Domestic Demand To Drive Disney Parks, Experiences
Roundup: Pirates tavern gets a name, prices for new GEO-82 lounge announced, new summer deals
Hi all! We hope that you let the big news about the seventh Disney park coming to Abu Dhabi settle and are ready to look more closely at what’s going on with Disney World and Disneyland.
In this roundup, we will first examine how Disney views the rest of the year financially regarding domestic parks, and then we’ll have some news about what’s coming up.
Domestic Demand To Drive Disney Parks, Experiences
Despite broader economic concerns impacting consumer spending, The Walt Disney Company’s Parks and Experiences segment is demonstrating robust growth and future optimism, according to remarks made during the company’s second-quarter earnings call.
Disney CEO Bob Iger and Disney CFO Hugh Johnston highlighted strong domestic park bookings, ongoing international engagement despite some spending adjustments, and significant investment plans to further enhance the guest experience globally.
This is on top of the announcement that Disney entered a partnership with Miral to create a new theme park and resort in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
Johnston, speaking on the earnings call, indicated a positive outlook for the Experiences business. Bookings for Walt Disney World in the third quarter are currently up 4%, with approximately 80% of the quarter accounted for. Looking further ahead, fourth-quarter bookings are showing even stronger momentum, up 7% with 50% to 60% of that period already booked. This strong performance has contributed to an anticipated higher-end result within the previously issued guidance of 6% to 8% growth for the Experiences division this year.
Addressing the international market, Johnston acknowledged that while per capita spending in China is currently lower due to consumer economic challenges, attendance remains “quite good.” He reassured investors that the situation is not worsening and that the company is comfortable with the level of engagement in that market, considering the broader economic context. Regarding international attendance at domestic parks, while it hasn’t fully returned to pre-COVID levels, it remains in the double digits, with strong domestic attendance more than compensating for any slight mix impact.
Instead, the company is focused on “turbocharging” existing businesses through substantial capital investment. Iger reiterated plans to invest approximately $30 billion to expand Walt Disney World in Florida and Disneyland in California, underscoring a strong belief in these domestic locations. Furthermore, the company intends to pursue expansion in all current operating locations.
Latest News
Pirates of the Caribbean tavern name announced: Disney World has announced the name of the new Pirates of the Caribbean tavern under construction in the Magic Kingdom and its backstory. The Beak and Barrel is scheduled to open later this year in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom. According to the backstory, the pirate pub was established by the legendary pirate rumrunner, Captain Meridian “Merry’ Goldwyn, and her talkative first mate, Rummy. Rummy serves as the tavern’s quartermaster keeping an eye on the place from his roost high atop the bar, sharing tales of piracy and leading the bar in a toast or two. Read more
Prices for new GEO-82 lounge in EPCOT: The prices for the new adult-exclusive lounge – GEO-82 – that will be nestled within Spaceship Earth in EPCOT, have been released. And if you’re ready to spend $28 for the Brown Butter Old Fashioned or $17 for a zero-proof cocktail then this is the place for you. Complete price list.
New Disney summer Annual Passholder magnet is Maleficent: It’s going to be a Maleficent summer. At least for those who want the new Disney summer Annual Passholder magnet, featuring the iconic Maleficent design. Passholders can go to EPCOT from May 14 through July 31, 2025. during V.I.PASSHOLDER Summer Days to pick up the magnet. You can claim the magnet at Creations Shop at EPCOT during regular park operating hours. Read more
List of Limited-Time Summer Magic Coming to Disney World: This summer, Disney World’s special celebration is called “Cool Kid Summer.” Along with the special discounts being offered are unique, limited-time summer magic, Disney announced. From May 27 through Sept. 1, Disney World will feature DJ-fueled dance parties, surprise character appearances and hands-on activities. Read more
Disney World New Florida Resident Summer Magic Deal: Disney World has announced a new Florida resident deal for the summer 2025. The current Florida Discover deal ends on May 23, 2025. The new four-day deal for a total price of $240 ($60 per day) is available for visits from May 18 through Sept. 27, 2025, with an advance park reservation that is subject to availability. Read more
Disneyland Upgrades Entry Gates: Upgrades to the park entry gates across the Disneyland Resort are being introduced. The automated gates, similar to those seen at some passport and border control areas when entering a country, will allow guests to scan their tickets and take their photos at the entrance. Read more
Disney Springs Hotels Teacher Rates: In appreciation of educators and their hard work, Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels are offering special summer rates exclusively for teachers. Available throughout the entire summer, this exclusive offer invites teachers to enjoy unforgettable stays just steps from world-class shopping, dining, and magical memories at Walt Disney World Resort — with rates starting as low as $93 per night. Read more
Freeform Brings Back ‘30 Days of Disney’: Get ready to dive into a month-long celebration of all things Disney. Freeform is bringing back its popular “30 Days of Disney” programming event this summer, promising weeks packed with beloved classics, feel-good favorites, and exciting premieres. Read more