Horizons (Epcot) - Timeline

Timeline

• 1979, Early concepts were presented by the show designer George McGinnis
• August 5, 1981, Site work begins
• January 1982, Pavilion construction begins
• October 1, 1983, Horizons opens as part of EPCOT Center's 1st Anniversary celebration.
• September 30, 1993, General Electric's sponsorship ends after expiration of 10-year contract.
• December 1994, Horizons closes indefinitely. Disney officials give no timetable for reopening.
• December 1995, Horizons re-opens while Universe of Energy and World of Motion are being refurbished, (both these attractions remained open until January 21 and January 2, 1996 respectively).
• December 31, 1998, Disney internal staff newsletter (Eyes and Ears) announces that Horizons will close for good.
• January 9, 1999, Horizons closes permanently.
• September 23, 1999, All Horizons signs are removed.
• September 30, 1999, Horizons briefly reopens, but only for press groups.
• July 7, 2000, Horizons pavilion building is in the process of demolition.
• September 10, 2000, Construction begins for Mission: SPACE on the former site of Horizons.
• August 15, 2003, Mission: SPACE opens to the public.
• September 19, 2003, Walt Disney World issues a Horizons pin commemorating the attraction. Shown on the pin is Mickey Mouse, the ride's building, and the years 1983 and 1999 to signify the years between which the ride operated.
• September 9, 2005, Walt Disney World issues a license plate pin, part of their lanyard series, commemorating Horizons.
• August 17, 2007, Walt Disney World releases another commemorative pin as part of its White Glove Remember When series.
• July 1, 2008, Walt Disney World releases yet another commemorative pin as part of its White Glove Retro Epcot series.
• February 11, 2010, Walt Disney World releases a fourth pin dedicated to Horizons and Mission: Space as part of its Then and Now series.