WDW Daily News

We’re excited to share that “Rivers of Light,” the first-ever night-time show at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park, will officially debut at the Walt Disney World® Resort on April 22, 2016.

The show, set on Discovery River in the Asia section of the park, will depict an ancient lantern festival guided by two storytellers who call forth four animal Spirit Guides: an Asian Tiger, Tropical Turtle, African Elephant and Great Horned Owl. These Spirit Guides return at different points during the show to lead the audience through their journey through the Rivers of Light.

Take a look in the distance and you can see the beginnings of what appears to be a floating mountain from the construction for Pandora, the World of Avatar, at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Take a look at the new quick service snack shop located at the base of Expedition Everest in Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Beginning Feb. 7, 2016, a new interactive experience, based on the hit Disney Channel movie “The Lion Guard: Return of the Roar,” will debut at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park at Walt Disney World® Resort.

The Lion Guard Adventure allows young Guests to become honorary members of the Lion Guard as they explore the park in search of five main characters from the popular TV movie – Kion, Bunga, Fuli, Beshte, and Ono. These characters are represented as colorful statues that are perfect for a kid-sized photo-ops.

Like the movie, the experience encourages interest in protecting animals and caring for nature. Once they complete the adventure, each child can take a special pledge to become an honorary member of “The Lion Guard” and receive a special button.

The experience will be offered in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park through late March, as one of many activities celebrating the debut of “The Lion Guard” series on Disney Channel and Disney Junior.

Take a look at the upcoming nighttime ‘Rivers of Light’ show construction at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.  The show is set to open in 2016.

Expected to open spring 2016, “Rivers of Light” will be an innovative experience unlike anything ever seen in a Disney park, combining live performances, floating lanterns, water screens and swirling animal imagery. “Rivers of Light” will come to life as a pair of mystical hosts comes to Discovery River bearing gifts of light. During the show, the hosts set out from the shore on elaborate lantern vessels for a dance of water and light to summon the animal spirits. (Disney Parks)

Guests trekking through Africa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom park will enjoy the new Thirsty River Bar and Trek Snacks. This adventurous food and beverage location rests near the foot of Expedition Everest and treats guests to an assortment of exotic drinks and eats.

The Trek Snacks menu varies throughout the day, with delicious pastries in the morning and more substantial bites such as sushi and sandwiches in the afternoon and evening. Breakfast pastries include assorted muffins and Danish, croissants and an indulgent chocolate twist. Healthful snacks offered include fresh fruit, crudité and hummus, edamame and an Asian noodle salad.

The Thirsty River Bar represents the type of cultural collision that has become a hallmark of the villages that serve as base camps for Everest trekkers. This must-stop location for climbers returning from their ascent features themed specialty cocktails, such as the Khumbu Icefall,  Himalayan Ghost and Durbar Margarita. Non-alcoholic beverages also are available, including the tropical-flavored Flying Yak and the Pink Lotus.

For additional information, visit at DisneyWorld.com/dine or call 407-WDW-DINE.

Pandora – The World of AVATAR will bring a variety of new experiences to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, including a family-friendly attraction called Na’vi River Journey. The adventure begins as guests set out in canoes and venture down a mysterious, sacred river hidden within the bioluminescent rainforest. The full beauty of Pandora reveals itself as the canoes pass by exotic glowing plants and amazing creatures. The journey culminates in an encounter with a Na’vi shaman, who has a deep connection to the life force of Pandora and sends positive energy out into the forest through her music. Na’vi River Journey will open with Pandora – The World of AVATAR in 2017. Disney’s Animal Kingdom is one of four theme parks at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Disney)

Take a look at the Stabucks Menu at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.  Check out the specialty cupcakes!!