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Disney Confirms Replacement for Original ”It’s a small world” Ride

in Marvel, Tokyo Disneyland

Posted on by Jess Colopy 8 Comments
"it's a small world" entrance sign at Magic Kingdom Park

Credit: Matt Dempsey, Flickr

On December 27, a reimagined version of “it’s a small world” is officially returning, and bringing a Disney Park exclusive surprise with it. Here’s what guests need to know before they head over to Fantasyland.

“it’s a small world” with Groot Returns

Cartoon versions of Marvel characters, including Baby Groot, in a poster for a new version of "it's a small world."
Credit: Tokyo Disney Resort

“it’s a small world” with Groot debuted at Tokyo Disneyland on January 15, 2025, and stayed until June 30. The attraction overlay was extremely popular, with thousands of guests lining up daily to see Groot and his superhero friends on vacation around the world. Tokyo Disney Resort also sold exclusive merchandise featuring the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) characters in the “it’s a small world” art style, inspired by Disney Legend Mary Blair.

Earlier this year, Tokyo Disney Resort announced that “it’s a small world” with Groot would return to Tokyo Disneyland on December 27, 2025. The ride closed in November to make way for the overlay. Disney hasn’t announced an end date for the temporary MCU transformation of the Fantasyland attraction.

Exclusive Marvel Comic

"it's a small world" with Groot comic
Credit: Tokyo Disney Resort

In addition to merchandise inspired by “it’s a small world” with Groot, Tokyo Disneyland guests can enjoy an exclusive Marvel Comic inspired by the attraction overlay. Guests can read “It’s a Small World with Groot: On the Move!” on the Tokyo Disney Resort app after joining the ride queue. Visitors must have Bluetooth, location services, and push notifications enabled to access the comic.

This is the second exclusive “it’s a small world” with Groot Marvel Comic. The first, “it’s a small world with Groot: Take Off,” debuted alongside the attraction overlay in January. It was also exclusively available on the Tokyo Disney Resort app.

Groot Going Worldwide?

Groot waving cheerfully as it joins the vibrant and whimsical world of "it's a small world."
Credit: Inside the Magic

For now, MCU fans will have to travel to Tokyo Disney Resort to see “it’s a small world” with Groot. Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort haven’t announced plans to bring the attraction overlay to Disneyland Park or Magic Kingdom Park.

Which version of “it’s a small world” is your favorite? Inside the Magic would love to hear from you in the comments! 

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