2017 brought waves of fun to the attractions

Big things broke onto Orlando’s attractions scene in 2017. Here are 10 memorable moments when I was happy to live where people want to play.

The premiere of Fun Spot’s Mine Blower roller coaster. The Kissimmee ride packs a lot of air time into a little space. Mind. Blown.

My first ride on Krakatau Water Coaster in the new Volcano Bay water park at Universal Orlando. The ride keeps coming with more ups and downs than you’d expect.

Jubilation just before Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon opened at Universal Studios. Sure, Fallon and family looked happy, but even the various team members who paraded up the main drag in the opening number appeared to be having a moment.

The appearance of Tinker Bell in “Happily Ever After” fireworks at Magic Kingdom. We were assured she’d continue to fly from the castle after “Wishes” closed. But where was she? Perfectly placed — you might say “kiss goodnight” at the end.

Step-in pieces of art at the first Epcot International Festival of the Arts. A master stroke with masterpieces, old school meets interactive.

The gentle breeze of Flight of Passage at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. I’ve never been more relaxed aboard a banshee whilst soarin’ over Pandora.

Back-to-back debuts of back-to-back attractions Topgolf and Andretti Indoor Karting and Games. New options — and dare I say “team-building opportunities”? — that stand practically in the shadow of the Orange County Convention Center.

In the Gatorland graveyard. The Stompin’ Gator Off-Road Adventure is fun and funny, despite a backstage stretch amid bones. It keeps the spirit of Bubba and Cooter alive.

Luke, I’m your lightsaber. On a personal note, holding the original Luke Skywalker weapon, which Ripley’s purchased for $450,000, brought out my inner “Star Wars” geek. The movie prop is on display at a Believe It or Not Museum in Hollywood, Calif., but look for it to tour next year.

The night rumors became fact. A slew of announcements at the D23 Expo previewed Disney World’s future. Coming up: A Tron ride, a Mickey Mouse ride, a Guardians of the Galaxy ride, a Ratatouille ride and more.

Other moments: experiencing a virtual reality version of Kraken at SeaWorld; debuts of Ninjago ride at Legoland, the new iFly location on International Drive and Miss Adventure Falls at Typhoon Lagoon; and the rippedjeans/fresh tattoo unveiling of a Justin Bieber figure at Madame Tussauds Orlando.

dbevil@ orlandosentinel.com or 407-420-5477; Twitter: @ThemeParks