The Walt Disney Company has launched a new marketing campaign titled “Disney Blockbuster Summer” to promote a slate of upcoming films and related experiences. The campaign includes a new brand spot titled “Summer Starts Here,” and unites the company’s live-action and animated releases with theme park attractions, streaming content, and merchandise. The campaign highlights three major titles arriving in theaters this year: Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu, Toy Story 5, and the live-action adaptation of Moana.
Upcoming Film Releases
The summer lineup begins with the release of Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu on May 22, 2026. This film continues the story of the bounty hunter and his Force-wielding companion. The movie marks a significant extension of the popular Disney+ series to the big screen. Following this release, Toy Story 5 is scheduled to open in theaters on June 19, 2026. The film brings Bonnie’s toys back to the screen, continuing the franchise that has been running for over 30 years. The final major release in the campaign slate is the live-action Moana, which arrives in theaters on July 10, 2026.
These theatrical releases are supported by a coordinated push across Disney’s various entertainment platforms. The campaign aims to create a cohesive summer season where fans can engage with these stories through multiple mediums. This includes visiting theme parks, watching movies on Disney+, and purchasing new toys and fashion items. Asad Ayaz, Chief Marketing and Brand Officer at The Walt Disney Company, stated that the campaign brings together the best of Disney storytelling and experiences. He noted that the initiative unites the company’s biggest films, destinations, streaming services, and products into one unforgettable season.
Theme Park and Cruise Line Integration
Guests at Disney theme parks will have opportunities to interact with characters and themes from these upcoming films. At Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort, visitors can experience new missions aboard Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. This attraction allows guests to embark on an all-new mission related to the Mandalorian series. Additionally, Disney Cruise Line will feature themed kids clubs, character encounters, and immersive lounges for the Star Wars franchise. The cruise line will also host Toy Story-themed events, including imaginative play areas and themed dining options.
For the Moana release, guests can meet the character at various Disney Parks. EPCOT will feature an immersive attraction called Journey of Water. Disney also points to Disney The Tale of Moana, a Broadway-style show aboard the Disney Treasure. These park offerings provide physical extensions to the stories audiences will see on the big screen. The integration of these films into the parks ensures that the excitement of the movie releases translates into on-site entertainment.
Merchandise and Streaming Options
Consumers can also engage with the summer slate through new merchandise and streaming content. Disney+ will host movie marathons for Toy Story and stream the entire Star Wars galaxy. New wearables and toys are being released, including an RSVLTS May the 4th collection and LEGO sets. These products allow fans to bring the experience home or show their fandom in public spaces. The campaign emphasizes that there is something for everyone to live their best Disney summer, whether through travel, streaming, or interactive play.
What to know
Guests planning a trip should note the specific dates for the film releases to align their movie nights with the theatrical windows. Those visiting parks between May and July 2026 should check for the availability of new attractions like the updated Smugglers Run mission. For cruise enthusiasts, booking a voyage during the summer window may offer access to the new themed lounges and character encounters. Shoppers looking for specific items like the RSVLTS collection should be aware that these are new releases tied to the summer campaign.
What remains unknown includes the specific runtime of the films, the full cast lists for the live-action Moana, and the exact debut date for the Broadway-style Moana show. Additionally, details regarding the pricing for new merchandise or any special ticket packages for the summer events have not been announced.
Shark Take: Visitors should prioritize booking park tickets or cruise reservations for the summer months if they wish to experience the the updated Star Wars attraction and Toy Story character/experience offerings. Disney+ can be used for Star Wars and Toy Story watch parties, while the new films listed in the source are theatrical releases.
Related reading
- Disney Updates Star Wars Day 2026 Merch Rollout With Stormtroopers Drop on April 17
- Tokyo Disney Resort Toy Story 5 Summer Event 2026
- Disney Cruise Line Names Its Next Ship: Introducing the Disney Believe
Source: The Walt Disney Company (https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/news/blockbuster-summer/)
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