Figment Festival of the Arts Merch Arrived at the Disney Store!

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January 19, 2026

Figment Festival of the Arts Merch Arrived at the Disney Store!

If there is one character who perfectly captures the vibe of using your imagination, it’s our favorite purple dragon, Figment. The 2026 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts has officially landed at the Disney Store, and the merch lineup is honestly a dream come true for anyone who loves a pop of color and a dash of whimsy. Whether you’re strolling through the World Showcase or just want to bring some of that Disney magic into your everyday life, this collection is designed to spark those creative juices.

First up, let’s talk about the Figment Loungefly Ear Headband ($44.99). These aren’t just your standard park ears; they’re crafted with that high-quality simulated leather Loungefly is known for. The coolest feature?

The removable bow. This is such a win because it lets you switch between a classic Minnie look or a more streamlined Mickey style depending on your mood. It’s the perfect way to show off your artistic side while keeping your outfit versatile.

You really can’t have a festival without a new Spirit Jersey ($84.99), and this year’s version is a total pastel dream. It features those iconic puffy ink logos we all obsess over on the chest and shoulders. But the real showstopper is the back, it’s got a gorgeous print of Figment, Spaceship Earth, and the World Showcase. It’s the kind of “dreamy pullover” that works just as well for a chilly evening at EPCOT as it does for a cozy movie night at home.

Finally, if you need something to carry all your festival finds, the Figment Loungefly Backpack ($80) is a must-have. What makes this one stand out is the functionality, it has convertible straps and a top D-ring, so you can wear it as a traditional backpack or rock it as a crossbody purse. The design features Figment mid-masterpiece, celebrating everything from culinary treats to the performing arts. It’s basically a piece of wearable art that’s actually practical for a long day in the parks.

Credit: Disney Store

A Spark of Imagination for Your Wrist: New Figment Festival of the Arts Pandora Charm!

By

Ana Leal

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January 19, 2026

A Spark of Imagination for Your Wrist: New Figment Festival of the Arts Pandora Charm!

If there is one character who perfectly captures the vibe of the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts, it’s Figment. Our favorite purple dragon of imagination is back in the spotlight for 2026, and this year’s Pandora charm might just be the most colorful one yet. Retailing for $80, this little spark of inspiration is a must-have for anyone looking to carry a piece of the festival magic home with them.

The front of the charm is a total work of art. Set against a sleek black background that really makes the colors “pop,” you’ll find Figment lying on his back, looking totally relaxed while he paints a classic festival scene. The detail is incredible, it features Spaceship Earth wrapped in vibrant, colorful swirls, a field of flowers, and even a burst of fireworks in the sky. It’s basically a miniature mural captured in silver and enamel.

Flip the charm over, and you’ve got a perfect way to remember your 2026 trip. The back reads “EPCOT International Festival of the Arts 2026” on that same bold black background. To keep things feeling artsy, the text is done in block letters where every single letter is a different color. They even added tiny brushstroke accents to the font, making the whole thing look like it was hand-painted right there at the festival.

If you’re looking to snag one of these for your bracelet, you’ll need to head over to EPCOT to find it. These festival-exclusive Pandora charms tend to go fast, especially when Figment is involved! It’s the perfect commemorative piece to celebrate a year of creativity, color, and, of course, a little bit of imagination.

Branch Out Your Decor: The New Tree of Life Succulent Plant Arrives at Animal Kingdom

By

Ana Leal

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January 19, 2026

Branch Out Your Decor: The New Tree of Life Succulent Plant Arrives at Animal Kingdom

If you’ve ever stood at the base of the Tree of Life in Disney’s Animal Kingdom and thought, “I wish I could fit this in my suitcase,” Disney has finally heard your prayers. There’s a new Tree of Life Succulent Plant hitting the shelves, and it is the perfect way to bring a little bit of Discovery Island back to your living room without needing a commercial moving crew.

This isn’t just your run-of-the-mill planter; it’s a detailed, miniature replica of the park’s iconic centerpiece. The designers really leaned into the details here, carving some of your favorite animal spirits right into the trunk, just like the real deal. The bark texture looks incredibly authentic, and the greenery climbs partway up the trunk before opening into a wide bowl.

The best part for those of us who struggle to keep even a cactus alive? These succulents are completely faux. Filling out the top of the tree where the massive canopy would usually be, you’ll find a lush arrangement of fake succulent plants. They give the piece that signature foliage look without the need for sunlight or a watering schedule.

Whether it’s sitting on your desk or perched on a bookshelf, this piece is a great conversation starter and a solid reminder of your time exploring the Oasis. At $54.99, it’s a bit of an investment, but considering you can’t accidentally kill the plants, it’s a souvenir that’s actually built to last!

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Lorcana Artful Photo Op Debuts at 2026 EPCOT Festival of the Arts

By

Catherine

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January 19, 2026

Disney Lorcana Makes Magical Debut at 2026 EPCOT Festival of the Arts!

Calling all Illumineers! For the first time ever, the world of Disney Lorcana is coming to life at the 2026 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts. From January 16 through February 23, 2026, guests can immerse themselves in the stunning artistry of the trading card game through interactive quests, exclusive merchandise, and a show-stopping new photo op.

Step Into the Art: The “Fabled” Photo Op

Located on the bridge heading toward the World Showcase, a brand-new “Artful Photo Op” allows you to literally step inside a Lorcana card. The display features whimsical artwork from the Lorcana set, Fabled.

The Scene: Guests can pose between Mickey Mouse (as the Brave Little Prince) and Princess Minnie Mouse as they ride a dreamy carousel.

The Detail: In this charming illustration, Minnie is blowing Mickey kisses, leaving him covered in adorable lipstick marks.
The Experience: A dedicated cutout next to Mickey allows you to blend perfectly into the frame, making it look like you’re part of the carousel ride!

Join the Quest: Lorcana Activities

The magic doesn’t stop at the photo op. Grab your exclusive Questbook at the bridge to begin two park-wide adventures:

The Collection Quest: Visit the Illumineer’s Lounge in the Morocco Pavilion to open booster packs and trade cards with fellow guests. Collect four specific cards to earn a limited-edition Magical Places promo card!
Ink & Find Scavenger Hunt: Search for ten “larger-than-life” Lorcana cards hidden throughout EPCOT. Match the symbols on your map to the oversized cards to unlock another exclusive promo card.

Whether you’re a competitive player or just an admirer of Disney’s visual storytelling, the Lorcana integration is a perfect fit for the Festival of the Arts. It celebrates the illustrators who bring these “glimmers” to life in a way that’s interactive for the whole family.

Magic of Disney on Broadway Exhibit Returns to 2026 EPCOT Festival of the Arts

By

Catherine

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January 19, 2026

Broadway Magic Takes Center Stage at EPCOT’s 2026 Festival of the Arts!

Theater lovers, it’s time to take a bow! The 2026 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts has officially raised the curtain, and one of the most anticipated highlights is the return of the immersive Broadway showcase.

Running from January 16 through February 23, 2026, the festival is shining a massive spotlight on the craftsmanship of the Great White Way with an all-new, expanded exhibit: “Once Upon A Stage: The Magic of Disney on Broadway.”

Step Behind the Curtain at CommuniCore Hall

Located inside the newly opened CommuniCore Hall, this exhibit is much more than a simple display. It is a deep dive into the creative heart of Disney’s award-winning stage productions. This year’s installation features:

Authentic Broadway Treasures: Get up close with genuine props, dazzling costumes, and intricate set designs from legendary shows like The Lion King, Aladdin, and Beauty and the Beast.

Backstage Secrets: For the first time, explore a dedicated “Stage Manager” section. You can watch a show being “called” on video screens and see the technical equipment used to keep a massive Broadway production running smoothly.

The Giant Genie Lamp: Making its EPCOT debut, the massive 14-foot Genie Lamp—which previously sat outside the New Amsterdam Theatre in NYC—is now a show-stopping photo op right outside CommuniCore Hall.

New Showcases: Keep an eye out for updated displays featuring costumes from the Beauty and the Beast North American Tour and even the off-Broadway production of Hercules.

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A Celebration of Theatrical Artistry

The Festival of the Arts is famous for its culinary and visual masterpieces, but “Once Upon A Stage” reminds us that storytelling is an art form all its own. The exhibit features insights from Disney Theatrical designers and technicians, revealing the “how-it’s-made” magic of everything from The Lion King’s shadow puppets to Frozen’s intricate gowns.

Make it a Broadway Day

To truly immerse yourself in the theater vibes, pair your visit to the exhibit with the DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series at the America Gardens Theatre.

Performances: 5:30 PM, 6:45 PM, and 8:00 PM nightly.
2026 Stars: This year’s lineup features Broadway icons like Sierra Boggess (The Little Mermaid), Adam Jacobs (Aladdin), and the legendary Susan Egan (the original Belle in Beauty and the Beast).

Whether you’re a die-hard theater fan or just curious about what happens behind the scenes, this exhibit is a standing-ovation-worthy addition to your festival itinerary.

New Secret Beast Crepe at EPCOT Festival of the Arts

By

Catherine

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January 19, 2026

The “Secret” Beast Has Arrived: EPCOT’s Massive New Savory Crepe

EPCOT’s Festival of the Arts is known for vibrant colors and culinary masterpieces, but there is a new, unlisted heavyweight contender hiding in the France pavilion. If you’re looking for a savory explosion that isn’t on the official menu or the app, you need to go hunting for La Bête de Crêpe—otherwise known as “The Crepe Beast.”

Located at Crêpes À Emporter by La Crêperie de Paris, this “secret” item is making waves for its size, its flavor, and its hidden status.

What’s Inside The Beast?
Priced at $15.95, this isn’t your average snack-sized crepe. It is a giant, hearty meal packed with classic French flavors:

The Filling: A generous portion of thinly sliced ham, melted cheese, and earthy mushrooms.

The Greens: A massive heap of fresh arugula (which adds a nice peppery bite, though it’s easy to brush off if you aren’t a fan of greens).

The Secret Savory Goodness: The crepe features a crispy cheese edge (frico) that provides a salty, crunchy contrast to the soft dough.

Pro-Tips for Taming The Beast
Before you rush over to France, here are a few things you should know to make the most of your “Beast” experience:

Split It: Because of its size and richness, this is the perfect dish to share between two people, leaving you room to try other festival treats.

Grab Extra Napkins: Between the melted cheese and the sheer volume of fillings, things can get messy quickly.

Find a Table: While EPCOT is the land of the “walk and eat,” La Bête de Crêpe is a challenge to handle on the move. We recommend finding a quiet spot to sit down and tackle it properly.

How to Order: Since it isn’t on the printed menu or the My Disney Experience app, simply head to the Crêpes À Emporter window and ask for it by name!

The Verdict: If you love savory flavors and are looking for one of the most unique “secret” finds at the Festival of the Arts, this is a must-try. The combination of the crispy cheese crust and the quality ham makes it stand out from the standard crepe offerings.

Would you try this giant savory crepe, or do you prefer the sweet side of France?

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New Food Items Revealed for Disneyland After Dark Sweethearts’ Nite 2026

By

Sara

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January 18, 2026

Disneyland Sweethearts’ Nite 2026 New Food Reveal

Disney has revealed a sneak peek at the new food and beverage offerings for the 2026 Sweethearts’ Nite events at Disneyland. This year’s menu features a variety of event-exclusive treats designed specifically for the popular after-hours party.

Check out the specialty menu items:

Cupid’s Pillow (new) – available at Blue Bayou Restaurant

Honeymoon Funnel Cake Fries (new) – Hungry Bear Barbecue Jamboree

Loaded Nachos Locos (new) – Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante

Chocolate Heart-Shaped Beignets with Strawberry Dipping Sauce (new) – Mint Julep Bar & Tiana’s Palace

Cold Brew Martini – Carnation Cafe

Surf n’ Turf Loaded Fries – Red Rose Taverne & Galactic Grill

Berry Panna Cotta (new) – Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe

Heart-Shaped Ravioli – Cafe Daisy

Strawberry Mocha Cold Brew (new) – Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe & Harbour Galley

A Perfect Pairing Combo (new) – The Perfect Pairing at Plaza Inn Hosted by Disney+ & Hulu

Duo of Hearts (new) – River Belle Terrace

Disneyland After Dark: Sweethearts’ Nite is the ultimate celebration of love in all its forms—perfect for a romantic date with a spouse, a fun outing with a family member, or a ‘Galentine’s’ night with your bestie.

Mark your calendars! Sweethearts’ Nite 2026 will take place on the following dates:

January: 22, 25, 27
February: 3, 5, 8, 10, 12, 17″

Entertainment is reaching new heights this year with several world-class debuts. Guests can catch the brand-new ‘Celebrate Love Cavalcade’ as it glides down Main Street, U.S.A., featuring Mickey, Minnie, and their pals in a tribute to friends, family, and soulmates.

The romance continues with ‘Once Upon a Dream – A Musical Journey Through the Disney Songbook.’ This new stage show brings Disney royalty to life through live vocal performances, ending in a breathtaking nighttime ball. For those who want to be part of the show, head over to the Golden Horseshoe for Disney Duets, a festive karaoke experience with a uniquely Disney twist.

Will you be attending a Sweethearts’ Nite this year?

Changes Coming to Early Park Admission for Epic Universe in February

By

Sara

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January 18, 2026

Orange County Sets Record with Highest Ever June Tourist Tax Collections Epic Universe

Epic Universe Changing Early Park Admission for February

Big news for early birds! Universal is expanding Early Park Admission at Epic Universe this February. Guests can now step into the Ministry of Magic and the Isle of Berk up to a full hour before the general public, giving you a head start on the magic and dragon-riding action.

Through January 31, the Early Park Admission lineup at Epic Universe remains focused on Super Nintendo World, Celestial Park, and Dark Universe. Guests can enjoy the following attractions one hour before the general public:

Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge
Yoshi’s Adventure
Stardust Racers
Constellation Carousel
Monsters Unchained
Curse of the Werewolf

Originally confirmed during the park’s preview phase, this early-entry perk is available to Universal Orlando hotel guests and select ticket holders, offering a 60-minute head start on the day’s adventures.

The Early Park Admission roster has evolved significantly since its debut. Initially, the lineup was limited to Stardust Racers and the three attractions within Super Nintendo World, with the Constellation Carousel joining shortly after. Following the park’s grand opening, Universal further expanded the perk by adding both headlining attractions in Dark Universe.

Beginning February 1, Epic Universe is shifting its Early Park Admission strategy to include a wider variety of lands. Guests will now be able to experience select rides and attractions within three distinct portals:

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic
Super Nintendo World
How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

The phrasing of this update suggests that not every attraction within these portals will necessarily be operational during the early entry window. It remains to be seen whether this shift is a permanent policy change or simply a temporary test as Universal refines its guest flow strategy for Epic Universe.

Will this impact your visit to Epic Universe?

Potential Start Date Revealed for Cinderella Castle Repainting in Magic Kingdom

By

Chris B

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January 18, 2026

Cinderella Castle will be Repainted in January at Disney World

Magic Kingdom Calendar Hints Cinderella Castle Repainting May Begin January 28

A little calendar sleuthing may have just revealed when Cinderella Castle is ready for its next glow up at Magic Kingdom. While Disney has already confirmed the castle will be repainted in 2026, a closer look at the Walt Disney World calendar suggests the work could officially kick off as soon as January 28.

Normally, guests can catch Mickey and Minnie welcoming everyone to the park during the Let the Magic Begin opening ceremony at 8:55 am each morning in front of Cinderella Castle. Starting Wednesday, January 28, that ceremony disappears from the calendar entirely, with no performances listed through at least March 18. That quiet gap strongly hints that repainting preparations may soon take center stage, as the stage area in front of the castle is typically impacted during large scale refurbishments.

Disney previously announced that Cinderella Castle would return to its more classic look, swapping the 50th anniversary color scheme introduced in 2020 and 2021 for the familiar gray stone base with lighter blue turrets. Painting is expected to continue throughout much of 2026 and wrap up later in the year, meaning guests will likely watch the transformation happen in real time. To mark the change, Walt Disney World has already rolled out blue and gold themed castle merchandise, letting fans celebrate the transition even before the first brushstroke hits the turrets.

If the calendar is telling the full story, the next chapter of Cinderella Castle’s fairy tale makeover is almost here. Whether you love the anniversary colors or are ready for a classic comeback, one thing is certain, Magic Kingdom’s icon is about to steal the spotlight all over again.

Construction Update of Walt Disney Studios Courtyard in Hollywood Studios

By

Chris B

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January 18, 2026

Construction Update of Walt Disney Studios Courtyard in Hollywood Studios

Walt Disney Studios Courtyard Construction Marches On at Hollywood Studios

Construction is moving full steam ahead at Disney’s Hollywood Studios as the park prepares to debut the reimagined Walt Disney Studios Courtyard. New aerial photos shared by bioreconstruct show steady progress across the former Animation Courtyard, with several areas clearly being prepped for attractions scheduled to open as early as Summer 2026.

At the center of the site, concrete forms are now in place, signaling the early stages of permanent walkways and landscaping. Fresh concrete has also been poured around the Disney Jr. building, with new pathways taking shape on both sides. A temporary tent has popped up nearby, likely supporting ongoing construction operations as crews continue work throughout the courtyard.

The Disney Jr. building itself is a major focus of the current activity. This space will soon be home to Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!, which is set to debut early as part of Cool Kids’ Summer. From above, you can clearly see new concrete being laid in front of the building, helping define what will soon be a high energy hub for younger guests. Nearby dirt work and forms mark where the new garden courtyard will emerge, complete with shade trees and seating areas designed for families to relax between experiences.

Looking across the site, the Disney Jr. building sits at the bottom of the aerial views, with The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure visible at the top and the former Star Wars Launch Bay building off to the right. That building has a long history, once serving as part of the park’s original animation facilities before becoming the Magic of Disney Animation and later Star Wars Launch Bay. In 2026, it will once again celebrate animation, featuring a Mickey’s Sorcerer Hat façade inspired by the Roy E. Disney Animation Building in Burbank and interiors modeled after Disney Animation headquarters.

With Animation Courtyard largely closed since September, these latest aerials confirm that Hollywood Studios is well on its way to bringing animation back into the spotlight.

Tropical Americas Construction Accelerates at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in New Aerial Views

By

Chris B

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January 18, 2026

Aerial overview of the Encanto Ride Construction inn Tropical Americas at Animal Kingdom

The Encanto Attraction Show Building Is Reaching New Heights at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

New aerial photos are giving us a colorful construction check in at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, where Tropical Americas is quickly moving from concept art to concrete reality. Shared by bioreconstruct on X, the latest overhead views show rapid progress on the upcoming Encanto attraction, the future Pueblo Esperanza village, and the final transformation of DinoLand U.S.A.

The most eye catching change is the Encanto ride building, which has shot up since officially going vertical in December 2025. Steel framing continues to rise almost nightly, with a massive crane looming over the site and visible to guests throughout the park. Interior framework has already begun, and some roofing materials are now being added to what will eventually become the Casita façade. While the structure is still skeletal, the scale makes it clear this will be a major new addition to the park, with the ride set during the film but expanding beyond the original story.

Nearby, the former Boneyard area is also buzzing with activity. This space will become home to a carousel as part of the fictional Pueblo Esperanza village. Crews have been moving large amounts of dirt and pouring early stage concrete, with forms outlining future walls and foundations. Steel pieces are staged throughout the site, some already standing upright, hinting that vertical construction here is not far off. The former DinoLand entrance is also being reworked into the new Tropical Americas entrance, bringing the whole area together into a cohesive land.

Time is officially ticking for what remains of DinoLand U.S.A. The small guest walkway between the two construction zones will close in just a few weeks, and the land’s final day of operation is set for February 1, 2026, with DINOSAUR, Restaurantosaurus, and The Dino Institute Shop closing for good the following day. DINOSAUR will eventually be replaced by a new Indiana Jones attraction, while some existing structures like the bathrooms and Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures will be repurposed for Tropical Americas.

Aerial Photo of Monstropolis Construction for Monsters Inc Land in Hollywood Studios

By

Chris B

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January 18, 2026

Aerial Photo of Monstropolis Construction for Monsters Inc Land in Hollywood Studios

Monstropolis Takes Shape: New Aerial Photos Reveal Progress at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

New aerial photos are giving us a bird’s eye peek at the transformation happening at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Monstropolis is officially coming out of hiding. Fresh images shared by bioreconstruct show steady construction progress on the upcoming Monsters, Inc. themed land, including major work on the long rumored suspended coaster and surrounding structures.

From the back side of the park, you can clearly spot the large tan construction zone just beyond Galaxy’s Edge. This area is home to the Monsters, Inc. coaster, and the latest photos show the gravity building really starting to take form. New concrete flooring has been poured, forms are in place, and large amounts of fill dirt now cover sections that were exposed in earlier updates. Even electrical conduits are being buried, a sure sign this project is moving beyond the early stages.

One of the more exciting details is the emerging outline of the guest facing side of the main building. The sharp angles and footprint visible from above are lining up closely with the previously released concept art. From the front of the park, Monstropolis construction now clearly occupies the upper left portion of the aerial view, while nearby changes include the removal of the PizzeRizzo and Gonzo’s Royal Flush signage as the area continues its transformation.

Construction activity is also ongoing over in the Animation Courtyard, which has been quietly evolving alongside the Monstropolis project. While Disney has not announced an opening timeline yet, the pace of work suggests things are staying on track. If the scream factory keeps humming along like this, Hollywood Studios could be welcoming guests to Monstropolis sooner rather than later.