With the current construction of the Guardians of the Galaxy and Ratatouille attractions in Epcot (not to mention the Disney Skyliner), it’s obvious that BIG CHANGES are taking place in Disney World’s Epcot.
Epcot’s Spaceship Earth
And this morning at the D23 Destination D: Celebrating Mickey Mouse event, we learned more information about some things that we knew were coming during the park’s multi-year transformation, as well as some brand new experiences on the way!
Let’s begin with the park’s nighttime spectacular…
TWO New Nighttime Spectaculars
Earlier this year, it was revealed that IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth would be ending its run as Epcot’s nighttime spectacular in 2019. But how will this iconic show be replaced?
Epcot Spectacular Concept Art
Well, we actually received a TWO-PART answer to that question today! In 2019, Epcot Forever will make its debut as a limited-time show that Epcot fans in particular will especially appreciate.
The show “will begin with a spark of imagination that swells into an epic spectacle of fireworks, music, lighting, lasers, and special effects kites.” And the soundtrack? Why, that will be classic songs from Epcot, like Tomorrow’s Child! And who knows what else? Maybe Listen to the Land? Universe of Energy? Perhaps a melody or two from Kitchen Kabaret?
Epcot Nighttime Spectacular ©Disney
Tell me, what would you just LOVE to hear in Epcot again?
But I’m getting ahead of myself… in 2020, an entirely new nighttime spectacular will make its debut!
Epcot Spectacular Concept Art
The as-yet-unnamed production “will celebrate how Disney music inspires people around the world, and will feature massive floating set pieces, custom-built LED panels, choreographed moving fountains, lights, pyrotechnics and lasers.”
Epcot Spectacular Concept Art
And a look at the concept art reveals that lots of our favorite characters will be along for the ride!
Epcot Spectacular Concept Art
Epcot Spectacular Concept Art
Epcot Spectacular Concept Art
Speaking of rides…
New Pavilion Experiences
Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure
has been announced as the name for the Ratatouille attraction coming to Epcot’s France Pavilion in World Showcase.
Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure ©Disney
But that’s not the only addition coming to France! A new “Beauty and the Beast” sing-along will join the “Impressions de France” film as part of the Pavilion’s entertainment. The show, which will “soon debut,” is created by Don Hahn, producer of the animated and live-action “Beauty and the Beast” films.
Belle in her Christmas gown in Epcot
And the O Canada 360-degree Circlevision show is receiving an update!
O Canada
“Canada… you’re a lifetime journey for the traveler…”
And now I’m off to break out my old EPCOT Center songs. On cassette.
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What do you think of these changes coming to Epcot? Please let us know with a comment!
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I envisioned Rivers of Light technology to seamlessly be carried over and flow into the same water theater setting at EPCOT. And no worries of creating seating or adding to traffic what ROL did, its already hosting. I wonder how many people will be riding the gondola’s just to catch a bird’s eye view of the shows?
Are they still going to do the dessert party?
Lisa, no way to know yet! But if/when we hear anything, we’ll post!
I’m going to WDW just so I can see Illuminations one last time. But I’m also sad that I’ll miss out on seeing Epcot Forever. Please Please Please do a Facebook live of that show!
I hope that they include the original soundtrack from Imagination!
Is the bueaty and the beast sing along going to be added to Impressions de France, and viewed consecutively?
Mike, the Beauty and the Beast sing-along is described as being in addition to Impressions de France, so we’re expecting it so be a stand alone experience. We’ll bring you more when we hear it!
I don’t know if I will ever be able to return to Disney World but while cleaning out a closet I found my EPCOT Center album. The songs brought back so many wonderful memories. I have to admit I got a little misty. Loved the O Canada song and American Adventure song . Imagination was a favorite as well. I hope the O Canada song, the American Adventure song and Impression de France film and music remain for all visitors to enjoy. Hoping someday I will hear these live again !
Susan, the music is so powerful!