Heads up, Mouseketeers: As Disney celebrates 100 years, Disney World has revealed several park updates on the horizon. Future plans were announced by Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Chairman Josh D'Amaro at Destination D23, the huge annual Disney fan expo held recently at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando. Plans include new characters, new shows, bigger rides and more.
While some plans are still in the works, here’s a sampling of what’s on tap for Walt Disney World over the next few years (find more info on all the reveals here):
Moana-inspired experience has an opening date
Journey of Water is a new Disney World experience inspired by the animated film Moana. Located in EPCOT’s new World of Nature area, Journey of Water will feature a walking trail where visitors can interact with and be amazed by water, just as Moana did in the movie. The new experience opens October 16, 2023.
Bigger rides at Magic Kingdom
Imagineers are looking to create more rides on the scale of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Pandora—The World of Avatar at Magic Kingdom, including new attractions, restaurants, shopping and more. Plans are still in the works, but Beyond Big Thunder Mountain is one of the stories to be reimagined for the park.
A new Zootopia show
The Tree of Life will soon have a new show based on Zootopia. Guests will visit different biomes seen briefly in the animated film, traveling along with Judy Hopps, Nick Wilde and other characters.
A new character at EPCOT
Figment, the fantastical purple dragon who’s been a part of EPCOT since its beginnings in 1982, will now appear in person in the Imagination! Pavilion. He started greeting guests and posing for pics on September 10, 2023. Plenty of purple and orange merch is now available as well.
A new EPCOT light show
The new light show "Luminous: The Symphony of Us" will premiere at EPCOT on December 5, 2023. Stunning visual effects will include fireworks, fountains, lasers, lighting effects and music.
New ships and a new island destination
Along with Disney Adventure, Disney Cruise Lines’ newest ship, two other ships are in development and Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. This island destination in the Bahamas will celebrate the natural beauty, traditions and artistry of the one-of-a-kind nation.