I know technically summer goes for a few more weeks, but for me, September means it’s officially fall. Disneyland certainly seems to feel that way; with Halloween decor fully up and Oogie Boogie Bash starting up tonight. But not to be overshadowed, summer went out with a bang at the resort. A new land, the expansion of a longtime classic, and a new character, to name a few happenings. Let’s take a look back at August at the Disneyland Resort.
SAN FRANSOKYO OFFICIALLY OPENS
As of yesterday, San Fransokyo Square is officially open in California Adventure.
Source: Fresh Baked Disney
Formerly Pacific Wharf (I’ll update those related posts in the next week), this waterfront village offers tons of dining, a little shopping, and new chance to meet characters.
Source: Scott Gustin
I’ll have more detailed posts on this “new” land and its offerings soon. But for now, check out this Disney Parks Blog post for a taste of what to expect.
AN UPCOMING EXPANSION TO THE MANSION GROUNDS
When the Haunted Mansion closes in January to shed its holiday overlay, the grounds surrounding the home will get a bit of an upgrade. First, the extended queue will get some desperately needed theming. The area will feature a new fountain, gazebo, and greenhouse, alongside new flower beds and an expanded garden.
Source: Disney Parks Blog
And on the other side of the mansion, there’s a new shop coming right next to the exit walkway. Like any true southern mansion, this haunted one will now have a carriage house, which Madame Leota will turn into her own little storefront (with details to emerge in the future).
Source: Disney Parks Blog
This project will also include some enhancements to the courtyard area near the New Orleans Square railroad station. For now, this is all the detail we have, but the Disney Parks Blog teased more information will be coming early next year.
TREEHOUSE WALLS START COMING DOWN
The seemingly endless project to change the Tarzan Treehouse into the Adventureland Treehouse may finally be nearing its end. This month, scaffolding slowly started coming down, revealing clearer views of the change in theming.
Source: Just Ask Danny
You can see the treehouse has removed the Tarzan characters and props, but it looks like the physical structure and pathways will remain the same. I can’t wait to explore and find all the new little details!
Source: Mouskegamer
OTHER UPDATES
Tiana’s Place officially has an opening date: September 7th. For a sneak peek of the menu and interior decor, check out the Disney Parks Blog post here.
Have you noticed the construction walls in front of the Adventureland bathrooms? Turns out the area is dealing with some plumbing problems, and crews have dug up a lot of the rock features to get to the problem. Here’s hoping that bottleneck can ease up soon – not an ideal spot to impede traffic flow.
Ahsoka fans – keep your eyes open on Batuu. She is now regularly visiting Galaxy’s Edge, and may stop to chat with planet tourists.
And finally, I wanted to end this post with a really sweet photo I saw from MouseInfo. This is Peter Pan, Wendy, Cinderella, Flynn Rider, and Rapunzel taking a moment to sit and read with some kids exploring Disneyland. Moments like this are quite rare in other parks, and these kinds of impromptu personal moments are part of what make Disneyland such a special place.
Source: MouseInfo
That last picture is magical. This is why Disneyland is special. I hope they never stop having roaming characters. It’s totally different than lining up for a meet and greet, taking a picture, and that’s it (although those can certainly be special too!)
I totally agree! It’s not something I’ve ever seen in quite the same way at the other Disney Parks, California Adventure included.