Walt Disney World is preparing to begin a long-anticipated repainting project for Cinderella Castle, which will include adjustments to the castle’s stage shows. These changes aim to minimize disruptions for guests while ensuring the iconic castle remains a picture-perfect backdrop. Here’s what you need to know about the upcoming project and its impact on your visit.
Adjustments to Cinderella Castle Stage Shows
Changes to “Let the Magic Begin”
Starting January 28, 2026, the morning welcome show, Let the Magic Begin, will no longer have scheduled performances. This show, typically held just before Magic Kingdom officially opens, is being modified to accommodate the repainting project. Disney has not yet provided details on what the modified performances will entail.
Updates to “Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire”
Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire will also see changes beginning January 28. The two morning performances will be removed from the schedule, and an additional evening performance will be added. The new schedule will feature four shows daily, with the first performance starting at 1:00 p.m. and the last at 5:15 p.m.
Until January 27
- 10:05 a.m., 11:05 a.m., 12:40 p.m., 1:55 p.m., 4:00 p.m.
Starting January 28
- 1:00 p.m., 2:05 p.m., 4:00 p.m., 5:15 p.m.
Repainting Project Details
Timeline and Initial Steps
The repainting project is set to begin with the draining of the moat around Cinderella Castle. This step is necessary to allow for the installation of temporary dams and the use of high-reach cranes. While the project was initially expected to start in early January, visible work has yet to begin, suggesting a slight delay.
Minimizing Guest Impact
To ensure that guests can still enjoy unobstructed views of the castle, Disney plans to lower the cranes out of sight by noon each day. This approach allows for morning work to proceed while maintaining the castle’s iconic appearance for photos in the afternoon and evening.
New Paint Scheme
The updated paint scheme will feature a combination of grays, creams, blues, and gold accents. These enhancements aim to highlight the castle’s architectural details and refresh its appearance.
Why the Delay?
The delay in starting the project may be attributed to extended holiday decorations and filming for a Hallmark Channel movie near the castle. These activities required the decorations to remain in place longer than usual, potentially impacting the project’s timeline.
A Refresh of Disney’s Most Iconic Landmark
The repainting of Cinderella Castle is a significant undertaking that will refresh one of Disney World’s most iconic landmarks. While the project may cause minor adjustments to stage shows and park operations, Disney’s efforts to minimize guest impact ensure that visitors can still enjoy the magic of Magic Kingdom.
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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.
