May 5, 2020

Time to Party!

It's time to break out the margaritas, a plate of sizzling enchiladas, and several dishes of flan. It's Cinco de Mayo, and although we're stuck inside, we can still celebrate. Ready?

Isn't this piece of concept art for EPCOT Center's lovely El Rio del Tiempo beautiful? Imagineer Eddie Martinez created this view of the attraction, mixing all the joy, colors, and enchantment of a Mexican village at the edge of the river. It's easy to see how the suits plan to transition this from the current Gran Fiesta Tour into Coco, but often, it is best to let guests experience their own story as it unfolds in an attraction. not everything has to be a tie in to an Intellectual Property. This was part of the charm of the park at opening!

El Rio del Tiempo and Impressions de France were my two favorite World Showcase attractions from the very beginning. Both this ride and this film celebrated the culture represented without having to put a Disney watermark of characters on top. As the classic Future World attractions such as Journey into Imagination, World of Motion, and Horizons give way to much less vibrant replacements, going to World Showcase gives off that classic Epcot vibe. At least for now, and that is worth celebrating. 

What else can we celebrate? In the midst of a season unique to our generation, we have friends, family, and a God who loves us. We may not always understand why things happen the way they do, but we can trust all things work together for good if we love Him and are called to His purposes. That is good news worthy of a party!

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

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