The refurbishment of the Galactic Gateway stage in Magic Kingdom is now complete. The Tomorrowland venue has been blocked off for repainting and maintenance since early March.
Galactic Gateway Refurbishment
Rolling planters are gone from around the stage, indicating work is done. The stage has a fresh new blue and silver color scheme. For comparison, below is a photo of the stage from March.
It previously had bright aqua-colored pillars and yellow back corners. The booth across from the stage was also repainted with the new color scheme.
Now the curved pillars are the same dark blue as the bases of the stage lighting supports. The edge of the stage, which was formerly white, is a light blue.
Two slanted panels on the stage’s back wall were previously black. They are now white like the rest of the wall (except for two black pieces of glass).
The shutters next to the doors on the stage are now gold against blue panels. The shutters were formerly purple.
The floor of the stage appears to be about the same as it was before — gray with black details. The screen, which was recently reactivated, displays the same old “Galactic Gateway” logo in space.
The side walls of the stage are light blue instead of white. The previously yellow corners are now the dark blue. There are silver and gold details.
Rows of circles on the sides and back are dark green.
This isn’t the first time the stage has been repainted. Years ago, when it still hosted Stitch’s SuperSonic Celebration, the stage featured more purple and green. The newest color scheme better matches current Tomorrowland theming.
There are still two rolling planters left around a lighting support. A blue tarp covers part of the support’s base.
The other planter is in front of the showtimes sign, which has read “No Shows Today” for a long time. The stage usually hosts seasonal shows and dance parties, as well as character appearances.
This area is also known as Rocket Tower Plaza Stage or, informally, the Tomorrowland stage.
We have it on good authority from these Stormtroopers in Galaxy’s Edge that your water bottle cabinet could use a new addition. We must keep the source of our intel strictly confidential, but we also know that you’ve been looking for an excuse to do a little Target shopping. Well, we come to you with crucial information: we have the bounty you require.
Stormtroopers in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
Target has got the goods, people! We just found a BUNCH of new Disney-inspired water bottles available online NOW, and you have to see them. Attention all Disney fans, this is the way to your next successful Target purchase. Come along!
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.
One thing we need in our water bottles is good insulation. Luckily, this new Star Wars design has a double-wall vacuum layer that keeps drinks hot for 12 hours and cold for 24 hours. It also comes with a sturdy handle and reusable straw, making it easy to enjoy your drink on the go. It reminds us of a Stanley tumbler, but with a little Star Wars flair!
Can we all take a moment to appreciate this tumbler? It’s nice and big at a 40-ounce capacity, and that simple Minnie Mouse design makes us smile! If you’re trying to make an effort to drink more water throughout the day, this tumbler can help you reach your goal.
With that secure double-wall vacuum layer, you can rest assured your drink is safe and sound in this fun red tumbler! When you’re visiting the Disney World parks, it is VERY nice to have a nice, cold beverage hours after filling your tumbler. Check it out on the Target website now!
Allow us to recount a story for you. The scene is Disney World — Magic Kingdom, more specifically. There’s a family headed to Peter Pan’s Flight. But along the way, a little one gets separated from their parents. What happens next? You can probably guess.
Cast Members
Naturally, the instinct when a child gets separated from their parents is to freak out. Disney World is a big place, and there are a lot of people walking through those gates. But then again, this is Disney World, and there are TONS of specially trained Cast Members ready for this kind of situation. So, if you think you know what happened next, you might be surprised.
Now, back to our story. The little one may have wandered off, but luckily, a Cast Member quickly spotted the child by themselves. The Cast Member stayed with the child, talked to them, and kept them busy while other Cast Members were able to locate the child’s parents. Turns out the child in our story never shed a single tear — the entire problem was resolved before they even realized their parents were gone. And THAT is the magic of Disney Cast Members.
The incredible Joel!
Disney has this process down to a science. In fact, they use a secret code to explain this situation without raising the alarm and alerting the public. A Signal 70 code is issued when a child is missing.
Cinderella Castle
As a regular old park guest, this isn’t some kind of special lingo you need to know about. But if you want to know how Disney keeps such a well-oiled machine — even in situations like this — well, let’s just say we have a few former Cast Members on the team who are familiar with the Signal 70 process.
Slinky Dog Dash
Here’s the secret to one of the most important parts of the process of handling a lost child: the child is never lost.You will NOT hear a Disney World Cast Member use the word “lost” in front of a little one. You may hear some Cast Members mention a missing parent (notice how it’s flipped to the adult, not the child?), but most times, Cast Members try to avoid drawing attention to the fact that there’s even a problem. After all, no one wants to upset a kid in Disney World!
Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
Luckily, these kinds of incidents don’t happen often. But in the event that a family member is separated, Cast Members know exactly what to do. And if you want a little extra peace of mind, we can help with that, too. Our biggest tip, if you’re traveling with kids, is to show them a Cast Member’s nametag so they know who to look for if they need help.
Cast Member nametag
You can also write your phone number on your child’s MagicBand or buy an Apple AirTag. We have a TON of different ways to use Apple AirTags HERE.
Yes, the thought of your little one getting lost — even for five minutes — is terrifying. But, like we said, Disney has a team of Cast Members who know how to handle these situations safely and efficiently.
Magic Kingdom
Although it’s easier said than done, stay calm and find the nearest Cast Member. They will be able to help! In the meantime, we’re always on the lookout for the latest Disney news, so stay tuned for more.
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you’re a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
Have you ever had this experience in Disney World? Let us know in the comments!
Even seasoned Disney World pros are always finding new ways to improve their packing game. Speaking of that, we’re at the parks everyday, so we wanted to share some tips with you that have been super handy and even some that we’ve only just learned! Let’s go!
As we said, we’re going to go over some of our packing hacks (some we literally just picked up) so that you can elevate your packing game!
Don’t sleep on this one. A foldable tote bag is a game-changer. It’s perfect for carrying your souvenirs, extra snacks, or even wet clothes after a water ride.
As you can imagine, they make categorizing your clothes and accessories so easy, which in turn makes finding what you need without rummaging through everything just so much easier. You have to start using them in every suitcase!
Sure, you’re right. Most Disney hotels have that in-shower drying line, but what happens when you need to hang more? That’s when bringing your own portable travel clothesline comes in clutch.
It’s perfect for drying swimsuits or when you need extra drying space. Also, we say all the time that Florida is a rainy place, so more likely than not, you’re going to need to dry something when you’re at Disney World. It’s best to come prepared.
You don’t know how many times we’ve used them as emergency waterproofing for our phones, wallets, keys, and other valuables. And, to be sure, they’re also great for keeping snacks fresh.
We learned that packing a small deck of cards or other small games can be a lifesaver if you’re stuck indoors when one of those unexpected challenges happens. Also, if you make sure the games are small, they’re not going to take up much room in the suitcase.
A trash bag? Okay, so it doesn’t have to be a trash bag per se. You can bring a collapsible laundry bag if that makes you feel better. The point is that it’s 2024. We’ve got to stop just putting our dirty laundry on the floor in the hotel room.
If you have trash bags with you, you can collect those clothes and keep them separate from anything that’s clean in your suitcase on your return trip! You’re welcome.
If you’re anything like us, you need the room to be completely dark in order to get good sleep, and even Disney hotel curtains can have gaps that let in unwanted light.
We found that if you pack a few clothespins in your bag, you can use them to keep curtains closed tightly at night, which will have you sleeping like a baby in no time.
If you’ve got your whole crew with you on the trip, you know how crazy it can get when everyone’s trying to pick out their outfits in the morning. Save yourself a TON of headaches and when you’re packing, go ahead and organize outfits by day using individual bags.
That way, each morning, all you’ll have to do is to simply grab a bag and you’ll have everything you need except shoes. This makes getting ready quick and hassle-free.
Apologies beforehand as this one might be a bit triggering to germaphobes out here. This one is an absolute must! You have to wear socks at the airport, especially since you’ll need to remove your shoes during security checks.
You know that lighting isn’t always the greatest for when you need to touch up your makeup or check your appearance. They’re typically compact and incredibly useful.
Those are just a couple of the packing hacks we swear by (and some we didn’t learn until just now), and we’d love to hear about yours in the comments! Until then, keep following DFB for more!
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you’re a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
What are your favorite packing hacks for Disney World? Tell us all about them in the comments!
The sun is shining, and the flowers are growing. It’s a beautiful time of year — it’s nearly summer! This is also a VERY popular time of year for people to take a little vacation to Disney World. Know what that means? It’s time to go shopping for some fun NEW resortwear!
Disney World
From essential Disney accessories to cute new Disney shoes, we rounded up a list of some of our favorite Disney vacation must-haves available now. If you’ve never heard of Primark, consider this your official introduction; they have a TON of cute Disney merchandise. Prepare to be WOWED by the stylish selection of Disney items available now!
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.
Looking for a new Disney park bag? We may have just found a GREAT new option! This Minnie Mouse-inspired backpack is the perfect size to take on vacation and has some really fun little Disney details. Find it exclusively in Primark stores!
Calling it now: everyone in the Magic Kingdom will ask you where you got your shirt. We LOVE all of Disney’s retro-inspired merchandise, and this long T-shirt is perfect for pairing with biker shorts, leggings, or your favorite athletic shorts. It’s just what you need for a Disney vacation this summer! You can find it in most major Primark stores.
Two words: Mickey. Sneakers. Need we say more? These adorable sneakers would be so fun for a visit to Disney World! The simple black and white colors will match just about any outfit, making them a fun new closet staple. We’re already imagining TONS of outfits to pair with these shoes. Keep your eyes out next time you shop at Primark!
We can’t share a summer essentials roundup without including this colorful Stitch sling backpack! From the tropical print to the practical design, this was practically MADE for a trip to Disney World. And the best part? It’s available on Amazon for under $25!
Have you heard the news? Bucket hats are on trend this summer — especially in Disney World! These serve TWO purposes. One, they protect your head from the sun. And two, they add a pop of color to your outfit! Talk about a win-win!
Snacking around Disney World just so happens to be one of my favorite things to do.
Spaceship Earth
But, when it comes to EPCOT, there are so many different places to eat you might not know where to start! Luckily, you have a new food editor best friend — andI’m telling you exactly what you should always eat at EPCOT.
Liege Waffle
First things first — breakfast! Over atConnections Cafe and Eatery located in EPCOT’s World Celebration, we’re grabbing a Liege Waffle. At Connections Cafe, the Liege Waffle is made with brioche dough with pearl and powdered sugar. The Liege Waffle at Connections Eatery is made with Brioche Dough with Pearl Sugar, Strawberries, Whipped Cream, and Chocolate Sauce.
Orange Bird Liege Waffle
The waffle itself tastes a bit sweeter if you can imagine thanks to the brioche dough, and the combination of the strawberries, whipped cream, and chocolate sauce on the waffle from Connections Eatery might be what dreams are made of.
Fish and Chips
Get anywhere close to the United Kingdom Pavilion at EPCOT and you’re sure to smell the delicious, fried, scent of fish & chips from Yorkshire County Fish Shop wafting into your nostrils. It’s enticing enough to pull me straight out of line for a pint (okay, almost!)
Fish & Chips
This spot only serves up one thing, and they do it well: perfectly crisped strips of fish with hearty fries thick enough to soak up malt vinegar and ketchup. The shop also serves Bass Ale and Harp Lager to enjoy with your dish — and really, what more could you need?
Werther’s Original Gingerbread Salted Caramel Cookie Sandwich
This treat is made with two soft gingerbread cookies held together with thick buttercream icing and Werther’s caramel inside. You’ll find plenty of gingerbread flavor in the caramel cookie sandwich, with two BIG cookies. The icing has a perfect consistency (even for this icing hater), and the combination of the caramel drizzle and the cookie is to die for!
Popcorn
You’ve got two delicious options to choose from when it comes to specialty popcorn at EPCOT, and over at the Canada Popcorn Cart, you’ll find Maple Popcorn. If you don’t see it, the smell alone will lead you there: popcorn with unmistakable sweetness. It’s truly an ideal combo.
Popcorn
But, Caramel Popcorn at Karamell-Küche in EPCOT’s Germany pavilion is absolutely irresistible as well. What makes this popcorn so snack-worthy is the combination of sweet, salt, and crunch.
Caramel Popcorn…YUM!
EPCOT is secretly a popcorn lover’s paradise!
Pretzel Bread Pudding
At Sommerfest in the Germany Pavilion, I love the Pretzel Bread Pudding. It’s made with leftover pretzels (like traditional bread pudding is made with leftover bread). It’s also topped with Caramel Butterscotch and a White Cream Sauce.
Pretzel Bread Pudding
The main flavors with this soft Pretzel Bread Pudding are caramel and cinnamon plus a few other baking spices — but the caramel is really the standout flavor here. The white cream sauce tasted kind of like a crème anglaise — it’s very subtle and perfect if you love sweet and salty combos.
Seasonal Poutine
The Refreshment Port is located just outside the Canada pavilion. There’s really one reason to come here: POUTINE. French fries, gravy, and cheese curds — what more can you ask for?
Turkey Poutine: French Fries with turkey gravy, cranberry relish, and crispy onions
Seasonal poutine is usually featured during the EPCOT festivals. This dish and its variations have put the Refreshment Port “on the map” for many guests, and these days you’ll often encounter a bit of a line for the popular snack.
Literally Anything at Les Halles
If you didn’t already know Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie was tucked away in the France Pavilion, you might miss it entirely — and that would be a tragic mistake. This bakery is full of delicious eats, both savory and sweet. You can get sandwiches, soup, salad, pastries, macarons and more. I like to order a bunch of different things and share them with my group (or just hoard them all to myself like the little snack goblin I am!)
Les Halles
At the end of the day, you might have different must-eat EPCOT treats on your list — and that’s okay! But, my opinions are never wrong, so keep that in mind too. Just kidding! Stay tuned to DFB for the latest Disney World snack news, and check out more food reviews below!
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you’re a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
What’s your favorite thing to eat at EPCOT? Tell us in the comments.
After debuting at Disney California Adventure for Pixar Fest 2024, the talking Dug character has unexpectedly arrived at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This version of Dug from “Up” can actually talk to guests, reciting some of his famous quotes from the Pixar film.
Talking Dug
The talking Dug character is roaming Discovery Island instead of appearing at the Wilderness Explorers Club House, which he and Russell returned to earlier this year. Russell is still meeting at the Club House at regular meet and greet times.
There are no announced times to encounter Dug and you won’t find him listed on the My Disney Experience app.
Kevin from “Up” also roams Discovery Island periodically until about 5 p.m. Dug will likely alternate appearances with Kevin until around the same time.
I just met you and I love you We spotted Dug from Up roaming at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Next time you are at Animal Kingdom be on the lookout for Dug! #animalkingdom#disneysanimalkingdom#upmovie#dug
The gates were gone as of Thursday, May 23. Crews had placed a series of rolling planters around the Fairytale Garden entrance instead.
As of Sunday, May 26, the gates are back. They feature the same “Los Madrigal” mural of the family but with one minor difference.
The edges of the gates, where they meet at the center, have been repainted as extensions of the mural. Previously, the center edges were the same pink that borders the other three edges. See the old look in our photo below.
Photo from September 2023
Now, when the gates are closed, the mural will look more seamless instead of having a pink line down the center.
The Mirabel meet and greet is open at the following times: 9 a.m., 9:35 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 11:15 a.m., 12 p.m., 2 p.m., 2:45 p.m., 3:15 p.m., 3:45 p.m., and 4:15 p.m. Bruno will join Mirabel in Fairytale Garden during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party this fall.
Disney characters are all over the parks and resorts, and you don’t want to miss meeting your favorites! That’s why it’s important to keep up to date on any changes. …
We spotted Dug from Up roaming at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Next time you are at Animal Kingdom be on the lookout for Dug! 
