Whether it be riding specific attractions, enjoying a certain meal, or even celebrating the holidays, many Disney World vacations are built on traditions — ones that families engage with every time they visit the “Most Magical Place on Earth.”
Magic Kingdom
However, 2025 is seeing a litany of experiences disappear from the resort, some temporarily and some permanently.
Grand Floridian Gingerbread House
The massive gingerbread house in the lobby of the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa has become a holiday institution at Walt Disney World, with some guests making pilgrimages to Disney World only to see the setup. However, due to the ongoing lobby renovations of the hotel’s lobby, which began April 14th, there will be no gingerbread house this year.
Grand Floridian tree and gingerbread house
The hotel’s page on Disney.com currently reads, “Portions of the lobby will close at times, and Guests may encounter changes to their path of travel. While construction will be noticeable during daytime hours, efforts will be made to minimize disruptions — and all pools, dining and other amenities will remain available. As renovations continue at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, the gingerbread display will not be available during the holiday season in 2025.”
No More Post-EPCOT Jellyrolls
For many years, Jellyrolls – – the dueling pianos bar at the Boardwalk hotel – – has been a hangout spot for music-loving guests looking for a drink and tune, especially those coming from a long day at EPCOT. However, those guests will need to find a new watering hole, as the popular location closed for good on April 19th.
Jellyrolls
No More “Movie and a Meal with the Muppets”
To the chagrin of many Disney adults and Muppet fans alike, June 7th will be the final day of operation for both Muppet*Vision 3D and the Muppet-themed PizzeRizzo restaurant, both of which are closing to make way Hollywood Studios’ upcoming Monsters, Inc. land. However, the Muppets will live on, as the characters are set to “take over” the park’s Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster.
Kermit in Muppet*Vision
Miami Dolphin Victory Celebrations at Shula’s
Dolphins fans in the Orlando area will need a new place to celebrate Miami victories as Shula’s Steakhouse – – the restaurant located at the Dolphin hotel, which is named after and themed to the legendary football coach – – is set to close in June. The restaurant will be replaced by Bourbon Steak, from celebrity chef Michael Mira.
Shula’s Steakhouse
No Ride on Big Thunder Mountain
Finally, those who make a ride on the “Wildest Ride in the Wilderness” a tradition are out of like for 2025. The legendary E-Ticket closed for refurbishment in January, and will be closed for the rest of the year at least. According to Disney, the attraction will “reopen with a little bit of new magic in 2026.”
More work to be done!
Some of these Disney World traditions will be back by 2026, while others will pass forever into history, kept alive by the memories of those who’ve enjoyed them over the decades. Stay tuned to DFB for more on Disney World’s evolution.
The New Procedures You Have to Follow in EPCOT
Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!
WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
Which of these Disney traditions will you miss the most? Let us know in the comments below.
Our handy (and portable!) ebook guides make sure you get the best deals and can plan a vacation of a lifetime.
What I REALLY miss is resort purchase delivery. It was amazingly magical to come back home to a phone message to come pick up your purchases at the resort gift shop. Because I did so much at the parks, sometimes I would forget what I’d bought, so to bring that bag back and open it up was just like Christmas.
What I miss is the free magic bands that would come in the mail…did I say free? …before your trip! How exciting that was, especially for the kids. But what I miss most…and have a hard time forgiving Disney for…is the free fast pass.