WDW Daily News

Statement from Disney:

We are adapting our health and safety guidelines based on guidance from health and government officials, and will require Cast Members and Guests ages 2 and up, to wear face coverings in all indoor locations at Walt Disney World Resort and DisneylandResort beginning Friday, July 30, regardless of vaccination status. At Walt Disney WorldResort, this includes upon entering and throughout all attractions and in enclosed transportation vehicles, including shuttles, buses, monorails and at Disney Skyliner.

By: Disney DestinationsJuly 27, 2021

We’re just a little more than two months from the next major milestone in the transformation of EPCOT, the debut of “Harmonious,” the new nighttime spectacular that is one of the largest ever created for a Disney park and unlike anything that’s been seen before.

“Harmonious” illuminates our shared humanity, bringing to life the vision of EPCOT through a celebration of our world and its promise. Over the years, cultures from around the world have provided inspiration for Disney films and music. In “Harmonious,” a global community of musical artists has come together and reinterpreted those familiar stories and songs in their own voice, honoring their respective cultures. Collectively, they contribute to a unique experience that could only happen at EPCOT, a place where the impossible becomes possible through the power of human imagination and the magic of Disney.

The show moves through three distinct chapters, inviting us to gather on the shores of World Showcase Lagoon, celebrate the countries and cultures of the world, and ultimately unite to create a bright tomorrow. “Harmonious” begins with a sunrise, and as the world awakens around us, we set out on a journey that takes us across the globe. It’s a dazzling and diverse feast for the eyes and ears, from the South Pacific home of “Moana” and a Middle-Eastern interpretation of “Aladdin” to “The Jungle Book” in India, China’s legend of “Mulan,” the European nations that inspired “Brave” and “The Hunchback of Notre Dame,” and so much more.

Here’s a first look at how this stunning spectacle is coming together, as teams from Disney Live Entertainment and Walt Disney Imagineering continue working to get “Harmonious” ready for opening night. 

“Harmonious” will make its grand debut on October 1 as part of the launch of “The World’s Most Magical Celebration,” marking the 50^th anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort. Stay tuned for updates on “Harmonious” and the celebration as the big day draws nearer!

Guests have been enjoying Disney’s (NYSE:DIS) popular Florida theme parks this summer without mask requirements in most circumstances. A surge in new cases in the Sunshine State could end that perk before the end of summer.

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Today the Magic Kingdom debuted the 50th Anniversary Sign On Cinderella Castle. Check it out. Let us know what you think.

Anticipation fills the air as we near “The World’s Most Magical Celebration” and prepare for this milestone moment at Walt Disney World Resort … and beyond.

With so much excitement ahead, we want Guests to feel immersed in the magic as soon as they arrive in Central Florida, which is why a talented group of cast members is hard at work transforming the arrival experience at Orlando International Airport (MCO) with the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA).

Coming just in time for the 50^th anniversary celebration this fall, airport passengers will discover many exciting Disney touches, including a wide-spanning art installation in the terminal train stations featuring favorite Disney characters, new magic engaging passengers as they walk through a glistening glow of projected EARidescent light patterns, and an immersive photo opportunity with a re-creation of a Disney ride vehicle to capture special memories as they make their way through the airport.

As part of this special transformation at the airport, we’re excited to also be working with GOAA on a new Magic of Disney store location opening with the South Terminal Complex in 2022. 

“Orlando International Airport and Walt Disney World share a commitment to the Central Florida community. We proudly recognize the outstanding accomplishment of our longtime partner as they celebrate this impressive 50th Anniversary milestone,” said Phil Brown, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority. “Collaborating on a commemorative presence at Florida’s busiest airport means we get to be the first moment of celebration for Guests flying into Orlando to be part of the spectacular fanfare.”

 No matter how Guests are traveling to Walt Disney World Reaort for the 50^th anniversary celebration, an experience like no other awaits you…because when they celebrate with us, nothing could be more magical. 

Take a look at the latest construction photos of TRON Roller Coaster at Magic Kingdom.

Guests can get ready for an all-immersive adventure in a galaxy far, far away aboard Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser. Here’s a glimpse at what Guests can expect during their two-night journey in this new promotional poster we’re sharing today for the first time.

Opening in 2022 at Walt Disney World Resort, Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser will invite Guests into a new kind of “storyliving” as they travel the galaxy in a finely appointed starship. So far, many details about this new experience have been as cryptic as a Bothan spy, so it’s exciting to get another peek at what we have in store. Let’s take a closer look, shall we?

• The Halcyon starcruiser, in the upper-left corner, is home for this two-night adventure. The sleek ship is known for its impeccable service, fabulous entertainment and exquisite dining, all of which Guests will get to enjoy during their vacation. (Side note: Guests can see a model of the ship right now in Walt Disney Presents at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.)
• There are four people at the center of the poster – a youngling wearing Jedi robes and wielding a lightsaber, an adult dressed in the uniform of a First Order officer, a Twi’lek adult, and another youngling who appears to be holding a piece of technology of some sort. These figures are meant to represent Guests, the travelers, because Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser is about their choices and how they live their personal Star Wars Do they want to support the First Order? Live like a Jedi in training? Or perhaps become a member of high galactic society? It’s all waiting there for Guests to discover and decide.
• In front of those central figures is an R-series astromech droid – but one that seems to have a few extra bells and whistles. Hmm … we bet there’s a story there, too.
• In the lower left, Guests see passengers enjoying the remarkable cuisine offered in the Crown of Corellia Dining Room, the starcruiser’s enticing supper club. The food and drink certainly seem otherworldly … 
• The image in the lower right is something to be incredibly excited for – lightsaber training! That’s right, as part of the experience, Guests will face off with a training remote similar to how Luke Skywalker once did and learn the lightsaber’s ancient ways.
• Looming above all this is the intimidating visage of Kylo Ren. Couple him with those First Order stormtroopers charging into the scene on the left-hand side and … one might have a bad feeling about this. The Halcyon starcruiser does have a storied past, after all, and a reputation for finding itself in the middle of galactic conflicts. Luckily Chewbacca and his trusty bowcaster are there in the upper-right corner. Remember, it’s not wise to upset a Wookiee!
• And don’t miss what’s happening at the very bottom of the poster. There’s something very familiar about those spires – especially to anyone who’s traveled to Batuu. We’ve heard the Halcyon starcruiser is adding that far-flung planet to its itinerary starting next year …

This poster might leave you with as many questions as answers. Well, we have good news: We’ll soon be sitting down with Disney Imagineers to discuss all things Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser, and we’ll share that conversation with you. It will be the most in-depth discussion of this incredible new experience Walt Disney Imagineering has ever given publicly, so make sure to stay tuned.

You can also visit starwarsgalacticstarcruiser.com and sign up to receive updates as they’re released.

Until next time … may the Force be with you.

I It’s DOLE Whip® Day – and there’s delicious magic in the air at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort with the debut of a special version of the iconic Disney Parks sweet treat in honor of today’s reopening of the resort!  

Swirled up especially for the reopening of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, Pineapple Lanai is offering an exclusive “Tamatoa-inspired” Dipped Cone – Dole Whip raspberry swirled with Dole Whip orange in a white chocolate-dipped waffle cone coated with “shiny” gold sugar.  This super glittery Dole Whip – a must-try for fans of “Moana”- is available at the resort today, for Dole Whip Day, through July 21. 

Another Disney fan favorite, Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto, is reopening today at the resort. Guests can now once again explore this amazing tropical tiki bar filled with interesting artifacts and exotic treasures and experience the romance of the South Seas through unique food and drinks.

Today’s reopening of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort also includes new, beautifully reimagined guest rooms inspired by the Pacific Ocean and its many islands. Reimagined rooms include details, patterns and textures from the hit Walt Disney Animation Studios film “Moana.” We recently shared a look inside. 

There are more exciting enhancements to come, including a new arrival experience with a special entryway that will debut for the resort’s 50th anniversary. Stay tuned for more updates on Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. 

Since opening day of Magic Kingdom Park in 1971, The Hall of Presidents has brought to life the heritage of the United States and shared the symbolic importance and uniqueness of the office of the President. Almost 50 years later, the story of liberty’s leaders continues to be told and retold to new generations as Walt Disney originally envisioned. For the past few months, work has been underway to add President Joe Biden to the stage as the 46th President of the United States. As Disney Imagineers are putting the final touches on the show, which will debut to guests in August, we’re sharing a behind-the-scenes look at the latest update. 

 Just as Walt envisioned, creative teams have been busy programming an Audio-Animatronics replica of the President, pairing it with a delivery of the presidential oath of office recorded at the White House by President Biden himself just for the attraction. Every detail comes together to create a realistic and symbolic glimpse into the office of the President through the years, from the carefully tailored clothing to the props, documents and furniture placed throughout the stage. Next time Guests visit, they may notice the table next to President Biden is adorned with a few special items, each with their own significance to the President—including peach blossoms to represent his home state of Delaware and a pair of aviators as a nod to his proclivity for the sunglasses.  

 And for those who are curious about what happens to presidents at The Hall of Presidents after their term has ended, the Audio-Animatronics figure of former President Donald J. Trump will take its place on stage among those who have previously served.  Guest can take their seat in our stately theater beginning next month as we share the incredible story of the American presidency and watch as the curtain rises to welcome back all the Presidents.

With their recent updates on “The World’s Most Magical Celebration” honoring the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort, Disney shared that 50 fabulous Disney characters will be cast in gold and displayed across their theme parks. Now, we have more details on the “Disney Fab 50” series, including a special reveal of the first sculpture – Mickey Mouse! 

During the magical celebration, which begins on Oct. 1, Guests will be able to find these golden character sculptures throughout all four of the Resort’s parks. And leading up to their appearances, friends from around the Disney company will be announcing which characters Guests can expect to see – starting today with Bret Iwan, the voice of Mickey Mouse. 

The Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse sculptures are also being dedicated to Disney cast members of the past, present and future. After all, our cast – along with Mickey and Minnie- are truly considered the heart of the upcoming anniversary celebration.

Mickey is the first, and other character sculptures will be announced in the upcoming weeks by Disney friends, including Walt Disney World, Disney+, Pixar, Walt Disney Animation Studios, D23, Disney Channel, NatGeoTV, Disney Vacation Club and more. 

Guests can also virtually “collect” each golden Disney character sculpture on Instagram. To add a sculpture to Instagram Collections, just tap and hold the bookmark icon. Then, on the “Save to” screen, tap the collection where you want to save the image or create a new collection. Happy hunting!

As we near this special milestone, stay tuned for additional character reveals and to learn more about how these pieces of art will inspire new ways for Guests to interact with the 50th anniversary at Walt Disney World Resort during “The World’s Most Magical Celebration.”