Disney just revealed the most sweeping overhaul in the history of Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress. Every single scene in the Magic Kingdom classic is being replaced when the attraction closes on July 6, 2026, with a reimagined version expected in 2027. Here is a full breakdown of what each act currently shows and exactly what will take its place.
A Quick Note on the Show’s History
The Carousel of Progress holds the record as the most performed stage show in the history of American theater and is one of the oldest attractions at Walt Disney World. It is also the oldest attraction at the resort to have been worked on personally by Walt Disney.
The attraction’s last major update was in 1994, which included an updated finale scene and the return of the original Sherman Brothers’ song. The show has run in that form for more than 30 years. What Disney is announcing today is the first full scene replacement since that update, and it is far more extensive.
Act 1: Turn of the Century vs. The Moon Landing
What it currently shows: The first act is set in spring at the turn of the 20th century, showcasing advances like gas lamps, a hand-cranked washing machine, and a gramophone in the pre-electric era. In the 1994 version, this act is set on Valentine’s Day. John marvels at early automobiles and talks about news of “some kind of flying contraption.”
What’s replacing it: In the summer of 1969, the Carousel family, along with millions around the world, gathers around the television to witness one of humanity’s greatest achievements: the historic moon landing. Disney describes this moment as capturing the spirit of innovation and possibility that has always been at the heart of the attraction.
Act 2: The 1920s vs. Halloween 1985
What it currently shows: The second act features devices such as a radio, sewing machine, and a homemade cooling device during the 4th of July in the 1920s. The family celebrates the power of electricity and its new role in everyday life, with references to Charles Lindbergh suggesting a setting around 1927.
What’s replacing it: For Act 2, guests will see the family on Halloween night in 1985. This scene also sees Sarah stepping into the spotlight, sharing a look at the family’s new appliances and gadgets making their lives easier, while John is seen on the porch handing out candy to trick-or-treaters. Disney also confirms the return of Uncle Orville, still bemoaning the lack of privacy. Expect big hair, neon, and shoulder pads.
Act 3: The 1940s vs. New Year’s Eve 1999
What it currently shows: In the 1940s act, John talks about joining the “rat race” and commuting to work, then enjoying their new television. He is also a big fan of the automatic dishwasher that gives him free time to walk the dog, while the daughter tries to convince a friend to attend college and the mother paints the new rumpus room.
What’s replacing it: With the ’90s drawing to a close, the Carousel family is preparing to ring in the new millennium on New Year’s Eve 1999. Amid the excitement of the countdown to 2000, a new thing called the Internet is bringing John, Sarah, Jimmy, and Patty closer together than ever before. Grandpa has already nodded off before the big countdown, while Grandma sneaks the TV over to wrestling when no one’s looking.
Act 4: Christmas in “The Future” vs. Life Off-Planet
What it currently shows: In the final act, set at Christmastime as imagined in 1994, the son is teaching Grandma how to play his new virtual reality game while the mother programs all of their electronic devices to obey voice commands. Other references in this scene have aged less gracefully, including the family expressing amazement at car phones and laser discs.
What’s replacing it: The final act ventures furthest of all, a sequence inspired by Legendary Disney Imagineer John Hench, who played a pivotal role in the creation and evolution of the attraction. The family appears in a world that may be a little bit off planet, thinking about what life is like in the very distant future. Disney says it still has the heart, the humor, and the dad jokes that make the show so special. Imagineers looked back at original concept sketches by Hench, drawing inspiration from his imaginative vision of the future to design this new scene.
One Big Addition Before It All Begins
Before any of the four acts begin, there is now a new opening that puts Walt Disney himself in the spotlight. In the opening scene of the updated Carousel of Progress, guests will see Walt in the offices of WED Enterprises, the division of the company today known as Walt Disney Imagineering. Just as he did on television six decades ago, Walt will provide guests with context for what they’re about to see, with his signature showmanship. This scene will feature replica and real props like the prototype Tiki bird, the Tower of the Four Winds model, a doll from “it’s a small world,” and more.
This will mark Walt’s first Audio-Animatronic likeness at Walt Disney World, following the debut of a similar figure at Disneyland in 2025 as part of “Walt Disney: A Magical Life.”
When Does It Close?
The current version of Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress will close on July 6, 2026, making July 5 the final day to experience it. The reimagined version is expected to open in 2027, though Disney has not confirmed a specific date.
If a trip before July 5 is on the table, this one is worth making time for. Once it closes, the version of the show that has defined Tomorrowland since 1994 will be gone for good.
