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Tag Archives: Disney Park

May 28

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May 28, 2014 – The Seven Dwarfs Mine Train Attraction Officially Opens

“Rock around like never before.”

On May 28, 2014, the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train attraction officially opened in Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Park, after it was dedicated on May 2. Considered the crown jewel of the New Fantasyland area of the park, the ride features never-seen-before Audio-Animatronic technology, as well as an innovative ride system that allows each car to swing individually as it races around the track through the dwarfs’ mine shaft. As the ride can have a wait time up to over two hours long, an interactive queue was added to entertain guests so they can “sort jewels” as they wait to board the mine train. Several of the pieces of the old attraction Snow White’s Scary Adventures were reused in this attraction.

May 27

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May 27, 2016 – The Live Show Frozen – Live at the Hyperion Opens in Disney’s California Adventure

“Delight in the magic of Frozen like never before in an all-new, larger-than-life stage production.”

On May 27, 2016, the live musical show Frozen – Live at the Hyperion premiered at the Hyperion Theater in Disney’s California Adventure Park. The show, based on the animated feature film Frozen, follows the legacy of other animated films becoming live stage shows, such as the show Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular. The hour-long show features the musical numbers from the film, complete with intricate costumes and sets, including puppetry for characters Olaf and Sven akin to the puppetry used in the Broadway production of The Lion King. The show was directed by Liesl Tommy.

May 26

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May 26, 1990 – The Merchandise Spot Calling Dick Tracy Opens in Disney’s Hollywood Studios

“Starring YOU…in your screen test debut.”

On May 26, the themed merchandise spot Calling Dick Tracy opened in Disney’s Hollywood Studios park. Located on Hollywood Boulevard, the store was created to promote the live-action feature film Dick Tracy, which opened on June 15, 1990. The store gave guests a chance to star in their own Dick Tracy adventure and take home a video version. The store eventually closed on January 12, 1991, and was replaced with Legends of Hollywood.

May 25

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May 25, 2011 – Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar Opens in the Disneyland Hotel

“Mystery, romance, and adventure await you at this bewitching tiki bar inspired by the world-famous Jungle Cruise.”

On May 25, 2011, the specialized bar Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar opened in the Disneyland Hotel. Based on the Disney park ride Jungle Cruise – particularly the character of Trader Sam, the “head” salesman – the bar features artifacts from many of his “adventures” and exploits. The bar features a variety of specialty drinks, including the Uh Oa!, a concoction of light and dark rums, and several types of fruit. The bar also releases certain special effects when certain cocktails are ordered. There are also Polynesian-inspired appetizers, including a slow-roasted kālua-style pork sandwich. A similar version of the bar, known as Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace, opened in Walt Disney World’s Polynesian Resort.

May 23

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May 23, 2015 – The Harambe Market Area Opens in Disney’s Animal Kingdom

“Savor African-inspired fare at an open-air plaza featuring 4 unique walk-up windows.”

May 23, 2015, the Harambe Market area opened in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park in Walt Disney World. Nestled in the Africa area of the park, the market is designed to resemble a street market in Africa, complete with Colonial-era train depot design. The market contains not only a few shops to buy merchandise and sweets, but four separate food stations: Kitamu Grill, Famous Sausages, Chef Mwanga’s, and Wanjohi Refreshments. These four quick-service restaurants give guests the opportunity to enjoy something akin to street food, eating African-inspired dishes while they meander around the park.

May 22

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May 22, 2015 – Walt Disney World Kicks Off “Coolest Summer Ever” 24-Hour Event

“I can’t wait to kick-off the ‘Coolest Summer Ever’ in Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort!”

On May 22, 2015, the 24-hour even “Coolest Summer Ever” kicked off at 6 a.m. in the Magic Kingdom Park of Walt Disney World. Using Olaf from the animated feature Frozen as the event’s mascot, the event was filled with special shows and treats for guests, including a pajama party as the park stays open through the night, special appearances by the characters from Frozen at the Welcome Show, and appearances from Disney Channel Stars in the Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade.

May 19

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May 19, 2010 – Turtle Day is Celebrated in Animal Kingdom Park

“May is a fantastic month to celebrate turtles and tortoises.”

On May 19, 2010, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park held a special day of events to celebrate Turtle Day, which sought to bring awareness to turtles and tortoises and what guests can do to protect them. Activities that day included sessions to teach guests what threatens turtle habitats, interactive ways of using “turtle sight” to find food, and up-close-and-personal looks at some of the turtle and tortoise species that the park conservationists protect. 2010 was a particularly important year to highlight conservation efforts for turtles and tortoises, as Disney worked in partnership with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service to offer assistance and resources to those animals hurt by the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.

May 17

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May 17, 1991 – The Port Orleans French Quarter Resort Opens in Walt Disney World

“Revel in the romance and pageantry of New Orleans’s historic French Quarter at this Moderate Resort hotel…”

On May 17, 1991, the Walt Disney World hotel Port Orleans French Quarter opened. Themed around the lively atmosphere of New Orleans and Mardi Gras, the hotel has 1,008 rooms complete with gold, green, and purple accents. The hotel also features the quick service restaurant Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory Food Court, along with two lounges: Scat Cat’s Club and Mardi Grogs. Another popular amenity is the swimming pool Doubloon Lagoon, which features a sea serpent. In 2001, the Dixie Landings resort combined with Port Orleans, and eventually split off to become Port Orleans Riverside.

May 15

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May 15, 2016 – The Quick Service Restaurant D-Luxe Burger Opens in Disney Springs

“Satisfy gourmet cravings at this ranch-inspired eatery overlooking the springs.”

On May 15, 2016, the quick service casual restaurant D-Luxe Burger opened in Disney Springs, Walt Disney World. As its name suggests, the restaurant serves gourmet burgers, including the El Diablo Burger that features chorizo, fried banana peppers, and chipotle mayonnaise. The restaurant is also known for its gelato milkshakes, with flavors such as smoked bourbon and s’mores.

May 12

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May 12, 1967 – Florida Governor Claude R. Kirk, Jr. Signs Disney Bill

On May 12, 1967, then-Florida Governor Claude R. Kirk, Jr. signed special legislation that allowed Walt Disney Productions’ the ability to run the operations for Walt Disney World. Before the legislation, there were concerns that Florida taxpayers would have to pay for the construction of the new Disney park. This legislation allowed the formation of the Reedy Creek Improvement District with two cities: Bay Lake and Reedy Creek (now known as Lake Buena Vista). The creation of these cities allowed Disney to issue tax-free bonds, as well as remain unaffected by any current or future state land-use laws.