Country Bear Jamboree
Opened: October 1, 1971
Location: Frontierland
Extra Magic Hours: No
FASTPASS: No
Type: Animatronic theater show
Similar To: Enchanted Tiki Room, Hall of Presidents
Requirements: None
Scary Factor: Zero
What to Expect: Country Bear Jamboree is another of the older audio-animatronic theater shows, this time featuring 18 bears, a buffalo, a raccoon, a stag, and a moose. The bears put on a 17-minute show full of corny jokes, songs, and gags. The theater is comfortable and air-conditioned. Refurbished in 2008, the Country Bears now have better audio and slightly improved animatronics, but the show otherwise remains the same.
When To Go: This is another good one to visit in the afternoon heat, whenever you need a break from standing, or while you’re waiting for a FASTPASS to become due.
Expect to Wait: Shows run continuously and it’s unlikely you’ll have to wait any longer than it takes for the previous show to end.
Length: 15 minutes
Rating: 4/10
Disney’s Mineral King Ski Resort: Ever heard of Disney’s Mineral King Ski Resort? No? It’s probably because it never came to fruition. In the 1960s, Walt Disney wanted to open a ski resort. The final plans included 27 ski lifts and housing for more than 2 million visitors per year. Although the Sierra Club had originally backed a ski resort in the area, they changed their minds when they realized the size and scope of the plans. After years of lawsuits the preservationists finally won and the land was annexed by the United States government and became part of Sequoia National Park. Country Bear Jamboree was originally planned as entertainment for that resort, but was moved to Florida after the project was canceled.
Commentary: Country Bear Jamboree is more likely to be favored by kids under the age of ten and adults who appreciate classic Disney attractions. Teenagers and adults that don’t care much for dated animatronics and corny jokes are better off skipping, unless an air-conditioned theater sounds like a pleasant place to spend 15 minutes in the middle of the day. Country Bear Jamboree is somewhat popular due to its proximity to Splash Mountain, but it’s unlikely that you’ll have to wait for more than one show to end before admission. If you enjoyed the Enchanted Tiki Room then you’ll enjoy this one as well. On the plus side, Country Bear Jamboree is much more comfortable.