We got a lot of big announcements from Disney this week! From new CEO’s taking the helm, movie announcements and opening dates it’s been a busy week. There is so much to look forward to in the world of Disney right now. Makes it even more exciting going into this summers D23 Expo in Anaheim. Wonder what will be in store there?
Opening Date Announcements
There have been a lot of refurbishments and revamps going on across the parks. We got a big Disney announcements this week on when these will be reopening. I cannot wait to be back on these attractions!
Space Ranger Spin
Calling all Space Rangers and Galactic Heros! Buzz Lightyears Space Ranger Spin will reopen in Magic Kingdom on April 8th! With new hand held laser guns and a new ride photo showing your score and rank!
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Who’s ready to get back on the wildest ride in the wilderness? I know I am!! Big Thunder will reopen in early May in Magic Kingdom. With new effects and additions to make it even wilder!
The Walt Disney Studios Courtyard
Over in Hollywood Studios it was announced that The Walt Disney Studios will open May 26th along with Cool Kid Summer. This was formerly the Animation Courtyard and will now feature an animation experience with Olaf but that will not come until a little later in the summer! This area really needed some love so I am glad to see something new coming into this space. But Disney Jr Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live will reopen May 26th along with the courtyard.
The Magic of Disney Animation Area
This is where Star Wars Launch Bay was and it will be where Olaf teaches you to draw! This is set to open late summer of this year! I imagine this will have a lot of really cool stuff to check out.
Bluey Experience
I have mixed feelings here! I love Bluey, don’t get me wrong. but I LOVED Rafiki’s Planet Watch and the Conservation Station. It was so inherently Animal Kingdom to me so I am super sad to see that go. But, this will be a kid and family favorite for sure. You can meet Bluey and Bingo, play games from the show and visit the Jumping Junction where you will see animals from Australia.
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster
They are well underway with the Muppets takeover of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster in Hollywood Studios. The limo has already been repainted! This is set to open summer of this year, although no set date has been announced.
New Movie Announcements
In addition to the ride opening dates and time frames this week, we also got some big Disney movie announcements! On top of already knowing Toy Story 5 will be out in June, Mandalorian and Grogu in May, live action Moana in July we got some surprises this week. Incredibles 3 was confirmed for June, 2028 as well as a live action Lila & Stich sequel slated for May, 2028! I wonder if the Lilo & Stitch sequel will be similar to the animated sequel or if we will get a whole new story? I am personally hoping for a whole new story and adventure!
Disney Cruise Line
One of Disney’s big announcements this week was a new cruise ship in their growing fleet! The Disney Believe will be the newest ship in the Wish class of ships. Disney Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars and more will be on this new ship. This ship is expected to debut in late 2027 I am sure there will be a lot of fun announcements to come on this one!
Conclusion
It’s a great time to be a Disney fan! And a great time to have a summer vacation planned after seeing all these big Disney announcements this week! Doesn’t it always feels like Disney drops a lot of dates and news all at once? I am ready for it all and ready for the openings and announcements to continue. D23 Expo tickets for this year are set to go on sale in early April and I am hoping we are able to get tickets again this year. With everything happening in the parks and Josh D’Amaro at the helm now, there are sure to be some great announcements this year. I would love to know what you are most excited about and what you wish they would announce, comment on the post and let me know! Thank you all for reading and have a magical day!