Carousel of Progress at D23
Carousel of Progress updates and concept art released at D23, Disneys annual convention in Anaheim California.
Carousel of Progress at Magic Kingdom is undergoing its biggest overhaul in decades, and there’s a meaningful update as of today.
🎠 What’s happening
- Closed: July 6, 2026. Disney currently expects it to reopen in 2027; no exact reopening date has been announced.
- Every scene is being updated, rather than simply refurbishing the existing show.
- Walt Disney himself is being added as a new Audio-Animatronic in the opening, based on his 1964 presentation of the attraction.
🕰️ The new eras
Disney has confirmed:
- 1960s — The family watches the 1969 Moon landing.
- 1980s — Halloween night in 1985, with Sarah taking a more prominent role.
- New Millennium — A contemporary/turn-of-the-century era.
- Possible Future — A look at what tomorrow might bring.
The iconic “There’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow” song is staying.
🔨 The newest construction news
A new electrical-work permit has just been reported for the attraction, involving Solotech, an audiovisual/technology contractor. That suggests the project is moving deeper into its technical/construction phase, but Disney hasn’t said exactly what equipment or effects the electrical work will support.
There are also now construction walls around the attraction, and recent reporting confirms that the physical overhaul is underway.
Bottom line: This isn’t just a cosmetic refresh. Disney is essentially rebuilding the show’s timeline while retaining its core concept, rotating theater, family, and optimistic message. The current official target remains 2027.
