Podcasts about Disney California Adventure

We're back to finish our D23 Expo discussion, now joined by 'Naynay so we can talk all things Disneyland. It's a tribute to all DLR news, but mostly Tomorrowland. What new attractions are coming, what will need to change, and when? Plus, Coco, Avengers, and more. Related Links Piston Peak Overhead View: https://x.com/ScottGustin/status/2088683338349555930?s=20 'Naynay TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@naynay3655 Alicia Social Links: https://alicia.socialSubscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThemeParkStopSupport on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ThemeParkStop

Join Attractions Magazine contributing writers and correspondents as they bring you news and discussion about all things themed entertainment and parks, including Disney, Universal Studios and beyond on The Attractions Podcast. Topics of conversation on this week's episode of The Attractions Podcast: Disneyland Halloween characters 2026: Where to find them Oogie Boogie Bash 2026 characters at Disney California Adventure: meet-and-greet guide Disney patent could let attractions adapt to what guests want — or want to avoid Epcot Food & Wine Festival 2026 will last 86 days and revive 30 dishes from its history A classic ‘Treehouse of Horror' moment is finally becoming reality at Universal Knott's Scary Farm maze resurfaces Mickey Mouse's original name with a horror twist The Attractions Podcast is brought to you by MEI-Travel and Mouse Fan Travel. They provide premium service and expert advice to get the most for your vacation time and dollars. Visit them at mei-travel.com. We welcome your suggestions and want you to be a part of the discussion. Please send your comments to info@attractionsmagazine.com with the subject line “The Attractions Podcast.” Statements or opinions herein are those of the hosts and advertisers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the producers, Dream Together Media LLC, or staff.

In this episode, Chris Cochrane guest-hosts for his brother Ray and devotes the whole show to one event: Disney’s D23 2026 fan convention in Anaheim. Friday night delivered Marvel’s new X-Men cast, Adam Driver as Mister Sinister, a fresh Avengers: Doomsday trailer, and a release date for Frozen 3. Saturday turned to the parks, with Villains Land, an Indiana Jones dark ride, the long-awaited Expedition Everest yeti repair, and a Monsters Inc land opening in 2027. – Want to start a podcast? It’s easy to get started! Sign up at Blubrry – Thinking of buying a Starlink? Use my link to support the show. Subscribe to the Newsletter. Email Chris if you want to get in touch! Like and Follow Geek News Central’s Facebook Page. Support my Show Sponsor: Best Godaddy Promo Codes Get 1Password Full Summary Chris Cochrane opens the show and explains why this episode breaks the usual format. Instead of six or eight unrelated stories, the entire episode covers Disney’s D23 convention, which he compares to Apple’s WWDC. For newcomers, he notes that D23 is Disney’s official fan club, named for the company’s founding year of 1923. This year’s event ran two nights at the Honda Center: Friday for movies and television, Saturday for the theme parks. Marvel Finally Casts the X-Men Friday’s headline was the X-Men. The Associated Press put the crowd near 12,000, and Marvel Studios used that stage to name its rebooted team. Christopher Abbott plays Professor Charles Xavier, Inde Navarrette plays Rogue, and Maya Boyd plays Storm. Adam Driver rounds out the group as the villain Mister Sinister. Meanwhile, Samara Weaving, Kit Connor, and Sadie Sink were already known as Emma Frost, Cyclops, and Jean Grey. Jake Schreier directs, and the film arrives May 5, 2028. Chris calls the lineup spot-on casting. He singles out Weaving as a perfect match for the comics, and he points out that Sink already appeared as Jean Grey in Spider-Man: Brand New Day. Navarrette is the least established name, coming off a breakout role in an indie horror film. Boyd, meanwhile, was the name he knew least, with what he believes is a Broadway background. Above all, Chris hopes Marvel does the team justice, and he recommends the animated revival X-Men ’97 on Disney+ as the best place to start. Frozen 3 Gets a Date and a Chaotic Reveal Frozen 3 lands November 24, 2027. That is the Wednesday of Thanksgiving week, the same slot the first two films used. The story centers on Anna and Kristoff’s wedding, which a new villain, an evil Ice Queen, disrupts. Jennifer Lee returns to direct with Trent Correy, and the full voice cast is back. However, the reveal itself fell apart. Kristen Bell and Idina Menzel performed a darker arrangement of “Frozen Heart.” Meanwhile, the audio failed, the video failed, and a set of doors never opened. Menzel asked the crowd whether they should try it again, and Bell simply narrated everything that was supposed to happen. Afterward, Josh Gad sang “Oooh, Samantha,” a new love song for Olaf. Chris is here for it, since Olaf is one of the franchise’s best comic characters. Pixar, Disney Animation, and the Rest of Friday Night Pixar chief Pete Docter laid out a packed slate. Incredibles 3 hits summer 2028 and follows Violet and Dash sneaking out at night to fight crime. Chris hopes that finally shows a grown-up Jack-Jack. Coco 2 follows in November 2029 with Benjamin Bratt returning as Ernesto de la Cruz. That has fans puzzling over how a villain already in the Land of the Dead comes back. Additionally, Pixar showed an original called Ghost Market and a Venice-set cat film called Gatto. On the Disney Animation side, Zootopia 3 is confirmed. The live-action Tangled arrives March 31, 2028 with Kathryn Hahn as Mother Gothel. Chris considers that casting perfect after her turn in Agatha All Along. A live-action Lilo & Stitch sequel, a new Simpsons movie, a Bluey movie, and a Kingdom Hearts anime series round out the list. For Star Wars fans, Ahsoka returns January 20, 2027. Chris also offers a hot take: he prefers Rogue One to the entire sequel trilogy. Consequently, he welcomes original stories like Ryan Gosling’s upcoming Starfighter. Adam Driver Is Mister Sinister Driver appeared by video rather than in person. He told the crowd that he and Kevin Feige had talked for years about joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Then he announced he would play Magneto. After a long pause, he corrected himself to Nathaniel Milbury, which is Mister Sinister’s human alias. The gag landed because fans had floated Driver for Magneto for years. For anyone new to the comics, Chris explains that Mister Sinister is a geneticist obsessed with mutant DNA, a manipulator rather than a brawler. The cast met backstage only minutes earlier, so Chris is curious how their chemistry develops. Notably, Christopher Abbott previously worked with Driver on HBO’s Girls. The script comes from Beef creator Lee Sung Jin and The Bear co-showrunner Joanna Calo, two prestige-television names that have Chris excited. Why the X-Men Took Thirty Years to Reach the MCU A business story underlies the casting. In the 1990s, a financially struggling Marvel sold film rights to raise cash. Fox ended up with the X-Men and the Fantastic Four, and Sony took Spider-Man. As a result, Marvel Studios built its connected universe from 2008 onward without some of its most famous characters. The Hugh Jackman era of X-Men films belonged to Fox, with a separate continuity and no crossovers. That changed in 2019, when Disney closed its $71 billion purchase of 21st Century Fox’s film and television studio. Most coverage framed the deal as a streaming play, but it also brought the X-Men home. Chris sums it up neatly: Disney signed the paperwork in 2019, cast the film in 2026, and audiences see it in 2028. Ryan Gosling’s Starfighter, Ghost Rider, and VisionQuest Lucasfilm dated Star Wars: Starfighter for May 28, 2027. Gosling plays Kade Auberon, a pilot from the wrong side of the galaxy tied to the fastest starfighter ever built. Before he walked out, Disney played clips of him as a kid on The Mickey Mouse Club. Gosling said the company changed his life then and is changing it again now. He is also playing Ghost Rider in the Marvel universe. That thrills Chris, since Nicolas Cage last carried the character on the big screen. Meanwhile, the Disney+ series VisionQuest arrives October 14. Paul Bettany returns as Vision and James Spader as Ultron, and the trailer drops the two androids into oddly mundane human situations. Bettany joked that Vision has “rather inconveniently died several times.” Chris agrees the character has been through the wringer since WandaVision. The Avengers: Doomsday Trailer Avengers: Doomsday opens December 18, with Joe and Anthony Russo directing. Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, and Hayley Atwell introduced the new footage. It offers the clearest look yet at Downey as Doctor Doom, who fights off Thor and takes his hammer. Evans appears as Captain America holding a baby, and Ian McKellen shows up as a haggard, long-haired Magneto. One quieter shot has Doom staring at a portrait of a lost wife and child. That frames him as a grieving avenger rather than a world-ender. He also commands an army of comic-accurate Sentinels. The cast pulls from the Avengers, the Fantastic Four, and the legacy Fox X-Men, including Patrick Stewart. Hugh Jackman also appeared on screen to say he is willing to return as Wolverine, though that was not a confirmation. Chris, a self-described Marvel nerd, closes with a theory. He suspects the MCU’s Tony Stark was actually Victor von Doom, adopted by the Starks, which would explain the Downey casting. He also predicts the Fox-era X-Men die off in this film and that Thor may be the major casualty. If it happens, he wants credit for calling it. Sponsor: GoDaddy Economy hosting $6.99/month, WordPress hosting $12.99/month, domains $11.99. Website builder trial available. Use codes at geeknewscentral.com/godaddy to support the show. Disney Parks Around the World Saturday’s Disney Experiences showcase covered parks, resorts, and cruise ships, with Neil Patrick Harris hosting. Hong Kong Disneyland gets an Avengers pavilion that reshapes its Stark Expo skyline. Shanghai Disneyland is building the first land devoted entirely to Spider-Man, complete with a new coaster. Since Spider-Man is his favorite hero, Chris hopes to visit once it opens. Closer to home, Avengers Campus at Disney California Adventure is doubling in size with two rides opening in 2028. Avengers: Infinity Defense brings back Jeremy Renner, Anthony Mackie, Chris Hemsworth, and Downey, while Stark Flight Lab adds Brie Larson. A Coco boat ride into the Land of the Dead is also coming, with no height requirement. Chris admits he prefers California Adventure to Disneyland because the rides are better. Overseas, Disneyland Paris will retire its Star Wars Hyperspace Mountain overlay at the end of 2027 and restore the original Jules Verne theme. Paris also gets the first ride ever based on The Lion King. Tokyo Disneyland adds Sugar Rush: Sweet Rescue, the first Wreck-It Ralph ride, plus a Space Mountain launch sequence designed with YouTuber Mark Rober. Finally, Disney Cruise Line announced three more ships, including the Disney Believe in 2027 and an entirely new class in 2029. Back in Anaheim, Tomorrowland is getting reimagined, which Chris welcomes because the land badly needs an update. The Magic Happens parade and the Remember Dreams Come True fireworks are both returning. For the tech crowd, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run now has a Fortnite crossover, where in-game missions unlock content on the real ride. Every New Walt Disney World Ride and Land Chris ranks the Florida parks Hollywood Studios first, then Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and Magic Kingdom. Magic Kingdom leads the announcements with Villains Land, now the official name. It features a Maleficent coaster through an enchanted briar and a boat ride through the Evil Queen’s catacombs. Reporting puts its scale near Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, and Glenn Close appeared in character as Cruella to announce it. Piston Peak, the Cars area replacing Tom Sawyer Island, adds two more rides, though their exact names remain unsettled. Additionally, the Carousel of Progress gets new scenes and a recast. Jamie Lee Curtis and Bryan Cranston will voice Mom and Dad starting late spring 2027. Chris, invoking Heisenberg, calls Cranston the GOAT. At Animal Kingdom, the Indiana Jones ride now has a name: Indiana Jones and the Myth of the Jade Serpent. It tells an original 1950 story inside a Maya temple, and Harrison Ford personally served as the physical model for the animatronic. Nearby, the Tropical Americas land brings Antonio’s Fiesta de Encanto, with more than fifty animal animatronics and no height requirement. Then comes the fix park regulars have wanted for years. The Expedition Everest yeti broke soon after the ride opened. Rather than fix it, Disney lit it with a strobe for over a decade, earning the nickname disco yeti. Now it is being repaired and returned to full motion. Chris rates Everest among his top five rides anywhere, and he suggests riding it before the fix so you can compare. Over at Epcot, Spaceship Earth gets its first major story rewrite in nearly twenty years, shifting from communication history to human connection. Dreamfinder also returns to Journey Into Imagination, and Disney Experiences chairman Thomas Mazloum introduced that news with two words: “we heard you.” Mazloum added that Disney has more projects underway than at any point in its history. After this rundown, Chris believes him. Monsters Inc Land Opens in 2027 Monstropolis begins opening at Hollywood Studios in early 2027, but in stages. The headline door coaster will not be ready on day one. It is the first suspended coaster in any Disney park. It also uses Disney’s first vertical lift, hauling riders about forty feet straight up before launching them into the door vault. Instead, the land opens with the Glob Theater’s “Welcome to Monstropolis” show and Harryhausen’s, a working sushi restaurant lifted from the first film. The stage show features an original song by Randy Newman, his first ever written for a theme park attraction. Chris also notes that the restaurant name honors stop-motion legend Ray Harryhausen. Wrapping up, Chris names the X-Men casting and the Doomsday trailer as his favorite moments of the weekend. He hopes to cover more movie news on future shows, and he plugs Dune: Part Three, which also opens December 18. Chris signs off with the usual mentions: GNC Insider at geeknewscentral.com/insider, email at geeknews@gmail.com, the newsletter, and modern podcast apps at podcastapps.com. He also thanks GoDaddy for over twenty years of support. The post Huge Announcements From D23!! #1873 appeared first on Geek News Central.

Len Testa and Jim Hill unpack a packed slate of D23 parks announcements, from Disneyland's newly promised Tomorrowland overhaul to major additions coming to Walt Disney World. They dig into Tropical Americas, Piston Peak, Villains Land, Monstropolis, Figment and Dreamfinder's return to EPCOT, and Disney's surprising promise to finally address Expedition Everest's Yeti. Then Jim looks back at the history of Disney-MGM Studios' Ewok Village, its connection to Star Tours, and the unusual road that brought George Lucas' galaxy to a Hollywood-themed park. NEWS • Disneyland plans a Tomorrowland overhaul inspired by the land's original sense of hope and optimism. • Disney California Adventure's Pandora project moves behind Tomorrowland while Avengers Infinity Defense, Stark Flight Lab, and the Coco attraction continue taking shape. • Walt Disney World reveals new details for Tropical Americas, Piston Peak National Park, Villains Land, and the phased opening of Monstropolis. • Dreamfinder and Figment are headed back to EPCOT in a still-mysterious new “flight of fancy” into Imagination. • Disney says Expedition Everest's long-static Yeti will finally be addressed, though exactly what “fixing” the figure means remains to be seen. FEATURE • Jim traces the 1989 opening of the Ewok Village at Disney-MGM Studios, months before Florida's Star Tours began carrying guests to Endor. • Learn why Florida's Star Tours wound up at the Studios instead of Tomorrowland and how Disney tried to make George Lucas part of the park's identity. • The story explores George Lucas' inspirations for the Ewoks, the abandoned Wookiee plans for Return of the Jedi, and Disney's enthusiasm for the franchise's most marketable forest dwellers. • Plus, Jim revisits unrealized ideas including a Sci-Fi Channel UFO headquarters and the Roger Rabbit-themed Toontown Transit simulator. For this episode's full show notes, click here.HOSTS • Jim Hill - X/Twitter: @JimHillMedia | Instagram: @JimHillMedia | jimhillmedia.com • Len Testa - Bluesky: @lentesta.bsky.social | Instagram: @len.testa | touringplans.com FOLLOW • Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews • YouTube: @jimhillmedia • TikTok: @jimhillmedia • Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia/ SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - https://strongmindedagency.com SPONSOR Disney Dish News is sponsored by BeOurGuestVacations.com, from our friends at DVCRentalStore.com. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. https://www.jimhillmedia.com/sponsor/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Len Testa and Jim Hill unpack a packed slate of D23 parks announcements, from Disneyland's newly promised Tomorrowland overhaul to major additions coming to Walt Disney World. They dig into Tropical Americas, Piston Peak, Villains Land, Monstropolis, Figment and Dreamfinder's return to EPCOT, and Disney's surprising promise to finally address Expedition Everest's Yeti. Then Jim looks back at the history of Disney-MGM Studios' Ewok Village, its connection to Star Tours, and the unusual road that brought George Lucas' galaxy to a Hollywood-themed park. NEWS • Disneyland plans a Tomorrowland overhaul inspired by the land's original sense of hope and optimism. • Disney California Adventure's Pandora project moves behind Tomorrowland while Avengers Infinity Defense, Stark Flight Lab, and the Coco attraction continue taking shape. • Walt Disney World reveals new details for Tropical Americas, Piston Peak National Park, Villains Land, and the phased opening of Monstropolis. • Dreamfinder and Figment are headed back to EPCOT in a still-mysterious new “flight of fancy” into Imagination. • Disney says Expedition Everest's long-static Yeti will finally be addressed, though exactly what “fixing” the figure means remains to be seen. FEATURE • Jim traces the 1989 opening of the Ewok Village at Disney-MGM Studios, months before Florida's Star Tours began carrying guests to Endor. • Learn why Florida's Star Tours wound up at the Studios instead of Tomorrowland and how Disney tried to make George Lucas part of the park's identity. • The story explores George Lucas' inspirations for the Ewoks, the abandoned Wookiee plans for Return of the Jedi, and Disney's enthusiasm for the franchise's most marketable forest dwellers. • Plus, Jim revisits unrealized ideas including a Sci-Fi Channel UFO headquarters and the Roger Rabbit-themed Toontown Transit simulator. For this episode's full show notes, click here.HOSTS • Jim Hill - X/Twitter: @JimHillMedia | Instagram: @JimHillMedia | jimhillmedia.com • Len Testa - Bluesky: @lentesta.bsky.social | Instagram: @len.testa | touringplans.com FOLLOW • Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews • YouTube: @jimhillmedia • TikTok: @jimhillmedia • Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia/ SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - https://strongmindedagency.com SPONSOR Disney Dish News is sponsored by BeOurGuestVacations.com, from our friends at DVCRentalStore.com. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. https://www.jimhillmedia.com/sponsor/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us Fan MailStep inside the Imagineering Horizons pavilion at D23 with us! In Part 1 of this two-part Imagine That mini-series, we share our firsthand experience exploring the pavilion's first half and take a closer look at the photos, models and displays revealing what Disney Imagineering has planned around the world.We begin at the Horizons Main Stage before traveling through upcoming developments at Tokyo Disneyland, including the reimagined Space Mountain and a new Wreck-It Ralph attraction. We also explore Disneyland Paris' new Lion King experience, Disney Cruise Line's The Believe and the Avengers attractions coming to Hong Kong Disneyland and Shanghai Disney Resort.Finally, we return stateside for a look at the future of Disney California Adventure, including the expansion of Avengers Campus and the upcoming Avatar and Coco attractions. Join us as we revisit the pavilion and discuss which projects have us most excited for the future of Disney parks!Join us in our completely free Discord https://discord.gg/4nAvKTgcRnCheck out all of our amazing sponsors!Getaway Todayhttps://www.getawaytoday.com/?referrerid=8636If you want to book a Disney Vacation, please use our friends at Getaway Today. Also, if you call 855-GET-AWAY and mention Walt's Apartment, you will get a special dose of magic Where In The Park The Podcast-“Discover the history behind the details of Disney parks and more on the Where In The Park podcast”https://whereinthepark.comCheck Out Sunken City Designs - from the mind of Louis Medina

Do you like Italian restaurants? Of course you do! That's why most theme parks have at least one. This week we compare two similar-ish restaurants from Disney California Adventure and EPCOT! Tutto Italia has been in the park since its inception in some form or another. Same for Wine Country Trattoria! What other facts and opinions can we throw in your direction? Listen to find out! ---------------- Themes by J.R. Trimpe: https://trimpe.org/ ---------------- Show image created by AI and some sort of imagination. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Bob Iger receives a window on Main Street, the Play Disney Parks app is going away, Jack Kirby is to be honoured in Avengers Campus, We get a look at the Swinging Wake Street party, new Ewok interactive toys come to Galaxy's Edge, we discuss our recent trip to the parks, the D23 Ultimate Fan Event, and more! Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/. Check out all of our current partners and exclusive discounts at https://www.dlweekly.net/promos. News: Former Disney CEO Bob Iger has been honored with a new window on Main Street, U.S.A. at Disneyland, unveiled just before his induction as a Disney Legend. The window, located above the main entrance to the Emporium, presents Iger as the “Chief Architect” of New Century Builders, a reference to the many expansions and changes he oversaw during his time leading Disney. – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/bob-iger-window-on-main-street/ Disney is retiring the Play Disney Parks app on September 16, bringing an end to an app that has been part of the parks since 2018. The app offered interactive games and trivia, attraction-based activities, digital achievements, and experiences throughout Disneyland and Walt Disney World. At Disneyland, one of its biggest features was the Star Wars: Datapad, which allowed guests to explore Galaxy's Edge by scanning objects and interacting with droids. Batuu Bounty Hunters will continue, using MagicBand+ and the existing interactive screens in Galaxy's Edge. – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/play-disney-parks-app-shutting-down/ A new tribute to Jack Kirby, one of the most influential artists and co-creators in Marvel history, is coming to Avengers Campus in Disney California Adventure. A plaque honoring Kirby is expected to be installed near the existing Stan Lee plaque, recognizing his role in creating many of the characters and visual elements that helped define Marvel. The new plaque gives guests another opportunity to recognize the people whose work helped build the Marvel universe that the land celebrates. – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/jack-kirby-avengers-campus-plaque-coming/ Star Wars fans have a new interactive companion to take home from Galaxy's Edge. The first figure in Disney's new Batuu Adventure Buddies collection is an adorable interactive Ewok, featuring expressive eyes, motorized facial expressions, and signature Ewok sounds. The $99.99 figure can be customized with themed gear packs inspired by different destinations across the galaxy, which are sold separately for $29.99 each. The Ewok debut on D23 Day at Disneyland with many fans lining up for hours for a chance to be among the first to purchase these new interactive toys. – https://www.micechat.com/440927-disneyland-news-new-tomorrowland-avatar-delayed-d23-2026/ Disneyland has given us a first look at Madame Leota's Swinging Wake, a new Haunted Mansion-themed street party debuting at this year's Oogie Boogie Bash. Hosted by Madame Leota, the new entertainment offering brings the Haunted Mansion to DCA, with spooky music, dancing, and several familiar characters from the attraction joining the celebration. Disney released a few preview images and a video ahead of the first Oogie Boogie Bash of the season, which runs on select nights from August 18 through October 31.  – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/dlr-madame-leotas-preview-obb/ Three popular entertainment offerings are returning in 2027. Magic Happens is back next summer, while the original World of Color and Remember… Dreams Come True fireworks show will both return in February. Magic Happens originally debuted just before the 2020 park closures, while the classic World of Color has been gone since 2023 and Remember… Dreams Come True was last performed in 2019. The fireworks show will also get some updated projections on “it's a small world,” the Rivers of America, and Main Street, U.S.A. – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/disneyland-returning-entertainment-for-2027/ Discussion Topic: D23 – https://disneyparksblog.com/disney-experiences/d23-2026-news-updates-disney-experiences/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

496 - Are you a Disneyland annual passholder wondering if Walt Disney World is really worth the trip? In this episode of Disney Travel Secrets, travel agents and bestselling authors Rob & Kerri Stuart break down exactly what Disneyland regulars need to know before visiting Walt Disney World for the first time. Let's help you plan your Disney vacation - CLICK HERE to get started Rob and Kerri compare park size, security screening, hotel options, transportation (including the Disney World monorail system), and the key differences between Disneyland's Magic Kingdom, Disney California Adventure, and Walt Disney World's four theme parks — including Epcot and Animal Kingdom, which have no California equivalent. They also share tips on planning your trip length, the best times to visit, and rides you can only experience in Florida, like Tron, Guardians of the Galaxy, and Avatar Flight of Passage. Whether you're planning your first Walt Disney World vacation or helping clients do the same, this episode will help you set the right expectations and make the most of your trip.

The Swinging Wake Podcast — Episode 39: The Disneyland Resort Halloween Foodie Guide 2026: Our Top Picks Spooky season has officially arrived at the Disneyland Resort, and the Happy Haunts are hungry! In Episode 39 of The Swinging Wake Podcast, Alex and Kris are digging into the 2026 Disneyland Resort Halloween Foodie Guide and sharing the treats, drinks, and seasonal eats they're most excited to try. With an enormous lineup of new and returning Halloween offerings across Disneyland, Disney California Adventure, the Disneyland Resort hotels, and Downtown Disney, narrowing down the list wasn't easy! Alex and Kris each reveal their Top 10 Halloween foodie picks for 2026, including spooky sweets, seasonal churros, specialty drinks, pumpkin creations, and a few offerings that might be worth making a special trip for. Before hopping into their Doom Buggies for the main discussion, Alex and Kris catch up on the latest Happy Haunt happenings around the Disney Parks, including:

Send us Fan MailA Disney day can go sideways fast: a dead phone battery, a surprise two-hour line, a mid-afternoon heat crash, or that one person who disappears into a gift shop while you're trying to hit a Lightning Lane window. So we decided to solve it the only reasonable way: by treating a Disney vacation like a military operation. Think chain of command, mission readiness, rules of engagement, supply lines, rally points, and tactical withdrawals when a ride breaks down. We start with a quick drink review of the Via Napoli Earth Cocktail at EPCOT, breaking down the ingredients, the price, and what it actually tastes like when you make it at home. From there, we turn Disney trip planning into a strategy session built for real park conditions at Walt Disney World and Disneyland: rope drop “rapid deployment,” using your phone and the Disney app as a mobile command and control center, and staying flexible with flanking maneuvers when plans change. We also lay down our one non-negotiable rule for the parks: treat Cast Members with respect, keep the smiles coming, and leave Cast Compliments whenever you can. Then we go park by park with “theater of operations” tactics, including why Magic Kingdom and Disneyland are target-rich environments, why It's a Small World is basically behind enemy lines, and why EPCOT rewards smart pavilion recon for snacks, souvenirs, and hydration. We wrap with a full script briefing called Operation Pixie Dust for Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, and Disney California Adventure, plus a debate on what's actually court martial worthy at Disney. Subscribe, share this with your favorite park planner, and leave a review with your best Disney battle tactic.

Two years ago, Disney made us nearly 50 promises at D23 Expo 2024. This year, they have to keep them.So what will Disney actually reveal at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event?I'm going park by park, resort by resort, and all the way around the world with my predictions for the Horizons: Disney Experiences Showcase. Villains Land. Piston Peak. Walt Disney's Carousel of Progress. Space Mountain and Tomorrowland. Journey Into Imagination. Spaceship Earth. Monstropolis. Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. Tropical Americas. Expedition Everest. Avengers Campus. Pandora at Disney California Adventure. Disney Cruise Line, Disneyland Paris, Shanghai Disneyland, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Disneyland Abu Dhabi and more.I don't think this is another year of dozens of brand new promises. I think this is the year Disney has to show us what is real, what has changed, when we might actually experience it, and what may be quietly slipping away while nobody was looking.Do we finally find out what Villains Land is really going to be called? I have a theory, and it starts with a mountain. Could Figment and Dreamfinder finally return to EPCOT, and what if the answer isn't the one we've all been asking for? Is Tomorrowland quietly undergoing a complete transformation? Does Disney's Animal Kingdom finally get a nighttime spectacular? And what is the one surprise that nobody sees coming?Some of these are possible. Some are wild cards. And some are simply fun to dream about. That is part of what makes D23 so special.

Jim Hill and guest co-host Drew Taylor explore the newly updated version of “Zootopia: Better Zoogether” at Disney's Animal Kingdom, including fresh dialogue designed to make the show's storyline easier to follow. They also examine the water-pressure failure that temporarily disrupted operations across Disneyland and Anaheim, along with Disney's long history of conserving and recycling water inside its parks. Then Jim completes his history of “Turtle Talk with Crush,” tracing the interactive show from EPCOT and Disney California Adventure to cruise ships and children's hospitals. NEWS • “Zootopia: Better Zoogether” receives new introductory dialogue from Mayor Winddancer. • Judy Hopps' closing lines are revised to clarify Dawn Bellwether's role in disrupting Zootopia Day. • The changes may help prepare the attraction for a possible future home at Disney California Adventure. • A citywide water-pressure drop temporarily closes Disneyland restaurants and restrooms. • Universal Studios Hollywood begins soft-opening “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift.” FEATURE • “Turtle Talk with Crush” evolves from an unrealized Columbia-based attraction into a global Disney favorite. • The interactive show expands from EPCOT and Disney California Adventure to Hong Kong, Tokyo and Disney Cruise Line. • Disney adapts Crush's conversations for cruise-ship dining rooms and smaller audiences. • A Children's Hospital of Orange County installation gives young patients a more intimate opportunity to interact with Crush. HOSTS • Jim Hill - X/Twitter and Instagram: @JimHillMedia - jimhillmedia.com • Drew Taylor - X/Twitter: @DrewTailored - Instagram: @drewtailored - drewtaylor.work FOLLOW • Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews • YouTube: @jimhillmedia • TikTok: @jimhillmedia • Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia/ SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - https://strongmindedagency.com SPONSOR The Disney Dish news is sponsored by BeOurGuestVacations.com. Their vacation-planning team can help make your next Walt Disney World trip a little more magical. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. https://www.jimhillmedia.com/sponsor/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jim Hill and guest co-host Drew Taylor explore the newly updated version of “Zootopia: Better Zoogether” at Disney's Animal Kingdom, including fresh dialogue designed to make the show's storyline easier to follow. They also examine the water-pressure failure that temporarily disrupted operations across Disneyland and Anaheim, along with Disney's long history of conserving and recycling water inside its parks. Then Jim completes his history of “Turtle Talk with Crush,” tracing the interactive show from EPCOT and Disney California Adventure to cruise ships and children's hospitals. NEWS • “Zootopia: Better Zoogether” receives new introductory dialogue from Mayor Winddancer. • Judy Hopps' closing lines are revised to clarify Dawn Bellwether's role in disrupting Zootopia Day. • The changes may help prepare the attraction for a possible future home at Disney California Adventure. • A citywide water-pressure drop temporarily closes Disneyland restaurants and restrooms. • Universal Studios Hollywood begins soft-opening “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift.” FEATURE • “Turtle Talk with Crush” evolves from an unrealized Columbia-based attraction into a global Disney favorite. • The interactive show expands from EPCOT and Disney California Adventure to Hong Kong, Tokyo and Disney Cruise Line. • Disney adapts Crush's conversations for cruise-ship dining rooms and smaller audiences. • A Children's Hospital of Orange County installation gives young patients a more intimate opportunity to interact with Crush. HOSTS • Jim Hill - X/Twitter and Instagram: @JimHillMedia - jimhillmedia.com • Drew Taylor - X/Twitter: @DrewTailored - Instagram: @drewtailored - drewtaylor.work FOLLOW • Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews • YouTube: @jimhillmedia • TikTok: @jimhillmedia • Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia/ SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - https://strongmindedagency.com SPONSOR The Disney Dish news is sponsored by BeOurGuestVacations.com. Their vacation-planning team can help make your next Walt Disney World trip a little more magical. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. https://www.jimhillmedia.com/sponsor/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Swinging Wake Podcast – Episode 38 The Story of Oogie Boogie Bash Halloween has officially materialized at the Disney Parks, and this week we're celebrating one of Disneyland Resort's most beloved seasonal traditions—Oogie Boogie Bash! Before diving into the history of Disney California Adventure's wildly popular Halloween event, we catch up on all the latest spooky Disney news, including new Halloween merchandise, foodie offerings, Haunted Mansion updates, Disneyland character dining, and much more.  Then we travel through the fascinating evolution of Disneyland Halloween celebrations, from Mickey's Halloween Treat in the 1990s to today's villain-filled Oogie Boogie Bash. We explore the immersive storytelling behind Villains Grove, the origins of the event, Haunted Mansion-inspired entertainment, attraction overlays, and how Halloween is celebrated at Disney Parks around the world—including Walt Disney World, Disneyland Paris, Tokyo Disneyland, Hong Kong Disneyland, Shanghai Disneyland, and Disney Cruise Line's Halloween on the High Seas.  Plus, we ask this week's listener poll: If you could give any Disney attraction a Halloween overlay, what would it be? Let us know!

This week we explore two postcards spanning the Disneyland Resort's history—from a 2001 visit to the newly opened Disney California Adventure featuring Grizzly Peak, to a 1968 ride aboard the Becky Thatcher raft to Tom Sawyer Island. The history segment looks at the story behind the iconic Disney California Adventure "CALIFORNIA" letters, from their debut at the park entrance to their move to Cal Expo in Sacramento, where they continue to welcome visitors to the California State Fair. Plus, an incoming Postcrossing postcard from South Korea, thoughts on solo Disney park trips, and more Disney postal history. Thanks to Enfield Post and Art Throw Down for supporting this episode. If you enjoy Sent from Disneyland, please subscribe, leave a review, and share the show with a fellow Disney fan! Below are some of the regulars on Art Throw Down, Follow all of them on Instagram anyway for great art and postcards in your Instagram feed: Hipstadufus, luluvision, jlynch9923, greenmosspaper, georgemailsart, state_of_the_funyun, RussRomano2021

Almost every part of Disney California Adventure has experienced considerable change over the years. And that has happened to some degree in Grizzly Peak. But in truth, it's been very little compared to the rest of the park. And that's because this part really has held the heart of the park--and its mountainous symbol--since day one. Here we'll summarize the original Golden State and then look at Grizzly Peak Recreation Area as it is today. Of course there's attractions like Grizzly River Rapids and Redwood Creek Trail. But the highlight is Soarin'. We offer a tribute to all Soarin' films but mostly Soarin' Over California, and why that film is truly the best of all of them. We also look at a wide range of dining experiences, some of which are not in the park, per se, but have become extensions to the park. And we talk about a metaphor for this area of the park that winds through it all like a grape vine. The details we share here aligns well with a John Muir quotation found within: "In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks." Join us to see Disney Insights into Grizzly Peak at Disney California Adventure that is so much the heart of this unique park. Be sure to check out my latest endeavor, Disneyland Insights: Inspiration, Ideas & Magic for You and Your Organization. __________________________________________________ Disney Insights YouTube Page--Check it out and subscribe. DisneyInsights.com--So many resources at our home site. Be sure to subscribe to receive notice of upcoming podcasts. My newest book, A Century of Powerful Disney Insights, Volume I 1923-1973, The Walt & Roy Disney Years is available!  Also, check out my two of my other books, The Wonderful World of Customer Service at Disney and Disney, Leadership and You.  Also, for those examining other business benchmarks beyond Disney, check out Lead with Your Customer: Transform Culture and Brand Into World-Class Excellence. _______________________________________________________ Check out Zanolla Travel to book your next vacation!  David & Leah Zanolla ZanollaTravel.com Owner/Agents (309) 863-5469 _________________________________________________________ Performance Journeys This podcast and post is provided by J. Jeff Kober and Performance Journeys, which celebrates more than 20 years as a training and development group bringing best in business ideas through books, keynotes, workshops, seminars and online tools to help you take your organization to the next level. Want a Keynote Speaker? More than just nice stories, I offer proven insight and solutions having worked in the trench. Need Consulting? I've worked for decades across the public, private and non-profit arena.  Need Support? We offer so many classroom, online, and other resources to help you improve your customer service delivery, leadership excellence, and employee engagement. Contact us today, and let us help you on your Performance Journey!  

Cars Land is already one of the most beloved and immersive themed lands Disney has ever built. So what happens when you try to improve something that's already great?This week, the Idiots head back to Disney California Adventure to tackle one of the most difficult Imagineering challenges we've faced all season: plussing a near-perfect land. After examining the history of Luigi's attraction and the role it plays within Radiator Springs, we propose a bold replacement: Luigi's Pit Crew Dash, a new family launch coaster that expands the story of Cars Land in a way no current attraction does.Guests become the test drivers for Luigi and Guido's newest pit crew recruits, racing through a high-speed training course complete with synchronized pit stop sequences, live evaluations, and a final public demonstration right in the heart of Radiator Springs.Along the way, we explore a bigger question about the future of themed entertainment: should attractions simply tell contained stories, or should they function as living parts of the worlds they inhabit?Send us Fan MailDon't forget to check us out on Instagram!

873 · Your Disney Questions + Our Disneyland Halloween Special EventsWhat would you bring back if you could restore any extinct Disney attraction exactly as it was? What is the weirdest piece of Disney merchandise you own? What's really next for Tomorrowland? Where should you go if want to visit the Disney Park in Asia? What is the TRUTH behind the Tomorrowland film's famous 1952 mystery blueprint? And what is happening this October at Disneyland that you don't want to miss?This week, I opened up the inbox and share details about our WDW Radio Haunts and Heroes Week at Disneyland happening October 27-29, 2026. We're talking Oogie Boogie Bash VIP access, a private Marvel-themed breakfast inside Disney California Adventure before it opens to the public, and a remarkable experience. Tickets are limited. Spots are already moving. You need to know about this now.

Six Flags Over Texas finally "drops the gate" on Tormenta: Rampaging Run, the massive new B&M dive coaster, and the early word is exactly what you'd hope: no rattle, great reviews. Mike and EB break down what a park gets right when a new ride opens with an entire refurbished plaza around it, and whether "biggest dive coaster yet" actually means anything anymore to hardcore enthusiasts who've done this exact ride four times already. Then it's a packed news round covering a genuinely incredible Universal exhibition at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia (with a Star Wars follow-up already announced for the park's 50th anniversary), Universal Orlando's new after-hours "Universal Nights" event at Epic Universe going head-to-head with Halloween Horror Nights, and Disneyland officially welcoming its one billionth guest. That last one gets the full Coaster Radio treatment: an "exclusive" behind-the-scenes report from the Billionth Guest Command Center, featuring the triumphant return of Disney Podcast Guy, whose live-streamed quest for billionth-guest glory ends about as well as you'd expect. After the break: a trip report from two listeners who flew from Houston to Atlanta for one last ride on Arie Force One before it's gone, plus fresh chatter about whether RMC floating the idea of relocating the coaster means anything (spoiler: not until someone signs a check). Then the second half of the show is all yours — this week's interactive topic asked listeners which park has changed the most, for better or worse, over the last 20 years, and the answers cover Disney California Adventure's total reinvention, Dollywood's coaster boom, Carowinds' rise from unknown local park to must-visit and Hersheypark's transformation into a real destination.

This week, Pirates of the Caribbean reopens with some new magic, Disney Gift cards become easier to use, New Holiday merchandise has been announced, some panels at the D23 Ultimate Fan Event have been revealed, we finish our discussion about my visit to the Tokyo Disneyland Resort and more! Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/. Check out all of our current partners and exclusive discounts at https://www.dlweekly.net/promos. News: Disneyland's legendary Pirates of the Caribbean attraction has officially reopened, and with it a new animatronic! Imagineers combined a mechanical figure with advanced front-projection technology to show a skeleton pirate morphing into a living buccaneer as he lifts and drops a cursed Aztec medallion. This new addition has sparked intense debate among park fans, with critics arguing that the realistic appearance and loud sound effects disrupt the original eerie, silent atmosphere crafted by the original imagineers. – https://www.micechat.com/438200-disneyland-news-4th-of-july-pirates-controversy-earl-of-sandwich-opens-tiana-troubles/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=331z0nOZJw0 Great news for anyone who loves using Disney gift cards: the official apps for both Walt Disney World and Disneyland just got a massive upgrade. You can now finally save a gift card directly to your digital wallet as your default payment method instead of having to copy and paste that long 16-digit number every single time. It is a total game-changer for speeding up your mobile food orders and merchandise checkout lines during your next park day! – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2026/06/24/confirmed-using-a-gift-card-in-disney-world-and-disneyland-just-got-easier/ Disney just dropped a “halfway to the holidays” sneak peek at their upcoming 2026 winter merchandise. Items include park favorites like spirit jerseys, mouse ears, and new festive additions for the Create-Your-Own Headband line. They also teased a brand-new “Pastel Holiday Collection” featuring soft pinks and greens, along with a miniature Toy Soldier Mickey bag charm. – https://disneyparksblog.com/products/a-festive-first-look-at-disney-holiday-merchandise/ Ray's Berets over in Bayou Country is losing a major piece of its iconic charm. The building's famous “living roof” is being completely removed, meaning the real, grass that grew on top of the structure for decades is being replaced with artificial grass. – https://www.micechat.com/438200-disneyland-news-4th-of-july-pirates-controversy-earl-of-sandwich-opens-tiana-troubles/ Disneyland is rolling out a new Summer Evening Ticket, offering guests discounted admission on select nights from July 12th to August 5th, for just $59. The ticket includes entry to Disney California Adventure beginning at 5 p.m. or Disneyland Park beginning at 7 p.m., giving guests a lower-cost way to enjoy the parks and nighttime entertainment without paying for a full day. – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/disneyland-evening-ticket-summer-2026/ Disney has revealed even more of what's coming to this year's D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, with more than 50 afternoon panels, presentations, and live shows now on the schedule. New additions include a 101 Dalmatians 65th anniversary celebration, a look back at the legendary Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse, two panels discussing Walt and his life, plus the Disney Experiences Auction featuring authentic Parks artifacts. There's also the new Disney Rewind Concert, celebrating fan-favorite Disney songs from the '80s and '90s. And closing out the weekend is what could be one of the event's biggest highlights—Disney Legend Alan Menken takes the stage for a rare solo concert, performing songs from The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, Hercules, and more while sharing the stories behind some of Disney's most iconic music. – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-entertainment/d23-ultimate-disney-fan-event-2026-afternoon-programming/ https://support.d23.com/hc/en-us/sections/50080756009235-Things-to-Know SnackChat: Earl of Sandwich – https://www.micechat.com/438200-disneyland-news-4th-of-july-pirates-controversy-earl-of-sandwich-opens-tiana-troubles/ TriviaLand: https://www.ocregister.com/2014/10/14/disney-bugs-to-watch-over-goals-garden/ Discussion Topic: Tokyo Disneyland with Ryan Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this bonus episode; Steph, Lindsay and Angel sit down at Sonoma Terrace in Disney California Adventure to describe their experience inside Club 33 from earlier that day. A dream come true, bucket list item for all three, this episode is full of descriptions inside the club and an outpouring of gratitude for the opportunity.Thank you to all of my listeners, friends and supporters! A special thank you to my sponsor, Arias Transportation, for supporting this podcast. Be sure to check them out at www.ariastransportation.com and download the app next time you need a ride in the Southern California area. Be sure to add Steph 20 in the notes for a 20% discount off your first reservation.Follow me on on social media for fun photos, podcast updates and funny videos: Instagram @Magic_Key_Adventures or use this link: https://www.instagram.com/magic_key_adventures/Facebook: Magic Key Adventures or use the link: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61582188742734&sk=aboutTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@magickeyadventuresFeel free to email questions and comments at: magickeyadventures@yahoo.comSupport the show with a one-time donation at: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/magickeyadhNew! Patreon: Join my Patreon, it's FREE!https://www.patreon.com/c/MagicKeyAdventuresSubscribe, rate and review!Please check out my talented friends:https://www.instagram.com/disneyland_day_dream/https://www.etsy.com/shop/DisneylandDayDream?ref=own_favorite_shops_pagehttps://www.instagram.com/angelonmainstreet2024/https://www.etsy.com/shop/AngelonMainStreet?ref=own_favorite_shops_page

Here is your Daily Disney News for Tuesday, June 30, 2026 - Disneyland Tokyo launches "Dreams of the Future," a new parade celebrating innovation with futuristic floats and costumes. - Walt Disney World in Florida prepares for Fourth of July fireworks at Magic Kingdom, featuring special treats and patriotic merchandise. - Disney California Adventure hosts "Taste of California," a food festival with California cuisine and wine-tasting experiences. - Disney+ announces "Behind the Magic: Disney Imagineers," a documentary series exploring the creativity of Disney's attraction developers. Have a magical day and tune in again tomorrow for more updates.

Direction la Californie pour découvrir Pixar Pier, l'un des lands les plus colorés de Disney California Adventure, au cœur du Disneyland Resort en Californie.Dans cet épisode, on revient sur l'histoire de cette zone emblématique, autrefois connue sous le nom de Paradise Pier, avant sa transformation progressive en univers entièrement consacré aux films des studios Pixar. De l'arrivée des Indestructibles sur Incredicoaster à l'ambiance de Toy Story Midway Mania, en passant par la grande roue Pixar Pal-A-Round, Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind et les nombreux clins d'œil cachés dans les décors, nous explorons chaque recoin de Pixar Pier.Nous parlerons également des restaurants, snacks et boutiques du land, comme le Lamplight Lounge, Jack-Jack Cookie Num Nums, Bing Bong's Sweet Stuff ou encore Knick's Knacks. Quelles attractions existaient déjà à l'ouverture de Disney California Adventure ? Comment Paradise Pier est-il devenu Pixar Pier ? Et cette transformation a-t-elle réellement amélioré cette partie du parc ?Un épisode entre histoire Disney, attractions, gastronomie et analyse de land, idéal pour préparer un voyage à Disneyland California ou simplement découvrir les secrets de Pixar Pier.Hébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.

This week, updates for an opening day attraction, Toy Story has taken over the resort, flick cards will be moving to yesterland, a Disney Legend to receive an Oscar, we talk about my recent trip to Tokyo and more! Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/. Check out all of our current partners and exclusive discounts at https://www.dlweekly.net/promos. News: Disneyland's Autopia attraction is facing a strict state-mandated deadline to retire its gas-powered car fleet by February 1, 2027, or face being shut down. This comes after Honda discovered an administrative engine certification error in 2023, resulting in a 2024 environmental violation notice and a financial settlement for Disney. While the compliance plan doesn't explicitly force electric vehicles, Disneyland officials have confirmed they are actively developing a fully electric car prototype to keep the 71-year-old ride running. – https://www.micechat.com/437247-disneyland-news-autopia-tinker-bell-construction/ To celebrate the release of Toy Story 5 this summer, Disney California Adventure is introducing rotating drawing lessons for characters like Woody, Buzz, and newcomer Lilypad at the Animation Academy. Additionally, starting in early July, Disneyland Resort hotel guests can exclusively enjoy the “Poolside Splash Bash,” featuring themed dance parties, trivia, and character appearances in new costumes. – http://laughingplace.com/disney-parks/celebrate-toy-story-5-new-lessons-disney-california-adventures-animation-academy/ https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/disney-poolside-splash-bash-toy-story-5/ Disney Parks has officially retired FLIK, the wait-time tracking system that helped measure attraction queue times for more than 25 years. Introduced in 1999, FLIK relied on guests carrying red tracking cards through attraction lines, with the final installation recently removed from Goofy's Sky School at Disney California Adventure. Disney now uses newer technologies, including MagicBand data and sensors, to monitor and post attraction wait times more accurately. – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/flik-ends-disney-parks/ Construction walls have recently come down around a new two-story Downtown Disney building, signaling that the ground-floor Earl of Sandwich and upstairs Gordon Ramsay restaurant, The Carnaby, are nearing completion. Meanwhile, Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters has officially reopened following a refurbishment that updated its exterior with a retro 1967 Tomorrowland color scheme. Although official opening dates for the new dining spots haven't been announced yet, both the restaurants and the refreshed ride represent major visual updates for the resort. – https://www.laughingplace.com/ https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/astro-blasters-new-colors-disneyland/ Guest falls down Tiana's Bayou Adventure – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2026/06/23/disney-guest-falls-down-50-foot-drop-on-tianas-bayou-adventure/ Disney Legend Floyd Norman will receive an Honorary Oscar at the 17th Annual Governors Awards on November 15, 2026. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is presenting him with the lifetime achievement award to honor his barrier-breaking, 65-year career as Disney's first Black animator. He will be celebrated at the Hollywood ceremony alongside other industry icons, including director Ridley Scott and actress Glenn Close. – https://www.micechat.com/437707-disneyland-news-labor-trouble-oogie-boogie-toy-story-takeover/ SnackChat: New in Downtown Disney – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/happy-ice-opens-at-downtown-disney/ https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2026/06/23/something-new-is-coming-to-downtown-disney/ Discussion Topic: Tokyo Disneyland with Ryan Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week, a new scavenger hunt for Magic Keyholders, a behind the scenes look at the new Soarin', Toy Story 5 comes to the resort, a new colorful line up of merchandise, we talk with Don Morin about the 2026 PNW Mouse Meet and more! Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/. Check out all of our current partners and exclusive discounts at https://www.dlweekly.net/promos. News: Disneyland is launching a new scavenger hunt on June 26, 2026, specifically for Magic Key holders to celebrate the park's 70th anniversary. To participate, eligible guests can pick up a stylized map at Disneyana on Main Street, U.S.A., and use it to complete the search for a prize. This upcoming event follows a similar road-trip-themed scavenger hunt hosted earlier in the year for Disney California Adventure's 25th anniversary. – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/disneyland-magic-key-scavenger-hunt/ A new episode of the Disney Unscripted series takes fans behind the scenes to show how filmmakers, musicians, and Imagineers collaborated on the new “Soarin' Across America” attraction. The video highlights the aerial filming process used to capture iconic American landscapes, alongside the creation of a brand-new musical arrangement of the classic ride theme. Debuting in celebration of America's 250th birthday, the updated experience is currently open at EPCOT and will launch at Disney California Adventure on July 2nd. – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/starspangled-soarin-disney-unscripted-explores-making-soarin-across-america/ Disney Parks has announced a new “Logo Mania” merchandise collection featuring more than 120 items across six color‑themed lines, including Blue for the “Last Day of Trip Blues” inspired by the end of a vacation, green for the “Tiki Tiki Tiki Room” focused on tropical adventure, and pink symbolizing “Fantasyland Feels” tied to storybook imagination. The collection will be available beginning June 12 at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World. – https://disneyparksblog.com/products/new-disney-parks-merch-logo-mania/ Disneyland has filed a building permit to reconstruct the New Orleans Square train station radio house, which was demolished in 2025 following a late-2022 fire. The planned 357-square-foot facility will look similar to the historic original structure and will feature an updated Cast Member break room, restroom, and an ADA-accessible pathway over the tracks. While no official construction timeline has been announced, the project aims to restore a landmark famous for broadcasting Walt Disney's iconic 1955 opening day speech in Morse code. – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/disneyland-new-new-orleans-square-station/ Following the world premiere of Pixar's Toy Story 5, stars Tom Hanks and Conan O'Brien stopped by the Disneyland Resort on June 10, 2026, for a special visit. The duo first visited Disney California Adventure to check out Pixar Pier and meet with classic Toy Story characters sporting new accessories from the upcoming film. Afterward, they parkhopped over to Disneyland Park to surprise a theater full of fans attending an advanced screening of the movie inside the Tomorrowland Theater – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/tom-hanks-conan-at-disneyland/ Margaret Kerry, the actress and dancer who served as the live-action model for Tinker Bell in Disney's 1953 Peter Pan, has died at 97 in Wilmington, North Carolina. Known for bringing the iconic fairy to life through her expressive movement and pantomime work, Margaret remained a beloved figure among Disney fans for her warmth and lifelong connection to the character. She leaves behind a lasting legacy in animation history and is survived by her three children. – https://www.micechat.com/437247-disneyland-news-autopia-tinker-bell-construction/ SnackChat: Disney Celebrates America Foodie Guide – https://disneyparksblog.com/disney-experiences/disney-eats-disney-celebrates-america-foodie-guide/ Discussion Topic: Pacifc Northwest Mouse Meet with Don Morin – www.pnwmousemeet.com www.facebook.com/pnwmousemeet Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Be sure to check out my latest endeavor, Disneyland Insights: Inspiration, Ideas & Magic for You and Your Organization. __________________________________________________ Disney Insights YouTube Page--Check it out and subscribe. DisneyInsights.com--So many resources at our home site. Be sure to subscribe to receive notice of upcoming podcasts. My newest book, A Century of Powerful Disney Insights, Volume I 1923-1973, The Walt & Roy Disney Years is available!  Also, check out my two of my other books, The Wonderful World of Customer Service at Disney and Disney, Leadership and You.  Also, for those examining other business benchmarks beyond Disney, check out Lead with Your Customer: Transform Culture and Brand Into World-Class Excellence. _______________________________________________________ Check out Zanolla Travel to book your next vacation!  David & Leah Zanolla ZanollaTravel.com Owner/Agents (309) 863-5469 _________________________________________________________ Performance Journeys This podcast and post is provided by J. Jeff Kober and Performance Journeys, which celebrates more than 20 years as a training and development group bringing best in business ideas through books, keynotes, workshops, seminars and online tools to help you take your organization to the next level. Want a Keynote Speaker? More than just nice stories, I offer proven insight and solutions having worked in the trench. Need Consulting? I've worked for decades across the public, private and non-profit arena.  Need Support? We offer so many classroom, online, and other resources to help you improve your customer service delivery, leadership excellence, and employee engagement. Contact us today, and let us help you on your Performance Journey!  

Welcome back to another episode of Market House! This week, we're pulling back the curtain on some of our favorite hidden details scattered across Disneyland and Disney California Adventure. The Imagineers packed these parks with secrets, and we're here to make sure you don't walk right past them.We also share the latest Disney news like updates to the Carousel of Progress refurbishment, a new DCL room service fee, and more! We have a Patreon! Support the show and receive exclusive content, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!Follow us on Instagram @⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MarketHousePodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Check out our website, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! Make sure to leave a review on Apple Podcast or Spotify! It's a great way to support the show.Use code MarketHouse10 to save $10 on your next Disney vacation package with ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get Away Today⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

This week, major updates to park hopping, Trader Sam's is celebrating, Toy Story characters have a new look, a Loth Cat Crew experience coming to Savi's workshop, we finish our trip report from Disneyland and more! Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/. Check out all of our current partners and exclusive discounts at https://www.dlweekly.net/promos. News: Beginning June 9, Disneyland Resort will officially eliminate its 11:00 AM park-hopping restriction, allowing guests to move freely between Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure at any time of day. This major policy change applies to all visitors with Park Hopper tickets or Magic Key passes. Park reservations are still required and guests must select a starting park when booking, you no longer need to wait until late morning or physically tap into your reserved park before switching sides. – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-entertainment/disneyland-park-hopping-any-time-date/ In anticipation of the upcoming theatrical release of Toy Story 5, the character have received some new wardrobe and accessory updates. Guests can now spot Woody sporting a bandana poncho, Buzz Lightyear carrying a shiny new star sticker, and Jessie wearing a sheriff's badge. These new details are designed to directly match the characters' appearance in the new film, which hits theaters on June 19, 2026. – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/toy-story-5-disney-parks-character-updates/ For the first time since opening in 2019, Savi's Workshop is offering a limited-time experience called the Youngling Saber Building Expo – A Loth-Cat Crew Experience. Designed specifically for children aged 3 to 9 and their accompanying adults, this unique interactive session allows families to explore the inside of the usually high-cost venue and participate in a lightsaber-building adventure. While the experience itself is completely free, guests will have the option to purchase their custom-built lightsaber at the end of the workshop. – https://www.micechat.com/436183-disneyland-news-grogu-coco-emergency/ Alien Pizza Planet has updated its dining format, returning to a classic cafeteria-style operation. The restaurant has removed its standard mobile ordering option from the Disneyland app, meaning guests looking for individual slices, pasta, and salads must now walk up and order directly from the food stations. A new “Alien Pizza Planet Express” mobile option has been introduced, which is exclusively dedicated to ordering large, family-style whole pizza meals. – https://www.micechat.com/436183-disneyland-news-grogu-coco-emergency/ SnackChat: Trader Sam's celebrates 15 years – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/trader-sams-15th-anniversary-disneyland-new-food-and-drinks/ Discussion Topic: Teresa and Vern's trip report Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Muppets, Mandalorians & The Millennium Falcon This week, we were lucky enough to take a quick trip to the Walt Disney World Resort. While the visit was brief, we packed a lot of stuff in including several new additions to one of our favorite parks. That's right! For this episode, we're talking all about Muppets, Mandalorians & The Millennium Falcon - Our Day at Disney Hollywood Studios. We'll share our thoughts on the changeover to Rock 'n' Rollercoaster Starring The Muppets and the new Mandalorian focused version of Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run. We also discuss the newly reimagined Animation Courtyard and tell you why it may be our favorite spot in that park. Oh, but that isn't the end of our discussion about things from A Galaxy Far, Far Away. We also give you our spoiler-free review of The Mandalorian & Grogu. Find our what we thought about the first Star Wars film to hit the big screen in nearly 7 years. Disney Stories of the Week Once we complete our Muppets, Mandalorians & The Millennium Falcon segments, it's time for the Disney Stories of the Week. In this episode, we share details about a big anniversary for one of our favorite enchanted Disneyland locations. Speaking of The Happiest Place On Earth, we also tell you about some good news for those looking to split time between Disneyland and Disney California Adventure on their next visit. Certainly, that's not all. As always, we wrap it all up with tips that might help you on your next Disney vacation.   If you have any comments, questions, or requests to cover a particular topic, please feel free to Contact Us!   We also invite you to join the positive fun in our Hyperion Adventurers Facebook Group as well as our Hyperion Mornings on YouTube for a daily dose of live positive chat!   Thanks for listening! Cheers!  

Hello Travelers! This week, join host Michelle as she takes you on a walkabout through Disney California Adventure celebrating its 25th anniversary. Enjoy the sounds of Buena Vista Street, Grizzly Peak, Paradise Gardens, Pixar Pier, San Fransokyo, Cars Land, and Hollywood Land. We are listener supported - contribute to the Dole Whip Fund via Google or Apple Pay. Thanks! Walkabout the World is now on TikTok! Come follow our visual companion to the audio podcast at Walkabout.the.world.pod on TikTok And of course, visit us on Instagram and at walkabouttheworld.com - find links to all the things - attraction episodes, Insta accounts of all the hosts, and even how to buy your own Walkabout shirt!

Here is your Daily Disney News for Friday, May 22nd, 2026 - Disneyland Resort in California is set to unveil a new nighttime spectacular, "Illuminations of Imagination," starting June 15th, with advanced projections and pyrotechnics featuring beloved stories and characters. - Disney California Adventure's Marvel Avengers Campus is expanding with a new attraction, "Wakanda: Journey to the Panther's Throne," offering an immersive experience through Wakanda with Black Panther. - Tokyo Disneyland plans to reopen a reimagined "Fantasyland Forest Theatre" this summer, featuring enhanced seating and a state-of-the-art sound system for a magical storytelling experience. - Disney Publishing announces a new book series, "Tales from the Galaxy's Edge," expanding the Star Wars universe with captivating stories and characters. Have a magical day and tune in again tomorrow for more updates.

Join Attractions Magazine contributing writers and correspondents as they bring you news and discussion about all things themed entertainment and parks, including Disney, Universal Studios and beyond on The Attractions Podcast. Topics of conversation on this week's episode of The Attractions Podcast: Disney Upfront spotlights theme park-connected fandoms from ‘Ahsoka' to Savannah Bananas Soarin' Across America at Epcot, Disney California Adventure with new featured locations Bluey at Animal Kingdom: virtual queue, train access and more explained PokéPark Kanto: I went inside the world's first permanent outdoor Pokémon park Convention attendees to receive access to Celestial Park at Epic Universe this month The Attractions Podcast is brought to you by MEI-Travel and Mouse Fan Travel. They provide premium service and expert advice to get the most for your vacation time and dollars. Visit them at mei-travel.com. We welcome your suggestions and want you to be a part of the discussion. Please send your comments to info@attractionsmagazine.com with the subject line “The Attractions Podcast.” Statements or opinions herein are those of the hosts and advertisers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the producers, Dream Together Media LLC, or staff.

We are using 2026 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Disney California Adventure. And while we did an overview of this park on that anniversary date, it is nearly summer and we've yet to go into the lands of the park. In the interim we took a big left turn to talk about Westcot, which was proposed long before the concept of Disney California Adventure was created. Now we take another left turn to talk about Port Disney and DisneySea, a project proposed at the same time for Long Beach. We will look at this project, why it was proposed, what it offered, and what became of its ideas--one of which eventually landed in Disney California Adventure. Oh, and there's the connection of Tokyo DisneySea-or not! Join us as we look at Port Disney and DisneySea. Be sure to check out my latest endeavor, Disneyland Insights: Inspiration, Ideas & Magic for You and Your Organization. __________________________________________________ Disney Insights YouTube Page--Check it out and subscribe. DisneyInsights.com--So many resources at our home site. Be sure to subscribe to receive notice of upcoming podcasts. My newest book, A Century of Powerful Disney Insights, Volume I 1923-1973, The Walt & Roy Disney Years is available!  Also, check out my two of my other books, The Wonderful World of Customer Service at Disney and Disney, Leadership and You.  Also, for those examining other business benchmarks beyond Disney, check out Lead with Your Customer: Transform Culture and Brand Into World-Class Excellence. _______________________________________________________ Check out Zanolla Travel to book your next vacation!  David & Leah Zanolla ZanollaTravel.com Owner/Agents (309) 863-5469 _________________________________________________________ Performance Journeys This podcast and post is provided by J. Jeff Kober and Performance Journeys, which celebrates more than 20 years as a training and development group bringing best in business ideas through books, keynotes, workshops, seminars and online tools to help you take your organization to the next level. Want a Keynote Speaker? More than just nice stories, I offer proven insight and solutions having worked in the trench. Need Consulting? I've worked for decades across the public, private and non-profit arena.  Need Support? We offer so many classroom, online, and other resources to help you improve your customer service delivery, leadership excellence, and employee engagement. Contact us today, and let us help you on your Performance Journey!  

This is the first episode in Steph and Donna's spring Disneyland trip series! Steph shares the first day of her spring Disneyland trip with Donna — from stressful packing and Anaheim traffic to soaking in the Dapper Day atmosphere at Disney California Adventure. After meeting up with friends, enjoying dinner at Rancho Del Zocalo, and exploring Downtown Disney, Steph surprises Donna with a special Disneyland Railroad Tour planned for the next morning. It's a cozy travel-day episode filled with Disney ambiance, friendship, and the excitement of a new adventure beginning.Thank you to all of my listeners, friends and supporters! A special thank you to my sponsor, Arias Transportation, for supporting this podcast. Be sure to check them out at www.ariastransportation.com and download the app next time you need a ride in the Southern California area. Be sure to add Steph 20 in the notes for a 20% discount off your first reservation.Follow me on on social media for fun photos, podcast updates and funny videos: Instagram @Magic_Key_Adventures or use this link: https://www.instagram.com/magic_key_adventures/Facebook: Magic Key Adventures or use the link: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61582188742734&sk=aboutTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@magickeyadventuresFeel free to email questions and comments at: magickeyadventures@yahoo.comSupport the show with a one-time donation at: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/magickeyadhNew! Patreon: Join my Patreon, it's FREE!https://www.patreon.com/c/MagicKeyAdventuresSubscribe, rate and review!

865 · When Wishes Assemble: The Story of Disney and Make-A-Wish45 years. 175,000 wishes. One out of every two Make-A-Wish wishes granted in America is a Disney wish.The Disney Make-A-Wish partnership is about far more than theme park vacations. Every single hour, somewhere in the world, Disney helps grant a wish for a child battling a critical illness - creating moments of hope, joy, strength, and healing for families who need it most.In this very personal episode, Lou shares the extraordinary history of Disney and Make-A-Wish, from the very first Disneyland wish in 1981 to the incredible “Wishes Assemble” event at Avengers Campus in Disney California Adventure, featuring Anthony Mackie, MrBeast, Mark Rober, Paul Bettany, and 40 remarkable children and their families.Along the way, he explores the emotional impact of wish granting, the medical research behind why wishes matter, and why this cause has become such an important part of the WDW Radio community for more than 20 years.You'll hear stories about wish kids meeting their heroes, Disney Cast Members who once received wishes themselves, and how the WDW Radio Dream Team Project has helped raise more than $550,000 to help grant wishes for children and families through Make-A-Wish.If you've ever wondered what Disney magic truly means, this episode may change the way you see it forever.

This week, a permit to remove an attraction has been filed, a big timeline change is coming to an area of Disneyland, more updates to the Disneyland app, some rare discounted merchandise at the resort, we finish our discussion with Kevin Rafferty, and more! Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/. Check out all of our current partners and exclusive discounts at https://www.dlweekly.net/promos. News: A popular attraction in Disney California Adventure is moving towards extinction. Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sully to the Rescue! has had a permit filed with the city of Anaheim for demolition. In addition to the attraction, the Hollywood Lounge beverage stand is also included in the demolition permit. The timeline to start demolition is not until at least late 2027. - https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2026/04/19/confirmed-this-disney-ride-will-permanently-close-in-2027/ We are just about a week away from the timeline expanding at Star Wars Galaxy's Edge. On April 29th, Batuu will welcome original trilogy characters like Darth Vader, Luke Skywalker, Han Solor, and Leia Organa. This has been a long time request from guests who want to interact with characters from across the trilogy in the Star Wars themed land. There is some criticism that the characters are not close enough to their appearance in the films, but we will have to wait and see. In addition, the area will have the classic music of John Williams playing from the movie score. - https://www.micechat.com/434704-disneyland-update-star-wars-land-glow-up-app-shake-up-toy-story-5-build-up/ https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/photos-dok-ondar-changes-april-2026/ In the latest update to the Disneyland app, there have been some good quality of life improvements. Under My Visit, the Tip Board has been renamed to Wait Times & Showtimes, and My Day has been renamed My Plans. These updated names better reflect what can be found in each section. MyDisney Wallet has been added to the account settings where you can add your credit or debit card for payments. There still is no option to add a gift card. - https://www.micechat.com/434704-disneyland-update-star-wars-land-glow-up-app-shake-up-toy-story-5-build-up/ With the Disneyland 70th celebration coming to a close this summer, there are some good discounts to be had. Many 70th anniversary items are marked down up to 50%, including some Loungefly bags. In addition, there are some new Duffy and Friends items that have arrived at the resort from Aulani. Pins, a button up shirt, and more are available. - https://www.micechat.com/434704-disneyland-update-star-wars-land-glow-up-app-shake-up-toy-story-5-build-up/ A classic attraction is retuning to the Disneyland Resort. The Skyway is coming back! Ok, only as a straw topper, but still! Starting April 22, guests can add this to their collections. It features the classic rectangular, four person gondola from 1965. - https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/disneyland-skyway-straw-clip/ SnackChat: New Menu Items - https://www.instagram.com/p/DXV432qlrJ3/?igsh=MWw5aDRwNHFybzZx Discussion Topic: Imagineer Kevin Rafferty Magic Journey: My Fantastical Walt Disney Imagineering Career - https://www.amazon.com/Magic-Journey-Fantastical-Disney-Imagineering/dp/1368020488 Marty Note pdf.pdf Marty's Marty Note pdf.pdf Marty's Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We are behind in celebrating Disney California Adventure through its 25th year, and yet one cannot really talk about this park, without considering what was to have been created originally in its place. WestCOT may be the most popular park concept that Disney never built. A west-coast version of Epcot, this park was in many ways more ambitious than its neighbor across the promenade, Disneyland itself. We will look at this amazing design, as well as the entire proposal for what was originally intended to become The Disneyland Resort. We'll look at the whole of it, what it included, how it would impact Anaheim, and then consider what led ultimately to its fall. Join me on this fascinating look into a park led by Imagineer Tony Baxter and what could have created an entire Disneyland Resort than the one we know now.   Be sure to check out my latest endeavor, Disneyland Insights: Inspiration, Ideas & Magic for You and Your Organization. __________________________________________________ Disney Insights YouTube Page--Check it out and subscribe. DisneyInsights.com--So many resources at our home site. Be sure to subscribe to receive notice of upcoming podcasts. My newest book, A Century of Powerful Disney Insights, Volume I 1923-1973, The Walt & Roy Disney Years is available!  Also, check out my two of my other books, The Wonderful World of Customer Service at Disney and Disney, Leadership and You.  Also, for those examining other business benchmarks beyond Disney, check out Lead with Your Customer: Transform Culture and Brand Into World-Class Excellence. _______________________________________________________ Check out Zanolla Travel to book your next vacation!  David & Leah Zanolla ZanollaTravel.com Owner/Agents (309) 863-5469 _________________________________________________________ Performance Journeys This podcast and post is provided by J. Jeff Kober and Performance Journeys, which celebrates more than 20 years as a training and development group bringing best in business ideas through books, keynotes, workshops, seminars and online tools to help you take your organization to the next level. Want a Keynote Speaker? More than just nice stories, I offer proven insight and solutions having worked in the trench. Need Consulting? I've worked for decades across the public, private and non-profit arena.  Need Support? We offer so many classroom, online, and other resources to help you improve your customer service delivery, leadership excellence, and employee engagement. Contact us today, and let us help you on your Performance Journey!  

This week, new seating options in Avengers Campus, the Disney Channel takes over Disneyland, Josh's first month is a little bumpy, a new art installation celebrates the 70th anniversary at Downtown Disney, we continue our talk with Kevin Rafferty about his time at Imagineering, and more! Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/. Check out all of our current partners and exclusive discounts athttps://www.dlweekly.net/promos. News: Some more seating has been added to Avengers Campus at Disney California Adventure. The former FastPass distribution area has been converted into a seating area, with covered tables, and themed elements making it fit right in with the theming of the area. More seating is always a good thing, especially in Avengers Campus where shade is a premium. - https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/avengers-campus-disneyland-resort-expanded-seating/ https://www.instagram.com/reel/DXA_DMYkSsh/ A new art installation is being unveiled throughout the month in Downtown Disney to celebrate the 70th anniversary of Disneyland. Artists are asked to pick a Walt Disney quote and create a piece of art inspired by that quote. Each piece will represent one of the decades of the Disneyland Resort. So far, only the 50s through the 80s is represented, with more coming as more artists are adding to the collection through live art demonstrations. - https://www.micechat.com/434422-disneyland-update-crowds-closures-corporate-cutbacks/ It is a slightly bumpy start to Josh D'Amaro's tenure as Disney's new CEO. The company is planning on cutting up to 1,000 jobs, mostly in the marketing division, which was recently consolidated. It is likely that these cuts were already planned before D'Amaro took over from Bob Iger last month. - https://www.micechat.com/434422-disneyland-update-crowds-closures-corporate-cutbacks/ This past weekend, the first Disneyland After Dark: Disney Channel Nite was held at Disneyland. Photo ops were setup for guests to take pictures themed to DCOMs like Johnny Tsunami and Zenon. The fan favorite was back, allowing guests to recreate the Disney Channel Wand ID. The DescenDANCE Party was also back, along with favorite Disney Channel characters including Tale Spin, Lilo & Stitch: The Series, and more. Penny Proud, from The Proud Family was new this year. Also new this year was an exhibit at the Starcade in Tomorrowland that featured Disney Channel artifacts from the Walt Disney Archives. Of course, there was no shortage of merchandise and treats either! - https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/disney-channel-nite-photo-video-tour/ SnackChat: Goofy's Kitchen - https://disneyland.disney.go.com/dining/disneyland-hotel/goofys-kitchen/menus/ Discussion Topic: Imagineer Kevin Rafferty Marty Note pdf.pdf Marty's only black note pdf.pdf Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week, D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event tickets are on sale, the Disney Legend Award inductees are announced, CHOC Walk is back, The Savannah Bananas were back at Disneyland, Bluey hits the resort hard, we talk about Teresa and Vern's trip to California, and more! Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/. Check out all of our current partners and exclusive discounts at https://www.dlweekly.net/promos. News: Details have been announced for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event for 2026. This year's event will run from August 14th-16th at the Anaheim Convention Center and the Honda Center for evening presentations. The Disney Legends inductees were announced, along with a bunch of activities leading up to the main event. On August 8th, the Walt Disney Archives new exhibit will open, on August 11th, D23 Night at the Anaheim Packing District returns, August 12th is D23 Night at Angel Stadium, and August 13th is D23 Day at Disneyland. Tickets went on sale March 31st for Gold Charter Members, with Essential, Choice, and Complete members going on sale April 2nd. For all the details and pricing, visit the link in the show notes. – https://disneyparksblog.com/disney-experiences/d23-2026-what-you-need-to-know/ The Children's Hospital of Orange County Walk in the Park is returning to Disneyland this year. The hospital has a new name – Rady Children's Health, but the event is still the CHOC Walk. The 5k fundraiser will take place on August 2nd, where participants will walk through the resort and experience pre-opening conditions. The event supports pediatric specialty care, research and innovation, family support services, and education for future healthcare providers. Registration is now open at the link in our show notes. – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/choc-walk-2026-disneyland-resort/ https://www.chocwalk.org/ The Savannah Bananas returned to Disneyland this week. The players, joined by the Indianapolis Clowns, started their day in Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, then they took a ride on King Arthur Carrousel, followed by dancing and singing in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle. Later, players traveled down Main Street for a Cavalcade. Later, they performed in Disney California Adventure at Paradise Park. – https://disneyparksblog.com/dlr/savannah-bananas-at-disneyland-what-to-know/ Last Sunday, Bluey made her debut at the Fantasyland Theatre. The first day was very busy, with lines stretching to Storybookland Canal Boats. After the first day, crowds settled and the show has been a huge success. From 9am to 4:30pm, Bluey, and characters from the show, perform for guests with a couple variations of a stage show, and guest interactions. Next door at Troubadour Tavern the Bluey-inspired dishes have been popular, with long, but fast moving, lines. – https://www.micechat.com/433717-disneyland-update-bluey-blues-banana-bonanza-d23-buzz/ Weeklyteers who rely on a Fuel Rod to keep their mobile devices charged up will be happy to hear they are getting an upgrade! New kiosks at the resort now offer the “Max 10” chargers that have more charge, and can do wireless charging! The Max 10 chargers have 3 times more charging capacity, but also start at $80, instead of the $40 a new, previous version costs. – https://www.micechat.com/433717-disneyland-update-bluey-blues-banana-bonanza-d23-buzz/ SnackChat: Spring Character Dining – https://www.micechat.com/433717-disneyland-update-bluey-blues-banana-bonanza-d23-buzz/ Disney Channel Nite Eats – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/disney-channel-nite-foodie-guide-2026/ Discussion Topic: Teresa and Vern's Bay Area Trip Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Eric and Lauren unpack a wild week in the Disney parks, from the growing debate around live streamers and park etiquette to Disney's latest efforts to win back middle-class families. They also dive deep into the Disneyland vs. Walt Disney World snack showdown and share a costly lesson about choosing between Lightning Lane and Park Hopper. It's a mix of park culture, planning strategy, and plenty of food opinions. HIGHLIGHTS A live streamer incident at Disneyland sparks a bigger conversation about safety, swatting risks, and whether live streaming should be restricted in the parks The difference between respectful content creators and disruptive live streamers, including real guest and cast member frustrations Disney's new push to attract middle-class families with lower ticket options, discounts, and kid-focused experiences Expanded low-tier ticket availability, summer promotions, and added value offerings across Disneyland and Walt Disney World The ongoing value debate: breaking down cost-per-hour and whether Disney is still “worth it” compared to other entertainment Disneyland vs. Walt Disney World snacks: why Lauren says Disneyland wins and Eric… just eats everything Standout Disneyland snacks including the raspberry macaron, Matterhorn cream puff, and cheesy garlic pretzel bread A Disneyland strategy mistake: skipping Lightning Lane leads to a $600 Park Hopper decision mid-day Food & Wine Festival crowds at Disney California Adventure and how timing can completely change your park experience The big planning question: Park Hopper or Lightning Lane at Disneyland - and why the answer isn't so simple HOSTS Eric Hersey – X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@erichersey⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@erichersey⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Lauren Hersey – X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@laurenhersey2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@lauren_hersey_⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ FOLLOW – DIS & HERS Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠DisAndHers.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@disandhers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@disandhers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Dis and Hers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Dis & Hers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ FOLLOW – JIM HILL MEDIA Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠JimHillMediaNews⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠JimHillMedia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠JimHillMedia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon.com/JimHillMedia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited & Produced by Eric Hersey – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Strong Minded Agency⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠reach out today.⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Bluey is coming to Disneyland, Magic Key Holders are getting some nice perks in the mail, and a scavenger hunt, Josh Gad is another cast member, cast members are celebrated, an update on the busses, we talk about the history of Disneyland Fireworks, and more! Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/. Check out all of our current partners and exclusive discounts at https://www.dlweekly.net/promos. News: On March 22, a beloved character from down under will debut a new show at Disneyland. “Bluey's Best Day Ever!” at the Fantasyland Theatre will celebrate the heart and humor of Bluey. The theater will be transformed into Bluey's school where Bluey and Bingo will appear on stage at set times throughout the day, with two unique shows. A group of comedic performers and musicians will join them to bring to life popular board games, music, and dances. Chattermax, Unicorse, and a troupe of Grannies will also make appearances. There will also be a life-sized Gnome Village and Fairy Garden with interactive areas. – https://disneyparksblog.com/dlr/bluey-at-disneyland-resort/ Magic Key Holders will have a new way to enjoy the resort with the Magic Key Road Trip pit stop scavenger hunt to celebrate Disney California Adventure's 25th anniversary. Key holders will pick up a special map at Kingswell Camera Shop on Buena Vista Street and use it to complete the hunt. After the hunt is completed, collect a prize later in April. Check the Magic Key Portal in the Disneyland App for all the details. – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/california-adventure-25-scavenger-hunt/ Continuing this Road Trip theme, Magic Key holders will also want to keep an eye out in their mailboxes for a complimentary gift coming soon. An exclusive set of car air fresheners inspired by attractions and experiences from Disney California Adventure! Each mailer will include three themed air fresheners, with a citrus smell for Grizzly Peak and Soarin', new car smell for Cars Land and Radiator Springs Racers, and Sakura for San Fransokyo Square. – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/magic-key-road-trip-2026-air-fresheners/ Ever since Josh Gad was made a Disney Legend and he shared not getting to be a cast member for the Jungle Cruise, it seems like Disney has been trying to make up for this. So far, he has been a Jungle Cruise Skipper, a Disneyland Railroad Conductor, a Haunted Mansion cast member, and more. This time, he is taking guests on a journey through Storybook Land Canal Boats. This time, he doesn't know the script and snuck onto the boat to entertain guests. Check out the link in our show notes to watch all the chaos. – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/gad-in-storybook-land/ The Disneyland Resort just held an event to celebrate cast members with service of 10 years or more. Jan Fleener and Richard Ruiz were in attendance, celebrating 55 years of service at the resort! The two were celebrated by being driven down the Performance Corridor in the Five and Dime classic car. Cast members are invited to these events starting at their 10th anniversary, then every 5 years of service after. – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/disneyland-cast-service-celebration-2025/ Actress Jennifer Garner has a baby food brand called Once Upon a Farm that is now available for purchase at Disney California Adventure. Guests can pick some up at Fillmore's Taste-In in Cars Land. The food features cold-pressed pouches and plant-rich meals for babies, toddlers, and big kids. – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/once-upon-a-farm-at-disney-california-adventure/ Two unfortunate events occurred at the Disneyland Resort this week. The first was a hazmat situation backstage near Star Tours that resulted in cast members being transported to the hospital out of caution. Nobody was seriously injured and it was limited to backstage. Anaheim Police were summoned to the resort in a Swatting Incident that claimed a mass shooting event at the resort. A swatting is where someone calls in a serious call to 911 that turns out to be a prank, even though police, and sometimes SWAT teams are sent. – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/disneyland-swatting/ https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/disneyland-hazmat-incident-star-tours-backstage/ SnackChat: Bluey-themed bites – https://disneyparksblog.com/dlr/disney-eats-bluey-food-beverage-at-disneyland-resort/ Discussion Topic: History of Fireworks – https://www.micechat.com/335190-disneyland-fireworks-history-all-shows/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey dive into a mix of new Disney merch, fan experiences, and theme park history. They break down the newly revealed Disney Princess running shoes from Brooks, preview merchandise coming to EPCOT's Flower & Garden Festival, and look at a premium new D23 tour that takes fans through Walt Disney's Los Angeles. Then Jim returns with Part 2 of the story of how a struggling shopping area at Walt Disney World evolved from the Disney Village Marketplace into the sprawling Disney Springs destination we know today.  NEWS • Brooks and runDisney unveil the 2026 Disney Princess Half Marathon weekend shoe collection featuring Rapunzel, Belle, and Moana inspired designs - including braided laces, lantern motifs, and ocean themed colorways.• Registration prices for the Disney Princess Half Marathon continue to climb, now landing between $259 and $269, adding to the debate around race merch availability and resellers.• D23 launches the premium Walt's Los Angeles Tour for Gold Members - a $1,999 guided experience visiting Walt Disney Studios, Imagineering, Walt's former home, the Carolwood Barn, and ending with dinner at one of Walt's favorite restaurants.• A preview of EPCOT's 2026 Flower & Garden Festival merchandise highlights new Orange Bird apparel, a retro inspired button down, Spike the Bee accessories, and Annual Passholder exclusives.• Disney California Adventure prepares for the 2026 Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival, including new marketplace booths and the Sip and Savor Pass that lets guests prepay for festival items. FEATURE • Part 2 of the Disney Springs story: how Michael Eisner inherited the underperforming Walt Disney World Shopping Village in the 1980s.• The creation of Pleasure Island in 1989 as Disney's answer to Orlando's Church Street Station nightlife.• The evolution into Downtown Disney in the 1990s with additions like Planet Hollywood, Rainforest Cafe, LEGO Imagination Center, DisneyQuest, and Cirque du Soleil's La Nouba.• Why Pleasure Island ultimately closed in 2008 - and the short lived Hyperion Wharf concept that almost replaced it.• How a major rethink under Disney Parks leadership led to the massive Disney Springs redevelopment, expanding the complex to more than 150 shops and restaurants across four themed districts. HOSTS • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com• Lauren Hersey - IG: @lauren_hersey_ | X: @laurenhersey2 FOLLOW • Facebook: JimHillMediaNews• Instagram: JimHillMedia• TikTok: JimHillMedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave GreyProduced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency SPONSOR This episode is sponsored by UnlockedMagic. If a Disney or Universal trip is anywhere on your radar for 2026, the team at UnlockedMagic can help you secure great ticket deals with guidance from people who truly know the parks. Learn more and lock in your future trip at UnlockedMagic.com. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jim Hill and Len Testa discuss Villains Land expansion permits, Rock 'n' Roller Coaster's refurbishment timeline, and how negotiations over the Chinese Theatre helped shape Disney's use of Carthay Circle as a park icon. Plus, listener questions, MuppetVision's future on Apple Vision Pro, and a standout cheesecake discovery at Walt Disney World.  NEWS • Updated permits show Villains Land attractions expanding, with both the dark ride and coaster buildings increasing in size. • Infrastructure work for Piston Peak and Villains Land is currently scheduled to be completed by December 2027. • Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith has closed for refurbishment, with a possible Memorial Day reopening target. • Big Thunder Mountain Railroad's refurbishment permit has been extended through August 31, 2026. • Brian Henson says MuppetVision 3D is coming to Apple Vision Pro with selectable viewing seats. • Len shares a rave review of the brulée Basque cheesecake at Bourbon Steak in the Walt Disney World Dolphin. FEATURE • Jim continues the history of The Great Movie Ride and Disney's negotiations with theater owner Tedd Mann. • The story explains why Disney insisted on calling the building simply the Chinese Theatre. • Jim also details how the Carthay Circle Theatre eventually became the icon of Disney California Adventure. • Early plans for the building included a ride, stage show, film attraction, and museum before it became a restaurant. For this episode's full show notes, click here. HOSTS • Jim Hill - IG: https://www.instagram.com/JimHillMedia | X: https://twitter.com/JimHillMedia | Website: https://JimHillMedia.com • Len Testa - IG: https://www.instagram.com/len.testa | Website: https://touringplans.com FOLLOW • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JimHillMediaNews• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/JimHillMedia• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@JimHillMedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave GreyProduced by Eric Hersey - https://strongmindedagency.com SPONSOR The Disney Dish news is sponsored by our friends at Unlocked Magic. Looking for discounted Walt Disney World theme park tickets - including hard-to-find 1- and 2-day options? Head to unlockedmagic.com to find deals that can beat Disney's direct pricing. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today.https://www.jimhillmedia.com/sponsor/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jim Hill and Len Testa discuss Villains Land expansion permits, Rock 'n' Roller Coaster's refurbishment timeline, and how negotiations over the Chinese Theatre helped shape Disney's use of Carthay Circle as a park icon. Plus, listener questions, MuppetVision's future on Apple Vision Pro, and a standout cheesecake discovery at Walt Disney World.  NEWS • Updated permits show Villains Land attractions expanding, with both the dark ride and coaster buildings increasing in size. • Infrastructure work for Piston Peak and Villains Land is currently scheduled to be completed by December 2027. • Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith has closed for refurbishment, with a possible Memorial Day reopening target. • Big Thunder Mountain Railroad's refurbishment permit has been extended through August 31, 2026. • Brian Henson says MuppetVision 3D is coming to Apple Vision Pro with selectable viewing seats. • Len shares a rave review of the brulée Basque cheesecake at Bourbon Steak in the Walt Disney World Dolphin. FEATURE • Jim continues the history of The Great Movie Ride and Disney's negotiations with theater owner Tedd Mann. • The story explains why Disney insisted on calling the building simply the Chinese Theatre. • Jim also details how the Carthay Circle Theatre eventually became the icon of Disney California Adventure. • Early plans for the building included a ride, stage show, film attraction, and museum before it became a restaurant. For this episode's full show notes, click here. HOSTS • Jim Hill - IG: https://www.instagram.com/JimHillMedia | X: https://twitter.com/JimHillMedia | Website: https://JimHillMedia.com • Len Testa - IG: https://www.instagram.com/len.testa | Website: https://touringplans.com FOLLOW • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JimHillMediaNews• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/JimHillMedia• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@JimHillMedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave GreyProduced by Eric Hersey - https://strongmindedagency.com SPONSOR The Disney Dish news is sponsored by our friends at Unlocked Magic. Looking for discounted Walt Disney World theme park tickets - including hard-to-find 1- and 2-day options? Head to unlockedmagic.com to find deals that can beat Disney's direct pricing. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today.https://www.jimhillmedia.com/sponsor/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, more details on the Women Who Make the Magic tour, a modified Star Wars season this year, egg hunting returns to the resort, A peek behind the scenes of construction at Avengers Campus, Tony Baxter will be talking Indy at an event in San Francisco, we finish our conversation with Philander, and more! Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/. Check out all of our current partners and exclusive discounts at https://www.dlweekly.net/promos News: We previously mentioned the new Women Who Make the Magic Tour, but there are more details. The tour will highlight some of the women who helped bring Disneyland to life. The tour will. feature “beautiful music, the realms of whimsy, and more.” Harriet Burns, Alice Davis, Mary Blair, Ruth Shellhorn, Leota Toombs, Kim Irvine, Dorthea Redmond, and more will be explored. – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2026/02/26/everything-you-need-to-know-about-disneys-new-tour/#more-1109176 While “Season of the Force” is not officially taking place this year, there is still Star Wars events happening around the resort! Hyperspace Mountain will return on April 28, along with a new adventure for the Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run featuring the Mandalorian and Grogu. Starting April 29th, the timeline will expand in Galaxy's Edge when they welcome Leia, Han Solo, Luke Skywalker, and Darth Vader join Chewbacca, Rey, Ahsoka Tano, The Mandalorian, Grogu, and R2-D2 on Batuu. The themes, by Disney Legend John Williams, from the first six films will also be heard throughout the area as well as some merchandise locations receiving an update. – https://www.micechat.com/431510-disneyland-update-less-food-more-walls-star-wars-land-changes/ With Easter just around the corner, the Eggstraviganza egg search has returned! The search will be available from now until April 6, 2026. The map and stickers will be $11.99, and can be purchased at multiple locations around Disneyland, Disney California Adventure, and Downtown Disney. Redemption locations are Pin Traders and World of Disney in Downtown Disney, Disney Showcase in Disneyland, and Elias & Co. in DCA. The egg keepsakes are back this year, with some fun new designs featuring Mickey, Minnie, Chip, Dale, Thumper, and the White Rabbit. – https://www.micechat.com/431510-disneyland-update-less-food-more-walls-star-wars-land-changes/ The construction to expand Avengers Campus has been going for a while, with glimpses of the additions every now and then. Walt Disney Imagineering shared on their Instagram a behind the scenes look at the structural engineering behind all the work. Not only is this a super interesting look at something that is so important for the attractions themselves, but it is so cool to see the attraction “shell” before the completion. – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/avengers-campus-construction-expansion/ Indiana Jones and the Temple of the Forbidden Eye adventure opened 31 years ago! Fans can celebrate this beloved attraction and its history with none other than Tony Baxter at the Walt Disney Family Museum. On April 4th, at 1pm a special presentation will be held to give theme park fans a peek behind the attraction with the Disney Legend. – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/wdfm-tony-baxter-indiana-jones-adventure/ World Compliment Day is celebrated on March 1st every year, and Disney got in on the fun to celebrate – and compliment – cast members! More than 3 million mobile cast compliments have been shared by guests at Disneyland and Walt Disney World. At Disneyland, we have had personal experience with the most complimented cast member, Luis, who is a PhotoPass photographer. Remember, next time you are in the park and have a great guest experience, add a cast compliment through the Disneyland App! – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/disney-world-compliment-day-cast-members/ SnackChat: Disneyland After Dark: 70 Years of Favorites – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2026/02/25/first-look-at-snacks-coming-to-new-disney-event/#more-1108895 Discussion Topic: Epic Universe and being a Legacy Award Recipient with theme park fan and Disney Cast Member Philander – https://www.instagram.com/philanderc85/?hl=en Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What does it really take to build a creative career inside Disney?In this episode of Unlocking the Magic, we sit down with Charlie Price — writer of Me & Mickey, author of Holiday Magic at the Disney Parks, and contributor to multiple Disney Publishing projects — to talk about persistence, pitching ideas, working behind the scenes at the parks, and what it's actually like navigating Disney's creative machine.From working security during the opening of Disney California Adventure to writing 130+ episodes of Mickey content, Charlie shares the real story behind building a creative career inside one of the biggest entertainment companies in the world.

Disney may be rethinking Villains Land at Magic Kingdom - and this time, bigger could truly mean better. Lauren and Eric unpack the rumor that Imagineers were told to go bold with budget becoming secondary, and what that might signal about Disney's competitive strategy. They also break down the delayed closure of Monsters Inc. at Disney California Adventure, what that means for the proposed Avatar expansion, and whether Animal Kingdom's attraction lineup justifies its ticket price. Plus, the rise of AI-generated meet-and-greet images and why they might be causing real-world confusion. HIGHLIGHTS A rumor suggests the original plans for Villains Land at Magic Kingdom were scrapped in favor of bigger, more ambitious concepts with budget reportedly becoming a secondary concern. What this could mean for Disney's long-term strategy as new leadership looks to make a defining creative statement. Why Monsters Inc. Mike and Sulley to the Rescue at Disney California Adventure may now stay open longer than expected. How the potential delay impacts the proposed Avatar-themed expansion and why some fans question whether the IP fits the park. A breakdown of attraction counts across Walt Disney World parks and the renewed debate over whether Animal Kingdom currently offers enough rides to justify a full-day visit. How recent closures and construction projects are affecting crowd flow and guest perception at Animal Kingdom. The surge of AI-generated Disney character meet-and-greet images online and how they may be misleading guests planning their trips. For this episode's full show notes, ⁠click here⁠. HOSTS Eric Hersey – X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@erichersey⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@erichersey⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Lauren Hersey – X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@laurenhersey2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@lauren_hersey_⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ FOLLOW – DIS & HERS Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠DisAndHers.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@disandhers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@disandhers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Dis and Hers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Dis & Hers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ FOLLOW – JIM HILL MEDIA Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠JimHillMediaNews⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠JimHillMedia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠JimHillMedia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon.com/JimHillMedia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited & Produced by Eric Hersey – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Strong Minded Agency⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠reach out today.⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michael Eisner returns to the Disney spotlight in a surprisingly candid, long-form interview that has fans buzzing. Lauren and Eric break down Eisner's comments on park pricing, Bob Chapek, AI, and the future of Disney leadership - plus what it means in today's theme park landscape. Then, the Savannah Bananas bring Banana Ball back to Disneyland, and Lightning Lane Premier Pass sells out for seven straight days at Walt Disney World. Is Disney's most expensive skip-the-line option here to stay? HIGHLIGHTS Michael Eisner sits down with Graham Bensinger for his most in-depth Disney interview in years, sharing candid thoughts on leadership transitions, pricing, and the modern company. Eisner describes the Chapek era as “a marriage made in hell” while praising Bob Iger's succession and leadership instincts. Disney confirms a $1 billion AI investment and partnership with OpenAI, with plans to explore internal tools, advertising analytics, and controlled character licensing for AI-generated content. Lightning Lane Premier Pass sells out for seven consecutive days at Magic Kingdom during Presidents Day week, with prices reaching up to $449 per person plus tax. The Savannah Bananas return to Disneyland on March 26, bringing Banana Ball energy, cavalcades, and castle-front performances to both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure. The Bananas' fan-first model, viral growth, and MLB stadium sellouts make them a natural marketing match for Disney's experiential brand strategy. For this episode's full show notes, ⁠click here⁠. HOSTS Eric Hersey – X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@erichersey⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@erichersey⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Lauren Hersey – X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@laurenhersey2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@lauren_hersey_⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ FOLLOW – DIS & HERS Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠DisAndHers.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@disandhers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@disandhers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Dis and Hers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Dis & Hers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ FOLLOW – JIM HILL MEDIA Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠JimHillMediaNews⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠JimHillMedia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠JimHillMedia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon.com/JimHillMedia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited & Produced by Eric Hersey – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Strong Minded Agency⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠reach out today.⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Disney is having a moment and this episode covers three very different reasons why. Eric and Lauren dig into the surprise ratings success of The Muppets' 50th anniversary special, break down why Marvel's Wonder Man quietly became a sleeper hit on Disney Plus, and wrap things up with a look at Disney California Adventure's 25th anniversary and the popcorn bucket chaos that came with it. From broadcast TV demos to streaming strategy and park optics, this one moves fast and covers a lot of ground. HIGHLIGHTS The Muppets' 50th anniversary special delivers strong ABC ratings and wins the key 18–49 demo Why those numbers matter to advertisers and what they could mean for a potential weekly revival The Sabrina Carpenter bump and how celebrity guests factor into Muppets nostalgia and reach Bob Iger and Josh D'Amaro spotted at Disneyland and the symbolism of that park appearance Marvel's Wonder Man emerges as a sleeper hit with critics and viewers despite minimal marketing Why a lower-budget, character-driven Marvel series may point to a smarter streaming future Disney California Adventure turns 25 and sparks long lines thanks to a high-tech Ferris wheel popcorn bucket The ongoing reseller debate and whether Disney should crack down harder on merch flippers For this episode's full show notes, ⁠click here⁠. HOSTS Eric Hersey – X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@erichersey⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@erichersey⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Lauren Hersey – X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@laurenhersey2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@lauren_hersey_⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ FOLLOW – DIS & HERS Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠DisAndHers.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@disandhers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@disandhers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Dis and Hers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Dis & Hers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ FOLLOW – JIM HILL MEDIA Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠JimHillMediaNews⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠JimHillMedia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠JimHillMedia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon.com/JimHillMedia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited & Produced by Eric Hersey – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Strong Minded Agency⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠reach out today.⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices