This is the weekly news, rumors and refurbishments update for Walt Disney World for the week of November 23, 2014.
Here are the three biggest updates from around the resort for the past seven days…
1. The refresh of Epcot’s World Showcase entertainment is complete
The Paul McKenna Band had their performance debut this past week at the United Kingdom Pavilion in Epcot. The band is the final piece of the World Showcase entertainment shuffle happening over the past few months.
The Paul McKenna Band is a four-piece Scottish band from Glasgow, Scotland. They perform daily at 11am, 11:50am, 12:45am, 1:40pm, 2:35pm, 3:35pm, and 4:50pm in the United Kingdom Pavilion.
2. Club Disney at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is getting a minor rebranding
Club Disney at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort opened just a few months ago after an extensive refurbishment and is undergoing yet another thematic change. Although this time it’s just changing the name to Lilo’s Playhouse.
I’m not sure why Disney felt the name change was necessary. There are no indications that the club’s interior will change. Maybe children are more willing to visit Lilo’s Playhouse rather than Club Disney based on some extensive research.
Here’s what Disney had to say about Lilo’s Playhouse:
“At Lilo’s Playhouse, kids 3 to 12 years of age can enjoy activities inspired by Peter Pan, Alice in Wonderland and more. And as they take off on this magical journey, parents like you are encouraged to set sail for some grown-up escapades of your own!”
For reservations call (407) WDW-DINE.
3. Holidays Around the World at Epcot have begun
The full line-up for the Holidays Around the World events are now available.
American Adventure
Share your Christmas wishes with Santa and Mrs. Claus (November 29 to December 24, 2014), enjoy Hanukkah traditions and experience the spirit of Kwanzaa. Plus, treat your ears to the Voices of Liberty Dickens Carolers—an outstanding a cappella group that sings a special repertoire of classic songs.
Canada
Follow the Canadian Holiday Voyageurs on a musical tour through the customs of the Great White North.
China
Feast your eyes on the colorful Chinese Lion Dance, which brings good fortune and happiness to all during major celebrations like the Lunar New Year and Lantern Festival.
France
Discover the magic of Père Noël and the joy of the season through a Christmas letter from a child.
Germany
Listen as Helga tells the story of the first Christmas tree and the tale of her first Nutcracker.
Italy
Meet the kind-hearted witch La Befana who arrives on the eve of the Epiphany to grant gifts to good children.
Japan
Hear the fascinating story of the Daruma doll and the Japanese customs of the New Year.
Mexico
¡Feliz Navidad! Join mariachis and dancers as they bring color and excitement to the music, dances and traditions of a holiday fiesta.
Morocco
Come! Take a journey through the seasons of holidays in Morocco, where celebrations are “the spice of life.”
Norway
Spend time with Sigrid and learn about Julenissen, the Christmas Gnome.
United Kingdom
Delve into the vivid stories of Father Christmas, dating back to 15th-century England.
Be sure to check the Times Guide for a complete list of appearances and performance times.
Park hours will be extended until 9:30pm during Holidays Around the World and don’t forget to see the special Peace on Earth holiday finale to IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth.
