Author Kyle McCarthy is a huge fan of all things Disney and wrote this blog about the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary celebration on behalf of sponsor, Walt Disney World Resort.
Oct. 1, 2021 marked 50 years of Walt Disney World Resort, kicking off an 18-month-long celebration. There’s been so much new at all four theme parks leading up to its 50th Anniversary. Imagine themed lands far, far away like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge or the immersive Pandora The World of Avatar. Experience exciting attractions such as Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway and the twisting Slinky Dog Dash in Toy Story Land among the many adventures that thrill grandkids as much as their grandparents.
Favorite Disney Characters Are Back in Action
Discover new character experiences at The Most Magical Place on Earth. For the 50th Anniversary, Mickey Mouse stars in Mickey’s Celebration Cavalcade. He and Minnie Mouse lead the EARidescent 8 in a brand-new parade down Main Street, U.S.A., including Donald and Daisy Duck, Pluto, Goofy, Chip and Dale, all looking very spiffy in their new shimmering EARidescent fashions.
Character greetings are back! Guests can share up close and personal moments with favorite Disney friends while practicing social distancing. In keeping with current health protocols, face coverings are still recommended for guests who are not fully vaccinated while in indoor locations and enclosed transportation.
While you’re by Cinderella Castle, gaze up at her 189-foot-tall spires and admire the new look. Want to be a part of it? Use the augmented reality feature in the My Disney Experience app to superimpose your family’s own image, taken by a Disney PhotoPass photographer, on the Cinderella Castle Mural of Memories for just $9.99 plus tax.
Surprises Commemorate 50th Anniversary Celebration
Disney fans and collectors have so much to be excited about during the 50th Anniversary celebration — beyond the new merchandise.
Take the Disney Fab 50 Character Collection, for example. Disney Imagineers have created 50 golden characters and placed them around all four theme parks. (Tip: Trying to find them is a cool way to explore the parks, too.) When afternoon snooze time rolls around, pose your little ones with statues like the ‘life size’ BB-8 — we were surprised it was so big — a great place to take a family selfie.
Are grandparents celebrating their own 50th anniversary? Supplement those photos with commemorative pressed coins and medallions in a gilded look sure to remind you of your 50th and your visit.
EPCOT Transformation During the 50th Anniversary
Oooolala! We are delighted to see Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure come to life at EPCOT. That theme park, one of our kids’ favorites, has undergone so much transformation. Check out the new neighborhoods: World Showcase, World Celebration, World Nature and World Discovery. We especially like the new adventures designed for adults to enjoy with preschoolers who may be too petite for some of the parks’ most exciting thrill rides. (Tip: Use the Height filter when reviewing “Attractions and Entertainment” to find all the new adventures designed for the whole family.)
Now board the fun rat’s-eye-view vehicles for a 4D culinary adventure under the stove, past chefs and swooping brooms, just like you’re in Gusteau’s Paris restaurant from the Disney and Pixar film “Ratatouille.” Afterwards, slip over to La Creperie de Paris for some of their fresh French crepes. Or, if you are heading toward the front of the park, try the new Connections Café & Eatery in World Celebration.
Look Up! So Many New 50th Anniversary Attractions
Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, a new family thrill coaster, opened May 27 at EPCOT. If you’ve seen “Guardians of the Galaxy,” then you know it will be a wild ride. By wild we mean it rotates 360 degrees to focus guests on the action and features the first reverse launch on a Disney coaster. Wow! Be sure to explore the Wonders of Xandar Pavilion and check out the new merchandise collections inspired by the attraction at Treasures of Xandar.
At Disney Animal Kingdom Theme Park, look up to catch Disney KiteTails around the Discovery River Amphitheater. The incredibly imaginative 50th Anniversary experience features oversize character kites, many inspired by Disney animated classics: The Lion King and The Jungle Book, that swoop and dance. (Tip: My Disney Experience app will show you the way and is a very handy digital planning tool your whole family can share.)
Immerse Yourselves in the Star Wars Story
Since its March 1, 2022 opening, the Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser adventure has transported guests to a galaxy far, far away. Become the hero of your own Star Wars story with a two-night stay aboard the Halcyon starcruiser. Here you decide your fate.
Will you follow the rule of the First Order or join the Resistance in a secret plot? Along the way you’ll participate in the ship’s operation, learn to wield a lightsaber, and interact with Chewbacca, Rey and the rest of the crew in a daringly immersive adventure. While space travel is always pricey, keep in mind that your Jedi are growing up fast and now’s a unique time to draw a lightsaber alongside them.
Together, explore Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge to experience two thrilling adventures: Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance.
Turning 50 After Dark
Come evening at Magic Kingdom it’s time for Disney Enchantment, a new fireworks spectacular accompanied by our favorite, a special Magic Kingdom 50th Fireworks Dessert Party. These dessert events (maybe some with sparkles on top) are only part of the special foodie treats and savories that Walt Disney World cooked up for fans. (Tip: These party experiences include reserved viewing for Disney Enchantment, so they’re a great value.)
The next night, catch Harmonious in the sky over EPCOT. As if a feat of magic, floating giant screens, choreographed moving fountains, lights, pyrotechnics and lasers create an immersive 360-degree spectacle over the lagoon. The beautifully crafted show, premiering for the 50th Anniversary, tells a story of global connection set to Disney music.
That’s not all in store to celebrate the 50th Anniversary at night. Beacons of Magic are four new light installations, one in each park happening on select nights, that illuminate one iconic structure with pixie dust, shimmering lights and more. You have to experience these effects to believe how powerful they are.
Shop the 50th Anniversary for Unforgettable Souvenirs
Walt Disney World would never forget its avid collectors. Find 50th Anniversary celebration merchandise throughout Walt Disney World including Disney Springs.
New lines of clothing, toys, home décor and specialty products combine nostalgia with the latest fashion trends. The Celebration Collection which launched last fall with backpacks, headwear and other accessories decorated with iconography featuring the parks’ favorite attractions and characters, has been expanded with new collectibles.
Wait till you see the crazy styles of the Disney Vault Orange Bird Collection, which splashes that smiling Florida icon on all sorts of apparel. Whether your family covets a retro design from the 1971 grand opening or an EARidescent Shimmer Collection Minnie Mouse Headband, they have you covered.
Follow #DisneyWorld50 on social media for the latest styling through March 2023. Our family will be sad to see the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary celebration come to an end.
And we’ll look forward to sharing the next Walt Disney World milestone together.
Dear Reader: This page may contain affiliate links which may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Our independent journalism is not influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative unless it is clearly marked as sponsored content. As travel products change, please be sure to reconfirm all details and stay up to date with current events to ensure a safe and successful trip.
It sounds like a statement that emphasizes the importance of adults having access to things that are valuable. It could be interpreted as a reminder that adults should not be denied the opportunity to enjoy things that are considered precious or valuable. It’s a good reminder that everyone deserves to have access to things that bring them joy and happiness, regardless of their age.
Summer is a great time to plan a family vacation. There are many options to choose from, such as visiting national parks, theme parks, water parks, cruises, all-inclusive resorts, group trips, or staycations. Happy travels!
Greek island cruises are a great way to explore the most alluring Greek islands, such as Santorini, Rhodes, Mykonos, Corfu, Crete and Paros. You can witness world-famous sights, charming seaside tavernas, and crystal-clear waters while island-hopping.
Renting a houseboat on Lake Powell is a great way to enjoy scenic beauty and water adventures. You can explore the 1.25 million-acre geologic playground of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, which straddles northern Arizona and southern Utah, while unwinding amid the comforts of home. Book your trip now and discover the ultimate vacation experience!
Cruise lines are offering more immersive experiences for kids, such as go-karting, ice skating, sushi making, and wine tasting, to name a few. These experiences are designed to draw in a wider audience and create unforgettable memories for the whole family.
Travel professionals have a wealth of knowledge and experience when it comes to handling travel disasters. They can provide you with tips and tools to help you prepare for any kind of travel disaster, whether it’s a canceled flight, a natural disaster, or a medical emergency. It’s always a good idea to be prepared for the unexpected, and travel professionals can help you do just that.
Family cruising experiences are a great way to bond with your loved ones and create unforgettable memories. They offer good value, variety, entertainment, and all-inclusive amenities, and appeal to all ages. So, why not gift everyone an unforgettable experience?
This is a great travel destination ideas, although it seems outdated. Do you have a more updated travel guides, I believe some locations are not the same due to the pandemic
Nice post. This wasn’t what I was searching for but I still enjoyed reading it.
I think this content needs updating. I am interested in looking for new winter destinations after the pandemic hits.
Planning a winter getaway is an adventure in itself. The snowy landscapes add a magical touch to the family bonding experience. You nailed it. meticulous planning is key, and being ready for unexpected twists, like a surprise blizzard, keeps the excitement alive. Any memorable winter destinations you’d recommend?
Fantastic article post.Really thank you!
Thanks for finally talking about >How To Protect Your Family Against Travel Disasters – 10 Tips To Travel Prepared – My
Family Travels <Liked it!
Wow that was unusual. I just wrote an incredibly long comment but after I clicked submit my comment didn’t appear. Grrrr… well I’m not writing all that over again. Regardless, just wanted to say wonderful blog!
The Information your provides its very useful for making a trip.
Thanks for finally writing about >How To Protect Your Family Against Travel
Disasters – 10 Tips To Travel Prepared – My Family Travels <Liked it!
I have no doubt about that.
Hey! Someone in my Facebook group shared this website with
us so I came to give it a look. I’m definitely loving the information. I’m
bookmarking and will be tweeting this to my followers!
Great blog and terrific style and design.
Hi there, I found ykur web site by the use of Google while searching for a similar topic, your site came up, it seems to be good. I have bookmarked it in my googpe bookmarks.
Cheers!
This post is priceless. How can I find out more?
Hello.Thiis post wwas extremely interesting, especially since I was looking for thoughts on this issue last couple of days.
Very good post! We will be linking tto this great content on our
site. Keep up the goood writing.
You got a very superb website, Glad I noticed it through yahoo.
Some really fantastc content on this site, thanks for contribution.
Thank you foor helping out, great information.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I truly appreciate your efforts and I am waiting for your
next write ups thank you once again.
You reported that exceptionally well!
Do you mind if I quote a few of your articles as
long as I provide credit and sources back to
your website? My blog site is in the exact same niche as yours and my visitors would truly benefit from a lot of
the information you provide here. Please let me know
if this alright with you. Appreciate it!
Does your site have a contact page? I’m having
problems locating it but, I’d like to shoot you an e-mail.
I’ve got some creative ideas for your blog you might be interested in hearing.
Either way, great site and I look forward to seeing it expand over time.
I take pleasure in, cause I discovered exactly what I used to be having a look for. You have ended my four day long hunt! God Bless you man. Have a nice day. Bye
Good post, I certainly love this website. Keep doing good things. 224034904
Thank you for this info
It is appropriate time to make some plans for the future and
it’s time to be happy.
It was a great article, thanks for sharing!
Great place for kids. My 2 and 4 year old tried every water slide, pool, and toy. They loved the beach as well with the calm, warm waters. It was far from a relaxing trip but this one was all about the kids.
I was more than happy to find this great site. I want to to thank you for ones time for this particularly fantastic read!! I definitely savored every little bit of it and i also have you bookmarked to see new things on your web site.
I live in Jacksonville and there is no longer a ‘lively waterfront’. The shops and restaurants were demolished after a mass shooting at one of the establishments. Head to the beach not downtown!! There is a lovely historic district called Avondale/Riverside area. It is absolutely beautiful with shops and restaurants and a beautiful park with a kick a** playground! The neighborhoods sit on the St John’s River. The old homes are big and beautiful. I walk that area regularly and have lived there. Stunning!!!
Howdy! I simply wish to offer you a huge thumbs up for the great information you have got right here on this post.
I am returning to your site for more soon.
I agree with every word in this blog, I tried to travel to Saudi Arabia with this topic in mind. I thought a lot about choosing a sustainable activity. So I texted Ootlah website to ask them about sustainable activities and they recommended enjoying the desert in Jeddah, which causes almost no harm to the environment. I booked and tried it and it was significant.
Thank you. We might get there, and we might not. Hope so.