Join the Celebration: 30th Anniversary of The Lion King at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

A smiling family celebrates, with the text "Celebrate 30 Years of The Lion King" prominently displayed.

We're excited to experience the special celebration of the 30th anniversary of “The Lion King” at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. From now until Sept. 6, fans of the original animated film can enjoy character greetings, themed food and drinks, unique merchandise items, and other "only at Disney" surprises.

During this anniversary celebration, guests can meet favorite characters Timon and Rafiki at Conservation Station at Rafiki's Planet Watch. Guests can also learn to draw other favorite characters from “The Lion King” at Animation Experience. The My Disney Experience app has details on when both characters are available this summer.

For a limited time, there are special treats featuring characters from the film, including the adorable Simba Paw Cookie and the You Follow Old Rafiki Cheesecake. Additionally, guests can try out the Rafiki’s Squash Banana shake and the Remember Who You Are “The Lion King” 30th Anniversary Dessert at Tiffins Restaurant. Other themed treats include Simba at Eight Spoon Cafe, Timon’s Luau, and the Zazu Ice Cream Sandwich at various locations throughout the park.

In addition to the Pumbaa popcorn bucket, there is also a special merchandise collection available during the anniversary celebration. The collection includes various items such as sweatshirts, tie-dye hoodies, ear headbands, fanny packs, shirts, and more, all featuring iconic "The Lion King" designs.

“The Festival of the Lion King” show has even more magic during the anniversary celebration with the introduction of MagicBand+. Guests’ MagicBand+ will come to life with dancing lights and haptic vibrations during key moments throughout the show.

Recent Posts

Disney Cruise Line Charts a Big Fall 2027 and Spring 2028 Adventure

Disney Cruise Line is plotting a particularly busy course for Fall 2027 and Spring 2028, and the itinerary map is getting deliciously crowded. The Disney Wish is heading to New York City, the Disney Magic is crossing the Panama Canal, and ships will sail from ports spanning San Juan to Singapore. Early booking opens August…

Downtown Disney District: The Disneyland Resort Stop Worth Exploring

Downtown Disney District has always been the Disneyland Resort’s handy little in-between: close to the parks, close to the hotels and very good at convincing a casual stroll to become dinner, dessert and a new souvenir bag. This outdoor promenade is continuing its evolution, particularly on the west end, where a new entrance, fresh shops…

Magic Kingdom’s Villains Land Reveals Its Wickedly Detailed Story

The fairest land of them all is taking a delightfully darker turn. Disney has revealed fresh details about Villains Land, the upcoming Magic Kingdom expansion where poisoned wishes, towering villain lairs and a little delicious trouble await beyond the safe side of the forest. Inspired by classic Walt Disney Animation Studios characters, Villains Land will…

Magic Kingdom Puts Two Piston Peak Rides in Gear

Start those engines: Piston Peak National Park is bringing two Cars-inspired attractions to Magic Kingdom, and this particular national park has a geyser field, a snowcapped summit and one very large school bus with demolition-derby energy. New details revealed at D23 put the pedal down on the expanding land’s ride lineup. Guests can expect an…

Disney Believe Takes Shape—and Three New Disney Cruise Ships Are on the Horizon

Disney Cruise Line is putting a little more wind in its sails. The Disney Believe, due to set sail in late 2027, has revealed its first big design details-right down to the characters hitching a crayon-powered ride on the stern. That is not the only fleet news making waves. Disney Cruise Line also shared an…

Let's Start the Magic!

Crazy Imagination Travel Advisors are experts at the art of vacationing Disney and beyond. No two families are alike and no two vacations are alike. Each vacation is carefully planned and customized to our guest. From the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida to world-wide adventures in Australia, our Travel Advisors are ready to help guests plan their dream vacation. Go ahead. Put our service to the test!

Authorized Disney Vacation Planner Logo

Special Offers

Guests of Crazy Imagination Travel receive the best available pricing for their Disney vacation. Always.