A Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow: The Ever-Changing Carousel of Progress

Modern living room with family enjoying music and a dog, scenic window view.

Published on May 28, 2026 by Will

For over 60 years, the Carousel of Progress has stood as a testament to optimism, innovation, and family, showcasing how technology impacts daily life while highlighting that people remain constant amidst change.

Originating from Walt Disney’s initial plans for Edison Square in the 1950s, the attraction evolved from a concept about electricity and technology transforming the American family, although Edison Square was never constructed.

Edison Square entrance with people, vintage car, and colorful buildings.

Walt Disney and a female animatronic sit together, reading a book.

Two men interact, one reading a script, in a vintage setting.

The concept was brought to life for the 1964–1965 New York World’s Fair as Carousel of Progress, featuring the first use of the iconic rotating theater and the memorable anthem by the Sherman Brothers. Walt Disney's personal involvement ensured even the smallest details embodied optimism and innovation.

After the World’s Fair, the attraction moved to Disneyland in 1967 with updated scenes culminating in Progress City, foreshadowing its eventual relocation to Walt Disney World in 1975 where it has continued to evolve.

Illustration of the Carousel of Progress building with people and trees.

Man in blue sweater presenting in front of a colorful backdrop and audience.

Over the years, the attraction has seen new scripts, voice actors, and updated scenes to maintain relevance. The original theme song was temporarily replaced in Florida but has since returned. The most recent major update occurred in 1994.

Looking to the future, Walt Disney himself will be introduced as an Audio-Animatronics figure in a new opening scene inspired by his 1964 special, recreating iconic props and moments from Disney’s history.

All scenes will be refreshed to showcase new decades, starting from the 1960s to a possible future, focusing on relatable eras for guests with updated music, fashion, technology, and experiences.

A futuristic living room with family members and a dog enjoying leisure time.

Illustration of a man and woman in a futuristic setting with a dog.

Illustration of two figures representing past and future in a theatre setting.

The updated acts include the 1960s moon landing, a family Halloween in 1985 highlighting household gadgets, the 1999 countdown to the new millennium embracing the Internet, and a glimpse at a futuristic home with robots and space travel.

Imagineers have carefully ensured that physical props, artwork, and design elements accurately reflect each era, maintaining the attraction’s charm and authenticity.

A new attraction poster has also been revealed, honoring the original Disneyland debut poster while capturing the spirit of both past and future.

The Carousel of Progress will close temporarily starting July 6, 2026, with an expected reopening in 2027 as it undergoes these exciting enhancements.

These changes aim to introduce the attraction to a new generation of fans while respecting the enduring heart and history created by Walt Disney himself.

To read more about this, visit the Official Disney Parks Blog post here.
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