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We share Walt Disney World 50th anniversary predictions and details for what’s already been announced for the theme parks.
The Walt Disney World Resort just announced exciting new details for its upcoming 50th anniversary. Set to debut on the Magic Kingdom’s opening date, October 1st. Dubbed “The World’s Most Magical Celebration” this exciting anniversary will take place over the course of 18 months at all four theme parks.
So far, Disney hasn’t released too many details. However, we do know that dazzling “beacons of light” projections will happen at the park centerpieces. Epcot will receive permanent new lighting for Spaceship Earth, Disney’s Hollywood Studios will brighten up the Tower of Terror with golden age glitz, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom will project brilliant fireflies on The Tree of Life.
With all of these new additions, there’s bound to be more. In this post, we illuminate what may be coming to Walt Disney World this year. Keep in mind that these are our educated guesses based on what we know so far.
Disney World 50th Prediction: 50 New Attractions
Disney appears to be planning a total of 50 new attractions to bring in guests to its resort over the 18-month long celebration. This will likely include previously the announced projections on Cinderella Castle and a lot more. However, we don’t expect all of the attractions to roll out at once. We anticipate that the TRON Lightcycle coaster will debut in early 2022 at the Magic Kingdom, and the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind coaster will open at Epcot likely around October 2022 (Epcot’s 40th anniversary). Furthermore, new “added magic” will come to popular rides that launched with the park, hopefully included Peter Pan’s Flight and the Haunted Mansion. Added magic is simply when Disney adds newly enhanced effects to refresh older attractions.
Prediction: Returning Favorites
Of the 50 new additions, we’re also expecting to see revamps of parades and shows like the Festival of Fantasy parade at the Magic Kingdom and Fantasmic! as Disney’s Hollywood Studios. While much of these attractions will remain the same, we expect a new float or two and additional scenes for shows. We also expect fireworks to eventually make their way back to the Magic Kingdom with an all-new show. However, the debut of these will depend on CDC guidelines, which may mean 2022.
Prediction: EARidescent Merchandise
Mickey and Minnie Mouse already have their outfits picked out for the celebration! These “EARidescent” clothes have glimmering blues, purples, and accents of gold. Expect this to be a running theme throughout the Walt Disney World Resort.
Prediction: More Hotels and Restaurants Open
Disney is gearing up to host massive crowds who want to flock to the Walt Disney World Resort for this celebration. However, as the pandemic continues, Disney is looking for reduced spread as global vaccinations roll out. Once international travel is less restricted, Disney will be able to complete its phased reopening. Of course, this will depend on CDC guidelines for what attractions can remain open. Disney wants to ensure that it follows protocols to deliver the safest experience it can. Throughout the 18 months, we expect to see many more hotels and restaurants to reopen, including ones at the popular Disney’s Port Orleans Resort.
Prediction: Bigger Crowds
Naturally, with more guests means bigger crowd sizes. Right now Disney is operating at a 35% capacity. However, once social distancing measures are relaxed, we expect to see Disney World bump that number up. When this happens, we might see packed parks once again. Until then, the reservation system is available for those traveling throughout 2021.
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If larger crowds worry you, keep in mind that they come with good things, too. For example, the return of FastPass+ and the Disney Dining Plan could roll out with expanded operations. If you’re still looking for smaller crowds, we recommend checking out the 50th by the end of this year while the Disney Park Pass reservation system is still in place. To get updates on Walt Disney World—including the reopening of the both water parks—sign up for our free e-mail newsletter! You can also follow us on Instagram and Twitter.
