Disney’s Seven Dwarfs Mine Train ride – described as the “crowning jewel” of its New Fantasyland themed area – is to open on 28 May.

The opening of the family-friendly rollercoaster will mark the completion of the largest ever expansion of the Magic Kingdom park at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. It features an original ride system developed at Walt Disney Imagineering that allows film-themed cars to swing independently back and forth as they move along the track.

“Seven Dwarfs Mine Train is both literally and figuratively the centrepiece of New Fantasyland, so we knew it had to be something special,” said Walt Disney Parks and Resorts chairman Tom Stagg during a dedication ceremony for the ride.

“The attraction appeals to everyone in the family and provides just the right blend of heart, humour, and thrill while keeping with the charm of this special land.”

Disney separately announced that another theme park at the Florida resort, Animal Kingdom, will be getting a night-time spectacular show, meaning opening times there will be extended.

Walt Disney World president George Kalogridis told media that the show, along with the addition of new attractions such as one based on the film Avatar, would transform Animal Kingdom into a “day and night experience”.

The show, Rivers of Light, will combine live music, floating lanterns, water screens and animal imagery.