Summer Magic Kicks Off at Disney World
Roundup: 2 news shows reviewed, new parade date announced, how to stay cool this summer
A big start to the summer season kicked off with the announcement of when the new nighttime parade will start at Magic Kingdom in Disney World. In addition, two new shows debuted at Hollywood Studios, and the Cool Kid Summer limited-time celebration kicked off.
Disney is focusing on kids and families this summer, adding dance parties, characters, and special events at all four Disney World parks (more below on this).
So let’s take a look at our weekly wrap-up of the big Disney World news:
Disney Starlight Parade Coming in July: Disney has announced that the new nighttime parade, Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away, will debut July 20 at Magic Kingdom. The new parade will transport “guests into the stories of our beloved Disney characters. Through the power of the Blue Fairy’s magic, you’ll watch dreams and wishes come true. As the lights dance from float to float, you’ll see favorite classic and contemporary characters from Walt Disney Animation Studios and Disney Pixar films, some for the very first time in a Disney Live Entertainment nighttime parade!” according to Disney. The final parade float featuring Mickey Mouse and friends was also teased during the announcement, as was the new Disney Starlight merchandise.
Disney Villains plead their cases in a brand new show: “Magic Mirror on the wall, Who’s the most misunderstood of all?” These lines introduce a new song from the Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After show, now playing at Hollywood Studios in Disney World. While the tune might become your latest earworm as you stroll through the park, the real answer to the question of who is “most misunderstood” may be the show itself.
“Little Mermaid” adventure splashes down at Hollywood Studios: The beloved story of The Little Mermaid has captivated audiences since Disney’s animated classic debuted in 1989. Now, Disney’s Hollywood Studios introduces its latest incarnation: “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure.”
Our tips on how to beat the heat at Disney World: Everyone has their own little tricks for staying cool, from personal fans to cooling towels, when visiting Disney World during the hot summer days. I usually wear sandals in the park and pour ice water on the top of my feet to get some relief. (It sounds odd, but it works for me). Here are our best tips for beating the heat at Disney World. And below the tips are the more than three dozen rides and attractions we say are the best for cooling down.
New Stitch Pandora collection crashes the Disney Store: This new collection includes brightly colored Stitch and Angel charms; a snake chain bracelet that closes with a Stich head clasp; a necklace and ring, each of which has Stitch biting on a shiny cubic zirconia stone; and the most adorable pair of earrings that look like a tiny Stitch and Angel climbing up your earlobes.
Check out the new rooms at Port Orleans French Quarter: With over a thousand rooms at Disney’s Port Orleans – French Quarter newly refurbished, Disney World is now sharing a sneak peek inside. Throughout each room, colorful fabrics and patterns inspired by New Orleans’ charming architecture bring the lively spirit of “The Big Easy” to life, much like the city’s vibrant building exteriors.
Free kids’ tickets on Thursdays to Drawn to Life: Drawn to Life presented by Cirque du Soleil and Disney at Disney Springs is offering fantastic deals for kids – and their grown-ups, too – this summer. Now through Labor Day, adults can get a child’s ticket (ages 3 to 9) free with the purchase of a qualifying adult ticket for Thursday performances. Tickets can be purchased by going here or at the Disney Springs box office by mentioning the “Kids Free” offer and are subject to availability and exclusions.
Cool Summer Experiences
Disney has introduced a number of ways to make the summer more fun for families and kids. Here is what you can find at each park.
Magic Kingdom: If you head to Big Top Bash at Storybook Circus, you’ll find a DJ Ringmaster, Pluto, and kid-friendly midway-style games. At Rocket Tower Plaza Stage in Tomorrowland, you’ll find a DJ dance party and Stitch. Guests can also enjoy a cool spot in the Merchant of Venus, featuring indoor crafts inspired by the new Disney and Pixar film “Elio.”
EPCOT: Goofy is hosting a dance and play experience inside CommuniCore Hall. This immersive takeover features a DJ-led dance party and beloved kids’ games with thrilling twists, like Loopy Limbo and Parachutes ‘n’ Pipsqueaks–all hosted by Goofy and his crew. Phineas and Ferb return to EPCOT. Starting June 1, near the EPCOT Main Entrance, Phineas and Ferb will make daily appearances.
Hollywood Studios: The Animation Courtyard comes alive with energetic performances by magicians and jump rope performers, along with fun games and crafts for little ones, while families can “Get Animated” with Mickey Mouse, beloved Disney Junior friends, and more at an indoor DJ dance party.
Animal Kingdom: Park guests can explore new nature-based adventures with favorite Disney Characters and hands-on activities, earning a limited-time Wilderness Explorers badge. Then, celebrate their day with the Dino Institute Intern at A Celebration Sing-Along at Discovery Island, creating one-of-a-kind songs, highlighting all the creatures—real and mythical—you spotted around the park.
Just a programming note for everyone: We will be sending out another newsletter on Friday, previewing everything coming to Disney World in June.