DISNEYLAND UPDATE: Entertainment Gaps, Construction Reveals & Big Changes Ahead

If you’ve been wondering what Disneyland is prioritizing right now, this Update lays it out for you… meaningful changes, major construction, operational tweaks, and at least one decision that may leave you scratching your head.

This week, we break down where the resort appears to be headed (and what that could mean long term), take a full sweep through Constructionland from Downtown Disney to Avengers Campus, and a refurbishment calendar that does its best to block your path. We’re also tracking after-hours ticket availability, flagging a mobile-order test that we hope fails, and highlighting some fun new collectible merch for Disneyland fans.

Trust me… this is one you’ll want to read from top to bottom.

A Disneyland Reset? We Hope So!

Last week I was invited to attend a strategy session hosted by Disneyland Resort President Thomas Mazloum. There were tangible news items to report. Changes to park hopping. Clarity on reservations. An update on the future of Monsters, Inc. But what struck me most was not the obvious news but rather the tone of the conversation.

For several years now, many longtime fans have felt that decisions were being made in a fog. Prices climbed. Entertainment thinned. Planning a park day grew more complicated. The guest experience felt harder to navigate and, oftentimes, less joyful. This meeting felt like an acknowledgment of that drift away from the classic Disneyland experience and a serious attempt to begin correcting it.

Thomas has been at the helm of Disneyland for just one year. And his strategy is not dramatic, but rather incremental. Simplify the experience. Restore operational discipline. Rebuild hospitality culture. In many ways, that is exactly what Disneyland needs right now. Though we wish the changes were happening faster. 

The Immediate Headlines

Let’s begin with the news.

The reservation system is staying for now. Thomas believes it allows the resort to better manage attendance patterns and staffing. Like it or not, he is firm on this position. He knows it goes against his simplicity mantra, but in this case, he thinks it’s worth it. 

More encouraging is the decision to remove the 11 a.m. park hopping restriction later this year. Guests with Park Hopper tickets will once again be able to move between parks throughout the day. No word on when this change will take place.

The other major update involves Monsters, Inc.: Mike & Sulley to the Rescue! Construction timelines in Disney California Adventure are being adjusted so the attraction can remain open through this year and into next, preserving ride capacity in DCA during a heavy build cycle.

Does that mean Avatar may not happen? Sadly, that does not appear to be in question. But it is fair to say that if guests were asked which concepts they most want to see expanded in that corner of DCA, Avatar would likely be at the bottom of the list. Monstropolis. Zootopia. Frozen. Moana? There are lots of better options. While Thomas said that Avatar is still on track, a year is a long time for Disney to rethink this project, especially after Iger steps down. 

A Shift in Philosophy

Where I became more optimistic was in Thomas’ broader philosophy for the Disneyland Resort.

Thomas acknowledged something many guests already feel. A Disneyland visit has become expensive and, frequently, overly complex. His team is examining ways to simplify planning and introduce targeted promotions, particularly for young families. It is not a wholesale reversal of pricing strategy. But it is a rare recognition of what really matters to guests.

At the same time, serious attention is being paid to ride reliability. Maintenance windows are being expanded. Supply chains are being strengthened. Frequent downtime drivers are being identified and addressed. Holiday overlay installations were shortened this past season, and even the Disneyland Railroad operated four trains during the holidays, something we had not seen in years.

More than 1.5 million additional ride experiences were generated solely from improvements in ride reliability. 200,000 of those from the overlay time savings. We’re glad to see the enhancements, but there’s still room for improvement.  

The Cast Conversation

Then there is the human side of the equation.

Roughly 60 percent of current cast members were hired after the 2020 park closures during a compressed hiring surge. Training was shortened. Traditions (the foundational training session for new cast) was simplified and made partially virtual. The focus was on safety protocols and rapid staffing, rather than on guest relations and Disney magic-making. 

The impact of the devolution of Disneyland’s classic training programs has been noticeable. Moments of friction with guests (and even among cast members) are common. Onstage conversations among cast members create an unprofessional and overly casual atmosphere. And a general loss of polish and friendliness that once defined the Disneyland standard is long gone. Disneyland hasn’t felt like itself since 2019… and even then, there were problems. 

Not every new cast member is responsible for that negative shift. But many were never fully immersed in the culture that once made Disneyland synonymous with service excellence. It’s hard to hold a cast member responsible for a service standard that their management never taught them. 

Thomas’ team is working to correct that. Operations training has been expanded by an extra day. Leadership is being retrained first. Issues are being identified, expectations are being clarified, and a return to old methods is being reinforced. And while the culture is deliberately being rebuilt, it is the sort of thing that takes time to reestablish, and guests aren’t likely to notice the changes immediately. But I can’t be more thankful that this change is being taken so seriously by Disneyland’s top management team. Perhaps more than anything else, this is the most important step to reestablishing Disneyland’s identity. 

The Entertainment Gap

Unfortunately, there is one issue that is not receiving the attention it deserves… entertainment.

Fantasmic is running on select days, but still without its animatronic dragon. Thomas expressed support for the show, though he stopped short of committing to restoring the dragon. If Disneyland is serious about spectacle, that restoration should be part of the plan.

The Hyperion Theatre remains dark. Avengers Campus no longer features its stunt shows. The Fantasyland Theatre will house a Bluey experience rather than a large-scale musical production. And neither park currently offers a daytime parade.

Thomas comes from Disney Signature Experiences (which includes the Cruise Line and Adventures by Disney). Disney Cruise Line does not cut its Broadway-caliber productions when costs rise. Those shows are central to the value proposition. Remove them, and the cruise experience would be diminished immediately. Yet, that is exactly what has happened at Disneyland. Thomas, more than anyone, should know that. 

Bluey will likely be delightful. Immersive experiences have value. But Disneyland was built on spectacle as much as storytelling. A headline production in the Hyperion is not optional. It is part of the park’s identity. The same is true of parades. They help make Disney… DISNEY. 

At a time when paid Lightning Lanes are making wait times longer, shows and parades help restore that missing magic and offer a wider variety of family-friendly entertainment. 

Why Timing Matters

There is another layer here that cannot be ignored.

When Josh D’Amaro ascends to Disney CEO on March 18th, Thomas Mazloum would be a logical candidate to step into the role of Chairman of Disney Parks and Experiences. His operational background and track record in Disney Signature Experiences and at Walt Disney World position him well.

If that happens, Disneyland could find itself navigating another executive transition sooner rather than later.

That reality adds urgency.

The positive shifts we are beginning to see must take root more quickly. Reliability must continue improving. Hospitality must visibly rebound. And entertainment must be addressed before another leadership shuffle risks slowing or diverting the current progress.

Disneyland cannot afford to stall again. Too much customer trust has already been lost. 

Where We Stand

I left the meeting with Thomas feeling encouraged. His willingness to acknowledge that the Disneyland experience has suffered and needs recalibration is refreshing… and very much appreciated. 

Of course, none of that matters unless we see actual change. Some of that is already being felt. So, the question is not whether a reset has begun. It has. The question is how bold that reset will ultimately become, and how quickly Disneyland can reclaim the sense of polish and performance that once set it apart.

It’s important for us to hear from you. What do YOU want from your Disneyland experience? Is there anything missing you want fixed (yes, we know you want a new Tomorrowland, but what else)?  What defines the Disneyland experience for you? Is it just the quality and number of attractions you can ride, or is it also the shows, cast member interactions, cleanliness, and upkeep? This is absolutely a time when your voice matters.  

You can read the complete article HERE and watch Dusty’s video recap here:

Constructionland

And, for all those changes Thomas focused on in the meeting we told you about above, his team is also managing construction and refurbishments all over the resort. 

Downtown Disney

The main project in Downtown Disney is definitely Porto’s, which has not only overtaken parts of the Esplanade but has also caused guest gridlock.

But let’s not forget the Earl of Sandwich, which is still plugging along at the west end of Downtown Disney. Thanks to the high winds last week, we were able to get a closer look with the construction scrims temporarily removed. 

Earl of Sandwich has posted a number of positions from the kitchens to the front of house. An early spring opening is hopefully in the cards.   

Grand Californian

The Grand continues to work on the new and expanded 2 story concierge lounge. 

Disney California Adventure Avengers Campus

The two new attractions for Avengers Campus are still progressing, but not quite as obviously as the leap when the canopy was installed. But we will see this building fully enclosed shortly, and then there won’t be much more to see other than how they attempt to hide this huge show building. 

And, nearby, a new quick service food location is on the way…

Disneyland Refurbishment Calendar (updated 2/21/26)

Currently Under Refurbishment

• Grizzly River Run: January 5 – TBA

• Oga’s Cantina: January 20 – March 13

• Edelweiss Snacks: February 9 – 26… though the entire Motorboat Cruise dock is also behind construction walls.  It hasn’t been that long since the last refurbishment, so we are curious about what is really going on. 

• Jungle Cruise: February 17 – TBA 

There’s a lot of fun artwork and concept art on the construction walls around the Jungle Cruise. Take the 1955 and 2021 attraction posters for example. How many changes can you find between the old and the new poster? 

• Jumpin’ Jellyfish: February 23 – March 5
• Space Mountain: February 23 – 26

Upcoming Refurbishments

• Pirate’s Lair on Tom Sawyer Island: March 2 – 5
• Golden Zephyr: March 9 -17
• Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin: March 30 – TBA
• Disneyland Monorail: March 30 – TBA

This & That

Live @ 5

While Dusty was busy with Disneyland’s president, Mike Kindrich took us on a tour of Epcot for a little change of scenery. You’ll find this video really fun and educational. It starts with the Beacons of Light and ends with fireworks. 

Meet The Stars of DCA Food & Wine

Disneyland released a fun “Disney Eats Awards” video highlighting a few of the menu items coming to the Disney California Food & Wine Festival, which runs from March 6 through April 27, 2026.

Here are the breakout stars of this year’s festival:

• Ramen Mac & Cheese at Peppers Cali-Ente: Mac & Cheese topped with Furikake crumble, fish cake, green onions, and chili crunch
• Cherry Cola Cold Brew at LA Style: Disneyland 70^th anniversary blend Joffrey’s coffee with oat milk and vanilla cream and cherry syrups topped with a cherry cola cold foam and a maraschino cherry

• Spinach & Artichoke Grilled Cheese at Pym Test Kitchen: Spinach and artichoke on parmesan-crusted sourdough and served with potato bites
• Pizza Slider at Smokejumpers Grill: Slider beef patty with mozzarella cheese, fried pepperoni, bell peppers and onions, sauteed mushrooms, and marinara sauce on a brioche bun
• Chicken & Waffle Mole Taco at Studio Catering Co.: A waffle taco shell filled with chicken in spicy mole sauce, white rice, pepitas, and sesame seeds

Back at Uncork California for another year is the fan-favorite chocolate Mickey-shaped Macaron filled with caramel ganache and Snickers bar pieces.

You can watch the video here:

Spring at Goofy’s Kitchen

Reservations open tomorrow, Feb. 24, for a special spring dining experience for breakfast, brunch, or dinner beginning April 3 at Goofy’s Kitchen.

• Springtime Breakfast Buffet (7 a.m. to 10: 30 a.m.) – $69 plus tax per adult (ages 10+) and $39 plus tax per child (ages 3-9)
• Springtime Brunch Buffet (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.) – $74 plus tax per adult (ages 10+) and $39 plus tax per child (ages 3-9)
• Springtime Dinner Buffet (4 p.m. to 9 p.m.) – $79 plus tax per adult (ages 10+) and $42 plus tax per child (ages 3-9)

Videopolis is Back!

Videopolis will be back, but only for the Disneyland After Dark: 70 Years of Favorites after-hours parties.

Iconic Los Angeles DJ Richard Blade (of KROQ fame) announced that he will be the DJ for the return of the lost-but-not-forgotten Disneyland dance party.

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Richard Blade (@richardblade)

Disneyland After Dark Ticket Tracker

If you’re a Videopolis fan, you’re in luck because tickets are still available for Disneyland After Dark: 70 Years of Favorites on March 3 and 5 for $159 per person.

Tickets are also still available for all three dates of Disneyland After Dark: Disney Channel Nite. Prices are $169 per person on April 12 and $159 per person on April 14 and 16.

Only two dates are left for Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite, April 28 and May 6. Tickets for both weekday parties are $174 per person.

Still deciding? Check out our review of Star Wars Nite below, and be sure to let us know what you think about these events and if they fit into your budget: 

DISNEYLAND STAR WARS NITE: After-Hours Adventure in a Galaxy Not-So-Far Away

Mobile Order Test

A mobile order test started on Feb. 17 for Golden Horseshoe and Stage Door Cafe in Frontierland. The test is expected to continue through early April.

Here are the changes:

1. The Golden Horseshoe has only stand-by ordering at the register.
2. Stage Door Cafe is a mobile order location only.
3. Guests can order Stage Door menu items from a Cast Member at Golden Horseshoe.

The Golden Horseshoe serves the same menu as Stage Door Cafe plus additional items, including ice cream. Given our recent conversation with Thomas Mazloum about restoring simplicity to the parks… this is a great example of what Disneyland should NOT be doing. And, if he’s paying attention this article, can we please get some entertainment back on the Golden Horseshoe stage?! 

It’s Delicious… Or Is It?

We spotted cookies-and-cream-flavored “Gray Stuff” cotton candy. Please let us know in the comments if this one gets a 👍 or 👎 from you.

Disney Trading Cards

A limited number of Disney-exclusive cards from the 2025 Topps Disneyland 70th Anniversary trading card set will be available later this month, but only at select locations across Disneyland Resort and on DisneyStore.com

Relic and Talent Autograph Cards

Rare Relic Cards can include pieces of vintage Disneyland tickets, Disney Dollars, or pieces of cast member costumes from iconic attractions, including Space Mountain, Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters, or Haunted Mansion. They can be found in any pack, so you never know when you’ll find a piece of Disneyland history.

Some packs also include rare Talent Autograph Cards, featuring faces and voices)from attractions across Disneyland and autographs from voice talent featured in attractions, including Chris Diamantopoulos who can be heard in Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway.

But wait, there’s more!

A rare 1-of-1 card, which can be pulled from any set, can be redeemed with Topps for trip for the lucky card collector and up to three guests to Disneyland Resort for a three-night, four-day vacation, complete with roundtrip airfare, a concierge-level stay, Park Hopper tickets, and more (including an $800 Disney gift card and reserved viewing for one showing of World of Color).

How to Enter:

• Purchase the 2025 Topps Disneyland 70th Anniversary product.
• Open packs and find a “2025 Topps Disneyland 70th Anniversary Trading Cards: Magical Grand Prize” Redemption Card.
• Scratch off the code on the back of the Redemption Card.
• Enter the code on the form below.

Base Set – Red and White Light Bulb Variation

A very rare set in the Disney-exclusive box (available at the resort and online), is a special variant of the Topps Disneyland Base Set with a Red and White Light Bulb Variation. This Base Set includes 150 cards across four subsets:

• Then/Now
• Timeline
• Concept Art
• Snack Time

Additional Exclusive Cards

Happy Haunts Chrome – The ghostly gem featuring beloved characters from Haunted Mansion is only available in boxes at Disneyland Resort and DisneyStore.com.

Unsigned On-Site Autographs – Cards featuring Elsa, Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Chip, Dale, Ariel, Stitch, and more have a blank autograph spot on the front, so collectors can create their own personal Disneyland keepsake.

Disneyland Foil Parallels – Two different limited foil parallels of the base set are the Purple Glitter Foil (unnumbered) and the Gold Confetti Foil (numbered to 50).

Disneyland Minute

Each week, Dusty recaps all the hottest headlines from the Monday Disneyland Update in a quick-hit Disneyland Minute video. It’s an easy way to stay caught up if you don’t have time to read the full update… or if you just want the highlights straight from Dusty.

Be sure to subscribe to MiceChat’s YouTube channel and TikTok so you don’t miss it!

Here’s the latest video:

Visit Walt’s House – Walt Disney Storybook Mansion Tours Now Available!

Step inside the historic Hollywood Hills home Walt Disney built for his family and experience a piece of Disney history most fans never get to see.

These intimate, guided tours are hosted by MiceChat’s Dusty Sage and explore both the beautifully preserved interiors and the gardens and grounds of Walt’s Storybook Mansion. Along the way, you’ll hear the stories of the Disney family’s life in the home and how this special place connects to the company we know today.

Availability is limited and dates fill quickly, so if this has been on your Disney bucket list, now is the time to plan your visit.

Walt Disney Storybook Mansion Tour Tickets (HERE)

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