Heartwarming New Characters and Lyrics Bring Fresh Joy to Disneyland’s Classic It’s a Small World Ride

Quick Smiles:

• Beloved ride gains Pixar characters Miguel and Dante from Coco for Disneyland’s 70th anniversary
• Final verse penned by late Disney legend Richard M. Sherman adds a touching tribute to Mother Earth and unity
• Families share tearful memories of singing along, proving the ride’s timeless power to heal and connect

When Walt Disney first sketched plans for Disneyland, he envisioned a place where imagination could flourish for generations. Today, that vision shines brighter than ever as the park celebrates its 70th anniversary with heartfelt updates to its most iconic attraction.

Imagineers have welcomed Pixar’s Miguel and Dante from Coco into the beloved It’s a Small World ride, joining the cheerful chorus of animatronic friends from around the globe. The addition celebrates the ride’s message of togetherness while honoring Disney’s tradition of blending beloved stories into timeless experiences.

Disney also unveiled a brand-new final verse, the last contribution from legendary songwriter Richard M. Sherman, who passed away in 2024. The gentle lyrics remind guests that Mother Earth unites us in heart and mind, and that the love we give makes us humankind.

“Mother Earth unites us in heart and mind”

“And the love we give makes us humankind”

“Through our vast wondrous land”

“When we stand hand in hand”

“It’s a small world after all.”

Visitors can learn the story behind the new verse by watching the touching short documentary The Last Verse, now playing at Main Street Cinema and available on YouTube. Guests leave the theater smiling, reminded that simple kindness still echoes across the world.

One visitor shared, “My mom’s favorite Disney song and attraction. It makes her cry, because it heals that little girl inside her who grew up way too soon and was an adult way before she should’ve been. One of my most favorite Disneyland memories is taking her hand and singing the song as she looked at everything in the attraction. She said, ‘This is how the world should be. Especially when it comes to children. I need way more pairs of eyes to see it all.’ She was crying. I saw that little girl and I am so happy to have that memory and moment that we shared between us.”

The refreshed ride continues to deliver pure joy, proving that the happiest melodies grow even sweeter with time.

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