When you join the celebration of the Walt Disney World® Resort 50th anniversary, you’ll be making memories for a lifetime. Here’s a glimpse of the wonders awaiting and a few tips on what to see. And remember, as you think about planning your vacation, Cardmembers enjoy special vacation financing on select Disney vacation packages with your Disney® Visa® Credit Card, which makes planning even more fun!1
Introducing EARidescence
Traditionally, the color gold is used to celebrate a 50th anniversary milestone. But the Walt Disney World® Resort team wanted a new color—one that had never been seen before. Enter EARidescence, a hue that conveys the essence of Disney magic. “It’s stunning. It is completely unique, and it symbolizes everything the Resort stands for: beauty, wonder, imagination and magic,” says Darlene Papalini, Vice President of Marketing Strategy for Walt Disney World® Resort.
And you can find the color everywhere, including the key icons from each of the four parks, which have been turned into Beacons of Magic. EARidescence transforms Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom® Park, shimmers on Spaceship Earth at EPCOT®, gleams on the Hollywood Tower Hotel at Disney’s Hollywood Studios® and glimmers on the Tree of Life at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park. “The parks will be so beautifully lit, you’ll probably be able to see them from space,” Papalini says.
EARidescence even transforms the food we love. From cupcakes to popcorn, the clever culinary geniuses at the parks have given favorite treats an EARidescent spin. “I call them ‘classics with a shimmer,’” says Robert Gilbert, Culinary Director, Walt Disney World® Resort. But there’s much more to tempt your tastebuds in addition to sparkling treats. “We have over 150 food and beverage items dedicated to the anniversary offered in the restaurants in all four parks and throughout Walt Disney World® Resort,” Gilbert explains, “including some of Walt’s favorite recipes such as the chili and prime rib hash he loved.”
Entertainment that Shines
When it comes to new entertainment for the anniversary, the creative teams have pulled out all the stops! Be swept up into a world of wonder with Disney Enchantment at Magic Kingdom® Park as a dazzling new fireworks spectacular and immersive projections transform Cinderella Castle and Main Street, U.S.A.® Be awed by the power of Disney music at Harmonious at the World Showcase Lagoon at EPCOT®. One of the largest nighttime spectaculars ever created for a Disney park, Harmonious features 240 international artists performing re-interpretations of classic Disney songs and imagery to a stunning display of pyrotechnics, lights, fountains and media effects.
For daytime fun, catch Disney KiteTails, appearing several times daily at Discovery River Theater at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park. Windcatchers and kites, including 30-feet-long, three-dimensional kites depicting Disney animal friends from “The Jungle Book” or “The Lion King” , soar skyward in a mesmerizing dance of wind, color and music.
And who doesn’t want great photos to take home? You’ll find the perfect opportunity with the Disney Fab 50 Character Collection. Gleaming golden statues featuring Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and their friends appear throughout all four parks, so keep your eyes open and your camera ready.
Must-Have Mementos
With experiences like these, most of us want a keepsake (or two, or ten). Once again, the creative teams have brought all their imagination to the table to create something for everyone. The EARidescent Collection is coming soon and will add a little sparkle to your home. The Vault Collection takes you on a time travel adventure with merchandise inspired by products offered on opening day, October 1, 1971. Cinderella Castle stars in the Disney Castle Collection, and the Celebration Collection offers an extensive assortment of commemorative items. And the Luxe Logo Collection will introduce elegant, high-end pieces when it hits stores soon. Merchandise is available across Walt Disney World® Resort, including Disney Springs®, and select items will also be offered on shopDisney.com. Remember to use your Disney Visa Card at shopDisney.com to save 10% on select purchases.2
From EARidescence to new entertainment, treats to keepsakes, the Walt Disney World® Resort 50th anniversary celebration honors the beauty and magic that has brought joy to millions for 50 years. We don’t know about you, but we’re shimmering with anticipation. When you celebrate with us, nothing could be more magical.
