Disney Spends Over $142 Million to Change Splash Mountain to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

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July 17, 2024

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Disney Invests $142 Million in Enchanting Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

Disney is known for its commitment to innovation and storytelling, and their latest theme park offering, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, is a prime example. This exciting revamp of the beloved Splash Mountain ride brings the magic of “The Princess and the Frog” to life, featuring the first Black Disney princess, Tiana.

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A Breathtaking Transformation

While some may miss the iconic tree stump, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure boasts a stunning new centerpiece: a weeping willow nestled on a mossy outcrop. Imagineers, Disney’s team of creative minds, poured their talents into crafting immersive scenes filled with vibrant colors and captivating details. The ride takes guests on a musical journey through the Louisiana bayou, joining Tiana in her quest to fulfill her dream of opening a restaurant.

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Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion

The arrival of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure marks a significant milestone for Disney. This enchanting ride celebrates diversity and inclusion, showcasing a strong and determined princess who inspires young people of all backgrounds. Five original songs add to the joyful atmosphere, creating a truly unforgettable experience.

Investment in Guest Experience

While the exact cost of individual attractions remains undisclosed, industry experts estimate that the transformation of Splash Mountain into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure reached a staggering $142 million. This investment reflects Disney’s dedication to providing guests with cutting-edge technology and captivating storytelling.

A Labor of Love: Reimagining Splash Mountain

While the Star Tours upgrade took a year, transforming Splash Mountain into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure proved to be a more intensive undertaking. Spanning 17 months, the project involved a meticulous overhaul. Unlike Star Tours, which primarily focused on incorporating new digital elements, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure demanded significant real-world changes. Imagineers undertook extensive labor-intensive renovations to the ride’s setting.

This included crafting entirely new sets, creating a menagerie of 48 audio-animatronic characters, and composing five original songs to weave a captivating narrative. While the ride incorporates bespoke computer-generated imagery (CGI) on select screens, the focus here wasn’t on a heavy CGI overhaul like Star Tours. Instead, the emphasis was on building a richly detailed physical environment teeming with life and music.

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A New Era for Theme Park Entertainment

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure represents a new chapter in theme park entertainment. By combining classic log flume thrills with innovative storytelling and a focus on diversity, Disney has created a ride that’s sure to become a favorite for generations to come. While some initial challenges exist, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure has the potential to be a huge success, attracting new audiences and solidifying Disney’s position as a leader in immersive entertainment.

What do you think of the newly retheme ride? We loved it! Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

Universal Orlando Resort’s Largest Daytime Parade, Universal Mega Movie Parade Now Open

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Chris B

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July 17, 2024

Get ready to be amazed as Universal Orlando Resort unveils its largest daytime parade yet! The Universal Mega Movie Parade is now open at Universal Studios Florida, bringing fan-favorite films to life right before your eyes. This spectacular parade highlights iconic movies such as E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, Back to the Future, Jaws, Ghostbusters, Jurassic World, Illumination’s Minions and Sing, and DreamWorks Animation’s Trolls and Kung Fu Panda.

Parade Highlights

The Universal Mega Movie Parade features 13 new floats, nearly 100 performers, and an array of special effects. Guests can marvel at:

The Trolls Float: Featuring the colorful Caterbus with giant rainbows.
The Ghostbusters Float: Showcasing a massive 16-foot Stay Puft Marshmallow Man.
The Minions Float: Groovy Minions on a 70s dance floor.
The Jaws Float: A live marching drum line performing the iconic movie score alongside a themed float.
The Jurassic World Float: The epic finale with a fierce Tyrannosaurus rex.

Additionally, fans will spot details paying homage to iconic elements from the films as the parade winds through Universal Studios Florida.

Interactive Bubble Wands

To enhance the experience, guests can purchase interactive bubble wands inspired by the parade’s films. These wands illuminate, blow bubbles, vibrate, and activate sounds when interacting with select parade floats and other bubble wands. Featuring characters from Trolls, Jurassic World, and Minions, each bubble wand offers unique sounds and lights for custom interactions. These wands are available at various retail locations throughout Universal Orlando Resort.

New Experiences at Universal Orlando

The Universal Mega Movie Parade tops off a collection of new experiences that Universal Orlando Resort debuted this summer, providing fun for the whole family from day to night. Other must-see experiences include:

DreamWorks Land: An expansive, vibrant themed environment with attractions, character meet-and-greets, interactive play areas, and a live show inspired by DreamWorks Animation’s Shrek, Trolls, and Kung Fu Panda.
CineSational: A Symphonic Spectacular: A riveting new nighttime lagoon show that takes guests on a cinematic journey through soundtracks from blockbuster films that have inspired Universal Orlando’s past, present, and future attractions.
Hogwarts Always in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade: An all-new castle projection show that takes guests through iconic moments of a school year at Hogwarts.

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Plan Your Visit

Access to all the incredible new entertainment at Universal Orlando is included with theme park admission. Guests can take advantage of special offers to plan their visit:

Get 2 Days Free with a 2-Park, 3-Day Ticket: Enjoy five days of theme park fun for the price of a 3-day ticket.
Save 30% off a 3-Park, 5-Night Vacation Package: Includes accommodations at Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort or Universal Aventura Hotel.
Save 25% on Room Types at Universal Endless Summer Resort: Discounts on stays of three to six nights now through August 24, 2024.

Disney’s DVC Polynesian Island Tower Construction Update for July 2024

By

Chris B

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July 17, 2024

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Exciting progress is being made on the Disney Vacation Club (DVC) Polynesian Island Tower, with much of the exterior paint and details already applied. The majority of the sliding glass doors on the room balconies have been installed, along with most of the balcony railings. Construction is progressing well, with the tower set to open on December 17, 2024.

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Key Tower Highlights

Panoramic Views: The 10-story tower offers stunning views of the Seven Seas Lagoon and easy access to Magic Kingdom and EPCOT via the Disney Monorail.
Design and Art: Features a striking Manta Ray design and ceiling art panels inspired by Polynesian wildlife, along with unique artworks created in collaboration with global artists.
Accommodations: Includes duo studios, one- and two-bedroom villas, new two-bedroom penthouse villas, and deluxe studios, accommodating groups of two to nine guests.

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Booking Now Open

Booking is now available for all the new Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, opening December 17, 2024. Are you planning on staying here? Leave us a comment to let us know!

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Guest Caught Swimming in Rivers of America at the Magic Kingdom

By

Chip

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July 17, 2024

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Guest Caught Swimming in Rivers of America at Magic Kingdom Sparks Safety Concerns

A recent incident at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom has raised eyebrows and safety concerns after a guest was caught on video swimming in the Rivers of America. The video, which quickly went viral on social media, shows the individual swimming from Tom Sawyer Island towards a dock near Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.

While the motive behind this unauthorized swim remains unclear, the incident has sparked discussions about park safety and the importance of adhering to posted rules and regulations. Swimming in any body of water at Walt Disney World is strictly prohibited due to potential hazards, including the presence of alligators and underwater equipment used for attractions like the Liberty Square Riverboat.

This incident is not the first of its kind, with previous reports of guests jumping or falling into the Rivers of America. Disney officials have reiterated the importance of guest safety and reminded visitors to refrain from entering any bodies of water not designated for swimming.

The guest in question was reportedly apprehended by Disney Cast Members shortly after the video was taken. While the specific consequences they face remain undisclosed, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of disregarding park rules.

Disney Announces Two New Epcot Food & Wine Festival Booths

By

Chris B

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July 17, 2024

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Get ready to embark on a culinary journey like no other at the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, where guests can taste their way around the world from August 29 to November 23, 2024. This year, Disney has announced two exciting new booths that are sure to delight food enthusiasts and festival-goers alike.

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New Booths to Explore

Autumn Blaze

Autumn Blaze will be serving up “fall food and flavors” that capture the essence of the season. One of the highlights from this booth is the brined pork tenderloin with fennel slaw, promising a delicious and savory experience that will transport you straight to a cozy autumn evening.

Harvest Table

Harvest Table also embraces the season with its offerings of “fall food and flavors.” Among the tantalizing dishes available, the wild game chili stands out, providing a hearty and unique culinary adventure for those looking to try something different and satisfying.

Taste Your Way Around the World

This year’s festival spans six continents, featuring Global Marketplaces where guests can indulge in innovative dishes crafted by globally inspired chefs. From savory mains to delightful desserts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. While the full lineup of booths and menus are yet to be released, these sneak peeks hint at the incredible variety and quality of food that attendees can look forward to.

Eat to the Beat Concert Series Presented by Florida Blue

In addition to the fantastic food, guests can spice up their day with live music at the Eat to the Beat Concert Series. Presented by Florida Blue, these concerts are a staple of the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, bringing a dynamic and entertaining atmosphere to the event. Be sure to check out our guide to the full lineup!

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Plan Your Visit

With the festival running from late August through late November, there’s plenty of time to plan multiple visits to savor all the culinary delights and enjoy the vibrant entertainment. Whether you’re a local or planning a trip to Walt Disney World, the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival is a must-visit event that offers something for everyone.

Stay tuned for more updates on the full lineup of booths, menus, and the Eat to the Beat concert schedule.

New ‘Good-to-Go Days’ for WDW Annual Passholders in July and Early August 2024

By

Chris B

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July 17, 2024

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Exciting news for Walt Disney World Annual Passholders! Disney has announced new ‘Good-to-Go Days’ for the summer, allowing passholders to enjoy the magic of the parks without the need for a reservation. Mark your calendars for July 22, 27, 31, and August 4, 2024, and get ready for some spontaneous fun!

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What are ‘Good-to-Go Days’?

On ‘Good-to-Go Days,’ Annual Passholders can enter any of the four Walt Disney World theme parks without needing a park reservation. This means more flexibility and convenience for passholders, making it easier to enjoy all the magic and excitement the parks have to offer.

Dates to Remember

July 22, 2024
July 27, 2024
July 31, 2024
August 4, 2024

What You Need to Know

No Reservations Needed: On these designated days, Annual Passholders can access Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom without a prior reservation.
All Parks Included: This perk applies to all four Walt Disney World theme parks, giving passholders the freedom to choose their adventure.
Annual Pass Required: Ensure you have your Annual Pass and valid photo ID for entry.
Blackout Dates Still Apply: Your Annual Pass needs to be valid during the period covered by the Good to Go Days in order to take advantage of this perk.

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Why You Should Take Advantage

‘Good-to-Go Days’ are a fantastic opportunity for passholders to experience the parks with added flexibility. Whether you’re looking to explore new attractions, savor delicious dining options, or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, these days provide the perfect chance to make spontaneous visits to the parks.

Disney Legend Whoopi Goldberg Admits to Spreading Her Mother’s Ashes at Disneyland

By

Sara

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July 17, 2024

Disney Legend Whoopi Goldberg Admits to Spreading Her Mother’s Ashes at Disneyland

Disney Legend Whoopi Goldberg told an interesting story on “Late Night with Seth Meyers” recently. The host of “The View” revealed a surprising way she honored her mother’s love for Disney Parks. It turns out, Goldberg scattered some of her mother’s ashes on a favorite ride at Disneyland.

Disney superfan Whoopi Goldberg isn’t shy about her love for the company. She’s not only voiced iconic characters like Shenzi in “The Lion King” and Stretch in “Toy Story 3,” but has also been vocal about her frequent visits to Disney Parks.

However, during a 2010 trip to Disneyland following her mother Emma Harris’ passing, Goldberg embarked on a unique tribute that even the most devoted Disney fan wouldn’t attempt. She scattered some of her mother’s ashes on a favorite ride – “it’s a small world.” While a heartfelt gesture, Goldberg later realized it might have been a bit much. Recognizing the potential safety hazard of human remains in a water ride, she confessed her actions to Cast Members. It was a clear moment of both deep love and good sense prevailing.

Unfortunately, Whoopi Goldberg’s story isn’t an isolated incident. According to a 2018 Wall Street Journal report, such occurrences, informally dubbed “Code Grandma” by park staff, happen nearly every month. This troubling trend disrupts park operations as the affected ride needs to be shut down for proper cleaning and safety checks, highlighting the potential health risks associated with scattering ashes in a theme park environment.

While you might think it’s a touching tribute to scatter your loved one’s ashes at a Disney park, please don’t! Honor their memory in a safer way.

Mickey Mouse Pumpkin Wreaths Coming to the Disney Store

By

Sara

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July 17, 2024

Mickey Mouse Pumpkin Wreaths Coming to the Disney Store

Get ready to add some spooky-cute cheer to your door this Halloween! The iconic Mickey Mouse pumpkin wreath, just like the ones lining Main Street, U.S.A. at the parks, is coming to the Disney Store this month!

This delightful fall decoration isn’t just any wreath! It features a grinning Mickey Mouse pumpkin as the star, surrounded by a vibrant autumn bounty. Sunflowers nod hello, orange flowers add a pop of color, and colorful gourds and leaves complete the scene, bringing the magic of fall right to your doorstep.

Want to bring the magic of Main Street, U.S.A. right to your door this fall? The light-up Mickey Mouse pumpkin wreath, just like the ones you love at the park, is coming to the Disney Store website on July 22nd at 11:00 AM ET. It’s $74.99 plus tax. Don’t miss out on this hauntingly cute decoration!

Will you be grabbing one or two (or more) of these spooktacular wreaths?

First Look at the Staterooms on the Disney Treasure

By

Sara

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July 17, 2024

First Look at the Staterooms on the Disney Treasure

Great news for Disney Cruise Line fans! The Disney Treasure reached a major milestone recently with all 1,246 staterooms now installed. This signifies significant progress on the ship’s interior construction. With staterooms complete, the shipyard can focus on outfitting the vessel for its exciting debut later this year.

A few weeks ago, the final stateroom was installed on the beautiful Disney Treasure at Meyer Werft Shipyard in Papenburg, Germany. Needless to say, the process of positioning all 1,246 rooms inside the ship was quite an undertaking! It began when each cabin was prefabricated at an off-site factory on a slow-moving conveyor belt. As the cabins moved down the line, different team members went to work building out various components of the rooms, from the plumbing to the furniture and everything in between. Once each cabin was completely outfitted, they were loaded onto semi-trucks and individually transported to the yard. From there, they were carefully lifted by cranes and slotted into position within the Disney Treasure.

The progress photos show how each stateroom features a fresh, natural color scheme and custom artwork. Can you spot which Disney and Pixar films inspired the piece in the pictured room? The accommodations will soon become a home away from home for future Disney Cruise Line guests when they embark on family adventures later this year.

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Set sail for adventure with me as your Disney Cruise Line personal concierge! I can help you navigate all the magical possibilities, from finding the perfect itinerary and stateroom to uncovering special offers and onboard activities. Let’s create an unforgettable Disney cruise together – simply tell me your dream vacation and I’ll handle the rest!

Shopping and Merchandise Options for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in 2024

By

Sara

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July 16, 2024

Shopping and Merchandise Options for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in 2024

Calling all Disney superfans with bulging wallets and itchy credit cards! Got your tickets for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event presented by Visa in Anaheim (Aug 9-11, 2024)? Wondering where to score all the exclusive merch? Look no further! Here’s your ultimate guide to shopping at D23: ️

World of Disney: The Product Experience

This year, attendees of D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event presented by Visa can take their fandom to the next level with World of Disney: The Product Experience, the home for limited-edition and event-exclusive merchandise from D23 Marketplace, Disney Publishing, and more!

This expansive and reimagined destination will be located on North Level 200 of the Anaheim Convention Center, giving attendees an opportunity to interact and engage with some of their favorite products and stories from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars.

Returning this year in a new location within World of Disney: The Product Experience is the D23 Marketplace. This 16,000 square-foot retail location (also known as the retail location of my dreams) brings together the most exciting products from DisneyStore.com and Disney Parks, offering merchandise from fan-favorite collections including Disney Limited-Edition Dolls, and debut collections that fans are sure to love, especially when you Step into Magic with Disney Lacers – a new vinyl collectible series! Love Disney Pin Trading while in the Parks? D23 Marketplace will also be a great spot to buy all-new limited-edition styles and a limited-edition capsule which nods to the 25^th Anniversary of Disney Pin Trading.

Fellow bibliophiles, this one’s for us. Disney Publishing books and merchandise will also be located within World of Disney: The Product Experience with first-to-market must-reads including titles from Bob Weis, former President of Walt Disney Imagineering; incoming Disney Legend, Martha Blanding; Pete Docter, Pixar Animation Studios’ Chief Creative Officer, and many more.

While you shop, you can also enjoy a brand-new sip and shop experience featuring a cup of the latest blend from Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Co. I can smell the amazing aroma of coffee beans now!

Show Floor Shopping Experiences

M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E, did you sing it in your head like I did? Perfect, because The Walt Disney Company Store is making its first appearance this year at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event presented by Visa with two locations on the show floor! The Walt Disney Company Main Store, in Hall D, will feature new branded merchandise from The Walt Disney Studios, The Walt Disney Archives, and of course, The Walt Disney Company. Within this shop, you can find everything from collectibles to apparel. And additionally, in collaboration with D23: The Official Disney Fan Club, The Walt Disney Company Store will be home to all official branded merchandise for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event presented by Visa. For those pin lovers, The Walt Disney Company Pin Store, in Hall B, will host a large assortment of limited-edition pins with a new assortment appearing each day of the event.

Mickey’s of Glendale, the beloved Walt Disney Imagineering store, makes a return this year with two stores in Hall C of the Anaheim Convention Center. In Mickey’s of Glendale, you’ll find work from Disney’s talented Imagineers with unique spotlight collections that include apparel and collectibles inspired by Disney characters, theme park attractions, and iconic Disney moments. Disney pin enthusiasts will want to stop by the Mickey’s of Glendale Pin Store, which will also launch a new assortment of limited-edition pins throughout the event weekend. It’s important to note that the Mickey’s of Glendale Pin Store will be cashless and requires guests to have the Disneyland app downloaded to their smartphone device to make a purchase. It’s highly recommended to have the app downloaded and account created ahead of time to ensure the best shopping experience!

Shop the magic of Hollywood at Disney Studio Store Hollywood, located in Hall B, where event attendees will find newly released limited-edition pins, framed pin sets, and official Disney Studio Store branded apparel.

How to Shop at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event

If reading about shopping has you counting down the seconds till Aug. 9, 10, and 11, be sure to also learn more about the return of merchandise mobile checkout and virtual queue at select locations. Both services will be available through a direct link from the D23 app to the Disneyland app. The D23 app is currently available for download on the app store for iOS and Android devices and an update coming soon will add functionality to help guests navigate all the entertainment, presentations, shopping, photo opportunities, and magic that Disney has in store at this year’s event. The Disneyland app is currently available for download on the app store for iOS and Android devices. As mentioned, many locations are cashless venues and will only accept a credit or debit card.

Continue the Magic Beyond the Event

Unable to attend D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event presented by Visa this year but still want to shop, or missed out on purchasing a coveted item during the event? DisneyStore.com has you covered with select event items as well as new products from collections that launched at the event going on sale Monday, Aug. 12, at 8 a.m. PT at DisneyStore.com/D23Event2024, while supplies last. Set your alarms now!

Now, who’s ready to shop? D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event presented by Visa is only 24 days away! Stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog for even more fun ahead of and during our biggest event yet including exciting updates from Josh D’Amaro and other surprise guests during Horizons: Disney Experiences Showcase on Aug. 10.

Blast Off with Mickey! Hallmark’s New Space Mountain Ornament!

By

Ana Leal

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July 16, 2024

Blast Off with Mickey! Hallmark’s New Space Mountain Ornament!

Disney fans and ornament collectors alike will be over the moon for Hallmark’s newest release: the Space Mountain Clear for Launch Ornament. This dazzling piece captures the thrill of the iconic Disney Parks attraction, with Mickey Mouse at the helm of his rocket ship, ready to explore the cosmos. You can get it at Hallmark stores or online for $19.99.

Perfect for adding a touch of interstellar magic to your holiday tree, this ornament is a must-have for any Disney enthusiast. Crafted with intricate detail, Mickey’s rocket ship is poised for takeoff, surrounded by twinkling stars and shimmering planets. The clear ornament design allows the light to shine through, creating a truly captivating display.

Whether you’re a seasoned space explorer or just dreaming of distant galaxies, this Space Mountain ornament is sure to ignite your imagination. So, fasten your seatbelts and prepare for liftoff!

Credit: Hallmark

A Practically Perfect Carousel Ride Ornament: Celebrate 60 Years of Mary Poppins Magic!

By

Ana Leal

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July 16, 2024

A Practically Perfect Carousel Ride Ornament: Celebrate 60 Years of Mary Poppins Magic!

Hallmark is bringing a touch of enchantment to your holiday decor with their new Mary Poppins 60th Anniversary A Practically Perfect Carousel Ride Ornament. This delightful keepsake captures the spirit of the beloved Disney classic while adding a touch of festive cheer to your Christmas tree.

Find this enchanting ornament at your local Hallmark store or online at Hallmark.com. Make this holiday season extra special with a touch of Mary Poppins magic!

For just $24.99, you can bring home the magic of Mary Poppins. The ornament features the iconic nanny in her signature red and white dress and wide-brimmed hat, gracefully perched atop a stunning purple and white carousel horse. Inspired by the unforgettable chalk-drawing scene with Bert, this ornament is a must-have for any Disney fan.

Whether you’re a lifelong admirer of Mary Poppins or simply looking to add a touch of whimsy to your holiday decor, this ornament is sure to delight. It’s the perfect gift for yourself or a loved one, and it’s guaranteed to bring a smile to everyone’s face.

Credit: Hallmark