Walt Disney World is always evolving. While it can sometimes be difficult for fans to accept changes to their favorite attractions, updates can bring a refreshing spin to classics. These updates ensure that attractions continue appealing to fans (both new and old) well into the future. Disney just announced a beloved attraction will be closing soon to receive a complete revamp. We’ve got the details, so keep reading to find out more!
Progress Involves Change
For decades, Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress has taken fans on a journey showing how changing technology has made an impact on the life of the American family. Walt Disney and his team of Imagineers originally designed the attraction for the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair. Since arriving in Disney World in 1975, the attraction has undergone multiple changes from the original World’s Fair and Disneyland versions. It is unique in that the audience seating area rotates around the stage to reveal each new scene.
The current version begins at the turn of the century, illustrating life at the beginning of the 1900s. It then progresses (pun intended) through the 1920s, 1940s, and ends with a finale in the 21st century. Along the way, the audience sees how new technologies change and improve the lives of John, Sarah, and the rest of the family.
In the spirit of evolving technology and embracing change around us, it’s fitting that the attraction itself would also progress into the future by evolving. The last time Disney World’s version of Carousel of Progress received major updates was 1994. That round of updates actually brought back the original “There’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow” theme song and updated the final scene. There have been a few minor updates in the years since. Most have focused on slight cosmetic changes and updates to mechanical aspects of the ride. Now, Imagineers have even bigger changes planned…including adding a Walt Disney Audio-Animatronic and completely updating the featured decades!
Major Changes Coming
As we previously mentioned, massive changes are coming to the attraction. The most-performed stage show in American theater history is being completely revamped to delight future audiences. When the refurbishment is complete, it will feature all-new time periods and scenes. The goal of these updates is to “keep the attraction relatable for today’s audiences”. The updates will continue the tradition of looking back with nostalgia while heading forward with optimism. This new trip down memory lane will include the following decades, notable events, and technological advancements:
- 1960s – The family gathers around the TV to watch the historic 1969 moon landing.
- 1980s – Sarah shares advancements in appliances and gadgets along with how they’re improving life for the family.
- The New Millennium – It’s time to party like it’s 1999! As the family approaches the year 2000, the audience will see how the Internet is changing the world.
- The Possible Future – The new finale features the American family in a futuristic “out-of-this-world home”. Imagine life with robots, space travel, and more.
The Attraction Closes Soon
In order to facilitate all of these changes, the attraction will be closed beginning July 6, 2026. The updated Carousel of Progress will reopen sometime in 2027. This means you have just over a month to experience the current version. For more on Walt’s vision and the history of Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress, I highly recommend you check out the full story on Disney Parks Blog.
As we head toward the great big beautiful tomorrow, it feels like the perfect time to remind you about other progress in Disney World. Many updated and brand new experiences are now open. This includes the updated Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring the Muppets, and Soarin’ Across America. Stay tuned to MouseHouseNews.net for news about Disney World attractions and much more. We’ll see you real soon!
