Another beloved spirit has rejoined the ghoulish gathering in Magic Kingdom’s Haunted Mansion. After a year-long absence, the Coachman Ghost has been restored to the tea party scene in the mansion’s iconic graveyard. Guests can now spot him leaning casually against the nearby hearse, adding his spooky charm back to the hauntingly delightful spectacle.
The Coachman, located to the right of the Duke and Duchess, had been missing for about a year. The Duke and Duchess themselves were restored in August and September, but unlike their motionless counterparts, the Coachman is fully operational—his head and arm eerily move as he settles into the ghostly tea party. Fans will be excited to see the figure back in action, adding to the dynamic, atmospheric scene.
This update is the latest in a series of refurbishments to The Haunted Mansion. Over the past few years, the attraction has seen several enhancements, including the much-anticipated addition of the Hatbox Ghost. In 2023, Madame Leota received an update, and Prince Amenmose, the tea-sipping mummy, returned to his spot at the tea party. These updates have helped keep the fan-favorite attraction fresh while preserving its spooky, nostalgic charm.
As The Haunted Mansion continues to evolve with these touch-ups, longtime fans and new visitors alike can enjoy the blend of old spirits and new energy in this classic Disney experience. Be sure to keep an eye out for the Coachman next time you take a doom buggy through the graveyard!
The Walt Disney Company Board Names James P. Gorman as Chairman, Effective January 2, 2025
James P. Gorman, Executive Chairman of Morgan Stanley, will take over as Chairman of the Walt Disney Company Board of Directors on January 2, 2025. He succeeds Mark G. Parker, who is leaving the Disney Board after nine years. Gorman will step down from his role at Morgan Stanley at the end of 2024.
Currently leading Disney’s Succession Planning Committee, Gorman is actively involved in identifying and preparing the company’s next CEO. This transition in leadership marks a significant moment for Disney as it navigates the evolving media landscape.
“James Gorman is an esteemed leader who has become an invaluable voice on the Disney Board since joining earlier this year, and I am extremely pleased that he has agreed to assume the role of Chairman upon my departure. Drawing on his vast experience, James is expertly guiding the extensive search process for a new CEO, which remains a top priority for the Board,” said Parker, who is Executive Chairman of NIKE, Inc. “As I prepare to leave the Board to focus on other areas of my work, I am proud of Disney’s renewed position of strength and excited for the company’s future, and I want to thank my fellow directors, Bob Iger and his exemplary management team for their continued strong leadership and dedication.”
“The Disney Board has benefited tremendously from James Gorman’s expertise and guidance, and we are lucky to have him as our next Chairman – particularly as the Board continues to move forward with the succession process,” Iger said. “I’m extremely grateful to Mark Parker for his many years of Board service and leadership, which have been so valuable to this company and its shareholders, and to me as CEO.”
“I am honored and humbled to have the opportunity to serve as Disney’s Chairman at this important moment in the company’s history,” Gorman said. “In the short time I have had the opportunity to work with Mark, I have come to appreciate and deeply respect his authentic leadership, humility and intelligence. I know all Directors join me in saying we have been honored to serve with him as the Chairman of the Board.”
“A critical priority before us is to appoint a new CEO, which we now expect to announce in early 2026. This timing reflects the progress the Succession Planning Committee and the Board are making, and will allow ample time for a successful transition before the conclusion of Bob Iger’s contract in December 2026,” Gorman said.
Exciting new details have emerged aboutDark Universe, a major land coming to Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe, as revealed during a recent panel discussion at New York Comic Con on October 19, 2024. The creative minds behind the attraction shared their vision for this all-new immersive world that brings together some of the most iconic Universal Monsters, offering thrills, chills, and a unique experience for horror fans.
Dark Universe will be home to classic monsters like Dracula, Frankenstein’s Monster, the Bride of Frankenstein, the Wolfman, and the Creature from the Black Lagoon. But this isn’t just a tribute to Universal’s monster legacy; it’s a fresh take on these characters, brought to life in a way that’s never been done before. At the heart of this new world is Dr. Victoria Frankenstein, the great-granddaughter of Henry Frankenstein, who has gathered these creatures for her experiments. However, as expected, things go terribly wrong, and guests will be caught in the chaos as the monsters are unleashed.
Guests will explore Frankenstein Manor, where the experiments take place, and will experience the horrifying thrill of seeing these creatures in an “unchained” state-which will include jump scares in the line queue! From interactions between monsters to their eerie encounters with the visitors, this land promises to deliver an experience that blurs the line between reality and nightmare. The creators emphasized that this won’t be like a typical Halloween Horror Nights maze; Dark Universe is designed to provide a much deeper narrative, offering a darkly atmospheric setting with cutting-edge technology that elevates the scares and thrills.
What sets Dark Universe apart from other theme park lands is the attention to detail in creating a world that feels like a sequel to the original monster films. The Village of Darkmoor, the fictional setting, serves as the perfect backdrop for this sinister story. Whether you’re a die-hard horror fan or someone just looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure, this land promises something for everyone. While there are family-friendly elements, the main attraction, Monsters Unchained, will push the boundaries of fear, making it an unforgettable experience.
In addition to the immersive attractions, the team revealed that character meet-and-greets in Dark Universe will go beyond the usual, with innovative interactions that draw guests deeper into the world of the monsters. The panel confirmed the Phantom of the Opera and the Creature From the Black Lagoon will be available for meet and greets, joining the already known lineup of classic monsters that include Frankenstein’s Monster, Bride of Frankenstein, the Invisible Man, and the Wolfman. They also related additional cameos are coming that have yet to be revealed, so stay tuned for more details!
With a perfect balance of nostalgia and innovation, Dark Universe is set to redefine what it means to experience fear in a theme park. For Universal fans, especially those who love the classic monsters, this land will be nothing short of legendary. Keep your eyes peeled for more reveals as opening day approaches!
No official announcements were made regarding specific changes during the refurbishment, and it was initially anticipated to be a routine maintenance project in preparation for the upcoming holiday season. Even after the reopening, guests have not reported any noticeable differences in the ride experience.
While the refurbishment appears to have addressed some cosmetic elements, such as repainting crates and signage, the overall aesthetic of the attraction remains consistent with previously weathered and “broken” props & scenes. Even the refreshed jungle rocks now exhibit a tan hue rather than the original reddish-orange, preserving the timeless charm of the ride.
Walt Disney World has announced the return of its popular holiday overlay, Jingle Cruise, set to debut on November 2nd.
Disney has officially announced the return of the Candlelight Processional Dining Packages for this year’s EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays, offering guests a delicious way to guarantee seats at this beloved Christmastime event. From November 29 to December 30, 2024, visitors can indulge in festive dining at select EPCOT restaurants and secure their spot for a retelling of the Christmas story, complete with a celebrity narrator, 50-piece orchestra, and choir.
Participating restaurants include fan favorites like Biergarten Restaurant, Le Cellier Steakhouse, and Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria. With options ranging from classic German cuisine to smoky barbecue at Regal Eagle Smokehouse (for same-day packages), the dining experiences vary, ensuring there’s something for every palate. At Spice Road Table, for instance, guests will be treated to small plates, a shared tagine, and a dessert platter, while other locations offer hearty entrées and buffets.
But there’s a bit of a catch this year: Disney has not yet revealed the cost of the dining packages. While details on the meals and participating venues are available, fans are eagerly awaiting the pricing, especially since these packages are often a premium experience. Guests can start making reservations on October 29, 2024, and with such a popular event, advanced booking is highly recommended.
For those visiting on a whim, same-day dining packages will be available at Regal Eagle Smokehouse, offering guaranteed seats for that day’s performance of the Candlelight Processional. This flexibility is perfect for last-minute visitors hoping to catch the magic of this cherished holiday tradition.
While we may not have the exact price just yet, it’s clear that Disney has crafted a holiday feast for all the senses, pairing iconic performances with world-class cuisine. Keep an eye out for updates on pricing as the reservation window approaches, and get ready to celebrate the season in style at EPCOT!
In a heartfelt reflection shared on Instagram, Disney Legend Joe Rohde took a walk down memory lane while visiting Restaurantosaurus at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, where he reminisced about his work in DinoLand USA. Despite his excitement for the changes coming to the park, he wanted to capture some archival photos of the design, particularly a piece of art that holds personal significance. Rohde explained that this particular painting, which he completed before taking on more directorial responsibilities, was inspired by the dinosaur art of famed Paleo-illustrator Charles Knight.
Rohde noted the painting in DinoLand USA was designed to evoke a sense of nostalgia, giving off the impression that it was created long before World War II. Though it wasn’t meant to be scientifically accurate, Rohde embraced its whimsical, colorful style. He fondly reflected on this work as one of the last projects he worked on personally before his leadership role in Imagineering took him away from hands-on artistry.
As much as Rohde is nostalgic about DinoLand USA, he expressed excitement for the new land set to replace it: Pueblo Esperanza, a vibrant space inspired by the Tropical Americas. This lush, sprawling area will feature a large central fountain where villagers can gather, tell stories, and enjoy the ambiance. A highlight will be a giant working carousel, hand-carved by a woodcarver featuring his favorite animals from Disney stories. With its family-friendly attractions and immersive design, Pueblo Esperanza promises to bring new life to Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
In addition to the land’s design, fans can look forward to two major attractions. The first is a new Indiana Jones experience, unlike any other found around the world. In this thrilling adventure, guests will join Indy as he explores a perfectly preserved Maya temple in search of a mythical creature, with plenty of surprises along the way.
The second attraction will immerse guests in the world of Encanto. Visitors will step inside the magical Casita and explore Antonio’s rainforest-inspired room as he uses his gift to communicate with animals. Along the way, guests might encounter other members of the beloved Madrigal family from the hit Disney film.
Though construction for Pueblo Esperanza will begin this fall and the land is set to open in 2027, fans still have time to visit DinoLand USA and enjoy the classic Dinosaur attraction. Rohde’s post encapsulates the bittersweet transition from one beloved land to another, but his excitement for what’s to come is palpable. Disney’s Animal Kingdom is preparing to usher in a new chapter, blending the magic of storytelling with the wonder of exploration.
Here’s Everything You Need to Know About Universal Orlando Resort’s Newest Theme Park: Universal Epic Universe
From classic tram tours to cutting-edge attractions, Universal Destinations & Experiences has consistently delivered unforgettable theme park experiences for 60 years. Epic Universe is set to raise the bar even higher, offering unmatched immersion and over 50 incredible ways to explore fantastical worlds. Get ready for an adventure that will redefine your expectations!
Universal Orlando Resort’s highly anticipated fourth theme park – Universal Epic Universe – will officially open on May 22, 2025, unlocking the portals to five astounding worlds that will bring to life extraordinary adventures that go beyond guests’ wildest imaginations.
This is such a pivotal moment for our destination, and we’re thrilled to welcome guests to Epic Universe next year. With the addition of this spectacular new theme park, our guests will embark on an unforgettable vacation experience with a week’s worth of thrills that will be nothing short of epic! Our Universe will never be the same.
— Karen Irwin, President and COO of Universal Orlando Resort
Five Worlds of Universal Epic Universe
Epic Universe invites guests to explore five vibrant worlds filled with extraordinary and culturally relevant adventures that go beyond their wildest imaginations.
Celestial Park
At the heart of the park and the first world guests will encounter is Celestial Park. With acres of rolling gardens, chasing waterways and strolling pathways, Celestial Park will put the “park” back in “theme park.” Universal Orlando revealed even more detail about the wonders to enjoy while exploring this world. Celestial Park will also be the gateway to explore the four additional worlds of Epic Universe through a set of majestic portals.
Universal Orlando Resort invites guests of all ages to soar with dragons in a colorful, fully-alive world filled with Viking adventures in How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk – one of the five worlds featured at the all-new Universal Epic Universe theme park opening in 2025.
Here, guests will see what it’s like to live amongst dragons as they explore a larger-than-life world that includes exciting attractions, beloved character meet-and-greets, dining, shopping – and even flying dragons – based on DreamWorks Animation’s multi-award winning and Academy Award-nominated trilogy, “How to Train Your Dragon.”
Next year, guests can jump into the action of their favorite video games when SUPER NINTENDO WORLD makes its much-anticipated debut at Universal Orlando Resort as one of five imaginative worlds at the all-new Universal Epic Universe theme park. Developed in partnership between the visionaries of Universal Creative and Nintendo, the vibrant land combines iconic Nintendo characters with Universal’s renowned craft of creating innovative theme park experiences to deliver a multi-sensory environment where guests can experience the fun and adventure of Nintendo games in a whole new way.
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD at Epic Universe – will feature attractions plus dining, shopping and interactive experiences inspired by the Super Mario franchise and – for the first time in the U.S. – Donkey Kong Country.
SUPER NINTENDO WORLD at Epic Universe will be Universal Destinations and Experiences’ third installment of the immersive land. Right now, guests can enjoy SUPER NINTENDO WORLD at Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Studios Japan.
Guests of All Ages will Explore the Shadowy Village of Darkmoor, Home to Universal Monster Legends Like Dracula, The Wolf Man, Frankenstein’s Monster and More
The journey to Dark Universe begins the moment guests enter its electrifying portal, which harnesses the dark energy of Darkmoor. As guests step foot inside, that same energy will pulsate throughout the entire village and connect at the top of Frankenstein Manor – the towering focal point of Dark Universe. Nestled within the blackened stone walls of the town, guests will embark on unique adventures where they can get made up to look like their favorite monsters, spin through the woods aboard a thrilling family coaster, enjoy unique dining establishments, enter Frankenstein Manor to brave Universal Orlando’s most chilling ride ever, and more.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™– Ministry of Magic™
Universal Orlando Resort will debut its third captivating installment of its wildly popular Harry Potter-themed lands with The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ – Ministry of Magic™– one of five worlds coming to Universal Epic Universe in 2025. Set in wizarding Paris from Warner Bros. Pictures Fantastic Beasts films and the British Ministry of Magic from the Harry Potter film series, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic features an awe-inspiring collection of experiences that includes fantastical dining, whimsical retail, spellbinding entertainment and the most ambitious, groundbreaking ride Universal has ever created.
Developed by the award-winning Universal Creative team and Warner Bros. Discovery Global Themed Entertainment, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic builds upon the global phenomenon that began in 2010 with the debut of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade at Universal Islands of Adventure and continued with the 2014 launch of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida. Next year, the bar for theme park entertainment will be raised once again with the addition of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic – creating an exciting trilogy of wizarding adventures across Universal Orlando.
Universal Helios Grand Hotel, Stella Nova Resort and Terra Luna Resort
Anchoring the park is Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel – a majestic 500-room property that will offer one-of-a-kind views of the park and feature its very own dedicated entrance into Epic Universe for hotel guests (valid theme park admission required). Developed by the same Universal Creative team behind Epic Universe, Universal Helios Grand Hotel draws inspiration from the astronomical and mythological themes of Celestial Park and features the destination’s very first dedicated theme park entrance for the hotel’s guests. Read more about Universal Helios Grand here. Boasting a combined total of 1,500 luminous, ultramodern and surreal guest rooms, Universal Stella Nova Resort and Universal Terra Luna Resort provide even more hotel options for guests. Stella Nova Resort and Terra Luna Resort are adjacent to Epic Universe and just minutes away from the existing Universal Orlando theme parks.
Read more about these affordable accommodations here.
When Does Universal’s Epic Universe Open
Universal Epic Universe – will officially open on May 22, 2025.
How to Get Your Tickets for Universal’s Epic Universe
Next week, guests can begin planning an epic 2025 vacation to Universal Orlando to experience the entire destination as the first phase of ticket products and packages that include access to Universal Epic Universe will go on sale. Specific products launching in this first phase include:
A variety of multi-day tickets and vacation packages that include three, four or five days admission to Universal’s theme parks – including one day admission to Epic Universe. These products will go on sale on Tuesday, October 22.
Reservations for Universal Helios Grand Hotel will open on Tuesday, October 22 for stays beginning May 22, 2025.
Annual Passholders have the exclusive opportunity to purchase single-day tickets to Universal Epic Universe before they go on sale to the general public. Passholders can take advantage of this priority opportunity beginning Thursday, October 24.
See below for more details about the Universal Epic Universe-inclusive products that will be available for purchase beginning on October 22. Additional ticket products for Epic Universe – including single-day tickets for the general public, additional multi-day ticket options, Florida resident tickets, Universal Express passes and more – will be available at a later date before the park opens.
Multi-Day Tickets that Include One Day Admission to Universal Epic Universe
The following multi-day ticket options inclusive of Universal Epic Universe will be available:3-Day Ticket: enjoy two days of access to Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure, plus one separate day admission to Universal Epic Universe4-Day Ticket: enjoy three days of access to Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure, plus one separate day admission to Universal Epic Universe5-Day Ticket: enjoy four days of access to Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure, plus one separate day admission to Universal Epic Universe For each of the above, guests also have the option to add access to Universal Volcano Bay – giving them the opportunity to experience all four Universal Orlando theme parks during their visit.
Create Your Own Vacation Package
Guests can save up to $200* (savings based on a 7-night stay) by bundling a 2-night or longer stay at a Universal hotel with one of the multi-day ticket options above. Guests can receive the maximum savings of $200 with a 7-night vacation package that includes: a 5-day ticket that includes four days access to Universal Studios, Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Volcano Bay, plus a separate day admission to Universal Epic Universe 7-night hotel accommodations at one of Universal Orlando’s 11 magnificently themed resortsEarly Park Admission for Universal Epic Universe, Universal Volcano Bay and either Universal Studios Florida or Universal Islands of Adventure up to one hour before the park opens
More details about Universal Epic Universe – including additional ticket products – will be released in the months ahead.
For more information about Epic Universe and the tickets and packages that will be on sale beginning October 22, visit www.universalorlando.com/epicuniverse.
Cooking Up New runDisney Merch for the 2024 Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend
Get ready to spice up your race weekend wardrobe! With just a few weeks until the 15th annual Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend, runDisney is serving up a delicious array of new merchandise to commemorate the event.
From October 31st to November 3rd, runners will embark on a culinary adventure celebrating iconic Disney chefs and their whimsical creations. To help you savor every moment, runDisney has curated a collection of themed apparel, accessories, and more.
Whether you’re tackling the 5K or the half marathon, you’ll find the perfect souvenir to celebrate your achievement! The merchandise features the Disney chefs from each race distance, showcased in vibrant logos on performance apparel, finisher products, and accessories.
Apparel: Expect a variety of shirts, jackets, and other items in multiple styles.
Accessories: Complete your post-race look with themed bags from Loungefly and Lug, as well as commemorative pins, drinkware, and more.
Annual Passholder Exclusives: Walt Disney World Annual Passholders can look forward to their own special event merchandise.
All guests, runners, and non-participants are invited to shop the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex during the following times:
Thursday, October 31, 2024: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Friday, November 1, 2024: 12 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Saturday, November 2, 2024: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
For those looking to access the merchandise shop on the first day (October 31st), a virtual queue will be available. This is the only way to enter the shop on that day. So, whether you’re a seasoned runner or a first-time participant, be sure to plan your shopping strategy and get ready to indulge in the delicious world of runDisney merchandise.
Disney has launched the House of Mouse tour in London, the first stop on a global journey celebrating music, friendship, and iconic Disney characters. This immersive experience showcases a new era for Mickey & Friends, featuring live animation technology that brings the beloved characters to life in a way fans have never seen before.
The House of Mouse combines nostalgic Disney magic with top-tier music, creating a space for unforgettable experiences. Guests can interact with beloved characters in innovative ways and enjoy live music from renowned DJs.
At the London launch, partygoers were treated to sets from DJ Sian Owens and Anderson .Paak, enjoyed manicures, played games, and partied alongside Mickey & Friends through motion capture technology.
Set to tour the world, House of Mouse will visit major cities in Asia and the Pacific, North and South America, each spotlighting local musical talent and creative collaborators, all serving to reimagine this iconic group of life-long friends.
Are you hoping to see House of Mouse when it comes to a city near you?
Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Dream is taking a break for a well-deserved refurbishment. The ship recently completed drydock at Damen Shiprepair Brest in France, undergoing extensive upgrades to prepare for its upcoming winter season.
New features include Donald’s Cantina, a dining spot on Deck 11, and the luxurious Dream Tower Suite, themed after Fantasia and located in the forward funnel.
A new Concierge Lounge inspired by Hercules will also be added, along with upgraded spa facilities featuring a refreshed check-in area and more treatment rooms.
The Edge club for tweens will move to Deck 5 and feature new amenities, including an outdoor deck with a ball pit, recreational games, and a dedicated lounge for events. Younger passengers will be able to enjoy a new Marvel-themed attraction at the Oceaneer Club. These enhancements will debut ahead of Disney Dream’s winter program.
Disney’s crew finished work on the Disney Dream a few days ago and the ship will embark on her winter Caribbean season next month.
First Look at Merch for the RunDisney 2024 Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend
Calling all foodies and Disney fans! The runDisney 2024 Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend is returning for its 15th anniversary, and it’s going to be a culinary extravaganza. From October 31 to November 3, immerse yourself in a world of iconic Disney Chefs and their delectable creations. Disney has shared a look at the merchandise coming to the popular runDisney event. Take a look!
Whether taking on 3.1 or 19.3 delicious miles, race weekend participants are sure to find the perfect memento for celebrating their accomplishment at the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo. The delectable merchandise collection showcases the Disney Chefs from each race distance in a variety of logo performance apparel and finisher products including shirts and jackets in multiple styles.
Complete your post-race look with a variety of themed bag styles from Loungefly and Lug or take home some of the other exciting products including commemorative pins and pin sets, drinkware and more! Walt Disney World Annual Passholders will want to be on the lookout for their own specialty event merchandise as well.
These commemorative items and more will be available at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex during the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo. All guests, runners and non-participants are invited to attend during the following dates and times:
Thursday, October 31, 2024: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Friday, November 1, 2024: 12 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Saturday, November 2, 2024: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Will you be participating in the 2024 Wine & Dine Half Marathon?
Reopening Date Announced for the Disneyland Railroad
The Disneyland Railroad is set to chug back into action soon. Following extensive renovations, including new track, the beloved attraction is scheduled to reopen its doors on October 25.
Train rides around Disneyland will resume on Friday, October 25. The entire railroad system has been closed since August 5 to accommodate renovations for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and the Haunted Mansion grounds.
While the New Orleans Square Station may remain closed due to ongoing construction, guests can enjoy the Disneyland Railroad from Main Street, Mickey’s Toontown, or Tomorrowland starting October 25. The full loop takes 18 minutes, and passengers can board or disembark at any station.
Recent sightings of the train undergoing testing in the park led to speculation about an impending return. Disney has now confirmed that the railroad will reopen alongside the revamped Hungry Bear Barbecue Jamboree.
Are you looking forward to taking a ride on the Disneyland Railroad again?
