35 to Epcot 35: Day 4 – Frozen Ever After

On our journey of 35 to Epcot 35, Day 4 brings us back to the Norway Pavillion. The Norway Pavilion is home to one of the most popular attractions in Epcot, Frozen Ever After.

Let’s start where all great stories start, at the beginning. On September 12, 2014, Disney announced the closure of Norway’s attraction Maelstrom. This attraction would see its final operation day on October 5, 2014. Maelstrom had a great run which began operating on July 5, 1988. It was not until June 2015, that Tom Staggs announced plans for a “Frozen” themed attraction to replace Maelstrom. Although Frozen takes place in the fictional kingdom of Arendale, some critics said that it did not fit in the World Showcase. Staggs stated: “If the goal is to give people a taste of something like Scandinavia with the Norway pavilion, then Frozen would only increase the extent to which people would be drawn to it. To me it doesn’t seem out-of-character at all.”

Finally on May 20, 2016, Disney announced that the attraction would be opening “For the First Time In Forever” on June 21, 2016. The ride itself follows the same track as Maelstrom and features all new,  All-Electric Audio-Animatronics. Additionally the original ride vehicles of Maelstrom were also used, but the story itself would change.

Come and celebrate

a very special “Summer Snow Day” with Queen Elsa, Anna, Olaf, Kristoff and friends.

Welcome to Frozen Ever After, an unforgettable adventure where you’ll be whisked away for an on-the-water journey through Arendelle—one set to the tune of your favorite songs from Frozen!

Let It Go All Over Again

The adventure begins on the docks of Arendelle, as seen in the classic animated film. After finding a seat aboard your boat, feel an Olaf-inspired smile frost across your face when the lapping waters take you right into the frozen willow forest.

Soon, you’ll be rubbing shoulders with some “boulders”—a.k.a. Kristoff’s family from Troll Valley—before bracing for the cold. High up in the icy blue world of the North Mountain, Queen Elsa’s enchanting ice palace awaits! Behold the wonder… and keep an eye out for a few more Frozen friends too.

Finally, hang on tight as you glide back down into the Bay of Arendelle and conclude this “Summer Snow Day” celebration in style—complete with many of your favorite Frozen tunes!

Take a look for yourself!

Martin, from MartinsVidsDotNet, takes us through the changes made from Maelstrom, a look at the layout of both the ride and the new meet and greet at the Royal Sommerhus. Finally he takes us on  a full tour of the expanded pavilion, both interior standby and Fastpass lines, and then take a full ride.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0D8ivIc4XZU&w=560&h=315]

What are your thoughts?

Have you experienced Frozen Ever After for yourself? How do you feel about Frozen in the World Showcase? Let us know in the comment below.

[Source: Disney and Wikipedia]