Disney theme parks in the U.S. will take another step towards normal operations in July when nighttime fireworks return to both Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort.
These nightly performances have been put on hold during the COVID-19 pandemic to discourage crowds from gathering together for long stretches of time. Both resorts are now shedding many of their pandemic-era restrictions, including face mask requirements.
At Disney World, the “Happily Ever After” fireworks and projection show at Magic Kingdom’s Cinderella Castle will return on July 1. That same date will also see the return of the temporary “Epcot Forever” show at Epcot (obviously), while the permanent “Harmonious” show still doesn’t have a debut date.
“Mickey’s Mix Magic” will return to Disneyland on July 4.
Animal Kingdom Lodge reopening to regular guests on August 26
Disney World is reopening regular guest rooms at Animal Kingdom Lodge starting Aug. 26, as increased demand for travel means Disney needs to open up hotel capacity.
Animal Kingdom Lodge is one of several Disney resorts that have been partially open to accommodate Disney Vacation Club members during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, rooms for non-DVC guests have remained unavailable and many of the resort’s amenities have been closed, including two of the resort’s restaurants — Boma and Jiko — as well as the Zawadi Marketplace gift shop in the Jambo House building.
Disney did not say when those amenities will come back online. Reservations for Animal Kingdom Lodge will become available to book on Wednesday.
Disneyland Resort reopening 11 attractions over the next month
As the Disneyland Resort’s two theme parks increase park capacity, additional attractions will become available again to handle the larger crowds.
The Orange County Register reports that through July 16, 11 attractions at Disneyland and Disney California Adventure will be reopening.
- Sleeping Beauty Castle Walkthrough — June 15
- Golden Zephyr — June 15
- Animation Academy — June 15
- Sorcerer’s Workshop — June 15
- Mickey’s Philharmagic — Now open Saturdays and Sundays only
- Davy Crockett’s Explorer Canoes — June 18
- Tom Sawyer Island — June 20
- Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters — June 25
- Storybook Land Canal Boats — June 27
- Matterhorn Bobsleds — July 2
- Jungle Cruise — July 16
The resort will not be at full strength, as more than 20 attractions across the two parks do not have reopening dates. These include the Disneyland Monorail, Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage, Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln, and the “Fantasmic” and “World of Color” nighttime shows.