The Walt Disney World Resort is making a remarkable comeback after the challenges brought on by COVID-19 closures and the subsequent cost-cutting measures that left many fans concerned about the future of our beloved parks. For a while, it seemed like Disney was more focused on catching up with deferred maintenance than on delivering the magical and innovative experiences guests have come to expect, and seemed to struggle at times to find their footing and identity.
The recent announcements from D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event show that Disney World has finally Remembered Who They Are (to borrow a phrase from Mufasa), and is not only listening to fan feedback but also doubling down on its commitment to being the premier theme park destination in Orlando!
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One of the most obvious acknowledgments that Disney is indeed listening to fans is the announcement of the upcoming “Disney Starlight” parade, which is set to debut in the summer of 2025. This new nighttime spectacular will carry on the legacy of the “Main Street Electrical Parade,” but with cutting-edge technology and a fresh lineup of beloved characters.
Guided by the magic of the Blue Fairy, guests will be treated to scenes featuring characters from “Peter Pan,” “Encanto,” “Frozen,” and more. Fans have been practically BEGGING Disney for a nighttime parade since the Main Street Electrical Parade headed West, and this new parade seems to be exactly what we have been asking for.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom is also set to undergo a significant transformation with the addition of Pueblo Esperanza, a new 11-acre land themed around the Tropical Americas. This lush, sprawling area will feature a large hacienda, one of the largest quick-service restaurants at Walt Disney World, and a working carousel created by a local woodcarver.
The land will also boast two signature attractions, including a brand-new Indiana Jones experience and the first-ever “Encanto” ride, which will allow guests to explore the magical world of the Madrigal family. Construction on this new land is slated to begin later this year, with an expected opening in 2027. While some fans are sad to see DinoLand USA go, it is obvious this area has been lacking in recent years and this new expansion is going to bring a welcomed, refreshed feel to that section of the park.
EPCOT is also getting a major update with a reimagined Test Track, set to open in 2025. The new version of the ride will celebrate innovation and the joy of driving, with new show scenes highlighting technological advances and the connection between mobility and our lifestyles. The exterior design will pay homage to the original pavilion, giving longtime fans a nostalgic nod while pushing the attraction into the future. Fans of the OG Test Track were left wanting by Test Track 2.0, so the latest iteration drawing inspiration from the pavilions roots should prove to be a great concept that fans are sure to love!
Over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, a new “Monsters, Inc.”-themed land is in the works, complete with a suspended coaster that will let guests ride through the door vault just like Mike and Sulley. The project is scheduled to begin next year, and it promises to bring even more laughter and fun to the park. This will be the FIRST suspended coaster at Disney, and we cannot wait to fill up our laugh containers and smash through some doors!
Magic Kingdom is not being left out of the excitement either. A new area inspired by Pixar’s “Cars” will be coming to Frontierland, with two thrilling new attractions that will let guests race through the mountains and splash through mudholes alongside Lightning McQueen and Tow Mater.
And for those who prefer their Disney experiences with a bit of a darker twist, a new Villains Land is also in the works, featuring major attractions, dining, and shopping centered around some of Disney’s most iconic baddies. Fans have been practically BEGGING for a Villains land for years, and the uptick in villains at the parties prove their popularity among guests. This new land, which will include all-new attractions, themed dining, and shopping, is going to be an amazing expansion to Magic Kingdom, and we cannot wait for it to open!
And for Star Wars fans, there was a specific announcement that was tailor-made for you! A new mission featuring The Mandalorian and Grogu will be added to Millenium Falcon: Smugglers Run at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, just in time for the release of the upcoming “The Mandalorian and Grogu” movie in 2026. This is the way!
Adding to the excitement, two new themed lounges are coming to Walt Disney World in 2025. EPCOT will welcome a sophisticated lounge inspired by Spaceship Earth, featuring rich textures and warm metallic tones that echo the iconic attraction’s geometric design. Meanwhile, Magic Kingdom will open a Pirates of the Caribbean-themed tavern, offering a lively and immersive experience where guests can raise a toast to the pirate life amid thematically rich decor and a sea-worthy selection of grogs and grub.
The Pirates-Themed lounge was announced last year at Destination D23, and fans feared the project was placed on indefinate hold until construction started ramping up in the Pirates area. Now that we know the lounge is on its way, we cannot wait to raise a glass and sing a few rounds of Yo Ho Ho in our best pirate voice!
Related: D23: Can’t-Miss Collectibles for Disney Lovers
These announcements prove that Disney is not just listening to its fans but is committed to delivering the magic that has made Walt Disney World the ultimate theme park destination. With ambitious plans, exciting new attractions, and a clear focus on enhancing the guest experience, Disney is poised to remain the dominant force in the Orlando theme park landscape for years to come. So, fellow Disney fans, get ready—because the magic is back, and it’s bigger and better than ever.
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