New Pink, Poised and Perfect The Aristocats Marie Toile Print Mini Backpack Is Here!

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December 22, 2025

New Pink, Poised and Perfect The Aristocats Marie Toile Print Mini Backpack Is Here!

If you’re a fan of The Aristocats, you already know that Marie isn’t just a kitten, she’s a total mood. Well, get ready to channel your inner “lady” because BoxLunch just dropped an absolute stunner: The Aristocats Marie Toile Print Mini Backpack. This isn’t just your average Disney bag; it’s a BoxLunch exclusive, meaning you won’t find this specific chic vibe anywhere else. It’s the perfect mix of vintage elegance and everyday cute that we are honestly obsessed with right now.

Now for the best part, the price. This mini backpack retails for $79.99, which is standard for a high-quality exclusive like this. But here is the tea: right now, you can take advantage of a BOGO 50% off deal! That means you can grab this Marie bag and pick out another favorite (maybe a matching wallet or a gift for your Disney bestie) for half the price.

The first thing you’ll notice is the gorgeous pink toile print. Toile is usually reserved for fancy French wallpaper or high-end linens, but putting Marie and iconic Aristocats motifs in this style is a total stroke of genius. The pattern is delicate and sophisticated, featuring Marie in various poses alongside classic Parisian-inspired icons. It gives off major “strolling through the streets of Paris” energy, even if you’re just heading to the grocery store or the Disney parks.

BoxLunch really leaned into the details for this one. The front pocket features a tonal design of Marie that’s subtle yet super sweet, but the real star of the show is the metal bow badge. It’s a literal “chef’s kiss” to Marie’s signature look! The hardware feels sturdy and premium, making the bag feel more like a fashion statement than just a simple accessory. Whether you’re a die-hard Loungefly collector or just looking for a new daily driver, this bag is a standout.

Exclusive prints like this toile design tend to fly off the shelves, especially when there’s a BOGO sale involved, so you might want to pounce on this one faster than Marie pounces on Berlioz!

Credit: BoxLunch Gifts

A Sneak Peek at the 2026 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend Merchandise!

By

Ana Leal

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December 22, 2025

A Sneak Peek at the 2026 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend Merchandise!

It’s almost time to lace up those sneakers because your happiest miles are just around the corner! The 2026 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend presented by Honda is officially speeding our way from January 29 through February 1, 2026. This isn’t just any race weekend, though, we’re celebrating the massive Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration, meaning every mile will be packed with extra pixie dust and platinum-level magic. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a first-time 5K-er, it’s time to start dreaming about the “Celebrate Happy” gear you’ll be rocking at the finish line.

This year’s merchandise collection is all about that feel-good energy. We’re talking vibrant colors and fan-favorite characters that represent the heart of the Disneyland experience. Get ready to see Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey bringing the “Celebrate Imagination” vibes, while Joy from Inside Out keeps things bright for the 5K runners. And for those taking on the Dumbo Double Dare, everyone’s favorite flying elephant is here to help you “Celebrate Achievement” in style. From performance tees that’ll keep you cool on the course to cozy hoodies for those chilly Anaheim mornings, there’s a perfect piece to commemorate your 70th-anniversary journey.

Beyond the race-specific gear, expect to find the ultimate “must-haves” like event-themed Spirit Jerseys, limited-edition pins, and those iconic ears that every runDisney fan craves. We’ve even heard whispers of adorable bags and drinkware featuring the “Celebrate Happy” motif. These pieces are more than just souvenirs; they’re a badge of honor for all the hard work you’ve put into your training. Plus, with the 70th-anniversary theme in full swing, you can bet these designs will have that extra “wow” factor that looks great in every castle finish line photo.

Ready to shop? The runDisney Health & Fitness Expo at the Disneyland Hotel Exhibit Hall will be your ultimate home base. It’s open to everyone, but remember, the good stuff flies off the shelves fast! To make things easy, there will be a Virtual Queue in place for the first day of the Expo, so you can spend less time standing in line and more time exploring the parks. Check out the Expo hours below and get your game plan ready:

Thursday, January 29, 2026: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
Friday, January 30, 2026: 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Saturday, January 31, 2026: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Happy running!

Credit: runDisney

Cinderella Castle will be Repainted in January 2026 at Disney World

By

Chris B

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December 21, 2025

Cinderella Castle will be Repainted in January at Disney World

Cinderella Castle Getting a Fresh Coat as Repainting Begins January 2026 at Walt Disney World

Disney has officially confirmed that Cinderella Castle will be getting a full repaint beginning January 2026 at Magic Kingdom, marking a long-anticipated return to the castle’s classic look. The project, first announced back in August, is now locked in with work expected to continue through late 2026.

Crews will reportedly begin by draining the moat surrounding the castle to prepare for painting, with cranes brought in daily and lowered out of guest sightlines by noon, according to reporting by Scott Gustin. The repaint will restore the iconic gray, cream, blue, and gold color scheme that longtime fans remember, replacing the brighter pink and royal blue tones introduced in 2020 for Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary.

While some gold accents were removed after the anniversary celebration concluded, the vibrant color palette remained and drew mixed reactions from guests. Once completed, the castle, the centerpiece of Walt Disney World Resort, will once again reflect its more traditional fairy-tale appearance, giving Main Street, U.S.A., views a familiar and nostalgic feel just in time for future celebrations.

Closer Look at the Construction at Former Rip Ride Rock-It Site

By

Chris B

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December 21, 2025

Closer Look at the Construction at Former Rip Tide Rocket Site

Rip Ride Rockit Replacement Takes Shape as Coaster Footers and New Walkway Appear at Universal Studios Florida

Construction continues to quietly but steadily roll forward on the former Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit site at Universal Studios Florida, and during a recent visit, we spotted some meaningful progress that shows this project is far more than just dirt moving around. While Universal has not yet revealed the name or theme of the attraction, they have confirmed a new roller coaster is on the way, and the groundwork is now literally in place.

Closer Look at the Construction at Former Rip Ride Rocket Site

Multiple concrete footers can be seen across the site, a strong sign that vertical construction for the coaster structure is getting closer. The scale of the foundations also suggests this attraction may have a larger footprint than Rip Ride Rockit, which lines up with one of the biggest visible changes guests can already experience.

One of the most noticeable updates is the newly opened pedestrian walkway that now runs closer to the water along the Universal CityWalk lagoon. This rerouted path replaces the former walkway that passed directly in front of Rip Ride Rockit, and its relocation appears necessary to accommodate the expanded layout of the new coaster.

The updated walkway is now open to guests and offers a slightly different vantage point of the construction zone, where earth-moving equipment, freshly poured concrete, and graded areas hint at how much is happening behind the scenes. Even without track or supports in place yet, the pace of progress suggests Universal is wasting no time bringing this new thrill ride to life.

While Universal remains tight-lipped about exactly what kind of coaster is replacing Rip Ride Rockit, seeing footers installed and guest pathways reworked makes it clear this project is moving out of the early demolition phase and into true construction mode. If this momentum continues, it may not be too long before we start spotting vertical elements rising above the construction walls. Whatever Universal has planned, it is shaping up to be a major addition, and we are more than ready to see what twists, turns, and surprises are coming next.

Universal Orlando Holiday Market Tribute Store Walk Through

By

Chris B

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December 21, 2025

Universal Orlando Tribute Holiday Market Walk Through

Step Inside Universal’s 2025 Christmas Tribute Store Where Earl the Squirrel Goes Nuts for Nutcrackers

Universal Orlando has officially unwrapped its 2025 Christmas Tribute Store, and this year’s offering is stuffed tighter than a stocking left under Earl the Squirrel’s tree. Located in the Hollywood section of Universal Studios Florida at Universal Orlando Resort, the seasonal store once again leans hard into storytelling, visual gags, and Easter eggs, with hundreds of nutcrackers anchoring the entire experience.

The journey begins outside with Earl’s RV, decked out in bumper stickers, blow-mold decorations, and lore-packed jokes that reference past Tribute Stores, Gerg the Llama, and Earl’s legendary holiday exploits. From the moment you step inside the Tribute Holiday Market, it’s clear this is less a store and more a fully realized holiday mini land.

Universal Orlando Holiday Market Tribute Store Walk Through

Inside, guests move room by room through Mistletoe Valley, starting in a cozy workshop where half-built nutcrackers, toy blueprints, and cryptic newspaper clippings hint at mysterious newcomers and long-running Tribute Store mythology.

The path winds through a glowing mountain pass filled with faux snow, owls, waterfalls, and Northern Lights projections before opening into the Town Center, where Universal holiday merchandise mixes with Grinchmas, Minions, and Hello Kitty displays. Every inch is layered with callbacks to past Tribute Stores and classic Universal films, from VHS tape ornaments to Mega Video signage, all wrapped in garland-heavy holiday cheer.

The centerpiece arrives in Earl & Gerg’s Nutcracker Lodge and Emporium & Museum & Car Wash, a room bursting with nutcrackers of every shape, size, and personality. Life-sized figures return from last year’s March of the Nutcrackers, new additions join the ranks including a familiar face from Epic Universe, and a giant nutcracker fireplace crackles away behind glowing teeth.

Photo ops, pun-filled signs, and tongue-in-cheek “dealz” keep the humor rolling before guests reach the Treats room, where the Tribute Store’s signature dessert case returns with macarons, cookie sandwiches, trifle cakes, caramel apples, and more.

The finale is the checkout area, packed with more nutcracker jokes, recycled fan-favorite props, and one last wave from Earl himself, making this year’s Tribute Store feel like a greatest hits album wrapped in tinsel and nutcracker mustaches. Check out our full walkthrough below!

Avatar: Fire and Ash Ignites Global Box Office with Projected $340M+ Debut

By

Chip

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December 21, 2025

‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ Ignites Global Box Office with Projected $340M+ Debut, Leads Domestic Charts

James Cameron’s return to Pandora is officially underway, and while Avatar: Fire and Ash may not be setting domestic records on fire quite like its predecessor, it is burning bright globally.

The third installment in the sci-fi saga is dominating the pre-Christmas box office, tracking for a massive global opening between $325 million and $350 million through Sunday.

In North America, Fire and Ash is projected to earn between $85 million and $90 million for its opening weekend. The film took in approximately $36.5 million on Friday, a figure that includes $12 million from Thursday night previews.

While these numbers easily secure the No. 1 spot—surpassing the $82 million debut of Dune: Part Two earlier this year—they fall short of the high-water mark set by 2022’s Avatar: The Way of Water, which opened to $134 million domestically.

However, box office analysts note that the Avatar franchise has historically relied on long “legs” rather than explosive opening weekends. The original 2009 film opened to just $77 million before climbing to nearly $3 billion worldwide, and the holiday corridor traditionally allows for smaller week-to-week drops.

As expected, the film’s true strength lies overseas. By Friday, Fire and Ash had already crossed the $100 million milestone internationally.

China: The film saw a strong opening day of roughly $17.7 million, surpassing recent Hollywood blockbusters like Jurassic World Dominion, though trailing the massive start of The Way of Water.
Europe: The sequel is performing exceptionally well in key markets, securing the biggest opening day of 2025 in France and Germany.

Audience Reaction Despite a more mixed critical reception compared to the previous entries (currently sitting at 69% on Rotten Tomatoes), audiences are embracing the film. Fire and Ash has earned a glowing 91% Verified Hot audience score and a solid “A” CinemaScore, suggesting strong word-of-mouth will carry it through the New Year.

With a reported budget north of $400 million, the film likely needs to cross the $1 billion mark to break even—a feat that, given this global start, seems well within reach for James Cameron.

Bakso the Tiger Celebrates his First Christmas at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

By

Sara

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December 21, 2025

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Bakso the Tiger Enjoys His Very First Christmas at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

It’s a “meowy” Christmas for everyone’s favorite feline! Bakso is marking his very first holiday season at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and the spirited Sumatran tiger is already getting into the festive mood.

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They grow up so fast! While Bakso is rapidly leaving his cub days behind, his “teenage” years have only made him more of a fan favorite. His popularity has reached new heights in this adolescent era, proving that he’ll always be the king of the jungle to his many admirers.

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The official Disney Parks Instagram account shared a look at one of the caretakers creating the “Bakso Express” – an array of new playthings for Bakso arranged like a toy train.

The Instagram post reads:

“But this time a creature was stirring

Bakso was ready to pounce

On his first Maharajah Jungle Trek Christmas celebration!”

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Time Square Disney Store Decorated for the Holidays

By

Catherine

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December 20, 2025

Step Into a Festive Fairytale: A Holiday Tour of Disney Store Times Square

There is nothing quite like New York City during the holidays! The air is crisp, the streets are electric, and the city is overflowing with jolly decor. While many flock to the Big Apple to browse holiday markets or admire window displays, there is one destination that remains a “must-visit” for those seeking a true winter wonderland: Disney Store Times Square.

Tucked away from the bustling lights of Broadway, this 20,000-square-foot flagship offers two floors of pure Disney magic, themed displays, and a healthy dose of holiday cheer.

Welcome to Your Magical Winter Wonderland

The moment you step inside, the chaos of the city fades away. You are immediately immersed in a whimsical environment where the chilly NYC air is replaced by the warm smiles of Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and their friends.

The store is meticulously organized into sections like home goods, apparel, and toys. What truly sets this location apart is the “Disney Difference”—the cast members go above and beyond to help you find that perfect souvenir, bringing a bit of theme park hospitality to the heart of Manhattan.

“Only in the Big Apple” Exclusives

One of the biggest draws of this location is the NYC-themed merchandise that you can’t find anywhere else. If you are looking for a unique gift, keep an eye out for:

Iconic Symbols: Taxis, soft pretzels, and the city skyline adorn everything from coffee mugs to cozy sweatshirts.

Minnie Mouse Lady Liberty Plush: This is a fan favorite for a reason! Combining the magic of Minnie with the spirit of the Statue of Liberty, it’s the ultimate New York keepsake.

NYC Pins: For the passionate pin traders, the store offers exclusive New York-themed pins that are essential for any collection.
Loungefly & Street Style: From exclusive mini backpacks to stylish hats, you can top off your street style with a touch of Disney.

Your Holiday Shopping Hub

Whether you are looking to deck your own halls or find the perfect gift, the holiday selection here is unmatched. The shelves are packed with:

Festive Apparel: Matching family pajama sets, holiday sweaters, cardigans, and seasonal ear headbands.
Whimsical Decor: Glittering Mickey-shaped wreaths, glistening ornaments hanging from the ceilings, and “gift-wrapped” displays at every turn.
2025 Keepsakes: The Mickey Mouse Reindeer Holiday Plush is this year’s standout. With a soft reindeer suit and “Disney Store 2025” embroidered on his foot, it’s the perfect cuddly memento for the season.

Float Upstairs for More Magic

The magic doesn’t stop at the ground floor. As you venture to the second level, a whole other world of wonder awaits. Glowing lanterns inspired by Tangled guide your journey up the escalator, making the transition feel less like a staircase and more like a transportive experience.

Once upstairs, you are greeted by a massive wall of plush. Whether you are looking for a teeny-tiny Urupocha-Chan from Disney Store Japan or a large stuffed friend to snuggle with, there is a size for every suitcase! This level also features:

Parks Favorites: Find collections usually reserved for the Disney Parks right here in the concrete jungle.

The Fantasia Collection: A personal favorite! Seeing Sorcerer Mickey front and center adds an extra touch of nostalgia to the shopping trip

Visit the Magic

If you find yourself in Times Square this December, take a break from the crowds and step into this festive fairytale. From Santa’s sled displays to the shimmering bows framing the aisles, it is more than just a store—it’s an amazing holiday experience!

Universal Files Patent to Customize Rides for Guests with Disabilities

By

Chris B

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December 20, 2025

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

Universal Explores New Ride Technology to Personalize Experiences for Guests With Disabilities

Universal is looking toward a more inclusive future with a newly filed patent that could allow attractions to customize ride experiences for guests with disabilities. According to a December filing first reported by Theme Park Insider, the concept would let ride systems communicate with assistive devices worn by guests, triggering tailored show elements designed to better meet individual needs.

Universal Files Patent to Customize Rides for Guests with Disabilities

The patent outlines a system where an attraction’s show technology could receive signals from an assistive device and adjust content in real time. That could include enhanced or alternative audio, tactile feedback, visual elements, or haptic responses that supplement or even replace standard show content. Universal notes that syncing assistive devices with complex ride systems can be challenging, and this proposal aims to bridge that gap seamlessly.

This idea builds on technology theme parks already use, like RFID-based personalization and seat-specific content delivery. Universal attractions already adapt show elements in subtle ways, and this patent suggests the next evolution could focus on accessibility rather than novelty. Instead of a one-size-fits-all experience, rides could dynamically respond to each guest’s assistive requirements while still keeping everyone in the same shared attraction environment.

As with most patents, there’s no guarantee this technology will appear in parks anytime soon, or at all. Still, it’s an encouraging signal that Universal is actively thinking about how future attractions can be more inclusive by design. If implemented, this could mark a meaningful step toward rides that don’t just accommodate guests with disabilities, but truly enhance their experience.

Universal Orlando Files Construction Permits for New Attraction in Lost Continent

By

Chris B

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December 20, 2025

Universal Orlando Files Construction Permits for New Attraction in Lost Continent.

Universal Signals a Major New Coaster for Islands of Adventure With Intamin Permit

Universal Orlando has quietly dropped a big hint about what’s coming next to Islands of Adventure. A newly filed Notice of Commencement in Orange County confirms Universal is working with Intamin on a new attraction planned for the former Lost Continent area. While the permit itself doesn’t name the ride, the manufacturer listed speaks volumes about the scale of what Universal is planning.

Intamin is the same company behind Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and Jurassic World VelociCoaster, two of the park’s most popular and technically advanced attractions. The permit also references “specialty equipment,” a term typically used when a theme park is installing a major ride system rather than simple infrastructure. In theme park language, that usually refers to a large-scale thrill attraction, most likely some form of launch coaster.

This filing follows months of behind-the-scenes movement in Lost Continent. Universal previously filed permits to demolish and renovate large sections of the land, and visible work like tree removal and land grading has been ongoing. With Poseidon’s Fury and The Eighth Voyage of Sindbad long closed, the area has been waiting for a true replacement, and this permit confirms that replacement will be a headline-level attraction.

While Universal hasn’t announced a theme yet, rumors have ranged from a Wizarding World expansion to a Legend of Zelda-inspired land. What’s clear is that Universal doesn’t bring Intamin in unless something big is coming, and Islands of Adventure looks poised to add another must-ride attraction in the not-too-distant future.

Green Eggs and Ham Goes Missing from Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast

By

Chris B

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December 20, 2025

Green Eggs and Ham goes missing from Breakfast with the Grinch

Green Eggs and Ham Missing from Breakfast with the Grinch and Friends This Year

The Whoville Detective Agency was immediately dispatched this year after a troubling discovery at The Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast. The beloved Green Eggs and Ham has seemingly vanished from the main menu, leaving investigators with nothing but crumbs, questions, and a suspiciously smug green suspect. While the case remains open, we’re happy to report that what replaced it is a surprisingly upscale brunch spread that still delivers plenty of holiday cheer.

We experienced the character breakfast, held in Suess Landing in Islands of Adventure, again this year, and the biggest takeaway was how much the menu has evolved. Compared to past years, including last year’s more traditional breakfast lineup, the current offerings lean hard into elevated brunch territory. Green Eggs and Ham may be missing in action for adults, but the flavors and creativity across the board more than make up for it. The meal kicks off with a warm cinnamon roll paired with fresh fruit, and both were a fantastic way to start the morning. The cinnamon roll was soft, sweet, and comforting, exactly what you want before diving into the main event.

For entrées, we tried two standouts that absolutely deserve the spotlight. The smoked brisket sandwich was outstanding, with tender, flavorful brisket that tasted like it had been given plenty of time to shine. The side potatoes topped with a fried egg were the perfect companion, adding richness and texture without overpowering the dish. We also sampled the Clucker Crunch Chicken Sandwich, and fair warning, this one is massive. Bring your appetite because the portion size does not hold back. That said, the flavors were right on target, with crispy chicken and balanced toppings that made every bite worth it.

Dessert wrapped things up on a sweet and festive note with the iconic green Grinch sugar cookies. They’re simple, nostalgic, and exactly the kind of treat that feels right in Whoville.

Of course, the true heart of this event isn’t just what’s on the plate. The highlight remains the extended meet and greet with the Whos, including Cindy Lou Who, and a lengthy one-one-on-one encounter with The Grinch himself. The character interactions are playful, personal, and never rushed, making the experience feel special every single time. With about 2.5 hours of meet and greet time included, plus access throughout the day, the value is absolutely there. When you factor in the upgraded food, the character time alone would justify the price, making the meal an incredibly welcome bonus.

Have you had a chance to meet the Grinch this year? Leave us a comment on social media and tell us all about it!

First Look at Disney Pop Up Shop in IKEA

By

Catherine

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December 20, 2025

Magic is in O-Town-A First Look at the Disney Pop-Up at IKEA Orlando

Looking for a little extra magic during your holiday shopping? Our favorite blue troublemaker has officially landed at IKEA Orlando (conveniently located right by the Mall at Millenia) with a massive Disney x IKEA Holiday Pop-Up!

Stitch has taken over the store just in time for “Stitchmas,” but he isn’t just here to shop—he’s also causing a bit of holiday havoc. If you are a Disney fan, a collector, or just looking for a unique family outing, here is everything you need to know about this limited-time experience.

The Goods: What’s in Store?

Located right inside the main entrance lobby, the pop-up shop is decked out with faux snow, holiday lights, and plenty of Disney flair. It is a one-stop shop for festive home decor and gifts:

Disney Home Essentials: Find adorable kitchenware and festive mugs perfect for your holiday hot cocoa.

Christmas Decor: From ornaments to holiday accents, there are plenty of ways to “Disney-fy” your home.

Plushies & Toys: The shop is packed with dolls and plush characters—with an extra-large helping of Stitch, of course!

Art & Wall Decor: Exclusive pictures and wall art are available to brighten up your Ohana.

Stitch’s Scavenger Hunt: Help Find the Mischief!

Stitch’s Scavenger Hunt: Help Find the Mischief!

While you browse the showroom, keep an eye out for blue paw prints! Stitch has gotten himself lost among the furniture displays, and he’s leaving a trail of “mischief” behind him.

Start at the Entrance: Scan the first QR code near the pop-up shop to get your clues.
Follow the Trail: Look for Stitch in various showroom setups—you might find him hiding in a kitchen or making a mess of a yellow couch!
Unlock the Prize: Once you find Stitch’s final hiding spot and scan the last code, you can unlock a special surprise reward at the Swedish Restaurant.

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More Magical Activities

If you are an IKEA Family member (which is free to join!), there are even more interactive ways to celebrate:

Magical Workshops: Kids and families can craft their own Mickey or Minnie-inspired bead art.
Decorating with Friends: Get hands-on by decorating your very own Stitch-themed gingerbread cookies!
Kids Eat Free: Don’t forget that during December, IKEA Family members can get up to two kids’ entrées free with the purchase of an adult entrée.

Limited Time Only: Don’t Wait!

While the pop-up and scavenger hunt are scheduled to run through January 4, 2026, many of these exclusive holiday items are moving fast.

Get to IKEA Orlando ASAP to join the mischief—it’s officially a Stitchmas miracle!