If you have a Disney World vacation coming up, your days at Magic Kingdom are going to look very differently from what you were expecting!
Magic Kingdom
Starting on January 28th, changes will be hitting the “Let The Magic Begin” welcome show, “Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire”, AND Magic Kingdom’s nighttime spectacular, “Happily Ever After.” Let’s take a look at the details!
It was confirmed back in the summer of 2025 that the Cinderella Castle was going to undergo a makeover, and the time is almost here! Next week, we’re going to see the moat around the castle drained, and work being done on the park’s icon as the painting begins.
Cinderella Castle
Work isn’t expected to be complete until later next year, but don’t worry, you won’t have to say goodbye to looking at the castle entirely. It was stated that the cranes around the castle should be lowered by 12 PM (noon) each day at the latest — making it easier for you to take those iconic castle photos.
We’re excited to see the castle return to its original color scheme of blues, grays, and gold accents. A color scheme we haven’t seen since 2020, when the castle was repainted to celebrate the park’s 50th anniversary.
Magic Kingdom
So, that brings us to the three shows that take place on the stage of the castle. You’re probably thinking, “If work is being done on the castle, what happens to the shows?” Let’s start with the show that begins your day at Magic Kingdom, “Let the Magic Begin”! This is a show that typically opens the park, as you’re greeted by Mickey Mouse and his pals, welcoming you into the Magic Kingdom.
Goofy and Tiana singing and dancing at Let the Magic Begin
Now, this welcome show that usually takes place at 8:55 AM is no longer showing times starting on January 28th. This is subject to change as construction moves on, so check on the My Disney Experience App for the latest updates.
Let The Magic Begin
Alright, let’s look at Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire. This show takes place in the morning and is a musical extravaganza as Mickey and his pals make new friends with various iconic Disney characters. The show features your favorite music and characters from Princess and the Frog, Tangled, and Frozen.
Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire
As of the 28th, the show is moving to an afternoon-only schedule — with showtimes at 1 PM, 2:05 PM, 4 PM, and 5:15 PM. This also means that Disney will be reducing daily performances!
Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire
Lastly, we know you’re all wondering what’s happening with the nighttime spectacular — Happily Ever After. Happily Ever After is a very popular show that features amazing fireworks, projection mapping, and music. Don’t worry, Happily Ever After WILL still be happening every night. However, because of the projection mapping feature, there will be minor adjustments to the show as needed during this transformation process.
Happily Ever After
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It will be cool to see the Magic Kingdom back in its original form after a little over half a decade. Make sure to pay attention and prepare for these show changes as the castle undergoes its makeover. We’re always on top of all the latest Disney news and updates, so make sure to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog so you don’t miss anything!
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