Walt Disney once said that the parks will never be completed, and nothing has rung as true about Disney World in recent years. It seems like ever since the pandemic, the Disney parks have undergone massive changes. Whether it’s rides, management, prices, food portions, dining reservations, or more, Disney changed a ton in recent years, especially 2023.
Let’s take a journey to see how Disney changed in 2023 (and what that means for your 2024 reservations).
Splash Mountain Closed
Starting with one of the biggest changes, Splash Mountain took its last plunge into the Briar Patch on May 31, 2023.
This closure comes about three years after it was first announced that it was being transformed into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, which will continue the story told in Princess and the Frog.
Though no official opening date has been announced, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is supposed to make its splashing debut sometime in late 2024.
TRON Lightcycle/Run Opened at Magic Kingdom
In keeping up with Disney rides, TRON Lightcycle/Run made its much-anticipated debut at the Magic Kingdom on April 4, 2023.
Highlighting the story and innovation of the TRON films, this motorbike rollercoaster sends guests on an adventure unlike any other, all the while offering some pretty spectacular views of Tomorrowland.
Bob Iger’s Contract Was Extended
The announcement that former CEO, Bob Chapek was being replaced by Bob Iger in November of 2022 broke the internet. Like all major historical milestones, I remember where I was when I first heard the news.
However, in July of 2023, it was announced that Bob Iger, who was originally only supposed to be back at the Disney Company for two years had his contract extended through 2026.
Since he’s been back, Iger has shifted the focus from profits to creativity, with that being at the heart of storytelling, while also restructuring the company, which has seen the loss of several prominent higher-ups such as Kareen Daniel as the Chairman of Disney Media and Entertainment Distribution.
Time will tell what other plans Bog Iger has, especially as he considers selling ABC to Nexstar. If so, will that see the end of the ABC Commissary at Hollywood Studios?
Read more: Best Places to Eat at Hollywood Studios
The Return of Happily Ever After
When it was announced that Happily Ever After was being replaced by Enchantment during Magic Kingdom’s 50th Anniversary celebration, guests were not happy. Happily Ever After has been around since 2017 and quickly gained a cult following due to its beautiful lyrics and heartfelt storytelling.
Fortunately, HEA fans were able to enjoy the show once again on April 3, 2023, when it made its return to Magic Kingdom. Though there was a lot of talk about how updated they were going to be, the show and songs remain the same, with the small addition of some newer characters projected down Main Street, U.S.A.
You can catch Happily Ever After most nights at 8:00 p.m., except after-hour events like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, which has its own fireworks show.
The 50th Anniversary Celebration Ended and the 100th Celebration Began
Walt Disney World went all out when it was approaching its 50th anniversary celebration. This included everything from the previously mentioned introduction of Enchantment, over 100 new food items, Kite Tails over at Animal Kingdom, and unique illuminations on each park icon.
The 50th anniversary celebration, which began on October 1, 2021, officially ended on April 1, 2023, after almost two years. Though the 100th anniversary celebration started in January 2023 at Disneyland, it officially made its debut at Walt Disney World on September 22nd.
Guests visiting during this time can expect to see new 100-themed decor and merchandise, new character outfits for Mickey and friends, and of course, a ton of new foods and drinks designed to get you in the celebrating mood!
Unlike the 50th, the 100th celebration is only expected to last until December 31, 2023, giving fans and guests a much-needed rest from the non-stop anniversary fatigue.
Typhoon Lagoon Welcomes Back H20 Glow Nights
Though the event has concluded for the 2023 season, H20 Glow Nights came back at Typhoon Lagoon this past year.
This after-hours event is exactly what it sounds like and includes a fun DJ party, character meet-and-greets, and nighttime illuminations that will light up the park. Grab a glow stick and dance the night away in 2024 when it makes its seasonal return.
Journey of Water Opened at EPCOT
Journey of Water - Inspired by Moana is one of the newest offerings at EPCOT. This is a walk-around attraction that allows guests to explore and be inspired by the wonders of water.
Though it does draw inspiration from the movie Moana, this is mainly an educational attraction that teaches guests about water cycles and preservation methods. That being said, it is a great way to cool down in the middle of the day and take great photos.
Moana is available for a meet-and-greet near the entrance of the attraction.
Read more: Where to Get FREE Water in Disney World
Roundup Rodeo Opened at Toy Story Land
Toy Story Land got a new restaurant this year called Roundup Rodeo BBQ - and boy is it a rootin’ and tootin’ good time!
Open for both lunch and dinner, this new restaurant brings you into an immersive environment that makes you feel like a toy. The Cast Members and guests will freeze when Andy’s about to make his arrival (via intercom, there is no Andy meet-and-greet in the parks BUT how cool would that be???)
It’s a fun little thing the restaurant does that helps reinforce the storyline. The menu is heavily themed to barbeque and comes in platters that include smoked ribs, beef brisket, and sausage. Don’t worry, if you’re not a meat eater, there’s a plant-based trio available, too.
CommuniCore Hall and Plaza Open Replace the Old Festival Pavilion
If you’ve ever visited any of the festivals at EPCOT, you know there was a hub. Well, now that the hub is being updated to include expo levels and a fireworks viewing area. Some of these expos are rumored to include cooking and mixology demonstrations and more to create a dynamic, purposeful space.
Next to CommuniCore Hall will a new plaza where performances, including concerts, will take place. Though it’s not confirmed, this will likely be the new home for festival-related events such as the Garden Rocks Concert Series and Disney on Broadway Concert Series. It’s set to open sometime in late 2023.
Figment Becomes the Newest Character Meet-and-Greet to Join EPCOT
Despite having been the unofficial mascot of EPCOT for decades, Figment finally got his own meet-and-greet at ImageWorks.
This long-awaited character interaction was first mentioned at D23 in September and began meeting guests on September 10th. The wait time on the first day totaled approximately 5 hours, much unlike the debut of his now-infamous popcorn bucket.
Guests can meet Figment daily between 9:00 am - 12:30 pm, and then again from 1:45 pm - 3:45 pm.
Read more: Your Guide to All Things Disney Figment
Grogu and Din Djarin Tano Become Walk-Around Characters in Galaxy’s Edge
The Star Wars universe got a little bigger this year, as Grogu and Din Djarin are now official walk-around characters at Galaxy’s Edge.
Like other walk-around characters in Galaxy’s Edge, they don’t have formal meet-and-greets. Rather, they simply walk around the area, interacting with guests. If you want, you can try to snap a selfie, but be respectful and mindful that tend to be bombarded by guests.
Keep in mind that neither of these characters makes scheduled appearances, but you can expect to find them near the Black Spire Outpost Marketplace. Our tip: just follow the crowds, because oh boy, will there be crowds.
There has been some talk about Ahsoka Tano making her debut at Hollywood Studio’s Galaxy’s Edge, but nothing has been confirmed yet. Though, she is making daily appearances at Disneyland, so we’ll see!
Read more: How to Meet Grogu in Disney World