Disneyland has set the stage for the return of its beloved nighttime spectacle, Fantasmic!, with an official comeback date of May 24, 2024. The announcement comes after the show’s unexpected hiatus, following a fire in April 2023 that destroyed the Maleficent dragon prop, a signature element of the performance.
The new iteration of Fantasmic! will omit the dragon, instead featuring a fresh battle sequence between Mickey and Maleficent, infused with new special effects. The show’s return is timed with the Memorial Day weekend, traditionally marking the start of the park’s bustling summer season.
In the interim, Disneyland has kept the magic alive along the Rivers of America with alternative entertainment, including live music and the projection show “The Heartbeat of New Orleans.” These attractions have provided guests with a semblance of the nighttime allure typically offered by Fantasmic!, though the absence of the full-scale show has had a notable impact on evening crowd patterns and ride wait times.
Anticipation for the renewed Fantasmic! is high, as fans look forward to experiencing the updated show that has been a Disneyland staple for over three decades. Disney has teased the addition of “exciting new magic” and potential further enhancements to the show, sparking speculation and excitement about what the new Fantasmic! experience will bring.
