This week, Pixar Fest details have been announced, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is showing real progress, an entire land is closing, a surprise encounter happened for guests at Soarin’, new CEO possibilities, we talk about all the D23 Expo 2024 details, and more! Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/. Check out all of our current partners and exclusive discounts at https://www.dlweekly.net/promos. News: We know a lot more about some things coming to Pixar Fest this summer. A new Club Pixar nighttime party will take place in the Hollywood Backlot in Disney California Adventure, the Pixar Pals Playtime Party will debut at the Fantasyland Theatre, Pixar-themed food and marketplaces will be available, and of course lots of merchandise options. – https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2024/03/10-things-you-need-to-know-about-pixar-fest-at-disneyland/ https://www.micechat.com/374996-save-the-date-disneyland-announces-the-full-slate-of-events-for-2024/ Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is moving right along and is looking closer and closer to completion! This week, plants and flowers appeared on the mountain, making it look more alive and inviting. This is just the first step towards completion, but it is nice to see from the outside. – https://www.micechat.com/382454-disneyland-update-new-gates-blooming-bayou-pink-trees/ An entire land is closing soon for a bit. May 1st, Critter Country will temporarily close to make room for the completion of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, along with the conversion of two existing locations into the Tiana theme. Louis’ Critter Club will take over the left side of Pooh Corner, and Ray’s Berets will replace The Briar Patch. Both locations seem to be keeping the same kinds of merchandise as before, just changing theming. – https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2024/03/disneyland-announces-2-shops-inspired-by-the-princess-and-the-frog/?CMP=SOC-DPFY24Q2wo0307240001F A once in a lifetime experience happened for guests boarding Soarin’ Over California. Chief Flight Attendant Patrick, portrayed by Patrick Warburton, surprised guests dressed as his safety spiel character. He alluded to his other notable Disney character, Kronk from the Emperor’s New Groove. – https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2024/03/disneys-soarin-star-patrick-warburton-surprises-fans-at-ride/ Toontown is getting a new popcorn bucket featuring one of the cutest characters in Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway. Chuby is the name of the bird featured at the end of the attraction and is now a fun food container! The new popcorn bucket will be available at the Toontown popcorn cart. – https://www.micechat.com/382454-disneyland-update-new-gates-blooming-bayou-pink-trees/ One of our favorite locations in Downtown Disney is closed for an extended refurbishment. WonderGround Gallery is closed until “next winter” according to the Disneyland website. Some of the artwork is still available for purchase at DisneyHome next door. – WonderGround Gallery in Downtown Disney District Closed for Extended Refurbishment – WDW News Today (wdwnt.com) According to Bloomberg, there are a few candidates being considered to take over the CEO role at Disney in the future. Dana Walden, the Co-Chairman of Disney Entertainment, Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences, and Products, Alan Bergman, Co-Chairman of Disney Entertainment, and Jimmy Pitaro, Chairman of ESPN and Sports Content. Disney may appoint a CEO or President before Iger exits again, but it is not expected to be chosen in 2024. – https://wdwnt.com/2024/03/reports-indicate-four-disney-executives-are-top-picks-to-succeed-bob-iger-as-ceo/ A space visitor from the east coast has made his way to Disneyland. Astronaut Mickey has landed in Tomorrowland “walking” up the support column for the DVC kiosk. Mickey is sporting a new outfit than in Epcot to better match the theming of Tomorrowland. – https://wdwnt.com