This week, Disney is celebrating America in a big way! Soarin' gets a patriotic makeover as "Soarin' Across America" for summer 2026, while Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party returns with dates from November through December. EPCOT's beloved Festival of the Arts announces its 2026 dates, and Home Alone celebrates 35 years with interactive theatrical screenings. Plus, last-minute Halloween merchandise!

Whether you're planning holiday park visits, marking your calendar for festival fun, or getting nostalgic for 90s classics, this week's roundup has something for every Disney fan.

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Get ready to soar like never before! Disney has announced that the beloved Soarin' attractions at both Disney California Adventure and EPCOT will be completely reimagined as "Soarin' Across America" in summer 2026.

"Soarin' Across America" will allow a new generation of guests—and longtime fans—to experience the wonder of flight while celebrating the beauty and spirit of the United States.

Read More: The Walt Disney Company, Disney Parks Blog

Ho-ho-hold onto your Santa hats! Disney has officially announced the dates for the 2025 Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom, and holiday magic is coming earlier than ever.

The separately ticketed after-hours event runs select nights from November 7 through December 21, 2025, transforming Magic Kingdom into a winter wonderland complete with:

Must-Experience Moments:

This is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season with a sprinkle of Disney magic, offering experiences you simply can't get during regular operating hours. Whether you're watching snowflakes fall on Cinderella Castle or catching Mickey and friends in their holiday finest, this event captures the true spirit of a Disney Christmas.

Read More: Disney Parks Blog

Get your paintbrushes ready and prepare for artistic inspiration! EPCOT's International Festival of the Arts returns for 39 days in 2026, running from January 16 through February 23.

Since debuting in 2017, the festival has become a guest favorite for blending visual, performing, and culinary arts into one spectacular celebration. Here's what to expect in 2026:

Disney on Broadway Concert Series: The America Gardens Theatre comes alive with unforgettable performances as Broadway stars return to perform the iconic Disney songs they helped bring to life on stage alongside other show-stopping favorites. Concerts take place several times daily, with seating available first-come, first-served (or via dining packages going on sale at a later date).

Every two weeks, a new pair of performers takes the spotlight, making each visit fresh and exciting. Full lineup coming soon!

Culinary Creativity: Over 20 Food Studios will be located throughout the park, showcasing dishes that are as beautiful as they are delicious. Check back on Disney Parks Blog for the official Disney Eats Foodie Guide with all the tasty details!

Interactive Experiences:

Whether you're an art lover, foodie, Broadway fan, or family looking for hands-on fun, the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts has something to spark everyone's imagination.

Read More: Disney Parks Blog

Kevin McCallister is back, and he's defending houses nationwide! Hard to believe it's been 35 years since the 1990 holiday classic first hit theaters, but D23 is celebrating this milestone with interactive theatrical screenings across the country.

D23 On the Road presents Home Alone November 1, 2025 - January 3, 2026 Over 20 cities nationwide

Each approximately 3-hour experience includes:

D23 Gold Member Perks: Expedited Entry tickets available for early access, plus an exclusive holiday ornament.

Special Screenings with Macaulay Culkin: The man himself is touring select cities for special screenings followed by a moderated Q&A, sharing behind-the-scenes stories and favorite memories from filming this beloved holiday classic.

This is a rare opportunity to experience Home Alone on the big screen with fellow fans, complete with interactive elements that'll have you yelling "Keep the change, ya filthy animal!" in unison. Perfect for introducing a new generation to Kevin's ingenious traps or reliving the magic with longtime fans.

More Info: D23

Now’s your last chance to order some adorable Halloween merch and have it arrive before the frightful night. Take a last look at Disney’s merchandise inspired by iconic witches including Ursula, the Sanderson Sisters, Scarlet Witch, and Agatha Harkness!

The comprehensive collection allows fans to celebrate the Halloween season across apparel, accessories, cosmetics, toys, books, and home goods.

For a limited time, receive Free Shipping on orders of $85 or more using code: SHIPMAGIC.

Here's more Disney news this past week that we didn't have room to highlight.

What a week for Disney news! From Soarin's patriotic transformation and Mickey's holiday festivities to EPCOT's artistic celebration and Home Alone's big screen comeback, there's magic happening across every corner of the company. Whether you're booking your holiday park visits, planning your EPCOT Festival trip, or grabbing tickets for Kevin McCallister's antics, Disney continues creating moments that bring families together across generations.

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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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