Walt Disney World reveals 50th Anniversary park icon designs

Walt Disney World Resort officially revealed the upcoming looks for its park icons in celebration of the resort’s 50th anniversary later this year. Decked out in gold, projection mapping elements and sparkles, these park icons are ready for the 18-month party.

Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom already received some updates last year with the rose gold paint color scheme. But now even more decorations will adorn the castle, covering it in gold and adding the 50th anniversary logo. Cinderella Castle will illuminate the park with a dazzling radiance that sparkles with pixie dust.

Spaceship Earth at Epcot will sparkle and shimmer at night in celebration. New lighting upgrades around the park icon are surely a part of this nighttime transformation. Epcot is currently undergoing a massive park renovation of its own as it prepares to add new attractions, a nighttime spectacular and an updated park entrance. At the park, new lights will shine across the reflective panels of Spaceship Earth, connecting to one another in a symbol of optimism resembling stars in a nighttime sky. The iconic structure’s permanent new lighting will continue beyond “The World’s Most Magical Celebration” as a defining feature of the park.

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is not new to nighttime projection mapping. Christmas and Star Wars projections have lit up this park icon in the past. Now, this fan-favorite ride will be adorned in gold in an all-new nighttime look. The Hollywood Tower Hotel will be awash in a brilliance evoking the golden age of imagination and adventure.

The Tree of Life at Disney’s Animal Kingdom has also been part of projection mapping shows in the past. But now, this park icon will shimmer and glow alongside the other parks as Walt Disney World Resort turns 50 years old. At the park, a warm light will emanate from the Tree of Life as magical fireflies gather to usher in the magic of nature.