Fuentes del Morro Pool at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort Closing for Refurbishment in January 2025
Guests planning to stay at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort in early 2025 should note that the Fuentes del Morro Feature Pool and Aquatic Play Area will be closed for routine maintenance starting January 13, 2025. The good news? This year’s refurbishment is expected to be quick, with Disney planning to wrap up the work by the end of January—much shorter than last year’s three-month closure.
While the main pool and play area are temporarily unavailable, all other resort pools, including the serene quiet pools located in each of the resort’s villages, will remain open for guests to enjoy. These smaller pools offer a relaxing alternative for those looking to cool off or enjoy a quieter swim.
January is typically a low-demand time for resort pool use, thanks to cooler temperatures, making it an ideal time for routine maintenance. Disney prioritizes keeping its facilities in top shape for guests, and this brief closure ensures that the Fuentes del Morro Pool will be ready to welcome visitors back to its pirate-themed splendor in no time.
If you’re visiting during this period, rest assured that the Caribbean Beach Resort still offers plenty of ways to enjoy your stay, from its tropical atmosphere to dining options like Sebastian’s Bistro. And with quiet pools remaining open, you’ll still have a splash-worthy experience! Stay tuned for updates on the reopening of the Fuentes del Morro Pool.
Test Track Reimagining at EPCOT Hits New Milestone with Signage Installation Permit
The reimagining of Test Track at EPCOT continues to accelerate as Walt Disney Imagineering takes another step forward with the project. This week, a new permit was filed for the installation of signage, signaling progress on the highly anticipated overhaul of the beloved attraction. The task has been assigned to Design Communications Ltd (DCL), a company renowned for creating custom signage and immersive environmental graphics.
Currently, much of the visible work is focused on the front of the Test Track building, where extensive scaffolding surrounds the new curved entrance structure. This sleek new design replaces the attraction’s former fabric canopy and sets the stage for the reimagined experience awaiting guests inside.
Presented by General Motors, the revamped Test Track is slated to debut in late summer 2025. The updated attraction will celebrate over a century of mobility innovation with a host of fresh features:
A Redesigned Queue Experience: Guests will explore six distinct exhibits highlighting advancements in mobility and automotive technology.
Updated Ride Scenes: New onboard technology and personalization options will immerse guests in a futuristic journey.
Thrilling Outdoor Route: A refreshed outdoor track will evoke the timeless excitement of the open road, offering a high-speed adventure like no other.
As the reimagining of Test Track races toward its summer 2025 opening, fans of the attraction can look forward to a bold new vision of this EPCOT favorite. Stay tuned for more updates as Walt Disney Imagineering continues to bring this high-octane project to life!
2025 Moonlight Magic: Registration Dates Announced for Disney Vacation Club® Members!
Disney Vacation Club® (DVC) Members, it’s time to mark your calendars because Moonlight Magic is back for 2025! This highly anticipated Membership Magic benefit offers an unforgettable after-hours experience at select Disney Parks. With shorter wait times, rare character meet-and-greets, incredible entertainment, and complimentary treats, Moonlight Magic nights are truly magical! Here’s everything you need to know to secure your spot at one of these exclusive, no-charge events.
Moonlight Magic is a special event where eligible DVC Members and their guests enjoy a private park party after the gates close to the general public. During these events, you can experience the magic of Disney with:
Shorter-than-usual wait times for popular attractions
Exclusive Disney Character greetings
Exceptional entertainment
Complimentary treats and delectable delights
It’s a night to celebrate with fellow Members while the parks become your playground!
2025 Moonlight Magic Dates and Registration Information
Moonlight Magic events are organized into three seasons—Winter, Spring, and Summer—each with its own set of registration and event dates. Eligible Members can register online during the designated windows.
Winter Season
Early Registration: January 15, 2025
General Registration: January 17, 2025
Event Dates:
Disney’s Hollywood Studios®: January 26, 2025
Disney California Adventure® Park: February 3, 2025
Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park: February 12, 2025
Spring Season
Early Registration: February 27, 2025
General Registration: March 6, 2025
Event Dates:
EPCOT®: April 30, 2025
Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park: May 20 & June 9, 2025
Summer Season
Early Registration: May 15, 2025
General Registration: May 22, 2025
Event Dates:
EPCOT®: July 17, 2025
Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park: August 11, 2025
Registration windows vary for Members with and without Resort reservations. Check the specific event page for more details.
Only the Member listed on the Membership can check in for the event. Be sure to have your Member number handy when registering.
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to experience the magic of Disney like never before! From thrilling attractions to unforgettable character moments, Moonlight Magic is the ultimate perk for DVC Members. Start planning now and get ready to create cherished memories in 2025!
Parkside Market in the Downtown Disney District in Anaheim, Calif., is a new, two-story food hall bringing four distinctive locations under one roof: located on the first floor, Sip & Sonder serves lattes, fresh treats, frozen drinks and small bites; Seoul Sister is a fast-casual modern eatery serving Korean-style rice bowls; GG’s Chicken Shop serves chicken sandwiches, salads and classic dinner table sides, and Vista Parkside Market, situated on the entire upper floor, offers seating for all food hall eateries and great views of the district. Here, guests will also find signature cocktails and mocktails made with local ingredients and artful garnishes. (Christian Thompson/Disneyland Resort)
Menus Revealed for Parkside Market Eateries at Downtown Disney
A vibrant new dining destination has arrived at Downtown Disney, just steps from the magic of Disneyland. Parkside Market, a two-story food hall, has recently soft-opened, offering a diverse array of culinary delights.
On the first floor, guests can savor delectable fried chicken sandwiches at GG’s Chicken Shop, indulge in flavorful Korean rice bowls at Seoul Sister, and enjoy a refreshing cup of Caribbean-inspired coffee at Sip & Sonder. Ascend to the second floor to unwind at the Vista Lounge, a sophisticated cocktail bar with captivating views.
Parkside Market is set to officially open its doors to the public in late January, promising an exciting addition to the Downtown Disney dining scene.
Guests can enjoy the convenience of ordering from the first-floor counters at GG’s Chicken Shop, Seoul Sister, and Sip & Sonder. Alternatively, they can place orders with a server at the rooftop Vista Lounge, who will deliver their meals directly to their table.
For those preferring a more casual dining experience, a limited number of tables are available for walk-up customers within the food hall on the first floor.
Take a look at the menus for the eateries:
GG’s Chicken Shop
This Chicago-based eatery, helmed by Michelin-starred and James Beard Award-winning chefs, specializes in fried chicken sandwiches and offers a menu featuring salads, sides, and desserts.
Sandwiches
Original Fried Chicken: Bread and Butter Pickles, Cabbage, Spicy Mayo, Hot Honey, Brioche Bun — $18
Sweet and Spicy Fried Chicken: Pickled Daikon Slaw, Soy Cucumbers, Kewpie Mayo, Brioche Bun — $18
Chicken Strips with Apple Juice, Waffle Fries, and one sauce — $12
Drinks
Frozen Strawberry Lemonade — $12
Seoul Sister
This fast-casual spot specializes in Korean bibimbap rice bowls and features an Asian-inspired menu with a distinct California twist, including bowls, salads, appetizers, and drinks.
All bowls served with a choice of rice, Japchae noodles or salad
Appetizers & Salads
Dumplings: Fried Beef and Vegetable Dumplings — $8
Korean Chicken Salad: Garlic Chicken, Carrots, Cucumber, Green Onion, Sesame Oil, Greens, with Spicy Gochu Seoul Sauce — $16
Drinks
Korean Yuja Lemonade — $5
Matcha Iced Tea — $5
Milk — $4
Apple Juice — $4
Fruit Punch — $4
Kids Mini Bowls
Beef Mini Bowl: Bulgogi Beef, Broccoli, Green Onion, Garlic Soy Sauce — $11
Chicken Mini Bowl: Garlic Chicken, Carrots, Broccoli, Green Onions, Furikake, Sweet Soy Sauce, and choice of Rice or Japchae Noodles — $11
Rice Bowl: Rice and Sweet Soy Sauce — $6
All Mini Bowls served with a Gimme Seaweed snack, a choice of rice or Japchae noodles and a choice of milk or juice.
Sip & Sonder
This Black women-owned coffee shop serves up Caribbean-inspired delights, including coffees, teas, lattes, espressos, cold brews, slushies, and kombuchas, alongside breakfast and dessert options.
Drinks
Coffee — $4 to $5.50
Espresso — $4 to $6.75
Tea — $4.50 to $5.75
Cold Brews — $6 to $7
Kombucha — $6 to $6.50
Iced Latte — $6.50 to $7
Specialty Lattes — $6.75 to $7
Slushies — $5.50 to $7.50
Bottled Water — $4.75 to $5
Orange or Apple Juice — $5.25
Breakfast Sandwiches
Butter Croissant — $4
Bacon, Egg & Cheese: Served with Baked Custard Egg, Cheddar Cheese, Caramelized Onion Aioli, Brioche Bun — $14
Chicken & Egg: Chicken Sausage, Farm Egg, Cheddar Cheese, Avocado, Hot Honey, English Muffin — $14
Desserts
Cinnamon Rolls: Plain, Blueberry Brown Sugar or Cookies & Cream — $7
Cake Pops: Funfetti, Red Velvet or Cookies & Cream — $3.50
Vista Lounge
Enjoy breathtaking views of Downtown Disney and the Disneyland Monorail while sipping on cocktails, wine, beer, frozen lemonades, espresso martinis, and mocktails at the rooftop bar.
Cocktails
Vista Point: Hornitos Reposado, Grapefruit, Lemon, Lime — $18
Flashy Plumage: Bacardi, Watermelon Juice, Lime Juice — $18
Golden Hue: Bombay Sapphire, Lillet Blanc, Lemon Juice, Club Soda — $18
Ready to check out these new dining spots for yourself? Contact me today to book your next visit to the Disneyland Resort! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are free, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.
Unleash Your Inner Collector With The Walt Disney World Pin Trading Starter Set
Get your trip home off to a happy start with a new hobby and Walt Disney World Pin Trading Starter Set, direct from The Most Magical Place on Earth. This exciting set, available online at the Disney Store for $44.99, is the perfect introduction to the world of Disney pin trading.
Inside, you’ll discover four vibrant cloisonné pins featuring beloved Disney characters against the backdrop of iconic Walt Disney World Resort attractions. These delightful pins showcase Mickey Mouse at Cinderella Castle (Magic Kingdom), Figment at Spaceship Earth (EPCOT), Stitch at Hollywood Tower Hotel (Disney’s Hollywood Studios), and Rafiki at Tree of Life (Disney’s Animal Kingdom).
The set also includes a stylish patterned lanyard, making it easy to display your new pins and trade with fellow Disney enthusiasts.
So, what are you waiting for? Start your Disney pin trading adventure today with this captivating starter set and bring a piece of the magic home with you.
Seas the Day with Sparkle: The Ariel Ear Headband, a Tribute to The Little Mermaid!
The Ariel Ear Headband is a must-have for any Disney fan! This enchanting accessory is inspired by the beloved Little Mermaid herself and boasts a captivating design.
The headband features padded ears adorned with shimmering seashell-shaped sequins, adding a touch of mermaid magic. Delicate pearlescent beads frame the sequins, while a vibrant green organza bow accented with a purple satin flower completes the look. This whimsical headband is perfect for any Disney enthusiast, adding a touch of fairytale charm to any outfit.
Its unique and eye-catching design makes it a standout piece of headwear. Whether you’re visiting a Disney park, attending a themed event, or simply adding a touch of Disney magic to your everyday life, this headband is sure to delight.
With its exquisite detailing and undeniable charm, the Ariel Ear Headband is a true testament to Disney’s magical creations. This fashionable accessory is a perfect addition to any Disney fan’s collection and is guaranteed to turn heads wherever you go.
Retro Chic: New Mickey and Friends Ear Headband Debuts in Magic Kingdom!
Magic Kingdom has welcomed a stylish new accessory for Disney fans! A retro-inspired Mickey and Friends ear headband has arrived, showcasing a fun and playful design.
This fashionable accessory retails for $34.99 and is currently available for purchase at Magic Kingdom.
The ears themselves are a sleek black with a unique twist: they feature the beloved character-inside-circles motif. However, this ear headband expands upon that design with the inclusion of Minnie and Daisy Duck alongside Mickey Mouse. Each character circle boasts a vibrant color scheme, differing from the color palette found on the shoes. Adding a touch of sparkle, the center bow is entirely covered in shimmering black sequins.
The fun doesn’t stop at the front! The back of each ear also features character circles, offering a delightful surprise for those who admire the headband from behind. Crafted from a stylish pleather material, both the ears and the headband itself exude a sophisticated and modern look.
Disney CEO Bob Iger Expresses Sympathy for Wildfire Victims, Highlights Impact on Disney Employees
Disney CEO Bob Iger has shared his condolences and concern for those affected by the devastating wildfires currently ravaging California. In a heartfelt post on his Instagram page, Iger highlighted the extensive damage caused by the fires, particularly in the Pacific Palisades, where he personally witnessed the destruction.
“My heart goes out to everyone who has lost homes and businesses, and to all whose lives have been impacted, including thousands of Disney employees,” Iger stated.
The Palisades Fire, now considered the most destructive wildfire in Los Angeles history, has scorched over 17,000 acres and destroyed an estimated 1,000 structures, many of them homes. Over 800 firefighters are battling the blaze, struggling to contain its spread. Evacuation orders remain in place for wide areas of the Pacific Palisades, including parts of Santa Monica, Malibu, and Topanga.
The fires have also impacted operations at Universal Studios Hollywood and CityWalk, which were closed yesterday and remain closed today. As of this writing, Disneyland Resort is operating as normal, but the situation is being closely monitored.
Iger’s message of sympathy and support underscores the widespread impact of these devastating wildfires. The Disney community stands in solidarity with all those affected, including its employees and the broader Southern California community.
Walt Disney Imagineer Joe Rohde Reflects on Devastating California Fires
Walt Disney Imagineer and Disney Legend Joe Rohde took to Instagram to share his personal connection to the devastating wildfires currently ravaging California. Rohde, known for his significant contributions to Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, recounted the history of Altadena as a haven for young Imagineers and lamented the loss of homes and memories in the fire.
In a heartfelt post, Rohde described Altadena as “a sleepy, little foothill community full of wonderful old houses that needed some love and attention.” He explained how the area became a popular spot for Imagineers in the early days of EPCOT’s development, offering affordable housing and a “homespun and midwestern” feel.
Over the decades, generations of Imagineers built their lives in Altadena, raising families and creating cherished memories. However, the recent wildfires have swept through the area, leaving devastation in their wake.
Rohde shared his grief over the loss, stating:
“Most of the places where we all lived burnt to ashes last night. The homes of many Imagineers who worked on many of the parks and attractions that Disney fans know and love are gone. Homes filled with memories, care, love and the expression of the same creative talent that went into the parks and films. Fire, when it comes, comes so fast that we must leave that all behind.”
He acknowledged the widespread devastation in other areas like Pacific Palisades and Malibu, but emphasized the personal impact of the fires on his Altadena community. “Altadena was our home and home base,” he wrote. “And as of this evening much of my old neighborhood of Altadena has vanished and with it the homes of many of my dear friends and colleagues.”
Rohde’s poignant message serves as a reminder of the human cost of these natural disasters. He concluded his post with a simple plea: “Send a prayer.”
As the fires continue to burn, the Disney community stands in solidarity with those affected, including the many Imagineers who have lost their homes and cherished memories.
Big Thunder Mountain refurbishment has kicked into high gear
Large Piece of Track Removed from Big Thunder Mountain Railroad as Refurbishment Underway
The Wildest Ride in the Wilderness is getting a much-needed refresh at Magic Kingdom! Just days after Big Thunder Mountain Railroad closed for an extended refurbishment, significant work is already underway, as crews waste no time tackling this major project.
The Big Thunder Mountain Railroad refurbishment work is moving along quickly. Just a few moments ago, crews used a crane to lift and remove a massive piece of track. The ride closed on Monday and is set to reopen next year at Magic Kingdom. pic.twitter.com/mLhgNjk3qY
Thanks to a video shared on X (formerly Twitter) by user Scott Gustin, we’ve caught a glimpse of the exciting progress. The video shows a massive piece of track being lifted and removed by crane, signaling that the refurbishment is moving along at a steady pace. The ride closed on Monday and is not expected to reopen until early 2026, leaving fans eagerly awaiting its return.
This extensive refurbishment is likely to mirror the recent overhaul of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Disneyland, which included a complete track replacement and upgraded visual effects. Guests can expect similar enhancements at Magic Kingdom, with smoother ride experiences and potentially refreshed scenes and surprises to look forward to.
While the wait for Big Thunder Mountain Railroad’s reopening may feel like an eternity, the updates are sure to breathe new life into this beloved attraction. Keep checking back for updates as the refurbishment continues—you won’t want to miss a single detail about the Wildest Ride’s return!
Courtyard Pool at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort Closing for Refurbishment This Month
Guests planning a stay at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa should prepare for refurbishment activity—specifically around the Courtyard Pool. According to a notice on the Walt Disney World website, the Courtyard Pool, spa, and Courtyard Pool Bar are scheduled to close for routine maintenance from January 13, 2025, through late February 2025 due to routine maintenance on the Courtyard Pool building.
The cooler winter months of January through March are a common time for pool maintenance at Walt Disney World, as decreased demand allows for essential updates with minimal guest impact. Although the Courtyard Pool will be unavailable during this period, guests can still enjoy the resort’s Beach Pool and its lively waterslide and splash pad.
Whether you’re visiting for a magical vacation or a relaxing retreat, the Grand Floridian Resort remains a stunning destination, even amidst a bit of pixie dust. Guests staying during this refurbishment period can look forward to refreshed amenities and the continued elegance of Disney’s flagship resort. Stay tuned for updates as the refurbishment progresses!
Disney fans have something wickedly wonderful to look forward to as preparations ramp up for Disney Villains Unfairly Ever After, the highly anticipated live show coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios in summer 2025. A recent Notice of Commencement permit filed by Disney hints at exciting developments. The permit lists InterAmerica Stage as the contractor, a trusted Walt Disney Imagineering (WDI) partner renowned for its expertise in staging and performance systems.
InterAmerica Stage, located in Seminole County Florida, is an industry leader in the entertainment industry, providing services that include overhead rigging, specialized stage machinery, structural design and engineering. With their involvement, it’s safe to say that Disney Villains Unfairly Ever After will deliver a truly spectacular experience.
The live show will bring together some of Disney’s most iconic evildoers, including Cruella de Vil, Captain Hook, and Maleficent, in show-stopping production numbers. Guests can expect a dramatic blend of mischief, mayhem, and magic as these fiendish foes “break through the glass” to claim the spotlight. The Sunset Showcase venue, which is currently under renovation, will serve as the home for this villainous extravaganza. The venue was previously occupied by Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy, which permanently closed in October 2024 to make way for this darkly delightful production.
With this latest permit and the expertise of InterAmerica Stage on board, Disney Villains Unfairly Ever After promises to bring Disney’s most infamous characters to life in ways we’ve never seen before. Summer 2025 can’t come soon enough! Stay tuned for more updates as this thrilling new chapter unfolds at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
