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Official Guide to Disneyland 70th Anniversary and More for 2025

Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration Begins May 16, 2025 – Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse
Beginning May 16, 2025, and continuing through summer 2026, the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration will honor seven decades of happiness and many moments of joy in the making in Anaheim, Calif. Guests can “celebrate happy” with limited-time entertainment and decor, such as Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and their pals dressed in custom looks designed just for the occasion. (Christian Thompson/Disneyland Resort)
Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration Begins May 16, 2025 – Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse
(Christian Thompson/Disneyland Resort)

Everything Coming to Disneyland in 2025

Disneyland Resort is gearing up for a momentous celebration! As it approaches its 70th anniversary, the resort has unveiled an exciting lineup of events, festivals, and new experiences for 2025. Guests are encouraged to make the most of the magic with multi-day visits and overnight stays, immersing themselves in the wonder of Disneyland’s past, present, and future.

Related – Disneyland Offering Discounted SoCal Resident Tickets for Early 2025

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Disneyland Resort’s 70th Celebration begins May 16 

Beginning May 16, 2025, and continuing through summer 2026, the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration will honor seven decades of happiness and many moments of joy in the making.  Families and friends will be able to “celebrate happy” with limited-time entertainment, colorful décor, food and beverages, collectible merchandise, and much more. 

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The fan-favorite “Paint the Night” parade will return to Disneyland Park, featuring stunning color,  vibrant floats and more than a million brilliant LED lights. Guests can look forward to the new  “World of Color Happiness!” nighttime spectacular at Disney California Adventure Park, which  will draw inspiration from Walt Disney’s words from the opening day park dedication from seven  decades ago: “To all who come to this happy place… welcome!” The beloved nighttime spectacular “Wondrous Journeys” will also dazzle Disneyland Park once again, enhanced with fireworks on select nights. The high-energy parade “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!”  will also return to Disney California Adventure Park.

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“Wondrous Journeys” nighttime spectacular and “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!”  parade will temporarily pause to make way for seasonal Halloween and Holidays entertainment  offerings, then resume at a later time. 

Also debuting are an energetic, new character cavalcade at Disneyland Park and special projections on the facades of Carthay Circle Restaurant and “it’s a small world.” To honor the  anniversary, a new theme song “Celebrate Happy” will be heard in various entertainment  offerings. 

Brilliant, colorful décor will adorn the entire resort, including an elegant medallion on Sleeping  Beauty Castle. Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and their pals will all come dressed for the party in  Town Square at Disneyland, in custom looks designed just for the occasion. 

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Must-visit experiences and more happiness in the making 

In 2025, guests can also enjoy many recently debuted and reimagined experiences,  including Pixar Place Hotel, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, enhancements to New Orleans Square  and Bayou Country at Disneyland Park, and more. 

Walt Disney – A Magical Life (Disneyland Park, Anaheim, Calif.)
For the first time ever, guests will be able to see the first-ever Audio-Animatronics figure of Walt Disney in the new show “Walt Disney – A Magical Life,” which will eventually play in rotation with “Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln” after its initial debut at Disneyland park in 2025.

“Walt Disney – A Magical Life” will debut at the Main Street Opera House theater at  Disneyland Park on May 16, 2025. The attraction will feature a cinematic presentation of Walt  Disney’s journey, culminating in a visit with Walt in his office, brought to life for the first time ever  through the magic of Audio-Animatronics storytelling. 

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After welcoming new restaurants, the Avengers Reserve retail store, and The D-Lander Shop in  2024, the Downtown Disney District continues its transformation with more dining and shopping on the horizon. The Disney Wonderful World of Sweets shop and Parkside Market dining hall are scheduled to open in early 2025. 

Disneyland Resort 2025 Seasonal Event Calendar

2025 festival and event calendar 

Lunar New Year at Disney California Adventure Park (Jan. 17-Feb. 16): Offerings inspired by Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean traditions will ring in the Year of the Snake. In 2025,  Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse will debut all-new outfits with representations of traditional  Korean attire. Returning offerings include “Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession” on select days, “Hurry Home – A Lunar New Year Celebration” water short, daily live musical performances and  Asian-inspired menu items across six Lunar New Year marketplaces and select dining locations. 

Anaheim Ducks Day (Jan. 24): At Disney California Adventure Park, fans will be able to enjoy  a cavalcade, appearances by select Anaheim Ducks players, themed games and more. Anaheim Ducks Day Overtime at the Downtown Disney District will be an exciting fan zone with  entertainment, fun activities and photo opportunities. 

Celebrate Gospel at Disneyland Park (Feb. 8 and 15): A resort tradition for more than a decade, the uplifting annual concert will return on Feb. 8 and Feb. 15, with performances by community choirs from across Southern California and award-winning artists. 

Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival (Feb. 28-April 21): This foodie event  celebrates the Golden State with heaping helpings of creative menu items, ten marketplaces –

including two with new themes – live entertainment and the return of fan-favorites such as Chef  Goofy, bookable culinary experiences, and the classic Soarin’ Over California attraction. 

Season of the Force at Disneyland Park (March 28-May 11): “Fire of the Rising Moons” will perform nightly at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge with epic, new projection effects ,and galactic music  – enhanced with fireworks on select nights. Hyperspace Mountain will return to Tomorrowland,  hurtling guests through the galaxy and encountering TIE fighters along the way. 

Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party (Summer): The one-day event at Disney California Adventure  Park and the two-day event at Downtown Disney District are set to return with entertainment,  Disney Jr. character encounters and activities that families with young children will enjoy. 

Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort (Aug. 22-Oct. 31): Guests of all ages can enjoy eerily awesome fun throughout the resort, including uniquely themed attractions, not-so-scary entertainment, and autumn-inspired food and beverages. 

Plaza de la Familia at Disney California Adventure Park (Aug. 22-Nov. 2): The Academy  Award®-winning Pixar Animation Studios film “Coco” comes to life at this celebration of the everlasting bonds of family and the spirit of Día de Los Muertos. 

Holidays at the Disneyland Resort (Nov. 14, 2025-Jan. 7, 2026): This enchanting season brings sparkling wintry décor, festive entertainment, and more. Disney Festival of Holidays will return to Disney California Adventure Park, featuring specialty menu items, live entertainment and family activities inspired by the diverse season of celebrations in Southern California. 

Separately ticketed events scheduled in 2025 

After-hours events for guests of all ages feature pre-party park mix-in, shorter wait times for select attractions, unique entertainment, themed food and beverages, plus unlimited Disney  PhotoPass digital photo downloads from the event. 

Disneyland After Dark* events invites guests to play the night away during vivacious, themed  parties at Disneyland Park: 

Sweethearts’ Nite (Jan. 21, 23, 28; Feb. 4, 6, 9, 11, 13): Couples, friends and families alike can celebrate love with a new cavalcade on Main Street, U.S.A., Royal Ball,  encounters with character couples and lively music. Tickets will go on sale to the general public on Dec. 12, 2024. 

90s Nite (March 4 and 6): Dance parties, sing-alongs and more celebrate Disney films,  music and pop culture from this iconic decade. “90s on Parade” will have nods to past  parades, such as “The Lion King Celebration” and “Mulan Parade.” Tickets will go on  sale to the general public on Dec. 12, 2024. 

Star Wars Nite (April 8, 10, 22, 24, 29; May 1, 4, 6): Galactic adventures await with  appearances by Star Wars characters from the Light and Dark sides of the Force,  unique gatherings and out-of-this-world photo opportunities. Ticket sale details will be  announced at a later time.

Pride Nite (June 16 and 18): This celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community brings allies  and community members together to enjoy rainbow projections, colorful décor, fabulous  entertainment and more. Ticket sale details will be announced at a later time. 

Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party*: Guests are invited to dress up in costume** for this frightfully fun, after-hours Halloween party at Disney California Adventure  Park with family-friendly tricks and treats. In 2025, the party will offer more nights than ever  before with 31 different dates: 

• Aug. 17, 19, 21, 24, 26, 28, 31 

• Sept. 2, 9, 11, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 28, 30 

• Oct. 2, 5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 19, 21, 23, 26, 28, 31 

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Disneyland Resort vacations offer value and variety 

To welcome as many families and guests as possible, Disneyland Resort always provides a range of ticket, dining, and hotel options, as well as promotional offers throughout the year. With theme park reservations open 180 days in advance, guests may save by planning ahead and being flexible on dates – some days have tickets starting at $104. Guests can check for a list of available special ticket and hotel offers throughout the year on Disneyland.com/offers. 

A limited-time Kids’ Special Ticket Offer is available to purchase now for visits between Jan. 7  through March 20, 2025. Children ages 3 through 9 can visit a Disneyland Resort theme park  for as low as $50 per child with this special 1-Day, 1-Park ticket.*** 

Overnight stays at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort deliver a distinctly Disney experience and unique benefits, including convenient theme park access, early theme park entry****, and special activities at select times during the year. 

New Solar-Powered Trash Can Installed at EPCOT

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epcot trash can

Disney Debuts Solar-Powered Trash Cans at EPCOT

Walt Disney World has introduced an innovative addition to its waste management system: solar-powered trash cans. The first of these high-tech cans has been spotted at EPCOT’s World Showcase, located in the Germany Pavilion. These futuristic trash cans combine cutting-edge technology with sustainable energy to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

Related: Dumbo Interactive Playground Set for Refurbishment in the Magic Kingdom

New Solar-Powered Trash Can Installed at EPCOT 2

The new cans feature solar panels on their tops to power their operations, eliminating any reliance on external energy sources. Guests can dispose of trash hands-free using a foot pedal to open the chute, while Cast Members can access the interior using a dedicated handle. Lights on the cans indicate their status, showing whether they are empty, half full, or full. This status is also monitored remotely, enabling custodial teams to optimize their routes and empty trash only when needed.

Related: A Magical Roundup of Everything Coming to Walt Disney World in 2025

In addition to monitoring capacity, these smart trash cans also compact trash as it accumulates, allowing for greater efficiency and fewer trips required for emptying. The solar-powered design aligns with Disney’s commitment to sustainability, ensuring the cans contribute minimally to the park’s carbon footprint.

Everything to Watch Before Epic Universe Grand Opening Next Year

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What to Watch (and Play) Ahead of Universal’s Epic Universe May 2025 Opening

The countdown is on! Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe is set to open on May 22, 2025, introducing five incredible lands that promise immersive adventures like never before. Whether you’re a fan of wizards, gamers, Vikings, classic monsters, or celestial journeys, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. To prepare for this epic experience, we’ve put together a guide to the movies, shows, and games you should watch (and play) to get the most out of your visit.

Related: First Look at the Animated Figures for Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment at Universal Epic Universe


The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry

Step into the wizarding world like never before as Epic Universe brings together elements from Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts. Start your prep with a magical movie marathon:

  • “Fantastic Beasts” series: Follow Newt Scamander’s adventures through magical Paris in the 1920s (Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, The Crimes of Grindelwald, and The Secrets of Dumbledore).
  • “Harry Potter” series: Revisit all eight films, especially Order of the Phoenix and Deathly Hallows, to understand the lore of the Ministry of Magic and to be introduced to Delores Umbridge.

In this new land, you’ll explore wizarding Paris, interact with magical beasts, and travel to the British Ministry of Magic to witness thrilling scenes like Dolores Umbridge’s trial.


SUPER NINTENDO WORLD

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Get ready to jump, race, and explore in a vibrant land inspired by the Mushroom Kingdom and Donkey Kong Country. The best way to prepare? Dust off your Nintendo console and start gaming:

  • Classics: The OG Super Mario Bros. (1985) is a must-do, as well as Super Mario World which sees the first appearance of Yoshi.
  • Yoshi’s Adventures: Super Mario World 2: Yoshi’s Island and Yoshi’s Crafted World.
  • Mario Kart series: Perfect your racing skills with Mario Kart 8 Deluxe before taking on Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge.
  • Donkey Kong Country: Revisit favorites like Donkey Kong Country Returns and Tropical Freeze ahead of exploring the new Donkey Kong coaster.

For movie fans, don’t miss The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023), which captures the fun and whimsy of the Mario universe.


How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

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Live like a Viking in a land inspired by the beloved How to Train Your Dragon franchise. To dive into the lore of Berk and its dragons:

  • Films: Watch the trilogy (How to Train Your Dragon, How to Train Your Dragon 2, and The Hidden World).
  • TV Series: Explore deeper stories with Dragons: Riders of Berk, which bridges the first two films and expands on dragon racing, a key element of the park’s Dragon Racer’s Rally ride.

With soaring rides like Hiccup’s Wing Gliders and live shows, this land is a dream come true for dragon lovers.


Dark Universe

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Prepare for year-round thrills in a land dedicated to Universal’s iconic monsters. Start your spooky prep with classic horror films that inspired it all:

  • Essential Films: You are going to want to dig into the lore of the OG Universal Monster films, such as Frankenstein (1931), Bride of Frankenstein (1935), The Invisible Man (1933), and The Wolf Man (1941).
  • Expanded Classics: Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (1913), Dracula (1931), and The Mummy (1932) are great additions to the above list.

This land will feature rides like Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment, character encounters, and spine-chilling references to these timeless tales.


Celestial Park

Related: Epic Universe Single Day Ticket Prices Revealed

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While no specific shows or games tie directly to this original land, Celestial Park promises to dazzle guests with lush landscapes, cosmic pathways, and sensory delights. It’s the perfect spot for fans who enjoy the wonder of exploration and storytelling.


With Epic Universe just months away, there’s no better time to start your journey into these incredible worlds. From binge-watching movies to powering up your gaming skills, preparing for this groundbreaking park opening will make your visit all the more memorable. What are you most excited to explore at Epic Universe? Let us know in the comments!

Dumbo Interactive Playground Set for Refurbishment in the Magic Kingdom

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Interactive Playground in Dumbo the Flying Elephant Queue Set for Refurbishment

Disney has filed permits to refurbish the interactive playground located within the queue for Dumbo the Flying Elephant at Magic Kingdom. The project will include updates to the playground flooring and the replacement of netting structures, ensuring the play area continues to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for guests..

Related: Disney Files Additional Permit for Big Thunder Mountain Refurbishment

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Premus of Orlando Inc. has been contracted to handle the flooring updates, while West Coast Netting Inc. will oversee work on the netting structures. The playground, a key feature of the Dumbo queue, offers children the opportunity to play while families wait for their turn on the classic attraction.

Related: New Reimagined Test Track to be Presented by General Motors

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No closures for Dumbo the Flying Elephant have been announced at this time, and we do not know if the updates to the playground will impact the attraction operations.

Disney Files Additional Permit for Big Thunder Mountain Refurbishment

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More Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Refurbishment Details Emerge as Disney Files New Permit

Refurbishment updates are rolling in for fans of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Magic Kingdom! Disney has filed a new permit as preparations ramp up for the extensive refurbishment of the wildest ride in the wilderness. Slated to begin on January 6, 2025, the project promises to deliver the most ambitious updates the ride has seen since it opened in 1980.

Related: New Reimagined Test Track to be Presented by General Motors

Disney Files New Permit for Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Refurbishment 1

The latest permit, filed with Disney’s trusted Imagineering partner Elite AV Systems Inc., focuses on technical and electrical components. This is just the latest permit filed for the project, joining previous permits filed for work with Coastal Steel Inc. for general construction and DPR Construction for intricate structural updates.

Related: Dinosaur at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Attraction to Remain Open Through 2025

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The refurbishment, which is expected to extend into 2026, will likely mirror a previous refurbishment at Disneyland, which included new ride vehicles, track replacements, and updated mountain scenery.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will officially close to guests on January 6, 2025.

New Reimagined Test Track to be Presented by General Motors

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New Reimagined Test Track to be Presented by General Motors

Disney has announced a shift in sponsorship for the reimagined Test Track at EPCOT. General Motors will now partner with Disney on the attraction, taking over from Chevrolet, which previously sponsored Test Track 2.0.

Related – Test Track Update Set to Reopen in Late 2025

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This renewed partnership with GM brings us full circle. It harkens back to the early days of EPCOT, when the World of Motion attraction, also sponsored by GM, first opened its doors.

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Guests will be immersed in the world of innovation before boarding the ride. Six exhibits will highlight cutting-edge technologies and the brilliant minds behind them. Once aboard, the experience will showcase GM’s commitment to customization, advanced technology, and sustainable solutions, culminating in a thrilling outdoor drive.

The reimagined Test Track is set to open its doors in late Summer 2025, combining the best of the past with the excitement of the future. As construction continues, Disney and GM are working diligently to bring this innovative experience to life.


Ready to book your 2025 Disney vacation? Contact me today to start planning! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are free, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.

Disney Lorcana Sets Sail in Canada: Exclusive Promo Card Giveaway During Moana 2 Screenings

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Exclusive Lorcana Promo Card Giveaway During Moana 2 Screenings

Ravensburger continues to roll out surprises, bringing the award-winning Disney Lorcana Trading Card Game (TCG) to Cineplex theaters across Canada. Starting today, fans who attend screenings of Disney’s Moana 2 at Cineplex theaters will receive an exclusive Disney Lorcana TCG promo card. One card is included with each ticket purchase, available while supplies last.

For more information on Disney’s Moana 2 at Cineplex, visit cineplex.com/movie/moana-2. For more information on Disney Lorcana TCG, visit Disneylorcana.com.

Related: Disney Lorcana Announces Challenge Updates

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This promotion comes hot on the heels of the game’s latest expansion, Azurite Seas, which invites players to explore a nautical-themed world filled with stunning artwork and powerful new card interactions. Azurite Seas set has been a hit with fans, introducing captivating characters and strategies that expand the immersive experience of Disney Lorcana. With each expansion, the game continues to grow its enchanting lore and offer fresh adventures for players of all levels.

Ravensburger is poised to make a splash at this year’s PAX unplugged, and Chip and Company will be there to cover their new offerings and breaking news from the world of Tabletop Gaming. Stay tuned for more Lorcana-related news and check out our coverage from PAX.

Avengers Reserve Soft Opens Today at Downtown Disney District

Avengers Reserve in the Downtown Disney District
Avengers Reserve in the Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, Calif., is an all-new shopping destination that celebrates the unique fandom and stories of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes and all their amazing friends, featuring favorite characters and stories through collectibles, apparel, accessories, toys and comics. (Christian Thompson/Disneyland Resort)
Avengers Reserve in the Downtown Disney District

Avengers Reserve Soft Opens Today at Downtown Disney District

Get ready, Marvel fans! Avengers Reserve, the ultimate destination for all things Marvel, soft opens TODAY at the Downtown Disney District. Discover a world of comic books, collectibles, and Super Hero apparel.

Related – The D-Lander Shop Soft Opens Today at Downtown Disney District

Avengers Reserve in the Downtown Disney District

At the entrance, a nine-foot Incredible Hulk sculpture smashes through the wall, while Spider-Man has climbed atop the building. Inside, the store has a high energy, industrial vibe with lighting effects, authentic film props on display and a gaming demonstration station.

Avengers Reserve in the Downtown Disney District

The shop will carry comic books, must-have collectibles, Super Hero-inspired apparel and role-play toys for all ages. The collections will be refreshed regularly, so you’ll want to come back again and again!


Dreaming of an amazing trip to the Disneyland Resort? Contact me today! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are free, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.

New Lion King Products from LEGO, BoxLunch, Pandora and More

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Celebrate Disney’s Mufasa with New Lion King Merchandise!

Disney is celebrating the 30th anniversary of its iconic animated film, The Lion King, and the upcoming release of Mufasa: The Lion King with a plethora of new exciting merchandise! From LEGO bricks to Pandora charms, there’s something for every fan.

Related-Mufasa: The Lion King Print Available to Disney World Annual Passholders in December

LEGO: Build your own Pride Lands with LEGO’s detailed brick sets, featuring beloved characters like Simba, Nala, Mufasa, and Scar. Recreate iconic scenes or design your own adventures.

Related-Experience Mufasa: The Lion King in Stunning 3D at The El Capitan Theatre

BoxLunch: Express your love for the Lion King with exclusive apparel, accessories, and collectibles. From t-shirts and hats to pins and mugs, BoxLunch has everything you need to show your Lion King pride.

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Loungefly: Carry the magic of the Pride Lands with stylish backpacks, wallets, and more. These high-quality accessories feature intricate designs and vibrant colors.

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Pandora: Commemorate the timeless tale with stunning jewelry pieces, including charms, bracelets, and necklaces. Each piece captures the essence of the Lion King, from the majestic lion to the serene savanna.

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For the Little Cubs

Disney Baby has partnered with brands like Lambs & Ivy, NOJO, and Walmart to create adorable clothing, toys, and accessories for the youngest Disney fans. Soft blankets, cuddly plush toys, and colorful bibs will make every day a royal adventure.

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A Whole Pride of Products

In addition to the above, Disney has partnered with various retailers to offer a wide range of merchandise, including toys, plush, t-shirts, and more. Whether you’re looking for a soft and cuddly Simba or a stylish Lion King t-shirt, you’re sure to find something to suit your taste.

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Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering the magic of The Lion King, these new products offer a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the timeless tale and embrace the spirit of the Pride Lands.

Universal Orlando Closures and Refurbishments for December 2024 and Beyond

Universal Studios Holiday Decorations Arrive for Holiday 2024 cover
Universal Studios Holiday Decorations Arrive for Holiday 2024 cover

‘Tis the season for cooler temps and a flurry of attraction updates at Universal Orlando Resort. While the holidays bring festive cheer, this time of year also marks the annual downtime for some attractions, especially water rides. After all, who wants to splash around when it’s sweater weather? (Though, let’s be honest, Florida’s “cold” is relative.) Here’s what you need to know about upcoming closures and refurbishments at all three Universal Orlando theme parks.

Related: 2024 Universal Holiday Tour: A VIP Experience Review


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Universal Studios Florida

  • MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack: November 8 – December 15, 2024
    Grab your neuralyzer and say goodbye to those alien-fighting adventures—for now. Agents, take comfort knowing the MIB team will have this intergalactic escapade back in tip-top shape by mid-December. This is the typical time of year in which MEN IN BLACK goes down for maintenance, so no surprises here!
  • Hogwarts Express: January 28 – February 1, 2025
    Don’t fret if Platform 9 ¾ seems a little less magical during these dates. The Hogwarts Express is simply taking a brief detour for some TLC. (We hear even magical trains need a “choo-choo-tune-up” now and then!)
    • It’s worth noting that while the Hogwarts Express is closed, the connecting walkway between Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure is typically not available to guests. This means that if you have a Park-to-Park ticket and plan to park hop, you’ll need to exit one park and enter the other through the main entrances rather than using an internal shortcut.

Islands of Adventure

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  • Hogsmeade with Hogwarts Express
  • The Nighttime Lights at Hogwarts Castle: Currently paused.
    While this is on the list, this is really more of a technical closure since this show is simply paused while the holiday light show is running.
  • Pteranodon Flyers: Closed until further notice.
    Flyers grounded for now! While it’s sad to see these prehistoric gliders on pause, maybe this is a good time to practice your dino-soaring skills on land. This attraction has been closed in months after closing unexpectedly due to a technical issue back in April 2024, and there is currently no end in site.
    • While we do not have confirmation on the cause from Universal, the general consensus online is a part broke that requires some pretty technical engineering to replace, which is resulting in the extended down time.
  • Me-Ship, The Olive: October 21, 2024 – December 4, 2024
    This ship’s in dry dock for repairs, but Popeye’s prized vessel will soon be ship-shape and ready for family fun.
  • Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls: November 7, 2024 – December 19, 2024
    Dudley’s log flume adventures will return soon enough—although given the temps in Orlando right now this attraction is likely not being missed by guests. Until then, we’ll wait with bated breath and plenty of bad puns.
  • Jurassic Park River Adventure: January 6, 2025 – January 23, 2025
    The dinos are taking a quick vacation, but they promise to return, roaring and ready for action later in January.
  • Popeye & Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges: January 24, 2025 – March 15, 2025
    This wet and wild ride is taking a hiatus, probably because Popeye and Bluto are tired of being soaked. Come spring, you’ll be ready to brave the rapids again!
  • Hogwarts Express: January 28 – February 1, 2025
    The magic train ride between Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade will be back before you can say “accio repairs.” However, note that during this closure, the internal walkway between the two parks is typically not open to guests. Park-to-Park ticket holders should plan to utilize the main entrances instead.

Related: Universal Orlando Has Transformed into a Holiday Wonderland for 2024


Volcano Bay

Volcano Bay

Water parks and chilly days don’t always mix, and Universal’s Volcano Bay has embraced the seasonal slowdown. Here’s the scoop:

  • Honu ika Moana: December 2 – 12, 2024
    This family raft ride is splashing into maintenance mode, ensuring smooth sailing for future adventurers.
  • Select Weekday Closures: Starting late October 2024 through February 2025, Volcano Bay will be closed on certain weekdays due to lower demand during the winter months:
    • December: 4, 5, 9, 10, 18, 19, 23, 24, & 31
    • January: 8, 9, 13, 14, 22, 23, 27, & 28
    • February: 5, 6, 10, 11, 18, 19, 24, & 25

Remember, these dates are subject to change, so keep your eyes peeled for updates.


Final Thoughts

While it’s always a bummer to see your favorite attractions on hiatus, these closures ensure everything stays in tip-top shape for future visits. Whether it’s alien antics, wizarding wonders, or dino-filled adventures, Universal Orlando promises plenty of fun when these attractions reopen.

So, grab a Butterbeer, snap a selfie with a holiday tree, and enjoy all the magic Universal has to offer this season—even if you have to “ride out” a few closures. Don’t worry; the thrills will return faster than you can say, “Expelliarmus!”

Frozen Hot Chocolate Martini is the Perfect Treat for Epcot’s Festival of the Holidays

Frozen Hot Chocolate Martini is the Perfect Treat for Epcot's Festival of the Holidays 1
Frozen Hot Chocolate Martini is the Perfect Treat for Epcot's Festival of the Holidays 1

Frozen Hot Chocolate Martini Returns to Epcot’s Festival of the Holidays!

The Frozen Hot Chocolate Martini is back at Epcot’s Festival of the Holidays, and it’s as indulgent as ever! This returning favorite drink combines a delightful mix of vanilla vodka, regular vodka, chocolate milk, and whipped cream, drizzled with luscious chocolate sauce. To top it off, it’s served with a festive peppermint-style paper straw, making it a treat for both your taste buds and the holiday spirit.

Related: ‘Tis the Season for Sipping: The 2024 Epcot Festival of the Holidays Mug

You can find this decadent cocktail at the Le Marché de Noël Holiday Kitchen in the France Pavilion for $13.95, where it stars alongside an enticing menu of French-inspired holiday delicacies. Here’s what else you can enjoy at this charming holiday booth:

  • Crème De Saumon Fumé en Brioche aux Grains de Sésames, Concombre Et Radis: A sophisticated smoked salmon spread served on a sesame brioche roll, accompanied by fresh cucumber and radishes.
  • Rôti de Jambon Sauce Moutarde à l’Ancienne, Pommes Darphin (New): A hearty dish featuring roasted ham with mushrooms, pearl onions, and bacon in a white wine mustard sauce, paired with darphin roasted herb potatoes.
  • Bûche de Noël au Chocolat et Caramel (New): A decadent chocolate fudge Christmas log filled with a creamy caramel center, perfect for a sweet holiday treat.
  • Spiced Cranberry Punch (New): A festive and bubbly blend of Pol Rémy Sparkling Wine, cranberry juice, orange juice, and spiced brown sugar.
  • Chateau Haut Beaumard Cabernet Sauvignon (New): A rich, red wine that pairs wonderfully with the savory offerings on the menu.

Related: A Magical First Day at EPCOT’s Festival of the Holidays 2024

france pavilion festival of the holiday

The Frozen Hot Chocolate Martini is a must-try drink that perfectly complements the cozy, festive ambiance of the France Pavilion. Whether you’re sipping it while strolling through Epcot or pairing it with one of the delicious dishes at Le Marché de Noël, it’s guaranteed to be a highlight of your holiday celebration. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy this fan-favorite treat before the festival wraps up!

Universal Studios Hollywood Rings in 2025 with EVE

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Universal studios hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood Rings in 2025 with EVE

Universal Studios Hollywood is the perfect place to celebrate New Year’s EVE. Enjoy dazzling fireworks, energetic DJs, and fun-filled themed photo ops. All festivities are included with your theme park admission.

Related – Universal Studios Hollywood Celebrates 2025 Graduating High School Seniors with Grad Bash

UNIVESAL STUDIOS EVE CELEBRATION

EVE at Universal Studios Hollywood is a celebration for the entire family, inviting guests to ring in 2025 in spectacular style while also enjoying all rides and attractions offered within the theme park. Spend the day at Universal Studios Hollywood and transition to the EVE beginning at 9:00 p.m. and enjoy colorful bursts of fireworks that will punctuate the night sky at the stroke of midnight.

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Get ready to dance the night away at multiple live entertainment areas throughout the park. Strike a pose at the EVE-themed photo opportunities and capture the memories. Enjoy a variety of specialty cocktails, beer, wine, and champagne available for purchase at each party area. Don’t forget to grab some glow items and other memorabilia to add to the fun!

While there will be a midnight countdown and fireworks display, the party won’t end until 2 am. Are you ready to ring in the New Year at Universal Studios Hollywood?