Disney has officially unveiled the fate of a beloved EPCOT attraction as the resort braces for sweeping closures in early 2025.
Major Changes Coming to Walt Disney World
As Walt Disney World ushers in a new year, it’s also preparing for significant transformations. January 2025 will mark the beginning of closures and refurbishments across the resort, impacting some of the most cherished experiences in the parks. Among those already closed are Test Track at EPCOT and Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, with more fan-favorites set to join them.
At Magic Kingdom, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will take its last ride on January 5, 2025. The iconic coaster in Frontierland will close for an extensive refurbishment, with plans to reopen in 2026. Disney has promised “a little bit of new magic” for the attraction, sparking speculation about updates inspired by its Disneyland counterpart.
Tomorrowland’s Astro Orbiter is also set for a lengthy closure beginning January 13, 2025, with refurbishment work expected to wrap up by summer.
Over at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the transformation of DinoLand U.S.A. is officially underway. TriceraTop Spin will permanently close on January 13, 2025, paving the way for a Tropical Americas-themed land featuring Encanto and Indiana Jones. On the same day, Chester & Hester’s Dinosaur Treasures and Fossil Fun Games will close their doors for good. However, Disney has confirmed that the DINOSAUR attraction will remain open through late 2025, allowing guests to enjoy the thrill ride while the land evolves.
In other parts of the park, Kali River Rapids will begin its seasonal closure on January 6 and reopen in March 2025. At EPCOT, the Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros will also close temporarily on January 6, with plans to reopen on March 15, 2025. These closures are part of Disney’s broader effort to revitalize and reimagine its parks for the future.
A Bright Future for EPCOT Entertainment
Fans of EPCOT’s ¡Celebración Encanto! show have reason to celebrate. Originally set to close in February 2025, the vibrant production will now continue indefinitely. This exciting announcement ensures guests can keep enjoying the musical magic of Encanto at CommuniCore Plaza.
“Walt Disney World announced that *“¡Celebración Encanto!” will now be offered as full-time entertainment at EPCOT,” reported Kenny the Pirate. According to the My Disney Experience app, showtimes include 10:20 a.m., 11:20 a.m., 12:20 p.m., 2:50 p.m., 3:55 p.m., and 4:50 p.m. daily, giving visitors plenty of opportunities to sing along with Mirabel, Bruno, and the rest of the Madrigal family.
Initially slated to run only through September 2024, the production’s extension underscores its popularity with EPCOT guests.
As Walt Disney World undergoes dramatic changes—including new Cars and Disney Villains-themed areas at Magic Kingdom and the transformation of DinoLand U.S.A.—the continuation of ¡Celebración Encanto! offers a welcome sense of stability amid the excitement of what’s to come.
What do you think about this magical update at EPCOT? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
