The Lion King Show in Animal Kingdom, Festival of the Lion King, is a very popular entertainment event for Walt Disney World fans. After a modified version of the show during the initial hit of the pandemic, Festival of the Lion King fans have been roaring with excitement since the original performance was restored in July 2022.
Festival of the Lion King at Animal Kingdom: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Version
Festival of the Lion King is a broadway style show that incorporates a parade theme inspired by the Disney classic, “The Lion King.” The show features light effects, puppetry, bright and fun costumes, and fun interaction opportunities for the audience. It’s definitely something you don’t want to miss while on your Disney vacation.
Despite what you may think, the show is not a live remake of the original “The Lion King” film. However, it does feature some popular music from the film. Instead, it’s a musical celebration led by popular characters from the movie and live singers.
Children are captivated by the bright colors and fun music, but their favorite part is when they get to see just how loud they can make the animal sounds they were assigned. At the begging of the show, the singers will assign an animal sound depending on what section you’re in, and you get to participate throughout the show.
The Tumble Monkeys
In addition, the show also features The Tumble Monkeys. The Tumble Monkeys are four performers in the show that are professional acrobats. They wear orange monkey costumes for the show to add to the entertainment.
You can also see the Tumble Monkeys perform during most any Disney Parade.
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The Lion King Show is Back at Animal Kingdom
As of July 16, 2022, the Lion King show is back at Animal Kingdom. Showings were temporarily canceled as they made some updates to the show, and many Animal Kingdom and Lion King fans alike have anxiously awaited this return.
Luckily, Walt Disney World reopened the showings. They are no longer showing the modified format, so you can enjoy the original show.
Where to Watch the Lion Kind Show at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
The Festival of the Lion King is no longer performed at Camp Minnie Mickey. Instead, it is now at the new Harambe Theatre. The new Harambe Theatre is located in the Africa Area of Animal Kingdom.
The show has several showings during regular park hours. However, with the Festival of the Lion King being such a popular show, afternoon showing can be difficult to get into. The morning showings are generally less crowded.
Show times are at:
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10:00 AM
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11:00 AM
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12:00 PM
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1:00 PM
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2:00 PM
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3:00 PM
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4:00 PM
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5:00 PM
Since Festival of the Lion King is such a popular show, it’s best to get to your show early, at least 20-30 minutes before it starts, if you aren’t able to use the lightning lane.
How long is the Disney Lion King Show at Animal Kingdom?
Each showing of The Festival of the Lion King is 40 minutes long. The pricing of the show will vary based on the show times you choose.
The theater offers many accessibility options, including wheelchair accommodations, so those attending in a wheelchair don’t have to get out. In addition, they also offer assistive listening devices (amplified the audio of the show) and handheld captioning devices (displays text for spoken audio).
There is also the option of attending on Saturdays when they have sign language available.
How to Skip The Line at Festival of the Lion King
You may not know yet, but you can now skip the line at The Festival of The Lion King and many other popular attractions at Walt Disney World. The theme park now offers the Genie+ wristband, which allows you to take the lightning lane rather than waiting in traditional lines.
If you’ve been to Disney’s Animal Kingdom or any of their other theme parks, you already know how dreadful the lines can be. Especially at things as popular as the Festival of the Lion King show. Skipping these lines makes the extra $15 per day (per person) well worth the price.
You used to be able to access the service in advance when ordering your tickets. However, it now has to be purchased through the My Disney Experience app daily during your tip. It is not included with park admission.
Where to find more Lion King at Walt Disney World
The Festival of the Lion King isn’t the only thing Walt Disney World has for Lion King fans. There are many other events and attractions that feature elements of “The Lion King.” If you’re lucky, you may even be able to find some of the characters throughout the theme parks.
Hakuna matata dance party with timon and rafiki
The Hakuna Mata Dance Party is at Discovery Island Stage in Animal Kingdom. The show is loaded with family fun, including music, dancing, and games. It’s a popular choice among children and parents alike.
Simba and Nala waffles for breakfast
Everyone’s always talking about the Mickey Waffles, but you can get Simba and Nala waffles too! You can find them at Tusker House during breakfast hours, which are from 8 AM to 10:30 AM.
Tusker House is located in the Harambe Marketplace in Animal Kingdom, not far from the Harambe Theater.
Lion King Themed Rooms
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort has Lion King-themed rooms. You can also see large figures of your favorite characters from “The Lion King” throughout the hotel. Don’t forget to take a picture when you find them!
In addition to Lion King-themed rooms, you can also get rooms inspired by Nemo, Cars, and The Little Mermaid. Talk about the ultimate Disney experience.
See Real Lions
Visit the Conversation Station in Animal Kingdom to see real-life lions and other fun animals. You can take the Wildlife Express to Rafiki’s Planet Watch.
There will be live animal exhibits, including lions, and a petting zoo. You can even watch real veterinarians in action as they care for the animals.
