Summer of 2014 Brings New Magic to Guests at the Walt Disney World Resort

This summer promises to be one for the memory books for guests at the Walt Disney World Resort.

Summer officially kicks off at Disney on May 23 with the bi-coastal Rock Your Disney Side: 24 Hours party at the Magic Kingdom, Disneyland, and Disney California Adventure. This 24-hour party starts at 6 a.m. on May 23 and ends at 6 a.m. May 24 local time.

Guests will have a chance to take part in events showcasing the good-vs.-evil from classic Disney stories including meet-and-greets, entertainment, special merchandise, and special food offerings.

On May 28 the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train officially opens in the Magic Kingdom. This ride is the final piece of the "New Fantasyland" expansion and brings to life the characters from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

Seven Dwarfs Mine Train Dedication

The family-friendly coaster features a one-of-a-kind ride vehicle that pivots during the twists and turns of the ride. The coaster also includes music from the movies and guests will be greeted by animated figures of the Dwarfs and Snow White.

At Disney's Animal Kingdom guests will have a chance to experience the Festival of the Lion King once again when the show returns to the park in June. After going into "hibernation" in January, this fan-favorite will once again be showing daily in its new home, the newly built Harambe Theater.

On Saturday nights from June 7 through August 9, guests can experience the Harambe Nights event at the Animal Kingdom.

Harambe Nights artists concept

This special ticketed event includes an appetizer party, performance of The Lion King Concert in the Wild with celebrity narrators, and an African-inspired buffet followed by a street party. Tickets for this event are $119 for adults, $79 for ages 3-9, plus tax. Tickets with premium floor seating are $134 for adults, $94 for ages 3-9, plus tax.

More new nighttime experiences are taking place at Epcot this summer with the IllumiNations Sparkling Dessert Party and the After Hours Wind Down. The Sparkling Dessert Party takes place on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. The After Hours Wind Down takes place on select nights through September 15.

Other new additions to the Walt Disney World Resort this year include the Princess Fairytale Hall, where guests can meet Anna and Elsa from Frozen and the Festival of Fantasy Parade that celebrates all things Fantasyland. Guests are also able to take advantage of all that MyMagic+ offers including more FastPass+ options than ever before.

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