Meeko's Walt Disney World Christmas Trip 2001
After a morning at the Magic Kingdom, I have made my way to EPCOT.
I arrived at EPCOT at nearly noon. I was not planning on spending any time in Future World, but did manage to notice a few things from the Monorail which were rather interesting. Mission: Space seems to be progressing in Construction (actually beginning to look like an attraction), but Imagination appeared to be the biggest surprise. The "Your" is missing from the logo of the ride and Figment's picture is now very predominant. the redo couldn't be far away now, it seems.
After arriving and continuing through Security check, it was straight to World Showcase. It was now noon and the Streets of the United Kingdom were nearly deserted. It was getting close to lunch, so I grabbed some Fish and Chips sat down at the tables around the pub. After Lunch, Father Christmas was down in the park so I paused to watch him.
Next, it was on to France to explore the streets and shops of Paris. Pere Noel was out there so I stopped again to hear his stories. Next, it was on to the American Adventure, but I stopped and watched the storyteller in Japan (which I cannot remember her name). Next, I continued to the American Adventure where the Spirit of America Fife and Drum Corps were performing, another small part of Walt Disney World I always seem to miss.
Next it was on to Italy where the Masquerade was going on. The sounds of Classical Music filled the air and all the masquerade characters were throughout the Courtyard. When you see this, be sure to look up. I spotted this character on one of the balconies of the pavilion. I also saw the building since it's exterior was refurbished, which looked wonderful. Next, it was back to American Adventure to see the Voices of Liberty perform. They were wonderful, as always. Next, I continued to Germany to see the Railway Garden all decorated for Christmas and St. Nicholas, who was telling the Holiday traditions of Germany in the Courtyard.
Next stop was Norway where Julenessian the Christmas gnome was telling of Christmas in Norway (the Scandinavians have the right idea with celebrating on the 26th as well. It's much better than the American tradition of returning gifts at the mall). After briefly looking around Norway, it was off to Mexico to see the Three Kings and look around the Marketplace. There was also a new exhibit in there, which was woodcarvings, I believe.
Lastly, it was off to Showcase Plaza. The Character bus had arrived and they were all over the place. After they had left, Cast in Bronze came out and performed some of their Christmas numbers. Another wonderful performance for the day. After a quick swing through the Victoria Gardens in Canada, It was out through the International Gateway to the Boardwalk and onto a Friendship boat to an evening at the Disney-MGM Studios.
You really got to see a lot of wonderful entertainment this day. I am enjoying your reports.
