The Haunted Mansion Raven Shoulder Plush Is Both Spooky and Cuddly!
Giving you caws for celebration, Disney has released a new must-have accessory, The Haunted Mansion Raven Shoulder Plush. This eerie yet adorable companion is the perfect way to add a touch of spooky charm to your day. You can find it online at the Disney Store for $29.99!
With its lifelike features and soft, cuddly texture, it’s no wonder this feathered friend is quickly becoming a fan favorite. But what truly sets this raven apart is its interactive element.
Want to feel like a true ghost host? The Raven Magnetic Shoulder Plush attaches effortlessly to your shoulder thanks to an included magnetic pad. Simply place the pad under your shirt and let the raven take center stage.
But the fun doesn’t stop there. Tap the raven’s head and watch its eyes glow an eerie red as it emits spooky cawing sounds. It’s the perfect way to surprise and delight fellow Disney fans.
Whether you’re exploring the Magic Kingdom or simply relaxing at home, this Raven Magnetic Shoulder Plush is sure to be a conversation starter. So why wait? Bring a touch of the Haunted Mansion home with you today!
New Maleficent Dragon Ear Headband Ignites Magic Kingdom
Disney Parks has once again outdone themselves with the latest must-have accessory for fans of the Mistress of All Evil. The new Maleficent Dragon Ear Headband has arrived at Magic Kingdom, and it’s every bit as enchanting and sinister as the iconic villain herself.
For a cool $34.99, you can channel your inner Maleficent with this fearsome headpiece. The headband features a menacing dragon head as the centerpiece, complete with piercing eyes and outstretched wings. The ears, shaped like classic Mickey Mouse ears, are adorned with shimmering green flames that seem to dance with an otherworldly glow.
The perfect blend of darkness and Disney magic, this headband is a statement piece that will turn heads wherever you go. Whether you’re exploring the enchanting realms of the Magic Kingdom or simply adding a touch of villainy to your everyday look, this Maleficent-inspired accessory is a must-have for any Disney fan.
So, dare to embrace your wicked side and let your inner Maleficent shine with this stunning new headband. Just remember, true love’s kiss may be far, far away, but style and enchantment are always within reach.
All Aboard the Toad-ally Trendy Train: Mr. Toad Dooney and Bourke Collection Chugs Into Magic Kingdom
Fans of the mischievous Mr. Toad rejoice! Disney has unleashed a whimsical new collection in collaboration with Dooney & Bourke, featuring the beloved character from The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad. This charming line of handbags is sure to delight collectors and fashionistas alike.
Whether you’re exploring the Magic Kingdom or navigating your daily adventures, the Mr. Toad Dooney and Bourke collection has you covered. The collection currently includes two must-have styles:
Mr. Toad Dooney & Bourke Crossbody Bag ($228): This compact yet spacious bag is perfect for carrying your essentials on the go. With its adjustable strap, you can wear it across your body or as a shoulder bag. The playful Mr. Toad design will add a touch of whimsy to any outfit.
Mr. Toad Dooney & Bourke Tote Bag ($268): For those who need more room to carry their belongings, the tote bag is the ideal choice. With its roomy interior, it can hold everything from your wallet and phone to a water bottle and snacks.
Both bags feature a coated cotton design showcasing Mr. Toad and his wild ride through the countryside. The intricate details and vibrant colors bring the beloved character to life.
You can hop on board the Mr. Toad fashion train by visiting Magic Kingdom or shopping online at the Disney Store. These bags are expected to be popular, so don’t wait to add one to your collection!
Universal is rapidly closing the gap with Disney in the theme park industry, as highlighted by the latest TEA/AECOM Theme Index and Museum Index report. While Disney remains the global leader, Universal’s impressive growth in 2023 signals a shift in the competitive landscape, with the company steadily gaining ground.
One of the standout successes for Universal was Universal Studios Japan, which saw a remarkable 29.6% increase in attendance, making it the third most-visited park in the world, just behind Disney’s Magic Kingdom and Disneyland Park in Anaheim. This surge is not an isolated event; Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Studios Beijing also reported substantial gains, with attendance rising by 15% and a staggering 109.3%, respectively. These numbers highlight Universal’s growing appeal, driven by a focus on cutting-edge attractions and immersive experiences that resonate with visitors.
TEA/ACM Top 25 Theme Parks Worldwide
Universal’s momentum is poised to continue, especially with the upcoming opening of Epic Universe in 2025. While Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure did not a decline in attendance in 2023, Epic Universe is expected to draw significant attention and further bolster Universal’s position in the market.
In contrast, Disney’s Orlando parks experienced mixed results in 2023, with some parks like Magic Kingdom and EPCOT seeing modest growth, while others, such as Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom, reported declines in attendance. The TEA/ACM report noted that while Orlando remains the dominant theme park market worldwide, the market was not as strong in 2023 as it was in years past.
TEA/ACM Top 20 Theme Parks North America
This shift in dynamics suggests that Universal is not just a contender but a true competitor in the theme park industry. The company’s strategic investments and expansion efforts are paying off, making it a formidable rival to Disney’s long-standing dominance. As Universal continues to innovate and attract more visitors, the race between these two entertainment giants is becoming increasingly competitive.
The theme park landscape is evolving, and Universal’s rise is a story worth watching. While Disney may still hold the crown, Universal’s worldwide ascent signals that the battle for the top spot is far from over. Theme park enthusiasts and industry insiders alike will be keen to see how this rivalry unfolds in the coming years.
Ready to book your next epic vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Universal Orlando vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Universal destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Universal vacation package through me!
Fortnite is gearing up for an epic new chapter with the reveal of the Chapter 5 Season 4 Marvel Map, titled “Absolute Doom.” Centered around the iconic villain Doctor Doom, this season introduces a Marvel-themed overhaul of the Fortnite island, featuring new locations like Castle Doom, Doomstadt, and The Raft—a maximum-security prison submerged in water.
Epic Games shared the first look via their official Fortnite X account, showcasing these exciting new locales that will drastically alter the gameplay landscape. Doomstadt takes over the Underworld, while Castle Doom sits ominously north of Lavish Lair. The Raft, known to Marvel fans as a prison for dangerous villains, is positioned south of the Underworld and will likely become a key battleground.
Chapter 5 Season 4 kicks off on Friday, August 16th, with downtime beginning the night before. The update is expected to be larger than usual, packed with Marvel content, including a new Battle Pass featuring skins like Gwenpool, War Machine, Shuri, and more. Doctor Doom will also feature in mid-season Quests for Battle Pass holders.
Universal Orlando has given us the first tantalizing glimpse of the upcoming Stardust Racers coaster, the thrilling racing coaster set to debut at the Epic Universe park in 2025. The sneak peek came via a YouTube video featuring the Ride Guys, Dylan and Mike, who took viewers behind the scenes to explore what promises to be one of the most thrilling rides in the park.
In the video, the Ride Guys, clad in construction gear, are joined by JC, the Executive Producer for Ride and Show, who introduces Stardust Racers as his “baby” within Celestial Park, a new area within Epic Universe. The video provides context behind the coasters the imaginative backstory: the citizens of Celestial Park, affectionately known as Celestians, have discovered a way to harness the energy of comets, allowing them to race across the night sky. Guests of Celestial Park can now cash in on this tech and enjoy the Celestians beloved pastime firsthand!
As a racing coaster, Stardust Racers will feature two ride vehicles competing against each other. But what makes this experience truly special is the Celestial Spin: as the vehicles exit the second launch, one vehicle will invert over the other, creating a mind-bending moment where guests in one vehicle are looking up while those in the other are looking down—only to swap positions in a matter of milliseconds.
The sneak peak also teases the park’s groundbreaking nighttime lighting. Unlike anything Universal has done before, Celestial Park will be bathed in millions of pixels of light, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. Stardust Racers itself will take this to the next level by forgoing exterior track lighting, instead illuminating the ride vehicles so that they streak through the sky like glowing comets, visible from all around the park.
With its blend of nostalgia, cutting-edge technology, and immersive storytelling, Stardust Racers is shaping up to be a must-ride experience at Epic Universe. Keep an eye out for future updates from the Ride Guys as we countdown to the opening of this stellar new attraction. You can check out the full video below!
Ready to book your next epic vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Universal Orlando vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel specializing in Universal destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Universal vacation package through me!
SeaWorld Orlando’s Coca-Cola Celebration Heats Up with Exclusive Pass Member Perks!
The sizzling summer fun continues at SeaWorld Orlando as the park teams up with Coca-Cola for another exciting Celebration Sunday! On Sunday, August 18th from 11 AM to 4 PM, guests can enjoy complimentary Coca-Cola beverage sampling while SeaWorld Pass Members can snag an exclusive Coca-Cola apron, perfect for those end-of-summer grilling adventures.
To claim your free apron, simply visit the Coca-Cola booth located across from Nautilus Theatre and present your Annual Pass. While supplies last, Pass Members can also enjoy sampling new Coca-Cola flavors and capturing unforgettable moments at the pop-up Coca-Cola photo booth.
Not a Pass Member yet? Now’s the perfect time to join the fun! SeaWorld Orlando is currently offering an incredible flash sale where you can buy an Annual Pass and upgrade to the next tier for free. As a Pass Member, you’ll enjoy unlimited park visits, free parking, exclusive events, and amazing discounts.
Looking for an even better deal? Check out the new 2025 Fun Card! For as low as $137.99, you can experience all the thrills of SeaWorld Orlando through December 31, 2025. Plus, purchase now and enjoy the rest of 2024 at no extra cost! But hurry, prices are increasing soon, so don’t miss out!
So gather your friends and family and head to SeaWorld Orlando on August 18th for a day of fun, refreshing drinks, and exclusive giveaways!
Event Details:
When: Sunday, August 18, 2024, 11 AM – 4 PM
Where: SeaWorld Orlando – Across From Nautilus Theatre
New Tiger Lily scene is now in Peter Pan’s Flight at Magic Kingdom
Peter Pan’s Flight at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom has reopened with a new scene featuring the Never Land Tribe and Tiger Lily, marking a significant update to the ride’s portrayal of these characters.
The scene, which debuted on August 16th, 2024, showcases a harvest celebration where Tiger Lily and her great-grandmother perform by a fire. This update comes after the ride’s temporary closure in July for planned maintenance, during which Disney took the opportunity to evolve the storytelling surrounding the Never Land Tribe.
The new scene aims to provide a more respectful and culturally sensitive representation of the indigenous people of Never Land. This change reflects Disney’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity and cultural awareness in its attractions and storytelling.
Guests visiting Magic Kingdom can now experience this reimagined scene as part of their journey on Peter Pan’s Flight, adding a new layer of depth and cultural understanding to this classic attraction.
Turn Your Fantasy Football Draft Into a Party at Stadium Club Orlando
Get ready to take your fantasy football draft to the next level with Stadium Club Orlando’s exclusive Fantasy Football Draft Party Package! Designed to provide the ultimate draft day experience, this package offers everything you need to ensure your fantasy draft is as epic as your team.
Stadium Club Orlando, located at the luxurious Caribe Royale Orlando, is known for its interactive 360-degree sports viewing and state-of-the-art sports simulators, making it the perfect venue for any sports enthusiast. This all-ages venue combines the excitement of sports with elevated dining options, curated by renowned chefs Janine Booth and Jeff McInnis, both alumni of Top Chef.
When you reserve the Fantasy Football Draft Party Package, you and your group will have access to a private simulator suite for two hours. Your draft will be displayed on a massive 14-foot projection screen, ensuring every pick and stat is crystal clear. The package, priced at $400 for up to 12 guests, includes a host of perks to enhance your experience.
Fuel your draft with a delicious selection of wings and pizza—your choice of two pizzas and two orders of 18-piece wings in your favorite flavors. And to keep the good times rolling, you’ll also receive two buckets or pitchers of premium beers. Plus, you’ll enjoy complimentary self-parking, making it easy for everyone to join in on the fun.
As an added bonus, the package includes a special $100 discount on any bottle purchase, perfect for those looking to toast their picks in style. The commissioner of your league will also walk away with a free 2-hour simulator play coupon, ensuring even more game-time excitement long after the draft.
But that’s not all—if you’re among the first 10 parties to book, your league’s champion will earn a coveted Stadium Club Branded Championship Ring, a perfect way to commemorate your fantasy triumph. Plus, you’ll be entered into an exclusive raffle for a chance to win a Super Bowl Viewing Suite at Stadium Club, making this package a must-have for any serious fantasy football fan.
Make this fantasy football season unforgettable with the Fantasy Football Draft Party Package at Stadium Club Orlando. With a pro-level sports simulator, delicious food and drinks, and a host of exclusive perks, this is one draft experience you won’t want to miss. Book now and elevate your draft day to championship levels!
In a monumental achievement for Disney, the iconic song “Let It Go” from the Frozen Original Soundtrack has reached an extraordinary milestone—certified Diamond by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA®) for surpassing 10 million in sales. This marks a historic first for Walt Disney Records, underscoring the song’s incredible influence and lasting appeal.
The news was celebrated this past spring, with an official recognition during the D23: The Official Disney Fan Event in Anaheim, California. During the event, Disney Music Group President Ken Bunt presented two Diamond plaques to the song’s creators, Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, in honor of this remarkable achievement.
“Let It Go,” performed by the inimitable Disney Legend Idina Menzel, has become more than just a song; it’s a cultural phenomenon. The song garnered critical acclaim, earning the Academy Award® for Best Original Song in 2014 and the GRAMMY Award for Best Song Written for Visual Media in 2015. These accolades were just the beginning of the song’s journey, as it continued to resonate with audiences around the world, far beyond its debut in the beloved Frozen film.
In a revealing interview with D23.com, Robert Lopez reflected on the song’s enduring impact. He shared a poignant story from the documentary series Into the Unknown, where a young fan expressed how “Let It Go” helped her through a period of deep depression, thanking Disney for the song’s life-changing influence. “At its best, music can save people’s lives,” Lopez said, underscoring the powerful role art can play in offering solace during tough times. He expressed deep gratitude for Disney’s global reach, which has allowed the song to touch so many lives.
Idina Menzel, who accepted the Diamond certification for “Let It Go” on ABC’s American Idol earlier this year, has also spoken about the song’s significant role in her life. For Menzel, the character of Elsa and the song itself serve as a continuous source of inspiration. “When I’m feeling down or insecure about my own power, she reminds me to harness that,” Menzel shared, highlighting how “Let It Go” has been a constant gift that keeps giving back not only to fans but to herself as well.
The success of “Let It Go” is just one facet of the ever-growing Frozen franchise. During D23, it was also announced that Disney on Broadway’s Frozen, which was filmed on stage, will make its debut on Disney+ in 2025, with Samantha Barks, who portrays Elsa, thrilling the audience with her rendition of the song. Additionally, fans were treated to a sneak peek of Frozen 3, which is set to hit theaters on November 24, 2027.
The Frozen phenomenon extends well beyond the screen, with multiple attractions and experiences in Disney theme parks worldwide. The first Frozen-themed land, World of Frozen, opened at Hong Kong Disneyland late last year. This immersive experience is set to expand to Disney Adventure World in 2026 as part of Disneyland Paris’ largest expansion to date.
From its powerful music to its enchanting lands and experiences, Frozen continues to captivate audiences of all ages, solidifying its place in Disney history. With more exciting developments on the horizon, the legacy of “Let It Go” and the Frozen franchise is sure to keep inspiring and enchanting fans for generations to come.
Get ready to sink your fangs into a spook-tacular treat this Halloween season at Magic Kingdom! The new Minnie Mouse Spiderweb Halloween Sugar Cookie is a must-try for anyone visiting the park, especially if you’re a fan of all things sweet and festive. This delightful cookie not only captures the spirit of Halloween but also perfectly matches Minnie’s brand-new costume this year, making it a fun and flavorful way to celebrate.
We discovered this sweet creation at the Main Street Confectionery, and it’s as enchanting as it is delicious. The cookie features a deep purple base with a striking black spiderweb design, all crafted in the unmistakable shape of Minnie Mouse’s iconic silhouette. It’s almost too cute to eat—almost!
What really stands out about this cookie, besides its festive design, is its size. This treat is massive—bigger than our hand! It’s perfect for sharing or for indulging your sweet tooth all on your own. And at just $6.49, it’s a great value for such a large and beautifully decorated cookie.
Disney Parks has once again proven its prowess in the global theme park industry, solidifying its place at the top of the leaderboard according to the latest TEA/AECOM Theme Index and Museum Index. This annual report, a gold standard for benchmarking within the themed entertainment industry, highlights how Disney continues to captivate audiences and drive attendance growth even as the world emerges from the pandemic.
Disney’s dominance is clearly reflected in the numbers. The Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World remains the most visited theme park in the world, boasting a 3.4% increase in attendance to reach 17.7 million visitors. Disneyland in Anaheim follows closely with 17.25 million visitors, up 2.2% from the previous year. These figures underscore Disney’s ability to consistently draw massive crowds, maintaining its position as the leading operator in the industry.
Globally, Disney’s portfolio of parks saw a 17% increase in attendance from 2022 to 2023, bringing in over 142 million guests across its parks. This impressive growth is a testament to the enduring appeal of Disney’s storytelling and the strength of its brand, even as other operators in the industry also experience post-pandemic rebounds.
While the North American market has continued to be in a state of flux since the pandemic, Orlando remains the #1 theme park destination in the world, with 7 of the top 25 theme parks in the world calling Orlando home. These 7 parks (Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, Magic Kingdom Theme Park, Universal Studios Florida, and Universal Islands of Adventure) drew a combined 68.5 million visitors in 2023.
While Disney continues to lead the global theme park industry, Universal Destinations & Experiences is also making significant strides, showcasing its resilience and growth in 2023. Universal’s global portfolio saw an 18% increase in attendance, bringing in over 60.8 million visitors across its parks. This impressive growth was driven by the strong performance of Universal Studios Japan, which saw a 29.6% increase in attendance, and Universal Studios Beijing, which experienced a remarkable 109.3% growth as it continued to establish itself as a major player in the Asian market.
Despite some challenges in North America, where attendance at Universal Orlando’s parks saw slight declines (both Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida saw an attendance decline of about 9% in 2023, with both remaining in the top 25 theme parks in the world), the company is poised for a major boost with the highly anticipated opening of Epic Universe in 2025. This new park is expected to create substantial buzz and draw even more visitors to Universal’s already popular destinations, solidifying its place as a formidable competitor in the global theme park landscape and likely increasing the Orlando markets influence on the world-wide them park marketplace.
As the industry looks to the future, Disney is not resting on its laurels. With a $60 billion investment plan over the next decade, Disney is poised to expand its offerings even further. This includes a significant investment in the Orlando Market including the installation of two new lands at Magic Kingdom, a Monsters, Inc. expansion at Hollywood Studios, as well as the re-imagining of Animal Kingdom’s Dinoland with new attractions inspired by Encanto and Indiana Jones.
The 2023 TEA/AECOM Theme Index highlights Disney’s unmatched ability to adapt, innovate, and grow in the ever-competitive world of themed entertainment. As the global market stabilizes and looks to the future, Disney remains the leader, setting the standard for what a world-class theme park experience should be.
