---

• Future World
• World Showcase
  • Nighttime Shows
  • Attractions

---

---

---

Who Wants to Be A Mouseketeer?
Think you're a WDW expert? Test your knowledge of Walt Disney World in this exciting game.

---

Chris's Walt Disney World Music
A sister site of Chris's WDW, with tons of Disney World Midi music to listen to! Indexed by park, land, and attraction. Always growing!

---

Disney Links

---

Sign my Guestbook

---

View my Guestbook

---

Rate our site with DisneySeek!!

--- 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

(10 is the highest, 1 is the lowest)

---

Trivia:
The puppets can be from 12 to 17 feet tall. They are decorated with colorful panels, glimmering metal, and gold plating. They were featured in Super Bowl XXXIV's halftime show, which also used some parts of the soundtrack from the parade.
David Letterman, who watched the halftime show while recovering from heart surgery, seemed confused by the "giant puppets" when he negatively referenced to them while interviewing Regis Philbin. "Thank goodness I lived to see that," he joked. Philbin, who is employed by Disney on ABC's "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?", wisely kept his mouth shut on the subject.

IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth
To date, this is the most technologically advanced and spectacular Disney nighttime show ever produced. This latest incarnation of the ever-popular IllumiNations pyrotechnics and laser show is set up as a three-movement symphony. It all starts with a soothing voice that points out that since the dawn of civilization, man has gathered around the fire to hear tales just as Epcot guests are gathered now. The torches around the lagoon have stayed aglow up until now, but as the show starts, they slowly fade away. All is quiet and dark, until the beating of mighty drums is heard. The pace slowly increases, until the individual beats blur together and one single particle launches screaming from the middle of the lake into the night sky. It explodes in a chaotic frenzy, representing the formation of the universe and beginning the first movement: Chaos. A raging inferno erupts in the lagoon, and bubbling fountains act as plumes of lava rising from the surface. There are fireworks galore, as comets collides and shooting stars fall sizzling into the water. One last giant explosion plunges us back into darkness, and the second movement of Order begins. A flute melody is heard as we see Earth floating through space and into the center of the lagoon. Its land masses begin to emerge, then life begins to flourish as the music picks back up and images of wild horses running free and other scenes flash across the sphere. A jungle beat sends more fireworks rocketing into the sky, then a more dramatic melody takes over as sparks shower from overhead and a fountain of fire reaches up from the water to touch them. At this point, a celebratory theme fills the air, as a barrage of pyrotechnics reflects every beat of the music. The music gets louder, and suddenly ends in an incredible burst of sight and sound. Now is the time for the third movement and inspiring finale: Meaning. This portion, written as a vocal song, is entitled "We Go On". Everyone's focus is coming down out of the sky back to the globe as the orchestral accompaniment starts, then a beautiful alto voice begins the lyrics. Soon a chorus joins her, and as the key changes, the sphere begins to open up, blossoming outward. It continues to do this as the torches around the lagoon return to life. A dramatic climax is hit when a flaming torch rises out of the globe in the water, partnered with a triumphant horn solo. The sky erupts into a daylight brightness with dozens of fireworks going off at the same time. This spectacle ends when the drums start to beat again, and there is a blast of trumpets and flares of synchronized light. This is literally the most amazing show ever produced, and truly has to be seen to be believed.

Trivia:
This is the third life of IllumiNations. It was most recently experienced as IllumiNations 25, which debuted in '96 in celebration of WDW's 25th anniversary.
The wise voice providing narration during the introduction was done by the man who now voices both Pooh and Tigger, Jim Cummings.
The globe effects are achieved by a sphere shaped ball covered with small LED lights in the shape of Earth's continents.

Trivia:
The Animatronic figures used here are some of the most complicated to date; in one scene, Ben Franklin walks up a set of stairs.
The last scene literally surrounds guests with historical figures as the sun rises over the Statue of Liberty Torch and curtains are raised behind statues of famous people of the past representing essential American ideals.

Mexico
Set in an ancient Aztec temple at the front of World Showcase, the Mexican Pavilion honors the country's tribal heritage and traditions. After passing through a constantly changing Mexican Museum that showcases native art and sculpture, guests emerge into a bustling plaza with another temple and an active volcano puffing smoke in the background. Entertainment such as mariachi bands perform here numerous times throughout the day, and Mexican Shops selling crystal, jewelry and other gifts line the plaza surrounding a fountain. The San Angel Inn restaurant serves Mexican dishes under the constant moonlit sky, and the Cantina de San Angel counter service restaurant serves popular food such as tacos and churros. El Rio del Tiempo is a boat ride through the history and traditions of Mexico, and bears a strong resemblance to Small World with it's doll style children and cheerful atmosphere.

Trivia:
The puffing volcano in the background blows out a familiar Disney shape if you look closely: It's the famous Mickey Mouse symbol. ºoº
Mexico is the only World Showcase pavilion set entirely indoors.

Norway
A Viking Boat Playground sets the mood for our second stop: Norway. A cobblestone street leads you past a waterfall, a castle, and a Stave Church exhibit (Only 30 of the traditional churches stand today). Guided Tours of the pavilion take place several times daily. World Showcase's most popular ride (one of only two) is Maelstrom (), where a boat trip through Norway's past goes wrong when a troll curses your boat and you plunge backwards through the rest of the ride. A seafood buffet is in the castle, the Restaurant Akershus. Traditional pastries and sandwiches are served from the counter at Kringla Bakeri og Kafe. Norway Shops sell sweaters and other fashions from the country's top designers.

Riding Tip:
This ride becomes swamped as guests migrate into World Showcase later in the day. The best advice is to ride it as soon as World Showcase opens. (The area opens later than the rest of the park.)

Trivia:
At the ride's loading area, see if you can spot the little furry creature painted in the huge collage. He will appear later in the ride.
Norway is the newest country to open at Epcot, debuting in '88. To celebrate the occasion and commemorate the first Norse sighting of America, a replica viking ship sailed from Nova Scotia to Walt Disney World.

China
Symbolized by the circular tiered Temple of Heaven, China welcomes guests to the foreign land of the Orient. The Circle-Vision 360º movie Wonders of China shows rare views of the People's Republic such as the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the tomb of an ancient dynasty. In the Land of Many Faces exhibit, the multitude of oriental ethnic peoples is showcased. The full-service restaurant Nine Dragons serves customary chinese cuisine, while the Lotus Blossom Cafe serves take-out style food. Shopping takes place here in the Yong Feng Shangdian Department Store.

Trivia:
The massive yet intricately detailed gateway to China is called the Gate of the Golden Sun.
The theatre now playing Wonders of China is named the House of the Whispering Willows due to it's graceful design.

Germany
Inspired by old-world Bavaria, Germany bubbles with life including everything from oompah bands to classic German cuisine. A castle and a clock tower provide scenery here. It's Oktoberfest all year 'round at the lively Biergarten buffet which serves German beer and wine. The scents of bratwurst and pretzels come from the counter service restaurant Sommerfest. A walk down the lane reveals German Shops selling holiday gifts, crystal, and German dolls and wines. Out on the lagoon is a FriendShip Dock where World Showcase's transportation boats arrive from Showcase Plaza and Morocco.

Trivia:
The clock tower's glockenspiel comes alive every hour with dancing figures as fantasy music floats through the air.

Italy
The poignant beauty of Italy is displayed at Epcot's Italy showcase. A bell tower stretches toward the clouds at the center of the square, in the midst of a grand Italian palace elaborately decorated with stone fountains and statues. Across the promenade in the lagoon, drifting gondolas are tied to elegant striped poles. L'Originale Alfredo di Roma Ristorante serves pasta and other popular Italian dishes. The outdoor portion of this restaurant is called Alfredo's, which features a more casual atmosphere and serves specialties of Italy such as coffee and pastries. Italian Shops sell rich European candies, fashion accessories, home decor, and wine (which can be tasted by the glass). The brand new Armani Shop sells Armani Disney collectibles, in addition to figurines and sculpture art.

Trivia:
Because actually using marble in the construction of Italy's palace at Epcot was almost impossible, Imagineers used fiberglass disguised to look like the real thing. Also, most of the statues are hollow. However, almost every other detail is authentic, right down to the genuine gold-covered angel sculpture on top of the bell tower.

Japan
Called the Land of the Rising Sun by natives, Japan's multi-cultural history provides for many unique and diverse architectural styles, which are all blended together to form the Japan showcase at Epcot. The five-tiered Goju No To pagoda (based on one in Nara) looms over the pavilion, and colorful lanterns shed light onto the walkways below. On the other side of the Showcase Promenade, the large red Torii stands watch over the lagoon. This symbol means "Gate of Honor" to the Japanese. At Teppanyaki Dining; steak, chicken, and seafood are cooked before your eyes at your own table. The Matsu No Ma Lounge serves sushi, coktails, and other appetizers. Sushi is also served at Tempura Kiku along with seafood, batter-fried meat and veggies. The counter service Yakitori House dishes out quick snacks of beef and chicken. Japanese artifacts are on display at the Bijutsu-kan Gallery, ranging from 200-year-old puppets to ancient samurai battle armor. The new Karakuri: Magical Toys of Japan is another exhibit filled with mechanical dolls of yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Avid shoppers won't want to miss the Mitsukoshi Department Store, where they can purchase Japanese Disneyana, traditional fashions, even modern electronics.

Trivia:
Each of the five stories of the pagoda stands for a different aspect of nature. Earth, fire, water, wind, and sky are each symbolized by one of the pagoda's tiers.
The Japanese plants are actually look-alikes, since authentic ones would die in Florida's climate.

Morocco
The intricate architecture takes center stage at this showcase, with grand minnarets and complicated geometric designs displayed everywhere by patterned tiles. Morocco's Islamic traditions and other influences can be discovered on the guided walking tour Treasures of Morocco, which takes place several times a day. The Gallery of Arts and History is elaborately decorated with brass and crystal light fixtures and an Islamic-style arch constantly repeated in this pavilion's design. A bustling Moroccan Marketplace allows guests a chance to purchase Muslim fashions and pottery in addition to more modern goods. The Restaurant Marrakesh serves customary meals such as chicken, lamb, and couscous; while the recently opened Tangierine Cafe serves much of the same meat in sandwich form, plus salads and sweets. One of World Showcase's four FriendShip Docks is located here, and recieves boats full of park guests every 20 minutes or so.

Trivia:
Looking for pork? Keep walking.... The other white meat is a forbidden dish to tradtional Muslims, and therefore is not served at the restaurants in Morocco.
The geometric designs formed out of Morocco's 9 tons of tile are the result of an Islamic law made 1000 years ago, condemning the depiction of animate objects in art.
Morocco opened in 1984, even though it was designed at the same time as the original showcases. These debuted when World Showcase opened to the public in '82.

France
Themed to look like a typical Parisian boulevard, France in World Showcase is a faithful representation of "The City of Lights" during the turn of the century. Beautiful gardens and trees pale in comparison to the Eiffel Tower off in the distance, and strolling entertainers, known as chanteurs, add a air of romance to the atmosphere. French Shops in period buildings offer Babar and Madeline merchandise in addition to classy perfumes and makeup. Bottles of the wine served in the showcase's restaurants can also be purchased at these quaint shops. Impressions de France is a 16-minute film shown in a 200º panorama theater, where guests get a chance to sit while viewing spectacular scenes from over 140 locations. Each scene is punctuated by the melodies of famous French composers. Shimmering with glass and mirror decor, Chefs de France serves light French fare, such as salads, beef, and the inevitable escargot. French wines and desserts are available here also. Upstairs, the elegant Bistro de Paris serves fancy gourmet regional cuisine in a placid low-country setting. Delicious smells wafting down the lane come from the Boulangerie Patisserie, a bakery and cafe where guests can get pastries and coffee. Don't miss the terrific view of the Eiffel Tower from the bridge, modeled after the Pont des Arts bridge in Paris that leads over the Seine from the Louvre Museum.

Trivia:
The model of the Eiffel Tower in the background was built to 1/10 scale, using the original blueprints.
Impressions de France is not a Circle-Vision film because guests would have to be standing to see all the screens.
Small details make this pavilion very realistic; notice the bicycle and dinghy leaned against the wall while crossing the bridge.

United Kingdom
The British Empire is presented here across four centuries, from the thatched roofs of the Shakespearean era to the perfectly manicured parks and brick houses of Victorian times. Background tunes ranging from Disney classics to regal melodies to the Beatles play throughout the streets, which lead to a cozy park known as Britannia Square. A thatch-roofed replica of Anne Hathaway's cottage houses one of the many British Gift Shops which sell proper merchandise such as blended teas, Paddington Bear and Winnie-the-Pooh gifts, fine china and crystal, Wimbledon clothing, and family crests. At the Rose & Crown Pub and Dining Room guests can eat genuine fish and chips and other British fare, and sample traditional beer and ale. Entertainment takes place in the bandstand and town square, where comedy routines take place and live 60's pop is heard.

Trivia:
There are two entrances to the Rose & Crown, both themed differently. The entrance on the street evokes thoughts of a neighborhood pub, while the lagoon entrance resembles a bar on the Thames river that runs through London.
There is a very properly mannered umbrella-toting lady fashioned out of a bush in the town square; she is England's favorite nanny, Mary Poppins.
The United Kingdom showcase has some of the best spots to see Reflections of Earth. The garden on the lagoon and the Rose & Crown patio are two prime spots.

Canada
The gorgious scenery here ranges from totem poles characteristic of a northwest Indian village to the regal Hotel du Canada from a French-Canadian town. The diversity of Canada's many peoples and the beauty of it's wilderness is depicted in this showcase hidden away by tall trees. The proper Victoria Gardens is a nice place to rest and watch the world go by. A sheer cliff represents the Canadian Rockies and a series of foot trails leads to an abandoned mining tunnel from the days of the Klondike. The 18-minute O Canada! film is shown in Circle-Vision 360º and flies guests over the majestic landscapes of the country, from its formal cities to its untamed mountains and forests. The Le Cellier Steakhouse serves delicious steaks and other beef dishes, in addition to cuisine from under the sea and pasta meals. At the Roots shop, Canada's answer to the Gap, trendy clothing fashions with a flair for the new millennium are sold. Other Canadian Shops sell candies and ceramic gifts, plus items fashioned out of pewter.

Trivia:
Three of the conifer trees used in Canada's landscaping are not real; replicas were made in place of the real thing when Imagineers voiced concern that real trees would grow large and throw the landscape out of proportion.