Light trails from the kites during EPCOT Forever . PHOTO BY BRETT SVENSON
SOARIN ’ OVER WORLD SHOWCASE LAGOON EPCOT is known for its innovative nighttime spectaculars that combine lights , fireworks , lasers , water , and more in one impressive show . During the first iteration of EPCOT Forever , jet skis pulled illuminated kites around World Showcase Lagoon while the soundtrack to Soarin ’ blasted from the surrounding speakers . These kites had lights running from the top of the nose end all the way to the tip of the tail , and the lights could change color to match the mood of the music .
Disney also used the kites during one of the final segments of EPCOT Forever , set to music from the 1999 Tapestry of Nations Parade and “ Golden Dream ” from The American Adventure . During this section of the show , the kites shot fireworks sparks from their tails .
But EPCOT Forever wasn ’ t the only show at the park to feature kites . In fact , EPCOT has used kites in shows for decades . From 1991 to 1992 for Walt Disney World ’ s 20th anniversary , EPCOT featured a show called Surprise in the Skies , during which Disney raised hang gliders with streamers attached 400 feet into the air . Then , eight paraplanes ( powered parachutes ) would come into view , piloted by Mickey Mouse , Minnie Mouse , Pluto , Goofy , Chip ‘ n ’ Dale , Winnie the Pooh , and Tigger . The show also featured 12 diamond kite trains that launched simultaneously around World Showcase Lagoon .
SEND YOUR KITE SOARING While it ’ s mostly Disney performers and Cast Members who have had the joy of flying kites at Walt Disney World , guests can also fly kites brought from home . The planDisney panel says that although you can ’ t fly kites inside the theme parks , you can fly them at a resort hotel if there is space . One panelist suggests Disney ’ s Port Orleans Resort - French Quarter near the Sassagoula River .
Find this nod on The Barnstormer . PHOTO BY CLIFF WANG