A New Frontier for Smugglers Run
If you’ve felt that Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run was getting a bit repetitive, May 22nd is the date to mark on your calendar. To celebrate the theatrical release of The Mandalorian & Grogu, Disney is debuting a brand-new mission featuring the galaxy’s favorite duo. This isn’t just a small cameo; it’s a total gameplay refresh. For the first time, crews will have a say in their destination. You might find yourself dodging TIE Fighters over Bespin, navigating the wreckage of the second Death Star near Endor, or exploring the urban sprawl of Coruscant.
The biggest win here is for those assigned the Engineer position. Long considered the ‘boring’ role, Engineers will now be tasked with communicating with and looking after Grogu throughout the flight. This makes the position much more integral to the story and gives you a reason to actually want the back row of the cockpit.
The Muppets Take Over Sunset Boulevard
The ‘Bad Boys of Boston’ are officially out, and the Electric Mayhem is moving in. After closing in early March, Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets is set to open on May 26th. The track remains the same high-speed, looping experience you love, but the vibe is getting a chaotic, Muppet-style makeover. The pre-show now features Scooter as the band manager trying to get the group to their gig on time.
Expect a brand-new soundtrack filled with Muppet covers of rock classics, including ‘Song 2’, ‘Born to be Wild’, and ‘Walking on Sunshine’. It’s a major shift for Sunset Boulevard, but one that promises a more family-friendly, high-energy atmosphere.
Animation Courtyard Reimagined
On May 26th, the gates will finally open on the outdoor portion of The Walt Disney Studios area. This reimagining of the former Animation Courtyard is designed to look like the iconic Burbank studio lot. While the full Magic of Disney Animation experience won’t be ready until later this summer, guests can explore the new park-like setting and studio-inspired details immediately.
This area serves as a new ‘hub’ for the back section of the park. The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure will continue to run in the Studio Theater, which has been annexed into this new land. It’s a great spot for families to take a breather away from the heavy crowds on Hollywood Boulevard.
Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!
Located within the new Walt Disney Studios area, a fresh stage show is arriving on May 26th. Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! replaces the previous dance party format with a structured 20-minute production. The story follows Mickey and Minnie on a road trip to find Goofy, Daisy, and Pluto. It’s highly interactive, encouraging kids to clap and dance along to original songs. For parents, this is a must-add to the itinerary for some much-needed air-conditioned downtime.
V.I.PASSHOLDER Summer Days Return
Starting May 1st, Annual Passholders have some serious perks to look forward to. The V.I.PASSHOLDER Summer Days event is bringing a massive 40% discount on dining at Hollywood & Vine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Note that this discount is only available Monday through Thursday and runs through July 31st.
Additionally, keep an eye out for exclusive merchandise. There is a new Annual Passholder Popcorn Bucket featuring artwork by Ashley Taylor, available at the cart near The Hollywood Brown Derby. You can also snag an exclusive tumbler at Backlot Express or Dockside Diner. Make sure you have your ID and Passholder credentials ready in the My Disney Experience app to claim these offers.
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.