Attraction Openings and Renovations

Magic Kingdom

The Haunted Mansion is currently undergoing a massive refurbishment and is expected to open with exciting new special effects. Some of the rumored additions include some of the changes implemented in the Disneyland version, including the new attic scene with the "Black Widow" bride, enhanced effects in the Seance Circle allowing the disembodied Madame Leouta to float around the room, as well as the ghostly portraits which turn menacing at the strike of lightning. Based on the popularity of the Downtown Disney location, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is opening a new installation inside of Cinderella Castle. The magical salon will replace the old art store which is rumored to be going into the Main Street Cinema where VMK Central is currently located.

Epcot

Old school Epcot fans will enjoy a new cluttered free look at Spaceship Earth soon, as the giant Mickey wand sculpture is on it's way out. The entire take down process is expected to last throughout August and September, but should be completely done with by the 25th anniversary in October. No rumors on the plans for a ceremony on the anniversary have been announced just yet, and it seems that any celebrations will be quite minimal at this point. The Canada pavilion in the World Showcase is preparing to install a new O Canada film, replacing the original 1982 version. Rumors currently state that Martin Short will narrate the film and a Canadian Idol winner will sing a new version of the original theme song, Canada (You're a Lifetime Journey).

Disney-MGM Studios

Work continues on Toy Story Mania, an exciting attraction replacing Who Wants to Be a Millionaire Play It. The ride continues Disney's recent trend of interactive attractions, and will use 3-D technology to display classic carnival games with a special Toy Story twist. For those interested in seeing the technology in one of it's original forms, check out "Where's the Fire?" at Innoventions at Epcot.

Disney's Animal Kingdom

With the huge additions of Expedition Everest and Finding Nemo the Musical bringing in more crowds than ever, attention is being placed on the dining options at Disney's Animal Kingdom. A new restaurant, Yak & Yeti is opening in Asia and will offer both full service sit down and quick service dining. The menu is expected to be an Asian fusion adding to more diverse menus currently being placed in the parks. The restaurant is a cooperation between the Disney Corporation and Landry's Restaurants which operate the Rainforest Cafe as well as other restaurant franchises.

Special Events

Pirates and Princess Party

Taking place over eight nights in August and September, these parties offer families an opportunity to visit the Magic Kingdom after dark for an exciting evening of entertainment. Some of the highlights of the party are the Pirates and Princess parade, special meets and greets with Disney characters, and a wonderful fireworks show that is possibly the best spectacular to take place in the Magic Kingdom. For the true Disney geek, the ability for all guests (even adults) to dress up as a pirate or princess is also great fun. The parties require a separate admission ticket and there are a limited amount sold for each night, so another great benefit is the ability to visit the Magic Kingdom with lighter crowds than usual.

Disney's Night of Joy

Christian artists in pop, urban, rock and gospel music perform live concerts all around the Magic Kingdom at this two night event. This is another private party and regular admission tickets will not admit guests into Night of Joy. The event is scheduled ot take place on Friday, September 7 and Saturday, September 8th and the artists expected to perform are:

Friday, September 7th - Third Day, Chris Tomlin, David Crowder Band, Jaci Velasquez, Brian Littrell, BarlowGirl, Leeland, Jessie Daniels, Sanctus Real

Saturday, September 8th - newsboys, Steven Curtis Chapman, Salvador, Mark Schultz, Smokie Norful, Kutless, RED, Mary Mary, Flyleaf

Playhouse Disney in Concert

Preschooler and toddlers will jive and groove to this concert series specially designed for their age group. Young fans of the Disney Channel will recognize many of the stars, including the Doodlebops, and adults will appreciate the moralistic and educational messages of the entertainers and bands. The concerts will be performed every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from August 30th to October 28th.

Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, "Tastefully Inspired"

For many years, the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival celebration of cuisine and wines from across the globe has delighted theme park guests. One of the main highlights are the twenty-five booths spread across the World Showcase offering exotic dishes and beverages from different countries. Cooks will enjoy the seminars and daily culinary demonstrations from talented chefs. If you want the full experience, there are specially ticketed events with even more elaborate and amazing spreads of food.

Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

A great solution for parents looking for a safe way for their children to "trick-or-treat", these after hours Magic Kingdom parties offer great fun for the whole family. Deliberately designed as to scare the young ones, Mickey's-Not-So-Scary Halloween Parties offers special spooky entertainment throughout the night. Some of the high points include a show featuring the menacing Disney villains in front of Cinderella Castle, a lengthy parade with all your favorite Disney characters and a spectacular fireworks display. Those attending the event may want to know that a very large amount of candy is available for all guests. Unless you want to kiss your diet goodbye, you may want to have a plan on how you will save or give away your goodies.