In this week's episode, Shannon, Peter, and Sue discuss the elimination of Early Entry at Disneyland Resort, the opening date for the new Zootopia show in Disney's Animal Kingdom, new ride details for Walt Disney World refurbishments, and more! N168

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For many years, Disneyland Resort has allowed guests and Disney Vacation Club Members staying at on-site hotels to enter one of the two parks 30 minutes early, allowing a slight jump on the crowds. On January 5th, 2026, early entry will no longer be offered and will be replaced by a free entry to one Lightning Lane Multi Pass attraction per person for the resort stay. The Individual Lightning Lane attractions are not included as choices. 

In addition, the Pixar Pier entrance to Disney’s California Adventure will be closing on January 5th. Resort Guests will be allowed to enter through the Disney's Grand Californian Hotel entrance.  This is likely to do with the construction of the new Coco ride scheduled to be installed in that corner of Pixar Pier. 

Source: WDW Magic

Disney Parks Blog has provided some details on the new Tree of Life show, including the opening date.  Zootopia - Better Zoogether  is scheduled to open on November 7th.  The show is described by Disney as follows: 

“Zoogether Day, a celebration of unity amongst the diverse biomes across the city, will be recognized with special performances such as ice-skating spectaculars from the heart of Tundratown! Synchronized swimming direct from Marsh Market! Tiny mouse drone shows soaring over Little Rodentia! And of course, a musical finale by superstar Gazelle – all of which we’ll see from the livestream watch party.”

Disney also indicated to keep an eye out for more information coming later this fall about special previews for cast members, Annual Passholders, and Disney Vacation Club Members.

Source:  Disney Parks Blog

Disney Parks Blog has also provided more details on two attractions getting facelifts. First, Big Thunder Mountain is getting a new track and some new magic. The article describes changes to the opening lift hill with new concept art:

“ One such moment comes when the trains rattle their way underground to spectacular natural caverns full of phosphorescent pools, shimmering and illuminating iridescent stalagmites and stalactites. The Rainbow Caverns certainly are beautiful… but they ain’t as friendly as they first appear. In fact, that menacing rumble from deep within the mountain may be a sign that we ain’t welcome.”

In addition, the blog has shared more information about the changes coming to Rock and Roller Coaster when the Muppets take over:

“…at G-Force Records, we’re treated to a VIP tour of the legendary rock and roll recording studio. Things might look a little different around this Hollywood institution, as the label has recently come under new management – The Muppets!”

“With your VIP passes, you’ll be welcomed inside the recording studio, where you’ll find the Electric Mayhem are cranking out some seriously rocking tunes. Along with the finest audio engineers (all penguins, of course) we’ll see Scooter doing his best to convince Electric Mayhem to stop jamming and get to their increasingly restless fans. But will it be enough to get the band across town and onstage in time?”

“With the help from our friends at Muppet Labs and a very fast limousine, we’ll take a twisting, turning, and screamingly fun road trip across Hollywood to reach the concert in time. The iconic scenery and landmarks of Tinseltown will feature a Muppet twist. And throughout the journey, you’ll hear the Electric Mayhem playing some of the most iconic, rockin’ hits in your ears to keep the music and adrenaline pumping.”

The ride is scheduled to remain open through the end of 2025 and re-open with the Muppet theme sometime in 2026.

Source: Big Thunder and Rock and Roller Coaster

Beginning September 8, 2025, the Samawati Springs Pool slide at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – Kidani Village will temporarily close for routine maintenance. Disney says that during the refurbishment, guests staying at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge can use the waterslide at the nearby Uzima Springs Pool, located at Jambo House. Both pools remain open throughout the project, with only the Samawati Springs slide unavailable. The return date has not been provided, but the closure is expected to be relatively short. 

Source: WDW Magic

Disney Vacation Club Members will be offered an exclusive halloween tote bag when they stop by McKim’s Mile House during Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party on select dates. These include:

Individuals must qualify for Membership Extras in order to receive the free bag. Present the digital member ID card and a photo ID in order to claim.

Disney Vacation Club has announced the Halloween Meet & Treat event is back for another year. Moving from Atlantic Dance Hall to a new location in the Convention Center at Disney's BoardWalk Inn & Villas, the event gives owners a chance to meet with Disney characters while enjoying music, treats and other surprises. The event is scheduled for four dates in October:

Each day, the event will take place from 11:00am to 1:00pm. The event will take place in rooms Promenade West/Salons I-III of the BoardWalk Convention Center. Costumes may be worn, but they must adhere to Disney's theme park costume guidelines. Characters scheduled to appear have not been announced.

Source: DVC News

As discussed in a previous episode, August 14th to September 16th are Welcome Home Weeks for DVC members at Disney parks and resorts in the USA.  In addition to the treats of free ice cream and meet and greets, Disney is offering members an additional $2 off per point for direct contracts from 100-149 points, and $5 off per point for direct contracts of 150 points or more. This is in addition to the already existing discounts, and will last through September 29th. 

In addition, for Welcome Home weeks. DVC is hosting a contest and owners have a chance to be among the first to sail on the Disney Destiny. The grand prize of the Welcome Home Weeks Sweepstakes is a 5-night voyage on the Destiny, schedule for November 28 to December 3, 2025. This "First Wave" itinerary is one of the first sailings of the brand new Disney Cruise Line ship.

The grand prize winner and up to 3 guests will enjoy an ocean view stateroom for the duration of the trip. As with all Disney Cruise Line voyages, the prize includes all meals and entertainment during the cruise. Pre-paid gratuities, taxes and port fees are also included. The prize does not cover transportation to-and-from Ft Lauderdale, Florida. The prize has an approximate retail value of $4,926.00.

The link can be found at https://www.dvcsweeps.com/welcomehomeweeks.

Source: Welcome Home Weeks and DVC Cruise Contest 

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