What’s New for Summer 2016 at Disney World
Walt Disney World just announced several new additions for Summer 2016, confirming rumors and setting concrete start dates for new attractions and entertainment. Among these are Frozen Ever After, Soarin’ Around the World, and Rivers of Light, among several other pieces of entertainment.
For this post, I’ve gathered all of the announcements to share with you, along with our commentary on the news. We’ll cover what we like, don’t like, and expect from the new summer offerings at Walt Disney World. We’ll also include some speculation concerning info that has yet to be released so you can plan accordingly if you’re taking a trip to Walt Disney World this summer.
Frankly, we didn’t expect a lot out of this summer. Beyond the new nighttime stuff at Animal Kingdom (and there’s some disappointment in store on that front…) and the “re-imagined” rides at Epcot, it didn’t seem like much would be happening at Walt Disney World this summer. To our surprise, when we combed the press releases, there’s actually a decent amount of additions for the summer. Definitely not on par with what should come when Pandora opens next year, or Star Wars Land in 2020(?), but still not too shabby.
There are a few items of interest to me that I thought might be interesting to discuss…
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
The big news for the summer concerns Animal Kingdom, both in terms of what is and is not happening. We covered all of the new summer entertainment in depth for our New Nighttime Entertainment at Animal Kingdom post, so I won’t rehash all of that here.
Unfortunately, the big piece of that nighttime entertainment, Rivers of Light, has been delayed. From what we understand, there are serious technical and story issues with the show, causing it to miss its original April 22 premiere. A new date for its debut has not been set, but based on reports about the show, we’d be shocked to see it open before July.
Fortunately, all is not lost. In addition to the other excellent-sounding nighttime entertainment, an interim Jungle Book show will be presented in lieu of Rivers of Light. “The Jungle Book: Alive with Magic” will be presented for a limited-engagement on Discovery River, and will make use of some of the same tech as Rivers of Light while being inspired by Disney’s hit live-action film The Jungle Book. (Wasn’t its smash success convenient?!) It will also feature Indian-influenced music drawn from the animated classic.
This show should be a cute and visually impressive, especially for something thrown together at the last minute. Word is that it will offer FastPass+, but we wouldn’t recommend using a FastPass+ booking on it until more is known about the show. If it’s shown 3 times nightly (a safe bet), there’s a good possibility you won’t need FastPass+ for the second two shows.
We know–it stinks for anyone going this summer that Rivers of Light may not be shown as previously expected. However, we have to applaud Disney for making the tough decision here to delay Rivers of Light. They could have debuted the show in truncated form or altered it significantly to make the summer debut. The past has demonstrated that when that occurs, usually the underlying problems are never fixed and the truncated form becomes the “regular” show. Instead, they are doing it the right way and fixing the complex show to meet the vision of its creators.
I further applaud the decision to run a temporary Jungle Book show and retain the plan of staying open late this summer. Once the decision was made to delay Rivers of Light, it would’ve been easy to delay all of the nighttime offerings, and cut park hours back to 6 or 7 p.m. as a result. Kudos to Disney for not doing this.
In addition to all of the nighttime offerings, the table service restaurant Tiffins will open Memorial Day weekend for lunch and dinner. Located in Animal Kingdom’s Discovery Island, the interior will be a veritable art gallery from Africa, Asia, and South America, which presumably means it will be a treasure trove of artifacts from the Imagineers’ journeys to those places.
The menu is likewise inspired by the world travels of Joe Rohde and co., with cuisine that offers African, Asian, and South American influences. Reservations will not be available until May 20 at the earliest, so we’re expecting walk-up availability for the first month or so of Tiffins’ operation.
The adjacent Nomad Lounge will also feature waterfront views, while offering small plates and a sustainable drink menu.
Epcot
One of the main additions to Walt Disney World this summer will be the Frozen Ever After attraction. This, along with the Royal Sommerhaus character location will significantly expand the footprint of the Norway pavilion in World Showcase.
Set to open in June (no specific date has been provided), Frozen Ever After is a boat tour through the kingdom of Arendelle. Guests will be transported to the “Winter in Summer” Celebration created by Queen Elsa’s magical powers. Scenes will include Troll Valley, the icy North Mountain, Queen Elsa’s Ice Palace, and the Bay of Arendelle.
While we remain concerned about the fictional Arendelle represented in World Showcase, we are at least somewhat optimistic that maybe, hopefully the locations depicted will draw inspiration from the real landscape of Norway, and not just depict a CliffNotes retelling of the movie. Walt Disney Imagineers traveled to Norway for architecture and design research, specifically visiting the Detli House in Sverresborg and the Open Air Museum of Cultural History in Trondheim, so there is at least some hope…
The attraction will no doubt be insanely popular regardless due to the continuing draw of Frozen with kids, coupled with the low capacity of the boat attraction. This means you will want to score a FastPass+ for this as soon as they become available, or risk waiting in lines that we anticipate will regularly exceed 120 minutes. In fact, I’d put money on waits eclipsing 180 minutes some days. Prepare to rope drop if you can’t score a FastPass+ for this.
Then there’s the new Royal Sommerhus greeting location, where guests can meet Anna & Elsa. Inspired by a Norwegian countryside cabin, Anna and Elsa have opened their summer home for visitors. No word on whether this will skew towards Enchanted Tales with Belle in being an interactive experience as opposed to a meet & greet, but we expect it to be more traditional (like Princess Fairytale Hall).
Around that same time, on June 17 (the day after it opens in Shanghai Disneyland), Soarin’ Around the World makes its debut. Due to the stipulation that the attraction premiere at Shanghai Disneyland, it’s not clear whether Epcot can do soft openings of the attraction (which will be ready well in advance of the June date). My guess is that it cannot, so don’t hold your breath if you’re visiting Walt Disney World before June 17.
Here’s a preview video of what you’ll see on Soarin’ Around the World (SPOILERS):
Among the new locations are China, Swiss Alps, Monument Valley, Egypt, France, Africa, Australia, Brazil, Fiji, and Disneyland. It sounds like the entire globe will have almost as good of a lineup as the state of California! 😉
In addition to the new film, Soarin’ Around the World at Epcot will have an additional theater (for a total of 3), which should help alleviate wait times slightly (partially offset by demand). Since both this and Frozen Ever After will presumably be Tier 1 FastPass+ attractions, we would not recommend booking FastPass+ for this unless you can’t score one for Frozen Ever After.
For those waiting in the standby line, good news! There’s also a new interactive queue. (Yay? Uhh…) This new queue will be interesting; the Imagineers have plenty of unused space that they could utilize, as the old Food Rocks attraction was (partially) still behind the old queue walls.
Finally, in early May, Dory, Squirt, Nemo, Marlin, Destiny the whale shark, Bailey the beluga whale, and Hank the “septopus,” plus other characters from the new film Finding Dory will join Crush in Epcot’s Turtle Talk With Crush attraction.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
It’s all about Star Wars this summer at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Starting this June, the new Star Wars fireworks show, “Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular” debuts. This replaces the current show with something that combines fireworks, pyro-technics, video projections, a fire tower (YES!) and other special effects (hopefully LASERZ!) that will transform Grauman’s Chinese Theater into the twin suns of Tatooine, the Death Star, Starkiller Base, and other Star Wars destinations.
The current Star Wars fireworks show is very solid despite being fairly “basic” in terms of effects, so we are really optimistic about this new show. The new technology being utilized sounds very much like that used in the exceptional Disneyland Forever. That technology plus the scores and visuals from Star Wars should be a killer combination.
At the other end of the spectrum, there’s the recently-debuted live stage show “Star Wars: A Galaxy Far, Far Away,” which features characters such as BB-8, Kylo Ren, Chewbacca, Darth Vader, and Darth Maul. We have yet to see this show in person, but reports we’ve heard from friends are that it feels like it was sloppily thrown together and is low quality. That would, sadly, be in keeping with the underwhelming Star Wars Launch Bay that opened during the winter in Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
There’s also The March of the First Order Stormtrooper procession led by Captain Phasma from the Star Wars Launch Bay to the park’s Center Stage, which looks cute, but is a minor diversion, at best. Finally, there’s the re-imagined Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple experience that is a nice plussing of the original Jedi Training Academy.
If the fireworks and entertainment listed above aren’t enough to buoy attendance at DHS during its heavy construction, we would not be surprised to see more temporary entertainment added over the summer. Stay tuned on that front.
Magic Kingdom
After several years of receiving the bulk of Walt Disney World’s attention in terms of construction, Magic Kingdom is the quietest this summer. There’s only one addition of consequence, the new stage show “Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire.” This all-new live stage show makes its debut in June on the Cinderella Castle Forecourt Stage at Magic Kingdom Park, characters from myriad Disney films.
I’ll be honest: I couldn’t care less about this. I’m just glad Dream Along with Mickey–a show that had played in Magic Kingdom for most of my adult life–is finally gone. I know some people love castle stage shows (and maybe this will be the one to get me “hooked”), but for now, I don’t really care. Standing in the hot Florida sun and humidity for 20 minutes watching the characters dance around carrying on about “magic,” “wishes,” and “dreams” is not my idea of a good time. (I know–I sound like a crotchety old curmudgeon. GET OFF MY LAWN! 😉 )
I think that about covers it for the main additions coming this summer. Expect other openings at Disney Springs, other entertainment here and there, merchandise, and a special edition cupcake or two, as well.
All in all, it’s really not a half bad list, especially considering that the main construction occurring right now is on Pandora: World of Avatar, Star Wars Land, and Toy Story Land. This year is sort of an awkward “transition” year, but even with that, this is probably the biggest year for the parks since New Fantasyland. Beyond that, I think we still haven’t seen the last of the additions for Disney’s Hollywood Studios this year. Let’s just hope any other additions are not of the upcharge variety!
Planning a Walt Disney World trip? Learn about hotels on our Walt Disney World Hotels Reviews page. For where to eat, read our Walt Disney World Restaurant Reviews. To save money on tickets or determine which type to buy, read our Tips for Saving Money on Walt Disney World Tickets post. Our What to Pack for Disney Trips post takes a unique look at clever items to take. For what to do and when to do it, our Walt Disney World Ride Guides will help.
For comprehensive advice, the best place to start is our Walt Disney World Trip Planning Guide for everything you need to know!
For Walt Disney World news, tips, discount info, and free eBook downloads sign up for our free monthly newsletter.
If you enjoyed this post, we’d really appreciate it if you’d share it via social media to spread the word! We put a lot of work into making this site a helpful planning resource, and hope it’s useful to you. 🙂
Your Thoughts
What do you think of the slate of Summer 2016 additions at Walt Disney World? Do you agree or disagree with our assessment of the new offerings? Share any questions, tips, or additional thoughts you have in the comments!
Will there still be a meet and greet for Anna & Elsa in Magic Kingdom once the Frozen ride opens in Epcot? Going the end of July and planning on using a fp while at the MK
Good luck trying to get a fastpass for elsa and anna meet and greet at MK. Just tried for fp for everyday from 60 to 74 days from today and all are unavailable. Has anyone else been able to get a fp?
Hey Tom. What exactly is “a sustainable drink menu”? I’m not sure how many drinks I could sustain before having a negative impact on my environment. 🙂
We waited in the old Soarin’ queue once… it’s the anti-Everest and possibly the most boring queue in all of Disney. Coupled with the fact that your in a giant faraday cage so your smartphone won’t get reception either, so no entertainment on that front. Any improvement is welcome!
As for the castle show, I know it has been running for a long time and I’m glad they are refreshing the entertainment. But I really enjoy Dream Along with Mickey.
In particular, when we took our first trip with my then-2.5-yr-old daughter, we arrived in Orlando in the early afternoon and went to the Magic Kingdom. This show was playing as we walked down main street for the first time. With Mickey, Minnie, and a variety of princesses on stage all at the same time, her eyes were so wide with wonder. It was moments like that that converted us to the fans we are today. So, I will happily stand for 20 minutes in the sun to re-live that moment! Plus, the dancers in the show are really talented. (Do I have to turn in the Curmudgeon Club card now?)
Whoops, glitch in the matrix with duplicate post.
We waited int he old Soarin’ queue once… it’s the anti-Everest and possibly the most boring queue in all of Disney. Coupled with the fact that your in a giant faraday cage so your smartphone won’t get reception either, so no entertainment on that front.
As for the castle show, I know it has been running for a long time and I’m glad they are refreshing the entertainment. But I really enjoy Dream Along with Mickey.
In particular, when we took our first trip with my then-2.5-yr-old daughter, we arrived in Orlando in the early afternoon and went to the Magic Kingdom. This show was playing as we walked down main street for the first time. With Mickey, Minnie, and a variety of princesses on stage all at the same time, her eyes were so wide with wonder. It was moments like that that converted us to the fans we are today. So, I will happily stand for 20 minutes in the sun to re-live that moment! Plus, the dancers in the show are really talented. (Do I have to turn in the Curmudgeon Club card now?)
My kids love Dream Along With Mickey. It’s part of their ‘must dos’ every visit. Of course, that could be because it’s the first thing we do, has the castle directly behind it, and predominantly features Mickey.
Hi Tom,
Love your blog! We are planning a trip this fall (fourth trip, first time food and wine festival, and no kids this time). A little disappointed about all the construction at DHS, but , I haven’t seen any dates for the opening if Toy Story Land. When are the projecting? I realize it won’t be this year , just curious.
Hi Tom-
Any word on a dessert party offered for the Star Wars fireworks show this summer?
. Standing in the hot Florida sun and humidity for 20 minutes watching the characters dance around carrying on about “magic,” “wishes,” and “dreams” is not my idea of a good time.
.. and FoF is what, exactly?
…so good that it’s worth bearing the heat and humidity.
Honestly, though, I watch Festival of Fantasy far less often than I should for those very reasons.
We were hoping to see the new attractions when we are there in early May. Looks like we’ll have to wait until we return in August. Our teenagers are really excited about the new shopping in Disney Springs.
Okay- I just have to ask… and I really, really want to know…. who… in their right mind… would wait 240 minutes for a ride? How does a line like that even happen? I am seriously trying to wrap my head around being the person at the end of the line after walking past a standby sign that says “240 Min.” and saying to myself ‘hmm, this shouldn’t be that bad.'” I am not trying to be rude, just trying to understand the concept of waiting four hours for a 3 minute ride.
Last summer my husband and I fastpassed SDMT and hopped into the same cart with a mom and her 8ish yr old daughter who waited about 2 hours to ride- and boyyyy was the mom ticked off when the ride was over in a blink of an eye. That was “only” a 2 hour wait… a four hour wait? You’ve got to be a glutton for punishment if you’re “that person.”
Anyway- Tom- sorry to rant- you’re updates are awesome, I follow you regularly. You & Sarah rule.
We waited more than four hours for Radiator Springs Racers three days after its grand opening. We happened to be in SoCal that weekend for another reason, but when we heard Cars Land was opening, we had to see it.
We’re East Coast based, hadn’t been to Disneyland for probably three years and wouldn’t be back for about two years, so for us it was well worth it. For a local or even frequent guest, it’s harder to justify.
This was also before we had kids. We wouldn’t do that wait with kids now…!
I agree completely! Insane…
Yea, this is all “good news” but bad news for those of us who have already planned our trip in May for DW. 🙁 I am really disappointed that they are delaying everything until Memorial day weekend. Any chance we will be able to see ANYTHING new in May?? Bummed out.
Hi Tom. Since you said in Epcot the new Frozen ride and Soarin ride will probably both be in tier 1, do you think they will keep Test Track in tier 1 too? Thanks! Love your site!
We are going to WDW in mid-June and just booked our FP’s. Soarin’ and Test Track are both Tier 1. Frozen isn’t available to book yet.
Tom, what are your thoughts on seating for fireworks at Hollywood Studios? Is there a “best spot?”
Hi Tom. We’re arriving in WDW Wednesday and will be seeing the Star Wars fireworks Saturday night at 9:45. Having dinner at the Captain’s Grille first, and then going to see the fireworks. Wasn’t sure it was worth the trip to HS, but you gave me some hope that maybe it might just be worth it. I’ll be with some die hard Star Wars fans, so it should be interesting to see if they’re impressed.
Real kick in the shorts for a family going for the first time in a couple of weeks. I thought I’d seen that Frozen ever after was set to debut on May 1st, has this changed then I guess?
Hi Tom, I thought you might have touched on this in this post since construction is obviously in progress, but you didn’t in this post, so I’m curious: what are your thoughts on the new attractions going in to Toy Story Land at Hollywood Studios? Personally, I wasn’t excited by what I saw and just wondered what you thought (if you are excited, I might change my mind!). I always appreciate that you are real about your opinions. To me, it just looked like a kiddie coaster, and the ride with the aliens seemed like the teacups. Just about everything I’ve seen posted about them has tons of positive comments from readers. Personally, I just thought that something that involved exciting new technology (like all of the rides in Japan that you post about) might finally make its way to Toy Story Land. :-\
Haha, it’s like you read my mind. See this post from earlier today in the forums: http://forums.disneytouristblog.com/index.php?threads/is-anyone-else-really-underwhelmed-by-toy-story-land.1030/
Quick question: Do we know if the new Star Wars night show is completely different or if it’s just new effects added on to the fireworks that are there right now? We live not too terribly far away from Orlando and my dad and I really enjoyed the fireworks they have now so if it’s going to be completely different I’m wondering if we should make a quick trip to see them one last time.
Well, they have to change the launch point for the fireworks (due to construction), so it should be new pyro and new effects.
Don’t be surprised if the pyro is less impressive than the previous show. Without as large of a launch site, that’s likely the case. However, I think the other effects will more than make up for that.
I’d love your thoughts Tom – we are taking our 4yo to Disney in September. We have an 8:05 breakfast reservation at the Norway restaurant, do you think we should skip doing a fast pass for the Frozen attraction since we’ll be able to hope in line as soon as the park opens?
Nope, I’d still do the FastPass+. What if park hours change and EMH is added that morning? What if you don’t get out of the restaurant right at park opening? Etc.
Even if things go flawlessly, your “worst” case scenario is riding the attraction once via standby and once via FastPass+. That’s probably not such a bad thing with a 4 year old.
I think a lot of people are underestimating just how long of waits this ride will have. I almost wrote 240 minute peak waits in the post, but figured people would think I’m exaggerating. Maelstrom was a really low capacity ride–coupling that with Frozen-mania means some potentially astronomical wait times for this attraction.
True. Very good points. I hate the tiered system because I don’t want to miss out on Soarin’ fast passes! Hopefully with the 3 tracks the lines won’t be too bad?