Summer has arrived at Walt Disney World, and I’m not just talking about those soaring temperatures! Seriously, I was in Florida last month, and the heat is no joke this year! Be sure to read up on how to stay cool and comfortable at Disney World if you are heading to the parks in the next few months. Not only is the summer season here, but June brings with it a ton of exciting events and happenings.
We all know by now that Tiana’s Bayou Adventure finally opens at the end of the month, but there are several other big happenings you’ll want to know about if you’re visiting the parks this month. We’ll cover everything in chronological order so you know exactly when each of these events will take place and can plan accordingly.
EPCOT Transformation is Complete
EPCOT’s multi-year transformation comes to an end in just a few days! As of June 10, the construction walls will be gone, marking the completion of the final phase of the transformation. CommuniCore Plaza and CommuniCore Hall will open on June 10 with a new meet-and-greet area for Mickey Mouse and his friends and a new performance space, which will debut with an Encanto sing-along show.
Festival Favorites is also coming to CommuniCore Hall, a new quick-service dining location featuring popular menu items from EPCOT’s seasonal festivals. Exact details are still in the air on whether Festival Favorites will be a permanent year-round eatery or if it will only be open during the EPCOT festivals. Stay tuned as we learn more!
CLICK HERE FOR A FULL GUIDE TO EPCOT’S FESTIVALS IN 2024
Lion King 30th Anniversary Celebration Starts in Animal Kingdom
Wanna feel old? The Lion King turns 30 this year. I don’t need to go on and tell you about how it was the first film I ever saw in theaters…but yeah, this one is making me feel a little old. Starting on June 10, guests can celebrate the anniversary in Disney’s Animal Kingdom with an array of limited-time activities, merchandise, and food.
Speaking of food, Disney recently launched a full Foodie Guide for the anniversary treats coming to Walt Disney World. From slushies to cupcakes, there are several exclusive snacks you’ll want to check out if you’re in Animal Kingdom this summer. The 30th Anniversary Celebration runs through September 9, 2024.
CLICK HERE FOR A 10-STEP GUIDE TO START PLANNING YOUR NEXT DISNEY WORLD VACATION
Test Track Closes
June 17 is your last chance to ride Test Track in its current form! The popular EPCOT thrill ride will close this month to make way for a full transformation. This new version, “Test Track 3.0” as some have dubbed it, was announced at Destination D23 in 2023.
No timeline has been announced yet as to when the new version of Test Track will open. Fingers crossed we hear something at D23 Expo later this summer.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ABOUT WHAT WAS ANNOUNCED AT LAST YEAR’S DESTINATION D23 EVENT
Minnie’s Summertime Dine at Hollywood and Vine
It’s time for another seasonal dining experience at Hollywood and Vine! The table service restaurant in Disney’s Hollywood Studios features Minnie Mouse, Mickey Mouse, Goofy, and Pluto during its dinner service, with their seasonally themed outfits rotating a few times throughout the year.
This summer, Minnie is throwing a “beach-inspired bash” with Minnie’s Summertime Dine, starting on June 20. This beach-themed character dining experience will likely run through August or September when Minnie’s Halloween Dine will then replace it.
CLICK HERE FOR TIPS ON HOW TO STAY COOL IN WALT DISNEY WORLD THIS SUMMER
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Opens
The biggest event happening at Walt Disney World this month is the long-awaited opening of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure! The ride will officially open to all guests on June 28, but the first round of previews has already begun. Throughout the month, various groups like Cast Members, invited media, Disney Vacation Club Members, and Annual Passholders will have the chance to experience the ride before its June 28 opening.
When Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opens, it will be included as an available attraction on Genie+! This is a first, as Disney World typically offers its newest rides as a la carte purchases. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will also use Disney’s virtual queue system in its initial opening days. No word yet on when the virtual queue system will go away for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, but Disney did hint that it wouldn’t be around for too long.
