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 -17 January
Permanent Closure Expected for Yet Another Disney Springs Location
Another change is quietly unfolding at Disney Springs, the shopping and dining district that anchors Walt Disney World Resort’s retail offerings. Reimagined from Downtown Disney into a more upscale destination, the area has seen constant turnover alongside its expansion. Now, another retailer is preparing to exit. Francesca's Joins a Growing List of Closures The Francesca’s location at Disney Spri
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17 January
Disney Park Threatens To Change Nightly Fireworks if Guests Don’t Obey Rules
Disneyland Paris has made a small but notable adjustment to its nighttime operations, adding a spoken safety warning before its fireworks display. The message is now played to all guests gathered in Central Plaza moments before the show begins. The update reflects a long-running issue at the park tied to guest behavior during crowded nighttime entertainment. It also signals a shift toward more dir
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17 January
‘Star Wars’ Drops Surprising Kylo Ren Hint as Fan Confusion Grows
Kylo Ren’s story appears to be unfinished — despite recent signals suggesting otherwise. In recent months, Lucasfilm has sent mixed messages about the future of one of Star Wars’ most divisive characters. Reports of canceled projects, vague interviews, and renewed fan campaigns have kept Ben Solo in circulation, even as the studio avoided clear commitments. That uncertainty arrives at a sensitive
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17 January
Disney Hotel Guest Describes Scary Incident
A guest recently had a not-so-magical experience at a Disney hotel after cast members failed to step in and assist during a medical incident. When Problems Arise Outside the Parks Disney operates a wide range of hotels at Disneyland Paris, spanning value resorts to premium properties. While most stays pass without issue, some guests have described situations involving slow responses, missing belon
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17 January
A Long-Maligned Attraction Nears the End as Universal Makes Way for a Massive New Coaster
Universal might finally be giving fans what they have been waiting for: a decent Fast & Furious attraction that respects its fanbase while honoring the long-standing franchise. ‘Fast & Furious’ Finally Getting the Respect It Has Worked So Hard for at Universal Orlando Resort Few places in the world carry the same emotional weight as a theme park. For millions of guests, Universal Orlando Resort is
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17 January
The Rise of the Boutique Giant: A New Multi-Billion Dollar Theme Park Brand Is Moving to Orlando to Take on Disney and Universal
For decades, Central Florida's skyline has been dominated by a two-party system. If you were looking for world-class immersion, you went to Walt Disney World. If you wanted high-octane thrills and movie-set realism, you headed to Universal Orlando Resort. But as we enter 2026, the status quo is being shattered. While Universal is currently basking in the glow of its recently opened Epic Universe,
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17 January
Ramen Cooking Competition Sold Out at Disney With Orlando Local Chefs
If you're just now hearing about Ramen Rumble and thinking you'll grab tickets for the February event at Disney Springs, we have bad news. The entire thing is sold out. Completely. Both sessions and all ticket tiers are gone. Ramen Rumble 8: Battle of the Champions at Morimoto Asia on February 2, 2026, is officially at capacity, and unless you already have your tickets, you'll have to wait until n
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17 January
Orlando Airport Is About to Be an Absolute Nightmare for Theme Park Travelers
Listen up: if you're flying into Orlando for Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando Resort anytime in 2026, you need to know that MCO is currently a construction zone, wrapped in policy changes and a side of operational chaos. The airport is undergoing multiple major transformations simultaneously, and Disney travelers will feel every single one of them. The Orlando Airport Tram Disaster You Need
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17 January
Disney Scavenger Hunt at EPCOT Is Back at the Best Festival
Festival of the Arts officially launched at EPCOT this week at Disney. While everyone's busy posting about food booths and Broadway performers, they're completely missing one of the most engaging activities the festival offers. Figment's Brush With the Masters scavenger hunt has returned for 2026, and if you're not doing this, you're honestly experiencing the festival wrong. Photos: Looking for an
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17 January
After Months of Operational Problems, Epic Universe Finally Shuts Down One of Its Attractions
Epic Universe is growing its refurbishment list but might also be adding to its closure list, even months after opening. So what's going on? Let's sort it out together. Epic Universe Refurbishment List Grows When guests walk through the gates of a brand-new theme park, they expect innovation, reliability, and that unmistakable sense of wonder that defines a world-class destination. At Universal Or
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