Disney Announces Soft Opening for TRON Lightcycle / Run

Though the highly anticipated TRON Lightcycle / Run is set to officially open on April 4, 2023. Disney has announced a soft opening is in the works. 

Disney announced via Instagram that TRON Lightcycle / Run will have a soft opening from March 20-April 2, 2023.

No standby queue will be available. Guests can join the Virtual Queue at 7:00 am and 1:00 pm using the My Disney Experience app. No pricing has been released for the cost of the Individual Lightning Lane option.

Here are the full details on the Virtual Queue from the Walt Disney World website:

TRON Lightcycle / Run – Soft Opening

Between March 20 and April 2, 2023, Guests may have an early opportunity to launch into the Grid on TRON Lightcycle / Run presented by Enterprise.

Guests will need to use the My Disney Experience app to enter this attraction. A standby queue will not be available. Each Guest can request to enter the virtual queue no more than once per day throughout regular park hours during the soft opening.

Guests must have valid admission and a theme park reservation to join the virtual queue. There will be two daily opportunities to request to join the virtual queue for TRON Lightcycle / Run:

  • 7:00 AM (Guests do not need to be in the park when they join, but must have a theme park reservation for Magic Kingdom park)
  • 1:00 PM (Guests must be in Magic Kingdom park to join the virtual queue)

Please be aware that a virtual queue will still be in place when TRON Lightcycle / Run presented by Enterprise opens on April 4, 2023.

Disney World to Move Forward with New Themed Land at Magic Kingdom

Disney is taking steps to move forward with the addition of a brand-new, long-awaited themed land inside Magic Kingdom.

For years, Disney World Guests have daydreamed about being part of Ursula’s world, taking on the monsters of the deep and playing silent apprentice to her evil underwater schemes. For some, the prospect of following Gaston around town as he guzzles beer and makes fun of people for reading and thinking has a certain draw to it. Other Parks Guests have wondered what it might be like to sneak into Maleficent’s domain–the Forbidden Mountain–as it “thunders with her wrath and frustration” about Sleeping Beauty having seemingly vanished off the face of the earth.

And just to clarify–no one has dreamed fondly of repelling down Rapunzel’s tower with Mother Gothel in tow, being in the palace when Jafar morphs into a King cobra, or helping the Evil Queen mix up a cocktail that will turn her into a 200-year-old beggar woman. Too evil. Just too much.

But according to at least one member of the Walt Disney Imagineering team, such daydreams and ponderings may soon give way to reality, as fans have made their wishes and wants known, and Disney is reportedly listening intently.

During the 2022 D23 Expo in Anaheim, California, Guests were treated to every imaginable piece of Disney news available at the time. During the three-day event at the Anaheim Convention Center, Guests of the Expo also had the opportunity to learn more about The Walt Disney Company and its upcoming projects, and they were even among the first to have the opportunity to purchase limited-edition merchandise. Walt Disney’s newly-restored plane was even on display for fans to see.

Walt Disney's Plane Unveiled at D23 Expo 2022 – World Of Walt

The third and final day of the Expo, Sunday, September 11, 2022, marked the part of the Expo that was the most exciting, the most informative, and the most forward-looking for Disney Parks around the globe. During the Disney Parks panel that day, Chairman Josh D’Amaro welcomed excited fans to get an inside “ear” on plans for the parks–from Disney World and Disneyland to Shanghai Disneyland, Tokyo Disney Resort, Disneyland Paris, and Hong Kong Disneyland.

During D’Amaro’s presentation, members of the Walt Disney Imagineering team took to the stage to unveil some beautiful concept art that served to represent potential future developments in the parks, including a piece that depicted exciting additions at the Walt Disney World Resort to include new themed lands at Magic Kingdom inspired by Disney’s Encanto and Disney’s Moana, both of which received the massive audience’s approval. But the most thunderous applause was heard–and felt–when Imagineers teased the potential for a brand-new themed land, inspired by none other than Disney’s most evil villains.

encanto land villains land coco land disney world magic kingdom concept art

Imagineer Chris Beatty revealed in an interview this week that the thunderous applause and excited response from the audience were noted by those onstage. Beatty says that the response really piqued the interest of those who were presenting the concept art during the D23 Expo Parks Panel.

“[The Villains Land concept] got pretty good applause,” Beatty said. “We took note of how loud the applause was when we announced that.” Beatty says that the intention of that segment of the Parks Panel was to show fans that creativity is still at the heart of all that’s done at Disney and inside Walt Disney Imagineering.

“We’re dreaming every day about what could be next at Walt Disney World,” Beatty explained. “We just wanted to give you a peek at some of the amazing things that could be coming. It’s changing every day. It’s exciting. I think Josh [D’Amaro] was really trying to get across that [the] spirit of creativity, of what could be next, of innovation, of the possibility of what could be is still alive and well at Disney and Imagineering.”

artist concept drawing of disney world expansion magic kingdom

Beatty says that the presentation at the Expo was a stab at “dreaming about what could be” at Disney Parks, not an attempt to promise concrete plans for the parks–not yet, anyway.

But fans are hopeful that the development of preliminary plans and the creation of concept art for a land inspired by the evil villains in Disney’s most beloved films are signs of such a place becoming a reality in the very near future at Disney World. Why else would they “take note” of the audience’s response? Exactly.

Disney Cast Member Finds Abandoned Newborn In Park

Disney Cast Members were notified when a newborn baby was left unattended, and parents were nowhere in sight.

Disneyland is where Guests go to make memories that will last a lifetime. Disneyland Resort is known as “The Happiest Place on Earth.”

Being known as the “Happiest Place on Earth” Guests expect to spot happy Guests, make good memories, and experience magical attractions and entertainment offerings.

Disney Parks are located all over the world and see thousands of Guests daily. Guest heading to Orlando, Florida may enjoy Disney World, including four theme parks: Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Across the country on the Pacific coast, Disneyland Resort includes two theme parks Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park.

mickey minnie mouse goofy donald and blue on main street before cinderella castle

With Disneyland sees thousands of Guests bringing families, friends, and others. Children can easily get lost in crowds.

In a TikTok, one Guest spotted a newborn baby that was reportedly left unattended for over 20 minutes crying. They couldn’t find the parents, and in the video, it says she came back and “acted as if nothing happened.”

@itsamandag_

She left! They couldnt find the mom and she came back like nothing 20 MINUTES LATER security was alerted and were waiting for her #disney #disneyland #disneycaliforniaadventure #dca #disneyworld @disneyparks this needs more than just a scold by security!!!

♬ original sound – aamandag_

When watching the TikTok, you can see a Disney Cast Member stopping the mother and, most likely, asking her questions pertaining to the incident.

Guest

While we do not know how this ended, we are glad the parents finally made their way back to the baby. And in the future, we hope others will have a reminder to never leave their children unattended, even if it is for a few minutes.

If you see a missing or lost child, or a child that has been left unattended, go find your nearest Disney Cast Member, and they will handle finding the parents, and taking the child to safety.

Disney Parents or Guardians may want to look into safety tips like adding a phone number or tag to children or placing them in a stroller or baby leash when trying to get through large crowds to help prevent missing or lost children inside Disney Parks.

Banned Disney Sellers Respond

The drama never seems to cease for rip-off Disney seller Christopher Martin.

Earlier this week, Christopher posted an 18-minute-long video blog that showed him being physically removed from the Walt Disney World Resort property. The video went viral within the Disney community, with many feeling shocked that Christopher was sharing the occurrence with the public. As he was being removed from the Magic Kingdom Park, he was given a yellow slip of paper, which means that he was banned from the Parks indefinitely. Now that it’s been a few days since the situation, he has sat down with his wife and business partner, Hannah Martin, to talk about what really happened.

Christopher and Hannah Martin have made quite a name for themselves in the Disney community. The couple is very polarising when it comes to fans; some love the couple and support their business and Facebook groups. Others feel that they are irresponsible, reckless, and immature. The Walt Disney Company would likely agree with the latter statement.

The Martins own a business called Sparkling Dreamers, where they sell Mickey ears to Disney fans. While it is not illegal to sell Mickey ears, it is illegal to sell anything that is ripping off the intellectual property of Disney. Most other small businesses understand this, but Christopher chooses to ignore Disney’s requests for them to stop selling these products.

Now, Disney is suing the couple and has permanently banned them from both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort.

The couple took to TikTok to share their side of the story and to answer any questions Disney fans have for them. In the video, it is clear that the couple sees themself as the victim in this situation. Hannah Martin expresses that she feels sad about the hateful comments being left about her. Despite being less involved in the company and in the Facebook groups, Hannah is banned as well.

Christopher completely avoids any questions that are actually pressing. Instead, he asks his wife if she is “a mail order bride,” a question that clearly upsets her.

Many fans are sticking up for Disney in this situation and supporting their decision to ban the Sparkling Dreamers owners. We will have to wait and see what ends up happening with their legal issues.

Everything New & Coming at Disney World in 2023

In 2023, Walt Disney World Resort is the place to embrace thrills of all kinds. Exciting new experiences set to debut this year include one of the fastest coasters at any Disney theme park, a new restaurant to savor, the continued transformation of EPCOT, returning nighttime spectaculars filling night skies throughout the resort and so much more.

1 – Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary Continues Through March 31

It’s your last chance to experience a party fifty years in the making as the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary celebration will conclude March 31, 2023. Make plans to visit now to see Mickey Mouse and his pals in their EARidescent finery one last time and enjoy all the special sights, tastes and merchandise that mark this momentous event.

2 – New and Returning Character Greetings – All Year

New and returning character experiences are sure to thrill guests of all ages. Beginning April 22, Moana will greet fellow voyagers on Discovery Island at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park – just in time for the park’s 25th anniversary. Fans of Figment will get the chance to hug the long-time EPCOT icon at the Imagination! pavilion beginning late summer. Mickey Mouse and friends will also have a new home at Communicore Hall opening later this year as part of the EPCOT transformation. And, at Magic Kingdom Park this fall, Mirabel from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ hit film “Encanto” will greet guests in Fairytale Garden surrounded by whimsical décor inspired by La Familia Madrigal. These new experiences follow the return of several Magic Kingdom character experiences including Pete’s Silly Sideshow, Enchanted Tales with Belle, Ariel in her underwater grotto and the return of character dining at Cinderella’s Royal Table.

3 – Roundup Rodeo BBQ Comes to Disney’s Hollywood Studios – March 23

Yee-haw! Andy’s backyard is preparing to welcome more toys at Roundup Rodeo BBQ opening March 23 in Toy Story Land. Serving barbecue-inspired comfort foods, this one-of-a-kind dining experience is the first “Toy Story” table-service restaurant in the world. A collaboration between Walt Disney Imagineering, Disney Pixar Animation Studios and Walt Disney World Food & Beverage, Roundup Rodeo BBQ will bring more toy-sized, tasty fun to Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

4 – Nighttime Spectaculars Brighten Skies and Warm Hearts at Magic Kingdom Park and EPCOT – April 3

Fan-favorite nighttime spectacular “Happily Ever After” Presented by Pandora Jewelry returns to light up the night sky over Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom Park beginning April 3. New this year, the nightly fireworks show will fully immerse guests in heartfelt Disney stories as brand-new projections extend down Main Street U.S.A., adding even more magic to this unforgettable spectacle.

“EPCOT Forever” returns to World Showcase Lagoon starting April 3. Featuring stirring renditions of memorable EPCOT music, the show sparks fond memories from the park’s rich history.

5 – The Grid Awaits on TRON Lightcycle / Run Presented by Enterprise – April 4

Beginning April 4, guests can climb aboard Lightcycles for a thrilling race on TRON Lightcycle / Run Presented by Enterprise. Located in Magic Kingdom Park, it is the fastest coaster attraction in a Disney theme park, alongside its sister coaster at Shanghai Disneyland. The attraction masterfully blends coaster thrills with speed, visual effects, music and a one-of-a-kind ride system to create an experience like no other. A virtual queue will be in place when TRON Lightcycle / Run opens and guests will also have the option to purchase individual Lightning Lane entry for the attraction via the My Disney Experience app on the day of their visit. For details, visit DisneyWorld.com.

6 – Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park 25th Anniversary – April 22

2023 marks a special milestone as Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park celebrates its 25th anniversary. With the return of entertainment such as “Festival of the Lion King” and ”Finding Nemo: The Big Blue…and Beyond!,” there has never been a better time to explore this one-of-a-kind park. It is the place to encounter wild animals, take in high-speed thrills and even journey to a world beyond belief, Pandora – The World of Avatar. Make plans now to visit this special place that celebrates the magic of nature.

7 – EPCOT Transformation Continues – Late 2023

This fall will bring even more exciting experiences as part of the multi-year transformation of EPCOT. Guests will be able to explore the wonders of water when Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana opens. This fun interactive outdoor trail offers a chance to play and interact with water as it travels from the sky to the oceans and back again. Along the way, guests learn about the importance of water and discover its playful personality – just as Moana did on her heroic voyage.

Fall will also see completion of the new World Celebration neighborhood. As the hub of the park, it will feature different gardens that change with the seasons. It will also be home to the new Communicore Plaza and the new Communicore Hall, the latter offering a place to meet Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse. World Celebration will also anchor the park’s renowned festivals. It is also where guests will discover Dreamers Point, an inspiring overlook showcasing a statue of Walt Disney called “Walt the Dreamer.”

Guests will be treated to the debut of an all-new EPCOT nighttime spectacular later this year. A dazzling display of music, pyrotechnics, lasers and lighting, the show will feature an original composition and evocative selections from the Disney songbook – all woven together to remind us that we are more alike than different.

8 – Disney100 Celebration – Late 2023

Later this year, Walt Disney World Resort will join the global celebration of The Walt Disney Company’s 100th Anniversary – 10 decades of creativity and innovation. Look for more details to come, as EPCOT prepares to host this unforgettable celebration at Walt Disney World.

9 – More Disney Dining Options – Throughout the Year

On April 1, 2023, Narcoossee’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa will welcome guests to an exciting new dining experience. This signature-dining restaurant – renowned for its panoramic views of Seven Seas Lagoon – will introduce a new interior along with a refreshed menu offering a perfect balance of updated classics and new culinary delights. Guests can look forward to the return of house specialties such as lobster bisque and new dishes like Blackened Redfish and tasty plant-based options.

Later this year, more dining delights will debut, including Summer House on the Lake at Disney Springs and The Cake Bake Shop at Disney’s BoardWalk.

10 -Experiencing Walt Disney World Theme Parks

To experience all that Walt Disney World theme parks have to offer, guests need both valid park admission and a park reservation on the same date. Guests can visit DisneyWorld.com for more information about planning their visit.