Disney News for May 2024: Food, Glow, and Characters
Disney News for May 2024: Food, Glow, and Characters – As always, Disney continues to change and evolve its offerings so that guests can experience new and exciting elements all year round.
H2O Glow After Hours Returns to Typhoon Lagoon:
With summer break just around the corner, Walt Disney World Resort guests can get ready to have a “glowing’’ good time when Disney H2O Glow After Hours returns to Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon starting May 25.
Guests can look forward to magical late-night parties throughout the summer, giving them an opportunity to enjoy the tropical Disney water park with shorter wait times. The 2024 H2O Glow After Hours season offers more event nights than ever before, with 18 select evenings from May 25 to Aug. 31, 2024.
This after-hours party turns the water park into a beach bash extravaganza, creating an energetic atmosphere with waves and pulsating beats. Guests can immerse themselves in radiant lighting effects, vibrant decor and high-energy DJ dance parties with some of their favorite Disney characters, like Goofy. New this year, cabanas will be available to rent online for groups looking for a private, reserved area during the event.
Cast members at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon are already getting their glow on with glow-in-the-dark chalk art to help showcase the fun experiences awaiting guests when H20 Glow returns.
Tickets for this event go on sale March 22 at Pre-sale will be available to Walt Disney World Resort hotel guests Mar. 19. Other party festivities include:
- Complimentary ice cream treats, popcorn and soda
- Complimentary towel rental
- Surprise character appearances
- Exclusive glow-themed food and beverage items
New Attractions and Experiences in 2024:
With a host of recently opened attractions and experiences – and more on the horizon – 2024 is sure to be a year like no other at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. “New” extends to practically every corner of the world with new and returning nighttime spectaculars, stage shows and character appearances, resort expansions, seasonal festivals and special events.
Here is a look at some of what is new and set to debut throughout the year.
What’s New
Enter the Grid: TRON Lightcycle / Run at Magic Kingdom Park
Guests can now climb aboard Lightcycles for a thrilling race on TRON Lightcycle / Run Presented by Enterprise. Located in Magic Kingdom Park, it is the fastest coaster attraction in a Disney theme park, alongside its sister coaster at Shanghai Disneyland. The attraction masterfully blends coaster thrills with speed, visual effects, music and a one-of-a-kind ride system to put riders in a world with no horizon and no limit to excitement.
EPCOT Transformation
New attractions and experiences continue to debut as part of a multi-year transformation of EPCOT. The all-new nighttime spectacular, “Luminous The Symphony of Us,” is a dazzling display of pyrotechnics, lasers, music and lighting. The show features an original composition and evocative selections from the Disney songbook – all woven together to shine a light on the shared experiences that connect people across the globe.
Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana is also new at EPCOT. Guests stroll a self-guided exploration trail and play with water as it travels from the sky to the oceans and back again. Along the way they enjoy magical encounters with water and discover its playful personality, just as Moana did on her heroic voyage. Guests can also meet Moana at a new location near the entrance to Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana.
The Magia of Encanto at Magic Kingdom Park
Mirabel from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ hit film “Encanto” spreads joy and smiles to guests in Fairytale Garden at Magic Kingdom, where she is surrounded by whimsical decor inspired by La Familia Madrigal. This new experience follows the recent return of several Magic Kingdom character experiences, including Pete’s Silly Sideshow, Enchanted Tales with Belle, Ariel in her underwater grotto and character dining at Cinderella’s Royal Table.
Fantasmic! Returns to Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Forces of good and evil battle it out in Mickey’s dream during Fantasmic! at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The legendary nighttime spectacular invites guests into Mickey’s imagination for a larger-than-life show painted on a grand canvas of dancing water overflowing with silly and suspenseful surprises. The returning show includes an all-new sequence that brings to life heroic moments from Disney stories such as “Moana,” “Mulan,” “Aladdin,” “Pocahontas” and “Frozen 2.”
New Journeys Debut on Star Tours – The Adventures Continue, Disney’s Hollywood Studios – April 5, 2024
Get ready for stellar new Star Tours adventures! The force is strong as new tales and characters from a galaxy far, far away away whisk guests on unforgettable journeys. The new storylines add more intergalactic fun to this popular attraction where guests jump to hyperspace on a thrilling 3D space flight to legendary destinations from the Star Wars saga.
What’s Next
Dreams That Soar, Disney Springs – May 24-Sept. 2
At Disney Springs, drones take to the skies above Lake Buena Vista at West Side with “Disney Dreams That Soar,” a summertime experience that will be a late-night perk for guests. State-of-the-art drones, choreographed to create designs in the sky, are paired with a “soaring” musical score and memorable movie quotes to showcase Disney stories that celebrate the joy of flight.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, Magic Kingdom Park – Summer 2024
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, opening in summer 2024, will take guests on a musical adventure inspired by the beloved story and characters from the fan-favorite film “The Princess and the Frog.” Guests will be goin’ down the bayou with Princess Tiana and jazz-loving alligator Louis during Mardi Gras season as they prepare to host a one-of-a-kind celebration for the people of New Orleans.
Country Bear Musical Jamboree, Magic Kingdom – Summer 2024
The Country Bears are gearing up for a whole new show with a nod to Opry-style performances in Nashville. The Country Bear Musical Jamboree will feature renditions of classic Disney tunes, reimagined across country music genres like bluegrass, pop-country, Americana, rockabilly and more. The show will also include Easter eggs from beginning to end, including one particular tune Disney fans may remember.
Joy Debuts at Pixar Plaza, Disney’s Hollywood Studios – June 10
Joy, the popular character from Disney Pixar’s “Inside Out” and “Inside Out 2” debuts at her new character greeting location in Pixar Plaza starting June 10, where she joins other Pixar stars. She’ll be in her new home just in time for Disney Pixar’s “Inside Out 2,” which premieres in theaters June 14.
CommuniCore Hall and CommuniCore Plaza Debut, EPCOT – June 10
Capping off a multiyear transformation of EPCOT, CommuniCore Hall and CommuniCore Plaza will open June 10, 2024. Located in the new World Celebration neighborhood in the heart of the park, the locations will usher in a new era of festivals, exhibits and entertainment. Also opening June 10, 2024, is Mickey & Friends, a new location adjacent to CommuniCore Hall where guests can meet some of their favorite Disney pals.
“¡Celebración Encanto!,” EPCOT – June 10-Sept. 6
CommuniCore Hall and CommuniCore Plaza will open to guests on June 10, 2024, along with the debut of a new limited-time show, “¡Celebración Encanto!” From June 10-Sept. 6, guests can enjoy a summer sing-along featuring the beloved songs and story of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Encanto” on the CommuniCore Plaza stage. The new show will run several times throughout the day and will invite families to sing along with some of their favorite songs. Guests may even see Mirabel and Bruno join in the fun.
Celebrate the 30th Anniversary of “The Lion King,” Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park – June 10-Sept. 6
Hakuna Matata! The Disney animated classic “The Lion King” celebrates thirty years of being part of the circle of life at Disney’s Animal Kingdom this summer. In addition to special menu items and merchandise to mark the occasion, guests can meet Timon and Rafiki at Rafiki’s Planet Watch. While there, they can also learn to draw beloved character from the film at Animation Experience.
Warrior Games, ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex – June 21-30
The Department of Defense Warrior Games, hosted by U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command, will return to the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World June 21-30, 2024. The 2024 Warrior Games are not just a sporting event; the games celebrate the resiliency and dedication of wounded, ill and injured active duty and veteran U.S. military service members. Open to the public, ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex invites the public to be part of the experience, rallying together to show support for these exceptional heroes.
The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort – July 1
Guests will have an all-new way to stay in the great outdoors with many comforts of home when The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort debuts July 1. The newest Disney Vacation Club property will be located in the woodlands of Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, offering a new rustic vacation twist.
The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure, Disney’s Hollywood Studios – Fall 2024
“The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” is sure to make a splash when it opens fall 2024 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The reimagined theatrical production is inspired by the Walt Disney Animation Studios classic “The Little Mermaid” and will be presented in the newly refreshed Animation Courtyard theater. Guests will experience a sea of sensations through the magic of breathtaking set pieces, cutting-edge effects, and a bold design that brings Ariel’s world to life. They will also be able to join in the fin-flipping fun with musical numbers like “Part of Your World,” “Poor Unfortunate Souls” and other music from the beloved Disney animated classic.
New Flavors and Enchanted Wishes Join a Stellar Collection of Disney Character Dining Experiences:
The iconic 1900 Park Fare restaurant is opening its doors once again at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa on April 10, revealing a refreshed look, delectable dishes and beloved characters who celebrate the power of wishes.
A new look for the dining room pays homage to the late Victorian period, with art reminiscent of this golden era. Carousel theming is woven throughout the decor, recalling carefree times spent in gardens and fairgrounds enjoying jolly times outdoors.
The reopening is the latest in a series of grand touches that have come to Disney’s Grand Floridian, as the beautiful resort continues to be transformed into a beacon of storybook charm.
Dining with character
Guests can meet Princess Tiana dressed for adventure and Aladdin in his princely finest, along with Mirabel and Cinderella, as they make appearances during breakfast and dinner service.
Timeless dishes, like the famous Strawberry Soup, will return for both breakfast and dinner service. For morning meals, guests can look forward to a scrumptious array of dishes, including Beef and Potato Hash, Cinnamon Pull-apart Bread, Classic Eggs Benedict, Cheesy Potato Casserole, and so much more.
At dinner, tuck into Tiana’s Gumbo with Spicy Andouille Sausage, Peel-n-Eat Shrimp, Porchetta with Hunter’s Sauce, and myriad other delectable dishes.
Reservations for 1900 Park Fare are currently open on the My Disney Experience app and DisneyWorld.com.
Character dining at Walt Disney World Resort
With the reopening of 1900 Park Fare, guests have more options for reserving a Disney character dining experience, with 12 uniquely themed restaurants found across Walt Disney World Resort. An array of dining options, including all-you-care-to-enjoy buffets, prix fixe menus and family-style dining, offer guests of all ages flexibility and are available for breakfast, lunch and dinner depending on location. Of course, the best part is meeting and snapping photos with favorite Disney friends along the way.
Whether indulging in a feast fit for royalty or enjoying a beachy breakfast with beloved characters, guests can immerse themselves in character dining experiences across Walt Disney World. Guests can also take advantage of the convenience and flexibility of prepaid meals and snacks with dining plans when booking a Character Dining Experience and using the Disney Dining Plan.
Here are theme park and resort locations that offer character dining:
Disney Resort Hotels
Chef Mickey’s at Disney’s Contemporary Resort – This beloved destination offers an all-you-care-to-enjoy dining experience where guests can meet Disney pals and create unforgettable moments right in the heart of the resort. (breakfast and dinner)
‘Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort – ‘Ohana means family, and the Best Friends Breakfast featuring Lilo & Stitch invites guests to start their day by feasting on a family-style spread that includes both Mickey Mouse and Stitch waffles. Breakfast also includes fun photo opps and autograph signings. (breakfast only)
Story Book Dining at Artist Point with Snow White at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge – Guests can savor a delicious dinner where characters from the Disney animated classic “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” make appearances for an enchanting forest-themed dining experience. (dinner only)
Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera at Disney’s Riviera Resort – Guests can enjoy Breakfast à la Art with Mickey & Friends adorned in exclusive outfits offering an art themed dining experience at this picturesque rooftop restaurant. (breakfast only)
Cape May Cafe at Disney’s Beach Club Resort – Head to Minnie’s Beach Bash Breakfast with Minnie Mouse and some of her friends for a delightful buffet experience with beloved characters who appear in their beachy best. (breakfast only)
Walt Disney World Theme Parks
Cinderella’s Royal Table at Magic Kingdom Park – Enjoy a regal banquet inside the iconic Cinderella Castle. Surrounded by majestic architecture and enchanting ambiance. Guests enjoy visits with Disney Princesses. Tiaras and glittering gowns are optional, although young guests are encouraged to dress up for the occasion. (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
The Crystal Palace at Magic Kingdom Park – Guests can enjoy scrumptious fare while meeting Winnie the Pooh and friends from the Hundred-Acre Wood for photos and autographs. (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Akershus Royal Banquet Hall at EPCOT – Inside the Norway Pavilion, Akershus Royal Banquet Hall offers dining with Disney Princesses in a medieval castle setting befitting a royal meal. (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Garden Grill Restaurant at EPCOT – Located in the World Nature neighborhood, Garden Grill Restaurant offers character dining experiences with Chip ‘n’ Dale and other Disney pals, as guests enjoy family-style dining with vibrant views of the Living with the Land attraction. (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Hollywood & Vine at Disney’s Hollywood Studios – Join popular Disney Junior stars for breakfast at Hollywood & Vine, and experience Minnie’s Seasonal Dining during lunch and dinner, featuring delightful celebrations with beloved Disney characters. While Minnie’s Seasonal Dining takes place all year long, the theme of the celebration changes throughout the year. (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Tusker House Restaurant at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park – Step into the lively Harambe Marketplace atmosphere, where guests can enjoy buffet favorites and encounter Donald Duck and friends on their safari adventure. (breakfast and dinner)
To dine at a table service restaurant, a confirmed dining reservation for the total number of guests – regardless of age – is highly recommended. Theme park reservations may be required based on admission type. Dining reservations do not guarantee access to a park, and Park Hopper benefits are subject to capacity limitations. Theme park admission is required to dine at restaurants located inside theme parks, and is not included in the price of the meal.
EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival Returns:
The 2024 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival presented by CORKCICLE returns Aug. 29-Nov. 23, 2024 at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Guests can indulge in delectable cuisine, festival merchandise and enjoy the Eat to the Beat Concert Series.
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