Confirmed: Two Princess Experiences Finally Returning to Disney World

Updated – 12:38 pm EDT

More character interactions are finally returning to the Most Magical Place on Earth.

After an extended hiatus due partially to the enduring Covid-19 excused policies, beloved meet and greets are finally returning to Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort. Disney Fanatic already shared that Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck, Donal Duck, and Goofy will be returning to Pete’s Silly Sideshow in Story Book Circus. But now it appears that Ariel and Belle will also be returning to their original places.

Daisy and Donald Duck in Pete’s Silly Sideshow / Courtesy of Disney

According to new reports, Disney has confirmed that Ariel’s Grotto and Enchanted Tales with Belle will reopen in the coming weeks. Ariel’s Grotto is reportedly opening on January 22, while Enchanted Tales with Belle will resume showtimes on February 19.

It should be noted, however, that the Walt Disney World Website still has not been updated to reflect this news at the time of this article’s publication.

But since this article’s original publication, Disney Parks has confirmed the news, sharing on Twitter,

“More character experiences are returning to Magic Kingdom! Get ready to step into the library with Enchanted Tales with Belle on Feb. 19 and head back under the sea at Ariel’s Grotto beginning Jan. 22.” 

More character experiences are returning to Magic Kingdom! Get ready to step into the library with Enchanted Tales with Belle 📚 on Feb. 19 and head back under the sea at Ariel’s Grotto 🐠 beginning Jan. 22. pic.twitter.com/DRxLUaFlgB

— Disney Parks (@DisneyParks) January 17, 2023

Before the Pandemic, Disney World Guests could find Ariel at her Grotto next to Under the Sea – Journey of The Little Mermaid ride around Prince Eric’s seaside castle in New Fantasyland. Enchanted Tales with Belle was also found in New Fantasyland, next to the entrance to Be Our Guest Restaurant.

Credit: Disney

Related: Disney Princesses Appear For Open-Access Meet and Greet Outside Of Disney Parks

These will be the latest Character interactions to return to Disney World, sparking hope that more will return. Tinker Bell’s meet-and-greet spot, for instance, is still unavailable. 

Please be sure to reach out to The Walt Disney Travel Company or your Authorized Disney Vacation Planner for the most up-to-date information regarding any and all attractions and experiences that are on your list.

Walt Disney World describes Enchanted Tales with Belle on its website as the following:

Step into Belle and Maurice’s quaint country cottage and marvel at the charming decor. Next, tour Maurice’s workshop, where you’ll see his inventive gadgets—and a special enchanted mirror the Beast gave to Belle. Say the magic words and the mirror comes to life!

Watch the story of how Belle and the Beast met, and then behold the walls disappear before your eyes as you are magically transported to the Beast’s castle.

Meet the Enchanted Wardrobe, who will help selected participants prepare for their role. Which of you will play the Beast? Guests of all ages may volunteer!

Meet the Beautiful Belle

Take your places inside the Beast’s splendid library, where Lumière the talking candlestick directs the action. When Belle appears, you’ll get a chance to play your part in her fairytale story—or just cheer along as you observe the fun!

Credit: Disney

We at Disney Fanatic will continue to update our readers on Disney Parks news and stories as more developments come to light.