Dateline Disney World returns with more Magic Kingdom news and photos. Summer season is well under way and Speak Like a Whale Day is today. Let’s see how the park is looking for the summer visitors.

Welcome to the park!
Welcome to the the Magic Kingdom!
As it is now summertime, the patriotic bunting is up on Main Street USA.
As it is now summertime, the patriotic bunting is up on Main Street USA once again.
City Hall restrooms still under refurbishment.
City Hall restrooms still under refurbishment.

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More bunting.
More bunting.

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The stage is all done and ready for the new show, which premieres on Friday of next week.
The castle stage is all done and ready for the new show, which premieres on Friday of next week.

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There is some serious paint work happening at Carousel of Progress.
There is some serious paint work happening at Carousel of Progress.
All white here...
All white here…
...but this is the finished product. Pretty wild change, and no more gears!
…but this is the finished product. Pretty wild change, and no more gears!

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These signs in Storybook Circus are really faded compared to when this area first opened.
These signs in Storybook Circus are really faded compared to when this area first opened.

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Scrims still up in Liberty Square.
Scrims still up in Liberty Square.

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Work is happening in the Riverboat station, but the attraction remains open.
Refurbishment work is happening in the riverboat station, but the attraction remains open.
Tom Sawyer Island was closed, I believe to incoming weather.
Tom Sawyer Island was closed due to weather, we had a wet and wild week!
Long FP+ line for Splash Mountain when it's over 90 degrees outside!
Long FP+ line for Splash Mountain when it’s over 90 degrees outside

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I understand the point of safety rails, but do they have to be bright yellow? Kind of ruins the theme here.
I understand the point of safety rails, but do they have to be bright yellow? Kind of ruins the theme here.
Tortuga Tavern was open to accommodate large summer crowds.
Tortuga Tavern was open to accommodate large summer crowds.
Swiss Family Treehouse is slated to close for a large scale refurbishment this summer.
Swiss Family Treehouse is slated for a large scale refurbishment this summer.
Beautiful trees in bloom in Adventureland.
Beautiful trees in bloom in Adventureland.

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Gotta love the Main St. Philharmonic!
Gotta love the Main St. Philharmonic!

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News from Walt Disney World

  • Today (Saturday, June 11) Epcot will celebrate “Speak Like a Whale Day.” Just like Dory and her new friends Bailey ( a beluga whale) and Destiny (a nearsighted whale shark), Guests can learn to speak “Whale” and take part in some “ whale-sized” fun. “The Seas with Nemo & Friends” will host guests as they learn about the real-life counterparts of the characters from the film and see them in their massive 5.7-million-gallon saltwater aquarium home. Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment Team will be available throughout the day to help guests find Dory and her fishy friends!

  • Disney’s Animal Kingdom is offering “Savor the Savanna,” an exclusive evening experience into the Harambe Wildlife Reserve. You’ll board a private Safari vehicle and expedition to an exclusive viewing spot. There you’ll take in the Savanna, as you dine on special food, beer and wine. Cost is $169 per guest and valid park admission is required.
  • On June 13th, the “ Words Are Powerful” line of color infused bangles will debut from Alex And Ani. Four different Disney Princesses will be available on these colorful charms, featuring their Iconic silhouettes and favorite phrases. Each bangle will be available in Shiny Gold and Shiny Silver. You will find these newest treasures at shops located through out the WDW resort.
  • The Art of Disney at The Market Place in Disney Springs will offer a special artist showcase this weekend. Disney artists Costa Alavezos, Joe Kaminski, Randy Noble and Darren Wilson will be available in the early evenings to help celebrate this showcase of their latest works.
Time to go!
Time to go!

That’s it for this week! What do you think of the changes at Carousel of Progress? Do you visit during the hot summer months? Let us know in the comments below. Thanks for reading!

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Cory Disbrow
Cory likes Walt Disney World so much, he recently packed his bags and moved to Orlando. Cory is a photographer and writes MiceChat's Dateline Disney World columns every Friday.