The wait is over! Zootopia: Better Zoogether! officially opened today, November 7, 2025, at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in the Tree of Life Theater. The new 4D show invites guests to celebrate Zoogether Day, a holiday that honors unity across Zootopia’s wildly diverse biomes—from Tundratown to Marsh Market.
A 4D Experience That’s Authentically Zootopia
According to Walt Disney Imagineering Senior Creative Director Danny Handke, the nine-minute show delivers everything fans love about Zootopia: quick wit, fast-paced fun, and heartfelt messages about connection and community. Thanks to 4D effects—sights, sounds, smells, and surprises—guests are immersed in the story. It unfolds all around them.
“It’s authentically Zootopia, but distinctly Animal Kingdom,” Handke explained. “The message is that we’re all connected to our shared environment.”
Disney Animation Meets Imagineering
The show was developed in close collaboration between Walt Disney Animation Studios and Walt Disney Imagineering. Zootopia filmmakers Byron Howard and Jared Bush—who also directed Zootopia 2—worked hand-in-hand with Imagineers. Their goal was to make this show a natural extension of the films. The animation for Better Zoogether! was completed by Disney Animation artists themselves, ensuring it stays true to the world of Zootopia.
Bush noted, “It’s rare to have something open in the parks around the same time as a new film. Guests will see familiar characters and meet a few new ones from Zootopia 2.”
A Showcase of Innovation and Storytelling
Imagineers took Clawhauser’s expressive personality to the next level, developing new eye technology and full-body motion. This was to capture every ounce of his joy. From his glow necklaces to his glittery Gazelle T-shirt, every detail reinforces his love of pop culture—and of course, Gazelle herself.
Heidi Howler, the slick-talking wolf host, adds fresh energy to the mix. As Handke explained, “When a wolf starts to howl, everyone joins in. That made her the perfect choice to bring Zootopia’s biggest event to life.”
Global Connections
Zootopia: Better Zoogether! follows in the pawprints of Shanghai Disney Resort’s Zootopia land, which opened in 2023. It remains one of the most immersive Disney lands ever built. Both projects showcase how Disney Imagineering and Disney Animation collaborate to expand the franchise with authenticity and heart.
Meet and Collect: Zootopia Extras
Beyond the show itself, fans can step even deeper into the story with brand-new additions at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. A Nick and Judy meet-and-greet debuts alongside the attraction, giving guests a chance to snap photos with the beloved ZPD duo near the Tree of Life Theater. The pair appear in new Zoogether Day outfits designed especially for the experience.
For collectors, Disney has released a limited-edition Zootopia popcorn bucket featuring Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde, celebrating Zoogether Day. It’s already a fan favorite—and sure to be one of the must-have souvenirs of the season.
A Dozen Details to Find
Disney Imagineers packed the Zootopia: Better Zoogether! queue and pre-show with hidden nods and playful Easter eggs. Here are 12 confirmed details to watch for during your next visit:
- Joe Rohde Tribute – A tiny rodent resembling Imagineer Joe Rohde appears on a queue poster reading “Anyone Can Be Anything!” complete with his trademark earring and mustache.
- Ball of Soil Display – A large globe of soil samples from Zootopia’s biomes—complete with paw prints—symbolizes the unity of Zoogether Day.
- “Pawdora” Jewelry Display – Themed jewelry showcases different animal biomes such as Savanna Central and Little Rodentia, complete with miniature accessories.
- The Big Donut Keychain – Hidden among the props in the queue is a keychain of the famous “Big Donut” sign from the original film.
- Jane Goodall Tribute – The exterior queue retains the Jane Goodall plaque and chimpanzee sculpture from It’s Tough to Be a Bug! as a nod to Animal Kingdom’s history.
- Carrot Vision Prep Area – Guests receive “Carrot Vision” glasses before entering, setting up the 3D visuals long before the show begins.
- Little Rodentia Props – Look for tiny trash cans, signs, and tube systems that reflect the micro-sized world of Zootopia’s smallest citizens.
- Biome Map of Zootopia – A colorful map highlights regions like Tundratown and Marsh Market, teasing the show’s environments.
- Zoogether Day Posters – Brightly illustrated posters line the walls, introducing the holiday and the show’s theme of unity.
- Gazelle Concert References – Clawhauser’s glow necklaces and Gazelle-themed merchandise hint at his fandom even before the show starts.
- Reused Tree of Life Details – Some carvings from the former attraction remain, blending Animal Kingdom’s natural aesthetic with Zootopia’s urban energy.
- Audio Hints of Zootopia 2 – Sharp ears may catch snippets of broadcast chatter referencing new locations and characters appearing in the upcoming sequel.
Our Thoughts
With Zootopia 2 on the horizon, this new show couldn’t have arrived at a better time. The blend of cutting-edge effects, animation, and heartfelt storytelling makes Zootopia: Better Zoogether! an instant must-see. It’s funny, fast, and full of details you’ll want to experience again and again.
Whether you’re team Judy, team Nick, or team Clawhauser, there’s never been a better time to visit Disney’s Animal Kingdom—and see how the world of Zootopia comes to life like never before.
