Disney Hints at 2027 UK Sailings for the Disney Wish
Disney Cruise Line has dropped a major hint that the Disney Wish will soon be making waves across the pond. The fleet’s standout ship is expected to call the United Kingdom home for a series of highly anticipated European sailings.
The announcement kicked off with the nostalgic flip of a storybook, opening to the classic phrase, ‘Once Upon a Time.’ As the pages turned, a new message emerged: ‘In a land not so far, far away… Something magical is coming,’ followed by a striking visual of the Disney Wish set against the Union Jack.
While rumors of the Wish docking in Southampton have circulated for months, the wait is almost over—with 2027 itineraries dropping later this month, official confirmation is just around the corner.
The vibrant murals at the Storybook Circus train station have officially received a much-needed glow-up. Being exposed to the relentless Florida sun and unpredictable weather, these outdoor displays often lose their luster, but this recent refresh brings that classic Big Top energy back to life.
The mural’s palette is now noticeably punchier, making characters like Dumbo, Casey Jr., and Goofini (Goofy) pop against the illustrated map of the land. This vibrant glow-up likely stems from the area’s new role as a makeshift greeting spot; with Pete’s Silly Sideshow closed for a major overhaul, Donald and Daisy have moved their meet-and-greet right in front of these walls. For comparison, you can see how much the Florida sun had muted these colors just last month before the refresh began.
If you’re looking to catch Minnie and Goofy, you can find them greeting fans right at the entrance of Storybook Circus. Their daily appearances typically kick off around 10:00 a.m., so be sure to check the My Disney Experience app for the most up-to-date schedule.
As the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots prepare to clash at Levi’s Stadium this Sunday, football fans are already anticipating one of the most magical traditions in sports history. Amid the post-game celebration of Super Bowl LX, the game’s hero will look into the cameras and shout those four famous words: “I’m going to Disneyland!”
The iconic “What’s Next?” commercial is slated to air nationally across major TV networks and social media platforms immediately following the game. To ensure every fan can join the celebration, the spot will be released in both English and Spanish.
This tradition officially kicked off nearly 40 years ago in 1987, when New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms became the first athlete to deliver the line after his Super Bowl XXI victory. Since then, the commercial has featured a “who’s who” of NFL legends, from Patrick Mahomes to Tom Brady, cementing its place as a staple of American pop culture.
The magic doesn’t end with the commercial. The star player is scheduled to head south from Santa Clara to the Disneyland Resort in Southern California on Monday, February 9th.
Fans visiting the park can look forward to a high-energy celebratory cavalcade down Main Street, U.S.A., featuring the Super Bowl hero alongside Mickey Mouse and friends.
A New Face at SeaBase: Baby Manatee “Soleil” Debuts at EPCOT
The nursery at The Seas with Nemo & Friendsis getting quite crowded! Hot on the heels of the new seadragons debuting in the pavilion’s nursery, EPCOT has welcomed another adorable resident: a baby manatee named Soleil.
Visitors to SeaBase can now spot the little one exploring her new surroundings, often seen munching on bundles of Romaine lettuce alongside her tank-mates, Tanimura and Cider.
While Soleil is certainly a star attraction, she isn’t a permanent resident. Her arrival marks a significant shift for The Seas Pavilion. As shared by Dr. Mark Penning (Vice President of Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment), the aquarium is now operating as a short-term care facility.
In partnership with the Manatee Rescue, Rehabilitation and Release Partnership and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Disney is focusing on rehabilitating injured or orphaned manatees. The ultimate goal for Soleil—and her companions—is a full recovery followed by a return to their natural Florida habitats.
Soleil joins a small group of manatees currently undergoing care at EPCOT:
Tanimura: Another orphan who arrived in June 2025. Like Soleil, she is expected to be released once she reaches the necessary health and weight milestones.
Cider: A veteran of the tank who helps the younger manatees acclimate to the environment.
Success Story: Just this past October 2025, a manatee named Mermaid was successfully released back into the wild after seven months of recovery at The Seas, proving the vital importance of this rehabilitation program.
If you want to catch a glimpse of the newest member of the SeaBase family, head over to the manatee viewing area. You can watch Soleil swimming and eating from two different perspectives:
Level 1: Offers an underwater view to see her gliding through the water.
Level 2: Perfect for watching the manatees surface and snack on their greens.
The manatee exhibit remains one of the most tranquil and educational spots in the park, offering a direct look at the conservation efforts Disney supports behind the scenes.
New 2026 Mardi Gras Merchandise Debuts at Universal Orlando Resort
Universal Orlando Resort has officially unveiled its vibrant merchandise collection for the 2026 Mardi Gras season. From neon-soaked aesthetics to the return of the fan-favorite King Gator, this year’s lineup captures the high-energy spirit of the “International Flavors of Carnaval.”
Whether you’re exploring the immersive Mardi Gras Tribute Store inside Universal Studios Florida, browsing the Main Store in CityWalk, or stopping by shop locations throughout the resort, there is plenty of purple, green, and gold to go around.
This year’s clothing line centers on the “Royal Gator” family and the mysterious Baron, offering something for every style of party-goer.
King Gator & UOAP Exclusives: For the Annual Passholders, a dark blue adult t-shirt ($35) features a neon logo with King Gator lounging inside the “O.” If you prefer a more earthy tone, the Gator “King” T-Shirt ($35) comes in sage green with a crowned gator head and purple stars.
The Royal Pair: Match with the Gator “Queen” T-Shirt ($35), a dark purple tee featuring Queen Gator and a yellow Mardi Gras logo on the back collar.
The Baron Collection: Channel your inner voodoo rockstar with the gray Baron T-Shirt ($35) or the Baron Flannel ($65). Both feature the skull-faced Baron in his signature snake-coiled top hat with purple guitars.
Layers for the Chilly Nights: Stay warm during the parade with the King Gator Hoodie ($65), which boldly declares, “Party don’t stop till the gator drops!” or the Universal Mardi Gras Long-Sleeve ($50), decorated with bead and coin graphics.
Accessories & Collectibles
No Mardi Gras outfit is complete without the right flair. This year focuses on utility and “sweet” souvenirs.
Headwear & Bags: Choose between the classic gray Mardi Gras Logo Hat ($30) or the purple-stitched King Gator Hat ($30). For hands-free snacking, the King Gator Belt Bag ($45) comes in vibrant green with a 3D gold crown applique.
Pins, Magnets, and More: Collector favorites include the 3D Mask Pin ($16) featuring the park’s iconic entrance arch, and the Beads Holder ($18), designed to display your hard-earned parade catches.
Plush Souvenirs: The breakout stars of the year are the Beignet Plushes. You can grab a large, smiling Beignet ($18) or a Box of Beignets Keychain Set ($25) that includes three different mini-pastries with various expressions.
Housewares & Sweet Treats
Bring a taste of the Bayou back to your kitchen with the 2026 home collection.
Baron Glassware: The Baron dominates the home goods section with a Shot Glass ($12), a Taller Glass ($15) featuring coin and ribbon accents, and a matte Black Mug ($25).
Event Sweets: If you can’t get enough King Cake, grab the King Cake Cotton Candy ($7)—a cinnamon and vanilla-flavored treat in a festive tub. There is also a four-pack of Rock Candy ($10) in traditional Mardi Gras colors.
Will you be visiting Universal Orlando Resort to join the celebration this year?
Massive Excavation Near Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin
Visitors to Tomorrowland will notice a significant excavation site directly in front of Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin. While the attraction is currently closed for this extensive groundwork, Galactic Heroes won’t have to wait much longer, as the ride is slated to return to service this spring.
During our latest walk-through of Magic Kingdom, we spotted a significant excavation directly in front of the attraction’s entrance. Inside the pit, a new wooden framework has begun to take shape. While only a few vertical supports are currently visible, it appears crews are preparing the site for a concrete foundation, potentially signaling the arrival of a brand-new entrance structure.
Exterior updates are progressing quickly, with wiring and metal supports now visible at the rear of the new entrance framework. The entry doors have also received fresh gray paneling, replacing the aesthetic of the original archway and signage removed back in mid-January. These site changes follow the tear-up of the surrounding pavement, all part of a massive overhaul that began in August 2025. When the attraction returns, it will feature a total “re-spec,” including redesigned Star Cruisers, handheld blasters with always-on lasers, and reactive targets that light up when hit.
Water levels in the Cinderella Castle moat have dropped significantly as drainage efforts continue. After beginning the process on Wednesday, February 4, the moat is now nearly empty, providing crews with the necessary access to the castle’s lower exterior for the ongoing repainting project.
As the water recedes, dirt and debris have settled along the exposed concrete banks of the moat. To manage the drainage efficiently, Disney is utilizing dual pumps—one on the Liberty Square side and another on the Tomorrowland side—while strategically placed dams allow them to isolate the area without draining the entire waterway. This dry ground provides the necessary access for heavy machinery and painting crews to reach the castle’s base. Work is already progressing on a section toward the rear as the iconic pink upper half is systematically restored to its classic gray finish.
The scope of the project has extended beyond the castle walls, with the water features near the Tomorrowland bridge now powered down. This massive restoration, first announced in the summer of 2025, marks the end of the “Anniversary Pink” look introduced in 2020. Due to the ongoing work, several entertainment offerings have been adjusted: Happily Ever After is currently running with modifications, Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire has been limited to afternoon shows without pyrotechnics, and the Let the Magic Begin welcome show is currently running as an audio-only experience.
Are you looking forward to seeing the refreshed castle?
Fresh Gray Tones Spotted on Cinderella Castle Walls
Look closely next time you’re on Main Street—crews are busy at work returning Cinderella Castle to its classic roots, trading in recent hues for that iconic, regal gray finish.
While the changes are subtle from a distance, a closer look at the northeast corner reveals significant progress. Tucked behind the first layer of towers, the once-pink facade is steadily being replaced. In just a few days, crews have not only covered a previously pink section on the left but have also extended the gray tones further down the wall and across the rear ramparts.
Historically, Cinderella Castle featured a palette of dual-toned gray, light blue roofs, and subtle gold accents. This look was reimagined in 2021 for the park’s 50th Anniversary, introducing a vibrant mix of pink, royal blue, and heavy gold trim. However, following a Summer 2025 announcement, Disney is now reverting the icon to its original, classic aesthetic.
Travelers should note that these renovations have temporarily impacted daily entertainment. Currently, Happily Ever After has been modified, Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire has shifted to afternoon-only performances without pyrotechnics, and Let the Magic Begin is running as a music-only show. Further schedule adjustments are possible as the project continues.
Disney Says Guest Negligence Led to Magic Kingdom Trolley Track Trip and Fall, Requests Jury Trial
Disney has formally responded to a lawsuit tied to a trip and fall incident involving the trolley tracks at Magic Kingdom, arguing that the guest failed to exercise reasonable care and is therefore responsible for her injuries. The case stems from an October 2025 incident in which Rhonda Smith of Frankfort, Kentucky alleges she tripped over embedded trolley tracks near a castle area attraction during nighttime crowd conditions, resulting in permanent injuries and significant medical expenses.
According to the complaint filed December 22 against Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, the steel rails and flangeways were not adequately marked and the area lacked warnings or crowd control elements such as cones, stanchions, or guardrails during parade operations.
In Disney’s legal response, the company denies liability and asserts that Smith breached her own duty of care by not paying adequate attention to her surroundings, failing to observe or appreciate the conditions, and assuming the risk associated with navigating a busy park environment.
Disney has also formally requested a trial by jury, setting the stage for the case to move forward in court as both sides prepare to argue whether the trolley tracks constituted a dangerous condition or a known and obvious feature of Main Street U.S.A.
Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando Is Going Fully Cashless Starting February 25
If you are planning a splashy day at Volcano Bay, it is time to leave the loose bills in the hotel room. Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando Resort will officially go fully cashless beginning February 25, 2026, meaning all food, drinks, merchandise, and in park purchases will require a card or tap to pay option.
Guests can pay using credit or debit cards, Universal Pay, Universal Gift Cards, or other tap to pay methods, keeping transactions quick and easy between rides on Krakatau Aqua Coaster and lazy river laps. Visiting with cash only is still workable thanks to Cash to Card kiosks inside the park, which allow guests to load cash onto a Visa prepaid card that can be used throughout Volcano Bay and anywhere major credit or debit cards are accepted outside the park.
Universal also confirmed that Volcano Bay will enter its seasonal closure on October 26, 2026, with a planned reopening on or before March 24, 2027, so this cashless switch lines up with the park’s busy warm weather season when frozen drinks and snack stops are at their peak.
Zootopia Magic Shot Brings Nick Wilde’s Pawpsicles to Disney’s Animal Kingdom for Passholders
Walt Disney World Annual Passholders have one more reason to go absolutely wild at Disney’s Animal Kingdom thanks to a new Zootopia Magic Shot that adds some extra pawsome flair to your park photos.
Alongside the exclusive Zootopia magnet and themed treat already available, Passholders can now strike a pose with a Disney PhotoPass Magic Shot inspired by Zootopia, featuring Pawpsicle props and a digital cameo from the smooth talking fox himself, Nick Wilde, serving up his signature frozen treats.
This Passholder-only photo opportunity is located near the Tree of Life sign on Discovery Island and runs daily from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM through March 15, 2026, with a valid Annual Pass and government-issued photo ID required. The Magic Shot arrives just in time to pair perfectly with the new 4D show Zootopia Better Zoogether! inside the Tree of Life and the Nick and Judy meet and greet at the Zoogether Day Gathering Spot, making this a full Zootopia takeover moment that fans will not want to miss.
Josh D’Amaro Talks Disney’s Future, AI, and Taking the CEO Torch From Bob Iger in ABC News Exclusive
The future of The Walt Disney Company officially stepped into the spotlight as incoming CEO Josh D’Amaro and current CEO Bob Iger sat down with David Muir for an exclusive interview on ABC News. The wide-ranging conversation aired just hours after Disney confirmed D’Amaro will take over the top job in March, marking a major leadership moment as the company heads into its next century of storytelling, technology, and theme park magic.
D’Amaro didn’t shy away from the gravity of the role, openly acknowledging the responsibility that comes with guiding a company that means so much to so many people. He described himself as the next steward of a brand that has shaped culture for more than 100 years, a sentiment echoed by Iger, who emphasized that understanding Disney’s emotional footprint is essential to leading it forward. According to Iger, the key has always been balancing legacy with innovation, a tightrope act he believes D’Amaro is well prepared to walk.
That preparation comes from years spent working closely with Iger. D’Amaro credited his longtime mentor with showing him how to respect Disney’s roots while still taking bold swings, something he plans to continue as CEO. One example highlighted in the interview was Disney’s planned expansion into Abu Dhabi, a move D’Amaro framed as part of the company’s long tradition of thoughtful risk-taking.
Artificial intelligence also took center stage in the conversation. With Disney investing heavily in AI technology, including its recent $1 billion commitment tied to OpenAI, both leaders stressed that technology should enhance creativity rather than replace it. Iger praised D’Amaro’s approach to tech as an opportunity, while D’Amaro underscored that AI is already supercharging Disney’s creatives in new and exciting ways, reinforcing that people remain at the heart of Disney’s magic.
The leadership changes do not stop with the CEO transition. Disney also announced that Dana Walden will step into the newly expanded role of president and chief creative officer, overseeing the company’s entertainment vision. D’Amaro described Walden as a powerful, experienced, and deeply creative leader, rounding out a leadership team aimed at steering Disney confidently into its next chapter.
As for Iger, the interview carried a reflective tone as he spoke about stepping away from a role that has defined much of his life. While he admitted it is not easy to turn the page, Iger shared that he is looking forward to quieter days ahead, leaving Disney in the hands of a leader he clearly trusts to carry the torch.
