Disney to Close Carousel of Progress July 5 for 2027 Reopening and Animatronic Walt Refresh
DIS•Disney will close the Carousel of Progress on July 5 and reopen it in 2027 after a substantial refresh featuring an animatronic Walt introducing new scenes. The signature song and the classic family characters will remain while the show’s timeline shifts from the 1960s through the internet era.
1. Overhaul Timeline and Schedule
Disney will close the Carousel of Progress on July 5 for a comprehensive modernization and plans to reopen it in 2027. This marks the first major update since its 1975 debut at Magic Kingdom and aims to refresh the four-act show with enhanced storytelling and technology.
2. New Features and Scenes
The updated attraction will begin with an animatronic Walt Disney greeting guests, then chronologically cover the family’s experiences from the 1960s World’s Fair through 1980s pop culture Easter eggs and conclude in a new millennium scene focused on early internet innovations. Iconic elements like “It’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow” and the family cast, including Uncle Orville and Rover, will remain.
3. Operational and Financial Impact
The refurbishment represents a significant capital investment intended to bolster attendance by offering fresh experiences in Magic Kingdom’s mid-day lineup. Closure during peak summer months may temporarily reduce capacity, while the modernized show could drive incremental guest spending and park guest satisfaction post-reopening.
