New Permit Filed for Work on Haunted Mansion at Disney World

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January 14, 2026

New Permit Filed for Work on Haunted Mansion at Disney World

Another Haunted Mansion Permit Appears at Magic Kingdom and the Plot Thickens

Another permit has quietly materialized for the Haunted Mansion at Magic Kingdom, and naturally, that has sent Disney fans straight into detective mode. Walt Disney World filed a new permit on January 13 for “General Construction,” this time listing MLC Theming as the contractor. That comes on top of a previously filed permit tied to Mecca Productions, which specifically referenced the installation of set elements. When you start stacking permits like tombstones in the graveyard, it tends to raise an eyebrow or two.

MLC Theming is no stranger to themed environments, specializing in scenic painting, aging, facade fabrication, and rockwork, all things that sound suspiciously on brand for a mansion full of happy haunts. Combined with Mecca Productions’ involvement on the earlier permit, the picture now includes both thematic work and broader construction. Disney has not announced any updates, refurbishments, or changes planned for the attraction, so at this point it is all speculation, but permits like these usually mean something is happening behind the scrim.

Adding to the mystery, there is already visible construction activity near the Haunted Mansion queue connected to the park’s larger Piston Peak project. That makes it unclear whether these permits are tied to queue adjustments, backstage changes, show scene refreshes, or something guests may never even notice. For now, Disney is keeping things as quiet as a ghost tiptoeing through the stretching room. As always, if this turns into something more than routine maintenance, we will be watching closely and sharing updates as they appear.

First Look at Food & Beverages Coming to 2026 Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando

By

Chris B

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January 14, 2026

First Look at Food & Beverages Coming to Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando

A Global Bite of the Big Easy: Universal Mardi Gras 2026 Food and Beverage Preview

Universal Mardi Gras 2026 is bringing the flavor parade back to Universal Studios Florida from February 7 through April 4, 2026, and this year’s International Flavors of Carnaval menu is stacked from curb to curb. With food booths circling the park and dishes inspired by kitchens around the globe, this is one of those events where stretchy pants are not optional. Everything listed below is available for purchase and included with regular park admission or an Annual Pass, blockout dates apply.

Greece

Chicken Souvlak: Grilled chicken kabob wrapped in a warm pita with feta, tomato, cucumber, and onion.
Ouzo Cooler: An anise-flavored cocktail with lemon juice, simple syrup, and cucumber and mint essences. Guests must be 21+ with valid photo ID for alcohol.

Italy

Sfogliatelle “Lobster Tail”: A flaky, shell-shaped pastry layered with whipped cream that tastes as fancy as it looks.
Bergamot Spritz: Italian floral liqueurs mixed with grapefruit juice and prosecco. Guests must be 21+ with valid photo ID.

Jamaica

Rasta Pasta: Colorful vegan penne pasta with bell peppers in a jerk-spiced coconut curry cream sauce.
Kingston Rum Punch: Rum blended with lime, passionfruit, and guava, topped with a lime wedge and edible orchid. Guests must be 21+ with valid photo ID.

Austria

Vienna-Style Pork Schnitzel: Crispy breaded pork served with potato salad, lingonberry jam, and a lemon wedge.

Chile

Verlasso Salmon: Fire-grilled salmon from Patagonian waters served with crispy potatoes in an herb marinade. Gluten sensitive.

Brazil

Picanha: Freshly grilled beef sirloin cap served with molho à campanha and farofa made from toasted cassava flour.

France

Ham, Brie, and Berry Crepe: Fresh griddled crepe filled with sliced ham, brie, Dijon mustard cream sauce, and finished with a mixed berry gastrique.

Ireland

Fish and Chips: Battered and fried North Atlantic cod served with chips and tartar sauce.

China

Mala Beef Skewer: Spicy marinated beef skewer topped with Szechuan glaze and scallions for serious heat lovers.

Puerto Rico

Pinchos de Lechón: Char-grilled pork shoulder skewer served with guava BBQ sauce and pan sobao bread.

USA NOLA French Quarter

Baked Cajun Mac and Cheese: Cavatappi pasta with andouille sausage, onions, celery, green bell peppers, and Cajun cream sauce made fresh and served hot.
Beignets: Hot, fluffy fried pastries piled high with powdered sugar.
Chicken and Sausage Gumbo: Classic New Orleans stew with chicken, andouille sausage, bacon, and the holy trinity served over white rice.
French Quarter Cream Horn: Puff pastry filled with vanilla pastry cream, whipped topping, Mardi Gras chocolate strips, and sprinkles.
King Gator’s Coconut Mousse: Light coconut mousse served with banana bread cake and a chocolate King Gator topper.

AP Exclusive Treats

The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium Carnavale Concha Shake: Vanilla ice cream blended with horchata and almonds, topped with whipped cream and a dulce de leche-filled concha.
Hero Bakery Items: King Cake, Masquerade Bar, French Quarter Cream Horn, and King Gator’s Coconut Mousse.

Drinks Around the Party

Daiquiri Deck Colors of Carnaval: Layered cocktail with green honeydew lime, yellow pineapple mango, and purple blackberry crème de cassis. Guests must be 21+ with valid photo ID.
Bloody Mary Mild: Vodka, tomato juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish, and spices finished with a crushed Flamin’ Hot Cheetos rim. Guests must be 21+ with valid photo ID.

From savory skewers to powdered sugar perfection, Mardi Gras 2026 is basically a world tour you can eat, sip, and repeat until April. Pace yourself, hydrate between beignets, and remember that calories do not count during Carnaval.

Disney Gossip: Animal Kingdom Closing Petting Zoo for NEW Bluey Experience

By

Sara

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January 14, 2026

Rumors Swirl Over New Bluey Takeover at Animal Kingdom

While Disney has yet to make an official announcement, Cast Members at Affection Section in Animal Kingdom have reportedly begun informing guests that the park’s only petting zoo is preparing to close its gates. This development aligns with the timeline for the highly anticipated Bluey experience arriving this summer, sparking widespread speculation that the Heelers may be taking over the space currently occupied by the goats and sheep at Rafiki’s Planet Watch.

Located within Rafiki’s Planet Watch, the Affection Section sits right alongside Conservation Station—the future home of the Heelers! Disney previously confirmed that starting in Summer 2026, guests can head to this remote corner of the park to “play and dance with Bluey and Bingo” during a special excursion. The new experience will also feature a dedicated character meet-and-greet and a chance to discover animals native to the show’s home country, Australia.

While the Affection Section is currently a standalone animal interaction area, its prime location makes it a likely candidate for a makeover. Speculation is growing that the petting zoo could be permanently retired to accommodate the footprint needed for the new interactive play zones and the high-demand Bluey and Bingo greeting areas.

As of right now, the Affection Section only has operating hours posted through March 14, 2026—the final date currently visible on the official Walt Disney World calendar. While Disney often updates these schedules as the dates approach, the lack of availability beyond mid-March has added fuel to the rumors that a permanent closure is imminent.

What do you think about this rumor?

M&M’S and Marvel Unite for Major 2026 Collaboration

By

Sara

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January 14, 2026

M&M’S and Marvel Launch Year-Long Hero Campaign

Mars and The Walt Disney Company have joined forces for a “super” new global partnership! Throughout 2026, M&M’S and Marvel will team up for a massive collaboration that kicks off with limited-edition collectible packaging, featuring the iconic Spokescandies dressed as your favorite Marvel Super Heroes.

The global rollout begins this month, bringing a massive wave of digital content, exclusive merchandise, and “Year of the Hero” experiences to over 65 markets. The star of the show is a collection of seven limited-edition packs featuring the M&M’S Spokescandies in hero mode: Yellow as Wolverine, Red as Deadpool, Blue as Daredevil, Purple as Elektra, Green as She-Hulk, Brown as Yelena, and Orange as Red Guardian.

Rankin Carroll, Chief Brand Officer of Mars Snacking, noted that the partnership is built on a “shared belief in the power of fun,” blending the storytelling of the Marvel Universe with the playful spirit of M&M’S. Fans can also look forward to hilarious “audition” videos where the Spokescandies try out for roles in the MCU, a campaign that will continue to evolve throughout 2026.

Mindy Hamilton, Disney’s SVP of Alliances Marketing, added that the collaboration is a celebration of fandom, stating it was “fun to imagine what could happen if M&M’S Spokescandies were part of that world.” The result is a global campaign designed to create meaningful connections for fans of both brands.

Are you excited for the collaboration?

People Mover View of the Construction Walls Up Around Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin

By

Chris B

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January 14, 2026

People Mover View of the Construction Walls Up Around Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin

Construction Walls Go Up at Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin Entrance for New Signage

Construction walls have officially gone up at the entrance to Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin at Magic Kingdom, blocking the attraction from view in Tomorrowland. While the ride has been closed since August 2025, the entrance remained visible until now, with the new walls wrapping around the front of the building beneath the Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover track. The walls extend noticeably into the walkway, likely to accommodate construction vehicles and equipment.

The timing lines up with a recently filed permit for new Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin signage, suggesting exterior updates to the façade are now getting underway. From above on the PeopleMover, guests can still spot some minor changes already happening, including removed green paneling around the doorways and twisted metal elements resting on the ground. Most of the ride’s existing signs appear to still be in place for now, but those are expected to change as work continues behind the walls in the coming weeks.

People Mover View of the Construction Walls Up Around Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin People Mover View of the Construction Walls Up Around Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin

The walls went up overnight following the end of Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend, and while they stop short of the extended outdoor queue, the nearby gift shop is also closed. When Space Ranger Spin reopens this spring, guests can expect updated interactive targets, new handheld blasters, refreshed ride vehicles, and new scenes featuring Buzz and original character Buddy battling Zurg. Until then, Tomorrowland visitors will have to peek from the PeopleMover and imagine the laser-blasting fun to come.

Universal Orlando Resort Brings Back Popular “3 Months Free” Annual Pass Offer

By

Chris B

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January 13, 2026

Universal Orlando Resort Brings Back Popular "3 Months Free" Annual Pass Offer

Universal Orlando Brings Back 3 Free Months for New Annual Passholders in 2026

Universal Orlando Resort is reintroducing a popular perk for new Annual Passholders, giving guests a little extra time in the parks without paying extra. Starting Thursday, January 15, 2026, anyone who purchases any 2-Park Annual Pass or 2-Park Seasonal Pass will receive three additional months of access at no extra charge.

IMGUniversal Orlando Resort Brings Back Popular "3 Months Free" Annual Pass Offer

The promo essentially turns a standard year of passholder fun into 15 months of visits to Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. It’s a nice bonus for locals, frequent visitors, or anyone who has been on the fence about committing to an annual pass, especially with a busy year ahead at Universal Orlando.

As always, eligibility is tied to new pass purchases, and the offer applies to 2-Park passes that include access to both Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. If you have been waiting for a deal to jump into passholder life, this one is worth a look before you hit “buy.”

Construction Walls Go Up at Storybook Circus in the Magic Kingdom

By

Sara

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January 13, 2026

Construction Walls Move into Storybook Circus at Magic Kingdom

Refurbishment work is officially in motion at Storybook Circus as construction walls appeared this week surrounding Pete’s Silly Sideshow. These barriers are a sure sign that Magic Kingdom is giving the area some extra attention, though for now, it means a slightly different look for this corner of Fantasyland.

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The project primarily aims to refresh the area by replacing the tent’s canopy, which has become noticeably weathered and faded after years of exposure to the Florida sun.

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While Pete’s Silly Sideshow is behind walls, the Dashing and Daring Disney Pals meet-and-greets are temporarily unavailable at their usual indoor spot. However, you can still catch your favorite circus stars at these alternate locations throughout Storybook Circus:

Minnie and Goofy: Greeting guests together at the main entrance to Storybook Circus.
Daisy and Donald: Spotted meeting fans near the Train Station at the back of the land.

Disney has yet to confirm a reopening date for the Sideshow or announce if other areas of Storybook Circus will see similar refreshes in the months ahead.

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Disneyland Plans to Reimagine Tomorrowland were Shot Down

By

Sara

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January 13, 2026

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Disney Shelves Billion Dollar Tomorrowland Revitalization

A deep-dive feature from the Wall Street Journal has pulled back the curtain on the “Tomorrowland that never was.” According to the report, Walt Disney Imagineering had developed comprehensive plans to finally refurbish the aging land at Disneyland Park, only to have the project grounded by Disney executives who ultimately decided the massive investment wouldn’t provide a high enough return.

Related – Disneyland Welcomes its 900 Million Guest

Rumors of a massive Tomorrowland overhaul have swirled since 2019, when reports first surfaced of a multi-year, $600 million reimagining aimed at a 2025–26 completion. Expectations peaked during the 2022 D23 Expo, with many fans anticipating the project would be the weekend’s headline announcement.

The land has struggled with a “steady decay” for decades, marked by a patchwork of failed updates. This includes the infamous 1998 “steampunk” makeover—which saw Space Mountain painted bronze—and a brief return to 1967-inspired aesthetics in 2020. Today, the area is defined by abandoned infrastructure; the PeopleMover tracks remain a silent reminder of the past since closing in 2000, while the Tomorrowland Theater and the former Innoventions building have sat largely vacant or underutilized for years.

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The Wall Street Journal has now confirmed those rumors were based on real Imagineering proposals. However, these plans were presented during Bob Chapek’s tenure as CEO—a period defined by aggressive budget cuts and a breakdown in trust between senior executives and the Imagineering team, leading leadership to ultimately pull the plug on the “Future that Never Was.”

The cancellation of the long-awaited Tomorrowland overhaul signaled a turning point for Imagineering, shifting the culture toward heavy scrutiny and strict financial limits. Theron Skees, a 23-year veteran of the team who departed in 2020, noted that the weight of these budgetary restraints fundamentally changed the environment, lamenting that the dream of working for Disney “wasn’t fun anymore.”

Are you sad to hear about the Tomorrowland overhaul cancellation?

Opening Dates Revealed for Incredicoaster and Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind in California Adventure

By

Sara

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January 13, 2026

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Incredicoaster and Emotional Whirlwind Reopening Dates

Disney has officially confirmed when fans can return to Pixar Pier! Following their closure for routine maintenance, Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind is set to reopen on January 23, 2026, followed by the Incredicoaster on February 6, 2026.

Fans of Pixar Pier won’t have to wait much longer to get back to the action! Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind is currently slated to welcome guests again on January 23, 2026, with the Incredicoaster following closely behind for a February 6 reopening.

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Both fan-favorite attractions are staples of the vibrant Pixar Pier at Disney California Adventure. While these classics receive their winter refreshes, the area is also buzzing with excitement as construction continues on the highly anticipated new Coco-themed attraction nearby!

Mardi Gras Concert Lineup & Schedule for Universal Studios Florida

By

Chris B

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January 13, 2026

Universal Mardi Gras 2026 Concert Lineup Revealed at Universal Studios Florida

Universal Orlando has officially dropped the beads on the Mardi Gras 2026 concert lineup, and it is stacked with pop, rock, EDM, country, and throwback favorites. During Universal Mardi Gras at Universal Studios Florida, guests can cap off select nights with live performances at the Music Plaza Stage, included with park admission. February kicks things off with an electric mix, starting with Kaskade on February 7, followed by Portugal. The Man on February 14, Ivy Queen on February 15, and a heavy dose of nostalgia from Joey Fatone and AJ McLean on February 21. Rounding out the month, RuPaul brings a DJ set to the stage on February 28.

Mardi Gras Concert Lineup & Schedule for Universal Orlando Resort

March keeps the party rolling with an equally impressive run of artists. Shaggy hits the Music Plaza Stage on March 7, followed by country favorite Tyler Hubbard on March 13. Pop fans can catch Bebe Rexha on March 14, with EDM star Zedd taking over on March 15. Later in the month, Barenaked Ladies bring their decades of hits on March 21, before The All-American Rejects close out the announced lineup on March 28 with a high-energy alt-rock finale.

Celebrate Years of Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando Resort

As always, Universal Mardi Gras combines these concerts with a nightly parade, international food booths, and over-the-top theming inspired by New Orleans. Concerts take place on select nights and are included with regular park admission, making Mardi Gras one of the best live music values in Central Florida. If dancing in the streets, snacking around the world, and screaming along to your favorite songs sounds like your kind of party, Mardi Gras 2026 is ready to deliver the beads and the beats.

Pool Closures Coming to Beach Club and Old Key West in Early 2026

By

Chris B

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January 13, 2026

Pool Closures Coming to Beach Club and Old Key West in Early Pool Closures Coming to Beach Club and Old Key West in Early

Disney’s Beach Club and Old Key West Pool Closures Announced for Early 2026

Guests planning a Walt Disney World vacation in early 2026 should be aware of upcoming pool refurbishments affecting two popular Disney resorts. At Disney’s Beach Club Resort, the Tidal leisure pool will be closed for routine maintenance from mid January through early May 2026. During this time, guests may see or hear refurbishment activity in the surrounding area. Disney has confirmed that the resort’s signature Stormalong Bay pool complex will remain fully open throughout the project, ensuring guests still have access to one of the most elaborate and popular pools on property, complete with its sandy bottom, lazy river, and shipwreck slide.

Over at Disney’s Old Key West Resort, several amenities will be temporarily unavailable from early January through early February 2026. The closures include the Turtle Pond Pool, Turtle Pond Pool Spa, the nearby BBQ area, and the playground. These updates are part of routine upkeep designed to keep the resort in top shape, especially for a property known for its relaxed island vibe and spacious grounds. While these amenities are closed, Disney notes that guests may experience minor construction noise in the immediate area.

Pool Closures Coming to Beach Club and Old Key West in Early

Despite the temporary closures, guests staying at Old Key West will still have multiple pool options available during the refurbishment period. The Sandcastle Pool, South Point Pool, and Miller’s Road Pool will all remain open and accessible, offering plenty of space to swim, lounge, and unwind. Disney recommends guests check the latest refurbishment schedules when booking or planning their stay, especially if pool access is a major part of their vacation plans.

Bow-tiful Style: Meet the New Minnie Mouse Quilted Mini Backpack!

By

Ana Leal

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January 13, 2026

Bow-tiful Style: Meet the New Minnie Mouse Quilted Mini Backpack!

If you’re looking to add some classic Disney flair to your daily rotation, the Minnie Mouse Quilted Mini Backpack is calling your name. It’s available right now at the Disney Store online for $49.99, making it a pretty sweet deal for a bag that looks this high-end. Whether you’re a lifelong Minnie fan or just love a bold accessory, this backpack nails that signature aesthetic.

Minnie Mouse is the undisputed queen of bows and polka dots, and this bag pays homage to both in the best way. The shell is a vibrant, soft red featuring an allover quilted bow pattern that gives it a nice, textured feel. To tie the whole look together, the edges are finished with a classic polka dot trim. It’s those little details like the die-cut vinyl Minnie silhouette on the front and the vinyl bow zipper pull that really make this piece stand out from your average mini backpack.

Don’t let the “mini” tag fool you; this bag is built to keep your life in order. It features an exterior zip compartment for things you need to grab quickly, like your lip balm or park tickets. Inside, you’ll find pockets and a handy partition, so you won’t have to go on a scavenger hunt every time you look for your keys or phone. It’s the perfect size for your everyday essentials without feeling bulky or heavy.

One of the coolest features of this backpack is actually on the back. It includes a built-in luggage band, allowing you to slip it right over the handles of your rolling suitcase. This makes it an absolute game-changer for navigating airports or hotels. Between its travel-friendly design and its cute look, it’s a great choice for school days, Disney park hopping, or just spice up your weekend errands.

Credit: Disney Store