Two people in hard hats ride a small boat on a theme park attraction, surrounded by greenery and white railings.

New Theming Added to Load Area, Imagineers Test “it’s a small world” Before Reopening at Disneyland

Shannen Ace

Before “it’s a small world” at Disneyland reopens, Imagineers are testing the refurbished attraction and adding final touches.

“it’s a small world” Refurbishment

Topiary garden in front of the whimsical "It’s a Small World" ride facade at Disneyland on a cloudy day.

The ride has been closed since January and was originally set to reopen last month. The reopening was delayed to May 9 and then delayed again to next week. Since construction walls came down, we’ve been able to see Imagineers testing the ride.

Two people in hard hats ride a small boat on a theme park attraction, surrounded by greenery and white railings.

During our most recent visit, we spotted two people riding a boat. Testing will continue until the ride reopens, ensuring it runs smoothly with any and all updates.

Two people sit in a decorative boat under a blue striped canopy; a woman bends by bushes in the foreground.

The control towers in the loading area are now decorated with white geometric panels inspired by the “it’s a small world” facade. Before the refurbishment, the towers were just gold with white railings.

The “it’s a small world” music loop was also turned back on in the area. Since January, guests have only heard the general Fantasyland music.

The music loop is the same, but “it’s a small world” will get a new verse on July 17 as a tribute to the Sherman brothers. “The Last Verse” was written by Richard M. Sherman before his passing in 2024. Listen to it below.

When the ride reopens this month, it will have new “Coco” dolls. During the park’s 70th anniversary celebration, the facade will be illuminated by the new projection show “Tapestry of Happiness.”

For more Disneyland Resort news and info, follow Disneyland News Today on TwitterFacebook, and Instagram. For Disney Parks news worldwide, visit WDWNT.

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.