Cultures of Mexico ” because the ride was all about introducing guests to the progression from ancient Aztec civilization to the Colonial period and , at last , present-day Mexico .
The ride began by cruising guests past an Aztec pyramid with an active , erupting volcano in the background , then entered a tunnel dotted with live-action scenes that illustrated the Aztec culture and mythos . After witnessing the battle between Quetzalcoatl and Tezcatlipoca , riders were transported to the Colonial era by way of a large Dia de Los Muertos festival scene , brought to life by dancing animatronics , similar to those seen on “ it ’ s a small world .”
Finally , the ride wound past depictions of present-day life in Mexico , from city peddlers hawking souvenirs to the endless outdoor recreation that the country ’ s diverse natural beauty makes possible : waterskiing , SCUBA diving , and even cliff-diving for the seriously extreme . Finally , the ride ended with a stunning display of fireworks and lifesize marionettes ( las marionetas ) dancing around Mexico City , bringing the journey through time to a close .
El Rio del Tiempo was an EPCOT classic , running for more than 20 years . As exciting as the Gran Fiesta Tour is , those nostalgic for the old days can revisit El Río . Disney has placed the ride ’ s Aztec Priest figure into the temporary exhibit , “ Inside the Walt Disney Archives ,” which celebrates the Disney Archives ’ 50th anniversary . The exhibit will premiere at the Bowers Museum in Santa Ana , California , in March 2021 .
ALL ABOARD THE GRAN FIESTA TOUR Today , the Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three
Caballeros starts with a trip to the Mexico Pavilion , already a hot spot for EPCOT tourists . After wandering through the Plaza de los Amigos and checking out the goodies ( las golosinas ) for sale or enjoying an authentic Mexican meal at San Angel Inn Restaurante , make your way to the boarding area for the Gran Fiesta .
While in line , you ’ ll see posters announcing a big event : The Three Caballeros are scheduled to perform a concert tonight . Guests load onto open boats — perfect for a relaxing , low-key cruise . The boats embark into the pavilion ’ s open lagoon space , where
Look at the intricate detail throughout the ride . PHOTO BY CLIFF WANG