Disney Reveals First Look at New Frozen Ever After Animatronics at EPCOT
Walt Disney World has shared the first images of the significantly updated Audio-Animatronics figures debuting at Frozen Ever After in EPCOT. This update marks a major technological shift for the popular World Showcase attraction, moving away from the original projected facial features that have been in place since the ride opened.
The most notable change in this refurbishment is the complete replacement of the heads for the Anna, Elsa, and Kristoff animatronics. These figures now feature fully-articulated physical faces, providing a more natural and “true-to-film” appearance. In addition to the new facial mechanics, the animatronic bodies were refurbished to allow for more fluid and refined character movements.
This specific update was inspired by the advanced Audio-Animatronics developed for the Frozen Ever After attraction that debuted at Hong Kong Disneyland in 2023.
Beyond the Characters
While the new animatronics are the highlight of the project, Disney also utilized the brief closure to perform several technical and aesthetic improvements throughout the attraction:
Show Systems: The ride’s show control system has been updated for better reliability.
Visuals: Show lighting has been refreshed to enhance the overall atmosphere.
Scenery: Various sets throughout the ride path received fresh paint and touch-ups.
Reopening Information
The attraction officially closed for this transformation on January 26, 2026. Fans of the Arendelle sisters won’t have to wait much longer to see these changes in person, as the ride is scheduled to reopen to guests on February 12, 2026.
New Walt Disney Studios Merchandise at the Disney Store!
If you’ve ever dreamed of walking the historic lots of Burbank or Hyperion Avenue, the latest Walt Disney Studios collection at the Disney Store is basically a wearable time machine. It’s a love letter to the history of animation, blending that classic “Old Hollywood” charm with the contemporary magic of the Roy E. Disney Animation Building. Whether you’re a die-hard Disney historian or just want to look like you’ve been invited to the most exclusive studio lot on earth, there is something here for everyone.
For those chilly California mornings (or just a cozy movie night at home), the sweatshirt lineup is top-tier. If you’re into texture, the $49.99 Mickey Mouse Pullover features embroidered chenille appliqués that feel as premium as a VIP tour. But if you’re a real history buff, the $59.99 version is the one to snag. It pays homage to the 1930s Hyperion Avenue site with a neon-inspired design and even includes a vintage flow chart of studio departments on the back. It’s basically a walking infographic for animation nerds.
You can’t talk Disney merch without mentioning this 1/4 zip pullover ($89.99)is a showstopper. It features puffy Mickey poses and the “Studios” logo on the back, with the letters filled with illustrations of the Burbank lot.
If you prefer something lighter for a day in the sun, the $32.99 T-shirts offer a mix of vintage vibes and modern nods. The light blue option is particularly cool, featuring Mickey leading a parade of friends in front of the modern Animation Building, finished off with Walt Disney’s signature embroidered on the front.
Finally, for the collectors who want something for their shelf rather than their closet, the Mickey Mouse Director Plush ($29.99) is an absolute must-have. Dressed in a dapper 1920s outfit, complete with a newsboy cap, sweater vest, and a megaphone, this Mickey looks ready to call “Action!” on the next masterpiece. With the studio logo embroidered right on his foot, he’s the perfect soft souvenir to remind you where all the magic started.
Step Into the Golden Age: The Shaken & Stirred Cocktail Series Returns to The Edison
Dust off your waistcoats and pearls—the roaring ’20s are making a grand comeback at Disney Springs. The Edison has officially announced the return of its highly anticipated Shaken & Stirred Cocktail Series for 2026.
This isn’t your average happy hour. This is an intimate, deep-dive masterclass into the art of the pour, set against the backdrop of industrial gothic elegance. With only 10 spots available per session, these classes offer a rare chance to go behind the bar and learn the secrets of the craft from the masters themselves.
Whether you’re a gin-joint regular or a total novice, this year’s lineup covers the full spectrum of cocktail culture:
Date
Theme
What to Expect
Feb 14
Dessert & Indulgence
Sweet nightcaps and elegant after-dinner drinks.
Mar 14
St. Patrick’s Day Special
The rich history and smoky allure of Irish whiskey.
Apr 11
Global Spirits
A liquid passport to the world’s most iconic drinking cultures.
Apr 25
Tiki & Polynesian Pop
Tropical flavors, complex rums, and the art of the tiki mug.
May 9
The Perfect Martini
The ultimate debate: shaken vs. stirred.
May 23
Frozen Summer Classics
Mastering the chill on quintessential warm-weather sips.
June 6
The Art of Infusions
Learning to flavor spirits with fresh herbs, fruits, and spices.
Why It’s the Hottest Ticket in Disney Springs
The Edison is known for its “Industrial Gothic” vibe and world-class entertainment, but the Shaken & Stirred series offers a quieter, more intellectual side of the nightlife destination.
By the end of the final June 6 infusion class, you won’t just be drinking better—you’ll be hosting better. From balancing the botanical notes of a martini to understanding the fermentation of Irish malts, you’ll walk away with skills that extend far beyond the Disney gates.
Pro Tip: Because these classes are limited to just 10 guests, they tend to sell out faster than a cold drink on a Florida July. If you have your eye on a specific date, early booking is essential.
Ready to Raise a Glass?
You can secure your spot at the bar by booking your tickets here. Grab your favorite glass and prepare to bring your tastebud game!
ESPN Unveils “The Year of the Super Bowl” A Landmark, Yearlong Celebration Building Toward ESPN’s First Super Bowl in February 2027
ESPN has officially announced “The Year of the Super Bowl,” an ambitious 12-month, multi-platform celebration leading up to the network’s historic first-ever Super Bowl production in February 2027. This collaboration between ESPN, Disney, and the NFL aims to redefine the fan experience by blending world-class storytelling with innovative technology across broadcasting, digital platforms, and Disney’s theme parks.
“The Handoff” Kicks Off the Countdown. The initiative launched immediately following Super Bowl LX, where the Seattle Seahawks defeated the New England Patriots. A symbolic “handoff” occurred as legendary broadcaster Chris Berman ceremonially transitioned coverage from Levi’s Stadium to Scott Van Pelt at SoFi Stadium—the future site of Super Bowl LXI.
Following the game, Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III and quarterback Sam Darnold continued the iconic “I’m going to Disneyland!” tradition. The celebration moved to Disneyland Park, where a custom-built set in Town Square hosted live broadcasts of First Take, SportsCenter, and NFL Live.
Yearlong Storytelling and New Content. Central to the celebration is a massive content slate designed to honor the legacy of the Big Game:
“I Scored a Touchdown” Series: This weekly feature spotlights 61 different players who have reached the end zone in Super Bowl history. The series debuted with David Tyree, highlighting his fourth-quarter touchdown in Super Bowl XLII.
“The Biggest Game” Video Podcast: Hosted by Emmy-winner Jeremy Schaap, this new weekly series explores six decades of iconic moments, from legendary performances to culture-shaping commercials. The first episode, featuring Chris Berman, is available now.
“We’re Going” Campaign: A high-energy marketing spot debuted on Good Morning America, featuring over 60 Disney characters—including Buzz Lightyear, Iron Man, and Moana—all traveling toward Super Bowl LXI.
Looking Toward February 2027 The initiative will continue to evolve with signature activations at major league events, including the NFL Draft and Monday Night Football. Everything builds toward Super Bowl LXI on February 14, 2027, which will receive a comprehensive “MegaCast” treatment. This historic broadcast will feature Joe Buck and Troy Aikman on ESPN/ABC, the popular ManningCast on ESPN2, and live streaming across Disney+ and Hulu.
Disney Advertising is also introducing premium opportunities for brand partners, offering cross-platform visibility throughout this unprecedented yearlong celebration.
Bath & Body Works launches the 2nd Disney Princess Collection!
Get ready to transform your daily routine into a fairytale! Building on the massive success of their debut collaboration, Bath & Body Works and Disney are officially launching the next chapter of their partnership on February 13, 2026.
This new 92-product collection introduces five brand-new fragrances inspired by beloved heroines, while bringing back two “vaulted” favorites that fans have been begging for.
Each fragrance has been meticulously crafted to evoke the personality and world of a specific princess. Whether you prefer dreamy florals or bold, fresh notes, there is a scent for every story:
Aurora: A dreamy blend of soft rose petals and sandalwood, finished with a sprinkle of “fairy dust.”
Rapunzel: Bright and optimistic, featuring glowing sundrop flowers, rich nectar, and golden musk.
Mulan: A courageous mix of magnolia blossom, radiant apricot, and the freshness of “fierce waters.”
Snow White: A whimsical combination of mystic red apple and ripened fruits set against enchanted woods.
Life’s a Fairytale: The collection’s signature “happily ever after” scent, blending charming berries, whimsical florals, and warm kingdom woods.
You asked, and they listened! The two most popular scents from the original collection are officially back:
Belle: The elegant mix of rose petals, sparkling buttercup, and whipped vanilla.
Tiana: The harmonious blend of water lily, gilded amber, and bayou woods.
Collectible Accessories & Pricing
The magic doesn’t stop at body care. This launch includes some of the most intricate decorative accessories Bath & Body Works has ever produced. Prices start at just $1.95 for PocketBacs and go up to $125.00 for high-end collectible pedestals.
Must-Have Accessories:
Life’s a Fairytale Keepsake Music Box: A stunning piece to store your treasures.
Castle 3-Wick Pedestal: The ultimate centerpiece for your favorite Disney candle.
Gold All Princess Backpack: For the princess on the go.
How to Shop
While the general public can shop in stores and online starting February 13, loyalty members get the royal treatment.
Early Access: Bath & Body Works Rewards members can shop select items—including the full Life’s a Fairytale line and the mini fragrance mist gift set—on February 12 via the app.
With a scent for every story and accessories fit for a palace, this new collection invites you to bring a touch of Disney magic home and live out your own fairytale every single day!
Aulani Resort Sweeps the Top Spot in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Hotels
The 2026 U.S. News & World Report Best Hotels rankings dropped yesterday, and Disney’s Aulani Resort & Spa has officially claimed the #1 spot as the Best Family Hotel in the USA. Beating out over 31,000 properties nationwide, the Ko Olina retreat proved that Disney magic is just as powerful on the shores of Oʻahu as it is in the theme parks.
To determine their 2026 rankings, U.S. News & World Report evaluated more than 31,000 properties across 400 global destinations. Emerging at the very top of this competitive field, Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, O’ahu, has officially been crowned the #1 Best Family Hotel in the U.S.A. for the year.
Zach Watson, senior data editor for travel at U.S. News, noted that the hotels featured in this year’s rankings represent the gold standard for exceptional service and world-class amenities. He emphasized that this recognition distinguishes these resorts as the absolute best in the industry, serving as the definitive guide for travelers looking to book a truly premium and memorable experience.
A First Look Inside the Disney Adventure Staterooms
Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship, Disney Adventure, sets sail on its maiden voyage on March 10. Today, we’re taking a look at the different staterooms onboard this exciting new ship!
Inside Staterooms
Inside staterooms are ideal for adventurous friends traveling together and sleep up to 4 Guests. After a day of fun, sun and adventure, it’s the perfect place to recharge with a good night’s sleep.
Oceanview Staterooms
Designed to accommodate up to 4 Guests, these beautifully appointed staterooms feature individual single beds, ensuring a good night’s sleep for everyone. Gaze out the large porthole window for breathtaking views of the sea.
Oceanview Staterooms with Verandah
Created with families in mind, the most popular staterooms sleep up to 4 Guests and feature a private balcony offering breathtaking views of either the ocean, Disney Imagination Garden or Disney Discovery Reef. This airy sanctuary is where you can watch the sun rise, bask in ocean breezes and enjoy your morning coffee or an evening nightcap.
Concierge Inside Stateroom
Rest and relax in this family-sized stateroom inspired by Thor and featuring all the comforts of home, including a main bedroom, a secondary bedroom and 2 en suite bathrooms. This room sleeps up to 6 guests.
Concierge Stateroom with Verandah
Relax in your luxurious home on the high seas inspired by the adventures of Frozen, Aladdin, Thor and The Little Mermaid. Moana fans will love the special selection of staterooms overlooking the open oasis of Wayfinder Bay. These rooms sleep up to 6 guests.
Concierge Oceanview Staterooms
Relax in luxurious accommodations featuring enchanting details inspired by the undersea wonder of The Little Mermaid, the royal elegance of Valaskjalf from the Thorfilms and the vibrant allure of the Sultan’s Palace from Aladdin. Each stateroom offers sweeping ocean views from your own private balcony. These rooms can sleep 5-6 guests.
Concierge 1-Bedroom Oceanview Suite
Spread out in palatial quarters boasting elegant details and first-class amenities inspired by either the Royal Palace of Valaskjalf from the Thor films or the Sultan’s Palace from the Disney animated movie Aladdin.
Concierge Royal Suite with Oceanview Verandah
Set sail on an enchanting voyage worth melting for with these Royal Suites boasting extravagant details and first-class amenities that recall the heartwarming tales from the Disney Frozen movies. Both the Elsa Royal Suite and the Anna Royal Suite feature spacious living rooms, themed artwork and decor, a dining area with a bar, a large main bedroom and a children’s bedroom with bunk beds (2 singles). They also include 2 en-suite bathrooms and an extended verandah, complete with a private whirlpool and a seating area offering panoramic ocean views.
Delight in icy light fixtures, snowflake patterns and a soothing palette of soft blues and grays with pops of periwinkle and purple in the Elsa Royal Suite. Or embrace the beauty of summertime in full bloom in the Anna Royal Suite, decorated in deep greens, rich wood tones and signature purple accents. Up to 6 guests can sleep in these rooms.
What stateroom would you like to stay in on the Disney Adventure?
Nicolas Cage Goes Full Noir in First Look at Live-Action Spider-Noir Series
Cue the jazz, crank up the shadows, and grab the fedora because Nicolas Cage is officially suiting up as Spider-Man Noir in live action. Prime Video has revealed the first look at Spider-Noir via reporting by Variety, a new series that brings Cage’s fan-favorite animated character from Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse into the real world, trench coat and all. The black-and-white image debuted during Amazon’s upfronts and shows Cage wearing the character’s signature fedora, white goggles, webbed mask, and coat, instantly signaling that this is going to be a stylish throwback with a moody edge.
Set to premiere in 2026, Spider-Noir follows an older, world-weary private investigator in 1930s New York who happens to have a complicated past as the city’s only superhero. While the character will feel familiar to Spider-Verse fans, the series is actually based on the Spider-Man Noir comic books rather than directly tied to the animated films. In a very on-theme twist, the show will be available to stream in both black-and-white and full color, letting viewers choose just how noir they want their Spidey experience.
Photo Credit: Variety
The cast stacks up fast alongside Cage, with Lamorne Morris, Brendan Gleeson, Abraham Popoola, Li Jun Li, Karen Rodriguez, and Jack Huston joining the main lineup, plus a deep bench of guest stars. The series is produced by Sony Pictures Television for MGM+ and Prime Video, with Harry Bradbeer directing and executive producing the first two episodes. Creative duties are handled by co-showrunners Oren Uziel and Steve Lightfoot, alongside Spider-Verse heavy hitters Phil Lord, Christopher Miller, and Amy Pascal, which is about as strong a creative web as you could spin.
Spider-Noir will debut domestically on MGM+ before swinging worldwide onto Prime Video the next day, giving fans plenty of time to dust off their detective hats. Between the period setting, Cage’s return to the role, and that bold visual style, this one already feels like it is lining up to be a noir-flavored standout in the ever-expanding Spider-Verse.
Hasbro Waves Its Wand and Becomes the Primary Harry Potter Toy Licensee Starting in 2027
The Wizarding World toy aisle is about to get a serious upgrade. Hasbro has officially announced a multi year licensing partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery that will make Hasbro the global primary toy licensee for the Harry Potter franchise beginning in 2027. This new deal covers merchandise inspired by the original films, the Fantastic Beasts universe, and the upcoming Harry Potter, which is also set to premiere that year.
Fans can expect a wide range of products including dolls, action figures, collectibles, interactive plush, board games, and additional items that will be revealed later this year as the magical rollout continues. The timing of the partnership is no coincidence, as the Wizarding World celebrates the 25th anniversary of the first Harry Potter film while preparing for a brand new chapter on HBO.
Hasbro leadership says the franchise aligns perfectly with its goal of delivering imaginative play experiences across generations, while Warner Bros. Discovery sees the partnership as a way to expand Harry Potter’s legacy with fresh, innovative merchandise tied to both beloved stories and new interpretations.
For fans who frequent Universal parks, keep an eye on shop shelves because this announcement likely signals a whole new wave of Wizarding World merchandise headed our way just as excitement ramps up for the new series.
EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival 2026 Magic Shots Are Blooming With PhotoPass Fun
Springtime at EPCOT means flowers in bloom, snacks on every corner, and a PhotoPass game that suddenly goes into overdrive. The 2026 EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival runs March 4 through June 1, and Disney has revealed a colorful lineup of new and returning Magic Shots that feel custom built for your camera roll. Whether you are team butterflies, team Orange Bird, or fully committed to chasing Spike the Bee across the park, this year’s Magic Shots add even more reasons to stop, pose, and smile.
Brand new Magic Shots are popping up all over EPCOT for the festival. Guests can snap a photo with Gardener Mickey using the Poppy Seed Prop and Giant Flower Magic Shot along the pathway to CommuniCore Hall, while Spike the Bee buzzes into frames with the Honey Jar Prop Magic Shot near the Germany and Italy Pavilions and over in Japan.
Thumper fans can hold a tiny topiary version of the classic character in the palm of their hand between Italy and Germany, and Encanto fans can pose with Isabela as she creates vibrant flowers in another Magic Shot nearby. Over in World Discovery, Groot appears as an adorably small topiary near Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind, proving once again that tiny Groot is undefeated.
Returning Magic Shots bring back plenty of springtime sparkle. Butterflies flutter around guests on the bridge to World Showcase, fairy wings appear at PhotoPass locations throughout World Showcase, and Orange Bird continues to surprise guests at all World Celebration PhotoPass spots.
The Tiny World Magic Shot also returns near the entrance fountain, wrapping the park into a 360-degree globe filled with festival-exclusive artwork. It all pairs perfectly with the festival’s massive lineup of character topiaries, gardens, outdoor kitchens, scavenger hunts, and the Garden Rocks Concert Series, making Flower and Garden one of EPCOT’s most photogenic seasons of the year.
EPCOT’s Flower and Garden Festival 2026 Blooms Bigger Than Ever With Returning Favorites and Brand New Gardens
Spring is ready to show off at EPCOT, and the 2026 EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival is shaping up to be a full-on floral glow up. Disney has officially confirmed the full list of topiaries and gardens for this year’s festival, running March 4 through June 1, 2026, and it is packed with nostalgia, Pixar power, and some fresh new green spaces that feel plucked straight from the future.
With more than 60 topiaries and 30 gardens across the park, this festival is once again turning EPCOT into a living storybook you can stroll through one petal at a time. Guests entering the park will be greeted by a playful Pixar welcome featuring Buzz Lightyear, Woody, Bo Peep and her sheep, Lotso, and the iconic Pixar Ball. World Celebration also gets extra love with Mickey, Minnie, Chip n Dale, and Pluto, plus Figment popping among colorful topiary flowers.
Several long-missed favorites are finally sprouting back into view, including Stitch near Mission SPACE, Mike Wazowski and Sulley near Creations Shop, and Lightning McQueen and Mater racing back into World Discovery near Connections Café.
Around World Showcase, familiar scenes return with Beauty and the Beast in France, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs in Germany, Lady and the Tramp in Italy, Princess Tiana in the American Adventure Pavilion, Miguel and Dante in Mexico, and Winnie the Pooh and friends nestled between Canada and the United Kingdom. Near the Imagination Pavilion, Simba and his pride return alongside Mirabel, Antonio, Isabela, and Luisa, making this area a must-stop photo loop.
The garden lineup is just as impressive, with a giant butterfly-shaped topiary covered in warm orange and yellow blooms taking center stage as one of the festival’s most eye-catching displays. New for 2026 is the Wildlife Crossing Garden near CommuniCore Hall, inspired by the upcoming Disney and Pixar film Hoppers and focused on how animals safely navigate shared spaces.
Pet lovers will want to sniff out the new Pet-Friendly Garden near The Seas with Nemo and Friends, while plant trend watchers can explore the Trendy Tropicals Garden between Morocco and France. The Rain or Shine Fruit Stand presented by Outshine near CommuniCore Plaza adds a splash of science by celebrating the water cycle and how it fuels crops. Fan favorites are back too, including Butterfly Landing presented by AdventHealth, the Honey Bee-stro Garden, Blossoms of Fragrance presented by Scentsy, and the English Tea Garden in the United Kingdom Pavilion.
Spike’s Garden also returns inside CommuniCore Hall with glow-in-the-dark elements that transform as day turns to night, and the popular Spike’s PollenNation Exploration and Eggstravaganza scavenger hunts are once again on the schedule.
Disney Cruise Line Summer 2027 Itineraries are Officially Here
Disney Cruise Line is set to expand its horizon of magic with the official launch of its Summer 2027 itineraries! This upcoming season offers families more ways than ever to explore the globe, blending brand-new destinations with returning fan-favorite ports for a truly unforgettable vacation at sea.
Wish Upon a Wave in Europe
Currently sailing out of Port Canaveral on three- and four-night sailings to The Bahamas, the Disney Wish will debut in Europe for the first time following a special repositioning cruise.
Families can choose from three- to ten-night itineraries that visit new ports such as Zadar in Croatia, Trieste near Venice in Italy, and Hellesylt in Norway. Each itinerary blends cultural discovery, breathtaking coastlines and the signature storytelling that defines a Disney Cruise Line vacation.
Mountains of Charm in Alaska
The Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder will again sail to Alaska, departing from Vancouver. Both Ships offer seven‑night sailings, while the Disney Magic will also offer six‑night and eight‑night options.
With peaceful fjords, mountain landscapes, and coastal towns rich in local culture, these voyages are perfect for families ready to experience the beauty and history of Alaska.
Sunshine, Sand and Magic in the Caribbean
Next summer offers plenty of tropical choices for guests dreaming of turquoise waters and warm breezes.
The Disney Dream, returning to Port Canaveral, will sail three‑ and four‑night itineraries to The Bahamas, including visits to both Disney Castaway Cay and Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.
The Disney Fantasy will offer four‑ and five‑night Bahamian and Caribbean sailings as well as a ten‑night Southern Caribbean itinerary for those who want even more time exploring the islands.
The Disney Treasure will continue its seven‑night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries from Port Canaveral, inviting guests to enjoy world‑class dining, entertainment, and visits to some of the region’s most beautiful destinations.
Disney Destiny Continues Sailing from Fort Lauderdale
The Disney Destiny will offer three‑, four‑ and five‑night itineraries from Fort Lauderdale to The Bahamas and Caribbean.
Guests looking for a longer adventure can choose from four‑ and seven‑night Eastern and Western Caribbean sailings. Some itineraries will include both Disney Castaway Cay and Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point for double the beach‑day magic.
Adventure Calls in Southeast Asia
The Disney Adventure will continue sailing from Singapore with three- and four- night all‑at‑sea itineraries from January through August. These voyages bring memorable Disney entertainment and exceptional service to guests throughout Southeast Asia, with adventure waiting at every turn.
Fan-Favorite Themed Cruises Return in 2027
More opportunities to experience beloved stories await as Marvel Day at Sea and Pixar Day at Sea return to select sailings beginning in January 2027.
Marvel Day at Sea will sail from Galveston aboard the Disney Magic, complete with heroic entertainment inspired by the Marvel Universe and action‑packed moments that make guests feel like part of their favorite Superhero adventures. For the first time, Marvel Day at Sea will also be featured on two seven‑night itineraries visiting The Bahamas.
Pixar Day at Sea will continue aboard the Disney Fantasy on select five‑night sailings from Port Canaveral, featuring playful character moments, creative activities, and ship-wide experiences inspired by fan‑favorite Pixar films. Families can look forward to lively entertainment, interactive fun, and plenty of heartwarming surprises.
If you are ready to set sail, keep these important dates on your radar:
Monday, February 16: Early booking begins for Castaway Club members.
Monday, February 23: General booking opens to the public at disneycruise.com.
