Animal Kingdom's 15th Anniversary: Planned Events

Fifteen years ago, Walt Disney World's fourth theme park officially opened to the general public, Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park. Today, both Guests and Cast Members will be able to look back at the past of this great park, as well as look toward a brighter future. Here you are some of today's special in-park events:

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Disney's Animal Kingdom 15th Anniversary

- Opening Ceremony

In front of the Tree of Life; 8:40 a.m.

Join Josh D'Amaro, Vice President of Disney's Animal Kingdom® , and Dr. Jackie Odgen, Vice President of Animals, Science, and Environment, as they welcome Guests into the park for the start of the anniversary celebration.

- Special Conservation Button

Starting April 22nd (Earth Day) until quantities run out, those who give to the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund (DWCF) at Disney's Animal Kingdom will receive a commemorative 15th anniversary DWCF button.

- 15th Anniversary Merchandise

Creature Comforts on Discovery Island®

Celebrate our 15th anniversary with specialty merchandise such as pins, apparel, Vinylmation Figurines, and more! Be sure to shop early, because quantities are limited!

- Unique Artwork and Offerings

Throughout  Discovery Island® and Africa

Check out the work of Guest artists who've joined us for our Anniversary celebration!

Special Artists:

Artist Location

Bushman #1 Africa

Carlos Cuba Discovery Island

Sonia Larson Africa

Silver Designer Discovery Island

William Silvers Discovery Island

Special Vendors:

Vendor Location

Elemental Nursery Discovery Island

Just Plumerias Discovery Island

Caricature Connection Rafiki's Planet Watch

Enjoy your Face Facepainting Rafiki's Planet Watch

Specialty Snacks:

Purchase a special Earth Day cupcake at Isle of Java and Kusafiri Bakery.

At 3:00 p.m., decorate your own complimentary Earth Day cookie at Pizzafari.

Please note: supplies are limited!

- Party for the Planet Activities

9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Asia

Maharajah Jungle Trek®

• Visit a village marketplace where adults can help their children choose green products that make a big difference for wildlife and wild places.

Africa

Pangani Forest Exploration Trail®

• Kids can identify animals by examining animal tracks and a variety of clues the animals have left behind.

Rafiki's Planet Watch

Throughout Rafiki's Planet Watch

• Visit educational displays from three DisneyNature films.
• Speak with Cast Members who work on conservation projects around the world.
• Learn more about the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund.
• Discover fun ways to spend time in nature.
• Get your face painted to match an animal of the wild.
• Pose for a portrait by a character artist.
• See a display of eco-friendly merchandise.

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See you at Disney's Wild Animal Kingdom Theme Park today!