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Credit: DisneyDisney fans visiting Magic Kingdom have something to look forward to as the Disney Adventure Friends Cavalcade has officially returned to two daily performances. This beloved character-filled parade will now run twice each day, bringing even more opportunities for guests to see their favorite Disney and Pixar characters march through the park.
But while this exciting update adds to the magic, 2025 also brings some major changes to Disney World, including significant closures and refurbishments across the parks.
Disney Adventure Friends Cavalcade
The Disney Adventure Friends Cavalcade has been a fan favorite since its debut in February 2022. Featuring nearly 30 beloved characters like Pocahontas, Raya, Mulan, Mary Poppins, and more, the cavalcade is a high-energy parade-style experience that runs from Frontierland to Main Street, U.S.A.
Previously, in early 2025, the cavalcade was only running once a day at 5:10 p.m. However, a recent update to the My Disney Experience app confirms that a second performance has been added at 6:25 p.m. This change, reflected on both the Disney World website and app, is expected to remain in place until at least April 5, 2025.
This schedule adjustment is nothing new for Magic Kingdom, as entertainment offerings often shift based on crowd levels and park demand. A similar change occurred in early 2024 when the cavalcade temporarily switched from one to two daily performances before reverting to a single time slot. Now, guests will once again have more opportunities to enjoy this lively character procession.
Massive Changes Coming to Magic Kingdom
While the cavalcade’s expanded schedule is great news, Magic Kingdom is also undergoing some of its biggest changes in years. One of the most anticipated additions is a brand-new nighttime parade, set to debut in 2025. Disney has promised dazzling floats, vibrant lighting effects, and a mix of both classic and new characters, ensuring a magical experience for visitors of all ages.
Beyond Main Street, U.S.A., Magic Kingdom is undergoing a historic expansion. Disney is introducing a Cars-themed attraction in Frontierland, replacing the Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island with a high-speed race through scenic landscapes.
Additionally, the long-rumored Villains Land is finally becoming a reality, bringing dark and immersive experiences based on some of Disney’s most iconic antagonists.
However, with these additions come closures. Several attractions are shutting down, including the permanent closure of the Liberty Square Riverboat and Tom Sawyer Island by the end of 2025. Meanwhile, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is undergoing a refurbishment that will last until 2026, and the Walt Disney World Railroad may see temporary closures as construction in Frontierland continues.
EPCOT Overhauls Test Track and More
EPCOT, a park that has been undergoing a multi-year transformation, continues to evolve in 2025. One of the biggest changes is the complete reimagining of Test Track. Disney, in partnership with Chevrolet, is revamping the popular ride to incorporate elements inspired by World of Motion, its predecessor.
The goal is to enhance both the ride experience and the storytelling, bringing a fresh take on this futuristic attraction. Test Track is expected to remain closed until late summer 2025.
Other changes include the temporary closure of Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros from January to March 2025 and a possible multi-month refurbishment of Spaceship Earth. While not yet confirmed, Spaceship Earth’s closure would mark a significant transition as Disney continues updating EPCOT’s attractions.
Despite these changes, EPCOT will still offer a variety of experiences, including its seasonal festivals and crowd favorites like Soarin’ Around the World, Frozen Ever After, and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure.
Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom See Closures and New Attractions
Hollywood Studios is also facing notable closures in 2025. The Jedi Training Academy has permanently ended, and Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy has been shut down to make way for a new Villains-themed stage show. Meanwhile, Voyage of the Little Mermaid is set to return in summer 2025 with a refreshed look and updated performances.
Over at Animal Kingdom, the park is undergoing its most significant transformation since Pandora – The World of Avatar opened in 2017. DINOSAUR is set to be reimagined as an Indiana Jones adventure, with construction beginning in late 2025. Additionally, It’s Tough to Be a Bug will close by the end of the year to make way for a new Zootopia-themed show.
Other closures include the seasonal refurbishment of Kali River Rapids from January to March and the permanent shutdown of TriceraTop Spin in early 2025. The closure of DinoLand U.S.A. paves the way for the upcoming Tropical Americas area, which will introduce new experiences to the park in the coming years.
Disney World’s Evolving Future
While 2025 brings exciting updates like the second daily performance of the Disney Adventure Friends Cavalcade, it also marks a year of major changes across Walt Disney World. From ride closures to ambitious expansions, the resort continues to evolve in ways that will shape the future of the guest experience.
Whether you’re excited for the new Villains Land, eager to see Test Track’s reimagining, or looking forward to catching the revamped nighttime parade, one thing is certain—there’s never a dull moment at Disney World. With careful planning and a bit of flexibility, guests can still experience the magic despite ongoing refurbishments and closures.