Disney Anticipates Large Crowds for the Last Day of Nostalgic Attraction at Magic Kingdom

Walt Disney World expects large crowds to gather today in mourning as the Disney community prepares to say goodbye to one of its oldest and weirdest shows at Magic Kingdom, Country Bear Jamboree.

Credit: Disney

The Country Bear Jamboree is a classic attraction located in the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort. The beloved show features an ensemble of animatronic bears and other critters singing and entertaining guests with their vibrant, sometimes morbid performances.

goodbye country bears 🥹✨🐻🤍 pic.twitter.com/MEeoKkn6qH

— swingin’ sammy barra 🧸 (@countrybearsam) January 25, 2024

Initially conceived by Walt Disney himself, the Country Bear Jamboree has remained a timeless favorite since its debut in 1971. The attraction takes place in Grizzly Hall, a warm and welcoming theater decorated with rustic elements that transport visitors to a bygone era.

Related: Changes Ahead for Disney’s Country Bear Jamboree: Here’s What to Know

As the curtains rise, guests are introduced to an unforgettable cast of characters with unique personalities and musical talent. Leading the show is Henry, the master of ceremonies and a lovable bear who charms the audience with his wit and humor.

Throughout the performance, guests are treated to a delightful array of country music, ranging from classic tunes to original compositions. The bear band, featuring well-known members such as Big Al, Wendell, Liver Lips, and Shaker, takes turns on stage, showcasing their impressive musical skills.

Credit: Disney

The Country Bear Jamboree provides a lighthearted and entertaining experience for guests of all ages. The charming animatronic characters, catchy songs, and engaging storytelling make it a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the Magic Kingdom. Whether you’re a fan of country music or simply appreciate wholesome entertainment, this show is sure to leave you with a smile on your face.

This audience at The Country Bear Jamboree was insane I’ve never seen a engaged crowd like that

— No Context Theme Parks (@OOCParks) January 24, 2024

However, recently, it was announced that the opening day attraction at Magic Kingdom in Disney World would be getting a makeover. Despite Imagineers constantly going in and updating rides and attractions, Country Bear Jamboree isn’t just getting a tune-up; word on the street suggests that once it reopens, guests will be treated to a brand new show, with new songs, sights, and sounds.

Related: NEW Country Bear Jamboree Show to Open THIS SUMMER!

Unlike Splash Mountain, which has undergone an entire retheme to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, the Country Bear Jamboree show at Magic Kingdom will hold onto its classic elements, making it a fun and nostalgic must-do for many when they visit Walt Disney World. However, as change is often tricky, Disney expects large crowds to gather for the show today as it prepares to close its doors for an unspecified amount of time.

Waiting 2 hours for the first Country Bears showing 🐻 pic.twitter.com/Qtwaq0seqn

— Michael (@innoventioneast) January 26, 2024

As with any significant change regarding a Disney Park ride, it’s understandable that many worry about the way in which Disney will handle a refurb. As some decisions, such as the one to close Splash Mountain, have been highly unpopular among Walt Disney World faithful, there’s a feeling of unease whenever Disney World announces big changes to rides and shows.

last time seeing the Country Bear Jamboree at The Magic Kingdom in Frontierland.

Thanks for bringing the laughs and fun for 52 years to everyone. pic.twitter.com/PbAGR8tMMZ

— Showcase of Wishes (@ShowcaseWishes) January 26, 2024

Most recently, more news came out of Destination D23, where the plans to rehash the Country Bear Musical Jamboree were revealed, citing other popular rides and attractions as slated for retheme. Among those that caused the most controversy was the complete overhaul of Dinosaur at Animal Kingdom, which will now take on an Indiana Jones theme similar to that at Disneyland Resort.

Regarding Country Bear Jamboree, fans of the singing bear attraction won’t have to wait too long, as Walt Disney World expects that the show should reopen sometime later in 2024, despite rumors that it will remain closed all the way into next year.

Still, although the show is only getting a revamp and is expected to keep its bear country charm, along with the familiar cast of the opening day attraction, Disney is prepared for long lines and sad goodbyes from those theme park faithful today at Magic Kingdom.

Related: Updated Park Map Released Showing New Attraction

As we learn more about Disney’s plans for Country Bear Jamboree, we’ll certainly keep our readers up-to-date, so stay tuned here for your Disney News. However, as of right now, according to Disney, guests can look forward to a bright future for the attraction:

“We know you’ve been itching for an update on Country Bear Musical Jamboree and more coming to Walt Disney World’s Frontierland in 2024 and beyond. So saddle up, and let’s get started! 

Country Bear Musical Jamboree 

Get ready to knee slap and toe-tap to a little country twang this summer! 

If you’ve been too busy trottin’ through the Wild West and missed the news, the Country Bears are getting ready to put on a new show that pays homage to the Opry-style shows of Nashville. While the Country Bear Musical Jamboree will include easter eggs from the beginning to the end, including a familiar tune fans may remember, the bears will sing new, reinterpreted Disney tunes in different genres of country music – like bluegrass, pop-country, Americana, rockabilly, and other styles. Here’s a look at one of the clips we shared at Destination D23.”