Tag Archives: Animal Kingdom

Feb 15 2017

Amazing New Experiences Coming To Walt Disney World This Spring

Epcot Flower & Garden Festival

Are you planning a Walt Disney World vacation this spring? If so, you are in luck, because Disney is adding several amazing new experiences for guests to enjoy. Here’s everything you need to know, courtesy of Disney:

It’s an exciting spring season at Walt Disney World Resort, one filled with new fun that spans all four theme parks, Disney’s Water Parks and Disney Springs.

From the unveiling of a whole new land at Disney’s Animal Kingdom to an awe-inspiring fireworks show at Magic Kingdom Park to more retail and restaurant openings at Disney Springs, there’s more to see and do at Walt Disney World Resort than ever before.

Here’s a closer look at what is in store:

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

pandora-aOpening May 27, Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom will transport guests to a mystical world of bioluminescent rainforests, floating mountains and soaring Banshees. In collaboration with filmmaker James Cameron and Lightstorm Entertainment, Disney is bringing to life the fantasy world of Pandora, inspired by Cameron’s epic film AVATAR.

Guests will discover two main adventures in this breathtaking new land. Avatar Flight of Passage, sending guests flying above the jungles of Pandora on a Mountain Banshee. Na’vi River Journey is a family-friendly boat ride that sails down a sacred river hidden within a glowing rainforest for an unforgettable encounter with a Na’vi Shaman.

rivers-of-light-1Hungry adventurers can recharge at Satu’li Canteen, the main dining location, or Pongu Pongu, a drink kiosk with a design as eclectic as its expat owner. Shoppers can stock up on Na’vi cultural items, toys, science kits and more at Windtraders.

Also coming soon to Disney’s Animal Kingdom is Rivers of Light. Debuting February 17, this new nighttime show will take guests on a magnificent journey with a mix of water, fire, nature and light choreographed to an original musical score. Continuing the park’s transformation from a day-into-nighttime experience, the amazing after-dark experience on the banks of Discovery River celebrates the majesty of nature and the connection between animals and humans in the world.

Magic Kingdom Park

"Happily Ever After" Fireworks and Projection Spectacular Debuts May 12 at Magic Kingdom Park

Starting May 12, Magic Kingdom Park guests will be treated to the most spectacular fireworks display in the park’s history with a brand new show called “Happily Ever After.”

Featuring more lasers, lights and projections than any Magic Kingdom Park show before it, “Happily Ever After” will take guests on an inspiring journey filled with heart and humor. Cinderella Castle itself will become part of the story, with dazzling projections bringing more than 25 heartfelt Disney stories to life on and around the iconic castle.

The 18-minute spectacle will feature moments from beloved Disney films such as “The Little Mermaid” and “Aladdin,” as well as modern blockbusters “Moana” and “Zootopia.”

“Happily Ever After” will be presented nightly. Show times vary based on park hours.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Launch Bay 2Several new Star Wars additions have recently taken center stage at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, starting with new displays inside Star Wars Launch Bay that feature authentic replicas from “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.” The new AWR Troopers from “Rogue One” are also now appearing in the daytime stage show “Star Wars: A Galaxy Far, Far Away.”

For the ultimate Star Wars fan comes the ultimate experience: the all-new Star Wars Guided Tour. Guests are treated to a seven-hour immersion with character greetings, themed dining, attraction experiences, insider’s tours, a dessert party and VIP viewing of Star Wars: a Galactic Spectacular. Offered for an additional fee, the tour is available Mondays and Saturdays and can be booked by clicking here.

And coming later this year, Disney’s Hollywood Studios guests will be immersed in new scenes from “Star Wars: Episode VIII” while onboard the Star Tours – The Adventures Continue attraction.

Epcot

Flower & Garden 1Epcot celebrates 24 years of the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival this spring, kicking off March 1 and running through May 29. Guests can sip and savor their way around Epcot enjoying new Outdoor Kitchens while taking in the sights of phenomenal topiaries designed after Disney characters.

Anna and Elsa topiaries will enchant the landscape at the Norway Pavilion in celebration of the new Frozen Ever After attraction, while colorful gardens will line the path to The Land Pavilion where guests can discover Soarin’ Around the World. The favorite attraction now takes guests to new heights with scenes from Sydney, Australia, the Great Wall of China and other destinations around the globe.

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park

Miss Fortune FallsMiss Adventure Falls, the newest family attraction at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park, splashes onto the scene this spring. Aboard this family-style raft adventure, guests will be immersed in the story of Captain Mary Oceaneer. Legend holds that this treasure hunter roamed the seven seas in search of undersea artifacts – until a rogue storm marooned her at Typhoon Lagoon.

Guests gently ascend to the top of the attraction in treasure rafts, only to plunge into a whitewater adventure where they will encounter some of Mary’s deep-sea treasures.

When it opens, Miss Adventure Falls will be one of the longest attractions (2 minutes) at Disney’s Water Parks.

Disney Springs

paddlefish-9The culinary scene at Disney Springs continues to evolve with more exciting food and beverage locales, including Paddlefish and Planet Hollywood Observatory, both open now.

Board an iconic paddleboat at Paddlefish, which offers guests a delectable menu of fresh seafood, steaks and chops for lunch, dinner and a Sunday brunch. A new rooftop lounge serves up a late-night menu as well as fantastic views of the water and Disney Springs.

Or, dine amongst the stars at Planet Hollywood Observatory, the newly reimagined restaurant serves up a new menu that includes amazing burgers and sandwiches created by celebrity Chef Guy Fieri, and craft cocktails whose names are inspired by the planets and space travel. Movie memorabilia, video screens, contemporary music and themed merchandise complete the scene.

501 WaysHeading to Disney World soon?

If you are planning a vacation to Disney World, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save time and money:

What are you most looking forward to this spring at Walt Disney World?
Please leave a comment; I would love to hear from you!

Feb 13 2017

Rivers Of Light At Disney’s Animal Kingdom

rivers-of-light-1

Finally after months and months of waiting the highly anticipated nighttime spectacular, Rivers of Light, will be opening at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Here’s everything you need to know courtesy of Disney:

Rivers of Light, an all-new nighttime show at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, will begin delighting Walt Disney World Resort guests February 17. Rich in symbolism and storytelling, the elaborate theatrical production takes guests on a breathtaking emotional journey – a visual mix of water, fire, nature and light all choreographed to an original musical score.

rivers-of-light-5The new 15-minute show is the latest addition to the lineup of nighttime experiences at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Celebrating the majesty of nature and the connection between animals and humans in the world, the performance combines live performers, beautiful floating lanterns, glistening fountains, special effects and authentic animal imagery projected on giant water screens.

“Disney’s Animal Kingdom is built around the lives of animals, built around the rules of nature, and those rules dictate that as you move between day and night everything changes…and you’re going to want to see that,” said Joe Rohde, Creative Executive, Walt Disney Imagineering. “It all really is summed up by Rivers of Light. In the show, we take this combination of light and water which create life, and out of that comes this fantastically rich explosion of animal life that ultimately rises up and joins the stars.”

rivers-of-light-4As the sun sets, guests gather along the picturesque edge of the Discovery River at the site of a fabled age-old ritual. A new 5,000-seat amphitheater welcomes guests to two distinct “villages” separated by a bridge and the river. Sounds of animals are heard from a nearby forest, and magical fireflies descend from the Tree of Life toward the lagoon, creating a sense of wonder as four beautifully illuminated Lotus flowers float across the water.

The ceremony begins with a stirring musical overture signaling the arrival of a pair of mystical Storytellers, two complementary forces who come to the river bearing gifts of light. They set out from the shore aboard elaborate lantern vessels. Adorned in intricately designed costumes, the hosts engage in a dramatic dance of water and light to summon the animal spirits – an Asian Tiger, Tropical Turtle, African Elephant and Great Horned Owl – and take guests on a wondrous journey across Asian jungles and African savannahs.

rivers-of-light-2Disney challenged renowned Broadway production designer Michael Curry to create vessels that were artistic and stimulating, yet innovative. The commanding lanterns stand 15 feet tall and are 30 feet long, illuminated from within by innovative LED technology.

As the mesmerizing show progresses, Rivers of Light continues to unfold with a powerful musical score created by songwriter and composer Don L. Harper and recorded at the renowned Abbey Road Studio in London. The signature song “We Are One” was written by Mark Mancina, who created the score and was a key collaborator on the music for Disney’s hit animated feature film “Moana.”

rivers-of-light-3A collaboration with Disneynature to incorporate rare nature cinematography showcasing tender animal moments adds rich authenticity to the storyline. Many are never-before-seen moments from Disneynature films.

The crescendo of the evening finale blends triumphant music and a waterfall of colors celebrating the circle of life.

“At the show’s finale, we hope guests will feel like they have been on a tremendous ceremonial and visual journey,” said Michael Jung, Walt Disney Imagineering creative director. “Rivers of Light really provides an affirmation of life and reminds us of the beauty and fragility of the natural world we all share – with animals and one another.”

rivers-of-light-7Technology and attention to detail play starring roles in the new show. The 11 show floats are independent of each other and programmed to follow a choreographed “dance” across the lagoon. More than 50,000 programmable, color-changing LED lights are found in the four Animal Spirit Guide floats alone. Each Lotus float produces its own water screen. Costumes for the storytellers and their acolytes include fabrics using 5,000-year-old dye and weaving techniques.

Following its February 17 premiere, Rivers of Light will be performed on select nights.

Special dining packages are available to park guests that include reserved seating at the new show. Packages are offered at the buffet-style Tusker House or the new signature restaurant Tiffins (lunch and dinner). Reservations can be made by clicking here or by calling 407-WDW-DINE.

Rivers of Light joins a rich variety of new nighttime experiences and family adventures designed to offer up Disney’s Animal Kingdom in a whole new light. These include:

  • Post-sunset adventures on Kilimanjaro Safaris, allowing guests to travel through the African savannah amid the artfully created orange glow of the setting sun during evening hours of operation.
  • After-dark hours allowing guests to experience nighttime on popular park attractions including Expedition Everest, Kali River Rapids and more.
  • Fine dining at Tiffins, newest signature restaurant at Walt Disney World Resort, with innovative dishes that take diners to Europe, Africa, Asia and the Americas amid travel-inspired artwork.
  • Exuberant song-and-dance gathering nightly in the center of the park, Discovery Island Carnivale. Includes lively music and dance, vibrant costumes, delectable food and beverage, face painting and more.
  • Tree of Life awakening after dark. Through projections and special effects, the animal spirits of the Tree are brought to life like never before, revealing moments of wonder and enchantment.
  • Harambe Wildlife Parti. This safari after-party crisscrosses Harambe, from its theatre district to its bustling marketplace with the sights and sounds of local street musicians and entertainers, inviting guests to join them in dance and song, partake in exotic foods and libations and explore the diverse wares of village artisans and merchants.

All are part of the largest expansion in the history of Disney’s Animal Kingdom which will culminate this summer with the opening of Pandora – The World of Avatar.

501 WaysHeading to Disney World soon?

If you are planning a vacation to Disney World, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save time and money:

Are you looking forward to seeing Rivers of Light?
Please leave a comment; we would love to hear from you!

Feb 7 2017

Pandora – The World Of Avatar To Open May 27, 2017 At Disney’s Animal Kingdom

pandora-a

Great news Avatar fans! Disney has officially announced the opening date of the highly anticipated Pandora- The World of Avatar land at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Here’s everything you need to know courtesy of Disney:

pandora-5Pandora – The World of Avatar will open at Disney’s Animal Kingdom on Saturday, May 27, it was announced today by Disney CEO Bob Iger during The Walt Disney Company Shareholders meeting.

Inspired by Academy-award winning filmmaker James Cameron’s box-office hit, “AVATAR,” the new 12-acre land will immerse guests in the lush world of Pandora about a generation after the film’s human-Na’vi conflict.

The magical new land will transport guests to a mystical world of bioluminescent rainforests, floating mountains and soaring Banshees.

Two main adventures will beckon Disney’s Animal Kingdom guests:

Riding a magnificent Mountain Banshee, guests will soar across Pandora on Avatar Flight of Passage. This high-tech adventure will offer a thrilling flight through the jungles and floating mountains, and over the majestic oceans of this colorful world.

On the family-friendly Na’vi River Journey guests will sail down a sacred river hidden within a glowing rainforest. The expedition will end in an unforgettable encounter with a Na’vi Shaman, a figure who has a deep connection to the life force of Pandora.

pandora-7Guests will also be able to dine at Satu’li Canteen, grab a drink at Pongu Pongu or shop for Na’vi cultural items, toys, science kits, and more at Windtraders.

The expansion completes the transformation of Disney’s Animal Kingdom from a day into nighttime theme park with captivating offerings and extended entertainment.

Pandora – The World of Avatar is a creative collaboration by Walt Disney Imagineering, Cameron and Lightstorm Entertainment to bring to life the mythical world of Pandora.

501 WaysHeading to Disney World soon?

If you are planning a vacation to Disney World, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save time and money:

What are you most looking forward to in Pandora – The World Of Avatar?
Please leave a comment; I would love to hear from you!

Jan 3 2017

Magical Reasons To Visit Walt Disney World In 2017

With the holiday season wrapped up and the new year here, if you’re like me, you’re beginning to plan for 2017. And of course, one of my favorite things to plan is a Walt Disney World vacation. I’m already excited for my next visit with so many fun new attractions and experiences coming soon. Here’s the scoop on what we can expect in 2017 courtesy of Disney:

The unveiling of a magical, mythical world of floating mountains, bioluminescent rainforests and soaring Banshees anchors an exciting 2017 at Walt Disney World Resort – a year filled with new water park fun, a new festival for Epcot, more openings at Disney Springs, an awe-inspiring nighttime experience at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and much more.

Here’s a roundup at what the new year has in store:

pandora-7Pandora – The World of Avatar – A transformational experience unlike any other, Pandora – The World of Avatar, opens in summer 2017. In collaboration with filmmaker James Cameron and Lightstorm Entertainment, Disney is bringing to life the fantasy world of Pandora, inspired by Cameron’s epic film AVATAR, in a breathtaking new land at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Avatar Flight of Passage will send guests flying above the jungles of Pandora on a Mountain Banshee. Bioluminescent rainforests dramatically wrap around Na’vi River Journey, a family-friendly boat ride.

pandora-2Hungry adventurers can recharge at Satu’li Canteen, the main dining location, or Pongu Pongu, a drink kiosk with a design as eclectic as its expat owner. Shoppers can stock up on Na’vi cultural items, toys, science kits and more at Windtraders. “From the place making to the two extraordinary attractions that will be in the land…these promise to set new high-watermarks for the experiential magic we give our guests,” said Bob Chapek, Chairman, Disney Parks and Resorts.

More Additions to Disney Springs in 2017 – With the multi-year makeover of this hip, happening district for dining, shopping and entertainment in the homestretch, still more exciting openings are on tap for 2017. Great new food and beverage venues lead the way.

  • Disney Springs aSleek and modern after a bow-to-stern transformation from the former Fulton’s Crab House, Paddlefish will serve fresh seafood, steaks and chops. Unique menu choices for seafood lovers include a build-your-own boil. A new rooftop lounge will serve up a late-night menu and shipshape views of the water and Disney Springs. Open for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch.
  • Planet Hollywood Observatory – Longtime Downtown Disney-goers will remember the iconic domed restaurant that drew celebrities and fans of the Hollywood scene. The reborn space will be themed to stars of a different kind: a turn-of-the-20th-Century observatory serving up amazing burgers and sandwiches created by celebrity chef Guy Fieri, and craft cocktails whose names are inspired by the planets and space travel. Movie memorabilia, video screens, contemporary music and themed merchandise complete the scene.
  • polite-pigThe Polite Pig – A sister restaurant to the Ravenous Pig, a favorite with Orlando locals, The Polite Pig will bring the same focus on genuine Florida cuisine to a broader global audience at Disney Springs. Lunch and dinner menus will feature a variety of wood-fired smoked and grilled items as well as an innovative beverage program that serves all drinks on tap, including beer, wine and cocktails.
  • Wine Bar George – Orlando master sommelier George Miliotes uncorks his first Disney wine bar in a space reminiscent of a winemaker’s estate warmed by oak wood and cozy lighting. Small plates dominate the food menu but it will be the wines with a starring role: more than 100 selections both by the bottle and the glass in a range of varietals and vintages.

Home to four distinct neighborhoods, Disney Springs treats guests to a world of beautiful open-air promenades, flowing springs, arcing foot bridges and waterfront charm. Venues have doubled – to approximately 150.

Miss Fortune FallsNew Family Raft Ride at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park – Aboard this family-style raft adventure, guests will be immersed in the story of Captain Mary Oceaneer. Legend holds that this treasure hunter roamed the seven seas in search of undersea artifacts – until a rogue storm marooned her at Typhoon Lagoon. Guests gently ascend in treasure rafts, only to plunge into a whitewater adventure where they will encounter some of Mary’s deep sea booty. When it opens in spring 2017, it will be one of the longest attractions (2 minutes) at Disney’s Water Parks.

Rivers of LightRivers of Light – Coming in 2017, this powerful theatrical production takes Disney’s Animal Kingdom guests on a magnificent emotional journey – a visual mix of water, fire, nature and light choreographed to an original musical score. Continuing the park’s transformation from a day-into-nighttime experience, the amazing after-dark show on the banks of Discovery River celebrates the majesty of nature and the connection between animals and humans in the world. With innovative and never-before-seen technology, Rivers of Light will be unlike any other production ever staged at Walt Disney World Resort.

epcot-festival-of-the-arts-2017-aEpcot International Festival of the Arts – Epcot welcomes an all-new festival playing winter weekends and treating guests to a triple scoop of artful fun. For six colorful weekends (Fridays through Mondays) January 13 – February 20, visual, culinary and performing arts will take center stage. Each weekend will feature taste bud-tempting and eye-dazzling creations from the Disney culinary team. Meantime, exciting new art from various media will tempt art lovers. Because the artwork will change out, it’s a new art festival every weekend. In addition, the lagoon-side stage at American Gardens Theatre will pulse with favorite showtunes performed by Broadway talent. In a collaboration with Disney Theatrical, songs from some of Disney on Broadway’s award-winning shows including The Lion King, Newsies and Aladdin will be performed.

Unique All-New Experiences for Dining, Star Wars Fans – A new adventure in Disney dining and the ultimate Star Wars tour are being offered to guests in 2017.

  • highway-in-the-sky-1Disney’s famed monorail is your connection in a movable feast called Highway in the Sky Dine-Around. The new experience gives guests priority boarding on the monorail for a distinctly Disney dining experience with stops for cocktails, appetizers, dinner and dessert. From a welcome cocktail at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, guests call at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort (apps), Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa (entree) and back to the Contemporary for dessert, cordials and coffee. Offered Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
  • For the ultimate Star Wars fan comes the ultimate tour. An all-new Star Wars Guided Tour is a seven-hour immersion in all current Star Wars experiences at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Character greetings, themed dining, ride experiences, insider’s tours, dessert party and VIP viewing of Star Wars: a Galactic Spectacular are among highlights. Offered Mondays and Saturdays, it’s part of several new Star Wars additions announced in December 2016 for the park, including a new onstage sequence in the daytime experience “Star Wars: A Galaxy Far, Far Away.” Star Wars-themed lands are planned for Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort.

wilderness-lodge-villas-1New Cabins and Deluxe Villas coming to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge – In 2017, a proposed new Disney Vacation Club Resort, Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort, is scheduled to open, featuring new Resort accommodations that include plans for Deluxe Villas and unique waterfront cabins. Other enhancements coming to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge include a brand-new bar & grill, in addition to a quick-service restaurant. A sweeping re-imagination of the former Hidden Springs Pool, part of Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, is also scheduled to open in summer 2017. Named Boulder Ridge Cove, this area will feature an expanded sun deck and zero-depth-entry pool.

Wide World of Sports 1New Cheerleading, Dance Venue for ESPN Wide World of Sports – A first-of-its-kind venue specifically designed for the high-energy world of cheerleading and dance team competition opens its doors in 2017 at ESPN Wide World of Sports. The complex is collaborating with Varsity Spirit, the nation’s top cheerleading organization, in bringing the new multi-use venue to life. The venue will include a flexible design that allows for as many as four competition areas. With the ability to seat more than 8,000 guests, the sports and entertainment venue also can accommodate six regulation basketball courts, six regulation volleyball courts or be configured for concerts.

Be sure to follow Disney World Enthusiast throughout 2017 for all of the latest Disney World news, tips, deals, and more!

501 WaysHeading to Disney World in 2017?

If you are planning a vacation to Disney World, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save time and money:

Will you be visiting in 2017? What are you most looking forward to?
Please leave a comment!

Dec 26 2016

Celebrating New Year’s Eve In Walt Disney World

Disney New Year

Ring in 2017 in Style

Walt Disney World is a perfect place to ring in the New Year! If you’ve just decided to visit for the holiday or were so caught up in Christmas that you forgot to making dining and Fastpass+ reservations, don’t panic, there are many magical ways to celebrate throughout the resort. Here are some fun options that require no advance planning:

Magic Kingdom

Hours

8:00am-1:00am, Extra Magic Hours 7:00am-8:00am for Disney Resort Hotel Guests

On The Schedule
  • 6:50am Welcome Show
  • 9:30am Move it! Shake it! Dance & Play it! Street Party
  • 10:00am Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire Stage Show
  • 10:00am-2:30pm Incredibles Super Dance Party
  • 11:00am Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire Stage Show
  • 12:00pm Mickey’s Once Upon A Time Christmas Parade
  • 1:15pm Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire Stage Show
  • 1:45pm Move it! Shake it! Dance & Play it! Street Party
  • 2:15pm Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire Stage Show
  • 3:30pm Mickey’s Once Upon A Time Christmas Parade
  • 3:40pm A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas Stage Show
  • 4:30pm  Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire Stage Show
  • 4:40pm A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas Stage Show
  • 5:40pm A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas Stage Show
  • 6:15pm A Frozen Holiday Wish Stage Show and Castle Lighting
  • 6:50pm Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration Stage Show
  • 7:00pm-1:00am Frontierland New Year’s Celebration Dance Party
  • 7:10pm A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas Stage Show
  • 7:30pm Holiday Wishes – New Year’s Celebration Fireworks
  • 8:10pm A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas Stage Show
  • 8:15pm Once Upon A Time Castle Projection Show
  • 9:00pm Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration Stage Show
  • 9:10pm A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas Stage Show
  • 10:00pm Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration Stage Show
  • 11:50pm Fantasy In The Sky New Year’s Fireworks
New Years 3General Information

On New Year’s Eve at Magic Kingdom, guests are treated to all of the holiday entertainment that is normally exclusive to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party plus a special edition of the Fantasy in the Sky Fireworks show. Party favors such as hats and horns are handed out to visitors in the evening to enjoy as they celebrate. Remember that alcohol is limited in Magic Kingdom; guests are not permitted to bring in alcohol and it is only served at five table service restaurants throughout the park.

Quick Tips
  • The Magic Kingdom New Year’s Eve celebration is generally the most family oriented of all the parks.
  • It is also the most crowded by far, and it is not uncommon to experience phased closures throughout the day when guests are not permitted entry into the park.
  • If you plan to spend the holiday in Magic Kingdom, get a good night’s sleep on December 30, arrive early on December 31, and plan to stay for the duration.
  • If at all possible, leave the driving to Disney and hop on a resort bus. With one of the largest parking lots in the world, the mass exodus that happens when the park closes is complete chaos.
  • If you’re interested in experiencing attractions during your visit, focus on less popular large capacity ones like Enchanted Tiki Room, Country Bear Jamboree, The Hall of Presidents, Carousel of Progress and Tomorrowland Transit Authority.
  • When dining at counter service restaurants, try to eat at off hours. For lunch avoid 11:00am-2:00pm and for dinner avoid 4:00pm-7:00pm.

Epcot

Hours

Future World 8:00am-1:00am, World Showcase 9:00am-1:00am

On The Schedule
  • 6:00pm Illuminations: Reflections of Earth Holiday Edition Fireworks
  • 11:40pm New Year’s Countdown Fireworks
Disney New YearGeneral Information

Of all of the Walt Disney World parks, Epcot is my favorite to celebrate New Year’s Eve. The festivities are geared a bit more to the over 21 crowd with World Showcase filled with temporary bars and dance parties at several of the country pavilions. Just like at Magic Kingdom, guests will be treated to party favors at no additional charge, but as always there will be no shortage of light up merchandise available for purchase.

Quick Tips
  • Epcot’s New Year’s Eve celebration while still family friendly is definitely geared to an older crowd.
  • Due to the size of the park, the crowds are still massive, but feel not as claustrophobic as Magic Kingdom.
  • Anticipate heavy crowds getting into the park, so it is always a good idea to arrive early and be prepared to wait. However, the odds of Epcot experiencing phased closures is much lower than at Magic Kingdom.
  • If you’re staying at a resort hotel, take advantage of the free transportation and avoid driving to the park.
  • If you’re hoping to enjoy some attractions during your visit without waiting in line for hours, World Showcase films such as Reflections of China, Impressions de France, and O Canada are great options.
  • When dining at counter service restaurants and food booths, try to eat at off hours. For lunch avoid 11:00am-2:00pm and for dinner avoid 4:00pm-7:00pm.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Hours

8:00am-12:00am

On The Schedule
  • 8:00pm Fantasmic! Nighttime Spectacular
  • 9:00pm Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! Fireworks Show
  • 9:30pm Fantasmic! Nighttime Spectacular
  • 12:00am Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular Fireworks Show
star-wars-2016-bGeneral Information

Of all of the parks with New Year’s celebrations, Hollywood Studios historically has the lowest crowd levels. Like Epcot, this party is geared a little more for the over 21 crowd with temporary bars and a huge dance party leading up to the massive fireworks display. Similar to Magic Kingdom and Epcot, party favors are distributed to all guests free of charge.

Quick Tips
  • Due to the extensive construction and closures now taking place at Hollywood Studios, the crowds will likely feel larger than they actually are.
  • Like Epcot, phased closures are rare at Hollywood Studios, but lines will be long through security and the park entrance so be sure to plan accordingly.
  • If you’re staying at a resort hotel, take advantage of the free bus transportation and avoid driving to the park.
  • When dining at counter service restaurants, try to eat at off hours. For lunch avoid 11:00am-2:00pm and for dinner avoid 4:00pm-7:00pm.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Hours

8:00am-8:30pm, Extra Magic Hours 7:00am-8:00am for Disney Resort Hotel Guests

DAK at Night 1General Information

Animal Kingdom does not have an official New Year’s Eve celebration or fireworks display, however guests can enjoy additional live entertainment performances throughout the day and the lightest crowds of any of the parks.

Disney Springs

Hours

10:00am-12:00am

Disney Springs aGeneral Information

Similar to Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs doesn’t have an official celebration or fireworks display, however there will be no shortage of live entertainment, food and drinks available for guests looking for a fun night out!

Disney Resort Hotels

Boardwalk 1General Information

If the thought of dealing with the crowds is too much for you and you happen to be staying on-property at Walt Disney World, be sure to check with guest services at your hotel. Most resorts will be offering some type of party on site. The deluxe resorts often offer fairly elaborate celebrations for their guests. In the past, the Grand Floridian has featured a big band orchestra, party favors, and balloon drop in the main lobby while the Boardwalk has had a full carnival of festivities going on along the water to ring in the new year!

Happy New Year!

501 WaysHeading to Disney World soon?

If you are planning a vacation to Disney World, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save time and money:

Will you be visiting Walt Disney World for New Year’s Eve?
Have you attended that evening before? Please leave a comment!