Animal Kingdom after dark

[Khokhonutt]

Curious if anyone would have firsthand experience with a similar scenario to what we're facing. We'll be visiting WDW for the first time in a few years March 8-14. Last time we were at the World was before they built the world of Avatar area and I'd love to see the night effects I've heard about. We just saw that they extended Animal Kingdom's hours to 8pm on Friday the 13th. I've checked and sunset that day will be at 7:34 pm with twilight ending at 7:56 pm. I'm wondering if we plan to get in line for the longest Pandora ride line right before park closing at 8pm, if it would be a reasonable expectation we'd see Pandora lit up (special bonus if the Tree of Life could be lit up)?

We had other plans for Friday night, but would be willing to pivot if folks who've seen this scenario in the past think we have a reasonable shot.

Thanks in advance for your input.

 

[OKW Lover]

I'm wondering if we plan to get in line for the longest Pandora ride line right before park closing at 8pm, if it would be a reasonable expectation we'd see Pandora lit up (special bonus if the Tree of Life could be lit up)?

Yes, the lights will be operating until the last guest has left the park.

 

[CarolynFH]

I concur - if you get in line just before closing, you’ll see Pandora at its most beautiful on your way out. Enjoy!

PS pay attention to sounds in the bushes on the way in (daylight) and compare to those on the way out (nighttime). They’re different, just like in Earth forests.

 

[Khokhonutt]

Thank you all!

 

[erinch]

We have had really kind CMs in Pandora, who let us linger and take pictures as the crowds filtered out. It is gorgeous.

 

[Simba's Mom]

We have had really kind CMs in Pandora, who let us linger and take pictures as the crowds filtered out. It is gorgeous.

I agree-so beautiful. I was going to post a couple photos, but I'll let you be surprised-and blown away!

 

[Khokhonutt]

I agree-so beautiful. I was going to post a couple photos, but I'll let you be surprised-and blown away!

Funny you say that, and it's appreciated. Planning for this trip, when we haven't been in a while, has been a fine line between research and trying not to spoil "the surprise" for some things.

 

[lovethattink]

If you get in line at dusk, the lights will be on. It’s really neat seeing the transition from dusk to dark too.

 

[Khokhonutt]

If you get in line at dusk, the lights will be on. It’s really neat seeing the transition from dusk to dark too.

That would be cool to watch. I know one of my favorite details of Carsland in California Adventure is when they turn on the lights to the song Goodnight Sweetheart every evening. Those are the details I look forward to at the parks.

 

[Dreamerlily]

I was there last week, and was able to see Animal Kingdom at night for the first time. I agree with the others, it is amazing to see. So beautiful, it was a highlight of my trip. I would say its definitely worth making time to see.

 

[gharter]

We have gotten in line for Avatar about 10 minutes before the park closes. The wait time listed is usually about double the real wait. however, the payoff is walking out of Pandora in the dark and seeing everything lit up. It is an entirely different place at night. Pretty during the day, amazing at night.