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Disney World Slashes Annual Pass Down Payment for Florida Residents

Annual Passholder Magic Kingdom

New Florida Resident Promotion: Pay Only $99 Down for Disney World Annual Passes

Walt Disney World has just launched a new limited-time promotion that makes becoming an Annual Passholder more accessible for Florida locals. Starting today, February 3, 2026, Florida residents can secure any of the four Disney Annual Pass tiers with a down payment of just $99.

This represents a 50% reduction from the standard down payment typically required for the monthly payment program.

Related – Disney World Surveying Guests on $400 Annual Pass Discount & Lightning Lane Pricing

Disney World Annual Pass

How the Promotion Works

The total cost of the Annual Passes remains unchanged, but the initial barrier to entry is significantly lowered. Residents can pay $99 upfront and then spread the remaining balance across 12 monthly installments with 0% APR.

Here is the breakdown of the monthly costs following the $99 down payment:

  • Disney Pixie Dust Pass: $35.15 / month (Total: $489)
  • Disney Pirate Pass: $68.88 / month (Total: $869)
  • Disney Sorcerer Pass: $89.29 / month (Total: $1,099)
  • Disney Incredi-Pass: $136.33 / month (Total: $1,629)

Eligibility and Requirements

To take advantage of this offer, guests must meet the following criteria:

  • Must be a Florida resident with a valid state-issued ID.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age to enter the installment agreement.
  • The first monthly payment will be charged on the day of purchase.
New Zootopia Annual Passholder Magnet Coming to Disney's Animal Kingdom

Passholder Perks and Access

Regardless of the down payment promotion, all Disney World Annual Passes continue to offer standard benefits, including:

  • Standard theme park parking.
  • Up to 20% off select merchandise.
  • Discounts on select dining locations throughout the resort.

Passholders are still subject to the “Good-to-Go” day system and reservation requirements for weekend visits to Magic Kingdom.

New Playground Coming to Tropical Americas Expansion in Animal Kingdom

With new experiences like the Zootopia magnet currently available at Animal Kingdom and the Tropical Americas construction beginning soon, it’s a great time for locals to jump into the magic with a lower upfront cost.

EPCOT’s Impressions de France is Closing for Refurbishment in EPCOT

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Impressions de France Set for Temporary Closure

Impressions de France, the classic cinematic journey through the French countryside, is scheduled to undergo a routine refurbishment at EPCOT. Located in the heart of the France Pavilion, the theater will temporarily close its doors to ensure the long-standing fan favorite continues to shine for future guests.

Related – Full Dates and Details for the 2026 EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival

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Beginning February 22, 2026, the classic EPCOT attraction Impressions de France will close its doors for a scheduled refurbishment. While a specific reopening date has not yet been announced, this temporary hiatus will allow for essential maintenance on the beloved 18-minute cinematic journey.

Renowned for capturing the “grandeur, charm, and romance” of the French landscape, this fan-favorite film remains a staple of the France Pavilion. Guests planning visits in late February should keep an eye out for updates as Disney prepares to welcome travelers back to this enchanting tour of Europe.

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The refurbishment will also require the temporary closure of the Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along, which shares the Palais du Cinéma theater. This 15-minute experience features a whimsical retelling of the animated classic, inviting guests of all ages to sing along to their favorite Disney hits.

Will this closure impact your next visit to Epcot?

Disney Adventure Becomes Largest Cruise Ship to Transit the Panama Canal

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Disney Adventure Shatters Panama Canal Records

Disney Cruise Line etched its name into the maritime record books as the Disney Adventure completed a historic transit of the Panama Canal. This monumental crossing sets a new milestone for the fleet, officially crowning the ship as the largest cruise vessel to ever navigate the legendary waterway.

Related – Disney Cruise Line Debuts First Images of Disney Adventure’s Oceaneer Club

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Yesterday, the Disney Adventure officially shattered maritime records by becoming the largest cruise ship to ever transit the Panama Canal. Entering the locks at 7:30 a.m. EST, the newest Disney Cruise Line titan completed its historic journey by 8:00 p.m. EST, marking a monumental achievement for the fleet.

At 208,000 gross tons and 342 meters (1,122 feet) in length, the Adventure is the first cruise ship in history to exceed the 200,000-ton mark while navigating the canal. It unseats the previous record-holder, the Norwegian Bliss, which weighed in at 168,000 gross tons and measured 333 meters (1,093 feet).

Disney Cruise Line Debuts First Images of Disney Adventure’s Oceaneer Club

The Panama Canal serves as a vital 51-mile (82-kilometer) shortcut between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, utilizing a sophisticated lock system to lift massive vessels across the Isthmus of Panama.

The Disney Adventure navigated this historic waterway as part of an epic global relocation from its shipyard in Germany to its permanent homeport in Singapore. After departing in January, the ship made strategic stops at Port Canaveral for crew training and Curaçao for fueling. The Adventure is now bound for Los Angeles, arriving next Monday, February 9, before continuing its journey to Tokyo and finally to Singapore for its highly anticipated March 10 maiden voyage.

Man Takes off Clothes During Universal Studio Tour

Man Takes off Clothes During Universal Studio Tour

Guest Removed After Stripping Naked on Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour

An unexpected and unsettling incident unfolded aboard the World-Famous Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood on Monday, February 2, 2026, when a guest reportedly climbed off the tram after it came to a stop and stripped naked in front of more than 150 fellow passengers.

Related: Aerial View of the Expansion of Celestial Park in Epic Universe

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According to a witness who spoke with ABC 7 Eyewitness News, the individual appeared to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, rolled around on the ground, and taunted employees as the situation escalated.

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Video circulating online shows the guest undressing and later being surrounded by Universal team members before security intervened and removed him from the area.

Related: Fast & Furious Overhaul Coming to Universal Studios Florida

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Universal security ultimately restrained and escorted the guest away, bringing the incident to an end. In an effort to make things right for those who witnessed the disruption, Universal Studios Hollywood reportedly provided Express Passes to affected guests. While the Studio Tour is known for its movie magic and surprises, this was clearly not the kind of behind-the-scenes moment anyone signed up for.

Disney World Expanding Ferry Boat Dock in the Magic Kingdom

Disney World Expanding Ferry Boat Dock in the Magic Kingdom

Disney Files Plans for Magic Kingdom Ferry Boat Queue Expansion at Seven Seas Lagoon

Walt Disney World is looking to smooth out those end of night crowds, as new permit filings reveal plans for a Magic Kingdom ferry boat queue expansion along Seven Seas Lagoon. According to documents filed with the South Florida Water Management District, the project includes expanded hardscape areas, dock improvements along the shoreline, and a required floodplain compensation area, all aimed at improving guest flow at one of the park’s busiest transportation hubs.

Related: Disney Removes Sign for DinoLand U.S.A. in Animal Kingdom

Disney World Expanding Ferry Boat Dock in the Magic Kingdom

The ferry boats remain a primary way guests travel between the Transportation and Ticket Center and Magic Kingdom, especially during park opening and the nightly park dump after fireworks. This filing follows more than a decade of ferry related upgrades, including the addition of second ferry docks in 2014 and second level unloading access in 2021, both of which significantly increased capacity.

Related: The End of an Era: 10 Fun Facts About DINOSAUR as it Closes Forever at Animal Kingdom

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While no construction timeline has been announced yet, the expansion appears focused less on adding new boats and more on giving guests additional space to queue and move efficiently, particularly during peak times when crowds swell around the lagoon. With Magic Kingdom continuing to grow and expand, even the classic boat ride across Seven Seas Lagoon is getting a little extra breathing room.

Disney Removes Sign for DinoLand U.S.A. in Animal Kingdom

Disney Removes Sign for Dinoland USA in Animal Kingdom

Photos: DinoLand U.S.A. Is Officially Closed at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

DinoLand U.S.A. has officially gone the way of the asteroid at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and during our visit to the park on Monday, we were able to see the closure firsthand and snap photos of what remains. The land’s main entrance sign is now fully covered, with planters blocking off the pathways instead of construction walls, creating a quiet but unmistakable signal that this corner of the park is officially extinct.

Related: Donald and Daisy Meeting in New Costumes at Different Location in Animal Kingdom

Disney Removes Sign for Dinoland USA in Animal Kingdom

These temporary barriers are in place as Cast Members received a final opportunity to ride DINOSAUR on February 2 before the attraction closed for good. The changes are not just physical either. The printed Animal Kingdom park map has been updated, completely removing DinoLand U.S.A. and marking the area as the future home of Tropical Americas, and even the braille map near the park entrance has been revised to reflect the land’s closure.

Disney Removes Sign for Dinoland USA in Animal Kingdom

DinoLand originally opened with Animal Kingdom on April 22, 1998, back when DINOSAUR was still known as Countdown to Extinction. Looking ahead, Tropical Americas will bring a brand new Encanto themed attraction along with an Indiana Jones attraction that will reuse the existing DINOSAUR ride system, meaning the bones of the past are literally being recycled into Disney’s next big adventure.

Related: The End of an Era: 10 Fun Facts About DINOSAUR as it Closes Forever at Animal Kingdom

Disney Removes Sign for Dinoland USA in Animal Kingdom

While construction walls have not appeared just yet, Monday’s visit made one thing very clear. DinoLand U.S.A. is officially history, and the transformation of Animal Kingdom’s future is already underway.

Coming to California Adventure New 25th Anniversary Cake Shake & Other Offerings

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Disney California Adventure Debuts 25th Anniversary Cake Shake & More

In honor of Disney California Adventure’s 25th anniversary, Schmoozies! is pulling out all the stops with a limited-time Anniversary Cake Shake. This decadent, birthday cake-inspired creation is the ultimate way to toast to a quarter-century of DCA magic—but catch it while you can, because this celebratory sip won’t be on the menu forever!

California adventure

This showstopper is a festive confetti shake decked out with vibrant strawberry icing, a cloud of whipped topping, and a shower of celebratory sprinkles. The ultimate finishing touch? An actual full slice of cake perched right on top! Mark your calendars: this over-the-top treat is only available for a strictly limited window from February 6 through February 15, 2026.

Specialty Food and Drinks at Downtown Disney

Select restaurants and dining locations at Downtown Disney District are serving specialty menu items in honor of the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration. 

Beignets Expressed (available now through Aug. 9)

  • Bananas Foster beignet dipped in a banana rum glaze, sprinkled with cinnamon-sugar and served with a vanilla crème anglaise 

Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio (available now through Aug. 9)

  • French “70”: an effervescent blend of gin, prosecco, lemon juice, and lavender simple syrup (for guests ages 21 and older) 

Kayla’s Cake (available now through May 31)

  • Strawberry yogurt macaron croissant: crisp macaron batter baked on top of a butter croissant, filled with strawberry yogurt custard cream and topped with sprinkles 
  • Pistachio macaron croissant: butter croissant topped with crisp macaron batter, filled with pistachio custard cream and dusted with edible gold glitter 

Vista Parkside Market (available second Saturday of every month)

  • Parkside Birders Club: fun-filled opportunity for guests ages 21 and older to taste and learn how to make three cocktails, enjoy light bites, plus receive a $20 bounce back for Parkside Market and a collectible pin. 

Wetzel’s Pretzels (available now through Aug. 9)

  • Incredi-Bitz: enhances the Original Bitz with tasty toppings, available in 3 flavors: Choco Churro Bitz, Bacon Ranch Bitz, or S’mores Bitz.

What limited-time foods do you want to try?

Josh D’Amaro Expected to be Named Next Disney CEO

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Josh D’Amaro Expected to Take the Helm at Disney

Major media outlets are reporting a seismic shift at the House of Mouse: Josh D’Amaro, current Chairman of Disney Experiences, is poised to become the next CEO of The Walt Disney Company. Sources indicate the Board of Directors is aligning on D’Amaro and is expected to formalize the decision with a vote as early as this week. Adding to the transition, current CEO Bob Iger reportedly intends to exit ahead of his December 2026 contract end to ensure his successor a “fresh start.”

Related – Industry Experts Favor Josh D’Amaro as Next Disney CEO

Josh d’amaro

Reports from major financial outlets, including Bloomberg and The Wall Street Journal, indicate that the Disney Board of Directors is “aligning” on Josh D’Amaro, current Chairman of Disney Experiences, as the company’s next CEO. A formal board vote is reportedly scheduled for this week at Disney’s Burbank headquarters.

While a Disney spokesperson cautioned that a final selection hasn’t been made, Bloomberg sources emphasize that D’Amaro has emerged as the clear frontrunner to conclude a high-stakes, three-year succession search.

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In a surprising twist, current CEO Bob Iger is reportedly planning to step down before his contract expires on December 31, 2026. According to the WSJ, Iger is eager to provide his successor with a “fresh start” rather than lingering as a “lame duck” leader.

Insiders suggest Iger is ready to trade the boardroom for the open seas. He has privately expressed a desire to move on from the daily “grind,” citing a wish to spend more time:

  • Sailing his new superyacht, Aquarius, which was delivered last summer.
  • Managing Angel City FC, the women’s soccer team he and his wife, Willow Bay, acquired in 2024.
  • Supporting his wife’s work at the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism.

Should the board confirm D’Amaro this week, Iger isn’t expected to vanish immediately. He likely will remain in the CEO role for several months to mentor and transition the new leader, ensuring a smoother handover than the tumultuous Chapek era.

Although the air is thick with “smoke,” nothing is official until the white smoke rises from Burbank.

Mexico City Couple Pulls Sweep at 2026 Disneyland Half Marathon

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Mexico City Couple Dominates 2026 Disneyland Half Marathon

In a truly magical display of athleticism, Mexico City’s own Ismiain Hernandez and Itzel Bautista dominated the Disneyland Half Marathon presented by HONDA, claiming both the men’s and women’s titles. The pair started their journey together at the starting line and ended it as a golden duo, conquering the 13.1-mile course through the heart of the Disneyland Resort.

Related – First Look at Disneyland Half Marathon Limited Edition Brooks Shoes

Mexico city

Ismiain Hernandez set a blistering pace from the very first mile, never relinquishing his lead as he sprinted past Anaheim’s most iconic landmarks. Outpacing a massive field of over 14,000 runners, Hernandez crossed the finish line with a remarkable time of 1:12:20.

He finished over two minutes ahead of his closest competitor, Sean Caster of San Marcos, California (1:14:21), while Cody Draa of Canton, Ohio, rounded out the podium in third (1:14:29).

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The excitement didn’t end with the men’s finish. Hernandez stayed at the finish line to cheer on his partner, Itzel Bautista, as she maintained a strong, steady rhythm throughout the race. Bautista officially secured the couple’s sweep, crossing the finish line in 1:20:53 to claim the women’s title.

She was followed by fellow Mexico City runner Brenda Guerrero Ruiz (1:23:44) in second and Jane Hughes of Rathdowney, Ireland, in third.

After a victory hug at the finish line, the champions swapped their running shoes for walking shoes. Hernandez and Bautista plan to celebrate their historic sweep exactly where they earned it: with a well-deserved victory lap through the Disneyland and Disney California Adventure parks!

New Winnie the Pooh Plush Characters Headband at BoxLunch!

Winnie the Pooh Plush Characters Headband

New Winnie the Pooh Plush Characters Headband at BoxLunch!

If you’ve ever wanted to carry the entire vibe of the Hundred Acre Wood on your head, your oddly specific wish has officially been granted. BoxLunch just dropped an exclusive Winnie the Pooh Plush Characters Headband, and honestly? It’s pure, unadulterated whimsy. We’re not just talking about a simple printed pattern here, this is a full-on party featuring the core four in their softest, squishest plush forms.

Retailing for $36.90, this is definitely more of a treat yourself piece than a budget buy. However, since it’s a BoxLunch exclusive, you’re paying for that limited edition flex.

Related – Cozy Up in Style With This Pooh and Piglet Reading Mini Backpack!

The lineup is a nostalgic dream team. You’ve got Pooh Bear looking as sweet as ever, a bouncy Tigger, the perpetually anxious but adorable Piglet, and even Eeyore (who looks surprisingly happy to be included). Having all four of them perched on a headband makes it feel like you’re bringing your best childhood friends along for the ride. It’s the ultimate accessory for a Disney Parks day or just making your grocery run significantly more chaotic and cute.

Winnie the Pooh Plush Characters Headband

The plushies are detailed enough to actually look like the characters we love, and the headband itself is designed to be comfortable enough for all-day wear, because nothing ruins the magic like a headband headache three hours into your day. Since this is a BoxLunch exclusive, these tend to disappear faster than Pooh’s honey supply. If you’re a collector, you probably don’t want to wait for a restock that might never happen.

Whether you’re pairing it with a cozy oversized sweater or using it as the centerpiece of your next Disney-bound outfit, this headband is a total conversation starter. It’s fun, it’s fluffy, and it’s a great way to show off your love for the silly old bear and his crew without saying a word.

Credit: BoxLunch Gifts

New BoxLunch Exclusive Minnie Mouse Western Patterned Mini Backpack

Mouse Western Patterned Mini Backpack

New BoxLunch Exclusive Minnie Mouse Western Patterned Mini Backpack

If you’re looking to add a little yee-haw to your Disney style, BoxLunch just dropped something you’re going to be obsessed with. The Minnie Mouse Western Patterned Mini Backpack is basically the ultimate accessory for your next trip to Frontierland (or just, you know, grabbing a coffee). It’s a BoxLunch exclusive, so you won’t find it just anywhere, and it retails for $79.90, honestly a solid price for a bag with this much personality.

Related – BoxLunch Gifts Disney Valentine’s Day Gift Guide For A Romantic Style

The first thing you’ll notice is that buttery faux suede body. It gives off such a premium, rustic vibe that sets it apart from your standard smooth faux leather bags. It’s not just a flat print, either; we’re talking debossed and embroidered Minnie Mouse designs throughout. The Western patterns are subtle enough to be chic but Disney enough to let everyone know you’re a fan. It’s the perfect blend of “Cowgirl Core” and classic Minnie.

But let’s talk about the features that really sell the look. It’s got fringe details, yes, fringe! giving it that perfect movement when you’re on the go. Plus, the bag is decked out with metal charms and a sleek magnetic closure that keeps your essentials secure without having to fumble with a zipper every two seconds. It’s stylish, functional, and definitely a conversation starter for any Disney fashionista.

Credit: Disney Store

Donald and Daisy Meeting in New Costumes at Different Location in Animal Kingdom

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Donald and Daisy Move Locations with All-New Costumes at Animal Kingdom

If you’re heading to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, you’ll want to look out for a familiar, feathered pair in a brand-new spot! Donald and Daisy Duck have officially waddled away from their longtime home to greet guests in a fresh, high-traffic location.

Related – Disney’s Animal Kingdom Digital & Paper Map Replaces DinoLand by Tropical Americas

Donald

Following the official closure of the remaining areas of DinoLand U.S.A. on February 1, the duo has moved out of their prehistoric digs. For years, Donald’s Dino-Bash! was the go-to celebration for fans of the ducks, but with that land now in the rearview mirror, Disney has moved the meet-and-greet to a more central and accessible location.

You no longer have to trek deep into the park to find your favorite feathered friends. Donald and Daisy have relocated to a new spot along the pathway to the right as you first enter the park. This updated location is perfect for snagging a photo right as you start your adventure or grabbing one last hug before you head out for the day!

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The move isn’t the only change—the ducks have also undergone a major wardrobe refresh! Donald and Daisy have officially ditched their bright, prehistoric party wear for all-new safari outfits. These earthy tones and adventure-ready accessories fit perfectly with the immersive, wild atmosphere of the park.

As Animal Kingdom continues its evolution (especially with the transition away from DinoLand), character locations and appearance times can shift frequently. To make sure you don’t miss out on a meeting with Safari Donald and Daisy:

  • Check the App: Always keep an eye on the My Disney Experience app for real-time updates.
  • Visit Early: Since they are now located near the entrance, these lines can fill up quickly in the morning!
@chipandcompany

Donald and Daisy have a new Meet & Greet Location in Disney’s Animal Kingdom! #disneycharacters #disneyworld #animalkingdom

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