Tiana's Bayou Adventure News for 2024

Are you ready to embark on a new adventure at the Walt Disney World Resort? Prepare to explore the wonder of the Louisiana bayou when Tiana's Bayou Adventure opens at Magic Kingdom Park in Summer of 2024! This exciting new addition to the "Most Magical Place on Earth" will transport Guests to the enchanting world of the 2009 film, The Princess and the Frog. Join us as we dive into the details of Tiana's Bayou Adventure and discover what makes it a must-visit attraction for Disney fans of all ages.

Overview of Tiana's Bayou Adventure

Tiana's Bayou Adventure is the highly anticipated new attraction coming to Walt Disney World Resort. Replacing the Splash Mountain attraction at both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort, this new adventure will take Guests on a musical journey through the bayou, bringing the story of The Princess and the Frog to life. With new animatronics, original music, and a captivating storyline, Tiana's Bayou Adventure promises to be one of the many highlights of your Disney vacation. Get ready to join Princess Tiana and her familiar and new friends on an adventure like no other.

Theme and Inspiration

At the center of Tiana's Bayou Adventure is the theme of love, adventure, and community. Centered around the beloved character of Princess Tiana, and her new employee-owned cooperative - Tiana's Foods – this attraction celebrates the magic of New Orleans and the joy of music. Walt Disney Animation Studios worked closely with the creative team to bring the Louisiana bayou to life, ensuring that every detail captures the essence of the film. Tiana's Bayou Adventure will be a love letter to the city of New Orleans, showcasing its vibrant culture and the spirit of its people.

The heart of the attraction is fueled by the same message of the film - everyone has the potential to make their dreams a reality. In the words of Walt Disney himself, "if you can dream it, you can do it."

The Story of Tiana's Bayou Adventure

Set after the events of The Princess and the Frog, Tiana's Bayou Adventure unveils a new story surrounding Tiana. From a young age, Tiana has housed a deep love for cooking, instilled by and shared with her father. She has dreamed of opening her own restaurant, somewhere she could celebrate with her community and share the recipes passed down to her by her father. At the end of the film, we see Tiana achieve her dream and open Tiana's Palace. Now, Guests will get to experience the next addition to Tiana's business. Tiana's Foods, based out of an old salt mine and the location for the all-new attraction, is an employee owned cooperative where Tiana has combined the talents of her cooking with those of the local community.

The once decrepit salt mine has been revived into a cultural mecca, complete with a boutique farm and a kitchen used both to create culinary masterpieces and to teach others how to cook themselves. From the details released by the Walt Disney Company, it seems Tiana has created that welcoming community space that she always dreamed of, unifying people through enriching company and delicious food. To celebrate the success of Tiana's Foods and the family and friends who have brought it to life, Tiana wishes to show her thanks by throwing a Mardi Gras party. She is inviting Guests to join her on a journey through the bayou as she collects all the ingredients necessary to bring her culinary masterpieces to life.

Along the way, Guests will encounter friends both familiar and new, all while enjoying tunes from the 2009 film and jazz numbers created by New Orleans artists.

New Orleans Inspiration in Tiana's Bayou Adventure

Stepping into Tiana's Bayou Adventure will feel like stepping into the heart of New Orleans. The attraction will bring the festive party of the Mardi Gras season to life, immersing Guests in the sights, sounds, and flavors of this vibrant city. From the architecture to the music, every element will pay homage to the rich cultural heritage of New Orleans. Whether it’s the iconic architecture or the lively characters, the attraction serves as a love letter to the city, capturing the spirit of celebration and community that defines New Orleans.

Weathervane Crafted by New Orleans Artist

One of the most iconic pieces of New Orleans architecture is their intricately detailed iron-wrought fences and balcony railings. Attention to detail is one of the things the Walt Disney company has always excelled at, putting care into even the smallest of set pieces, and this was no exception when bringing Tiana's Bayou Adventure to life. Disney hired Darryl Reeves to create a weathervane in the signature style he is known for. Mr. Reeves is a third generation Louisiana master blacksmith; his work can be seen all over New Orleans. He's spent nearly fifty years handcrafting metalwork for the city, creating everything from wrought iron fences to intricate custom pieces.

The weathervane Mr. Reeves and his apprentices created for Tiana's Bayou Adventure is one-of-a-kind. It was created using a centuries old technique and incorporates many Adinkra symbols - these are symbols from Ghana that represent concepts or aphorisms. Adinkra symbols are most frequently used on cloth, or pottery for both their decorative use but also for their messages surrounding wisdom. The weathervane crafted by Mr. Reeves and his team includes three Adinkra symbols. The first symbol, found at the base of the weathervane is one that looks similar to a fern and symbolizes endurance or strength. Tiana herself exhibited endurance within the 2009 film when she refused to give up on her dream and pushed until she made it a reality. her unwavering resilience in the face of adversity is what makes her such an inspiration. The second symbol used is centered around the divinity of mother earth, with its many curling and entwining pieces, this symbol is meant to remind people that what is seen above the surface is not the full story. People will see the tree with its many beautiful branches, but not the complex root system that is just as beautiful. The final symbol is Sankofa, a popular Adinkra symbol that looks like a heart and appears in many places across the country. Though it may look similar to a heart, it is actually meant to be a bird looking back at its tail. It symbolizes looking back on the past, on the ancestry of those who have come before and what we can learn from them.

The detail put into this piece of work is evident and the care with which it was brought to life shows. There is passion behind the creation. The metalworkers at Mr. Reeves’ shop are excited for Guests to see this artwork on display and hope that the message of "honoring those who have come before" is evident. Similar to the way in which Tiana honors her father by bringing his dream restaurant to life.

Tiana's Bayou Adventure Mural

While Guests eagerly await their chance to join Tiana on her journey through the bayou, they can take in elements of the queue that also house that New Orleans touch. One of the centerpieces of the queue will be a mural spanning two exterior walls within the queue. Disney hired New Orleans artist, Malaika Favorite, to create a mural that encapsulates the story of The Princess and the Frog, something for Guests to marvel and to help immerse them into the attraction. Favorite currently has artwork on display at the Baton Rouge Gallery and is known for her bright vibrant style that explores the cultural heritage of African Americans.

The mural has been crafted in Favorite's own signature style and draws inspiration from the numerous murals and other artwork that adorns the exterior of buildings throughout New Orleans. The artwork is meant to convey the story of Tiana, a strong black woman who works to make her dreams a reality, told in a bright and vibrant way that is as full of life as the film itself. In the film, Tiana's father tells her to never lose sight of what really matters, and this mural is meant to represent those elements: family, friends, food, music, art and bringing people together.

Incorporation of New Orleans Music

Keeping with the theme of utilizing New Orleans as inspiration for the attraction, Disney has also hired New Orleans natives to create the music for Tiana's Bayou Adventure. Award-winning artists, PJ Morton and Terence Blanchard will be creating original music and new renditions of familiar tunes for the attraction. Four-time Grammy winner, PJ Morton will be writing, producing, and arranging an original score for the attraction. Terence Blanchard, a seven-time Grammy winner and the artists who played all of Louis the Alligator’s trumpet parts in the film, will be creating music for the Tiana's Bayou Adventure queue.

The music will borrow from several musical styles that either originated or have a permanent residence in New Orleans - whether it's the joie de vivre of New Orleans jazz performed by Prince Naveen's brother, Prince Ralphie, or the band of animatronic critters playing Zydeco-style music.

Anticipated Highlights of Tiana's Bayou Adventure

The concept of Tiana's Bayou Adventure promises to deliver a magical and musical adventure like no other. With innovative animatronics, stunning visuals, and a captivating storyline, Guests can look forward to encountering familiar faces from the film, including Prince Naveen or the jazz playing alligator, Louis, as they embark on a log flume adventure through the bayou. From the moment they step into the attraction, Guests will be transported to the world of The Princess and the Frog, where music, adventure, and magic intertwine to create a truly unforgettable experience. Get ready to be immersed in the wonders of the bayou and let the music guide you on this enchanting journey.

Tiana's Bayou Adventure Animatronics

One thing that many Disney Parks enthusiasts are looking forward to are the style of animatronic being used within the attraction. In recent years, theme park companies have faced backlash for their tendency to use screens or projections in their newer attractions, something that can be perceived as cheap compared to a traditional full-model animatronic. Rides like recent addition, Frozen Ever After attraction at EPCOT, feature animatronics with projected faces, and while the effect can be cool, it tends to be less engaging that the fully sculpted pieces most Guests have grown accustomed to. Tiana's Bayou Adventure does not seem to be moving in the screen/projection direction, but rather they will be featuring animatronics with fully sculpted faces and a level of fluid movement that have become synonymous with progress in the theme park mechanics world.

Recently, Disney released the first look at one of the Tiana animatronics to be used within the attraction, and it is stunning. We can't wait to see what the rest of Tiana's Bayou Adventure will look like when it opens in summer 2024.

The Significance of More Tiana in Walt Disney World

The inclusion of Tiana's Bayou Adventure at Walt Disney World holds a special significance, as it represents a commitment to representation and diversity. Tiana, as a successful business owner and strong female character, continues to inspire audiences of all ages. By expanding the presence of Tiana and The Princess and the Frog in the park, Disney is celebrating the film's legacy and the positive impact it has had on fans around the world. Tiana's Bayou Adventure serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling and the importance of seeing oneself.

Representation and Diversity

The inclusion of Tiana and the story of The Princess and the Frog at Walt Disney World represents a milestone in Disney's commitment to representation and diversity. As one of the few princesses of color, Tiana has become a beloved character, inspiring audiences of all backgrounds. Carmen Smith, Disney's Creative Development and Inclusion Executive, emphasizes the importance of telling stories that resonate with diverse audiences and the positive impact it has on fans to see themselves represented in the magic of Disney. Tiana's Bayou Adventure will introduce new characters and showcase the vibrant culture of New Orleans, further enriching the diversity of experiences at the park. Disney's commitment to representation and diversity ensures that the magical experience of the park is inclusive and welcoming to all Guests.

Tiana's Influence on Disney's Legacy

Princess Tiana's influence on Disney's legacy cannot be understated. As the first African-American Disney princess, Tiana broke new ground, inspiring audiences and opening the door to more diverse storytelling. The success of The Princess and the Frog not only spawned a new Disney princess, but also showcased the power of representation and the impact it has on fans of all ages. Tiana's Bayou Adventure pays homage to the film that started it all, celebrating the story, characters, and music that have become a beloved part of Disney's legacy. By expanding the presence of Tiana in Walt Disney World, the park continues to honor the impact and importance of this iconic princess, ensuring that her story will continue to inspire generations to come.

Other Princess and the Frog Experiences at Disney World

Dining Experiences

At Walt Disney World, Guests can Celebrate Soulfully for black history month and enjoy a limited time menu that features some culinary delights inspired by The Princess and the Frog. At the Golden Oak Outpost in Magic Kingdom, Guests can find "Tiana's Famous Beignets" - light, sweet, fluffy beignets with strawberry dipping sauce. Multiple locations, like the Main Street Bakery and The Plaza Restaurant, will be selling "Tiana's Petit Cake,” a vanilla chiffon cake with lemon Chantilly and fresh strawberries. Both of these delicious snacks are available now until March 1st.

Character Meet and Greets

Meeting beloved characters is always a highlight of any visit to the Walt Disney World Resort. One of the best places to meet Tiana herself is right at the heart of the Magic Kingdom. At the Princess Fairytale Hall, you can dig a little deeper and let the good times roll during an enchanted encounter with Princess Tiana. Tiana has consistently provided some of the best character interactions in our experience. Weather you wish to talk to her about cooking or frogs, she's sure to have a passionate and engaging conversation no matter the topic.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Tiana's Bayou Adventure Opening?

While the exact opening date has not been announced, the Walt Disney Company has revealed that the attraction will open sometime in summer of 2024. We will update you with an official opening date as soon as it is announced!

Will Tiana's Bayou Adventure Have a Drop?

Yes, Tiana's Bayou Adventure will feature the same drop of its predecessor, Splash Mountain. The attraction will take place in the same log flume style vehicle and travel along the same ride path, complete with the big drop at the end and the smaller drops spread throughout the attraction. Smaller riders may not be able to experience this attraction, as the height requirement is currently listed on the Walt Disney World Resort website as 40 inches or 102 centimeters or taller. For the youngest of your group, we would suggest taking them to meet Princess Tiana at Princess Fairytale Hall, which does not have a height requirement and still provides the Disney magic you may come to expect while on vacation.

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For more information about the Tiana's Bayou Adventure attraction, check out our blog.