Surprising New Characters Arrive at Disney World
This was the first time many of these characters had been seen around Walt Disney World, and we were ready for all of the character meet and greets. See who all we spotted.
Rare Disney Characters
One thing that sets Disney apart from any other theme park is the great character interactions. We love meeting classic characters like Mickey Mouse and tel Fab 5.
But then we also love meeting the characters that are a bit more rare. You will not see these Disney characters except for a special event. Disney guests attending Destination D23 were invited to Kuztopia at Typhoon Lagoon on August 30, 2025.
Not only were guests able to spot favorite Disney characters, but Disney even brought out a few surprise characters for the night.
Kuzcotopia Event
Disney did not disappoint in bringing great characters to this event. A special DJ Dance Party allowed Guests to see several special characters from the Disney animated classic, The Emperor's New Groove.
Each character came out on the stage on a rotation. Kuzco was more than happy to greet his adoring fans as both handsome Kuzco and Llama Kuzco.
While later, Kronk really had a fun fan following. He admitted that he eats no less than 100 spinach puffs a day.
One of our favorite underrated villains, Yzma, was on the search for the perfect potion. We are now convinced that this is the villain meet-and-greet that we need. Anyone else want to see Yzma in Magic Kingdom's new Villains Land?
Check out this royal advisor as she takes the stage:
Streetmosphere Characters
There were also several fun character interactions that we were not expecting. First up was Captain Mary Oceaneer. We have ventured down Miss Adventure Falls and spotted the Captain's sign at the entrance, but never met her in person.
This was a really neat meet and greet. She showed us her logbook filled with all of her adventures and spent so much time with each guest.
Kuzcotopia took place at Typhoon Lagoon on August 30, 2025, for Destination D23.
They also created a few fun characters to interact with guests, such as Yzma's fashion stylists. This fabulous duo was so fun and gave us all of Yzma's fashion tips.
Of course, they wouldn't share the secret to her gorgeous long lashes, but maybe next time.
Then one of my (Donna) favorite interactions was with the official Squirrel Troop Leader. She offered such a fun interaction and even inducted our cat Mickey Mouse (who my children joke is a squirrel) as an honorary squirrel cadet.
Classic Characters
There were also traditional meet and greets offered at the Kuzcotopia Night. Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy were all dressed in their swim gear for the night.
This was an unexpected surprise! In the past, for special ticketed events at Typhoon Laggon (H2O Glow Nights), characters may pop up, but rarely offer a traditional meet and greet. Several characters even offered a PhotoPass photographer.
D23 created a wonderful event with Kuzcotopia. The theming throughout the park was amazing. Guests enjoyed complimentary bottled drinks, popcorn, and ice cream throughout the night. Each guest received a free waterproof phone pouch.
We wish Walt Disney World would offer more themed events for guests!
Which character is your favorite? Share your thoughts with us and share this news with your Disney pals.
