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Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve With Ryan Seacrest′ Teases Special Disney Surprise

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Dick-Clarks-New-Years-Rockin-Eve-With-Ryan-Seacrest′-Teases-Special-Disney-Surprise

Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve With Ryan Seacrest′ Teases Special Disney Surprise

As you ring in the New Year with a viewing of “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest,” be prepared for a sprinkle of Disney magic.

While the specifics are kept under wraps, the special promises to showcase the enchantment of Disney vacations, featuring beloved Disney characters and teasing the exciting developments planned for 2024 at Walt Disney World. Keep your eyes peeled around 11 p.m. for these delightful surprises.

Related – Lineup Announced for Dick Clark’s New Years Rockin’Eve 2024 with Ryan Seacrest

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“Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest” will be broadcast live on ABC on Sunday, December 31, at 8 p.m. EST. Hosted by Ryan Seacrest and co-hosts Rita Ora, Jeannie Mai, and Dayanara Torres, the special boasts performances by Sabrina Carpenter, Bebe Rexha, Green Day, Ludacris, Post Malone, and others, culminating in the eagerly anticipated midnight countdown.

For a memorable and magical start to the New Year, don’t miss the festivities that may just include a touch of Disney wonder. Recall that last year’s edition marked the commencement of Disney’s 100th Anniversary celebration, featuring performances from within Disneyland Resort and a sneak preview of “World of Color — One” at Disney California Adventure.

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Performers Highlights

●      Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, two-time GRAMMY Award-winning hip-hop icon, Kennedy Center Honoree, recording artist, actor, author, NAACP Image Award winner, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and founder and CEO of Rock the Bells, LL COOL J featuring DJ Z-Trip will perform a medley of hits just before midnight, energizing the audience into 2024.

●      GRAMMY and Billboard Music Award-winning rapper and actress Cardi B will perform poolside from Fontainebleau Miami Beach. She is the female rap artist with the most RIAA diamond certifications and the only female rapper with multiple billion streams on Spotify.

●      Leading stand-up comedian Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias, with almost 1 billion views on YouTube and over 25 million fans on social media, will rank his least favorite fashion trends of 2023.

●      Comedian and impressionist Matt Friend will join Ryan Seacrest and Rita Ora live in Times Square to wish viewers “Happy New Year” through a variety of celeb impressions.

●      Comedian, author, radio host, podcaster and actress Patricia Williams (aka Ms. Pat) will discuss things that went on strike in 2023.

●      Multihyphenate Sebastian Maniscalco, who celebrated a string of record-breaking sold-out arena shows, will share pop culture moments in 2023 that “ain’t right.”

As previously announced:

●      In his 19th year as host of America’s most-watched New Year’s Eve special, Ryan Seacrest will lead the traditional countdown to midnight alongside global superstar Rita Ora with live performances from Times Square, including Megan Thee Stallion, Jelly Roll, Sabrina Carpenter and Tyla.

●      Emmy® Award-winning television personality Jeannie Mai will lead the Hollywood festivities with performances by Aqua, Doechii, Ellie Goulding, Green Day, Janelle Monáe, Loud Luxury x Two Friends with Bebe Rexha, Ludacris, Nile Rodgers & CHIC, Paul Russell, Reneé Rapp with Coco Jones and Thirty Seconds to Mars.

●      Award-winning and bestselling artist Post Malone, who has sold over 80 million records and earned numerous awards, including 10 Billboard Music Awards, will perform “Chemical” from the brand-new Fontainebleau Las Vegas.

●      2023 Billboard Music Award-winning K-Pop group NewJeans will perform “Super Shy” and “ETA” from South Korea.

●      The show’s third Spanish language countdown will again broadcast from the Atlantic time zone (one hour ahead of ET) in Puerto Rico with multitalented actress, singer and TV presenter Dayanara Torres as co-host and a performance from genre pioneer “Queen of Reggaeton,” Puerto Rican superstar Ivy Queen. The New Year’s bash will take place on the grounds of the Puerto Rico Convention Center at DISTRITO T-Mobile, Puerto Rico’s entertainment and nightlife complex.

●      This year will mark the first-ever live broadcast radio simulcast of “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2024,” airing across 150 iHeartRadio stations nationwide, including Z100 New York, KIIS-FM Los Angeles, KISS FM Chicago, Q102 Philly, 102.9 Dallas and more. The show will also be available on the iHeartRadio app.

Far and away, the No. 1 New Year’s Eve special for over 30 years, ABC’s “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2023,” attracted 13.8 million Total Viewers and averaged 4.1/29 among Adults 18-49 last year. ABC’s annual New Year’s Eve special drew in 17.9 million Total Viewers and hit a 5.3 Adult 18-49 rating in the midnight quarter-hour.

The show, which marks its 52nd year, celebrates the year’s very best in music with more than 5½ hours of dynamic performances, America’s favorite personalities and a look at New Year’s celebrations around the globe. “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2024” is produced by Dick Clark Productions with Ryan Seacrest, Michael Dempsey and Barry Adelman serving as executive producers.

Follow “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest” on FacebookXInstagramTikTok and Threads, join the conversation with #RockinEve and get the latest news and updates at NewYearsRockinEve.com.

Full Lineup Announced for 2024 Disney on Broadway Concert Series Coming to EPCOT

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The DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series returns to the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts now through Feb. 21, 2022 at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. During three shows nightly, Broadway stars perform cherished songs from more than 25 years of award-winning stage productions. (David Roark, photographer)
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(David Roark, photographer)

Full Lineup Announced for 2024 Disney on Broadway Concert Series Coming to EPCOT International Festival of the Arts

Experience the enchantment of your favorite tunes with DISNEY ON BROADWAY performances at the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts.

Related – Entertainment Lineup Announced for the 2024 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts

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Indulge in a musical extravaganza as the stars of DISNEY ON BROADWAY take the stage to perform beloved songs that have become iconic. Enjoy a celebration of these performers’ musical contributions, featuring not only the hits they are known for but also a selection of sensational tunes. Whether you choose to sing along to show-stopping numbers from Disney musicals or simply bask in the entertainment, it’s a magical experience for all.

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Venue: America Gardens Theatre at EPCOT
Dates: January 12 to February 19, 2024
Showtimes: 5:30 PM, 6:45 PM, and 8:00 PM
Please note that entertainment is subject to change without notice.

Here is a Full Lineup Announced for the 2024 Disney on Broadway Concert Series Coming to EPCOT

Caissie Levy (Frozen) and Patti Murin (Frozen)

January 12, 14, 15, 18, 20, 22 and 23Headshots of Caissie Levy and Patti Murin

Gavin Lee (Beauty and the Beast) and Heidi Blickenstaff (The Little Mermaid)

January 13, 16, 17, 19, 21, 24 and 25Headshots of Gavin Lee and Heidi Blickenstaff

Ashley Brown (Mary Poppins) and L. Steven Taylor (The Lion King)

January 26, 28 and 29Headshots of Ashley Brown and L Steven Taylor

Josh Strickland (Tarzan) and Kissy Simmons (The Lion King)

January 27, 30 and 31Headshots of Josh Strickland and Kissy Simmons

Ashley Brown (Mary Poppins) and L. Steven Taylor (The Lion King)

February 1, 3, 5 and 6Headshots of Ashley Brown and L Steven Taylor

Josh Strickland (Tarzan) and Kissy Simmons (The Lion King)

February 2, 4, 7 and 8Headshots of Josh Strickland and Kissy Simmons

Mandy Gonzalez (Aida) and Michael James Scott (Aladdin)

February 9, 11, 12, 15, 18 and 19Headshots of Mandy Gonzalez and Michael James Scott

Bradley Gibson (The Lion King) and Shoba Narayan (Aladdin)

February 10, 13, 14, 16, 17 and 19Headshots of Bradley Gibson and Shoba Narayan

NEW Disney Eats Merchandise Collections Coming to ShopDisney and Disney Parks in 2024

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NEW Disney Eats Merchandise Collections Coming to ShopDisney and Disney Parks in 2024

Introducing the NEW Disney Eats Snack Collection- a delightful, fun addition to the Disney Eats lineup that brings together trendy culinary favorites! Available from January 16, 2024 on shopDisney and soon to hit Disney Parks, this collection invites you to bring the enchantment of Disney into your home with an array of delectable treats. Explore home goods, accessories, and apparel adorned with beloved snacks such as Mickey ice cream bars, churros, and popcorn.

Related-New Stitch Attacks Snacks Monthly Merchandise Series Coming in 2024

Show off your love for your favorite snacks (while indulging in them) by donning one of the lively Disney Parks Food T-Shirts or Spirit Jerseys, available in both Disneyland and Walt Disney World styles. Enhance your delectable ensemble with the Disney Eats Popcorn Box Crossbody Bag.

Related-Disney Snacks And Popcorn Wooden Food Counter Available At Target!


Indulge in sweet dreams of delectable treats with the Disney Parks Food Short Sleep Set. Immerse yourself in comfort, especially when nestled against the vanilla-scented Mickey Mouse Ice Cream Sandwich Scented Pillow! Elevate the charm of your living space with adorable items like the Mickey Mouse Popcorn Planter. Quench your thirst in Disney style with the Mickey Mouse Caramel Apple Tumbler with Straw, a whimsical replica of the caramel apples found in Disney Parks. Yum!

But wait, there’s more to come! Brace yourself for a year of delightful surprises as shopDisney, Disneyland Resort, and Walt Disney World Resort unveil a delectable array of new merchandise from the Disney Eats Collection every month throughout 2024. Get ready to savor a slice of style with the Disney Eats Pizza Collection, set to launch in February.

New Stitch Attacks Snacks Monthly Merchandise Series Coming in 2024

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New Stitch Attacks Snacks Monthly Merchandise Series Coming in 2024


Craving some excitement? Be sure to protect your snacks, or risk a raid by Stitch, the beloved extraterrestrial mischief-maker. Experiment 626 is back with the Stitch Attacks Snacks series, causing chaos and satisfying his intergalactic appetite!

Related-Limited Edition Stitch 626 Day Pins Spotted At Walt Disney World!

The series debuts on January 9 with shopDisney unveiling the first collection, featuring a Stitch plush enjoying a Mickey Mouse-shaped pretzel and a pin set capturing Stitch’s pretzel feast with his sweet companion Angel.

Related-New Stitch Holiday Plush Spotted At Magic Kingdom!

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Throughout 2024, a monthly release of themed plush and pin sets will showcase Stitch indulging in various delectable treats.

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We can’t wait to start our collection with Stitch and his snack attacks this January!

Disney Grants Over 150,000 Wishes Since 1980 with Make a Wish!

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150,000 Wishes Granted by Disney Since 1980 With Make A Wish

This year marked a significant milestone for the Walt Disney Company as they celebrated their 100th anniversary! Throughout this remarkable journey, Disney has upheld its rich legacy while exploring innovative avenues to bring magic to life. Whether it was the unveiling of new lands and experiences at the parks, or the simple act of positively impacting people’s lives, Disney embraced the spirit of creativity and progress. This spirit of innovation extended to the world of wish-granting!

Related-Disney Launches Wish Together Campaign and Sweepstakes to Support Make a Wish

Achieving a significant milestone in Disney’s partnership with Make-A-Wish—fulfilling the 150,000th Disney wish—was just the beginning. The Walt Disney World company undertook the challenge of devising fresh, distinctly Disney approaches to granting wishes. This involved pioneering one-of-a-kind events at the parks and resorts worldwide, setting new standards in wish-granting experiences.

Related-Princess Tiana & Disneyland Cast Members Make Dream Come True for Make a Wish Kid

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A royal ball presented an ideal occasion to fulfill Disney’s 150,000th wish, and it proved to be an exceptionally memorable one. Seventeen-year-old Mikayla, the 150,000th Make-A-Wish recipient, was extended a special invitation to showcase her talent before an audience of nearly 300 guests. As part of her wish to perform at Disney, Mikayla received expert voice coaching, recorded a song in a Disney recording studio, adorned herself in a stunning ball gown with the assistance of Disney Costuming, and collaborated with a Disney Live Entertainment casting director to meticulously plan her grand performance moment.

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The heartwarming achievements marking the 150,000th wish and creating such meaningful moments for children and families stands as a testament to Disney’s dedication to spreading joy and instilling hope. Disney truly stands out when it comes to making wishes come true, and we can’t wait to see what they have in store for the next 150,000 wishes!

Entertainment Lineup Announced for the 2024 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts

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Exhilarating adventures in the visual, culinary and performing arts await guests at the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts Jan. 14 through Feb 21, 2022 at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Throughout the festival’s 39 days, chefs showcase dishes inspired by art movements, visual masterpieces come to life and Broadway stars sing beloved showtunes in a celebration of performance art (Harrison Cooney, photographer).
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(Harrison Cooney, photographer).

Entertainment Lineup Announced for the 2024 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts

Embrace your creative side, please your palate with delicious dishes, indulge in dazzling entertainment, and more at the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts from January 12th to February 19th, 2024.

Here is a look at the Entertainment Lineup Announced for the 2024 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts.

Related – 3 New Photo Ops Coming to EPCOT International Festival of the Arts

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Music

Hear harmonious musical performances daily in World Showcase Plaza.

Featured musicians include:

  • Nicholas Marks on guitar
  • Victor Espinola on harp
  • Don Black on saxophone
  • Dominic Gaudious on digeridoo

Check the My Disney Experience app for showtimes.

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Art Defying Gravity

Witness incredible displays of strength, grace, acrobatics and agility.

Performances take place in World Showcase Plaza, Saturday through Wednesday during the festival.

Check the My Disney Experience app for showtimes.

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Art in Performance

Watch in awe as an artist paints a Disney character in mere minutes.

Featured artists include:

Trevor Carlton

  • January 12 to January 15
  • January 18 to January 21
  • January 25 to January 28

Stephen Fishwick

  • February 1 to February 4
  • February 8 to February 11
  • February 15 to February 19

This experience takes place in World Showcase Plaza, Thursday through Sunday during the festival—as well as on Monday, January 15 and Monday, February 19, 2024.

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Stay tuned for the 2024 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts Disney on Broadway Concert Series lineup.

New Mickey Mouse Pave Bracelets By BaubleBar For An Enchanting Style!

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Mickey Mouse Pave Bracelets

New Mickey Mouse Pave Bracelets By BaubleBar For An Enchanting Style!

How adorable are these Mickey Mouse Pave Bracelets by BaubleBar? They are perfect to add a touch of magic to your style making it extra dazzling and classic. You can get them online at BaubleBar.com for $38 each.

Related – This BoxLunch Exclusive Tangled Loungefly Backpack Is Magical!

There are three colors available, red, black and clear designed with a glass stone covered Mickey Mouse head in the center and gold tone 4mm beads. You can even stack them with other bracelets and make them more unique to your style!

Credit: BaubleBar

Retro Magic Kingdom Shirt For Your Next Disney Vacation!

Retro Magic Kingdom Shirt
Retro Magic Kingdom Shirt

Retro Magic Kingdom Shirt For Your Next Disney Vacation!

We adore this retro Magic Kingdom shirt created by NfsApparelCo on Etsy for $17.27+. You can order yours here!

Related – Top Rides at the Magic Kingdom in 2023 Based on Average Wait Times

It features Magic Kingdom logo surrounded by icons of the different lands and attractions creating one magical world! So cute plus is available in different colors making it a great option for your next visit to the most magical place on Earth.

This BoxLunch Exclusive Tangled Loungefly Backpack Is Magical!

Tangled Loungefly Backpack
Tangled Loungefly Backpack

This BoxLunch Exclusive Tangled Loungefly Backpack Is Magical!

See the light with this new Tangled Loungefly Backpack exclusive to BoxLunch Gifts for $69.90! Super cute and will add a touch of enchantment to your style.

Related – New Walt Disney World Icons Starbucks Tumbler Coming Soon To shopDisney!

It features a cream body embellished with stars, lanterns, and embroidered floral details, surrounding an applique of Rapunzel and Flynn dancing on the front pocket. Maximus is peeking out from the side gusset, while the Disney Princess’ signature frying pan is printed on the back. Silver zippers are lined with lavender, and don’t miss the interior lantern patterns! So adorable.

Credit: BoxLunch Gifts

What Opened, Returned, and Closed at Disneyland in 2023

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Fantasmic!, a “must-see” show at Disneyland Park for nearly 30 years, returns on May 28, 2022. Disney’s longest-running nighttime spectacular is an emotional extravaganza of colorful Disney animated film images, choreographed to an exciting musical score. The waters of the Rivers of America come alive as Mickey Mouse’s power of imagination enables him to create fantastic events and images as seen in beloved Disney classic films like “Fantasia,” “The Jungle Book,” “The Little Mermaid” and
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In 2023, Disneyland Resort waved its magic wand, bringing a dazzling array of new experiences, revamping classic favorites, and bidding adieu to some cherished attractions. As Walt promised back when Disneyland first opened, the park has continued to grow and evolve, ensuring every visit is filled with wonder and excitement. Join us as we journey through the enchanting changes that have defined Disneyland this year.

Related: Top Rides at Disneyland in 2023 Based on Average Wait Times

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World of Color-One

In 2023, Disneyland premiered “World of Color – One,” a breathtaking nighttime water show in Disney California Adventure Park. This spectacular combines water, fire, light, and music to celebrate the stories of Disney, Pixar, and Marvel heroes. The show is a testament to innovation and creativity, captivating audiences of all ages with its awe-inspiring display.

Wondrous Journeys fireworks

“Wondrous Journeys” is a new fireworks spectacular that lights up the night at Disneyland. Celebrating the rich legacy of Disney animation, this show features projections, music, and effects that take guests on an enchanting journey through beloved Disney stories. It’s a tribute to 100 years of Disney storytelling magic, perfectly blending nostalgia with awe-inspiring pyrotechnics.

Rogers The Musical at Hyperion Theater

“Rogers The Musical” at Hyperion Theater, inspired by Marvel’s “Hawkeye” series on Disney+, brought a slice of Broadway to Disneyland. This show humorously celebrates the legacy of a beloved Marvel character, capturing audiences with its witty, musical recounting and vibrant performances. It’s a theatrical nod to the Marvel universe, delighting fans with a unique blend of humor and heroism.

Clyde’s Hot Chicken (Downtown Disney)

Clyde’s Hot Chicken spiced up Downtown Disney in 2023, offering guests a delicious array of fiery, Southern-style fried chicken dishes. This eatery quickly became a favorite for its mouthwatering flavors, adding a dash of zest to the diverse dining options available at Disney.

Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway

Already open on the East Coast, “Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway” debuted as a new addition within the revamped Toontown. This ride invites guests into a lively cartoon adventure with Mickey and Minnie, set in the El CapiTOON Theater. With a queue that doubles as a Mickey Mouse exhibit and a cutting-edge trackless ride system, it’s quickly become a favorite for visitors, offering a fun and innovative Disney experience.

Related: All Entertainment Options Coming to Disneyland in 2024

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San Fransokyo Square

Pacific Wharf at Disneyland was transformed into San Fransokyo Square, inspired by the world of “Big Hero 6.” This area now features a mix of San Francisco and Tokyo aesthetics, complete with new dining options, a character meet-and-greet with Baymax, and a vibrant atmosphere that reflects the innovative spirit of the film.

DVC Expansion at the Disneyland Hotel

The Disneyland Hotel welcomed a new Disney Vacation Club Tower, offering luxurious accommodations and exclusive amenities to members. This expansion provides an elegant and comfortable stay with all the magic of Disney right at guests’ doorsteps.

Disneyland Closures in 2023

Splash Mountain

In 2023, Disneyland bid farewell to the iconic Splash Mountain, marking the end of an era for this beloved log-flume ride as it makes way for the upcoming “Tiana’s Bayou Adventure,” set to open in late 2024.

Beast’s Library

The Beast’s Library was a section of the Sorcerer’s Workshop in California Adventure Park before being shuttered in December to make way for the Imagination Campus. This interactive space was known for its enchanting atmosphere, offering guests a magical experience as they discovered which Disney character they were most like. Guests were a bit shocked when news of the Beast’s Library closure was announced.

What new Disneyland attraction is your favorite? Leave us a comment to let us know!

New Donald Duck Little Golden Book Coming Next Year!

Donald Duck Little Golden Book
Donald Duck Little Golden Book

New Donald Duck Little Golden Book Coming Next Year!

You can now pre-order this Donald Duck Little Golden Book on Amazon for $11.99! This is a 3 books in 1 so perfect to introduce the little ones to the most famous duck on earth!

Related – Dig into this Boozy Gingerbread Cheesecake from Amorette’s in Disney Springs

Donald Duck Little Golden Book

Since his first appearance in The Wise Little Hen in 1934, Walt Disney’s Donald Duck has been making generations of fans laugh out loud! Join the quick-tempered duck with a heart of gold on three hilarious adventures in this hardcover collection of vintage, out-of-print Little Golden Books. Out just in time for Donald’s 90th birthday, it’s perfect for kids ages 2 to 5 and Disney fans and collectors of all ages.

Stories included in this collection are:

  • Donald Duck in Disneyland
  • Donald Duck’s Toy Sailboat
  • Donald Duck’s Toy Train

The book will be officially released on June 4, 2024!

Credit: Amazon

What Opened, Returned, and Closed at Disney World in 2023

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In 2023, Walt Disney World Resort unveiled a host of new attractions and experiences, while bidding farewell to some old favorites, continually reshaping its landscape of magic and wonder. From thrilling new rides to updated dining experiences and beloved character meet and greets, the park’s ever-evolving offerings ensured that every visitor’s experience was filled with new stories and adventures. Here’s a look at the key openings and closures that marked the year at the world’s most famous entertainment complex.

Related: Top Rides at the Magic Kingdom in 2023 Based on Average Wait Times

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EPCOT Enhancements

The reimagination of EPCOT saw the construction on the front half of the park nearly wrapped, with work on World Nature and World Discovery complete and the World Celebration area nearly complete, with just Communicore Hall remaining. World Celebration Gardens and Dreamers Point’s opening were a highlight of the construction this year!

Moana: Journey of Water

This a hands-on attraction designed to engage guests with the cycle of water, taking inspiration from the film “Moana.” It’s an immersive walk-through experience located in the World Nature area of the park, highlighting the importance and wonder of the natural world through interactive water features and lush surroundings. A Moana Meet-And-Greet was added to the location, making the attraction even more immersive.

TRON Lightcycle Run

This thrilling roller coaster can be found in Magic Kingdom’s Tomorrowland. Inspired by the TRON film series, the ride features a high-speed motorbike race through a digital landscape. Riders hop onto Lightcycle bikes, diving into a world of illuminated digital effects and rapid movements, making it one of the most exciting recent additions to Walt Disney World.

Hatbox Ghost Comes to Disney World Haunted Mansion

In late 2023, Magic Kingdom added the Hatbox Ghost to its Haunted Mansion attraction. This character, a beloved figure among Disney enthusiasts, is known for his eerie disappearing and reappearing head within a hatbox. The addition of this ghost brought a new level of excitement and nostalgia to the classic attraction, enhancing the spooky and whimsical atmosphere that Haunted Mansion fans adore.

Toy Story Roundup Rodeo BBQ Restaurant

The lively eatery offers unlimited barbecue in an immersive Toy Story-themed environment. Guests enjoy a playful, rodeo-like setting while dining among iconic characters and decor from the beloved film series. It’s celebrated for its engaging ambiance and family-friendly dining experience.

Renovation of Narcoosee’s at Grand Floridian

In 2023, Narcoossee’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa underwent a renovation. This popular dining spot, known for its seafood and spectacular views of the Magic Kingdom, was refreshed to enhance the guest dining experience while maintaining its beloved sophisticated charm. The updates included enhanced interior and menu offerings as well as updates to the restaurant’s equipment.

The Return of Happily Ever After

Happily Ever After was quickly accepted and applauded by fans when it replaced Wishes in 2016. Fans were disappointed by the news that Disney Enchantment would replace Happily Ever After during the 50th-anniversary celebration and were even less thrilled when they saw the show. The fans spoke up, and Disney listened-brining Happily Ever After back this year.

Figment Meet and Greet at EPCOT

EPCOT introduced a Figment meet and greet during Destination D23, allowing guests to interact with the beloved purple dragon from the Journey into Imagination attraction. This addition provided fans with a delightful opportunity to meet one of EPCOT’s most iconic characters in person, adding a touch of whimsical fun to their park experience. The LONG lines commanded by the meet and greet during opening weekend were a testament to the enduring popularity of Figment.

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Mirabel Sets Up Shop in Magic Kingdom

Magic Kingdom introduced a Mirabel meet and greet in the location that formerly housed Merida from Brave, inviting guests to meet the spirited protagonist from Disney’s popular film “Encanto.” This addition provided an exciting opportunity for fans to interact with Mirabel, capturing the magic and charm of the movie and offering a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

Luminous: the Symphony of Us at EPCOT

“Luminous: The Symphony of Us” is the new nighttime spectacular introduced at EPCOT, showcasing a dazzling array of lights, music, and effects. This show celebrates the global spirit of unity and imagination, weaving together a narrative of connection and inspiration. It’s a grand sensory experience that reflects the themes of innovation and collaboration that are central to EPCOT’s identity.

eet by Maneet Chauhan

2023 also saw the opening of “Eet by Maneet Chauhan,” a restaurant by the renowned chef Maneet Chauhan, in Disney Springs. This establishment brings an innovative and flavorful dining experience, reflecting Chef Chauhan’s culinary expertise and creativity, adding to the vibrant and diverse dining scene at Disney Springs.

Summerhouse On The Lake

Another late 2023 addition to the restaurant lineup in Disney Springs was Summerhouse On The Lake. This dining location, which has been receiving rave reviews from visitors, further expands the dining options at Disney Springs with a fresh, lakeside venue that promises a relaxing and scenic dining experience, complementing the area’s array of culinary delights.

Closed Attractions

Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser

The Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser was a unique two-night adventure at Walt Disney World, providing an immersive Star Wars experience akin to an interactive space voyage. Guests engaged in personalized missions and interacted with characters, shaping their narratives within the expansive Star Wars universe until its closure in late 2023. Disney has not yet released plans on what they plan to do with this location in the future.

Related: Celebrate the New Year with new Disney Wallpapers

Top of Splash Mountain Gone as Work Continues on Tiana's Bayou Adventure

Splash Mountain

The iconic ride in Magic Kingdom closed in 2023 to make way for the new Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, set to open in late 2024. While Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is set to be an amazing attraction, fans were generally upset to see the beloved Splash Mountain close.

Harmonious

In 2023, EPCOT said farewell to “Harmonious,” the nighttime spectacular introduced during the 50th-anniversary celebration as a replacement for the long-running Illuminations-Reflections of Earth. The show was well-regarded for its innovative approach to storytelling through music, fountains, and lights, showcasing the interconnectedness of global cultures. Harmonious only lasted a few short years before being shuttered to make way for Luminous.

Any new arrivals you are especially excited about? Any retired attractions you were sad to see go? Leave us a comment to let us know!