Universal, Disney, and Dollywood Get Ready for the Holiday Season
Welcome to Please Remain Seated, FamilyVacationist’s monthly theme‑park news column by Tarah Chieffi. Stay tuned for the latest updates and expert tips from Disney, Universal, and other top parks.
I’ve just returned from Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights, and I can confirm the experience was exhilarating. If you’re contemplating a visit, rest assured it’s a thrill worth taking.
Disney World’s 50th anniversary is finally here. This month’s column highlights the 18‑month celebration, and we’ll continue to cover upcoming events for visitors planning a trip to the park.
With that, let’s get to this month’s theme park news.
Theme Park News for October 2021
Disney World’s Golden Anniversary Is Upon Us
Disney World is celebrating its milestone with an all‑the‑world‑wide party. From resort hotels to Disney Springs, you’ll find 50th‑anniversary merchandise and themed treats, but the real festivities unfold inside the parks.
At all four Disney Orlando theme parks, the iconic landmarks—Cinderella Castle, the Hollywood Tower Hotel, Spaceship Earth, and the Tree of Life—will become "Beacons of Magic" each evening. Expect 50‑golden character statues and decor throughout the resort.
Below is a brief overview of new offerings at each park, with additional events expected over the next 18 months.
Magic Kingdom. The new nighttime show, Disney Enchantment, debuted on October 1. It combines fireworks, projections, and a unique traversal of Main Street, U.S.A., providing multiple viewing points. The park is also decked with anniversary décor, and many attractions received fresh paint.
EPCOT. The park is undergoing a comprehensive transformation, and several highlights have already opened. The new Creations Shop, the main gift store, and the revamped Club Cool—offering free samples of international sodas—welcome guests to a unique experience. In the France Pavilion, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure officially opened on October 1, accompanied by the Creperie de Paris. A new nighttime show, Harmonious, also debuted that day.
Animal Kingdom. The new daytime show, KiteTails, premiered on October 1 at the Discovery River Theater, featuring colorful kites of beloved Disney characters.
Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin Gets a Culturally Relevant Makeover
The original 1990 film presented a dated portrayal of women. Disney’s updated version of Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin now casts Jessica Rabbit as a private investigator tackling crime in Toontown, reflecting contemporary values.
WHERE TO STAY: 9 Cheap Theme Park Hotels in Orlando Near Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld
Disney has confirmed that the revised storyline will feature Jessica in a leading role, moving away from the “damsel in distress” trope. This change follows recent updates to attractions such as the Jungle Cruise and Splash Mountain.
Theme Park Holiday Celebrations
Although it’s still October, many parks are already planning their holiday festivities. While some announcements are pending, here’s what’s confirmed.
Walt Disney World. The holiday season runs from November 12 through the end of the year, featuring decorations, projection shows, character costumes, and exclusive treats across all four parks, Disney Springs, and resort hotels.
Magic Kingdom will host a new after‑hours event, Disney Very Merries After Hours. Tickets are limited and separate, allowing guests to experience attractions, entertainment, and complimentary treats in a more intimate setting. At EPCOT, the beloved Candlelight Processional returns as part of the International Festival of the Holidays.
DISNEYLAND. For the first time in 66 years, Disneyland will offer an after‑hours holiday party, Disney Merriest Nites, featuring limited capacity access and six themed parties across the park’s lands.
Universal Orlando. The resort’s holiday season spans November 13 to January 2. While details are still emerging, past celebrations have included a giant Christmas tree, Macy’s balloon parade, special entertainment, and a holiday tribute store.
Dollywood. From November 6 to January 2, Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas celebrates traditional holiday traditions with millions of lights, fireworks, award‑winning shows, and festive cuisine.
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance Switches to Standby Queue
Since its 2019 debut, Rise of the Resistance operated via a virtual queue with no standby line. The attraction will now transition to a regular standby queue, allowing visitors to join the line directly. Disney’s Hollywood Studios guests can also check wait times in the My Disney Experience app and take advantage of the upcoming Disney Genie service.
Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure at EPCOT will also use the same virtual queue system. Familiarizing yourself with the boarding group process on the app will maximize your chances of securing a ride.
Tips For Your Trips
You Don’t Have to Travel to Celebrate Disney World’s 50th Anniversary
If visiting Disney World isn’t feasible, you can still partake in the celebration from home. Live streams of the new nighttime spectaculars are available, and ABC’s special, The Most Magical Story on Earth: 50 Years of Walt Disney World, aired on October 1. Disney has also released three new anniversary books and a range of merchandise on shopDisney. The 50th‑anniversary Happy Meal, featuring 50 character toys, is available at McDonald’s.
Just Desserts
While fireworks and décor are highlights, the culinary offerings are equally compelling. Disney has introduced dessert parties that let guests enjoy treats before, during, or after the shows. The Main Street Confectionery reopened on September 29, offering customizable popcorn and candy, along with special 50th‑anniversary items.
At the Contemporary Resort, California Grill is featuring a limited‑time menu celebrating the restaurant’s 50‑year history, and Steakhouse 71 opened on October 1, showcasing a design inspired by Disney World’s heritage.
