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Credit: DisneyA few weeks ago, Disney World made a slew of announcements about what new attractions, shows, and ride updates are coming to the parks in 2026. There was no information, but it was interesting to see the massive number of projects Walt Disney Imagineering is currently working on in the parks. However, to some, it was seen as a way to drum up some business for 2026 while most of the parks and hotels are under construction.
Despite the excitement that came from the announcement, two previously announced projects were missing from the list: the updated Carousel of Progress and the repainting of Cinderella Castle. This left guests to wonder if these projects had been removed from the list of renovations.
Disney announced both of the projects in August at this year’s D23 Expo. The Carousel of Progress was supposed to receive a complete overhaul with the addition of a new Walt Disney animatronic. However, there has been no update on that project as of yet.
Fans were also concerned that there had been no update on Cinderella Castle; that is, until today. This morning, Disney announced that work will begin on the repainting of Cinderella Castle starting in early January.
Disney will begin the process by draining the moat around the castle starting in early January. This will allow the cranes to reach the upper levels of the castle. While the cranes will be visible in the early morning hours at the park, Disney has promised that they will be lowered by noon, allowing guests to take photos with the castle.
The shows/fireworks that happen in front of the castle will continue with minor adjustments. The “Let the Magic Begin” welcome show, Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire, and the Happily Ever After fireworks show will all be adjusted starting January 28, but Disney expects them to continue with their regular showtimes.
The new color scheme will be grays, creams, blues, and touches of gold, returning it to its original look. The castle was painted pink and rose gold for Disney World’s 50th Anniversary beginning in 2020. Disney said the new Cinderella Castle color scheme will be completed “sometime in 2026.”
With these announcements, guests have one more thing to look forward to at Disney World in the coming year.
What are you most looking forward to at Disney World in 2026? Let us know in the comments.