Theme Park News - May 5-11, 2025

Theme Park News 

The Beak and Barrel Pirate Pub Opening in Magic Kingdom

Adventureland at Magic Kingdom Park is set to welcome The Beak and Barrel later this year, a lively pirate themed pub with a rich backstory. Founded by the legendary pirate rumrunner Captain Meridian “Merry” Goldwyn and her talkative first mate, Rummy, this new destination invites adventurers of all ages to step into a pirate’s world. 

The largest area, known as “The Mess,” was formerly a mess hall for Spanish soldiers and now features long communal tables beneath a large wax dripped anchor. A bar fashioned from parts of a cursed shipwreck serves an impressive array of brews, centered around the skull shaped stern. Notably, the Enchanted Rum Bottle, gifted to Merry by the enchantress Tia Dalma, is said to inspire the tavern’s specialty drinks. Rummy, despite his retirement from seafaring, keeps watch from the bar’s ledge, maintaining order and sharing tales. 

The Captain’s Quarters offers a glimpse into the finer life once lived by the Spanish Comandante, although signs of past pirate raids—slashed drapery, burn marks, and faded portraits—tell their own stories. Above the fireplace, five miniature ships in glass bottles symbolize a legendary alliance against tyranny, reportedly springing to life in fierce battles. 

The Beak and Barrel promises an immersive pirate experience rich with history and character, inviting guests to explore its many secrets. More details will be revealed as the opening approaches. 

Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party 2025 Details and Dates 

On select autumn evenings from August 15 to October 31, 2025, Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World transforms into a Halloween wonderland for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. This separately ticketed event offers a magical mix of spooky fun and family-friendly festivities. 

Guests enjoy exclusive entertainment, Halloween-themed food and drinks, special character meet-and-greets, and unique merchandise. It’s the perfect chance to showcase creative Disney-themed costumes and meet rare characters, including classic villains. 

• August: 15, 17, 19, 22, 24, 26, 29 

• September: 2, 5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 19, 21, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30 

• October: 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 13, 14, 16, 17, 19, 23, 24, 26, 28, 30, 31 

  
  

Tickets go on sale May 15 for guests at select resorts, then May 22 for everyone else, with discounts for Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club members. Guests may enter Magic Kingdom starting at 4 p.m., with the party itself beginning at 7 p.m. 

Trick-or-treat trails feature favorite candies like M&Ms and Snickers, with complimentary bags provided. Allergy-friendly options are also available. Costumes aren’t required for candy but are encouraged within guidelines. 

Entertainment highlights include the beloved Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade at 8:15 p.m., the Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular featuring the Sanderson Sisters and Disney villains, and the spectacular Disney’s Not-So-Spooky fireworks show at Cinderella Castle showcasing Ursula, The Queen of Hearts, and Oogie Boogie. 

Guests can also enjoy specialty Halloween-themed food and drinks alongside exclusive party merchandise to commemorate the night. 

For a magical blend of Halloween thrills, treats, and memories, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is an unforgettable fall tradition best enjoyed by planning and booking early so reach out to your Carry on the Magic agent today! 

2025 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival Highlights and Details

The 2025 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival will run from August 28 to November 22, marking the 29th year of this beloved global celebration of flavors and culture. Originating in 1996 as a 30-day event, the festival has since grown to span the entire park, offering guests unique culinary experiences throughout summer and fall. 

This year’s festival features diverse Global Marketplaces with menus that include kid friendly, plant based, and gluten friendly options. Visitors can look forward to the return of Emile’s Fromage Montage, a cheese lover’s delight featuring dishes like Boursin Fig & Balsamic Cheesecake, Brazilian Cheese Bread, and Griddled Cheese with Pistachios and Honey. Collecting stamps from designated booths earns guests a complimentary cheese treat. 

Families can join Remy’s Hide & Squeak Scavenger Hunt, an engaging activity inspired by Disney Pixar’s Ratatouille, where participants find Remy themed ingredient markers throughout the World Showcase and earn a prize upon completion. 

Entertainment includes the Eat to the Beat Concert Series at America Gardens Theatre, showcasing a wide range of musical acts with performances several times daily. Admission is included with park entry, with an option for a Dining Package that guarantees reserved seating plus a meal at select EPCOT restaurants, offering a choice of breakfast, lunch, or dinner with appetizer, entrée, dessert, and beverage. 

Additionally, the Living with the Land boat ride will feature special seasonal displays highlighting sustainable agriculture and ingredients used in the festival, providing guests a deeper look at EPCOT’s commitment to global cuisine and environmental responsibility. 

We will report a full lineup of booths, menu items, and entertainment schedules as the festival draws closer!