I just read on the the Disney Parks Blog that they will partner with Walt Disney Imagineering to bring us a live chat with Walt Disney Imagineer Chris Beatty on Wednesday, Nov. 9 at 1:30 p.m. EST to talk about… Â THE NEW WALT DISNEY WORLD FANTASYLAND EXPANSION!!
I can’t wait to see the new exciting rides and attractions at the new Fantasyland. Â While an exact opening date hasn’t been announced, there is going to be one phase opened in Fall, 2012 and another in 2013. Â The first phase is going to include an new Ariel ride that sounds amazing. Â Perfect for children of all ages, but I’m thinking that Rosie will be the perfect age – 6 years old – next year. Â She is in love with all things princesses, and there will be lots to see! Â One of the things I read though, is that Disney is making a conscious effort to encourage gender-neutrality in the princess rides – boys won’t be embarrassed to say they loved it!
The Ariel ride sounds a bit like the all-time favorite, “It’s A Small World”. Â We will ride through a series of scenes that tell the story of Ariel with music and animated figures. Â Click to see a video with Chris Beatty to tell you about the Under the Sea ride.
Other attractions in the new Fantasyland include an expanded Dumbo ride (no more crazy-long waits in a windy maze).  New restaurants in the Beauty and Beast section – Gaston’s Pub and Be Our Guest sound like they will be on our must-try list!  According to the Disney Parks Blog, the Be Our Guest restaurant will be located in the Beast’s castle and offer a lavish dining experience in the castle’s elegant ballroom.  Beauty and the Beast is set in France – I’m guessing the food will be magnifique!
To hear the live chat, go the main page of the Disney Parks Blog  on Wednesday, Nov. 9 at 1:30 p.m. EST.
Maybe if I’m lucky enough to go to Disney Social Media Moms Celebration again I can give you a sneak peek *fingers crossed*.