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Tag Archives: Walt Disney World

August 4

August 4, 2001 – The Live Show The Bear in the Big Blue House Show Closes in Disney-MGM Studios

“Welcome to the Blue House!”

On August 4, 2001, the live show The Bear in the Big Blue House Show had its final performance in Disney-MGM Studios (now known as Hollywood Studios). The show had played for over a year, and featured the characters from the hit kids television show Bear in the Big Blue House singing songs. The show was replaced by Playhouse Disney: Live on Stage, which had segments featuring the cast of Bear in the Big Blue House.

August 2

August 2, 2012 – American Idol Phillip Phillips Visits Disney’s Hollywood Studios

“…have fun with it, don’t let the nerves get to you, like I’m nervous right now.”

On August 12, 2012, the newest American Idol Phillip Phillips surprised guests by visiting the American Idol Experience attraction in Disney’s Hollywood Studios Park. Phillips was joined by a string of season 13 contestants, including Hollie Cavannaugh, Jessica Sanchez, and Joshua Ladet. Phillips also took pictures outside the attraction with Mickey and Minnie Mouse.

July 27

July 27, 2014 – The Yankee Trader Store in Walt Disney World Closes

On July 27, 2014, the Magic Kingdom Park store The Yankee Trader closed its doors. Located in Liberty Square, the store specialized in supplies for the kitchen, including pot holders, Disney character-shaped pasta, and glassware. The store was replaced by Memento Mori, a shop dedicated to the nearby attraction The Haunted Mansion.

July 25

July 25, 2013 – The Spa Senses Opens at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort

“A full-service spa and health club inspired by the 19th century wellness retreats of upstate New York.”

On July 25, 2013, the Disney spa Senses opened in Walt Disney World’s Saratoga Springs Resort. This was the second version of the spa to open, as the original Senses opened in the Grand Floridian Resort in late 2012. Guests can treat themselves to a relaxing day with several different spa treatments, including facials, massages, manicures, and special packages.

July 23

July 23, 2016 – The Cocktail Lounge AbracadaBar Opens on Walt Disney World’s Boardwalk

“Once a secret lounge of illusion, there’s magic in every concoction at this sophisticated social club.”

On July 23, 2016, the cocktail lounge AbracadaBar opened in Walt Disney World’s Boardwalk area. The bar is styled to bring guests back to the 1930s, when magicians illuminated the stage. According to legend, the bar was a hot spot in the 30s, where magicians would go after they performed to show off their tricks and out-show each other, but one day the bar simply vanished, only to mysteriously return years later. Guests can peruse the varied cocktail menu, featuring the likes of the Magic Hattan, Collin’s Double, and the Parlor Trick, along with various wines and beers.

July 19

July 19, 2002 – The Specialty Store Once Upon a Toy Opens in Downtown Disney

“Stroll through the ultimate shop for all things play!”

On July 19, 2002, the specialty store Once Upon a Toy opened in Walt Disney World’s Downtown Disney Marketplace. The 16,000-square-foot store specializes in Disney, Marvel, and Star Wars toys, ranging from plush to board games. The store also serves as where Duffy the Bear originated.

July 12

July 12, 2015 – The Magic of Disney Animation Area Closes in Hollywood Studios

“Work is underway on a new experience, and we look forward to sharing more information in the future.”

On July 12, 2015, the attraction area The Magic of Disney Animation closed in Hollywood Studios to make way for the new Star Wars-themed area. It was one of the original attractions from the park’s opening in 1989, and originally explained animation to guests while working as an active animation studio. The animation studio closed in 2003, but the area still featured explanations of the process of animation, along with special character meet and greets. The area now is home to the Star Wars Launch Bay.

July 6

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July 6, 1997 – The Grand Floridian Restaurant Flagler’s Closes

“Specialties include Veal Scaloppini with Marsala Wine Sauce and Sauteed Shrimp.”

On July 6, 1997, the Grand Floridian restaurant Flagler’s closed. Open since 1988, the restaurant specialized in Italian cuisine. After it closed, it was replaced with Citricos, a restaurant that had a Mediterranean-inspired menu.

July 5

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July 5, 2007 – The King’s Gallery Closes in Walt Disney World

On July 5, 2007, the fine art merchandise stop The King’s Gallery closed in Walt Disney World. Selling such pieces as the glassware created by the Arribas Brothers, the store was located within Cinderella’s Castle, and was closed to allow the creation of Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. The artwork within the store was repurposed to fill the halls of the Main Street Cinema.

July 1

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July 1, 1996 – The Nightclub Atlantic Dance Opens in Walt Disney World

“Get into the groove at this hoppin’ nightclub that plays the hottest songs from the ‘80s, ‘90s, and today.”

On July 1, 1996, the nightclub Atlantic Dance opened in Walt Disney World’s Boardwalk area. Located right next to the balcony overlooking Crescent Lake, guests can take a breather between dances to look at the sunset over the water. The club has experimented with different dance styles over the years, ranging from swing dance to salsa. It is open to guests aged 21 and older.