- Mar 13, 2024
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2024 was a year packed with groundbreaking announcements for the future of Disney World.
Magic Kingdom
There were numerous exciting projects anticipated for the coming year and beyond, with eight key announcements in particular stirring up strong reactions among Disney fans. Disney certainly kept us guessing this year, so let’s revisit some of the most controversial Disney World news from 2024.
So many announcements came from D23 this year!
‘Cars’ Expansion in Frontierland
D23 revealed that the world of ‘Cars’ is coming to Frontierland in the Magic Kingdom, featuring two new rides. However, it was later announced they would replace Tom Sawyer Island.
The permanent closure of Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America, where the Liberty Square Riverboat operates, has been confirmed. No closing date has been announced, but work begins in 2025, with construction permits already filed.
The nearing end of Tom Sawyer Island
The New Country Bear Jamboree
The original Country Bear Jamboree closed in January 2024. The revamped show opened later that summer, with some fans missing the classic element.
Big Thunder’s Lengthy Refurbishment
Frontierland faces another closure as Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will shut down on January 6th, reopening in 2026, likely related to the upcoming Villains Land.
The Closure of Muppets Courtyard
D23 also announced that Monsters, Inc. Land will replace Muppets Courtyard in Hollywood Studios, including a new suspended door coaster.
Re-theme of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster
To balance the loss of Muppets Courtyard, it was revealed Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster will soon feature the Muppets instead of Aerosmith, though dates are yet to be announced.
Bye, Bye Genie+
This summer, Genie+ was rebranded as Lightning Lane Multi Pass, reminiscent of FastPass+, with rides arranged into tiers for advance booking and purchase.
Hello, Lightning Lane Premier Pass
A pricey new option, the Premier Pass, allows users to access every ride's Lightning Lane once without reservations, initially for Disney World Deluxe Resort guests but now available to all hotel guests.
The Closure of Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy
Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy closed in October 2024 for a new Disney Villains stage show, opening in summer 2025.
A recap of Disney World announcements making waves in 2024. While these changes reshape the parks, anticipation is high for the new projects. Stay tuned with DFB for the latest Disney news!
The Big Changes Coming to Florida and Disney World Travel in 2025
Join the DFB Newsletter for breaking news straight to your inbox! Subscribe here!
WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO.
Planning a Disney trip can be a true adventure—don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Whether you’re new or experienced, our insider tips make park exploration easier than ever. Let's plan your most magical vacation ever!
What was your favorite or least favorite Disney World announcement in 2024? Share in the comments!
Magic Kingdom
There were numerous exciting projects anticipated for the coming year and beyond, with eight key announcements in particular stirring up strong reactions among Disney fans. Disney certainly kept us guessing this year, so let’s revisit some of the most controversial Disney World news from 2024.
So many announcements came from D23 this year!
‘Cars’ Expansion in Frontierland
D23 revealed that the world of ‘Cars’ is coming to Frontierland in the Magic Kingdom, featuring two new rides. However, it was later announced they would replace Tom Sawyer Island.
The permanent closure of Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America, where the Liberty Square Riverboat operates, has been confirmed. No closing date has been announced, but work begins in 2025, with construction permits already filed.
The nearing end of Tom Sawyer Island
The New Country Bear Jamboree
The original Country Bear Jamboree closed in January 2024. The revamped show opened later that summer, with some fans missing the classic element.
Big Thunder’s Lengthy Refurbishment
Frontierland faces another closure as Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will shut down on January 6th, reopening in 2026, likely related to the upcoming Villains Land.
The Closure of Muppets Courtyard
D23 also announced that Monsters, Inc. Land will replace Muppets Courtyard in Hollywood Studios, including a new suspended door coaster.
Re-theme of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster
To balance the loss of Muppets Courtyard, it was revealed Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster will soon feature the Muppets instead of Aerosmith, though dates are yet to be announced.
Bye, Bye Genie+
This summer, Genie+ was rebranded as Lightning Lane Multi Pass, reminiscent of FastPass+, with rides arranged into tiers for advance booking and purchase.
Hello, Lightning Lane Premier Pass
A pricey new option, the Premier Pass, allows users to access every ride's Lightning Lane once without reservations, initially for Disney World Deluxe Resort guests but now available to all hotel guests.
The Closure of Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy
Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy closed in October 2024 for a new Disney Villains stage show, opening in summer 2025.
A recap of Disney World announcements making waves in 2024. While these changes reshape the parks, anticipation is high for the new projects. Stay tuned with DFB for the latest Disney news!
The Big Changes Coming to Florida and Disney World Travel in 2025
Join the DFB Newsletter for breaking news straight to your inbox! Subscribe here!
WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO.
Planning a Disney trip can be a true adventure—don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Whether you’re new or experienced, our insider tips make park exploration easier than ever. Let's plan your most magical vacation ever!
What was your favorite or least favorite Disney World announcement in 2024? Share in the comments!