Disney World Closures April 17-24: What's Down and When It Returns

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According to AllEars.net, Disney World is managing 25 closures across its parks and resorts between April 17th and April 24th. While the source identifies this broad closure window, the detailed information focuses on several major attractions and areas that have been offline for weeks or months—some with confirmed reopening dates, others still in limbo.

Pete's Silly Sideshow: Character Meet Offline Since January

Pete's Silly Sideshow in Magic Kingdom's Storybook Circus has been temporarily unavailable since January 4th, 2026. The attraction is the primary venue where guests meet Daisy Duck, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy in their circus attire. Disney has not announced a reopening date.

However, character experiences haven't disappeared entirely. While the sideshow remains closed, Goofy and Minnie can be found at the entrance to Storybook Circus, and Donald and Daisy are positioned in the back of Storybook Circus by the restrooms. This represents a workaround for families hoping to collect character signatures and photos during their visit.

Big Top Souvenirs: Structural Repairs Underway

Big Top Souvenirs, the merchandise location inside Storybook Circus, has also been temporarily closed. The tent has been completely taken apart for structural repairs on the building. Disney states the location will "reopen for guests later this year," though no specific date has been provided.

For guests seeking similar merchandise, The Emporium and The Confectionery on Main Street offer comparable items and snacks as alternatives.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: Reopening May 3

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, the Frontierland coaster known as the "Wildest Ride in the Wilderness," offers clearer timeline visibility. The attraction officially closed on January 6th, 2025, and will reopen on May 3rd, 2026. Disney has indicated that a "little bit of new magic" is being added during the maintenance period, though specifics about the enhancements have not been disclosed.

Rivers of America: Permanent Closure, Piston Peak Coming

The Rivers of America, including the Liberty Square Riverboat and Tom Sawyer Island, permanently closed as of July 7th, 2025. The river has been drained and structures on Tom Sawyer Island have been demolished. This closure is part of a larger reimagining: the area will be replaced by Piston Peak, a new Cars-themed land featuring two brand-new attractions.

Disney has not yet released an opening date for Piston Peak, leaving fans uncertain about when this major addition will debut.

Planning Around the Closures

For visitors planning trips during the April 17-24 window, the key takeaway is that several major Magic Kingdom experiences will be unavailable. Character meet-and-greets at Pete's Silly Sideshow are out, though alternative character locations exist. Big Thunder Mountain will remain closed until early May. And the Rivers of America area continues its transformation with no timeline for completion.

The source does not provide details about the remaining 19 closures in the list, so guests should check Disney's official website or app for a comprehensive closure calendar before booking.