Mickey’s Search Party: Ultimate Budget Friendly Guide to Disney On Ice in NYC & NJ!

Disney Magic Hits the Ice: Mickey’s Search Party is Coming to NYC!

The magic of Disney is back in the Northeast for their annual winter spectacular of aerobatics on ice! We are no strangers to this beautiful show, and as a Disney family, I have the scoop on how to make your first experience into the best experience imaginable! You can also check out my post from previous years here. You can also check out my money saving tips below!

Get ready to lace up your skates (metaphorically, of course) because your favorite Disney characters are heading back to the New York and New Jersey area! From January 8 through February 1, 2026! 

Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party will be transforming local arenas into a world of magic, mystery, and high-flying fun.

This isn't just a skating show; it’s an interactive quest. The story follows Mickey and his pals as they follow Captain Hook’s treasure map to rescue Tinker Bell. Along the way, you’ll be transported into some of the most iconic Disney and Pixar worlds. The show features masterfully done vignettes from your favoite Disney and Pixar films like Toy Story, Coco, The Little Mermaid, and more!

What to Expect: Aerial Stunts & Immersive Magic

This production is famous for pushing the boundaries of what happens on the ice. Here are a few highlights you won't want to miss:

• Coco’s Spirit Realm: Watch Miguel cross the Marigold Bridge into the Land of the Dead with skeletons performing on "sway poles" right over the audience.

• Arendelle Comes to Life: Elsa’s ice palace is built right before your eyes using stunning video projection technology.

• High-Flying Heroes: Witness Belle soar into the sky on an enchanted chandelier and Ariel perform breathtaking aerial acrobatics.

• Pirate Shenanigans: Captain Hook’s pirates bring the laughs (and the thrills) with tumbles, flips, and stunts on "tumble tracks" and stilts.

Tour Dates & Locations

The search party is making three major stops in our area in 2026. Mark your calendars for the venue closest to you:

Location	Dates	Venue
Newark, NJ	Jan 8 – 11	Prudential Center
Belmont Park, NY	Jan 15 – 19	UBS Arena
Brooklyn, NY	Jan 29 – Feb 1	Barclays Center

Pro-Tips for Families

• The "Cold" Factor: Remember, it's an ice rink! The arena is usually about 10 degrees cooler than outside, so layers are your friend.

• Costumes: Fans ages 14 and under are encouraged to dress up as their favorite characters to join the fun. Check out my links and HOT tips for arena-friendly products to bring below.

• Get Tickets Early: Tickets are already on sale! For the future, if you are a Disney On Ice Preferred Customer, you can snag your seats during the pre-sale starting today!

Quick Link: You can find the full performance schedule and ticket info at DisneyOnIce.com.

Money Saving Tips for Families!

You don't have to break the bank to provide a little extra magic in your seat while watching the show. Here are some tips that I even participated in, because we are on a really tight budget. 

I have scrambled the day of the show in the past, so I know what it's like to try and locate some magic on a budget! A perfect solution if you have less than 24 hours to plan is to get glow sticks! If you have extra time, then check out my picks below! 

If you would like to see what the venu h

Another great tip!

The toys below are also great to hold on to for Disney vacations! I always bring my own bubble blowers with me for the kids for night time parades and indoor shows, and they are happy and none the wiser. 

Spinning Light Up Orb Wands (2-pack), Amazon $17.97

Snowflake Wands (2-pack), Amazon $15.95

Mickey Mouse Bubble Wands, Amazon $14.99

Glow sticks from the Dollar Tree are an easy same day fix! 

Glow Stick Bracelets are easier to manage! Try these instead of traditional glow sticks. Find them on Amazon!

If you live near a dollar store like Dollar Tree or Dollar General, you can find glow sticks for a buck! Glow sticks are easy, low-cost options to add a little pizazz to your view of the show. 

Bags at Arenas

Some arenas have specific policies allowing types of bags inside the arena. A safe bet would be to first check the arena's website, and/or bring a clear bag. A clear bag or backpack allows for quicker pass-through security and alleviates the stress of having to return things to your car. I use this bag that I found on Amazon. 

Also, bring snacks for your kids, don't be afraid to do that! If kids are happy with their snacks, then there is more money for the parents to buy what they want like ice cream and beer!

Here is a peek of what to expect from our last visit to Mickey's Search Party at UBS Arena in Belmont Park, New York.

There are kiosks for snowcones with souvenir cups. This is probably the best bang for your buck as you get a snack, and a cup to take home!

You can also purchase photo packages!

There are a lot of fun souvenirs that can be used as light-ups, and you can also purchase shirts to commemorate your experience. 

 

I hope that this post was helpful! If so, then check out my other social media channels where I share videos, photos, and captions outlining more family-friendly experiences! Give me a follow at @PlayLiveRepeat on all social media!

Feld Entertainment®, family owned and operated, is the worldwide leader in producing and presenting live touring family entertainment experiences that bring people together and uplift the human spirit. Properties include Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey®, Monster Jam®, Disney On Ice, Monster Energy AMA Supercross, and the SuperMotocross World Championship. Across the brand portfolio, Feld Entertainment has entertained millions of families in more than 80 countries and on six continents. Visit feldentertainment.com for more information. 

Long Jump into Fun: Introducing the New My Mario Collection for Babies and Little Kids!

Power Up Playtime! Introducing the New My Mario Series for Little Fans and Their Families

Get ready, Mushroom Kingdom adventurers! 

Nintendo is bringing the beloved world of Super Mario to a whole new generation with the exciting My Mario series, making its U.S. debut next month. Inspired by Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, Yoshi, and their friends, My Mario is a brand-new collection of products, games, and experiences designed for young children and their parents to explore, imagine, and play together. 

I am very jealous of new parents, because this is the announcement I have been waiting for my entire motherhood. Check out my first little bundle, Marcello, dressed in his Super Mario finest for his first birthday photos. 

Sorry! Back to the back magic that is the new My Mario collection...

Starting February 19th, you can be among the first to experience the My Mario collection at Nintendo NEW YORK and Nintendo SAN FRANCISCO stores. Can't make it to a store? Don't worry! My Mario products will also begin arriving at select retail stores nationwide this spring and will continue to expand throughout the year.

What's in Store for My Mario Fans?

Nintendo has partnered with fantastic brands like Mattel, Fisher-Price, and TOMY to create a thoughtful and engaging collection that's perfect for introducing little ones to the magic of Mario. 

Here’s a peek at what you can expect...

Super Mario Fisher-Price Little People includes a six-pack of your favorite characters! I anticipate that this set will be very hard to find as it will boost nostalgia in older fans, and parents wanting to add Nintendo Little People to their kiddo's toy box! Retailing at $19.99, try not to pay the crazy price of $55! 

This is the hottest Fisher-Price Little People set to hit the market! Already I see it for sale from third-party sellers for $60+! 

Building Block Adventures! Spark creativity with two charming wooden block sets. Choose from a Mario Wood Block Set (3 pcs) or go big with the Mario & Friends Wood Block Set (30 pcs), featuring Mario and other iconic items from the Super Mario series. Imagine the towers and castles your little builder will create! If all of the play factors and collectible aspects are not enough, the included characters will all be playable as amiibo in compatible Nintendo Switch games. 

Interactive Digital Fun with the Hello, Mario! App Dive into digital playtime with the free Hello, Mario! app! Launching February 19th on the Apple App Store, Google Play, and as a free download on Nintendo Switch (and Nintendo Switch 2!) via Nintendo eShop, this app allows children, parents, and caregivers to intuitively and playfully interact with Mario. Mario can make silly faces with the help of little players, take app breaks, and more! Think many, many levels higher than the Super Mario from his N64 days, when you could stretch Mario's face or have him follow you on screen. This app is a huge dose of nostalgia for parents, new and seasoned! Also, the absolute best part of the app is that you DO NOT need an internet connection once the app is downloaded. 

"It's Me, Mario!" Stop-Motion Series Gather the family for some adorable viewing! The My Mario stop-motion animation series – "It’s Me, Mario!" – is available now on the My Mario website and the official Play Nintendo YouTube channel. It's the perfect way to share some animated fun with your little ones. The videos are absolutely adorable! I want to jump through my screen and give Mario a snuggle. 

Mario-Themed Apparel for Tiny Trendsetters Dress your smallest Super Mario fans in style! The My Mario collection includes a fantastic range of apparel for infants and toddlers, from comfy onesies and sleepers to playful outfits for every adventure.

Read Along with Mario! Snuggle up for storytime with the interactive Hello, Mario! board book, created by Nintendo and published by Penguin Random House. It’s a wonderful way to introduce early literacy alongside a beloved character. The board book collection will launch Spring 2026. 

Cuddly Companions and Fun Rattles For the littlest fans, there are soft toys that include fun rattles and cuddly Mario plush. Perfect for snuggles, sensory play, and imaginative adventures.

Splash into Fun with Tomy Toomies My Mario Bath Toys Even bathtime gets a power-up! The Tomy Toomies My Mario collection will make a splash with exciting bath toys and water squirters inspired by iconic Super Mario characters. The collection is whimsical, fun, and are priced perfectly for gifting! Think first and second birthday gifts when little ones venture out on their own underwater level of fun!

Toomies My Mario™ Pour & Nest Bath Toy Set $13.99

Toomies My Mario™ Bath Pipes Playset $19.99

Toomies My Mario™ Bath Squirters 4 Pack $14.99

Toomies My Mario™ Super Mushroom & Fire Flower Bath Squirters $7.99

Toomies My Mario™ Mario & Goomba Bath Squirters $7.99

The My Mario series is a fantastic way for families to connect and share their love for the Super Mario universe. With such a diverse range of products and experiences, there’s something for every young adventurer.

Stay tuned to the My Mario site and Nintendo.com for updates on specific product launch timings. And be sure to follow @NintendoStoreUS on Instagram and X for more information on products and events at the official Nintendo stores.

Lumiose City is the PERFECT backdrop for Pokémon Mega Evolution Perfect Order Coming March 2026!

The Mega Evolution Revolution: Get Ready for a Brand New Pokémon TCG Era!

Hey fellow Trainers!

Get ready to mark your calendars because the Pokémon TCG is about to get a massive shake-up! The Pokémon Company International just dropped a bombshell: the new expansion, Mega Evolution—Perfect Order, is launching on March 27, 2026. This isn't just another set; it's the dawn of a whole new era, bringing back the fan-favorite Mega Evolution mechanic with a modern, competitive twist!

This post will break down everything you need to know, from the thrilling new cards to the seismic shifts in the competitive landscape as the "G-Block" rotates out. Buckle up, because Lumiose City is calling!

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Let me just take a moment and celebrate this new era, Mega Evolution, because the MEGA Pokémon are BACK and better than ever! Mega Evolution and Phantasmal Flames have been powerhouses providing beautiful arrays of illustration rares, full arts, and more. Still, the play mechanics truly make our Pokémon-loving hearts skip a beat!

Remember the days of Mega Evolution in the XY era? Well, forget everything you knew because the 2026 version is faster, more powerful, and comes with higher stakes!

Mega Evolution Pokémon ex are the new stars of the show. They boast unprecedented HP (we're talking 380 HP for Mega Venusaur ex!) and devastating attacks. But here's the catch: if your Mega Evolution Pokémon ex gets Knocked Out, your opponent takes a whopping three Prize cards! High risk, high reward!

The best part? No more losing your turn to Mega Evolve! This is a game-changer that makes these behemoths instantly viable.

With the latest expansion, Perfect Order, we have the new play mechanics and this set will take place in Lumiose City, which coincides with the latest Nintendo Switch 2 game, Pokémon Legends: Z-A also taking place in Lumiose City. Not to mention, the multitude of beautiful artwork and Pokémon celebrated in this series like Zygarde ex (you need him in Pokémon Legends: Z-A),  Mega Starmie ex, Mega Clefable ex and Mega Skarmory ex.

Meet the New Mega Powerhouses!

Straight out of the upcoming Pokémon Legends: Z-A video game, Mega Evolution—Perfect Order introduces four incredible new Mega Evolution Pokémon ex:

• Mega Zygarde ex: The undisputed star of the set, promising to bring "Perfect Order" to your opponent's bench!

• Mega Starmie ex: A dazzling new Mega form, ready to shine in battle.

• Mega Clefable ex: A beloved Pokémon evolving into a powerful force.

• Mega Skarmory ex: A fan-favorite flying fortress, now with Mega power!

These cards are part of the new J-Block regulation mark, making them future-proof for the upcoming competitive season.

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The Great Rotation of 2026: G-Block Says Goodbye!

Every spring, the Pokémon TCG refreshes its Standard format by rotating out the oldest cards. April 2026 marks the departure of all cards bearing the "G" Regulation Mark. This is a monumental shift, as many of our most beloved and powerful cards are leaving the format!

What are we losing? Prepare to say goodbye to:

• Meta-Defining Pokémon: Charizard ex, Gardevoir ex, Gholdengo ex (the G-block versions)

• Essential Supporters: The ever-present Iono and the incredibly versatile Arven.

• Staple Items: Nest Ball and Buddy-Buddy Poffin.

This rotation isn't just a cleanup; it's a reset! Decks will need to be completely rebuilt from the ground up, making room for the powerful J-Block cards to shine. 

Expect to find the following noteworthy card types in Pokémon Mega Evolution Perfect Order below:

• Four Mega Evolution Pokémon ex

• Nine Pokémon ex

• 11 illustration rare Pokémon

• 18 ultra rare Pokémon and Trainer cards 

• Six special illustration rare Pokémon and Supporter cards

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New Tools for a New Era: Replacing Our Staples

With so many key cards rotating, the J-Block is introducing new alternatives and spiritual successors to keep the game flowing:

• Out with Iono, in with Judge (J-Block Reprint): While Iono scaled perfectly for comebacks, Judge offers a consistent 4-card hand disruption for both players. A different flavor, but still potent!

• Arven's Legacy Lives On with Team Rocket's Petrel (J-Block): Petrel allows you to search for any 1 Trainer card, offering incredible flexibility even if it's not a direct 1-for-1 replacement for Arven's Item/Tool combo.

• Nest Ball's Successor: PokéPad (J-Block): This new Item card is fantastic for finding basic non-Rule Box Pokémon (like your evolution lines!), but remember, it won't grab your Basic ex Pokémon. You'll need other strategies for those!

• Wally's Compassion (J-Block Supporter): This card is a must-have for Mega Evolution decks! It helps accelerate your evolution process, allowing you to get your big Megas into play faster without waiting a turn.

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Dive into Perfect Order!

Mega Evolution—Perfect Order will be available in booster packs, Elite Trainer Boxes, and various collections. You can even get a sneak peek at Prerelease tournaments starting March 14, 2026, or play digitally on Pokémon TCG Live from March 26, 2026!

This set isn't just about new cards; it's about a fundamental shift in how the Pokémon TCG is played. The stage is set for a thrilling 2026 season, dominated by the raw power and strategic depth of Mega Evolution!

Are you ready to embrace the "Perfect Order" and unleash your Mega Evolution Pokémon ex? Let us know which new Mega you're most excited to play with in the comments below!