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This is it! We have the answer to whether or not Cinderella Castle will illuminate with magical lights again.
Holidays at Disney
Walt Disney World is truly magical at Christmas. From elaborate decorations at Disney Resorts to festive theme park decorations, there is something extra special magical during the Christmas season. Every theme park, Disney Springs, and all the Disney World Resorts get in on the holiday fun.
There is nothing quite like Disney Parks during the Christmas season. In Walt Disney World, the Magic Kingdom is simply breathtaking as you make your way down Main Street, USA. With wreaths and garlands lining the streets, it truly is a sight to behold.
Cinderella Castle Dream Lights debuted for the 2007 holidays.
One of the centerpieces for the Christmas season is Cinderella Castle. Cinderella Castle Dream Lights debuted in 2007. Every over 200,000 Christmas lights covered the Castle in holiday magic each year.
Originally, the Fairy Godmother turned the lights on every night in a stage show with Cinderella and Prince Charming. However, in 2014 Anna and Elsa took over the tradition of lighting the Castle each night using Elsa’s powers to transform Cinderella Castle.
Will the Lights Return?
However, since Disney reopened in 2020, these mesmerizing lights have not returned. I (Susan) have been hopeful that since Disney World wrapped up its 50th celebration, these lights would come back in 2023. Recently, we shared a hint that they may be doing that HERE.
However, Disney just shared that’s not the case. Cinderella Castle Dream Lights will not continue this holiday.
We are sad that Cinderella Castle Dream Lights will not return in 2023!
Replacement Show
Although I’m disappointed about the Dream Lights not returning, I’m excited to see the new castle lights. This year, guests will join Elsa, Anna, Olaf, Kristoff, and the Snowgies in front of Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom for “Frozen Holiday Surprise.”
This is a brand new “Frozen”-inspired entertainment experience that will illuminate the castle in a whole new way. This delightful new offering can be seen during regular park hours and during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.
This year, guests can gather in front of Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom for “Frozen Holiday Surprise.”
Halfway to the Holidays
As part of halfway to the holidays, Disney released fun new holiday posts that you can enjoy now. Click on the title of each one to read them:
- brand-new Hollywood Studios Christmas party
- Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas party details
- EPCOT’s Festival of the Holidays dates
- character costumes
- festive merchandise sneak peek
- iconic attraction overlay
- runDisney special event
- treats and sips
- special tree lighting and ceremony
Do you enjoy Cinderella Castle Dream Lights? Are you sad they’re not returning? Please let us know in the comments and share this post with a friend.
Jennifer
Thursday 15th of June 2023
☹️ This is so sad! I was hopeful that they might return, after the 50th finally ended, but this is disheartening to hear. I'm not a fan of all of the projections. I'm not as eager to visit this holiday season as I once was.
JW
Thursday 15th of June 2023
I agree. The lights on the castle (much like the Osborne lights at the studios) made for a memorable trip during the holidays. Not going to WDW this yr over the holidays. Too many cuts while, at the same time, horribly expensive price increases. Thought Iger would reverse some of Chapek's mistakes...but nope, he hasn't. Disney is going to price themselves right out of business.
Dena Chronister
Thursday 15th of June 2023
This makes me incredible sad! Bad job Disney!