Disney World Announces CHANGE for "it's a small world" Ride

There’s a big change coming to an iconic attraction in Magic Kingdom, but it’s not in the way you think.

No, nothing’s being closed, torn down, or physically replaced (although the Liberty Belle Riverboat and Tom Sawyer Island did just close to make way for Piston Peak). However, something vital to an iconic attraction will be changing in just a few short weeks, but you’ll have to listen closely to hear it!

Disney has just revealed that the lyrics to the final verse of “it’s a small world” will be changing in Disney World, AS WELL AS Disneyland! We knew that the lyrics would be changing in Disneyland, but the update that Disney World would be changing too is new.

Richard and Robert Sherman wrote the song’s original verses, but Richard Sherman wrote a new verse as his final gift to Disney, and now that verse will be added to the attractions beginning July 17th. It’ll take place in the final scene of the ride in both versions.

Gregg Sherman, the son of Richard Sherman, explains that the final verse is to “celebrate that there’s more that unites us than divides us, and reinforce the message of that song.” The new lyrics are:

“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.”

If you won’t be inside the parks to listen to the new verse, you can listen to the digital single wherever you listen to music. You can also preorder the “It’s A Small World” (70th Anniversary) special edition vinyl online or purchase it at the Disney Music Emporium starting July 18th, 2025.

We’re looking forward to hearing the new verse on the ride, and are glad it’s coming to both coasts! Looking for more recent Magic Kingdom news? Check out our posts below.