During yesterday’s Disney Experiences Showcases panel, Disney announced upcoming developments at parks around the world (Walt Disney Audio-Animatronic, anyone?) We, of course, are most focused on what is coming to Disney World. Here are our highlights:
1. New Nighttime Parade
Look, I am excited about all the other announcements, but if this was the only thing Disney World got, I would be happy. The lack of a nighttime parade has been the biggest hole for us at Disney World and that is going to end in Summer 2025. So exciting.
2. Cars Attraction as the Magic Kingdom
Ka-Chow! There will be two new Cars attractions added to Frontierland. One will be more of a thrill ride while the other will be “fun for the whole family.” Even though no time frame was given for this, my excitement for Cars puts it as number two on the list.
3. Indiana Jones and Encanto coming to Animal Kingdom
Rumors about this have been picking up a lot of steam in recent weeks, and now it’s confirmed. Indiana Jones will be taking over Dinosaur and the surrounding areas will be getting an Encanto glow-up. I know the backstory of Chester & Hester, but it was time to do something else with that space. Targeted opening date in 2027.
4. Monsters, Inc land coming to Hollywood Studios
Unlike Indy, I did not have this on my bingo card. A New Monsters. Inc. land with suspended roller coaster? Color me intrigued.
5. Mando and Grogu come to Smugglers Run
Mando’s flying and Grogu’s force powers should make it easier to get that coaxium. (Joking aside, I hope they use this an an opportunity to fully take that aspect of things out of the ride—it never really worked like intended.)
6. Villains Land Coming to Magic Kingdom
No time frame on this one, but Disney is officially announcing a Villains Land. Details were scarce, so it might be a bit before we really see movement.
7. Test Track Re-Opens in 2025
I always assumed this would be the case, but glad to see Disney come out and say the re-imagined Test Track is going to open net year. (Maybe they felt bad that Epcot did not get any of the major announcements…)
