Have a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow because today is almost over!

This week, Disney teases an OG Star Wars Trilogy character to appear in Galaxy‘s Edge, a Marvel teaser trailer is released, and another Animal Kingdom attraction closing date is announced.

If you are enjoying Disney Discussions — The Free Disney Newsletter, please share it with your Disney-loving friends and family.

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This Week’s Disney News 🐭

Walt Disney World News 🏰:

💵 What We Learned from the Q1 FY25 Earnings Call about Disney Parks and Experiences

• Disney Confident in 6-8% Growth Projection for Experiences

• Disney Treasure Off to a Strong Start

• Lightning Lane Premier Rollout Moving Slowly

• Summer and Holiday Bookings Looking Strong

source: WDWMAGIC

🐞 Closure Date Announced for It’s Tough to Be a Bug at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

According to the official Walt Disney World website, the attraction will close on March 16, 2025, to prepare for Zootopia: Better Zoogether! at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in winter 2025. This show, an opening-day attraction since April 22, 1998, is located within the Tree of Life, the park's centerpiece.

source: WDWNT

🎶 Disney Shares Sneak Peek at New Original Song for Zootopia: Better Zoogether!

The Disney Parks Instagram shared a sneak peek of a new song for “Zootopia: Better Zoogether!” featuring Ginnifer Goodwin, the voice of Judy Hopps, singing a few lines from the original track.

🏈 Walt Disney World to Host Super Bowl 59 Winners

Walt Disney World will host the Super Bowl 59 winners on February 10 at Magic Kingdom Park. The game features the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles in New Orleans.

source: DAPSMAGIC

🇲🇽 EPCOT's Mexico Pavilion Undergoing Exterior Maintenance Alongside Ride Closure

Scaffolding surrounds sections of the pyramid, indicating maintenance beyond the Gran Fiesta Tour's temporary closure. Recent permit filings suggest roofing work may be included, but Disney has not disclosed specific details. Despite construction, guests can still enter the pavilion to visit its restaurant, bar, and shops.

source: WDWMAGIC

🎹 Jellyrolls at Disney’s BoardWalk Closing This Spring

The Jellyrolls piano bar at Disney’s BoardWalk will close this spring and relocate. Jellyrolls announced on Instagram: “After nearly thirty years, we’re moving! Celebrate with us this spring and follow our social media for updates!” Disney hasn’t confirmed a replacement but may open a jazz club in 2026. The BoardWalk is undergoing renovations, including the openings of BoardWalk Deli, BoardWalk Ice Cream, Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs, and The Cake Bake Shop. Big River Grille and Brewing Works closed last year.

source: WDWNT

🚜 South Florida Water Management District Approves Disney’s Tropical Americas Permit

The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) approved Disney’s permit for the new Tropical Americas land at Animal Kingdom. As of February 6, 2025, the permit is “active” and expires on February 6, 2030. Known as “Project Ro,” the permit includes infrastructure modifications for re-theming DinoLand U.S.A. and stormwater management details. After filing last fall, Disney updated the permit per SFWMD’s request for more information.

source: WDWNT

Disneyland News:

🤖 Droid Depot at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Disneyland Will No Longer Offer Reservations

The Disneyland Resort website announced that the Droid Depot in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will stop reservations and only accept walk-ups starting March 17, 2025. Meanwhile, the Droid Depot at Disney’s Hollywood Studios still requires reservations and full payment in advance.

source: WDWNT

💰 Disney Purchases Large Warehouse in Anaheim, Could Relate to Disneyland Expansion

The Walt Disney Company has acquired industrial property in Anaheim, California, previously leased to Disneyland. Disney purchased the warehouse from JPMorgan Chase & Co. for $124 million, having acquired it in 2018. Disneyland Resort has relocated backstage facilities to allow for expansion through Disneyland Forward. This purchase may be linked to that strategy, or Disney might prefer owning the building outright instead of leasing it.

source: WDWNT

🎫 Disneyland Resort Offers Complimentary Tickets to Heroes of Los Angeles Fires

The Los Angeles Fires this year devastated many Southern California residents, destroying tens of thousands of homes and businesses. First responders quickly stepped up to help. Disneyland Resort announced a special Heroes Ticket for eligible California firefighters and LA law enforcement, offering two complimentary One Day Park Hopper tickets—one for the responder and one for a guest.

source: DAPSMAGIC

🐍 Indiana Jones Adventure to Close for Refurbishment Shortly After 30th Anniversary at Disneyland Park

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Indiana Jones Adventure at Disneyland, which will close for refurbishment this spring. Other attractions closing then include “it’s a small world” and The Disneyland Story presenting Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln.

source: WDWNT

🚀 Disney Teases Luke Skywalker Meet and Greet at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

Disney Parks teased Luke’s arrival with a social media video featuring him and R2-D2 in front of the Millennium Falcon at Galaxy’s Edge. They announced more details will come on February 10, 2025, using hashtags #SeasonOfTheForce and #Disneyland, indicating the meet and greet will only be at Disneyland, not Disney World. Season Of The Force celebrates May the 4th and runs from March 28 to May 11, 2025. The video hints Luke will appear as his younger self from the time of “The Mandalorian,” dressed in his black Jedi outfit with a black glove on his right hand.

Muppet News 🐸 :

Disney Cruise Line News 🛳️ :

🚢 Multiple Companies Will Operate New Disney Cruise Ship in Japan

Oriental Land Company, operator of Tokyo Disney Resort, partnered with two Japanese firms to offer Disney cruises from Japan. This agreement involves Oriental Land Company, LLC., along with Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha and Yusen Cruises Co., Ltd., collectively called the “Nippon Yusen Group.”

source: WDWNT

Disney Entertainment News 🎬:

🌞Phineas And Ferb Revival Series Gets The Most Fitting Release Window On Disney+

The revival will feature 40 new episodes over two seasons, premiering this summer on Disney Channel and Disney+. The beloved series, which aired from 2007 to 2015, follows stepbrothers Phineas and Ferb on their summer adventures, often frustrating their sister, Candace.

🦸🏽 First Official Teaser Trailer Released for Marvel Studios’ ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’

Disney Discussions Recent Archive:

🧚 Pixie Dust ✨

Fun Facts: 📬

The Hall of Presidents in the Magic Kingdom, currently under refurbishment, features an official Presidential Seal. There are only three such seals in the world: one in the White House, one in Philadelphia's Liberty Bell Center, and this one in Disney World.

📸 Magic Shots of the Week:

Enjoy 20 seconds of riding the Liberty Belle. I recently rode it for the first and probably last time at Walt Disney World.

We all have favorite photos from our Disney vacations. I will share one of mine each week, but I would also love to include yours! Please email your Disney photo to photos@disneydiscussions.com, and I’ll feature it in a future weekly recap.

🌟 Disney Tip of the Week:

This week, we found the best water fountain in EPCOT. The water was cold and good tasting. It’s between Japan and Morocco, right here!

Do you have a favorite water fountain at the parks? Leave a comment and let us know!

Leave a comment

How to contact me 📝:

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Have a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow because today is almost over!

This week was a slow news week, but Disney gives us details on Valentine’s snacks, a new Disney+ Christmas movie, and the fate of the Galactic Starcruiser.

If you are enjoying Disney Discussions — The Free Disney Newsletter, please share it with your Disney-loving friends and family.

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This Week’s Disney News 🐭

Walt Disney World News 🏰:

• 🏨 Disney’s ‘Star Wars’ Hotel to Be Converted to Offices for Future Walt Disney World Projects - TheWrap

  This is sad. I’m surprised they haven’t done anything to make this a half-day or one-day experience. But I guess with all the work happening and going to happen, they need offices, and this was available.

• 🚜 Monsters Inc. Land Updates: New Permit, and Fresh Paint on Old Structure at Disney's Hollywood Studios - WDWMAGIC

  The mystery of the steel structure between Muppet*Vision 3D and Mama Melrose's has taken a turn. It's recently been painted light blue, a departure from its rusty red. As seen in the park, Disney uses this color to blend structures into the sky. A new Notice of Commencement (NOC) for construction was filed earlier this week. This site has hosted themed meet-and-greet experiences, including characters from Disney•Pixar's Cars and Phineas and Ferb. However, it's within the area for the new Monsters Inc. Land, signaling progress on the redevelopment into Monstropolis.

• ‘Celebrate Soulfully’ Offerings Return to Disney Parks to Celebrate Black History Month 2025 - WDWNT

• First Piece of New Track Placed at Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in Magic Kingdom - WDWNT

  The first section of track has been installed as work continues on Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Magic Kingdom. It will reopen with some new magic in 2026. A villains-themed land is also planned, suggesting the refurbishment is in preparation for that expansion.

• 🐅 Bakso the Sumatran Tiger Cub Draws Big Crowds at Disney's Animal Kingdom - WDWMAGIC

  Bakso, the Sumatran tiger cub, is a must-see attraction. Guests on the Maharajah Jungle Trek face wait times up to 20 minutes as crowds gather to see him in his new habitat.

• 🎶 Who's Performing at EPCOT's Garden Rocks 2025? Full Artist Lineup Revealed - WDWMAGIC

  2025 EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival Garden Rocks Concert Series Performer Lineup

  • March 7-8 – Tommy DeCarlo, former lead singer of Boston

  • March 9-10 – Air Supply – 50th Anniversary Celebration

  • March 14-15 – Blue October

  • March 16-17 – Rick Springfield

  • March 21-22 – Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone

  • March 23-24 – 38 Special

  • March 28-29 – Jason Scheff, longtime singer of Chicago

  • March 30-31 – TBD

  • April 4-5 – THE ORCHESTRA Starring ELO and ELO Part II Former Members

  • April 6-7 – Sugar Ray

  • April 11-12 – Simple Plan

  • April 13-14 – Jo Dee Messina

  • April 18-19 – Mike DelGuidice

  • April 20-21 – A Flock of Seagulls

  • April 25-26 – Taylor Dayne

  • April 27-28 – 98 Degrees

  • May 2-5 – Plain White T’s

  • May 9-10 – Jon Secada

  • May 11-12 – Maverick City Music (NEW)

  • May 16-17 – The Spinners

  • May 18-19 – The Pointer Sisters

  • May 23-24 – The Outlaws (NEW)

  • May 25-26 – Don Felder, formerly of the Eagles

  • May 30-31 – The Cat Empire (NEW)

  • June 1-2 – We The Kingdom (NEW)

• ❤️ Walt Disney World Extends Park Hours for Valentine's Day Week 2025 - WDWMAGIC

  • Disney's Animal Kingdom

    • February 9, 14, 15: Closing extended from 6:00 to 8:00 pm.

  • Disney's Hollywood Studios

    • February 14–15: Early entry begins at 8:00 am, moved up from 8:30 am.

  • Magic Kingdom

    • February 9–10: Closing extended from 9:00 pm to 10:00 pm.

    • February 13: Closing extended from 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm.

    • February 14: Early entry begins at 7:30 am, moved up from 8:30 am.

    • February 14–15: Park opening moved to 8:00 am, with closing extended to 11:00 pm.

Disneyland News:

• ❤️ Disney Eats: Valentine’s Day Foodie Guide 2025

  Some yummy-looking treats are coming to WDW and Disneyland for February.

• 🚂 Disneyland Railroad & Monorail Reopening Dates Announced -WDWNT

  Both classic attractions will reopen on March 7, 2025. The Disneyland Railroad and Monorail have been closed since early this month, with the Railroad’s closure being the second of four planned three-month refurbishments, each targeting a different track section.

• Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance Cannons Functioning Again at Disneyland - DAPSMAGIC

  The cannons in the final scene of Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance at Disneyland are now operational. They move and fire as guests drive underneath with a droid, trying to escape the First Order. Hopefully, this fix will also come to Walt Disney World.

• Disneyland “it’s a small world” Closed for Another Multi-Month Refurbishment - WDWNT

  New walls surround the “it’s a small world” facade as the attraction is closed for a lengthy refurbishment. No reopening date has been announced, but it is expected to return in the spring.

Muppet News 🐸 :

• Muppets Appear in Booking.com Super Bowl Commercials - DAPSMAGIC

  Booking.com has enlisted the Muppets this year to demonstrate how it helps everyone find exactly what they need. The ads feature Kermit, Miss Piggy, Animal, Statler, Waldorf, and Gonzo!

• No Closing Date for Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, Leaving Disney’s Hollywood Studios Without the Muppets - WDWNT

  Despite the recent news of MuppetVision 3D and PizzeRizzo closing this summer to make room for the new attraction, there has been no announcement regarding a closing date for Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith.

Disney Cruise Line News 🛳️ :

• Star Wars BDX Droids Sail on the Disney Wish Cruise Ship - WDWNT

  Imagineering’s “Star Wars” BDX droids recently set sail aboard the Disney Wish. The official Disney Parks social media accounts shared a video.

Disney Entertainment News 🎬:

• Jonas Brothers to Star in New Christmas Movie for Disney+ in 2025 - WDWNT

  A Jonas Brothers Christmas comedy film is coming to the Disney+ streaming service in time for Christmas 2025.

• Disney Announces Release Date for ‘The Fantastic Four: First Steps’ Official Trailer - WDWNT

  A trailer will air on “Good Morning America" on February 4, 2025. A teaser was shown at D23 2024, but the footage was never released. It’s unclear if the trailer will be the same or feature new footage.

Disney Discussions Recent Archive:

🧚 Pixie Dust ✨

Fun Facts: 📬

Did you know that during the construction of Disneyland in the early 1950s, Walt Disney created an apartment for his family above the Fire Department on Main Street? A lamp in the window served as a signal for staff to know when he was present, and it now remains lit in his memory. You can also take a tour of both Main Street and the apartment.

📸 Magic Shots of the Week:

We all have favorite photos from our Disney vacations. I will share one of mine each week, but I would also love to include yours! Please email your Disney photo to photos@disneydiscussions.com, and I’ll feature it in a future weekly recap.

🌟 Disney Tip of the Week:

🍨 Want a Beaches and Cream Sundae but didn’t get reservations? There’s a walk-up window where you can order ice cream. “But Tony, the No Way Jose sundae is not on the walk-up menu!“ Well, all you have to do is ask, and you shall receive, in exchange for money

How to contact me 📝:

✉️ email: tony@disneydisscussions.com
𝐗 Twitter) | 📸 Instagram | ＠ Threads | ▶️ Youtube | 😊 📘 Facebook

Have a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow because today is almost over!

The original story has been updated to include Captain America: Brave New World releasing this month.

Walt Disney World 🌎 :

February 2025 Events:

Park Hours: Always check park hours before your trip. Ticketed parties and even private special events can change the expected hours.

The 2025 EPCOT Festival of the Arts will be held from January 17 to February 24, 2025. Check the menus and schedule to see what delicious dishes and fun activities are available this year.

The 2025 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend is January 9th - 12th

President's Day starts a winter break for many Northeast schools. High crowds begin arriving on February 14 and continue through the 24⁠.

Princess Half Marathon Weekend is February 20-24⁠.

After Hours Events:

Magic Kingdom: February 3, 10, 17 and 24
Hollywood Studios: February 12 and 19
First EPCOT After Hours: February 27⁠

Extended Evening Hours:

Extended Evening Theme Park Hours allow eligible Deluxe and Deluxe Villa guests to stay at a theme park after the official park closes.

• Mon, 2/3 - Disney's Animal Kingdom (7:00 PM - 9:00 PM)

• Wed, 2/5 - Magic Kingdom (9:00 PM–11:00 PM)

• Mon, 2/10 EPCOT (9:00 PM - 11:00 PM)

• Wed, 2/12 - Magic Kingdom (9:00 PM – 11:00 PM)

• Mon, 2/17 - EPCOT (9:00 PM - 11:00 PM)

• Wed, 2/19- Magic Kingdom (9:00 PM - 11:00 PM)

• Mon, 2/24 - EPCOT (9:00 PM–11:00 PM)

• Wed, 2/26- Magic Kingdom (9:00 PM – 11:00 PM)

February 2025 WDW Refurbishments:

No one likes it when their favorite ride is closed on vacation, but updates and fixes must happen. It's best to know before you go!

⛰️ Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Dates: January 6th 2025 - 2026

Details: The attraction will “reopen with some new magic in 2026.”

Grand Fiesta Tour

Dates: January 6th - March 15th

Details: None :)

🦦 Kali River Rapids

Dates: January 6th - ???

Details: Normal cold weather refurbishment

🚀 Astro Orbiter

Dates: January 13th - Summer 2025

Details: Normal refurbishment

🏛️ Hall of Presidents

Dates: January 20th - ???

Details: Refurbishment to update the show for President 47, Donald Trump.

🐘 DUMBO PLAYGROUND

Dates: February 24, 2025 - Spring 2025

🚗 Test Track

Dates: June 17th 2024 — Summer 2025

Details: Test Track presented by Chevrolet will close and undergo a new makeover. It will be called Test Track 3.0. Details are sparse, but Disney provided some descriptions on its parks blog.

🛥️ Yacht Club

Dates: Jan 2025 - May 2025

Details: An announcement on Disney World’s website notifies visitors that some guest rooms at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort will be under refurbishment from January through May 2025.

Stormalong Bay: This resort is closed for routine maintenance,, and guests may hear construction noises during the day. During the closure, guests can swim at the Tidal, Admiral, and Dunes Cove leisure pools.

🏨 Bay Lake Tower at the Contemporary Resort

Dates: Sept 2024 — Sept 2025

Details: Beginning in September, the Bay Lake Tower would begin the first major refurbishment in its history.

Port Orleans - French Quarter

Dates: May 2024 — Spring 2025

Details: Some guest rooms will be under refurbishment. Guests may see or hear construction work during daytime hours. Most Resort hotel amenities will remain available.

Typhoon Lagoon Refurbishment

Dates: November 4th — TBA

Details: Typhoon Lagoon will close to begin a seasonal refurbishment.

Disneyland 🎡:

Park Hours: Always check park hours before your trip. Ticket parties and even private special events can change the expected hours.

February 2025 Events:

Lunar New Year will be celebrated from Jan. 17 – Feb. 16, 2025.

Disneyland After Dark: Sweethearts’ Nite on February 4, 6, 9, 11, and 13, 2025, from 9:00 PM to 1:00 AM. Tickets are sold out.

February 2025 Disneyland Refurbishments:

🐻 Grizzly River Run

Dates: Jan 6th — TBA

Details: Closing for a brief refurbishment

🚃 Red Car Trolley

Dates: Feb 8th — Permanent Closure

🎠 Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind

Dates: Jan 6th — TBA

Details: Closing for a brief refurbishment

🚂 Disneyland Railroad

Dates: Jan 13th — March 7th

🎎 “it’s a small world”

Dates: Jan 21st - Spring 2025

Details: Removing the Holiday overlay

🎩 The Disneyland Story Presenting Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln

Dates: 4/16/24 - 2025

Disney Movie Releases for February 2025 🍿:

Friday, February 14th:
Captain America: Brave New World

Marvel’s first theatrical release this year!

Disney+ in February 2025 📺 :

Wednesday, February 5

• Kindergarten: The Musical (S1, 5 episodes)

• My Best Friend’s An Animal (S1, 6 episodes)

• Marvel Animation’s Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man - Episodes 3-5

Friday, February 7

• Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur (S2, 10 episodes)

• The Lion King at the Hollywood Bowl - Premiere

Monday, February 10

• Cheerleader Generation (S1, 10 episodes)

• The Secret Lives of Cheerleaders

Wednesday, February 12

• Pupstruction (S2, 6 episodes)

• Harlem Ice - Premiere - All Episodes Streaming

• Marvel Animation’s Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man - Episodes 6-8

Thursday, February 13

• Shuffle of Love: A Descendants Short Story

• SLY LIVES! (aka The Burden of Black Genius) *available through February 22

Monday, February 17

• Adam Eats the 80s (S1, 10 episodes)

• Magic of Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point

Wednesday, February 19

• Mickey Mouse Funhouse (S3, 5 episodes)

• Win or Lose - Two-Episode Premiere

• Marvel Animation’s Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man - Episodes 9 & 10

Friday, February 21

• Theme Song Takeover (S3, 6 episodes)

Saturday, February 22

• Fur Babies (S1, 4 episodes)

Monday, February 24

• Find My Country House (S1, 10 episodes)

• Kim of Queens (S1, 12 episodes)

• No Taste Like Home with Antoni Porowski (S1, 6 episodes)

• Outrageous Love with Nene Leakes (S1, 10 episodes)

Wednesday, February 26

• Win or Lose - New Episodes

Friday, February 28

• Chibi Tiny Tales: Shorts (S6, 5 episodes)

• Wizards Beyond Waverly Place - 12 New Episodes

Disney Store Releases for February 2025

February 3

• The Three Caballeros Magicband+

• Dooney & Bourke Pinocchio Collection

• Janie and Jack Collection

February 10

• monica + andy Collection

February 11

• Loungefly Pastel Winnie the Pooh

• Loungefly Red Sequin

• Cinderella by Crocs

How to reach out to us:
✉️ email: tony@disneydisscussions.com
𝐗 Twitter | 📸 Instagram | ＠ Threads | ▶️ Youtube | 😊 📘 Facebook

Have a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow because today is almost over.

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I didn’t post for a bit, but we got an influx of new subscribers! Welcome. I hope you find this newsletter fun, informative, and entertaining. Please email me at tony@disneydiscussions.com with any feedback!

This week, Disney revealed some details about its new parade and show, expanded its premier pass, and announced a date for an unfortunate closure.

If you are enjoying Disney Discussions — The Free Disney Newsletter, please share it with your Disney-loving friends and family.

Share Disney Discussions - The Free Disney Newsletter

This Week’s Disney News 🐭

Muppets News 🐸 - The saddest news of all

• 🕶️ Closing Dates Announced for MuppetVision 3D, PizzeRizzo and Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano. - Disney Parks Blog

  In preparation for the monsters, the Grand Avenue area will start a closing phase in May. Guests can enjoy dining at Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano until May 10, after which Muppet*Vision 3D and PizzeRizzo will also close, with their last day of operation on June 7.

  I think I’ll head to WDW on June 7th for Muppet*Vision 3D’s last day.

Walt Disney World News 🏰:

• 💦 Disney World's Tiana's Bayou Adventure Begins Early Closings Through February 6, 2025 - WDWMAGIC

  Walt Disney World announced early closures for Tiana's Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom, closing at 6:00 pm on weekdays: January 22, 24, 27-30, and February 3, 5-6. The attraction will operate normally on weekends until 10 or 11 pm.

• ✨ New Details: Villains Show and Nighttime Parade Coming to Walt Disney World - Disney Parks Blog

  

• 🐉 Disney World Seeks Performers for Maleficent Role in Upcoming 'Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After' Show - WDWMAGIC

• Magic Kingdom Files Permit for Parade Storage: Preparing for Disney Starlight? - WDWMAGIC

  A new permit for the Parade Storage Building in Magic Kingdom may signal preparations for the upcoming nighttime parade, Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away, which will debut in the Summer of 2025.

• ⛏️ Tropical Americas Land at Animal Kingdom: Imagineering Progress & Permits - Disney Tourist Blog

  On January 17, 2025, Walt Disney Imagineering held a groundbreaking ceremony, marking the start of construction for the next development cycle at Walt Disney World. Park executives and the Tropical Americas project team attended the event.

• 🌸 EPCOT Flower and Garden 2025: Garden Rocks Dining Package Prices Revealed - WDWMAGIC

  These packages offer a dining experience at a participating EPCOT restaurant alongside guaranteed seating at one of the Garden Rocks concerts on the same day. Reservations start on January 29, 2025.

  • Each Garden Rocks Dining Package features:

    • A dining experience at a participating restaurant designed around its unique menu:

    • Spice Road Table: 2 small plates, a shared tagine, a shared dessert platter, and a nonalcoholic drink (or alcoholic for guests aged 21 and over).

    • Other Restaurants: An entrée, dessert, nonalcoholic drink (or alcoholic for guests aged 21 and over), or one full buffet where available.

    • One guaranteed seat per person for a Garden Rocks concert on the same day.

• ⚡️ Disney World Expanding Lightning Lane Premier Pass Again - Disney Tourist Blog

  Starting January 21, 2025, Disney World will expand the Lightning Lane Premier Pass to all guests. Resort and select third-party hotel guests can purchase passes up to 7 days before their stay, while off-site guests can buy them 3 days before their visit.

• New Free Walt Disney World Annual Passholder Magnet Featuring Ray the Firefly Available Now - WDWNT

  

• 🐘 Dumbo Queue Playground Closing for Refurbishment Late January 2025 at Magic Kingdom - WDWMAGIC

  The indoor children’s playground in the Dumbo the Flying Elephant queue at Magic Kingdom will close for refurbishment on January 27, 2025, and is expected to reopen in Spring 2025 after updates.

• 🏃‍♀️ 2025 runDisney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend Race Themes Revealed - WDWNT

Disneyland News:

• 🚜 Room Refurbishments for Disney’s Grand Californian - WDWNT

  Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is set to refresh all its guest rooms, including the Disney Vacation Club Villas. This renovation focuses primarily on soft goods, enhancing the current Arts & Crafts style with vibrant new colors in the carpets, upholstery, and bedding. In addition to the room upgrades, Napa Rose Restaurant will undergo a remodel, and a second club-level lounge will be introduced.

• Coco and The Incredibles Suites Coming to Pixar Place Hotel This Summer - WDWNT

  New Coco and The Incredibles-themed suites are coming to Pixar Place Hotel at Disneyland this summer. The Coco Suite features family hacienda decor with photos and mementos. The Incredibles Suite showcases a mid-century design with a spy-fi twist, designed by Superfan Winston Deavor as the perfect getaway for the Parr family.

• 🍝 Special Menu Items Revealed for Disneyland After Dark: Sweethearts’ Nite - DAPSMAGIC

Disney Cruise Line News 🛳️ :

• 🛳️ Disney Destiny Exterior Completion: Major Milestone for Disney Cruise Line’s Latest Ship - DisTrips and More

  The Disney Destiny is structurally complete. Disney Cruise Line announced that exterior construction is finished, and interior outfitting has begun. The ship's maiden voyage is on November 20, 2025, with Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale as her home base.

Disney Entertainment & Company News 🎬:

• 🌠 Ryan Gosling Rumored to Star in Shawn Levy’s New ‘Star Wars’ Film - WDWNT

  A recent Hollywood Reporter article states that Levy’s new Star Wars film is developing, with Ryan Gosling potentially starring. It will be a stand-alone movie, with plot details unreleased and no connection to the Skywalker Saga.

• Josh D'Amaro Unveils New Leadership Roles for Disney Parks and Cruise Line - WDWMAGIC

  Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D'Amaro announced leadership changes, including a new role for major events integration and appointments for Disneyland Resort, Disney Signature Experiences, and Shanghai Disney Resort. These changes align with the company's global growth plans for its cruise line and theme parks.

• ‘Daredevil: Born Again’ Trailer Sees Charlie Cox, Vincent D’Onofrio, and More Finally Return to the MCU - WDWNT

• Disney CEO Bob Iger Earned $41.1 Million in Fiscal 2024: A Breakdown of Executive Pay - WDWMAGIC.

  The Walt Disney Company's fiscal 2024 executive compensation report shows significant earnings for its leaders, with CEO Bob Iger topping the list. Iger returned in late 2022 to guide the company during tough times, earning $41.1 million this fiscal year.

• 🌊 Amid Lawsuit, “Moana 2” Crosses $1B in Global Box Office - WDWNT

  According to Deadline, “Moana 2” has topped the $1 Billion mark in global box office revenue.

• 💰 Disney Donates $15 Million to California Wildfire Relief, Supports Impacted Communities - WDWMAGIC

  The Walt Disney Company pledged $15 million to support wildfire relief in Southern California. The donation will help organizations such as the American Red Cross, the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, and the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank.

Disney Discussions Recent Archive:

🧚 Pixie Dust ✨

Fun Facts: 📬

Last week was the 50th anniversary of Magic Kingdom’s Space Mountain and the Carousel of Progress moving to WDW.

Believe it or not, the highest speed on Space Mountain is 27-28 mph, making it one of the slowest coaster rides in the Magic Kingdom! For comparison, Goofy's Barnstormer reaches a top speed of 25 mph, while the next fastest coaster, the 7 Dwarfs Mine Train, goes up to 34 mph.

Read DAPS Magic's excellent write-up on the history of Space Mountain:
The History of Space Mountain – More Than Just a Mountain

📸 Magic Shots of the Week:

I posed on Instagram a few shots from our trip from Mupppets courtyard.

We all have favorite photos from our Disney vacations. I will share one of mine each week, but I would also love to include yours! Please email your Disney photo to photos@disneydiscussions.com, and I’ll feature it in a future weekly recap.

🌟 Disney Tip of the Week:

Embrace the surprises! Things won’t always unfold as we’ve planned, and that’s perfectly fine. We experienced a few hiccups and unexpected changes during our trip that could have easily thrown me off, but I decided to go with the flow, and those moments turned out to be some of the very best!

How to contact me 📝:

✉️ email: tony@disneydisscussions.com
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Have a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow because today is almost over!

This week, Disney finally releases the Festival of the Arts menu, some pool closings, and hints at the Simpsons coming to a Disney theme park.

Welcome to our new subscribers! When you get this, I’ll be on a plane headed to Walt Disney World. Because of that, there won't be a weekly recap next week, but I’ll do my best to put together a recap of my trip with some lessons learned.

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This Week’s Disney News 🐭

Walt Disney World News 🏰:

• 🍽️ EPCOT International Festival of the Arts Foodie Guide 2025 - Disney Parks Blog

  

• 🏊 Disney's Grand Floridian Courtyard Pool Closing for Refurbishment Through Late February 2025 - WDWMAGIC
  Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa will close its Courtyard Pool, adjacent whirlpool spa, and Courtyard Pool Bar from January 13, 2025, through late February 2025 for routine maintenance on the Courtyard Pool building.
  I wish I had known this before our trip 😀, but the weather is not conducive to swimming anyway. Plus, their other pool is still open.

• Feature Pool at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort Closing for Maintenance Starting Mid-January 2025 - WDWMAGIC

• 🎥 Permit Filed to Install New Projectors at Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin in Magic Kingdom - WDWNT

  The notice of commencement addresses 1305 Monorail Way, the location of Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin in Tomorrowland. The general description is “Install projectors.”

• Disney's Guest Survey Hints at Future Simpsons-Themed Lands and Park Experiences - WDWMAGIC

  The questionnaire asked guests what offerings they would like to hear more about from Disney's franchises, explicitly focusing on The Simpsons and other properties. Two multiple-choice options stand out, suggesting Disney is gauging interest in theme park developments: Character Meet & Greets at Disney Theme Parks and New Lands or Attractions at Disney Theme Parks.

• 🛸 Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run Testing Modified Single Rider Line for Groups of Two at Disney's Hollywood Studios - WDWMAGIC

  A modified version of the single-rider line is being tested. It allows groups of two to enter the line together and ride in the same cockpit.

• runDisney Releases 2025-2026 Calendar of Races, First Look at New Virtual Valentine’s Day Race Medals - WDWNT

  RunDisney has released the 2025 – 2026 calendar of events, offering a first look at some upcoming race dates.

• First Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Track Piece Removed at Magic Kingdom - WDWNT

• Disney Files Permit for 'Disney Villains Unfairly Ever After' Stage Work at Hollywood Studios - WDWMAGIC

  The permit lists InterAmerica Stage as the contractor. InterAmerica Stage is a longtime Walt Disney Imagineering (WDI) partner known for its work on complex staging and performance systems.

Disneyland News:

• ‘Story Time with Deadpool’ Quietly Closes at Disney California Adventure -WDWNT

  “Story Time with Deadpool” debuted last summer to coincide with the release of “Deadpool & Wolverine.” It took place in Hollywood Land near Avengers Campus, with Deadpool on a small stage retelling Disney classics with help from Wolverine. The show was supposed to be a limited-time show for the summer, but a “Holiday Special” version continued through December.

Disney Cruise Line News 🛳️ :

• Disney Cruise plans new smaller design for 3 ships after 4th Wish - SeaTrade Crusie News

  Disney Cruise Line has announced that between 2027 and 2031, it will introduce four new ships—one Wish-class ship in 2027 and three vessels from a new class designed to accommodate 3,000 passengers. These three ships, slated for delivery between 2029 and 2031, will have a weight of 100,000 gt; they are smaller than the Wish and Dream classes but larger than the Wonder and Magic. The ships will utilize a variety of fuels and are expected to be among the most energy-efficient in the industry.

Disney Entertainment News 🎬:

• ⚽️ Disney Signs Deal to Merge Hulu Live TV with Fubo, Ending Lawsuit to Block Joint Sports Streaming App - WDWNT

• Reimagined ‘Holes’ TV Series Ordered for Disney+ - WDWNT

• Disney, Fox and Warner Bros. Discovery call off plans to launch Venu sports streaming service - CNBC

Muppets News 🐸 :

• New MuppetVision Sam Eagle Mug at Walt Disney World - WDWNT

• Muppets on the Bridge of the Disney Treasure:

Disney Discussions Recent Archive:

🧚 Pixie Dust ✨

Fun Facts: 📬

In 2025, Walt Disney World offers free water park entry on the first day of your resort stay. Get the details here:

Disney World Free Water Park Day in 2025: Everything You Need to Know -Dis Trips & More

📸 Magic Shots of the Week:

We all have favorite photos from our Disney vacations. I will share one of mine each week, but I would also love to include yours! Please email your Disney photo to photos@disneydiscussions.com, and I’ll feature it in a future weekly recap.

🌟 Disney Tip of the Week:

Disney Diary

10 Disney World Vacation Deals 2025: Your Guide to the Best Offers

On the second day of the new year Disney World came out gangbusters with a number of vacation deals for Florida residents, Annual Passholders and everyone else. Disney World also opened reservations for a free dining plan deals for certain stays during the summer…

Read more

a year ago · 1 like · Disney Diary

How to contact me 📝:

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Have a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow because today is almost over!

Happy New Year! Do you have a trip planned for 2025?

Walt Disney World 🌎 :

January 2024 Events:

Park Hours: Always check park hours before your trip. Ticketed parties and even private special events can change the expected hours.

The 2025 EPCOT Festival of the Arts will be held from January 17 to February 24, 2025. Check the menus and schedule to see what delicious dishes and fun activities are available this year.

The 2025 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend is January 9th - 12th

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is Monday, January 20th, so expect slightly elevated crowds that weekend and Monday.

After Hours Events:

Magic Kingdom: January 6, 13, 20 and 27
Hollywood Studios: January 22 and 29

January 2025 WDW Refurbishments:

No one likes it when their favorite ride is closed on vacation, but updates and fixes must happen. It's best to know before you go!

⛰️ Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Dates: January 6th 2025 - 2026

Details: According to Disney, Big Thunder Mountain will close for refurbishment on January 6th, 2025. The website says the attraction will “reopen with some new magic in 2026.”

Grand Fiesta Tour

Dates: January 6th - March 15th

Details: None :)

🦦 Kali River Rapids

Dates: January 6th - ???

Details: Normal cold weather refurbishment

🚀 Astro Orbiter

Dates: January 13th - Summer 2025

Details: Normal refurbishment

🦕 TriceraTop Spin

Date: January 13th

Details: closing forever to make way for the Tropicals America update

🏛️ Hall of Presidents

Dates: January 20th

Details: Refurbishment to update the show for President 47, Donald Trump.

🚗 Test Track

Dates: June 17th — 2025

Details: Test Track presented by Chevrolet will close and undergo a new makeover. It will be called Test Track 3.0. Details are sparse, but Disney provided some descriptions on its parks blog.

🛥️ Yacht Club

Dates: Jan 2025 - May 2025

Details: An announcement on Disney World’s website notifies visitors that some guest rooms at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort will be under refurbishment from January through May 2025.

Stormalong Bay: This resort is closed for routine maintenance,, and guests may hear construction noises during the day. Guests can swim at the Tidal, Admiral, and Dunes Cove leisure pools during the closure.

🏨 Bay Lake Tower at the Contemporary Resort

Dates: Sept 2024 — Sept 2025

Details: Beginning in September, the Bay Lake Tower would begin the first major refurbishment in its history.

Port Orleans - French Quarter

Dates: May 2024 — Spring 2025

Details: Some guest rooms will be under refurbishment. Guests may see or hear construction work during daytime hours. Most Resort hotel amenities will remain available.

Typhoon Lagoon Refurbishment

Dates: November 4th — TBA

Details: Typhoon Lagoon will close to begin a seasonal refurbishment.

Disneyland 🎡:

Park Hours: Always check park hours before your trip. Ticket parties and even private special events can change the expected hours.

January 2025 Events:

Lunar New Year will be celebrated from Jan. 17 – Feb. 16, 2025.

Anaheim Ducks Day will be on Jan. 24, 2025.

Disneyland After Dark: Sweethearts’ Nite on January 21, 23, 28, from 9:00 PM to 1:00 AM. Ticket price starts at $149 per guest.

January 2025 Disneyland Refurbishments:

🐻 Grizzly River Run

Dates: Jan 6th — TBA

Details: Closing for a brief refurbishment

Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind

Dates: Jan 6th — TBA

Details: Closing for a brief refurbishment

👻 Haunted Mansion

Dates: Jan 7th - Jan 18th

Details: Removing the Holiday overlay

“it’s a small world”

Dates: Jan 21st - Spring 2025

Details: Removing the Holiday overlay

The Disneyland Story Presenting Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln

Dates: 4/16/24 - 2025

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Dates: 11/18/24 - 12/13/24

Disney+ in January 2025:

Wednesday, January 1

• Morphle: Shorts (S1, 10 episodes)

Tuesday, January 7

• Star Wars: Skeleton Crew Episode 7

Thursday, January 9

• UFOs: Investigating the Unknown (S2, 6 episodes)

Friday, January 10

• Goosebumps: The Vanishing Premiere – All Episodes Streaming

Saturday, January 11

• My Best Friend’s An Animal (S1, 6 episodes)

Tuesday, January 14

• Star Wars: Skeleton Crew Episode 8

Wednesday, January 15

• A Real Bug’s Life (Season 2) Premiere – All Episodes Streaming

Wednesday, January 29

• Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man Two-Episode Premiere

Disney Store Releases for January 2025

January 1

• Marvel LEGO

January 6

• Vintage Collection

• Mug Refresh

• Disney Mini Mix-Its

• Minnie Mouse Starbucks

• Disney Story Play Collection

January 13

• Mickey Mouse Home Collection

• Valentine's Day Starbucks

How to reach out to us:
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Have a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow because today is almost over.

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Planning a Walt Disney World trip for your family can be overwhelming, especially if you have 13 people. Fortunately, I know what I’m doing 😉. How do I know what to do? I do a lot of practice, but mainly, I do research. I love reading about others’ trips to see what worked and what didn’t. So, if you are planning a trip to Walt Disney World with a large group, I hope this helps.

But first, a little background. I have a family of 6, me, my wife, a 17-year-old boy, a 14-year-old boy, a 9-year-old girl, and an 8-year-old boy. I’m also a cast member with Disney Streaming. I can’t go into details, but I get discounts available only to cast members, so with that, I won’t be going into prices. My wife’s two parents are joining us, as well as my brother-in-law and family
so,

Who?

4 adults in their 40s
2 adults in their 60s
2 teenage boys
1 teenage girl
2 9 year old girls
8 year old boy
and a 5-year-old girl

I had to make two dining reservations to accommodate our whole party. Fortunately, I got times within 5 minutes of each other. We’ll arrive early and ask them to sit at the two tables together or close to each other.

When?

We’ll visit Walt Disney World in January 2025, arriving on Sunday, January 12th, and leaving on Sunday, January 19th. Why those dates? I found the best price. It was also a good week based on crowd calendars. Our visit is sandwiched between marathon weekend and Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
We aren’t concerned with taking the kids out of school, and we have found that some of the best times to go are right after or before school breaks.

Where?

We’ll be staying at the Grand Floridian! It's a dream come true. My wife and I have had the pleasure of staying there once before, but for everyone else, it’s their first time. Since my family is six, we needed two rooms and requested adjoining rooms. We also asked for the other two rooms to be near each other. I’ll follow up and let you know how that works out.

What? (or our schedule)

Sunday, January 12th:

We won’t be going to a theme park on the first day, but our flight is early, arriving in Orlando at 9 a.m. We are using Mears to get from the airport to our hotel. If the weather permits, we’ll go to Blizzard Beach and spend some time at the water park. Disney offers free water park admission on the first day of your resort stay, so we’ll take advantage of that.

We’ll eat at a quick-serve restaurant at the hotel or water park. We have a 4 p.m. Ohana reservation at the Polynesian.

Monday, January 13th:

This will be our primary Magic Kingdom Day. Rope drop to close, possibly.

We’ll have a quick-serve early lunch at Columbia Harbor House and dinner at 5 p.m. at Jungle Navigation Co. LTD Skipper Canteen.

Tuesday, January 14th:

We’ll spend half a day at Animal Kingdom; we rarely spend more than that at this park. It’s honestly our least favorite. Then, spend some time shopping at Disney Springs.

We’ll have a quick serve lunch at Satu'li Canteen, then head to the Animal Kingdom Lodge for Sanaa.

Wednesday, January 15th:

It's a resort day. We don't plan to go to a park, relax at the hotel, or maybe visit the monorail hotels and have fun. However, a few people in our party may spend time at the spa.

We’ll have breakfast at 10:45 am at 1900 Park Fare, then grab dinner at the hotel’s quick serve.

We also plan to head to the Poly that night to grab a Dole Whip and watch the fireworks from the beach. My wife and I were able to do this during the summer, and it was fantastic. We are excited to have our family experience this.

Thursday, January 16th:

For the first half of the day, we'll head to Magic Kingdom. My current plan is to visit Adventureland and Frontierland on the left side of the park.

We’ll then go to Hollywood Studios for the afternoon and see Fantasmic.

We’ll have lunch at Peco’s Bills and grab a sit-down dinner at Roundup Rodeo BBQ.

Friday, January 17th:

We’ll travel around the world and go to EPCOT. This is the first day of the 2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts. I’m a little worried it’ll be crowded because of that.

Lunch will be at Regal Eagle Smokehouse, and we will have dinner and dessert at Beaches and Cream.

Saturday, January 18th:

We’ll spend the whole day at Hollywood Studios. This is my favorite park, and I am happy to revisit MuppetVision 3D. There will be other visits before it closes.

We’ll have Ronto Roasters for lunch and eat dinner at Mama Melrose, probably for the last time.

So, how did I do? Do you have any recommendations or tips? After our trip, I’ll post a follow-up to tell you how everything went and what lessons I learned.

How to contact me 📝:

✉️ email: tony@disneydisscussions.com
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Have a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow because today is almost over!

I hope you all have an excellent Christmas celebrating the birth of our Savior Jesus.

Luke 2:8-14

8 Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night.

9 And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid.

10 Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people.

11 For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

12 And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”

13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:

14 “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”

Today I’ll share a gift from a few Disney company Christmas cards. These are all found in the excellent book From All of Us to All of You: Disney Christmas Card, The (Disney Editions Deluxe) by Jeff Kurtti. I highly recommend this book.

How to contact me 📝:

✉️ email: tony@disneydisscussions.com
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Have a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow because today is almost over!

This week, Disney has some Bluey news, opens a new DVC resort, and reveals a few more refurbishments for 2025.

I’m unsure what the next few weeks will bring regarding the newsletter. I’ll send out the January 2025 Monthly look ahead. I may not send a recap next week or the week after, depending on the news. If not, I’ll send a post about planning my WDW trip from January 12th to January 19th.

Thank you all for subscribing to and reading this newsletter. I wish you all a Merry Christmas, a Happy Hanukkah, and a Happy New Year!

If you are enjoying Disney Discussions — The Free Disney Newsletter, please share it with your Disney-loving friends and family.

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This Week’s Disney News 🐭

Walt Disney World News 🏰:

• 🛰️ Astro Orbiter at Magic Kingdom Closing for Months-Long Refurbishment - WDWNT

  The Tomorrowland ride will be closed starting January 13, 2025. Disney plans to reopen Astro Orbiter in the summer of 2025.

• 🚧 Disney Submits Updated Plans for Transformation of Rivers of America at Magic Kingdom - WDWNT

  Walt Disney World has provided its revised plans for transforming Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island at Magic Kingdom to the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) in response to the district’s Request for Additional Information (RAI). The 23-page RAI response letter details Disney's replies to each comment from SFWMD regarding the project; however, no significant alterations to the plan are evident in these documents.

• 🌴 Island Tower at Disney's Polynesian Resort Officially Opens to Guests at Walt Disney World - WDWMAGIC

  Disney's Polynesian Villas & Bungalows has proudly unveiled its newest feature, the Island Tower, which opened its doors to guests today, December 17, 2024. This launch represents the latest resort expansion, providing Disney Vacation Club Members and guests with fresh accommodations and amenities inspired by the South Pacific's stunning beauty and rich culture.

• 🚶Walkway Connecting Polynesian, Grand Floridian, and Magic Kingdom Reopens with Island Tower Opening - WDWMAGIC

  The much-anticipated walking path at Disney's Polynesian Resort has reopened with the grand opening of the Island Tower on December 17, 2024. Guests can now freely stroll between Disney's Polynesian Resort and Disney's Grand Floridian Resort, offering an extended pedestrian route that links key locations along the Seven Seas Lagoon.

• 🇺🇸 Hall of Presidents at Magic Kingdom Closing in January for Trump Update - WDWNT

  The Hall of Presidents at Magic Kingdom will close in late January for an update likely coinciding with Donald Trump's inauguration. He will be the first animatronic to be repositioned to center stage.

• 🎨 5 New Artful Experiences at the 2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts - Disney Parks Blog

  The five new experiences are:

  • Once Upon A Stage: 30 Years of Disney on Broadway in CommuniCore Hall

  • Opening Bites Food Studio just outside at CommuniCore Plaza

  • New Artful Photo Op - voyage alongside our favorite seafarer featuring Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Moana.”

  • Festival Merchandise - a brand new, art-themed collection of merchandise dedicated to our favorite imaginary dragon, Figment

  • Disney on Broadway Concert Series

• 🏠 ‘Celebracion Encanto’ Now Full-Time Offering at EPCOT - WDWNT

  Walt Disney World has officially made “¡Celebración Encanto!” a full-time entertainment offering at EPCOT.

Disneyland News:

• 👻Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion Debuts New Music by Ego Plum for Expanded Outdoor Queue - WDWNT

• 🎫 Walls Down at New Disneyland Entrance Tapstiles, Digital Signage Added - WDWNT

  Approximately a year ago, in December 2023, permits were submitted for modifications to the parks’ entrances featuring new tapstiles. Work at Disneyland Park began in November 2024, and now that the walls have come down, guests can see the new system. The board above the entrance is now digital, while the tapstiles still operate on an analog system, necessitating manual changes.

• 🚂 Disneyland Railroad to Close for Refurbishment in Early 2025 - WDWNT

  The Disneyland Railroad will close on January 13th, 2025, and remain shut for much of Spring, aiming to reopen before the 70th anniversary celebration begins on May 16th, 2025.

• 💦 New Single Rider Queue Opens at Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in Disneyland - WDWNT

  Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Disneyland has introduced a new single-rider queue that operates differently than the prior Splash Mountain single-rider line. A new third queue for single riders has been established at the main entrance. This queue allows guests to skip the standard line while featuring many of the same props and story elements. It connects to the old single-rider waiting area at the exit.

Disney Entertainment News 🎬:

• 🐾 First-Ever ‘Bluey’ Animated Feature Film Releasing in 2027 from Disney and BBC Studios - WDWNT

  

• 💰 Disney Back On Top – Only Studio to Make $2B Domestically in 2024 - WDWNT

  This marks the second time since 2019 that Disney has broken the $2B barrier.

Disney Cruise Line News 🚢:

• 📺 Disney+ Subscribers: Kids Sail for 50% Off on Select Disney Cruise Line Voyages - WDWMAGIC

  Guests aged 17 and under sail for half price when accompanied by two full-fare Guests in the same stateroom on select cruises aboard the Disney Wish, Disney Dream, and Disney Wonder.

• Bluey Coming to Walt Disney World and Disney Cruise Line in 2025 - WDWMAGIC

  Walt Disney World is preparing to introduce Bluey. Although Disney has not disclosed specific details about what Bluey will offer at Walt Disney World, it has assured fans of unique experiences. These may feature character meet-and-greets, interactive activities, or live performances like those scheduled for Disney Cruise Line voyages from Australia and New Zealand. On those cruises, families will engage with Bluey and her sister, Bingo, participating in games and dance parties that reflect the show's lively essence.

Muppets News 🐸 :

• Four Characters from “The Muppets” Headed to “Fall Guys” - LaughingPlace

  

Disney Discussions Recent Archive:

🧚 Pixie Dust ✨

Fun Facts: 📬

Over 200 sunglasses are turned into Lost and Found daily in Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. Sunglasses and hats are considered among the most commonly lost items at theme parks.

Disney estimates that since Walt Disney World opened in 1971, it has found over 1.65 million pairs of missing sunglasses!

Lost and Found Cast Members collect over 6,000 cell phones, 3,500 digital cameras, 18,000 hats, and 7,500 autograph books every year!

📸 Magic Shots of the Week:

So, I now have an almost life-size Donald Duck in my house.

We all have favorite photos from our Disney vacations. I will share one of mine each week, but I would also love to include yours! Please email your Disney photo to photos@disneydiscussions.com, and I’ll feature it in a future weekly recap.

🌟 Disney Tip of the Week:

Get VIP Fireworks Views without a Dining Package

• You can view the Magic Kingdom fireworks from the Ticket and Transportation Center (TTC). The soundtrack plays through speakers, creating an uncrowded and romantic atmosphere spot.

• At Epcot, visit the second floor of the Japan Pavilion’s Mitsukoshi store for clear views.

How to contact me 📝:

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Have a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow because today is almost over!

This week, Disney announces Flower & Garden dates and some refurbishments and receives many Golden Globe nominations.

If you are enjoying Disney Discussions — The Free Disney Newsletter, please share it with your Disney-loving friends and family.

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This Week’s Disney News 🐭

Walt Disney World News 🏰:

• 🌲 Tree of Life Awakenings Adds Mufasa Segment for a Limited Time at Disney's Animal Kingdom - WDWMAGIC

  A new segment has been added to the Tree of Life Awakenings at Disney's Animal Kingdom, featuring the story of Mufasa from The Lion King.

• 🌐 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival Dates and Concert Lineup Announced - WDWNT

  The festival will again bloom throughout EPCOT from March 5 to June 2, 2025. The upcoming festival will celebrate 30 years of Flower & Garden.

  Disney also shared a partial lineup for the Garden Rocks Concert Series during the festival at the America Gardens Theatre.

  • March 7, 8 – Tommy DeCarlo, former lead singer of Boston

  • March 9, 10 – Air Supply – 50th Anniversary Celebration

  • March 14, 15 – Blue October

  • March 16, 17 – Rick Springfield

  • March 21, 22 – Herman’s Hermits, starring Peter Noone

  • March 23, 24 – 38 Special

  • March 28, 29 – Jason Scheff, Longtime singer of Chicago

• 🇲🇽 Gran Fiesta Tour Closing for Refurbishment at EPCOT in Early 2025 - WDWMAGIC

  Gran Fiesta Tour, Featuring The Three Caballeros at EPCOT, will temporarily close on January 6, 2025, and reopens on March 15, 2025.

• 🗻 Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Prepares for Overhaul at Magic Kingdom - WDWMAGIC

• 🎄 Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade 2024: Performer Lineup Announced - WDWNT

  Here is when and where the special will air on Christmas Day, Wednesday, December 25, 2025:

  • 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. EST/9:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. CST/5:00 a.m.-7:00 a.m. MST/PST on ABC

  • 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. EST/10:00 a.m.-12:00 a.m. CST on Disney+ as part of “Spend Christmas Day with Disney+”

  • 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. EST/10:00 a.m.-12:00 a.m. CST on YouTube

• 🏎️ Test Track Transformation Continues at EPCOT - WDWMAGIC

  

• 🌺 Final Preparations Underway for Island Tower at Disney's Polynesian Resort - WDWMAGIC

  The Island Tower at Disney's Polynesian Villas & Bungalows will officially open on December 17, 2024, and final preparations are underway.

• 🌊 Kali River Rapids at Disney's Animal Kingdom Closing for Refurbishment - WDWMAGIC

  Kali River Rapids at Disney’s Animal Kingdom will temporarily close on January 6, 2025, for its regular refurbishment. While Disney has not provided a specific reopening date, it indicates that it should reopen in March 2025. In 2024, the attraction reopened around mid-March after its refurbishment.

• Wailulu Bar and Grill: Full Menu and Prices Revealed at Disney's Polynesian Resort - WDWMAGIC

  This walk-up bar and grill will serve Polynesian-inspired dishes, desserts, and beverages while offering views of the Seven Seas Lagoon and Magic Kingdom fireworks.

• 📺 Disney+ Is Now Rolling Out to Walt Disney World Resort Hotel TVs - WDWMAGIC

  To access the service, you must log in with your Disney+ account details.

  Disney+ on hotel TVs isn't included with your stay. You'll need an active subscription and your login information. Your account will be signed out automatically at the end of your stay, but you can also log out manually before you leave. This feature is being added across resort hotels, but availability may vary depending on the property.

• 🚦 EPCOT World Celebration Light-Up Pavement Restored - WDWNT

  The lighting creates the EPCOT logo around the central planter of World Celebration Gardens. World Celebration officially opened on December 5, 2023, but the lights were experiencing issues by the next day. Broken lighting continued into the summer of 2024. In mid-November, the pavement lights were completely turned off.

• 🚘 Disney Gains Extension for Cars-Themed Land Permit Review Until January 2025 - WDWMAGIC

• Disney Imagineering Files Notice of Commencement for Tropical Americas at Animal Kingdom - WDWMAGIC

  WDI has submitted a Notice of Commencement for the location once home to Primeval Whirl, indicating a step forward in the eagerly awaited Tropical Americas expansion of the park. This filing implies that preparations for redevelopment will commence shortly, in line with Disney's vision to transform Dinoland U.S.A. into a themed area reflecting Central and South American cultures and ecosystems.

Disneyland News:

• 🕯️ Kathryn Hahn Provides Animated Narration for Christmas Story During Disneyland’s Candlelight Processional - DAPSMAGIC

• Tiana’s Bayou Adventure to Begin Using Standby Queue at Disneyland - DAPSMAGIC

Disney Entertainment News 🎬:

• 🏮 ‘Tangled’ to Get Live-Action Treatment with ‘The Greatest Showman’ Director - DAPSMagic

• 🎬 ‘Moana 2’ Continues to Sail to Success at the Box Office - DAPSMAGIC

  Another solid weekend took the top spot with $52 million at the domestic box office. This makes it the record holder for the second weekend after Thanksgiving. Previously, Frozen II held that title for the weekend after Thanksgiving with $32.5 million.

  Moana 2 earned $300 million domestically during its theatrical run, surpassing the original film’s total box office earnings of $248.7 million. The sequel surpassed the original in just 10 days. Moana 2 has earned $600 million globally, surpassing the original's total of $582 million.

• 🇺🇸 Chris Evans Returning to the MCU in ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ - WDWNT

  The exact nature of Evans’ return has not been revealed. I guess he’ll appear as Hydra-Cap, an evil version of Cap from the comics.

• 🏆 The Walt Disney Company Earns 35 Golden Globe® Award Nominations Across its Film and Television Studios, Streaming Services and Broadcast - The Walt Disney Company

  Disney’s streaming platforms, Disney+ and Hulu, are home to 23 combined nominations. Hulu garnered 19 nominations, including nods for Hulu Original Only Murders in the Building, FX series Shōgun, and The Bear, leading all television series with five nominations, as well as ABC’s Abbott Elementary. Disney+ received four nominations for titles, including Marvel Television’s Agatha All Along.

Disney Business News 📈:

• Disney Supports the Gary Sinise Foundation and Families of Fallen Heroes - Disney Parks Blog

Muppets News 🐸 :

• New Stanley-Style MuppetVision 3D Sam Eagle Tumbler at Walt Disney World - WDWNT

Disney Discussions Recent Archive:

🧚 Pixie Dust ✨

Fun Facts: 📬

Did You Know There are 22 Mailboxes in the Parks at the Disneyland Resort?

This fun fact comes from DAPSMAGIC. You can mail postcards, letters, and even Christmas cards from Disneyland.

📸 Magic Shots of the Week:

These windows on Magic Kingdom's Main Street at Christmas are amazing. I have fond childhood memories of watching this special on TV.

We all have those photos we love from a Disney vacation. Every week, I’ll share one. They will be my photos, but I’d love for you to share yours so I can include them. Email me your Disney photo to photos@disneydiscussions.com, and it’ll go in a future weekly recap.

🌟 Disney Tip of the Week:

Use Mobile Ordering to Save Time at Quick-Service Restaurants
Avoid long lines by using the My Disney Experience app to mobile order food at quick-service restaurants across Walt Disney World. Select your meal, choose a pickup window, and pay directly in the app. Once you arrive, tap "I'm Here, Prepare My Order," and your food will be ready shortly. This is a huge time-saver, especially during peak dining hours.

Bonus Tip: Mobile ordering also lets you browse menus in advance, so you can plan meals around your day and accommodate dietary preferences!

How to contact me 📝:

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Have a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow because today is almost over!

This week, Disney makes an update to Tiana's ride, a new lion pride appears, and Moana 2 makes crazy money at the box office.

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This Week’s Disney News 🐭

Walt Disney World News 🏰:

• Ray and Evangeline Join Tiana's Bayou Adventure Finale at Walt Disney World - WDWMAGIC

  Imagineers have updated Tiana's Bayou Adventure at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom with a new addition to the ride's finale: Ray and Evangeline.

  Fans of The Princess and the Frog will now find the beloved firefly and his "Evangeline" represented in the attraction's final scene shining brightly over the bayou.

• Disney Requests 60-Day Extension to Update Rivers of America ‘Cars’ Permit - WDWNT

• Swiss Family Treehouse Closed for 1-Month Refurbishment at Magic Kingdom - WDWNT

  The Swiss Family Treehouse has been closed since November 18, 2024. Disney states it will reopen on December 20, 2024.

• Dumbo Queue Playground Set for Refurbishment at Magic Kingdom - WDWMAGIC

  The interactive playground inside the Dumbo, the Flying Elephant queue at Magic Kingdom, is set for refurbishment. Recent permits filed with Orange County show plans to update the playground flooring and replace the playground netting.

• New Lion Pride Arrives at Disney’s Animal Kingdom - DAPSMAGIC

  A new pride of lions arrived and can now be seen by guests as they sit atop their hill and look down at the Harambe Wildlife Reserve.

• Full Menu Revealed for New Wailulu Bar & Grill at Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian - WDWNT

  Wailulu Bar & Grill will offer views of Seven Seas Lagoon and the Magic Kingdom fireworks. Its Polynesian-inspired artwork includes unique pieces crafted from recycled materials and reclaimed fishing nets. The name comes from the Hawaiian words “wai” meaning water and “lulu” meaning calm.

  The menu celebrates the flavors of Polynesia with influences of the Pacific Islands, from Easter Island and New Zealand to Fiji and Guam.

• AI Comes to Disney Dining: All-Star Sports Food Court Hosts New Self-Checkout Trial - WDWMAGIC

Disneyland News:

• Spider-Man Revealed on Avengers Reserve Facade as Construction Walls Come Down at Downtown Disney - WDWNT

  

• Disneyland Resort Offering Discounted SoCal Resident Tickets for Early 2025 - WDWNT

  Southern California residents can enjoy Disneyland Resort for as low as $67 per day with the special 3-Day, 1-Park per day ticket. This offer is available now and is valid from January 1 to May 15, 2025.

• Closing Date Announced for Red Car Trolley at Disney California Adventure - WDWNT

  In 2025, construction will begin on the expansion of Avengers Campus at Disney California Adventure. To make way for new experiences, the last date for guests to ride Red Car Trolley will be Feb. 8, 2025.

• Walt Disney’s Grandkids Approve of ‘Stellar’ New Animatronic Coming to Disneyland - WDWNT

  Walt Disney's grandchildren approved the new audio-animatronic of their grandfather, debuting at Disneyland next year, calling it "stellar" and very accurate.

Disney Entertainment News 🎬:

• ‘Moana 2’ Box Office Celebrates Top Thanksgiving Weekend Records - WDWNT

  The sequel beat the previous 5-day record holder, “The Super Mario Bros. Movie,” and made almost twice that of “Frozen 2″‘s Thanksgiving opening record. It made more than $386 million over the five-day opening.

• Disney Releases New Trailer for Live-Action ‘Snow White’

• ‘Nothing Has Been Ruled Out’ Disney Could Bring Johnny Depp Back for Pirates of the Caribbean 6 - WDWNT

  Multiple scripts for the next “Pirates of the Caribbean” film are currently in development, with one version reportedly including Johnny Depp’s Jack Sparrow.

Disney Business News 📈:

• Mickey Mouse Is Delivering Joy to Kids in Need on a Holiday Journey - Disney Parks Blog

• Disney Share a Look at New Headquarters in New York City - DAPSMAGIC

  The Walt Disney Company's new headquarters, the Robert A. Iger building, is located at 7 Hudson Square in New York City, housing all of its New York businesses.

• Disney Shareholders Get a Raise: Dividend Increased for 2025

  The Walt Disney Company has declared a cash dividend of $1.00 per share, a 33% increase from the $0.75 per share paid to shareholders during fiscal year 2024.

Muppets News 🐸 :

• No Mupperts news this week, but check out this TV Special from 1987: A Muppet Family Christmas. I’ve watched this at least once a year since It came out. It’s a holiday favorite!

Disney Discussions Recent Archive:

🧚 Pixie Dust ✨

Fun Facts:

Disney owns the highest-grossing movies of every rating:
G = Toy Story 4
PG = The Lion King (2019)
PG-13 = Avatar
R = Deadpool & Wolverine

📸 Magic Shot of the Week:

We all have those photos we love from a Disney vacation. Every week, I’ll share one. They will be my photos, but I’d love for you to share yours so I can include them. Email me your Disney photo to photos@disneydiscussions.com, and it’ll go in a future weekly recap.

🌟 Disney Tip of the Week:

Look up! No, seriously, there are many details around the parks, many hidden up high. There are names on Main Street USA, Roger Rabbit and Rocketeer references in Hollywood Studios, hidden figments in EPCOT, and the chemical make-up of your favorite condiments in Animla Kingdom.

Take a minute, pause and look up.

How to contact me 📝:

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Have a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow because today is almost over!

A note: there’s lots of details here that your email can’t contain. read this post on our website to get all the details:

https://www.freedisneynewsletter.com/p/disneyland-in-2025

Disney also announced when new attractions and shows will open in 2025 for Walt Disney World. Read our post with those details here:

Before we dig into the 70th-anniversary events for Disneyland, let’s go through some dates for planned events first.

2025 Festivals, Events, and Limited-Time Celebrations 🎆

Lunar New Year at Disney California Adventure Park (Jan. 17-Feb. 16):

The celebrations will welcome the Year of the Snake. Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse will unveil new outfits showcasing traditional Korean attire. The festivities will feature "Hurry Home – A Lunar New Year Celebration," a water short, as well as "Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession" on select days. Daily live musical performances and Asian-inspired menu items will be available across six Lunar New Year marketplaces and select dining locations.

Anaheim Ducks Day (Jan. 24):

At California Adventure, fans will enjoy a cavalcade, appearances by select Anaheim Ducks players, and themed games.

Celebrate Gospel at Disneyland Park (Feb. 8 and 15):

This annual concert will return on Feb. 8 and Feb. 15, with performances by community choirs from across Southern California and award-winning artists.

Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival (Feb. 28-April 21):

This event celebrates the Golden State with creative menu items, ten-themed marketplaces, live entertainment, and Chef Goofy's return, bookable culinary experiences, and the classic Soarin’ Over California attraction.

Season of the Force at Disneyland Park (March 28-May 11):

"Fire of the Rising Moons" will perform nightly at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, featuring new projection effects and galactic music enhanced by fireworks on select nights. Additionally, Hyperspace Mountain will return to Tomorrowland, allowing you to hurtle through the galaxy and encounter TIE fighters along the way!

Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party (Summer):

The one-day event at California Adventure and the two-day event at Downtown Disney are returning with fun entertainment, Disney Jr. character encounters, and family-friendly activities.

Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort (Aug. 22-Oct. 31):

Experience enjoyable activities throughout the resort, featuring uniquely themed attractions, family-friendly entertainment, and seasonal food and beverages.

Plaza de la Familia at Disney California Adventure Park (Aug. 22-Nov. 2):

The award-winning Pixar film “Coco” celebrates family bonds and Día de Los Muertos.

Holidays at the Disneyland Resort (Nov. 14, 2025-Jan. 7, 2026):

This enchanting season brings winter decorations and festive entertainment across the resort. The Disney Festival of Holidays returns to California Adventure, featuring unique menu items, live performances, and family activities inspired by Southern California's diverse celebrations.

After-Hours and Separately Ticketed Events for 2025

Sweethearts’ Nite (Jan. 21, 23, 28; Feb. 4, 6, 9, 11, 13):

Celebrate love at the new cavalcade on Main Street, U.S.A., featuring a Royal Ball, character couple meet-and-greets, and lively music.

Pre-sale tickets for Sweethearts' Nite will be available December 10, 2024, for Inspire Magic Key holders and December 11, 2024, for all Magic Key holders. General ticket sales begin December 12, 2024, at 9 a.m. PT on Disneyland.com, with limited availability.

90s Nite (March 4 and 6):

Disneyland's "90s Nite" features dance parties and sing-alongs celebrating the films and pop culture of the decade. The event will honor past parades like "The Lion King Celebration" and "Mulan Parade."

Pre-sale tickets are available for Inspire Magic Key holders on December 10, 2024, and for all Magic Key holders on December 11, 2024. General ticket sales start December 12, 2024, at 9 a.m. PT on Disneyland.com. Tickets are limited and subject to availability.

Star Wars Nite (April 8, 10, 22, 24, 29; May 1, 4, 6):

Galactic adventures await with Star Wars characters from the Light and Dark sides of the Force, along with unique gatherings and photo opportunities. Ticket sale details will be announced later.

Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party:

A frightfully fun after-hours Halloween party at California Adventure! Dress up in costume and enjoy family-friendly tricks and treats. In 2025, the party will feature 31 different dates—more than ever before!

• Aug. 17, 19, 21, 24, 26, 28, 31

• Sept. 2, 9, 11, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 28, 30

• Oct. 2, 5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 19, 21, 23, 26, 28, 31

  ---

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Disneyland Resort 70^th Celebration: Celebrating Happy

Starting May 16, 2025, and running through summer 2026, the Disneyland Resort will celebrate its 70th anniversary with special entertainment, unique food and beverages, collectible merchandise, and more. 

The resort will feature colorful decorations, including a medallion on Sleeping Beauty Castle. Mickey, Minnie and their friends will wear new outfits in Town Square, designed just for the celebration.

“World of Color Happiness!” Debuts at Disney California Adventure Park

The all-new "World of Color" show is inspired by Walt Disney's opening day dedication: "To all who come to this happy place… welcome!" This nighttime spectacular explores "happiness" through Joy and the Emotions from Pixar's "Inside Out" and "Inside Out 2." They present music and moments from beloved Disney and Pixar films like "Turning Red," "A Goofy Movie," "Tangled," and "The Lion King."

“Paint the Night” Parade Returns to Disneyland Park

The beloved nighttime parade returns to Disneyland for its 70th celebration, illuminating Main Street, U.S.A. with vibrant colors and over a million LED lights. Mickey Mouse, with Tinker Bell's pixie dust, brings Disney dreams to life, featuring beloved characters from films like “Monsters, Inc.,” “Cars,” “Toy Story,” “The Little Mermaid,” and “Beauty and the Beast.” 

Scott Gustin reports that:

Magic Happens will not return to Disneyland Resort in 2025. I'm really excited for Paint the Night to return - but hopefully we see Magic Happens return in 2026.

“Wondrous Journeys” is Back at Disneyland Park

Disneyland becomes a stunning canvas at night with the return of “Wondrous Journeys.” This nighttime spectacular celebrates the legacy of Walt Disney Animation Studios, showcasing moments from beloved films like “Hercules,” “The Princess and the Frog,” “Frozen,” “Moana,” and more. With state-of-the-art projections, the show transforms Main Street, U.S.A., Sleeping Beauty Castle, “it’s a small world,” and the Rivers of America. On select nights, the experience is enhanced with fireworks.

“Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!” Parade at Disney California Adventure Park

“Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!” returns to California Adventure. This lively daytime parade features great music, colorful floats, and nearly 30 beloved Pixar characters, including those from “Luca,” “Turning Red,” and “Up.” Both the “Wondrous Journeys” nighttime spectacular and the parade will pause for Halloween and holiday entertainment but will resume later.

Walt Disney -- A Magical Life

"Walt Disney – A Magical Life" premieres at Disneyland Park's Main Street Opera House on May 16, showcasing Walt's journey and concluding with a visit to his office through Audio-Animatronics.

See our previous post about our thoughts on this show:

The Resort Gets Dressed Up

The resort will be decorated with vibrant colors, including a special medallion on Sleeping Beauty Castle. Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and their friends will wear custom outfits in Town Square at Disneyland Park.

A new character cavalcade called “Mickey and Friends Celebrate Happy!” will feature beloved characters encouraging guests to dance and clap along to celebrate seven decades of happiness.

In the evenings, the Carthay Circle Restaurant at Disney California Adventure will present a music, lights, and projection show, while Disneyland's “it’s a small world” will feature a new projection display. An upbeat theme song, “Celebrate Happy,” will also be played throughout the celebrations.

Disney created this handy dandy guide for all The Disneyland 2025 events!

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Get Soaked

Don’t forget your 2025 Resort stay comes with free admission to a Disney Water Park on your arrival day.

Disney After Hours Returns

Start your night as early as 7 p.m. and stay three hours after the parks close, experiencing shorter wait times for attractions, meeting some of your favorite characters, and indulging in snacks like ice cream, popcorn, and select drinks included in your ticket. The events begin on January 6 at Magic Kingdom, January 22 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and February 27 at EPCOT. These are separately ticketed events, so check the Disney site for prices.

Hollywood Studios After Hours Dates:
January 22 and 29

• February 12 and 19

• March 5 and 26*

• April 1* and 30

• May 14 and 28

• June 4,11 and 25

• July 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30

• August 6, 20 and 27

• September 3

*On March 26 and April 1, Disney After Hours will run from 10 p.m. until 1 a.m.

Magic Kingdom After Hours Dates:

• January 6, 13, 20 and 27

• February 3, 10, 17 and 24

• March 3, 17, 24 and 31

• April 7 and 28

• May 5, 12 and 19

EPCOT After Hours Dates:

• February 27

• May 8 and 29

• June 19 and 26

• July 10, 24 and 31

• August 7, 14, 21 and 28

• September 11 and 25

Prehistoric Preservation

You’ll get one or more chances to ride Dinosaur in Animal Kingdom in 2025 as Disney announced it won’t close until 2026.

Ok now let’s get into the new stuff:

Spring 2025

A Mission to Relax

EPCOT’s new spaceship earth themed lounge will open in Spring of 2025. This lounge will pay tribute to the EPCOT icon, Spaceship Earth. It’s an elevated lounge that will honor the history of Spaceship Earth and EPCOT itself. Disney’s chefs have created delicious culinary creations to complement the elegance of this setting. You’ll see views of World Celebration Gardens and a unique perspective of the nightly fireworks.

Summer 2025

It’s about (night) time for a parade.

“Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away” is the full name of the new Magic Kingdom nighttime parade, which will debut in the Summer of 2025. This new evening spectacle combines Disney storytelling and illuminating technology.

Lots of favorite characters from classic and new Walt Disney Animation Studios films like “Peter Pan,” “Encanto,” “Frozen,” “Moana,” and more will appear.

Disney says:

The Blue Fairy from, “Pinocchio,” will weave the transformative magic of starlight through each float and every costume in the parade, illuminating the stories in a vibrant constellation of wonder, hope and imagination.

The Worst is Yet to Come

Hollywood Studios’ new villain show, "Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After” replaces Lightning McQueen’s racing academy. It’s set to open in the Summer of 2025. Captain Hook and Maleficent will break through the glass to take center stage. Disney says, “performances full of witty humor and mischievous charm.” We’ll also see a few more favorite villains through the magical mirrors.

Shell-abrate the Little Mermaid

Originally scheduled to open in Fall 2024, the new Hollywood Studios Little Mermaid show in the animation Courtyard will open in the Summer of 2025. This is not a rehash of the old show Disney says this is all new sets, puppets, and lights. Included songs will be, “Under the Sea” and “Part of Your World,” plus two new-to-this-theater musical numbers, “Daughters of Triton” and “Kiss the Girl.”

A Thrilling Return

The beloved Test Track will return from it’s third re-do late summer 2025. General Motors is making its return as Test rack’s sponsor as the refurbishment of this ride adds references and images to the classic EPCOT ride World of Montion.

Late 2025

Bye Bye Bugs, Hello Zoo. 🐇

No exact closing date has been announced for It’s Tough to Be a Bug!, a 4D attraction shown in the theater underneath the Tree of Life at Disney’s Animal Kingdom will be closing. But we know its replacement show, “Zootopia: Better Zoogether!” will open in the Winter of 2025. This means the end of the year, most likely around the time Zootpia 2 opens on November 26, 2025.

Rest those (peg) legs

The D-23 announced Pirates of the Caribbean-Inspired Tavern will open in “late 2025” according to Disney. Not many details are known about this tavern. The speculation is that it will be where the Pirates Leaguee used to be. And reading Disney’s blur, I thinkb it sounds like this is a family-friendly lounge with some neat surprises. Think along the lines of the Polynesian’s Trader Sams.

What are you most looking forward to?

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This week, Disney finally announced the new DVC resort, Haunted Mansion updates for the West Coast, and we get a good look at the “Live-action” Lilo & Stitch movie.

If you are enjoying Disney Discussions — The Free Disney Newsletter, please share it with your Disney-loving friends and family.

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This Week’s Disney News 🐭

Walt Disney World News 🏰:

• New Disney Vacation Club Resort Disney Lakeshore Lodge to Open in 2027 - WDWMAGIC

  Disney has officially announced the development of a brand-new Disney Vacation Club (DVC) resort hotel—Disney Lakeshore Lodge. The new resort will be constructed within the same footprint as the previously announced Reflections—A Disney Lakeside Lodge project, which was shelved in 2020.

• Test Track Transformation: A First Glimpse from Imagineering

• Moana Debuts New Costume at EPCOT for ‘Moana 2’ - WDWNT

• Gingerbread Spaceship Earth Lights Up for 2024 EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays -WDWNT

• EPCOT Dedication Plaque Returns With New Sign at Park Entrance - WDWNT

  The EPCOT dedication plaque has been reinstalled on a new sign at the park’s entrance. Its old sign and the dedication plaque were removed in June of this year.

Disneyland News:

• Disneyland Honors World War II Veteran at Emotional Flag Retreat - Disney Parks Blog

• Muppets Arrive at Carthay Circle Restaurant and Lounge for the Holidays - DAPSMagic

• The Haunted Mansion Story Expands with Opening of Expanded Grounds - DAPSMAGIC

• Standby Queue Now Open at Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion - DAPSMAGIC

  Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion has used a virtual queue since the attraction reopened this summer. The virtual queue will no longer be used.

• Madame Leota’s Somewhere Beyond Shop to Open at Haunted Mansion This Winter - DAPS Magic

• Disneyland Submits Plans for Avengers Campus Expansion Preparations - WDWNT

  Disneyland has submitted a plan for preparatory work related to its expansion, which is currently under review by city officials. The plan addresses utilities, temporary trailers, and parking lots in the backstage area affected by the expansion. This work is necessary before Anaheim can issue a demolition permit and Disneyland can submit its formal expansion plans.

• Permits Hint at New Projection Effects Coming to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland - WDWNT

Disney Entertainment News 🎬:

• ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’ Arriving on Disney+ Early - DAPSMAGIC

  The two-episode premiere will arrive on Disney+ on December 2nd at 6:00 PM PT/9:00 PM ET.

• Disney Releases ‘Lilo & Stitch’ Teaser Trailer

Disney Business News 📈:

• Disney's Destination D23 Returns in 2025 with New Disney World Venue and Double the Size - WDWMAGIC

  This event will occur at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort at Walt Disney World from August 29–31, 2025.

• Disney Releases ‘The Last Verse’ Short Film With Richard Sherman’s New Verse for ‘It’s a Small World’ - DAPSMagic

• Moana 2’ Has Biggest Black Friday at the Box Office Ever - DAPSMagic

  The movie was fine, but Lin-Manuel Miranda’s music was greatly missed.

• New D23 Gold Membership Plans and Gifts Revealed - WDWNT

  There are now three packages for membership:

  • Gold Member Essential Plan – $49.99 Per Year

  • Gold Member Choice Plan – $99.99 Per Year

  • Gold Complete Plan – $299.99 Per Year

Muppets News 🐸 :

• The Jim Henson Co. Issues Statement Regarding Closure of Muppet*Vision - WDWINFO

  The Jim Henson Company also released the following statement on its Facebook page Saturday morning regarding the announcement.

  Jim Henson’s final project was Muppet*Vision 3D, now regarded as a true theme park classic. Innovation was always Jim Henson’s north star, and his trailblazing career led him to a unique challenge: a truly immersive Muppet experience where audiences are part of the happy chaos of the iconic Muppet Show. Originally debuting in 1991, Muppet*Vision 3D combined 3D technology with real-world practical effects, alongside animatronic and live Muppet characters. The result was a one-of-a-kind Jim Henson experience, and an unforgettable capstone to Jim’s magnificent career. As we learn of the show’s upcoming closure in its current form at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, we look forward to Muppet*Vision 3D’s next act.

  The Jim Henson Company

Disney Discussions Recent Archive:

🧚 Pixie Dust ✨

Fun Facts:

DinoLand in Animal Kingdom is closing, and I hear many say, “Good riddance, it was so cheap looking.” I agree, but did you know that’s on purpose and theme?

The DinoLand U.S.A. theme blends a love for dinosaurs with a nostalgic nod to mid-20th-century roadside attractions. In 1947, a small Midwestern town with a fishing lodge and a gas station, run by Chester and Hester, became a hotspot when an amateur fossil hunter discovered dinosaur bones nearby. 

Scientists and volunteers flocked to the site after a paleontologist confirmed the find's rarity. What began as a modest excavation evolved into "Diggs County," a thriving destination for paleontology enthusiasts and tourists.

Chester and Hester’s Dino-Rama

Scientists and students tirelessly uncovered fossils. Chester and Hester capitalized on the tourist influx by transforming their gas station into a quirky roadside carnival called Dino-Rama, featuring fun rides and games.

The kitschy aesthetic, complete with faux asphalt and carnival lights, showcases the couple’s resourcefulness and humor. Dino-Rama may seem campy compared to Disney's polished theming, but it intentionally captures the charm of an Americana roadside attraction.

📸 Magic Shot of the Week:

We all have those photos we love from a Disney vacation. Every week, I’ll share one. They will be my photos, but I’d love for you to share yours so I can include them. Email me your Disney photo to photos@disneydiscussions.com, and it’ll go in a future weekly recap.

🌟 Disney Tip of the Week:

Looking to “Beat” the crowds during the holiday season?

Here are some tips:

• Choose the Right Days During Party Season – Magic Kingdom closes to day guests at 6 pm on event nights, so intuitively, many (many!) guests avoid Magic Kingdom on these shortened days and cram into the full days: long story short, Vosot Magic Kingdom during the day on MVMCP nights. Lines will be short.

• Rope Drop - If you are staying on property, early entry rope drop can allow you to ride two rides before the park even opens. If you are not on property, rope, drop the park opening, and go left. Most people go right, so fewer crowds will go left; think Adventureland in Magic Kingdom.

• Fantasyland Fireworks - Go behind the castle to view the fireworks and try to time ride Tiana’s or seven dwarfs' mine train during the fireworks. It’s extraordinary. I don’t recommend this if you’ve never seen the fireworks before

• One minute before park closing - Get online for a ride right before park closing. People will be leaving, and you’ll get that one last ride in

How to contact me 📝:

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Have a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow because today is almost over!

Things to remember for November: there are a few major holidays: Christmas and Hanukkah on the 25th and New Year's Eve on the 31st. Expect large crowds as you approach the holiday week.

Walt Disney World 🌎 :

December 2024 Events:

Park Hours: Always check park hours before your trip. Ticketed parties and even private special events can change the expected hours.

The 2024 EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays will be held from November 29 to December 30, 2024. Check the menus to see what yummy dishes are available this year.

The Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows opens on December 17th

Christmas Events 🎄 :

Magic Kingdom 🏰 :

🚢 Jingle Cruise

❄️ Frozen Holiday Surprise

🎅🏻 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party :

• December: 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 20 (Sold Out)

• December 17th ($209)

• December 19th ($219)

Christmas Parade & Fireworks as regular entertainment begins

• December 20th

Animal Kingdom 🦒 :

🐧Merry Menagerie

🎅🏻 Santa at Dinoland: until December 24th

🌲 Tree of Life Holiday Awakenings

Hollywood Studios 🎥 :

🍽️ Holiday Dine at Hollywood and Vine: until January 4

🏨 Sunset Seasons Greetings

❅ Frozen Holiday Sing-along

🤹🏻 Juggling Elves

🎷 Holiday Band

🎅🏻 Meet Santa: until December 24th

🎉 Jollywood Nights party:

• December 2nd - $169

• December 7th, 11th, 14th, 18th- $179

• December 21st - Sold Out

EPCOT 🌐:

🍪 International Festival of the Holidays: until December 30th

🎤 Joyful!

🪴 Glimmering Greenhouse Tour:

🕯️Candlelight Processional:

• Nico Santos = – December 1 and December 2, 2024

• Chrissy Metz – December 3 through December 5, 2024

• Whoopi Goldberg – December 6 and December 7, 2024

• Tituss Burgess – December 8 through December 10, 2024

• Brendan Fraser – December 11 and December 12, 2024

• Ralph Macchio – December 13 and December 14, 2024

• Gary Sinise – December 15 and December 16, 2024

• Neil Patrick Harris – December 17 and December 18, 2024

• Pat Sajak – December 19 through December 21, 2024

• Gloria Estefan – December 22 and December 23, 2024

• Edward James Olmos – December 24 through December 26, 2024

• Sterling K Brown – December 27 and December 28, 2024

• Jodi Benson – December 29 and December 30, 2024

Disney Springs 🛍️:

🎄Christmas Tree Stroll

🍻 Jock Lindsey’s Holiday Bar

🎅🏻 Meet Santa: until December 24th

New Years Events

Magic Kingdom 🏰 :

• Fantasy in the Sky Fireworks: 6:30 PM and 11:50 PM on Dec. 30 and 31, 2024. (Tip: Catch them on Dec. 30 for fewer crowds and enjoy another park on Dec. 31).

• Dance Parties: Frontierland and Tomorrowland host family-friendly dance parties.

EPCOT 🌐:

• Luminous: The Symphony of Us: 6:30 PM on December 31, 2024.

• Cheers to the New Year: A Sparkling Celebration: 11:54 PM countdown and fireworks.

• Dance Parties: DJ dance parties in pavilions like United Kingdom, China, Japan, and Italy.

Hollywood Studios 🎥 :

• Fantasmic!: 8:00 PM and 9:30 PM.

• DJ Dance Party: In front of Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway, with a midnight countdown.

Animal Kingdom 🦒 :

• No special events; park closes at 6:00 PM.

Contemporary Resort

• Tiana's New Year's Adventure: Exclusive dining and entertainment event at California Grill with character appearances, live music, and a view of Magic Kingdom's fireworks. ($799 per person).

December 2024 WDW Refurbishments:

No one likes it when their favorite ride is closed on vacation, but updates and fixes must happen. It's best to know before you go!

🚗 Test Track

Dates: June 17th — 2025

Details: Test Track presented by Chevrolet will close to get a new makeover. Call it Test Track 3.0. Details are sparse, but Disney gave some descriptions on their parks blog.

🏨 Bay Lake Tower at the Contemporary Resort

Dates: Sept 2024 — Sept 2025

Details: Beginning in September, the Bay Lake Tower would begin the first major refurbishment in its history.

🌴 Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort DVC Construction

Dates: Mar 1 — December 2024

Details: The Resort remains open, but areas adjacent to the resort are currently being renovated to include new Disney Vacation Club Villas, restaurants, and even new recreation offerings.

Port Orleans - French Quarter

Dates: May 2024 — Spring 2025

Details: Some guest rooms will be under refurbishment. Guests may see or hear construction work during daytime hours. Most Resort hotel amenities will remain available.

Typhoon Lagoon Refurbishment

Dates: November 4th — TBA

Details: Typhoon Lagoon will close to begin a seasonal refurbishment.

Swiss Family Treehouse

Dates: November 18th to December 20th

Disneyland 🎡:

Park Hours: Always check park hours before your trip. Ticket parties and even private special events can change the expected hours.

November 2024 Events:

The 2024 Disney Festival of the Holidays at Disney California Adventure Park runs from November 15, 2024, through January 6, 2025.

2024 Disney ¡Viva Navidad! at DCA runs Nov. 15 - Jan. 6.

12/6 - The Avengers Reserve, D-Lander stores open.

November 2024 Disneyland Refurbishments:

The Disneyland Story Presenting Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln

Dates: 4/16/24 - 2025

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Dates: 11/18/24 - 12/13/24

Disney+ in December 2024:

Monday, December 2

• Mickey and the Very Many Christmases

• Star Wars: Skeleton Crew - Two Episode Premiere

Tuesday, December 3

• Jung Kook: I Am Still – The Original (S1, three episodes)

Wednesday, December 4

• Marvel’s Spidey and His Amazing Friends (S3, five episodes)

• CMA Country Christmas - Premiere

Saturday, December 7

• Destruction Decoded (S2, 9 episodes)

• Inside the Enchanted Forests (S1, six episodes)

Monday, December 9

• Bluey Minisodes - New Episodes

• The Simpsons Funday Football - Live at 8 p.m. ET

Tuesday, December 10

• Sugarcane

Wednesday, December 11

• Big City Greens (S4, 1 episode)

• Mickey Mouse Funhouse (S3, 4 episodes)

• Dream Productions - Premiere – All Episodes Streaming

• Star Wars: Skeleton Crew - Episode 3

Friday, December 13

• Elton John: Never Too Late - Premiere

• Invisible - Premiere – All Episodes Streaming

Monday, December 16

New Library Titles

• Morphle and the Magic Pets (S1, six episodes)

Tuesday, December 17

• Blink

• The Simpsons Christmas Double Episode Exclusive to Disney+ “O C’mon All Ye Faithful” - Premiere

Wednesday, December 18

• SuperKitties (S2, 5 episodes)

• ZOMBIES: The Re-Animated Series (S1, four episodes)

• Star Wars: Skeleton Crew - Episode 4

Friday, December 20

• Lost Treasures of the Bible (S1, six episodes)

Sunday, December 22

• Marvel Animation’s What If…? (Season 3 Episode 1)

Monday, December 23

• Marvel Animation’s What If…? (Season 3 Episode 2)

Tuesday, December 24

• Marvel Animation’s What If…? (Season 3 Episode 3)

Wednesday, December 25 – Spend Christmas Day with Disney+

• Dunk The Halls

• Star Wars: Skeleton Crew Episode 5

• Marvel Animation’s What If…? (Season 3 Episode 4)

Thursday, December 26

• Marvel Animation’s What If…? (Season 3 Episode 5)

Friday, December 27

• John Williams in Tokyo

• Marvel Animation’s What If…? (Season 3 Episode 6)

Saturday, December 28

• Marvel Animation’s What If…? (Season 3 Episode 7)

Sunday, December 29

• Marvel Animation’s What If…? (Season 3 Episode 8)

Disney Store Releases for November 2024

December 1st

• Disney | Vera Wang

December 2

• Inspired by the upcoming Mufasa

December 4

• Tinker Bell by kate spade

• Lounge Collection

• Winnie the Pooh Plush Hats

• Disney | Kendra Scott Collection

• 8AM PT Tiana Limited Edition Doll

December 9

• Minnie Mouse Icon Dress

• Her Universe Cherries Collection

• Winnie the Pooh as Bee Plush

• 8AM PT - Stitch Attacks Snacks Hot Cocoa Collection

How to reach out to us:
✉️ email: tony@disneydisscussions.com
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Make sure the people you are thankful for know it. Tell them, you won't regret it.

-Tony the Disney Dad

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I’m planning a trip to WDW in early January. Would you want to read a post where I discuss my plans and tips for planning?

This Week’s Disney News 🐭

Walt Disney World News 🏰:

• 🚀 ‘Real Food’ Has Finally Landed at Oga’s Cantina in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Walt Disney World - WDWNT

  This is an excellent, much-needed addition. I love Oga’s, but visiting with family wasn’t feasible without much food.

• 🌐 Disney Updates EPCOT's Soarin' with World Celebration Ending and Other Improvements - WDWMAGIC

  The last time I rode Soarin’ I wondered if Disney would ever update the EPCOT ending to reflect the changes. I’m so glad they made this change AND fixed the bent Eiffel Tower. It is an excellent small change.

• ⚡️ Lightning Lane Premier Pass Now Available to Guests at ANY Walt Disney World Hotel - WDWNT

• 🐀 Disney Testing Single Rider Line at Remy's Ratatouille Adventure in EPCOT - WDWMAGIC
  This makes sense when you have rows of three in each ride vehicle.

• 🦝 Disney Shares First Concept Art and Details of McKim's Mile House DVC Lounge in Frontierland - WDWMAGIC
  This is the new DVC lounge that replaces the shootin’ arcade in Frontierland.

  

• 🎭 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts: DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series 2025 - Disney Parks Blog

• 🦁 Free ‘Mufasa: The Lion King’ Print Available to Walt Disney World Annual Passholders in December - WDWNT

• 🌊 Moana 2 Character Maquettes & Artwork Now on Display at Disney’s Hollywood Studios - BlogMickey

• 🚜 Imagineering Construction Trailers Arrive & Early Testing for Animal Kingdom’s Tropical Americas Project - BlogMickey

• 💰 $450 Lightning Lane Premier Pass Sold Out for Thanksgiving Day at Magic Kingdom - WDWNT

  Most of us balked at the price tag for LLPP, but it’s selling out. Money talks here.

Disneyland News:

• 🕸️ Spider-Man Stuntronic Show at Disney California Adventure Now Performs Without Human Union Acrobats - WDWNT
  A Spider-Man actor still banters on the WEB rooftop before the Stuntronic, but he does not perform any stunts. The portion of the show where Spider-Man previously did a series of acrobatics has been cut, and he now exits at ground level rather than swinging down the wall.

• 🐭 Disneyland Celebrated the 96th Birthday of Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse with Cavalcade - DAPS Magic

Disney Entertainment News 🎬:

• 🏀 ESPN and TNT Sports Reach Agreement for ‘Inside the NBA’ to be Exclusively Distributed on ESPN and ABC Platforms Beginning with 2025-26 NBA Regular Season - DAPS Magic

• 🍿 New Teaser and Poster Revealed for ‘Elio’ by Disney and Pixar - DAPS Magic

• Official Trailer Released for Pixar’s ‘Dream Productions’ - DAPS Magic

• Disney, ESPN, and the NBA Team Up to Present ‘Dunk the Halls’ – the First Real-Time, Animated NBA Game - DAPS Magic

Disney Business News 📈:

• 🏆 Walt Disney Imagineering Projects Earn Prestigious Thea Awards for 2025 - WDW Magic

  Fantasy Springs at Tokyo DisneySea, Zootopia at Shanghai Disneyland, and BDX Droids have been selected for their storytelling, design, and technological innovation achievements.

Disney Cruise Line News 🛳️ :

• The Disney Treasure was Christened in NY. Check out the Disney Parks Blog for the Christening Video and the many tours of the ship.

  The drone show that was performed for the Christening was insane. I hope that domestic parks will start to do more with drones soon.

  

Muppets News 🐸 :

Ho Boy! The biggest of Muppet news this week.

Disney Discussions Recent Archive:

🧚 Pixie Dust ✨

Fun Facts:

Muppet Christmas Carol is one of my favorite movies of all time. Did you know a deleted scene appeared on the 1993 VHS copy but was missing on subsequent releases until 2022?

The song “When the Love Is Gone”–the musical number performed by Ebenezer Scrooge’s former love Belle was absent from the film for 29 years.

The song became lost until late 2022 when Disney restored it on Disney+. With the once-missing song now part of the soundtrack again, the film feels far more complete than before.

You can find the “full” version of the film under extras on Disney+

📸 Magic Shot of the Week:

We all have those photos we love from a Disney vacation. Every week, I’ll share one. They will be my photos, but I’d love for you to share yours so I can include them. Email me your Disney photo to photos@disneydiscussions.com, and it’ll go in a future weekly recap.

🌟 Disney Tip of the Week:

Are you looking to skip most of the line for free? Single Rider Lines are your friend if you don’t care about riding with others or breaking up your party.

Walt Disney World has four attractions with permanent Single Rider lines that are almost always open:

• Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

• Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

• Test Track at EPCOT (closed until Summer 2025)

• Expedition Everest at Animal Kingdom

Five other attractions have kinda, sorta, or “sometimes” Single Rider lines:

• Avatar Flight of Passage at Animal Kingdom

• Soarin’ Around the World at EPCOT

• Space Mountain at Magic Kingdom

• Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

• Remy's Ratatouille Adventure at EPCOT

How to contact me 📝:

✉️ email: tony@disneydisscussions.com
𝐗 (twitter) | 📸 Instagram | ＠ Threads | ▶️ Youtube | 😊 📘 Facebook

Have a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow because today is almost over!

Scott Gustin broke the news on the morning of Friday, November 22nd.

”Monsters, Inc. land will replace Muppets Courtyard and Muppet*Vision 3D at Disney's Hollywood Studios. To make way for monsters, the Muppets will take over Rock 'n Roller Coaster and "team up with music's biggest starts for a rockin' music festival."

Disney Parks Blog also posted about it.

Do you know how they discover you can simultaneously be happy and sad in the first Inside Out? That’s me right now.

Let’s start with the Bad news: Muppet*Vision 3D and Muppets Courtyard are closing.

DisneyParksBlog says:

Get ready to open the door because Mike and Sulley are coming to town!

That’s right, humans will be able to enter the world of Monsters, Inc. when it is added to the south side of Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Building off the exciting announcements from last summer’s D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, the new land will include the coaster we’ve all dreamed of – a suspended ride recreating the door vault scene – plus dining and shopping and a whole new theater show. 

So say goodbye to PizzaRizzo and Mama Melrose's Ristorante Italiano, too. They will retheme these areas to Monsters Inc. Perhaps a Sushi restaurant like MIke visits in the first movie? It looks like the roller coaster will be new construction, and the Stage 1 Company Store, which never re-opened after the pandemic except for parties, will be demolished.

Disney says this Monsters, Inc. land will include "a whole new theater show" in the current Muppet*Vision 3D theater. I expect the Imagineers to make some excellent references to the Muppets in the theater and show itself.

It would be interesting if they moved Monster’s Laugh Floor from Magic Kingdom to here, but that seems unlikely. If you look at the concept art, there is a billboard for Laugh Floor, but I think this is just decoration as all of Hollywood Studios has billboards, but you never know.

So why here and not Animation Courtyard/LaunchBay?

Disney wants to build a whole land.  There's already infrastructure in Muppets Courtyard for a shop, a sit-down restaurant, and a quick-serve restaurant. All of that would be new construction, meaning more money spent. I hope Disney does something new with Star Wars Launch Bay soon. It’s a waste of space, especially since Galaxy’s Edge opened.

Some good news regarding Muppet*Vision 3D

Disney says: "As we move forward with these changes, we are having creative conversations and exploring ways to preserve the film and other parts of the experience for fans to enjoy in the future."

I’m guessing we’ll see the film, Jim Henson’s last project before his death, on Disney+ at the very least.

The Good News: The Muppets will take over Rock 'n Roller Coaster.

Disney Parks Blog states:

To make way for the monsters, Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy and more of their friends will be moving right along to Sunset Boulevard! But there’s more to the story: The Muppets will be taking over Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, teaming up with some of music’s biggest stars for a rockin’ music festival! 

We know so many of you share our love for The Muppets and know their energy will be a perfect fit for this coaster. Plus, as the first Disney ride ever to feature The Muppets, there’s sure to be laughter, screams and new tunes for this attraction for fans to enjoy throughout the adventure and plenty of Muppets-themed merchandise on Sunset Boulevard!

In June of 2023, one of the creators, Jeff Yokes, of the Disney+ show “The Muppets Mayhem”, said on Twitter that he pitched a retheme of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Disney’s Hollywood Studios with the Muppets. That post has been removed.

I’m very excited about this. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster is a great ride, and this theme will work well, especially if they can bring in and update songs from other artists over time. Part of “The Muppets Mayhem” series was that the Electric Mayhem band knew everyone in the music business, so this opens the door to changing the music. This might be like Guardians of the Galaxy | Cosmic Rewind, with random songs!

Some extra good news

Disney has not announced closing dates for either ride, so they’ll be open for a bit longer. Be sure to catch your last rides.

What are your thoughts?

Please leave a comment and let us know your thoughts! Or answer the Poll below.

Leave a comment

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This Week’s Disney News 🐭

Walt Disney World News 🏰:

• 📉 Disney Expects Epic Universe Opening to be Beneficial for Park Attendance - WDWNT

  During Disney’s Q4 2024 earnings call, Senior Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer Hugh Johnston shared that the opening of Epic Universe was modeled into their projected outlook for Disney Parks & Experiences, which anticipates full-year operating income growth to be in the 6%-8% range. The early bookings to vacation at Walt Disney World Resort next summer, around the opening of Epic Universe, “are actually positive.”

• Disney’s Tropical Americas: Inside Secrets of the New Encanto Ride and Hidden Details at Animal Kingdom - Touring Plans

  

• 🌊 Moana To Debut New Meet and Greet Costume at Disney Parks Worldwide for New Movie - WDWNT

  Moana will debut her new look at Disney California Adventure and EPCOT on November 24 and Hong Kong Disneyland on November 29.

  

• 👷🏼 Guest Room Refurbishments Coming to Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside in 2025 - WDWMAGIC

  Rooms will undergo upgrades starting in early April 2025 and ending in January 2026. During this refurbishment period, Disney says guests may notice construction activity, including visible work and some noise in the Magnolia Bend area.

• 🌋 Polynesian Resort’s New Wailulu Bar & Grill Added to Walt Disney World Website - WDWNT

  The Wailulu Bar & Grill page describes it as “a tropical getaway when you indulge in delicious flavors inspired by cuisine from the South Pacific Islands.” Wailulu will open with Island Tower on December 17, 2024.

• 🤹‍♀️ Disney Looking for New Variety Acts to Perform at EPCOT - WDWMAGIC

  Disney is seeking a diverse range of performers for atmosphere entertainment at EPCOT. The call for submissions is open until November 27, 2024. The entertainment categories Disney is interested in include magicians, jugglers, physical comedians, performance artists, visual acts, solo or duo dance teams, acts involving technology, and other unique multi-disciplinary acts. Each act can include up to five performers.

• 👷🏻‍♀️ Swiss Family Treehouse Closing Next Week for Refurbishment at Magic Kingdom - BlogMickey

  The Swiss Family Treehouse walk-through attraction will be closed starting next week. The attraction will be closed beginning Monday, Nov. 18th, and won’t reopen until Friday, Dec. 20th.

• 🏨 1-Year Guest Room Refurbishment Announced for Disney’s Pop Century Resort - Blog Mickey

  From late March 2025 to mid-February 2026, guest rooms at Disney’s Pop Century Resort will undergo refurbishment. All resort amenities will remain available.

• 🍪 EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays Foodie Guide 2024 - Disney Parks Blog

  There is lots of great food, and the Cookie Stroll is a must-do!

• 🐉 New Interactive Shoulder Banshees Soar Into Pandora November 21  - Disney Parks Blog

  Four all-new interactive shoulder banshees land at Pandora – The World of Avatar on November 21. There are new colors, and a wireless remote now controls them. Also, the banshees will notice and communicate with other interactive shoulder and wrist banshees.

• 🪵 4-Month Refurbishment Announced for Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Wilderness Lodge in 2025 - Blog Mickey

  From mid-May 2025 to September 2025, Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge will undergo refurbishment.

Disneyland News:

• 🛍️ Opening Dates and Details for New Downtown Disney Shops and Restaurants - Disney Parks Blog

  Opening on December 6, 2024, are Avengers Reserve and the D-Lander Shop.

  Opening this winter, Disney Wonderful World of Sweets will be a place with the sweetest tastes, introducing a splendid array of new confectionery treats.

• 🍴 New Fantasmic! Dining Package Announced for Disneyland - WDWNT

  A new Fantasmic! Dining Package is coming to Café Orleans at Disneyland Park on January 10, 2025, featuring a 3-course dining experience.

Disney Entertainment News 🎬:

• 🚀 Star Wars: Andor Season 2 Premiere Date Announced - WDWNT

  The second and final season of the critically acclaimed series will debut on April 22, 2025. Filming wrapped this past February.

Disney Business News 📈:

• Disney Considering EA CEO and Other External Candidates to Succeed Bob Iger - WDWNT

• 💵 The Walt Disney Company Earned Over $22 Billion in Revenue for Q4 2024 - WDWNT

• 💰 Disney Parks and Experiences Revenue Was $8.24 Billion in Q4 2024 - WDWNT

Disney Cruise Line News 🛳️ :

• Disney Treasure Rescues Four Stranded Boaters Near Bermuda - WDWNT

• 🚢 Disney Cruise Line Names Cast & Crew Godparents of Disney Treasure - DCLFan

Muppets News 🐸 :

• 🐶 Bark Box has Muppet Christmas Carol toys for your furry friends

Disney Discussions Recent Archive:

🧚 Pixie Dust ✨

Fun Facts:

Some Fun Christmas By the Numbers fact for Walt Disney World

• 1,700 Wreaths are installed

• > 10,000 pieces of gingerbread on the Grand Floridian Gingerbread House

• 300,000 yards of ribbons and bows

• > 1,300 trees across the resort

• >50,000 feet of garland on Main Street

• 150 truckloads of decorations

• 70 feet - the tallest Christmas tree at the Contemporary.

Also, here’s a great article on Disney and Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

📸 Magic Shot of the Week:

We all have those photos we love from a Disney vacation. Every week, I’ll share one. They will be my photos, but I’d love for you to share yours so I can include them. Email me your Disney photo to photos@disneydiscussions.com, and it’ll go in a future weekly recap.

🌟 Disney Tip of the Week:

Advance Dining Reservations or ADRs Tips
60 days in advance - You can book your ADRs for your WDW trip 60 days in advance. If you are staying on WDW property during your stay, you can make reservations 60 + 10 days in advance.

5:45 am ET - Be ready at 5:45 am Easter time to start. Technically, bookings don’t start until 6 am Eastern, but occasionally, you can do it early.

Plan - Don’t book in the order you’ll visit the restaurants on your trip—book in order of Popularity. Suppose you want to visit 'Ohana or Chef Mickey’s, book those first! Times get booked up.

Prepare - Make sure you know your WDW password and have the proper credit card on your account (you won’t be charged for most ADRs when booking, but you still need one.) Do you know any allergy info?

2 Devices - I use my Laptop and phone simultaneously, looking up the different reservations I want.

Don’t Despair - Didn’t get what you wanted? People drop ADRs all the time. Keep checking every day until the day you want to go. Use a site like MouseDining.com to alert you to openings. Many restaurants have walk-ups. Go when walk-ups start. I could walk into ‘Ohana with eight people and sit immediately at 3 pm.

I just had to do this. We have a trip from January 12th - 19th. I could start booking my reservations on November 13th for the length of my trip and got everything we needed. There was one hic-up. 1900 Park Fare had no reservations for January. Others had this issue, but I kept checking, and it opened up on Friday morning, and I got it.

How to contact me 📝:

✉️ email: tony@disneydisscussions.com
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Have a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow because today is almost over!