Know Before You Go: Walt Disney World Resort 50th Anniversary, The World’s Most Magical Celebration

Photo: Disney Parks

Fifty years ago, the Walt Disney World Resort opened its gates to the world. And on Oct. 1, 2021, the magic begins for the celebration of The World’s Most Magical Celebration – the 50th Anniversary at Walt Disney World Resort.

Get ready for a celebration worth waiting for with shimmering EARidescent outfits, merchandise, decorations, and more! Before you go, check out some tips that’ll prepare you for incredible festivities coming very soon.

Here are some of the most-asked questions:

This magical event begins on Oct. 1, 2021 and lasts for an entire 18 months!

Although Magic Kingdom Park was the first to open on Oct. 1, 1971, all four parks will showcase ornate embellishments, décor, and special surprises.

At Magic Kingdom, you’ll be greeted with 50th anniversary décor before stepping onto Main Street, U.S.A. After walking the streets full of magnificent merchandise, you’ll come upon Cinderella Castle, draped in elegant new colors and highlighting a marvelous 50th crest. With golden characters surrounding the castle entrance, you know the big celebration is going to be huge! And once it gets dark, the beautiful royal landmark becomes a shining, shimmering EARidescence sight as the new Disney Enchantment comes to life! This nightly immersive projections and fireworks show lights up Main Street, U.S.A and is something you’ll want to stick around for. It’s the perfect ending to a magical day.

At Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, beloved characters take to the sky, joining in on the festive fun with an all-new performance, Disney KiteTails. Watch as amazing kites and colorful windcatchers dance through the air to your favorite Disney melodies. Spot Simba, Zazu, King Louie, and Baloo take flight! You can also see friendly golden statues around the park that sparks even more magic.

At EPCOT, Harmonious is coming to the night sky. This new fireworks spectacular is one of the largest shows ever created at Walt Disney World Resort. Watch as innovative floats, vibrant lasers, and dancing fountains bounce and glide on the water. Discover the power of music and magic with your loved ones. While you’re heading out, marvel under Spaceship Earth and notice the glitzy makeover with twinkling stardust.

At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, dazzling lights burst from Hollywood Tower of Terror and down Sunset Boulevard. You’ll also find some surprising golden characters throughout the park that’ll make you smile.

Yes! At EPCOT, you can also enjoy a new ride coming to the France Pavilion, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure. This Little Chef is ready to show you around Gusteau’s restaurant in this incredible trackless, 4-D experience. Your entire family can ride as there’s no height requirement to experience this attraction!

While you’re at it, grab a bite to eat at the two new spots in EPCOT. Swing by the new La Creperie de Paris in the France Pavilion and try a delicious made-from-scratch crepe and galette. It definitely has Ego’s approval, and we hope it has yours! Another out-of-this-world restaurant is coming to World Discovery. Space 220 takes you up 220 miles from Earth aboard a space station where you can dine from a prix fixe menu of galactic cuisine. While drinking a Cosmo, you can look out to the big, blue planet and observe the galaxies.

We know the original Fab Five characters are on your mind, and we have the answers for you! Mickey Mouse and pals, including Daisy, Donald, Goofy, Pluto, Chip ‘n’ Dale, and of course, Minnie Mouse are all fit in EARidescent fabrics, embroidered with fireworks impressions and Cinderella Castle with pops of gold.

We’ve mentioned that each of the four parks will feature, not only the Fab Five, but a list of Fab 50 sculptures, so be on the lookout for them and grab a selfie or two while you’re at it. These characters will be recognized from the early Disney lovers who were there in the beginning, to the youngest of fans just learning about the magic.

For now, you’ll still need a theme park reservation and valid ticket to enter the park. Be sure to plan accordingly for the best day ever and maximize your trip!

Although FastPass+ is retired, a new experience is coming this fall called the Disney Genie. You can either purchase Disney Genie+ service to save time in line for a variety of attractions or purchase and schedule an individual arrival time at up to two highly demanded attractions each day. Stay tuned for more information!

Safety continues to be top of mind in Central Florida. The Walt Disney World Resort mask policy currently requires all guests, regardless of vaccination status, to wear face masks while indoors, including indoor attractions and indoor queues. Also, masks are required in enclosed transportation options.

Well, that’s all folks! Whether you can’t wait to snag some swag merchandise, ride the new attraction, or just bask in the glittery glory, this celebration welcomes you. For updated information and more to do while you’re visiting Kissimmee, subscribe to our newsletter. And while you’re here, tag us on Facebook and Instagram @ExperienceKissimmee. Hope to see you real soon!