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“I AM GROOT!” For the first time, Groot has taken root at the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival! And for this topiary, that is not the only first… Here are five fun facts about this new Groot topiary—and make sure you check out Groot at EPCOT near Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind in World Discovery, now through May 27, 2024.
1. First Topiary Featuring a Musical Element
It’s dance-off time—because Groot holds a dynamic mix tape titled “Green House Mix Vol. 1,” with his own soundtrack playing! This is the first time a musical element has been incorporated into a topiary at EPCOT.
The music featured includes songs from the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind attraction that are sure to get you in the dancing spirit:
“September” by Earth, Wind & Fire
“Disco Inferno” by The Trammps
“Conga” by Gloria Estefan
“Everybody Wants to Rule the World” by Tears for Fears
“I Ran” by A Flock of Seagulls
“One Way or Another” by Blondie
2. A Nod to the Horticulture Team
The mix tape title, “Green House Mix Vol. 1,” is actually a nod to the incredible horticulture team at the Walt Disney World Resort that helps to bring the topiaries to life.
3. The Greenery Behind Groot’s Leaves
Speaking of the horticulture team, for Groot’s leaves, they utilized the Ficus pumila plant—commonly known as the climbing fig. The leaves stay small while the plant is young, growing larger over time. It creeps and secretes latex which allows the plant to adhere to surfaces when it dries. How cool!
4. Inspired by the I Am Groot Series
The design for the Groot topiary draws inspiration from the “Groot Takes a Bath” episode featured in Season 1 of I Am Groot on Disney+. Here’s the synopsis: Groot’s attempts at using bath toys, candles, and bath bombs lead to an epic leafy mess; after his leaves grow to bushy-like proportions, Groot decides to take his haircut into his own hands and get inventive with his new hairdo.
5. Not-So-Little Groot
Groot himself stands tall at 5 feet, with the full topiary reaching a total height of 13 feet ,8 inches!
It is so exciting that Groot has joined the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival. Don’t forget: You can find him near Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind in World Discovery, now through May 27.
For those who want to further celebrate their Groot fandom, here are some fun products featuring our favorite flora colossus from the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy:
Come to eet at Disney Springs Marketplace, one of the newest restaurants on Disney property, from the mind and heart of celebrity chef Maneet Chauhan.
D23 Gold Members will enjoy modern Indian cuisine and a vibrant atmosphere, in addition to 10% off your final check, excluding alcohol.
To redeem your offer in person, please show proof of D23 Gold Membership to your server in order to receive discount.
10% off food and non-alcoholic beverages. No other discounts can be applied. Cannot be combined with another offer. Discount not valid on alcohol.
All discounts subject to change and/or cancellation without notice. D23 Gold Members must present their valid D23 Gold Member card prior to purchases to receive any applicable benefits or discounts. Benefits and discounts at Disney-owned and operated locations are determined solely by Disney, are subject to restrictions and exclusions, and may be valid at only select locations. Check third-party locations for details about their offered benefits and discounts, if any; Disney is not responsible for benefits and discounts offered by any third parties. Additional restrictions may apply. Offer void where prohibited by law.
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!
Where Disney Fans Belong Enjoy access to exclusive screenings, special shopping events, immersive experiences, and unique merchandise.
Guests are in for a treat at Sunshine Churros in Disney Springs Marketplace, where they’re serving up both classic and gourmet variations of the staple Disney Parks sweet snack.
Visiting Disney Springs? D23 Gold Members can receive 10% off their entire purchase at Sunshine Churros... don’t miss the delicious fun!
To redeem your offer in person, follow the instructions below:
Please present proof of D23 Gold Membership at the time of transaction to receive your discount.
In-person offer only. Name of membership must match name of guest purchasing items. Cannot be combined with other offers.
All discounts subject to change and/or cancellation without notice. D23 Gold Members must present their valid D23 Gold Member card prior to purchases to receive any applicable benefits or discounts. Benefits and discounts at Disney-owned and operated locations are determined solely by Disney, are subject to restrictions and exclusions, and may be valid at only select locations. Check third-party locations for details about their offered benefits and discounts, if any; Disney is not responsible for benefits and discounts offered by any third parties. Additional restrictions may apply. Offer void where prohibited by law.
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!
Where Disney Fans Belong Enjoy access to exclusive screenings, special shopping events, immersive experiences, and unique merchandise.
There’s truly nothing like a classic Disneyland churro, and guests can satisfy their sweet tooth with a variety of magical, mouthwatering treats at California Churro’s two locations in Downtown Disney.
D23 Gold Members can receive 10% off their entire purchase at California Churro in Downtown Disney, CA.
To redeem your offer in person, please follow the instructions below:
Please present proof of D23 Gold Membership at the time of transaction to receive the discount.
In-person offer only. Name of membership must match name of guest purchasing items. Cannot be combined with other offers.
All discounts subject to change and/or cancellation without notice. D23 Gold Members must present their valid D23 Gold Member card prior to purchases to receive any applicable benefits or discounts. Benefits and discounts at Disney-owned and operated locations are determined solely by Disney, are subject to restrictions and exclusions, and may be valid at only select locations. Check third-party locations for details about their offered benefits and discounts, if any; Disney is not responsible for benefits and discounts offered by any third parties. Additional restrictions may apply. Offer void where prohibited by law.
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!
Where Disney Fans Belong Enjoy access to exclusive screenings, special shopping events, immersive experiences, and unique merchandise.
Welcome, fellow travelers, to a galaxy far, far away! With Disneyland’s Season of the Force celebration in full swing, there’s never been a better time to dive into the epic saga. And what better way to do so than by determining which Star Wars Disneyland attraction to head to first?
Fear not, this quiz will guide you to the perfect adventure tailored to your Jedi instincts or Sith ambitions.
What’s your preferred role in a space adventure?
Which of the following Star Wars characters do you admire the most?
What aspect of Star Wars stories excites you the most?
How do you handle unexpected challenges?
If you could visit any of the following planets from the Star Wars universe, where would you go?
Which of these quotes resonates with you the most?
How do you feel about unexpected twists and turns?
QUIZ: Which Star Wars Disneyland Attraction Should You Experience First?
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
This attraction allows you to pilot the Millennium Falcon through daring missions, making it an excellent choice for your first experience. Get ready to take control of one of the most iconic ships in the galaxy as you navigate through thrilling scenarios and face off against formidable adversaries.
Star Wars: Batuu Bounty Hunters
Your inclination toward Star Wars: Batuu Bounty Hunters indicates that you’re drawn to the immersive and adventurous side of Star Wars. In this attraction, you’ll track down elusive targets across the galaxy that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
Your preference for Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance suggests that you’re captivated by the epic and cinematic aspects of Star Wars. This groundbreaking attraction places you in the midst of an intense battle between the Resistance and the First Order, offering unparalleled immersion and excitement.
Star Tours – The Adventures Continue
Whether you’re dodging asteroids, engaging in epic space battles, or encountering iconic characters and locations from the Star Wars universe, Star Tours – The Adventures Continue will take you on an exhilarating adventure that will leave you breathless and eager for more.
Hyperspace Mountain
You inclination toward Hyperspace Mountain indicates that you’re seeking a thrilling and exhilarating attraction experience. As you blast off into hyperspace aboard a high-speed roller coaster, you’ll embark on an adrenaline-pumping journey through the cosmos.
Satisfy your cravings for a classic Disney corn dog or enjoy unique twists on the beloved snack at Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs, including their fan-favorite Pickle Corn Dog and Golden Dragon Panko-Crusted Corn Dog.
D23 Gold Members can receive 10% off their entire purchase at Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs in Downtown Disney, CA.
To redeem your offer in person, please follow the instructions below:
Please present proof of D23 Gold Membership at the time of transaction to receive the discount.
In-person offer only. Name of membership must match name of guest purchasing items. Cannot be combined with other offers.
All discounts subject to change and/or cancellation without notice. D23 Gold Members must present their valid D23 Gold Member card prior to purchases to receive any applicable benefits or discounts. Benefits and discounts at Disney-owned and operated locations are determined solely by Disney, are subject to restrictions and exclusions, and may be valid at only select locations. Check third-party locations for details about their offered benefits and discounts, if any; Disney is not responsible for benefits and discounts offered by any third parties. Additional restrictions may apply. Offer void where prohibited by law.
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!
Where Disney Fans Belong Enjoy access to exclusive screenings, special shopping events, immersive experiences, and unique merchandise.
Enter the world of Nell Jackson, but be warned: she’s not one to trifle with. In Disney+’s latest original series, Renegade Nell, we follow the witty and courageous Nell (Louisa Harland) as she navigates the treacherous landscape of 18th century England. Framed for a crime she didn’t commit, Nell becomes the county’s most sought-after outlaw, with danger lurking around every corner.
In this perilous premise, magic unexpectedly emerges as Nell’s ally in the form of a fairy-like spirit called Billy Blind (Nick Mohammed), who can grant Nell extraordinary strength. With that advantage—and joined by her younger sisters Roxy (Bo Bragason) and George (Florence Keen)—Nell is determined to combat the nefarious schemes orchestrated by Robert Hennessey, the Earl of Poynton (Adrian Lester), a sinister political figure who wants to thwart her at any cost.
Lester couldn’t resist the mix of magic, political intrigue, and highway robbery within Renegade Nell’s script—as well as the opportunity to engage in exhilarating fight sequences while wearing some … unique costuming. “You may think you’ve perfected a fight sequence during rehearsal,” the actor tells D23. “But then you find yourself in a field at 2 o’clock in the morning in November, with freezing temperatures and literal frost on the ground—all while wearing heels and tights!”
The Earl of Poynton employs every ounce of his power to destroy the seemingly undefeatable heroine—and gets help in his quest from Sofia Wilmot (Alice Kremelberg), an ambitious widow who also wants to take Nell down. “Sofia is so complex and kind of a slow burn,” Kremelberg says. “She starts off pretty moral but then takes a bit of a dive.” Behind the scenes of their characters’ villainous schemes, Kremelberg worked with real animals and played with fire—literally. “Filming those [magic] scenes was so much fun,” she admits.
Rounding up the antagonistic trio is Sofia’s brother, Thomas Blancheford (Jake Dunn)—heir to the local “toff,” the landowning aristocrat. Thomas often wreaks havoc and imposes classist tyranny onto tenants, embodying the epitome of entitlement and privilege. “There was so much to unravel while playing Thomas, from his family’s stifled dynamic to the presence of dark magic,” explains Dunn.
As Nell and her allies fend off various enemies, they’re also navigating a treacherous landscape of power and privilege, where justice hangs in the balance. Helping Nell on her journey is Charles Devereux (Frank Dillane), a charismatic highwayman, and the Blanchefords’ steadfast stable boy, Ressalas (Enyi Okoronkwo). Devereux often infuses the series with humor and wit: “I was particularly drawn to the more bombastic, comedic aspects of the show. I’m a huge fan of slapstick humor,” Dillane says.
Tough, self-reliant, but definitely not looking for love—joining the Queen’s army seems far more appealing—“Nell shares many qualities with our favorite Disney heroines,” says Ben Taylor, director of the series’ first two episodes. Taylor emphasizes Nell’s “strong heart and moral code” as reminiscent of classic Disney Princesses.
Taylor also drew creative inspiration from the iconic Pirates of the Caribbean franchise. “In the initial stages of conceptualizing the show’s design and embracing the swashbuckling essence, the influence of the Pirates of the Caribbean was definitely present,” he tells D23.
As the series gears up for its debut, anticipation is at an all-time high. With its compelling storytelling, dynamic characters, and enchanting world-building, Renegade Nell promises to be a must-watch for all Disney fans.
It’s almost time again for the Star Wars fan-favorite holiday: May the 4th.
Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Empire State Realty Trust
We kicked off the official March to May the 4th last week, as Disney Consumer Products and Lucasfilm took over the Empire State Building with product reveals, activities, and news spotlighting the villains of the Star Wars galaxy—all commenced by Star Wars actor Hayden Christensen.
First on the list of exciting announcements: We have an update about Star Wars Celebration, the Ultimate Star Wars Fan Event, taking place April 18–20, 2025, in Japan. Tickets for Star Wars Celebration 2025 will go on sale Thursday, May 2, at 4 p.m. PT / 7 p.m. ET.
The key art for the event has been created in the traditional black-ink painting style known as sumi-e, with Darth Vader placed in the foreground. Brush strokes extend from the Sith Lord to the branches of a cherry blossom tree, leading to AT-ATs, X-wings, and TIE fighters. The Rising Sun of the Japanese flag balances the image, with Mount Fuji featured in its center. For more information, visit StarWarsCelebration.com.
Next, Star Wars: The Phantom Menace is celebrating its 25th anniversary! Fans can soon experience a limited-time re-release of Star Wars: The Phantom Menace, in theaters beginning May 3, to celebrate the film’s 25th anniversary. In addition, fans will also be treated to an exclusive look at The Acolyte, the upcoming Disney+ series set during the High Republic era, following all The Phantom Menace screenings. The upcoming Disney+ series, set approximately 100 years before The Phantom Menace, launches exclusively on Disney+ June 4.
On May 4, in honor of both the film’s anniversary and the Star Wars fan holiday, fans will have the opportunity to see all nine episodes of the Skywalker Saga in theaters for a premium marathon event. Those attending will receive a limited-edition poster. Tickets are on sale now.
Planning a visit to Disney Parks? From April 5 to June 2, 2024, Disneyland Park guests can enjoy new experiences and limited-time Star Wars offerings during Season of the Force, including Hyperspace Mountain, themed food and beverages, merchandise, and more.
For a limited time beginning May 4, while supplies last, guests can purchase the collectible Salvaged Stormtrooper Helmet Bucket at select locations—served with popcorn, french fries, or Galma Garlic Puffs, depending on location—throughout Disneyland Resort. Also debuting during Season of the Force, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will provide a fresh perspective on the fireworks above Disneyland Park on select nights, with galactic music sweeping through the spires. For more information, visit Disneyland.com.
Coming in May, for a limited time while supplies last, the Salvaged Stormtrooper Helmet Bucket will also be available for purchase at select locations throughout Disney‘s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort. You won’t want to miss it!
During select nights in April and May, Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite will grant guests of all ages special after-hours access to Disneyland Park with the purchase of a separate event admission ticket. Enjoy Star Wars character sightings, event-themed menu selections, and exciting entertainment—including lightsaber instruction and a costume cavalcade, a celebration that invites guests dressed in Star Wars costumes to join in a march down Main Street, U.S.A.! Plus, discover special Star Wars-themed photo opportunities, merchandise and more!
The ticket to this event also includes admission to Disneyland Park as early as 6:00 p.m.—that’s 3 hours before the party begins—on the valid date of your ticket. Guests with a ticket to this event do not need to make a theme park reservation to enter Disneyland Park at 6:00 p.m. or later.
New products across a variety of categories were also recently revealed, including exciting first-time collaborations for Star Wars with Fisher-Price for their Imaginext®Star Wars Darth Vader Bot and Dairy Farmers of America for their TruMoo Star Wars Blue Milk, coming in April.
Plus, Disney Store unveiled collections launching in the weeks leading up to May the 4th, including May the 4th Be With You 2024, Star Wars Artist Series by Will Gay, a thrilling collection created in honor of the 25th anniversary of Star Wars: The Phantom Menace, and a refresh of Star Wars roleplay apparel and accessories.
Disney Store also announced The Sith Apprentice: Darth Maul Legacy LIGHTSABER TM Set – Limited Edition, complete with light and musical effects, launching on May 4, 2024, at 8 a.m. PT / 11 a.m. ET.
Readers can unmask one of the most memorable characters of all time and discover the incredible story behind the creation and the legacy of the galaxy’s most complex character, Darth Vader, in Star Wars Icons: Darth Vader. This new book, coming soon by Insight Editions, covers the character’s journey, from his genesis in George Lucas’ first drafts of Star Wars to Anakin Skywalker’s tragic fall to the Dark Side in the prequel trilogy, and beyond.
Closing out the festivities at the Empire State Building takeover was a 5-minute dynamic light show featuring fan-favorite scenes from Star Wars films and streaming series—with a special focus on villains including Darth Vader, Emperor Palpatine, stormtroopers, and more. The spectacle was synched to John Williams’ “The Imperial March (Darth Vader’s Theme),” which was played simultaneously on iHeartMedia’s Z100 New York radio station and on the iHeartRadio app.
Beloved Star Wars actor Hayden Christensen, who portrays one of the most recognizable antagonists of all time, Darth Vader, was on-hand for a special lighting ceremony to announce the launch of the campaign.
As the March to May the 4th continues, for the latest product reveals and updates, visit StarWars.com.
At Ghirardelli, we pride ourselves on making quality chocolate so delicious it Makes Life a Bite Better. As the longest continually operating chocolatier in America, Ghirardelli has delighted consumers with new chocolate experiences for nearly two centuries. Founded by Domingo Ghirardelli in the heart of San Francisco, Ghirardelli Chocolate is committed to using high quality and sustainably sourced cocoa beans to ensure a rich and velvety chocolate flavor since 1852.
D23 Gold Members can enjoy a free chocolate bar with specialty sundae purchase at the following locations:
Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop at Disney Springs, FL
Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop at Disney California Adventure, CA
To redeem your offer in person, please follow the instructions below:
Guest must present proof of D23 Gold Membership at the time of purchase to receive the offer.
NOTE
*Limit one per person. Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion. $5 Value. Store Use Only: Redeem with "Mkt.FreeBar" Button.
All discounts subject to change and/or cancellation without notice. D23 Gold Members must present their valid D23 Gold Member card prior to purchases to receive any applicable benefits or discounts. Benefits and discounts at Disney-owned and operated locations are determined solely by Disney, are subject to restrictions and exclusions, and may be valid at only select locations. Check third-party locations for details about their offered benefits and discounts, if any; Disney is not responsible for benefits and discounts offered by any third parties. Additional restrictions may apply. Offer void where prohibited by law.
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!
Where Disney Fans Belong Enjoy access to exclusive screenings, special shopping events, immersive experiences, and unique merchandise.
The long-awaited merger of Hulu and Disney+ has finally arrived, simplifying streaming with one less password to remember. Hulu on Disney+, for Disney Bundle subscribers in the U.S., brings together the extensive Disney+ and Hulu libraries all in one place. The new experience is a seamless showcase of the value of the Disney Bundle that allows Bundle subscribers (or those who hold subscriptions to both standalone apps) to stream extensive Hulu content directly in the Disney+ app. Bundle plans are available starting at $9.99/month, while Disney+ and Hulu each remain available as standalone offerings.
Here are seven must-watch Hulu series that you can now enjoy on Disney+.
Shōgun (2024)
This FX saga tells the story of two daring souls and a mysterious samurai: John Blackthorne, a brave English sailor marooned in Japan where he discovers the magic of a new culture; Lord Toranaga, a wise daimyo battling his foes with cunning; and Lady Mariko, a skilled translator who strives to prove her loyalty and honor despite her troubled past.
The Bear (2022-present)
Returning to Chicago from the fine dining industry, a young chef finds himself at the helm of his family’s sandwich shop following a tragic loss. Far removed from his previous world, Carmy faces the daunting challenges of small business ownership, a stubborn kitchen team, and strained familial ties, all compounded by the aftermath of his brother’s suicide. Amidst the struggle to revitalize both the shop and his own spirit, Carmy discovers unexpected support from his gritty kitchen crew, who ultimately become his chosen family.
Abbott Elementary (2021-present)
Abbott Elementary is a heartwarming American mockumentary sitcom set in the underfunded and predominantly Black Willard R. Abbott Elementary School in Philadelphia. Led by the perpetually optimistic second-grade teacher Janine Teagues, the ensemble cast navigate the challenges of mismanagement and harsh conditions while striving to make a difference in the lives of their students. With a mix of humor and sincerity, the show highlights the dedication of teachers, including Janine, Jacob, Barbara, Melissa, Ava, and Gregory, as they experience the trials and triumphs of working in education.
Only Murders in the Building (2021-present)
This delightful comedic mystery series bring together the unlikely trio played by Steve Martin (Charles Haden), Martin Short (Oliver), and Selena Gomez (Mabel). Set in a posh New York City apartment building, the show follows these three neighbors who bond over their shared obsession with true crime podcasts. When real murders shake up their building, they embark on hilarious and amateur sleuthing adventures, complete with witty banter and unexpected twists.
Normal People (2020)
Based on Sally Rooney’s bestselling novel of the same name, Normal People explores the complex relationship between Connell and Marianne, two young adults from a small town in Ireland. The series follows their journey through high school and university as they navigate love, friendship, and personal growth. Set against the backdrop of societal expectations and class dynamics, Normal People delves into the intricacies of human connection and the impact of intimate relationships on shaping one’s identity.
Feud: Capote vs. The Swans (2024)
Season 2 of Ryan Murphy’s Feud anthology is set in the glamorous world of 1950s and 1960s New York City. It explores the complex dynamics of friendship, betrayal, and ambition within the upper echelons of society. The season delves into the infamous feud between writer Truman Capote and the glamorous socialite “swans” of high society, including Babe Paley and Slim Keith. Through a mix of historical drama and fictionalized storytelling, Feud: Capote vs. The Swans offers a compelling glimpse into the lives of these larger-than-life personalities and the scandals that rocked their social circles.
Reservation Dogs (2021-2023)
Reservation Dogs captures the essence of Indigenous youth with its refreshing blend of comedy and drama. Set in rural Oklahoma, the series follows a tight-knit group of four teenagers navigating the challenges of adolescence while dreaming of a brighter future away from their reservation community. With its authentic portrayal of Native American life and heartfelt storytelling, Reservation Dogs offers a compelling and often humorous exploration of friendship, identity, and the pursuit of dreams.
