Welcome Spring With News From Walt Disney World

It's spring, and that means wonderful things are taking shape across Walt Disney World. Since this is a time for new beginnings, I thought a news round-up would be in order to tempt you into thinking about your next Walt Disney World vacation.


Disney's Walk Around the World Being Retired


Magic Kingdom Area

The arrival experience for guests coming to the Magic Kingdom continues to transform, sadly this means that "Disney's Walk Around the World" with its customized brick pavement will be retired in the coming months. The design of the bricks doesn't allow them to be removed individually, however Disney is offering families who sponsored the bricks a commemorative option. Purchase of the commemorative pieces will be available between now and Aug. 31, 2019, or while supplies last. Check out the Disney Parks Blog story for more information.

Across the Seven Seas Lagoon in Tomorrowland construction on the Tron Attraction reached an important milestone. Cast members and the project teams responsible for bringing the new TRON attraction to life signed their names on one of the first steel support columns to be raised for the exciting new coaster.


Tron Reaches Construction Milestone


Epcot
The Land Pavilion will soon be home to a new film about the "Awesome Planet" we call our home. Spectacular new footage will showcase beauty, diversity and dynamic story of our earth with all the grandeur guests have come to expect. Immersive in-theater effects, and space sequences (created by Industrial Light & Magic) of "Awesome Planet" will deliver an environmental message to resonate with guests long after they leave the theater.

Construction continues World Showcase's France Pavilion with the addition of a new boulevard and Remy's Ratatouille Adventure. Recently it was announced that the expansion will get yet another option that will have foodies flocking, an authentic creperie! The new restaurant will feature table service dining along featuring the recipes from celebrity chef Jerome Bocuse, and a quick service option for guests looking to indulge in savory and sweet crepes.


Creperie Coming To The France Pavilion


Disney's Animal Kingdom
Jabari, the giraffe calf born on Kilimanjaro Safari back in January, has taken his place amongst the herd on the savanna after two months bonding with his mother backstage. It's springtime so on the babies!

After a long winter closure, Rafiki's Planet Watch will be opening back up just in time for the summer. The area dedicated to conservation of our planet will still include the animal encounters guests have come to know and love, as well as new experiences drawing from a celebration of "The Lion King."


Giraffe Calf Jabari Spotted On The Kilimanjaro Safari Savanna


Disney's Hollywood Studios

The Disney's Hollywood Studios parking lot is getting a fresh look. Each section of the lot has been renamed after beloved characters and giving bright new signs to help you remember where you parked. Mickey, Minnie, Jessie, Buzz, Olaf and BB-8 are all represented and ready to welcome you for a day of fun. In addition, two new bus loops, just steps away from the main entrance, have been added for guests arriving via Disney transportation. Finally, before the end of the year the transformation will be complete as the new Skyliner Station is up and running.


Disney's Hollywood Studios Parking Gets A Facelift


Disney Springs

Jaleo, and Pepe, by Chef Jose Andres, have opened at Disney Springs. The fifth Jaleo location in the U.S. the new restaurant features an extensive menu of tapas, the traditional small plates of Spain, as well as savory paellas, sangrias, and a selection of Spanish wines and sherries. On the front corner of the building adjacent to the Jaleo entrance guests will find Pepe by Jose Andres. Pepe is the first brick and mortar location of the chef's popular Spanish food truck.


Jaleo Open At Disney Springs


Walt Disney Company News

Finally, I wanted to share a bit of new that could mean exciting things for the far furture of the Disney Parks. The Walt Disney Company's acquisition of 21st Century Fox became effective this morning. 21st Century Fox's iconic collection of businesses and franchises. You can read more about the acquisition on the Walt Disney Company corporate website.