The Next Generation of Play: Toy Story 5 Collections Arrive
The countdown is officially on. With the theatrical debut of Toy Story 5 just a few months away, the toy boxes are opening early as major collectible brands unveil their first waves of merchandise. Fans of the franchise have been waiting to see how the story evolves, and these new releases from Funko, MINISO, and POP MART give us a glimpse at both returning favorites and some intriguing new faces joining the gang.
For collectors, this isn’t just about adding another figure to the shelf. It’s the first time we’re seeing official names and designs for characters that will likely play a major role in the upcoming film. While the core group of Woody and Buzz Lightyear remains the heart of the series, the introduction of names like Lilypad and Smarty Pants suggests that the world of Toy Story is expanding in some very creative directions.
Funko Pops and New Faces
Funko is leading the charge with a lineup that balances nostalgia with fresh additions. The new Toy Story 5 wave includes the classic heroes we’ve known since 1995, but the real talk of the town is the debut of characters we haven’t met on screen yet. According to recent reports, the Funko lineup includes Buzz Lightyear and Jessie, along with three newcomers: Lilypad, Smarty Pants, and Blaze’s Pet Pig.
While we don’t have the full backstory on these characters yet, the names alone have fans speculating about their roles in the new film. Adding these to your collection early is a great way to stay ahead of the curve before the movie hits theaters and these figures become harder to track down.
MINISO and POP MART: High-End Collectibles
If you’re looking for something with a different aesthetic, MINISO and POP MART are bringing their unique styles to the Toy Story universe. MINISO is known for its stylized, often adorable takes on classic characters. Their Toy Story 5 collection is quite extensive, featuring a Commemorative Buzz, Woody (Hat), and a duo figure of Forky and Karen. They are also including the new character Lilypad in their lineup, alongside favorites like Bullseye and Jessie.
POP MART, famous for its high-quality mystery box figures and intricate designs, is releasing two distinct sets: Shed Toys and the Tech Trio. These names are particularly interesting because they hint at potential locations or themes within the film. The ‘Tech Trio’ especially aligns with rumors that Toy Story 5 might explore the relationship between traditional toys and modern electronics.
Why It Matters for Your Next Trip
While you can find many of these items online, visiting the parks during a major movie release adds a layer of magic to the shopping experience. If you’re planning a trip to Disney’s Hollywood Studios or Disneyland Park in the coming months, keep a close eye on the merchandise locations. High-profile releases like these often take over the front-and-center displays at shops like Mickey’s of Hollywood or the Emporium.
For those visiting the Florida parks, Disney Springs is usually the best bet for finding a wide variety of third-party collectibles like Funko. The World of Disney store and the various collectible kiosks often stock these brands shortly after they are announced. If you’re on the West Coast, Downtown Disney offers similar opportunities at the Disney Home store and World of Disney.
Planning Pro-Tips for Collectors
- Check the Blind Boxes: POP MART and MINISO often use mystery packaging. If you’re looking for a specific character like the Tech Trio, you might want to look for full case options to ensure you get the whole set.
- Mobile Order Your Merch: Don’t forget that some high-demand items can be found via the Shop Disney app or even potentially through mobile merchandise checkout at select park locations to save time in line.
- Watch for Exclusives: While these brands are widely available, Disney Parks often receive special variants or early-release windows for film-specific merchandise.
Takeaway
Toy Story 5 is bringing a whole new energy to the franchise, and this merchandise rollout is just the beginning. Whether you’re a die-hard Funko fan or a casual collector of cute MINISO accessories, there is plenty to be excited about. Keep your eyes peeled for Lilypad and Smarty Pants—they might just be your new favorite characters by the time the credits roll this summer.
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.