News
Disney Fanatic is here to deliver the latest in Disney news from The Walt Disney Company and beyond.
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Jan- 2026 -15 January
EPCOT Is About to Feel Very Different Starting Tomorrow
If you’ve visited EPCOT enough times, you know the feeling. Some days, the park just hits differently. Tomorrow is shaping up to be one of those days. Guests walking into EPCOT will notice the shift almost immediately. The park isn’t just hosting another festival — it’s stepping into a new seasonal identity overnight. Colors pop a little more. Music feels more intentional. Even the pathways seem b
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15 January
The Squeeze on Liberty Square: New Permit Signals the End of an Era for Magic Kingdom’s Historic Shoreline
For many Walt Disney World purists, the soul of the Magic Kingdom resides in its transitions—the way the colonial brickwork of Liberty Square bleeds into the rough-hewn timber of Frontierland. But as of January 15, 2026, those historic lines are being redrawn. Credit: Jeff Krause, Flickr While the massive removal of the Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island has dominated the headlines for months
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15 January
Disney Fans Are Getting Unhinged as Ride Approaches Extinction
The death clock is officially ticking on DINOSAUR at Disney's Animal Kingdom, and fans are spiraling in the best possible way. The attraction closes permanently on February 1, 2026, which means we're down to the final weeks before this nearly 30-year-old ride goes the way of the actual dinosaurs. And instead of quietly mourning, Disney fans are going absolutely wild with their tributes. The Disney
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15 January
Disney World Empties Water Ride Following Sudden Attraction Stop
An unexpected incident at Disney’s Animal Kingdom gave guests a rare look at what happens when a major water attraction doesn’t go according to plan. During the final operating hours, one of the park’s most recognizable rides was fully drained after coming to a sudden stop. The attraction affected was Kali River Rapids, a staple of Disney’s Animal Kingdom that blends thrilling rapids with lush jun
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15 January
Gideon’s Bakehouse About to Spill Major Disney Springs Tea This Friday
Gideon's Bakehouse, known for its hefty cookies and long lines at Disney Springs, just shared a vague Instagram post announcing big news this Friday. Given recent events at Disney Springs, speculation is high about what they'll reveal. The Evidence Is Literally on Display The former Art of Shaving location at Disney Springs, near Gideon's Bakehouse, is undergoing a transformation. Window graphics
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15 January
Figment Fans, You’re Not Ready for What Disney Just Announced
Get ready for the annual insanity, folks. Disney just announced the 2026 Festival of the Arts Figment popcorn bucket, and based on the design alone, we're predicting absolute mayhem when this thing drops on January 16. The Design That's Got Everyone Talking This year's bucket features Figment dressed as a tiny artist, complete with a purple beret perched on his head, a bow tie around his neck spla
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15 January
Disney’s Biggest Retheme in Years Is Now Facing Serious Trouble
Disney doesn’t retheme attractions lightly, especially not ones with deep roots at Magic Kingdom. So when Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opened, it was clear this was meant to be a statement project. A familiar ride system, reimagined with new characters, new music, and a brand-new story inspired by The Princess and the Frog (2009). It was supposed to represent Disney doing what it does best—refreshing t
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15 January
Revealed: Disney’s Controversial New Look for Princess Leia in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
Disneyland is preparing to make a noticeable shift inside one of its most debated themed lands, a decision that has stirred excitement and frustration in equal measure thanks to one Princess Leia change. Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge has never been a traditional walk-through of the saga. From its opening, the land was positioned as a specific moment in time, asking guests to step into a story rather th
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14 January
CONFIRMED: Disney Theme Park Restaurant Shutdown Will Last at Least a Year
Disneyland Paris Resort has closed the doors on an original dining establishment for a minimum 12-month renovation, which will keep the restaurant closed through at least early 2027. Annette's diner, which opened with the European Disney park on April 12, 1992, shut down permanently on January 5, 2026, for a comprehensive overhaul affecting both dining and kitchen spaces. Construction barriers now
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14 January
Disney World Says Goodbye to Disney Springs Location, Effective January 13
Walt Disney World Resort eliminated a fixture from Disney Springs this month, without warning or explanation. An oversized photo opportunity that served as a popular backdrop for vacation pictures has been permanently erased from the shopping, dining, and entertainment district, leaving confused Disney Park guests staring at empty floor space. Sudden Disappearance Catches Disney Springs Guests Off
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