A Hero Universe, Star Wars Land and Pixar Pier

A series of major announcements made at the D23 Expo reveal that Disney Parks will continue to be a prime vacation destination for families. Plans for new attractions, expansions and experiences include the following at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim:

The official name for the Star Wars Land at Disneyland has been announced

The 14-acre land will be named Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. It’s a $1 billion expansion behind Frontierland that will feature a major thrill ride where guests will be given a chance to fly the Millennium Falcon Spaceship (Perhaps similar to Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey at Universal . A second ride will place guests in an epic battle between the First Order and the Resistance although not too many details other than these were disclosed. A Star Wars cantina with a live DJ was also discussed, though no confirmation was made on whether Disneyland will begin selling alcoholic beverages. Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is slated to open in Summer of 2019.

A new “Pixar Pier” will replace Paradise Pier at the Disney California Adventure Park

Described as the upcoming “home of the Pixar Characters” the Paradise Pier will be replaced to showcase more Pixar-themed characters and details. The transformation is expected to be completed by next summer. As part of this project, a Pixar Parade and Pixar Fireworks Show will be included.

Superhero Universe will come to Disney California Adventure Park

The Summer of Heroes ends in less than 60 days but plans to expand Hollywood Land and make it a permanent Marvel Heroes universe were revealed at D23. The Disney Parks Blog says: “Soon, the Guardians of the Galaxy will be joined by Spider-Man and the Avengers in what will become a completely immersive Super Hero universe at the park.” This expansion possibly take over the adjacent “it’s a bugs land”.

Paint the Night Parade to Return to Disney California Adventure Park

Fans had wondered what was happening to this spectacular nighttime parade that showcases over a million LED lights. Once the Main Street Electrical Parade returned to Disneyland for a limited time, Disney didn’t say much in terms of where Paint the Night was going. At the D23 Expo, it was revealed the parade is headed to California Adventure.

Cars Land Will Get a Halloween Transformation in 2017

A Halloween overlay at Cars Land and possible dance parties will take over this Fall. Few details were shared except that guests will now have a new place to enjoy the season and take Spooktacular Halloween-themed photos.