We got a sneak peek at the decor for the new villas at Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, and an update on the timeline for the Big Thunder Mountain refurbishment. All this and more for today’s recap for Friday, January 3, 2025.

Daily Recap for January 3, 2025

Walt Disney World

Magic Kingdom

• Sebastian in Under the Sea ~ Journey of the Little Mermaid has gotten some TLC — his screen eyes effect has been fixed in the finale scene of the Magic Kingdom dark ride.
• A new Magic Kingdom Spirit Jersey has debuted at Walt Disney World. We found it for sale in the Emporium at Magic Kingdom.
• Ironwork has been installed on a newly visible facade for the new Pirates of the Caribbean tavern at Magic Kingdom.
• In the world of theme park construction, it’s not always clear when things will or will not be opening. In the case of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at the Magic Kingdom, there might be some clarity, based on a recent Notice of Commencement.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

• New Walt Disney World-branded apparel is now available across the resort, including a popular new Walt Disney World Passport sweatshirt.
• Work continues on the Woody’s Lunch Box covered seating project. As of late last month and moving into 2025, the available seating area has expanded, with new pavement having been unveiled.

Walt Disney World Resort Hotels

• New Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort Rooms Feature Mary Blair Art, Monorails & More

New Merchandise

• If you’re looking to make a bold, whimsical, and deliciously fun fashion statement on your next trip to the Disney Parks, this Minnie Mouse Popcorn Ear Headband is the perfect accessory for you! These ears, available at DisneyStore.com, can be yours in 3- 5 business days. It’s currently only available in adult sizes.

Other Walt Disney World News

• With it just being a couple of days into 2025, Disney’s Blizzard Beach water park already experienced its first closure of the year due to cold weather.

Disneyland Resort

• runDisney has shared a first look at the new merchandise that will be available for the 2025 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend taking place later this month.

Universal Studios

Universal Orlando Resort

• Universal Volcano Bay will remain closed on Saturday, January 4 due to “inclement weather” in Central Florida. This announcement is following a two day closure on Thursday and Friday.

Universal Studios Hollywood

• New casting calls have been sent out by Universal Studios Hollywood seeking performers for the upcoming Universal Fan Fest Nights, a brand-new event for 2025 celebrating all things sci-fi, fantasy, gaming, and anime.

WDW News Today

The Eyes of Sebastian, The Sword of Captain America, & the Cup of Figment – Latest Disney News!

That’s it for today; we hope you enjoyed this Daily Recap. Thanks for stopping by, and we’ll see you tomorrow!

Eric Morton