HOLD UP. Something EPIC happened in EPCOT and you didn’t even realize it!
EPCOT has been home to some pretty awesome things over the years, from the Lights of Winter to a BARBIE(!) show, an attraction that is still SUPER beloved despite having closed over 20 years ago, and more. But now we’re taking things back to 2013 when something REALLY unique happened in EPCOT.
Did you know that Disney actually held an ALL-NIGHTER back in 2013? That’s right — as part of the “Monstrous Summer” promotion, select Disney parks were open for 24 hours over Memorial Day weekend.
To celebrate this big announcement, Spaceship Earth got a special transformation. It actually became a 180-foot-tall, fully animated Mike Wazowski thanks to some special projections! And Sulley appeared too!
We know, we know — this feels like some kind of fever dream. It’s very reminiscent of that time the Castle got covered in toilet paper thanks to Stitch. It’s one of those things that could have you feeling SERIOUSLY shocked. They actually did THAT?!? Yes, yes they did and the video below is proof.
To be fair, this was all done around the time of the release of Monsters University, the prequel to Monsters, Inc., so that makes a LOT of sense since it worked as a good tie-in to the movie.
As part of the promotion, Mike and Sulley were the Grand Marshals of the “Celebrate a Dream Come True” parade in Magic Kingdom, and they made special appearances in Tomorrowland. There were also characters in their pajamas in Town Square, dance parties, and more.
At Disneyland Resort, there was special entertainment, a late-night character Pajama Party, and even a new Monsters University float leading the Pixar Play Parade.
Plus, there was special merchandise, new offerings, and much more. But it all began with an announcement featuring a giant Mike Wazowski-themed Spaceship Earth, and that’s something we’ll just never forget.
Now, don’t get us wrong, Spaceship Earth does look pretty amazing at night now thanks to the lights that were installed during the 50th Anniversary (which have become a permanent addition to this park icon).
And Disney has utilized these lights to make some beautiful designs in the past featuring Mickey Mouse…
…rainbows…
…and more. But still, it’s not quite the same as the both ridiculous and amazing appearance of a talking Mike Wazowski on Spaceship Earth.
What do you think? Should Disney bring back projections on Spaceship Earth in some way to make the whole Mike Wazowski experience happen again?
Maybe we could get a projection of BB8 on Spaceship Earth — another iconic and round character! Or Grogu could appear in his little pram. We’ll take a giant Mickey face or really ANYTHING.
Tell us in the comments if you’re a fan of this! For more about things that are no longer in EPCOT, check out our posts ALL about the history of the Universe of Energy, the history of Maelstrom, and the history of World of Motion!
And stay tuned for more Disney news!
Did you know that this happened in EPCOT? What do you think about it? Tell us in the comments!
Bring Mike Back!
The best thing EPCOT did was the Tapestry of Dreams Parade. It was indescribable. ❤️