Disney executives and the parks teams made big announcements this week regarding exciting new guest experiences at Disneyland Resort, Disney World and even Disney Cruise Line. A new Star Wars celebration seems to be the headliner in Disney travel news! Let’s jump right in so you can start planning your adventure!
photo: @bizzy.runninganddizn
First, for any Disney related travel plans, let me encourage you to utilize the service of a travel professional that specializes in Disney Destinations.
Disneyland
Seasons of the Force
Beginning April 5 and running through June 2, 2024, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Park will celebrate Seasons of the Force.
First, a new nighttime spectacular will light up the planet of Batuu on select nights. “Fire of the Rising Moon” will honor the heroes of the rebel alliance celebrating the freedoms fought and won from the Empire. This fireworks display will be accompanied by the familiar and beloved John Williams musical score and more.
Second, Photopass photographers are taking magic shots to a whole new level inside Galaxy’s Edge. Don’t miss you chance to grab a souvenir photo with a holopuck magic shot during this time!
Next, guests with Magic Band+ can interact with new features in the land searching for bounty hunters using the Play Disney Parks app. The new “augmented thermal viewer” feature will delight every Star Wars fan across the galaxy.
Finally, in Tomorrowland at Disneyland Park, Space Mountain will feature a limited time overlay. “Hyperspace Mountain” will debut on April 5, 2024. Guests can ride this beloved attraction with a special Star Wars enhancement through June 2, 2024. In addition, the Star Tours attraction will feature new destinations inspired by Disney+ favorites The Mandalorian, Ahsoka, and Andor.
@bizzy.runninganddizn It’s Star Wars day! May the Fourth be with you #maythefourthbewithyou #galaxysedge #diznvacationswithjessicayashin #dizn #diznvacations #galaxysedge #riseoftheresistance #starwarsfan #jedi
♬ original sound – bizzy.runninganddizn
Specialty Star Wars themed food and beverages will be available during the Star Wars celebration throughout the Disneyland Resort.
New Merchandise Shops
The story of Princess and the Frog is getting even more love this year in Critter Country at Disneyland Park. In addition to the opening of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure (formerly Splash Mountain) in 2025, the princess’s friends are opening 2 new shops.
photo: Disney Destinations
Ray’s Berets and Louis’s Critter Club will each offer guests the chance to purchase headwear, accessories, toys, and specialty items. As a result, Critter Country will temporarily close on May 1, 2024, for the new theming.
Disney World
Magic Kingdom
photo: bizzy.runninganddizn
This summer, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure (formerly Splash Mountain) will open at Magic Kingdom! Guests will take a beautiful boat ride through the story following the tale of The Princess and the Frog. All of Tiana’s friends will join in on the fun. The music sights and smells of New Orleans are guaranteed to be spectacular. No official opening date has been announced. Stay tuned.
Animal Kingdom
photo: Disney Destinations
The Lion King is celebrating its 30th Anniversary this year and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park will host the celebration. New merch will be available in honor from June 10- September 6, 2024. Also, guests can purchase an adorable new Pumbaa “popcorn bucket” during the 3-month party.
