Clap your paws, stomp your hooves, and ruffle your feathers, because we now know when Festival of the Lion King will be returning to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park!
The show was incredibly popular before the parks closed in March of 2020, but like much of the live entertainment, it did not return when the parks reopened. We later heard that many of the show’s performers had been laid off. Then, earlier this year, Disney announced that Festival of the Lion King would be coming back, and now we know exactly what day that will be!
When the announcement was made for the show’s return, we were told the summer of 2021 would be the reopening season. But today, as we were waiting in line for a soft open of the show, a Cast Member told us that performances would officially begin on May 15th.
We know that there will be some changes to how the show works to accommodate health and safety guidelines. There will be updated choreography, altered audience seating, and adjustments to the show both onstage and backstage.
Disney had a soft reopening of the show on May 8th, but now there are times listed on the Disney World website! May 9th and 10th, there are only 3 shows at 12:30PM, 1:30PM, and 2:30PM. On May 11th, Disney adds 2 shows at 5PM and 6PM. And starting on the May 12th, there are 6 shows per day with another show added at 7PM!
We’re eager to learn more details about how this show will work, and we can’t wait to visit Festival of the Lion King again — it’s a stellar performance! If you’re planning on stopping by, we suggest you make your Disney Park Pass reservations now, because it’s going to be popular.
Stay tuned to DFB for more news and updates on Festival of the Lion King and any other entertainment that returns to the Disney parks! We’re grateful to help you plan your trip to Walt Disney World!
Click Here to Read the Show’s Return Announcement!
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Have you seen Festival of the Lion King before? Tell us in the comments!
Some sporting events around the country are at 100 percent capacity. It is time Disney. If folks are nervous they can get the vaccine, mask up, or wait until the Covid is completely gone. The rest of us would like to return to normal. I have traveled to other countries where some wear masks. Those that do not wish to, do not have to.