If your family is anything like mine, Disney isn’t just a vacation, it’s a tradition. As a Disney Vacation Club owner and mom of three, we’ve been visiting the parks since my kids were in strollers.
D23: What is it and why Disney Fans Are Obsessed
The official name is Destination D23: A Journey Around The Worlds of Disney, and it’s a multi-day expo that’s open to the public (targeting Disney fans), where Disney Parks makes official announcements. Walt Disney Imagineers, Disney Legends and special guests take center stage in engaging panels to reveal the upcoming park enhancements.
Obviously, the Walt Disney Company shines in its commitment to innovation, storytelling and creating new park experiences. The sky is the limit when creating memorable experiences. The hype surrounding D23 and the anticipation of the unknown announcements make it thrilling.
Are you ready to explore more Disney? Get your news here!
Cinderella’s Castle is Receiving a Royal Makeover
Cinderella’s castle, which sits as an iconic beacon of magic inside the Magic Kingdom, is currently shades of pink and blue (which was changed for the park’s 50th anniversary). Mixed opinions from fans make it a hot topic on social media. Still, Disney announced the castle is set to undergo another enchanting update, transforming its appearance with vibrant new colors and renewed charm.
The castle will return to its traditional shades of gray, blue and gold. The dates of the new design have not been announced, but upcoming family vacations during that time may include the castle under construction. Plan accordingly for your family’s must-do Main Street photos. Or plan a quick trip soon, if you’re a fan of the current pink and blue hues.
The Carousel of Progress Will be Updated
Of all the Destination D23 announcements, the Carousel of Progress update excites me most. This nostalgic family-friendly Magic Kingdom ride has been a part of Tomorrowland since 1975. The beloved attraction will receive a brand-new scene. A new Audio-Animatronics figure of Walt Disney will welcome Magic Kingdom guests and introduce the show. Don’t stress! Guests are still time travelers who learn that a great big, beautiful tomorrow is just a dream away.
More Details Emerge About the Villains-Themed Land
At the 2024 D23 expo, Disney Imagineers left fans in an uproar of excitement when they announced a new villains-themed land was coming to the Magic Kingdom. I’m in awe as we watch the development of this new park area, and one of the major Disney D23 announcements was about the inspiration behind the land.
Walt Disney Imagineers recently visited various global destinations to experience their sights, sounds and stories firsthand. Looking back at the influences that brought some of Disney’s most infamous villains to life onscreen, Imagineers traveled to Paris, France and Barcelona. There, they met with local experts and explored cultural landmarks.
Art Nouveau architecture will bring the villain’s stories to life, while creating an entirely new land for guests to experience. The official opening date for this land has not been announced, but we plan on this Magic Kingdom expansion to draw huge crowds. However, construction typically won’t interfere with family park days before its opening.
Tron Coaster Overlay Coming To Coincide With Movie
TRON Lightcycle, the high-speed coaster at the Magic Kingdom, is preparing for a ride overlay. Essentially, the ride remains the same, and no construction time is needed, but special effects make it feel slightly updated and different.
The new overlay is inspired by the upcoming Walt Disney Studios film, “Tron: Ares.” The update features the addition of striking red colors from the latest “Tron” sequel, releasing in theaters on Oct. 10, along with a custom soundtrack composed by the industrial rock band Nine Inch Nails.
Join our Private Disney FB Group for more tips! JOIN HERE
This D23 announcement impacts guests the soonest. Starting September 15, guests entering the digital frontier will be transported into the “Tron: Ares”-themed version of the coaster. Weave through twisting tunnels of bright red and orange light trails. I recommend planning a trip soon because this ride overlay is a limited-time change.
How to be a D23 Member
If you’re a fan of Disney Parks and the films, look into becoming a D23 member for breaking information and membership benefits. The tiered membership begins at a free level, with more perks added with a yearly membership fee. Whether you’re a casual fan or a serious park goer, D23 has a membership tier to match your level of Disney devotion.
- General Membership (Free): Access to select virtual and in-person D23 events, Eligible for D23 sweepstakes and special contests and receive the D23 email newsletter.
- Gold Membership ($99/Year): Includes everything from the general membership, plus one premium collectible as part of your annual membership gift.
- Gold Complete ($299/Year): Includes all of the benefits of the gold membership, but you’ll receive all the premium collectibles offered in the membership gift lineup. This is perfect for collectors.
Leave a Reply