Disney Springs continues to change and evolve, with the official removal of a vegan food option, the opening of a brand new restaurant, some extra cheer in this year’s Christmas tree stroll and more as we head into the final weeks of 2023. If you’re planning on visiting Disney Springs in the near future, here are some of the biggest updates you’ll definitely want to know about!
1. Christmas Tree Stroll, Santa Meet and Greet, and other Christmas activities now available
Image: DisneyThe holidays are in full swing at Disney Springs, and with them comes the return of some free, fun activities. First up is the Christmas Tree Stroll, which brings back returning trees based on Moana, The Haunted Mansion, Lion King and more. New this year is a Disney Cruise Line tree celebrating the new Disney Treasure ship as well as a tree inspired by the new film Wish.
Also new on the stroll this year, guests can interact with select trees via a MagicBand+. Six select trees on the trail, including a Nightmare Before Christmas tree, are marked with a special sign that indicates that a wave of a MagicBand+ will trigger a colorful surprise.
Elsewhere at Disney Springs, guests can meet Santa in Once Upon a Toy through December 24. Guests who want to meet Santa will need to join the virtual queue when you arrive at this location and then wait for a return time as there is no standby queue for this meet and greet.
Image: DisneyFinally, guests can enjoy a number of other holiday offerings happening around Disney Springs, including “snoap” flurries that kick off nightly beginning at sundown near the Town Center tree, stilt-walking nutcrackers, rollerblading snowflakes, and even a Santa Sleigh DJ.
2. Local Green Orlando vegan food truck permanently removed
Image: DisneyAfter being open for just over a year, the Local Green Orlando food truck has been permanently removed from Disney Springs, and will not be returning. This location offered plant-based, vegetarian, and pescatarian dishes including a jackfruit pulled BBQ sandwich, french fries, and Elote Street Corn.
3. eet fast casual Indian restaurant now open
Image: DisneyNew Disney Springs eatery eet is now open serving up authentic Indian cuisine in a fast-casual setting created by celebrity Chef Maneet Chauhan. Menu items include shareable dishes like the eet Bread Service with Pimento Whipped Paneer, Tikka Naan Pizza, or the Tandoori Chicken Poutine. Diners can also order salads or customizable bowls filled with rice and a kebab. You can check out the full menu at the official restaurant website here. No reservations are necessary to visit this dining location.
4. New Rothy’s sustainable footwear and accessories store now open in Town Center
Image: Rothy’sRothy’s sustainable footwear store is now open in the Town Center area of Disney Springs. the store shelves feature flats, sneakers, slippers, and more in addition to a wide collection of bags and accessories that are all made from either recycled, natural or renewable materials. Customers can also bring their old Rothy’s products to this location to be recycled and receive a $30 discount for each pair of adult shoes or bag recycled and a $15 discount for kid shoes recycled.