40TH ANNIVERSARY DISNEY PARKS MAGICAL CHRISTMAS DAY PARADE - Disney’s Emmy® Award-winning annual celebration returns Christmas morning with magical star-studded performances from Walt Disney World Resort in Florida; Disneyland Resort in California and Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawai?i. THURSDAY, DEC. 25 (10:00 a.m. EST) on ABC. (Disney/Kenslie McGuire)
MICKEY MOUSE, MAIA KEALOHA
New Details Emerge for the 2025 Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade
The Disney Parks have gifted fans an early holiday present with the reveal of exciting new details for the 2025 Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade! This cherished holiday tradition, which began in 1983, will once again bring the wonder of a Disney Christmas right into living rooms across the country.
Mark your calendars! The special returns on Christmas morning, Thursday, December 25, 2025, airing on ABC at 10:00 a.m. EST. For those who want to experience the magic again or can’t catch the live broadcast, the parade will be available to stream starting at 11:00 a.m. EST on Disney+, Hulu, and the Disney YouTube channel through January 4, 2026.
This year’s celebration features a dazzling line-up of musical talent performing from some of the most beautiful and iconic spots across Disney destinations worldwide:
Gwen Stefani – “White Christmas” from Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland Resort
Nicole Scherzinger – “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” also from Sleeping Beauty Castle
Bebe Rexha – “Last Christmas” from Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom Park
Coco Jones – “This Christmas” from the Millennium Falcon in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Lady A – “Winter Wonderland” from World Celebration Gardens at EPCOT
Mariah the Scientist – “Please Come Home for Christmas” from the Tree of Life at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
Iam Tongi – “The Christmas Song” from Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawai‘i
A New Twist: The Disney Villains Take Over!
In an exciting first for the Magic Kingdom, the mischievous Disney Villains we love to loathe will be featured in their very own special segment on Christmas morning, adding a thrilling new twist to the classic parade down Main Street, U.S.A.
Hosts and Heartwarming Moments
Returning for his second year as host is the infectious Alfonso Ribeiro, who will be joined by first-time co-host Ginnifer Goodwin, the voice of Judy Hopps in Zootopia 2. Maia Kealoha, starring as Lilo in the upcoming live-action Lilo and Stitch, will serve as the parade correspondent.
The broadcast will also feature heartwarming segments, including surprising three families with trips to Disney destinations and a touching tribute recognizing a Walt Disney World cast member. Viewers will also get exclusive sneak peeks of upcoming Disney and Pixar films, including Disney and Pixar’s Hoppers and the highly anticipated live-action Moana.
Looking Ahead: Predictions for the 2026 ABC Christmas Day Parade
While official information for the 2026 Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade is months away, based on tradition and the parks’ ongoing expansion, we can look ahead to what next year might bring.
Hosts and Continuity
It’s likely that the popular hosting pair of Alfonso Ribeiro and Ginnifer Goodwin could return for the 2026 parade, following a successful debut year in 2025. Disney often maintains host continuity for a few years, as they have done in the past. Likewise, a young Disney star, like Maia Kealoha, is a strong candidate to return as the parade correspondent.
Possible New Performance Locations
As Disney Parks continue to evolve, future performances could highlight recently opened or upcoming attractions. For 2026, keep an eye out for potential musical numbers filmed at locations such as:
The newly reimagined Test Track at EPCOT, set to debut in 2026.
Areas around the highly anticipated Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom and Disneyland.
Any new developments unveiled for the ongoing transformation of Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom’s Beyond Big Thunder Mountain area.
Anticipated Sneak Peeks
The 2026 parade is a prime opportunity for Disney to unveil sneak peeks for its major 2027 film slate, which could include updates on rumored live-action remakes or upcoming animated sequels.
For countless families, the Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade remains an essential part of the holiday ritual. The 2025 lineup is set to deliver on that promise, and the groundwork is being laid for an equally spectacular 2026 celebration!
Toy Story Land’s New Popcorn Box Snack Kiosk Pops Into View as Construction Walls Come Down
Toy Story Land just served up a fresh new sight, and it’s lookin’ butter than ever. The construction walls around the land’s upcoming popcorn box snack kiosk have officially vanished, leaving guests with a full, unobstructed look at this adorable new quick-bite location at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Rolling planters now frame the area, giving us our best peek yet at the playful details Imagineering sprinkled into this larger-than-life toy creation.
With the kiosk fully revealed, the charm factor is off the charts. The red-and-white popcorn box design looks exactly like something Andy might’ve left out during snack time, complete with ripped “paper” edges and doodled lettering. The awnings above each food window appear to be held up by jumbo frill-tipped toothpicks, as if Rex and Hamm decided to build the whole stand from items pulled straight out of the toy bin. Corrugated cardboard frames the order windows, and decorative “masking tape” labels sit above each slot, hinting that the menu signage will be easily swappable for seasonal offerings or rotating treats.
No operating info or menu has been posted yet, but with planters replacing walls and finishing touches now visible, it feels like we’re inching closer to opening day. Between the oversized cereal boxes towering behind the stand and the bright pops of color from Toy Story Land’s nighttime lights, the whole corner is shaping up to be a perfect snack stop between adventures with the toys.
We’ll be keeping our binoculars aimed at this spot as it moves toward opening, because something tells us this kiosk is about to become a pop-ular hangout.
Disney Makes a $1 Billion Wish: Massive New Deal Brings 200+ Characters to OpenAI’s Sora
Disney just dropped a holiday gift on the tech and entertainment world that sparkles brighter than Cinderella Castle at midnight. In a groundbreaking new partnership, The Walt Disney Company and OpenAI have inked a three-year agreement that will let fans create short-form Sora videos featuring more than 200 iconic Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars characters. And yes, that means everything from Mickey to Moana, Groot to Goofy, Baymax to Beast, and even the galaxy’s favorite glowstick collectors over in Star Wars.
The deal is equal parts innovation and pixie dust. Disney is investing $1 billion in OpenAI, becoming the company’s first major content licensing partner for Sora. In return, OpenAI gets access to an enormous treasure chest of Disney IP, including costumes, props, vehicles, and environments, while Disney gains new technology muscle across its platforms, including the ability to use OpenAI APIs to build features for Disney+. Fans will eventually see a curated selection of Sora-generated shorts streaming right on the platform, giving the whole thing a warm “I made this!” energy.
While Sora and ChatGPT Images will gain the ability to generate videos and still images based on beloved characters, the agreement stops shy of talent likenesses or voices. It puts a strong emphasis on responsible use, safety controls, and protecting creators, which both companies highlighted as a foundational part of the collaboration.
Disney CEO Bob Iger called the partnership a major evolution in storytelling, giving fans ways to create with Disney characters unlike anything seen before. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman chimed in with equal enthusiasm, noting that Disney represents the gold standard for storytelling and imagination. And Wall Street seems to agree. Following the announcement, DIS stock jumped more than 1%, with analysts praising Disney for embracing generative AI rather than fighting it.
Creators will have access to characters from across the Disney multiverse: classic animated icons, Pixar favorites like Baymax and the Inside Out crew, Marvel heroes like Captain America and Black Panther, and Star Wars legends like Luke Skywalker and The Mandalorian. The ability for everyday users to craft their own micro-stories featuring these characters marks a huge shift in what AI-assisted creativity can look like.
The collaboration also signals a major cultural moment in entertainment. Disney’s move sets the tone for how other studios might handle AI licensing, production, and fan-driven content. With nearly every major entertainment company wrestling with how to safeguard IP while embracing emerging technologies, Disney has planted a very large, very sparkly flag in the ground.
Sora and ChatGPT Images are expected to roll out fan-generated Disney character videos in early 2026. Until then, this announcement alone has given fans plenty to dream about. After all, when Disney and AI team up, imagination suddenly grows wings.
Aloha Holidays! Chaotically Cute Stitch Pandora Charms Now At The Disney Store!
Hey, ‘Ohana! Looking for the absolute perfect gift to treat your favorite Disney fan this holiday season? Forget the boring sweaters and predictable gift cards, we’ve got the ultimate dose of adorable mischief straight from the Disney Store: the new Stitch Pandora charms! Whether you’re decking the halls or planning for that special Valentine’s Day surprise, Experiment 626 is here to make your bracelet shine.
Mischief and Mistletoe with the Santa Stitch Charm!
First up, let’s talk about the Santa Stitch Charm ($90). If you need a little festive flavor on your wrist, this is it! Our favorite alien is getting into the holiday spirit, all bundled up in a jolly Santa hat and coat. But, true to form, he can’t resist a little chaos, he’s sinking his little teeth into a delicious gingerbread cookie! Yum is right! Crafted from shiny sterling silver, this charm captures that mischievous holiday cheer perfectly. It’s a fantastic, playful stocking stuffer that says, “Happy Holidays… now watch out for the cookies!”
Share the Love (Ohana Style!) with the Stitch Heart Charm!
Ready to get a little romantic? Move over, Lilo, Stitch is here to steal hearts with the stunning Stitch Heart Charm ($115). This charm is pure, unadulterated “Ohana” love. It features Stitch, beautifully crafted in sterling silver with a luxurious 14k gold finish, tenderly holding a huge, faceted, heart-shaped fuchsia crystal. Seriously, it sparkles! This charm is an incredibly sweet, beautiful way to show someone that your love knows no bounds. It’s absolutely ideal for Christmas morning or as a dazzling, unexpected gift for Valentine’s Day.
So, whether you’re celebrating the festive chaos of the holidays or the endless love of “Ohana” on Valentine’s Day, these two Stitch charms from the Disney Store are must-haves. They’re unique, high-quality, and pack all the adorable personality of Experiment 626. Head over to the Disney Store and snag these beauties before they vanish faster than Stitch can devour a whole stack of pancakes!
Which of these adorable Stitch charms would you like to add to your collection first: the Santa Stitch or the Stitch Heart?
Discover the Enchanting Tinker Bell Juicy Couture Collection!
Get ready to sprinkle some serious fashion magic into your wardrobe! The new Tinker Bell Juicy Couture Collection is here, combining the iconic Y2K glamour of Juicy Couture with the whimsical, fiery spirit of Disney’s most beloved fairy. This highly anticipated collaboration captures the essence of early 2000s nostalgia, offering luxurious velour tracksuits and charming tees, all finished with that signature Disney sparkle. It’s time to believe in couture and step into a world of dazzling comfort and fairy-tale chic.
The collection’s sleek Black Printed Velour Set is the ultimate nod to effortless cool. The Zip-Through Hoodie is crafted from classic black velour in a slim fit, featuring practical kangaroo pockets, a self-fabric lined hood, and the exclusive collaboration “J” zip pull. The magic truly happens with the branding: a stunning glitter printed and diamante graphic reading “I believe in couture” is proudly displayed on the back, while a smaller Disney l Juicy logo with Tink graces the chest. Complementing the hoodie, the Black Printed Velour Low-Rise Flare offers a flattering straight-leg fit in the same plush velour. These signature low-rise pants feature the exact same Disney-inspired printed and diamante graphic down the left leg, creating a cohesive and head-turning ensemble that is both luxurious and nostalgic.
The Piquant Green Set: Fairy Dust Fashion
For those who prefer a pop of color reminiscent of Tinker Bell’s signature green dress, the Piquant Green Velour Set is a must-have. The Piquant Green Velour Hoodie maintains the beloved slim-fit, zip-through design, complete with kangaroo pockets and the special “J” zip pull. This vibrant set is infused with Tinker Bell’s charm, showcasing a striking glitter printed and diamante graphic on the back and a dedicated Tinker Bell Juicy logo on the chest. The matching Piquant Green Printed Velour Low-Rise Flare completes the tracksuit. These velour, straight-leg bottoms feature a Disney-inspired printed and diamante graphic on the left leg, echoing the hoodie’s whimsical design. This set is perfect for making a playful yet luxurious statement, embodying the playful vibrancy of Neverland.
Tees That Sparkle: Everyday Fairy Tale Style
Rounding out the collection are two enchanting T-shirts, perfect for bringing a touch of fairy magic to your everyday casual wear. The Piquant Green Believes in Juicy Tee is a slim-fit, crew-neck cotton t-shirt in the collection’s signature green. It features a delightful Disney print & diamante graphic across the chest, making a subtle yet sparkly statement. For a bolder, more feminine look, the AOP Floral Tee is a fitted, begonia pink cotton t-shirt. This piece is adorned with an all-over Disney print and a captivating printed & diamante graphic on the front chest. Whether you choose the bright green or the floral pink, these tees are a fun and comfortable way to showcase your love for Tinker Bell and the iconic Juicy Couture aesthetic.
The Tinker Bell Juicy Couture Collection masterfully merges high-glam comfort with classic Disney fantasy. Which dazzling set will you choose to fly into your cart?
Free Lightning Lane Entry Coming for Disneyland Resort Hotel Guests in January 2026
Beginning January 5, 2026, Guests staying at a Disneyland Resort hotel will receive a complimentary entry to one eligible Lightning Lane Multi Pass attraction. This entry is highly flexible: it can be redeemed at any available time on one day during their hotel stay at either park.
This benefit may be redeemed at one of the following attractions.
Disneyland Park Attractions
Autopia
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters
Haunted Mansion
Indiana JonesTM Adventure
“it’s a small world”
Matterhorn Bobsleds
Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin
Space Mountain
Star Tours – The Adventures Continue
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
Disney California Adventure Park Attractions
Goofy’s Sky School
Grizzly River Run
Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!
Incredicoaster
The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure
Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!
Soarin’ Around the World
Toy Story Midway Mania!
WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure
Know Before You Go
The Lightning Lane entry benefit will be available to eligible Disneyland Resort hotel Guests upon check-in, or shortly after 7:00 AM on your day of arrival if you complete Online Check-In service prior to your day of arrival.
Link hotel reservations to your MyDisney account in the Disneyland app to view the benefit.
To redeem, show the in-app Lightning Lane barcode at the eligible attraction of your choosing.
Eligible attractions are subject to availability and restrictions.
What do you think of this new Disneyland Resort hotel benefit?
Disney+ Subscribers Can Win Tickets to Disney On Ice
The latest installment of the “12 Days of Perks” offers Disney+ subscribers an exciting opportunity: they can now enter a sweepstakes for a chance to win tickets to Disney On Ice!
Disney+ subscribers can enter the sweepstakes daily at perks.disneyplus.com until December 19 at 8:59 a.m. PT (or until all prizes are claimed). Four lucky winners will each receive six non-premium tickets (valued at up to $270) to one Disney On Ice show of their choice, valid through June 1, 2027.
Winners can select from five currently touring shows across the U.S. and Canada, including Jump In!, Road Trip Adventures, and Frozen & Encanto. (Note: Travel and lodging are not included.)
This holiday season, Disney+ is giving away 100 Disney eGift Cards, each valued at $100, redeemable for goods and services at participating Disney locations. To enter, active Disney+ subscribers must visit perks.disneyplus.com, log in using their MyDisney account, and follow the instructions on the “12 Days of Perks: Disney Gift Card Flash Sweepstakes” image on the “Discover” page.
Remember, you can enter once daily until the deadline of December 19, 2025. Winners will be notified via their account, and the $100 card will be automatically added to their Disney Perks+ Account wallet.
The “12 Days of Disney+ Perks” marks the first holiday campaign for the Disney+ Perks program, which launched in May 2025 to reward active subscribers with exclusive discounts, free trials, and sweepstakes. Now through December 12, subscribers can “unwrap” a new daily Perk starting at 9 a.m. PT. These daily drops include exclusive offers from Disney, National Geographic, and more, such as a $10 discount on Avatar: Fire and Ash movie tickets and 30% off select performances of Disney’s Aladdin on Broadway.
Have you been participating in the 12 days of Disney+ Perks?
The Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort is a vibrant, one-of-a-kind destination that perfectly blends a unique mix of shops, dining, and entertainment with that enchanting touch of Disney magic. It offers endless discoveries for both visiting vacationers and Southern California locals.
This dynamic outdoor promenade, just steps from Disneyland park, Disney California Adventure park and the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort, has been undergoing an exciting evolution as the Disneyland Resort continues to invest in the development of magical new experiences! You may have seen the west end of the district transforming with a new entrance, new shops, restaurants, and design inspiration from mid-century modern architecture in Southern California.
Dining and Drinks: Discover So Much Delicious!
Downtown Disney offers a wide variety of dining options and diverse cuisines. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely nosh, celebrating a special occasion or snacking on the go, there’s something to please every palate.
Parkside Market is the first Downtown Disney food hall, with four culinary concepts under one roof.
Vista Parkside Market offers beautiful views of the district and inventive cocktails and mocktails.
Din Tai Fung, the world-renowned Taiwanese restaurant known for the art of Xiao Long Bao, opened its first ever freestanding restaurant at Downtown Disney. A dumpling expo kitchen serves as an indoor backdrop, inviting guests to witness the artistry behind their 18-fold dumpling making process. Menu highlights also include Spicy Wontons, String Beans with Garlic, Cucumber Salad and Pork Chop Fried Rice, all served family-style. These divine dishes can be ordered for takeout to enjoy at home or in your hotel room.
Paseo, Céntrico and Tiendita, with menus created by Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Gaytán, offer three separate food, drink and dining experiences. Ranging from upscale Mexican cuisine and tequila-based cocktails at the indoor restaurant, Paseo and the open-air Céntrico, to on-the-go Mexican street-food staples at Tiendita.
More Table Service Restaurants: Sit Back and Relax with a Bite
Ballast Point Brewing Co., with its sea theme and Southern California cuisine, is a brew pub with shareable appetizers, burgers, tacos and a rooftop patio overlooking the district.
Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes serves award-winning burgers, eye-popping CrazyShakes and other delish dishes in a throwback style eatery reminiscent of ‘80s and ‘90s hip-hop and pop with a SoHo vibe.
Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio, building on two decades of tradition, is a fun, casual and modern celebration of its authentic New Orleans roots and its adopted California influences which brings a vibrant California-fresh energy and approach to its menu.
Naples Ristorante e Bar celebrates the spirit of southern Italy with its Neapolitan style pizza and pasta with a two-story dining room and décor inspired by Carnivale, an impressive wine selection and outdoor patio.
Splitsville Luxury Lanes is great for sports fans to watch a big game with family and friends, offering expansive seating options indoors and out, with a menu of sushi rolls, burgers, pizza, cocktails and beer. Guests can also get their game on with its 20 bowling lanes.
Quick Service: Feeling Snack-ish? Grab and Go!
Beignets Expressed is a fast and fun counter-service spot serving the much-loved New Orleans confection, from the classic fried beignet topped with a mountain of powdered sugar to specialty glazed beignets dipped and drizzled with sweet sprinkles.
CrazyShake Window by Black Tap is the place for over-the-top milkshakes on-the-go from Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes.
Earl of Sandwich has a pop-up pod near Star Wars Trading Post, serving favorites including The Original 1762, The Full Montagu, the Holiday Turkey and more popular sandwiches, wraps, salads and sweets.
Napolini Pizzeria is a quick stop for Italian food with specialty pizzas, hearty sandwiches, fresh salads and desserts.
Salt & Straw has an innovative collection of award-winning ice cream that tells the story of artisans and farmers through an ever-changing menu of flavors and ingredients.
Blue Ribbon Corn Dog is the place for a hand-dipped corn dog with choices of classic or flavorful twists.
California Churro offers iconic treats — churros — at two locations in the district!
Jamba is “whirl’d famous” for its smoothies, juices and bowls.
Kayla’s Cake is a sweet stop for premium French macarons and other decadent treats.
Wetzel’s Pretzels makes fresh-baked, hand-rolled soft pretzels at this flagship store. Be sure to see the large-scale mural capturing scenes from Southern California and the pretzel door handle!
And keep a lookout for pop-up food trucks with extra eats and treats!
Shopping: Find Favorite Treasures
If you’re searching for the perfect gift or a Disney souvenir for yourself, the district has got you covered, plus so much more in store!
Nectar Life brings a luxurious collection of handcrafted beauty essentials and bath treats made with pure joy. This is the first Nectar Life location to have a customization bar, where you’ll be able to create your own milkshake bath soaks and nourishing whipped soaps, in addition to other self-care essentials.
Avengers Reserve celebrates the fandom and stories of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes and their friends with comic books, collectibles, Super Hero apparel and role-play toys for all ages.
Disney Wonderful World of Sweetsis a whimsical delight of confectionery treats featuring fresh, house-made Werther’s Original Caramel popcorn, caramel apples, churro toffee and candies galore. Its exhibition kitchens are viewable from the promenade and sweet new characters include Poppi the popcorn bucket and other treats named Jimmi, Fluffi, Bonni and Lolli.
The D-Lander Shop features trend-forward fashions and co-branded collections of apparel, handbags and jewelry including Kate Spade, Dooney & Bourke and a PANDORA Jewelry shop-within-a-shop.
Disney Storyland Boutique is a charming retail concept that will regularly transform its theming, décor and products. Be sure to stop by on your visit to see the latest seasonal merchandise selection!
World of Disney is the flagship store with the largest selection of Disney merchandise at the Disneyland Resort.
Disney Home is the place for kitchenware, linens, gadgets, ornaments and décor.
Curl Surf celebrates California surf culture with beach styles for guys and gals.
Kawaii Slime cartoffers an imaginative array of the cutest slime concoctions and toys in a multitude of colors, textures, scents and glittery mix-ins for kids and kids at heart to play with over and over again!
The LEGO Store has building sets for the LEGO beginners and enthusiasts who may marvel at the larger-than-life displays of Disney characters built out of LEGO.
Lovepop has imaginative pop-up greeting cards with stunning designs for any occasion. These cards are laser-cut, combining modern technology with the ancient art of “kirigami,” a variation of origami where the paper is cut rather than folded.
PANDORA Jewelry has a selection of statement jewelry that features Disney characters, park landmarks and more.
Pelé Soccer is the place to score apparel from soccer teams from around the world.
Star Wars Trading Post is perfect for those looking to discover treasures from across the galaxy.
Sunglass Hut has stylish sunglasses, perfect for a sunny Southern California day!
Sephora is the place to find go-to beauty products from skincare to makeup and fragrance.
WonderGround Gallery is a boutique gallery with Disney-themed artwork and collectibles for the home or office.
Disney’s Pin Traders kiosk is perfect for anyone adding to their extensive Disney pin collection or for those just getting started.
Collectible Medallion Machines and Pressed Coin Machines are located in the district and great for any collector.
Kaman’s Art Shoppes, Inc. Caricatureskiosk has talented artists who draw personal caricatures that make the perfect keepsakes.
Then, throughout the year, there are trunk shows, pin trading events and artist showcases.
Entertainment: Enjoy Lots of Family Fun
Here are a few more suggestions for fun in Downtown Disney!
Relax on the lawn and let the little ones play while listening to live music in the evenings at the Downtown Disney LIVE! Stage such as Motown, rock, pop, reggae and special performances.
Splitsville Luxury Lanes features 20 luxury bowling lanes interspersed throughout two floors along with 25 big-screen TVs; outdoors, guests can step out to The Alley to play interactive games and listen to local musicians.
While enjoying dinner at Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio, listen to singers and musicians perform multiples genres of jazz.
What’s Next? Here’s a Sneak Peek!
Plans are underway to bring these all-new restaurants and shops to Downtown Disney in the future!
lululemon will feature innovative athletic apparel, footwear and accessories for yoga, running, training and more.
Bopo Go! is a new café concept being planned expressly for Downtown Disney, serving high quality, authentic boba/bubble tea with no artificial ingredients. Inspired by convenience stores in Asia, Bopo Go! will carry other signature beverages, light bites, imported snacks and candies.
Earl of Sandwich will have a new, two-story location in Downtown Disney District, with a quick-service Earl of Sandwich shop on the ground level and an all-new British-themed gastropub upstairs. Gordon Ramsay at The Carnaby will bring Brit pop energy of the swinging ’60s London, whilst a selection of Chef Gordon Ramsay’s iconic and delicious British classic dishes delivers culinary star power.
Arthur & Sons Steak and Bourbon, from Michelin-starred Chef Joe Isidori, will be a classic steakhouse serving up prime cuts of beef, fresh seafood, sandwiches and salads, and an impressive selection of bourbon and cocktails with a lively center bar.
Pearl’s Roadside BBQ, also from Chef Isidori, will be a quick service eatery offering dishes such as pulled pork and beef brisket with house-made sauces, along with craft beers and moonshine cocktails.
Construction is underway to bring Porto’s Bakery & Cafe, an iconic Southern California destination known for its sweet pastries as well as California-Cuban-inspired dishes, to Downtown Disney. Foodies can look forward to picking up their signature Cheese Rolls, Potato Balls and other favorite goodies from the bakery and cafe, plus this new location will be the first Porto’s with sit-down table service and a full bar. Check out concept art of this exciting addition coming to Downtown Disney, depicting the outdoor patio, striking exterior, and cozy dining space.
Throughout the year, keep a look out for new specialty menu items, unique shopping experiences, and seasonal entertainment and decor across the district.
Admission to Downtown Disney is complimentary. If you’re heading to Disneyland park with a valid park admission, you may board the Disneyland Monorail at the Downtown Disney station and enjoy an approximate 13-minute ride around the resort before arriving in Tomorrowland.
Plan Ahead: Rise of the Resistance at Disneyland Closing for Refurbishment in Early 2026
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, Disneyland Park’s massive E-Ticket attraction, is scheduled to undergo refurbishment starting in January. This temporary closure will take place early in the new year.
The official closure date for Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance is confirmed by the Disneyland website’s Hours & Events Calendar, which currently shows the attraction closed beginning January 20, 2026. At this time, however, the duration of the refurbishment and the extent of any updates or changes remain unknown.
Since opening at Disney’s Hollywood Studios (December 2019) and Disneyland (January 2020), Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance has battled a persistent technical issue: the three laser cannons in the battle scene, designed to move as the ride vehicles dodge them. Due to the significant operational downtime caused by their dysfunction, this effect was disabled on both coasts for years. Fortunately, Disneyland finally restored its moving cannons during the January 2025 refurbishment, though the effect remains non-operational at Walt Disney World.
Gordon Goodwin, Disney Composer, Passes Away at 70
Composer Gordon Goodwin, age 70, passed away on December 8, 2025. His distinguished career with Disney spanned decades, originating with his time as a Disneyland musician before he became a major contributor, crafting musical arrangements for several iconic Disney Parks parades and shows, as well as contributing to Disney films.
Gordon Goodwin was a highly celebrated composer known for his versatility across genres. He earned multiple Grammy Awards for Best Instrumental Arrangement, including for his work on “The Incredits” from Pixar’s The Incredibles(2004), as well as wins for “Rhapsody in Blue” (2011) and “On Green Dolphin Street” (2013). His television work also secured him three Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Music Direction and Composition for shows like Animaniacsand Histeria!
Additionally, Goodwin led the renowned 18-piece jazz orchestra, The Big Phat Band, which won a Grammy for Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album (Life in the Bubble, 2014). His extensive Disney and filmography credits include roles in the music departments for The Great Mouse Detective, Tarzan, The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, Incredibles 2, and Hocus Pocus 2. His final IMDb credit is as an additional orchestrator for The Naked Gun (2025).
A Trader Joe’s Is Coming Closer Than Ever to Walt Disney World
Good news for anyone who’s ever wrapped up a Disney day and thought, “You know what would complete this magical moment? A bag of Chili & Lime Rolled Tortilla Chips and a freezer full of mini ice cream cones.” Trader Joe’s is setting its sights on Kissimmee, and this new location will land less than 10 miles from Walt Disney World.
Plans have been filed for a 12,500-square-foot store in the Loop West area, tucked near JCPenney and anchored inside a parcel that’s getting reconfigured to accommodate roughly 150 parking spaces. While Trader Joe’s hasn’t officially confirmed the store, the layout aligns with their usual blueprint, and the company’s spokesperson hinted that the Kissimmee region is absolutely on their radar as they scout new neighborhoods nationwide.
For locals, cast members, and frequent visitors, this would be a huge win. The nearest Trader Joe’s spots in Dr. Phillips and Winter Park are fan favorites, but having one so close to the Disney bubble is a grocery game-changer. Whether you’re stocking a villa kitchen, grabbing snacks before rope drop, or fueling up between park days, this could quickly become a must-stop shop on many itineraries.
With another store already in development in Maitland, Central Florida is gearing up for a whole lot more Cookie Butter and Unexpected Cheddar in its future. And honestly? That feels like the kind of plot twist we can all get behind.
