More character meet and greets have returned to the Disney parks! Some of the returning characters have not been seen in the Disney parks in almost two years, while others have made appearances elsewhere. Let’s look and see who to expect and where.
Epcot
Donald Duck from Gran Fiesta Tour
Donald Duck has been seen throughout the Disney parks but one place that he has been missing is Epcot. As of January 22nd Donald is back in his fiesta outfit to the right of the Aztec pyramid in the Mexico Pavilion greeting guests.
This socially distanced meet and greet takes place outside so guests are not required to wear masks when taking their photos.
Vanellope Von Schweetz from Wreck-It Ralph
One character that guests have not seen in any Disney park since march 2020 is Vanellope Von Schweetz from “Wreck-It Ralph”. Vanellope is back in her indoor meet and greet location in the Imagination! Pavilion. She is appearing solo at this time as her co-star Ralph is not appearing for a meet and greet just yet.
This indoor meet and greet requires masks to be worn at all times, even for pictures, but guests are able to get close enough for some playful banter with Vanellope and great pictures as well.
Joy from Inside Out
Joy from “Inside Out” has been appearing outdoors in the field across from the attraction Journey into Imagination with Figment for the last two years. However, she will now be making her way back indoor for meet and greets in the Imagination! Pavilion.
Animal Kingdom
Kevin from Up!
Kevin from “Up” has been a fan favorite staple in Disney’s Animal Kingdom in the past and she has finally returned! Previously you could find this hilarious character walking around in Discovery Island, but now guests will find Kevin stationary in an enclosed area around near the entrance to DinoLand U.S.A. She interacts with guests and is an absolute joy for everyone to see.
California Adventure
Raya from Raya and the Last Dragon
Raya from “Raya and the Last Dragon” is now making a special appearance in celebration of Disney California Adventure’s Lunar New Year Celebration! According to the Disney website, guests can find her “under a forest canopy deep in the heart of Redwood Creek Challenge Trail.”
Disney has not stated whether or not the Raya character meet and greet will become permanent or not. It may just be temporary due to the Disney California Adventure’s Lunar New Year Celebration. However, it may become a popular stop for guests and Disney will keep her around. Maybe Raya will make her way to Walt Disney World Resort as well!
So Much To See!
Disney has been rolling out more character meet and greets lately and we are loving it! This list of characters joined others that have recently returned, such as Olaf in Disney’s Hollywood Studios and a ton of Princesses in Magic Kingdom.
Who is your favorite Disney character meet and greet? Which one are you hoping Disney brings back next? Let us know in the comments below!
Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
