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Howdy, Folks!
This week was packed with Disney news! The Disney Destiny officially set sail with a spectacular christening ceremony, Toy Story 5 debuted its first teaser trailer introducing a new tech-savvy character, and Predator: Badlands roared into theaters with a fresh take on the iconic franchise. Plus, Disney honored veterans across the company, and gift guides arrived just in time for holiday shopping.
From cruise ship debuts to beloved franchises returning to the big screen, there's so much Disney magic to cover this week. Let's dive in!
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Parks, Resorts, & Cruising
Disney Destiny Officially Christened in Port Canaveral
Disney Cruise Line's newest ship, the Disney Destiny, was officially christened this week in Port Canaveral, Florida, marking a major milestone for the cruise line's fleet. The heroes and villains-themed ship features some of the most immersive spaces ever created for a Disney vessel.
If you have 20 minutes, you can view the incredible drone show and the entire christening ceremony below, or on YouTube.
What's Aboard:
Grand Hall: Black Panther-inspired three-story atrium serving as the ship's stunning entrance
The Sanctum: Doctor Strange-themed lounge featuring mystical décor and specialty cocktails
De Vil's Piano Lounge: Villain-themed entertainment venue with wickedly good fun
Cask & Cannon Pub: Sports pub with a heroic twist
Lion King Dining: "The Tale of Moana" restaurant brings Pride Rock to the high seas
Hero & Villain Staterooms: Themed accommodations throughout the ship
Related News: A new original song from the Disney Destiny will be performed during the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, marking another milestone for the ship. Also, Susan Egan, voice of Hercules’ damsel in distress, Megara, was named godmother of the Disney Destiny.
The Disney Destiny's maiden voyage is scheduled for November 20, 2025, offering 4- and 5-night cruises to the Caribbean.
Read More: Disney Parks Blog | The Walt Disney Company | Disney Experiences
Honoring Heroes: Veterans Day Celebrations
Disney marked Veterans Day 2025 with tributes and celebrations across Disney Parks and the company. The celebrations included special programming, character appearances in patriotic attire, and the announcement of new benefits for military families.
2026 Military Salute Announced: Disney Parks revealed new Military Salute ticket offers for 2026, providing special pricing and benefits for active and retired U.S. military personnel and their families. These offers continue Disney's long-standing tradition of honoring those who serve.
Read More: The Walt Disney Company | Disney Parks Blog
Media & Entertainment
Toy Story 5 Teaser Trailer Debuts
To infinity and beyond... into the age of technology! Disney and Pixar released the first teaser trailer for Toy Story 5, and this time Woody, Buzz, Jessie, and the gang face their most modern challenge yet: a high-tech smart tablet named Lilypad.
What We Know (SPOILERS):
New Character: Lilypad, a frog-shaped smart tablet voiced by Greta Lee, represents the new threat to traditional playtime
Returning Cast: Tom Hanks (Woody), Tim Allen (Buzz Lightyear), Joan Cusack (Jessie), and Tony Hale (Forky) all return
New Addition: Conan O'Brien joins as Smarty Pants, a toilet training tech toy
Director: Academy Award® winner Andrew Stanton (WALL•E, Finding Nemo, Finding Dory)
Release Date: June 19, 2026
Director Andrew Stanton and co-director Kenna Harris shared that the film explores "how our favorite team of legacy toys might respond to today's world of technology," balancing humor and heart as analog toys meet the digital age.
Read More: The Walt Disney Company
Merchandise & Licensing
Holiday Gifts & Souvenir Guides
Disney Parks Blog released multiple guides this week to help with your holiday shopping and trip planning:
Gift Guide: Holiday Super Hero Products - Featuring Marvel-themed merchandise perfect for superhero fans, from action figures to collectibles.
Gift Guide: Treats for Foodies and Disney Eats Lovers - Showcasing culinary-themed Disney products for food enthusiasts, including cookbooks, kitchen accessories, and gourmet treats.
Souvenir Guide: Disneyland Freebies, Merch & More - Planning a trip to Disneyland? This comprehensive guide covers freebies, must-buy merchandise, and exclusive items available throughout the resort.
Before You Disembark
More Magic This Week
Here's more Disney news this past week that we didn't have room to highlight.
Zootopia: Better Zoogether! Opens at Animal Kingdom - Disney's Animal Kingdom welcomed a new live show featuring Judy Hopps, Nick Wilde, and beloved characters from the Zootopia films - The Walt Disney Company | D23 - Show Details | D23 - Character Profiles
Predator: Badlands Breaks Box Office Records - 20th Century Studios' Predator: Badlands roared into theaters on November 7 and immediately made franchise history with record-breaking box office numbers - Box Office Update | The Walt Disney Company | D23
Best Christmas Ever! New Holiday Short from Taika Waititi - A heartwarming new holiday short film brings Waititi's signature style to a seasonal story sure to become a new holiday favorite - The Walt Disney Company | D23
Bob Iger on 'The Rest Is History' Podcast - Disney CEO appeared on the podcast to discuss Disney's legacy and future - The Walt Disney Company
Freeform's 25 Days of Christmas - Annual holiday programming lineup featuring beloved classics and Disney favorites - D23
New Holiday Parade at Tokyo Disney Resort - Tokyo Disney Resort unveiled a brand-new holiday parade with seasonal entertainment and décor - Disney Parks Blog
Disney Cruise Line Adventure Updates - Construction progress and itinerary details for Disney's largest-ever cruise ship - Disney Parks Blog
Star Wars Insider Final Issue Announced - After 200+ issues, the magazine will end its current run in 2026 - StarWars.com
See Ya Real Soon!
What an incredible week of Disney news! From the Disney Destiny's christening to Toy Story 5's teaser debut, from honoring veterans to comprehensive holiday gift & souvenir guides, Disney continues creating magic across every division of the company. Whether you're booking your next cruise, planning holiday park visits, or checking off your gift list, there's something for every Disney fan.
Until next time, may your popcorn bucket stay full, your wait times stay short, and the magic never fade. See ya on the monorail!
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The Monorail Newsletter is an independent fan publication published weekly and focuses exclusively on official Disney news from verified Disney sources. The Monorail is not affiliated with or endorsed by The Walt Disney Company.
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