Bacchus names actor Patrick Warburton as celebrity king for 2026 Mardi Gras parade
The Krewe of Bacchus has announced that actor Patrick Warburton will reign as Bacchus LVII for the 2026 Mardi Gras season.
Warburton, celebrated for his distinctive baritone voice and iconic roles as Puddy in Seinfeld, The Tick, and Kronk in The Emperor’s New Groove, will lead the super-krewe’s procession through uptown New Orleans on Sunday, February 15, 2026.
Warburton’s reign coincides with a significant milestone for the krewe and the country. The 2026 parade theme, “Bacchus Celebrates America 250,” is a tribute to the United States’ semiquincentennial. The procession will feature 32 elaborate floats depicting eras and achievements in American history, from the “Roaring 20s” to the “National Parks.”
“Patrick’s legacy as a distinguished actor in America’s finest traditions exemplifies the values of family, charity, and service to the community,” said Clark Brennan, captain of the Krewe of Bacchus.
“Nice Work, Pal”: A Soarin’ Connection While Warburton is a Hollywood heavyweight, theme park fans know him best as “Chief Flight Attendant Patrick” from Disney’s Soarin’ attraction. For years, his pre-show safety spiel—delivered with his signature deadpan humor—has been a cult favorite, with fans reciting lines like “Nice work, pal” right along with him.
Come February 15, he will be trading his hang glider for a massive float. Instead of “Soarin’ Over California,” he will be rolling down St. Charles Avenue, tossing beads and doubloons to the massive crowds in what is sure to be a “nice work” performance for the holiday.
A Legacy of Kings By accepting the crown, Warburton joins a roster of entertainment legends who have led the Bacchus parade since its founding in 1968. Past monarchs include Danny Kaye, Bob Hope, Will Ferrell, Michael Keaton, and Josh Duhamel.
The LEGO Group has officially unveiled LEGO® SMART Play™, a groundbreaking interactive platform designed to revolutionize how kids and families experience play. Announced at CES 2026 by Julia Goldin (Chief Product & Marketing Officer) and Tom Donaldson (Head of Creative Play Lab), this innovation marks the biggest evolution of the LEGO System-in-Play since the 1978 debut of the iconic Minifigure.
How LEGO SMART Play™ Brings Creations to Life
LEGO SMART Play™ bridges the gap between physical building and digital interaction. This new ecosystem allows builders to animate their models using three core components that react in real-time:
The LEGO SMART Brick: The “brain” of your build that powers movement and connectivity.
LEGO SMART Tags: Sensors that trigger unique actions, sounds, and digital responses.
LEGO SMART Minifigures: Interactive characters that drive storytelling and discovery.
A New Era of STEM and Imaginative Play
Designed to inspire the next generation of creators, the platform turns imaginative ideas into living reality. Whether it’s a castle that reacts to its guards or a spaceship that “detects” new planets, LEGO SMART Play™ offers a world of surprising discovery and dynamic storytelling. By combining classic brick-building with advanced tech, the LEGO Group is ensuring that the “System-in-Play” remains the ultimate tool for creative exploration.
Joining the LEGO Group at CES was Asad Ayaz, Chief Brand Officer of The Walt Disney Company and President of Disney Entertainment Marketing, and Dave Filoni, Chief Creative Officer of Lucasfilm, to announce that the first LEGO SMART Play™ building sets announced for fans will feature Star Wars™ – the perfect playground for epic storytelling, unforgettable characters and endless brick-built adventures. For the first time, with LEGO SMART Play™, a galaxy far, far away…. will play back! The new sets will launch on March 1st, 2026, in select markets.
What is LEGO SMART Play™? The Future of Screen-Free Interactive Building
LEGO SMART Play™ is a revolutionary tech-integrated platform featuring over 20 world-first patented technologies. At its core is the LEGO SMART Brick, a “living” building block powered by a custom microchip smaller than a standard LEGO stud.
Developed by the LEGO Creative Play Lab, this invisible technology breathes life into physical models, allowing for responsive, sensory-driven play without the need for a digital screen.
Inside the LEGO SMART Brick: Advanced Sensor Technology
The SMART Brick is a marvel of miniature engineering, designed for seamless integration into the existing LEGO System-in-Play. Key technical features include:
Integrated Sensors: Advanced accelerometers and light-sensing technology.
Interactive Audio: A built-in sound sensor and miniature speaker driven by an onboard synthesizer.
Seamless Power: Integrated wireless charging for uninterrupted play.
Haptic Response: Real-time reactions to physical movement and touch.
The system is further enhanced by LEGO SMART Tags and SMART Minifigures, which pair with the Brick to trigger specific behaviors, sounds, and interactive storytelling moments based on how a child builds and plays.
“LEGO SMART Play™ is the next exciting chapter in our LEGO System in Play… innovating to meet the play needs of each new generation.” — Julia Goldin, Chief Product & Marketing Officer.
LEGO Star Wars™: The Debut of SMART Play™
The legendary partnership between the LEGO Group and Lucasfilm enters a new dimension in 2026. For the first time, fans can experience a “galaxy far, far away” through three ‘All-In-One’ LEGO Star Wars building sets featuring SMART technology.
Why LEGO Star Wars Fans Will Love SMART Play:
Iconic Interaction: Use SMART Minifigures to trigger legendary movie sound effects and character behaviors.
Interactive Scenes: Buildings and starships react to play, making the Star Wars story more immersive than ever.
Complete Kits: Each All-In-One set includes a LEGO SMART Brick, a wireless charger, and exclusive SMART Minifigures and Tags.
Paul Gitter, EVP at Disney Consumer Products, noted that this milestone “adds a new dimension” to the Star Wars legacy, allowing fans to extend their favorite stories through highly responsive, creative play.
LEGO® Star Wars™ SMART Play™: Luke’s Red Five X-Wing building set™ A 584-piece set, including two SMART Minifigures (Luke Skywalker, in his iconic pilot suit, and Princess Leia), as well as Luke’s trusty companion, R2-D2, and Rebel Crew and Stormtrooper Minifigures.
This set includes an Imperial turret, transporter and command center, all of which unlock interactive features, such as laser-shooting sounds, engine sounds and lights plus refueling and repair sounds, through the use of the included LEGO SMART Brick, two LEGO SMART Minifigures and five LEGO SMART Tags.
LEGO® Star Wars™ SMART Play™: Darth Vader’s TIE Fighter™ building set
One of the galaxy’s most iconic villains and his fighter ship arrives as part of LEGO SMART Play™, allowing fans to replay and re-define the most epic battles on behalf of the Galactic Empire.
This 473-piece set features a brick-built Rebel Outpost and an Imperial Fueling Station, as well as a SMART Minifigure featuring Darth Vader and a Rebel Fleet Trooper Minifigure. The roar of the twin ion engines comes to life, among other interactive features, with the LEGO SMART Brick.
LEGO® Star Wars™ SMART Play™: Throne Room Duel & A-Wing™ building set
Fans will be able to re-enact and re-imagine one of the most memorable moments from the original Star Wars trilogy, the final lightsaber duel between Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader at the end of Star Wars: Return of the Jedi™. The 962-piece set comes with three SMART Minifigures featuring the characters Darth Vader, Emperor Palpatine and Luke Skywalker (Jedi).
Additionally, the set comes with a brick-built A-Wing Fighter and Pilot Minifigure, two Royal Guard Minifigures, and a SMART Tag-enabled cannon turret to defend the Emperor’s Throne Room.
For the first time in the history of LEGO Star Wars™, with LEGO SMART Play™ sets, the battle comes to life, allowing fans to recreate iconic scenes and interactions, as well as create new ones. Fans can unlock SMART features such as Lightsaber™ hums with the SMART Minifigures of Darth Vader and Luke Skywalker, the engine roar of the A-wing and even listen to “The Imperial March” with Emperor Palpatine sitting on his throne.
The LEGO SMART Play™ All-in-One sets from LEGO Star Wars will be available for pre-order from January 9th and available to purchase from the 1st March from www.LEGO.com, LEGO Stores and select retailers in launch markets.
Cool Kid Summer 2026 Dates, Deals, and New Experiences Revealed for Walt Disney World
Disney just dropped the full scoop on Cool Kid Summer 2026, and it is shaping up to be one of the biggest summers ever at Walt Disney World. Cool Kid Summer officially runs from May 26 through September 8, 2026, bringing limited-time entertainment, refreshed attractions, character-filled experiences, and some of the best summer deals Disney has offered in years. If summer vacation planning is already on your mind, this is one calendar block you will want to circle in red, blue, and probably Mickey-shaped highlighter.
Disney is pairing Cool Kid Summer with serious savings. Guests can add two free nights and theme park days when booking select four night Walt Disney Travel Company packages, turning a trip into at least six full Disney days. That offer is valid for stays most nights from May 26 through September 15, 2026, and can be booked between January 6 and February 15.
Additionally, Disney is offering up to 30 percent off select resort hotels this summer. Florida Residents can save up to 35 percent, and Annual Passholders can save up to 40 percent on rooms. Summer at Disney is also one of the best times for ticket pricing, longer park hours, and now some truly stacked perks.
One of the biggest Cool Kid Summer bonuses is back again in 2026 with free water park admission on check-in day for guests staying at Disney Resorts Collection hotels between May 26 and September 8. Even better, both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach will be open at the same time, giving families the freedom to choose their splash style. Families can also stack this with the free dining plan for kids ages 3 to 9 when booking a package that includes a dining plan for adults and a Disney resort stay, making summer meals a whole lot easier to budget.
Entertainment-wise, Cool Kid Summer is leaning heavily into family fun. Bluey and Bingo are heading to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, appearing at Conservation Station with games inspired by the show and interactive play after a ride on the Wildlife Express Train. Magic Kingdom gets Jessie’s Roundup at the Diamond Horseshoe, where Jessie, Woody, and friends bring Toy Story energy to crafts, dancing, and western-themed fun.
Over at EPCOT, GoofyCore takes over CommuniCore Hall with DJ Dance Pants, Goofy Says, balloon games, and classic Goof Troop chaos. Hollywood Studios joins the party with Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live, a new stage show featuring Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Daisy, and Pluto in an interactive, music-filled adventure.
Several major attraction updates also land right in the heart of Cool Kid Summer. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin reopens with new ride vehicles, handheld blasters, interactive targets, and a brand new character named Buddy. Animal Kingdom continues to debut Zootopia: Better Zoogether, a new 4D show featuring Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde. Hollywood Studios adds new missions featuring The Mandalorian and Grogu on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, starting May 22, while Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets races into the park this summer with Electric Mayhem energy. EPCOT also gets a patriotic refresh with Soarin’ Across America, debuting by Memorial Day as part of the United States 250th anniversary celebration.
Disney resort guests get even more magic during Cool Kid Summer with enhanced Early Theme Park Entry. Characters will appear across all four parks during the daily 30-minute early entry window, encouraging guests to mix up their park days to catch them all. Select resorts, including Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, and Disney’s Port Orleans Resort Riverside, will also feature extra kid-focused activities and scheduled character visits, on top of movies under the stars, pool games, and other resort favorites.
From May 26 through September 8, 2026, Walt Disney World is going all in on summer fun, with new entertainment, refreshed attractions, big savings, and extra perks that make staying on property more appealing than ever. Cool Kid Summer is not just back, it is leveled up.
Disney Files Permit for New Signage at Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin Ahead of Reopening
Work continues behind the scenes at Magic Kingdom as Disney moves closer to reopening Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, with a newly filed permit signaling another step forward in the attraction’s long-awaited refresh at Walt Disney World. Walt Disney Imagineering has filed a Notice of Commencement for new signage at the Tomorrowland attraction, which has been closed since last summer for a major overhaul.
The permit lists Design Communications as the contractor responsible for installing the new signage. The company has recently handled signage projects across Walt Disney World, including updates for Test Track, The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure, and multiple Disney Vacation Club locations. While the filing does not specify what kind of signage will be installed, it is a strong indicator that exterior and queue area updates are moving into the final phases of the refurbishment.
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is scheduled to reopen this spring with a host of major upgrades. Guests can expect brand new ride vehicles replacing the originals that date all the way back to 1972, when the attraction space first opened as If You Had Wings. While the new vehicles will keep a familiar shape, they feature a refreshed design and updated technology to support the attraction’s next generation gameplay.
One of the biggest changes coming to the ride is the switch to handheld blasters. The new blasters feature always on lasers to assist with aiming, along with lights, sounds, and haptic feedback. Interactive “Z” targets throughout the ride will respond with lighting effects when hit, adding a more video game style experience. Disney has also introduced a new robot character named Buddy, who will appear in a new opening scene designed to let guests practice their shooting before heading into the main mission.
With permits being filed and visible progress continuing, all signs point to Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin preparing for its return to Tomorrowland very soon. Spring reopening plans remain on track, and Space Rangers everywhere may want to start warming up their trigger fingers.
A massive new entertainment district is officially on the way to the area surrounding Walt Disney World, as South Florida based company Accesso has finalized the purchase of land for its upcoming Ovation Orlando project. The company closed on the deal for more than $70 million on December 30, securing a highly visible site just off the theme park corridor.
Ovation Orlando is planned as a 670,000 square foot entertainment district featuring retail, dining, live music venues, and musical themed restaurants, along with approximately 740 hotel rooms and residential condos. According to the project’s website, the district is currently targeting an opening in 2027, positioning it as a major new player in the ever growing tourist landscape around Disney World.
The 76 acre property sits at the northeast corner of Interstate 4 and U.S. 192 in Osceola County and is currently home to the long abandoned Orlando Sun Resort, which closed back in 2012. Accesso plans to begin demolishing the existing resort structures within the next two weeks, officially clearing the way for construction to begin. While the company has had the property under contract for more than three years, development was previously delayed due to a series of logistical and regulatory hurdles.
Accesso executives have pointed to the location as one of the biggest drivers behind the project’s confidence. The site sits directly across from Celebration, just one mile east of Disney, and benefits from full interstate access in what company leaders describe as one of the most dynamic and successful tourist corridors in the country. The full Ovation Orlando project is estimated to cost around $1 billion, and Accesso is also eligible for up to $6.5 million in demolition reimbursements through an incentive package approved by Osceola County.
Early Theme Park Entry Is Returning to Walt Disney World for Cool Kid Summer 2026
Summer 2026 is already shaping up to be a big win for Disney hotel guests, because Early Theme Park Entry is officially returning as part of Cool Kid Summer at Walt Disney World. Guests staying at Disney Resorts Collection hotels will once again be able to enter all four theme parks 30 minutes before official opening each day, giving them a valuable head start before the parks fill up with summer crowds.
This year, Early Entry is getting an extra dose of magic. Beginning May 26, 2026, Disney characters will appear across all four theme parks during Early Entry hours. Character meet-and-greets can rack up some of the longest waits during the summer season, so having access before regular park opening is a huge perk for resort guests. Disney has not released a full list of characters or locations yet, but past Cool Kid Summer offerings included a mix of earlier opening meet-and-greets and surprise character appearances roaming the parks.
Magic Kingdom will also be getting in on the fun with Jessie’s Roundup at the Diamond Horseshoe in Frontierland. As part of the summer celebration, guests will be able to meet Jessie, Woody, and other Toy Story friends at the restaurant, adding even more character-packed fun to early park days. These experiences are in addition to regularly scheduled meet-and-greets during normal park hours, not a replacement.
Cool Kid Summer runs through September 8, 2026, making this one of the longest stretches of enhanced Early Entry Disney has offered. Between lighter ride waits, cooler morning temperatures, and bonus character time, Early Entry continues to be one of the biggest advantages of staying on property during a summer Walt Disney World vacation.
Disney World’s Summer 2026 Special Offers Are Here!
Walt Disney World is the place to be this summer, and with a lineup of incredible special offers just revealed, you won’t want to miss a moment of the magic! From May 26 to September 8, 2026, “Cool KIDS’ SUMMER” returns with refreshed attractions, brand-new experiences, and exclusive activities designed for the whole family.
To help you get there, we’ve gathered all the details on these deals so you can save big while you chill out and play. Whether you’re looking for extra days of fun or major resort discounts, these special offers make it easier than ever to plan your perfect summer escape.
Ways to Save During Cool KIDS’ SUMMER
Summer offers some of the best ticket prices of the year and will have so many new and limited-time experiences to check off the bucket list.
Combine this with longer theme park hours, and it’s one of the best times to visit. What’s more, Disney has brand-new deals available to book beginning January 6, so you can get even more value out of your summer vacation.
Add Free Days to Your Stay
You can get two free room nights and theme park days when you purchase a select 4-night, 4-day (or longer) Walt Disney Travel Company room and ticket package.
That means at least six days to experience Disney World, where you can savor every moment, take time to relax at your resort, and enjoy your favorite rides. This deal is available for visits most nights May 26 through September 15, 2026, and can only be booked January 6 through February 15, 2026.
Disney Resort Deal
You can save up to 30% on select Disney Resort hotels for stays most nights May 1 through October 4, 2026. View offer details beginning January 6, 2026.
Florida Residents and Annual Passholders
Disney has special deals for you, too! Florida Residents can save up to 35%, and Annual Passholders can save up to 40% on rooms at select Disney Resort hotels this summer. View offer details beginning January 6, 2026.
Visit a Water Park for Free on Your Check-In Day
Guests staying at a Disney Resorts Collection hotel between May 26 and September 8, 2026, can enjoy free admission to one of the Walt Disney World water parks on their check-in day.
What’s more, both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach will be open during this time, so you can choose which water park fits your family’s vibe.
Free Dining Plan for Kids
All of these offers can be combined with a delicious deal. In 2026, you can get a free dining plan for kids ages 3 to 9 when you purchase a package for you and your children that includes a dining plan for guests ages 10 and up and a room at a Disney Resort hotel. With a dining plan, you can enjoy the convenience of prepaid meals and snacks during your vacation.
What special offer will you take advantage of this summer?
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Jessie’s Roundup to Bring Live Entertainment Back to the Diamond Horseshoe
The curtains are finally rising again in Frontierland! For the first time in over two decades, the Diamond Horseshoeat Magic Kingdom will host a full-scale stage production. Titled Jessie’s Roundup, this new western revue is set to debut as part of the “Cool Kids’ Summer” celebration in 2026.
A Rootin’ Tootin’ New Show
Starting May 26, 2026, the Diamond Horseshoe will transform into a high-energy activity center led by everyone’s favorite yodeling cowgirl. Guests can join Jessie, Woody, and their Toy Story pals for an interactive experience described as a mix of a “western revue” and a family play-along.
According to Disney, the experience will allow kids and families to:
Craft custom western-themed souvenirs.
Dance along with Toy Story characters to country-inspired tunes.
Yodel their hearts out in a nod to Jessie’s signature talent.
This activation provides a much-needed air-conditioned retreat for families during the peak Florida summer heat. The event is scheduled to run through September 8, 2026.
The announcement marks a historic moment for the Diamond Horseshoe, which has largely served as a seasonal dining hall or a quiet player-piano lounge for the last twenty years.
The last time the venue hosted a structured show was Goofy’s Country Dancin’ Jamboree, which ran from 2003 to 2005. Before that, the venue was home to the legendary Diamond Horseshoe Revue, an opening-day attraction that featured can-can dancers and variety acts from 1971 until its closure in early 2003.
Part of “Cool Kids’ Summer”
Jessie’s Roundup is just one piece of a massive summer campaign at Walt Disney World. Other highlights for the 2026 season include:
Bluey and Bingo arriving at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
GoofyCore at EPCOT’s CommuniCore Hall.
Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
While further details on showtimes and potential dining components for Jessie’s Roundup have yet to be revealed, fans are already celebrating the return of live performance to one of the park’s most historic stages.
2026 is shaping up to be a year of massive transition for Walt Disney World. From the “extinction” of beloved prehistoric adventures to the long-awaited arrival of the Muppets and Bluey, the resort is balancing nostalgia with cutting-edge updates.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a family traveler, here is everything you need to know about the closures and grand openings coming to the parks in 2026.
After five years of sporting the pink-and-blue “Earidescent” look from the 50th Anniversary, the park’s icon is going back to its roots.
A full repaint to restore the classic light gray walls and cerulean turrets.
Timeline: Work begins in January 2026 and is expected to conclude by late 2026. While the castle will remain visible, expect some scaffolding and “grayed out” sections during the process.
Major Reopenings in Tomorrowland and Frontierland
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: Following a massive year-long overhaul, the “Wildest Ride in the Wilderness” returns in Spring 2026.
Highlights include a completely rebuilt track and a stunning transformation of the Rainbow Caverns opening scene.
Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin: Reopening in Spring 2026, this classic is getting its most significant tech upgrade ever. Expect new handheld blasters, interactive targets, and Buddy, a new robot character who anchors a fresh opening scene.
An update to Carousel of Progress featuring a Walt Disney Audio-Animatronic has been confirmed, but a specific 2026 timeframe for its temporary closure remains unannounced.
Piston Peak National Park (Cars area) & Villains Land: Both massive projects remain under heavy construction. Disney has not announced an opening year for either, and it is highly unlikely they will open in 2026.
Dates: Closed January 26, 2026, through February 2026.
The Change: The projected “face” animatronics are being replaced with high-tech physical faces, similar to the figures seen in Hong Kong Disneyland’s World of Frozen.
Soarin’ Across America
In honor of the United States’ 250th anniversary, a limited-time overlay titled Soarin’ Across America will debut around Memorial Day (May 25, 2026). This version will celebrate iconic American landmarks, from the Grand Canyon to the New York City skyline.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
The Muppets Take Over Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster
The Aerosmith era officially ends on March 1, 2026.
The New Vibe: Reopening in Summer 2026, the ride becomes Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets.
The Story: Join Dr. Teeth and The Electric Mayhem in a high-speed limo dash through Muppet-inspired scenery to make it to their next gig.
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run – New Mission
Coinciding with the theatrical release of The Mandalorian & Grogu, a new mission debuts on May 22, 2026. Guests will visit Tatooine, Bespin, and the remnants of the Death Star.
Animation Courtyard Reimagining
The area reopens in Late Summer 2026 as the Walt Disney Studios Lot.
The Magic of Disney Animation: A revival of the classic walkthrough experience where characters “come to life” after the animatronics leave. Includes 6 character meet-and-greets and a Mary Blair-inspired Alice in Wonderland playground.
Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!: A high-energy stage show replacing the Disney Junior Dance Party.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
The End of DinoLand U.S.A.
February 1, 2026, is the final day to experience DINOSAUR and Restaurantosaurus.
What’s Next: The land will become the Tropical Americas, set to open in 2027.
New Dining:Harambe Market will reopen as the park’s primary burger-and-fries destination once Restaurantosaurus closes.
Bluey’s Arrival: Families can play and dance with Bluey and Bingo starting in Summer 2026, featuring games from the show and animals native to Australia.
Disney Springs
For the adult crowd, LEVEL99 will open in the former NBA Experience building in 2026. This social gaming complex will feature over 60 challenge rooms and “duels.”
Whether you’re visiting to say a final goodbye to the dinosaurs or to catch the Muppet’s roller coaster debut, 2026 will be an exciting year of transformation! While massive projects like Villains Land remain on the horizon, the mix of restored classics and fresh overlays ensures there is plenty to explore. It is a year of “out with the old, in with the new,” serving as a bridge to the next generation of Walt Disney World magic.
Ready to trade the stress of planning? Let Get Away Today Vacations handle the logistics—so you can focus on making memories. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, they will help you build a customized itinerary that maximizes your time and budget at no extra cost to you. Click here today to start planning your perfect Disney getaway! And for a limited time get $10 off when you use our promo code for packages: CHIPANDCO
The Walt Disney Studios announced on Sunday, January 4, 2026, that 20th Century Studios’ Avatar: Fire and Ash has officially crossed the $1 billion mark at the global box office. This incredible feat marks the third time the franchise has hit the billion-dollar threshold, solidifying James Cameron’s legendary status and proving the “Avatar phenomenon” is as strong as ever with fans around the world.
With this latest milestone, Avatar: Fire and Ash cements the franchise as one of the most successful trilogies in history. It is now part of an ultra-exclusive club where every single installment has surpassed the $1 billion mark globally. This achievement also caps off a dominant year for The Walt Disney Studios, marking their third billion-dollar release of 2025 alongside the massive hits Zootopia 2 and Lilo & Stitch.
The film’s journey to $1 billion highlights the “theatrical staying power” that has become a James Cameron trademark. Rather than relying on a single opening weekend, Fire and Ash has built its massive total through:
Premium Demand: A huge percentage of the box office comes from IMAX and 3D screenings, as fans continue to treat Pandora as a “must-see” visual event.
International Dominance: The film has seen incredible legs in overseas markets, particularly in China ($138M)and France ($81M), echoing the global phenomenon first sparked in 2009.
Sustained Momentum: Even in its third week, the film maintains a strong grip on the #1 spot, proving that the world’s fascination with the Sully family is far from over.
Vertical Progress! Encanto Construction at Animal Kingdom
Vertical progress is picking up speed at Disney’s Animal Kingdom as the future Encanto attraction continues to grow. Since the installation of the massive tower crane last September, crews have been working around the clock to assemble the building’s expansive steel framework, with new sections rising higher into the skyline every day.
The transformation of DinoLand U.S.A. into the vibrant Tropical Americas land is hitting a major milestone! Since the tower crane arrived in September, the future Encanto attraction has truly begun to take shape. The steel framework has nearly doubled in size recently, with criss-crossing beams now rising high enough to be seen from guest walkways.
Most of the heavy lifting happens overnight and in the early morning hours to keep the magic moving. While it’s currently a skeleton of steel and large excavation dirt piles, this structure will soon become the iconic Casita, where guests will step into Antonio’s magical rainforest bedroom.
As the Encanto ride rises, we are also preparing to say a final goodbye to some classic favorites. The transition to the new 11-acre land, named Pueblo Esperanza, is moving into its final phase:
Final Call for DINOSAUR: Both the DINOSAUR attraction and Restaurantosaurus are officially scheduled to close permanently on February 2, 2026. Their final day of operation will be February 1st.
The Transformation: While the Encanto ride is a brand-new build, the DINOSAUR building will be reimagined into a thrilling, unique Indiana Jones adventure.
More to Explore: The new land will also feature a hand-carved wood carousel featuring beloved Disney animals and a brand-new playground for the little ones.
Pueblo Esperanza and its “fantastical and magical” adventures are scheduled to officially open to guests in 2027.
Lime Garage at Disney Springs Set to Close for 3-Month Maintenance
The Lime Garage at Disney Springs is scheduled to undergo a significant three-month closure to facilitate essential structural repairs and general maintenance. This temporary shutdown will allow crews to complete necessary safety updates and refurbishments across the entire parking structure.
Based on filings from the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, the five-level Lime Garage is set to undergo essential structural repairs starting this month. To help you navigate your next shopping trip, here is the official closure schedule:
Phase 1: Closed January 12 through February 11, 2026.
Holiday Reopening: The garage will briefly reopen for Presidents’ Day weekend (February 12–16).
Phase 2: Closed again from February 17 through March 13, 2026.
The garage is scheduled to officially reopen on March 14, just in time for the busy Spring Break season.
With the Lime Garage offline, you can still find parking at the Orange Garage, Grapefruit Garage, or the Watermelon and Strawberry surface lots.
Following a similar refurbishment of the Orange Garage last year, Disney has made it easier than ever to track parking availability. Before you drive over, be sure to check the My Disney Experience app; a new feature now provides real-time updates on when specific garages and lots have reached full capacity.
