It’s been more than four years since Disney shocked fans — and devastated many of them — when it announced that Splash Mountain would be closing at both Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort. The announcement came as Song of the South (1946) — the movie Splash Mountain was based on — received renewed criticism for its racist overtones. At the time the closure was announced, Disney also revealed that the flume attraction would be getting a Princess and the Frog (2009) retheme.
Initially, there was A LOT of backlash against closing the beloved ride. Petitions were started, and guests flooded Disney’s social media, begging the company to reconsider. But Disney did not back down, and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opened in Walt Disney World Resort’s Magic Kingdom on June 28, 2024.
Related: Disney Legend Defends Splash Mountain: “Nothing in the Ride Was Detrimental”
Earlier this year, Disney announced that Tiana’s Bayou Adventure would be opening at Disneyland Park on November 15, just in time for the Thanksgiving holiday.
And now, we know that Disneyland Magic Key Holders — formerly known as Annual Passholders — will be given a chance to ride the attraction before it opens to the general public!
Disneyland has officially confirmed the preview dates for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. Starting from October 21 and running until November 12, Magic Key Holders will be given exclusive early access to the attraction.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will NOT be open from park opening until park close. Instead, Magic Key Holders will only be able to ride the attraction during certain times.
Here are the preview hours, courtesy of The Orange County Register:
- Monday, Oct. 21, 3-9 p.m.
- Tuesday, Oct. 22, 3-9 p.m.
- Wednesday, Oct. 23, 3-9 p.m.
- Friday, Oct. 25, 3-9 p.m.
- Saturday, Oct. 26, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Sunday, Oct. 27, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Tuesday, Oct. 29, 3-9 p.m.
- Friday, Nov. 1, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Sunday, Nov. 3, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
- Tuesday, Nov. 5, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
- Wednesday, Nov. 6, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
- Friday, Nov. 8, 9 a.m.-10 p.m.
- Saturday, Nov. 9, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Sunday, Nov. 10, 9 a.m.-10 p.m.
- Tuesday, Nov. 12, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Related: The Shocking Truth Behind Disney’s Original Plans for Princess Tiana
To participate in the preview, Magic Key Holders must secure a valid theme park reservation and join the virtual queue, which opens at two designated times each day. The first opportunity begins at 7 a.m. from any location, while the second allows guests already at Disneyland to join at 12 p.m.
In addition to being the only guests allowed to ride, Magic Key Holders who secure a coveted spot will also receive a commemorative souvenir to take home.
Set after the events of the original film, the ride invites guests to join Tiana and her friends as they embark on a journey to gather musicians for the party. Tiana, now a successful entrepreneur, is determined to create a memorable celebration while showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of New Orleans.
The attraction’s festive setting is integral to its narrative. As guests navigate through the ride, they encounter various musical critters and vibrant landscapes that mirror the excitement and cultural significance of Mardi Gras. The storyline emphasizes the importance of community and celebration in Tiana’s world.
Accompanying the ride updates are various renovations across the park, including changes to dining and shopping options. The new Hungry Bear Barbecue Jamboree will complement the bayou theme, enriching the culinary offerings in the area.
When Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opens, it will no longer be located in Critter Country. Instead, the area will be called Bayou Country.
Located next to Bayou Country is New Orleans Square, where the iconic Haunted Mansion attraction is also undergoing a huge makeover. The ride is getting a brand-new interactive queue, and a new store is being built right outside the exit! The entire area will surely be a sight to see once all the construction in the area is complete!
Are you excited to ride Tiana’s Bayou Adventure when it opens next month? Will you be trying to get a spot for the Magic Key Holder previews? Let us know in the comments!
