I’ve done a lot of weird things for my job.
Me and my “pal” Mickey.
I’ve eaten my fair share of bizarre snacks, I’ve counted steps out loud walking from the Contemporary to Magic Kingdom, and I’ve even sat underneath tables in EPCOT to help my phone survive the chaos that is a festival opening day. But recently, I did maybe the strangest thing yet — spent the entire day befriending what might be Disney World’s creepiest souvenir.
When people find out that I go to Disney World for my job, they often think that it’s a fun and boisterous time. But in all reality, it can be a fairly introverted job. I spend most of my day walking around a theme park by myself, only interacting with my coworkers through my phone. It can get — dare I say — a little lonely for an extrovert like me.
I go to Disney World for my job!
But never fear! Recently, a bold soul stepped in to help me cure the loneliness. A new friend joined me on my adventures, and as admirable as it was for him to step up to the plate…I don’t want his friendship! How dare I be so harsh, you ask? Yeah, well, just wait until you see him.
Talking Mickey popcorn bucket
Oh yeah, sure, this guy looks cute and cuddly, but don’t let him fool you! This is the talking Mickey popcorn bucket that recently dropped at popcorn stands in Hollywood Studios for $45. As part of my job, I picked one up to snag some photos and see how he works, and let’s just say that Mickey might be visiting me in my nightmares.
You place the popcorn in the back of his head
What’s wrong with Mickey? Well, you flip a switch on his feet to turn him on, and then when you say “Hey, Mickey!” he responds with one of three different catch phrases. But that’s not all! Nope, he also blinks and TURNS HIS HEAD TO STARE INTO YOUR SOUL.
FRIGHTENING
And if you forget to turn his switch to the “off” position after testing him out, you may find yourself mid-restaurant review a few hours later when he suddenly starts blinking and talking out of nowhere. Not that that happened to me or anything…👀
Mickey Mouse Popcorn Bucket
But you know what? Beggars can’t be choosers. I was in need of a little friendly interaction, and Mickey was kind enough to join me for a drink at BaseLine Tap House. Ice water for me, Coca-Cola for him — I can’t seem to convince that guy that he needs to hydrate properly in this summer heat.
Enjoying each other’s company
And even though the conversation was pretty one-sided (he only said like three different things to me the whole time!) and his eye contact is unnerving, we still managed to have a pretty good day together. I’m glad I started to warm up to his presence, because that dude was following me everywhere. Even now, he’s chilling in the backseat of my car (I refuse to let him inside my house).
His eyes…
So that’s what it’s like to make friends, the only way you can when you’re reporting in Disney World. Hopefully, next time there’s a specialty popcorn bucket, it won’t frighten children and give adults nightmares.
Check out the video below to see things we always buy in Disney World!
Stay tuned to DFB for more fun adventures in the parks!
Look What My Editor Made Me Do in Disney World
Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!
WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
Would you buy this popcorn bucket? Tell us in the comments!
Our handy (and portable!) ebook guides make sure you get the best deals and can plan a vacation of a lifetime.
off topic but what is that miniature train situation in the second picture?
Thanks for the hilarious (and cautionary) post Lydia! Does it make me weird that I think I want one more now than I would have otherwise? Yeah I think that’s probably weird. But it speaks to the compelling nature of your article 😂
The “Tiny Train Town” in Walt Disney World is located within the Germany Pavilion at EPCOT. It’s a miniature Bavarian town with a model railway and they decorate it for the different festivals. During Food and Wine and Festival of the Arts you’ll see tiny flags representing the festival.
thank you!!