Pandora - The World of Avatar Will Open May 27

The Disney Parks Blog recently announced the opening date for Pandora - The World of Avatar at Animal Kingdom. Beginning on May 27, guests can wander through a rainforest filled with bioluminescent plants, marvel at floating mountains, and join the Na’vi on two new rides.

Photos courtesy of Disney

On Na'vi River Journey, you'll ride in a boat through a bioluminescent rainforest. The family friendly ride ends with an encounter with a Na’vi Shaman. For those who seek a more thrilling adventure, there's the Avatar Flight of Passage, where you'll find the incredible experience of exploring Pandora atop a banshee.

If you're looking for a place to eat, try the Satu’li Canteen. Or grab a drink at Pongu Pongu. And if you need a souvenir of your visit, try Windtraders, where you'll find Na'vi cultural items, toys, science kits, and more.

If you just can't wait until May 27, don't worry, Disney has got you covered. At VisitPandora.com, you can learn more about this exotic world from Alpha Centauri Expeditions (ACE), the exclusive provider of tours to Pandora.

From the floating mountains, to the bioluminescent flora, to the incredible fauna, such as the flying banshees, they cover it all. See first hand how the team at ACE can transport you to Pandora for an out of this world experience.

For photos, videos, and updates from ACE'S field experts and scientists, be sure to check out Visit Pandora's Twitter and Instagram. And soon,  you'll be able to ask the experts your questions about future journeys through Pandora.

And dont forget to check out the Disney Parks Blog for more information about Pandora - The World of Avatar.

Avatar: Fire and Ash on Digital and Blu-ray

All images: 20th Century Studios

Avatar: Fire and Ash is headed to Digital next week. The third movie in the epic story of Pandora finds the Sully family fighting to defend their way of life once again.

Here's the official synopsis from 20th Century Studios: 

Return to the breathtaking world of Pandora in the most powerful chapter of the Avatar saga yet. As Jake and Neytiri guide their family through grief, they journey with the nomadic Wind Traders across Pandora’s skies. But the Sullys’ path is threatened by a new enemy—the Ash People, a warlike clan led by the fierce Varang—who have turned against Eywa and the ancient Na’vi way.

The movie will also be available in various Blu-ray formats in mid May. All versions will include over 3 hours of bonus features and behind-the-scenes footage.

• English Family Audio Track: All objectionable language removed.
• Igniting the Flame: The Making of Avatar: Fire and Ash Featurettes
• Writing the Sequels
• Pandoran Design
• RDA Design
• The Women of Pandora
• Varang and the Mangkwan
• Capturing Performance
• Stunts
• Editing and Virtual Camera
• WĒTĀ FX
• ILM
• Score
• The Art and Impact of 3D
• Home in New Zealand
• Jon Landau Tribute
• RDA Orientation
• Na'vi 101
• Pandora Intelligence Brief
• Marketing Materials & Music Video
• Dream as One Music Video
• Theatrical Trailer 1
• Theatrical Trailer 2

Avatar: Fire and Ash arrives on Digital on March 31st and on Blu-ray on May 19th.

Pandora The World of Avatar

All images: Disney

Disney Parks Blog recently shared new details about Pandora - The World of AvatarAvatar, coming to Animal Kingdom in 2017. The new 12-acre land, which was inspired by the James Cameron film AVATAR, "will take on new life at night with bioluminescent flora and special nighttime immersive programming that’ll add a magical touch."

The ground will glow, like on Pandora. And Na'vi artifacts will be hidden throughout the land. Imagineers plan to make the world of Pandora both immersive and believable.

On my last trip to the Animal Kingdom, I noticed that they were lifting the "floating mountains" into place. You could see them floating high above the ground from the parking lot. It looked amazing, and should be incredible to walk through. It's going to be a long wait until it opens.

Specialty Drinks of Pandora: The World of Avatar

There are a lot of interesting beverages coming to Pandora: The World of Avatar at Animal Kingdom. There are two places to whet your whistle in Pandora: the Satu’li Canteen and Pongu Pongu.

Photos courtesy of Disney

At the Satu’li Canteen, a fast-casual eatery, try the non-alcoholic Pandoran Sunrise, a mix of tropical juices and Powerade Melon. This drink can be purchased with or without a souvenir Satu'li Canteen Flute Flask. If you prefer wine, try Banshee, available in Chardonnay or Pinot Noir. The wine is from a small Napa Valley winery and will be served by the glass.

For something unique, there's the Dreamwalker Sangria, made a lovely shade of blue with a splash of Blue Curaçao. Two ales round out the menu: Hawkes' Grog Ale, green in color with a fruity hops flavor and notes of apricot, peach, and a hint of wheat, and Mo'ara High Country Ale, a malty amber ale with notes of caramel, toffee and nuts. The ales are also available from Pongu Pongu.

Next door is Pongu Pongu, the drink station run by an expat who fell in love with Pandora, and chose never to leave. Here you can try the nonalcoholic Night Blossom, a mix of limeade with apple and desert pear flavors topped with passion fruit popping boba balls. The drink can be purchased with or without a souvenir Pongu Pongu mug made "bioluminescent" with a glowcube. For the adventurous, try the Mo'ara Frozen Margarita featuring Sauza Commemorativo Anejo Tequila with strawberry and blood orange flavors, topped with strawberry popping boba balls. It will also be available in the Pongu Pongu mug.

Which drink are you looking forward to trying? I cant wait to taste the Night Blossom. Pandora: The World of Avatar opens on May 27.

First Look at the Na'vi Shaman of Songs

Disney

Pandora: The World of Avatar at Animal Kingdom opens in less than a month. Yesterday, Disney released a first look at the Na'vi Shaman of Songs, who appears in the Na'vi River Journey ride. Guests will sail down a river through a bioluminescent rainforest filled with amazing plants and creatures. At the end of the journey, they'll encounter the Shaman, who has a deep connection to the life force of Pandora, which she celebrates through music and song.

The Na'vi Shaman of Songs is the most complicated and impressive Audio-Animatronic ever created by Imagineers. I can't wait to see her. Pandora: The World of Avatar opens on May 27.

Avatar: Fire and Ash on DisneyPlus

All images: 20th Century Studios

The wait is nearly over. Avatar: Fire and Ash is headed to DisneyPlus later this month. The Sully family is back for another adventure through the wilds of Pandora.

Here's the official synopsis from 20th Century Studios: 

Head back to Pandora for the third chapter of Jake Sully’s story. This time, Jake, Neytiri, and the Sully family live among the Metkayina Clan in the reefs of Pandora while they grieve a devastating loss. As they try to protect another loved one, their journey brings them into contact with the Wind Traders and the Ash People, a Na’vi clan with its own pain, anger, and history. The sequel expands Pandora through a story of family, survival, adventure, and conflict.

Avatar: Fire and Ash arrives on DisneyPlus on June 24th. Avatar and Avatar: The Way Of Water are available now.

Avatar: The Way Of Water In 3D

20th Century Studios

For one week only, Avatar: The Way Of Water is returning to theaters. This time, you can experience the return to Pandora in 3D.

Here's the official synopsis from 20th Century Studios: 

"Avatar: The Way of Water" reaches new heights and explores undiscovered depths as James Cameron returns to the world of Pandora in this emotionally packed action-adventure. Set more than a decade after the events of the first film, “Avatar: The Way of Water” launches the story of the Sully family (Jake, Neytiri, and their kids), the trouble that follows them, the lengths they go to keep each other safe, the battles they fight to stay alive, and the tragedies they endure. All of this against the backdrop of the breathtaking seascapes of Pandora, where audiences are introduced to new Na’vi cultures and a range of exotic sea creatures.

Produced by Cameron and his longtime partner Jon Landau, the 20th Century Studios-Lightstorm Entertainment production stars Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldaña, Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, Cliff Curtis, and Kate Winslet. Joining the illustrious adult cast are talented newcomers Britain Dalton, Jamie Flatters, Trinity Jo-Li Bliss, Bailey Bass and Jack Champion.

Avatar: The Way Of Water returns to theaters on October 3rd.

Pandora: The World of Avatar Trailer with James Cameron

Disney

Disney released a new commercial for Pandora: The World of Avatar during the Oscars on Sunday. The commercial features James Cameron, the creator of Avatar.

It also features a message from a Na’vi Shaman, who appears to be animatronic. Could this be the Shaman from the end of the Na'vi River Journey ride? I can't wait to find out. Pandora: The World of Avatar at Animal Kingdom opens on May 27.

Avatar Tank in Pandora

Pandora: The World of Avatar in Animal Kingdom is still one of my favorite lands in any Disney World park. There is so much to see, it's like being in another world. The queue for Flight of Passage is so detailed, especially the lab scene, which includes a life-size avatar still in the tank.

Dining in Pandora: The World of Avatar

Photos courtesy of Disney

The Satu’li Canteen is the main restaurant in Pandora: The World of Avatar. Here, dishes are based on the healthful bounty of Pandora and feature wholesome grains and fresh veggies. The dining room, which was once the main message hall of the Resources Development Administration, has been transformed by Alpha Centauri Expeditions into a museum-like space. The space is decorated with colorful Na'vi items such as handwoven tapestries, natural elements, and cooking tools.

The menu at this fast-casual location is intriguing, with bowls that allow diners to customize their meal. You start with either quinoa and vegetable salad, red and sweet potato hash, mixed whole grains and rice, or romaine and kale salad. Next, add protein, either wood-grilled chicken, slow-roasted beef, sustainable fish, or chili-spiced fried tofu. Then, top it off with your choice of sauce: charred onion chimichurri, black bean vinaigrette, or creamy herb dressing.

The menu also offers steamed "pods", bao buns filled with cheeseburger or vegetable curry and served with root vegetable chips and crunchy vegetable slaw. It all sounds delicious.

For kids, there's grilled chicken, beef, fish, or tofu with greens or rice, a hot dog with a Parker House bun, a cheese quesadilla, or steamed cheeseburger "pod".

This will also be the first location to offer Mobile Order. This will allow guests to order meals on-the-go with the My Disney Experience app. You can select menu items, customize your order, and pre-pay for your meal. When you arrive at the restaurant, tap the "I'm here" button in the app and avoid the queue. You will receive an alert when your meal is ready and can pick it up at the designated window. Other fast-casual and quick-service restaurants will begin to offer Mobile Order later this year.

Pandora: The World of Avatar Trailers

Disney

Disney has released two teaser trailers that offer a glimpse into the rides of Pandora: The World of Avatar at Animal Kingdom. The first shows the new boat ride, Na'vi River Journey.

The second is for Flight of Passage.

Pandora: The World of Avatar at Animal Kingdom opens on May 27, 2017.

Avatar: The Way Of Water Re-Release

20th Century Studios

In just 2 weeks, Avatar: The Way Of Water is returning to theaters exclusively in 3D. This chance to see Pandora again is only available for one week. Tickets are on sale now.

Here's the official synopsis:

"Avatar: The Way of Water" reaches new heights and explores undiscovered depths as James Cameron returns to the world of Pandora in this emotionally packed action-adventure. Set more than a decade after the events of the first film, “Avatar: The Way of Water” launches the story of the Sully family (Jake, Neytiri, and their kids), the trouble that follows them, the lengths they go to keep each other safe, the battles they fight to stay alive, and the tragedies they endure. All of this against the backdrop of the breathtaking seascapes of Pandora, where audiences are introduced to new Na’vi cultures and a range of exotic sea creatures.

Produced by Cameron and his longtime partner Jon Landau, the film stars Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldaña, Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, Cliff Curtis, and Kate Winslet. Joining the illustrious adult cast are talented newcomers Britain Dalton, Jamie Flatters, Trinity Jo-Li Bliss, Bailey Bass and Jack Champion.

Avatar: The Way Of Water returns to theaters on October 3rd.

Photo of the Week

I love wandering around Pandora looking at all of the weird and wonderful plants.

Pandora Revealed

Disney

Disney shared a behind the scenes look at the making of Pandora: The World of Avatar. The sneak peek, with James Cameron and Joe Rohde talking about what to expect, is incredible. I can't wait to see it in person!

These Are A Few Of My Favorite Things

I've been thinking about my favorite foods at Disney World. Here's my Top Ten list:

Night Blossom from Pongu Pongu, Pandora the World of Avatar, Animal Kingdom - a delicious slushy drink made with limeade, apple and desert pear, topped with passionfruit boba balls

Werthers Caramel Popcorn from the Karamell-Kuche, Germany Pavilion, EPCOT - the best caramel corn I've ever tasted

Dole Whip from Aloha Isle in the Magic Kingdom - that delightfully pineapple frozen concoction that's completely addicting, with or without upside down cake

Pongu Lumpia from Pongu Pongu, Pandora the World of Avatar, Animal Kingdom - pineapple and sweetened cream cheese wrapped up in a lumpia wrapper and fried

Poutine Fries from the Daily Poutine in Disney Springs - I don't know what it is about the combination of thick cut fries, gravy and cheese curds, but I just can't get enough of this Canadian classic

School Bread from Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe, Norway Pavilion, EPCOT - a lightly sweetened bread filled with custard and topped with coconut

Blue Milk from Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, Hollywood Studios - a fruity, dairy-free beverage from a galaxy far, far away

Outpost Mix Popcorn from Kat Saka's Kettle in Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, Hollywood Studios - a sweet and spicy kettle corn that is seriously good

Rum Cake from Tortuga Tavern, Magic Kingdom - a lightly sweetened spice cake with rum sauce drizzled over the top

Ronto Morning Wrap from Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, Hollywood Studios - eggs, sausage, cheese and a peppercorn sauce in a pita

Now that you know my favorites, what Disney World foods are yours?

Photo of the Week

The Night Blossom, from Pongu Pongu in Pandora the World of Avatar, is a delicious slushy drink made with limeade, apple and desert pear, topped with passionfruit boba balls. It's my favorite treat at Disney World.

Return to Pandora

20th Century Studios

Avatar: The Way Of Water looks absolutely incredible. I can't wait to finally see more of the Na'vi and Pandora.

Avatar: The Way Of Water arrives in theaters on December 16th.

Sullys Never Quit

All images: 20th Century Studios

Once again, the Sully family are in the middle of the battle for Pandora. A new trailer and poster for Avatar: Fire and Ash has arrived and it shows that the Na'vi are once again fighting for their lives, but this time, their greatest foe may not be the offworlders, but other Na'vi. 

Here's the official synopsis from 20th Century Studios:

With “Avatar: Fire and Ash,” James Cameron takes audiences back to Pandora in an immersive new adventure with Marine turned Na’vi leader Jake Sully (Sam Worthington), Na’vi warrior Neytiri (Zoe Saldaña), and the Sully family. The film also stars Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, Oona Chaplin, Cliff Curtis, Britain Dalton, Trinity Bliss, Jack Champion, Bailey Bass and Kate Winslet.

Avatar: Fire and Ash arrives in theaters on December 19th.

Photo of the Week

In Pandora, even the AMP Mech suit was decorated last Christmas.

Pandora: The World of Avatar Commercial

Disney

Here's another look at Pandora: The World of Avatar at Animal Kingdom, which opens on May 27, 2017.