On October 1, 1971, Walt Disney World Resort welcomed guests for the first time to “The Most Magical Place on Earth”; 50 years later, “The World’s Most Magical Celebration” commemorates the decades of memories and ushers in a future of continued excitement with a spectacular combination of Disney nostalgia and new, over-the-top experiences. Millions of guests have visited the theme park resort over the last five decades to ride iconic attractions, meet their favorite characters, and experience the unrivaled Disney magic.
Disney is commemorating its 75th anniversary with an 18-month-long celebration that began this week with the debut of new nighttime spectaculars, restaurants, and a “Ratatouille”-themed ride. A new family-friendly attraction, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, and a tasty restaurant, La Crêperie de Paris, are available at Epcot’s recently expanded France pavilion. A new nighttime spectacular, “Harmonious,” also at Epcot, celebrates the unifying power of Disney music and storytelling by highlighting beloved films from around the world. The show uses fireworks, massive LED panels, choreographed fountains, and other special effects to bring new life to songs familiar to Disney fans.
On October 1, another incredible nighttime spectacular debuted at Magic Kingdom Park. “Disney Enchantment” transports guests on an inspiring and moving journey through fireworks, music, lighting, and projections on Cinderella Castle and Main Street, U.S.A. Guests at Animal Kingdom can enjoy new daytime entertainment, “Disney KiteTails,” which features flying windcatchers and kites depicting animals from Disney films.
The golden sculptures that comprise the Disney Fab 50 Character Collection can be found in all four theme parks. During the event, each park’s icon transforms into a “Beacon of Magic,” illuminated in the “EARidescent” glow that shines on decorations, merchandise, Mickey and friends’ new celebratory outfits, and even food and beverage offerings.
Speaking of food and drink, the resort offers a variety of delectable and delightful options, ranging from retro-inspired theme park classics to delectable new cocktails. The Toad Burger inspired by Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride, the Happy Haunts Milkshake inspired by the Haunted Mansion, and Squids Revenge inspired by 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea can be found at Magic Kingdom Park. Other 50th anniversary treats can be found throughout the theme parks, hotels, and Disney Springs. There’s even a new Magical Beacon Cocktail available at Walt Disney World locations — the ideal drink to commemorate the occasion. The out-of-this-world Space 220 restaurant opened this month in Epcot, offering a stellar experience aboard the Centauri Space Station, and guests can find the new Steakhouse 71 restaurant at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.
And there’s even more magic on the way. Guests can expect more exciting openings throughout the 50th anniversary celebration, including the highly anticipated Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser, which is set to open on March 1, 2022, and the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind indoor coaster, which is set to open at Epcot sometime in 2022.