The Encanto attraction at Disney’s Animal Kingdom just got a major construction milestone. Walt Disney Imagineering has filed a Notice of Commencement for set element installation inside the Encanto attraction building at Tropical Americas. This is a big deal — it means construction has moved past the structural phase and into the interior work that brings the story to life.
Quick Summary
- WDI filed a permit for set element installation inside the Encanto attraction building
- Contractor is Scenario, which previously worked on Test Track at EPCOT
- Set elements include large-scale scenic pieces, props, and environmental details
- The attraction takes guests into Casita on the day Antonio receives his gift
- Steel framework and roof are complete — queue area is now under construction
- Tropical Americas is scheduled to open at Animal Kingdom in 2027
What the Encanto Attraction Permit Means for Fans
A Notice of Commencement for set elements is exactly what it sounds like — crews are now installing the physical scenic pieces that make the ride feel like the world of Encanto. This typically follows after the building structure is complete. The fact that WDI is at this stage means Tropical Americas construction is well on track.
The contractor listed is Scenario, a specialty firm that WDI does not use often. You may know their work from the latest version of Test Track at EPCOT. Scenario specializes in show sets, props, animated and static figures, rockwork, architectural ornamentations, and scenic painting — exactly the kind of work needed for a lush, story-driven ride like this one.
What Is the Encanto Attraction at Animal Kingdom?
The Encanto ride at Disney’s Animal Kingdom takes guests inside the magical Casita Madrigal on the most important day in the story — the day Antonio receives his gift: the ability to communicate with animals. You join the family celebration and explore the home room by room.
The set elements being installed now would include pieces themed to the Casita and the Madrigal family home. Think the colorful, magical rooms of the house, Antonio’s room full of animals, and the vibrant atmosphere that made the film feel so alive.
Where Things Stand with Tropical Americas Construction
On the construction front, the Encanto show building is well advanced. The steel framework is complete and the roof is in place. Crews are currently working on the queue area at the front of the building. With set element installation now beginning inside, this attraction is moving through its phases at a steady pace.
Tropical Americas is an 11-acre expansion at Animal Kingdom that includes more than just Encanto. The land also features a new Indiana Jones adventure set inside a Mayan temple and an animal-themed carousel. The centerpiece of the area is Pueblo Esperanza, a Latin American-inspired town with an open-air market and a large quick-service restaurant.
When Does Tropical Americas Open at Animal Kingdom?
The Encanto attraction and Tropical Americas are scheduled to open at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in 2027. With construction at this stage in early 2026, that timeline looks realistic. Keep an eye on continued permit filings and exterior work over the coming months as the land takes shape.
Final Thoughts
The Encanto attraction at Animal Kingdom is getting closer to completion with every passing month. Set element installation inside the building is a major step toward a finished ride experience. If Tropical Americas and the Encanto ride are on your must-do list for 2027, things are looking very good right now. Stay tuned for more construction updates as the land continues to take shape.
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Meet the Author: Nate Bishop
I’m a die-hard Disney fan with 38 years of visits under my belt, having stepped into Disney World 120+ times. Proud to be a Disney Annual Passholder, a Vacation Club member since ’92, a Castaway Club Member, and a runDisney enthusiast. Oh, and I’ve graduated from the Disney College of Knowledge. Need Disney insights or planning tips? I’m your guy!
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