Disney World is full of magic—but it’s also full of rumors. From dramatic ride closures to flying characters, the internet has no shortage of bold (and sometimes baffling) claims about what’s happening behind the scenes. But which rumors have wings, and which are just pixie dust in the wind?
Here’s a breakdown of four of the wildest Disney World rumors floating around right now—and what we actually know.
1. Grand Fiesta Tour Is Becoming a Coco Ride
This is one of the most persistent rumors in recent years—and with good reason. Coco is a beloved Pixar film, and a ride inspired by its colorful Día de los Muertos world seems like a perfect fit for EPCOT’s Mexico Pavilion. However, despite what you might’ve heard, Disney has not announced any plans to re-theme the Grand Fiesta Tour to Coco.
In fact, Disney recently confirmed a Coco-themed ride is coming to Disney California Adventure, not Walt Disney World.
That hasn’t stopped confused guests from heading to EPCOT asking, “Where’s the Coco ride?” But for now, the Three Caballeros remain firmly in place, and any changes to the Mexico Pavilion don’t seem to be on the immediate horizon.
2. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Isn’t Coming Back
False. While the beloved Frontierland coaster is currently closed at Magic Kingdom, some fans have spun this into a full-on panic—claiming the ride is gone for good. But don’t worry: Disney has officially confirmed that Big Thunder Mountain is just temporarily closed and will reopen in 2026.
“Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will temporarily close for refurbishment on January 6, 2025. The attraction will reopen with a little bit of new magic in 2026.”
The extended downtime is tied to Disney’s confirmed plans for the upcoming Cars-themed expansion: Piston Peak National Park, set to debut as part of the “Beyond Big Thunder” project.
While Big Thunder Mountain Railroad itself isn’t going anywhere, its location puts it right next to where major construction is set to begin. So yes, the wildest ride in the wilderness is just taking a pit stop—but it’ll be racing back next year.
3. Animation Experience at Animal Kingdom Is Closing
This one’s a bit murkier. Disney has not officially announced the fate of the Animation Experience at Conservation Station, but some fans speculate it could be closing or relocating next year.
It would make some sense—moving the activity to Disney’s Hollywood Studios would align more closely with the new animation courtyard area. Meanwhile, Rafiki’s Planet Watch could shift toward more conservation-focused experiences or new character meet-and-greets. Still, as of now, it’s just speculation. Stay tuned.
4. Peter Pan and Wendy Will Fly in the New Parade
Disney fans are eagle-eyed, and some have noticed that the Peter Pan and Wendy float in the Starlight: Dream the Night parade looks very similar to a float from Tokyo Disneyland’s Dreaming Up! parade. That version featured harnesses for actual flying.
So… will Peter and Wendy take flight in Florida?
Not yet. Despite the float having the right structure for it, they’re not flying in the current parade. Could that change in the future? Possibly. Disney is always evolving its entertainment offerings, and surprise upgrades aren’t unheard of. For now, though, the pair is still grounded.
Separate the Pixie Dust from the Facts
Rumors may swirl faster than a spinning teacup, but one thing’s certain: Disney loves to surprise us. Until the company confirms (or denies) these wild tales, take everything with a spoonful of sugar—and maybe a Mickey-shaped pretzel too.
