Whoa, whoa, whoa…you mean to tell us that 2024 is literally just a few days away? How did THAT happen?!
Somehow, January 1st snuck up on us, which is impressive, given how often we talk about all the new things happening in Disney World next month. We’re expecting a LOT of changes in Disney World this January, and like it or not, January is right around the corner. Let’s see what’s happening!
There are new rules, new closures, and new EPCOT festivals — there’s a LOT happening in January. Where to start?! We know — let’s lead with some big, exciting news.
Park Hopping Will Go Back to Normal
FINALLY! It’s happening; stay calm! All-day park hopping is officially coming back in 2024! If you have a Park Hopper park ticket or an Annual Pass, you will be able to hop to another theme park at ANY time of day.
Start in Disney’s Hollywood Studios and hop to EPCOT for lunch. Start in Magic Kingdom, grab some breakfast, then pop over to Animal Kingdom for the rest of the day. The world is your oyster! Ever since park hopping returned in 2021, guests have been limited to hopping only after 2PM each day. But — finally — that restriction will go away on January 9th, 2024. Rejoice!
NEWS: Park Hopping Is Returning to Normal in Disney World!
The Park Pass Reservation System is Changing
More good news! Starting January 9th, Park Pass Reservations will no longer be required for those with date-based park tickets! No more reserving a park ahead of time (as long as you buy theme park tickets tied to a specific date). You can wake up and decide where you want to go the same morning!
There are still a few caveats, though. Those with other types of tickets, like Annual Passes, will still need to make park pass reservations ahead of time, unless they happen to visit on a “Good to Go” day. (Don’t worry; we have a whole post to explain that new term!)
Disney World Shares Important Update on Annual Passholder “Good to Go” Days
The Disney Dining Plan IS BACK!
Did you miss the prestigious feeling of saying, “I’m on the Disney Dining Plan” at Disney World restaurants? Well, the Dining Plan is returning! The DDP hasn’t been available in Disney World since 2020, but as of January 9th, 2024, you’ll be able to use it again. January 9th is a big day if you haven’t noticed.
This offering will be back with a few changes, most notably the types of plans returning. For now, only the Standard Dining Plan and the Quick Service Dining Plan are coming back. Prices have increased for the adult plans, and Disney recently revealed that credits will come with a few new rules. We have tons of helpful posts, so you can decide if the plan is worth it!
Walt Disney World’s Disney Dining Plan Overview
After Hours Events at 3 Disney World Parks
Starting next year, three parks will host After Hours events! Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and EPCOT will all get new dates for Disney After Hours Events. During these events, you’ll have access to the park after normal hours and see lower wait times and complimentary treats. FUN!
After Hours events will take place on select nights throughout the year. Magic Kingdom’s events start on January 11th, while Diney’s Hollywood Studios events start on January 10th. Finally, EPCOT After Hours events will begin on February 2nd.
After Hours Events Are Returning to Disney World!
EPCOT Festival of the Arts BEGINGS!
The 2024 EPCOT Festival of the Arts will run from January 12th to February 19th, 2024! This marks the first EPCOT festival of the year, and it’s one of our favorites.
Disney has already confirmed that several events will return in 2023, like the Disney on Broadway concerts, the Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine, live entertainment, and more. We’ll be there on opening day to try all the food booths!
FULL List of Booths Announced for the 2024 EPCOT Festival of the Arts
Closures
Mark your calendar! We’ve got some closures to cover. Disney is reporting a closure at Kali River Rapids in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. The ride will close for refurbishment on January 8th, 2024, and there is no end date currently listed for the closure.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is also set to close soon. From January 16th to 20th, 2024, the ride will be down for refurbishment, and the coaster will reopen on January 21st.
Finally, this may be bad news for our transportation fans! The Skyliner will be closed from January 16th through January 21st, 2024. Don’t worry — the closure is just for routine maintenance.
From January 16th through 21st, 2024, the Skyliner will be closed, and the line from Riviera to EPCOT will remain down until January 27th.
The Skyliner Will Close for Refurbishment in Early 2024 in Disney World
Extended Evening Hours UPDATE
Extended Evening Hours are coming back to Magic Kingdom! If you’re unfamiliar, Extended Evening Hours are a special perk that only people staying at deluxe Disney World hotels have access to. These exclusive hours will return on January 3rd, 2024, and will happen on select nights throughout the month.
Phew! There’s a LOT to look forward to in 2024, huh? In the meantime, we’re always on the lookout for the latest Disney news, so stay tuned for more. And Happy New Year, friends!
Every CONFIRMED Date You Need To Know for Your 2024 Disney World Trip
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Are you planning a trip in 2024? Let us know in the comments!
What about changes to Genie+?
It’s about time they start to recognize it thanks it made him great they had thrown away now they’re back just taking care of the people and making them happy again this time they went back to the good things the good old days thank God