Get ready to celebrate Disney magic with a groundbreaking transformation at Disneyland and Walt Disney World, as Tiana’s Bayou Adventure prepares to open its doors this month. Replacing the emblematic Splash Mountain, which was deeply rooted in the controversial 1946 film “Song of the South,” this new attraction is set to create waves of excitement and inclusivity with its enchanting homage to the beloved 2009 film, “The Princess and the Frog.”
Princess Tiana, Disney’s first Black princess, will lead guests on a high-spirited journey through the vibrant bayous of 1920s New Orleans. Expect to be serenaded by zydeco tunes and meet lifelike animatronic characters along the way, embracing a story that brings diversity and representation to the forefront.
The journey from Splash Mountain to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure began in 2020 amidst a wave of social justice movements. Disney didn’t just re-theme a ride; they reimagined it to resonate with modern sensibilities, allowing space for all guests to feel celebrated and included. Speaking about the change, senior vice president for Disney Parks, Carmen Smith, emphasized, “Our aim is to tell compelling stories that everyone can relate to and feel seen in.”
While the move has sparked conversation around Disney’s handling of its racially insensitive past, experts like Neal Lester from Arizona State University see this as a significant stride forward. “For little Black girls, Tiana represents possibility and aspiration,” Lester notes, highlighting the profound impact of seeing oneself reflected in Disney’s storied universe.
And the transformative spirit doesn’t stop there. Disney has also revisited other classics such as the Jungle Cruise and Pirates of the Caribbean, removing outdated and insensitive depictions in favor of narratives that harmonize with today’s values of respect and inclusivity.
As Tiana’s Bayou Adventure sets sail this June at Walt Disney World in Florida and later this year at Disneyland in California, Disney invites you to join Tiana for a ride that promises not just thrills, but a heartfelt celebration of culture and community.
Share your anticipation in the comments below! What are you most excited to experience in Tiana’s Bayou Adventure? Let us know and spread the magic by sharing this story with fellow Disney fans!
