Hey there, Disney fans! It’s been a few weeks since D23, and I’m still soaking in all the updates Disney shared with us. While I know some fans found this year’s event a little underwhelming, I have to say, I actually enjoyed the focus on real-time updates and construction progress for projects that are already moving forward. Give me a look at what is genuinely happening over another round of blue-sky dreaming that gets everyone excited before quietly disappearing into the Disney archives any day!
For me, D23 felt productive. We got a better idea of what is coming, what is already underway, and what we can realistically expect to see taking shape in the parks. But there was one aspect of the presentation that got my Disney-planning brain thinking, and it has me wondering about a project that hasn’t even been announced.
While we all wait somewhat impatiently for the new Coco boat ride being developed at Disney California Adventure, I can’t help but wonder whether its arrival could eventually inspire a similar update over at EPCOT. Specifically, I’m talking about the Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros in the Mexico pavilion.
Now, before anyone gets too excited, I’m not saying Disney has announced anything here! This is pure speculation on my part. But it is something Disney fans have been wondering about on and off for years. When will we see some new character representation brought into Gran Fiesta Tour? The Three Caballeros are certainly classic Disney characters, and there are plenty of us adult fans who can immediately place them, but I do wonder how recognizable they are to younger guests today. And that’s where I think the Mexico pavilion could be an interesting candidate for a little refresh.
We’ve already seen how Frozen Ever After helped revitalize the Norway pavilion, giving an existing attraction a completely new identity and bringing in a character franchise that has become hugely popular with younger Disney fans. Meanwhile, over in France, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure has given guests another major reason to head into the pavilion and helped create those early-day crowds. Mexico has such a rich opportunity sitting right there, and I think a refreshed boat ride could give the pavilion a similar boost.
So, could the new Coco attraction at Disney California Adventure potentially serve as a testing ground for what Disney might eventually consider in Mexico? It’s certainly an interesting thought. Coco is deeply connected to Mexican culture, family, and storytelling, and a boat-based attraction would provide an opportunity to bring those themes to life. And with the sequel now officially on the way, the opportunities seem endless.
Of course, until Disney says otherwise, Gran Fiesta Tour is staying exactly where it is, and I’m not expecting a sudden construction wall to appear tomorrow! But with the new Coco attraction taking shape on the West Coast, I’m starting to wonder whether Disney could eventually look across the country and see an opportunity waiting for them in the Mexico pavilion.
