New Attractions and Experiences in 2025

Walt Disney World is preparing for a range of exciting new offerings in 2025. From new shows and attractions to elegant lounges and nighttime parades, visitors will be able to experience magical moments and unforgettable adventures. Here is an overview of what awaits in Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom in 2025.

Hollywood Studios

Disney is launching a new show called “Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After,” featuring characters like Cruella de Vil, Captain Hook, and Maleficent. The show promises humor and charm, with several well-known Disney villains making appearances. The expected opening is in the summer of 2025.

Additionally, “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” will come to life on stage. This show includes live performances, puppets, and impressive visual effects. Beloved songs like “Under the Sea” and “Part of Your World” will be performed, along with new numbers such as “Daughters of Triton” and “Kiss the Girl.” This show was originally scheduled to open in 2024 but is now expected to open in the spring of 2025.

EPCOT

Spaceship Earth will feature a new elegant lounge opening in late spring. This lounge will offer culinary creations and a fantastic view of the park, including the fireworks.

Test Track, presented by General Motors, will have a new storyline developed by Walt Disney Imagineering and General Motors. This attraction will open in late summer 2025 and will include new cars and test driving.

Magic Kingdom

A new nighttime parade called “Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away” will light up summer evenings in 2025. The parade will feature characters from Disney films such as “Peter Pan,” “Encanto,” “Frozen,” and “Moana,” with the Blue Fairy from “Pinocchio” as a central figure.

An all-new tavern themed to Pirates of the Caribbean will open at Magic Kingdom in 2025. At D23 Brazil 2024, Disney revealed a new look at what guests will find inside and that there will be some special surprises that Pirates fans will love.

Adventureland will get a new Pirates of the Caribbean-inspired tavern in 2025. This tavern will offer food and drinks in a pirate theme, with several magical surprises.

Animal Kingdom

A new 4D production called “Zootopia: Better Zoogether!” will open in the Tree of Life Theater in the winter of 2025. The show will feature characters like Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde in a family-friendly adventure.

The DINOSAUR attraction will close by the end of 2025 to be transformed into an Indiana Jones attraction, as part of the new Tropical Americas area.

Disney After Hours

Disney After Hours events will provide exclusive access to theme parks after closing time, including snacks like ice cream and popcorn. The events will take place at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Magic Kingdom on selected dates starting in January 2025.

Recurring Fun

Walt Disney World will continue to offer popular festivals and events such as the EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival, EPCOT Food and Wine Festival, Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, with over 200 days of themed and seasonal magic.

Video: New Attractions and Experiences in 2025

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Attractions Closing in 2025

Walt Disney World in Florida is known for its magical experiences and iconic attractions. However, in 2025, several well-known attractions will close permanently to make way for new and exciting experiences, while others will close for a shorter or longer period of time.

Attractions that are closing permanently

Tom Sawyer Island

A classic attraction in Magic Kingdom inspired by Mark Twain’s stories, will close early in 2025. This tranquil and adventurous island, where visitors can explore hidden caves and cross swinging bridges, will make way for Cars Land, based on the Cars movies. The new park will bring Radiator Springs to life with an exciting rally course and a family-friendly attraction.

Liberty Square Riverboat

Liberty Square Riverboat, which takes guests on a relaxing tour around the Rivers of America, will also close early in 2025. This historic boat ride will also be replaced by Cars Land, similar to Tom Sawyer Island.

MuppetVision 3D

MuppetVision 3D in Hollywood Studios has been a favorite among visitors since 1991. The show combines 3D technology with practical effects and animatronic Muppet characters and will close sometime in 2025. It will be replaced by Monsters Inc. Land, which will include an exciting “Doors Coaster,” Disney’s first suspended dark ride coaster.

TriceraTop Spin

TriceraTop Spin in Animal Kingdom is a family-friendly attraction where guests can fly around in dinosaurs and will close on January 12, 2025. This attraction will make way for the new Tropical Americas section, which will include themes from Encanto and Indiana Jones. According to Disney, the section will bring a fresh and exotic atmosphere to the park.

It’s Tough to Be a Bug!

It’s Tough to Be a Bug! is a 4D film based on the Pixar movie “A Bug’s Life,” which has been part of Animal Kingdom since 1998. This attraction will close permanently in the fall of 2025 and be replaced by a new Zootopia show, which will open in the winter of 2025. The new attraction will be an interactive and engaging experience for the whole family.

Dinosaur

Dinosaur in Animal Kingdom, which takes guests on a journey back in time to find an Iguanodon, will close at the end of 2025. This attraction will be replaced by a new Indiana Jones attraction.

Attractions that are closing temporarily

Rock’n’Roller Coaster

Rock’n’Roller Coaster will eventually close to be transformed from an Aerosmith theme to a Muppets theme, including Dr. Teeth and The Electric Mayhem. However, Disney has not announced when this change will occur.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will close on January 6th for extensive upgrades. This popular roller coaster in Frontierland will return in 2026 with new elements and improvements that will provide an even more exciting experience for guests.

Astro Orbiter

Astro Orbiter, located in Tomorrowland, will be closed from January 13, 2025, and is expected to reopen in the summer of 2025. Disney has not specified exactly what will be done during the refurbishment, but such a long closure suggests that significant work will be carried out.

Kali River Rapids

A popular raft attraction in Animal Kingdom, providing guests with an exciting and wet journey through a simulated river course in Asia. This attraction will close on January 6, 2025, and is expected to reopen in mid-March 2025. The refurbishment will include maintenance of both rafts and water systems, as well as updates to improve guest comfort and safety.

Gran Fiesta Tour

A charming boat ride through the Mexico Pavilion in Epcot, inspired by Disney’s “The Three Caballeros”. The attraction will close on January 6, 2025, and reopen on March 15, 2025. The upgrades will include technical improvements and visual updates, making the ride even more engaging for guests.

Hall of Presidents

Hall of Presidents will also close for upgrades as the United States gets a new president in January. This iconic attraction in Liberty Square, which presents all U.S. presidents in an impressive animatronic display, will close on January 20, 2025. The planned reopening is expected to be in late fall 2025.

Tron Lightcycle Run: A Futuristic Journey in Magic Kingdom

Tron Lightcycle Run is one of the newest and most exciting attractions at Walt Disney World and Magic Kingdom. This futuristic roller coaster, which opened in 2023, is inspired by the popular Tron film series and offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience a high-speed journey through a digital world. The attraction is known for its impressive technology, fast speeds, and spectacular visual effects, making it a favorite for many visitors.

Tron Lightcycle Run was first introduced at Shanghai Disneyland in 2016 under the name Tron Lightcycle Power Run. It quickly became a favorite among park guests, leading to the decision to bring the attraction to Magic Kingdom in Florida. Construction of Tron Lightcycle Run at Magic Kingdom began in 2017, and after several years of work and anticipation, it finally opened to the public in 2023. The attraction is located in Tomorrowland, an area of the park dedicated to future technology and innovation.

The ride on Tron Lightcycle Run is an adrenaline-filled experience. Guests sit on motorcycle-like vehicles, known as lightcycles, and are launched at high speed through a series of sharp turns, steep hills, and impressive light effects. The track is partially indoors and partially outdoors, providing a dynamic experience with both dark, neon-lit sequences and open, airy sections.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Tron Lightcycle Run is its use of advanced technology to create an immersive experience. The attraction utilizes a combination of physical movement, projections, and lights to transport guests into the Tron universe. This includes an impressive entrance through a digital portal and an exciting finale that gets the heart racing.

The story behind Tron Lightcycle Run is as fascinating as the ride itself. The Tron films, which began with the original Tron in 1982 and were followed by Tron: Legacy in 2010, have been known for their groundbreaking use of special effects and futuristic aesthetics. Tron Lightcycle Run is a natural extension of this legacy. The attraction captures the essence of the films by combining high-tech design with thrilling action and a sense of adventure.

Tron Lightcycle Run has quickly become one of the most popular attractions in Magic Kingdom, and it’s easy to see why. With its unique blend of technology, speed, and visual splendor, it offers an experience unlike anything else in the park.

For those seeking excitement and adventure, Tron Lightcycle Run is an unforgettable journey into a digital world where anything is possible. Whether you’re a fan of the Tron films or just love roller coasters, this attraction is sure to give you an experience you won’t soon forget.

¡Celebración Encanto! Becomes a Permanent Show at Epcot

Disney recently announced that the popular show “¡Celebración Encanto!” will now become a permanent part of the entertainment offerings at Epcot. This colorful and energetic show, held at the new CommuniCore Plaza, has been a popular addition to the park since it was first introduced.

The show lasts about 25 minutes, with an additional 10-minute dance party at the end. It features dancers, songs from the movie “Encanto,” and special appearances by characters Mirabel and Bruno. The audience is encouraged to participate actively, making it a fun experience for the whole family. “¡Celebración Encanto!” is performed several times daily. Exact times can be checked in the My Disney Experience app.

“¡Celebración Encanto!” was first introduced in March 2024 as a temporary show, initially planned to run from June 10 to September 6 of the same year. Due to its popularity, the show was extended through Hispanic & Latin American Heritage Month and beyond. Now, Disney has confirmed that the show will remain a permanent part of Epcot’s entertainment lineup.

The show is part of the larger transformation of Epcot, which included the opening of CommuniCore Hall and Plaza. These new areas have brought a range of new attractions and entertainment options to the park, and “¡Celebración Encanto!” has quickly become a favorite among visitors. With its catchy music, lively dance, and interactive elements, “¡Celebración Encanto!” will continue to bring the magic of “Encanto” to life in the heart of the park. Whether you’re a big fan of the movie or just looking for a fun experience, this show is definitely something you should catch on your next visit to Epcot.

Astro Orbiter Closes for Extensive Refurbishment

Disney has recently announced that the popular attraction Astro Orbiter, a classic carousel ride in Magic Kingdom, will close for an extended period.

Astro Orbiter, located in Tomorrowland, will be closed from January 13, 2025, and is expected to reopen in the summer of 2025. Disney has not specified exactly what will be done during the renovation, but such a long closure period suggests that significant work will be carried out. This could include system maintenance, visual updates, and a general refurbishment of the attraction. Astro Orbiter is a classic carousel ride where guests can control the height of their rockets as they circle around planets, and it is, of course, important that the attraction is kept in top condition to ensure a good experience for visitors.

Astro Orbiter first opened in Magic Kingdom in 1974 under the name Star Jets. It was renamed and redesigned to Astro Orbiter in 1994 as part of a larger update of Tomorrowland. The attraction is known for its unique location atop the PeopleMover platform, giving guests a fantastic view of the park as they soar around in their rockets.

The renovation of Astro Orbiter aims to ensure that it remains an exciting and safe attraction for future generations. Disney fans can look forward to a renewed and improved experience when the attraction reopens in the summer of 2025.

EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival 2025

Walt Disney World has recently announced the dates for the highly anticipated EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival in 2025. The festival, marking its 30th anniversary, will take place from March 5 to June 2, 2025. This event is known for its spectacular flower displays, creative topiaries, and a variety of culinary experiences that attract visitors from all over the world.

The EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival was first held in 1994 and has since grown to become one of the most popular festivals in the Disney park. The festival combines the beauty of nature with entertainment and education, offering something for all ages. Visitors can enjoy impressive garden displays, participate in gardening workshops, and taste seasonal dishes from various food booths.

One of the major attractions during the festival is the Garden Rocks Concert Series, held at the America Gardens Theatre. In 2025, the festival will feature an impressive lineup of artists, including Tommy DeCarlo, former vocalist of Boston, performing on March 7 and 8, and Air Supply, celebrating their 50th anniversary with concerts on March 9 and 10. Other well-known names like Blue October, Rick Springfield, and Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone will also contribute to making the festival unforgettable.

(c) Disney

Only a few dates and artists have been announced so far, and we currently know the following dates and artists:

March 7 and 8 – Tommy DeCarlo, former lead singer of Boston
March 9 and 10 – Air Supply – 50th anniversary celebration
March 14 and 15 – Blue October
March 16 and 17 – Rick Springfield
March 21 and 22 – Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone
March 23 and 24 – 38 Special
March 28 and 29 – Jason Scheff, longtime singer in Chicago

The festival is not only a visual feast but also an opportunity to learn more about gardening and sustainability. Over the years, the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival has become a symbol of Disney’s commitment to environmental awareness and education. With its focus on the beauty of nature and the importance of preserving it, the festival inspires visitors to bring a bit of the magic home to their own gardens.

Whether you are an avid gardener, a food enthusiast, or simply love beautiful flowers, the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival is an experience you won’t want to miss.

Double Fireworks Magic at New 2025 After Hours!

The After Hours events at Walt Disney World are back in 2025, and they will be just as magical as before. These special evening events give guests the opportunity to enjoy the parks with fewer crowds and shorter wait times for popular attractions.

After Hours takes place in three of the four theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and EPCOT. During After Hours, guests can enjoy three extra hours of fun after the park’s regular closing time. Tickets to these events include “free” snacks like ice cream, popcorn, and selected beverages. The events also offer the chance to experience exciting attractions, meet beloved Disney characters, and more, all with significantly shorter wait times than usual.

One of the most exciting news for 2025 is the “new” fireworks show coming to Magic Kingdom during the After Hours events. Disney has announced that the Disney Enchantment fireworks show will make a comeback exclusively for After Hours at Magic Kingdom. This show, originally introduced for Disney World’s 50th anniversary, will once again light up the sky with spectacular lights, music, and special effects. Disney Enchantment is known for its impressive combination of fireworks, projections, and music that takes guests on a magical journey through Disney’s world. The show includes favorite songs from classic Disney movies and newer hits, all choreographed to create an unforgettable experience.

Guests will be able to see both Disney Enchantment during After Hours and Happily Ever After during regular park hours, providing a double dose of magic for those attending After Hours.

After Hours at Magic Kingdom takes place on selected nights from January 6 to May 19, 2025. Tickets for these events range in price from $175 to $185 per ticket, depending on the date. Guests can enter the park from 7:00 PM, although the event officially starts at 10:00 PM and lasts until 1:00 AM.

Here is an overview of the dates for After Hours in the different parks:

Magic Kingdom: January 6, January 13, January 20, January 27, February 3, February 10, February 17, February 24, March 2, March 9, March 16, March 23, March 30, April 6, April 13, April 20, April 27, May 4, May 11, and May 19.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios: January 22, January 29, February 12, February 19, March 5, March 26, April 1, April 30, May 14, May 28, June 4, June 11, June 25, July 2, July 9, July 16, July 23, July 30, August 6, August 20, August 27, and September 3.

EPCOT: February 27, March 5, March 12, March 19, March 26, April 2, April 9, April 16, April 23, April 30, May 7, May 14, May 21, and May 28.

Video: Double Fireworks Magic at New 2025 After Hours!

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Endings and New Beginnings at Walt Disney World in 2025

2025 will be a year filled with both excitement and nostalgia at Walt Disney World. While some attractions will say goodbye, new adventures will open their doors to visitors. Here is a detailed overview of what is happening in the four parks over the coming year.

Magic Kingdom

Magic Kingdom, the heart of Walt Disney World, will experience significant changes in 2025. One of the most exciting announcements is the construction of Cars Land. This new area will bring the beloved film series to life, giving visitors the opportunity to experience Radiator Springs up close with two new attractions. The first attraction will be an exhilarating rally course through the mountains, where guests can drive through the wilderness, avoid geysers, and splash through mud pits. The second attraction is aimed at the youngest guests and will be a fun experience for the whole family. To make room for Cars Land, Tom Sawyer Island and Liberty Square Riverboat will close permanently in 2025. Cars Land is expected to open in late 2026 or 2027.

Additionally, Villains Land will begin to take shape. This new area, located “Beyond Big Thunder Mountain,” will be home to some of Disney’s most iconic villains. With two major attractions, dining options, and shops, Villains Land will offer a dark and thrilling experience for visitors. Construction starts in mid-2025, with an expected opening in 2027.

EPCOT

EPCOT continues its transformation with several new attractions and upgrades. One of the most anticipated announcements is the upgrade of Test Track. This popular attraction will close before the summer of 2024 and will reopen sometime in 2025, with an entirely new experience that combines technology and human creativity. The new version of Test Track will include six distinct exhibits in the queue area, as well as new show scenes showcasing technological advancements and how our lifestyle and relationship with mobility connect us all.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, 2025 will be marked by both new attractions and farewells to old favorites. Muppet Vision 3D will close sometime in 2025, and the entire area will be transformed into Monsters Inc. Land. This new area will include an exciting new attraction based on the iconic door scene from the film, as well as new dining options and shops. Disney has not yet announced when the new Monsters Inc. Land is expected to open.

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster will also eventually close to get a new Muppets theme. This popular roller coaster will be transformed into a rock festival with the Muppets and some of music’s biggest stars. It has not been confirmed when the roller coaster will close to say goodbye to Aerosmith, or when it will reopen.

Additionally, Voyage of the Little Mermaid will reopen as The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure in the first half of 2025, a brand new theater show that brings Ariel’s story to life in a new and exciting way.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Disney’s Animal Kingdom will also see significant changes in 2025. TriceraTop Spin, Fossil Fun Games, and Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures will close permanently on January 13, 2025, to make way for the new Tropical Americas area. This new area will include attractions inspired by Encanto and is expected to open in 2027.

The DINOSAUR attraction will close later than the rest of DinoLand USA for its transformation into an Indiana Jones-themed attraction, with a possible reopening in 2027.

Additionally, It’s Tough To Be a Bug will close in 2025 to be replaced by a new Zootopia attraction, which is expected to open in the winter of 2025.

2025 will be a year of major changes at Walt Disney World, with both new attractions opening and old favorites saying goodbye. Whether you are a first-time visitor or an experienced Disney fan, there will be something new and exciting to discover in the years to come.

Video: Walt Disney World 2025 – The Changes Ahead

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Lightning Lane at Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World has always been at the forefront of theme park innovation, and its queue management systems are no exception. From the original paper FastPass to Genie+ and Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Single Pass, they have continually improved the way guests experience the park.

The journey began with the FastPass system, introduced in 1999, which allowed guests to reserve access to select attractions, reducing wait times significantly. This system was later upgraded to FastPass+ in 2013, offering more flexibility and allowing guests to book reservations online up to 60 days in advance.

However, the COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges, leading to the introduction of Genie+ in 2021. This new system replaced FastPass+ and required guests to pay an additional fee to access Lightning Lanes, which were essentially shorter, paid queues for popular attractions.

Transition to Lightning Lane: MultiPass, Single Pass, and Premier Pass
In July 2024, Disney announced a major overhaul of its Lightning Lane system, introducing three new options: Lightning Lane MultiPass, Lightning Lane Single Pass, and Lightning Lane Premier Pass. This change aimed to provide guests with more choices and flexibility in managing their park experience.

How Lightning Lane Works Today

Lightning Lane MultiPass
Lightning Lane MultiPass allows guests to make up to three Lightning Lane reservations in advance for a single park per day. Guests staying at Disney Resort hotels can book these passes up to seven days in advance, while other guests can book up to three days in advance2. The cost varies depending on the park and demand, typically ranging from $20 to $35 per person.

To book a MultiPass, guests need to use the My Disney Experience App. Once logged in, they can select up to three attractions and choose available time slots2. Guests can modify their selections later, subject to availability.

Lightning Lane Single Pass
Lightning Lane Single Pass allows guests to purchase individual Lightning Lane reservations for specific attractions. Each guest can book up to two Single Passes per day2. These passes are also available for advance booking, with the same booking windows as MultiPass.

Single Passes are ideal for guests who have a few must-do attractions in mind and want to ensure they can experience them with minimal wait time. The cost for Single Passes varies, typically ranging from $15 to $25 per person3.

Lightning Lane Premier Pass
Lightning Lane Premier Pass is the newest addition to the system, launched in October 2024. This pass offers guests one-time entry to each Lightning Lane experience in a theme park for a single day5. Premier Passes are available for guests staying at Disney Deluxe Resorts, Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts, and other select hotels. The cost ranges from $129 to $449 per person, depending on the park and demand4.

Premier Passes provide the most flexibility, allowing guests to skip the lines for all available Lightning Lane attractions without needing to schedule specific time slots. This pass also includes photo perks, such as digital downloads of select attraction photos and videos5.

Booking Lightning Lane
To book Lightning Lane passes, guests need to use the My Disney Experience App. The app provides a user-friendly interface for selecting and managing Lightning Lane reservations2. Guests can start booking passes as soon as they become eligible, either seven days in advance for Disney Resort hotel guests or three days in advance for other guests.

The evolution of Lightning Lane at Walt Disney World reflects the park’s commitment to enhancing guest experiences and managing crowd control effectively. With the introduction of MultiPass, Single Pass, and Premier Pass, guests now have more options to tailor their park visits to their preferences and budget. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Disney fan, Lightning Lane offers a convenient way to make the most of your time at the Magic Kingdom and beyond.

Video: Lightning Lane at Walt Disney World

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“Soarin’ Around the World” at Epcot gets an Update

Disney has recently updated the popular attraction “Soarin’ Around the World” at Epcot, which has created great excitement among visitors. Since the attraction first opened in 2005, it has been a favorite among guests, and in 2016 it was updated to take visitors on a spectacular journey around the world.

(c) Disney

The most notable change is in the attraction’s finale. Previously, the ride ended with a view of Epcot as it looked before the park’s extensive transformation in recent years. Now, Disney has updated the finale to reflect today’s Epcot, including the new areas such as World Celebration and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. The new scene focuses on the Epcot logo and the magical lights on Spaceship Earth, with fireworks forming a hidden Mickey.

Another important update is the correction of the Eiffel Tower in the Paris scene. Previously, the tower appeared curved as guests approached, breaking the illusion. Now, the tower is shown from a longer distance and stands more upright, significantly improving the visual experience. To avoid the previous curved effect, guests had to sit in the middle of the theater. Now, this distortion is minimized, although it may still be slightly visible from certain angles.

Disney has also made adjustments in other scenes to reduce distortion. This includes keeping a distance from architectural elements and using new footage that provides a more natural visual experience. These changes are important to keep the attraction relevant and up-to-date, and will likely be well received by most.