First Look at ‘Aladdin’ and ‘The Jungle Book’ Room Art Revealed for the Disney Treasure
Many talented Imagineers and cast members have been working diligently behind the scenes to perfect every detail on the Disney Treasure for future guests. One standout among them is Lina Barr, a senior concept designer responsible for creating custom artwork for the signature venues on Disney Cruise Line’s expanding fleet.
If you’ve sailed on the Disney Wish, you’ve already seen some of Lina’s incredible work. The photos above show Lina in her office, finalizing new pieces for the Disney Treasure and offering a sneak peek at some of her ongoing projects.
Where do you think these designs will appear on the ship?
Lina shared some insights into her creative process with us. It begins with discussions with the Walt Disney Imagineering team, where she learns about the themes for each venue on the Disney Treasure, such as the Agrabah-inspired Grand Hall or the Jungle Cruise-inspired lounge, Skipper Society. These meetings are true collaborative brainstorms between artists and interior designers. They enable Lina to develop dynamic artwork that complements each space onboard. She starts with a rough sketch on her computer, drawing inspiration from each venue, and then adds color and details.
The magic often lies in the small details Lina includes in her pieces, from hidden Mickeys to other story-driven Easter eggs that guests can discover during their voyage. After completing a project, Lina loves seeing guests react to her designs and uncover the secret storytelling elements that only true Disney fans would notice.
After the 2015 film explored 11-year-old Riley’s emotional rollercoaster during a move, “Inside Out 2” throws new emotions like anxiety into the mix, creating fresh chaos for Riley’s inner world.
Inspired by the dream-making factory glimpsed in the first film, “Dream Productions” takes viewers inside Riley’s head once again. Expect wacky adventures like the iconic rainbow unicorn sequence and the heart-pounding clown chase, all reimagined in this new series.
Pete Docter, the Chief Creative Officer at Pixar Animation Studios, confirmed that the “Inside Out spinoff series would be coming. In a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, Doctor said:
“We have finished. It’s coming out next spring. I’m not sure that there’s been a specific release date, but in the first film, remember we go to Dream Production to see how Riley’s dreams are made? It semi-explains why they’re so weird. We’ve continued the exploration of the power of dreams and how they affect us in our waking life, as well. So it’s pretty cool.”
Country Bear Musical Jamboree’ will Add a Country Twist to Classic Disney Songs
Get ready for some toe-tappin’ fun! The beloved Country Bear Jamboree returns to Magic Kingdom Park on July 17th with a pawsome new twist. Guests will enjoy a revamped show (Country Bear Musical Jamboree) featuring the classic audio-animatronic bears singing a mix of their original tunes and, for the first time ever, some beloved Disney songs reimagined in a country style.
“It was an honor to work on a show with such a legacy. It’s a show that means a lot to a lot of people, including myself,” said Jake Ellis, Principal Audio Media Designer, Walt Disney Imagineering. “One of the first memories I have at Walt Disney World was sitting on my mom’s lap in the back row at Grizzly Hall and watching the Country Bears perform.”
In approaching the refresh, Ellis went on, “We knew that we wanted to keep the ethos of the bears, but we also wanted to rethink the songs in a way that was more diverse and had multigenerational appeal. Where better to look than the Disney catalog for those songs?”
The revamped Country Bear Jamboree will feature toe-tappin’ country renditions of beloved Disney songs like “The Bare Necessities” and “A Whole New World,” thanks to collaborations with stars like Mac McAnally and Allison Russel! Expect a variety of country styles, from bluegrass to rockabilly.
Brett Swain, Director of Music Production, The Walt Disney Company, worked with each artist to reinterpret the songs. “He spun them up in this really fun way,” Ellis said. “I’m excited for my 3-year-old son and 4-year-old daughter to sit on my lap so I can introduce them to the Bears in their new form, and we’re excited for guests to experience the show.”
Roberts, who lends her vocals to Trixie St. Claire, shares his excitement.
“It’s so crazy seeing Trixie singing with my voice coming out,” Roberts said. “It’s something that I never, ever dreamed would be a reality in my life. And she just looks so cute! I could not be more thrilled with how everything turned out, and I’m so honored to be a part of it.”
Roberts’ rendition of “Try Everything” may sound different than the original recording, but its message remains the same. “Y’all can tell by the way I talk that I don’t sound anything like Shakira,” she said with a laugh. “When I was approached to record the song for Country Bear Musical Jamboree, I thought, ‘OK, we’re going to really have to put our East Tennessee into this.’ When I heard the new [country arrangement], it was so easy for me to get in the zone. I was so excited when I got into the studio and everybody told me to just sing it the way I would. I got to lean into my Appalachian and country music roots and just let her fly.”
“It’s been so neat being able to work with all these other incredible folks who are lending their voices and their talents to the Country Bear Musical Jamboree,” Roberts continued. “Everybody brings something different to the table, and that’s what makes it so cool. We have our own influences, and we’re all coming together to make something really special.”
Fall Favorites Returning to Disneyland this Halloween
Get ready for a spooktacular Halloween season at Disneyland Resort from Aug. 23 to Oct. 31 (Plaza de la Familia through Nov. 2)! Highlights include the return of Haunted Mansion Holiday, Mickey’s Trick and Treat show (now offered daytime!), Oogie Boogie Bash details, and more!
Haunted Mansion Holiday Reopens with Virtual Queue
Foolish mortals, you’ll be able to socialize with Sandy Claws again soon, just in time for the fall season! Jack Skellington and the Halloween Town denizens have put a spell on the eerie estate with the merry makeover known as Haunted Mansion Holiday, inspired by “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.” As the attraction’s reimagined queue experience continues to materialize, Haunted Mansion Holiday will be available via virtual queue only when it reopens.
Fiendish fans of this trick-filled transformation are clamoring for a glimpse of this year’s all-new ghoulish gingerbread creation that decorates the dining room, and Disney gave us this little sneak peek!
Mickey Mouse and Friends Debut New Fall Looks
Don’t miss your chance to pose for a photo at Disneyland park with Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and their friends dressed for the season in new festive attire featuring skeleton inspirations and colorful patchwork patterns.
‘Mickey’s Trick and Treat’ Show Brings Family-Fun Entertainment
Available for the first time ever as a daily offering during the season, the interactive “Mickey’s Trick and Treat” show encourages younger guests to join in a not-so-spooky sing and dance-along with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse at the Disney Theater in Disney California Adventure park. With colorful projections and a lively host dressed as a mad scientist, it’s a happy haunting you’ll not soon forget!
‘Halloween Screams’ Returns to Disneyland Park
Each night, you will receive a dreadfully delightful treat in the form of “Halloween Screams,” a nighttime spectacular featuring supernatural projections and other ghostly special effects viewable from in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle, “it’s a small world” facade, Rivers of America and along Main Street, U.S.A., in Disneyland park.
On select nights, “Halloween Screams” haunts the skies above Sleeping Beauty Castle as well, enhancing its seasonal mischief with fireworks.
Seasonal Décor Abounds Throughout Disneyland Resort
The Main Street Pumpkin Festival returns to Disneyland park, anchored by the iconic Mickey Pumpkin. When you stroll through this charming thoroughfare, you’ll be greeted by cleverly carved gorgeous gourds decorating doorways, porches and windows.
On Buena Vista Street in Disney California Adventure park, Halloween motifs add to the ambiance, while the rider of an equine apparition, the Headless Horseman, appears to light each night’s darkening skies with his very own jack-o-lantern head!
The autumnal theming will also continue in the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort and Downtown Disney District, where guests will find festive touches throughout.
Ramble Through Radiator Screams
In Disney California Adventure, the rambunctious residents of Cars Land put the nuts and bolts into their Haul-O-Ween outfits and changed Radiator Springs into Radiator Screams with a ghoulish array of décor and the transformation of two family-friendly attractions.
Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree and Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters pump up their soundtracks with a wicked groove and become Mater’s Graveyard JamBOOree and Luigi’s Honkin’ Haul-O-Ween.
Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark Sparks Screams
Each twilight, Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! transforms into Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark, releasing menacing monsters and free-roaming fiends among its wickedly thrilling drops.
The Guardians have successfully escaped the Collector’s Fortress, but have accidentally left Groot behind, so Rocket needs your help to distract the creatures that have been released, so he can rescue Groot in this exciting seasonal overlay.
Dastardly Delicious Sip & Bites Arrive to Tantalize Taste Buds
Treat yourself to delectable, themed treats. Dining locations throughout the Disneyland Resort will serve up new and returning seasonal items for every palate.
Returning for the 2024 season, you can enjoy the Halloween funnel cake at Stage Door Café in Disneyland park and the al pastor tacos inspired by “Coco” at Paradise Garden Grill in Disney California Adventure park!
New Merchandise Materializes
It’s not a frightfully festive fall without the latest Disneyland Resort Halloween merchandise including apparel, accessories, headwear and other spirited garb, which will be available this fall throughout Disneyland Resort and on DisneyStore.com.
Fashions inspired by Pixar Animation Studios’ “Coco” will be a great fit for this year’s Plaza de la Familia festivities, and you won’t want to miss Oogie Boogie Bash merchandise which will also be available.
Plaza de la Familia Celebrates Día de los Muertos
Inspired by the traditions of Día de los Muertos, Plaza de la Familia brings music, vibrant décor, festive foods and exciting live entertainment to Disney California Adventure park through Nov. 2, 2024.
You can’t miss the iconic “Árbol de la Vida” (Tree of Life) photo location and memory wall.
And if you’re a fan of Plaza de la Familia, you know that the heart of this offering is a musical celebration of Pixar’s “Coco,” which emphasizes the everlasting bonds of family. This year the heartwarming show has a new name and story, along with newly designed costumes. It will be performed several times daily.
After the show, snap a selfie with the hand-animated figure of Miguel from “Coco.”
Goofy’s Kitchen and Storytellers Cafe Serve Up Festive Fare
If you love the fall season and dining with favorite Disney characters, you can’t miss Goofy’s Kitchen with a Halloween twist! Goofy and his pals will don their seasonal outfits for a dining experience like no other at Disneyland Hotel.
At Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, Storytellers Cafe will conjure an all-new autumn-inspired breakfast and brunch, complete with seasonal décor and characters debuting new festive looks.
Pluto’s Pumpkin Pursuit Provides Scary Good Family Fun
Beginning in September, Pluto’s Pumpkin Pursuit is an activity the whole family can enjoy, as you set off to search for Disney character-themed pumpkins hidden throughout the Downtown Disney District and, for the first time, Disneyland park and/or Disney California Adventure park.
Purchase an activity map for either Downtown Disney District, Disneyland or Disney California Adventure to aid in your quest and claim a special collectible keepsake.
Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party Tickets on Sale Soon
With more nights than ever before, Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party will take over Disney California Adventure park with signature seasonal sights, sounds and shrieks. At this limited-capacity, after-hours event, guests of all ages can trick-or-treat their way through the park while wearing their favorite Halloween costumes.** You’ll also enjoy special offerings including the “Frightfully Fun Parade,” Villains Grove at the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail, presented by Citizen, as well as immersive treat trails featuring favorite villains — including some new ones!
Admission to the after-hours event also includes entry to Disney California Adventure park three hours before the party begins and unlimited Disney PhotoPass digital photo downloads from the party.
The waiting room to purchase tickets for Oogie Boogie Bash will now open at approximately 8:45 a.m. PT, and sales will begin no earlier than 9 a.m. PT on Disneyland.com beginning on the below dates:
Inspire Magic Key holders (limited amount of tickets available for pre-sale) | June 25, 2024
All Magic Key holders (limited amount of tickets available for pre-sale) | June 26, 2024
All guests | June 27, 2024
As you may know, Oogie Boogie Bash tickets often sell out quickly, so save these dates and times! If you’re waiting in the online queue to purchase tickets, you can be digitally notified when it’s your time to enter the ticket store. Once in the queue, choose the “notify me” option and enter your email address. You’ll receive an email letting you know it’s your turn to enter the ticket store by following the online instructions.
Dreaming of a spooktacular Disney adventure? Let me, your Disneyland travel specialist, craft the perfect escape! From finding the ideal hotel to securing coveted dining reservations, I’ll handle all the details, ensuring a stress-free, pixie-dusted vacation. Let’s create unforgettable memories together!
Grinning Loth-Cat Now Available at Oga’s Cantina at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Have you ever dreamed of enjoying your favorite drink out of a Loth-cat mug? Well, Star Wars fans rejoice! Disney’s Hollywood Studios is now offering a new Loth-Cat mug at Oga’s Cantina.
Oga’s Cantina, a haven for smugglers, weary travelers, and all in-between, offers exotic drinks for all ages and electrifying tunes by DJ R-3X (formerly of Starspeeder 3000!). Just remember, while Oga enforces order, the clientele can be…unruly. So keep it casual and enjoy your galactic pitstop!
DisneyEats shared the news about the new Loth-Cat mug on Instagram saying:
“Is that a grinning Loth-cat? This mug is now available at Oga’s Cantina at Disney’s Hollywood Studios! Order yours today with any non-alcoholic beverage.”
Stitch into Summer with Fun Home and Outdoor Stitch Products This 626 Day!
June 26th is almost here, and that means it’s time to celebrate everyone’s favorite troublemaking alien experiment, Experiment 626, better known as Stitch! Fun Home and Outdoor Stitch Products are everything you need to make this 626 Day unforgettable.
Whether you’re planning a sleepover with friends, gearing up for a poolside BBQ, or hitting the beach for a day of fun, these Stitch products have something for everyone. So Bring Stitch’s signature style of playful chaos to life with these new items:
Feeling fancy? You will love the luxuriousDisney Stitch Blanket from Barefoot Dreams for $168. This jacquard masterpiece features Stitch chilling on a falling palm leaf, it’s guaranteed to charm everyone who sees it.
Tech that Makes You Go “A-ooga!”
Looking to add some Stitch-tastic flair to your tech setup? Look no further! We’ve got a glowing Stitch Neon Wall Sign for $49.99, perfect for illuminating your room with some extraterrestrial ambience.
Fill your home with the delightful aroma of Ohana with the Disney Lilo & Stitch: Aloha-Ohana Scentsy Warmer for $70. This adorable warmer will not only diffuse your favorite fragrances but also add a touch of island charm to any room. And to complete the experience, grab a Stitch: Experiment 626 Scentsy Bar for $7. This bar will have your home smelling like tropical paradise, with a hint of mischievousness, of course!
Channel your inner Stitch with adorable makeup brushes that feature the lovable alien’s iconic blue fur and big ears.
Spritz on a refreshing body mist with scents inspired by the tropical Hawaiian islands.
Rock a cute Stitch headband to keep your hair out of your face in style.
Plus, don’t forget! Ulta is also featuring a special Stitch nail polish for just $10. It’s the perfect way to add a touch of Stitch magic to your summer look!
Gear Up for Summer Adventures with Stitch-tacular Outdoor Essentials
Make a statement at the pool with a fun and inflatable Stitch pool float.
Beat the heat and show off your love for Stitch with this adorable universal bubble sun shade. Featuring Stitch chilling in a Hawaiian shirt, sipping from a coconut under the text “Aloha from Hawaii,” this sun shade will keep your car cool and add a touch of island flair to your ride. Get yours for just $29.99!
Let your furry friend join the fun with the exclusive Loungefly Disney Lilo & Stitch Dog Collar. This stylish collar features an adjustable nylon strap adorned with Stitch and his best bud Scrump, playfully hanging out side-by-side. It wouldn’t be a Loungefly creation without their signature plaque and crown on the buckle, complete with an adorable enamel pawprint charm on the leash hook.
So what are you waiting for? Stitch your way to summer fun with fun home and outdoor products!
Make Mischief with the Exclusive Stitch 626 Day BoxLunch Collection!
Dive into his mischievous charm with exclusive apparel and accessories! From graphic tees and cozy hoodies to adorable backpacks and quirky home decor, BoxLunch has everything you need to showcase your love for the galaxy’s cutest alien.
Shop the limited-edition Stitch 626 Day Boxlunch collection today and let your inner experiment loose! BoxLunch offers a curated collection of Disney merchandise featuring Stitch, so you’re sure to find something perfect for any fan.
So head over to BoxLunch online or in-stores and get ready to celebrate 626 Day in style! With this collection, you can show off your love for Stitch and his ohana in a way that’s both cute and mischievous. Don’t miss out, this collection is sure to be a galactic hit!
New Disney Friendship Bracelet Buddies Spotted at Epcot!
Calling all BFFs! Your wrist game at Epcot just got a whole lot cuter with the arrival of these adorable new Disney friendship bracelets. That’s right, three brand new designs are ready to add a touch of Disney magic to your day, each featuring iconic character pairs and a charming BFF (Best Friends Forever) charm!
These cheeky chipmunks are back and ready to join your squad! The first bracelet features everyone’s favorite mischievous duo, Chip and Dale. Made with brightly colored bands, the design showcases the inseparable pair in all their glory. The real star of the show, though, is the adorable silver BFF charm, the perfect way to celebrate your own unbreakable bond.
Monsters, Inc.: You + Me = We Scare Because We Care!
For a touch of spooky-cute fun, the second bracelet features Mike Wazowski and Sulley from Monsters, Inc. This design uses a cool color palette that reflects the film’s aesthetic, with the instantly recognizable characters taking center stage. Just like Chip and Dale, they’re joined by the ever-important BFF charm, reminding you that friendship can conquer even the scariest monsters!
Winnie the Pooh and Eeyore: Friendship is Always There for You
Sometimes, the simplest friendships are the strongest. This heartwarming bracelet features Winnie the Pooh and his trusty companion Eeyore. The design uses warm, comforting colors that perfectly capture the spirit of the Hundred Acre Wood. And of course, no friendship bracelet is complete without the BFF charm, a sweet reminder that even when things seem gloomy, a true friend is always there to pick you up.
Whether you’re looking for a touch of mischief, a dose of spooky fun, or a heartwarming reminder of the importance of friendship, there’s a perfect Disney friendship bracelet duo waiting for you at Epcot. So grab your bestie, head over to the park, and get ready to stack these adorable new accessories on your wrists!
Disney World has announced upcoming changes to its popular Fantasmic! Dining Packages at Hollywood Studios, set to take effect on August 29, 2024. These packages, which offer guests reserved seating for the Fantasmic! show along with a meal at one of the park’s participating restaurants, will see adjustments in pricing and inclusions.
Starting on August 29, the new packages will include an entrée and dessert (no appetizer) at select full-service restaurants, one full buffet (where applicable), a non-alcoholic beverage, or an alcoholic beverage for guests 21 and older. Currently, the package includes an entrée and appetizer or dessert, along with a non-alcoholic beverage.
If you have already been looking at pricing for these packages, you will find price for adults has increased by $6 across the board while children’s prices have remained the same. Note, in Disney speak, ‘adult’ as far as pricing starts at age 10.
We are just under 2 weeks away from the theatrical premier of Illumination’s Despicable Me 4, and Universal Orlando Resort is celebrating by bringing even more Minion madness to Universal Studios Florida. A fun display has been set up inside the park that is the perfect place to grab a few selfies!
In “Despicable Me 4,” Gru (Oscar® nominee Steve Carell) and Lucy (Oscar® nominee Kristen Wiig) are back, along with their three daughters—Margo (Miranda Cosgrove), Edith (Dana Gaier), and Agnes (Madison Polan). This time, the family welcomes a new member, Gru Jr., who delights in tormenting his dad with mischievous antics.
Gru’s latest challenge comes in the form of a new nemesis, Maxime Le Mal (Emmy winner Will Ferrell), and his cunning femme fatale girlfriend, Valentina (Emmy nominee Sofia Vergara). When Maxime and Valentina’s villainous plans put the Gru family in danger, they are forced to go on the run. Amidst the chaos, Gru must navigate the challenges of fatherhood, protect his family, and stop Maxime and Valentina’s nefarious schemes, all while the Minions add their signature comedic flair to the adventure.
It looks like even more construction will be coming to the Magic Kingdom’s Frontierland. Disney has recently filed a new construction permit for the Frontier Trading Post. The permit, which lists “general construction” as the description of improvement, was filed on June 13, 2024, and includes an expiration date of June 30, 2025.
The project has been assigned to MLC Theming, Inc., a specialty construction company based in the greater Orlando area. According to their website, MLC Theming specializes in scenic painting and aging of structures, fabricating facades, carving rock work, and more. Given the chosen contractor and scope of work, it appears this permit will likely be for general upgrades and improvements to the store.
This construction permit comes just a week after another significant announcement regarding Frontierland. The nearby Frontierland Shootin’ Arcade will close permanently later this month to make way for a Disney Vacation Club member-exclusive lounge.
What are your thoughts on these changes to Frontierland? Leave us a comment to let us know!
Heads up to those looking to visit the Walt Disney World theme parks today: Magic Kingdom will be closing at 7 pm. This early closure is in place to accommodate a private event as part of the Department of Defense Warrior Games, taking place from June 21 to June 30 at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.
The Warrior Games are a remarkable event, celebrating the resilience and dedication of wounded, ill, and injured service members and veterans. The Games feature a variety of athletic competitions and foster camaraderie and support within the military community. This private event at the Magic Kingdom is a special opportunity for participants to experience the magic of Disney in a unique and memorable way.
If you’re at Disney World today, you’ll still have plenty of options for fun and adventure. Here are the operating hours for the other Disney parks on that day:
