The Magic Kingdom’s welcome show, Let the Magic Begin, has undergone temporary changes due to the ongoing repainting of Cinderella Castle. While the show’s music and fanfare remain, characters like Mickey and Friends will not be part of the performance for the time being. Here’s what you need to know about these adjustments and how they may impact your visit.
Modifications to the Welcome Show
Character Removal
As part of the preparations for Cinderella Castle’s repainting, Disney has temporarily removed characters from the Let the Magic Begin welcome show. The show, which typically takes place at 8:55 a.m. before the park officially opens, will now feature only the music and fanfare to greet guests.
Disney’s Official Statement
Disney has provided the following notice regarding the changes:
Cinderella Castle is currently undergoing a magical transformation. Due to project work, Let The Magic Begin will be temporarily modified. While characters will not be making an appearance during this time, you will still hear the welcome fanfare and music to start your day at Magic Kingdom.
Steve Lewis, the owner of Gideon’s Bakehouse.Cinderella Castle Repainting Project
Restoration to Classic Colors
The repainting project aims to restore Cinderella Castle to its classic color scheme, following five years of the 50th-anniversary design. The work will involve high-reach cranes, which will be visible during the morning hours but retracted by noon to ensure clear views of the castle for the rest of the day.
Timeline and Progress
While the project was initially scheduled to begin earlier in January, visible work has been delayed. Preparations, such as draining the castle moat, are expected to start soon. Guests visiting the park during this time may notice cranes and other equipment around the castle.
Impact on Guest Experience
Adjusted Showtimes
In addition to changes to the welcome show, Disney has adjusted the performance times for Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire, which now begins at 1 p.m. This adjustment ensures that guests can still enjoy character performances later in the day.
What to Expect
While the absence of characters in the welcome show may be disappointing for some, the music and fanfare still provide a magical start to the day. Guests are encouraged to plan their park visits accordingly and check for updates on the castle repainting project.
Conclusion
The temporary changes to Magic Kingdom’s Let the Magic Begin welcome show reflect Disney’s commitment to maintaining the park’s iconic landmarks. While characters will be absent during the repainting of Cinderella Castle, the show’s music and fanfare continue to set the tone for a magical day. Guests can look forward to the castle’s refreshed appearance and the return of the full welcome show in the future.
Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
