If there’s one thing Disney World is known for, it’s finding clever ways to breathe new life into its attractions. Sometimes, it’s a seasonal overlay, and other times, it’s a slight tweak that transforms the entire experience.
The latest example? EPCOT’s Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. What was supposed to be a minor, temporary upgrade quickly became a fan-favorite idea that guests now want to see stick around.
Why Cosmic Rewind Stands Out
Since debuting in 2022, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind has been one of EPCOT’s crown jewels. Unlike your typical roller coaster, this ride tells a story while spinning guests through the galaxy. The action is paired with upbeat music that perfectly captures the vibe of the Guardians films. The result is a ride that feels like a thrill and a concert rolled into one.
California has its own Guardians ride—the drop tower at Disney California Adventure—but Cosmic Rewind delivers a different kind of thrill. Instead of free-falls, it features smooth launches, rotating cars, and a soundtrack that makes the ride feel larger than life.
A Daring Experiment
On September 21, Disney World decided to try something playful. To mark the date made famous by Earth, Wind & Fire’s hit “September,” Cosmic Rewind ran the song on repeat all day. From open to close, riders launched into space to the infectious tune.
Fans responded immediately. The line ballooned to nearly three hours, with guests pouring in just for the chance to ride to the soundtrack. What could have been dismissed as a gimmick became a full-blown event, proving how much power one song can have over the experience.
Fans Call for More
After seeing how perfectly the song matched the energy of the ride, fans began pushing Disney to bring the “September” takeover back. Many even suggested expanding it to cover the entire month of September rather than a single day. That way, more visitors could enjoy the moment without overwhelming the ride on one date.
It’s easy to see why. Standing in line for 175 minutes didn’t stop anyone from wanting to hop on the ride, and the reaction on social media made it clear—this wasn’t just a novelty. It was an upgrade that guests wanted to see locked in.
Expanding the Playlist
The possibilities don’t stop with “September.” Fans are already dreaming of other memorable songs getting their moment. Imagine rock-inspired Christmas tracks during the holidays or 70s and 80s classics like Queen’s “Don’t Stop Me Now” or A-ha’s “Take On Me” pulsing through the speakers. Disney could even highlight songs straight from the Guardians soundtracks.
Rotating songs on certain days or seasons would keep the attraction fresh while giving fans another reason to return. Disney thrives on repeat visits, and this strategy would practically guarantee them.
Why Disney Should Act
The evidence is clear. Crowds swelled, wait times soared, and fans still talk about it. A small change turned into a significant win. Disney doesn’t need to reinvent Cosmic Rewind—it just needs to listen to its guests.
The Fans Have Spoken
Disney struck gold when it tested “September” on Cosmic Rewind. Now, fans want to make it a tradition.
Whether it’s one month of “September” or a rotating calendar of special tracks, the message is simple: this is the kind of change worth keeping forever.
