WDW Daily News

By: Josh D’Amaro, Chairman, Disney Parks, Experiences & Products

April 3, 2024

Earlier today during The Walt Disney Company Annual Meeting of Shareholders, our CEO Bob Iger shared some incredible updates from across the company … including an update at Disney Experiences that I am very excited about. 

We were thrilled to unveil a piece of inspirational artwork developed for a potential new Avatar experience at the Disneyland Resort. We are excited about the stories our guests could experience at Walt’s original theme park destination after approval of DisneylandForward – including the chance to experience all-new Avatar adventures with a visit to Pandora. 

April 2, 2024

Are guests ready to head back into the bayou and discover more new Disney characters who are part of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure? It’s time to introduce more of our critter musicians, the perfect musical accompaniment for Princess Tiana’s party during Mardi Gras season.

Previously, guests learned about the critters who play Zydeco music – and now, let’s get ready to march with Rara! Often found at festivals and street processions, Rara is a musical tradition from Haiti that’s part of the of the musical history and melting pot of New Orleans. The genre includes unique instruments with beautiful, distinctive sounds.

Here are the Rara musicians guests will discover further down the bayou!

Octavia the Bobcat – Octavia plays the vaksina single-note horn instrument popular in Rara music. She’s an adventurous bobcat kitten, and she loves climbing and hanging out in trees almost as much as she loves performing. This daredevil almost never gets scared.

Pawpaw the Bobcat – Not only is Pawpaw Octavia’s devoted grandfather, but he also taught her how to play the vaksin! Pawpaw lives to make Octavia smile and has the view that everything has a way of working itself out – he’s seen it all but isn’t jaded.

Claude the Louisiana Black Bear – Claude is a salt of the earth kind of bear (or, as they say in the bayou, “salt of the mound”) who plays his horn along with the other members of his family. He’s a tinkerer who loves to create with things found in the forest, and is frequently funny without intending to be, especially when it comes to his home-grown creations.

Bernadette the Louisiana Black Bear – Bernadette loves to enjoy life, from splashing in the waters of her bayou home with her cub, Sebastián, to playing the horn with her mate, Claude. She’s a clear thinker and is warm and supportive. Bernadette loves to sink into the bayou waters and munch on plants (so long as Sebastián is clearly within sight).

Sebastián the Louisiana Black Bear – Though he’s definitely a “mama’s cub,” Sebastián charted his own musical course as a drummer, despite his parents being devoted horn players. He’s happy to follow his friend Octavia’s adventurous lead as they explore and play, and is fascinated with the small details in the bayou, like the insects and mushrooms.

Phina the Gray Fox – Phina’s enthusiasm extends beyond her drumming, as she’s constantly thinking of new ideas with optimism and energy! This imaginative fox is continually starting new projects with excitement, and her friends accept and celebrate her unique thinking.

Not only will guests meet these new friends as Audio-Animatronics figures throughout the attraction, but some of them will also appear in the Walt Disney World attraction poster, which guests can find below! It looks like they’re ready to put on quite the memorable performance, and a few more critters are left to be revealed …

Come back next week for the reveal of the last group of talented critters. Guests will soon be able to cheer on their favorites once Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opens in Walt Disney World Resort this summer, and later this year at Disneyland Resort.

Guests have watched murals and metalwork flourishes for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure come to life. They’ve followed along with construction updates. They’ve seen an Audio-Animatronics figure of Tiana make her debut. Now, we’d like to welcome guests among the cypress trees, water lilies, and Spanish moss to learn about some of the new Audio-Animatronics friends who play an important role in this musical adventure.

In the bayou, Princess Tiana is getting ready to throw a big party, but there’s been a bit of a mix-up between Prince Naveen and Louis. Uh oh — the princess suddenly finds herself in need of a band. We previously shared that all-new Disney characters were being created for this attraction and that’s where the critters come in. Even with the richest roux for gumbo and the most delicious beignets, a true Mardi Gras celebration isn’t complete without music. Guests will follow Tiana and Louis into the bayou in a last-minute search for this essential missing ingredient for her party — musical critters!

Who are the critters?

In the first critter encounter, guests will discover a group of critter musicians playing a rendition of a favorite song from The Princess and the Frog, “Gonna Take You There.” This raucous Zydeco musical recipe of fiddle, accordion, washboard, and other instrument voices will have guests singing along as they float down the river under dancing fireflies. The familiar melody is being played on charming makeshift instruments constructed from natural materials and some human-made found objects. But who’s behind this critter band? Guests can meet some of the adorable musicians and get to know them a little more.

Byhalia the Beaver – Byhalia doesn’t just build dams; she helps build musical instruments using natural materials from the bayou. As a strong-willed percussionist, it’s safe to say Byhalia is the heartbeat of the band, as well as a natural designer and engineer.

Gritty the Rabbit – Always willing to dig a little deeper to help others, Gritty plays the washboard (a found automobile license plate) with a high-energy flair. It’s the perfect instrument for someone who’s often overzealous and digs to relieve her nerves.

Beau the Opossum – Seeing limitless possibilities, no one finds more wonder in the bayou and the sounds of zydeco music than Beau. All she knows is beauty, especially her own. Guests can find her plucking out the low notes with her upright gourd bass, which of course, involves some musical dexterity with her tail.

Apollo the Raccoon – Apollo loves transforming abandoned objects into works of musical art – like his squeezebox. He’s full of energy and storytelling, especially about the objects he finds in the bayou. He’s particularly close with Rufus and appreciates Rufus’ calm demeanor.

Rufus the Turtle – Rufus may be a turtle, but he’s quick to jump into rhythm with his harmonica. He’s also the first to join in on new adventures! He’s genuine and sincere but may come across as a little sarcastic at times with his habitual sighing. Rufus loves going on adventures with Apollo.

Timoléon the Otter – He’s the eldest of the band, but Timoléon’s fiddle-playing is inspired by all the ‘kids’ he spends his time around while in the bayou. When he’s not sawing out a jig, he’s famous for telling stories of days long ago about his explorations of every corner of the bayou.

In addition to these talented new friends, Tiana wonders who else guests might discover in the bayou. More on that soon, but it’s not every day we get to debut brand-new original Disney characters as part of an attraction in our theme parks! And, if guests wish they had a critter friend of their own, they are in luck: Beau, Apollo and Rufus will soon be available in the form of huggable plushies for guests to take home.

There’s more to come from the other talented critters guests will meet in Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, which opens at Walt Disney World Resort this summer, and later this year at Disneyland Resort.

Summer will be here before we know it, which means the grand opening of Disney Cruise Line’s newest destination, Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, is quickly approaching! Today, we’re excited to unveil a first look at some of the Bahamian-inspired merchandise that will be available at this one-of-a kind island retreat.

From Bahamian-inspired Mickey and Minnie plush to apparel with the festive feel of Junkanoo, these collections will give guests a chance to bring home keepsakes that reflect some of the experiences at this vibrant island destination.

Junkanoo-Inspired Collection: Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point will be filled with the sights and sounds of Junkanoo, a longstanding Bahamian tradition filled with colorful parades. The bright hues and festive patterns of Junkanoo merge with nods to Mickey Mouse himself in this Bahamian-inspired collection including a spirit jersey, designer Loungefly backpack and ear headband. 

Mickey and Minnie Plush: Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse are debuting designer tropical looks for Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, which feature a Bahamian twist on Minnie Mouse’s iconic polka dots and conch shell-patterned shorts on Mickey Mouse. These new looks will be available in a luggage-friendly size with these adorable new plush exclusive to Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

Theodore Elyett Collection: Take home a designer look of your own from the same artist behind Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse’s looks! Acclaimed Bahamian fashion designer Theodore Elyett created a uniquely Bahamian clothing line, including this ear headband full of the bright colors, patterns and straw, often seen in local art. Disney Cruise Line will partner with a variety of Bahamian artists at Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point throughout the island architecture, décor, and merchandise, and Theodore’s artist spotlight collection will include men’s and women’s apparel.

Guests will find these collections exclusively at Disney Cruise Line’s new island destination, which will open this summer!

Summertime at the Most Magical Place on Earth is going to be extra magical this year! Not only will guests be able to join the party in The Big Easy when Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opens at Magic Kingdom, but guests will also be able to see a new drone experience at Disney Springs this summer!

At Disney Springs, drones take to the skies above Lake Buena Vista with “Disney Dreams That Soar,” a summertime experience that will be a late-night perk for visitors. “You can fly” takes on a whole new meaning as we showcase Disney stories celebrating the joy of flight with state-of-the-art drones choreographed to create designs in the sky and paired with a “soaring” musical score and memorable movie quotes. After spending a day delighting in shopping, discovering fun activities, and savoring diverse flavors at Disney Springs, guests can turn their eyes to the skies above the West Side with a show amongst the stars. “Disney Dreams That Soar” will run nightly from May 24 through Sept. 2!

March 21, 2024

Summertime at the Most Magical Place on Earth is going to be extra magical this year! Not only will guests be able to join the party in The Big Easy when Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opens at Magic Kingdom, but guests will also be able to get a sneak peek of “Inside Out 2” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios this summer!

Over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, guests can get into their feels with Joy herself! She’s headed to Pixar Plaza starting June 10, where she joins other Pixar stars. She’ll be in her new home just in time for Disney Pixar’s “Inside Out 2,” which premieres in theaters June 14.

While guests are visiting Pixar Plaza, they can make some other core memories with a cute new space to snap selfies. Of course, Pixar Plaza is home to all kinds of ways to celebrate the incredible stories of Pixar – from character greetings to delicious snacks and sips to merchandise.

And, speaking of merchandise, guests can deck themselves out in new Pixar styles found at Beverly Sunset Boutique. We have a feeling Edna Mode would approve.

March 21, 2024

Summertime at the Most Magical Place on Earth is going to be extra magical this year! Not only will guests be able to join the party in The Big Easy when Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opens at Magic Kingdom, but guests can also come talk about Bruno at EPCOT this summer!

EPCOTians everywhere know that the park has been undergoing the largest transformation in its history, and each new element that we’ve unveiled has brought us closer and closer to a fully reimagined EPCOT. Remember that gorgeous new fountain and welcoming front entrance? Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure? Creations Shop? The lights on Spaceship Earth? Space 220 Restaurant? Connections Café & Eatery? Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind? Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana? Walt the Dreamer? AND MORE?! Yes, EPCOT has seen a lot of cool changes … and starting June 10, we’re ready to debut the finishing touches of this grand transformation with extra summer fun.

Here for a limited time

Everyone will be talking about Bruno from June 10-Sept. 6 because a new summer sing-along featuring the beloved songs and story of “Encanto” is in development now. This new limited-time show, “¡Celebración Encanto!” runs several times throughout the day and will not only invite guests and their families to sing along with some of their favorite songs, but they’ll also spot Mirabel and Bruno on the newly opened CommuniCore Plaza stage.

Celebrating the evolution of EPCOT

This adorable, limited time show will take place on CommuniCore Plaza stage, and that will be because the last walls in the center of the park are coming down – that’s right! Beginning June 10, guests will be able to stroll through a fully transformed EPCOT.

While CommuniCore Hall will be home to the iconic EPCOT festivals and other celebrations, it’ll also be a perfect cool indoor space year-round for guests and their families to recharge. And speaking of cool, CommuniCore Hall will be surrounded by serene views and exciting experiences. The coolest mouse around will be ready to give guests a hug once the new character greeting location Mickey & Friends debuts! With its beautiful mural of all things EPCOT past and present, a geometric exterior design inspired by Spaceship Earth, and of course, Mickey Mouse and his pals, guests are sure to have a smile on their face.

If guests love what we’ve already revealed of the World Celebration Gardens, guests will be delighted by even more luscious greenery and relaxing spaces to enjoy out in CommuniCore Plaza and Inspiration Gardens. And that’s not even mentioning the more food and beverages and more entertainment to come … but we’ll have more details for guests soon.

March 21, 2024

Summertime at The Most Magical Place On Earth is going to be extra magical this year! Not only will guests be able to join the party in The Big Easy when Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opens at Magic Kingdom, but The Lion King 30th anniversary roars into Disney’s Animal Kingdom this summer!

There’s no better way to start this announcement than with … NAAAAAAAAAAAAAAANTS INGONYAMA BGITHI BABA!!!

That’s right – guests can get ready to roar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park where the celebration for the 30th anniversary of “The Lion King” animated film will prowl throughout the entire park from June 10 through Sept. 6. There is a whole new merchandise collection so guests can see the iconic Disney’s Animal Kingdom stage show, Festival of The Lion King, in style.

Are Guests ready to rustle up some grubs?  There will be special menu items to snack on … and this adorable Pumbaa popcorn bucket to add to their pride! Stay tuned, because Disney Eats will have more to share on delicious treats later.

To fully embrace that “Hakuna Matata” lifestyle, guests can head on over to Rafiki’s Planet Watch where they can once again meet Timon and Rafiki. Figuring out when these furry friends are available for hugs or advice on finding the most delicious bugs is as easy as checking out My Disney Experience. Now that’s a problem-free philosophy to get behind!

And, while guests are at Rafiki’s Planet Watch, they can visit Animation Experience and learn to draw characters from “The Lion King.”

It’s going to be an awesome summer at Walt Disney World – and in addition to this limited-time experience, guests can cool down with H2O Glow After Hours at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon and kick their feet up during a Disney Resort Hotel stay.

It’s going to be an enchanting summer at Walt Disney World!

March 21, 2024

Mark your calendars! The wilderness is calling!

Tucked away in the wondrous woodlands of Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, each spacious one-bedroom cabin villa will offer the comforts of “home” and the joys of staying in the great outdoors. The first loop of cabins will open on July 1, with more loops opening throughout the year.

And if they haven’t heard, there are some showstopping activities guests can enjoy during their stay! Here are some fan-favorites: 

1. Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue

Clap those hands and stomp those feet at one of this beloved Disney dinner show, Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue.

This rootin’ tootin’ dining experience boasts toe-tapping musical performances from the Pioneer Players and a scrumptious all-you-care-to-enjoy feast! We highly recommend bringing an appetite and making reservations in advance.  

Did you know that Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue is the longest-running live show at Disney World? This historic experience is a beloved tradition at Fort and will be celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2024.

2. Tri-Circle D Ranch  

Over 90 horses from all around the Disney World theme parks call Fort Wilderness home!

Tri-Circle-D Ranch has various types of horses, from Cinderella’s elegant ponies to the Headless Horseman’s trusty steed. Everyone can tour parts of the Settlement area barn daily (free of charge), allowing plenty of time for guests to learn more about these beautiful animals from our knowledgeable Cast Members.

Ready to giddy up and go? Take a horseback riding adventure along one of many rustic riding trails, or embark on a carriage ride with the whole family. There is something for animal lovers of all ages. Reservations are recommended and can be made online or via the My Disney Experience app. Pony rides and wagon rides are only available on a walk-in basis. 

3. Outdoor Recreational Activities

There’s no better way to immerse in the wilderness than with one of the many outdoor activities available.

Embark on a paddle adventure to explore the many scenic waterways and streams with kayak and canoe rentals, or reel in some fun and try a hand at bass fishing with a guided catch-and-release outing held year-round for guests of all ages.

Suppose guests are looking for something a little less aquatic. In that case, they can jog through the lush meadows and cypress groves or embrace their inner Robin Hood during the Fort Wilderness Archery Experience. We highly recommend making reservations ahead of time for this family-friendly archery class. 

Beyond these activities, there are also playgrounds, pools, and sports facilities – a little something for everyone to create their own adventure!

4. Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Campfire Sing-Along

Looking for s’more fun? Join everyone’s favorite chipmunks, Chip ‘n’ Dale, and a singing cowboy for an evening of country songs, roasted marshmallows, and a Disney movie under the stars at Chip’ n’ Dale’s Campfire Sing-Along. This nightly celebration is a great way to enjoy some fresh air with family after a day of play in the theme parks* – plus it is included for all guests staying at the resort.

Guests can purchase a s’mores kit from the Chuckwagon Snack Bar or bring their own marshmallows and sticks.

The limited-time Season of the Force will land at Disneyland park very soon, April 5 through June 2, 2024!

We previously teased that Season of the Force will feature limited-time offerings, plus new experiences to continue guest’s Star Wars story at Disneyland Resort. Today, we’re sharing more details on what to expect – including a new addition to the backstory of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, along with food, merchandise and more!

New experiences debuting during Season of the Force

On select nights starting April 5 at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, guests will be able to take in “Fire of the Rising Moons,” a nighttime experience that debuts a different view of the stunning Disneyland Park fireworks display, with musical accompaniment.

During this special gathering, villagers and visitors alike will come together to celebrate their freedom and to honor the heroes and legends of the galaxy who came before them. As the skies over Batuu light up in bursts of color, imaginations are ignited with the iconic music associated with tales from across the galaxy. It will be a powerful moment guests won’t want to miss!

Including selections from composer John Williams’ Star Wars film scores, “Fire of the Rising Moons” can be experienced from multiple areas in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, including the Black Spire Spaceport, the TIE Echelon docking platform, and the speeder garage. Guest’s MagicBand+ will also add to the ceremony’s atmosphere with colorful lights and ambient vibrations.

Also beginning April 5, Star Tours – The Adventures Continue will feature new additions inspired by the Disney+ series “Ahsoka,” “Andor” and “The Mandalorian.” Earlier this month, we revealed the planet Peridea as the attraction’s newest destination. During their flight, guests may also receive urgent transmissions from Ahsoka Tano, Cassian Andor, or Din Djarin and Grogu.

Limited-time Star Wars attraction overlay and more

Whether guests choose the way of the Jedi or pledge their allegiance to the dark side, the many choices of limited-time food and beverages, attractions and more will make Season of the Force a must-visit!

The high-speed Space Mountain overlay, Hyperspace Mountain, will return to Tomorrowland for a limited time through June 2. Guests will once again be able to race through the galaxy, encountering a Star Destroyer and dodging TIE fighters along the way.

Harnessing the power of the Force can really work up an appetite. Guests can fuel up with specialty themed food and beverages available for a limited time, such as the Star Wars sugar cookie. Plus, guests will be able to store rations in new collectible novelties, available for purchase while supplies last. Stay tuned for the full menu – the Disney Eats: Season of the Force Foodie Guide will be released soon!

New this year, aspiring bounty hunters in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will be able to join the search for Din Djarin, Grogu and more with a holopuck Magic Shot from Disney PhotoPass Service. Returning Star Wars Magic Shots and themed Disney PhotoPass Lenses (included with the purchase of Disney Genie+ service)* create additional opportunities to commemorate guests’ visit to a galaxy far, far away.

Star Wars experiences available throughout the year

From out-of-this-world dining at Galactic Grill to thrilling attractions like Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, Disneyland Park is home to Star Wars experiences guests can enjoy all year long.

At Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, guests can use MagicBand+ to track down virtual bounties in the Star Wars: Batuu Bounty Hunters quest. Vibrations and lights from their band help guide them to their bounty, and the augmented reality thermal viewer in the Play Disney Parks app** reveals who is hiding in the shadows.

Aspiring builders can construct their own custom Star Wars merchandise at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. At Savi’s Workshop – Handbuilt Lightsabers, guests can forge their own lightsaber under the guidance of skilled Gatherers. Droid Depot is stocked with parts, chips and more to assemble their own BB-series, C-series or R-series unit. Purchase is required for both experiences, and advanced reservations are highly encouraged.

The Force is calling!

Entertainment, experiences, and offerings may be modified, limited in availability or unavailable, and are subject to restrictions, and change or cancellation without notice. Both valid Theme Park reservation and admission for the same Park on the same day are required for Park entry. Park reservations are limited, subject to availability and not guaranteed. Park admission and offerings are not guaranteed. Visit Disneyland.com/updates for important information to know before visiting the Disneyland Resort.

*With the purchase of Disney Genie+ service, Disneyland guests can access many Disney PhotoPass Lenses in the Disneyland app as soon as they enter a theme park. Select Disney PhotoPass Lenses are accessible only within designated areas of Disneyland Resort. Some Disney PhotoPass Lenses will remain accessible in the Disneyland app until 5:59 a.m. on the 45th day after the day on which the Disney Genie+ service was used; certain states and localities are excluded. Many Disney PhotoPass Lenses use technology that detects the coordinates of key points on a guest’s face and/or hands and may be used only by guests 18 years of age and older who have consented to use of this technology. Therefore, guests unable to provide such consent, as well as guests under 18 years of age, will have fewer lenses available to use. To access Disney PhotoPass Lenses, an eligible mobile device with the Disneyland app with access to the device’s camera and location is required. Use of Disney PhotoPass Lenses is subject to the Terms and Conditions. Subject to restrictions and change without notice.

**Message, data and roaming rates may apply for the use of the Play Disney Parks app. Availability subject to handset limitations and features may vary by handset or service provider. Coverage and app stores not available everywhere. If you’re under 18, get your parents’ permission first.