Right after the new year, crowds typically die down at Disney Parks (at least slightly) and Disney takes advantage of that to make changes and refurbish rides and other areas.
Christmas week crowds at Magic Kingdom
2023 will be no exception. While most Disney fans have their eye on the permanent closure of the classic (and controversial) log flume ride Splash Mountain at both Disney World and Disneyland, there are some temporary ride closures you also need to be aware of.
Let’s take a look at the Disney World and Disneyland ride closures happening on January 9th, 2023. You’ll need to know about them if you’re planning a trip!
Disney World
Kali River Rapids
First off, the Animal Kingdom water ride Kali River Rapids will be closing January 9th for a lengthy refurbishment.
Kali River Rapids is closing for refurbishment in 2023.
Disney has not announced a reopening date for this one, so we expect it be closed for a few months, at least.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in Magic Kingdom will also be unavailable starting January 9th!
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will be closed for a few days in 2023.
This is a short closure — Disney says it will be back open on January 14th. But if you’re visiting in January, it’s important to keep this closure in mind.
For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along
Frozen fans also need to know that this show in Disney’s Hollywood Studios will be closing for a few weeks in January.
Hey Kristoff!
For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along will be closed January 9th to January 27th.
Mistakes You Don’t Want to Make in Disney World in 2023
Disneyland
Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln
This Disneyland classic will be closing for a short refurbishment on January 9th, as well.
Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln
Disney says Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln will re-open on January 26th.
‘it’s a small world’
The international boat ride you either love or love-to-hate will be taking a short break in early 2023.
“it’s a small world” Disneyland
“it’s a small world” will be closed January 9th through January 19th.
Indiana Jones Adventure
You won’t be able to follow Indy on this thrill ride for several months this year.
Indiana Jones Adventure
Indiana Jones Adventure will close on January 9th, and we don’t have a re-opening date yet. Disney says it will reopen in Spring 2023.
This Ride Closure Might Change Your Disneyland Plans
And that’s why January 9th will be an important day in Disney Parks. If you are traveling to Disney World in January, we’ve got more tips for you here.
Keep in mind that at Disney World, there are also some resort pool closures happening in January, and the Skyliner will be closing for a short time, as well.
The Disney Skyliner Mistake You’ll Make in January
If you are visiting a Disney Park around January 9th, you’ll want to be sure the members of your party understand that these rides will be closed, so that no one is too disappointed on the trip! Knowing what to expect can make all the difference!
It’s also important to note that when this many rides are closed at once, it can affect wait times in the park, as everyone who might normally be at those attractions is spread out to the others that remain open. Here’s our guide to using Disney Genie+, the paid service that allows you to skip the lines.
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Are you traveling to a Disney Park in January? Tell us about your trip in the comments!
The post Why January 9th Is Such a Big Deal at the Disney Parks This Year first appeared on the disney food blog.