Summer is a magical time to visit Walt Disney World Resort, and this year promises to be even more enchanting with the debut of four new experiences that will immerse guests in beloved Disney stories and characters. From dazzling nighttime spectaculars to interactive trails and character encounters, these additions are sure to create lasting memories for visitors of all ages.
Soar into the Night with “Disney Dreams That Soar”
As the sun sets over Disney Springs, the night sky will come alive with a mesmerizing display of light and storytelling. “Disney Dreams That Soar” is a brand-new nighttime drone show that will take guests on a journey through beloved Disney tales, celebrating the joy of flight. Utilizing cutting-edge drone technology, this state-of-the-art experience will feature hundreds of drones choreographed to create stunning three-dimensional animations and effects.
The drones will dance across the sky, accompanied by an original musical score and iconic Disney songs, transporting viewers into the worlds of classic films like “Peter Pan” and “Aladdin.” The show will pay homage to the magic of flight, from the whimsical adventures of Tinker Bell and her fairy friends to the soaring heroics of Aladdin and Jasmine aboard the iconic magic carpet. Guests can expect to be dazzled by breathtaking visuals and heartwarming storytelling that only Disney can deliver.
Roar into Summer with The Lion King 30th Anniversary Celebration
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park will be the place to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the beloved Disney animated classic, “The Lion King,” from June 10 through September 6. This limited-time event promises to immerse guests in the iconic Pride Lands with a variety of special offerings and experiences. To commemorate this milestone, the park will debut a brand-new merchandise collection featuring apparel, accessories, and souvenirs inspired by the film’s unforgettable characters and scenes.
Fans can show their pride by sporting stylish “Lion King”-themed attire or adding an adorable Pumbaa popcorn bucket to their collection. Guests can also indulge in special menu items and delectable snacks themed around the movie’s beloved characters and settings. Disney has promised to share more details on these mouthwatering treats through the Disney Eats blog, so be sure to stay tuned for updates. One of the highlights of the celebration will be the opportunity to meet and interact with Timon and Rafiki at Rafiki’s Planet Watch.
These beloved characters will be available for hugs, photos, and perhaps even some advice on finding the most delicious bugs, embracing the “Hakuna Matata” lifestyle. Additionally, guests can visit the Animation Experience at Rafiki’s Planet Watch and learn how to draw their favorite characters from “The Lion King,” creating lasting memories and souvenirs from their visit. With these immersive experiences, special merchandise, and themed culinary offerings, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park will transport visitors to the iconic Pride Lands, allowing them to celebrate the enduring legacy of “The Lion King” in truly magical ways.
Celebrating the evolution of EPCOT
While Disney has yet to reveal all the details, there are strong indications that EPCOT will debut an all-new summer festival this year, coinciding with the grand opening of CommuniCore Hall and CommuniCore Plaza on June 10th. Rumors and speculation suggest that this festival could be a vibrant celebration of summer, encompassing various cultural events and traditions from around the world. With the newly opened CommuniCore Plaza serving as the perfect stage, guests may be treated to a delightful array of live entertainment, music, dance, and culinary offerings that capture the spirit of summer festivities.
One potential highlight could be a carnival-inspired celebration, drawing inspiration from the iconic Bogotá Carnival in Colombia. Imagine vibrant street dancing, masquerade parades, and a lively atmosphere that evokes the joy and energy of summer carnivals worldwide. The festival could also incorporate other beloved summer traditions from different countries, such as Bastille Day in France, the Dragon Boat Festival in China, the Summer Solstice in Norway, and Independence Day in America. Each pavilion in World Showcase could showcase its unique summer customs, creating a truly global experience.
Of course, no EPCOT festival would be complete without an array of delectable food and beverage offerings. Guests can expect to indulge in a diverse selection of seasonal dishes, refreshing cocktails, and summertime treats that complement the festival’s vibrant atmosphere. While Disney has yet to confirm the details, the opening of CommuniCore Hall and Plaza presents the perfect opportunity to unveil a brand-new summer celebration at EPCOT. With the park’s ongoing transformation and the desire to create fresh experiences, a summer festival could be the ideal way to commemorate this milestone and keep guests engaged throughout the warmer months.
Embark on a Playful Water Trail with Moana
Fans of the beloved Disney animated film “Moana” will have the opportunity to embark on an interactive adventure inspired by the movie’s themes of water and exploration. The all-new “Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana” trail will open in EPCOT‘s World Nature neighborhood, inviting guests to play and interact with water as it travels from the sky to the oceans and back. Along this outdoor trail, visitors will learn about the importance of water and its playful personality, just as Moana did on her heroic voyage.
Through interactive exhibits and immersive experiences, guests will gain a deeper appreciation for this precious resource while having fun splashing and exploring. One of the highlights of the trail will be the opportunity to interact with magical living water sculptures that come to life through Disney’s innovative technology. These captivating displays will showcase the beauty and power of water in a way that is both educational and entertaining. While not a new experience, we’ve included it in our list because it’s a nice cool down spot during the hot summer months!
Celebrate Encanto with a Sing-Along Spectacular
The vibrant world of “Encanto” will come to life at EPCOT this summer (Jun 10th – Sept 6th) with the debut of an all-new sing-along experience, “¡Celebración Encanto!”. Guests will be invited to join the Madrigal family in a lively celebration filled with music, dancing, and unforgettable moments from the Academy Award-winning animated film. Held in the newly opened CommuniCore Plaza stage, this immersive show will transport visitors to the enchanting town of Encanto, where they can sing along to beloved songs like “The Family Madrigal” and “We Don’t Talk About Bruno.”
The theater’s state-of-the-art projection technology will create a truly magical atmosphere, with vibrant visuals and special effects that bring the film’s colorful characters and settings to life. Throughout the show, guests will have the opportunity to interact with beloved characters like Mirabel, Abuela, and the lovable Madrigal family members. This engaging experience promises to be a delightful celebration of family, community, and the power of music to bring people together.
Create Core Memories with Pixar Pals
Fans of Pixar’s beloved films will have the chance to create lasting “core memories” with their favorite characters this summer at Disney’s Hollywood Studios‘ Pixar Plaza. This newly re-imagined area will feature a variety of interactive experiences, character greetings, and themed merchandise and snacks inspired by the iconic Pixar universe. One of the highlights will be a brand-new selfie spot where guests can pose with larger-than-life sculptures of Joy and Sadness from “Inside Out.”
This whimsical photo opportunity will allow visitors to capture cherished moments with these beloved characters, creating memories that will last a lifetime. In addition to the selfie spot, Pixar Plaza will offer character greetings with beloved Pixar pals like Woody and Buzz Lightyear from “Toy Story,” as well as themed snacks and merchandise that celebrate the creativity and imagination of Pixar’s iconic films.
Conclusion
With these four new experiences, Walt Disney World Resort is set to deliver an unforgettable summer filled with magic, wonder, and cherished Disney moments. From soaring through the night sky with “Disney Dreams That Soar” to embarking on an interactive water trail inspired by “Moana,” guests will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the stories and characters they love. The “Encanto” sing-along spectacular and the re-imagined Pixar Plaza will further enhance the summer experience, offering opportunities for guests to sing, dance, and create lasting memories with their favorite Disney and Pixar characters.
Also, don’t forget to cool down at H20 Glow After Hours at Typhoon Lagoon! Whether you’re a lifelong Disney fan or a first-time visitor, these new additions promise to make your summer at Walt Disney World Resort truly magical. So, pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and get ready to celebrate the joy, imagination, and storytelling that only Disney can deliver.
