DISNEYLAND UPDATE: Grogu Nights, Security Fights & Influencer Hype

We start this week’s Disneyland Update with some good news regarding park-hopping, and continue with a look at EVERYTHING happening at the resort right now. 

Star Wars fans are still reeling from the recent arrival of Luke, Leia, Han Solo, and particularly Darth Vader in Galaxy’s Edge (along with glorious John Williams music), but Disneyland isn’t done tinkering with Batuu just yet. This week brings a new Mandalorian and Grogu mission for Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, a new Grogu nighttime projection show, fresh themed food and novelties, and one not-so-sad menu departure.

But not all of this week’s news comes wrapped in a cute little green package. Disneyland security narrowly avoided a strike, the resort’s app is getting more useful, construction continues across the property, and Disney’s increasingly polished influencer machine is once again blurring the line between guest excitement and carefully staged marketing. Shocking, we know.

We’ve also got new summer MiceDeals, including ticket and hotel offers, plus a solution to Disneyland’s pricey parking problem. So buckle up, check your reservation, and let’s get started.

Park-Hopping Simplification

You heard it here first months ago that Disneyland was planning to do away with the 11am park-hopping restriction later this year. Now we know that will happen starting JUNE 9TH. 

Starting June 9th, guests with valid park-hopper tickets will be able to switch parks at any time.

It’s one small step toward making the Disneyland experience a little less confusing. Of course, there are still park reservations, restaurant reservations, and all sorts of mobile hoops and hurdles regarding Lightning Lane, Mobile Order, and Mobile Checkout to deal with… but baby steps are better than no steps at all. Let us know your thoughts on what you’d like to see Disneyland Operations tackle next in their simplification quest. 

News From A Galaxy Not So Far, Far Away

“The Curious Child,” a new projection show featuring Grogu, debuted May 16 in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. During the limited-time show, Grogu recalls fond memories of his adventures with the Mandalorian.

“The Curious Child” plays nightly on the spires above the Millennium Falcon, immediately following the performances of “Shadows of Memory: A Skywalker Saga” at 8:45 p.m. and 10:15 p.m. Always check the Disneyland app to confirm showtimes for the day of your visit.

Want to watch the whole show? You can see all 3 minutes of it here:

But here’s the big question… does this actually FEEL like The Mandalorian? The new show is only about 3 minutes long, and instead of bounty hunters, battles, or sweeping Star Wars spectacle, Disney opted for something softer, quieter, and surprisingly low-energy. Cute? Sure. But thrilling enough to justify gathering a crowd around the Falcon late at night? We wish we could ask the creators behind the new Mandalorian film what they think about this projection show. 

For the debut, Disney rolled out some major star power. “The Mandalorian & Grogu” stars Pedro Pascal and Sigourney Weaver joined director Jon Favreau and Lucasfilm chief creative officer Dave Filoni for a surprise appearance tied to the show’s launch.

Disneyland also released photos suggesting ordinary park guests were stunned when “The Mandalorian” removed his helmet aboard Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run to reveal Pedro Pascal. But let’s be honest here: this was a carefully orchestrated media moment, largely attended by influencers and invited creators who were there specifically to promote the experience.

And that raises a larger issue for Disney fans trying to decide what’s genuinely worth their time. Influencer reactions are increasingly becoming part of Disney’s marketing machine, and those reactions tend to skew overwhelmingly enthusiastic, whether the experience truly earns that response or not.

So before you buy into the breathless hype surrounding “The Curious Child,” we’d encourage you to watch the full three-minute show for yourself (video above) and decide whether this is a meaningful new nighttime offering. Share your thoughts in the comments below. 

New Novelties

All-new Mandalorian and Grogu novelties are coming to Disneyland on May 21. Limit two per person, per transaction; available while supplies last.

The BDX Droid Bucket will be available at the following locations:

• Popcorn Cart in Tomorrowland
• Kat Saka’s Kettle
• Beverage Carts in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
• Galactic Grill’s Seasonal Novelty Release (Available through mobile order on May 21 to 23)

You may have seen the adorable droids when they stopped by Galaxy’s Edge, but now they’re full-fledged movie stars with roles in the upcoming “The Mandalorian and Grogu” movie opening in theaters on May 22.

The Mandalorain and Grogu Jetpack Sipper will be available at the following locations:

• Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo
• Ronto Roasters
• Tomorrowland Fruit Cart
• Galactic Grill

The Mandalorian and Grogu Stainless Steel Tumbler will be available at the following locations:

• Tomorrowland Fruit Cart
• Galactic Grill
• Galactic Grill’s Seasonal Novelty Release (Available through mobile order on May 21 to 23)

New Menu Items

Also coming to Galaxy’s Edge on May 21 are new menu items at Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo (mobile order available):

• NEW Bounty Bun with Spiced Beef and Pork with tomato chutney, golden aioli, and sautéed blue onions

• NEW delphi Cheesy Noodles with Fried Chicken Tip-Yip with pancetta, toasted herb breadcrumbs, and sweet and spicy chili sauce
• NEW Youngling Cheesy Noodles with Fried Chicken Tip-Yip served with a small lowfat milk or small DASANI Water (Kids Meal)

• NEW Grogu Cookies: White chocolate dipped macaron cookies filled with pineapple cream

The colorful sweet and spicy Outpost Popcorn Mix is also back at Kat Saka’s Kettle starting May 21.

Milk Stand Menu Change

It’s official. Disneyland has removed Green Milk from the Milk Stand menu (the citrusy neon-colored drink is still available in Orlando).

We’re honestly not really sad to see it go, as we preferred the blue and pink versions of the plant-based drink (Pink Milk, with its bubble gum meets banana flavor, is Dusty’s favorite).

Disneyland’s Security Scramble

Disneyland Security appears to have narrowly avoided a strike, but the controversy surrounding the contract vote may have created even bigger problems behind the scenes. Although more participating officers appear to have voted against the proposal than for it, a union bylaw allowed the contract to be approved anyway because fewer than half of the eligible members participated in the vote.

The outcome has sparked accusations of favoritism, distrust of union leadership, and growing calls for members to separate from the current union altogether. David Koenig takes a closer look at the escalating situation in his full report below.

David Koenig: Disneyland Security Strike Vote Ends in Controversy

MiceDeals

Great news, MiceChat readers! You asked for the return of our special parking offer, and we delivered! From June 1 through September 1, 2026, you can park at The Anaheim Hotel across the street from Disneyland for only $35 per day (based on availability). As an added bonus, The Anaheim Hotel is also offering MiceChat readers up to 20% off on rooms. Just ask for the MiceChat rate when you call to book.

But our MiceDeals aren’t the only discounts available this summer…

NEW Disneyland Resort Hotels Offer

New Magic Key Extras

Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run Poster

Important Information:

• Available at Star Wars Trading Post in Downtown Disney (while supplies last).
• Limit of one poster per Magic Key holder.
• Magic Key holder must be present at time of redemption and provide their valid Magic Key pass.

King Arthur Carrousel Popcorn Bucket

Starting May 14, Magic Key holders can purchase a Magic Key King Arthur Carrousel Popcorn Bucket inspired by the beloved Fantasyland attraction. The bucket—specially designed by Disney artist Ashley Taylor—spins, lights up and plays music.

Important Information
:

• Available for $39.75 at select popcorn carts throughout Disneyland Park (while supplies last). No discounts apply.
• Limit of one Magic Key King Arthur Carrousel Popcorn Bucket per Magic Key holder, per transaction.
• A Magic Key holder must present a valid Magic Key pass to purchase.

Merch Alert!

We spotted some cute new merch in the parks last week, including the same Duffy and Friends blind boxes that were released at Aulani in Hawaii… and, since these are Disney made, discounts do apply!

We also saw some of our favorite Muppet friends available as plush. We REALLY had to resist the temptation to bring them all home with us!!!

Constructionland

Every week, we share the latest construction photos from the Disneyland Resort. And while there’s always a lot to see, we don’t always see much progress. But this week, there are a few notable spots where things are beginning to wrap up. 

Downtown Disney

Earl of Sandwich Inches Toward Opening

The signage and light fixtures have been installed at the new Earl of Sandwich and The Carnaby Tavern. What’s more, we can even see tables and chairs inside, signaling that the opening date may be announced soon.

LEGO Store

The newest Lego sculptures are also nearly done. Three new sculptures have been installed, only two of which can currently be seen. 

Arthur & Sons Steak and Bourbon & Pearl’s Roadside BBQ

Unfortunately, down the way at the future site of Arthur & Sons Steak & Bourbon and Pearl’s Roadside BBQ, things are still at a standstill. The permits are still moving through the approval process (though obviously very slowly). 

And following a flurry of demolition, the Porto’s construction zone seems to be in a holding pattern as well. 

Disneyland

Fantasyland Turkey Leg Seating

For several weeks, we’ve been watching a construction project across from the Matterhorn, and it’s nearly complete. The Motorboat dock has been uncovered, providing much-needed shady seating. The dock got a little TLC, with some resurfacing and paint. 

Nearby, the new Alpine-style building next to Edelweiss Snacks is still behind walls. But not for much longer. Tables and chairs are already inside. So, even more seating is on the way. 

Main Street Refurb

Construction continues on Main Street, though the scrim is getting smaller as work progresses up the street towards the hub.

Fantasmic Refurb

And the Rivers of America have parted to allow crews to work on one set of Fantasmic fountains. 

California Adventure

Avengers Campus Expansion

We aren’t noticing huge changes here from week to week, but rest assured that the project is still on track. 

Disneyland Hotel

Trader Sam’s is turning 15… time for a refurb. The Enchanted Tiki Bar and attached Tangaroa Terrace restaurant are temporarily closed for refurbishment.

If you’re looking for a dose of tiki while Trader Sam’s is out of commission, swing by the hotel’s Fantasia Shop and pick up these kitschy Trader Sam’s 15th-anniversary glasses. 

Disneyland Refurbishment Calendar (updated 5/15/26)

Little Green Men Store has posted a return date of June 20. New to the list this week is the Chiller slushie stand near the Golden Zephyr.

 

Currently Under Refurbishment

• Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind: January 5 – TBA
• Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters: April 13 – TBA
• Silly Symphony Swings: April 27 – TBA
• Pirates of the Caribbean: May 4 – TBA
• Blue Bayou Restaurant: May 4 – 20
• Little Green Men Store Command: May 10 – June 20
• Chiller at Paradise Gardens Park: May 19 – 30

Keep in mind that if you make a dining reservation at Blue Bayou after May 20, there’s a good chance this will be your view.

This & That

As we near the end of this week’s Update, there are still a few things to share…

Disneyland LIVE @ Five

Dusty, Eric, Jeffrey, Ando, and friends head out on an adventure. They start in Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge to discuss this week’s coming changes, examine the construction of the new building in Fantasyland, and trek all the way to California Adventure for some splashy fun and a look at a patriotic addition on the way! 

App Update

When you click on the “My Tickets & Passes” tab in the Disneyland app, it now lists all the reservation dates for each ticket or Magic Key linked to your account. 

The Disneyland app will also now allow both Magic Key holders and day ticket holders to make and change park reservations in the app, rather than being redirected to the Disneyland website. 

On the home page, just click Park Reservations under “Plan My Next Visit,” the app will direct you to the Make a New Theme Park Reservation page, where you can make new park reservations with a valid ticket or Magic Key Pass. Hotel guests need to link their hotel reservation before they can make theme park reservations.

Happy Birthday America!

Disneyland is starting the celebration for America’s 250th Anniversary a bit early, with new limited-time treats starting May 21.

Rocket Soda at Refreshment Corner in Disneyland

Red, White & Blue Punch at Smokejumpers Grill in California Adventure

Apple Pie Churro at Willie’s Churros in California Adventure

S’Mores Marshmallow Wand 

Patriotic Mickey Caramel Apple

A new Sam Eagle Popcorn Bucket will also be available later this summer.

Semiquincentennial merch is starting to show up in Disneyland stores as well.

SPOILER ALERT: While Soarin’ Across America won’t debut at California Adventure until July 2, we got a look at the attraction’s newest overlay at Walt Disney World, where the Soarin’ Across America debuts in Epcot on May 26.

Keep scrolling if you want to be surprised! But if you want to see the new film, please watch below and then let us know your thoughts! 

Sweet Rewards

New Salt & Straw Rewards is coming May 19. On that date, all existing points will be converted into Spoons worth 10x more – so, 50 points = 500 Spoons.

In addition, points/Spoons are no longer automatically collected via a registered credit card. Instead, members need to scan their QR code from the app or provide their linked phone number at checkout to receive points for in-store purchases. Members will continue to automatically earn points for every online purchase.

Pin Trading Changes

As of May 19, 2026, guests will no longer be able to set up pin trading spaces in front of Westward Ho Trading Company in Frontierland (or in any other area at the resort). In addition, guests will not be allowed to bring large books of pins into the parks. Guests can continue to trade using lanyards, as has been the standard since the earliest days of Disney pin trading. This marks a major shift for Disneyland’s longtime pin trading community, which has increasingly turned Frontierland into an unofficial daily trading meetup.

Beginning May 22, the pin trading area near Westward Ho Trading Company will become a kids-only pin trading area as part of Kids Rule Summer.

Royal Sighting

Did you see the prince and princess? Last Monday, Harry, Meghan, Megahan’s mom, Prince Archie, and Princess Lilibet celebrated both kids’ birthdays at Disneyland (Archie turned 7 on May 6 and Lilibet turned 5 on June 4).

During their day at the resort, the real princess met a Disney princess.

The family also met one of Batuu’s newest residents backstage.

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Meghan, Duchess of Sussex (@meghan)

After Dark Ticket Tracker

Both dates for Disneyland After Dark: Pride Nite are still available. Tickets for the after-hours event on June 16 and June 18 are $169 per person.

Last week, we also reported that the Magic Key presale for Oogie Boogie Bash will be June 16 for Inspire Keys and June 17 for all other Magic Key types. If ticket sales for this event follow Disneyland’s previous pattern, tickets should go on sale to the public on June 18, but no official sale date has been announced. 

Oogie Boogie Bash 2026 will take place on 33 select dates in August, September, and October:

• August 18, 20, 23, 25, 27, 30
• September 1, 3, 6, 8, 10, 13, 15, 17,20, 22, 24, 27, 29
• October 1, 4, 6, 8, 11, 13, 15, 18, 20, 22, 25, 27, 29, 31

If you’re trying to decide whether to attend Oogie Boogie’s big bash, check out our event guide here:

Disney California Adventure: Oogie Boogie Bash 2025 Event Guide

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 get caught up on your Disneyland news 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:

MiceShots

Did you know that the Main Street Magic Store has a Steve Martin tribute? They even sell his book.

We took a moment to spend quality time with the gas-powered Autopia cars before Disneyland transitions the attraction to electric vehicles next year.

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