ORLANDO, Fla. — The cherry on top is a gold medallion. In one night, Walt Disney World completed its makeover of Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom by adding a large, round, golden 50th logo crest above the balcony of the iconic structure.
The new look is tied to the 50th anniversary of the resort. The official 18-month celebration kicks off Oct. 1, WDW’s actual birthday. But the castle has been in a touch-up mode for several months, beginning with a shiny new paint job and continuing through the addition of bedazzled bunting and ribbon-like pieces dangling from the spires.
“Just when you thought our castle couldn’t get any more stunning …” Disney World president Jeff Vahle posted on his Instagram account on Friday morning after the medallion was added overnight.
Imagineer Zach Riddley, who often posts about theme-park architecture and design, also commented on his social media.
“I love the gothic touches around the medallion frame,” he said. “Those shapes and golden color allows this limited-time addition to the castle blend perfectly into the architectural compositions.”
Prep for the celebration is amping up as October approaches. The resort also has announced plans to install giant pieces of park-related artwork throughout Orlando International Airport for the anniversary.
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