If you (like us) already love Walt Disney World Resort, listen up, because you’re about to love it even more! We just received word of the summer blockbuster experiences that will be making their debut across all four parks. The fun kicks off with a new live stage show at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on April 4, and is followed by Animal Kingdom’s first-ever nightly show, “Rivers of Light,” which is “coming soon.” To find out what else is on the way, keep on reading.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom



First up is the above-mentioned “Rivers of Light” show, which is an “immersive nighttime extravaganza” that blends performers, floating lanterns, cool special effects, and theatrical imagery—that will be projected on massive water screens—to be shown in a brand new Discovery River waterside theater.

Elsewhere, the Tree of Life will feature some fun-filled nighttime festivities. Gorgeous visuals of animal spirits will appear, along with enchanted fireflies (which will “reveal stories of wonder”) as the tree morphs to showcase the magic of nature. The Kilimanjaro Safaris will also be transitioning to a new adventure in the evening, where guests are able to enjoy the attraction in new lighting. Additionally, hyenas and African dogs will be joining the safari trail creature feature, and existing attractions like Expedition Everest, DINOSAUR, and Kali River Rapids will also have more to see at night.

The new Tiffins signature restaurant will also be opening on Discovery Island later this summer. Guests will be able to dine in travel-themed dining rooms, or out on the patio. Available dishes will feature African, Asian and South American flavors.

Epcot



Headed to Epcot? Anna, Elsa, and their “latest-generation of Audio-Animatronics co-stars” will welcome guests aboard the all new Frozen Ever After boat ride attraction, which takes them to the ice palace and treats their ears to familiar Frozen tunes plus new lyrics by “Let it Go” songwriters Bobby Lopez and Kristen Anderson. The duo will also be greeting guests at the Norway Pavilion in the new Royal Sommerhus modeled after a traditional Norwegian cabin.

A new Soarin’ Around the World attraction will also be headed to Future World. The expanded attraction will take guests on an “exhilarating flight” above global landscapes.

Another attraction receiving changes is “Turtle Talk with Crush.” Starting in early May, characters from Disney•Pixar’s Finding Dory will be joining in with Crush as he swims up to the “Human Tank.” (This update will also take effect at Disney California Adventure.)

Magic Kingdom



In addition to the “Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire” show that’s coming to Cinderella Castle Stage, the Magic Kingdom will also see the opening of the first Disney full-service restaurant themed after a specific park attraction, entitled “World Famous Jungle Cuisine,” which will be located next to the Jungle Cruise attraction, will be served by the new, hilarious Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. Skipper Canteen.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios



There’s also a batch of new Star Wars experiences coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios including: a new fireworks show called “Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular,” a live stage show entitled “Star Wars: A Galaxy Far, Far Away,” and even a special procession of First Order Stormtroopers led by Captain Phasma.

But, that’s not all. The Royal Historians of Arendelle will be hosting a sing-along tale of Frozen at the Hyperion theater. The show features special appearances by Anna, Elsa, and Kristoff! Also, guests will be able to meet Olaf at Celebrity Spotlight.

Disney Springs



Prepare to shop (and eat) till you drop because 32 new tenants will be coming to Disney Springs this summer. The bunch consists of 29 retail shops like Anthropologie, Zara, Tommy Bahama, UNIQLO, UGG; and 3 dining locations. Morimoto Asia recently celebrated its grand opening, and more spots are following suit this year including: the upscale STK steakhouse, which features the only rooftop dining in Disney Springs; The Edison, an “Industrial Gothic”-style restaurant, bar, and nighttime destination; the famous cupcake bakery, Sprinkles, Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza; and the reimagined star-themed Planet Hollywood, which features live entertainment and a new outdoor terrace.

Also, a new Aerial Bamboo act is joining Cirque du Soleil’s “La Nouba” show at Disney Springs.

As for the Disney water parks, Frozen’s Olaf will be hosting the Frozen Games at Blizzard Beach, while Typhoon Lagoon castaways will be able to snack on a savory snack and wash it down with a cold ale after riding the Crush ‘n’ Gusher water coaster.

Posted 5 years Ago