There are lots of exciting things happening in Disney World in October.
EPCOT
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party has been going on since August, but the Halloween energy around the parks during the day really ramps up during October. But there’s a completely different reason we’re so nervous about October 16th in EPCOT.
We’re so excited for the official opening of Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana on October 16th. We saw Cast Member previews happen in August and Annual Passholder/DVC previews just started in September. And the results of that are exactly why we’re so nervous.
Journey of Water preview line
For lack of better words, Annual Passholder and DVC previews were CHAOTIC on September 24th when they began. Disney started with a standby line but by 10AM switched to a Virtual Queue system when the line got too long. Guests also waited in an extremely long line to join the virtual queue (which was not necessary, you could join from your phone anywhere in the park).
Annual Passholder preview crowds
However, the NEXT DAY, September 25th, no virtual queue was being used — the attraction was back to a standby queue. So…what in the world does that mean for the actual opening day?
Standby Queue
Don’t worry — no matter what happens, we can help you prepare. We suggest checking with Cast Members as soon as you enter the park and politely asking them if Disney is using a standby or virtual queue. If it’s a standby queue, BOOK IT to that line! We suggest entering the park as early as you can regardless of which line is being used.
Journey of Water
If it switches to a Virtual Queue, pull out your phone and book a slot for you and your party. The sooner the better, because there’s no telling if the virtual queue will fill up. We’ll be in the park on the day and will be bringing you all the latest updates, so be sure to stay tuned to DFB!
Here’s how Journey of Water compares to other Disney World attractions!
Want MORE Details About EPCOT’s MASSIVE Transformation?
NEW Festival Areas, Gardens, a Meet-and-Greet Area, and More Are Coming to EPCOT
Learn All About Journey of Water -- Inspired by Moana
Has the Mary Poppins Project at Disney World Been Canceled?
What’s Been CUT From the EPCOT Transformation?
SNEAK PEEK at the NEW Fireworks Show Coming to EPCOT
Click HERE for All the News and Details about EPCOT’s Transformation!
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Which are you hoping for on October 16th? Tell us in the comments!
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I have a question concerning the pylons that have recently been added to the fountain in front Spaceship Earth: Are these the same pylons that were in the fountain when Epcot opened. I first went to Epcot in June 1983, and the three pylons were there then and for a number of years afterwards, then they were gone for many years, and now they are back again, so I was wondering about the change. They are one of my favorite displays at Epcot. Thanks for any info that you can share!
That won’t last long as the attraction is hardly worth the long wait for it to happen. Nice little walk through to avoid the sun but that’s about it.
I doubt the 16th will be that bad, if only because it’s forecast to relatively cool that day with a high of only 72F, probably more like low to mid 60s until after noon. Not exactly splash pad weather.
Local schools do not have school on Monday, either, so that will add more to the crowd as well.