While this type of back-and-forth is typical for large-scale projects like this, especially those with environmental considerations, it has caused a slight pause in the timeline for Disney. Construction on the Cars-themed area was originally scheduled to begin in early 2025, but it remains to be seen how long this review process will delay the start.
The new Cars land, announced during the Horizons: Disney Experiences Showcase at D23, is set to transform a reimagined section of Frontierland. Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro, joined virtually by Tow Mater, shared that the expansion would bring two new attractions. One will offer guests a thrilling rally race through mountainous terrain, complete with geysers and mudholes, while the second attraction will be a family-friendly experience designed for younger guests.
Disney fans and pin traders, mark your calendars for 2025, as two exciting pin trading events are set to take place at Walt Disney World and Disneyland! While specific dates and locations have yet to be announced, Disney has given us a sneak peek at what’s in store.
At Walt Disney World, the spotlight will shine on the 25th anniversary of Disney Pin Trading. This milestone event will celebrate the tradition that began back in 2001 at EPCOT, where the first official pin trading event kicked off a beloved hobby that has endured for decades. To commemorate the 25-year journey, promotional art for the event showcases the magic and memories from years of pin trading fun.
photo by Disney Pin Blog
Meanwhile, Disneyland is embracing its retro side with the “Niftie Fifties” pin trading event. As part of Disneyland’s 70th anniversary celebrations, this event will feature vintage-inspired designs that nod to the park’s opening decade. The nostalgic theme promises to transport attendees back to the 1950s while offering unique collectible pins that capture the spirit of the era.
Whether you’re a seasoned pin trader or a newcomer to the scene, these two events in 2025 are bound to offer an unforgettable experience filled with exclusive pins, trading opportunities, and a chance to immerse yourself in Disney history. Keep an eye out for more details on the dates and locations, and get ready to celebrate Disney pin trading in style!
Disney+ Struggles to Retain Viewership, Launches New Channels to Boost Engagement
Disney is taking steps to combat declining viewership on its flagship streaming service, Disney+, with the introduction of four new channels aimed at increasing engagement and appealing to a wider audience.
The new channels include:
Hallowstream: A seasonal channel dedicated to spooky and family-friendly Halloween content.
Hits and Heroes: Action-packed stories from the worlds of Disney, Marvel, and Star Wars.
Throwbacks: A nostalgic channel featuring beloved pop-culture classics.
Real Life: A collection of documentaries and biopics exploring real-world stories.
These additions come as Disney+ faces challenges in retaining its audience, with its share of TV viewing falling from 5.6% in July 2023 to 4.8% this past July. This decline stands in contrast to the growth experienced by other streaming services like YouTube, Netflix, Peacock, and Tubi during the same period. One factor contributing to this dip in viewership could be the perceived lack of fresh and engaging content on Disney+ compared to its competitors.
While Disney boasts a vast library of beloved classics, the platform has faced criticism for its slower pace of new releases and its focus on franchise-driven content.
CEO Bob Iger, upon his return to Disney two years ago, tasked division heads with revitalizing the company’s streaming business, which had incurred significant losses. While the team has managed to stabilize the business and achieve an operating profit last quarter, the focus now shifts to recapturing lost subscribers and boosting engagement among existing ones.
Recent initiatives include integrating Hulu content within the Disney+ app and plans to incorporate ESPN by the end of the year. These moves reflect a strategy to offer a more comprehensive and diverse range of content to attract and retain viewers.
“Clearly we are in a world where we are responsible for not just delivering excellent content but technical innovation,” said Dana Walden, Chairman of Disney General Entertainment Television. “We are experimenting in a way we previously didn’t have the flexibility to do.”
While these new channels and features represent a step toward enhancing the Disney+ experience, it remains to be seen whether they will be enough to reverse the trend of declining viewership and recapture the platform’s initial momentum. The streaming landscape is increasingly competitive, and Disney will need to continue innovating and delivering compelling content to remain a major player.
oung Sheldon star Iain Armitage recently took a break from his acting career for a galactic adventure at Disney World. While visiting Disney’s Hollywood Studios, he explored Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and showcased his impressive Star Wars knowledge in an Instagram reel. From the dumpster number in Episode 4 to the lore of Batuu, Armitage knows his stuff!
Did you know the names of the suns and moons surrounding Batuu? It’s okay if you didn’t, because Young Sheldon star Iain Armitage does! Though the show concluded earlier this year, Armitage’s passion for Star Wars is evident in his recent Instagram reel. His in-depth knowledge would make him a fantastic host for a Star Wars trivia game show.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge has been delighting fans at Disney’s Hollywood Studios since 2019. This immersive land features themed shops, eateries like Oga’s Cantina, and thrilling attractions like Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run.
Guests Can Ride in the Front of the Disneyland Monorail Once Again
After a long hiatus, Disneyland guests can once again experience the thrill of riding in the front seat of the iconic Monorail. This beloved attraction is offering front-seat rides for the first time since the pandemic closures.
On September 14, 2024, Disneyland guests were thrilled to once again experience the iconic Monorail from the coveted front seat. Riding in the “nose cone” offers a unique perspective, allowing you to witness the magic of Disneyland Resort alongside the Monorail pilot.
The Disneyland Monorail is an eco-friendly transportation system that offers a unique and thrilling experience. The 2.5-mile round-trip takes approximately 13 minutes, and riding in the front car provides a truly immersive perspective. As you watch the track wind through Disneyland Resort, you’ll witness attractions and landmarks from a whole new angle.
There’s no designated line for the front cabin of the Monorail. If you’d like to ride in this coveted section, simply ask a Cast Member if there are any available seats. If the current ride is full, you can wait for the next one.
Please note that the back of the Monorail remains closed to guests. This closure was in place before the pandemic and continues today.
Ready to plan your next visit to the Disneyland Resort? Contact me today to start planning! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are free!
