Additional Details Revealed for “Fantasia” x Pleasing Pop-Up Experience Opening at Disney Springs

More details have been revealed regarding the highly anticipated Fantasia x Pleasing pop-up opening this weekend at Disney Springs. What’s Happening: Earlier this week, a new collaboration between Pleasing, Harry Styles’ beauty and apparel brand, and Disney was announced, set to highlight the beauty and wonderment of the revolutionary animated film, Fantasia. As part of the […]

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Disneyland Entry Gate Replacement to Begin This October

Work on the previously announced Disneyland entry gate now has a start date, with work to be completed in phases.

New Disneyland Entry Gates

The Disneyland entry gates will begin their replacement this October.

According to Scott Gustin on X, the updates to the entry gates at Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure will begin with the former on October 7, 2024, specifically the first bank of entry gates on the Disneyland west side.

The project, which was revealed in January 2024 following permits being filed in December 2023, will be done in phases, with expected completion in 2025. This update will add more gates, stroller accessibility, and ADA accessibility for both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure.

For Disneyland Park specifically, plans include the removal of the existing turnstile and gates, and the installation of new automatic guest entry gates, fixed manual gates, and removable railings. Installation of overhead shrouds was also listed.

At Disney California Adventure, changes will include removing the existing turnstile and gates to install the new automatic guest entry gates, fixed manual gates, and removable railings, along with more overhead shrouds. Two separate permits were filed for both the turnstile and gate for Disney California Adventure.

Back in March 2024, Disneyland Resort was testing a new facial recognition entry system at the gates to Disney California Adventure. It’s possible the new gates could implement this technology, or it simply may have been just a test.

Are you looking forward to the updated Disneyland entry gates? Share your thoughts with us in the comments.

For more Disneyland Resort news and info, follow Disneyland News Today on TwitterFacebook, and Instagram. For Disney Parks news worldwide, visit WDWNT.

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TV Recap: Four Different Cases Fill Up Dr. Bankman’s Inaugural Cruise in “Doctor Odyssey” Episode 1

Doctor Odyssey has premiered and the pilot gave us four injuries, four main characters, a COVID-centric origin story, and one of those trendy IV vitamin drips. All! At! Sea! Dr. Bankman is the newest head doctor aboard The Odyssey after the previous doctor was let go by Captain Massey (and lovingly referred to as Dr. Magoo). […]

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Disneyland Hotel Becomes Haunted Mansion, Pixar Place Hotel Displays Painted Pumpkins for Halloween 2024

Disneyland Hotel, Pixar Place Hotel, and Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa are ready for Halloween with various decorations.

The Haunted Disneyland Hotel

A colorful mural at the Disneyland Hotel entrance depicting various Disney characters, including Mary Poppins, the Beast, Tinker Bell, and Dumbo, flanked by potted plants on either side.

The Disneyland Hotel features decorations inspired by The Haunted Mansion, including a lobby mural featuring the ride’s stretching portraits. “Welcome to the Disneyland Hotel” is in yellow Haunted Mansion-style lettering across the top of the display.

Between the iconic stretching portraits are The Haunted Mansion signs and gargoyle candelabras. The real Haunted Mansion is currently Haunted Mansion Holiday featuring “The Nightmare Before Christmas” decorations.

A sign inviting volunteers to join "999 Happy Haunts" with a QR code for the Disneyland Mobile App. The sign is placed indoors near plants and a large window.

The QR code on this sign leads guests to The Haunted Mansion PhotoPass filter on the Disneyland app.

At the elevator bay, three sets of doors feature decals of the three Hitchhiking Ghosts.

Giant pumpkin decoration with mouse ears displayed in a festive outdoor area, surrounded by Halloween-themed decorations and plants.

Outside, a Mickey jack-o’-lantern photo op is on the walkway to Downtown Disney District.

Next to the giant jack-o’-lantern flat are pumpkins with vines wrapping around lampposts. Purple banners read “Disneyland Hotel Happy Halloween 2024.”

Pixar Place Pumpkins

A display featuring a backdrop with geometric patterns and assorted decorated pumpkins in front of Pixar Place Hotel's lobby area, with a person sitting on the right side of the image.

At Pixar Place Hotel is a large flat pumpkin display. Its minimalist design matches other Pixar Place Hotel decorations. Lights on the ground illuminate the giant pumpkins.

Life-size pumpkins on the ground and podiums around the flats are painted with various Pixar characters. One set includes pumpkins inspired by Mike Wazowski, Wheezy from “Toy Story,” Sadness, Jack-Jack, “Finding Dory,” and Luca.

The other set of pumpkins is painted with images of Miguel from “Coco,” young Ellie from “Up,” Lightning McQueen, a bird from the short “For the Birds,” Randall Boggs, Boo, Squirt, and Remy with the Paris skyline.

A group of pumpkins, one of which is painted green with googly eyes and a black shape, placed beside other unpainted pumpkins on a surface.

Flik from “A Bug’s Life” is on a green-painted pumpkin, appearing to peek out of a hole in the side.

A bakery counter at a Disneyland hotel displaying a variety of bread, pastries, and baked goods. The area is decorated with Halloween-themed accents, including pumpkins and fall leaves. A cash register is visible in the background.

The counter at Sketch Pad Cafe is adorned with un-themed pumpkins, autumn leaves, and other decorations.

Disney’s Witchy Grand Californian Hotel

A Halloween display featuring pumpkins, a cauldron, spell books, and other themed props with a sign that reads "Happy Halloween 2024" in front of a large mirror backdrop evokes the enchanting vibe of the Disneyland Hotel.

At Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is a new witchy display across from the life-size Old Hag confection. Dozens of pumpkins are on the ground and a table, which is also topped with a cauldron, spell books, candlesticks, and small chests.

A sign at Disneyland's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa reads "Happy Halloween 2024," surrounded by pumpkins and festive Halloween decorations.

A headstone-like sign features the hotel’s logo and reads “Happy Halloween 2024.”

A decorative display at the Disneyland Hotel features a large enchanted mirror surrounded by pumpkins and assorted Halloween-themed props, all set in a dimly lit indoor setting with purple accent lighting.

Behind the table is a large mirror with a smokey center, similar to the Magic Mirror from “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.”

A Halloween-themed backdrop at the Disneyland Hotel features a full moon and eerie trees with faces. A sign on a stand next to it reads "Happy Halloween." The scene is set indoors on a wooden floor, blending spooky excitement with the hotel's enchanting charm.

On the other side of the display is a photo op featuring a full moon above barren trees. Two spooky trees with faces frame the backdrop.

A wooden sign reading "Happy Halloween" stands on a base with another sign below it, set against a backdrop featuring trees, evoking the festive spirit you might find at the Disneyland Hotel.

A faux wooden sign to one side reads “Happy Halloween” with a red apple.

Check out our full guide to Halloween Time 2024 at Disneyland Resort.

What do you think of the spooky decor at the Disneyland Resort hotels? Have you seen any of it in person? Share your thoughts with us in the comments and on social media.

For more Disneyland Resort news and info, follow Disneyland News Today on TwitterFacebook, and Instagram. For Disney Parks news worldwide, visit WDWNT.

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What Sets a Disney Cruise Line Vacation Apart From a Disney Parks Vacation?

This post contains sponsored content from Be Our Guest Vacations. Help support WDWNT by using the links in this article to book your next resort stay with our sponsors, Be Our Guest Vacations.

As someone who has been to Walt Disney World countless times throughout my life, it has been hard, if not impossible, to deviate from that tradition. It wasn’t until this year that I finally visited Disneyland for the first time. This was a year of firsts, as it also marked my first trip on a Disney Cruise: the Disney Fantasy. After the trip, I realized just how amazing a Disney Cruise is. In fact, I’ve already booked my next one! But what sets a Disney Cruise Line vacation apart from a vacation to one of the Disney Parks?

The Blending of Luxury and Fun

A stuffed Mickey Mouse toy is positioned in the foreground with a blurred expanse of the ocean and sky in the background, evoking memories of a magical Disney Cruise Line vacation.

Let’s face it, a vacation to the Disney Parks is not a relaxing vacation. Sometimes, I wish I had the time to take a vacation to recover from my Disney vacation! The heat, the crowds, the thrilling attractions, the insane amount of walking, and all the stressful reservations for attractions and dining are a far cry from a relaxing trip lounging at the beach. On the other hand, a vacation at a luxury beach resort lacks the quintessential fun of a Disney vacation. The music, the theming, the characters, and the level of quality and service are truly what sets Disney apart from the competition.

Disney Cruise Line is truly the best of both worlds. Everything is a short distance from your stateroom, whether that be pictures with Mickey Mouse in the lobby or a seat at the serene adult-only pool at the top deck. Kids or, like myself, kids at heart, can get the magical Disney vacation experience while also enjoying the luxury of an inclusive vacation.

An Inclusive Vacation

A plate with shrimp, potatoes, mixed vegetables, and a cinnamon roll sits on a table next to a glass of orange juice, with a view of the ocean that perfectly complements a Disney Cruise Line Vacation.

When you book a trip to a Disney park, that steep price tag is not where the expenses end, it’s where they begin. Meals, snacks, and the Lightning Lane Multi Pass are just some of the extra spending you’ll do after paying for your hotel and park admission.

That is not a problem on a Disney Cruise, as almost everything is included in your trip cost! Aside from specialty dining locations such as Palo and Remy (options vary by ship), specialty drinks, and certain snacks, nearly all dining is included (and unlimited!) during your trip. So, go ahead, make multiple pizza runs by the pool, try everything at the buffet, and make as many self-serve ice cream cones as you want!

A plush toy sits near a dessert in a glass, adorned with chocolate syrup and a decorative chocolate piece, reminiscent of treats enjoyed during a Disney Cruise Line vacation.

At night, rotational dining takes you to one of three themed restaurants for dinner, where everyone gets their own appetizer, entree, and dessert!

Travel the World

Aerial view of a docked Disney Cruise Line ship and a pier with people walking, adjacent to a coastal town with several buildings, under a partly cloudy sky.

Sure, the World Showcase at EPCOT can take you around the world in small doses, but what if you could ACTUALLY travel the world? Disney Cruise Line makes stops at many locations, depending on your trip itinerary. Locations include Cozumel, Mexico, the Cayman Islands, Alaska, The Virgin Islands, Disney’s two private islands in the Bahamas, and many more!

Two dolphins leap out of the water in synchrony at an aquatic facility on a bright day, making it feel like a magical moment straight out of a Disney Cruise Line vacation.

Each stop comes with many “Port Adventures” options. These shore excursions allow you to determine how you want to spend your day at the ports. Excursions such as snorkeling, swimming with manta rays, meeting dolphins, culinary adventures, museum tours, and so much more are available to be taken!

If venturing out off the ship is not your style, there are plenty of things to do on the ship, both on port days and days at sea. Mixology classes, towel animal lessons, game shows, nightclubs, live music, and bingo are just a few of the countless things you can do. The ships also host Broadway-style stage shows and movie theaters playing both theatrical-run movies and classic Disney films.

Disney Fantasy at Castaway Cay

While nothing beats a Walt Disney World vacation for me, Disney Cruise Line offers a relaxing vacation without sacrificing the whimsy and fun Disney offers in all its experiences. The cruise strikes a perfect balance of luxurious relaxation and thematic excitement.

If you have not experienced a Disney Cruise Line vacation yet, let me be the first to say you absolutely should give it a try! Also, let the trip be stress-free from the start by booking it with our friends at Be Our Guest Vacations. Their expert team of vacation planners will handle all the booking at no cost so you can focus on looking forward to how you will spend the trip. Visit WDWNT.Travel to learn more!

Have you been on a Disney Cruise before? What was the experience like for you? Let us know in the comments!

This post contains sponsored content from Be Our Guest Vacations. Help support WDWNT by using the links in this article to book your next Disney vacation with our sponsors, Be Our Guest Vacations. Their expertise in trip planning can make your booking process a breeze, and their services are FREE!

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Universal Orlando to Host Panel on the Creation of Epic Universe at New York Comic Con

New York Comic Con attendees will have the chance to learn more about Universal’s all-new Epic Universe theme park, thanks to a special panel. What’s Happening: New York Comic Con is a celebration of all fandoms, taking place October 17th–20th, 2024 at the Javits Center. Universal Orlando will be partaking in this year’s event, with a panel dedicated […]

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When Will DINOSAUR & Dino-Rama Close at Disney World?

As Walt Disney World fans prepare to take farewell trips for attractions & areas that are closing in Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom, readers have been asking about closure dates for DINOSAUR, Dinoland, and Dino-Rama. If you’re wondering when the rides, restaurants, shops, and entertainment in this land will go extinct, this explains what we […]

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TIFF Movie Review: “Hold Your Breath” is a Visually Stunning Horror Tale

Drought and isolation enhance the subtle horror mood that permeates throughout Hold Your Breath. With a story from the Oklahoma dust bowl of the 1930’s and wickedly devilish soundtrack, it’s easy to fear imaginary monsters when the world is trying hard to kill you. Hold Your Breath is a perfect blend of isolation, parental worry, and good […]

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Pandora – World of Avatar Interactive Drums Refurbished at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

The interactive drums in Pandora – The World of “Avatar” at Disney’s Animal Kingdom have been cleaned (or replaced) once again.

Pandora Interactive Drums Refurbished

Wooden, intricately carved Pandora interactive drums are surrounded by greenery. A person in the background appears to be exploring the area.

We noticed the refurbished drums during our Thursday trip to Disney’s Animal Kingdom. All of the tops of the drums have either been replaced or thoroughly cleaned.

Complex wooden structure with circular windows, surrounded by lush greenery and intertwining branches, resembling a fantastical or otherworldly dwelling, akin to the enchanting realms where Pandora drums echo through the air.

The drum tops are shades of reddish brown. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, drummers performed at the drum circle. Now the drum circle remains for guests to play with.

Above are photos of the new drum tops. For comparison, below are photos of the drum tops from early August. They had dark, dirty spots from being touched so much.

The drums have to be replaced periodically due to guest use. We previously noticed a refurbishment in early 2023.

Within the fiction of “Avatar,” the drum circle area is called Swotu Wayä, or “the sacred place of song.” The instruments are connected directly to Pandora’s root system, so drummers can access the “living memory of song.” Because Pandora has no walk-around Na’vi characters, the drummers were humans who the Na’vi taught to play.

Watch our video of the defunct drum circle show below:

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