See the List of New Attractions, Lands, Shows Coming Soon to Walt Disney World.
Destination D23 is underway at Walt Disney World Resort this weekend. A number of new attractions, shows, and even lands have been announced for Orlando.
Destination D23 is underway at Walt Disney World Resort this weekend. A number of new attractions, shows, and even lands have been announced for Orlando.
Disney Parks, Experiences, and Products Chairman Josh D’Amaro offered a look at what’s coming to life at Disney’s Orlando parks.
Haunted Mansion Update
The somewhat controversial Hatbox Ghost is coming to the Haunted Mansion attraction in Florida in late November! Hatbox Ghost will be materializing in the Haunted Mansion as you pass the attraction’s Endless Hallway.
I noticed that work as already begun on the ride, which now has a black curtain up where Hatbox will be going.
Country Bear Jamboree Update
At Walt Disney World, the Country Bear Jamboree is getting new songs and the bears will be performing a new act in 2024!
The bears will be reinterpreting favorite Disney songs, such as The Bare Nesseccities, in different genres of country music.
The Country Bear Jamboree will still have the fun and friendly tone fans enjoy with the same famous characters like the loveable Trixie, Big Al and others.
Pirates of the Caribbean Themed Bar
A new Pirates of the Caribbean-themed lounge is coming to Adventureland at Magic Kingdom Park.
This new lounge will extend the story of Pirates of the Caribbean.
Journey of Water at Epcot Opening Date
Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana will open on Oct. 16, 2023!
Journey of Water is a new walk-through experience located within World Nature – the EPCOT neighborhood dedicated to understanding and preserving the beauty and balance of the natural world.
Moana Character Meet and Greet at Epcot
Also, on Oct. 16 – Moana will arrive in World Nature and make her first appearance in her own dedicated space near Journey of Water.
Epcot Construction Update
At EPCOT, the World Celebration neighborhood will begin welcoming guests this December! I will believe it when I see it. On my last look, they still have a lot of work to do on the other side of those walls.
World Celebration will unite the front of the park, tying together the other two new EPCOT neighborhoods, World Discovery and World Nature.
The completion of the last of the park’s three neighborhoods will be the latest major milestone multi-year transformation of EPCOT.
OrlandoParksGuy: Travel agent for Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Orlando area cruises
New EPCOT Fireworks Show - Luminous - December 5th
A new nighttime spectacular at EPCOT called “Luminous The Symphony of Us” will debut on Dec. 5, 2023!
Major Update Coming to Test Track at Epcot
Also at EPCOT, Test Track will be reimagined reaching back into history for inspiration – from the original World of Motion – and bringing that spirit of optimism to the next iteration of the Test Track attraction.
No mention of the Spaceship Earth refurbishment that was originally announced in 2019.
Zootopia Show Coming to Animal Kingdom
A new show based on “Zootopia” is being created for the Tree of Life theater at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
The current concept for the new “Zootopia” experience has guests visiting the different biomes you only glimpse in the film, traveling along with Judy Hopps, Nick Wilde and other characters.
DinoLand at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park to be Replaced
New experiences inspired by “Encanto” and Indiana Jones are being considered for the reimagined DinoLand at Disney’s Animal Kingdom!
Figment Meet and Greet Coming to EPCOT
Figment will begin meeting guests inside the Imagination Pavilion at EPCOT beginning tomorrow – Sept. 10!
Not Mentioned
There was no mention of the Mary Poppins attraction, the update to Spaceship Earth or the Play Pavilion in Epcot. These projects were announced as part of the 50th Anniversary celebration of Walt Disney World but were later shelved due to the pandemic.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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What can we do in Epcot with small kids?
Popular Epcot rides and attractions for those with small children
What’s in Epcot for small kids? Plenty! Here is a list of some the most popular things for little ones to do while visiting Epcot.
There’s plenty of big thrills for older kids and adults as well, plus unique dining and entertainment throughout the park.
Beauty and Beast Sing-Along
Located at the France Pavilion, this short film has the audience singing to popular songs from Disney’s animated feature, Beauty and Beast.
Disney Pixar Short Film Festival
Watch popular Disney and Pixar shorts with 3D glasses in a very unique, 4D theater.
Epcot Character Experiences
Meet the Disney characters and princesses around World Showcase. Belle, Anna, Elsa, Alice in Wonderland, Mickey and pals, and Mulan are just some of the characters you’ll find - just be sure to look up when and where they are scheduled to appear, using the Disney World app.
Frozen Ever After | Norway Pavilion
Frozen Ever After
A musial boat ride into Norway where you’ll pass scenes from the film, Frozen. This is one of the most popular rides in Walt Disney World.
Gran Fiesta Tour | Mexico Pavilion
Gran Fiesta Tour
A slow moving boat ride that takes you on a musical journey through Mexico.
Harmonious | World Showcase
Harmonious Nighttime Spectacular
An incredible and uniquely Disney fireworks and projection show with a new take on classic Disney music.
Journey Into Imagination with Figment
A slow-moving dark ride where Figment takes you on a tour through the sensory labs of the Imagination Institute.
Kidcot Fun Stops
Have your little one interact with the Kidcot Cast Members and collect small souvenirs from each of the 11 countries around World Showcase.
Living with the Land | The Land Pavilion
Living with the Land
A gentle boat ride through the past, present and future of farming with beautiful scenery and greenhouses.
Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure | France Pavilion
Remy's Ratatouille Adventure
A whimsical, gentle dark ride attraction where Remy from the Disney - Pixar film Ratatouille takes you on exciting 4D adventure. It’s one of the most popular rides in Walt Disney World!
SeaBase at The Seas Pavilion
One of the largest aquariums in the world right inside Epcot! See coral reefs, sharks, manatees, sea turtles, and more in a beautiful, underwater atmosphere. Tip! Ride the Seas with Nemo and Friends first.
The Seas with Nemo and Friends | The Seas Pavilion
The Seas with Nemo and Friends
A slow-moving dark ride attraction where you go under the sea to find Nemo. You’ll exit this attraction into SeaBase.
Turtle Talk with Crush
An interactive show with Crush from Finding Nemo designed just for little kids. Parents will find it hilarious too.
Spaceship Earth
Go inside the “Epcot ball” on a slow-moving tour of the past, present and future of human communication, with interactive touch-screens.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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How Epcot is Becoming the 'Festival Park' at Walt Disney World
Epcot will officially become as the “Festival Park” at Walt Disney World. Here’s why.
Disney World recently shared plans about the transformation of EPCOT. While a timeline hasn’t been provided, we now know that Disney is officially making EPCOT its “festival park” by creating new spaces for these events to take place.
The EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival has really grown in popularity and now runs from July 14 through November 19, 2022. Remember when it used to run for just a few weeks? I wouldn’t mind if it ran all year!
Festival of Arts, EPCOT’s winter event has become one of my personal favorites with so many interactive displays and events like the giant Paint by Numbers wall.
And of course the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival with the amazing Disney topiaries and of course the concerts.
As festivals continue to become more of an integral part of the EPCOT experience, Disney Imagineers are creating new spaces that will bring these events into the heart of the park in the new World Celebration neighborhood.
In several new artist concept renderings recently released, you can see how the transformation of EPCOT will take shape as you walk past Spaceship Earth and begin your journey through the park.
If you have been to EPCOT recently or if you have passed by on the monorail and got a look over the construction walls, you know that work is far from complete and they seem to be working at a snail’s pace.
While no opening date has been provided, my guess is that we are at least a year out from completion, unless this new area is opened in phases.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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2022 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival Begins July 14
The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival presented returns to Walt Disney World Resort July 14 through Nov. 19.
The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival returns to Walt Disney World Resort July 14 through Nov. 19.
Teams of Disney chefs, mixologists and sommeliers have been testing, tasting and collaborating to create a smorgasbord of culinary delights, taking Guests on an epicurean journey as they discover new concepts and menu items at more than 25 Global Marketplaces located throughout EPCOT.
Returning favorites will include
The Swanky Saucy Swine
Appleseed Orchard
Hops & Barley
Earth Eats hosted by Impossible
Shimmering Sips hosted by CORKCICLE.
Some Global Marketplaces will open a few weeks later during this 129-day event.
The Eat to the Beat Concert Series presented by Florida Blue Medicare returns this year with internationally recognized artists as well as local bands offering fun tunes on the America Gardens Theatre stage.
Beyond the sips and bites, a full menu of fun offers more ways for everyone in the family to enjoy the festival:
Embark on a Ratatouille-inspired adventure that’s très magnifique with Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak.
Kids of all ages can search for Remy on a savory scavenger hunt around EPCOT.
Guests can purchase their map and stickers from select festival merchandise locations to participate.
Epcot International Food and Wine Festival 2022, July 14- Nov 19, 2022
Try delicious cheeses served in fun ways as part of Emile’s Fromage Montage – collect stamps in the festival passport after eligible purchases at select Global Marketplaces.
Guests can commemorate their visit and bring the culinary magic home with official festival event merchandise, including apparel, home décor, trading pins and more.
In addition to the festival, Guests can discover incredible new EPCOT experiences during the Walt Disney World Resort 50th Anniversary celebration, including Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, “Harmonious” and the Spaceship Earth Beacon of Magic.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind Opens May 27 at EPCOT!
The excitement begins May 27 when Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind opens at Epcot
Get ready for an intergalactic chase through time and space – Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is set to officially debut May 27 at EPCOT!
Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind coming to Epcot May 27, 2022
Get excited – Xandarians are coming to Earth and building the first “other-world” showcase pavilion at EPCOT, called the Wonders of Xandar pavilion.
You’ll learn more about their technology and culture as you move through the pavilion, and discover how our two cultures are similar in so many ways.
But what actually happens aboard this family-thrill coaster? We’ve got a little bit of an idea…
The excitement begins May 27 when Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind releases its awesome mixtape of an attraction to the world.
This is another big, magical moment in the 18-month Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary celebration currently underway.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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2022 Epcot International Festival of the Arts
The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts kicks off Jan. 14 and runs through Feb. 21, 2022. The festival is extra magical since it’s taking place during The World’s Most Magical Celebration honoring the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort.
Yes, the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival is a big hit, but having experienced the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts for the past few years now, I have to say it’s actually my favorite event at Epcot.
For one, you won’t find the “drink around the world” college kids partying World Showcase. But I like it because there are a number of interactive elements, like the giant ‘Paint By Numbers Wall” and a number of creative projects taking shape right in front of you - such as the elaborate chalk art right on some Epcot’s sidewalks.
Festival Dates
This year, the Epcot International Festival of the Arts kicks off Jan. 14 and runs through Feb. 21, 2022.
Don’t Miss These Festival Highlights
The popular DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series returns, with three shows each evening headlined by Broadway stars performing beloved songs from more than 25 years of award-winning stage productions.
This is an excellent way to enjoy Disney on Broadway music without having to buy pricey (but worth it!) tickets for a Broadway show.
These shows are extremely popular! I recommend purchasing a DISNEY ON BROADWAY Dining Package. These packages allow you to enjoy a great lunch or dinner at Epcot and guaranteed admission to the performance.
Beginning Dec. 14, Guests can visit ArtfulEPCOT.com to find out more about DISNEY ON BROADWAY Dining Packages.
Speaking of dining, Epcot will feature 15 Food booths, or “studios” throughout World Showcase.
This year 2 new studios will be introduced, Deco Delights and The Craftman’s Courtyard featuring artfully presented cuisine and beverages as visually appealing as they are delicious.
Interactive Art for the Whole Family
Watch imaginative chalk artists create masterpieces at Chalk Art Galleries, or improve your own artistic skills by learning how to draw a Disney Character at Animation Academy.
Paint By Number Wall at Epcot
Children can create their own chalk masterpieces at Kid’s Chalk Art and families can leave their artistic stamp on a larger-than-life mural at Expression Section: A Paint by Numbers Mural.
Around World Showcase, Guests can step into renowned paintings from centuries past in stunning Artful Photo Ops.
Get answers to all your questions about planning your trip to Walt Disney World plus the best available rates. Start planning your Walt Disney World vacation with me today!
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 12 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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Even More Disney Characters Returning to Walt Disney World in 2022
See Even More Disney Characters at Walt Disney World in 2022
Almost every day someone asks me, “When are the characters coming back to Walt Disney World?” Well today I have some fantastic news to share with you.
Princess Fairytale Hall at Magic Kingdom is already welcoming guests who are looking to meet Cinderella and a visiting princess or two. Even more interactions are on the way in 2022 at this magnificent location.
Speaking of Disney princesses and characters, you can now find them throughout World Showcase in Epcot. I’ve spotted Snow White, Jasmine, Belle, Aurora, Anna and Elsa, Mulan, and Mary Poppins, all posing for photos in their respective countries with scenic backdrops.
Mickey Mouse has returned to Magic Kingdom and is posing for photos at the Town Square Theater on Main Street USA.
See More Disney Characters at Walt Disney World in 2022
Festival of Fantasy Parade will be returning to Magic Kingdom where you can find a number of Disney characters. (This is the 3:00 parade to you and me) and Disney says we can expect to see it on Main Street USA in early 2022.
Fantasmic at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is returning in 2022! I heard that the theater received a few upgrades as well.
Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire, a show packed with Disney characters will be performing live in front of Cinderella Castle starting in early 2022.
Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular will be rolling out in December 2021 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. I’m a huge Indiana Jones fan. I hear a new movie is in the works too!
Disney plans to bring back even more character dining experiences throughout Walt Disney World in 2022. Stay tuned for more details.
Planning to visit Walt Disney World? Let me help you get the most out of your vacation with expert advice and always the bes best price!
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 12 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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2021 Epcot Candlelight Processional Guide
Candlelight Processional at Epcot in 2021 with a lineup of celebrity narrators, a 50 piece orchestra, and a new performance by the Voices of Liberty.
Candlelight Processional at Epcot returns in 2021 with a lineup of celebrity narrators, a 50 piece orchestra, and a new performance by the Voices of Liberty.
2021 Candlelight Processional at Epcot
The lineup of narrators for 2021 includes award-winning actors, singers, and television hosts … and two Disney princesses! Here’s who is scheduled to appear:
11/26 – 11/28: Auli’i Cravalho
11/29 – 12/1: Chita Rivera
12/2 – 12/4: Jodi Benson
12/5 – 12/7: Alton Fitzgerald White
12/8 – 12/10: Bart Millard
12/11 – 12/13: Lisa Ling
12/14 – 12/16: Andy Garcia
12/17 – 12/19: Ana Gasteyer
12/20 – 12/22: Courtney B. Vance
12/23 – 12/25: Steven Curtis Chapman
12/26 – 12/28: Blair Underwood
12/29 – 12/30: Pat Sajak
Tickets are not required for the Epcot Candlelight Processional, the performance is included with theme park admission.
Candlelight Dining Packages were offered but sold out within minutes. These packages include lunch or dinner at an Epcot restaurant and guaranteed admission to the Candlelight Processional performance.
Dining Packages were limited to a handful of restaurants including Garden Grill, Coral Reef, Biergarten, and Rose and Crown.
We do not yet know what time Candlelight Processional will start each evening or if there will be one or two performances.
In the past two performances have been offered each evening.
Pro Tip! I recommend that you arrive at the theater 60-90 minutes prior to the show. There is no guarantee that you will make it into the theater so the earlier you arrive, the better your chances will be of seeing Candlelight.
If two performances of Candlelight Processional are offered, the second show sometimes has a shorter line.
Have a question about the 2021 Candlelight Processional? Use the comments section below.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 12 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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Space 220 at Epcot Opening Sooner than Expected
Space 220 at Epcot will open earlier than expected!
SPACE 220 UPDATE:
Reservations for Space 220 at Epcot will be available to guests starting on September 20, 2021. The first reservation date will be September 27, 2021.
Space 220 will be walk-up on from September 27, 2021 through September 26, 2021.
Disney Imagineer Zach Riddley shared on Instagram that Space220 Restaurant at Epcot will now open ahead of schedule - September 20 2021.
I hear the food will be out of this world! 😁
The post also showed the moment he walked into a “space elevator” that transports guests to the Centauri Space Station.
Disney said guests will feel as though they’re dining among the stars and 220 miles above Earth.
“As you begin your ascent, you’ll look down through a viewport to see EPCOT shrink away; looking up you’ll see the Space Station come into view,” Disney explained on its blog.
We are still waiting for Disney to share information about making dining reservations (ADR) for Space 220, no details have been released as of this moment.
The new out-of-this-world experience will be located near the Mission: SPACE attraction.
In other news, we still have availability for several fall dates at select Walt Disney World hotels. You can view a full list here.
For over 12 years Darren Wittko has been helping people save money at Walt Disney World as both, a travel writer and a travel advisor with Magical Vacations Travel. He’s featured in the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren resides in Celebration, FL.
Recent Updates
Leave A Legacy Returning to Epcot
How to find your tile at the new Leave A Legacy wall at Epcot
Leave A Legacy is returning to EPCOT! With the transformation of the EPCOT main entrance area, the original Legacy sculpture has been removed, but Leave A Legacy lives on in a beautiful new setting just outside the park – in a bright new color, too!
My wife and I have a tile commemorating our 1-year wedding anniversary, so I’m very excited to see this return.
To search for a tile at the new location, you can use your smart device to scan the QR code at the Leave a Legacy display. This opens up the tile finder search feature, which can provide the coordinates for a tile’s location. You can also visit the EPCOT guest Relations team for assistance.
Do you have a Leave A Legacy tile? What does it commemorate? I’ve love to know!
Voices of Liberty - Holiday Performance at Epcot
Be sure to visit the Voices of Liberty at the American Adventure pavilion inside Epcot this holiday season. These performances are especially moving and a great way to get in the holiday spirit!
Related:
Video: Osborn Lights at Disney's Hollywood Studios
Darren Wittko is the creator of Save at Walt Disney World and a Disney Destinations Specialist at Magical Vacations Travel. Voted "best of the best Disney travel agent" by readers of the 2015 Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World. He is also the creator of The Best of Walt Disney World blog.
Attention to Detail: Barnacles on the Epcot Torii Gate
Torii Gate in Epcot's Japan Pavilion
To give the illusion that this is an authentic torii in Japan, Walt Disney Imagineering has clever created barnacles on the base of the gate, just like the one it was modeled after: Torii de Miyajima. Of course, this is World Showcase Lagoon in Epcot, a freshwater, man-made lake where barnacles wouldn't naturally exist. These small, but important details tell a visual story that immerses the guest into a specific time and place - Japan. Most people might not consciously "see" the barnacles, but they do see them collectively with all of the other details. Combined, the details add up to tell a visual story. So, for a brief moment, they feel as though they really are in Japan.
The Torri de Miyajima served as inspiration for Torii in Epcot at the Walt Disney World Resort.
Darren Wittko is the creator of Save at Walt Disney World and a Disney Destinations Specialist at Magical Vacations Travel. Voted "best of the best Disney travel agent" by readers of the 2015 Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World.
Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival Update 2015
Blockbuster Blooms
All the way from Arendelle, Anna and Elsa topiaries will make their royal debut at this year’s Festival. Set in a garden vignette from the icy “Frozen” world, it’ll be a perfect selfie opportunity at World Showcase Plaza.
Botanas Botanico
The new Outdoor Kitchen between France and Morocco pavilions will showcase treats like Cachapas with Farmer’s Cheese, a sweet yellow corn pancake, and Seafood Ceviche with shrimp, scallops and grouper with mango and avocado. Wash it down with the fresh non-alcoholic punch, La Tizana. Add a splash of Santa Teresa RHUM Orange Liqueur for an adult twist.
Bands
Our new concert series, Garden Rocks, spans the decades. Pablo Cruise and The Little River Band will perform on the America Gardens Theatre stage for the first time, while Gin Blossoms (opening weekend!) En Vogue, John Secada and Taylor Dayne are Festival newbies.
Darren Wittko is the creator of Save at Walt Disney World and a Disney Destinations Specialist at Magical Vacations Travel. Voted "best of the best Disney travel agent" by readers of the 2015 Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World.
Many consider Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort the best hotel at Disney World. Here’s why.