A new theme is coming to Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park!
Kuzcotopia Splashes into Typhoon Lagoon for 25th Anniversary Celebration
Walt Disney World Resort is gearing up for a summer like no other as The Emperor’s New Groove (2000) prepares to make a royal return—in a way fans have only dreamed about. On August 30, 2025, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park will transform into Kuzcotopia, bringing the world of Emperor Kuzco to life in a full-scale celebration of the beloved 2000 animated film.
The exciting announcement was unveiled in anticipation of Destination D23: A Journey Around the Worlds of Disney, taking place August 29–31 at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort. The official D23 site teases that this will be “the biggest one yet,” and for Gold Members attending, the festivities will include a nostalgic 80s–90s concert, exclusive shopping experiences, and rare looks inside the Disney Archives.
“Boom, baby! All Destination D23 2025 ticket holders are invited to celebrate 25 years of Disney Animation’s The Emperor’s New Groove with a splash at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park!” reads the event page. “Following the day’s presentations, be sure to lever-age this after-hours exclusive celebration of the cult classic, including special tributes to Disney’s water parks.”
The site continues: “Look out for complimentary snacks, photo opportunities, special activities, and exclusive entertainment at this ultra neat, squeak squeakin’ member-only party!”
Though the film initially faced creative turbulence, its staying power has only grown over time. Originally developed as a dramatic musical titled Kingdom of the Sun, the production pivoted drastically following creative challenges. That transformation is explored in The Sweatbox, a rarely-seen behind-the-scenes documentary co-directed by Trudie Styler, wife of musician Sting, who had been set to write songs for the original film. The film’s final form embraced comedy and heart, trading its early musical structure for slapstick humor and modern wit.
Directed by Mark Dindal, The Emperor’s New Groove tells the story of a self-absorbed emperor who is unexpectedly turned into a llama. David Spade lends his quick-fire delivery to Kuzco, while John Goodman’s portrayal of the humble peasant Pacha offers a grounded contrast. Together, their mismatched partnership delivers a message of humility, friendship, and growth.
And no discussion of The Emperor’s New Groove would be complete without its legendary villains: Eartha Kitt’s Yzma and Patrick Warburton’s Kronk, whose comedic timing and quirky dialogue remain fan favorites to this day. Their memorable performances continue to capture audiences, making the film one of the most distinct entries in the Disney Animation legacy.
Though it opened modestly at the box office—grossing just under $170 million against a $100 million budget—the movie found a second life on home video. In fact, it became the best-selling home video release of 2001, eventually inspiring a direct-to-video sequel, Kronk’s New Groove (2005), and a Disney Channel series, The Emperor’s New School, which ran for two seasons.
With all this in mind, fans have often dreamed of seeing more New Groove representation in the parks. Ideas have circulated for years, from entirely reimagining a water park like Kuzcotopia to transforming now-retired attractions like Splash Mountain. While Disney has not confirmed a permanent Emperor’s New Groove attraction, this limited-time event is sure to satisfy guests longing for more llama drama.
Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park, which has been closed for seasonal refurbishment, is set to reopen on May 1 following the closure of Disney’s Blizzard Beach. And for the first time in six years, all six Walt Disney World theme parks will be open together starting May 21.
As Disney looks ahead, expansion at Walt Disney World continues to lean into more prominent IPs like Encanto, Zootopia, Indiana Jones, and Monsters, Inc. While a permanent home for Kuzco and friends may not be in the cards, this splashy send-off at Typhoon Lagoon is a heartfelt tribute to a film that dared to be different—and ended up becoming a classic.
How are you feeling about the Kuzcotopia takeover this summer? Let Disney Dining know in the comments below!
