In a significant move set to delight long-time fans and newcomers alike, Walt Disney World has announced that the Carousel of Progress in Magic Kingdom will close on 6 July for a major refurbishment. This extensive update is expected to refresh the attraction with new scenes and the addition of an audio-animatronic version of Walt Disney himself. The revamped attraction is slated to debut in 2027.
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Originally introduced in 1964 at the New York World’s Fair, the Carousel of Progress has remained a cherished part of Disney’s theme park offerings. Its unique rotating theatre showcases the evolution of American life through the eyes of a single family, highlighting historical advancements in technology. This upcoming enhancement marks the attraction’s first significant update in nearly three decades, with the last major refresh occurring in 1994.
Key to the attraction’s renewed narrative will be the introduction of a Walt Disney animatronic. This character will be featured in a scene inspired by the 1964 special, “Disneyland Goes to the World’s Fair,” where Walt first presented the concept for the Carousel of Progress. To ensure authenticity, Imagineers are working carefully to replicate various props from the original show, including a prototype Tiki bird and a doll from the beloved “It’s a Small World” attraction.
The new scenes will track the lives of the Carousel family through a series of familiar decades, thus making it relatable to a broad audience. The storyline will cover the 1960s, 1980s, the turn of the millennium, and a glimmering depiction of the future. The initial scene, set in the summer of 1969, will depict the family as they experience the iconic moon landing, offering a nostalgic reminder of this monumental event.
Next, the narrative will shift to Halloween night in 1985, where Sarah, a key character, will discuss modern conveniences and innovative gadgets that are transforming everyday life. As guests progress to the celebration of the new millennium on New Year’s Eve in 1999, they will engage in conversations revolving around the internet and its impact on society.
The final segment of the refreshed attraction will take a creative leap into the possible future, envisioned through the lens of Disney Legend John Hench’s original concept sketches. This scene will place the Carousel family in an imaginative and advanced home, reflecting an optimistic view of what’s to come.
Despite the extensive updates, the iconic Sherman Brothers’ song, “There’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow,” will remain a central feature of the attraction. Guests will continue to hear this beloved tune during scene transitions, preserving the magic that has captivated audiences for generations.
The Carousel of Progress is a historic attraction, having transitioned from the World’s Fair to Disneyland in 1967 before finding its permanent home in Walt Disney World in 1975. Over the years, it has seen various minor enhancements, including new scripts, voice actors, and even a different theme song during its early years.
With the upcoming closure in July, fans of Disney’s classic charm and innovative storytelling are encouraged to experience the attraction before it undergoes this transformative refurbishment. As preparations are made for the exciting update, visitors can look forward to richly updated scenes and cherished memories that will continue to resonate with audiences when the attraction reopens in 2027.