DISNEYLAND UPDATE: Goodbyes, Last Hurrahs & New Horizons!

Just like the weather, the recent news out of Anaheim brought both sunshine and storm clouds as one of the best fireworks and projection shows, Wondrous Journeys, wrapped an all-too-brief three-week run. This week is also your last chance to experience the original Soarin’ over California, but while Food and Wine is coming to a close, details about new Downtown Disney eateries and Pixar Fest food offerings have us drooling! Plus, changes to DAS cause gas, an important vote looms on Disneyland’s future, and new clues from Tiana’s Bayou Adventure…

Come along as we twirl through Walt Disney’s original Magic Kingdom for a look at EVERYTHING you want to know…

UPDATE: We have an exciting update from Downtown Disney, where construction walls have come down around the Paseo, Centrico, Tiendita restaurant complex! More information and photos in the Downtown Disney section of this article!

Now It’s Time to Say Goodbye

This is the last week to use up your festival cards and feast on your favorite Food and Wine selections at Disney California Adventure’s Food & Wine Festival.

 

While I was shooting photos for this update, I certainly did a little exploring the festival and revisiting some favorites I’m not sure we’ll ever see again. 

I will miss being able to get the Frozen Old Fashioned ice cream bar on my visits. Which items would you like to see return next year… and which wouldn’t you mind never seeing again? 

 

 

This is also the last chance to catch some Disneyland Resort favorite musical acts (for now at least), so be sure to check out their closing sets.

 

Also flying away with Food and Wine on April 22nd is Soarin’ Over California. Oh how we wish they’d continue offering it in at least one of the two theaters… or… random destinations à la Star Tours. 

 

 

Pixar Fest is Just on the Horizon

Soon after the Food & Wine Festival comes to an end, a new adventure will arrive across the entire resort… Pixar Fest! After a six-year absence, a new version of the festival arrives on April 26, 2024. A Pixar parade, fireworks, specialty food, drink and novelty items will debut across the Resort starting April 26th, but we’re already seeing colorful Pixar-themed decor pop up in both parks and Downtown Disney!

The colorful light post banners at Disneyland and California Adventure are ADORABLE. I really love the artistic style of the characters. Hope to see these show up as pins and on other merchandise. 

Changes to Disney’s Disability Access Service (DAS)

The most shocking Disney news this week was the announcement about new guidelines and restrictions for who can use Disability Access Service (DAS).  Updates to DAS go into effect starting June 18, 2024, at the Disneyland Resort and May 20, 2024, at Walt Disney World.

 

While Walt Disney World will require guests to be evaluated for DAS eligibility through a virtual video chat in advance of their trip, Disneyland will continue to have an in-person option. Disneyland guests can arrange assistance in advance via chat (recommended), but there will also be a NEW Accessibility Services team at Disneyland as well. The guest relations cast who deal with DAS issues (about 90% of all requests in the morning at the park) will be moved to a new window in the Esplanade (likely in one of the old ticket booths) where guests can determine their eligibility in person. That will help free up Guest Relations for guests who have other issues that need assistance (such ticket upgrades, Genie questions, MagicBand help, birthday buttons, reservation assistance, etc.).  

 

What has former DAS users up in arms are the new limitations on who can use the previous DAS attraction wait scheduling service, which is intended for those with developmental disabilities (such as severe Autism and Down’s syndrome), and not for those with physical disabilities who can take advantage of other Disney disability services. Many guests may be advised to get a wheel chair and wait in line like any other guests (at those attractions which have wheelchair accessible lines). Other options include a new return-to-line for those who need to use the restroom, and ride swap which allows one member of a party to wait in line and then the disabled member of the party can enter without waiting further. But with the number of guests claiming they need front of line access swelling 400% in just the last 4 years, something had to change fast. The question is, will the new system work.

The Vote For Disneyland’s Future

Another hot topic is back in the news this week. After getting a thumbs up from the Anaheim Planning Commission last month, DisneylandForward is expected to be voted on by the Anaheim City Council this Tuesday (April 16, 2024). If the vote passes, yet another vote will still be required at the May meeting, and then Disney’s requested zoning changes and related requests would go into effect 30 days after that.

Some Big Construction Updates

There are so many construction projects right now at the Disneyland Resort that it can be hard to remember, much less follow, all the changes. But there were updates small and large this week. We’re sharing some of the most notable items below. 

Haunted Mansion Transformation Gets Fun

There are still construction walls galore around the Haunted Mansion, but it’s far from boring… A MagicBand tap point has materialized which brings some Mansion memories to life. Tap your MagicBand (it doesn’t have to be charged to activate it) and you will hear familiar sounds from the attraction. It’s a nice addition while construction continues.

Here’s a YouTube Short featuring the new MagicBand fun: 

In addition, the upper walkway between the mansion and the Rivers of America has reopened, and the lenticular gallery portraits that first went up on the walls in January have returned, along with QR code to access the Haunted Mansion PhotoPass Lens in the Disneyland app.

 

 

Just scan the QR codes on the walls to become as scary as Dusty (it’s not hard to do, he’s lovable even as a zombie): 

Tiana’s Bayou Aventure Blooms

Moving towards Critter Country, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is looking green and lush as work moves full speed ahead. This week we witnessed leaves being added to fake trees and a lot of painting going on all over the mountain salt dome.

The Briar Patch is soon to be rethemed. 

Last but not least, we have been introduced to the final group of musical critters who will appear in the revamped attraction: Afro-Cuban jazz playing frogs.

And here’s what their scene looks like inside the ride (you can see how beautiful and lush the bayou scenes look): 

To find out everything you need to know about Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, check out our complete guide to the attraction here:

GUIDE: Everything You Need to Know About Tiana’s Bayou Adventure!

City Hall

In Town Square, work continues on City Hall and the fire station. This work has been going on for months and we hope the end is in sight since this construction walls and scaffolding don’t make the best first impression as guests enter the Happiest Place on Earth.

Loop-less Incredicoaster

Across the Esplanade, at California Adventure, the Incredicoaster loop was removed last week for refurbishment, but returned by the weekend. Wouldn’t be much of a ride without it.  

Construction in Downtown Disney

 

 

The construction walls around the Paseo, Centrico, Tiendita complex have been removed, revealing a beautiful and spacious view. Check out the photos below! Unfortunately, there is no update on when the newest establishments will open. We will keep you posted as soon as we receive any updates.

On the heels of Tortilla Jo’s closure, the quick service Taqueria has also served its last burrito. Two unnamed restaurants are taking over this building, a steakhouse and a BBQ establishment. No further information yet, but we like what we’re hearing so far. 

 

 

Speaking of welcome additions, Din Tai Fung continues to take big strides and is slated for a summer opening. We’re really looking forward to this one. If you’ve never been to a Din Tai Fung, you’re in for a treat! Note all the workers swarming the facade. 

 

 

No word yet on when Earl of Sandwich will move into its modified food truck on the west side of DTD, but it won’t be much longer from what we’ve heard. 

 

But its upcoming permanent location is coming along. 

Now, let’s play a game of musical chairs… In what will hopefully offer a better variety of treats, Marceline’s is expanding into some of the former Disney Dress Shop space. In the meantime, the Dress Shop is occupying the Wonderground location and some Wonderground merchandise can be found in the Home store… got that?

And you heard it here first… We’re hearing from sources in Downtown Disney that two popular brands are heading to Disneyland’s shopping district. Loungefly has apparently inked a deal for a Downtown Disney location, and so has Nectar Bath Treats (which also has a location at Universal CityWalk). Nether has been officially announced yet, so we still need to list this as a rumor. 

For the latest news about the Downtown Disney District shake up, check out our article. 

There are also ways to celebrate Season of the Force in Downtown Disney.

The updated Star Tours: The Adventures Continue poster featuring the new Purrgil (space whales) scene has also arrived on the right hand side tunnel as you enter Disneyland.

And we know Star Wars fans will be happy to know that character times are now listed in the Disneyland app! Times are listed for Ahsoka Tano, Sabine Wren, The Mandalorian (with Grogu), Chewbacca, Rey, Vi Moradi, Kylo Ren, and First Order Stormtroopers.

And with May the 4th being Star Wars Day, it makes sense that even more food, drinks, and collectible novelties would be released on that day. Here’s what’s coming to Disneyland Park on May 4:

Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo (Available May 4 through August 22; mobile order available)  

• Shaaken Beef with Tatooine Bounty with peppers, onions, and crispy kale (New)  

Kat Saka’s Kettle (Available May 4 through August 22)  

• Kinyenian Topato Pie: Curry-spiced potatoes, mixed vegetables, and mint chutney (New)  

Oga’s Cantina (Available starting May 4)  

• Guava Coconut Milk with Basil Crystals: Guava juice, coconut milk, lime juice, and pure cane syrup topped with basil crystals (New)

Ronto Roasters (Available May 4 through August 22; mobile order available)  

• Destran Ice Cap: Sprite and kiwi syrup with sweet cream cheese (Non-alcoholic Beverage) (New) 

Beverage Carts Throughout Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge (Available May 4 through August 22)  

• Galma Garlic Puffs: Green curry-flavored garlic puffs (New)  

Novelties Throughout Disneyland Resort  

• The Grinning Loth-cat Souvenir Mug: Includes Guava Coconut Milk with Basil Crystals (New) Available at the following locations: 
  • Disneyland park: Oga’s Cantina

• Sap Tap Cup: Includes fountain beverage at time of purchase (New)(Limit 10 per person, per transaction; no discounts apply; available starting May 4). Available at the following locations:  
  • Disneyland park: Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo, Galactic Grill, Ronto Roasters

• Salvaged Stormtrooper Helmet Bucket (New)(Limit two per person, per transaction; no discounts apply; available starting May 4). Available at the following locations: 
  •  Disneyland park: Galactic Grill, Kat Saka’s Kettle, beverage carts in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Popcorn near Star Trader

•  Acid Spitter Orb Sipper: Includes fountain beverage at time of purchase (Limit 10 per person, per transaction). Available at the following locations:  
  • Disneyland park: Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo, Oga’s Cantina, Ronto Roasters 
• Droid Parts Premium Vessel (Limit 10 per person, per transaction; no discounts apply; available starting May 4). Available at the following locations: 
  • Disneyland park: Beverage Carts in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

You can find even more seasonal Star Wars food in our food guide:

Disneyland’s Season of the Force Eats & Treats Include Galactic Starcruiser Sips

Disneyland After Dark Tickets

This year’s Star Wars Nites doubled in number, but only the three May dates have sold out; the five April dates are still available.

 

In addition, Pride Nite tickets are now on sale; the June 20th date sold out during the Magic Key pre-sale, but now that general ticket sales have opened, both dates are available for purchase.

 

Grizzly River Run Lockers

The lockers for Grizzly River Run are more visible now that they are located across from the entrance to the attraction and Rushin’ River Outfitters. Intended for guests’ belongings that they don’t want to get wet when riding, the lockers are free for two hours, and then $7 per 60 minutes after that.

 

National Geographic Photo Op

In celebration of the Earth Day release of the National Geographic series “Secrets of the Octopus,” a floral octopus display has been set up outside of the Earl of Sandwich seating area.

 

 

PhotoPass Photo Excursion Ends

The PhotoPass Photo Excursion test phase has wrapped. Testing began at the end of February at Disneyland, and then moved to DCA mid-March through last week.

 

Guests were taken on a 12-15 minute private PhotoPass shoot in four select locations at each park. The Excursion was a nice change of pace from the usual photo ops, allowing guests and photographers to collaborate and get creative. I enjoyed the free perk – hopefully it returns and extends its hours to after dark. Which lands would you like to see the Excursion operate out of in the future?

 

Lights Out – Many Light Fixtures Removed Across Disneyland

We noticed a strange thing this week that likely has safety concerns behind it. Besides the usual light bulbs being out around the park, several lamp posts at Jolly Holiday, Rancho del Zocalo, and along the Pirates of the Caribbean bridge have been suddenly removed. In their place are wooden boxes that cover the area where the bases stood.

 

Unfortunately, the boxes are awkwardly sized and a potential tripping hazard (especially in Rancho). Hopefully the lamp posts return soon; or, at least, a better solution than these boxes is found. Until then, please watch your step!

 

A low, neutral-colored, box on the ground in an area where people are carrying trays and scanning for open tables… what could possibly go wrong?! 

 

In other electrical news there are still quite a few light bulbs out on the train station. 

 

MiceChat LIVE!

Every Friday we take a stroll through the Disneyland Resort. This week was a bit different because our fearless leader, Dusty Sage, is fighting pneumonia. So I was joined by Mike Kindrich in the park as Dusty shares a quick recorded message at the beginning. Check out the latest from the Disneyland Resort, you’ll be glad you did.  (And thank you Kurt for your technical wizardry… and cute birds.) 

Mixed Up!

Fans will be disappointed to hear that Mickey’s Mix Magic returns this week (until Pixar Fest lights up the night with a revamped Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular starts on the 26th).

MiceShots

And now… some shots from around the park to brighten the mood! 

 

The new BD-X droids in Galaxy’s Edge are SO cute! 

 

---

Discount Disney Tickets and Travel 

Snag the latest Disney travel deals from our partners at Get Away Today!

Check out the latest offers for Disneyland, Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Knott’s Berry Farm, and Disney Cruise Line, including new low hotel rates, extra days and nights for free, special perks, and limited-time opportunities… including special limited-time Disneyland ticket offers! 

Current Special Disneyland Deals:

Extra Day Free Disneyland Tickets Save Up To 15% at Select Disneyland Resort Hotels Extra Night Free at Select Hotels

For all your theme park travel needs, always start with a Get Away Today link on MiceChat.com:  

• • Book Discount theme park tickets, hotels, and exclusive packages – HERE

(MiceChat works with Get Away Today to provide you with the best theme park travel deals. When you purchase from our travel partner, you not only get great rates and service, you also help support MiceChat. We sincerely thank you for your support!) 

---

Let’s Hear From You!

With all the highs and lows this week (including the weather), what are you looking forward to this spring and summer? Were you sad to bid adieu to Tortilla Jo’s and Wondrous Journeys? Have you seen those cute new BD-X Droids? Ready for Pixar Fest? And please share your opinions about changes to DAS and the impending DisneylandForward vote. We always look forward to hearing from you in the comments below!