Walt Disney World is introducing a limited-edition running shoe featuring the character Stitch, developed in collaboration with Brooks. This is part of a series of updates across Disney parks, including new construction, character dining changes, and special merchandise releases. Passholders also receive a new discount for online purchases.
Key Takeaways
- Stitch-themed Brooks running shoes are launching during the Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend.
- Magic Kingdom is seeing significant construction, including updates to Cool Ship and demolition of Aunt Polly's.
- Disney's Hollywood Studios has expanded Minnie's Seasonal Dining to an all-day offering.
- Walt Disney World Annual Passholders can access a 20% discount on DisneyStore.com.
- New merchandise, including a Zootopia bubble wand and Haunted Mansion cap, is available.
Magic Kingdom Developments
Construction efforts continue at Magic Kingdom, focusing on key areas within the park. The Cool Ship kiosk in Tomorrowland is undergoing modernization. Crews are now installing menu boards as the project nears completion. This update aims to enhance visitor services in the area.
Meanwhile, demolition has started on Aunt Polly’s on Tom Sawyer Island. This marks the beginning of a larger transformation. The site is being prepared for a new Cars-themed area, which will introduce new experiences for guests.
Fact: Aunt Polly's History
Aunt Polly's operated as a quick-service dining location on Tom Sawyer Island. It offered sandwiches and other snacks, providing a unique dining experience accessible only by raft.
Near the upcoming Tiana’s Bayou Adventure attraction, the Critter Co-Op gift shop is receiving new flooring. The first section of the updated flooring has been revealed. Additional sections are currently blocked off as work progresses. This refurbishment is expected to refresh the shop's appearance for guests.
Disney's Hollywood Studios and Resort Updates
At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, construction walls in Animation Courtyard now feature new signage. This signage includes concept art for the forthcoming Magic of Disney Animation experience. The artwork provides a glimpse into the future offerings for visitors.
Hollywood & Vine, a popular dining location, has changed its character dining schedule. The Disney Junior character breakfast has concluded. Instead, Minnie’s Seasonal Dining is now available as an all-day offering. This adjustment provides more flexibility for guests seeking character interactions.
"The expansion of Minnie's Seasonal Dining reflects a shift in guest preferences for character meal times, offering more opportunities throughout the day," a park representative stated.
Across Walt Disney World Resort hotels, the new guard shack at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is nearing completion. Workers have installed new windows and a door. Other construction tasks have also been finalized. This project improves the resort's entrance and security infrastructure.
New Merchandise Releases
Walt Disney World has introduced a "new" Zootopia bubble wand. This item originally debuted at Shanghai Disney Resort. Its arrival precedes the opening of Zootopia: Better Zoogether, a new show at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. It also comes ahead of the release of Zootopia 2.
A new ball cap inspired by the Haunted Mansion is now available at Walt Disney World. This merchandise item caters to fans of the classic attraction. Additionally, the annual camouflage Mickey merchandise collection has returned. This collection honors military service members, veterans, and their families. It features items like mugs and hoodies.
Merchandise for Special Events
Limited-edition merchandise often ties into park events or film releases. These items generate excitement and provide unique souvenirs for guests.
A new holiday t-shirt, inspired by the Jingle Cruise, has also arrived. The Jingle Cruise is a seasonal overlay of the popular Jungle Cruise attraction. Furthermore, Disney Mini Mix-It plush toys are being sold at a markdown. These plush toys are available without their hat accessories.
Stitch-Themed Running Shoes and Passholder Perks
A significant merchandise announcement involves the character Stitch. He will be featured on a limited-edition Glycerin 22 running shoe. This shoe is a collaboration between Brooks and runDisney. It is set to debut during the Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend, a popular event for runners.
Walt Disney World Annual Passholders can take advantage of a special offer this month. They will receive a limited-time 20% discount for DisneyStore.com. This perk provides passholders with savings on a wide range of Disney merchandise available online.
Disneyland Paris and Global Disney Store Offerings
Disneyland Paris continues to update its accommodations. Guests can now tour the refurbished standard cabins at Disney Davy Crockett Ranch. This campground resort offers a unique stay experience for visitors to the European park.
Online, the Disney Store has released new merchandise. A Toy Story Pizza Planet crossbody bag is now available. It is part of a collaboration between Disney Parks and Lug. Additionally, new CRISLU jewelry, designed specifically for Disneyland Resort, is available online. These pieces feature the resort’s nostalgic marquee.
A new ear headband featuring Pirates of the Caribbean has also appeared at the Disney Store. This item was recently spotted at Disneyland. For collectors of Spider-Bots, the latest limited edition is inspired by Spider-Man variant Spider-Punk, also known as Hobie Brown. This remote-controlled Spider-Punk Spider-Bot is available through the Disney Store.
The Walt Disney Company and Universal Parks
The Walt Disney Company is expanding its Storyliving by Disney communities. The Artisan Club at Cotino, the first such community, is scheduled to open later this month. Disney has provided a first look at the new community space, designed to offer unique experiences for residents.
Fact: Storyliving by Disney
Storyliving by Disney is a concept for residential communities that aim to bring Disney's storytelling and community-building principles to everyday living.
At Universal Orlando Resort, a new collection of Jaws apparel has been released. This collection is part of their UNIVRS line, catering to fans of the classic film. Over at Universal Studios Hollywood, test vehicles for the Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift ride have been seen on the track. These vehicles, complete with test dummies, indicate progress on the new attraction.
Disney+ and Other News
Disney+ will stream a 6-episode documentary series about Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour later this year. The streaming service will also feature the tour’s final show, which includes content from her album The Tortured Poets Department. This provides fans with extensive access to the popular concert series.
Other recent news for Walt Disney World includes updates on the relationship between Disney and the State of Florida, a discount for annual pass renewals, and further details on the Monsters Inc. Land project. These updates cover various aspects of park operations and future developments.
