Hyperspace Mountain to Blast Back into Disneyland Next Spring
Prepare for a jump to lightspeed! Hyperspace Mountain, the fan-favorite Star Wars overlay of the iconic Space Mountain, is officially blasting back into Disneyland Park on April 28, 2026. Guests will once again be able to dodge TIE fighters and navigate a frantic dogfight among the stars.
The fan-favorite overlay kicks off its limited-time run on April 28, 2026, likely serving as the centerpiece for the annual Season of the Force festivities surrounding May the 4th. But that’s just the beginning—Disney is already teasing even more ‘exciting news’ for Star Wars fans in the very near future.
The galactic celebrations reach a fever pitch on May 22, 2026, when a brand-new mission featuring The Mandalorian and Grogu debuts on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. The ride update premieres the exact same day the new feature film hits theaters, giving guests the chance to jump into the cockpit for a mission inspired by the big-screen adventure.
Construction crews have officially dismantled the PizzeRizzo billboard from the former Muppets Courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This landmark removal is a major visible milestone in the area’s ongoing transformation into Monstropolis, the highly anticipated Monsters, Inc.-themed land.
The towering billboard that once sat atop the green outdoor seating area has been completely dismantled, leaving behind nothing but a bare metal base on the roof. Fans will remember the sign for its flashing neon lights and the artwork of Rizzo the Rat proudly declaring it ‘The City’s Top Rated Pizza.’ The neon arrow that once pulsed toward the entrance has also been removed.
Nearby, the transition is just as busy at the restrooms, formerly known as Gonzo’s Royal Flush. After that signage was stripped away last week, crews in a lift were spotted scrubbing and prepping the exterior walls around the vents. Since this building is physically attached to PizzeRizzo, it’s clear Disney is deep into the process of stripping away the Muppet-era ‘theming’ to make way for the fur-and-fang world of Monstropolis.
This corner of the park has seen many lives, originally debuting as Toy Story Pizza Planet Arcade before transforming into the Muppet-themed PizzeRizzo in 2016. After nearly a decade of serving up ‘the city’s top-rated pizza,’ the venue closed alongside Muppet*Vision 3D in June 2025 to make way for the world of Monstropolis. While the PizzeRizzo structure is staying put, it will be reimagined as a brand-new quick-service location, though Disney has yet to reveal exactly what’s on the menu.
The transformation extends across the entire courtyard. Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano is set to become Harryhausen’s, the iconic sushi spot from the original Monsters, Inc. film. Meanwhile, the Muppet*Vision 3D theater is already being stripped of its felt-and-glue decor; concept art suggests it will be rebranded as ‘The Glob.’ The land’s crown jewel, however, is being built just beyond the courtyard’s original borders: a groundbreaking ‘door vault’ roller coaster. As Disney’s first suspended and vertical-lift coaster, it promises a high-speed chase through the scream-processing factory unlike anything we’ve seen before.
Former Imagineer Tony Baxter to Appear at 2026 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts
A legendary name in Disney history is heading back to EPCOT, and fans of classic Imagineering will want to mark their calendars. Former Imagineer and Disney Legend Tony Baxter is scheduled to appear at the 2026 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts, giving guests a rare chance to meet one of the creative minds behind some of Disney’s most beloved attractions.
Tony Baxter will be signing artwork at the Disney Fine Art booth located on the World Showcase bridge from January 22 through January 25. Signing times are scheduled from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and again from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. each day. Available pieces will include his Pinocchio-inspired Tyrolean Fantasy and the Mary Poppins-inspired Steps of St. Paul’s, both of which are popular with collectors and longtime fans.
Disney Fine Art has also teased a little extra fun during the signing event, encouraging guests to stop by, say hello, and keep an eye out for a bit of Disney art magic along the way. The playful nod even references Figment, which feels especially fitting considering Baxter’s legacy at EPCOT.
Baxter spent 47 years with Walt Disney Imagineering, eventually rising to senior vice president of creative development. His resume reads like a greatest hits list of Disney Parks history, including Journey Into Imagination with Figment, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Splash Mountain, Indiana Jones Adventure, and Star Tours. He also served as executive producer for Disneyland Paris, was named a Disney Legend in 2013, received a THEA Award for lifetime achievement, and even consulted on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure after his retirement.
If you are attending the 2026 Festival of the Arts, this signing is shaping up to be a must do moment for fans who appreciate Disney history, classic attractions, and the creative minds who brought them to life.
Disney Dining Plan 2026 Missing Myriad Restaurants Likely Tied to Contract Negotiations Still in Progress
Guests planning for 2026 Walt Disney World vacations are noticing a big shakeup with the Disney Dining Plan, as more than 30 restaurants across Walt Disney World Resort are not currently appearing as eligible. While it may look alarming at first glance, this situation appears to be less about permanent removals and more about ongoing contract negotiations that are stretching into the new year, particularly with third-party dining locations.
Disney has indicated that Dining Plan availability is subject to change, and that caveat is especially important right now. A large portion of the missing locations are independently operated restaurants, many of them in Disney Springs, where Dining Plan participation depends on separate agreements that often finalize later than Disney owned restaurants. This same pattern has played out in prior years, with restaurants temporarily disappearing from eligibility filters before returning once contracts are finalized.
As of now, the following restaurants do not state that they accept the Disney Dining Plan for 2026 on the Walt Disney World website, though Disney notes this list can change as updates continue.
EPCOT • Chefs de France • Connections Cafe (Starbucks) • Crêpes À Emporter by La Crêperie de Paris • Katsura Grill • La Cantina de San Angel • Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie • Lotus Blossom Cafe • Pizza al Taglio
Disney’s Hollywood Studios • The Trolley Car Cafe (Starbucks)
Disney Springs • The BOATHOUSE • Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza • Chicken Guy! • Cookes of Dublin • City Works Eatery & Pour House • Earl of Sandwich • eet by Maneet Chauhan • Morimoto Asia Street Food • Pizza Ponte • The Polite Pig • Rainforest Cafe • T-Rex • Splitsville Dining Room • The Smokehouse at House of Blues • YeSake Kiosk
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter • Scat Cat’s Club – Lounge
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort • El Mercado de Coronado • Rix Sports Bar & Grill • Siestas Cantina
Adding to the confusion, several restaurants are adjusting how they accept the Dining Plan rather than dropping it entirely. Some locations will only honor the plan for lunch or dinner in 2026, while a small group of restaurants has already been added to the lineup, signaling that changes are actively happening behind the scenes.
For guests planning a 2026 vacation, this is best viewed as a work in progress rather than a final list. Historically, many of these missing restaurants return once negotiations wrap up, especially at Disney Springs. If you rely on the Dining Plan, flexibility and frequent check-ins may be key as Disney continues updating eligibility into the new year.
Something Wicked This Way Comes: A Closer Look at the New Gideon’s Storefront
Gideon’s Bakehouse is famous for its nearly half-pound cookies, gothic lore, and—most notably—its gargantuan wait times. Now, it seems the shadows at Disney Springs are lengthening to make room for something new.
Gothic red-and-black artwork has officially appeared in the windows of the former Art of Shaving storefront, all but confirming that a second Gideon’s-linked location is on the horizon.
The new storefront, located at 1600 E. Buena Vista Dr. Suite C-22, has been wrapped in imagery that is unmistakably Gideon’s. While the classic “Gideon’s Bakehouse” logo is nowhere to be found, the signature Victorian-gothic aesthetic is front and center.
The designs feature a haunting array of birds, a crown, and a sword, sparking massive speculation among the Disney community. The cryptic messaging has many wondering if this isn’t just “more cookies,” but rather a brand-new concept or a specialized expansion of the Gideon’s universe. The doors are currently blacked out with a sign that promises: “Something New Is Coming Soon.”
The move from rumor to reality began with a permit filed earlier this month with the Orange County Comptroller. The permit, listed for a “New Tenant Build-Out,” named The First Raven LLC as the client.
For those not steeped in cookie-lore: The First Raven LLC is owned by Steve Lewis, the creator and founder of Gideon’s Bakehouse. With the Art of Shaving sitting vacant since its permanent closure in January 2024, this build-out marks the first major movement for that prime corner of The Landing.
Because the new space is just a stone’s throw from the existing bakery, the possibilities are endless. Many fans hope for a dedicated merchandise and art gallery, which would allow the main bakery to focus entirely on its famous cold brews and treats. Others are crossing their fingers for a Mobile Order Pickup station to help alleviate the infamous five-hour virtual queues.
Whatever the case, the involvement of Steve Lewis suggests that the storytelling and atmosphere will be just as rich as the original location.
Pro Tip: While you wait for this mystery location to open, the original Gideon’s Bakehouse is still operating its virtual queue daily. Be sure to head there first thing in the morning to secure your spot!
A Growing Empire
This expansion comes at a peak time for the brand. As Gideon’s Bakehouse continues to be one of the most popular destinations in Disney Springs, more space is a necessity. Between the permits and the new window wrap, it’s clear that the “summoning” is well underway.
‘Malcolm in the Middle’ Reunion Set for 2026 Premiere
The wait is finally over for fans of the Wilkerson clan. Hulu has officially announced that the long-rumored revival of the landmark sitcom is a reality.“Malcolm in the Middle: Life’s Still Unfair” is set to premiere as a four-episode limited series on April 10, 2026.
The series will be available on Hulu and via the Hulu on Disney+ app for bundle subscribers in the U.S., while international fans can catch the chaos on Disney+.
Alongside the announcement, Hulu released a hilarious first-look teaser, proving that while the boys have grown up, the family dynamic remains as volatile as ever.
The Synopsis: The revival finds Malcolm (Frankie Muniz) living a life he worked hard to build: one completely insulated from his eccentric upbringing. After successfully shielding himself and his young daughter from his family for over a decade, his peace is shattered. Hal and Lois demand his presence for their 40th anniversary party, dragging Malcolm—and his baggage—right back into the orbit of the people who drove him crazy.
The limited series boasts a near-total reunion of the original main cast, alongside some intriguing new additions:
The Returning Legends: Bryan Cranston (Hal), Jane Kaczmarek (Lois), Frankie Muniz (Malcolm), Christopher Kennedy Masterson (Francis), Justin Berfield (Reese), and Emy Coligado (Piama).
The Next Generation: Keeley Karsten joins the cast as Leah, Malcolm’s daughter, while Kiana Madeira plays Tristan, Malcolm’s girlfriend.
The Siblings: Vaughan Murrae joins as Kelly, the youngest (and previously unseen) Wilkerson sibling. Notably, the role of Dewey will be played by Caleb Ellsworth-Clark.
Behind the Scenes
Fans can rest easy knowing the creative DNA of the original series remains intact. Linwood Boomer, the creator of the original show, returns as writer and executive producer.
Adding to the prestige, Ken Kwapis, who directed the original pilot and many of the show’s most iconic episodes, will direct all four episodes of the limited series. Bryan Cranston also pulls double duty, serving as an executive producer alongside Boomer and the team at New Regency.
While we wait for April 2026, you can prepare for the reunion by binge-watching all 151 original episodes, which are currently streaming on Hulu and Disney+.
The God of Thunder Returns! First ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ Teaser Reveals Chris Hemsworth’s Thor
Marvel Studios dropped a surprise teaser this morning, confirming that an original Avenger is answering the call to face the ultimate multiversal threat.
The road to the biggest Marvel Cinematic Universe event since Endgame just got electrifying.
In a surprise move that has sent shockwaves through social media this morning, Marvel Studios released the second teaser trailer for the highly anticipated Avengers: Doomsday. The biggest takeaway for many fans is the glorious, confirmed return of Chris Hemsworth as Thor Odinson.
After taking a step back from the central Avengers narrative following the Infinity Saga to focus on personal journeys in the cosmos (seen in Thor: Love and Thunder), it is now undeniable: The God of Thunder is back in the fold when Earth’s Mightiest Heroes need him most.
While the teaser kept plot specifics tightly under wraps, focusing instead on a mounting sense of dread and scale, the glimpse we got of Hemsworth was significant.
Gone are the bright colors and rock-and-roll vibes of his recent solo adventures. The Thor we see here looks battle-weary, serious, and deeply concerned. He is shown standing amidst what appears to be the ruins of a familiar location, Stormbreaker in hand, looking up at a tear in the sky that signals the arrival of a threat far beyond Thanos.
See the new look at the Odinson below:
Why Thor Matters for ‘Doomsday’
The title Avengers: Doomsday—and the confirmed involvement of Robert Downey Jr. as Victor Von Doom—sets the stage for the deepest crisis the MCU has ever faced. The current, newer roster of heroes (like Sam Wilson’s Captain America, Shang-Chi, and Captain Marvel) are powerful, but they lack the experience of facing universal extinction-level events as a unit.
Bringing back a “founding father” of the Avengers like Hemsworth’s Thor provides essential connective tissue to the MCU’s golden age. He is one of the few remaining beings alive who understands the scale of cosmic warfare. His presence signals to the audience that the situation is dire enough to pull the strongest Avenger out of semi-retirement.
Avengers: Doomsday is gearing up to be a cinematic event, and having Chris Hemsworth swinging the axe again just raised the stakes exponentially.
Avengers: Doomsday is slated for theaters in May 2026.
Disney to Honor America’s 250th at the 2026 Rose Parade
The Walt Disney Company is headed to Pasadena for the 2026 Tournament of Roses Parade with a spectacular tribute titled “Disney Celebrates America.” Marking the nation’s 250th anniversary, this vibrant entry honors the U.S. semiquincentennial through a uniquely Disney lens. By weaving together the dreams, iconic stories, and relentless optimism that have defined the company for over a century, Disney aims to create a patriotic masterpiece that resonates with audiences across the country and around the globe.
Leading the procession will be a Disneyland vehicle carrying Mickey Mouse and friends adorned with patriotic décor and red, white and blue flowers. They will be joined by more than 50 U.S. military veterans who now serve as Disney cast members and their families, symbolizing the company’s deep appreciation for those who have served our country and now help create magic for millions. The selection of the flowers on the vehicle holds special meaning for those who serve our country in uniform.
Every petal in Disney’s 2026 Rose Parade entry tells a story of gratitude. The float will be adorned with red poppies, the historic symbol of remembrance for fallen heroes since WWI, alongside rosemaries, blue irises, and white lilies to represent honor and appreciation for our veterans. This isn’t just a parade entry; it’s a living tribute to a century of Disney’s support for the armed forces—a legacy that began with Walt and Roy Disney’s own service during the First World War.
Beyond the flowers, Disney is putting its mission into action. The company is celebrating its own veteran Cast Members and expanding its commitment to military families with a $2.5 million donation to Blue Star Families. As CEO Bob Iger noted, both Disney and the Tournament of Roses share a long history of celebrating the American spirit. By featuring Disney’s own veterans on this iconic stage, the company kicks off 2026 by honoring the people who truly make the nation extraordinary.
For over 100 years, Disney’s storytelling has been a tribute to American ideals, and the nation’s 250th anniversary will be its biggest celebration yet. Disney is inviting families to join the festivities through an incredible lineup of events, including the debut of the Soarin’ Across America attraction and a massive multi-platform broadcast on July 4th. Throughout the Independence Day weekend, guests at Disneyland and Walt Disney World will be treated to themed fireworks and special events, while ABC, National Geographic, and ESPN showcase the heroes and traditions that define our communities.
The celebration kicks off on New Year’s Day with ABC’s live coverage of the 2026 Tournament of Roses Parade. Starting at 11 a.m. ET, viewers can tune in for a two-hour spectacle hosted by the fan-favorite team of Kevin Negandhi and Hannah Storm, with veteran reporter John Naber providing expert commentary from the streets of Pasadena.
Port Canaveral: Still America’s Favorite Cruise Homeport
For the sixth year running, Port Canaveral has officially secured the title of “Best U.S. Cruise Homeport.” In the annual Cruise Hive Cruise Ship Awards, the world’s busiest port maintained its winning streak by capturing 27.3% of the total vote. This prestigious honor, decided by thousands of cruise enthusiasts between October and December, solidifies the port’s reputation as the top choice for travelers nationwide.
“This has been a tremendous year for Port Canaveral. Recognition like this validates the consistent hard work our people put in to making our Port the best it can be with a focus on continuous improvement to ensure we provide a high-quality guest experience,” said Capt. John Murray, Port Canaveral CEO.
Cruise Hive editors remarked, “While some cruisers opt for the most conveniently close homeport, the smoothness of parking, check-in, and even debarkation are all factors in just how popular a port may be. Port Canaveral excels at the cruise experience, with easy-to-read signage directing drivers to their respective cruise terminals and ample parking ensuring a smooth arrival and departure.”
Port Canaveral isn’t just winning awards—it’s breaking records. Now officially the world’s busiest cruise port, the hub welcomed a staggering 8.6 million revenue passengers in Fiscal Year 2025. This success is fueled by a massive fleet of 18 ships from seven world-class cruise lines, ranging from high-tech giants to cozy weekend cruisers. It has become the ultimate “drive-to” destination, with 75% of travelers choosing to arrive by car to start their vacations.
As the Cruise Hive editors noted, the port’s secret weapon is its “forward-facing” investment in technology and innovation. This commitment is best seen in the Port Canaveral Advantage, a massive $912 million capital improvement program. Over the next five years, this initiative will expand terminals, add parking, and implement cutting-edge tech to ensure that getting on and off the ship is as seamless as the cruise itself.
Universal Orlando Specialty License Plate Hits 1,000 Orders but Needs 3,000 to Become Reality
The Universal Orlando specialty license plate has officially crossed an exciting milestone, passing 1,000 pre sale orders as of December 22, with a total of 1,016 vouchers sold so far. That is a strong start, but there is still work to be done before this plate can hit the road. Florida requires at least 3,000 pre-sale vouchers for production to begin, and Universal has until October 2026 to reach that goal. If the minimum is not met by then, the specialty plate unfortunately will not be produced.
Florida currently offers more than 100 different specialty license plates, each supporting a specific cause or organization, with proceeds going directly to the group represented. Since the specialty plate program began, millions of dollars have been raised statewide, turning everyday commutes into rolling fundraisers. New specialty plates, including the Universal Orlando design, were authorized during the 2020 legislative session, kicking off the long pre-sale process that continues today.
The Universal Orlando specialty license plate was created to benefit Give Kids The World Village, a beloved Central Florida nonprofit that provides cost-free, weeklong wish vacations to children with critical illnesses and their families. Since opening in 1986, Give Kids The World Village has welcomed nearly 200,000 families from all 50 states and 77 countries, offering a joyful escape filled with attractions, themed villas, and unforgettable moments away from hospitals and treatments. The Universal plate design came after Give Kids The World previously attempted to launch its own specialty plate but fell short of the required pre sale minimum, leading to this new collaborative effort with Universal Orlando Resort.
Pre-orders for the plate are currently available both online and in person at local tax collector offices throughout Florida. Each voucher sold brings the plate one step closer to production and helps support Give Kids The World’s mission of delivering hope, happiness, and magic to families when they need it most. With nearly two years still on the clock, fans and locals alike have time to help push this plate across the finish line.
Rumor Watch: Could IT, Scream, and Stranger Things Lead Halloween Horror Nights 2026?
It is never too early for Halloween Horror Nights speculation, and the rumor mill for 2026 is already spinning faster than a fog machine at midnight. With Universal typically leaning into around five major IP haunted houses each year, fans are eyeing a trio of heavy hitters that feel almost inevitable if the rights line up just right. IT, Scream, and Stranger Things are all being whispered about, and honestly, the timing could not be better for any of them to slash, stalk, or traumatize their way into the event.
🎈 Could IT finally float into Halloween Horror Nights in 2026? The idea feels shockingly plausible. The franchise has roared back into the spotlight thanks to IT: Welcome to Derry, which reintroduced audiences to the cursed town and its deeply unsettling history. With a second season already on the way, Pennywise and company are once again front and center in horror culture. Between sewer scares, funhouse visuals, and that ever-present red balloon dread, IT feels practically designed for a full-scale haunted house experience. If Universal is looking for a modern horror IP with instant recognition and massive crowd pull, this one checks every box.
🔪 Another familiar face that could be sharpening its knife for a return is Scream. With Scream 7 on the horizon, Ghostface is once again creeping back into pop culture relevance. The franchise already has a history with HHN, previously appearing as part of the Terror Tram, where guests were stalked through iconic scenes and confronted in classic slasher fashion. That version became a fan favorite because it felt personal, intense, and wildly true to the films. Bringing Scream back as a full haunted house would let Universal lean into suspense, rapid-fire jump scares, and instantly recognizable locations that horror fans know by heart.
👻 Then there is the upside-down-sized possibility of Stranger Things making another comeback, this time based on its highly anticipated final season. Universal has seen enormous success with previous Stranger Things houses, and Season 5 is shaping up to be the biggest and darkest chapter yet. From Vecna-level scares to Hawkins nostalgia twisted into nightmare fuel, a return would not be surprising at all. Given HHN’s recent trend of revisiting powerhouse IPs when the timing is right, this feels like another strong contender for 2026.
🔥 Of course, none of this has been confirmed by Universal, and rights deals always play the ultimate final boss in these situations. Still, if Halloween Horror Nights 2026 ends up featuring some combination of IT, Scream, and Stranger Things, it would easily be one of the most talked-about lineups in years. For now, fans will keep speculating, theorizing, and checking every red balloon, ringing phone, and flickering Christmas light for clues.
2026 Disney Dining Plan Shakes Things Up at Four Patina Restaurants Around Walt Disney World
If you are planning your 2026 Walt Disney World vacation with the Disney Dining Plan in mind, you might want to double-check your favorite Italian spots and Disney Springs dinner plans. Disney has confirmed several dining plan changes affecting four Patina Restaurant Group locations, and while no locations are being eliminated, some popular meal credits are being discontinued.
Over at EPCOT, both Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria and Tutto Italia Ristorante are seeing adjustments. Via Napoli will no longer accept Disney Dining Plan credits for lunch in 2026, while Tutto Italia is dropping dinner credits altogether. Breakfast and other meal periods not impacted by these changes will continue as usual, but this is a notable shift for guests who like to pizza by day or pasta by night on the plan.
Changes are also coming to Disney Springs. Terralina Crafted Italian will no longer include its dinner menu on the 2026 Dining Plan, and The Edison will stop offering lunch credits. All four locations are operated by the Patina Restaurant Group, which also runs Space 220 at EPCOT, a restaurant that does not participate in the Disney Dining Plan at all. These updates arrive alongside recent labor activity involving Patina at the Italy Pavilion, adding another layer to the story.
Note that these adjustments may change as we head into the new year, as these dining plan contracts are typically negotiated year-to-year between the restaurant groups and Disney.
On the bright side, guests booking 2026 vacations can still take advantage of the Free Dining Plan for Kids promotion, which may help balance out these changes for families. As always, dining plan value really comes down to how and where you like to eat, so these updates are worth factoring into your plans before locking in reservations.
