Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom continues to enhance its attractions, blending heartfelt storytelling with innovative design. Recently, Imagineers added a celestial detail to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, the highly anticipated attraction inspired by The Princess and the Frog. This thoughtful addition – featuring the characters Ray and Evangeline – invites guests to connect even more deeply with the spirit and story of the beloved film.
Below, we’ll see how Ray and Evangeline have been integrated into the attraction, and what this means for guests visiting Magic Kingdom.
Honoring Ray and Evangeline’s Love Story
Ray and Evangeline hold a special place in the hearts of The Princess and the Frog fans. Ray, a friendly and loyal firefly from the movie, falls in love with Evangeline, a star he believes is another firefly. By the film’s end, after Ray’s untimely passing, he appears in the night sky alongside Evangeline as a star, symbolizing their eternal bond.
This love story, filled with hope and unwavering belief, is one of the most touching moments in the movie. By incorporating Ray and Evangeline into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, Disney brings an emotional depth to the attraction, linking the ride’s narrative to its cinematic roots.
How Ray and Evangeline Fit Into the Attraction
Ray and Evangeline are prominently featured in the finale scene of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. Visitors can now spot two stars shining brightly, a poignant nod to their love story. This subtle yet meaningful addition enhances the storytelling without overshadowing other elements of the ride.
Interestingly, Ray and Evangeline have also inspired design choices elsewhere in the attraction. Their story is referenced on the water tower for Tiana’s Foods (the fictional company owned by Tiana in the attraction’s storyline), where Ray and Evangeline are depicted within the decorative tiara motif. This detail ties the characters organically into the ride’s setting, creating a rich environment that celebrates both legacy characters and Tiana’s new chapter.
Enhancing the Guest Experience
The inclusion of Ray and Evangeline highlights Walt Disney Imagineering’s dedication to crafting immersive guest experiences. By adding heartfelt touches like this, the attraction becomes more than just a ride—it transforms into a celebration of love, perseverance, and community.
For long-time Disney fans, this is an opportunity to revisit the emotional beats of The Princess and the Frog. At the same time, new visitors can enjoy uncovering layers of storytelling that make the attraction unique. These symbolic stars create a special moment of reflection for guests as they reach the finale, connecting them emotionally to the attraction’s themes of light and love.
Looking Ahead
While it’s unclear whether the addition of Ray and Evangeline was part of the original vision or a thoughtful enhancement post-launch, their inclusion reflects a spirit of continuous improvement. This demonstrates Disney’s willingness to revisit and refine attractions to further enchant its audience.
Final Thoughts
The addition of Ray and Evangeline to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure embodies the Imagineers’ skill in storytelling and attention to detail. By bringing this beloved duo into the attraction, Disney strengthens the connection between the ride and its cinematic inspiration—creating a memorable and meaningful experience for visitors.
Next time you explore Magic Kingdom, be sure to look up at the stars inside Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and remember the timeless love story of Ray and Evangeline. With thoughtful additions like this, Disney continues to ensure that every guest leaves with fond memories and the magic of storytelling in their hearts.
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.
