News

On the day of the 2023 D23 Expo, Saturday, we can expect to hear a flood of news regarding parks and experiences. During the park-specific panel, Disney revealed some thrilling developments that will be taking place in theme parks across the globe. Here we will check out the latest updates at Walt Disney World.

Hollywood Studios

Ahoska to feature at Star Tours

At this years D23 event is has been announced that beloved Star Wars character Ahoska will soon be joining the fun on Star Tours. Starting from next spring, visitors can expect to see her make appearances on their voyages, adding an extra touch of excitement and magic to the attraction

Magic Kingdom

Hatbox Ghost to feature at Haunted Mansion from Late November 2023

Late November 2023 marks the debut of the Hatbox Ghost at the Haunted Mansion. This eerie apparition will make an appearance to guests as they traverse the Endless Hallway. Having welcomed himself from the swinging wake in the cemetery, the Hatbox Ghost will flash a sinister grin at the Doom Buggies as they journey further into the depths of the mansion.

Country Bear Jamboree to Feature New Show and Songs from next year

For five decades, the Country Bear Jamboree has been a beloved attraction at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom Park. Guests have been treated to a delightful show featuring 18 audio-animatronic bears that sing and play instruments. However, there is exciting news on the horizon! Imagineer Chris Beatty has announced that the show will be getting a revamp, with a whole new set of songs set to debut in 2024.

While the show's fun-filled and family-friendly tone will remain unchanged, the bears, including Trixie and Big Al, have been hard at work rehearsing for a new Country Bear Musical Jamboree. This promises to be an even more entertaining and engaging experience for guests, and we can't wait to see what the bears have in store for us!

“We’re imagining a new take on the jamboree as an homage to the classic musical revues of [the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville],” Beatty said. “When the new show debuts, the bears will reinterpret their favorite Disney songs in different genres of country music – think rockabilly, blue grass, pop country, and more – and we’re working with some fantastic Nashville musicians to get the authentic sound just right.”

Pirates of the Caribbean Restaurant Announced

Exciting news for all Pirates of the Caribbean fans! The Magic Kingdom is currently developing a brand-new tavern dedicated to the popular franchise. This establishment will feature the much-anticipated return of Peg-Leg Pete, who is also known as the Barker Bird that used to be stationed outside the attraction. Visitors can expect an immersive experience that fully captures the spirit of the Pirates of the Caribbean universe. It's a must-see for anyone who loves swashbuckling adventure and treasure hunting!

Once again, although this would be an exciting addition, this project has not green lighted and is still a 'Blue Sky Concept'

Animal Kingdom

New Zootopia show coming to Tree Of Life at Animal Kingdom

It has been confirmed that the much-loved attraction, It's Tough To Be A Bug, will soon be replaced by a thrilling new Zootopia attraction. The new show is set to be housed in the Tree of Life theater, with imagineers currently putting the finishing touches on the concept. One of the highlights of the new attraction will undoubtedly be the inclusion of a Clawhauser Audio-Animatronic, which is sure to delight visitors of all ages.

Blue Sky: Encanto and Indiana Jones Land concept art released for Animal Kingdom to replace Dinoland U.S.A

Disney has made a significant announcement during today's D23 event regarding the future of Animal Kingdom. The renowned DinoLand, U.S.A. will soon undergo a complete transformation and be replaced by an entirely new land. Bruce Vaughn, the Chief Creative Officer at Walt Disney Imagineering, appeared on stage alongside Josh D'Amaro, Chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences, and Products, to unveil this exciting news.

Vaughn disclosed that the Imagineers have set their sights on "The Tropical Americas" region, encompassing the northern parts of South America and Central America. This region is known for its exceptional biodiversity and distinct cultures, making it an ideal fit for a Disney theme park.

Previous rumors had speculated that either Zootopia or Moana would be the inspiration for the new land; however, Disney has now mentioned that they are considering both Encanto and Indiana Jones as potential themes. In fact, work has already commenced on the Casita from Encanto, a popular Disney film set in Colombia.

It is important to note that this is still very much in the design phase, and nothing is set in stone. Therefore, Disney can change any aspect of the plan at any time.

EPCOT

Moana: Journey of Water Opening 16th October

After several years of delays, it has been officially announced that the Journey of Water Inspired by Moana will finally open its doors to guests on the 16th of October. Cast member and Annual Passholder previews have been occurring over the past few weeks, but starting next month, visitors will be able to experience the attraction for themselves.

Not only will guests get to enjoy the long-awaited attraction, but it was also disclosed that Moana herself will be present to greet visitors in the vicinity of the Journey of Water area. This will be the first time that Moana will have a permanent meet and greet location. Previously, she replaced Pocahontas's meet and greet area at Animal Kingdom and had a brief appearance at Hollywood Studios.

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EPCOT's New Nighttime Spectacular Luminous: The Symphony of Us will debut on 5th December

A new nighttime spectacular that promises to be a visual and auditory feast for visitors of EPCOT at Walt Disney World Resort has been announced. Dubbed “Luminous: The Symphony of Us,” it is scheduled to make its grand debut on 5th December 2023, as revealed by Walt Disney World President Jeff Vahle during the “A Celebration of Disney Parks, Experiences, and Products: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow” panel at Destination D23 on Saturday.

According to Vahle, the show will feature an array of dazzling elements, including fireworks, fountains, lasers, lighting effects, and music. It is designed to provide a multi-sensory experience that will leave a lasting impression on the audience.

“Luminous: The Symphony of Us” will take over from “EPCOT Forever” as the new nighttime delight, and it will serve as the replacement for “Harmonious” after the latter show’s stoppage in April 2023. “Harmonious” debuted in October 2021 for the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney World, replacing “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth,” which had captivated visitors since 1999.

Test Track to be re-imagined at EPCOT

Test Track is destined for a significant transformation. Collaborating with the ride's sponsor, Chevrolet, Imagineers are set to introduce a reimagined version of Test Track, drawing inspiration from its precursor, World of Motion. The ride's creators aim to infuse the new iteration with the same spirit of positivity and optimism that made its predecessor so beloved among theme park enthusiasts.

At EPCOT, Test Track will be reimagined! Imagineers along with teams from Chevrolet are reaching back into history for inspiration—from the original World of Motion—and bringing that spirit of optimism to the next iteration of the Test Track attraction!

World Celebration to open this December

Disney has announced that World Celebration at EPCOT is set to open its doors in December of this year. The news of this opening has come as a surprise to many, considering the ongoing construction in and around the area. While the exact opening date has yet to be revealed, the prospect of these new lands being accessible to the public has sparked excitement and anticipation among fans and visitors alike.

Figment Meet and Greet Opening today

Starting from tomorrow (10th September), the Figment meet and greet will officially debut. This exciting addition was first announced by Disney Parks Chairman Josh D'Amaro during the D23 Expo in 2022. Fans can now enjoy meeting and interacting with this beloved character at EPCOT.