It’s a big time to be a fan of the Muppets. While we’ve seen some changes lately at Disney’s Hollywood Studios with the Muppets Courtyard, the presence of our favorite felt friends is actually expanding in some very exciting ways. If you’re a Muppet enthusiast or a collector of the latest Disney souvenirs, you’re going to want to pay close attention to what’s happening on both coasts this May. Specifically, there’s one date you need to circle in red on your calendar: May 21st.
The Patriotic New Arrival at Disneyland
Disneyland Park is known for its limited-edition collectibles, and the newest one is a real ‘salute to all nations, but mostly America.’ A brand-new Sam Eagle bucket is officially making its debut at the Happiest Place on Earth. While Disney hasn’t put out a formal press release quite yet, the menu for Refreshment Corner on Main Street, U.S.A. has been updated to include this must-have item. The bucket is scheduled to arrive on May 21st. If history is any indication, this is going to be a high-demand item. Back in 2023, the Sam Eagle sipper that appeared at Regal Eagle Smokehouse in EPCOT was an instant hit. This new version for Disneyland is expected to be just as popular, if not more so.
What’s Included and Pricing
If you’re planning to snag one of these, you should know the logistics. The Sam Eagle bucket is priced at $19.79. It’s a very specific price point that Muppet fans might appreciate. There is a strict limit of two buckets per person, which is standard for these kinds of high-profile releases to help ensure as many fans as possible get a chance to buy one. One of the best parts about this release isn’t just the bucket itself, but the snack that comes with it. The bucket is served with Spicy Firefly Chips. These are spicy corn chips topped with chili, cheese, and jalapenos. If you’re worried about getting your brand-new collector’s item messy, you can usually ask the Cast Members at Refreshment Corner to serve the chips in a separate tray or boat. It’s a pro-tip that keeps your souvenir pristine for the journey home.
Why the Muppets are Taking Over
You might be wondering why Sam Eagle is getting the spotlight right now. It likely ties into the massive celebrations for the 250th anniversary of the United States. Disney is leaning into the patriotic theme this year across the board. Over at Disneyland, a new experience called Soarin’ Across America is set to debut on July 2nd. While the Sam Eagle bucket arrives a bit earlier on May 21st, it’s clear that the Muppets are playing a key role in the ‘USA 250’ festivities.
Muppets News at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
The Muppet momentum isn’t just limited to California. Over at Walt Disney World, fans are gearing up for a major update to a classic attraction. Starting May 26th, the Muppets will be taking over the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This is a huge shift for the attraction and shows that Imagineering is finding new ways to integrate these characters into the parks even as other areas of the park evolve.
Planning Your Visit
If you’re heading to Disneyland for the May 21st release, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Arrive Early: Refreshment Corner is located right on Main Street, U.S.A., and it can get crowded quickly during a new release.
- Check the App: Keep an eye on the Disneyland app early in the morning to see if any specific purchase procedures are listed for the bucket.
- Ask for Chips on the Side: To keep your Sam Eagle bucket clean, always ask if the Spicy Firefly Chips can be served separately.
It’s an exciting era for Muppet fans. Whether you’re screaming along on a coaster in Florida or snacking on spicy chips in California, there’s plenty of Muppet magic to go around this spring.
Disclaimer: This information is gathered from various online sources and news outlets. While we strive for accuracy, Disney plans and policies can change rapidly. We recommend double-checking official Disney sources for the most up-to-date information before making final travel plans.