What's New At Disney Parks For 2024
As we step into the enchanting realm of Walt Disney World in 2024, get ready for a year filled with magic, wonder, and an array of dazzling events! As a Travel Planner who specializes in Disney Destinations, I'm thrilled to share the scoop on all the new and returning experiences that will make your visit to The Most Magical Place on Earth truly unforgettable.
1. Tiana's Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom Park
This attraction brings you into Princess Tiana’s world like never before on a musical journey inspired by the Walt Disney Animation Studios film “The Princess and the Frog.”
When the attraction opens, you’ll join Princess Tiana, Naveen and jazz-loving alligator Louis on an adventure as they prepare to host a one-of-a-kind Mardi Gras celebration. Along the way, you’ll see familiar faces, make new friends and travel through the bayou to original music inspired by songs from the film as they are brought into the next chapter of Tiana’s story.
2. New Star Tours Characters and Stories
Star Tours - The Adventure Continues is adding more stories and characters in 2024 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
3. CommuniCore Plaza, CommuniCore Hall at EPCOT
At Walt Disney World Resort, CommuniCore Hall and CommuniCore Plaza will be completed in 2024 as part of the multiyear transformation of EPCOT.
These new spaces extend the EPCOT festivals beyond World Showcase and provide a new home for additional exhibits and entertainment, offering the perfect space to gather with family and friends, as well as a new Mickey & Friends meet and greet area.
4. Reimagined "The Little Mermaid" Show at Disney's Hollywood Studios
The reimagined show will feature stunning set pieces, cutting-edge effects and a bold new design aesthetic that captures Ariel’s imagination and emotions through her unique view of the world around her.
5. ALL DAY PARK HOPPING IS BACK!
The 2pm Park Hopping restriction was lifted on January 9, 2024, meaning Guests no longer had to wait to enter their second park of the day at 2pm. This makes completing the 4-Park Challenge so much easier!
6. Adios, Park Reservations!
January 9, 2024 was a big day! We also said goodbye to having to make park reservations! If you didn't know, you had to tell Walt Disney World what park you wanted to visit each day of your stay (park reservations). This system started in July 2020 at Walt Disney World's reopening and was sold as "crowd control" during the pandemic. Now, finally, 4 years later, we don't have to worry about sticking to a rock solid itinerary.
7. Disney Dining Plans Have Returned
Disney finally heard the cries of our people and are now offering two options for dining plans to add onto your Walt Disney World vacation; the Disney Quick-Service Dining Plan or the Disney Dining Plan. Both are great options to give your DIsney vacation that all-inclusive feel. It's best to do your research on both plans (or talk to me!) to determine the best option for your family.
My husband, Jonny (an accountant) and I joined Circle of Parks Podcast to break down the dining plans! You can listen to that episode on Spotify or Apple Podcast.
8. Country Bear Jamboree Closed For Retheme
This year, the Country Bears will debut new songs and a new act that pays homage to the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville.
The Country Bear Jamboree will still have the same fun and friendly tone all of you enjoy and it’ll introduce reinterpreted Disney songs in different genres of country music – like rockabilly, bluegrass, pop-country and other styles.
9. After Hours Events Have Returned!
After Hours Events allow you to experience 3 extra hours at one of the Walt Disney World theme parks on select nights April through August 2024. In the midst of all the fun and festivities, take time to refuel with ice cream novelties, popcorn and select beverages—included with the cost of admission. This event lets a limited number of Guests explore the park after it closes, offering shorter wait times at some favorite attractions.
10. It's Tough To Be a Bug Closes For Retheme
It's Tough To Be a Bug, an attraction housed in Animal Kingdom’s Tree of Life, will receive a Zootopia-themed makeover. No more bugs on the seats!
With so many new and exciting things coming to the Parks, on top of the plethora of special promos we have to choose from, 2024 is shaping up to be a huge year for Walt Disney World travel. Reservations are available to book through December 2024 and I would love to be your Disney BFF for your next trip!