Fire Safety Permit Filed for Monstropolis Restaurant in Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Things are heating up behind the walls at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and this time it is not because of Randall’s temper. A new fire safety permit has been filed for the former Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano, which is being transformed into Harryhausen’s, the Monstropolis restaurant straight out of Monsters, Inc.. The permit, filed January 30, 2026, contracts Grunau Fire Protection to replace roughly 276 ceiling sprinkler pendents throughout the building with concealed pendents, meaning the fire safety system will be tucked neatly behind decorative elements instead of hanging in plain sight.
This marks only the second permit filed for the old Mama Melrose’s space since it closed in May 2025, following a general construction permit back in October. While it might not sound flashy, fire sprinkler upgrades usually signal that Disney is moving deeper into interior work, especially important for a heavily themed dining location like Harryhausen’s. According to concept art, this restaurant recreates the spot where Mike Wazowski and Celia Mae share a date in the original film, complete with Monstropolis flair replacing the Italian backlot vibes guests knew for decades.
Mama Melrose’s originally opened on September 26, 1991, back when the park was still Disney-MGM Studios, making this transformation a major milestone in the larger Monstropolis land now replacing Muppets Courtyard. Between visible demolition, new permits, and steady construction progress, the scream-powered future of this corner of the park is inching closer to reality.
From fine dining at lush resorts to high-energy singles mixers and “Girl Dinners,” Orlando is pulling out all the stops for Valentine’s Day 2026. Whether you are looking for a romantic escape for two or a family-friendly celebration, here is a guide to the best offerings at The Grove Resort, Kings Orlando, Promenade at Sunset Walk, and Caribe Royale.
The Grove Resort offers a multi-generational approach to the holiday, ensuring both parents and children feel the love.
Valentine’s Day Dinner: Head to Valencia Restaurant for a sophisticated four-course prix fixe menu. Start with an Orange Lemongrass Tomato Bisque or a Fig and Goat Cheese Salad, followed by a choice of Pan-Seared Filet Mignon or Mahi in Lemon Butter. The meal concludes with a decadent Molten Lava Cake.
Price: $60 per person.
Romance Package: For those staying overnight, this package includes in-room delivery of chocolate-covered strawberries, roses, and a bottle of wine.
For the Kids: The Little Sweetheart Package features a festive delivery of balloons, a stuffed animal, and treats. Additionally, the resort hosts Hearts and Crafts on select weekends and a Valentine’s Kids Night In on February 14th, allowing parents to enjoy dinner while kids enjoy movies and activities.
If a quiet candlelit dinner sounds a bit too slow, Kings Orlando on International Drive is flipping the script with high-energy, non-traditional vibes.
Shoot Your Shot Social: A dedicated night for singles and friend groups. Guests wear color-coded wristbands—Green (single), Yellow (it’s complicated), and Red (taken)—to take the guesswork out of mingling.
The “Burn Book” Martini: Channel your inner Mean Girls with this $15 cocktail made with tangerine vodka and orange marmalade. It includes a “burn the ex” ritual where you can safely incinerate a piece of flammable paper.
Real Love Pre-Party: On Friday, February 13th, the venue kicks off the weekend with a DJ-driven atmosphere and live performances.
Promenade at Sunset Walk
Best For: Galentine’s and Casual Fun
Located just minutes from Disney, the Promenade is the ultimate hub for those who want options.
Galentine’s Day (Feb 13):Rock & Brews invites the girls for a night of live music and the tongue-in-cheek “Girl Dinner” special.
Valentine’s Day (Feb 14): The party continues with holiday-themed cocktails and a special dessert trio. Plus, a sweet deal: spend $40 and receive $15 back in Brew Bucks for a future visit.
The Wharf: For a more classic date, The Wharf offers a three-course Southern-style dinner for $75 per person, including champagne and live entertainment.
Caribe Royale Orlando
Best For: The Ultimate Luxury Splurge
For those looking to go all-out, Caribe Royale is offering an ultra-exclusive experience limited to the first five couples to book.
The Luxury Weekend Package ($1,400): This all-inclusive romantic getaway features:
Two nights in a luxurious King Suite.
Dining at the AAA Four Diamond Venetian Chop House.
A private chocolate painting class.
A make-your-own charcuterie class with champagne pairing.
Activity credit at the high-tech Stadium Club simulator suites.
Disney California Adventure Celebrates 25 Years with Special Experiences
Since opening in 2001 as the resort’s largest expansion, Disney California Adventure, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, and Downtown Disney have become beloved global destinations. Now, in 2026, the Disneyland Resort is celebrating their 25th anniversary with a nostalgic lineup of attractions, food, and merchandise that honors their history. These festivities perfectly complement the ongoing Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration, giving fans even more reasons to join the party!
Disney California Adventure 25th Anniversary
Disney California Adventure park opened on February 8, 2001. What was formerly a Disneyland parking lot became a dynamic theme park with attractions, shopping, and dining. From Cars Land and Buena Vista Street to Pixar Pier, Avengers Campus, and San Fransokyo Square, the park has evolved over the years, with more to come in the future.
A tribute to the park’s history, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse will dress in all-new outfits on Buena Vista Street for a limited time, beginning February 6. The sun motifs and vibrant color palette nod to when the park first welcomed guests with golden possibility.
Soarin’ Over California Returns Feb. 6
The fan-favorite Soarin’ Over California – one of the park’s opening day attractions – will return for a limited run beginning February 6 and continuing through July 1, 2026. Set to a serene and dramatic musical score, take a virtual tour of the Golden Gate Bridge, Yosemite National Park, Palm Springs, downtown Los Angeles, and more.
On July 2, the all-new airborne adventure, Soarin’ Across America, will debut in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.
25th Anniversary Food, Bucket, and Merch
Available for a limited time, February 6-15, 2026, Schmoozies! will serve a decadent cake shake, a confetti shake with strawberry icing, sprinkles, whipped topping, and a slice of cake.
“Swing by” for this awesome 25th anniversary novelty: a bucket modeled after the iconic Pixar Pal-A-Round. Featuring embedded “Magic Inside” technology, the Pixar Pal-A-Round Bucket reacts to select locations in both theme parks, changing color, and lighting patterns that will surprise and delight. The lighting effects enhance the storytelling of some lands and attractions, as well as amplify select nighttime spectaculars with an extra touch of pixie dust.
This first-of-its-kind bucket is available for purchase beginning February 6, while supplies last, at the following locations:
Mobile order: Hollywood Lounge Seasonal Novelty Release (Feb. 6-8)
Mobile order: Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta Seasonal Novelty Release (Feb. 6-8)
Mobile order: Popcorn at Grizzly Peak Airfield
Fairfax Market
Mortimers Market
Select popcorn and outdoor vending carts in California Adventure
Featuring apparel and three collectible pins, the Disney California Adventure 25th Anniversary Collection merchandise will be available beginning February 6, while supplies last, at Elias & Co., Gone Hollywood, and Seaside Souvenirs in California Adventure.
The elevated artwork in the collection has stylized illustrations of the park’s icons and symbols, such as the Carthay Circle tower, Pixar Pal-A-Round, and Grizzly Peak.
Commemorative Map on Feb. 8
On February 8, 2026, while supplies last, guests entering California Adventure with a valid park ticket may receive a complimentary commemorative map. Limited quantities available.
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa 25th Anniversary
The first Disney hotel to be located inside a theme park, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa welcomed its first guests on January 2, 2001, before officially celebrating its grand opening on February 8, 2001. In 2009, the hotel expanded with the Disney Vacation Club resort, The Villas at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa.
Humphrey the Bear Debuts at Storytellers Cafe
A new character is making his “bear-y” first Disney Parks appearance at Storytellers Cafe! Beginning February 6, Humphrey the Bear will be among the characters you’ll encounter during Donald’s Tales of Adventure dinner buffet.
This mischievous, snack-loving grizzly bear of Brownstone National Park is featured in several Disney animated shorts, including two of his own as the leading star. Humphrey’s humorous antics in Goofy and Donald Duck cartoons and beyond even inspired Humphrey’s Service & Supplies at Disney California Adventure.
Limited Edition 25th Anniversary Pin
A new, limited edition pin paying tribute to the 25th anniversary of Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is available now, while supplies last, at the Acorns Gifts & Goods shop. Chip ‘n’ Dale are depicted striking a playful pose in front of the hotel’s Craftsman-style façade, their mischievous energy balanced by stately elegance.
The pin is presented on a backer card inspired by the hotel’s signature architectural and artistic elements. It’s a must-have treasure for Disney fans and pin collectors alike.
Downtown Disney District 25th Anniversary
When it opened on January 12, 2001,Downtown Disney Districtintroduced new dining, shopping, and entertainment venues just steps away from Disneyland, California Adventure and the resort hotels.
For a limited time, a special anniversary tote and pin featuring the district’s new logo are available while supplies last at World of Disney.
Will you be visiting during the Disney California Adventure 25th anniversary celebration?
Relive 70 Years of Magic with Iconic Musical Tributes at Disneyland After Dark
Experience a nostalgic symphony at the all-new 70 Years of Favorites Disneyland After Dark event! Guests will be treated to the debut of “Sounds of Magic,” a brand-new serenade that breathes life into the park’s history through a curated medley of iconic songs from beloved past Disneyland shows.
Prepare to be swept away by “Sounds of Magic,” a nostalgic riverfront serenade debuting at the Disneyland After Dark: 70 Years of Favorites event! Throughout the night, talented vocalists will drift along the Rivers of America on a themed raft, performing a live musical tribute to seven decades of park history.
This moving spectacle features a “living timeline” of fan-favorite songs from iconic past productions, including:
Animazement – The Musical: Relive the high-energy 90s classic from the Fantasyland Theatre.
Tiana’s Showboat Jubilee: Hear the soulful, New Orleans rhythms that once took over the waterways.
Frozen – Live at the Hyperion: Experience the powerful theatrical melodies of the Arendelle sisters.
The Lion King Celebration Parade: Feel the rhythm of the Pride Lands with hits from this legendary street party.
The celebration doesn’t stop at the water’s edge! The 70 Years of Favorites event is packed with high-energy dance parties and nostalgic throwbacks:
Picture-Perfect Memories: Capture the magic with sentimental photo ops inspired by legendary entertainment like the neon-soaked “Mad T Party,” the glowing “Main Street Electrical Parade,” and the intergalactic fun of Club Buzz.
Dance the Night Away: Channel your inner Fred Astaire with swing dancing at the Royal Theatre, hit the Videopolis Dance Party at Tomorrowland Terrace for ultimate throwback vibes, or head to The Golden Horseshoe for line dancing—a rowdy tribute to the “Woody’s Round Up” era of the late ‘90s!
Take a walk down memory lane with a star-studded lineup of “Long Lost Friends”! During the event, you’ll have the rare chance to encounter nostalgic favorites like the Disney Afternoon crew, “Mother” and “Father” from the Carousel of Progress, Merlin, Flik and Atta, and even the high-energy Fantasmic! Monkeys.
Of course, no celebration is complete without a menu inspired by the Disneyland kitchens of yesteryear!
Must-Try Event Bites:
River Belle Terrace: For a sit-down treat, enjoy the specialty blackened New York steak and prawns.
Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe: Sink your teeth into a plant-based Mushroom Philly toasted sandwich or satisfy your sweet tooth with a maple bacon cinnamon roll.
Refreshment Corner: Comfort food gets an upgrade with Birria mac and cheese served in a signature bread bowl.
Red Rose Taverne: Cool off with the fan-favorite Gaston Brew.
Experience the Heart and Soul of Black History Month at Disneyland
Black History Month is the perfect time to “Celebrate Soulfully” at the Disneyland Resort! Whether you’re catching a live performance or exploring new flavors, you’ll find the park filled with the rich sounds of jazz and gospel, stunning cultural art, and limited-time dishes that honor Black heritage. It’s an incredible opportunity for families to immerse themselves in a unique blend of Disney magic and soulful storytelling right in the heart of California.
Lighting up the Downtown Disney LIVE! Stage for the first time, the beloved “Celebrate Gospel” concerts return to Disneyland Resort for two weekends in 2026: February 20-21 and February 27-28. Grammy Award-winning gospel music performers will headline the two weekends, featuring Bishop Hezekiah Walker on February 21 and Yolanda Adams on February 28.
The soul-stirring annual event, which does not require park admission, also features community choirs from across Southern California for two exciting weekends of uplifting entertainment.
Vibrant Displays Honoring Black Leaders
In celebration of Black History Month, a brand-new heritage trail of dynamic displays will debut across the resort, celebrating influential Black leaders, artists, and thinkers from the past and present.
From Frontierland to Hollywood Land and various spots in between, each display will recognize how these inspiring individuals shaped culture and industries for generations. Keep your eyes peeled to spot these tributes, including Leah Chase at Tiana’s Palace, Martha Blanding on Main Street, U.S.A., Floyd Norman on Buena Vista Street, and more!
From savory classics to tasty favorites, continue the celebration with delectable dishes crafted to honor the rich stories of Black heritage. Here are a couple of this year’s limited-time food options:
Tiana’s Palace (Mobile order available)
(Available Jan. 30 through March 2)
French Quarter Fried Chicken Bowl: Spicy honey-glazed fried chicken served with baked macaroni and cheese and collard greens
Lamplight Lounge – Boardwalk Dining
(Available Jan. 30 through March 2)
New Orleans BBQ Shrimp: Cajun battered shrimp served with cheesy polenta, onions, peppers, celery and a New Orleans BBQ butter sauce
Celebrate Black Heritage at Disneyland All Year Long
Don’t miss the chance to experience this exciting slate of Celebrate Soulfully offerings in honor of Black History Month. Plus, explore an array of experiences that celebrate Black heritage and culture all year long at Disneyland Resort.
Meet Princess Tiana in New Orleans Square and take a ride on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in Bayou Country at Disneyland park.
Soak in the soulful singer Dime and her jazz quartet as Five & Dime perform hits on Buena Vista Street in Disney California Adventure park or train with Black Panther’s personal guard during “Warriors of Wakanda: The Disciplines of the Dora Milaje” in Avengers Campus.
At select times in the afternoons and evenings, you may see Joe Gardner from Pixar Animation Studios’ Soul playing smooth jazz tunes in the lobby of Pixar Place Hotel.
Full Scoop on Disney Channel Nite at Disneyland After Dark
Get ready to live your best Disney Channel life because Disneyland After Dark: Disney Channel Nite is officially back for 2026! For three epic nights, the park will transform into a total throwback celebration of your favorite eras. Grab your besties and join the ultimate fan party featuring high-energy music, rare character sightings, themed snacks, and photo ops that are straight out of your favorite shows.
Disney Channel Nite 2026 Dates
Sunday, April 12
Tuesday, April 14
Thursday, April 16
Disney Channel Nite Entertainment
New this year, Penny Proud from The Proud Family makes her Disneyland Resort debut at this event. She joins fellow Disney Channel characters Kim Possible, Lilo & Stitch and many more. Be sure to have your camera ready to make one-of-a-kind photo memories.
Gather up your pom-poms and get ready to root at “High School Musical – ZOMBIES Pep Rally,” celebrating songs from High School Musical and ZOMBIES. This high-energy street show will definitely get you moving and grooving to songs you know and love from these much-loved films.
Wicked moves are the steps to know for “DescenDANCE” along the Rivers of America. The wonderfully wrongdoing Villain Kids want to show you “It’s Good to Be Bad” as they strut their stuff.
Get ready to pump up the volume at “Disney Channel Rocks” a concert-style show celebrating hit songs from the channel’s most popular movies and shows. High energy performers will dazzle you as they perform some of the hottest tunes from your favorite shows.
Join your fellow campers for a festive “Camp Rock Sing-Along” at The Golden Horseshoe. This is your opportunity to shine in the saloon spotlight as you croon your favorite tune.
“Step into the scene” for a distinctive photo featuring backgrounds inspired by your favorite Disney Channel programs. New this year, High School Musical joins other popular Disney Channel-inspired scenes such as Hannah Montana, That’s So Raven, Lizzie McGuire, and more!
Disney Channel Nite Specialty Food
What’s TV without snacks? Satisfy those cravings all night long with savory and sweet themed items throughout the park such as:
Loaded dino nuggies at Red Rose Taverne, The Golden Horseshoe, and Stage Door Café
Ice cream taco at Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor (New)
Agent P churro at Churros near Sleeping Beauty Castle, Churros near Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters, and Churros near Big Thunder Mountain Railroad (New)
There will also be a specialty menu available at River Belle Terrace.Reservations are recommended for table-service restaurants and can be booked closer to the event dates. Keep your eyes on Disneyland.com.
Disney Channel Nite Merchandise
Commemorate your special evening with a themed souvenir! Choices include a light-up headband, hoodie and trading pin.
Disney Channel Nite Tickets
Magic Key pre-sale: On Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026 (no earlier than 9 a.m. PT), Inspire Key holders may purchase from a select number of pre-sale tickets for Disneyland After Dark: Disney Channel Nite on Disneyland.com.
Then on Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026 (no earlier than 9 a.m. PT), all Magic Key holders will have the opportunity to purchase from a select amount of pre-sale tickets.
General: On Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026 (no earlier than 9 a.m. PT), tickets will go on sale to the general public. Tickets are limited and subject to availability.
Fun Ways to Honor Black History Month at Walt Disney World 2026
Black History Month is here, and Walt Disney World is the perfect place to sprinkle a little soul into your vacation. Through the “Celebrate Soulfully” initiative, the parks are coming alive with the music, art, and flavors of Black culture.
From celebrity appearances to Broadway stars, here is your guide to the celebration!
Kick off the festivities on February 9th with a special parade moment! Reality star Toya Johnson-Rushing will serve as the honorary Grand Marshal, leading a high-energy celebration down Main Street, U.S.A. at 3 p.m. ET. Expect dazzling displays, lively music, and plenty of Disney magic.
While you’re there, don’t forget to drop into the bayou! Head over to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure to join Princess Tiana, Naveen, and the jazz-loving Louis for a musical journey through the swamp as they prepare for a massive celebration.
Black artistry takes center stage at the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts. You can explore bold and beautiful works from talented creators like Yesenia Moises, Ryan Riller, Larissa Brown, and Mark Page. Be sure to check the festival schedule, as many of these artists will be making special appearances through mid-February!
If you love the theater, the DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series is a must-see. Powerhouse Black performers from iconic shows are taking the stage at the America Gardens Theatre, including:
Jelani Remy (The Lion King)
Kissy Simmons (The Lion King)
James Monroe Iglehart (Aladdin)
Anastacia McCleskey (Tarzan) — making her festival debut!
Feel the Rhythm Across the Parks
The beat never stops at Disney’s Animal Kingdom! Head to Discovery Island for the Viva Gaia Caribbean street party, or visit Africa to hear the powerful, infectious beats of the Tam Tam Drummers of Harambe.
Over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, you can meet up with Ariel from the live-action The Little Mermaid or catch Frozone from The Incredibles for some “cool” photos.
Savor the Flavor at Disney Springs
Disney’s culinary teams are “Cooking with Soul” this month with some incredible new treats available from February 1–28:
Soulful New York Cheesecake Pop: A decadent blend of cheesecake and graham cracker ganache enrobed in 65% dark chocolate. Find this at The Ganachery.
Wakandan Mousse: A stunning tribute featuring coconut mousse, guava gelée, and chocolate sablé. Pick this up at Amorette’s Patisserie.
Before you leave Disney Springs, take a walk along the Art Walk: A Canvas of Expression to see vibrant murals by Black artists like Nneka Jones and Brandon Hill.
Whether you are dancing to the rhythm of the Harambe drummers or savoring a taste of Wakanda, Celebrate Soulfully offers a beautiful and moving way to honor Black History Month through the unparalleled magic of Walt Disney World.
Celebrate 25 Years of DCA with the New Pixar Pal-A-Round Popcorn Bucket
Get ready to elevate your popcorn game! As part of the grand celebration for Disney California Adventure’s 25th Anniversary, Disneyland Resort has unveiled a groundbreaking new souvenir that is sure to be the “wheel” deal for collectors.
Introducing the Pixar Pal-A-Round Popcorn Bucket—a stunning tribute to the park’s iconic eccentric wheel that brings a literal glow to your park day.
This isn’t your average plastic pail. This bucket is the first of its kind to feature embedded “Magic Inside” technology. This interactive tech allows the bucket to communicate with the environment around you in real-time.
As you journey through both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure, your bucket will:
React to Lands: Change colors and light patterns as you enter specific themed areas.
Sync with Attractions: Feature unique lighting effects that enhance the storytelling of select rides.
Amplify Nighttime Spectaculars: Pulse and glow in sync with Disney’s famous fireworks and water shows, adding an extra touch of “pixie dust” to your viewing experience.
Oh, and just like the real landmark, the bucket is modeled with incredible detail, capturing the swinging gondolas and the smiling face of Mickey Mouse!
The Pixar Pal-A-Round Bucket officially “swings” into the resort on February 6, 2026. Given the 25th-anniversary hype and the brand-new tech, these will likely move fast.
Mobile Order (February 6–8 ONLY): For the first three days, your best bet is using the Disneyland App to Mobile Order at these locations:
Hollywood Lounge (Seasonal Novelty Release)
Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta (Seasonal Novelty Release)
Popcorn at Grizzly Peak Airfield
In-Person Locations (Starting Feb 6):
Fairfax Market
Mortimer’s Market
Select Popcorn and Outdoor Vending Carts throughout Disney California Adventure.
This release is just one of many “surprises and delights” planned for the DCA 25th anniversary. Whether you’re a local regular or a first-time visitor, this bucket is the perfect high-tech way to commemorate a quarter-century of California-inspired magic.
‘Zootopia 2’ Brings Exclusive Annual Passholder Treats and Photo Ops to Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Walt Disney World Annual Passholders are getting even more reasons to go wild at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, thanks to new Zootopia 2-inspired perks hopping in for a limited time. Along with the previously announced Passholder exclusive magnet, guests can now snag a themed dessert and strike a pose in a special PhotoPass experience tied to the popular new offerings around the Tree of Life.
From February 5 through March 15, 2026, Passholders can purchase a Carrot Cake Sundae at Terra Treats, a sweet salute to Judy Hopps featuring vanilla ice cream, caramel sauce, roasted pecans, carrot cake crumbs, and a waffle bowl topped with a birthday cake-flavored shell and an adorable chocolate carrot top. During the same dates, a Passholder-only photo opportunity will be available near the Tree of Life sign on Discovery Island, complete with Pawpsicle props and a Magic Shot featuring Nick Wilde selling his famous frozen treats, available daily from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
These offerings join the free magnet pickup at Discovery Trading Company, limited to one per Passholder while supplies last, and all experiences require a valid Annual Pass and government-issued photo ID. The perks arrive just after the debut of Zootopia: Better Zoogether!, the new 4D show inside the Tree of Life, plus character meet-and-greets at the Zoogether Day Gathering Spot, making Animal Kingdom the place to be for fans ready to hop into Zootopia fun.
Disney CEO Successor Could Be Named Within Days as Iger Era Nears Its Next Chapter
The next chapter in Disney leadership may be turning its page very soon, as sources tell The New York Times that Bob Iger’s successor could be announced within the next week.
According to the report, the Walt Disney Company board of directors is preparing to reveal who will take the helm ahead of Iger’s contract expiration at the end of 2026, a move Disney previously said would happen early this year. The current frontrunner remains Josh D’Amaro, whose park-focused resume and guest-centric approach have made him a popular pick among fans and analysts alike.
He is reportedly competing with Dana Walden, her fellow co-chair Alan Bergman, and ESPN chief Jimmy Pitaro. While not confirmed, the announcement could coincide with Disney’s Q1 2026 earnings report expected Monday, making for a potentially headline-heavy start to the week.
Whoever steps into the role will inherit a company in the middle of massive park expansions, streaming shifts, and some very passionate fandom opinions, so the magic crown is not a light one to wear.
New Permit Reveals Ride and Show Building Footprints for Cars and Villains Lands at Magic Kingdom
Fresh permit filings with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection have just given us our clearest look yet at what’s coming to Magic Kingdom, and things are getting villainously exciting. New utility and water management plans filed by Disney outline multiple new “facility” buildings tied to the upcoming Cars-inspired Piston Peak National Park and the long-teased Disney Villains Land.
Piston Peak National Park will take over most of the former Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island footprint within Frontierland, while Villains Land will rise in a backstage area north of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and The Haunted Mansion. The Villains side of the filing shows two large facilities that could be show buildings for rides or entertainment, along with a smaller structure between them and a long building that appears to sit between the Villains and Cars areas just north of Big Thunder.
Disney has already confirmed two attractions for Villains Land, but has not revealed whether these buildings will house rides, shows, shopping, or dining. Over in Piston Peak, the permit outlines a semi-circle-shaped building and two smaller facilities. The semi-circle structure is likely tied to the off road rally race attraction announced for the Cars land, which is expected to be mostly outdoors, while the second attraction may also rely heavily on exterior track and terrain.
One especially intriguing detail is a small facility located near The Haunted Mansion, which could serve as anything from extended queue space to restrooms or even a themed lounge or bar, though Disney has not hinted at its purpose. While these filings focus on underground utilities rather than final layouts, they give us a fascinating early map of how Cars and Villains will reshape Frontierland and beyond, and it’s clear that Magic Kingdom’s future is shifting into high gear.
Humphrey the Bear Joins the Fun at Storytellers Cafe
Get ready to welcome a “bear-y” special guest to the Disneyland Resort! Starting February 6, the lovable Humphrey the Bear will make his long-awaited debut at Storytellers Cafe. Fans can find him joining the forest festivities during Donald’s Tales of Adventure dinner buffet, adding a touch of classic woodland charm to this fan-favorite character dining experience at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa.
This mischievous, snack-loving grizzly bear of Brownstone National Park is featured in several Disney animated shorts, including two of his own as the leading star. Humphrey’s humorous antics in Goofy and Donald Duck cartoons and beyond even inspired Humphrey’s Service & Supplies at Disney California Adventure.
Advanced reservations are highly recommended for Storytellers Cafe and can be booked up to 60 days in advance on Disneyland.com or the Disneyland app.
