It's Time to Say Goodbye to These Disney World Favorites

April 1, 2023, 12:09 PM · Hold on to your mouse ears, Disney fans - Walt Disney World's most famous icon is going away as we know it. And Disney is closing several popular new attractions, as well.

Disney World has officially ended its 50th anniversary celebration, marking the end of a year and a half of special events and experiences.

The celebration kicked off on October 1st, 2021, with new attractions, merchandise, food, and entertainment offerings throughout the parks. Guests enjoyed an array of limited-time offerings, including special character experiences, fireworks displays, and more.

One of the most highly anticipated additions was the opening of Remy's Ratatouille Adventure in EPCOT, which whisked guests away on a thrilling 3D ride through Gusteau's kitchen. Other notable highlights included the "Disney Enchantment" fireworks show at Magic Kingdom, which celebrated the park's iconic attractions and characters, and "Disney KiteTails," an all-new daytime show at Disney's Animal Kingdom.

Another crowd-pleaser was the "Harmonious" nighttime spectacular, which lit up the skies above World Showcase Lagoon with fireworks, lasers, and water fountains. The show featured classic Disney songs reimagined by international artists, creating a truly unique and memorable experience.

As part of this transformation, Disney also announced that it will be retiring the "Disney Enchantment" nighttime spectacular and "Harmonious" show, which were created specifically for the 50th-anniversary celebration. These shows have been a huge hit with guests, featuring stunning visual effects, original music, and projections on the castle.

Speaking the castle, its 50th anniversary logo and highlights will be removed in the coming days.

As the 50th anniversary celebration comes to a close, Disney fans can look forward to what's in store for the future of Walt Disney World. The park promises to continue to innovate and surprise guests with new attractions, shows, and experiences, while honoring its legacy and beloved characters.

You won't want to miss what's happening at Walt Disney World in April 2023! From new attractions to special events, the park is buzzing with excitement. Here are the top highlights you can expect:

TRON Lightcycle Run is opening! That's right, the highly anticipated TRON Lightcycle Run attraction is finally opening at Magic Kingdom. Get ready to ride the fastest coaster in Disney history, as you board a lightcycle and speed through the Grid in this futuristic adventure.

EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival is blooming with excitement! The annual EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival is back and better than ever. Marvel at the gorgeous topiaries, sample delicious cuisine, and enjoy live entertainment throughout the park.

Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser is taking off! Be one of the first to experience Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser, a revolutionary new immersive hotel experience. Live out your Star Wars fantasies as you board the Halcyon, a glamorous starcruiser, and embark on a two-day adventure that will leave you feeling like a Jedi.

Disney Springs is sizzling with new restaurants and shops! Disney Springs is heating up with new dining and shopping options. Indulge in delicious food at the new Morimoto Asia Street Food, or shop for unique finds at the newly opened Disney Style boutique.

Thank you for joining us at Theme Park Insider, where we bring you the latest news and insights on the world's best theme parks!

Replies (9)

April 1, 2023 at 6:36 PM

Ummmmmmm are you an algorithm generated by Disney? Asking for a friend…

EDIT: Thanks for that Robert! I acknowledge that I am a rube rivaled only by the Reedy Creek Replacement Improvement For Make Educational and Entertainual Benefit and DeSantis Cronie Society level. Well-played lol

April 1, 2023 at 12:59 PM

Check the writer's initials. And the date.

April 1, 2023 at 1:52 PM

Classic, Robert! Please make this a running editorial.

April 1, 2023 at 5:21 PM

I feel like this was written by ChatGPT from the prompt, “Write an article about all the great things from Disney World’s 50th anniversary”. I don’t think Disney’s original intentions were to put barges in EPCOT for a show that lasted just 18 months, and at this point no one will be among the first to stay on the Galactic Starcruiser.

April 1, 2023 at 5:31 PM

That wasn’t *exactly* the prompt… ;-)

April 1, 2023 at 5:38 PM

Okay, Robert….you got me. Doh!

April 1, 2023 at 6:31 PM

I hope we see more of this Insider throughout the month!

April 1, 2023 at 9:13 PM

Robert's prompt to ChatGPT: "Write me an article about Disney World so I can take the day off."

April 3, 2023 at 7:25 PM

That was great!! Haha!!

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