Disney hasn’t revealed a single image of the next Figment popcorn bucket, but somehow the excitement—and the concern—has already started. Festival of the Arts regulars know exactly what happens when a new Figment design drops, and the early warning signs suggest this year could be another wild ride.
Even without official details, fans are preparing for a scenario that has played out more than once at EPCOT: massive demand, unpredictable lines, and a buying process that may look different from anything Disney has done before.
A Bucket With a Massive Reputation
Figment has always had a strong hold on EPCOT fans, but the popcorn bucket tradition elevated that love to a completely different level. Every version released over the past few years has caused a surge of attention, from serpentine lines stretching across the park to a temporary virtual queue system when demand overwhelmed cast members.
But the situation changed recently when Disney shifted to a mobile-order system through the My Disney Experience app. That streamlined the chaos and cut hours of waiting down to minutes. Festival crowds were grateful, and most guests assumed this change would stick.
Now, as the 2026 Festival of the Arts approaches, fans are wondering whether Disney plans to keep that system—or reinvent it again.
Why Warnings Are Already Circulating
The biggest red flag is the complete lack of announcement. Disney has stayed quiet about what the bucket looks like, when it will release, and how guests will be able to purchase it.
That silence has created a ripple of speculation, especially among guests who witnessed the chaos of previous years. People are already preparing for the possibility that:
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Mobile order could return but fill up instantly
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A new, more restricted pickup system could debut
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Disney could revert back to physical lines that stretch beyond imagination
Some longtime fans are issuing warnings now because they’ve seen how quickly the situation can shift. When Figment gets involved, demand becomes unpredictable.
What Guests Should Expect
With the festival beginning in mid-January, guests planning to attend opening weekend are likely to feel the biggest impact. If mobile order distribution returns, time slots could disappear within minutes. If Disney goes back to in-person lines, early arrival may become essential.
And if Disney unveils a glow-up or new interactive feature on the 2026 design? The rush could be even more intense than previous years.
The safest move is to stay alert. Once Disney announces the purchasing process, things may move fast.
Figment Mania Isn’t Going Anywhere
No matter how the bucket looks or what the process becomes, Figment collectors are ready to jump the moment Disney drops details. History has shown that these buckets sell out quickly, dominate social media for days, and become festival icons the moment they appear.
Whether the process feels smooth or chaotic, Figment mania is coming—and Disney is bracing for it once again.
