In this episode of Disney Bucket List Podcast, we’re diving into one of the most interactive and collectible Disney traditions of all time: Pin Trading at Walt Disney World. From its origins during the Millennium Celebration to the best places to find rare pins, this episode will help you master the art of trading like a pro. Whether you’re brand new to the hobby or a seasoned collector, there’s a bit of Disney magic here for everyone!

• Origins in 1999 during Walt Disney World’s Millennium Celebration

• The explosion of collectible designs and how the tradition became permanent

• Fun note: Over 100,000 unique pins have been released worldwide

• Getting started with lanyards or starter sets

• Official Disney Pin Trading logo on the back

• Cast Member vs. guest-to-guest trading etiquette

• 2-trade-per-Cast-Member rule

• Frontier Trading Post (Magic Kingdom)

• Pin Traders at EPCOT

• Disney Springs Pin Traders

• Resort lobby “hidden” boards

• Pin Trading Nights & events

• First Disney pin from the 1930s

• Hidden Mickey pin series and their collectability

• Spotting “scrappers” and unofficial pins

• Limited editions and collector culture

• Start with “traders,” not your favorite pins

• Inspect pins for authenticity

• Hunt themed boards for rare finds

• Kindness and Disney spirit make the experience magical

• Year Pin Trading debuted

• Trade limits with Cast Members

• Hidden Mickey pins vs. Limited Editions

• Pin trading as storytelling

• A magical way to connect with Cast Members and fellow guests

• Encouragement to try pin trading on your next trip!

• Pin trading began in 1999 and remains a beloved interactive Disney tradition.

• You can trade up to two pins per Cast Member per day — and it’s free once you have pins.

• Look for official logos and Hidden Mickey icons to ensure authenticity.

• Some of the best trading happens in unexpected places, like resort lobbies or event nights.

• The real value of pin trading is in the memories and connections, not just the metal.

1. Pin Trading debuted in 🅱️ 1999

2. You can make 🅱️ 2 trades per Cast Member per day

3. 🅱️ Hidden Mickey pins are only available through trading, not for purchase

• Frontier Trading Post – Magic Kingdom

• Pin Traders – EPCOT

• Disney Springs Pin Traders

• Various Walt Disney World Resort hotel shops & lobbies

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• 💌 Email: disneybucketlistpodcast@gmail.com (send questions or comments!)

👉 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review, and share this episode with your favorite pin trading pals!

It's Monday so you know what that means....that's right it's Disney News Monday! Join us as we catch up on all the updates around the World, Disneyland, and Disney Cruise Line.

Topics on today's edition of the news includes:

• New addition to the Storybook Canal Boats at Disneyland.
• Zooptopia: Better Zoogether opens November 7th!
• Other closures announced for Animal Kingdom.
• A timeline for Rockin Roller Coaster Starring Electric Mayhem has been announced!
• Frozen Ever After is receiving a much-desired update!
• Construction progress at Fort Wilderness and Grand Floridian.
• New breakfast menu at Golden Oak Outpost!

Join us! Leave a 5-star review, tell a friend, tell an enemy, & let's get the Disney Bucket List Podcast in more people's ears!

Look to connect?

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Email: disneybucketlistpodcast@gmail.com (email me with questions or comments!)

Thanks! "If you can dream it, you can do it." - Walt Disney

In this spooky-fun episode, we take you inside Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World! From rare character meets and exclusive snacks to parades, fireworks, and frightfully delightful overlays, we’re covering everything you need to know to make the most of your Halloween night in Magic Kingdom.

Host Tyler shares firsthand tips, insider strategies, and a full party walkthrough — perfect for both first-timers and Disney die-hards planning their next trip.

• What makes Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party different from a regular park day

• 2025 highlights and new additions (characters, treats, entertainment, and more)

• Must-see shows and parades — including the Boo-To-You Parade and Not-So-Spooky Spectacular

• The best time to watch fireworks and parades for smaller crowds

• Tips for trick-or-treating, photo ops, and costume comfort in the Florida heat

• How to plan a smooth, magical night from early entry to midnight

Instagram: disneybucketlistpod

#halloween #waltdisneyworld #disney

In this episode, we dive into the newest food offerings, snack kiosks, and park updates at Walt Disney World. From fresh Food & Wine booths and a Toy Story Land snack window to 13 new sauced chicken tenders, new performers aboard Disney Destiny, the much-awaited reopening of Spaceship Earth, and early 2026 discounts — we cover it all.

New Toy Story Land Snack Kiosk

13 New Sauced Chicken Tenders

Disney Destiny: Two New Performers

Spaceship Earth Reopening October 25, 2025

Disney World Discounts Released for 2026

#waltdisneyworld #disney #disneycruiseline

Instagram: disneybucketlistpod

We explore the story and flavors behind Wailulu Bar & Grill, a new addition to Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows. From its lagoon-side setting and Polynesian-inspired décor to its creative takes on island cuisine, Wailulu is quickly becoming a must-visit dining spot.

We’ll walk through:

• 🌴 The Atmosphere & Theme – what makes Wailulu’s vibe special.

• 🍔 Menu Highlights – from spam musubi to the Wayfinder Burger, plus tropical cocktails and DOLE Whip sundaes.

• 🎆 Dining with Fireworks Views – how to time your meal with Magic Kingdom’s nightly show.

• 👍 Guest Impressions – the dishes and drinks guests love most (and a few misses).

• 💡 Tips & Tricks – when to go, what to order, and how to make the most of your visit.

Why Listen? If you’re planning a Disney trip, staying at the Polynesian, or just love hearing about creative food experiences, this episode gives you the inside scoop on whether Wailulu deserves a spot on your dining itinerary.

• No reservations needed – it’s walk-up only.

• Don’t miss the shareables: spam musubi, ahi tuna crisps, and crispy wings.

• Fireworks + dinner = one of the best Disney dining backdrops.

• Drinks can be hit-or-miss, but the food usually shines.

• A solid mid-to-upscale option for families, couples, and foodies alike.

✨ If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your fellow Disney foodies!

• 2025 Candlelight Processional Narrators (EPCOT)

  • Dates: November 28 – December 30, 2025 

  • Showtimes: 5:00 PM, 6:45 PM, 8:15 PM nightly 

  • Narrator lineup highlights: • Constance Wu (Nov 28-29)  • Jordan Fisher (Nov 30–Dec 2)  • Jennifer Garner (Dec 3–4)  • Ashley Eckstein, Ralph Macchio • Leslie Uggams, Henry Winkler, Lauren Daigle (all NEW for 2025)  • Gary Sinise, Brendan Fraser, Luis Fonsi, Joel Smallbone, Brie Larson, Sheryl Lee Ralph 

  • Note: eight new celebrity narrators — a high turnover for a single year 

  • Dining packages: available and guarantee seating 

  • Tips: arrive early, plan around popular narrators, check standby vs package seating

  • Caution: narrator/dates subject to change 

• The Muppet Show is Returning (Disney+ Special 2026)

  • Disney officially announced a revival special on Disney+ for 2026 to mark the 50th anniversary 

  • Sabrina Carpenter is named as a special guest star

  • This is a one-off event initially, potentially acting as a test for bringing Muppets back full-time 

  • Legacy Muppet performers (Bill Barretta, Dave Goelz, Eric Jacobson, etc.) will be part of the cast 

  • Discussion point: expectations vs risk — will fans embrace a modern Muppet Show?

  • Tie-in: Muppets are also making their way into the parks (Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster retheme) 

• Disney After Hours Returns for 2026

  • Disney has confirmed that After Hours events will return in 2026 at Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and EPCOT

  • Dates & details: • Magic Kingdom: Jan 12–Jul 27, 2026 • DHS: Jan 14 start, and multiple dates through Sept 12, 2026 • EPCOT: similar schedule, 9:30 PM–12:30 AM event windows and park entry starting at 7 PM 

  • Benefits: Limited capacity, lower wait times, special character pop-ups 

  • Ticketing: • Guests staying at select Disney hotels (Resort, Swan & Dolphin, Shades of Green) get early access starting Oct 9, 2025  • Public ticket sales begin Oct 14, 2025 

  • Strategy tips: enter early, plan your attractions, check which rides are open

  • Caveat: not all attractions or character experiences guaranteed

• Star Wars Launch Bay Closure / Disney Animation Return

  • Star Wars Launch Bay at Hollywood Studios permanently closed on September 24, 2025, at 6:00 PM 

  • It has been replaced (or to be replaced) by returning “The Magic of Disney Animation” reimagined experience in 2026 

  • The closure ends a decade of the exhibit, meet-and-greet, collectibles, and lore displays

  • Discussion: what’s lost / what’s gained? How this fits into Disney’s shifting focus toward immersive experiences

Podcast: Disney Bucket List Podcast Host: Tyler Location: EPCOT, Walt Disney World Resort Experience Type: Signature Dining / Immersive Attraction

Strap in and prepare for liftoff! In this episode of the Disney Bucket List Podcast, Tyler takes you to Space 220, EPCOT’s immersive dining adventure that rockets guests 220 miles above Earth. From the “Stellarvator” launch sequence to panoramic views of our planet, this dining destination is more than a meal—it’s an attraction.

• The story and concept behind Space 220

• How Imagineers blended dining with attraction-style storytelling

• Highlights from the prix fixe menu and signature cocktails

• Fun facts and hidden Easter eggs floating outside your window

• Why Space 220 is one of EPCOT’s most anticipated restaurants

• Appetizers: Starry Calamari, Centauri Caesar Salad

• Entrées: Bluehouse Salmon, Filet Mignon

• Desserts: Sticky Toffee Pudding Cake, Chocolate Cheesecake

• Lounge Favorites: The Big Tang, Nebula, Planetary Punch

• The name Space 220 comes from its orbital altitude—220 miles above Earth.

• Look closely at the windows—you may spot astronauts walking space dogs, a lightsaber duel, or even Disney characters floating by.

• The “Stellarvator” elevator uses Soarin’-style technology to create a seamless launch experience.

• Space 220 faced multiple delays before opening in September 2021, making it one of EPCOT’s most anticipated new additions.

Space 220 isn’t just dinner—it’s a journey. Between the ride into orbit, the stunning visuals, and the galactic-themed menu, this EPCOT restaurant sets the bar for immersive dining experiences at Walt Disney World.

• Official Space 220 Info – Walt Disney World

• Instagram: @disneybucketlistpod
• Email: disneybucketlistpodcast@gmail.com

• Disney Cruise Line – we cover updates from the Disney Destiny and unnamed Wish-class ship.

• Space 220 Lounge – A new lounge menu is coming to Space 220.

• Bay Lake Tower – New room updates come to the Monorail resort.

• The Scuba Gear Heist at Disney Springs – Yes, really! A bizarre late-night robbery at Paddlefish.

If you’re planning a trip or just love keeping up with Disney magic, this episode gives you the inside scoop on what’s happening across the parks right now—plus a fun dash of Disney weirdness.

• Disney Parks Blog: Official Updates

• Festival Info: EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival

• News Sources: BlogMickey, WDW News Today, Orlando Sentinel

Which update excites you most—Share your thoughts with us:

• Instagram: @disneybucketlistpod

• Email: disneybucketlistpodcast@gmail.com

If you enjoy The Disney Bucket List Podcast, please subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. It helps more Disney fans find the magic!