Every two years, Disneyland enthusiasts from around the globe eagerly await the D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in Anaheim, California. This year’s “Horizons: Disney Experiences Showcase” panel did not disappoint, unveiling a treasure trove of exciting projects coming to Disney’s parks, resorts, and cruise ships. Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro assured fans that all announced projects are well underway. Here’s a look at the magic that’s set to unfold.
Disneyland Resort is gearing up for its 70th anniversary with some thrilling additions. In 2025, Disneyland Park will host “Walt Disney — A Magical Life,” an innovative show featuring the first-ever Audio-Animatronics figure of Walt Disney himself. Following the success at Magic Kingdom, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will open at Disneyland Park on November 15, 2024, transforming Critter Country into Bayou Country. Star Wars fans, brace yourselves: a new ride involving The Mandalorian and Grogu will join Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run in 2026.
Heading over to Disney California Adventure, the Avengers Campus will double in size. Fans can look forward to riding Avengers Infinity Defense and Stark Flight Lab, with Robert Downey Jr. reprising his role as Tony Stark. We’re also set to experience an Avatar-themed land, inspired by Avatar: The Way of Water, and an all-new Coco-themed attraction beginning construction in 2026.
Walt Disney World is not to be outdone. Magic Kingdom is set to introduce a long-rumored Villains Land, complete with major attractions, dining, and shopping options. Additionally, a new Cars-themed area, a pirate-themed tavern, and the return of a nighttime parade called Disney Starlight are all slated for the coming years. EPCOT will see a reimagined Test Track and a new Spaceship Earth-inspired lounge, while Disney’s Hollywood Studios will get a Monsters, Inc.-themed land featuring Disney’s first-ever suspended roller coaster. Animal Kingdom will transform DinoLand, U.S.A. into Pueblo Esperanza, featuring attractions inspired by Indiana Jones and Encanto.
Across the pond, Disneyland Paris will welcome a new nighttime spectacular featuring classic songs from Disney and Pixar in January 2025. Walt Disney Studios Park will be rebranded as Disney Adventure World in 2026, introducing lands based on Frozen and The Lion King. Hong Kong Disneyland and Shanghai Disneyland are both set to receive new Spider-Man-themed attractions, while Tokyo Disneyland prepares to debut its new nighttime spectacular, Reach for the Stars, on September 20, 2024.
Finally, Disney Cruise Line is poised for an exhilarating expansion with four new ships in the works, bringing its fleet to a total of 13. One of the new ships, Disney Destiny, will begin sailing in November 2025 and feature Hercules as its signature production.
With a multitude of projects slated for 2024 and beyond, it’s clear that Disney’s commitment to storytelling, innovation, and fan engagement remains steadfast. Fans, what are you most excited about? Share your thoughts in the comments and spread the magic by sharing this story!
Source: Megan duBois
