Disney fans have long speculated about the arrival of a Villains-themed land at Magic Kingdom, and recent updates suggest that construction is now “on the horizon.” This new addition, which will replace Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America, promises to bring a darker, more thrilling side to the park. Here’s a detailed look at the timeline, current progress, and what we know so far about this highly anticipated project.
The Journey to Villains Land
Initial Tease at the 2022 D23 Expo
The concept for Villains Land was first introduced during the 2022 D23 Expo as part of the “Beyond Big Thunder Mountain” project. While the initial plans included themes from Coco and Encanto, the focus eventually shifted solely to a Villains-themed land, capturing the imagination of Disney fans worldwide.
Confirmation and Concept Art in 2024
At the 2024 D23 Expo, Disney officially confirmed that Villains Land would move forward. Concept art was unveiled, showcasing a dark and immersive environment that would bring Disney’s most iconic villains to life. This announcement marked a significant step in transitioning the project from a “Blue Sky” concept to a tangible plan.
Current Progress and Timeline
Preparatory Work
While construction has not officially begun, Disney has been laying the groundwork for the project. Key milestones include:
- Permitting Approvals: Disney secured a water management permit in early 2025, a crucial step for the land’s development.
- Land Clearing: Backstage areas have been cleared to support construction efforts, including laydown yards for equipment and materials.
Closure of Tom Sawyer Island and Rivers of America
In mid-2025, Disney announced the permanent closure of Tom Sawyer Island and the Rivers of America to make way for Villains Land. By July 2025, these areas were officially closed, and the process of draining the Rivers of America began shortly thereafter.
What’s Next?
The most anticipated news of the panel came out of Walt Disney World, where the new show “Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After” recently premiered and construction for the previously revealed villains-themed land is on the horizon. Walt Disney World
Disney has stated that construction is “on the horizon,” but a specific groundbreaking date has not been announced. Based on current progress, it’s likely that major construction efforts will begin in 2026, with an opening date potentially in the early 2030s.
What to Expect from Villains Land
Immersive Theming
Villains Land is expected to feature dark, atmospheric environments that reflect the personalities of Disney’s most infamous characters. From Maleficent to Jafar, the land will likely offer a unique blend of attractions, dining, and entertainment that celebrates the darker side of Disney storytelling.
A New Era for Magic Kingdom
This addition represents a significant shift for Magic Kingdom, introducing a theme that contrasts with the park’s traditionally lighthearted and family-friendly atmosphere. Villains Land aims to provide a thrilling experience for guests while expanding the park’s appeal to a broader audience.
Conclusion
The development of Villains Land at Magic Kingdom marks an exciting new chapter for Walt Disney World. While construction is still in its early stages, the project promises to bring a fresh and immersive experience to the park. As Disney continues to refine its plans, fans can look forward to updates and milestones that bring this ambitious vision closer to reality.
Stay tuned to the DVC Shop blog and subscribe to our newsletter to get our latest articles delivered to your inbox for more details as this project progresses.
Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
