It has become evident over the past couple of years that Figment fever is alive and well. The fanbase for this purple little dragon has exponentially grown over the past few years. Fans truly cannot get enough of Figment, the dragon, and Disney has noticed.
Now, Disney will break the hearts of many fans with their announcement that Figment’s ride, Journey Into Imagination with Figment, is closing for renovation.
The Fanaticism Over Figment
Last year, Disney released the iconic Figment popcorn bucket that made national news for its popularity. Fans waited for hours in the hot Florida sun to snag one of these plastic refillable containers. Others turned to eBay, where they sold their Figment popcorn bucket for massive markups.
Still, the overwhelming consensus from this situation was that the demand for Figment was evident. Just a couple of weeks ago, Walt Disney World Resort introduced a Figment meet and greet at EPCOT. Fans would finally be able to hug and interact with this goofy and whimsical character. Once again, Disney listened to feedback and brought another well-requested offering to the Parks.
However, it is not all good news for Figment fans. It has just been announced that Journey into Imagination with Figment, the ride that Figment became famous for, will be closing down.
Related: Sorry, Figment! Fans Are Saying This Is the WORST Attraction In Walt Disney World
Renovations Target Journey Into Imagination
If there is one person who knew a thing or two about imagination, it was Walt Disney himself. Journey Into Imagination is a reflection of the creativity and bold thinking that went into creating a theme park like Walt Disney World Resort.
The original attraction initially opened its doors in 1983 as Journey Into Imagination, and it was later reimagined in 1999 to include the lovable purple dragon, Figment. Located in World Celebration at EPCOT, this gentle ride takes Guests on a playful ride through the Imagination Institute.
Unfortunately, the Journey to Imagination attraction has not been in the best condition as of late. The ride has been around for a while, and its age is beginning to show in ways that do not compliment the ride. Fans worry that Disney’s neglect of the ride is signaling them abandoning it in the future.
While this news of the Figment ride closure may be sad for Guests who will miss experiencing the ride, it is imperative that this ride gets some love and attention. On October 10, 2023, the ride will receive routine maintenance. It is expected to reopen just one day later, on October 11.
Disney says Journey Into Imagination With Figment at EPCOT "will be closed on Oct. 10 for routine maintenance, and will reopen on Oct. 11." All other "areas and offerings of the Imagination! Pavilion will remain open." pic.twitter.com/HiRHv9pGlW
— Scott Gustin (@ScottGustin) October 5, 2023
While this is the only scheduled day of closure for this attraction, I wouldn’t be surprised if Disney announces a more extended and more thorough refurbishment in the near future. It is clear that the love for Figment is far from over, and it would be worth investing in for future fans.
Closed for one day and you write an entire story about it?
Right?!
Figment has always been apart of the attraction, he wasn’t only added in 1999. He has been a favorite of mine from my first Walt Disney World visit in 1986. It would be amazing if Disney brought back Dreamfinder, he was such an incredible character and should be returned to Journey into Imagination.