Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort are buzzing with activity as holiday preparations advance and new guest experiences emerge. From a reversed monorail route at Magic Kingdom to early reopenings and festive decorations, visitors have much to anticipate in the coming weeks.
Key Takeaways
- Magic Kingdom Express Monorail is testing a new reversed route.
- Christmas decorations have arrived at Magic Kingdom and Mickey's Toontown.
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Disneyland reopened nearly three weeks early.
- Gideon's Bakehouse will offer a different Stuffed Sugar Cookie flavor weekly in November.
- The Disney Destiny cruise ship layout has been revealed.
Magic Kingdom Tests New Monorail Route Amid Holiday Preparations
Walt Disney World is currently testing an unexpected change to its transportation system. The Magic Kingdom Express Monorail is operating with a reversed route. This trial could signal a future alteration to guest flow at the park's entrance.
Simultaneously, the park has begun its festive transformation for Christmas 2025. Decorations appeared overnight, adorning the entrance areas and Main Street, U.S.A. Guests can now experience the early holiday cheer as they enter the park.
Fast Fact
The Tree of Life at Disney's Animal Kingdom is now officially part of the Zootopia universe, according to new signage in the park's 'Zootopia: Better Zoogether!' queue.
New Merchandise and Culinary Delights
EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays 2025 merchandise features the popular Figment Holiday sweater. A new collection inspired by Germany’s Black Forest is also available at EPCOT, offering unique items for shoppers.
For those with a sweet tooth, Gideon’s Bakehouse at Disney Springs announced the return of its Stuffed Sugar Cookies. A different flavor will be available each week throughout November, creating a rotating selection for fans.
"The holiday season at Disney Parks always brings new surprises, from festive decor to unique merchandise and treats," a park official stated. "We are constantly looking for ways to enhance the guest experience."
Resort Hotel Pins
Walt Disney World Resort hotels are offering unique holiday pins for 2025. These pins feature beloved characters inside themed snow globes, making them a special collectible item for guests staying on property.
Disneyland Resort Sees Early Reopening and Holiday Decorations
At Disneyland Park, guests welcomed the early return of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. The popular attraction reopened almost three weeks ahead of schedule after a two-month refurbishment, pleasing many visitors.
The Wondrous Journeys fireworks show also resumed performances last night for a limited engagement before the holidays. However, reports indicate some crucial elements were missing from the show.
Toontown Transforms for the Holidays
Mickey’s Toontown at Disneyland Resort is fully decorated for the 2025 holiday season. The vibrant area now features festive adornments, adding to the park's overall holiday atmosphere.
Disneyland Resort has also released its resort-specific pieces of the 2025 Gingerbread Holiday Collection. These items are available for purchase, allowing guests to take a piece of the holiday magic home.
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: Reopened nearly three weeks early.
- Wondrous Journeys fireworks: Brief return with some missing elements.
- Mickey's Toontown: Fully decorated for the 2025 holiday season.
- Gingerbread Holiday Collection: Resort-specific merchandise now available.
Disneyland Paris Announces 2026 Halloween Festival Dates
Even as Halloween 2025 recently concluded, Disneyland Paris is already looking ahead. The park announced the dates for its 2026 Halloween Festival event, allowing guests to plan their future visits well in advance.
Cruise Line Expansion
Details regarding the Disney Destiny, the newest Disney Cruise Line ship, have emerged. Cross-section artwork provides a detailed look at the ship's layout and amenities, offering a glimpse into future voyages.
Ongoing Park Enhancements
These updates highlight ongoing efforts across Disney's global parks to enhance guest experiences. From operational adjustments like the monorail route to seasonal decorations and new merchandise, the parks continue to evolve.
The early reopening of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad demonstrates a commitment to quickly restoring popular attractions. Meanwhile, the early announcement of Halloween 2026 at Disneyland Paris indicates strategic planning for future events.
Guests visiting Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort in the coming weeks will find a blend of familiar favorites and new experiences, all contributing to the festive atmosphere.
