Sams Disney Diary

This week [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2023/09/funatics-news-diary-starting-a-new-adventure-with-sam-and-greg-september-27-2023/] at Walt Disney World, the magic is in full swing [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/08/disney-q3-earnings-2025-freakier-friday-zootopia-muppets-12k/] with festive fall updates, park surprises, and big announcements across the Disney universe. From brand-new dining questions to Halloween reveals, there’s plenty to explore in these Disney weekly updates. Disney Weekly Updates: Beak & Barrel Reservations… or Not? The buzz around the new Beak & Barrel [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/08/beak-and-barrel-magic-kingdom-2025/] has Disney fans talking. Rumors of opening reservations popped up. However, not everything may be as it seems. We’ll keep a close eye on this brand-new spot as it prepares to welcome guests, and we’ll share when reservations are available in our weekly Disney updates. Disney Weekly Updates: Halloween Hits Magic Kingdom Meanwhile, Magic Kingdom just got a little more festive. New Dumbo pumpkin decorations [https://www.fantasylandnews.com/2025/08/14/surprise-dumbo-pumpkins-join-halloween-decorations-in-fantasyland/] have joined the Halloween lineup, adding a whimsical touch to the fall celebration. In addition, spooky collectibles are arriving. Guests can now grab a Haunted Mansion sipper or the Stitch mummy popcorn bucket [https://www.fantasylandnews.com/2025/08/15/first-look-stitch-gets-a-spooky-makeover-with-new-mummy-popcorn-bucket/]. Even better, Disney confirmed that Mother Gothel [https://www.fantasylandnews.com/2025/08/15/rare-disney-villain-may-appear-at-mnsshp-2025/] will appear at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. Villains Take Over Bath & Body Works Halloween isn’t limited to the parks. In fact, Bath & Body Works has launched an all-new Disney Villains scent collection [https://www.fantasylandnews.com/2025/08/16/disney-villains-x-bath-body-works-its-spooky-season-at-destination-d23/]. It brings a wicked touch of Disney magic to your everyday routine. Fans of Maleficent, Ursula, and other iconic villains will want to check out this limited-time lineup. A Galaxy Rebuilt Over in the Star Wars galaxy [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/08/lego-star-wars-rebuild-trailer-2025/], LEGO fans have something to celebrate. The LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy trailer has officially dropped, and it gives fans a first look at an epic new adventure. With a September release on Disney+, the trailer builds excitement for what’s sure to be a hit in the LEGO Star Wars collection. EPCOT Food & Wine and New PhotoPass Options Foodies, get ready. The EPCOT Food & Wine [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/08/epcot-food-wine-2025-highlights/] Festival is almost here, and Disney has released the full foodie guides for this year’s event. New brews, dishes, and returning favorites make this a can’t-miss experience. Additionally, new Fall PhotoPass options are now available, offering guests fresh seasonal opportunities to capture magical memories throughout the parks. These Disney weekly updates make sure you don’t miss a single bite. Destination D23 Livestream Confirmed Looking ahead, Disney has confirmed a livestream for Destination D23 [https://www.fantasylandnews.com/2025/08/16/d23-announced-livestream-of-select-panels-from-destination-d23/]. That means fans worldwide can expect updates, sneak peeks, and magical announcements as the event unfolds.  The Live stream will be in the D23 Gold Theater which requires a Gold Membership to join. Fozzie Even The Muppets joined the conversation this week. Fozzie Bear [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/08/muppets-rundisney-virtual-12ks-christmas/] dropped his own playful acknowledgment of the Rock ‘n’ Roller [https://www.fantasylandnews.com/2025/08/16/muppets-officially-acknowledge-rock-n-roller-coaster-retheme-thanks-to-fozzie-bear/] Coaster redo. Join Us Live Sam and Greg [https://www.fantasylandnews.com/] cover all of this and more LIVE on Sam’s Disney Diary [http://www.thisweekatwaltdisneyworld.com]. From park updates to Disney+ news, our Disney weekly updates bring you everything happening across the Disney universe.

Pluto’s 95th Anniversary Merchandise It’s the dog days of August, and what better way to celebrate than with brand-new merchandise honoring Pluto’s 95th anniversary [https://www.fantasylandnews.com/2025/08/08/celebrate-plutos-95th-anniversary-in-style-at-disney-world/]? The collection includes playful designs that highlight everyone’s favorite pup. It’s a fitting tribute for a character who has brought joy to Disney fans since 1930. Fantasmic! New Merchandise Greg spotted an incredible lineup of Fantasmic! merchandise at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The highlight? A Maleficent dragon plush that captures the spirit of the nighttime spectacular. These items are expected to be popular with fans who love the show’s blend of Disney storytelling and pyrotechnics. Halloween Takes Over the Parks Halloween has already made its presence known across Walt Disney World. New merchandise has hit shelves, and Main Street, U.S.A [https://www.fantasylandnews.com/2025/08/13/first-look-see-the-magic-kingdoms-incredible-overnight-halloween-transformation/]. is fully dressed for the first Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party of 2025 [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/08/mnsshp-2025-characters/]. Expect pumpkins, festive banners, and spooky treats to kick off the season. Meanwhile, construction walls now line the pathway between Toy Story Land and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, and the Muppets Studio 1 store has been fully removed, marking a notable change at Hollywood Studios. Magic Kingdom Construction Updates Magic Kingdom is buzzing with changes. The Adventureland sign has disappeared, [https://www.fantasylandnews.com/2025/08/12/guests-notice-something-missing-from-magic-kingdoms-adventureland/] leaving fans curious about its return. The Rivers of America now sit drained, [https://www.fantasylandnews.com/2025/08/13/end-of-an-era-at-the-magic-kingdom-now-that-rivers-of-america-is-drained/] most likely for routine refurbishment. Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin [https://www.fantasylandnews.com/2025/08/12/disney-worlds-buzz-lightyear-ride-under-refurbishment-but-theming-shines-at-entrance/] currently lists as “operations suspended,” raising questions about its reopening. In addition, new walls at the Transportation and Ticket Center point to more improvements ahead of the fall crowds. Destination D23 2025 Disney recently revealed the maps and full agenda for Destination D23 [https://www.fantasylandnews.com/2025/08/12/disney-worlds-buzz-lightyear-ride-under-refurbishment-but-theming-shines-at-entrance/]. With so much on the schedule, fans are excited to see what announcements will unfold. We’ll highlight our most anticipated moments as the event draws closer. Entertainment News Highlights Beyond the parks, Disney rolled out big entertainment news this week: Vampirina [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/08/vampirina-teenage-vampire-premiere/] is heading into live-action. The LEGO Princess Villains Unite [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/08/lego-disney-princess-premiere/] trailer dropped, teasing a fun new crossover. ESPN & Fox One [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/08/espn-fox-one-bundle-meta/] bundle. A first look at Wizards Beyond Waverly Place [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/08/wizards-beyond-waverly-place-season-2/] has been revealed. The live-action Lilo & Stitch [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/08/lilo-stitch-disney-plus-debut/] is coming soon to Disney+.  Meanwhile, Electric Bloom [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/08/electric-bloom-disney-plus-trailer/] has released another trailer, further building excitement. Final Thoughts From Pluto’s milestone celebration to fresh Halloween merch, park changes, and new entertainment projects, this week delivered a packed Disney news cycle. Stay tuned for more updates as we head toward Destination D23 and the fall season at Walt Disney World. And don’t miss our live recap—join Sam and Greg [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2024/09/september-18-2024-this-week-at-walt-disney-world/] every Wednesday [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2023/11/wednesday-disney-night-live-the-funatics-news-diary-with-greg-and-sam-this-week-at-walt-disney-world-november-22-2023/] at 9:00 p.m. ET for the latest news and happenings, including what’s new this week at Walt Disney World.

Halloween has officially arrived at Walt Disney World [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/08/halloween-treats-walt-disney-world-2025/], and this year’s celebrations are bigger than ever. From festive park decorations to must-have merchandise and major entertainment news, there’s something for every Disney fan to enjoy. And in the business world, Disney Q3 Earnings 2025 showcased box office milestones and significant media moves. Halloween Decorations Transform Walt Disney World Pumpkins, autumn garlands, and spooky touches now adorn Main Street, U.S.A., signaling the start of the Halloween season at Walt Disney World. [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/08/halloween-treats-walt-disney-world-2025/] Guests can explore elaborately themed displays, from the Magic Kingdom’s iconic Mickey pumpkin wreaths to resort-specific fall décor. Alongside the seasonal magic, 2026 Disney calendars have landed in the parks, giving guests an early start on planning their next Disney adventures. Disney Collectibles: Zootopia Coins & 2026 Calendars A brand-new addition to Disney’s “Better Together” series has arrived—collectible Zootopia coins. [https://www.fantasylandnews.com/2025/07/31/limited-edition-zootopia-better-zoogether-preview-coins-at-disneys-animal-kingdom/] Featuring Judy Hopps, Nick Wilde, and other beloved characters, these coins are already becoming a favorite among fans. The 2026 Disney calendars, now available across the resort, showcase stunning park photography and key celebration dates. Park Updates: Galactic Starcruiser Signs & Muppet Courtyard Changes The Galactic Starcruiser experience may have ended, but its legacy remains visible—or at least it did. Disney has begun removing road signage pointing to the now-closed [https://www.fantasylandnews.com/2025/07/31/disney-removes-galactic-starcruiser-mentions-from-road-signs/] experience. Over in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the Monsters, Inc. project is moving forward, starting with the removal of Stage 1 in Muppet Courtyard. [https://www.fantasylandnews.com/2025/07/31/muppets-courtyard-demolition-begins-with-the-removal-of-studio-one-store/] Earnings Spotlight: Box Office Milestone & Major Media Deals Disney Q3 Earnings 2025 [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/08/disney-q3-earnings-stitch-2025/] brought big news, including Lilo & Stitch crossing the $1 billion [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/08/lilo-stitch-disney-plus-debut/] global box office mark. On the media front, ESPN announced [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/08/espn-nfl-deal-rich-eisen-return/] landmark deals with the NFL and [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/08/espn-nfl-network-deal-2025/] WWE [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/08/wwe-espn-streaming-deal-2026/], expanding coverage and cross-promotion opportunities. Disney also confirmed further integration of Disney+ and Hulu into a unified streaming experience, offering subscribers more content and convenience. Walt Disney World: ESPN 8 The Ocho Event While media deals dominated headlines, fans visiting the resort experienced ESPN 8: The Ocho [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/07/espn8-the-ocho-2025-walt-disney-world/] live at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. The event brought offbeat, high-energy competitions to Disney World, offering a unique sports experience for guests. Toy Story Popcorn Bucket & Passholder Magnet To celebrate the 30th anniversary re-release of Toy Story, a new popcorn bucket [https://www.fantasylandnews.com/2025/08/05/regal-cinemas-celebrates-toy-story-30th-anniversary-with-exclusive-collectible-popcorn-bucket-and-cup/] featuring Woody and Buzz Lightyear has debuted. Annual Passholders can also pick up a brand-new magnet design, [https://www.fantasylandnews.com/2025/08/07/just-keep-swimming-disney-world-annual-passholders-dive-into-finding-nemo-fun-with-new-magnet-treats-and-photo-ops/] adding to their exclusive collection of perks. Entertainment: Freakier Friday & Star Wars 50th Anniversary Disney’s Freakier Friday [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/03/freakier-friday-trailer/] has officially hit theaters, offering a fresh twist on the beloved body-swap comedy. And for Star Wars fans, April 2027 [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/08/star-wars-turns-50-a-new-hope-returns-to-theaters-in-2027-for-an-epic-anniversary-celebration/] will mark the return of Star Wars: A New Hope to theaters in honor of its 50th anniversary, timed perfectly with Star Wars Day. Special Events: Muppet 12K of Christmas & Beak and Barrel Opening RunDisney fans can look forward to the Muppet 12K of Christmas virtual race [https://www.fantasylandnews.com/2025/08/05/rundisney-2025-virtual-12-ks-of-christmas-with-the-muppets/], complete with themed medals and merchandise. Over at the Magic Kingdom, the much-anticipated Beak and Barrel [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/08/beak-and-barrel-magic-kingdom-2025/] restaurant [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/05/beak-and-barrel-tavern-magic-kingdom/] now has an official opening date, adding another dining option for parkgoers. From billion-dollar box office success to Zootopia collectibles and new dining experiences, Disney Q3 Earnings 2025 prove there’s never a dull moment at Walt Disney World. Which announcement are you most excited about? Let us know, and be sure to follow Sam’s Disney Diary for more Disney news, history, and park updates. https://youtu.be/3TKat-VXiyU [https://youtu.be/3TKat-VXiyU]

As July 2025 comes to a close, Disney fans are treated to an exciting lineup of news and events. From not-so-spooky [https://samsdisneydiary.com/mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-2025/] Halloween reveals to superhero encounters [https://samsdisneydiary.com/fantastic-four-disney-parks/], here’s a look at the biggest updates this week. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Highlights Magic Kingdom is gearing up [https://samsdisneydiary.com/less-than-halfway-to-halloween-mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party-dates-announced-for-2025/] for the season with new entertainment [https://samsdisneydiary.com/hocus-pocus-villain-spelltacular-mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party-walt-disney-world-2022/], themed treats [https://samsdisneydiary.com/halloween-specialty-food-beverage-mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party-2022-walt-disney-world/], and limited-edition souvenirs. The buzz centers around the highly anticipated popcorn bucket [https://www.fantasylandnews.com/2025/07/29/nightmare-before-xmas-popcorn-bucket-sipper-coming-to-mickeys-not-so-scary-2025/] and sipper, already must-haves for collectors. ESPN 8: The Ocho Brings Free Fun The Wide World of Sports hosts ESPN 8: The Ocho [https://samsdisneydiary.com/espn8-the-ocho-2025-walt-disney-world/], a quirky, free-to-attend sporting takeover. Expect offbeat competitions and plenty of fun, making this one of the most unique summer events. [caption id="attachment_74755" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] ESPN8 The Ocho 2025[/caption] Bourbon Steak Debuts at Walt Disney World Dolphin Greg was on-site for the grand opening of Bourbon Steak [https://www.fantasylandnews.com/2025/07/25/celebrity-chef-michael-mina-ribbon-cutting-at-disney-worlds-newest-restaurant-bourbon-steak/]. This new signature dining location promises a refined menu and elegant atmosphere, making it a can’t-miss experience for food lovers. Avatar: Fire and Ash Trailer Wows Fans The first trailer for James Cameron’s Avatar: Fire and Ash [https://samsdisneydiary.com/avatar-fire-and-ash-trailer/] left audiences speechless with breathtaking visuals and new creatures from Pandora. The film opens December 19, 2025. Disneyland Announces Holiday 2025 Details Disneyland shared its full holiday lineup, [https://samsdisneydiary.com/holidays-disneyland-resort-2025/] featuring festive décor, returning shows, and seasonal entertainment. It’s a perfect time to plan your holiday getaway. Construction Begins on Monsters, Inc. Project Walt Disney World has officially started construction on a new Monsters, Inc. project. While details remain limited, fans are eager to see what Pixar’s monsters will bring. Final Weekend for Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin Space Rangers [https://samsdisneydiary.com/buzz-lightyear-space-ranger-spin-update-2026/] have one last chance to defeat Emperor Zurg before Buzz Lightyear’s [https://samsdisneydiary.com/samsdisneydiary-47-buzz-lightyear-space-ranger-spin-score-the-max/] Space Ranger Spin closes August 4 for a major refurbishment, set to reopen in 2026 with new features.  Last Ride August 3, 2025. [https://samsdisneydiary.com/buzz-lightyear-ride-closing-august-2025/] Disney+ August Lineup Revealed Disney+ is rolling out big titles this August [https://samsdisneydiary.com/disney-plus-august-2025-highlights-schedule/], including Marvel Eyes of Wakanda [https://samsdisneydiary.com/eyes-of-wakanda-disney-plus/], Chris Hemsworth's Limitless [https://samsdisneydiary.com/limitless-live-better-now/], and Christmas, Christmas, Christmas!! George Lucas Surprises at Comic-Con In a historic moment, George Lucas [https://samsdisneydiary.com/lucasfilm-comic-con-2025-reveals/] made his first-ever Comic-Con appearance, thrilling fans with his presence and adding excitement to the event’s biggest announcements, including a look at Ezra Bridger in Ashoka 2, Darth Maul [https://samsdisneydiary.com/darth-maul-shadow-lord-series/] Animation, and Disney Publishing. From spooky sweets to Marvel heroes, it’s a magical week for Disney fans everywhere. Catch the full video for an inside look at all the highlights. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o71FnSdoXyI [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o71FnSdoXyI]

It’s been a busy stretch across both coasts, and we’re catching up on two weeks of Walt Disney World updates in one packed episode. The biggest headline? Magic of Disney Animation returns to Disney's Hollywood Studios in 2026 [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/07/magic-of-disney-animation-returns/]! Disney has officially announced plans for a new version of the classic attraction, and concept art has already surfaced. We'll be watching this one closely. [caption id="attachment_74591" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Meanwhile, Walt Disney World has seen a flurry of updates. After surprise previews on July 18 and 19, the Disney Starlight Parade [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/07/disney-starlight-parade-2/] officially debuted at Magic Kingdom, bringing dazzling new floats [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/03/disney-starlight-parade-adds-new-wish-float-featuring-asha-and-valentino-7-floats-confirmed/] and an all-new original character, Whimsy [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/07/walt-disney-world-july-17-2025/], to Main Street, U.S.A. Greg was there [https://www.fantasylandnews.com/2025/07/20/disney-starlight-opening-night-live-from-disney-world/] for the early shows, and his full breakdown is in this week's video. Test Track Reopens and BDX Droids Debut Test Track is back! [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/06/test-track-3-opening-date/] The attraction officially reopened to all guests, boasting updated visuals and effects while keeping its familiar design-your-car feature. Over at Hollywood Studios, BDX Box Droids [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/03/nvidia-gtc-2025-blue-disney/] made another appearance [https://www.fantasylandnews.com/2025/07/16/star-wars-bdx-droids-landed-at-walt-disney-world-video-images/], although some performances were delayed due to Florida’s summer storms. Speaking of Hollywood Studios, more construction walls are now visible. Toy Story Land now features new construction walls near the restrooms—possibly signaling upcoming infrastructure work. Disneyland Turns 70 with Celebrations on Both Coasts Disneyland celebrated its 70th anniversary [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/07/disneyland-resort-70th-celebration/] on July 17 with a full day of festivities. One of the highlights? A tribute to the Sherman Brothers playing inside Main Street Cinema. Even more magical: the official Disneyland 70th balloon [https://www.fantasylandnews.com/2025/07/18/disneyland-welcomes-70th-anniversary-hot-air-balloon-after-us-tour/] completed its coast-to-coast flight, landing in California just in time for the anniversary.  Walt Disney: [https://www.fantasylandnews.com/2025/07/22/regal-cinemas-unleashes-galactus-popcorn-bucket-combo-for-fantastic-four-first-steps/] A Magical Life Opens [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/07/walt-disney-animatronic/]. To mark the occasion, Disney+  [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/07/disneyland-pov-rides-disney-plus/]released 17 new point-of-view [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/07/disneyland-pov-rides-disney-plus/] ride-throughs, offering immersive experiences of classic Disneyland attractions in stunning 4 K resolution. It’s a subtle but strong message: Disney+ is becoming the go-to source for park content. Disney+ Highlights and Rapid Fire News In addition to the Disneyland POV collection, Disney+ dropped: * Zombies 4 [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/07/zombies-4-disney-channel/] * SHARKFEST [http://sharkfest] content for Shark Week * A new daily news program: What You Need to Know [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/07/what-you-need-to-know-disney-daily-news-show-premieres-july-21-2025/] * The return of Mickey Mouse Clubhouse [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/06/mickey-mouse-clubhouse-plus-premiere/] with brand-new episodes On the awards front, The Walt Disney Company earned 137 Emmy nominations [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/07/disney-earns-137-emmy-nominations-across-studios-and-platforms/], a huge haul across streaming and broadcast platforms. Foodies will appreciate the peach-flavored Dole Whip, which appeared on Dole Whip Day [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/07/pineapple-stuffed-dole-whip/] (July 17) at Disneyland. Over at Disney’s BoardWalk, Greg found a unique banana Nutella dog that might just be the most unusual snack this month. Marvel and More: Trailers, Concerts, and Popcorn Buckets A double dose of excitement with the release of the TRON: Ares trailer [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/04/tron-ares-trailer-2025/], complete with a new Nine Inch Nails soundtrack [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/07/tron-ares-trailer/] single, and the full trailer for Pixar's Hoppers [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/07/pixar-hoppers-movie-2026/] ahead of its 2026 debut. The Descendants and Zombies [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/07/descendants-zombies-concert-tour/]: Worlds Collide concert tour kicked off in San Diego, featuring stars from both franchises. And in popcorn bucket news, Greg tracked down new offerings in the parks, and the biggest popcorn bucket ever! [https://www.fantasylandnews.com/2025/07/22/regal-cinemas-unleashes-galactus-popcorn-bucket-combo-for-fantastic-four-first-steps/] Finally, the Fantastic Four [https://samsdisneydiary.com/2025/07/fantastic-four-first-steps-characters/] make their big-screen return this weekend. Stay tuned for Sam and Greg’s thoughts after opening night! Full video https://youtu.be/IriEsPIw4MA [https://youtu.be/IriEsPIw4MA]