It was a party in the park. The Magic Kingdom and Walt Disney World in general turned 40 years old yesterday and many celebrations were held. There was a character parade, sing-long, speeches, and special fireworks -- and don’t forget the special merchandise.
It was 40 years ago – Oct. 1, 1971 — when Walt Disney World officially opened, rising from the marshy landscape southwest of Orlando. The much ballyhooed “Florida project” was the dream of visionary Walt Disney.
“We’ve grown by leaps and bounds since then,” Walt Disney World President Meg Crofton told guests assembled in front of the Castle Saturday. “But the fact remains that this place, as it appeared on Oct. 1, 1971 was the last great vision of one of the world’s greatest dreamers.”
Though he never lived to see opening day, Walt Disney’s legacy of family entertainment lives on — millions of smiles later — in four theme parks (including Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom), two water parks, more than two dozen resort hotels, the Downtown Disney retail-dining-entertainment complex, ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex and other venues.
Guests could tell something special was happening when they arrived at the Ticket and Transportation Center. Balloons lined the queue ropes for the expected long lines. Cast members wrote a happy birthday message in chalk by the riverboat entrance. A large 40th banner hung at the Main Street Train Station as guests lined up for the opening ceremonies.
On stage, Diseny World’s current Ambassidors, Disney World President Meg Crofton and Magic Kingdom Vice President Phil Holmes all spoke. Phil was also an opening day cast member, taking tickets at the Haunted Mansion.
In addition to the morning presentation, 40th anniversary cupcakes and special merchandise were sold. There was a special pin and two T-shirts that were only for sale yesterday. The cupcakes, T-shirts and pin all sold out before noon. There were also a couple of 40th anniversary Haunted Mansion T-shirts on sale.
The evening ended with the usual Wishes show, but with some added fireworks surrounding the Magic Kingdom.