September 3, 2025
This weekend, Destination D23 was at Walt Disney World Resort! Throughout the event, guests were given exciting updates, sneak peeks and announcements from across our Disney Destinations. Here's a roundup of all the exciting news:
Walt Disney World
Walt Disney Audio-Animatronics Figure Coming to the Carousel of Progress
Guests will soon be able to see Walt Disney through the magic of Audio-Animatronics technology in “Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress” at Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World Resort. There are still plenty of additional details to be revealed, including what John, Sarah, and the rest of the family are up to. Disney Imagineers love this attraction and the heart of it will stay the same while introducing the Carousel of Progress to an entirely new generation of fans, showing them that a great big, beautiful tomorrow is just a dream away.
New Tron: Ares Ride Overlay Announced for TRON Lightcycle / Run
The next time guests step into the digital frontier with TRON Lightcycle / Run, they’ll launch into a Tron: Ares version of the high-speed, adrenaline-pumping ride that bends reality into the video game world. Replacing the blue and orange hues of the ride, guests will weave through twisting tunnels of vibrant red and orange light trails, feeling the rush of wind and the surge of acceleration as they compete in a dazzling Lightcycle race. Adding to the immersive visuals, the pulsating industrial sounds of Nine Inch Nails will drive the ride’s energy.
Experience the new Tron: Ares ride overlay for a limited time at Magic Kingdom starting September 15
New Color Palette Announced for Cinderella Castle
For more than 50 years, Cinderella Castle has welcomed guests down Main Street, U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom. A new artist rendering was shared of the updated color palette, which will feature grays, creams, blues, and touches of gold. The new palette is inspired by the classic and original look of the castle and aims to enhance the castle’s architecture.
New Details About the Architectural Inspirations for Villains-Themed Land at Magic Kingdom
Walt Disney Imagineering shared updates about the inspiration behind the villains-themed land coming to Magic Kingdom. The team confirmed that the journey to developing the land began with the animation source material and the Walt Disney Animation Studios artists responsible for it.
Imagineers set off to Paris, France and Barcelona, Spain to learn about each city’s architecture and its unique attributes. The team specifically studied Art Nouveau architecture design and the unique form, scale, and color that define this style. Through partnerships with local professors, along with art and architectural historians, Imagineers received an intimate look at the architectural aesthetics that will serve as the overall design inspiration for the land.
Disneyland
First Look: New Concept Art for Napa Rose at Disneyland
We got a sneak peek of Napa Rose at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, which is currently closed for an exciting renovation. A never-before-seen artist rendering was shared, showcasing the restaurant’s al fresco dining option, with Disney California Adventure park serving as the backdrop for a unique culinary adventure.
The outdoor patio is being thoughtfully enhanced to welcome more guests for al fresco dining. Two new fireplaces will cast a warm, flickering glow across the patio, adding a cozy and inviting touch to the atmosphere.
Disneyland Handcrafted: Trailer Revealed for New Documentary Coming This Winter
Oscar and Emmy nominated filmmaker (with deep Disney roots!) Leslie Iwerks revealed her new documentary film Disneyland Handcrafted, coming this winter to Disney+ and Disney YouTube.
Capturing the excitement of the creation of Disneyland as it was being built more than 70 years ago, viewers will get a chance to peek behind the orange groves and experience the making of the park like never before in Disneyland Handcrafted. This unique film, complete with ASMR moments and constructed using only rarely seen footage that Leslie handpicked through the Walt Disney Archives, depicts the thoughtfulness and care that was put into the development of Disneyland.
Disney Cruise Line
New Must-Try Drinks Coming to Disney Destiny
During a voyage on the Disney Destiny, guests can slip away to The Sanctum, Haunted Mansion Parlor, and Cask & Cannon, all themed spaces that are inspired by the larger-than-life personalities of epic Disney stories, brought to life through elevated interpretation and refined theming.
The Disney Cruise Line Beverage Operations Team shared three new drinks guests can enjoy during their cruise aboard the Destiny.
New “Meet and Play” Character Encounter with Dr. Facilier Coming to Disney Destiny
The Disney Signature Experiences Live Entertainment team revealed a new “meet and play” character encounter with the playfully sinister practitioner of the macabre, Dr. Facilier coming to the Disney Destiny. This cunningly charming illusionist may be lurking around the upper levels of the Grand Hall or in his own makeshift parlor, inviting guests in for a card trick or sleight of hand – he’s just here to make new friends…
one day review!
“Step right up, snack lovers! Your favorite one-day whirlwind through the Minnesota State Fair just got tastier. We scouted the most daring (not really), decadent, and downright drool-worthy foods—and trust me, you’ll want to bookmark this list.”
Deep-Fried Ranch & Deschutes Fresh Squeezed Beer – A wild twist on ranch dipping meets fresh beer vibes.
Boozy Salted Caramel Milkshake & Tutti Frutti Bubblegum Hard Slushy – Sweet and tipsy? Sign me up.
Pronto Pup – A classic corn-dog staple with crispy comfort charm.
Chicken in the Waffle & Campfire Cold Brew – A crafty combo: waffle shell + chicken tenders + sausage gravy = savory meets sweet brunch heaven.
Kemps Free Sample Ice Cream – Because who can say no to free frozen goodness?
Timber Twist (New Food) – Italian sausage, mozzarella, and cream cheese stuffed into manicotti, wrapped in bacon, smoked—and paired with Giggles’ signature BBQ sauce. Talk about indulgence.
Tom Thumb Mini Donuts – Small bites, big delight.
Shamrock Slushie – Crème de menthe meets smooth vanilla, topped with whipped cream and yes—it’s 5% ABV, locally brewed.
Pot of Gold Potato Dumplings – Cheesy garlic mashed potatoes shaped into dumplings, fried and served with chive-onion dip (vegetarian option available).
Bomba Bull Frosé All Day Slushie – A frosé slush with Gray Duck Distillery’s Bomba Juice seltzer, lemonade, strawberry, and a Red Bull kick—yes, with a 5% ABV energy boost.
Topped it off with Def Leppard concert!
“Which would you try first?” Timber Twist vs. Chicken in the Waffle?
World Princess Week 2025 Best Bites
August 25, 2025
👑✨ World Princess Week is in full sparkling swing! ✨👑
We’re celebrating the timeless magic of Disney Princesses with a royal spread of decadent treats and enchanting sips across Walt Disney World! 🌟
This year’s lineup is a fairy tale feast featuring:
🍰 Fan-favorite classics
🍹 Dazzling new delights
🌈 Color-changing creations
… all inspired by the strength, spirit, and charm of your favorite princesses! 💖
Every bite tells a story, as our talented culinary teams bring beloved princess adventures to life through magical flavors and whimsical presentation. ✨
🍽️ By royal decree, come taste the magic and treat yourself to this year’s World Princess Week bites & beverages!
Walt Disney World Resort
At Walt Disney World, each princess-inspired treat tells its own tasty tale. These enchanting eats and bubbly beverages are available now across multiple parks and resorts – each one fit for royalty!
Guests can get dressed in their royal best and bring their appetite to celebrate World Princess Week with these delightful drinks and desserts! Be sure to check out our page for more princess news as the festivities continue.
👑 Which Disney Princess would you share your treat with? 👇
How to Join the Royal Celebration
✨👑 World Princess Week is HERE! 👑✨
This year’s celebration is shining brighter than ever — filled with inspiring new stories, unforgettable music, and magical moments that honor the courage, kindness, and creativity of beloved Disney Princesses. 💖
From the parks to your home kingdom, fans of all ages can join in the royal festivities. 🌟 Whether you’re strolling down Main Street, U.S.A. or celebrating from your couch in true “cozy castle” style, there’s a little extra magic waiting just for you. ✨🏰
Ready to make this week a fairy tale come true? Here’s your complete guide to all the enchanting offerings, dazzling treats, and unforgettable experiences of World Princess Week 2025! 🌸👑
A Royal Concert at Disneyland Park
Is everyone ready for the ultimate Disney Princess sing-along? On August 29, 2025, guests can tune into Disney+ or YouTube to watch the Disney Princess concert filmed right in front of the stunning Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland park. Beloved Disney Princess voice talent, including three Disney Legends, take the stage together and perform iconic songs we all know and love.
The star-studded lineup includes:
Ginnifer Goodwin (Snow White in ABC’s Once Upon a Time and Judy Hopps in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Zootopia and the upcoming sequel, Zootopia 2) and Susan Egan (the voice of Meg in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Hercules) host this shining, shimmering musical spectacle that also celebrates the historic 70thanniversary of The Happiest Place on Earth.
Take a Ride Under the Sea with Jodi Benson
In a brand-new “Royal Ride Along” video, Disney Legend Jodi Benson takes fans on a journey through The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure at Disney California Adventure park. Hosted by singer and content creator Lauren Paley, the ride-along is filled with messages of empowerment, nostalgia, and behind-the-scenes stories straight from the voice of Ariel herself.
Guests can swim on over to the Disney YouTube channel starting August 27, to catch the full video.
Disney+ Princess Perks and Content
Disney+ is joining the World Princess Week fun with streaming surprises and plenty of perks. Premium subscribers can settle in for a 24/7 marathon of Disney Princess classics, bringing these timeless stories and characters to your screen all day, every day for a limited time. For a new twist on these tales, fans can stream the original special LEGO Disney Princess: Villains Unite beginning today, exclusively on Disney+.
Starting today, eligible Disney+ subscribers can also enter a series of limited-time flash sweepstakes for the chance to win princess prizes including a Snow White vinyl, Disney Princess toy bundle, and more magical merchandise.
Meet the Animal Inspirations Behind Everyone's Favorite Princess Sidekicks
Did you know that some of guests' favorite Disney Princess sidekicks were inspired by real animal species? Over on the NatGeo Kids YouTube channel, guests can join animal specialists for an exciting journey into the wild at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, where they will meet the real-life creatures behind characters like Rajah (Aladdin), Jaq and Gus (Cinderella), Pascal (Tangled), and Pua (Moana). This content is full of quizzes, fun facts, and of course, lots of adorable animals.
New Royal Tunes and Tours
Whether guests want adventure in the great wide somewhere, have a dream, or want to see how far they'll go, Disney Princess anthems have always been there to uplift and empower fans across generations.
For a truly immersive musical experience, Disney’s Moana Live-To-Film Concertis kicking off a North American tour this October, featuring a full-length screening of the film accompanied by an on-stage musical ensemble of top Hollywood studio musicians and Pacific Islands rhythm masters and vocalists.
With powerful music and live performances that bring Moana’s journey to life, this is the perfect way to keep the princess party going long after the week ends.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PugE_5O6Lfw
For decades, Disney Princess characters have inspired audiences around the world, and this World Princess Week, we’re reminded that with courage, kindness, and a little bit of dreaming, anything is possible. The royal festivities are in full swing, and we’re excited to keep the magic in motion all week long – there’s something for every fan to enjoy.
August 21, 2025
Are you ready. To. ROCK?!
If not, you have until next year to prepare, because Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets comes speeding into Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2026, fueled by the tasty tunes of the Electric Mayhem and the high-speed hijinks of The Muppets.
And even more exciting – today, we have electrifying new details to share about the colorful cast of characters you’ll meet while hanging around the recording studio.
The Electric Mayhem: One Night Only!
The Electric Mayhem are headlining their biggest Hollywood concert ever! Anyone who’s anyone is in attendance to witness Animal, Dr. Teeth, and the rest of this groove-tastic group rock the house down. There’s just one little problem: the band is nowhere to be found!
Across town at G-Force Records, we’re treated to a VIP tour of the legendary rock and roll recording studio. Things might look a little different around this Hollywood institution, as the label has recently come under new management – The Muppets! We’re happy to say that our colorful crew has landed some new digs … with just a little help from Scooter’s uncle, real estate tycoon and owner of the Muppet Theatre, J.P. Grosse (he really puts the G in G-Force). Just wait until you see how they’ve made these hallowed halls their own, creating the perfect place to make sweet, sweet Muppet music together!
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Courtyard
For fans of that big – really big – hilariously big guitar, you’ll be stoked to know that the newest residents of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster are putting their own spin on that ruby red paint job.
A vibrant and psychedelic new design will grace the bottom of the guitar (inspired by a classic Muppet car paint job), and the piano motif at the base will feature a golden key as a nod to a certain far-out band leader.
Welcome to the Studio
With your VIP passes, you’ll be welcomed inside the recording studio, where – wouldn’t you know it – you’ll find the Electric Mayhem are cranking out some seriously rocking tunes. Along with the finest audio engineers (all penguins, of course) we’ll see Scooter doing his best to convince Electric Mayhem to stop jamming and get to their increasingly restless fans. But will it be enough to get the band across town and onstage in time?
A Rock ‘n’ Roll Roadtrip
With the help from our friends at Muppet Labs and a very fast limousine, we’ll take a twisting, turning, and screamingly fun road trip across Hollywood to reach the concert in time. The iconic scenery and landmarks of Tinseltown will feature a Muppet twist.
And throughout the journey, you’ll hear the Electric Mayhem playing some of the most iconic, rockin’ hits in your ears to keep the music and adrenaline pumping. Hopefully G Force Records will release a concert setlist soon!
There’s more to this Muppet-filled melody yet to come, so stay tuned for more news. In the meantime: rock on!
August 19, 2025
It's time for guests to grab their Halloween Mickey Mouse ears, pick out their favorite outfit, and bring an awfully big appetite: Halloween Time and Plaza de la Familia at the Disneyland Resort are quickly approaching with a wide array of fall sights, sounds, and flavors. The fun begins August 22 through October 31!
Whether it’s devouring a delicious Halloween-themed snack or boarding an attraction with a haunting overlay, we know everyone has a specific way that they want to spend their time at The Happiest Place on Earth this fall.
If seeing characters is one of the top boxes to check, guests are in luck with an outstanding lineup of friendly (and sometimes wicked!) characters across the Disneyland Resort.
Encounters with these characters are always subject to change and may vary — read on to find out where guests may find some of their favorites at Disney California Adventure park, Disneyland park, and the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort.
See Halloween Characters at California Adventure
As soon as guests step through the entry gates of Disney California Adventure park, they'll be surrounded by festive fall decor and harrowing music along Buena Vista Street, leading all the way up to Carthay Circle Restaurant.
As the huffing and puffing Headless Horseman statue looms near Elias & Co., Mickey Mouse and his pals stop by Buena Vista Street where guests may see them in festive Halloween outfits near Buena Vista Street, including:
Catch These Halloween Characters in Cars Land
Radiator Screams is one of the best places to visit in California Adventure during this wonderfully haunting time, featuring colorful lights, bright seasonal decor, unique Haul-O-Ween twists, and Halloween ride overlays on Luigi’s Honkin’ Haul-O-Ween and Mater’s Graveyard JamBOOree.
After guests have scooped up a Pumpkin Pie Churro, a Slow Burnin’ Mac and Cheese Cone, and a delightful Ube-Vanilla Twist Soft-serve, they should make sure to look for Lightning McQueen, Tow Mater, and Red the Firetruck in their best creative car-stumes.
Party with Characters at “Mickey’s Trick and Treat”
When they head to Hollywood Land this season, Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy will dress up for a costume party to celebrate Halloween during “Mickey’s Trick and Treat” inside the Disney Theater.
For a light, easy-going time for your whole family featuring two original Halloween songs, colorful video projections, frightful special effects, bubbles, and a not-so-scary story, guests should check out this interactive stage show that their little ones won’t want to miss.
Sing with Characters During Plaza de la Familia
Inspired by the spirit of Día de los Muertos during Plaza de la Familia, guests can listen closely as live entertainment from the “Storytellers of Plaza de la Familia Celebrate the Musical World of Coco!” brings joy to the area around Paradise Gardens Park from August 22 through November 2.
As they sing and dance along with the beat, they should make sure to keep an eye out for a hand-animated dimensional figure of Miguel and other figures inspired by Pixar Animation Studios’ Coco.
Greet Characters at Disneyland During Halloween Time
Excited to find a great lineup of Disney characters at Disneyland park throughout the Halloween season?
When Mickey, Minnie, and their friends visit Disneyland for Halloween Time this year, they will sport new Halloween-themed attire with a twist on their 70th Celebration outfits, featuring swirling colors of purple, green and orange. For a list of character appearance times, guests should check the Disneyland app during their next park visit.
Main Street, U.S.A.
New Orleans Square
More Halloween Characters at Disneyland
For a great picture opportunity in front of an iconic Disneyland location, guests should check visit the “Partners” statue across from Sleeping Beauty Castle in the center of Disneyland, where several pumpkins feature favorite Disney characters, such as Buzz Lightyear and Roger Rabbit.
Guests can stop by this location to capture the perfect Halloween family photo, or look for some other wickedly entertaining characters at various locations throughout their day in the park, including:
Find Characters at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort
Guests should clear the cobwebs on your calendar and plan ahead for their multi-day vacation at the resort, as the Halloween fun even extends outside of the theme parks and into the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort!
Goofy’s Kitchen Celebrates Halloween
At the Disneyland Hotel, "Goofy’s Kitchen Celebrates Halloween" hosts a golden group of bewitching characters dressed in Halloween attire from August 22 to October 31. Guests should get ready to get on their feet, fill up their plate, see fall decor and wave those napkins when these characters stop in for a visit:
Mickey’s Autumn Adventures
Meanwhile at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, guests should prepare to rise and shine when Mickey Mouse and his pals head to Storytellers Cafe during “Mickey’s Autumn Adventures” from August 22 through November 16. In between their monster-sized bites into Mickey Waffles, Bananas Foster French Toast and custom-made omelets, here are some characters they'll encounter in festive attire:
Clarabelle’s Enchanted Halloween Dinner
Finally, as Storytellers Cafe transforms from day into night, guests can bring their herd to chow down at the new “Clarabelle’s Enchanted Halloween Dinner” from August 22 through October 31. As they enjoy tricks and lots of treats, they can also catch some woodland pals in Halloween attire dropping by for dinner, including:
Advanced reservations for character dining experiences are highly recommended and can be made on Disneyland.com.
In addition to finding Disney characters, so much is happening across the Disneyland Resort this fall. With ride overlays like Haunted Mansion Holiday, must-see Halloween merchandise, and a scrumptious lineup of limited-time snacks and returning fan-favorite flavors, there’s plenty to see and do across the resort until the clock strikes midnight on October 31.
Make sure to check out our guide to all the additional Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party characters to discover, including wicked appearances from Syndrome and Maleficent. Guests should get their Disney costumes and trick-or-treat bags ready, and happy Halloween from the Disneyland Resort!
August 20, 2025
Walt Disney Travel Company vacation packages and Disneyland Resort Hotel room reservations for 2026 visits to the Disneyland Resort are now available for booking!
As a reminder, these packages are valid for arrivals Jan. 1-Dec. 31, 2026. Please note the first day of a client’s vacation cannot be booked more than 499 days in the future. Bookings may be made beginning Wednesday online or via phone.
Additionally, as we looked at how our guests were utilizing Disneyland Resort hotel benefits, some changes will be made to available offerings.
To provide our guests with more flexibility to enjoy a shorter line to our attractions, beginning January 5, 2026, all guests who are checked in and staying at one of the Disneyland Resort Hotels with valid admission and park reservation will receive one Lightning Lane entry for an available Lightning Lane Multi Pass-eligible attraction of their choice to use during their resort stay. With this update, we will no longer offer the Early Entry program for guests staying at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort, which was another way of enjoying a shorter line to our attractions.
With this update, guests will still get the benefit of time to enjoy expedited access to some of our most popular attractions without having to wake up early to make use of this perk. Lightning Lane Single Pass attractions like Radiator Springs Racers and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance are not available with this entitlement.
We will share more details about this updated hotel benefit for guests with hotel reservations with check-in dates beginning Jan. 5, 2026, at a later time.
In addition, the Pixar Place Hotel entrance to Disney California Adventure will be unavailable beginning Jan. 5, 2026, as we continue to optimize our arrival experiences. Guests of Pixar Place Hotel may use the Disney California Adventure Park entrance located inside Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa.
Our business strategy continues to be guided by optimizing the guest experience while also considering demand.
As a reminder, for guests wanting to experience the magic of The Happiest Place at Earth this year, there are great special offers available for the fall and holiday season. Check out the latest on the special offers page!
Categories: Walt Disney Travel Company, Disneyland Resort Hotels
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P.S. Need help booking these trips? Let me know!
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