This weekend at Destination D23, fellow Imagineer Caroline and I got a chance to share some insights on the hard work happening on the new villains-themed land coming to Magic Kingdom park. The land was first announced by Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, last year at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, where it was revealed that the space would include two major attractions, dining, and shopping – all with a touch of dark, devious flair. Here’s what you might have missed: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Disney Parks (@disneyparks) New Details About the Villains-Themed Land at Magic Kingdom During a video message in the panel, Disney Legend and former animator Andreas Deja, who is best known for helping to bring some of the most evil Disney Villains to life onscreen, such as Gaston in Beauty and the Beast, Jafar in Aladdin, and Scar in The Lion King, announced that he was officially consulting on the project. Deja shared that these characters are the best source materials for Imagineers to utilize and reference when conceptualizing the land, with big personalities, bold visuals, and rich backgrounds to influence the overall ambiance and the experience that guests will have while visiting.
Author: waltdisneynews
The Disney Destiny draws on the legacies of Disney’s larger-than-life heroes and villains to forge a legendary cruise vacation steeped in the lore of Disney stories. During your voyage, slip away to The Sanctum, Haunted Mansion Parlor, and Cask & Cannon, all themed spaces that are inspired by the larger-than-life personalities of epic Disney stories, brought to life through elevated interpretation and refined theming. During the Disney Eats panel at Destination D23 today, Disney Cruise Line Beverage Operations Manager Ben Van Curen previewed some of the new themed drinks that will be available exclusively in these one-of-a-kind lounges aboard the Disney Destiny when the ship sets sail in November 2025. Source: Disney Mirror Dimension at The Sanctum Made with Stoli Elit Vodka, Lychee, Fresh Lemon Juice, Pink Peppercorn, and Eletricdust Buzz Rock, this mesmerizing cocktail will touch all your senses with a special glass that reacts to touch, and an electrifying dust that will leave your taste buds tingling. Source: Disney Step into The Sanctum Disney Cruise Line’s first lounge inspired by the mystical world of Marvel Studios’ Doctor Strange, this centrally located sanctuary is filled with enchanted artifacts designed to aid sorcerers in protecting the world, creating an atmosphere brimming with magic and mystery. Enjoy a captivating selection of cocktails and coffees while taking in unique touches from Doctor Strange’s New York Sanctum, like the iconic circular mirror behind the bar that echoes the famed window
Today at Destination D23, Disneyland Resort culinary director John State unveiled a never-before-seen artist concept rendering of the enhanced patio space from Napa Rose at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, which is currently closed for an exciting renovation. Fans got a first look at the restaurant’s al fresco dining option, with Disney California Adventure park serving as the backdrop for a unique culinary adventure. Source: Disney When it reopens, the award-winning Napa Rose will offer an elevated dining experience, blending timeless Craftsman design with a fresh take on modern Californian sophistication and warmth, and immersing guests in a way only Disney can do. Elegant New Patio Seating The outdoor patio is being thoughtfully enhanced to welcome more guests for al fresco dining. Imagine settling into a comfortable seat surrounded by lush greenery and soft lighting, the California breeze enhancing the flavors of your meal. The space invites you to relax and savor each bite while taking in the beautiful outdoor setting. Two new fireplaces will cast a warm, flickering glow across the patio, adding a cozy and inviting touch to the atmosphere. As the sun sets, you can gather around the fire, reflecting on your Disney day and enjoying the ambiance. Source: Disney About Napa Rose Napa Rose has long been celebrated for its refined California cuisine crafted from the finest ingredients. The restaurant will unveil a brand-new menu designed to delight every palate.
Today’s “Creating The Happiest Place on Earth” panel at Destination D23 provided fans with an emotional look at 70 years of memories that celebrate the legacy of the Disneyland Resort, while also looking toward a great big, beautiful tomorrow at Disney Parks around the world. Oscar and Emmy nominated filmmaker (with deep Disney roots!) Leslie Iwerks took the stage at the panel to reveal her new documentary film Disneyland Handcrafted, coming this winter to Disney+ and Disney YouTube. Leslie showcased the inventive creative process behind Disney Parks when she produced The Imagineering Story in 2019, and has ties to a strong family history at Disney that stretches back to Walt’s time. Following the passion and expertise set by her grandfather, Ub, and her father, Don, Leslie continues to leave a legacy of pure technological innovation and key attention to detail — learn more about Ub and Don, two Disney Legends, on D23.com! Disneyland from Early Conception to Opening Day Capturing the excitement of the creation of Disneyland as it was being built more than 70 years ago, you’ll get a chance to peek behind the orange groves and experience the making of the park like never before in Disneyland Handcrafted. This unique film, complete with ASMR moments and constructed using only rarely seen footage that Leslie handpicked through the Walt Disney Archives, depicts the thoughtfulness and care that was put into the development of Disneyland. As featured
Following a dream with mind and heart against all odds, Walt Disney revealed Disneyland to the world on July 17, 1955. This changed the future of entertainment as we know it and cementing a transformative legacy that continues to inspire millions worldwide today. That same vision continues to push for ongoing innovation across Disney Parks in the present and future, just as it has over the past 70 years. In an exciting announcement on stage during the “Creating the Happiest Place on Earth” panel at Destination D23, Walt Disney Imagineer Chris Beatty revealed that you will soon be able to see Walt Disney through the magic of Audio-Animatronics technology in “Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress” at Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World Resort. “We are grateful to The Walt Disney Company and Walt Disney Imagineering for their continued collaboration and ongoing partnership with The Walt Disney Family Museum. Introducing a new Audio-Animatronics figure of Walt Disney in ‘Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress’ marks an exciting milestone in our shared mission to celebrate the story of the man behind the magic and inspire new generations with his innovations and vision for the future. We appreciate the continued efforts and meticulous care that Imagineering has taken to keep Walt’s legacy alive,” Kirsten Komoroske, Executive Director of the Walt Disney Family Museum, said. Source: Disney Walt’s Ongoing Impact on the Carousel of Progress Walt’s own idea from beginning to end, the Carousel
Step back into the Grid … only this time, it’s breaking into our world (and Tomorrowland). The next time you step into the digital frontier with TRON Lightcycle / Run, you’ll launch into a Tron: Ares version of the high-speed, adrenaline-pumping ride that bends reality into the video game world. Yvette Nicole Brown announced today at the Walt Disney Studios showcase at Destination D23 that TRON Lightcycle/Run presented by Enterprise at Walt Disney World Resort and TRON Lightcycle Power Run presented by Chevrolet at Shanghai Disney Resort will be celebrating the release of the new Tron: Ares film with a brand-new overlay on their attractions. Replacing the blue and orange hues of the ride, you’ll weave through twisting tunnels of vibrant red and orange light trails, feeling the rush of wind and the surge of acceleration as you compete in a dazzling Lightcycle race. Source: Disney Source: Disney The striking red hues in Tron: Ares within the digital realm contrast sharply with the classic blue tones of the Grid. Adding to the immersive visuals, the pulsating industrial sounds of Nine Inch Nails will drive the ride’s energy, pushing your experience between the Grid and reality into a fully immersive, futuristic symphony of light, speed, and sound. Experience the new Tron: Ares ride overlay for a limited time at Magic Kingdom starting September 15 and Shanghai Disneyland beginning September 16.
This is a long shot, but I’m throwing it out into the Universe just in case… My 40th Birthday is coming up, and my sister bought day passes for her and me to go to Disneyland on 9/16/25. She lives in CA, and I’m coming from Wisconsin. I’ve never been, and I’m looking forward to doing Disney sans kids (I have 10 & 8-year-old boys). This mommy needs a vacation, and celebrating my 40th birthday was the perfect excuse. Our plan is to run the park and do all of the things. Getting into Club 33 would be absolutely incredible and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If anyone could help make this come true, we would be forever grateful. We do not drink, are very respectful, and would have the utmost respect for the opportunity to go. Like I said, it’s a long shot, but if I don’t put it into the Universe, it most certainly won’t come true. As we all know, Disney is made up of dreams, so a girl can try to make hers come true! Xoxo
I’ve been toying with the idea of getting a hand-painted mural at home, but I’m not sure if it’s really worth it. I love the idea of something custom and unique, but I also wonder whether it will feel too bold or overwhelming in my living room. I’ve seen some examples online that look fantastic, but others look out of place. Has anyone here actually gone through the process? Did it feel like a real upgrade to your space or more like a risky experiment?
Non so se ridere o piangere, ma ogni anno faccio la stessa cavolata: atterro in Sardegna con la pelle color mozzarella, penso “ma sì, solo un’oretta al sole”, e boom, braccia e schiena diventano rosso aragosta. Stavolta pure le ginocchia, che non sapevo nemmeno potessero bruciarsi così. Voi come fate a non ustionarvi subito appena arrivate? Vi preparate in anticipo o avete qualche trucco da condividere
It’s that time of year again—Halloween Horror Nights is back at Universal Studios Florida, and it’s bigger, scarier, and more exciting than ever. Whether you’re a seasoned HHN fan or planning your very first trip, here’s your guide to making the most out of this year’s event. Source: Universal Haunted Houses The star of the show every year is the haunted houses, and this year’s lineup does not disappoint. Guests can look forward to 10 highly themed houses, each designed with incredible detail, spine-chilling scares, and storylines that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a horror movie. From original Universal creations to houses inspired by popular horror franchises, there’s something to terrify every type of guest. Haunted Houses Highlights Five Nights at Freddy’sStep into Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza, complete with life-sized animatronic recreations of Freddy, Bonnie, Chica, Foxy, and Cupcake—designed by Jim Henson’s Creature Shop. TerrifierInspired by the cult horror series, this house is a sensory overload—expect warm water splashes, blood-like scents, and some gruesome new kills by Art the Clown. Jason UniverseA terrifying journey through Camp Crystal Lake, filled with multiple Jasons from the entire film saga as you navigate his lair and haunted woods. FalloutEnter the world