Hello, Tiny Ears friends! Grab your Mickey mugs and cozy socks because we’ve got a full sleigh-load of updates this week. From a massive cruise-ship reveal to a nine-announcement Disney power move, Universal’s festive food-and-parade combo, the pacing secrets of the new Harry Potter TV series, and where to find Santa across Walt Disney World, it has been a wonderfully busy week in the world of theme parks and entertainment. Let’s jump into all five stories!
1. Disney Cruise Line Reveals New Disney Adventure Ship Details
Disney Cruise Line released a fresh wave of updates about its upcoming mega-ship, the Disney Adventure, sailing out of Singapore beginning March 2026. This ship is shaping up to be a floating Disney Springs, complete with over 17,000 square feet of retail, including the very first World of Disney at sea. Guests will also find a National Geographic store onboard, plus dedicated spaces for Duffy & Friends.
One of the biggest visual highlights is the massive three-deck “Storybook Castle” installed in the Imagination Garden—a towering centerpiece meant to evoke the feel of stepping into a living fairy tale. Add a 20-foot-tall sculpture of Mickey and Minnie on the stern, themed dining options, and an Asia-Pacific itinerary full of new adventures, and it’s clear Disney is aiming for one of the most immersive cruise experiences ever created.
R2’s take: “Okay, if there’s a castle on the ship, does that mean we get fireworks on the water? Because I’m bringing my goggles just in case.”
2. Disney Drops Nine Major Announcements: Parks, Movies, Tech & Global Expansion
Disney went full-power this week, making nine significant announcements covering nearly every arm of the company. The Parks & Experiences segment posted strong numbers: revenue hitting $8.77 billion (up 6%) and operating income at $1.88 billion (up 13%). Internationally, parks saw a 25% jump, driven by Paris and a massive expansion wave in Asia and the Middle East.
Here’s a deeper breakdown of the nine big things Disney revealed:
- A powerhouse 2026 movie slate
Including Zootopia 2, Toy Story 5, live-action Moana, Avengers: Doomsday, Frozen 3, and several still-unannounced projects. - The Disney+ App evolving into a “park companion”
Executive updates highlighted a future where guests could book trips, access special digital content, browse park merchandise, and even preview ride experiences through augmented or AI-enhanced tools embedded in Disney+. - New global resort expansions
Including ongoing builds in Paris and emerging development in Abu Dhabi on Yas Island, as Disney leans into major global markets. - Cruise ship fleet expansion
The company confirmed that cruise-ship investment is one of the largest drivers behind its capital spending increases this year. - Theme park confidence despite Epic Universe
When asked about Universal’s upcoming mega-park, Disney responded that the impact is “in line with expectations,” signaling they feel solid about their plans. - Domestic parks growth
U.S. parks revenue jumped 9%, driven by longer stays, higher per-guest spending, and sustained demand for seasonal events. - Technology investment
Disney touched on AI-driven animation tools that could support shorts, digital experiences, and real-time character interactions. - Hotel occupancy and travel demand remain strong
With 2025 holiday bookings up significantly year-over-year. - Major 2026–2029 capital plans remain fully funded
Disney reiterated that their long-term investment in new lands and attractions is continuing at full speed.
Lilly’s take: “Nine announcements? My brain needs a snack. But if this means more princess movies, more cute merch, and more sparkles in the parks, then Disney, I forgive you for overwhelming me.”
3. Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras 2026: Float Ride & Dine Experience Returns
Universal Orlando confirmed that the Float Ride & Dine Experience will officially return as part of Mardi Gras 2026. This add-on gives guests a three-course meal at select Universal restaurants, a non-alcoholic drink, and reserved seating for the parade. It’s a dinner-and-show combo that tends to sell out, especially during peak seasonal weekends.
Restaurants included typically rotate and feature some of Universal’s top locations, giving guests a chance to pair themed dining with the color and chaos of Mardi Gras parades. For visitors looking to upgrade their experience without committing to a full VIP tour, this add-on continues to be a sweet spot between budget and comfort.
R2’s take: “A parade AND a fancy meal? Yes. I will gladly eat dessert while watching confetti and beads fly.”
4. Harry Potter TV Series Promises No Long Breaks Between Seasons
Producers emphasized that they want viewers to stay immersed in the wizarding world for longer stretches without multi-year waiting periods. Casting is underway, set design is scaling up, and early writing teams are working with reference material directly from the books to maintain fidelity.
Lilly’s take: “Finally! I don’t want to wait three years to see what happens next. Give me magic every season now!”
5. Where to Meet Santa at Walt Disney World This Holiday Season
Disney Parks Blog shared an updated guide for where families can meet Santa across Walt Disney World in 2025. Santa appearances include:
- EPCOT — at CommuniCore Hall
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom — Restaurantosaurus in DinoLand U.S.A.
- Hollywood Studios — near the main entrance tree
- Magic Kingdom — during select holiday parties and parades
- Select Disney hotels — including Wilderness Lodge and Grand Floridian on rotating nights
Each location will have unique backdrops, from classic Christmas coziness to whimsical dinosaur-themed décor.
Kids’s take:
- R2: “Santa in DinoLand is the greatest idea ever. Fossils + gifts = perfection.”
- Lilly: “I’m telling Santa I want a wand and a spaceship toy.”
Tiny Ears Tip of the Week
If you’re visiting during the holidays, always bring a “festive essentials kit”: one portable charger, one snack, one small toy, one mini-wipe pack, and one backup ornament for the inevitable “but I want THAT one” meltdown moment. A prepared parent is a peaceful parent—especially at 9 p.m. during a holiday parade.
Don’t forget to use our planner for the best time to visit Disney, best Disney Snacks, and our Disney height guide!