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EPCOT Bans ‘Moana’ Outfit, Guest Access Changed Immediately

Moana dancing with a little girl
Credit: Disney

Walt Disney World Resort has changed how guests can interact with Moana at EPCOT just days before the premiere of Moana 2 (2024). The Polynesian Disney Princess is now appearing in an all-new look inspired by the upcoming sequel, leading to the retirement of her classic outfit at this location.

A New Era for Moana

Since her debut in the 2016 Walt Disney Animation Studios film, Moana has been a central figure in Disney’s lineup of strong female protagonists. The upcoming sequel, Moana 2, features returning stars Auliʻi Cravalho as Moana and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson as Maui, alongside an all-new storyline.

Moana grabs Maui's face

Credit: Walt Disney Animation Studios

In 2023, Walt Disney World Resort celebrated Moana’s popularity by adding the Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana attraction in EPCOT’s World Nature neighborhood. Now, with the release of Moana 2 just days away, Disney has decided to update Moana’s EPCOT appearance to match her role in the sequel.

Guests can now meet Moana in her updated look at her designated meet-and-greet location near Journey of Water, steps from the Coral Reef Restaurant. TikTok user @dlpshorts shared a video of the updated meet-and-greet showcasing Moana’s fresh appearance:

@dlpshorts

🌊 New outfit inspired by Moana 2 / Vaiana 2 ! – #Moana #Moana2 #Vaiana #Vaiana2 #EPCOT #WaltDisneyWorld #WDW #DisneyParks #DisneyMoana #Disney #DisneyCharacter #DisneyPrinces

♬ original sound – DLP Shorts

For those who preferred the Disney Princess’s classic look, it’s worth noting that her traditional outfit has been indefinitely retired from this location. However, guests who want to see Moana in her original attire can still visit her at Character Landing on Discovery Island in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. This alternative ensures fans can experience both versions of the beloved Disney Princess.

Plan Ahead

A large topiary sculpture of a woman, lush and green, set in a vibrant garden with trees, colorful flowers, and a view of a large geodesic sphere in the background under a sunny sky.

Credit: Disney

Moana typically greets EPCOT guests between 9:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., though times can vary. Visitors should check the My Disney Experience app or posted schedules at the meet-and-greet location for the most up-to-date information.

Have you visited Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana, at EPCOT? In the comments, share your thoughts on the attraction with Disney Dining.

About Jess Colopy

Jess Colopy is a Disney College Program alum and kid-at-heart. When she’s not furiously typing in a coffee shop, you can find her on the hunt for the newest Stitch pin.

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