Inside Disney’s Play ‘n’ Preview 2025: New Attractions, Insider Tips, and Spark Society Member Insights

This week, I had the chance to step behind the scenes at Walt Disney World’s Play ‘n’ Preview event—a golden-ticket invitation that every Disney fan (myself included) dreams about. But what made it truly special wasn’t just the access to Disney’s latest, most closely guarded experiences. It was knowing I could bring these stories and insights back to you.
 
For those who may not know, Spark Society is WorldVia Travel Network’s very own community of member advisors with a passion for Disney Destinations in all their forms—theme parks, cruises, and everything in between. Whether you’re a Disney veteran or just starting to dip your toes into the magic, Spark Society is where we connect, share strategies, and inspire each other.
 
So while I was the lucky one walking through those preview gates, I went with all of you in mind—ready to gather the details that will help our members deliver even more magic to every client.
 

A Parrot, a Pirate, and a Little Bit of Tiki Room Joy

Confession time: my inner child has a permanent seat in the Enchanted Tiki Room. So when I walked into Magic Kingdom’s brand-new Beak and Barrel lounge—a Pirates of the Caribbean-themed hideaway in Adventureland where Captain Meridian “Merry” Goldwyn and Rummy the talking parrot hold court—I was instantly hooked. Pirate flags, weathered maps, and a tropical vibe that feels both classic and brand new. Rummy? He’s the feathered, wisecracking heart of the place, and yes, he can belt out a sea shanty or two.
 
This isn’t just another themed lounge; it’s an experience waiting to be woven into your clients’ stories. Imagine telling families about the moment their kids trade pirate jokes with Rummy, or the selfie-worthy scenes that make memories (and Instagram feeds) pop. This is the kind of detail that transforms a trip from “just another vacation” to “remember that time at Disney…?”
 

The Starlight Parade: Where Nostalgia Gets a Glow-Up

If you ever found yourself humming along to the Main Street Electrical Parade as a kid—welcome to my world. The new Starlight Parade is Disney nostalgia, supercharged. All the glowing floats and iconic tunes are there, but now with a tech-forward twist and a cast of newer favorites lighting up the night. I caught myself grinning ear to ear, completely transported.
 
For advisors, this is pure gold: a reason to reach out to those “we’ve already done Disney” clients. The Starlight Parade is a must-see, designed to spark new excitement and bring families (and their cameras) back for more.
 

Details That Matter—And Why You Should Care

Let’s get specific. Here’s what’s coming soon, previewed at Play ‘n’ Preview, and why it should be front and center in your next client pitch:
 

Previewed at the 2025 Play ‘n’ Preview Event: Coming Soon

Magic Kingdom
  • Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away Parade
    A dazzling new nighttime parade debuted in summer 2025, with classic and new Disney characters.
  • Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Refresh
    Frontierland: story-driven upgrades and new theming for a fresh take on a classic favorite.
  • Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin Upgrades
    Tomorrowland: Improved vehicles and interactive features for fun for all ages.
  • Pirates of the Caribbean Lounge: The Beak and Barrel
    Adventureland: an immersive pirate-themed tavern with Rummy, the wisecracking parrot.
Animal Kingdom
  • Zootopia: Better Zoogether!
    Tree of Life; 4D, multi-sensory show for all ages, opening winter 2025.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
  • Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster gets Muppet-fied
    Sunset Boulevard; Dr. Teeth & The Electric Mayhem take over for a high-energy, music-filled ride.
  • Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After
    The brand-new live show opened in summer 2025, and it is perfect for fans of Disney’s darker side.
  • The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure
    Stage show with puppets and physical sets, opened in summer 2025.
EPCOT
  • Test Track 3.0
    Reimagined attraction reopened late summer 2025, with new features and a focus on transportation history.
  • Spaceship Earth Lounge
    An elegant new lounge experience connected to Spaceship Earth was opened in late spring 2025.
Pro Tip for Advisors:
Stay up to date and access the latest marketing materials and training for all these new offerings at disneytravelagents.com.
 

Turning My Experience Into Our Collective Advantage

Disney’s always innovating, and so are we. Our job? Stay curious, keep sharing, and make sure our clients never outgrow that sense of wonder. I’ve shared my experience, but now I’d love to hear yours—whether it’s a magical moment you’ve had at Disney, a standout client story, or a creative way you’ve brought the magic to life.
 
Let’s keep the conversation going: share your Disney insights, tips, and favorite memories with the Spark Society community. Together, we’ll continue to inspire each other—and help every client create their own unforgettable Disney adventure.
 
A special thank you to Disney Destinations for inviting me to experience the Play ‘n’ Preview event firsthand. Your hospitality and commitment to innovation continue to inspire our entire advisor community. It’s a privilege to share these updates with Spark Society and our clients, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to bring these magical stories back to our network.
 
Here’s to more adventures, more stories, and more Disney magic—one parade, one parrot, and one unforgettable trip at a time.

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