From anniversaries and holiday announcements to attraction closures and new partnerships, Disney fans had plenty to talk about this week. Here’s the latest news and highlights from across the parks, Disney+, and beyond.
Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary Celebration
Disneyland marked its 70th anniversary in style. ABC aired a two-hour primetime special filled with archival footage, celebrity appearances, and tributes to the park, which opened in 1955. The milestone reminded fans that Walt’s original dream continues to inspire after seven decades of storytelling and innovation.
Epcot Holiday Updates: Candlelight Processional & Storytellers
The holidays are set to sparkle at Epcot. Disney revealed the official Candlelight Processional lineup and released the Festival of the Holidays Storytellers Guide. Guests can now plan their visits around seasonal entertainment and cultural traditions that make the holidays at Epcot so unique.
The Last Day of Star Wars Launch Bay
September 24 marked the final day of operation for Star Wars Launch Bay at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. We took one last look at the exhibit, exploring its changing displays and highlighting the original concept art that once helped shape the experience.
During his farewell walkthrough, he finally uncovered a hidden Mickey Easter egg that had long been overlooked by guests. The space will now prepare for its next chapter, with a brand-new experience set to debut in 2026.
New Walt Disney World Ambassadors Introduced
Walt Disney World announced its newest Ambassadors, who will represent the resort through 2026. Continuing a tradition started by Walt himself, the team will serve as official storytellers and community leaders, bringing the magic of Disney to cast members and fans worldwide.
Santa Claus Finds a New Spot at Epcot
Santa Claus will meet guests in a new location at Epcot this season. Families can look forward to catching the jolly old elf while enjoying the park’s global holiday celebrations.
Star Wars News: Teaser Trailer & LEGO Special
A new teaser trailer for The Mandalorian and Grogu gave fans a first look at the duo’s upcoming 2026 theatrical release. We break down our favorite Easter eggs from the trailer and what they could mean for the future of the saga. On Disney+, LEGO Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy is set to premiere, promising plenty of humor and brick-built adventures.
Kingdom Hearts Pins Arrive at Disney Parks
Collectors and gamers have something to celebrate. Exclusive Kingdom Hearts pins are making their way to U.S. Disney Parks, combining the magic of Disney with the video game series.
Jollywood Nights 2025 Merchandise Revealed
Disney’s Hollywood Studios just unveiled the first wave of Jollywood Nights 2025 merchandise. Fans attending this year’s event will find festive apparel, accessories, and collectibles inspired by the glamorous holiday celebration.
Magic: The Gathering Spider-Man Surprise at World of Disney
An unexpected crossover made headlines this week as Magic: The Gathering Spider-Man appeared at World of Disney. The limited drop caught fans by surprise, bridging the worlds of Marvel and the iconic trading card game.
Disney Partners with Topps and Major League Baseball
In a first-of-its-kind collaboration, Disney announced a new partnership with Topps and Major League Baseball. Mickey Mouse, Goofy, and Donald Duck will appear in authentic MLB uniforms representing all 30 teams in the 2025 Topps Chrome® Disney Trading Card Set. Collectors can find the cards at Topps.com, select retailers, and hobby shops nationwide.
Animal Kingdom Construction
Over at Animal Kingdom, construction has officially gone vertical, offering the first visible signs of the park’s next expansion.
The Boathouse Duck Wins Fans
The new The Boathouse Ceramic Duck Sipper is one of the best deals if you enjoy collecting popcorn buckets and sippers from Disney. You can pick up the Duck Sipper at The Boathouse in Disney Springs for $25.00, and if you have a Disney AP or DVC, you can use your discount.
Prep & Landing Returns with a New Project
Holiday favorite Prep & Landing is coming back. Disney confirmed a brand-new installment, Prep & Landing: The Snowball Protocol, bringing Wayne, Lanny, and their chaotic holiday missions back to screens after more than a decade.
Don’t Miss This Week at Walt Disney
Catch our complete discussion, video highlights, and live chat replay on Sam’s Disney Diary YouTube. We dig deeper into every story—from hidden Mickeys to Star Wars Easter eggs—and share what’s next for Disney fans everywhere.
