USA TODAY International Edition
Disney parks increase offerings for 2019
Get ready for a little magic from the Magic Kingdom. Scratch that, a lot of magic. Walt Disney World announced a new lineup of things to do and places to go come 2019. Fresh from this summer’s opening of Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and the hotly anticipated Star Wars Land, the Orlando theme park resort shows no sign of slowing down. However, with some hellos come some goodbyes. Disney announced Rafiki’s Planet Watch is closing in Animal Kingdom. The entire land, which is home to “Lion King” favorites Simba, Timon and Rafiki, will operate until Oct. 21, ahead of the film’s 25th birthday next year. The closure will include all character meet and greets, animal encounter experiences and exhibits. Don’t be too sad. New events are popping up at all four Disney parks. “Whether you grew up with Mickey and Minnie, ‘The Lion King,’ ‘Cars’ or another classic story, you are going to love what all four of our theme parks have to offer in the coming year,” George Kalogridis, president of Walt Disney World Resort, said in a news release. The last few months of 2018 will be jam-packed for the House of Mouse as the Orlando theme park expands its entertainment roster next year. Here’s what’s on tap for 2019:
Surprise for Mickey and Minnie
The best part of this surprise celebration for Disney’s first couple? A daily “Move It! Shake It! MousekeDance It! Street Party” aka parade from Main Street to Cinderella’s Castle. The party continues in the castle with your favorite Disney characters and “Mickey Mouse Club” remixes. The Mickey and Minnie party starts Jan. 18 at Magic Kingdom.
Musical and movie moments
From Jan. 18 to Sept. 30 at Magic Kingdom, check out the Dapper Dans, Casey’s Corner piano player and surprise musical magical experiences around the park. Also sure to be fun? Mickey’s “PhilHarMagic” and Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, which will replace the Great Movie Ride at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Party with the Pixar Pals
When the 11-acre Toy Story Land opened in June at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, guests got a taste of Andy’s world – hanging out with the Slinky Dog, Buzz Lightyear, Woody and the gang. As the park celebrates its 30-year anniversary May 1, plans are in the works for something incredible in the area dubbed “Pixar Place.” ❚ From Jan. 18 to Sept. 30, Pixar Place will become a Municiberg city block from the “Incredibles” films. ❚ Starting Jan. 18, keep an eye out (get it?) for Sulley and Mike Wazowski of “Monsters Inc.”
Pandora
Pandora: The World of Avatar opened in 2017 at Animal Kingdom, but that doesn’t mean Disney’s done with the mystical land that boasts floating mountains and bioluminescent plant life. New offerings like the Rivers of Light nighttime show and twilight trek on Kilimanjaro Safaris give guests a new way to experience the park.
Epcot flower fest concerts
In 2019, Epcot celebrates the 25th anniversary of its iconic International Flower and Garden Festival. Typically running March to May, the next flower and garden fest is set for March 6 to June 3. The flower fest is well-known for its live music, the Garden Rocks Concert Series and its mini food festival.
Hello and goodbye
After almost 20 years of IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth, the nighttime spectacular at Epcot will end its longtime run in 2019. However, a new nighttime attraction will replace IllumiNations at World Showcase Lagoon, but the Disney team is mum on what that will be.
The Force
Storm Troopers, Jedis and perhaps a few characters from the dark side are assembling for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Set to open in fall 2019, “Star Wars land” features character encounters with Kylo Ren, Chewbacca and BB-8, and other “Star Wars”-themed entertainment. For more information on Disney’s 2019 lineup, visit disney.go.com.