One of the most rewarding parts of the steady return of live entertainment to Walt Disney World Resort has been watching guests create special moments with their Disney character friends once more. Whether it be a wave in a parade, a family photo or a warm embrace, these encounters bring even more magic to each visit. That’s why I can’t wait to share what’s next for new and returning characters as we continue The World’s Most Magical Celebration!

Let’s kick things off with some exciting news for Magic Kingdom Park. We may not talk about Bruno, but we can definitely talk about Mirabel making her debut in the “Disney Adventure Friends Cavalcade” on June 26! The young hero from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ hit film “Encanto” will join Miguel from “Coco,” Nick and Judy from “Zootopia,” Max, Goof, Moana and more as this super-sized cavalcade winds through the park several times each day.

Looking ahead to July, the always iconic Minnie Mouse will join Mickey Mouse starting on July 6 in Town Square Theater at Magic Kingdom Park. Both will be ready for hugs and photos in their EARidescent fashions designed specifically for the Walt Disney World 50^th Anniversary celebration!

July 6 also marks the return of Chip ‘N Dale’s Campfire Sing-A-Long at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, where you can join the nutty friends for a campfire celebration followed by a classic Disney movie under the stars. Then, on July 10, keep an eye out for familiar Fantasyland friends Peter Pan and Snow White as they greet guests at Magic Kingdom Park once again.

Over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Star Wars Launch Bay returns July 17! A celebration of the legendary space saga, Star Wars Launch Bay is your place for a warm embrace with Chewbacca, a face-to-droid encounter with BB-8 or a run-in with Darth Vader himself for those brave enough.

And those are just the next few weeks! We have even more fun, hugs and memories on the horizon. In the coming months, a visit to Magic Kingdom Park will bring chances to meet Aladdin, Jasmine, Merida, Pooh, Tigger and Storybook Circus pals like The Great Goofini in Pete’s Silly Sideshow. Your favorite toys will be ready for playtime in Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Donald Duck and friends will rejoin their prehistoric party at “Donald’s Dino-Bash!” in DinoLand U.S.A. at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park.

These exciting character encounters add to the many terrific offerings returning across Walt Disney World Resort, including Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue stomping into Pioneer Hall June 23, and Harmony Barber Shop creating magical memories on Main Street once again beginninng July 31.

Details on additional return dates will be shared as they become available, but for now, who are you most excited to see? Be sure to follow #DisneyWorld50 and keep reading the Disney Parks Blog for all the news and updates throughout the Walt Disney World 50^th Anniversary celebration!