NEWS ROUNDUP: Changes Coming to Cinderella Castle, New Celebration Announced for Animal Kingdom, New Parade Details, Tons of Merchandise Reveals & More
The biggest news of the week involves the most recognizable park icon in the world, Cinderella Castle, and a golden royal makeover just announced. Disney also announced details about an exciting multi-day celebration of the 50th anniversary of Earth Day at Animal Kingdom. New details have been released on a new parade coming to Disneyland including a starring role for the big cheese himself. Don’t miss the cool new runDisney Club now open for membership. We also have a laundry list of new merchandise offerings hitting the parks along with a new character meet & greet. All this and more in this week’s news roundup.
1 – Cinderella Castle to Receive Royal Makeover
Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom will be receiving a royal makeover as part of the preparations for the 50th Anniversary of Walt Disney World next year. Don’t worry it won’t be anything as terrible as what they did for the 25th Anniversary celebrations. :) Click the link below for more details on the upcoming transformation.
Click here for details on the upcoming enhancements coming to Cinderella Castle.
2 – Disney’s Animal Kingdom to Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Earth Day
Earth Day is celebrated on April 22 every year, and this year, Earth Day will be celebrating its 50th Anniversary. Disney Conservation Fund is also celebrating its 25th Anniversary. To mark the occasion, Disney’s Animal Kingdom is celebrating with a multi-day event from April 18-April 22, 2020. Check out the link below for more information.
Click here for information on Earth Day celebrations this year at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
3 – Mickey Mouse Leading ‘Magic Happens’ Parade, Debuting February 28 at Disneyland Park
Disneyland is getting a new parade and we’re so excited. This past week, Disney shared more details about the role Mickey Mouse will play in the new parade. Disney cast member Michael Ramirez shares more below.
In just a few weeks, the all-new “Magic Happens” parade will delight guests at Disneyland park, revealing its stunning floats, beloved Disney characters, artistic costumes, and energetic musical score. This incredible daytime spectacular celebrates the awe-inspiring moments of magic that are at the heart of so many Disney stories.
We’re excited to share details surrounding the parade’s whimsical opening sequence! Mickey Mouse in an all-new sorcerer-inspired costume leads the way, gliding along on glistening swirls of magic that emerge from a giant, 15-foot tall iridescent magical hat. To learn more about this show-stopping introduction, watch the video below!
To help Mickey open this stunning parade are Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy, Pluto and Chip ‘n Dale, along with a group of eclectic and contemporary dancers. These performers, known as “magic makers,” represent stylized aspects of “Disney magic” – from beauty to strength and everything in between. Magic is there any time a pumpkin becomes a carriage, or a sword is plucked from a stone.
“Magic Happens” debuts on February 28.
4 – Club runDisney Memberships Now Available
Last month, Disney announced a new runDisney club. Memberships are now on sale. Follow the link below to learn more.
Click here for more information on Club runDisney.
5 – Pirates of the Caribbean-Inspired Collection from Minnie Mouse: The Main Attraction Now Available
Disney has released the second month of attraction inspired merchandise in the Minnie Mouse: The Main Attraction merchandise line. Disney cast member Anthony Armenia has all the details below:
Ahoy! Is it a Pirate’s life for you? Then you’ll love the second collection in the new monthly collectible series, Minnie Mouse: The Main Attraction. The Pirates of the Caribbean-inspired collection is available now at Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, the Disney store nationwide and online at shopDisney.com, and coming soon to Shanghai Disney Resort.
As seen above, there is a wide array of pirate’s treasure in this collection, with items including:
- Minnie Mouse: The Main Attraction Ear Headband for Adults
- Minnie Mouse: The Main Attraction Hip Pack by Loungefly
- Minnie Mouse: The Main Attraction Plush
- Minnie Mouse: The Main Attraction Pin Set
- Minnie Mouse: The Main Attraction Mug
- Minnie Mouse: The Main Attraction Walt Disney World Resort MagicBand
Each of the items from the collection “arrr” available at the following locations and in the Disney store nationwide, or online at shopDisney.com:
Walt Disney World Resort
- Emporium (Magic Kingdom Park)
- Uptown Jewelers (Magic Kingdom Park)
- World of Disney (Disney Springs)
Disneyland Resort
- Emporium (Disneyland park)
- World of Disney (Downtown Disney District)
Shanghai Disney Resort (Coming Soon)
- Avenue M Arcade (Mickey Avenue)
- Mickey & Minnie’s Mercantile (Fantasyland)
- Doubloon Market (Treasure Cove)
- World of Disney Store (Disneytown)
Don’t forget, on the third Saturday of each month, we’ll be revealing the latest collection from Minnie Mouse: The Main Attraction so you can celebrate the iconic mouse and rock your favorite Disney Parks attractions from around the world!
6 – Disney Wedding Dresses Coming in 2020
Have you ever dreamed of walking down the aisle in a Disney inspired wedding dress? Dreams do come true because Disney is releasing a wedding gown collection. Disney cast member Korri McFann shares more below:
Dreaming of walking down the aisle in a Disney Princess character inspired dress? Your dream can now come true with the new Disney Fairy Tale Weddings Collection from Allure Bridals.
The elegant collection features 16 gowns inspired by the style and spirit of Disney Princess characters such as Ariel, Aurora, Belle, Jasmine, Cinderella, Pocahontas, Rapunzel, Tiana and Snow White.
The Disney Fairy Tale Weddings Collection will be available at select bridal boutiques across the country. Seven of the 16 styles will be featured exclusively at Kleinfeld Bridal stores in New York and Toronto as the Disney Fairy Tale Weddings Platinum Collection. Including the gorgeous Tiana Platinum gown, which embodies both Tiana’s practicality and creativity in an elegant ballgown design covered in bayou-inspired shimmering vines and blossoms.
Allure Bridals will unveil the entire collection during New York Bridal Fashion Week in April 2020, and gowns will arrive in stores shortly thereafter. Follow @DisneyWeddings on social media to learn the latest updates on the Disney Fairy Tale Weddings Collection.
7 – New United Kingdom-Inspired Merchandise Now Available at Epcot
Love the United Kingdom? Disney has released new merchandise inspired by the country and pavilion. Disney cast member Jennifer Fickely-Baker has all the details below:
When visiting the United Kingdom Pavilion at Epcot, guests love strolling along the cobblestone streets to admire the architecture of this authentic and immersive spot. Within the pavilion shops, exciting new treasures can be found including these unique United Kingdom-inspired ears!
Adorned with blue and white rose buds and a golden crown finish, these ears are fit for any royal. This Minnie headband is perfect for any photo opportunity throughout the pavilion or for simply enjoying fish and chips with friends at Yorkshire County Fish Shop. In addition to these lovely ears, guests can also find other unique treasures at the pavilion including apparel, drinkware and accessories.
You can find these items at the Toy Soldier shop located in the United Kingdom Pavilion at Epcot. All merchandise available while supplies last. Keep checking the Disney Parks Blog for more World Showcase merchandise updates throughout the year!
8 – Ian & Barley from Disney and Pixar’s ‘Onward’ Coming to Disney California Adventure Park
There is a new character meet and greet headed to Disney California Adventure Park! Here are all the details from Disney cast member Shawn Slater.
In Disney and Pixar’s original adventure, “Onward,” teenage elf brothers Ian and Barley Lightfoot embark on an extraordinary quest after being given the chance to spend one more day with their late father. And soon, they’ll be making another epic journey…to meet you!
On March 5, Ian and Barley will make their Disney Parks debut as part of the Disneyland After Dark: Pixar Nite special event, and beginning the next day – the same day “Onward” hits theaters – you’ll be able to meet them daily at Pixar Pier at Disney California Adventure park. Soon, the elf brothers will also make their way to Hong Kong Disneyland, to meet guests and then join in the fun with the return of the Pixar Water Play Street Party!
Set in a suburban fantasy world, “Onward” introduces us to Ian Lightfoot, a 16-year-old elf who yearns for the father he lost before he was born. Ian is sweet and determined with the best of intentions, but his lack of confidence and nervous energy trips him up more often than not. Ian is convinced that if only he had his father’s guidance, his life wouldn’t be so complicated and messy.
Ian’s older brother Barley Lightfoot is a big, boisterous 19-year-old elf who loves magic and immerses himself in fantasy role-playing games. He’s a free spirit who may be slightly more passionate about the past than the present. When their late father inadvertently sends Barley and Ian on an epic quest together – one highlighted by mystery and magic – Barley fires up his beloved and mostly dependable van Guinevere and never looks back.
Disney and Pixar’s “Onward” releases in U.S. theaters on March 6, 2020, so make plans to see the movie and then head to Disney Parks to say “Hail, fellows!” to Ian and Barley! Before you go, be sure to check out the latest products inspired by the film, available now at shopDisney.com and at Disney Parks around the world.
9 – Celebrate Walt Disney Animation Studios with New Disney Ink & Pain Collection
There’s a new merchandise collection available that celebrates the Walt Disney Animation Studios! Disney cast member Anthony Armenia shares more below.
Celebrating the rich history and unique artistry of Walt Disney Animation Studios, the latest collection from Disney Parks features beloved characters from Mickey Mouse and Pinocchio to Aurora and Dumbo. With apparel galore and accessories abundant, this collection truly has something for everyone!
Those of you looking for a little nostalgia, look no further! The Disney Ink & Paint Collection is available now at Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, online at shopDisney.com and coming soon to Hong Kong Disneyland Resort and Shanghai Disney Resort!
Prepare to paint a masterpiece with the latest Minnie Mouse ear headband available at Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, online at shopDisney.com and coming soon to Hong Kong Disneyland Resort and Shanghai Disney Resort! Can you spot the hidden Mickeys?
Looking for the perfect Disney Parks outfit? You also won’t want to miss out on this adorable Sorcerer Mickey mini backpack by Loungefly and Ink & Paint spirit jersey, both available at Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort and online at shopDisney.com
Dooney & Burke fans can celebrate their favorite classics and get in on the action with an Ink & Paint tote, satchel, crossbody bag and wallet wristlet coming on Feb. 21 to Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort and online at shopDisney.com.
You’ll want to collect each and every one of the Sorcerer Mickey plush in this mystery color collection available at Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, online at shopDisney.com and coming soon to Shanghai Disney Resort!
Stay warm even on cold nights with a stylish and soft pullover sweater for adults featuring some of your favorites and a world of color available at Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort and online at shopDisney.com.
Looking for a warmer look? Rock this raglan T-shirt for men featuring Sorcerer Mickey and “Fantasia” – the beloved classic celebrating its 80th anniversary this year – available at Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, online at shopDisney.com and coming soon to Hong Kong Disneyland Resort!
Pack away your paint brushes, palettes and more in this Ink & Paint cinch sack available at Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort and online at shopDisney.com.
I don’t know about you, but I just love having a variety of socks to spark a good conversation! The Disney Parks “12 Days of Socks” set features all your favorites and is available at Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort and online at shopDisney.com.
Exclusive to Walt Disney World Resort and shopDisney.com, colorful MagicBands will take your visit to Walt Disney World Resort from zero to hero, including a limited edition MagicBand from Dooney & Bourke coming on Feb. 21.
Then deck out your devices with these Sorcerer Mickey iPhone cases by OtterBox available at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. The cases are available for:
- iPhone 7+/8+
- iPhone XR/11
- iPhone X/XS/11 Pro
- iPhone XS Max/11 Pro Max
Watch your favorite Disney characters appear before your eyes and sip on an ol’ cup of joe with this Ink & Paint heat changing mug available at Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, online at shopDisney.com and coming soon to Hong Kong Disneyland Resort and Shanghai Disney Resort!
Looking to bring some animation fun to your culinary arts? Serve up your best with this Ink & Paint plate set or prepare to scoop up a delicious bite with an Ink & Paint bowl set available at Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, online at shopDisney.com and coming soon to Hong Kong Disneyland Resort and Shanghai Disney Resort!
Whether you’re looking for a sketch or a world of color, check out this Ink & Paint Bangle by Alex and Ani available at Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort and online at shopDisney.com.
Lastly, no Ink & Paint Collection would be complete without some artistic products! Little ones will adore this Ink & Paint watercoloring book filled with characters they know and love. Spice up your office life with this colorful Ink & Paint pen, all available at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort and coming soon to Hong Kong Disneyland Resort and online at shopDisney.com!
Get ready to shop these items and more at the following locations and online at shopDisney.com:
Walt Disney World Resort:
- Emporium (Magic Kingdom Park)
- Mouse Gear (Epcot)
- Celebrity 5&10 (Disney’s Hollywood Studios)
- Discovery Trading Company (Disney’s Animal Kingdom)
- World of Disney (Disney Springs)
Disneyland Resort:
- Disney Showcase (Disneyland park)
- World of Disney (Downtown Disney District)
Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (Coming Soon):
- Emporium (Hong Kong Disneyland Park)
- Kingdom Gifts (Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel)
- The Magic of Hong Kong Disneyland (Hong Kong International Airport)
Shanghai Disney Resort (Coming Soon):
- Avenue M Arcade (Shanghai Disneyland)
- World of Disney (Disneytown)
- Tinker Bell Gifts (Shanghai Disneyland Hotel)
So, get ready to paint the night with dazzling colors and classic characters with the Disney Ink & Paint Collection! Which items are you most excited for?
What’s New at Walt Disney World!
It’s a very exciting time growth and development at Walt Disney World. In fact, there are so many new things opening, coming and happening, it’s hard to keep track. Here’s a cheat sheet to help keep things straight and make sure you haven’t missed anything.
Epcot International Festival of the Arts, January 17-February 24, 2020
Click here for the 15 offerings you don’t want to miss at the 2020 Epcot Festival of the Arts.
Click here for photos of 2020 Epcot Festival of the Arts merchandise.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge – Now Open
Click here for our full review of Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance.
Disney Skyliner – Now Open
Click here for what you need to know about the Disney Skyliner
Epcot Forever – Now Open
Click here to learn more about Epcot Forever.
The Epcot Experience – Now Open
Click here to learn more about the Epcot Experience.
Disney’s Riviera Resort – Now Open
Click here for our review of Disney’s Riviera Resort and why we love staying there.
Reimagined Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort – Now Open
Click here for our review and walkthrough with photos and video.
NBA Experience at Disney Springs – Now Open
Click here for our review and what you need to know about this fun new experience.
Coming Soon to Disney World!
Coming in 2020
Click here for the 15 exciting things coming to Walt Disney World in 2020.
Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway – Opening March 4, 2020
Click here for what we know so far about Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, March 4-June 1, 2020
Epcot Reimagined – Now Through Fall 2021 for Walt Disney World’s 50thAnniversary
Click here for what you need to know about the new Epcot – including details on 20 new experiences!
Click here for more on our sneak peek at updates coming to the France pavilion in 2020.
Drawn to Life – New Cirque du Soleil Show – April 17, 2020
Click here for everything we know about this new show!
Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary Celebration – 2021
Click here for our rundown of everything that’s coming for Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary!
Star Wars Hotel – 2021
Disney Cruise Line’s Lighthouse Point – Disney’s 2nd Island in the Caribbean – unknown
Click here for everything we know about Lighthouse Point!
For a no obligation, FREE Quote on a Disney vacation package, please contact our travel partner Magical Vacation Planner at 407-442-0227 (407-442-0215 for Spanish). You can also request a FREE quote online by Clicking HERE.