Disney Junior Fun Fest Previews New Shows and Exciting Announcements

By Andie Hagemann

Stars from Disney Junior television series Alice’s Wonderland Bakery, Mickey Mouse Funhouse, and new series Eureka! along with more fan favorites celebrated the first-ever Disney Junior Fun Fest at Disney California Adventure in Anaheim, California, on Friday, April 29. “It’s the first one of its kind, so it’s really special to be a part of the original event celebrating animation that moves us, educates us, and that you can watch as family,” said Harvey Guillén, who voices the role of Funny the Funhouse on Mickey Mouse Funhouse.

The festivities kicked off with a parade of Disney Junior stars welcoming fans into the park, leading guests to the Palisades Stage in Pixar Pier. Fun Fest also celebrated the 10th anniversary of Doc McStuffins with a special stage show incorporating fellow Disney Junior favorites and an adorable cake “crafted” by Minnie Mouse herself! In addition to all the fun-filled activities—including an “Unbirthday Party” with Alice, a sing-along, live performances, and dance parties—Disney Branded Television unveiled its upcoming slate of brand-new series coming to Disney Junior and Disney+ throughout 2024 including Hey A.J., Kindergarten: The Musical, RoboGobo, SuperKitties, and new short-form content Me & Mickey and Winnie the Pooh.

“Everything that we do, we have the responsibility to tell the stories that matter, and these stories resonate with kids around the world,” said Ayo Davis, President of Disney Branded Television. “It’s been very exciting, and I could not be more thrilled to share all the great shows coming out soon!”

John Stamos, who was unable to attend the celebration in person as he’s filming the second season of Disney+ series Big Shot, announced in a video message to the crowd that he will appear on not one but twoDisney Junior series. Stamos will be voicing the role of Iron Man/Tony Stark in season two of Marvel’s Spidey and his Amazing Friends. He will also be the voice of legendary pirate Captain Salty Bones in an upcoming special summer episode of Mickey Mouse Funhouse, which will premiere this August.

Friend of D23 Yvette Nicole Brown, who lends her voice to several Disney Junior series, including Alice’s Wonderland Bakery, Elena of Avalor and The Chicken Squad, introduced her new series Firebuds from Emmy Award-winning creator and executive producer Craig Gerber. Brown will voice Chief Faye the firetruck when the show premieres this fall. “Today was really exciting—to talk about all these shows that we have been quietly recording,” Brown said. She also teased that the second season of Big Shot will have plenty of ballyhoo and joyous moments in store.

Libby Rue, voice of Alice on Alice’s Wonderland Bakery, performed the show’s theme song live for the crowd in between all the exciting announcements. “It was so much fun,” Rue exclaimed. “I was a little nervous, but everyone out there was so amazing and a great crowd.” During Disney Junior Fun Fest, it was announced that the fantastical hit series will return for a second season.

Rue’s co-star Donald Faison, who is the voice of Harry the March Hare, shared his excitement about the upcoming season, as well as the joy of participating in Disney Junior Fun Fest, and added that Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! would be the first attraction he would ride after Fun Fest concluded.

And as part of Alice’s Wonderland Bakery, Faison said he would be remiss if he didn’t mention his favorite Disneyland Resort treat: a Mickey Mouse ice cream bar. “When you walk down Main Street, U.S.A. and you see all those wonderful, delicious little candy shops, ice cream shops, cookie shops—that can’t be beat,” he said. “The best part is at the end of the night when you get to bring home all the sugar!”

Disney Junior Fun Fest also included appearances by Ruthie Righi, who stars in the title role of Eureka!, and Martellus Bennett, executive producer of Hey A.J., which is based on his book of the same name. Righi shared a first look at her series ahead of its premiere on June 22. “Eureka! is about a girl living in the prehistoric fantastic world of Rocky Falls,” Righi said. “She’s bright-eyed, strong-willed, and trying to make the world a better place with her best friends, family, teacher, and her pet mammoth.” Like Faison, Righi couldn’t wait to get ahold of some Disney treats, and confessed Mickey Mouse beignets are her go-to snack while visiting the park. Bennett, who is a former Pro Bowler and Super Bowl Champion, was pumped to take the stage with his daughter, Jett, who inspired the book and series. He added that Hey A.J. appeals to the young and young at heart. “It’s awesome; it’s colorful; it’s wonderous; and it’s really funny,” he said.

Disney Junior Fun Fest concluded with the Disney Junior Live! Sing Along and Disney Junior Live! Dance and Play, which brought guests to their feet to belt their favorite Disney Junior songs, and dance with Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Doc McStuffins, Elena, Mira, Vampirina, and many more pals!

Inside the Mystical Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness Premiere

By the D23 team

Marvel Studios’ Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness cast a spell in Hollywood Monday night at its world premiere. Actors Benedict Cumberbatch, Elizabeth Olsen, Benedict Wong, Xochitl Gomez, Rachel McAdams, Jett Klyne, Julian Hilliard, Sheila Atim, Adam Hugill, and Charlie Norton joined director Sam Raimi; producer Kevin Feige; executive producers Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Eric Carroll, and Scott Derrickson; screenwriter Michael Waldron; and composer and Disney Legend Danny Elfman on the red carpet to celebrate the film before it opens wide on Friday, May 6.

“This whole experience of seeing the fans, getting to interact with them, seeing the cosplay—it’s joyful,” Olsen, who reprises her role as Wanda Maximoff aka The Scarlet Witch, told reporters. Cumberbatch, back as the titular character, added, “This is a moment to enjoy... I’m very excited to see what the reception is going to be like.”

“It’s amazing, isn’t it?” said Wong, who reprises his role as Wong, the Sorcerer Supreme. “Such dedicated, loyal fans. If I wasn’t here, talking to you, I’d be with them—dressed as Wong, I think! It’s so heartening to see that loyalty, that warmth.”

Feige, who has attended every Marvel Studios premiere, felt the positive energy, too—and he was particularly impressed by some of the cosplayers. “Every time they get better and better. I saw a Doctor Strange and thought it was a Disney person wearing the movie costume,” he said. “It wasn’t! He said, ‘Thanks! I worked really hard on this.’”

Gomez, who makes her MCU debut as America Chavez in the film, told reporters she was “excited” to finally watch the film with an audience. “It’s so crazy that it’s happening and that there are many, many people here dressed as America,” Gomez said. “I’m not going to lie, it’s overwhelming. It’s exciting because I was a huge fan of the MCU, and I watched the movies multiple times. Getting to work with the amazing actors was a dream come true, honestly, and it’s amazing that I get to be a part of it.”

Raimi, who directed the Spider-Man trilogy (2002–2007), promised audiences are in for a wild ride as the story traverses the Multiverse. “Characters have come out of other universes into our own in the last Spider-Manpicture, No Way Home,” he said. “But this will be the first time that characters from our MCU journey out into other universes. It should be pretty exciting.” Smiling, Waldron added, “The movie is a ride!”

D23 Gold Members Traverse the Multiverse

Even D23 Members got in on the madness! A lucky group of D23 Gold Members got to be part of the red-carpet festivities. As the stars of the movie walked the red carpet, Members got to meet and greet talent from the film. Then fans stepped inside the Dolby Theatre to be among the first audiences in the world to watch Marvel Studios’ Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. They experienced all this film has to offer: packed to the brim with iconic visuals, mind-bending storytelling, and a whole multiverse of MCU delight. Make sure to read our article on what you need to know before you see the film, so you don’t miss out on any moment!

The D23 team had a great time at the premiere, and we were absolutely overjoyed to see our D23 Gold Members experience once-in-a-lifetime moments at this multiverse-shattering premiere. Events like these are truly what puts the “ultimate” in “ultimate Disney fans.” Take a look below at some of our D23 Gold Members and the moments leading up to the red-carpet festivities that night.

Check out some more photos from the premiere below—and be sure to watch Marvel Studios’ Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness when it opens in theaters Friday, May 6.

Phone featuring the 2024 D23 Gold Member Card and surrounded by sparkles.

Access Your D23 Benefits Anytime, Anywhere
With the Disney D23 app, your membership card is just a few taps away. Access your benefits from your phone!

Access Your D23 Benefits Anytime, Anywhere
With the Disney D23 app, your membership card is just a few taps away. Access your benefits from your phone!

Showcased are the four 2025 D23 Gold Member Premiums: Disneyland 70th Collection, including The Happiest Place on Earth, a replica Disneyland Park entrance plaque, and a reproduction of the Disneyland Entrance plaque text draft; Gold Member Fan Pack including a Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey Mouse water bottle, crossbody bag, and hat; a Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey Mouse Spirit Jersey; and a 10-piece Pin Set.

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Magical Moments from “Disney Night” on American Idol

By Andie Hagemann

American Idol judge Lionel Richie summed up this season’s “Disney Night” best: “The whole show should be released again as a motion picture.”

On Sunday, American Idol’s magical tradition continued as each of the top 10 contestants belted out beloved Disney songs on the Idol stage, and collectively performed “We Don’t Talk About Bruno,” from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Oscar®-winning feature Encanto, with the film’s voice talent Rhenzy Feliz and Adassa leading off the show, now in its milestone 20th season.

Idol judge Katy Perry pulled out all the stops, dressing as Ariel from Disney’s The Little Mermaid—and even bringing her own dinglehopper! However, Perry soon realized flipping your fins only gets you so far and had to hilariously be wheeled onto the stage with a hand truck by her fellow judges Richie and Luke Bryan. Shortly after taking her seat at the judges’ table, Perry took a tumble out of her chair. “We knew it wasn’t going to be perfect, and actually this tail and the fin are pretty heavy,” Perry told D23. “I lost my balance; I went back, and the whole world heard me thud.” The singer added that she is OK post-tumble but joked she will probably be a little sore for the next few days.

Richie clarified that neither he nor Bryan tripped her. “It was totally an accident—and now that I know she was smiling—it was the funniest accident I’ve ever seen in my whole life,” Richie laughed. “It was straight out of slapstick!” He added that the look of sheer panic on host Ryan Seacrest’s face said it all. “He didn’t know if the show was over, if we lost a judge, because she went down like a stone, but it was great. I love this show,” Richie said.

Perry’s Ariel costume joins her slew of iconic “Disney Night” looks. During her Idol tenure, she’s dressed as Cinderella and Snow White (2018), Ursula (2019), Mrs. Jumbo (2020), and Tinker Bell (2021). Each season she’s determined to showcase her creativity with her Disney-themed costumes. “I had a few more options at the front of my mind because I’ve been going through all the [Disney] classics with my daughter,” Perry said. “I knew I wanted to do Ariel at one point; it’s the 20th season; she’s such an icon. I thought the funny factor would be in not having any feet, and it was.”

As memorable as Perry’s turn as Ariel was, don’t expect her fellow judges to don costumes in the future. For last season’s “Disney Night,” Perry said she pitched a Peter Pan costume for Bryan and a Captain Hook ensemble for Richie to go with her Tinker Bell look. Obviously the two didn’t oblige, and, after Sunday’s tumble, both Richie and Bryan joked that they can’t be in costume because it would hinder helping Perry. “I keep thinking about [dressing up]. I need to get out in front of it a little more and plan the right outfit,” Bryan shared. “But I have to be there as one of the set hands to roll Katy around because her outfits always put her in compromising mobility scenarios, so you have to call on ol’ brother Luke here.”

The theatrics of “Disney Night” continued with appearances by The Muppets’ Miss Piggy and Animal in addition to unforgettable performances from the contestants. Multihyphenate Derek Hough served as mentor, helping the contestants craft their magical performances whilst visiting “The Happiest Place on Earth” during their one-on-one mentoring sessions. He even connected contestant Christian Guardino with superstar crooner Michael Bublé via FaceTime. Hough, who has had his fair share of Disney nights on Dancing with the Stars, said while the two programs differ in content and preparation, American Idol and its talented crop of contestants certainly delivered. “Christian’s performance (“Circle of Life” from The Lion King) was unbelievable; Fritz [Hager] (“Go the Distance” from Hercules) is so unique, making every song his own; and Nicolina [Bozzo] with that dramatic performance as Ursula (“Poor Unfortunate Souls” from The Little Mermaid) was fantastic; and of course, Katy Perry shutting it down with that [Ariel] costume,” Hough said. “I need to step it up next time on Dancing with the Stars!”

Of course, no “Disney Night” would be complete without a trip to Disneyland Resort! In addition to their mentoring sessions with Hough, the top 10 contestants were joined by family and friends and explored Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure Park, taking in all the magic ahead of their performances, including viewing the Main Street Electrical Parade, Disneyland Forever fireworks, and World of Color.

“It was really exciting [to film in Disneyland], get to see everything, and then when my sister surprised me, I said, ‘Oh my gosh if I get one more surprise I might pass out,’ HunterGirl, who sang “I See the Light” from Tangled said. “Getting to ride roller coasters and have a great time, was something I needed, and I know a lot of other people did too with everything going on.”

At the conclusion of the episode, Mike Parker, who performed “You’ll Be in My Heart” from Tarzan, Emyrson Flora, who sang “Carried Me with You” from Onward, and Lady K, who belted “How Far I’ll Go” from Moana, were eliminated from the competition. As with all the contestants, Lady K said her song selection for “Disney Night” was deeply personal. “I saw Moana for the first time two days before I auditioned for Idol Across America, and I felt it was a divine coincidence,” she said. “I liken [Moana’s] journey of conquering the ocean to save her village to my life as an artist conquering the stage. I got a chance to be that person for a day and invoke that energy so I’m going to go conquer this music industry and benefit my own village.”

Watch the “Disney Night” Performances:

Noah Thompson – “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” from Toy Story

HunterGirl – “I See the Light” from Tangled

Jay Copeland – “Remember Me” from Coco

Leah Marlene – “When She Loved Me” from Toy Story 2

Nicolina Bozzo – “Poor Unfortunate Souls” from The Little Mermaid

Christian Guardino – “Circle of Life” from The Lion King

Fritz Hager – “Go the Distance” from Hercules

5 Things You Need to Know About Marvel Studios’ Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness

By Zach Johnson

Before Marvel Studios’ Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness opens in theaters this Friday, May 6, cast members Benedict Cumberbatch (Stephen Strange), Xochitl Gomez (America Chavez), Elizabeth Olsen (Wanda Maximoff aka Scarlett Witch), and Benedict Wong (Wong) joined director Sam Raimi, producer Kevin Feige, and writer Michael Waldron at a virtual press conference on Sunday to discuss the mind-bending supernatural action-adventure. Keep reading for five major highlights from the event…

Stephen Strange works his magic in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.

1. Doctor Strange is embarking on an existential journey.
“He’s quite a maverick and an outsider,” Cumberbatch said of his character. “He doesn’t immediately strike you as a leader, despite his prominence in the MCU [Marvel Cinematic Universe] at this moment. And that’s what makes him really interesting and conflicted as a hero.” This film will show Stephen examining “his flaws, his faults, his humanity, and his strengths,” the actor added, thereby “renewing and deepening our understanding of him.”

Stephen is “not rigid,” Cumberbatch noted. “He’s a very flexible character who is malleable to his experience,” he said. “He’s a very quick learner, as we know—not just intellectually, but emotionally now as well. He’s deepening his emotional language.”

Wanda Maximoff studies the Darkhold in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.

2. Wanda Maximoff is embracing her destiny—and her identity.
In Marvel Studios’ WandaVision (2021), Agatha Harkness (Kathryn Hahn) claimed it’s Wanda’s “destiny to destroy the world” as the Scarlet Witch. Now that Wanda has studied the Darkhold, aka the Book of the Damned, she’s become more in tune with her powers—which, lest you forgot, exceed those of the Sorcerer Supreme. “I feel like in the previous films before WandaVision, I took up a lane for storytelling that was more grounded in sincerity, love, loss, grief,” Olsen said. “With WandaVision, I got to become anything and everything and really grow her into a woman and lead her into accepting that she is this mythic woman. That is her destiny. I hope that in this film, people see that continuation of her acceptance of who she is and the journey she has taken to get to this moment. I feel like she has more clarity now than ever in this film.”

Wong faces a great threat in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.

3. Wong is stepping into his role as a leader.
After Stephen was blipped out of existence, Wong became the primary protector of Earth against magical and mystical threats—a role he maintained even after Stephen came back. “You work on fries for a while, then you get to be area manager,” Wong joked. “When I first took the job six years ago, we moved away from the old source material and developed and crafted this no-nonsense, midfield general librarian who continued through four or five movies and is now the no-nonsense Sorcerer Supreme,” he added. “I love where we’re going with this and [seeing] the character progression.”

America Chavez, Wong, and Stephen Strange see trouble coming in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.

4. America Chavez brings a youthful spirit.
Gomez makes her MCU debut as a portal-punching teen, providing a foil to Stephen and Wong. “This is a very adult movie; it’s very heavy,” she said. “I wanted to make sure that America still had that youthfulness and that fake-it-till-you-make-it resilience.”

Feige addressed the importance of including America’s LGBTQIA+ background in the film, saying, “We always say that these films represent the world as it is—the world outside your window, as they used to say in publishing. That aspect of America’s character is from the comics, so we always want to adapt them as well and as truthfully as we can.”

The Multiverse presents unlimited possibilities in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.

5. The concept of the Multiverse is getting cracked wide open.
The script was ever evolving, given that veteran MCU actors like Cumberbatch, Olsen, and Wong know their characters better than anyone. “They’ll recognize while playing a scene, ‘This is untrue. This feels like a manipulation. It could be more real,’” Raimi said. “We’d make changes in the moment, trying to riff on that very good idea. When you’ve got great team members, as a director, you want to pull the best [of] their ideas together and make something better than you could’ve made on your own.” Calling it a “very light, lively process,” Raimi added that they also needed to weave in storylines from other films and series. “We had meetings with the director, saying, ‘What does Doctor Strange know by the end of [Spider-Man: No Way Home]? Does he even remember the Multiverse?’” Waldron would make these changes in real-time, Raimi added. “It’s probably for a writer like improv is for an actor. These movies are reacting, making up, and changing things, [and so] you have to be in the moment, take it in, and go with it.”

Waldron added, “The first movie was very much about Stephen Strange entering this world of magic, learning about it, and beginning to master it. And then we had Stephen in several other movies: the Avengers films and Spider-Man: No Way Home. This is our first time really in a movie that is his.” Audiences will see Stephen “at the height of his powers,” Waldron added. “I think that’s really exciting. At same time, you’re encountering Wong, who has become Sorcerer Supreme. He’s at the height of his powers. And then you have Wanda, who is actualized in a whole new way. From the end of WandaVision, you could say she’s at the height of her powers… Lots of magic!”

Celebrate Star Wars at Downtown Disney District… and Beyond!

By the D23 Team

Bright suns, friends! And May the 4th be with you! There’s no better time to honor all things Star Wars than on this special first Wednesday in May—and throughout the rest of the month, leading up to the sure-to-be-stellar Star Wars Celebration at the Anaheim Convention Center from May 26-29.

Our pals at Downtown Disney District, as well Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa, are lightspeeding into the spirit with a Star Wars-related LEGO® build, merchandise offerings, artist signings, and even some deliciously memorable, galactically themed eats and treats…

Read on for what you can expect—both on May the 4th and throughout the rest of the month. You’re in for a truly out-of-this-world time! And see more of what you can expect throughout the Disneyland Resort by visiting our pals at the Disney Parks Blog.

Limitless LEGO® Building at The LEGO Store

Got a LEGO fan in your life? Help the good folks at The LEGO Store at Downtown Disney build an 8-foot-tall Yoda model on the following dates! (Once it’s done, the build will be available to view until May 8.)

  • Tuesday, May 3, from 12-7 p.m.
  • Wednesday, May 4, from 12-7 p.m.

Cosmic Merchandise

A collage of three Star Wars PANDORA Jewelry charms, including the Rebel Alliance symbol (in gold surrounded by a silver circle); a silver Ewok; and a silver and white Storm Trooper helmet.

Pandora® Jewelry
  • Style your galactic adventure with Pandora’s recently arrived Star Wars x Pandora jewelry collection! For May the 4th and beyond, mix and match new Pandora styles with iconic characters and symbols from all corners of the Star Wars

Image of black Yoda Men’s socks from CA Sole, with a black-and-white image of Grogu and other red and white designs.

California Sole

  • Even your feet deserve some Star Wars fun! Visit California Sole for these Yoda-themed socks, available for both adults and kids.

Side-by-side image of two 3D greeting cards from Lovepop—one of Grogu surrounded by colorful flowers, and the other of the word “Cake” written as if made of a pastel layered cake with sprinkles, behind which are adorable images of Darth Vadar and two Storm Troopers against a Death Star background.

Lovepop®

  • Surprise someone special with the most precious cargo in the galaxy—a Floral Grogu Giant Pop-Up Gift is sure to melt even the coldest bounty hunter’s heart. And wish someone “’Til the spire!” with one of Lovepop’s amazing Star Wars-themed 3D greeting cards.

…Plus: don’t forget to check out Star Wars Trading Post this month to see their expanded Star Wars merchandise collections!

Astronomical Artist Signings

Also at Star Wars Trading Post, later in the month, look for an amazing Artist Showcase featuring Thomas Kinkade Studios. Stop by May 26-29 to purchase your very own pieces from the Star Wars™ Collection and The Mandalorian™ Collection by Thomas Kinkade Studios; guests who purchase from the collections on the event day, at the event location, may enjoy the opportunity to have select merchandise signed! Here’s the current lineup:

Thursday, May 26, and Friday, May 27:

  • Jenna McMullins (11 a.m.-3 p.m.)
  • Samantha Garvin (3-5 p.m.)
  • Dirk Wunderlich (5-9 p.m.)

Saturday, May 28

  • Monte Moore (11 a.m.-2 p.m.)
  • Samantha Garvin (2-5 p.m.)
  • Dirk Wunderlich (5-9 p.m.)

Sunday, May 29

  • Monte Moore (11 a.m. -1 p.m.)
  • Samantha Garvin (1-3 p.m.)
  • Jenna McMullins (3-5 p.m.)
  • Dirk Wunderlich (5-9 p.m.)

Gastronomical Wonders

Enjoy the following delectable delights at various locations around Downtown Disney:

An image of the purple and red Galaxy Caramel macaron from Kayla’s cake, which features colorful sprinkles to denote stars.

Kayla’s Cake 

  • Galaxy Caramel Macaron—This sea salt caramel macaron satisfies two cravings at once, as it features sea salt caramel with white chocolate ganache.

An image of the Galaxy sushi roll from Splitsville Luxury Lanes—which includes salmon, cucumber, and avocado rolled in soy paper and topped with steamed shrimp and ahi tuna—set against a background of colorful bowling balls.

Splitsville Luxury Lanes™

  • Galaxy Roll—A sushi dream come true! Fresh salmon, cucumber, and avocado are rolled in soy paper, topped with steamed shrimp and ahi tuna, and drizzled with spicy kimchee ponzu sauce.

Side-by-side image of two Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen beverages—the red Rebel cocktail and the blue Empire cocktail; each is in a tall clear glass, with ice, set on a black wrought iron table.

Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen®

  • “Empire” cocktail—Cruzan citrus rum, blue Curacao, lime juice, and Sprite.
  • “Rebel” cocktail—Effen cucumber Vodka, watermelon Torani and Sprite.

Dueling fates… Light vs. Dark… why not battle it out at your table with a friend or a foe by ordering both drinks at the same time? (Available through May 31)

Side-by-side image of Naples Ristorante e Bar’s Galaxy cocktail, in a short glass with a reddish drink featuring a sprig of green mint sitting atop, set on a wooden table; and Green Moon cocktail, in a tall glass with a light green drink featuring a garnish of lime and green pepper, also set on a wooden table.

Naples Ristorante e Bar

  • Red Galaxy Cocktail—light rum, peach schnapps, pineapple juice, squeezed lime, squeezed honey, and splash of Grenadine served on the rocks, topped with mint
  • Green Moon Cocktail—served with either of tequila or mezcal, Anchor Reyes, Canton ginger, lemon juice, and a squeeze of honey syrup… topped with soda water and served in a hurricane glass garnished with green pepper and lime

Image of a Grogu, or Baby Yoda, caramel apple from Marceline’s Confectionary, featuring marshmallow ears and gold sanding sugar for a belt.

Marceline’s Confectionary

  • Grogu Apple—Granny Smith apple dipped in caramel with marshmallow ears, enrobed in colored white chocolate, with gold sanding sugar for the belt

Image of both Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes Star Wars-themed shakes; the red Dark Classic Shake on the left, with red sprinkles and a cherry on top, and the blue Light Classic Shake on the right, with blue sprinkles.

Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes

  • Light Classic Shake—electric blue vanilla shake with silver and blue galaxy sprinkles, whipped cream, and chocolate drizzle (Available through May 31)
  • Dark Classic Shake—wild cherry shake with red and black sprinkles, whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, and a cherry (Available through May 31)

An edible showpiece depicting the Millennium Falcon arriving in Black Spire Outpost on display inside the lobby of Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spay at the Disneyland Resort, with colorful rock formations in the background and the iconic Star Wars starship in the foreground.

A Grand Starship in the Grand Californian

Even the hotels of the Disneyland Resort are getting into the spirit… Be sure to check out this display in the lobby of Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa—it’s truly out of this galaxy! This showpiece depicts the Millennium Falcon arriving in Black Spire Outpost and was created by the Disney culinary team, using edible ingredients like crisped rice and fondant.

Adventures by Disney Heads to Sicily and the British Isles

Calling all wilderness explorers: Adventures by Disney has just announced its latest itineraries and you do not want to miss out!

Land and Private Adventures are now open for booking—including new escapades to Sicily and the British Isles, as well as 11 returning Private Adventure itineraries. Whether you’re exploring new destinations or revisiting treasured favorites, with Adventures by Disney you’ll create cherished memories and meet new friends by experiencing the wonder of the real world in an authentic, immersive, and hassle-free adventure... all made possible by Disney.

Land Adventures

Adventures by Disney’s Land Adventures are so much more than just a vacation; they’re an opportunity to create a lifetime of magical memories for you and your family. A signature ABD offering, these 30+ itineraries include outstanding accommodations; an array of amenities; and world-class service. You can be sure that wherever in the world you choose to visit, you and your family will see the world as only Disney can show it to you.

NEW: Sicily (8 Days, 7 nights)

Destinations: Palermo, Monreale, Agrigento, Piazza Armerina, Caltagirone, Siracusa, Mt. Etna, Taormina

Experience the beauty, history, and traditions that have been cultivated over the 10,000 years since this island paradise off Italy’s southeast coast was first settled. With features that include hilly landscapes, stunning coastlines, and the most active volcano in Europe, it’s no wonder that the land has shaped the people who call it home. And as any visitor quickly finds out, the Sicilian people are welcoming to all those who come and embrace the food, culture, and way of life that is truly unique to this magical island.

NEW: British Isles (10 days, 9 nights)

Destinations: Dublin, Belfast, Antrim Coast & Giant’s Causeway, Glasgow, Edinburgh, London

From the warm, welcoming people of Dublin and the storied past of Belfast, to the cobblestone streets and ancient castles of Edinburgh... and on to London, a modern city steeped in history... the archipelago known as the British Isles offers something for everyone. Whether you want to walk in the footsteps of history or prefer to take in more modern surroundings, ABD’s British Isles adventure is guaranteed to quench your thirst for history.

Book early and save up to $500 per person on your 2023 Land Adventure!

Private Adventures

Explore the world with the fellow Adventurers of your choice; each Private Adventure is made up of up to 12 family members, friends, co-workers, or whoever you want to share a big adventure with! These smaller groups allow you to form a more intimate connection with the people and places you visit—while still enjoying the amenities, benefits, and services of ABD’s standard departures. Plus, you choose the dates your travel, making this a truly personal vacation experience.

ABD’s 11 returning Private Adventures include:

  • Australia
  • Costa Rica
  • Egypt
  • England and France
  • Greece
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • New Zealand
  • Peru
  • South Africa
  • Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia

Learn more about these Land and Private Adventures—and book your own sure-to-be-memorable trip—by visiting at AdventuresbyDisney.com, calling 1-800-543-2865, or speaking with your travel advisor.

Book Now

The Disney Wish Sets Sail on the New Cover of Disney twenty-three

By Jeffrey R. Epstein

Shining, shimmering, splendid. Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship, the Disney Wish, is all that and more—and the new issue of Disney twenty-three provides every detail adventurers need to know before hitting the high seas on their way to a whole new world of experiences. From the delicious cuisine to the dazzling entertainment, readers will enjoy spectacular photographs and artwork (including the publication’s exclusive cover) while hearing from the Walt Disney Imagineers and creatives who crafted this work of art on water.

Plus, the biggest stars in the Disney galaxy sat down to discuss a swath of incredible new projects. Ewan McGregor talks about reprising his role as the title character in the new Lucasfilm limited series for Disney+ Obi-Wan Kenobi and reveals what drew him back to the lightsaber. Chris Evans takes us to infinity and beyond in Disney and Pixar’s Lightyear, in which the former Captain America voices Buzz Lightyear in the epic film that “inspired” the iconic Buzz action figure we know and love from the Toy Story franchise. Later this summer, Marvel Studios’ Thor: Love and Thunder promises to electrify audiences—and Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Taika Waititi, and Tessa Thompson give us an early insiders’ look at what promises to be an unbelievable adventure.

And since it’s starting to heat up, get ready for summer with High School Musical: The Musical: The Series season three, which sees the Wildcats experience the fun and drama of theater camp with new characters and a new production—Frozen: The Musical.

The new issue, available exclusively to Gold Members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club, also features a chat with Disney Legend Dick Nunis, discussing his 40-plus-year career at Disney, including working closely with Walt Disney himself.  

Also in the Summer 2022 issue of Disney twenty-three:

  • Ms. Marvel gives Disney+ a spectacular, groundbreaking new Super Hero
  • The hilarious John Mulaney on voicing Chip in Chip ’n Dale: Rescue Rangers
  • Details on Storyliving by Disney—the unique, new residential communities
  • The scoop on Walt Disney Animation Studios’ irresistible Baymax series, coming to Disney+ this summer
  • Unbelievably intricate sand artwork created at Walt Disney World Resort
  • 50 years of bulbs and brilliance with the Main Street Electrical Parade, which returned to Disneyland this spring
  • Regular features including By the Numbers, Character Analysis, and Ask the Walt Disney Archives

Disney twenty-three is delivered directly to fans’ doorsteps and is offered exclusively to D23 Gold Members as a benefit of their membership. The latest issue will begin arriving before the end of May.

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Showcased are the four 2025 D23 Gold Member Premiums: Disneyland 70th Collection, including The Happiest Place on Earth, a replica Disneyland Park entrance plaque, and a reproduction of the Disneyland Entrance plaque text draft; Gold Member Fan Pack including a Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey Mouse water bottle, crossbody bag, and hat; a Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey Mouse Spirit Jersey; and a 10-piece Pin Set.

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This Exclusive Turning Red Featurette Clip is Really MEI-jor

By Courtney Potter

Ready to activate Red Panda mode? Disney and Pixar’s Turning Red recently debuted on all major digital platforms—and today (Tuesday, May 3), its officially arriving on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD! Fans will be able to transport back to the early aughts any time they want. There’s lots of warm and fuzzy red panda Mei-hem in store, with never-before-seen bonus material including seven deleted scenes, including an alternate opening and Easter egg-style ending; audio commentary with director Domee Shi; and three fun-filled featurettes.

Speaking of, D23 was given exclusive early access to a scene from one of the featurettes—chronicling how Shi and her team brought such a memorable style to Mei and her friends and family. Check it out, below!

In Disney and Pixar’s Turning Red, confident, dorky 13-year-old Mei must balance being a dutiful daughter with the chaos of adolescence. Her slightly overbearing mom Ming is never far away—but that’s not all... as if changes to Mei’s interests, relationships, and body aren’t enough, whenever she gets too excited, she “poofs” into a giant red panda!

Featuring the voices of Rosalie Chiang, Sandra Oh, Ava Morse, Hyein Park, Maitreyi Ramakrishnan, Orion Lee, and Tristan Allerick Chen—and featuring songs by FINNEAS and Billie Eilish—the film was produced by Lindsey Collins and directed by Academy Award® winner Shi (Pixar’s Bao).

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Stream Embrace The Panda on Disney+

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Week

By Andie Hagemann

Clear your schedules, because you won’t want to miss the exciting premieres and finales airing this week—viewable, as ever, on your TV or assorted streaming devices! The Muppets stop by on the season premiere of Holey Moley on Tuesday and offer the zany mini-golf series some pointers. Go behind the magic of The Book of Boba Fett with the newest installment of Disney Gallery, debuting Wednesday; that same day, don’t miss the season finales of Moon Knight and Good Trouble. Then, it’s time to assemble your crew for the 10th anniversary of Marvel’s The Avengers!

The Muppets’ Fozzie Bear chats with host Rob Riggle during a new episode of ABC’s Holey Moley.

Holey Moley—Tuesday, May 3, at 8 p.m. ET, on ABC
In this season premiere, The Muppets head to the course determined to help the mini-golf competition series remain on air fore-ever. Will their advice be a hole-in-one? Meanwhile, eight contestants face off for the golden putter, coveted plaid jacket, and a spot in the finals. The dynamic commentating duo of Rob Riggle and Joe Tessitore return—and are joined by the one and only Kermit the Frog!

Ming-Na Wen and Temuera Morrison from Disney+’s The Book of Boba Fett

Disney Gallery: The Book of Boba Fett—Wednesday, May 4, on Disney+
Learn how Lucasfilm created the hit Disney+ series The Book of Boba Fett, starring Temuera Morrison and Disney Legend Mina-Na Wen, in this behind-the-scenes documentary debuting exclusively on the streaming service. Filmmakers, cast, and crew reveal the groundbreaking technology and the practical effects used to bring the legendary bounty hunter’s story to life.

Oscar Isaac, as Steven Grant/Marc Spector, stares into a mirror in an image from the Disney+ series Moon Knight.

Moon Knight—Wednesday, May 4, on Disney+
The highly anticipated season finale is here! After the fifth episode’s emotional trip down memory lane, see what’s next for Steven Grant/Marc Spector (Oscar Isaac) as he attempts to thwart the plans of Arthur Harrow (Ethan Hawke).

Emma Hunton sits in a ring suspended above the stage in Freeform’s Good Trouble

Good Trouble—Wednesday, May 4, at 10 p.m. ET, on Freeform
The spring finale is upon us, and the gang is weighing big decisions. Alice (Sherry Cola) tries to regain her courage to go back on stage, and Joaquin (Bryan Craig) receives news regarding his sister’s whereabouts. Meanwhile, Mariana (Cierra Ramirez) is conflicted about dating Evan (T.J. Linnard) despite receiving “approval” from the FCG ladies.

Black Widow, Iron Man, Captain America, Hawkeye, Hulk, and Thor stand in a circle while fighting in an image from Marvel Studios’ The Avengers.

The Avengers—Wednesday, May 4, on Disney+
Celebrate 10 years of The Avengers with a third, or (let’s be honest) 33rd, viewing of the film… After Loki (Tom Hiddleston) steals the Tesseract, Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson)—the director of S.H.I.E.L.D.—assembles a Super Hero “dream team” comprised of Iron Man (Disney Legend Robert Downey Jr.), Captain America (Chris Evans), Hulk (Mark Ruffalo), Thor (Chris Hemsworth), Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson), and Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner) to save Earth.

Celebrating Halfway to Halloween with Disney Parks—Plus More in News Briefs

By Courtney Potter

Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in their Halloween costumes—Mickey with a top hat and bat-like wings; Minnie as a fairy princess—standing in the middle of Main Street, U.S.A., with Cinderella Castle in the background, at Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort.

Halfway to Halloween: All the Spooky Fun in Store from Disney Parks

Here’s some truly spook-tacular news from Disney Parks, Experiences, and Products: Halfway to Halloween is here, and with it comes announcements of some frightfully fun festivities!

Haunted highlights include the return of both Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party on select nights at Magic Kingdom Park inside Walt Disney World Resort, and Oogie Boogie Bash at Disney California Adventure Park at Disneyland Resort this fall. At both resorts, throughout the spooky season, you can expect all manner of new Halloween-themed merchandise as well as delicious eats and treats—both returning favorites and brand-new delights.

But that’s not all: To really get into the Halloween spirit, Walt Disney Pictures joined the swinging wake by revealing the logo for the new Haunted Mansion film—slated to open in theaters March 10, 2023.

In this mysterious adventure, a doctor (Rosario Dawson) and her 9-year-old son (Chase Dillon), looking to start a new life, move into a strangely affordable mansion in New Orleans, only to discover that the place is much more than they bargained for. Desperate for help, they contact a priest (Owen Wilson), who, in turn, enlists the aid of a widowed scientist-turned failed-paranormal expert (LaKeith Stanfield); a French Quarter psychic (Tiffany Haddish); and a crotchety historian (Danny DeVito).

Foolish mortals would be wise to keep their eyeballs peeled for more Halloween-related hijinks from Disney Parks as we creep ever closer to fall…

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Weekend Presented by State Farm®

This weekend kicks off the merry month of May (honestly, has this year flown by so far or what?!)—and there’s so much good viewing to look forward to from around the worlds of Disney. The return of ABC’s The Wonderful World of Disney; Pretty Woman arriving on Hulu; the always show-stopping “Disney Night” episode of ABC’s American Idol; and so much more.

Meet The Villains of Valley View and Ultra Violet & Black Scorpion This June

Mark those calendars, friends: Disney Branded Television just announced the premiere date for its two newest, highly anticipated Disney Channel series: The Villains of Valley View and Ultra Violet & Black Scorpion… you’ll get to officially meet ’em all beginning Friday, June 3!

The Villains of Valley View follows teenage supervillain Havoc (Isabella Pappas), who—after standing up to the head of the League of Villains—is forced to relocate with her family, who’ve all changed their villainous identities, to a sleepy Texas suburb. With the help of effervescent new neighbor Hartley (Kayden Muller-Janssen), Havoc—now going incognito as Amy—must somehow hide her superpowers and quell her villainous nature in favor of something she and the rest of her family have fought against all their lives: being normal. The series also stars Lucy Davis, James Patrick Stuart, Malachi Barton, Reed Horstmann, and Patricia Belcher.

Meanwhile, in Ultra Violet & Black Scorpion, everyday Mexican American teen Violet Rodriguez (Scarlett Estevez) is “chosen” by a magical luchador mask, which transforms her into Ultra Violet—a superhero fighting crime alongside her luchador uncle, Cruz (J.R. Villarreal), also known as Black Scorpion. Although Cruz takes Violet under his special-powers wing, she doesn’t always see eye to eye with him when it comes to his methods for capturing crooks. In the meantime, she must keep her superhero identity secret from her parents Nina and Juan Carlos (Marianna Burelli and Juan Alfonso) and her older brother Santiago (Brandon Rossel), as well as her friends and schoolmates. However, she does lean on one close confidante: her best friend Maya (Zelia Ankrum), who provides advice and assists with documenting Ultra Violet’s adventures on social media.

Look for two back-to-back episodes of both The Villains of Valley View (8 p.m. EDT/PDT) and Ultra Violet & Black Scorpion (9 p.m. EDT/PDT) on June 3… with both series streaming shortly thereafter on Disney+.

Colorful artist rendering of Tokyo Disneyland’s planned Space Mountain transformation.

Tokyo Disneyland Unveils Plans for Space Mountain Transformation

Earlier this week, our friends at Tokyo Disney Resort announced that Space Mountain will be closing as part of a major renovation of Tomorrowland, beginning in 2024. By 2027—which will be here before we know it! —the new area will feature a newly rebuilt Space Mountain attraction, keeping the original concept as a thrilling indoor coaster but including enhanced performance and sure-to-be-amazing immersive special effects.

As Walt Disney Imagineering producer Kathleen Davis recently told Disney Parks Blog, “I’m thrilled to introduce this attraction to guests. It’s not only a whole new ride experience, but the story also has so much emotion. Through the queue and then on the ride, we see our connection to our planet and gain a new perspective for how special it is in all the universe. It’s a roller coaster with both thrill and heart.”

In addition to Space Mountain’s transformation, an all-new plaza in Tomorrowland will represent a future where humans are in harmony with nature. The area will offer guests areas to recharge and relax, and will include lighting and sound effects in the evening.

Stay tuned for more info on the transformed attraction as it becomes available…

No Case Too Small: New Trailer for Disney+’s Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers

Yep—once they’re involved, somehow whatever’s wrong gets solved! Disney+ recently released a new trailer for their upcoming original movie Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers; a comeback 30 years in the making, the hybrid live-action/CG animated action-comedy catches up with the former Disney Afternoon television stars in modern-day Los Angeles.

Chip (voiced by John Mulaney) and Dale (voiced by Andy Samberg) are living amongst cartoons and humans in L.A., but their lives are quite different now. It’s been decades since their successful television series was canceled—and Chip has succumbed to a life of suburban domesticity as an insurance salesman. Dale, meanwhile, has had CGI surgery and works the nostalgia convention circuit, desperate to relive his glory days. When a former castmate mysteriously disappears, Chip and Dale must repair their broken friendship and take on their Rescue Rangers detective personas once again to save their friend’s life.

Also featuring KiKi Layne, Will Arnett, Eric Bana, Flula Borg, Dennis Haysbert, Keegan-Michael Key, Tress MacNeille, Tim Robinson, Seth Rogen, J.K. Simmons, and Chris Parnell, Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers is directed by Akiva Schaffer. Look for the film to premiere exclusively on May 20—only on Disney+.

Artist rendering of Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck, and Clarabelle Cow dressed up as the Sanderson Sisters from Disney’s Hocus Pocus, standing against a spooky Halloween-themed background.

Spellbinding New Experiences for Disney Cruise Line’s Halloween on the High Seas

With Disney Parks celebrating Halfway to Halloween (scroll up for a reminder!), this update from the good folks at Disney Cruise Line fits right in: This September and October, Disney Cruise Line guests will run “amuck! amuck! amuck!” on several Halloween-themed cruises featuring special entertainment and activities, including trick-or-treating, spooky parties, elaborate décor and limited-time food and beverage items.

But that’s not all: These cruises will include a first-of-its-kind character meet and greet inspired by Halloween’s favorite sisters; while all characters on board will appear in Halloween costumes as part of the festivities, Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck, and Clarabelle Cow will debut a never-before-seen look as they dress up as the iconic Sandersons from Disney’s Hocus Pocus!

Plus, as part of its inaugural season of Halloween cruises this fall, the Disney Wish—the newest Disney Cruise Line ship—will also introduce a unique twist on a Halloween on the High Seas hallmark…Guests will witness the debut of an all-new magical Pumpkin Tree (adorned with lighter bark, graceful branches, and a mystical face) in the Cinderella-inspired Grand Hall.

For more info on all this fa-boo-lous Disney Cruise Line fun, visit disneycruise.com.

Disneyland After Dark: Grad Nite Reunion logo, featuring yellow and blue lettering on a darker blue background, with a silhouette of the Disneyland castle at the top.

Show Your School Spirit at Disneyland After Dark: Grad Nite Reunion

Speaking of Disneyland Resort, a fun new special event is coming to Disney California Adventure Park this summer… and you’ll wanna break out the letterman jackets and “Phys Ed” T-shirts!

Debuting on select June nights, Disneyland After Dark: Grad Nite Reunion is the ultimate class reunion filled with dancing, fun, and nostalgia celebrating classes of the last six decades. The event grants “grads” after-hours access to Disney California Adventure after the park closes to daytime guests; plus, the night will feature cafeteria-inspired eats and treats, special character experiences, fun-filled entertainment, and shorter wait times for fan-favorite attractions. In addition to these special offerings, * guests will receive a commemorative credential and guide as well as unlimited downloads of Disney PhotoPass** digital photos captured during the party. Party attire encouraged—and don’t forget to show your school spirit! (Please read the Disneyland Resort Attire Guidelines).

This after-hours event will be offered on June 23, 28, and 30, 2022. To purchase tickets, and for more information, visit Disneyland.com. Be there or be square! (Do note there are a limited number of tickets, so grab ’em while the gettin’ is good.)

*Certain attractions, experiences, and offerings will not be available during the events. Please check the event’s webpage for updated information. Available experiences, attractions, and offerings may be modified and limited in availability, and are subject to restrictions, and change or cancellation without notice. No refunds given for any changes or cancellations whether due to inclement weather or otherwise.

**Disney PhotoPass service is subject to the Disney PhotoPass terms and expiration policy found at Disneyland.com/photopass-terms-conditions/. Online registration required.

ICYMI: Every A-MEI-zing Easter Egg in Disney and Pixar’s Turning Red

We’re big fans of Pixar’s Turning Red ’round these parts—and as such, we recently took a deep (and totally entertaining) dive into the film to find any and all Easter eggs, hidden details, and Disney references to help “U Know What’s Up” the next time you watch. It’s almost too much panda-monium for one article to handle…