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Disney’s Magical Kingdom ‘Frozen’ Lines, Castle and New Ride Due in 2016

Frozen

Disney is adding to the ‘Frozen‘ frenzy. Lines for a character meet-and-greet with the Norwegian sisters, Anna and Elsa, were hovering at the six hour range during peak season. The Princesses were housed in Epcot, but moved to the Magic Kingdom when the demand became overwhelming.

Then, FastPasses were issued. They were snapped up quicker than you can say, “Mickey Who?” On-site resort guests were given first dibs with a 60 day advance reservation time, while other ticket holders were given 30 days. By then, passes were gone. It alleviated some of the wait, but a standby line still averaged in the two hour waiting period.

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Toward the end of July, Disney World began experimenting with line procedures. Problem areas like, Be Our Guest restaurant and Anna and Elsa Meet and Greet, were tested with different techniques. At one point, the stand by line for both the restaurant and character experience were eliminated and Return Time Tickets (similar to the old FastPass system) were handed out. There were a limited number of these tickets as well. Once the tickets were handed out…signs let patrons know that lunch service for Be Our Guest was at capacity for the day.

It begs the question – What is going to be the official system? Hard to say, but you can probably bet it will all be done through the Magic Band and phone app system in the future. Disney sank millions of dollars into the program, so the final system will rest in tech-savvy hands. At the time of this publication, on-site hotel guests can book lunch reservations, but all other park patrons, including season ticket holders, are out of luck.

Those without the Magic Bands could discover problems, such as cell phone battery drains and data consumption. Before you head out, make sure you have a full battery and check with carrier for overage charges.

To further expand on the interest in the snowy film, Tom Staggs, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, has also confirmed a new ‘Frozen’ ride

“The new attraction, which replaces Maelstrom, will take our guests to Arendelle and immerse them in many of their favorite moments and music from the film. The pavilion will also include a royal greeting location where Anna and Elsa can meet our guests. We think these “Frozen” elements are great complements to the Norway Pavilion, which showcases the country and region that inspired the film.”

On top of the new ride located Epcot, Elsa will use her powers to transform Cinderella Castle into an ice palace every night starting in early November. Anna, Elsa, Kristoff, and Olaf have also been added to ‘Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade.’