At long last, our beloved mermaid Ariel is returning to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Disney has announced that FINALLY, The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure opens May 27.
We’ve been waiting, quite literally, for YEARS for this opening. Sadly, the previous Ariel attraction at Hollywood Studios, the Voyage of the Little Mermaid, never reopened post-Covid. That attraction still holds a very special place in my heart. Part puppet show, part stage show, the 25 minute attraction was entertaining, fun and heart warming. This new show will run in the same theatre; however, Disney promises us that the theatre has been completely redesigned and overhauled.
The BIG Reveal!
“The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” is officially opening at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on May 27, 2025! That’s right, in just over a month, we’ll all be able to journey under the sea with Ariel and her adorable friends in this completely reimagined theatrical production!
What Makes This Show So Special?
Disney has promised that this completely new show is unlike any other show they’ve done so far. They are promising that the new show will feature:
Stunning set pieces that will transport you straight to Ariel’s treasure trove
Imaginative costumes that bring our favorite underwater characters to life
NEW digital puppetry (I’m dying to see how they bring Flounder to life!)
Jaw-dropping special effects (because Disney magic, hello!)
A bold new design aesthetic that shows us Ariel’s unique view of the world
AND if that wasn’t exciting enough… they’re adding NEW SONGS to the performance! 🎵
The Music That Will Have You Humming All Day
Of course, our beloved classics “Under the Sea” and “Part of Your World” will be featured. But the show will also debut two songs that are new to the theater: “Daughters of Triton” and “Kiss the Girl”! I always wondered why Kiss the Girl wasn’t part of the old Voyage of the Little Mermaid–it really felt like a miss. That’s such a classic song from the movie, and let’s face it: for all of us romantics, its such a magical scene.
Concept Art: Disney Parks
I’m sure we will all be walking around the parks singing our favorite Little Mermaid songs after we’ve watched this show.
Mark Your Calendars NOW!
The show opens May 27th with multiple showtimes each day, so even if you can’t make opening day, you’ll have plenty of chances to experience the magic. I’ve got my fingers crossed that the show might open for early previews when Mom and I are there in early May so that we’ll get a chance to see it. Unfortunately, I suspect we’ll be just a little bit too early for this show to be in previews while we’re there. But you never know!
If we don’t get the chance to see it in May, I guess I’ll just HAVE to plan another trip later this summer to make sure that I get to see The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure AND Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After. The ongoing challenges of a Disney parks fan!
The Bottom Line
I believe Disney’s Hollywood Studios visitors will really enjoy the new entertainment offerings coming this summer. The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure is a welcome addition, and I suspect we are really in for a treat with this show. If nothing else, it’s inside in an air-conditioned theatre with seats–always a boon in the Florida heat and humidity!
Are you excited for this new show featuring our beloved mermaid, Ariel, and her friends? Please drop a comment below and let me know if you’re most excited to see this new show, or the other show opening on the same day: Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After!
The Villains are TAKING OVER! “Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After” is Coming to Hollywood Studios!
FINALLY! Disney has given us an opening date for the new show we’ve been hearing about for months! Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After opens May 27!! I’m so excited about this announcement!
Move over heroes, because the VILLAINS are FINALLY getting their moment in the spotlight! Let me tell you EVERYTHING you need to know about this wickedly amazing new experience!
When & Where Can You See It?
Mark those calendars, villain lovers! “Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After” will officially cast its spell over Hollywood Studios starting May 27, 2025! (I’m not so secretly hoping we might have early previews when Mom and I visit in early May. Not likely, but you never know!)
The show will be performed at the Sunset Showcase (former home of Lightning McQueen Racing Academy), which is getting a COMPLETE transformation with a brand-new stage featuring cutting-edge technology and comfortable theater seating. (As someone who has stood through many a Disney show, I’m super excited about the seating part!)
Best of all? There will be MULTIPLE showtimes throughout the day, giving you plenty of chances to experience this villainous spectacle!
Concept Art: Disney Parks
What’s It All About?
This isn’t your typical Disney show, my friends! In “Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After,” the villains we love to hate (or is it hate to love?) are breaking through the Magic Mirror’s glass and stepping into OUR world!
The premise is absolutely BRILLIANT – these infamous baddies are gathering to figure out once and for all who has been the MOST misunderstood villain of them all. Who’s had the roughest time? Who’s been treated most unfairly? They’ll each be making their case in what’s described as an “immersive musical stage show” filled with “theatrical magic, witty humor, and plenty of mischievous charm.”
But here’s the BEST part – WE (the audience) get to decide who has been treated the most unfairly! 💜💚
Side note: have any of you seen SIX: The Musical? I’m wondering if it could have inspired this idea. (If you haven’t seen it, it’s a musical retelling of the stories of the six wives of Henry VIII. They all tell their stories under the premise of convincing the audience who had it the worst. So compelling and so much fun!)
Which Villains Will Be There?
Disney has confirmed that three iconic villains will be the main stars of the show:
Cruella de Vil (101 Dalmatians)
Captain Hook (Peter Pan)
Maleficent (Sleeping Beauty)
Concept Art: Disney Parks
But that’s not all! The show description hints that other infamous evildoers might try to break through the glass and join in on the fun! I’m personally hoping for Ursula, Jafar, and maybe even Hades to make an appearance!
What Makes This Show Special?
According to Disney, a dedicated team has spent nearly TWO YEARS developing the cutting-edge stage design for this show, which will include “thrilling effects for the audience.” The Disney Parks Blog used the word “immersive” which has me thinking this won’t be your typical sit-and-watch show!
I’m imagining spectacular lighting, amazing special effects, and probably some surprises that make us feel like we’re truly part of the villains’ world. And let’s not forget the MUSIC! Disney villain songs are some of the absolute BEST, so I’m expecting some incredible musical moments.
My Prediction: This Will Be HUGE!
I’ve seen a lot of Disney shows come and go over the years, but something tells me this one is going to be EXTRA special. Here’s why:
Disney villains have a MASSIVE fan following (just check out any Disney merchandise store – villain merch is always a top seller!)
This is happening at the same time as “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” debuts at Hollywood Studios, giving the park TWO brand new shows just in time for summer!
The interactive element of choosing the “most unfairly treated” villain adds a unique twist that will make this show different every time.
The fact that Disney invested two years in developing the stage technology suggests this isn’t just a simple production.
Concept Art: Disney Parks
The Villainous Bottom Line
If you’re heading to Disney World this summer and want to catch this villainous spectacle, here are my top tips:
Book Your Hollywood Studios Day After May 27: This show opens the same day as “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure,” so Hollywood Studios will be THE park to visit this summer!
Check the My Disney Experience App: Once the show opens, check the app for showtimes and don’t forget to add it to your Genie+ selections if available.
Try for the First Show of the Day: First shows tend to be less crowded, especially if they conflict with popular parade times.
Wear Your Villain Merch: Show support for your favorite villain! Who knows, you might even get some special attention from the cast!
Plan Your Other Hollywood Studios Attractions Accordingly: With two new shows opening, you’ll want to carefully plan your day to fit everything in.
I don’t know about you, but I’m already planning a special trip JUST to see this show! I can’t wait to hear Cruella, Hook, and Maleficent tell their sides of the story and try to convince us all that they’re the most misunderstood.
Who’s your favorite Disney villain? Let me know in the comments which baddie you’ll be voting for as the most unfairly treated!
Villainous wishes and wicked magical dust!
P.S. Need help planning your summer Disney vacation to include these new shows? That’s what I’m here for! Send me a message and let’s make sure you don’t miss any of the villainous fun!
SPLASHY NEWS! Typhoon Lagoon AND Blizzard Beach will BOTH be open this summer!
Disney is really going ALL-IN on the water parks this year! Both Disney Water Parks will be open from May 21 through September 7 this year. For the first time since 2019 in fact, ALL SIX Walt Disney World parks will be open at the same time! Yes, you read that right – both Blizzard Beach AND Typhoon Lagoon water parks will be open all summer!
Photo: Disney Parks
The Coolest Summer Ever Just Got Better!
I don’t know about you, but my family has been counting down the days until summer vacation, and this announcement just made our planning SO much more exciting! With the tropical paradise of Typhoon Lagoon AND the winter wonderland of Blizzard Beach both available, we’ll definitely need to add an extra water park day to our itinerary! Since 2019, every time Typhoon Lagoon opened for its “season”, that meant Blizzard Beach was closed. When it was time for Blizzard Beach to open, Typhoon Lagoon would close.
Blizzard Beach. Photo: Disney Parks
Both water parks are TONS of fun, but they each have different strengths. As a fan of BOTH parks, I prefer to have a choice between the two. If I’m in a “spend all day in the lazy river” kind of mood, or really want to embrace the “Florida” of it all, I want to go to Typhoon Lagoon. If I’m more in a daring, adventurous mood, or really want the WINTER theming, I’m probably going to lean more towards Blizzard Beach. For YEARS, Disney has made that choice for me. There was no choice, basically. If you wanted to visit a Disney water park, you had one choice–whichever park was actually open during your visit.
Photo: Disney Parks
But THIS year, Disney is giving us back our choices. This summer, BOTH Disney water parks will be open for the whole season.
Quick note: Blizzard Beach (which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this month) will need a little “refresh” time and will temporarily close from May 1-20 before reopening for the summer season.
FREE Water Park Access for Resort Guests!
Disney already brought the water parks to our attention when they announced late last year that ALL Disney guests staying on property in 2025 would get FREE water park admission on their arrival day! I love this perk, and think it’s a great way for guests that have never experienced a Disney water park to check them out. It was always hard to justify the water park ticket price if you weren’t planning on spending a whole day at the water park, and it was always a little tough to trade off a theme park day for a water park day–especially when you were planning ahead and not completely sure of the weather.
Photo: Disney Parks
But now, you can visit a Disney water park on the day you arrive for most of the day (if you arrive early) or just a few hours (if you arrive a little later) and it doesn’t cost you ANYTHING extra. Which is NOT something I find myself saying very often about Disney!
This is such a fantastic way to kick off your vacation, especially if you arrive early in the day and want to make the most of your first day before hitting the theme parks tomorrow! It also makes that “your room is not ready until 4 pm (or sometimes later!)” challenge SO much less impactful. You can drop your luggage at Bell Services, grab your “water park go bag” and go have FUN at the water park. (and let’s face it: this aspect of customer DISsatisfaction with check-in was a big motivator in Disney deciding to offer this new perk this year!).
Nighttime Water Park Fun at H2O Glow!
For my night owls who want to splash under the stars, H2O Glow After Hours at Typhoon Lagoon is BACK from May 23 through September 13 on select nights! We absolutely LOVED this event last year – think reduced wait times, complimentary snacks, and Toy Story character encounters amid glowing, colorful lights!
H2O Glow at Typhoon Lagoon. Photo: Disney Parks
For all my runDisney friends participating in this year’s Springtime Surprise there is a H2O Glow night during race weekend! What better way to wind down AND celebrate your race than to pay in the water at Typhoon Lagoon? It wasn’t warm enough to enjoy an event like this during the Princess Half Marathon weekend this year, but I’m so envious of all of you racing in Springtime Surprise that can enjoy this event!
The best part? Kids’ tickets are just $42.50 this year (half the adult price of $85)! Plus, my fellow Annual Passholders and DVC members, you’ll get additional special savings too!
Tickets went on sale TODAY (April 4)! Note: This event did sell out several nights last summer, so if this is something you and your family or friends want to enjoy, buy those tickets SOON. (I’m happy to help, just send me an email.)
Typhoon Lagoon H2O Glow! Photo: Disney Parks
Tips to Maximize your Splashy Fun on Arrival Day!
When planning to include visiting a Disney water park on your arrival day, there are a few things I recommend to make sure you get the most enjoyment out of this great FREE perk.
Blizzard Beach Summit Plummet. Photo: Disney Parks
Review Your Travel Party – and Make Updates If Needed
Make sure that everyone in your travel party is listed on your reservation. This FREE water park visit on arrival day is ONLY available to registered resort guests, so make sure you didn’t leave anyone off the reservation!
Double Check the Water Park Calendar(s) and Hours Check the park calendar and operating hours before your check-in day so you can plan your water park visit. And remember, if you’re visiting this summer, BOTH Disney World water parks will be open, so you’ll need to decide WHICH park you want to visit.
Also, this water park benefit is only on the day of check-in, and is valid for admission to either Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park or Disney’s Blizzard Beach water park, whichever is open. If both parks are open, you get to choose.
Photo: Disney Parks
Check the Weather Forecast
Even Disney can’t control Mother Nature. (Are you surprised?!? I was!) Depending on the weather, it IS possible that the water parks will close in inclement weather. Be sure to check the weather before heading off to visit Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach.
Please keep in mind:
Full-day closures will be reflected on the park calendar at least one day in advance.
Temporary, day-of closures may occur—sometimes with very little advance notice. Those will not be reflected on the park calendar. Hint: Disney does NOT like lightning. The park will likely stay open if it rains. But bring on the lightning? You’re probably heading back to your resort!
Pack a Small “GO” Bag for the Water Park
I always recommend my clients have a water park (or pool) GO bag ready when they travel to Disney–especially in the summer. That’s even MORE important in 2025 since you can visit a water park for FREE on your arrival day. You’ll be heading to the water park before your Resort room will be ready (in most cases), so you won’t want to have to dig through your suitcase to find your bathing suits and sunscreen. Both water parks have changing areas with showers, so you can put on your swimsuits once you arrive at the water park.
When packing a water park (or pool) GO bag, you may want to include:
Swimsuits
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Flip-flops or water shoes
A change of clothing
Be sure to follow the water park dress code policy—and leave prohibited items at home.
Other things to know:
Complimentary life jackets are available in the water park for all water park Guests—so you can leave yours at home.
Disney Resort hotel Guests can enjoy complimentary towel rentals from Singapore Sal’s and High ‘N Dry Rentals. Be sure to use your Key to the World card, MagicBand, MagicBand+ or Disney MagicMobile service to receive this benefit.
The Splash-tastic Bottom Line
If you’re planning a summer Disney trip, I highly recommend adding at least one water park day to your itinerary. Especially if you live in the northern half of the United States, Canada or most of Europe–that Florida summer heat and humidity can be really challenging! And of course, nothing is more fun on a glorious summer day than floating on a lazy river, zipping down Summit Plummet at Blizzard Beach or catching a wave in Typhoon Lagoon’s surf pool! And if you can make that water park visit FREE because you are staying on Disney property and arriving early enough in the day to spend most of the day at a water park?? BONUS!!!
Blizzard Beach Wave Pool. Photo: Disney Parks
Have you been to both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach? Which is your family’s favorite? Why do you love your favorite water park? Does anyone else remember River Country? Please comment below, I’m very curious about which water parks everyone prefers and why!
Until next time, keep making magical memories!
Are you ready to plan your next Magical vacation? I’d love to help! email Brooke@disneycastledreaming.com for a free, no obligation quote today!
The Magic Turns 70! Everything You Need to Know About Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary Celebration
Hello my Disney-loving friends! ✨ Can you believe it? Disneyland is turning the BIG 7-0 this year, and you know what that means—a celebration that’s going to be absolutely MAGICAL! Disney really does love their celebrations, don’t they? They are really pulling out ALL the stops for Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary Celebration–and I have to tell you, if you weren’t already planning a visit to Disneyland for this coming year, you soon will be!
This celebration kicks off May 16, 2025, and runs through summer 2026, giving you plenty of time to plan your visit to experience ALL the happiness!
Entertainment That Will Make Your Disney Heart SING!
Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary Celebration is starting off with a bang! The entertainment lineup for this celebration has me literally bouncing in my seat! Let’s break down what you can look forward to:
🎵 “Celebrate Happy” by the Jonas Brothers! 🎵
So for all my Gen Z and Millennial readers, this one is for YOU. The Jonas Brothers have created a special theme song for the anniversary called “Celebrate Happy” that will be heard throughout the resort! You’ll be able to stream it starting May 13th, so you can get in the celebratory mood before your trip! This comfortably coincides with the Jonas Brothers 20th Anniversary tour, “Living the Dream”. No, we’re not feeling at OLD by this announcement. Not at all. {sigh}. But I love the call back to the Disney Channel content of days (long) gone by…
Jonas Brothers Photo: Disney Parks
“World of Color Happiness!” at Disney California Adventure
This all-new World of Color show is going to be AMAZING! Hosted by Joy and the Emotions from “Inside Out” and “Inside Out 2,” this spectacular nighttime show will feature moments from favorite Pixar and Disney Animation films including “Turning Red,” “The Incredibles,” “A Goofy Movie,” “Tangled,” and “Encanto.”
Concept Art: Disney Parks
And wait for it…Boyz II Men will lend their incredible vocals to “Rainbow Connection,” and FITZ from Fitz and the Tantrums will debut a new original song called “Makes Me Wanna Move”!
Plus, The Muppets (including Joe the Legal Weasel) will kick off the show with special projections and fountains! I CANNOT WAIT!
And is there ANYONE that doesn’t LOVE that the Muppets are getting a little “front and center” treatment here for this celebration? Especially after we’re losing Muppet Vision 3D and the Muppets Courtyard and the fabulous Miss Piggy fountain in Hollywood Studios at Disney World. {No, I will NOT cry about this again, thank you very much.}
“Paint the Night” Returns to Disneyland!
YES! One of my absolute FAVORITE nighttime parades is making its grand return! With over a million LED lights, this stunning parade features characters from “Monsters, Inc.,” “Cars,” “Toy Story,” “The Little Mermaid,” “Beauty and the Beast,” and more! And the “Frozen” float with Anna and Elsa is coming back too!
Paint the Night Parade at Disneyland Photo: Disney Parks
Because Disneyland is located so close to residential areas, they can’t have fireworks every night like we do at Walt Disney World in Florida. Winds are a serious fire risk with fireworks when you are so close to where people live! As a result, Disneyland puts a LOT into their nighttime parades, and I’ve been so jealous! The Paint the Night parade is particularly spectacular and I’m really thrilled to see it’s coming back for Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary Celebration.
“Wondrous Journeys” Nighttime Spectacular
This beloved show celebrating Walt Disney Animation Studios is returning with incredible projections on Main Street, U.S.A., Sleeping Beauty Castle, “it’s a small world,” and the Rivers of America. On select nights, there will even be fireworks! It features moments from classics like “Hercules,” “The Princess and the Frog,” “Peter Pan,” “Frozen,” “Big Hero 6,” “Moana,” and “Encanto.”
Wondrous Journeys at Disneyland Photo: Disney Parks
More Entertainment Magic!
“Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!” parade returns to Disney California Adventure with more than two dozen Pixar characters!
Better Together Pixar Pals Celebration Photo: Disney Parks
“Tapestry of Happiness” will bring the façade of “it’s a small world” to life each night with light, music, and projection effects inspired by Mary Blair’s art style.
Mickey and Friends in New 70th Outfits that are specifically designed for the celebration! These are SOOOOOOO cute!
Photo: Disney Park
“The Celebrate Happy Cavalcade” is a new character cavalcade at Disneyland with rare characters like Duffy and ShellieMay!
Concept Art: Disney Parks
Décor That Will Make Your Instagram POP!
The 70th celebration décor sounds absolutely STUNNING:
A 50-foot sculpture inspired by Sleeping Beauty Castle in the esplanade with colorful glass panels
Concept Art: Disney Parks
Vibrant floral Mickey at the entrance of Disneyland
Concept Art: Disney Parks
Special installation featuring Mickey and Minnie in Town Square
Elegant medallion on Sleeping Beauty Castle
Concept Art: Disney Parks
Carthay Circle Restaurant decked out in 70th colors with special nighttime lighting and projections
Celebration décor extending to Downtown Disney and the Disney Hotels
New Additions to Beloved Attractions!
Even the attractions are getting Disneyland 70th celebration magic!
Coco joins It’s a Small World at Disneyland Concept Art: Disney Parks
Miguel and Dante from “Coco” will join “it’s a small world” in the Mexico section (reopening April 25, 2025). How cute is this?
Toy Story Midway Mania! will feature special 70th anniversary touches.
Toy Story Mania Concept Art: Disney Parks
Merchandise That You’ll NEED in Your Collection!
You know I’m a sucker for Disney merchandise, and the 70th celebration collections look INCREDIBLE! There will be ears, apparel, accessories, plush, toys, home décor, and so much more. Disney will be sharing more details in the coming weeks, but they’ve already teased some items from the Celebration Collection that will be available even before the festivities begin!
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We all know that this is just the teeny tiny tip of the iceberg when it comes to special celebration merchandise. Disney wants to make sure they get ALL our money. I think we can expect special merch from all their brand partners as well. I remember a really cute Dooney and Burke bag I HAD to have from Disneyland’s 45th anniversary…I can’t wait to see what they come up with for Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary celebration! And Loungefly? Oh boy. Her Universe? …heck even Starbucks will likely design some special tumblers for this event. There will be LOTS more to report on, and I can’t WAIT!
Special Offers to Make Your 70th Celebration MORE Affordable!
So now that we are all scrambling to figure out how to find the time and the money to make sure we can visit Disneyland during this amazing celebration, it’s time to look at special offers. Disney is offering some AMAZING deals to help you experience the 70th celebration without breaking the bank:
Limited-Time Multi-Day Tickets: Starting March 11, 2025, you can get a special 3-Day, 1-Park per day ticket for as low as $120 per day (total of $360) OR save even more with a 4-Day, 1-Park per day ticket for only $100 per day (total of $400)!
These special tickets are good for visits from May 16-August 14, 2025
You can use these tickets consecutively OR separately throughout the summer (perfect for multiple visits!)
Options to upgrade to Park Hopper and add Lightning Lane Multi Pass
For all the details, email brooke@wdwmagicalcastlestravel.com visit Disneyland.com/70TicketOffer (park reservations still required)
PLUS there are incredible hotel savings too:
Save up to 30% on select stays of four or more nights (May 16-Sept. 26, 2025) at the Disneyland Resort Hotels if you book by May 15, 2025
Additional offers coming soon, with savings up to 20% on select summer stays
Keep in mind: as the celebration goes on, Disney is likely to present additional/different offers. This will depend on demand, of course. These may be the best offers we see all year, or there may be new offers later on that are even better. If you know you want to go, start thinking about this NOW and reach out to me so we can make it happen!
Photo: Disney Parks
Planning Your Visit
As your trusted Disney travel planner, I cannot emphasize enough how important it will be to plan ahead for this celebration. Here are my top tips:
Book early! This is going to be a HUGELY popular time to visit Disneyland Resort.
Make your theme park reservations as soon as your tickets are purchased. Reservation availability for special tickets may be limited.
Check the Disneyland app or website for entertainment schedules. Some shows and experiences may temporarily pause for seasonal offerings.
Consider staying on property at one of the Disneyland Resort hotels to maximize your time and immerse yourself in the celebration.
As always, I’m here to help you plan the PERFECT Disneyland 70th celebration trip! Send me a message and we can start creating your magical anniversary vacation today!
Concept Art: Disney Parks
The Bottom Line
Disney is really honoring their “Happiest Place on Earth” mantra with everything they have planned for Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary Celebration. The “Celebrate Happiness” theme seems to run through everything, from entertainment to décor to merchandise. I think we can safely say that they’ve learned lessons from each celebration they’ve held around the world so far.
So: are you excited for Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary Celebration? I know I am! Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary might just be the excuse I’ve been looking for to sign up for a Disneyland runDisney event! Hmmmmm. I can feel my wallet smoking already!
Please let me know below with what you’re most looking forward to experiencing at Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary Celebrations!
Are you ready to plan your next Magical vacation? I’d love to help! email Brooke@wdwmagicalcastlestravel.com for a free, no obligation quote today!
Wow! Disney World’s Summer 2025 Is Going to Be SPECTACULAR for Kids!
Posted on March 27, 2025
Hello, my Disney-obsessed friends! I’m here with an exciting update featuring lots of Disney summer magic for kids that’s coming for Summer 2025 at Walt Disney World. If you’ve been on the fence about planning a summer Disney World family trip this year, this post might just push you over the edge. Trust me – Summer 2025 at Walt Disney World is shaping up to be THE ultimate kid-focused vacation!
“Cool Kid Summer” Is Coming! 🌞✨
Disney is officially dubbing this the “Cool Kid Summer” and for good reason! From May 27 through September 1, they’re rolling out SO many special experiences designed specifically for families with little ones.
Image: Disney Parks
Kid Zones That Will Blow Their Tiny Minds!
Picture this: you’re in Magic Kingdom and the little ones are getting a teensy bit cranky from the heat. Solution? Head to the NEW kid zones in Storybook Circus or hang with STITCH in Tomorrowland! (I can already imagine how excited kids will be – Stitch is such a fan favorite!)
And after the Flower & Garden Festival wraps up at EPCOT, Goofy is taking over CommuniCore Hall for what they’re calling “the ultimate game party and play space.” I don’t know exactly what that means yet, but anything involving Goofy is bound to be lots of fun and perfect for keeping energetic kids entertained!
Early Morning Character Magic!
OK, this tip alone is worth its weight in gold: If you’re staying on property (which I ALWAYS recommend), Disney is rolling out EARLY CHARACTER MEET-AND-GREETS during Early Theme Park Entry! Normally, Characters don’t come out until the park opens, at the earliest. Your kids will get a 30 minute head start over everyone NOT staying on Disney property!
This is HUGE! Meet your favorites with significantly shorter lines before the main crowds arrive. This is the stuff Disney dreams are made of!
Where to Stay for Maximum Kid Fun
If you’ve been debating which resort to book, I’ve got insider intel! Four specific resorts are getting EXTRA special “Cool Kid” treatment this summer:
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Disney’s Pop Century Resort
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
These four will have additional kid-focused activities, INCLUDING scheduled character visits! As someone who has struggled with the “when will characters show up at our resort?” question, having set times is a game-changer for planning your day around pool breaks!
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort (Photo: Disney Parks and Resorts)
FREE Water Park Day?! Yes, Please!
This isn’t new for 2025, but it’s worth repeating because I still meet Disney fans who don’t know about it – ALL Disney Resort hotel guests get FREE admission to a Disney water park on their check-in day!
Pro tip from your bestie Brooke: Book an early flight, drop your bags with bell services, and head straight to Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach! I did this last year with friends, and it was the PERFECT way to ease into vacation mode.
Photo: Disney Parks
The Shows! The PARADE!
Two brand-new shows are dropping on May 27:
The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure: If you know any Disney Princess fans, this is a MUST-DO! All-new sets and visuals for this classic that will have everyone singing “Under the Sea” for days! We’ve been waiting for a LONG time for this show, I’m so happy we finally have a DATE. (Dare I hope that we’ll have early previews when Mom and I visit at the beginning of May?)
Concept Art: Disney Parks
Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After: For kids who are into the darker side of Disney (and deep down, I think we all suspect that every kid has a LITTLE villain in them), this interactive show lets the audience decide which villain has been treated most unfairly. So creative!
Concept Art: Disney Parks
But the BIGGEST news? Disney Starlight, the new NIGHTTIME PARADE coming to Magic Kingdom later this summer! It’s been nearly 10 YEARS since Disney World had a nighttime parade, y’all! Characters from “Peter Pan,” “Encanto,” “Frozen” and more will be lighting up Main Street, U.S.A.! Check out this post for more detailed information Disney Starlight.
Concept Art: Disney Parks
Tips to Make the Most of Disney Summer Magic for Kids!
The parks have longer hours in summer, so plan for a mid-day break to avoid meltdowns (both kid and adult varieties).
Download the My Disney Experience app NOW if you haven’t already – that’s how your water park ticket will be loaded.
Pack cooling towels, portable fans, and plenty of sunscreen. Florida summer heat and humidity is no joke!
Make dining reservations ASAP! With all these new offerings, restaurants will book up even faster than usual.
Photo: Disney Parks
Disney Summer Magic for Kids
So, is your credit card burning a hole in your pocket yet? This summer at Disney World is going to be MAGICAL, and I can’t wait to hear about YOUR family’s adventures! If you have any questions, or would like help planning an amazing Disney summer vacation, email me today!
If you haven’t already seen our post about all the fantastic special offers Disney released for Summer 2025, click here.
What are you most excited about for your kids at Disney this summer? Please comment below!
Are you ready to plan your next Magical vacation? I’d love to help! email Brooke@disneycastledreaming.com for a free, no obligation quote today!
P.S. Who’s your favorite Disney character? Let me know in the comments, and I’ll try to share some special tips for meeting them this summer!
Disney World SUMMER SAVINGS ALERT! Disney Just Dropped AMAZING New Deals for Summer 2025!
If you are thinking about visiting Disney World this summer, I have some absolutely FANTASTIC news that has me doing happy dances around my living room! Disney World just released their Summer 2025 special offers, and wow, are there some incredible savings to be had!
I literally dropped everything to bring you this breaking news because these deals are TOO GOOD to wait! Let’s break down all the magical ways you can save on your summer Disney adventure!
FREE DINING IS BACK!
Yes, you read that correctly! The most beloved Disney deal of all time has returned in all its glory! When you book a 4-night, 4-day Disney World package with a room at select Disney Resorts Collection hotels and theme park tickets with Park Hopper, you’ll get a FREE dining plan!
Image: Disney Parks
This offer is available for arrivals on most nights during these date ranges:
June 29 to September 30, 2025
October 20 to November 1, 2025
December 6 to December 22, 2025
If you’ve never experienced the joy of free dining, let me tell you – there’s something extraordinarily liberating about ordering whatever your heart desires without thinking about the price! Mickey waffles for breakfast? Yes! Signature dining experience? Absolutely!
Chef Mickey’s Photo: Disney Parks
A couple of notes: Notice that Park Hopper tickets are required to get Free Dining this time around. Park Hopper tickets are significantly pricier than one park per day tickets, so that may impact how much value you could get from this particular package. While so many of us LOVE Free Dining, it’s not ALWAYS the best deal. I am happy to help you figure out if this is the RIGHT deal for you. Also, you can check out this previous post for more details on things to consider when evaluating whether Free Dining is a good fit for you.
HALF-PRICE TICKETS FOR KIDS!
Traveling with little ones? Here’s a deal that will make your wallet very happy! Children ages 3 to 9 can get 3-day or longer standard theme park tickets for 50% OFF! This special pricing applies to tickets with start dates from May 27 through September 20, 2025.
Photo: Disney Parks
With all the new kid-focused experiences coming this summer (have you heard about the new kid zones and character interactions?), this deal couldn’t have come at a better time!
BUDGET-FRIENDLY 3-DAY, 3-PARK SPECIAL TICKET 🎫
If you’re looking to maximize fun while minimizing costs, check out this specially priced ticket option! For just $89 per day (total starting at $267 plus tax), you can get a 3-Day, 3-Park Ticket valid for admission to:
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
EPCOT
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
This is PERFECT for first-time visitors who want to experience a variety of parks without the premium price of Magic Kingdom admission. And trust me, these three parks alone have enough amazement to fill several days of adventure–just make sure that you understand that if you want to visit Magic Kingdom, you will need to purchase an additional park ticket for Magic Kingdom separately. (Currently, pricing for a one day ticket to Magic Kingdom ranges from $139 – $164 for most of the days this summer.)
Photo: Brooke Hudson
SAVE UP TO 30% ON RESORT ROOMS
Planning a longer Disney getaway? You’ll be rewarded with bigger savings! Stay 5 consecutive nights or longer at select Disney Resorts Collection hotels between August 1 and October 11, 2025, and you can save up to 30% off room rates!
Even if you can’t stay quite that long, Disney is still offering savings for shorter stays during the same period. This is a fantastic way to experience the immersive storytelling that makes staying on Disney property so special!
Disney’s Contemporary Resort Photo: Disney Parks
Let me help you figure out the best offer for your vacation! Drop me an email today.
FLORIDA RESIDENTS: EVEN BIGGER SAVINGS! 🌴
My Florida friends, Disney hasn’t forgotten about you! Florida residents can save up to 35% on rooms at select Disney Resorts Collection hotels when staying 4 consecutive nights or longer between August 1 and October 11, 2025.
And yes, there are savings for shorter stays too! Just remember that your credit card or payment method must have a Florida billing address to qualify. (Disney is really tightening up the rules on Florida resident discounts!)
Photo: Disney Parks
Annual Passholders, there’s a similar offer available for you as well! Email me today with the dates you want to travel, and I’ll provide a no obligation quote for you.
Insider Tips for Maximizing These Deals:
Book ASAP! These offers have limited availability, especially for the most popular resorts and dates.
Be flexible with dates if possible. Try different arrival dates to find the best availability.
Consider value season travel. Late August and September typically have lower crowds and better availability for deals.
Don’t forget about Early Theme Park Entry! As a Disney Resort guest, you’ll get into the parks 30 minutes early every day – a HUGE advantage and in my opinion, adds a lot of value to your vacation. Of course, that does require you be willing to get up and get to the parks early! It’s less of an advantage if you’d rather sleep in on vacation!
Use the savings to splurge on special experiences. Maybe a dessert party with fireworks viewing? Or that character meal you’ve been eyeing?
Topolino Terrace Character Breakfast Photo: Linda Harkness
Disney Summer Savings 2025
Which of these amazing deals has you reaching for your credit card? I’m definitely tempted. Mom and I are going down in May for the EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival, but some of these deals are really selling me on a quick mid-summer trip! (Especially with Universal’s new Epic Universe park opening at the end of May. Disney for 3-4 days and a quick hop over to Epic Universe…sounds like it could be a plan.)
Let me know in the comments which offer you are most tempted by. And of course, if you have any questions about any of these deals, I’m always happy to help plan your perfect vacation!
There’s nothing I love more than helping plan a magical vacation. Email me today for a free, no obligation quote.
P.S. If you’re planning a summer Disney trip, be sure to check out my recent post about all the SPECTACULAR kid-focused activities coming to Walt Disney World this summer!
Big news for EPCOT fans! Disney just announced GEO-82, an all-new, adults-only lounge coming to EPCOT’s Spaceship Earth later this year. Yes, you read that right—this elegant new lounge will be inside EPCOT’s iconic geodesic sphere, offering modern cocktails, globally inspired small plates, and stunning views of World Celebration gardens and World Showcase Lagoon.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes GEO-82 a must-visit addition to Walt Disney World!
GEO-82: The Ultimate EPCOT Lounge Experience
GEO-82 will be reservation-only and exclusively for guests 21 and older. This sleek, stylish space will be the perfect spot to unwind after a long day of exploring EPCOT. Imagine sipping on an innovative cocktail, sampling global flavors, and soaking in breathtaking park views—all from within one of Disney’s most famous icons.
Image: Disney Parks
A Lounge Inspired by Spaceship Earth
The design of this adults-only lounge, GEO-82, is a love letter to EPCOT’s legendary architecture. Inside, guests will be surrounded by futuristic geometric shapes, intricate patterns, and warm metallic tones—all echoing the look and feel of Spaceship Earth itself. Disney promises an elegant and intimate atmosphere, making this the ultimate hidden gem for adults visiting EPCOT.
Cocktails & Small Plates With a Global Twist
While Disney hasn’t released the full menu yet, they tell us that GEO-82 will feature globally inspired small plates and creative cocktails. Given EPCOT’s reputation for world-class dining, expectations are high—and I can’t wait to see what delicious drinks and bites make the final cut. (And if you can read the menu, thank the Phoenicians! 😉)
Concept Art: Disney Parks
More Lounges Coming to Walt Disney World!
GEO-82 isn’t the only new lounge opening this year. Disney has also teased a Pirates of the Caribbean-inspired tavern coming to Magic Kingdom Park later in 2025. While GEO-82 will be an adults-only retreat, this upcoming pirate-themed spot promises fun beverages for the whole family—so keep an eye out for more details soon!
In addition, there’s a brand new DVC (Disney Vacation Club) Members Lounge opening at Magic Kingdom this week. McKim’s Mile House is located in Frontierland, and offers DVC members and their guests a quiet place to relax and recharge.
Photo: Disney Parks
Adults-only Lounge Coming to EPCOT
Let’s talk about the somewhat controversial elephant in the room. I bet there are at least some of you that saw that the new lounge will be “adults-only” and were unhappy about that. After all, Disney is a family destination. I think many people would tell you that Disney is “for the kids”. And to a certain extent, yes, Disney’s primary target audience is children (and their parents and grandparents with the money to FUND their children’s Disney love). However, as a “Disney Adult”, I have to express firmly that Disney is NOT just for children. Disney has spent billions over the years to successfully appeal not just to children, but to teens, adults and seniors as well. There is entertainment, attractions and food and beverages that appeal to all ages–not just children.
A toast at dinner in France. Photo: Linda Harkness
EPCOT is more “grown-up” friendly than the other parks
The truth is, EPCOT is the one park that IS a little more adult friendly. The Food & Wine Festival is NOT targeting children, I promise you. EPCOT was the first Disney theme park to serve alcohol. In fact, EPCOT has long been criticized for not being focused enough on children. With only three “attractions” in World Showcase, many feel that EPCOT can be boring for young children. While this hasn’t been my family’s experience, I can certainly understand why some might feel that way. Regardless, children are currently welcomed everywhere in the theme parks at Walt Disney World.
I really like the idea of one place where adults can go to have some cocktails and maybe some snacks at Disney without children. Just for an hour or two. As much as I love Disney and get a genuine charge out of watching children all over the parks having fun–sometimes, it’s really nice just to sit and have a drink and relax–without children around. And of the four theme parks at Walt Disney World, I think it makes sense to put the first adults-only lounge at EPCOT.
My FAVORITE Alcoholic Beverage in ALL of WDW…The Grand Marnier Orange Slushy in France. Photo: Brooke Hudson
But it’s NEW!
I understand that this is a new thing, and that you might think, “everyone should get to enjoy it”. But I don’t really think that’s a big deal, personally. There is plenty of stuff all over Disney that everyone gets to enjoy. Will the kids really care that they’re not invited into this new lounge? No. The kids would be BORED in the new lounge. It won’t have fun, colorful things to climb on. It won’t be kid friendly, and it won’t be themed to entertaining children. They’d MUCH rather go to the Space 220 Lounge and watch astronauts walking in space than sit in a relatively quiet, elegant (and hopefully) classy lounge.
Space 220. (Photo Disney Parks)
Most likely the people that will be frustrated that GEO-82 is an adults-only lounge are the people traveling with their children that want to go to the lounge. Unfortunately, sometimes we don’t get everything we want. But those people can still visit the new lounge–as long as they have someone to watch their children while they do.
But what if Disney builds MORE Adults-only Lounges?
What if they do? Would that really be so terrible? I’ve definitely heard some parents voice concerns about people drinking too much around World Showcase, and not wanting to expose their children to drunk adults behaving badly. (I don’t want to be exposed to them either, so I’m with you on that). But would it be so bad if there were a few adults-only spots on property that separated the drinking adults from the families with young children? I’m not sure I see an issue, honestly. I mean, sure, I’d rather have some new attractions or shows. But I wouldn’t mind an adults-only lounge in each theme park if they were to happen.
When Can You Visit GEO-82?
Disney has yet to announce an official opening date or when reservations will become available, but stay tuned! I’ll share updates as soon as Disney releases more details.
What do you think about this elegant new EPCOT lounge? Are you excited to sip cocktails inside Spaceship Earth? Are you disappointed that the new lounge will be adults-only? Let me know in the comments!
Are you ready to plan your next Magical vacation? I’d love to help! email Brooke@disneycastledreaming.com for a free, no obligation quote today!
Mando and Grogu Are Coming to Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run!
Big news, Star Wars fans! If you’ve ever dreamed of flying the Millennium Falcon with Mando and Grogu, get ready—because that dream is about to become a reality! Disney just announced a brand-new mission coming to Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run at both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort, launching on May 22, 2026. And because the planers at Disney are not fools, this adventure is set to debut the same day as the highly anticipated Mandalorian movie!
Image: Disney Parks
A New Mission Awaits!
Given the EXTREME popularity of The Mandalorian, I think we all suspected Disney would find SOME way to bring Mando and Grogu into the theme park experience. On our last trip, we had an exciting moment where we very briefly saw Mando walking in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. The souvenir game has been VERY strong since The Mandalorian first gained attention, so this expansion into Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run feels very natural somehow.
Photo: Disney Parks
This exciting update was officially revealed during The Future of World-Building at Disney panel at SXSW, where The Mandalorian creator Jon Favreau joined Disney Imagineers Leslie Evans and Asa Kalama to give us a sneak peek at what’s coming to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
Favreau explained that Disney’s ability to tell stories across multiple formats makes this kind of expansion possible:
“We’re already taking Mando and Grogu from the TV screen to the movie screen, and at the same time, Dave Filoni and I are working with Asa to bring this story to the Disney parks, too.”
So what does that mean for us? Well, Hondo Ohnaka is reworking your mission, and let’s just say things are getting a little more…Mandalorian! While Disney is keeping many details under wraps (for now), expect to see familiar and beloved locations aboard the Falcon—including Cloud City!
Mandalorian and Smuggler’s Run. Photo: Disney Parks
I don’t always love rides that are mostly virtual reality–I tend towards motion sickness, so I can’t even think about doing them without Dramamine, and even then, I sometimes struggle. BUT one BIG advantage of rides that feature VR is that they are easily updatable. Think about Star Tours…every couple of years, that attraction gets a few new scenes added and a few older ones disappear. It helps keep the ride fresh–even for those that ride their favorite attractions over and over. (Of course, my favorite attraction is The Haunted Mansion, which almost NEVER changes at Walt Disney World…so clearly change is not a necessity for enjoyment…)
But sometimes, when I think about beloved attractions that are no longer with us {sigh} The Great Movie Ride {sigh}…I wonder if those could have had longer lives if there’d been some way for Disney to update them without MAJOR investments and attraction downtime. I guess we’ll never know for sure, but I do think it bodes well for rides like Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run and Star Tours that they CAN be updated without having lengthy ride shutdowns. Of course, there’s an investment in creating the new scenes–but I suspect the costs associated with creating a new Virtual Reality scene are more easily sold to the Powers that Be than designing and installing a whole new physical set piece or making significant changes to a ride system.
Image: D23
Tied to the Movie, But Not a Retelling
One important note—this isn’t a direct retelling of The Mandalorian movie. Instead, it’s something happening just off-camera from the events in the film. So, while you won’t be “playing out” the movie plot, you’ll be on an adventure directly connected to the larger story.
Photo: Disney Parks
Imagineers actually filmed scenes for the Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run attraction on the movie set, meaning we can expect an authentic and immersive experience that fits seamlessly into the Star Wars timeline.
Droids, Anzellans, and More!
The Star Wars magic doesn’t stop there! If you’ve visited Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland, you might have noticed some playful BDX droids wandering around. Well, good news—these little guys are making their way to Walt Disney World, Tokyo Disneyland, and Disneyland Paris!
And that’s not all—these droids are also appearing in the upcoming Mandalorian movie. I love this so much: something that started in with Imagineers and in the theme park growing up into the movies (Remember Pirates of the Caribbean, anyone?!?) Seriously, though, these little guys are so cute, I can’t wait to see them in the park!
BDX Droid on the move. Photo: Disney Parks
Oh, and remember the adorably cranky Anzellans (Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, anyone?) who specialize in droid repairs? They’re coming to the parks too! Just try not to upset them.
May 22, 2026—Mark Your Calendars!
With The Mandalorian movie and the new Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run mission launching on the same day, May 22, 2026 is shaping up to be a Star Wars mega-event! Dare we hope for more Star Wars happenings that weekend a la the old “Star Wars Weekends”? Fingers crossed!
Will you be jumping to lightspeed with Mando and Grogu? I know I’ll be lining up for this one when it gets the update next year! Let me know in the comments—what are you most excited about?
And as always… May the Force be with you!
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com
P.S. We’re updating our name very soon: Turns out the Big D doesn’t love me incorporating their name into my Company Name. Our new name is WDW Magical Castles Travel. We have a new logo and a new web address…but this one will continue to work and all the content will be the same. Here’s our new logo, what do you think?
It’s hard to believe, but 2024 is almost over and 2025 is on its way. One of the best things to look forward to in the new year is the 2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts. Festival time is always the BEST time to visit EPCOT, and the International Festival of the Arts is one of the best (and shortest!) festivals of the year.
The 2025 International Festival of the Arts will run from January 17 to February 24, 2025. EPCOT packs a lot of content in its annual International Festival of the Arts. Full of music, color, food and activity, the International Festival of the Arts is a feast for the senses.
Disney on Broadway Concert Series
Photo: DIsney Parks
The Disney on Broadway Concert Series features Disney on Broadway stars performing favorite songs from both films and broadway shows. Attend one of the shows in the concert series to see hits from shows like Aladdin, Newsies, Mary Poppins, Frozen, The Lion King, Tarzan and more!
The Disney on Broadway Concert Series is held at the American Gardens Theater in the American Adventure Pavilion. There are three shows per night: 5:30, 6:45 and 8:00 pm. Seats are first come, first serve.
Disney on Broadway Concert Series Schedule:
Patti Murin (Frozen) & John Riddle (Frozen): January 17, 19, 20, 23, 25, 27 & 28
Caissie Levy (Frozen) & Jelani Remy (The Lion King): January 18, 21, 22, 24, 26, 29 & 30
Adam Jacobs (Aladdin) & Josh Strickland (Tarzan): January 31, February 2, 3, 6, 8, 10 & 11
Ashley Brown (Mary Poppins) & Alton Fitzgerald White (The Lion King): February 1, 4, 5, 7, 9, 12 & 13
Michael James Scott (Aladdin) & Kissy Simmons (The Lion King): February 14, 16, 17, 20, 23 & 24
Rodney Ingram (Aladdin) & Kara Lindsay (Newsies): February 15, 18, 19, 21, 22 & 24
Disney on Broadway Concert Series— Photo: Disney Parks
Disney on Broadway Concert Series Dining Packages
The Disney on Broadway Concert Series will be a major highlight of the 2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts. Year after year, this series has proven very popular. One of the best ways to guarantee a seat at your preferred show for the Disney on Broadway Concert Series is a Disney on Broadway Concert Series Dining Package. If you want to attend a Disney on Broadway Concert Series show, you need to wait in line, and there is no guarantee you will get a seat for the show. However, if you purchase a Dining Package, you ARE guaranteed a seat for the show.
Dining Packages and Prices
Choose a restaurant from a variety of participating EPCOT table service restaurants that offer Disney on Broadway Concert Series Dining Packages. Here’s what your meal will include:
At Spice Road Table: 2 small plates, a shared tagine, a shared dessert platter and a nonalcoholic beverage (or alcoholic beverage for Guests 21 and older)
At Other Participating Restaurants: An entrée and dessert, or one full buffet (where applicable)—as well as a nonalcoholic beverage (or alcoholic beverage for Guests 21 and older)
Plus, you’ll get one (1) guaranteed seat per person to one DISNEY ON BROADWAY concert on the same day.
Advance Dining Reservations are HIGHLY recommended!
The prices in the table below do NOT include tax or gratuity.
Didn’t make Advanced Dining Reservations and hoping to do a Same Day Dining Package for Disney on Broadway Concert Series? You may be able to purchase a same-day dining package, which allows you to:
Enjoy guaranteed seats to a DISNEY ON BROADWAY concert later that day.
To check availability for same-day dining packages, visit Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue. Packages are subject to availability and may not be available on peak dates.
Of course, if you aren’t able to book a Dining package and if you aren’t able to get a seat for the show, all is not lost: you can still hear and see the show from the walkways throughout the American Adventure Pavilion. It’s not as comfortable as sitting, but when desperate times call for desperate measures, it is an option.
New Artful Experiences for 2025
30 Years of Disney on Broadway— Concept Art: Disney Parks
Once Upon a Stage: 30 Years of Disney on Broadway
2025’s International Festival of the Arts will feature a new exhibit in EPCOT’s CommuniCore Hall. 30 Years of Disney on Broadway will allow guests to experience the magic of Broadway in a walkthrough exhibit that celebrates three decades of Disney on Broadway. The exhibit will feature props and costumes from favorite Disney Broadway musicals. Also featured will be behind the scenes glimpses of how classic Disney animated films “The Lion King” and “Aladdin”.
Opening Bites Food Studio
Outside CommuniCore Hall at CommuniCore Plaza, the new menu will pay homage to foods and drinks on foods made famous on stage. Guests should keep their eyes open for the upcoming Festival of the Arts Foodie Guide to this and other Foodie Studios around EPCOT during the Festival.
New Artful Photo Ops
Throughout each International Festival of the Arts, guests can take advantage of Artful Photo Ops. These Artful Photo Ops allow guests to step onto the canvas and become “part” of the art. There are several returning favorites this year, including Luncheon of the Boating Party by Pierre-August Renoir, Washington Crossing the Delaware by Emanuel Gottlieb Leutze, and Edvard Munch’s The Scream. There is also a brand new Artful Photo Op inviting guests to voyage alongside our favorite seafarer featuring Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Moana.” Each location will have Disney PhotoPass Photographers available to capture your artistic moment.
Artful Photo Op— Photo: Disney Parks
2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts: Features to Enjoy
Scavenger Hunt: Figment’s Brush with the Masters
Each EPCOT Festival features a Scavenger Hunt. We’ve done several different version of these and really enjoy them. For the 2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts, the Scavenger Hunt features Figment learning about art, and is a World Showcase focused Scavenger Hunt.
To participate in the Scavenger Hunt, you’ll purchase your map and stickers for $9.99 (plus tax) at one of three locations:
Creations Shop
World Traveler
Port of Entry
Once you have your map and stickers, you’ll explore World Showcase and search for Figment in each World Showcase pavilion. You’ll look for Figment hiding inside art inspired by famous works—a clue will be a Figment themed picture frame. When you find Figment, you’ll place the corresponding sticker on the pavilion on your map.
When you’ve located Figment at each Pavilion around World Showcase, and placed stickers on each Pavilion on your map, you’ll return to one of the three shops above to show your completed map and win a small prize (while supplies last).
The Scavenger Hunt is a fun way to find new details in places you’ve explored many times before. Some years, they’ve been really challenging, and some years, they’ve been fairly easy. Either way, we’ve always enjoyed doing an EPCOT Scavenger Hunt. I wouldn’t necessarily recommend one for a first time visitor, but for someone who has visited EPCOT many times, they’re a fun way to add a new dimension to your visit.
Paint by Numbers Mural
One really fun component of the 2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts will be the giant Paint by Numbers Mural. This mural is for YOU, the guest. It’s painted by guests, throughout the course of the Festival. To participate, you’ll pick up a brush, a paint color and a number at the Expression Section Booth. Then, you’ll go to the massive mural and paint a few squares that correspond with your color.
EPCOT Paint by Numbers Mural—Photo: Disney Parks
The Expression Section Booth is located on the walkway between the Imagination! Pavilion and World Showcase. The Booth is open every day between 11 am and 5 pm. Note: This experience is subject to change without notice, and is subject to change or cancellation due to weather.
Kids Chalk Art
Children are invited to express their creativity using chalk on the bridge to World Showcase Plaza. The kids create their masterpieces on the walkway, and everyone walking by gets to enjoy their artistry! This kid friendly activity is available every day between 11 am and 5 pm. This experience is subject to change without notice.
Kids Chalk Art— Photo: Disney Parks
Animation Academy
I’m really looking forward to checking this one out, myself. Every day, throughout the Festival, you’ll have a chance to learn how to draw a Disney character from a Disney animator! The sessions are held twice a day, at 12:30 pm and 1:30 pm, in the American Gardens Theater in the American Adventure Pavilion. Sessions are subject to change without notice. Featured artists include:
Luke Consolo
Matthew Dewater
Justin Dring
Will Gay
Hannah Loflin
Alex Maher
Michael Montgomery
Sarah Schmidt
Lon Smart
Draw a Disney Character! — Photo: Disney Parks
Artists and Art Displays
All around EPCOT, you’ll find art displays and artists, showcasing their work. At World Showcase Plaza, you’ll be able to watch artists create Disney characters in minutes (Thursdays through Sundays throughout the Festival). Also at World Showcase Plaza, you’ll be able to hear musical artists performing daily. Throughout World Showcase, you’ll find chalk drawings of your favorite Disney characters. On the bridge to World Showcase Plaza, you’ll see Chalk Artists at work and be able to see galleries of their creative designs.
Photo: Disney Parks
Photo: Disney Parks
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Photo: Disney Parks
Photo: Disney Parks
Photo: Disney Parks
2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts: Food Studios
As with most EPCOT Festivals, the 2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts will feature food kiosks, called “Food Studios” for this Festival, featuring special food and beverages only available during the Festival. Some regular restaurants around the park will also feature some special “Festival” only menu items.
Artistic Food— Photo: Disney Parks
The Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine
This year’s Festival will feature a fun game for the “foodies” among us. Your Festival Passport will feature seven tasty and vibrant specialty dishes for you to track down. Locate each of these items and track your progress by getting a stamp for your passport after you purchase the items.
Colorful Cuisine— Photo: Disney Parks
Once you’ve enjoyed at least five of the seven dishes—and collected the corresponding stamps—you’ll bring your stamped Festival Passport to the Deco Delights Food Studio and receive a complimentary Artist Palette Cookie.
2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts: Festival Merchandise
We can always count on Disney to help us find ways to spend our money, can’t we? EPCOT Festival Merchandise is a TERRIFIC example of Disney marketers working their creative brains to the bone to give us new ways to spend our money. Every Festival means new, Festival specific merchandise. And for some of the longer Festivals, the merchandise may even change during the Festival! The 2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts will definitely feature lots of special only-available-at-the-festival-merchandise. Disney has only released pictures of a few items so far, but I’m sure there will be lots more. We all know they won’t want to leave ANY money on the table if they possibly can come up with a way to get you to spend it!
International Festival of the Arts Loungefly. Photo: Disney Parks
Photo: Disney Parks
Photo: Disney Parks
Photo: Disney Parks
Photo: Disney Parks
The Final Brushstroke
The 2025 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts will run from January 17 through February 24, 2025. It will be filled with colorful artwork, lively music, tasty and artistic food, fun activities for both adults and kids and will overall be a very special time to visit EPCOT. Are you planning to visit EPCOT for this year’s International Festival of the Arts?
I’m very excited that this year, the Princess Half Marathon Weekend is during the last weekend of the Festival, so I’ll be able to attend the Festival during Race Weekend this year. Last year, I just missed it—I arrived 2 days after the Festival ended. It worked out great last year, because my mom was with me and the Flower and Garden Festival started early and we were able to check that out right at the end of our trip.
EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival— Photo: Disney PhotoPass
This year, Mom and I are doing a separate trip for Flower and Garden (that Festival is the subject of our next blog!) As I’m sure you can tell, I’m a bit of a junkie for EPCOT Festivals. The Flower and Garden Festival is my favorite but I’m super excited to check out the International Festival of the Arts in a few weeks.
What about you? Do you have a favorite EPCOT Festival? Do you ever plan your trips to coincide with a particular Festival? Please comment below. I’d love to know how EPCOT Festivals impact your planning!
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com
Roundup Rodeo BBQ is a Toy Story themed table service restaurant that opened at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in March 2023. We originally visited Roundup Rodeo BBQ in May 2023, not long after it opened. Despite originally vowing to never eat at Roundup Rodeo BBQ again, we found ourselves revisiting Roundup Rodeo BBQ a few weeks ago. Our experience this time was substantially different and I felt deserved an updated review.
We left Roundup Rodeo BBQ pretty disappointed after our initial visit in May 2023. While we loved the theming, we were really disappointed with the food during that visit. That original review can be found Here.
Roundup Rodeo BBQ Photo: Disney Parks
When it came time to plan our big family trip for October 2024, we kept coming back to Roundup Rodeo BBQ. The theming was SO good and we knew that several family members would be excited to dine in Toy Story Land. We also had heard that Disney had made some changes to the menu based on guest feedback. While that doesn’t always mean good things when it comes to Disney, in this case, we felt things HAD to improve—we didn’t honestly think they could have gotten worse. With cautious trepidation, we made an Advanced Dining Reservation for dinner on our Hollywood Studios day. There were 10 people in our group the evening we had dinner at Roundup Rodeo BBQ.
Roundup Rodeo BBQ: Excellent Theming
The one thing that remained consistent between our first visit and our most recent visit was the theming of the restaurant. This restaurant is themed VERY well to Toy Story, and includes characters and storylines from all four movies throughout the restaurant. It’s very colorful and cheerful. This is a very family friendly restaurant—so the noise levels are high. Do not expect a calm or relaxing atmosphere at Roundup Rodeo BBQ. This is a high energy, fun experience—aimed at providing Toy Story fans (especially young fans) an immersive and memorable meal.
Roundup Rodeo BBQ Photo: Brooke Hudson
The cast members are all outfitted in cartoon western wear, very fitting with the Toy Story Rodeo theming. One thing my mom pointed out—she felt the cast member seating us and our server did a better job this visit with bringing everyone into the Toy Story atmosphere, and in telling diners what to expect. She’s not a Toy Story fan, and felt lost during our first visit—not understanding some of what was going on. This time, the cast members explained that Andy or Sid might come into the backyard, and because we are all honorary toys, we have to freeze whenever that happens. This helped Mom feel more involved, even though she hadn’t seen the movies.
The audio playing throughout the meal seemed clearer and more understandable this visit as well. We also noticed some really fun action that played out around the restaurant involving different cast members acting as certain Toy Story characters. It was fun and the activity and audio cues were frequent enough to keep younger kids from getting bored, but not so often as to make you feel anxious or overwhelmed. (Everyone’s barometer for overstimulation is different however; your mileage may vary on this).
Roundup Rodeo BBQ, Interior Photo: Disney Parks
Roundup Rodeo BBQ: Pricing
One of the advantages that Roundup Rodeo BBQ has had from the start is that it is a relatively fairly priced meal for Walt Disney World. The menu is served family style, and is all-you-care-to-eat. The meal includes a beverage (fountain drinks, iced tea or milk), several different meats, multiple sides and dessert. When Roundup Rodeo BBQ first opened, the price for adults (age 10+) was $45 per person, and the price for children (ages 3-9) was $25. These prices have increased slightly. The current prices for adults is $49 per person and for children is $27. This is the same whether you go for lunch or dinner–so make that reservation whenever you can get it. There’s no price disadvantage to the dinner hour, and no price advantage to the lunchtime shift.
The majority of our family really took the “all you care to eat” to heart. I think most of us really got our money’s worth here. We made sure to go in hungry—and the improvements in the menu were definitely appreciated by pretty much the whole family. One of the single BEST improvements to the menu doesn’t show on the online menu–it only appears on the printed menu you get at the restaurant: you can get salmon upon request with your proteins. And the salmon was SO GOOD!! It really elevated the meal for us. Somehow, I didn’t manage to get a picture of any of the VERY fabulous salmon. But I did capture my other favorite item on the menu–and this is an original menu item– the biscuits with the sweet pepper jam. Oh my goodness. I wouldn’t be surprised if a black market sprung up somewhere just for these!! Really yummy!
The desserts were also beloved universally at our table–and between the 10 of us, we tried ALL of them.
Let me be clear: $49 is a lot of money for lunch or dinner—especially for a 10 year old person. However, this is a meal inside one of the most popular theme parks in the world. For theme park dining at a table service restaurant, $49 is one of the lower priced options you’ll find. And while this is not a character meal, it is very well themed. And there actually is quite a lot of entertainment happening. Overall, now that the quality of the food has improved (in my opinion), I think this is a very reasonably priced table service meal at Disney. I definitely recommend going in hungry if you can!
The Bottom Line — Roundup Rodeo BBQ Revisited
Toy Story Land Table Service Restaurant Roundup Rodeo BBQ Photo: Disney Parks
I would definitely recommend Roundup Rodeo BBQ for a fun family dining experience at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. My recommendation does come with a few caveats, however. If your kids are SUPER picky eaters–make sure you look at the menu before making your reservation. $49 is a lot of money if the only thing your kid will eat is mac and cheese.
Be aware, this is a LOUD, boisterous and fun dining experience. If you have Toy Story fans in your group, they are likely to love it–but if you have kids with sensory issues or that get overwhelmed when there is a lot going on–this may not be the right dining experience for your family.
However, we found it to be fun and entertaining. The service was great, the food was really good, and our family REALLY enjoyed the all-you-can-eat aspect. I’d like to also personally recommend the Rattler Rum Punch for those that like a little alcohol with their boisterous family dining experiences. It was really tasty and had a nice little kick to it!
Roundup Rodeo Beverages Photo: Disney Parks
I think Roundup Rodeo BBQ fills a need that it was supposed to fill: good, fun, entertaining themed dining in Toy Story Land. Good food that appeals to most (especially with the changes they’ve made over the last year) at a reasonable for theme park dining price.
I suggest you check it out on your next Disney vacation–especially if you’re a Toy Story fan or have Toy Story fans in your traveling crew.
Ready to Plan Your Next Disney Vacation? I’m ready to help! Email brooke@disneycastledreaming.com
