Get the scoop on Splash Mountain’s close date! Learn about the ride’s history, why it’s closing, and what the future holds for Disney World visitors.
Have you ever experienced the thrill of plunging down a log flume ride at Disney World’s Splash Mountain? If so, you may be disappointed to hear that the ride’s days are numbered. Disney recently announced that Splash Mountain will be closing permanently in the near future. But why is this happening, and what does it mean for fans of the ride?
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the history of Splash Mountain, the reasons behind its closure, and what visitors can expect in the future. So grab your poncho and let’s dive in!
History of Splash Mountain
The Birth of Splash Mountain
Splash Mountain first opened at Disneyland in 1989, and was later added to Disney World’s Magic Kingdom in 1992 and Tokyo Disneyland in 1994. The ride was inspired by the 1946 Disney film, “Song of the South,” which has been criticized for its depiction of African American characters.
The Popularity of Splash Mountain
Despite the controversy surrounding its source material, Splash Mountain quickly became a fan favorite at Disney parks around the world. The ride, which features animatronic characters, a catchy soundtrack, and a thrilling log flume drop, has been enjoyed by millions of visitors over the years. Its popularity has even spawned merchandise and a spin-off movie, “The Adventures of Brer Rabbit and Friends.”
Reasons for Closing Splash Mountain
Disney’s Decision
Disney’s decision to close Splash Mountain has been met with mixed reactions from fans. While some are saddened by the loss of a classic ride, others see it as an opportunity for something new and exciting. But why is Disney closing the ride in the first place?
According to Disney, the decision to close Splash Mountain is part of their ongoing efforts to “build a more inclusive environment.” This decision was made in light of the controversy surrounding the ride’s theme, which is based on the 1946 film “Song of the South.” The film has long been criticized for its depiction of African Americans, and Disney has faced pressure to disassociate from it in recent years.
Controversy Surrounding the Ride’s Theme
The controversy surrounding Splash Mountain’s theme is not new. The ride has been criticized for years for its association with “Song of the South,” which has been criticized as racist and offensive. The film has not been released in the United States since the 1980s, and Disney has made it clear that it has no plans to release it in the future.
Despite this, the ride continued to be a popular attraction at Disney World and Disneyland. However, with the current social climate and the increasing focus on diversity and inclusion, Disney felt that it was time to make a change. The decision to close Splash Mountain and retheme it to “The Princess and the Frog” has been met with widespread support, as it represents a step forward in creating a more inclusive and diverse environment for all guests.
Future Plans for Splash Mountain
If you’re a fan of Splash Mountain, you might be wondering what’s next for the iconic ride. Well, Disney has announced that it will be retheming Splash Mountain to feature characters from the 2009 film, “The Princess and the Frog.” This new version of the ride will be called “Tiana’s Riverboat Party,” and it promises to be just as thrilling and entertaining as the original.
Announcement of the new ride theme
On June 25, 2020, Disney announced that it would be retheming Splash Mountain to feature characters from “The Princess and the Frog.” The decision came after years of controversy surrounding the ride’s original theme, which was based on the 1946 film, “Song of the South.” Many critics argued that the film perpetuated racial stereotypes and should not be celebrated in a modern theme park.
The new version of Splash Mountain will follow Tiana and Louis as they prepare for their Mardi Gras performance. Guests will join the characters on a musical adventure through the bayou, complete with vibrant scenes from the film and the signature drops and turns of the original ride.
Explanation of the inspiration for the new theme
“The Princess and the Frog” was chosen as the new theme for Splash Mountain because of its strong ties to New Orleans, which is also the setting of the ride in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. The film tells the story of Tiana, a young woman who dreams of opening her own restaurant in the Big Easy. Along the way, she meets a charming prince who has been turned into a frog, and together they embark on a journey to break the curse and fulfill their dreams.
The new ride will not only offer a fresh take on an old favorite, but it will also celebrate the rich culture and history of New Orleans. With its catchy songs, colorful characters, and thrilling twists and turns, “Tiana’s Riverboat Party” is sure to be a hit with Disney fans of all ages.
Impact on Visitors
Disney Fans React to Closure News
The announcement of Splash Mountain’s closure has sparked a range of reactions from Disney fans. Many have expressed sadness and disappointment, as the ride has been a beloved attraction at both Disneyland and Disney World for decades. Some fans have even started petitions and social media campaigns to try to save the ride.
However, others have applauded Disney’s decision, citing concerns over the ride’s theming. Splash Mountain is based on the controversial 1946 film “Song of the South,” which has been criticized for its racist depictions of African Americans. Some fans have argued that replacing the ride’s theming with a more inclusive and modern concept is long overdue.
How to Enjoy Splash Mountain Before It Closes
If you’re a fan of Splash Mountain, don’t despair just yet! Disney has not announced an official closing date for the ride, so there’s still time to enjoy it before it’s gone for good. However, you may want to act fast, as the ride is likely to become increasingly crowded as more visitors try to experience it one last time.
In the meantime, you can also show your love for the ride by picking up some Splash Mountain merchandise at the parks. From t-shirts to plush toys, there are plenty of souvenirs to help you remember the ride even after it’s gone.
Overall, while the news of Splash Mountain’s closure may be bittersweet, it’s clear that Disney is dedicated to providing its visitors with the best possible experience. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply looking for a fun ride, be sure to make the most of Splash Mountain while you can.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the news of Splash Mountain’s impending closure has left many Disney fans feeling bittersweet. While it’s always sad to say goodbye to a beloved attraction, the promise of a new and exciting ride theme is certainly cause for excitement.
As we await more details about the new ride, visitors can still enjoy Splash Mountain in its current form before it closes for good. And with so much to see and do at Disney World, there’s no shortage of other attractions to explore in the meantime.
At Luv68, we’ll be keeping a close eye on any new developments regarding Splash Mountain and other Disney World news. Stay tuned for all the latest updates, and happy park-hopping!
