Can you believe it’s already March? Disneyland is now officially in its spring season, and the park’s flowers are bringing in fresh color and energy. Compared to the last few months, February ended up being fairly quiet when it came to major announcements and news, but a few new announcements popped up between construction progress. Let’s take a look back at last month at the Disneyland Resort.
THE WALLS START COMING DOWN…AND NEW ONES START GOING UP
Disneyland visitors were overjoyed to see the walls on Main Street USA and in Fantasyland slowly start disappearing from view. On Main Street, the square and hub in front of the castle have reopened, leaving only the walls down the center of the street. Around the tracks, beautiful new brickwork blends into the street.
In California Adventure, Pixar Pier construction continues, without any major changes to the walls or landscape just yet. But this month, Disney confirmed the replacement to Ariel’s Grotto and the legendary Cove Bar: Lamplight Lounge. This space will still serve menu favorites from the Cove Bar, with updated Pixar theming.
In Downtown Disney, the Naples expansion continues. The current outdoor patio will feature an outdoor bar and lounge, adding a third new bar space to the district (two more are currently under construction). The World of Disney store also closed a major section, and will slowly be re-branding and updating the store over the next few months.
And in Adventureland, walls will soon be popping up along the riverbank. Disney announced the closure of Aladdin’s Oasis, with the space transforming into the Tropical Hideaway. This space isn’t clearly marked as a restaurant or just a rest area, so no one is 100% sure what’s in store. My suspicion is this will be the new home of Dole Whip, to ease crowding at Adventureland’s entryway.
BLACK PANTHER VISITS FROM WAKANDA
With the release of Black Panther this month, California Adventure debuted a brand new meet and greet experience! Black Panther (King T’Challa) himself cruises into Hollywood Land in an armored truck, protected by the Dora Milaje.
Once safely within his royal Hollywood Land chambers, the King greets visitors.
I’m not usually one for character meet and greets, but I’d love the chance to meet Black Panther and his boss lady warriors.
OTHER UPDATES
This month, the new Disney Home shop in Downtown Disney finally opened its doors. The shop features tons of home goods, from kitchen utensils to figurines to pillows and linens.
Great news for Red Rose Taverne fans – the quick service restaurant now serves breakfast.
REY IS COMING!!! Starting in May, visitors to the Star Wars Launch Bay will be able to meet Rey. She may also be part of a live show as well, since the casting call asked for movement and light saber skills.
Back in Hollywood Land, one of the sound stages celebrated Gospel music this month, will a variety of live performances and entertainment.
And finally, the stars of the upcoming A Wrinkle in Time visited the Disneyland Resort: Mindy Kaling, Reese Witherspoon, Storm Reid, and Oprah Winfrey.
That’s it for February updates. I have to imagine next month will include tons of construction updates, Pixar Fest details, and other summertime announcements. Stay tuned!