Spirit of Aloha: Farewell

March 21, 2022 Chelsea M

Author: Chelsea Murphy Posted: March 21, 2022

Honoring the Legacy of a Beloved Polynesian Resort Tradition

If you’ve ever dined under the torch-lit skies at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, then you likely remember the rhythmic drums, mesmerizing hula dancers, and the unforgettable fire knife performance that defined the Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show. Sadly, this iconic experience has officially taken its final bow.

On March 15, 2022, Disney confirmed what many longtime fans had feared—the Spirit of Aloha would not be returning after its initial closure in March 2020. And while the curtain has closed for good, we’re choosing to celebrate the incredible legacy of this cherished experience.

A 50-Year Legacy of Aloha at Walt Disney World

The Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show first welcomed guests on October 1, 1971. This was the same day Magic Kingdom opened its gates. Originally held on the sandy shores of the Seven Seas Lagoon, the show delivered a true island vibe under the stars. It wasn’t until 1973 that Disney constructed a covered venue, providing a more permanent home for the nightly luau.

This tucked-away stage area was nestled within the lush tropical landscaping of the Polynesian Resort. It featured semi-circular seating wrapped around the central performance area. While some guests found the angled view a bit tricky, the real showstopper—the fire dance—captured everyone’s attention no matter where you sat. You could feel the pulse of the music and the heat from the flames as the dancer wowed the crowd with skill and bravery.

All-You-Can-Eat Island Feast: Dining Worthy of the Islands

Let’s talk about the food—because the Spirit of Aloha wasn’t just a show, it was a feast. Guests were treated to an all-you-care-to-enjoy three-course Polynesian-inspired meal, served family-style throughout the evening.

Highlights included:

Fresh tropical fruit
Succulent roasted chicken
Flavor-packed island pork ribs
Accompaniments like pineapple-coconut bread and jasmine rice
And let’s not forget the decadent dessert finale

While the food received mixed reviews from time to time, many found the flavors and experience to be thoroughly satisfying. It was comfort food with a tropical flair, served up with warmth and Disney hospitality.

What’s Next for the Spirit of Aloha Location?

Although the dinner show has taken its final bow, Disney has exciting plans for the space. In its place, a brand-new Disney Vacation Club tower is under construction, scheduled to open in late 2024. This new addition will expand accommodations at the Polynesian Village Resort and introduce fresh opportunities for immersive theming.

While we don’t yet know if elements of the Spirit of Aloha will be incorporated into the new design, there’s certainly hope among fans that this treasured tradition won’t be forgotten. Maybe a reimagined dining experience, a cultural showcase, or even a nod to the fire dancing finale will make its way back to the Polynesian in time.

Remembering the Spirit: A Final Aloha

For those of us who experienced the magic—whether it was your first luau or your fifteenth—the Spirit of Aloha was more than dinner and entertainment. It was a moment of escape, a way to feel connected to a culture rich with warmth, community, and celebration.

If you ever found yourself swaying to the ukulele under the stars or watching wide-eyed as flames lit up the night sky, you’re part of a special group of Disney guests who knew just how enchanting this experience was.

Here’s to the memories made, the laughter shared, and the “aloha” spirit that will always live on in our hearts.

Mahalo, Spirit of Aloha. You’ll be deeply missed—but never forgotten.