There’s something uniquely captivating about Figment, EPCOT’s original mascot and embodiment of imagination, who has captured hearts for decades without a significant update in over twenty years. 2025 and into 2026, he remains culturally relevant, appearing on t-shirts, pins, spirit jerseys, and backpacks throughout Disney parks. His enduring popularity, despite constant character changes, reflects a deeper connection that extends beyond mere nostalgia.Figment has become more than just a character associated with a ride; he has evolved into a symbol of creativity, whimsy, and the original spirit of EPCOT. While Disney fans remain divided on whether the attraction should be closed or completely overhauled, one thing is undeniable: Figment’s merchandise presence shows no signs of slowing down, and his fan base continues to grow with each new generation of park visitors.The Little Purple Dragon That Could Figment is a special and well-loved character in the Disney world. Unlike popular movie characters like Stitch or princess sidekicks like Pascal, Figment is closely connected to a theme park ride. The ride, “Journey into Imagination with Figment,” has been criticized over the years. Fans often point out that its effects seem old, the ride experience is shorter than the original version, and the story feels less magical compared to the 1983 ride. Still, Figment remains a popular choice among many fans.New Figment Squishmallow Bag Charm Spotted at Epcot https://t.co/n49lrbelvH— Chip and Company (@4chipandcompany) January 1, 2026Figment fans can be divided into two groups. One group loves his connection to EPCOT, seeing him as a symbol of the park’s history and its bright future. The other group feels that Figment’s presence at festivals and on merchandise has become too much. They think the attraction might not be relevant today. For them, seeing Figment’s purple face on many items—from wine glasses to pins—can feel overwhelming.But love him or hate him, you can’t ignore him. And Disney clearly understands this dynamic, consistently releasing new Figment products that sell remarkably well, especially during EPCOT’s various festivals throughout the year.The Figment Squishmallow StrategyThe latest addition to Figment’s merchandise empire is a Squishmallow bag charm that recently appeared at EPCOT, retailing for $16.99. This isn’t Figment’s first foray into Squishmallow territory. Not long ago, an extra-large version caused quite a stir among collectors, becoming one of those items guests would race to secure during rope drop. The charm version represents a brilliant evolution of that original release. @nightmareb4chris New Disney Figment Squishmallows! #disneystyle #disneymerch #disneyparks #disneyworld ♬ Journey Into Imagination Figment Disney – Minnie Mouse This miniature Figment fits perfectly in your hand. He wears his iconic yellow and red sweater with his name stitched on the front. The details are impressive for such a small item. His face has embroidered features, not printed ones, and his signature orange horns stick up from his head. On the back, you’ll find tiny wings and scales that go down his soft tail. A lavender clip at the top makes it easy to attach him to bags, belt loops, or keychains.This release is smart because it aligns with current trends, particularly with the Labubu dolls. Bag charms have become popular fashion items. You can see them on backpacks, purses, and totes around college campuses and on social media. Disney has capitalized of this trend, enabling fans to express their affection for Figment in a manner that aligns with today’s accessory styles.The Practical Magic of Smaller SouvenirsThere is a practical reason for offering Figment in a compact format. Anyone who has been to Orlando International Airport knows the scene: tired parents struggling with large plush toys their kids wanted. A big Stitch plush seemed like a good buy at first. However, navigating security lines and overhead compartments turns it into an extra passenger needing its own seat.The Squishmallow bag charm effectively addresses this travel problem. It’s small enough to clip onto luggage without adding weight, soft enough to feel like a plush souvenir, and affordable enough for parents to buy without shock at checkout. This is especially helpful for international visitors, who often worry about the weight and space of their luggage. These charms offer a great way to bring home a special keepsake while minimizing travel stress.Why Figment EnduresFigment’s popularity raises an interesting question: why does a character linked to a subpar attraction remain culturally significant? The answer likely lies in what he represents—pure imagination, creativity, and the joy of exploration—rather than his physical attraction. These themes resonate with many, regardless of the attraction’s quality.There is also something to be said about Figment being EPCOT’s original mascot. In a park that has undergone significant transformations over the years, with Future World evolving into World Celebration and World Discovery, Figment remains a constant link to EPCOT’s roots. For many longtime fans, he symbolizes the park’s original mission of celebrating human achievement and possibility.Credit: Disney Disney understands the emotional connection fans have with Figment and continually finds new ways to keep him present in the parks. Through festival merchandise, collectibles, and products like the Squishmallow charm, Figment appeals to multiple generations. Parents who enjoyed the original Journey into Imagination now share Figment with their children, thereby fostering a lasting fan base.The Squishmallow bag charm represents more than just another piece of merchandise; it showcases Figment’s appeal, which transcends the quality of his attraction. It taps into something fundamental about what draws people to Disney parks in the first place: imagination, nostalgia, and that spark of magic that makes ordinary objects feel extraordinary.The post The Figment Squishmallow Bag Charm Disney Fans Didn’t Know They Needed appeared first on Inside the Magic.