Grab your stuffed Simba (or the closest object you can find) and raise him into the air to celebrate this fantastic news. On Jan. 21, Disney announced the return of Festival of the Lion King.
You read that right. The most popular show at Animal Kingdom (and arguably across Walt Disney World) is set to return in summer 2021.
The show will return in a “modified format,” with focus on making adjustments on stage and behind-the-scenes. Plus, there will be updates to choreography to allow for physical distancing, along with adjustments to audience seating.
An exact return date for Festival of the Lion has not been announced.
This is major news, especially since pretty much all entertainment has been suspended since the reopening of WDW and due to the ongoing pandemic. Plus, there were also all those unfortunate entertainment layoffs.
In October 2020, Disney released a statement commenting on the massive layoffs and said at the time, “Determining which shows can return and when is a complex process.” They continued, “As with the rest of our phased reopening, we will also consider the guidance of health officials and government agencies in determining when the time will be right to adjust capacity, and as soon as it is appropriate, we will start to bring additional entertainment back.”
It’s unclear if any other entertainment will return, but in October 2020, First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration returned to Hollywood Studios. We’ll be sure to update you if or when we learn more entertainment news.
If you’re looking to plan a trip this summer to Walt Disney World (and to see Festival of the Lion King), be sure to reach out to Small World Vacations.
The following products and services give us a commission on sales.
Get our free Quick Start Guide
Have our guide delivered right to your inbox with our 6-step Disney World planning process to make it less overwhelming. Snag our free guide ➡️
Take our course
Check out our course that will help you learn all about Walt Disney World planning with dozens of videos and downloadables for each step along the way. Get access now ➡️
Our recommend travel agency
We partner with Small World Vacations, Diamond Level Authorized Disney Vacations Planners in business since 1996. Get a quote now ➡️
Want to stay deluxe on a moderate budget?
It’s 1 of our top fave ways to save! By renting DVC points, you can stay in deluxe accommodations for a fraction of the price. Check availability ➡️
Private car service
Quicksilver Tours will transport you in style. They assist with luggage at the airport, provide car seats, and include a free grocery stop. Book your car ➡️
Need a stroller, wheelchair, or scooter?
Buena Vista Scooters is a company with a great reputation who offers in-person resort drop off and pick up of strollers, scooters, and wheelchairs. Book your rental ➡️
Amazon recommendations
Check out our Amazon shop with trip essentials we love. Start shopping ➡️
WDW Prep merch
Get WDW Prep merch to show off your Disney knowledge (especially fun for spotting others during your trip!). Check out the WDW Prep merch shop ➡️
- We stayed in an All-Star Music Family Suite: here’s our review - September 28, 2023
- Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Harvest Feast at Garden Grill review: is lunch and dinner worth it? - September 27, 2023
- Be Our Guest review: is it worth it? - September 21, 2023