What the News from Destination D23 Really Means for Walt Disney World

<p>There's a lot of hype following the big announcements at this year's Destination D23 Event at Walt Disney World. But what many have missed is that several things have changed since last year's big announcements. So what's real, what can be trusted and what's as clear as mud for the future of Walt Disney World?</p><p><strong>The Big News for Disney Parks from Destination D23</strong></p><p> </p><p>We learned as much from what was said as we did from what was not said.</p><p> </p><p><strong>What's Coming to Disney's Magic Kingdom Park</strong></p><p> </p><p>Hatbox Ghost will be back at the Haunted Mansion in November, but not in the way you may think. He will appear "wherever and whenever he pleases," implying that you may or may not see him on the ride and likely not in the same place each time.</p><p> </p><p>Country Bear Jamboree is changing, this time significantly. An all-new show is coming, complete with a whole new act and new songs. The new show will be modeled after the musical revues of Nashville, featuring some of your favorite country bears singing popular Disney hits in a variety of country music styles, including pop country, bluegrass, rockabilly and more. Disney offered a sneak peak by showing the recording session for Bear Necessities, which will be in the new show.</p><p> </p><p>Pirates of the Caribbean is getting new ambiance with the addition of a new tavern near the ride. Remember the Barker Bird who used to chat will guests at the entrance of Pirates of the Caribbean? He will be back and living at the new tavern, chatting it up with guests. Big questions are will this be a reimagining of Tortuga Tavern and will they be selling alcohol?</p><p> </p><p><strong>What's Coming to EPCOT</strong></p><p> </p><p>We know that Moana's Journey of Water is opening on October 16 (including a new location for the Moana meet and greet), but we now know that all of World Celebration will open in December. Yes, the walls are finally coming down. </p><p> </p><p>Bigger news is that Test Track will be un