Disney has announced several new updates and events happening at their theme parks and resorts this month. Here are some of the highlights:
New Fireworks Show Coming to EPCOT
EPCOT will debut a new nighttime fireworks show called “Luminous – The Symphony of Us” on October 1st. The show will feature new pyrotechnics, lighting, lasers, and fountain effects set to classic Disney music. The show is meant to symbolize the reimagining of EPCOT and will replace the former “Epcot Forever” show.
Figment Meet and Greet at EPCOT
Starting September 10th, guests will be able to meet the iconic dragon Figment from Journey Into Imagination at EPCOT. The socially distanced meet and greet will take place at the Imagination Institute near the ride exit. Some guests have reported wait times up to 3 hours, so plan accordingly.
New Details on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Ride
New concept art and details were revealed for the upcoming “Tiana’s Bayou Adventure” attraction coming to Magic Kingdom in late 2024. The ride will feature an original story with Princess Tiana, Louis the alligator, and other characters on a journey through the bayou. The log flume ride will feature new technology and immersive environments.
EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival
The annual EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival is happening now through November 19th. The festival features food and beverage kiosks around World Showcase, special events, concerts, and more. Some of the new global marketplaces this year include Hawaii, Spain, and Germany.
Disney Enchantment Fireworks Nightly
The nighttime fireworks spectacular “Disney Enchantment” is now scheduled nightly at Magic Kingdom instead of just on select nights. The show features fireworks, lighting effects, and music from Disney films projected onto Cinderella Castle.
New Disney Merchandise Collections
Disney has released several new merchandise collections including items inspired by EPCOT’s transformation, a Haunted Mansion portrait studio, and Disney Decades celebrating pop culture from the 2000s. New holiday collections were also announced like matching family pajamas.
Disneyland Hotel Reopening in Paris
After a lengthy refurbishment, Disneyland Paris announced the Disneyland Hotel will reopen on October 1st. The historic hotel has been enhanced with new theming and amenities including a Marvel Design Studio.
runDisney 2024 Race Medals
A first look at the medals for the 2024 Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend were revealed. The medallions feature Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and other characters in midcentury Disneyland nostalgia. Virtual 12Ks of Christmas races were also announced for this holiday season.
New Disney Dining Options
From pumpkin cannolis to Halloween milkshakes, several new seasonal treats were announced at Disney parks and resorts. New menu items also debuted at Space 220 and Via Napoli in Epcot to celebrate anniversaries.
Park Hours & Refurbishments
- Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom have extended their hours during certain days in late October 2023.
- Test Track at EPCOT is being reimagined and will likely have downtime for refurbishment in the coming months.
- Crowd levels are lower than predicted recently, especially at Hollywood Studios. Wait times have also decreased compared to previous weeks.
Special Events
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party will return to Magic Kingdom in October 2023 after a two year hiatus, on select nights.
