New Construction Permit Suggests Disney will Rebuild Humunga Kowabunga attraction at Typhoon Lagoon

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January 8, 2026

Disney Likely Planning a Rebuild of Humunga Kowabunga at Typhoon Lagoon

A newly filed permit suggests Walt Disney World may be planning maintenance work on Humunga Kowabunga at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon. The body slide, which has been part of the park since opening day, appears on a permit tied to the park’s upcoming refurbishment, indicating Disney could be preparing for construction work while Typhoon Lagoon is closed. While Disney has not announced any specific plans, the timing and details of the permit point toward a possible rebuild of the attraction rather than a major redesign.

New Construction Permit Suggests Disney will Rebuild Humunga Kowabunga attraction at Typhoon Lagoon

Humunga Kowabunga has garnered attention recently thanks to the viral ‘wedgie’ lawsuit that was just recently dismissed. The permit itself is light on details, listing the scope of work simply as “general construction,” but one name stands out. ProSlide Technology is listed as the contractor, and they are a major player in the water park industry with a long history of working with Disney on slide rebuilds and refurbishments. While the permit lists Humunga Kowabunga directly as the project address, there is nothing to indicate a full redesign is coming, especially considering the slide is built directly into Mount Mayday, the park’s iconic volcano centerpiece.

All signs currently point to a rebuild rather than a reimagining. The permit was filed by Walt Disney World’s Facility Asset Management division, which typically oversees maintenance projects rather than creative redesigns, and Typhoon Lagoon is expected to reopen by May 26. A full redesign would likely require a much longer closure. As usual, Disney has not officially commented on what work will be done during the refurbishment, so we will be watching closely once the park goes offline to see what changes, if any, are made to this legendary thrill slide.

Magic Kingdom Sets Closure Date for TRON Ares Overlay

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Chris B

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January 8, 2026

TRON: Ares Overlay at Magic Kingdom Is Powering Down Soon

The countdown is officially on for the red side of the Grid at Magic Kingdom. Disney has confirmed that the TRON: Ares overlay on TRON Lightcycle Run will end on January 19, 2026. The limited-time overlay debuted on September 15 and was designed to tie into the release of Tron: Ares, giving the Tomorrowland coaster a noticeably darker and more intense personality for nighttime riders.

Magic Kingdom Sets Closure Date for TRON Ares Overlay

During its run, the overlay swapped TRON Lightcycle Run’s signature blue lighting for a bold red glow that transformed the ride’s entrance canopy and overall atmosphere. Guests also experienced updated Master Control narration and a soundtrack featuring music by Nine Inch Nails, which helped push the attraction into full cyberpunk club mode after sunset. Even the on-ride photo reflected the change, capturing riders bathed in red light instead of the usual cool blue tones.

Once the overlay wraps up on January 19, TRON Lightcycle Run will return to its standard experience starting January 20. While the overlay was always intended to be temporary, it quickly earned praise from fans who felt it elevated the ride’s nighttime energy. Whether Disney chooses to bring the red Grid back as a seasonal or special event overlay remains to be seen, but for now, guests only have a short window left to experience TRON Lightcycle Run in its Ares era.

Another Permit Filed for Muppets Transformation of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Hollywood Studios

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Chris B

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January 7, 2026

Another Permit Filed for Muppets Transformation of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Hollywood Studios

Another Permit Filed for Muppets Takeover of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Another day, another sign that the Muppets are getting ready to rock out at Walt Disney World. A new Notice of Commencement has just been filed for the upcoming transformation of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and this one is all about installing new set elements. The permit, filed January 7, 2026, lists Jon Richards Company as the contractor working with Walt Disney Imagineering, suggesting that physical changes to the attraction are inching closer to reality.

This is the second permit in recent weeks tied to the Muppets retheme, following an earlier filing that named Mecca Productions. That company is also involved with the Indiana Jones retheme of DINOSAUR over at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, which gives this latest paperwork a little extra weight. With multiple contractors now involved, it feels less like blue sky planning and more like real-world prep.

Disney has already confirmed that Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith will close in the spring, with Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets set to debut in summer 2026. The pre-show area has been boarded up, hinting that construction work may begin while the ride itself is still operating. In the new storyline, Scooter’s uncle J.P. Grosse buys G-Force Records and signs Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem, sending guests on a frantic VIP dash across town to make it to a concert, Muppet Labs style chaos included. The attraction will also feature a new soundtrack performed by the Electric Mayhem.

This retheme follows the permanent closure of MuppetVision 3D, which is making way for a future Monsters, Inc. land, marking a major shift for the Muppets’ presence in the park. With permits stacking up and visible changes already happening, the countdown to this electric, felt-filled coaster remix is officially on.

Leslie Iwerks Discusses Creating the Disneyland Handcrafted Documentary

By

Sara

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January 7, 2026

Leslie Iwerks on Her New Disneyland Documentary

Award-winning director Leslie Iwerks provides a new behind-the-scenes look at Disneyland Handcrafted in an exclusive conversation released following this week’s debut of the film’s poster and official premiere date.

In the newly released video, Iwerks reflects on her personal Disney legacy and the creative process behind the film. She details the extensive effort required to uncover and restore rare archival footage, which was essential in bringing the early craftsmanship of Disneyland to life. The discussion provides deep insight into the technical aspects of documentary filmmaking, Walt Disney’s original vision, and the dedicated artisans who built the park.

The featurette is currently available on the official Disney YouTube channel, serving as a preview for the documentary’s debut on Disney+ on January 22.

New Tangled Cake Mini Backpack For The Best Day Ever!

By

Ana Leal

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January 7, 2026

New Tangled Cake Mini Backpack For The Best Day Ever!

If you’ve been waiting for the “Best Day Ever” to upgrade your Disney style, the wait is officially over. The new Tangled Cake Mini Backpack is an absolute dream for Rapunzel fans, looking like it came straight out of a royal celebration at the Snuggly Duckling. It’s not just a bag; it’s a tiered tribute to our favorite long-haired princess, complete with all the whimsical charm you’d expect from a Corona-inspired treat.

You won’t find this beauty just anywhere. The Tangled Cake Mini Backpack retails for $79.99 and is available exclusively at BoxLunch Gifts.

The first thing you’ll notice is the stunning iridescent body. It catches the light beautifully, glowing almost like a floating lantern against a night sky. To give it that “freshly frosted” look, the bag is covered in debossed details that add texture and depth, making the floral patterns and cake layers really pop. Whether you’re heading to the parks or just grabbing a cupcake with friends, this bag brings a serious shimmer to any outfit.

Since it’s an exclusive, you’ll want to move fast, Disney fans are known to clear the shelves quicker than Maximus chasing a bag of apples!

Credit: BoxLunch Gifts

New Minnie Mouse Cinderella Castle Ear Headband at the Disney Store

By

Ana Leal

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January 7, 2026

New Minnie Mouse Cinderella Castle Ear Headband at the Disney Store

If you’re looking to add some serious sparkle to your Disney style, get ready because you’ll be all ears for glamour with this one! The new Minnie Mouse Cinderella Castle Ear Headband is officially here, and it is a literal golden dream for anyone who wants to feel like royalty while strolling down Main Street, U.S.A.

It retails for $34.99 and is available online at the Disney Store.

These aren’t just your average ears. Crafted from sleek simulated leather, the ears feature a stunning golden foil silhouette of the iconic Cinderella Castle. To make things even more magical, they’re sprinkled with “stardust” and accented with faceted gemstone studs that catch the light from every angle. It’s the perfect blend of classic Disney nostalgia and high-end shimmer.

The real showstopper, though, has to be the centerpiece. A giant, shimmering gold lamé bow sits right in the middle, perfectly matching the gold lamé-covered headband. It’s bold, it’s bright, and it definitely proves that all that glitters is golden you! Whether you’re pairing them with a spirit jersey or a fancy dress for dinner at the castle, these ears are designed to make a statement.

Credit: Disney Store

Cinderella Castle Most Magical Place on Earth Collection at Magic Kingdom!

By

Ana Leal

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January 7, 2026

Cinderella Castle Most Magic Place on Earth Collection

Cinderella Castle Most Magical Place on Earth Collection at Magic Kingdom!

If you’ve ever stood at the end of Main Street, U.S.A., and felt that hit of pure nostalgia staring up at those blue spires, this new collection is calling your name. The Cinderella Castle Most Magical Place on Earth Collection has officially arrived, and it is a dream come true for anyone who wants to take a piece of the kingdom home. From cozy threads to everyday essentials, the vibe is very “classic Disney” with a modern, metallic twist.

First up is the heavy hitter of any Disney drop: the Spirit Jersey ($84.99). This one comes in a gorgeous light blue that mimics the Florida sky on a perfect day. On the front, you’ve got that iconic metallic gold puffy ink “D” logo with “EST. 1971” to remind everyone where the magic began. But the real showstopper is the back. It features a detailed blueprint-style sketch of Cinderella Castle with shimmering gold highlights. The Walt Disney World wordmark stretches across the shoulders in gold, making it the perfect piece for those sunset castle photos.

If you want to bring a little pixie dust to your morning routine, the drinkware in this collection is top-tier. The Cinderella Castle Mug ($19.99) is basically a hug in a cup, featuring a detailed drawing of the castle turrets surrounded by fluffy white clouds and a subtle Mickey icon in the background. The real “royal” touch, though, is the shiny golden handle. For those on the move, there’s the 32 oz. Stainless Steel Water Bottle ($39.99). It’s drenched in that signature Cinderella blue and features a charming castle illustration. It’s huge, durable, and honestly, a great way to stay hydrated while pretending you’re walking toward the Hub.

To round out the collection, Disney added some pieces to help you stay organized and keep your memories front and center. The Photo Frame ($34.99) is a classic 4 x 6 white frame with “The Most Magical Place On Earth” written in gold. It’s got a classy black faux leather back and a cute sketch of the castle in the corner, perfect for that one family photo where everyone is actually smiling!

Finally, for the planners and dreamers, there’s the Notebook ($29.99). It matches the light blue aesthetic of the Spirit Jersey and features gold-colored spires on the cover. The inside is just as cute, with light blue lined pages and a tiny castle sketch and Mickey emblem on the bottom of the pages. It’s almost too pretty to write in, but it’s the perfect spot to jot down your next trip itinerary.

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Look Who We Spotted! The New Oswald Plush Hopping Into EPCOT

By

Ana Leal

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January 7, 2026

Look Who We Spotted! The New Oswald Plush Hopping Into EPCOT

If you’re a fan of Disney history (or just really cute rabbits), you’re going to want to head over to EPCOT ASAP. We recently spotted a brand-new Oswald plush on the shelves, and it is a total throwback to Walt’s original star! He’s currently retailing for $29.99, making him a perfect mid-range souvenir for any collector.

This version of Oswald is staying true to his roots with a super crisp black-and-white color scheme and his signature bright blue shorts. He’s got that classic vintage look down to a science, featuring an oval white face, adorable black button-style eyes, and a wide, friendly smile that’s hard to resist. The fabric is soft, making him just as great for snuggling as he is for sitting on a display shelf.

When it comes to size, Oswald fits right in with the “standard” crew. He’s roughly the same scale as the classic Mickey, Minnie, and Stitch plushes you’ll see in the same merchandise displays. However, Oswald definitely wins in the height department, those iconic long, upright ears give him a bit of a vertical advantage over his fellow Disney pals! Whether you’re looking to complete your collection or just want a little extra luck, this rabbit is a must-grab.

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Jungle Cruise in Disneyland Closing in Mid February

By

Sara

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January 7, 2026

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Adventureland’s Jungle Cruise Scheduled for Refurbishment

The world-famous Jungle Cruise at Disneyland is preparing to dock for a temporary refurbishment this winter. While the skips and puns will keep flowing through early February, the official calendar currently shows no operating times listed for the attraction starting in the middle of the month.

According to the official Disneyland Resort calendar, the Jungle Cruise is set to begin a temporary refurbishment on February 17, 2026. Operating hours are currently unlisted starting mid-month, and while the schedule presently extends through February 18, the attraction is officially flagged for maintenance with no confirmed reopening date yet.

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Adventureland isn’t the only area seeing downtime; both “it’s a small world” and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance are also slated to be closed on February 17. This upcoming break follows a wave of innovation for the river excursion, as Imagineers recently debuted the attraction’s very first 3D-printed prop.

Will you be visiting Disneyland next month?

Emma Stone Shuts Down Rumor She’ll Play Miss Piggy in New Movie with Jennifer Lawrence

By

Sara

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January 7, 2026

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Emma Stone Isn’t Stepping Into Miss Piggy’s Heels

Emma Stone isn’t stepping into the heels of a Hollywood icon just yet! In a newly published interview with W Magazine on Tuesday, Jan. 6, the 37-year-old actress shut down the viral rumors, confirming she will not be playing Miss Piggy in her highly anticipated upcoming film alongside Jennifer Lawrence.

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“First of all, that is the biggest insult to Miss Piggy I’ve ever heard,” Stone joked during the interview, playfully defending the Muppet icon’s honor. “Why would I play a literal star? She’s the greatest. Miss Piggy is playing Miss Piggy… she would be storming out right now at the mere suggestion.” Stone made it clear that neither she nor Lawrence could ever “pale in comparison” to the divine swine.

The project first made waves back in November 2025, when Jennifer Lawrence revealed on the Las Culturistas podcast that she and Stone are producing a Miss Piggy movie written by Cole Escola. Lawrence teased that after years of friendship, it was finally time for the duo to co-star, calling their lack of a shared film “f—– up.”

The interview with W Magazine comes on the heels of Stone’s 2025 release, Bugonia. The film, another collaboration with director Yorgos Lanthimos, recently earned her a Golden Globe nomination—continuing her hot streak following her 2024 win for Poor Things.

Light Up Your Kingdom: The Cinderella Castle Light Up Figure Your Shelf Deserves

By

Ana Leal

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January 7, 2026

Light Up Your Kingdom: The Cinderella Castle Light Up Figure Your Shelf Deserves

Bringing a piece of the Most Magical Place on Earth into your living room just got a whole lot easier. We’ve all spent those long park days staring up at the spires of Cinderella Castle, wishing we didn’t have to leave when the fireworks ended. Well, why keep dreaming about a castle in the clouds when you can literally plug one in on your bookshelf? This new light-up figure is a total showstopper for any Disney fan’s collection.

Ready to make your royal dreams come true? The Cinderella Castle Light Up Figure retails for $129.99.

This isn’t just some flimsy plastic souvenir; it’s a beautifully sculpted Fantasyland fortress that captures all those iconic details we love. The figure features those shimmering golden turret accents that make the castle pop, and it sits on a sturdy base proudly sporting the Walt Disney World logo. It’s got that premium feel that says, “I’m a serious collector,” while still sparking that pure, childhood joy every time you look at it.

The real “wow” factor, of course, is the light-up feature. When you flip the switch, the castle glows with a warmth that’ll ignite fireworks in your heart (and maybe save you from needing a nightlight). It’s designed to be the centerpiece of your collectible shelf, bringing that nighttime spectacular vibe right to your desk or mantel. Whether you’re a lifelong WDW veteran or just obsessed with the aesthetics of the Magic Kingdom, this piece brings the magic home in a big way.

You don’t even have to trek to Main Street, U.S.A., to find it, it’s available right now online at the Disney Store. It’s a bit of an investment, but for a centerpiece this magical, it’s definitely worth the splurge.

Credit: Disney Store

Ariel Meet & Greet Returning to Original Location in Hollywood Studios

By

Sara

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January 7, 2026

Ariel Returns to Her Original Grotto at Hollywood Studios

The Ariel meet and greet is officially returning to its longtime home at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Guests will soon be able to visit the live-action mermaid back at her original location in the Animation Courtyard, moving from her temporary residence to the beautifully themed grotto space fans know and love.

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After a brief stint at Echo Lake near the 50’s Prime Time Café—a temporary move that began on October 28 to accommodate holiday character experiences—Ariel is officially heading back home. According to the Walt Disney World website, the Ariel meet and greet will return to its permanent location at Walt Disney Presents starting January 12.

Fans can drop by to visit her under the sea during the newly listed operating hours of 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily.

Returning to her permanent home is a major upgrade, as the original Ariel meet and greet space is intricately designed to resemble the terrace of Prince Eric’s seaside castle. This stands in stark contrast to the temporary Echo Lake location, which featured minimal theming—consisting mostly of a few tall potted plants and a small wooden treasure chest.

The live-action version of Ariel has been a staple at Disney’s Hollywood Studios since May 26, 2023, debuting the same day the Oscar-nominated adaptation, directed by Rob Marshall, premiered in theaters.