Did you know that the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney World is on October 1, 2021? On October 1, 1971, the Magic Kingdom opened to visitors for the very first time. But of course we can’t celebrate for just one day, can we? Disney is giving everyone 18 months to celebrate this momentous occasion!
There will be many more details to come, but here’s what we know about the celebration so far:
- Disney will be bringing the celebration to all four theme parks and beyond!
- Disney has even coined a new word—“EARidescence” to help celebrate the occasion. You will see all sorts of new decorations throughout the park that will shimmer and sparkle. I would expect to see merchandise to help you celebrate too, but this has not been officially announced yet. (I’m hoping to see a new pair of shimmery, sparkly ears in my future!)
- Cinderella Castle in the Magic Kingdom will add gold bunting and a 50th anniversary crest to celebrate.
- Icons at all four parks will transform into Beacons of Magic at night. This will include pixie dust on Cinderella Castle, magical fireflies in the Tree of Life at Animal Kingdom, special touches on the Hollywood Tower Hotel at Hollywood Studios, and new lights shining across the panels of Spaceship Earth in Epcot! These lights will resemble stars in the nighttime sky, and this new lighting will be a permanent fixture in Epcot even after the celebration ends.
- Mickey and Minnie will be decked out for the event, in their new EARidescent outfits like you see here.
I know I can’t wait to celebrate one of my favorite places—Walt Disney World! Your Wishes & Dreams Travel Consultant can help you be a part of the fun!
