It is official. The Maelstrom is permanently closing on October 7, 2014 to make way for a “Frozen” ride! Tom Staggs, Chairman, Walt Disney Parks & Resorts stated “The new attraction, which replaces Maelstrom, will take our guests to Arendelle and immerse them in many of their favorite moments and music from the film. The pavilion will also include a royal greeting location where Anna and Elsa can meet our guests. We think these “Frozen” elements are great complements to the Norway Pavilion, which showcases the country and region that inspired the film.”

What are YOUR thoughts?! I asked this question yesterday to my Facebook viewers and the majority of them strongly feel Epcot is an educational place where guests go to learn and partake in various foods, wines and activities from other cultures around the world. While you can meet and have your photograph taken with Belle at the France Pavilion, Snow White at the Germany Pavilion, and Mulan in the China Pavilion, none of these countries have rides dedicated to these films. Granted, ‘Frozen‘ has far surpassed even ‘Beauty and the Beast’s’ records, however, as one viewer so wisely stated, “I know “Frozen” is huge right now, but I think any of the other movies would have been just as big had they been released today.” I tend to strongly agree with this statement, especially when it comes to ‘Beauty and the Beast.’

I personally hate to see the Maelstrom go! Yes, I agree the ride needed some updating, however, a “Frozen” takeover is not exactly what I had in mind. While I myself enjoy “Frozen” like the majority of the world, it saddens me to think that Elsa is overtaking Disney. In less than one year Elsa and Anna are now in three of the four Walt Disney World theme parks. I understand the need as so many children weren’t having the opportunity to meet the sisters and leaving Walt Disney World with their dreams crushed. This definitely did not need to happen. Kuddos to Disney for bringing the sisters to more locations so that all children have an opportunity to meet them. However, please  let us all remember,

My biggest fear is this generation is going to associate Elsa with Disney instead of the one who started it all, Mickey Mouse!