It’s 5 days and counting for Pixar Pier’s big reveal. Disney’s summer offering will launch with a special ticketed event on Friday, then opens to the public on Saturday. We have a few new details for you along with some Disneyland items including the Adventureland project and Star Wars land construction.
Speaking of Pixar Pier, we’ll have comprehensive coverage of the opening of the new Pier for you as it happens. Please be sure to follow our Facebook and Twitter pages for views and news from the Pier as they become available and check back here for the full articles.
Here’s a little background listening while you read this update. Join Dusty and Doug on the latest MiceChat Podcast:
Pixar Pier
As of today, all of Pixar Pier has been closed to the public, including Knick’s Knacks and Adorable Snowman, while the final touches are put on the project. Construction walls have mostly been removed, the Pixar Pal-A-Round is testing, signage is being installed, paint is going up on the bandstand, the Pixar ball is rolling on a column of water, and the Lamplight Lounge is preparing for its first guests later this week. Just a few days ago it looked like the project wouldn’t be finished in time . . . and there’s obviously still a LOT of work to be done . . . it’s still a nailbiter, but it’s looking more promising by the day.
The first folks to see the newly rethemed Pier will be paid party guests on Friday night. But it looks like tickets are still available. Disney was advertising on social media all weekend.
Here’s what we can see from the far side of the bay . . .
The Pal-A-Round is testing. It’s in near non-stop motion.
It’s the same ride it always was, but it now sports Pixar characters on the gondolas, has been painted blue, has a new name, has a new sign, and there’s also a larger yellow awning to help keep the queue shaded.
The new Pixar Ball water feature has been installed and an Imagineer was busy rolling it around and testing it. Like the one in Tomorrowland, the ball rides on a high-pressure jet of water which allows guests to spin it.
The Pixar Pier Promenade bandstand has been painted.
Construction walls are down around the Lamplight Lounge.
Last week we showed you the new sketch art chandelier in the atrium of the Lamplight Lounge. One of the side effects of June Gloom weather conditions is less glare, so I snagged another look for you.
Disney has revealed some concept art for the billboards of the boardwalk (located just past Adorable Snowman).
Two more designs will also appear this week in time for the opening.
World of Color troubles?
Rumors persist that World of Color is having technical difficulties. And although the show is still listed as returning this Friday, there are reports that those with dining packages have been offered refunds as the show may not be in operation this weekend.
The “Pier” has been removed from the Golden Zephyr sign. It will likely be replaced by the word “Park” which is what this side of the Pier will be called when it’s done “Paradise Park.”
Will you be attending the Pixar Pier opening celebration party on Friday night? Willing to brave the crowds on Saturday? Or are you planning to wait?
Star Wars Land Construction
Let’s start with the view you’ve been most familiar with. . .
The large opening in the side of the First Order attraction is being walled up.
Now let’s look again from the Rivers of America . . .
And now from the Tarzan Treehouse . . .
Finally, here’s a unique view for you from the Harbor Blvd side of the resort near the entry ramp to the 5 Freeway. . .
Parking Garage
Going up! Supports are rising quickly for the parking expansion at the Mickey and Friends structure. The new portion of the building will wrap around the current tram unload area and will eventually add additional escalators, elevators, and an improved tram access experience (if marketing materials are to be believed).
Up Balloons
Here’s a little something else that’s going “Up.” These balloons were all the rage this weekend on Main Street.
Small World Gate
The Small World Gate project continues. The portion of the project inside the queue area looks to have been completed, but the gate itself is still in a holding pattern.
Tropical Hideaway
Welcome to the Tropical Hideaway you lucky people you . . .
The removal of Aladdin’s Oasis has revealed the vast expanse of thatched roofs that had been hidden away for decades.
Looking through the cracks . . .
Construction also seems to have expanded a bit to Jungle Cruise, where some new thatched roof seems to be going in.
Trading Cards
When Pirates of the Caribbean reopened last week, Disney released a trading card featuring Redd. This week they gave away a card celebrating the 60th anniversary (June 14th) of the Alice in Wonderland attraction.
Speaking of Alice, hop aboard and take a ride with me into Wonderland . . .
Be sure to follow along on social so you don’t miss out on any of the fun as it happens.
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