Gordon Goodwin, Disney Composer, Passes Away at 70
Composer Gordon Goodwin, age 70, passed away on December 8, 2025. His distinguished career with Disney spanned decades, originating with his time as a Disneyland musician before he became a major contributor, crafting musical arrangements for several iconic Disney Parks parades and shows, as well as contributing to Disney films.
Gordon Goodwin was a highly celebrated composer known for his versatility across genres. He earned multiple Grammy Awards for Best Instrumental Arrangement, including for his work on “The Incredits” from Pixar’s The Incredibles(2004), as well as wins for “Rhapsody in Blue” (2011) and “On Green Dolphin Street” (2013). His television work also secured him three Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Music Direction and Composition for shows like Animaniacsand Histeria!
Additionally, Goodwin led the renowned 18-piece jazz orchestra, The Big Phat Band, which won a Grammy for Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album (Life in the Bubble, 2014). His extensive Disney and filmography credits include roles in the music departments for The Great Mouse Detective, Tarzan, The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, Incredibles 2, and Hocus Pocus 2. His final IMDb credit is as an additional orchestrator for The Naked Gun (2025).
A Trader Joe’s Is Coming Closer Than Ever to Walt Disney World
Good news for anyone who’s ever wrapped up a Disney day and thought, “You know what would complete this magical moment? A bag of Chili & Lime Rolled Tortilla Chips and a freezer full of mini ice cream cones.” Trader Joe’s is setting its sights on Kissimmee, and this new location will land less than 10 miles from Walt Disney World.
Plans have been filed for a 12,500-square-foot store in the Loop West area, tucked near JCPenney and anchored inside a parcel that’s getting reconfigured to accommodate roughly 150 parking spaces. While Trader Joe’s hasn’t officially confirmed the store, the layout aligns with their usual blueprint, and the company’s spokesperson hinted that the Kissimmee region is absolutely on their radar as they scout new neighborhoods nationwide.
For locals, cast members, and frequent visitors, this would be a huge win. The nearest Trader Joe’s spots in Dr. Phillips and Winter Park are fan favorites, but having one so close to the Disney bubble is a grocery game-changer. Whether you’re stocking a villa kitchen, grabbing snacks before rope drop, or fueling up between park days, this could quickly become a must-stop shop on many itineraries.
With another store already in development in Maitland, Central Florida is gearing up for a whole lot more Cookie Butter and Unexpected Cheddar in its future. And honestly? That feels like the kind of plot twist we can all get behind.
Universal at Sea? Comcast President Floats Idea of Future Cruise Offerings
Universal might be trading park hoppers for port stops someday, and we are very here for the idea of a Minions-at-sea moment. During the UBS Global Media and Communications Conference 2025, Comcast president Michael Cavanagh casually dropped a little nugget that has theme park fans’ ears perked up like a velociraptor at feeding time. While talking about the future of Universal Destinations & Experiences, he noted that, in the longer term, offerings “like cruises that Disney does” are opportunities the company could lean into as they grow their experiences business. That’s not an announcement of a Universal cruise line, but it is the clearest on-the-record hint we’ve heard that ships might be on their long-range radar.
Comcast President Michael Cavanagh, Image Credit Comcast
The comment came in a broader conversation about how Universal is expanding beyond traditional theme parks. Epic Universe is opening in Orlando, a new park is on the roadmap in the U.K., Universal Kids Resort is heading to Frisco, Texas, and smaller destination concepts like year-round Halloween Horror attractions are popping up in new markets. Cruises were mentioned in that same breath as another way to extend the brand, suggesting that leadership sees the seas as a logical next frontier once the current slate of projects is sailing smoothly.
So what could a potential Universal-branded cruise experience look like someday? The IP buffet is absolutely loaded. Picture Illumination and DreamWorks characters anchoring family pools and deck parties, a dedicated Super Nintendo World play zone, late-night horror experiences inspired by Halloween Horror Nights for grown-ups, and cinematic dining themed to Jurassic World, Fast & Furious, or classic Universal Monsters. You could easily imagine Epic Universe and the Orlando resort acting as pre- or post-cruise “home ports,” turning a weeklong vacation into a land-and-sea combo that rivals anything currently on the market.
Of course, actually launching a cruise line is a massive lift. Ships are incredibly expensive to build, ports have limited space and complex logistics, and Universal would be stepping into waters dominated by experienced players like Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and others. So it makes sense that Cavanagh framed cruises as a longer-term idea, not something imminent. For now, Universal’s plate is already overflowing with Epic Universe, the U.K. park plans, new concepts like Universal Kids Resort, and continued investment in their existing destinations.
Still, the fact that cruises are being mentioned publicly at a major investor conference tells us they are more than a throwaway “what if.” It signals that Universal sees itself less as “just” a theme park company and more as a global experiences brand that can show up wherever fans want to vacation, whether that’s in Orlando, Osaka, a Halloween haunt in Vegas, or someday on the open ocean. Until we see a funnel with a giant “U” on it, everything remains speculation, but it is very fun speculation. For now, we’ll be watching the horizon and daydreaming about booking the inaugural Universal Monsters Midnight Sailing, complete with foggy promenades and a very dramatic organ soundtrack.
If Universal ever does officially dip a toe into the cruise market, expect it to be bold, IP-packed, and designed to plug right into the growing universe of Universal destinations around the world. For now, though, it’s just a tantalizing “maybe someday” from the top of the Comcast tower that has fans imagining a future where the next big Universal vacation starts at a cruise terminal instead of a turnstile.
Walt Disney World Files New Round of Lawsuits Over Orange County Property Taxes
Mickey’s lawyers are clocking some serious overtime again. Walt Disney World has filed a fresh batch of lawsuits against Orange County, challenging this year’s property tax assessments for its theme parks and resorts. According to Disney, the county’s valuations ballooned bigger than a giant holiday parade balloon, and not in a magical way.
In total, Disney filed 15 separate suits arguing that the Orange County Property Appraiser’s office didn’t follow Florida law or standard appraisal practices, leading to assessments that, in Disney’s words, overshoot the actual market value of the properties. The company says the numbers don’t reflect “just value” and therefore violate the Florida Constitution. The filings cover everything from the four theme parks to multiple on-property resorts.
While it might sound dramatic, this type of legal back-and-forth is practically seasonal at this point. Disney regularly disputes its assessed values, arguing that the county inflates them beyond what the market would support. These cases typically play out quietly behind the scenes, but they’re an important reminder of just how massive, complex, and carefully scrutinized the resort’s real estate footprint is.
Orange County has not yet commented on the latest wave of filings, and the cases will now wind their way through the local courts. For now, it’s business as usual in the Most Magical Place on Earth, even if the spreadsheets behind the magic are having a bit of a showdown.
EPCOT’s SeaBase Aquarium Splashes Into the Holidays With Festive Underwater Decor
The seas are sparkling a little brighter this month, because EPCOT’s SeaBase Aquarium has officially donned its holiday best. Guests wandering through The Seas pavilion will notice that the celebrations aren’t limited to the shore. The resident fish, urchins, and sea creatures are swimming through a whimsical wave of seasonal touches that turn the entire area into an undersea winter wonderland.
Throughout the winding pathways of SeaBase, pops of red, green, and snowy white peek through the water like ornaments drifting in a gentle current. Holiday shapes rest along the sandy bottoms, playful accents are tucked among rocks and coral, and even a few cheeky accessories have found their way onto the aquarium’s more charismatic residents. It all creates a festive scavenger hunt where every glance reveals a new detail.
The theming even extends into the nursery spaces, where cast members have embraced the season with imaginative displays that blend classic holiday charm with aquatic flair. Think cozy scenes reinterpreted for a world where everything floats, shimmers, or grows from the ocean floor. One area in particular has become a fan favorite thanks to its charming miniature village, where gingerbread-inspired designs and seasonal icons transform the tank into a tiny underwater holiday town square.
The overall effect is cheerful, creative, and undeniably EPCOT. It’s one of those delightful touches that makes a quick peek into SeaBase feel like its own seasonal moment, and it’s well worth a visit if you’re exploring the park during the holidays. Whether you’re stopping by after a ride on Nemo & Friends or ducking in for a calm escape from the crowds, these festive aquatic scenes offer a little extra magic beneath the waves.
List of Artists Coming to the Festival of the Arts
With the new year approaching, it’s time to mark your calendar for the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts! Returning Jan. 16 through Feb. 23, 2026, at Walt Disney World Resort, the festival is a global celebration that blends culinary, visual, and performing arts to create an experience that is truly magical.
This year’s festival promises a stunning lineup of artists who will immerse you in beautiful artwork filled with color, expression, and inspiration. We’re thrilled to share some of the new and returning talent coming to the festival and showcase a peek at their amazing art pieces.
Rosana Iarusso – New in 2026!
Rosana Iarusso was born and raised in Mount Vernon, New York, and her love for Disney and art grew in tandem from childhood. Currently a Senior Character Artist for Disney Consumer Products, Rosana specializes in drawing beloved characters like Disney Princesses, their sidekicks, Tinker Bell, and Minnie Mouse. Her passion for Disney shines through in her vibrant, classic character work, with a focus on Ducks, Mickey, and Princesses—perfect for new collectors!
Darren Wilson
A fixture in the Disney art world, Darren Wilson is a Senior Manager of Graphic Design for Disney Parks, Products and Experiences, celebrating 26 magical years with The Walt Disney Company. Known for his unique style that captures a nostalgic, timeless quality with attention to detail, Darren’s works can be found in the Art of Disney galleries. His art, which includes pieces featuring classic characters like the Beast in the Shadows, Jiminy Cricket, and Mickey Mouse and Friends, has created a special following of collectors worldwide.
Yesenia Moises
Yesenia Moises is an incredible Afro-Latina author, illustrator, and toy designer known for her colorful and whimsical designs. A graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology with a BFA in Toy Design, Yesenia creates wonder for young readers.
Her trademark use of color, curls, and charisma creates a special brand of Afro Fantasy, evident in works like her debut picture book Stella’s Stellar Hair and illustrations for Serena Williams’ The Adventures of Qai Qai.
Dave Perillo
Based out of the Philly ‘burbs, Dave Perillo has transitioned from drawing dancing kidneys in medical publishing to creating unique, pop culture-inspired art. His signature retro art style developed from his love of the mid-century modern aesthetic, which he applies beautifully to Disney subjects. He is particularly known for his art celebrating Disney Parks attractions like Horizons, Space Mountain, and Pirates of the Caribbean, giving favorite rides a nostalgic, stylized twist.
Jerrod Maruyama
Jerrod Maruyama is a freelance illustrator specializing in instantly lovable cute character concepts and design. Since moving into freelance, Jerrod has worked with many industry leaders, bringing his distinct brand of cute to popular properties. His work for Disney often includes adorable vinyl figures and prints featuring Pixar Adorable Duos and Magic Kingdom Cuties, focusing on Parks and Mix concepts that are always a fan favorite.
Dylan Bonner
Joining the festival for his sixth year, Dylan Bonner is an illustrator who was first enchanted by The Little Mermaid as a child. Since 2017, he has dedicated his career to the Disney Princess property, creating beautiful, emotive artwork for comic books, toys, and Fine Art.
Josey Tsao
Josey Tsao is an illustrator based in Los Angeles who finds joy in using illustration to tell stories both real and imagined. She has had the pleasure of working with Walt Disney Imagineering, Disney Publishing Worldwide, and Disney’s WonderGround Gallery, creating art inspired by people and places—a truly perfect fit for the global nature of EPCOT.
✨ Get Hands-On and Meet the Artists
Beyond viewing the stunning works, the festival offers multiple ways to engage with the creative process!
Will Artists Be Signing Artwork? Yes, a selection of artists will be signing their pieces throughout the festival! Be sure to visit the Artist Portal for specific dates and timing.
* When and Where Can You Meet Artists? You can meet artists all around the park! For all the details about the many talented artists appearing at this year’s festival, be sure to visit the Artist Portal for updates.
Live Art and Interactive Experiences
Don’t miss the chance to see art come alive!
* Will Any Artists Be Creating New Art Live at the Festival? Yes! There are over 200 new pieces of artwork being created for this festival—some of which will be created before your very eyes! Stop by CommuniCore Hall Plaza to see canvases come to life with the help of an onstage visual artist as they paint your favorite Disney characters.
What Other Art Experiences Are Happening at the Festival?
Animation Academy: Head to the America Gardens Theatre for this interactive session where a Disney animator guides you, step by step, in bringing a beloved character to life!
* The Expression Section: A Paint by Number Mural: Join in and be part of something bigger! Contribute by painting your own squares and then step back to see the beautiful scene you helped create.
* Chalk Art Galleries: Don’t forget to look down! EPCOT’s walkways are transformed into living canvases, where artists bring incredible creations to life right before your eyes.
Which artist are you most excited to meet and what other activities are you planning to experience at the 2026 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts?
Get those paintbrushes ready! There is no better way to ignite your imagination than by visiting the 2026 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts. At Walt Disney World, we never stop dreaming up new magic, and this festival is the ultimate tribute to creativity in every form. Before the full masterpiece is unveiled, it’s time to mark your calendars and see what fan-favorite experiences are making a return!
The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts made its debut in 2017, making it one of EPCOT’s newest seasonal celebrations. Known for blending visual, performing, and culinary arts, it has quickly become a guest favorite filled with interactive photo ops, unique food creations, iconic paint-by-numbers murals, and artwork by Disney artists displayed throughout the park, plus the one-of-a-kind DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series. This year, you can once again let your creativity run wild from January 16 until February 23.
Experience Disney on Broadway at EPCOT
During the Disney on Broadway Concert Series, the America Gardens Theatre in the American Adventure pavilion comes alive with unforgettable performances. Musical stars return to EPCOT to perform the iconic songs they helped bring to life on Broadway stages alongside other show-stopping favorites.
Every two weeks, a new pair of performers takes the spotlight, making each visit to the festival a fresh experience.
2026 DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series Schedule
Isabelle McCalla (“Aladdin”) – NEW! and Adam Jacobs (“Aladdin”)
January 16, 18, 19, 22, 24, 26, 27
Sierra Boggess (“The Little Mermaid”) – NEW! and Michael James Scott (“Aladdin”)
January 17, 20, 21, 23, 25, 28, 29
Anastacia McCleskey (“Tarzan”) – NEW! and Josh Strickland (“Tarzan”)
January 30
February 1, 2, 5, 7, 9, 10
Mandy Gonzalez (“Aida”) and Kissy Simmons (“The Lion King”)
January 31
February 3, 4, 6, 8, 11, 12
Ainsley Melham (“Aladdin”) – NEW! Ashley Brown (“Mary Poppins”)
February 13, 15, 16, 19
Susan Egan (“Beauty and The Beast”) – NEW! and James Monroe Iglehart (“Aladdin”) – NEW!
February 14, 17, 18, 20, 21
Ashley Brown (“Mary Poppins”), Ainsley Melham (“Aladdin”), Susan Egan (Beauty and The Beast”), James Monroe Iglehart (“Aladdin”)
February 22, 23
The concerts take place several times daily, providing you with ample opportunities to enjoy your favorite performances. Admission is included with EPCOT park entry, with seating available on a first-come, first-served basis. For those seeking guaranteed seating, dining packages will be on sale starting December 17, allowing guests to enjoy a meal at select EPCOT restaurants before the show.
Food Studios
Each year, the Food Studios at the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts showcase culinary creativity at its finest, blending the artistry of flavor with picture-perfect presentation. For the 2026 edition, guests can look forward to savoring over 20 Food Studios located throughout the park.
Join Figment’s Brush with the Masters Scavenger Hunt
Figment is back and hiding inside famous works of art around World Showcase! With its mix of imagination and discovery, this scavenger hunt is a wonderful way for kids to learn about art in a hands-on way while adults have just as much fun searching the pavilions and unlocking a keepsake at the end.
Purchase your map and stickers at Creations Shop, Disney Traders, or World Traveler, then set off on your artistic journey around World Showcase. Keep an eye out for Figment-themed picture frames tucked into each pavilion’s artwork and add the matching sticker to your map when you spot him. Once you’ve completed your masterpiece, head back to Disney Traders, Creations Shop or World Traveler to pick up a special keepsake!
Artists Coming to Festival of the Arts
Every year at EPCOT International Festival of the Arts, guests can experience artistry in action. Whether you see magic being created at the Chalk Art Galleries, watch in awe as artists paint Disney Characters in mere minutes, or hear harmonious sounds around the park from talented musicians, you will be surrounded by art in all of its forms when you enter the park.
This year’s festival will feature a lineup of artists that will immerse you in beautiful artwork filled with color, expression, and inspiration. I’m excited to share a sneak peek of the talent coming to the festival and showcase some of their amazing art pieces.
Click here to see the full list of Artists!
Rosana Iarusso – New in 2026
Rosana Iarusso was born and raised in Mount Vernon, New York. Like most artists, her journey started the minute she could hold a pencil. Drawing in her Snow White-decorated room or creating art while watching her very worn-out VHS tape of The Little Mermaid, her love for Disney and art grew in tandem.
Eventually, she majored in illustration and graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology in 2008. From there, she worked as a graphic designer for theater and entertainment advertising while taking as many character design classes as possible to further hone her skills as an artist.
Currently, she is working as a Senior Character Artist for Disney Consumer Products mainly drawing Disney Princesses and their sidekicks, Tinker Bell, Minnie Mouse, and many other beloved characters. When she isn’t working, she loves to try out new mediums.
Rosana’s Disney Art Focus: Ducks, Mickey, Princesses
Dylan Bonner
Joining the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts for his sixth year, Dylan Bonner is an illustrator based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He started creating artwork when he was a child after being completely enamored with the Walt Disney Classic The Little Mermaid.
Since 2017, he has worked on the Disney Princess property across several forms including comic books, toys, Consumer Products, and now, Fine Art.
Dylan’s Disney Art Focus: Princesses
There are so many more talented artists making their way to the festival in 2026, so make sure to check out DisneyWorld.com for visiting artists’ names, dates, locations, and more!
Embark on a Quest with Disney Lorcana Trading Card Game
Love the art of card games? Well, do I have great news for you! This year at the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts, you and your family can discover the magic of the Disney Lorcana Trading Card Game!
Throughout the park, you can join an exciting Collection Quest, where as an Illumineer, you get to open Disney Lorcana booster packs and trade cards with other guests in the Illumineer’s Lounge in the Morocco Pavilion. Once complete, you can redeem a limited-edition Magical Places promo card (oooh, ahhhhh!).
Sharpen your skills with ‘Ink & Find’, where you’ll be sent on an adventure to find the larger-than-life trading cards around EPCOT. When you locate a card, you can match it to the special ink stickers on your complimentary Festival Questbook to receive an additional limited-edition Magical Place promo card! (While supplies last)
To participate in both activities, you can pick up your Festival Questbook on the bridge from World Celebration to World Showcase. When you’ve completed your adventures, you can pick up your Magical Places promo card from Illumineer’s Lounge in the Morocco Pavilion or in Figment’s Inspiration Station at The Odyssey.
Also, on your way to World Showcase, make sure to stop and get a photo at the Artful Photo Op. Featuring card art from the Disney Lorcana set Fabled, you can pose between glimmers Mickey Mouse as the Brave Little Prince and his Sweetheart Princess Minnie Mouse as they ride on a whimsical carousel.
EPCOT International Festival of the Arts Merchandise
During the Festival, stroll around EPCOT, snack on some delicious food, listen to some great music, and of course – check out some 2026 EPCOT Festival of the Arts merchandise. Featuring none other than your favorite purple dragon, Figment, this collection is sure to spark some inspiration! Featuring a colorful Spirit Jersey, Figment Plush, Ear Headband, and more, there are plenty of ways to let your imagination soar.
EPCOT International Festival of the Arts Spirit Jersey
Bursting with vibrant shades of teal, blue, purple, pink, and more, this EPCOT Festival of the Arts Spirit Jersey is a celebration of color, featuring Figment drawing the World Showcase as the centerpiece. The back print reads “EPCOT International Festival of the Arts 2026” and is the perfect piece to brighten up your closet!
EPCOT International Festival of the Arts Ear Headband
This Loungefly ear headband is an automatic add to cart! The adorable print on the headband pairs perfectly with the stunning purple bow embellished in fireworks, finished with the iconic Spaceship Earth medallion at the center. Stylish, fun, and totally irresistible – these ears are definitely coming home with me!
EPCOT International Festival of the Arts Baseball Hat
This vibrant blue baseball cap celebrates creativity with Figment joyfully painting around the iconic Spaceship Earth. Bursting with playful color and imagination, it’s the perfect accessory for fans who want to wear a little spark of artistry during the festival.
EPCOT International Festival of the Arts Ornament
Already dreaming of the holidays? This Figment ornament is ready to bring a touch of imagination to your tree.
EPCOT International Festival of the Arts Figment Plush
This Figment plush is dressed to impress, sporting a paint-splattered artist’s apron, a dreamy beret, and a trusty paintbrush in hand. With his creative flair, he’s the perfect companion to spark memories of your artistic adventures at the EPCOT Festival of the Arts.
EPCOT International Festival of the Arts Loungefly Novelty Bag
The Festival of the Arts Loungefly bag is a celebration of imagination and creativity. Figment takes center stage, painting the sky, surrounded by trees, fireworks and of course – Spaceship Earth! Designed to be stylish and practical, you can choose to wear it as a purse or a backpack, making it the perfect companion for park adventures.
EPCOT International Festival of the Arts Water Bottle
The Festival of the Arts Corkcicle water bottle is a masterpiece of design, featuring music notes, paint brushes, and the World Showcase… all the iconic elements that capture the spirit of the festival! This water bottle also gets bonus points for being stylish and keeping you hydrated as you explore the array of art, culinary delights, and performances.
EPCOT International Festival of the Arts Mug
With the winter season still upon us, this mug is the perfect way to carry those cozy vibes beyond the holidays. Whether it’s filled with hot cocoa, hot cider, or coffee, it’s ready to warm your hands and your heart.
See You at the 2026 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts
Whether you are there for the cuisine, the concerts, or the canvas, this festival is designed to inspire. Guests can look forward to the return of beloved experiences like the Animation Academy and the massive Paint by Number Mural. This year also brings an exciting new addition: the Disney Lorcana Trading Card Game! Families will be able to enjoy special activities that celebrate the stunning artwork found on the cards. Stay tuned, because this is only the beginning of the announcements.
For Disney fans who believe a little bit of magic can brighten any day, the Cinderella Sculpted Handle Mug is the perfect piece of drinkware. This isn’t just a container for your morning coffee; it’s a delightful accessory that brings a touch of fairytale charm to your everyday routine.
A Design Fit for a Princess (or Anyone Who Loves Charm!)
What immediately sets this mug apart is its unique, sculpted handle. Crafted by Zak Designs, this mug features a charming bow detail inspired by the classic story of Cinderella. Designed to stand out in any collection, the artistic flair of the handle turns a simple ceramic cup into a collector’s item and a conversation starter.
Capacity: A generous 21 ounces (Note: The product name also mentions an 18oz version, suggesting a large, satisfying capacity for your favorite warm beverages).
Material: Durable Ceramic
Price and Availability: Available for an enchanting $8.99 at Target (Zak Designs 18oz Cinderella Bow Sculpted Handle
With a substantial capacity, this mug is ideal for those days when you need a little extra fuel, whether it’s a generous pour of coffee, tea, or rich hot chocolate. Perfect for savoring your favorite warm drinks, adding a decorative piece to your Disney collection, or gifting to a fellow fan!
The whimsical Cinderella style ensures it’s a fantastic gift idea for anyone ages 13 and up who appreciates high-quality, charming drinkware. Imagine the joy on their face when they unwrap this unique piece!
Care and Maintenance
To keep this beautiful piece of ceramic in perfect condition, the manufacturer recommends hand washing. A little extra care ensures the sculpted details and the bright ceramic finish remain pristine for years to come, preserving the magic of your daily sip.
Bring the Fairytale Home
Don’t let your collection be banished to the ordinary. Brighten up your shelf and your mornings with this charming Zak Designs Cinderella mug. Head to Target and grab this piece of Disney magic for just $8.99—it’s an affordable way to add a dazzling touch of Cinderella style to your life!
Sloth World, the World’s First “Slotharium,” Opening on International Drive in Early 2026
Move over thrill rides, because Orlando is about to get very chill. A brand-new wildlife attraction called Sloth World is set to open on International Drive in February 2026, and it’s bringing something the world has never seen before: the first and only Slotharium.
Sloth World breaks away from traditional animal exhibits entirely. Instead of cages, enclosures, or viewing windows, guests step right into a rainforest-style habitat where more than 40 sloths roam, climb, snack, and snooze among lush trees, hanging vines, and natural climbing structures. This serene, open-air environment is designed around one priority above all else: the sloths’ comfort.
Located at 6582 International Drive, the 7,500-square-foot space includes multiple species of sloths, including babies born on site. Small-group guided tours, capped for a calm and intimate feel, are led by Sloth World Ambassadors—animal science professionals specializing in sloth behavior. The experience is intentionally hands-off and education-focused, giving guests the incredibly rare chance to observe natural sloth behaviors up close without disrupting them.
Vice President Pete Bandre described the concept perfectly: “We want guests to feel like they’ve stepped into the sloths’ world—not the other way around.” The goal is not just enchantment, but education—helping guests understand how sloths live, why their slow-paced lifestyle plays a vital role in their ecosystems, and what conservation efforts are needed to protect them worldwide.
Sloth World will be open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, holidays included, with tickets priced at $49. Presales have already begun, and early tours are expected to sell out months ahead of opening.
Disney Castaway Cay Renames Its Family Beach Cabanas to Sandcastle Cabanas
If you’re dreaming of a beach day on Disney Castaway Cay, there’s a fun little update waiting for you in the sand. Disney has officially renamed its Family Beach Cabanas, and they now carry a charming new title: Sandcastle Cabanas! This whimsical rebrand adds an extra sprinkle of island magic to one of the most sought-after experiences on Disney Cruise Line’s private island.
Guests booking a cabana through My Cruise Activities will now see them listed as:
Castaway Cay – Sandcastle Cabana (cabana number) – Family
The updated name also appears on the newly refreshed Castaway Cay map, making it easier for guests to spot both Sandcastle Cabanas and Mickey and Minnie Cove Cabanas at a glance.
Just a reminder: cabanas on Castaway Cay are extremely limited and highly coveted. Guests can pre-reserve them online at disneycruise.com under My Cruise Activities, where cabanas are booked per reservation. Only the guests listed on that reservation should be selected when booking, though up to 10 total guests can be added later by visiting Port Adventures or Guest Services once onboard.
Gary Sinise Foundation’s Snowball Express Returns to Disney World, Bringing Healing, Joy, and Holiday Magic to Families of Fallen Heroes
Snowflakes aren’t the only things returning to Disney World this season. The Gary Sinise Foundation’s Snowball Express is officially back, bringing hundreds of families of fallen military heroes together for five unforgettable days of healing, remembrance, and pure Disney magic. This cherished annual tradition transforms the holidays for spouses, guardians, and children who have endured the unimaginable loss of a loved one in military or first responder service.
Today, the foundation shared heartwarming updates from inside the parks, showing families laughing together, meeting beloved characters, riding favorite attractions, and finding comfort among people who truly understand their journey. For many participants, these moments offer something rare: a chance to breathe, smile, and simply be a family again.
Thanks to the foundation’s presenting sponsor, American Airlines, these families are flown to Orlando on charter and commercial flights, while others drive in and receive mileage reimbursement. Once here, lodging, meals, transportation, and all event programming are fully covered, allowing every family to focus entirely on connection and healing. From quiet moments between attractions to the emotional Remembrance Garden tribute, every detail of Snowball Express is designed to surround these families with support, community, and love at the time of year when grief can hit the hardest.
The program, which serves surviving spouses and children of fallen heroes who died in service-related circumstances on or after 9/11, has supported more than 23,000 loved ones to date. Through retreats, workshops, curated community events, and this signature Disney experience, Snowball Express helps families build resilience, rediscover joy, and know without question that their hero will never be forgotten.
Those interested in supporting the program, volunteering, or registering as a Snowball family can do so through the Gary Sinise Foundation’s website. As Gary often reminds us, while we can never do enough for our nation’s heroes, we can always do a little more.
Cars Superfan Hits Incredible 15,000 Rides on Radiator Springs Racers
For Disneyland enthusiast Jon Alan Hale, achieving his incredible 15,000th ride on the Cars-inspired auto-racing attraction isn’t about victory—it’s about the joy of the ride itself. Hale, who was eager to experience Radiator Springs Racers after major surgeries in 2010 and 2011, quickly became hooked after the attraction debuted in 2012. His dedication is evident: he meticulously tracks every race, noting his car color, lane position, and outcome in a personal notebook.
“I fell in love with the ride,” stated Jon Alan Hale, the Brea, California, television technician whose passion is evident in his tradition of marking every hundredth ride with a sign (a ritual that started with enthusiastic applause from Disneyland workers for his 1,000th ride). On Monday, Hale celebrated his 15,000th run on Radiator Springs Racers by riding alongside his friends who work at the park, sporting a Cars-themed cap and proudly holding his “15,000” sign.
Credit: Jon Alan Hale
The “Happiest Place on Earth” has seen Jon Alan Hale over 1,100 times, and on those visits, he estimates he takes the ride an average of 13 times each day. Hale credits the speedy single-rider line for this impressive number. Despite the repetition, he never tires of the experience, noting the unpredictable outcome: “You don’t know who is going to win the race,” he said. “There is no pattern of who wins or loses.” Though Hale’s 15,000 rides are an informal record (Disneyland and Guinness World Records confirmed they do not track the attraction’s records), his dedication is unmatched.
Jon Alan Hale’s dedicated quest for rides has yielded much more than just a large number; it has created a strong sense of community. He has cultivated friendships and strong acquaintances with Cast Members and fellow guests at the park. Hale described this connection by saying, “It’s like family. Everybody recognized me, they’re rooting for me.”
