Disneyland is set to debut a fresh and vibrant ride on November 15, 2024, known as Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, which reimagines the former Splash Mountain. This new attraction is inspired by Disney’s 2009 animated film The Princess and the Frog, starring Tiana, Disney’s first Black princess.
The updated ride replaces the previous Splash Mountain, which had been tied to the controversial Song of the South, a 1946 film that drew criticism for promoting racial stereotypes. Disney has disowned the film, and transforming Splash Mountain into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is a move in line with the company’s vision of inclusivity and modern storytelling.
A Journey Through the Bayou with Princess Tiana
Visitors will be whisked into a lively New Orleans adventure as they join Princess Tiana, Prince Naveen, and their friends on an exhilarating Mardi Gras celebration. As the story picks up after the events of the movie, Tiana is preparing for her first-ever Mardi Gras party. Along the way, she realizes she’s missing a special ingredient to make the party complete—and riders become part of the quest as her “Special Spice.”
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Accompanying Tiana in this bayou journey are familiar characters like Louis, the trumpet-playing alligator, and Mama Odie, the lively and mystical healer. The vibrant scenes will be brought to life with the help of 48 cutting-edge audio-animatronics, designed to showcase the spirit of New Orleans through live music, dance, and colorful decorations.
Immersive Music and Advanced Technology
The ride features a soundtrack arranged by Grammy-winning musicians PJ Morton and Terence Blanchard, known for their New Orleans roots and incredible musical contributions. Riders will be treated to live performances of classic songs from the movie, including “Gonna Take You There,” as well as new original tracks like “Special Spice,” sung by Princess Tiana’s voice actress Anika Noni Rose.
To enhance the ride’s experience, Disney Imagineering has pushed the boundaries of its animatronic technology, installing fully electric “Tiana-matronics” and a collection of bayou critters performing on makeshift instruments. These bands will play Zydeco, Rara-style, and Afro-Cuban music, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
Transformation of Critter Country into Bayou Country
Alongside the ride’s overhaul, Disneyland is converting Critter Country into Bayou Country, reflecting the spirit of The Princess and the Frog. Themed shops like Louis’ Critter Club and Ray’s Berets will offer ride-inspired merchandise, while the Hungry Bear restaurant will serve up Cajun and Creole-inspired dishes to further immerse guests in the Southern experience.
This reimagined land, set to open in November, is part of Disneyland’s ongoing effort to offer culturally inclusive attractions, giving new life to a classic part of the park while honoring Disney’s commitment to diversity and representation.
As visitors prepare to smell the beignets in the air and hear the music of New Orleans, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure promises to be a heartwarming, energetic, and memorable experience that transports guests to the heart of the bayou.