From the opening day of Disney’s Animal Kingdom on April 22, 1998, the park has always had a unique beauty. But only on a very rare occasion guests would be able to see the park come to life after nightfall. This summer that all changes as the park extends its hours and current attraction can be seen in a whole new light while the addition of new nighttime entertainment completes the package.
The transformation of the park from day to night really starts with the signature attraction, The Kilimanjaro Safari. With the addition of the “eternal sunset” effect along the savanna, a shortened ride path, and more active animals, it brings a new life to the ride.
At the Awaken Summer media event, invited guests were given a special sneak peek at one of the scenes of the upcoming Rivers of Light show. Following the sneak peek, Disney announced the limited engagement of Jungle Book: Alive With Magic. From what we saw, the Rivers of Light show will be a beautiful presentation on the water with floats and projections that will make you feel one with the animal kingdom. But instead of talking about it please enjoy the whole presentation we saw first hand.
As was stated, a limited engagement of Jungle Book: Alive With Magic will begin Memorial Day weekend and take place in this area until Rivers of Light is fully ready.
By far, my favorite addition to Disney’s Animal Kingdom at night is the Tree of Life Awakening.
This ongoing experience from sundown to park close features some of the most amazing projections I have seen in any Disney park to date. As Joe Rhode said, the Tree of Life, really comes to life in the dark with 4 individual shows and many ongoing surprises. If you are unable to get a FastPass for the Kilimanjaro Safaris or the Jungle Book: Alive With Magic, just sitting and enjoying the majesty of The Tree of Life Awakening each night will be a great way to wrap up your evening.
With these new additions Disney’s Animal Kingdom not only becomes a “full day park” but a whole new experience in the dark and a must do for every guests!