Next week is a BIG week in Disney World. The Festival of the Arts starts on January 13th, which will bring food booths, Broadway-style performances, and a Figment-themed scavenger hunt to EPCOT. But there are also a few closures happening at the theme parks that you need to be aware of before you visit.
Some long-term closures will continue next week, but 2 popular rides will also shut down, starting on January 9th. Check out everything that’s going to be closed in Disney World here!
Before we get to the closures…do you already have your bags packed for your trip? If you’re going to visit Disney World soon, you’ll need the perfect outfit to wear into the parks! We’ve got a lot of great tees and sweatshirts at our online DFB store — Click here to check out our whole merch line.
Now that you’re ready with the perfect Disney ‘fits, check out our full list of what’s going to be CLOSED in Disney World next week.
Magic Kingdom
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
One of the most popular coasters in Magic Kingdom is going to be closed for most of next week. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will be unavailable from January 9th through the 13th.
Disney’s website shows that the coaster should reopen on the 14th, so if you’re visiting on Saturday or later, you should be able to hop on the wildest ride in the wilderness!
Tomorrowland Light & Power Co.
The Tomorrowland Light & Power gift shop is still closed for refurbishments, and Disney hasn’t announced when it’ll reopen. For now, it’s scheduled to be closed for all of next week.
In the meantime, guests who visit Space Mountain are being directed to exit the ride a different way.
Enchanted Tales with Belle
Enchanted Tales with Belle is where guests could previously help Belle tell the story of Beauty and the Beast.
This attraction is currently closed, and Disney hasn’t announced a reopening date.
Meet Ariel at Her Grotto
Like Belle’s attraction, Ariel’s meet-and-greet is also closed in Fantasyland.
Disney hasn’t announced a reopening date for Ariel’s Grotto, either.
Pete’s Silly Sideshow
Over in Storybook Circus, Pete’s Silly Sideshow is closed. This character meet-and-greet spot usually has Minnie, Daisy, Goofy, and Donald, dressed in circus performer outfits.
Disney has announced that it’ll reopen sometime “in the coming months.” We’ll be watching for more updates!
See a full list of showtimes for parades, fireworks, and castle shows in Magic Kingdom.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Kali River Rapids
The weather is supposed to be pretty warm in Orlando next week, but you won’t be able to cool off on Kali River Rapids in Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
This water ride is going to close on January 9th, and Disney hasn’t announced a reopening date yet. For now, it’s scheduled to be closed through early March at least.
Check out 5 places to escape in Animal Kingdom when you anxiety is through the roof.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Voyage of the Little Mermaid
This Little Mermaid-themed stage show has been closed in Disney’s Hollywood Studios for a long time now.
Disney hasn’t announced when or if the Voyage of the Little Mermaid will reopen.
Learn about the Hollywood Studios After Hours event in Disney World.
EPCOT
Cool Wash
Cool Wash temporarily had a new sign that re-named the spot “Refreshment Kiosk,” but that sign has been removed. The snack kiosk is still closed and blocked off by several plants.
Disney hasn’t announced when Cool Wash will reopen, but we’ll watch for any changes.
Check out the first 2023 Festival of the Arts booths in EPCOT!
Disney World Hotels
Narcoossee’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort
Narcoossee’s is an upscale seafood restaurant at the Grand Floridian, and it’s been closed for several months now.
This restaurant will reopen sometime in 2023 with an “enhanced dining experience.” We’ll be watching for Disney to announce a more specific reopening date.
Find out why you may not be able to park at Disney World hotels.
Disney World Water Parks
Typhoon Lagoon
Typhoon Lagoon is closed in Disney World, and Disney hasn’t announced when it’ll reopen.
Disney World’s other water park, Blizzard Beach, is open!
Check out our full guide to Typhoon Lagoon here.
Looking for more resources to help you get ready for your upcoming trip? Check out these posts to learn all about Disney World’s rides:
- 10 Rides to AVOID in Disney World if You Struggle with Motion Sickness
- What It Takes to CHANGE a Disney World Ride
- 9 of the SCARIEST Rides in Disney World, According to YOU!
- A FULL LIST of the Thrill Rides in Disney World!
- The Ultimate Guide to the BEST and WORST Seats On EVERY Magic Kingdom Ride
We’ll keep you updated with all the latest news, so stay tuned to DFB.
Learn about the Disney transportation MISTAKE you’ll make in January.
Planning a Trip to Disney World? We’ve Got Everything You Need to Know
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