
Walt Disney World and Disneyland Announce Major Enhancements to Iconic Attractions
Walt Disney World and Disneyland have unveiled significant updates to some of their most beloved attractions, reaffirming their commitment to innovation and inclusivity. These enhancements aim to enrich guest experiences while honoring Disney’s legacy of storytelling and cultural representation.
1. “It’s a Small World” Gets a Heartfelt Update
To commemorate the 70th anniversary of Disneyland, Disney is introducing a new verse to the iconic “It’s a Small World” theme song. Written by Richard Sherman before his passing in 2024, the verse emphasizes unity and environmental stewardship:
“Mother Earth unites us in heart and mind, and the love we give makes us humankind.”
This addition will debut on July 17, 2025, alongside “The Last Verse,” a short film celebrating Sherman’s contributions, and a new Walt Disney animatronic in the “Walt Disney – A Magical Life” show at Disneyland’s Main Street Opera House .
2. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure: A Tribute to Representation
In November 2024, Disneyland introduced Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, a reimagined version of Splash Mountain that celebrates Princess Tiana, Disney’s first Black princess. The attraction integrates elements of African American history and New Orleans culture, reflecting Disney’s commitment to diversity and inclusion .
3. “Walt Disney – A Magical Life”: Bringing Walt Back to the Stage
In a groundbreaking move, Disneyland is set to debut “Walt Disney – A Magical Life” on July 17, 2025, the park’s 70th anniversary. This 17-minute stage presentation will feature an Audio-Animatronic version of Walt Disney, offering guests a personal connection to the man behind the magic. The show will rotate with “Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln” after its first year .
4. Major Theme Park Expansions on the Horizon
At the 2024 D23 Expo, Disney announced extensive expansion plans for its theme parks, including a new villains-themed land and a Cars-inspired Frontierland section at Walt Disney World. Disneyland’s expansion, known as “DisneylandForward,” has received final approval, paving the way for new attractions based on “Avatar,” “Indiana Jones,” “Encanto,” and “Monsters, Inc.” These developments aim to enhance guest experiences and ensure the parks remain at the forefront of immersive storytelling .
5. The Evolution of the “E-Ticket” Experience
Historically, “E-tickets” were used to access Disneyland’s most popular attractions. While the ticketing system has evolved, the term “E-ticket ride” has persisted in popular culture to denote thrilling or top-tier experiences. Disney continues to deliver such experiences through innovative attractions and immersive storytelling .