The Brer Bar (1989–2002) was a snack bar in Disneyland’s Critter Country, located in the former Mile-Long Bar space near the Country Bear Jamboree and Splash Mountain. Rethemed to align with Song of the South and the 1989 opening of Splash Mountain, it retained the Old West saloon aesthetic while serving snacks and non-alcoholic drinks. It closed in 2002 to become part of Pooh’s Corner.
Here are 10 fun facts about the Brer Bar during its 1989–2002:
- Splash Mountain Tie-In: The Brer Bar opened on July 17, 1989, as part of Critter Country’s retheming from Bear Country to support Splash Mountain, adopting a Song of the South theme centered on Brer Rabbit, Brer Fox, and Brer Bear.
- Mile-Long Bar Legacy: Housed in the former Mile-Long Bar location, the bar retained its iconic wall-sized mirrors at both ends, preserving the optical illusion of an infinitely long countertop from its 1972–1988 predecessor.
- Saloon-Style Decor: The bar featured a polished wooden countertop, brass footrails, and red velvet accents, maintaining the 1880s saloon aesthetic, with new Song of the South-inspired signage and character artwork. The bar’s exterior signage featured a carved wooden Brer Rabbit, adding a whimsical touch to the entrance that matched Critter Country’s lush, Southern-inspired landscaping.
- Brer Character Theme: Wall decorations included illustrations of Brer Rabbit, Brer Fox, and Brer Bear, tying the bar to Splash Mountain’s narrative, with playful references to the briar patch and “Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah.”
- Non-Alcoholic Offerings: The bar served family-friendly drinks like Pepsi, lemonade, and apple cider, alongside snacks such as ice cream, frozen bananas, churros, and cotton candy, catering to guests exiting nearby attractions.
- Pepsi Sponsorship: Sponsored by Pepsi-Cola, the bar prominently displayed Pepsi branding and offered a range of their sodas, continuing the corporate partnership established with the Mile-Long Bar.
- High-Traffic Location: Positioned between the Country Bear Jamboree exit and Splash Mountain’s entrance, the bar capitalized on heavy foot traffic, serving as a quick stop for refreshments in Critter Country’s compact layout.
- Stand-Up Service: With no formal seating, the stand-up bar format allowed for rapid service, accommodating dozens of guests at a time, ideal for quick breaks during busy park hours.
- Country Bear Busts Retained: The bar kept the static busts of Melvin the Moose, Buff the Buffalo, and Max the Stag from the Mile-Long Bar, mounted on the walls as a nod to Bear Country’s lingering influence.
- Closure for Pooh: The Brer Bar closed in 2002 to make way for Pooh’s Corner, a Winnie the Pooh-themed bakery and gift shop, which opened in 2003 alongside The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh ride.
