Walt Disney World wants guest to Celebrate ‘Soulfully’ this summer
Walt Disney World encourages guests to make the summer of 2023 a ‘soulful’ celebration. The resort is highlighting its offerings that promote African-American artists in the realms of food, music, and entertainment. Discover where, when, and how to experience each of the unique ‘soulful’ celebrations this summer at Disney World.
Disney Springs and Epcot to Host Live Music
The Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival is drawing to a close this year, but not before guests have the chance to enjoy some R&B artists. At the American Gardens Theater, Living Colour will perform from June 30-July 1 and Evolution: Motown will perform from July 4-5.
Later in the summer, Epcot International Food and Wine Festival’s “Eat to the Beat” Concert Series will also feature artists such as:
- Southern Avenue, Aug. 4-5
- Ruben Studdard, Aug. 11-12
- Ayron Jones, Aug. 25-26
- Baha Men, Sept. 1-2
In addition to the artists at Epcot, guests of Disney Springs will also enjoy music from African-American musicans. At various stages around the property, guests will enjoy “soulful” celebrations at Disney World with musical artists Don Black, Wassalou, Free Cadence, and Franchise Players.
Guests Can Meet Ariel from Live-Action Movie
Currently, guests visiting Disney’s Hollywood Studios can meet Ariel from Disney’s live-action retelling of “The Little Mermaid.” Her meet and greet location contains artwork inspired by the movie as well as replicas of some of Ariel’s favorite “thingamabobs.”
‘Cooking with Soul’ to Continue
One of the most popular items during Black History Month was the Four-Cheese Baked Macaroni and Cheese available at the Contempo Cafe. It will be returning to the Contemporary later this month as part of the buffet at Chef Mickey’s.
New food items this season are inspired by the live-action movie “The Little Mermaid.” A beveraged named “Bubbles at Sea,” which contains Gold Peak sweet green tea, lemon juice, pineapple. and guava topped with boba pearls and a splash of shimmer, is available at multiple locations. The Little Mermaid Sea Salt, Caramel and Chocolate Pop with ocean fondant is currently available at The Ganachery at Disney Springs.
Artistic Expression Celebrated Across the Property
Four Black artists currently have their work on display at Disney Springs’ Art Walk. This summer, three new artists will showcase their work at Disney Springs, Epcot Amani Village, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Kenyan artist Wise Two will begin painting at Epcot on July 5, and new art at Disney’s Animal Kingdom will be on display in August.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Update
While construction is still ongoing, fans of the high-anticipated Tiana’s Bayou Adventure attraction at Magic Kingdom will soon be able to see the ride’s centerpiece. Tiana’s Foods water tower, topped by her signature tiara, will be visible starting on Tuesday.
Black-Owned Businesses Highlighted at Walt Disney World
Local Green Orlando Food Truck at Disney Springs is a Black-owned eatery. It offers fresh, flavorful cusine served on the fly.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom offers handmade goods from African artisans.
Uncle Nearest Premium Whisky – the most successful Black-owned distillery in the world – is used in several food and beverage items throughout the resort.
ESPN Complex to Host Talented Athletes
From July 3-16, the AAU Girls and Boys Summer Basketball tournament will be in action at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Top high school talent will also be on display during the NBPA Top 100 Camp from June 26-July 2.
For soccer fans, LaLiga Promises international tournament will showcase the world’s best 12-and-under soccer players from June 23-25. Finally, The USYS National Championship will crown the best youth club soccer teams during their tournament from July 18-23.
Guests who want more information about tickets to these events can visit www.espnwwos.com/events.
