Hello, Disney Foodies!
What a week it's been at Disney! Between the Jonas Brothers bringing Camp Rock back to our screens, exciting 2026 vacation planning details (hello, FREE dining for kids!), and those swoon-worthy European Christmas market cruises, there's so much magic to catch up on.
We've got everything you need to know about the latest parks news, can't-miss entertainment announcements, holiday shopping guides, and of course, delicious EPCOT cookie recipes to try at home. Whether you're planning your next Disney getaway, shopping for the perfect gifts, or just want to stay in the loop on all things Disney, we've got you covered.
Grab your favorite beverage, get cozy, and let's dive into this week's news!
Pardon our dust: We're continuing to tweak our newsletter format to make it easier to scan the headlines and dive into the stories that interest you most. After you check out this week's news, scroll down to share your feedback in our quick, one-question poll at the end!
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This Week’s News
🎢 THEME PARKS & EXPERIENCES
5 Cookie Recipes from EPCOT's Festival of the Holidays
Bring the flavors of EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays into your own kitchen with these five delicious cookie recipes inspired by the festival's culinary offerings—perfect for impressing guests at your next holiday gathering.
Start baking at Disney Parks Blog
Walt Disney World Reveals 2026 Plans — Including Free Dining for Kids
Disney unveiled extensive details about what's coming to Walt Disney World in 2026, including ten new attractions and experiences, nine returning festivals, and the return of the Disney World Free Dining Plan for Kids promotion—perfect for planning your next family vacation.
Plan your 2026 visit at Disney Parks Blog
Christmas Markets on Adventures by Disney River Cruises
Explore Europe's most enchanting Christmas markets aboard an Adventures by Disney River Cruise, combining holiday magic with Disney's signature service, gourmet dining, and immersive storytelling through iconic destinations.
Explore these adventures with Disney Parks Blog
Your Ultimate Guide to Downtown Disney District
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned pro, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about shopping, dining, and entertainment at Downtown Disney District—from must-try restaurants to the best boutiques.
Check out the guide at Disney Parks Blog
Disneyland Paris Cast Members Preview Disney Adventure World
Cast members received an exclusive first look at the highly anticipated Disney Adventure World, the reimagined second park opening March 29, 2026, at Disneyland Paris—giving us a sneak peek at what international travelers can expect.
See their reactions at Disney Parks Blog
Disney Animation Experience Coming to Hollywood Studios
A brand-new Disney Animation-inspired experience will be making its way to Disney's Hollywood Studios, bringing beloved animated characters and stories to life in exciting new ways.
Get the scoop at Disney Parks Blog
New Hallmark Holiday Film Shooting at Disney World
A brand-new Hallmark Channel holiday movie will be filmed at Walt Disney World, bringing the network's signature festive romance to the Most Magical Place on Earth—and giving fans a behind-the-scenes glimpse at iconic locations.
Get the details at Disney Parks Blog
A Very Jonas Christmas at Disney
The Jonas Brothers bring holiday cheer to Disney Parks with special appearances and festive celebrations throughout the season—because who doesn't love the Jonas Brothers during the holidays?
Experience the magic at Disney Parks Blog
Disneyland 70th Anniversary Merchandise Arrives
Celebrate Disneyland's milestone 70th anniversary with an exciting new collection of commemorative merchandise that honors the park's incredible legacy.
Shop the collection at Disney Parks Blog
Zootopia 2 Easter Eggs Hidden at Shanghai Disney Resort
Sharp-eyed guests can now spot hidden references and Easter eggs from Zootopia 2 throughout Shanghai Disney Resort, connecting the film to the park's immersive Zootopia land.
Find them all at Disney Parks Blog
Magic Kingdom's Historic Steam Trains Highlighted
Disney Experiences celebrates the beloved steam trains that have been transporting guests around Magic Kingdom since opening day, sharing their rich history and ongoing legacy.
All aboard at Disney Experiences
🎬 MEDIA & ENTERTAINMENT
'Camp Rock 3' Teaser Debuts — Jonas Brothers Return!
A new generation of Camp Rockers will compete to become the opening act for Connect 3's reunion tour in this highly anticipated sequel coming to Disney+ and Disney Channel summer 2026. The teaser gives fans their first look at the Jonas Brothers' return and introduces an all-new cast of campers—perfect nostalgia for millennials who grew up with the franchise.
Watch the teaser at Disney+ Press | See more at The Walt Disney Company
Disney Earns 27 Golden Globe Nominations
The Walt Disney Company received 27 Golden Globe Award nominations across its film and television studios, streaming services, and broadcast divisions, showcasing the breadth and quality of content across the company.
Get the full list at The Walt Disney Company | See coverage at D23
'Percy Jackson' Season 2 Goes 'More Epic, More Cinematic'
The cast and creators take fans behind the scenes as they prepare for Season 2's arrival, revealing how they're expanding the scope and scale of the beloved Disney+ and Hulu series that became a global phenomenon.
Dive deeper at The Walt Disney Company | Read more at D23
Everything New on Disney+ This December
From Percy Jackson Season 2 to holiday specials, discover all the new content streaming on Disney+ throughout the month, including original series, movies, and festive programming perfect for cozy nights in.
See the full lineup at D23
'Avengers: Endgame' Returning to Theaters in 2026
Marvel Studios announced that the record-breaking superhero epic will return to theaters in September 2026, giving fans another opportunity to experience the cinematic event on the big screen.
Learn more at Marvel.com
Star Wars Returns to Theaters for 50th Anniversary
Mark your calendars: the original 1977 Star Wars will return to theaters on February 19, 2027, celebrating the franchise's monumental 50th anniversary and giving fans a chance to experience the film that started it all on the big screen.
Get the details at StarWars.com
Watch an Exclusive Clip from 'Mickey & Minnie's Holiday Songs'
Get a sneak peek at the holiday special featuring everyone's favorite Disney couple spreading seasonal cheer through music and magic.
See the clip at D23
Exclusive Look at 'Ella McCay'
D23 sits down with the stars and writer-director of the upcoming film Ella McCay for an exclusive conversation about bringing this new story to life.
Watch and read at D23
Disney+ Announces Premiere Date for "Hey A.J."
The new Disney+ series "Hey A.J." has officially received its premiere date, adding another original series to the streaming platform's growing lineup.
Find out when at Disney+ Press
🛍️ MERCHANDISE & CONSUMER PRODUCTS
Holiday Gift Guides for Every Disney Fan
Disney Parks Blog released multiple themed gift guides perfect for holiday shopping:
Toy Story products that go to infinity and beyond
Home Alone 35th anniversary merchandise
Lilo & Stitch out-of-this-world items
Stocking stuffers under $25
Action figures for collectors and kids
Disney Consumer Products Delivers Toys to Families Nationwide
In the spirit of the season, Disney Consumer Products partnered with organizations across the country to deliver toys to families in need, spreading holiday joy to children and families.
See the giving at Disney Parks Blog | Learn more at Disney Experiences
Columbia x Star Wars Endor Collection Launches
Outdoor enthusiasts and Star Wars fans can now gear up with the new Columbia x Star Wars Endor collection, featuring performance apparel inspired by the forest moon—perfect for winter adventures.
Shop the collection at StarWars.com
Before You Disembark
That's All for This Week!
From vacation planning and holiday shopping to baking EPCOT-inspired treats at home, there's so much Disney magic happening right now! We hope this week's roundup helps you stay connected to all the news and makes it easier to plan your next adventure (or gift list!).
Until next week, may your dining reservations be easy to snag, your park days be filled with Extra Magic Hours, and your kitchen smell like EPCOT cookies! 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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