Walt Disney World Top 12 Stories of 2017
If you’re planning a trip to Disney World, here’s a one stop place for all the changes and big stories that happened during 2017. It was an exciting year for Walt Disney World! One thing I love about this place is that things are always changing. There’s always something new to see and try. It keeps things exciting no matter how many times you may have visited the parks.
So here’s my Top 12 that I think rate highest in importance to the parks, and impact trip planning in the future:
1- (Jan.) Festival of the Arts debuts at Epcot. The inaugural year for this festival strikes a big home run with many Disney fans, including me. I would even venture to say this is my favorite of all the Festivals at Epcot. Highlights are getting to meet and see talented artists, amazing Disney on Broadway concerts, and super fun photo ops. Can’t wait for this one to return in 2018. The full review and details: Festival of the Arts Review.
2- (Feb.) Rivers of Light debuts at Animal Kingdom. This long anticipated nighttime show opened to somewhat mixed reviews. I think it’s visually gorgeous, and the music is especially beautiful. Here’s the full article and details: Rivers of Light Opens: Was it Worth the Wait.
3- (April) Bon Voyage Character meal opens at Boardwalk. This has become one of my favorite character meals at Disney World. And many agree since it stays booked far in advance. But I highly recommend you try it. Here all the details: Rapunzel Character Breakfast Review.
4- (May) Pandora opens at Animal Kingdom. This was the big one. A whole new land that we all have fallen in love with. Make sure you set aside some time to tour Pandora on your next Disney trip. It’s an amazing experience. Full details: Pandora the World of Avatar Review, and Top Six Things You Must Do at Pandora.
5- (May) Wishes Fireworks show ends and Happily Ever After begins. The long running fan favorite, Wishes ends its 14 year run at Magic Kingdom, and the brand new show, Happily Ever After debuts. You can now see the new show each night at the end of the day at Magic Kingdom. Saying Goodbye to Wishes has my thoughts on the end of this special show, and then my thoughts on the new show are here, Happily Ever After is the Fireworks Show Magic Kingdom Deserves.
6- (June) Pixar Live show opens for a short summer run at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This show was a limited time thing, but I’m hoping it will return in the summer of 2018, so I wanted to mention it here. What’s New at Disney World this Summer has the details.
7- (July) D23 Announces tons of new updates for Disney World. This was big news for all Disney fans as we found out several attractions were closing, and lots of new ones would be starting construction. We also learned more details about the new lands already in progress. Check out the article D23 Expo Releases 11 Big Updates for a quick movie that shows all the announcements.
8- (July) Minnie Vans debut at Disney World. An exciting change to your transportation options when you’re visiting the parks, Minnie Vans become the go-to choice for many families over Uber. Full review here: Minnie Vans are Disney’s Taxi Service.
9- (Aug.) Great Movie Ride and Universe of Energy close down for good. These two classic long-running attractions have their final run at Epcot and Hollywood Studios. Making way for a Guardians of the Galaxy attraction and a Mickey Mouse ride. More details on those new attraction in the D23 Expo article.
10- (Sept.) Baseline Taphouse and Grand Avenue open at Hollywood Studios. This new craft beer bar has been a welcome addition at Studios, becoming an ideal place to take a break from touring. Details and review here: First Look at Grand Avenue and Baseline Taphouse.
11- (Oct.) Epcot celebrates it’s 35th anniversary. A special day of celebration and a chance for fans to line up in ridiculously long queues for merchandise.
12- (Oct.) Dogs are officially allowed in select Disney World resorts and fans have lots of opinions on it. But now that it’s all calmed down reports have been positive regarding how it’s been working out. Now You Can Bring Your Dog to Disney for details.
And there you have it! These are the top stories in my personal opinion. For 2018 the biggest story will surely be the opening of Toy Story Land this summer. To stay updated on all your Walt Disney World information, make sure you’re signed up for my free weekly newsletter!