Walt Disney World has been delighting guests since it opened on October 1, 1971. As the resort marks its fabulous 50th anniversary (now through spring 2023), here is a quick rundown of several of the special elements you’ll find commemorating the occasion.
Dashing Decor
By now you’ve probably seen it on social media, but Cinderella’s castle at the Magic Kingdom is absolutely breathtaking to behold in person. Truly a centerpiece of the celebration, the castle is temporarily transformed with banners, gold detailing, and a commemorative crest displaying the number 50. At dark, it lights up in a rainbow of colors and becomes the focal point of the nighttime fireworks show, Disney Enchantment. At Magic Kingdom, you’ll also find Mickey and friends dressed up in special EARidescent anniversary costumes and depicted as golden statues throughout the park.
The other parks are also decorated for the event, with Epcot’s Spaceship Earth now permanently upgraded in twinkling attire and its nighttime spectacular show, Harmonious, running for the duration of the celebration. Hollywood Studios’ Hollywood Tower Hotel and Animal Kingdom’s Tree of Life each received special anniversary enhancements as well.
Celebratory Sips & Bites
Another great way to enjoy the event is with a variety of celebratory sips and bites found throughout each of the parks. At the Magic Kingdom, you can partake in the Royal 50th Celebration flight of Enchantee Champagne at Cinderella’s Royal Table as well as classic park treats like Walt’s Chili-Cheese Dog and the Mickey Mouse Dome Cake. Over at Animal Kingdom, you’ll find special treats like the EARidescent Firefly mocktail and a 50th celebration ice cream sandwich. At Epcot, indulge in a chocolate pyramid filled with mousse or an EARisdescent croissant doughnut. Hollywood Studios is featuring bites like the Glimmer and Shimmer Blondie dessert and several refreshing beverages. You’ll also have a chance to sink into one-of-a-kind treats both savory and sweet at Disney Springs and Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park.
Marvelous Merchandise
The new merchandise commemorating the special occasion is not to be missed. The Disney Castle Collection is inspired by Cinderella’s castle and captures that special fairy-tale feeling. The Celebration Collection is designed for mixing and matching to create a coordinated group look for your family visit to the park. The Vault Collection features retro-themed collectibles such as Mickey Mouse ears, stuffed toys, and vintage-inspired clothing. The Luxe Logo Collection celebrates high style with rich metallic tones and velvet accents. And the EARidescent Collection showcases a glittering rainbow of colors that perfectly coordinate with Cinderella’s castle and the character costumes found in the park.
Stay close to the resort at your selection of several excellent area accommodations. Marriott Orlando offers Fairfield Inn Orlando Lake Buena Vista. Other resort options include Wyndham Orlando Resort & Conference Center/Celebration, Staybridge Suites Orlando Royale Parc, and Fairfield Inn Orlando Airport. And Aloft Orlando International Drive, Comfort Inn International, Element Orlando International Drive, and Best Western International Drive are close to all the action on International Drive.