Wildest Ride Returns! Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Officially Reopens at Disneyland
Following an extensive, two-month refurbishment, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Disneyland has officially reopened, welcoming guests back nearly three weeks ahead of its scheduled date.
After closing for refurbishment in early September, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Disneyland Park has surprisingly reopened its tracks. The attraction had seen several rumored reopening dates, with the most recent one being November 23. However, the operational status on the Disneyland website today confirms that the beloved coaster is running—a welcome return nearly three weeks ahead of its projected schedule.
Guests riding the freshly refurbished attraction will notice a key difference: the familiar waterfall at the top of the first cave climb has been replaced with misters. Despite this change, the Disneyland app confirms the attraction is fully operational, with wait times posted and Lightning Lane reservations currently available.
Are you excited to experience Thunder Mountain once again?
November Dates for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Officially Sold Out at Magic Kingdom
The holiday spirit is coming in hot — and apparently, so are the ticket sales. Every November date for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2025 has officially sold out, marking another year of record-fast demand for the Magic Kingdom’s most festive after-hours event.
Guests who were hoping to experience the early-season snowfall on Main Street, U.S.A. will now need to set their sights on December, where a handful of nights are still available. As of this week, tickets remain for December 7, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, and 19 — with prices ranging from $209 to $229 per person, plus tax.
That top-tier December 19 date, just days before Christmas week, currently holds the season’s highest price tag at $229, and judging by past years, it won’t stay available for long. In 2024, all nights sold out before the end of November — and 2025 looks to be on the same track.
Those lucky enough to have snagged tickets can look forward to a full slate of holiday magic, including:
Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, featuring Santa Claus himself
Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks lighting up the night sky
Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration on the Cinderella Castle stage
Frozen Holiday Surprise, bringing Arendelle’s royal sparkle to the castle
Seasonal ride overlays like the Jingle Cruise and festive spins on Space Mountain and Mad Tea Party
And, of course, complimentary cookies and cocoa served throughout the park
With holiday décor already up and the Magic Kingdom tree now in place, the season is officially underway — and if ticket trends continue, the remaining December party nights will be gone before you can say “ho ho ho.”
Walt Disney World Hotels Prepare to Unveil This Year’s Gingerbread Displays
Nothing says “it’s the holidays at Walt Disney World” quite like the scent of freshly baked gingerbread wafting through resort lobbies. For 2025, five Walt Disney World resorts will debut their gingerbread displays once again, each with its own festive twist, colorful details, and sweet story to tell.
This year’s lineup includes Disney’s Contemporary Resort, BoardWalk Inn, Beach Club Resort, Animal Kingdom Lodge, and — for the first time in six years — Wilderness Lodge.
Guests visiting the Contemporary Resort can expect the tradition to continue with a brand-new take on the shimmering gingerbread castle that’s graced the hotel for 14 seasons. Last year’s “Dream Lights Castle” incorporated actual strands of retired Cinderella Castle lights, and we can’t wait to see how the 2025 design sparkles.
Over at the BoardWalk Inn, the pastry team has become famous for transforming the lobby into a sugary seaside village. The 2024 display recreated the BoardWalk Deli in jaw-dropping detail, right down to its striped awnings and frosted “brickwork.” Expect another whimsical design this November.
The Beach Club Resort is celebrating a major milestone — 25 years of its rotating gingerbread carousel. Each year brings a new theme, and last year’s “Mickey’s Christmas Carol” motif had guests spinning with nostalgia.
Meanwhile, Animal Kingdom Lodge will once again fill its lobby with a gingerbread safari. Past creations include Ginger the Gingeraffe, Debra the Zebra, and Francisco the Flamingo — and this year’s mystery addition promises to keep the tradition wild.
Perhaps the most anticipated comeback, though, belongs to Wilderness Lodge, which returns to the gingerbread circuit after a six-year hiatus. The lodge first debuted a cozy log cabin display in 2019, and its reappearance this holiday season is sure to be a crowd-pleaser for anyone who loves a rustic dose of Christmas charm.
The famous Grand Floridian Gingerbread House will not appear this year due to lobby construction, but with five other resorts joining in the fun, guests can still enjoy a full itinerary of sugary stops through January 1, 2026.
Holiday Cheer Pops Back Into Walt Disney World with Returning Christmas Buckets and Sipper
It’s beginning to smell a lot like buttered popcorn, and that can only mean one thing: Christmas season is about to kick off at Walt Disney World! Starting November 7, a few familiar holiday novelties are making a comeback to spread some yuletide cheer (and keep your snacks merry and bright).
The Mickey Elf Popcorn Bucket, which debuted at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party last year, is coming back for another round of festive fun — this time at EPCOT. With Mickey dressed as one of Santa’s trusty helpers, this bucket is the perfect park companion for your strolls around World Showcase during the International Festival of the Holidays.
Marching back into rotation is the Mickey Toy Soldier Drummer Sipper, a fan-favorite from 2024. Mickey’s all suited up in his red and gold drum major uniform and will be drumming up spirit across Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
And over at Hollywood Studios, you’ll also find the Gold Musical Rotating Tin, which has become something of a Christmas tradition in its own right. Now in its third year, this ornate keepsake tin plays festive tunes and features charming rotating artwork — perfect for anyone who loves a collectible that jingles as much as it sparkles.
If you’re looking for something new to add to your holiday haul, keep your eyes peeled for this year’s big debut: the Christmas Tree Truck Popcorn Bucket, arriving exclusively at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser — and possibly the hottest popcorn hauler of the season.
Disney Cruise Line Will Livestream the Christening of the Disney Destiny Next Week
Get ready to raise anchor — the Disney Destiny is about to make her grand debut! Disney Cruise Line has announced that it will livestream the christening ceremony of its newest ship next Monday, November 10 at 6:30 p.m. ET, across its official social media channels.
Fans can tune in throughout the day for sneak peeks of the ship before the evening ceremony begins. The Destiny just arrived at Port Canaveral this weekend, turning heads as she sounded her signature horn playing “Go the Distance” from Hercules.
The ship’s design celebrates Heroes and Villains, with inspiration from Disney, Pixar, and Marvel stories woven throughout. The Destiny is also making a splash as the first ship in the fleet to feature a Marvel atrium statue and stern character, with Spider-Man taking center stage.
Disney recently shared the ship’s detailed cross-section artwork, giving guests a look at the imaginative spaces onboard — from grand dining rooms and entertainment venues to luxurious staterooms.
The Destiny will embark on her maiden voyage November 20, beginning an inaugural season of four- and five-night sailings to the Bahamas and Western Caribbean from Port Everglades.
Fans can catch all the excitement live on November 10 as the Disney Destiny officially joins the fleet and takes her place among the stars of the sea.
New Seasonal Extras Available to Disneyland Magic Key Holders
New seasonal extras are now available for Disneyland Magic Key holders! Magic Keys are Disneyland’s version of Annual Passes. These passes come with extra perks and benefits exclusive to Passholders.
Celebrate 30 years of A Christmas Fantasy Parade (returning on November 14, 2025) with a Magic Key lenticular card series giveaway! Collect all 4 lenticular trading cards—each showcasing a beloved float from the iconic parade. Watch as each card’s image magically shifts and moves with brilliance right before your eyes.
The giveaway kicks off on November 3, 2025! Every Monday a new card drops. Visit each week to pick up the latest lenticular collectible to complete your set. When you pick up your first trading card, you’ll also receive a special frame. Collect all 4 cards and proudly display your entire collection in dazzling style!
When and Where to Pick Up Your Cards Dates: November 3 through November 27, 2025 Times: During regular operating hours Locations: Disneyana, Disneyland Park Kingswell Shop, Disney California Adventure Park WonderGround Gallery, Downtown Disney District
Also new at Disneyland is a 10th collectible pin with the Key to Disneyland experience! The 10th pin features a Key to Disneyland across the iconic Disney letter ‘D’. Along with this new pin, all other collectible pins are now gold instead of the previous silver. This new collection became available today, November 3.
Get Ready for New Holiday Food and Drink Offerings Across Disney World
The holiday season has officially arrived at Walt Disney World Resort, bringing with it a sleigh-full of delicious holiday food and drink offerings! This is truly the tastiest time of year, offering countless ways to celebrate with special seasonal treats. Whether you are strolling through Disney Springs or spending the day at one of the Walt Disney World Theme Parks, every foodie will find a perfect holiday bite to enjoy.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
Creature Comforts
(Available December 1 through December 31)
Peppermint Ganache Brownie: Fudge brownie topped with peppermint-white chocolate ganache and peppermint pieces (New)
Flame Tree Barbecue
(Available December 1 through December 31; mobile order available)
Cranberry-Cherry Cheesecake Pop: White chocolate cheesecake with cranberry-cherry swirl dipped in dark chocolate with cookie crust (New)
Restaurantosaurus
(Available November 14 through January 1)
Frozen Hot Cocoa: Frozen Hot Cocoa by Joffrey’s with toasted marshmallow, whipped cream, holiday sprinkles, chocolate dinosaur, and a chocolate rim (New)
Gingerbread Cookie (New)
Sugar Cookie: Sugar cookie dipped in green sugar with dinosaur-themed chocolate disc (New)
Various Outdoor Vending Locations
(Available December 1 through December 31)
Chocolate Chip Cookie made with M&M’S Milk Chocolate Candies Holiday Blend (New)
Mickey Cinnamon Roll with Christmas-colored Icing (New)
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
ABC Commissary
(Available November 1 through January 4; mobile order available)
Linzer Cookie Mousse Torte: Layers of hazelnut cake, raspberry-blackcurrant mousse, raspberry jam, and sweet snow-dusted linzer cookie
Backlot Express
(Available November 1 through January 4; mobile order available)
Coquito Wreath Cupcake: Coquito custard-filled vanilla cupcake topped with coquito buttercream, chocolate bow, gold crispy pearls, and rainbow sprinkles
Dockside Diner
(Available November 1 through January 4; mobile order available)
Red Velvet Holiday Milk Shake: Red velvet milk shake swirled with chocolate sauce and topped with whipped cream, rainbow sprinkles, and a holiday tree sugar cookie
Rosie’s All-American Café
(Available November 1 through January 4; mobile order available)
Coquito Wreath Cupcake: Coquito custard-filled vanilla cupcake topped with coquito buttercream, chocolate bow, gold crispy pearls, and rainbow sprinkles
The Trolley Car Café
(Available November 1 through January 4)
Mickey Gingerbread Cookie: A soft gingerbread cookie with white chocolate Mickey details
Woody’s Lunch Box
(Available November 1 through January 31; mobile order available)
Hot Cocoa Lunch Box Tart: Chocolate fudge filling, hot cocoa-marshmallow fondant, and mini marshmallows
Magic Kingdom Park
Aloha Isle Refreshments
(Available November 7 through December 25; mobile order available)
Santa Surf Shack Float: Minute Maid Passion Fruit Orange Guava Juice, coconut soft-serve, and a spiced pineapple tree pop
Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies
(Available November 7 through December 21; mobile order available)
Cherry Cordial Cold Brew: Joffrey’s Cold Brew Coffee topped with cherry whipped cream, chocolate sauce, and chocolate curls
Columbia Harbour House
(Available November 7 through January 3; mobile order available)
Gingerbread Cake: Tree-shaped gingerbread chiffon cake with cream cheese frosting, whipped dulce de leche panna cotta, crispy pearls, and a chocolate piece
Liberty Square Market
(Available November 7 through January 3)
Mickey Whoopie Pie: Chocolate cake sandwiched with marshmallow-mint buttercream (Plant-based)
Plaza Ice Cream Parlor
(Available November 7 through January 3)
Gingerbread Milk Shake: Vanilla ice cream, gingerbread syrup, and ginger snap crumbs topped with whipped cream and a chocolate gingerbread man
The Plaza Restaurant
(Available November 7 through January 3)
Holiday Beef Pot Roast: Served in a puff pastry crust with mashed potatoes, beer-battered onion rings, and black garlic-truffle aïoli (New)
Holiday Turkey Meatloaf with mashed potatoes, green beans, cornbread crumbles, and cranberry barbecue sauce (New)
Pistachio and Cherry Cheesecake with Morello Cherry Compote (New)
Holiday Cosmopolitan: Grainger’s Deluxe Organic Vanilla Vodka, Cointreau Liqueur, and cranberry and lime juices garnished with a sugar rim (New)
Novelties Available Throughout the Resort
Gold Musical Rotating Tin (Limit two per person, per transaction; available starting Nov. 7)
Location: Various popcorn carts throughout Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Mickey Elf Bucket (Limit two per person, per transaction; available starting Nov. 7)
Location: Various popcorn carts throughout EPCOT
Mickey Toy Soldier Drummer Sipper (Limit two per person, per transaction; available starting Nov. 7)
Locations:
At Disney’s Hollywood Studios: ABC Commissary, Backlot Express, and Fairfax Fare
At Magic Kingdom Park: Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café and Pinocchio Village Haus
At EPCOT: Connections Eatery and Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue
The one little spark we needed for our shoe collection has officially arrived: Figment Crocs! Seriously, these aren’t just your average comfy clogs; they are a full-on, vibrant tribute to the most imaginative dragon around, straight from the Journey Into Imagination attraction at EPCOT. They’re decked out in Figment’s iconic two-tone colors, a beautiful blend of purple and orange, so you can wear your EPCOT pride right on your feet.
Ready to add this spark of imagination to your wardrobe? You can snag these whimsical wonders right now for $64.99! Head on over to the Disney Store onlineand grab your pair before they disappear.
But here’s where the real magic happens. These Crocs have gone totally 3D! That’s right, they feature fantastic little molded accents like Figment’s horns and expressive eyes on the front. And check out the heel strap, it’s got his adorable wings so you can literally take a little flight of fancy with every step. Plus, even the inside has been upgraded. The molded, textured insole means your dream-finding adventures are going to be super comfy, whether you’re racing around a park or just hanging out at home.
Trust us, these character clogs are a total vibe, making it easier than ever to live by the motto: “One little spark can light up your imagination!”
Double Your Style With This Figment Reversible Sweatshirt!
Get ready to inject some serious imagination into your wardrobe because the Figment Reversible Sweatshirt is here, and it’s totally whimsical. This isn’t just any pullover; it’s like getting two awesome shirts in one, perfect for showing off your love for the little purple dragon, whichever way you feel like facing the day.
Retailing for $59.99online at the Disney Store, this sweatshirt is a super fun way to keep cozy and show your EPCOT pride.
One side of this inventive design gives you a big, fired-up smile from Figment, complete with his name. When you turn around, it shows the back of his adorable head and the mirrored text. It’s a fun, playful look that says, “Yeah, I love Journey Into Imagination!”
But wait, there’s more! Remember that this top is reversible. Flip it completely inside out, and you reveal a bold, allover print featuring Figment’s face everywhere! It’s an instant pop of color and personality that makes a statement without you even having to say “One little spark!”
It really fits that an item celebrating the Imagination pavilion would be so clever in its design. So whether you’re headed to the parks or just hanging out at home, you can snag this must-have piece of merchandise right now online at the Disney Store. Don’t miss out on grabbing this fantastically imaginative top!
Adorable Cinderella Gus Festive Shoulder Plush at Disney Springs!
Seriously, stop what you’re doing, because we found the cutest little sidekick that Disney has dropped recently! It’s none other than Gus-Gus, the beloved mouse from Cinderella, and he’s ready to hitch a ride on your shoulder! We stumbled upon this adorable find at Disney Springs and we’re totally obsessed. This isn’t just any plush, folks; it’s a Gus festive shoulder plush, meaning he can become a part of your daily Disney adventures without you having to carry him!
For just $27.99, you can bring this sweet little guy home. The details are fantastic, he’s got that lovely soft-feel design that’s perfect for snuggles, and his facial features are beautifully embroidered, giving him that classic, innocent look we all love. But the best part? Gus is totally dressed for the occasion with a festive hat! While we’re not sure exactly what season he’s celebrating, he certainly looks ready for a party, making him a perfect year-round addition to your wardrobe.
Imagine strolling through the parks or even just hanging out at home with Gus perched right there! These shoulder plushes usually have a little magnet system, which means they stay put on your clothing like magic. It’s the perfect way to let the adorable mouse from Cinderella join in on all your daily fun. Whether you’re a long-time Cinderella fan or just love cute collectibles, the Gus Festive Shoulder Plush is a total win. Go grab one before they scurry away!
Parkside Market located in Downtown Disney District Anaheim, has launched a new Perks Loyalty Program. Elevate your culinary experience at the Disneyland Resort because Parkside Market is redefining the meaning of a quick-service stop! This stunning, two-story food hall is a vibrant anchor for the west end of the district, seamlessly blending mid-century modern design with a diverse and utterly delicious array of dining concepts. Forget your old routines Parkside Market is a destination in itself.
Parkside Market is far more than a collection of eateries; it’s a beautifully curated space that celebrates global flavors and stunning aesthetics. Taking inspiration from the sleek lines and bold color palettes of Southern California’s mid-century modern architecture, the market is a visual treat. From custom tile-work to curated furnishings, every corner invites you to linger and explore.
The new perks program allows you to earn 1 point for every $1 spent on food or beverage at GG’s Chicken Shop, Seoul Sister, and upstairs at Vista Parkside Market. For every 250 points earned, you get $25 back to put towards your next purchase at Parkside Market. Members will also get 100 bonus points just for signing up, get access to special double or triple point days, will be the first to know about upcoming events (like the new mixology classes!) and specials, and more.
You can sign up HERE and start earning right away.
In addition to earning points with food purchase, Parkside Market is an official drop off location for Downtown Disney Districts Toys for Tots Donation. Drop off your toy donation at the market and get 75 bonus points. Bring three toys and get a bonus 250 points. This promotion runs November 3rd – December 12.
You can sign up HERE and start earning right away.
Get in the “Festive Spirits” at Vista this Holiday Season. Trade the hustle for holiday cheer and join Parkside Market for a calendar full of festive fun.
From shaking up handcrafted cocktails in a Mixology Class to enjoying a competitive round of Holiday Bingo or discovering new favorites at a Spirit Tasting, they have got your perfect winter escape. Available November 16 – December 20. To get tickets click here.
If you’re strolling through the Norway Pavilion in Epcot’s World Showcase, you might stumble upon a souvenir that’s a little… extra. We’re talking about an absolutely epic Viking Nutcracker that will make your wallet gasp. This figure isn’t just a holiday decoration; it’s a statement piece, and it’s clocking in at a cool $212.99! Seriously, you’ll need to channel your inner Viking to conquer this purchase.
Why the hefty price tag? Well, this isn’t your grandma’s nutcracker. This legendary figure is decked out in incredible detail that screams “Norse warrior.” He sports some serious fur-lined clothing and boots, making him look ready to raid a frosty fjord. But the best part? He stands on an awesome display base that looks just like a Viking ship! Talk about making an entrance on your mantelpiece.
To complete his fierce look, our wooden warrior is topped with a distinct silver-colored Viking horned helmet, a total classic, even if those weren’t historically accurate! In one hand, he bravely holds a shield, and in the other, he wields a gnarly, double-headed staff axe. Basically, he looks ready to protect your castle (or just your living room) from any invading squirrels.
So, if you’re looking for the ultimate, splurge-worthy souvenir from your Epcot adventure, this Viking Nutcracker from the Norway Pavilion is a showstopper. Go ahead, treat yourself like royalty and bring home a piece of Norse mythology, just be sure to check your park budget before you commit to this formidable figure!
