In this edition of the Weekly Disney Round-Up: we get a major update for TRON Lightcycle/Run, Splash Mountain is removed from Park maps, plus we check in on EPCOT’s construction progress.
This is your Disney news round-up for the week of January 22, 2023.
Magic Kingdom
Meet and Greets With Ariel Return to Fantasyland: Guests visiting the Magic Kingdom can once again meet Ariel on the ocean floor in Fantasyland. The reopening marks the first time in 3 years that there will be a character meet and greet in Ariel’s Grotto.
TRON Lightcycle/Run Cast Member Previews Start in February: The Cast Member previews for TRON Lightcycle / Run will be between February 6 and March 3. Cast Members will be provided registration information soon, with booking starting on January 30. Each Cast Member can bring up to three guests to share in the experience.
TRON’s Lightcycle/Run Attraction Sign Installed: Disney posted an image of the new TRON Lightcycle/Run sign outside the attraction.
Splash Mountain Removed From Some Park Maps: Splash Mountain has been closed for days now, but up until this morning the interactive WDW maps still showed a rendering of Splash Mountain (with the attraction’s full title) and the Briar Patch. Now, the Splash Mountain title has been completely removed from the map. At this time, the Briar Patch is still labeled and the Br’er Bear, Br’er Fox, Br’er Rabbit statue is still visible on the map.
TRON Will Feature Double-Sided Lockers: For the first time, TRON Lightcycle/Run will feature a double-sided and digitized locker system to store guests’ bags and loose items while they race on the Lightcycles. These complimentary lockers will be located within the attraction queue and can be accessed through the use of a MagicBand, MagicBand+, or ticket media. By tapping the band or media against the locker, guests can easily lock and reopen their lockers.
EPCOT
EPCOT Welcomes Te Fiti: The Disney Parks Blog recently posted an update on Te Fiti and the Journey of Water projects. Included in the post were several images and a YouTube video of what to expect once Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana officially opens.
Disney Food News
Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Disney Springs: Valentine’s Day is just a few weeks away and several restaurants in Disney Springs have put together romantic menus featuring delicious signature dishes you and your Valentine will not be able to resist.
Several New Restaurants Coming to Walt Disney World: New eateries will be popping up all over Walt Disney World during 2023. Whether you enjoy comfort food, food with a little spice, sweet and savory goodies, or California-inspired menus, there is something for everyone in these arriving-soon dining spots.
Opening Date and Menu for Roundup Rodeo Released: Get ready for some good ole comfort food! Roundup Rodeo BBQ at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is getting set to open on March 23, 2023!
Disney’s Soulfully Foodie Guide: During February for Black History Month, Disney honors black culture through one of the things it does best – delicious food and drink. Both coasts will bring soulful food and drink options to the parks and resorts for people of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy.
Biggest Disney news this week: TRON’s Cast Member previews or the list of new restaurants opening soon?