Disneyland Resort guests were left disappointed this week after the long-anticipated reopening of “it’s a small world” was abruptly delayed—again. The beloved Fantasyland attraction, which closed in January following its annual holiday overlay, was initially set to reopen on April 25 before being pushed to May 9. Just one day before that date, Disney quietly postponed it once more.
The attraction’s extended closure was part of a major refurbishment tied to the upcoming Disneyland70 celebration, which officially begins on May 16, 2025. While Disneyland Park’s anniversary isn’t until July 15, the early launch will include new entertainment, attraction updates, and refreshed decor throughout the resort.
As part of the overhaul, “it’s a small world” received several visible updates. Disney Park guests spotted construction crews replacing nearby walkways and repainting the attraction’s iconic facade. At one point, the famous clock face was removed and replaced with a temporary 2D decal during offsite refurbishment. Though the original clock has returned, some of the attraction’s exterior special effects remain motionless.
The changes go far beyond cosmetic. Walt Disney Imagineers added brand-new dolls inspired by Pixar’s Coco (2017), joining characters like Cinderella and Alice, who were already featured inside the ride. In addition, the Sherman brothers’ iconic theme song will now include a final verse written before their passing.
But fans eager to see these additions were once again told to wait. On Thursday, May 8, theme park journalist Scott Gustin shared via X (formerly Twitter) that “it’s a small world” would not reopen as planned.
NEW: The reopening date for “it’s a small world” at Disneyland Park has changed – the ride is now set to reopen on May 13. When the ride reopens, it will include Miguel and Dante from Pixar’s ‘COCO.’
NEW: The reopening date for "it's a small world" at Disneyland Park has changed – the ride is now set to reopen on May 13. When the ride reopens, it will include Miguel and Dante from Pixar's 'COCO.' pic.twitter.com/XNX96c7L1X
— Scott Gustin (@ScottGustin) May 8, 2025
Disneyland Resort’s official website has since confirmed the update, advising guests to “check back here for updates.”
Once it does reopen, “it’s a small world” will help kick off the 70th-anniversary celebration in a big way. Beginning May 16, the attraction will host the all-new “Tapestry of Happiness” projection show each night, bringing the exterior to life with colorful storytelling. Unlike the show, which will end with the Disneyland70 celebrations in summer 2026, the Coco-inspired additions and song update will become permanent parts of the ride.
Which version of “it’s a small world” is your favorite? Let Disney Fanatic know in the comments!
