Raya and the Last Dragon arrives in movie theaters and via Disney+ Premier Access on March 5, but guests at Disney’s Animal Kingdom can already enjoy some new experiences inspired by the anticipated animated adventure.
The newest Disney animated feature film stars Kelly Marie Tran as a lone warrior, Awkwafina as the dragon Sisu, and Alan Tudyk as a creature called Tuk Tuk (more on him later!). We visited Disney’s Animal Kingdom on February 26, 2021, to check out the recent Raya and the Last Dragon additions to the Walt Disney World theme park.
Raya and the Last Dragon Sand Sculpture
In Discovery Island, on the stage across from Flame Tree Barbeque, a talented team of artists has created a sand sculpture featuring several soon-to-be-favorite characters from Raya and the Last Dragon.
A team of two sculptors spent more than 24 hours February 19-21 to carve the display, which is constructed entirely from sand.
This sand sculpture is scheduled to remain on display through the end of March.
Raya and the Last Dragon Snacks
Of course, it wouldn’t be a Walt Disney World event without an array of themed sweets to eat.
Many of Raya’s short-term treats are modeled after Baby Tuk Tuk, which makes them almost too adorable to eat. (Almost!)
Raya and the Last Dragon Animation Experience
Speaking of Baby Tuk Tuk, he’s one of the characters from Raya and the Last Dragon who is currently being featured in the Animation Experience at Rafiki’s Planet Watch.
Based on an attraction originally located at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the Animation Experience is a guided class that teaches guests how to sketch a Disney animated character.
Showtimes for the Animation Experience are posted at the Wildlife Express train station, as well as in the the Walt Disney World smartphone app.
However, you’ll need to check with a cast member to know exactly which character is being taught at a particular session.
Baby Tuk Tuk is one of the featured characters currently in rotation, and he can be deceptively challenging.
It’s a good thing that participants are provided with a guide circle pre-printed on their sheet of drawing paper to help get them started.
Capacity for the Animation Experience is limited, especially due to social distancing restrictions, so take the Wildlife Express train from Harambe Station about 40 minutes before the class you wish to attend, and join the queue inside at least 10-15 minutes prior to the start time.
The final couple of classes of the day are likely to have some empty seats if you are running late.
The 25-minute class includes a few film clips from Raya and the Last Dragon, as well as information about the real-life animals that inspired the characters guests are learning to draw.
Even if you aren’t the next Leonardo DaVinci, at the end of the class you’ll possess the rarest of treasures: a free souvenir from Walt Disney World!
Check out the Raya and the Last Dragon Animation Experience at Disney’s Animal Kingdom with this video:
Raya and the Last Dragon Merchandise
Finally, you’ll find a selection of toys and merchandise tied to the new film at Rafiki’s Planet Watch, as well as select other stores around the park.
We predict these pillbug-like plush Tuk Tuks will be big hits, so pick up yours now before the movie debuts!
For all there is to see and do at Walt Disney World, check out The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World, or to plan your family’s trip to Orlando, check out The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World with Kids. If you enjoyed this post, please subscribe to our YouTube channel and sign up for our newsletter here. Be sure to follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
