Disney Modifying Happily Ever After Fireworks Due to Cinderella Castle Repainting

Happily Ever After Fireworks to be Modified During Castle Repainting

If you’re planning to catch Happily Ever After soon, you might notice a few changes! To accommodate the ongoing repainting of Cinderella Castle, Disney has made some temporary modifications to the nighttime spectacular to ensure the magic stays bright while the castle gets its glow-up.

Related – Cinderella Castle Repainting Shifts Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire to Afternoon Schedule

While the show’s signature fireworks, pyrotechnics, and castle projections are still lighting up the night, guests will notice one major element missing: the lasers have been temporarily cut. This modification is most noticeable during the high-energy “Friend Like Me” segment, which typically fills the sky with beams. You’ll also spot the difference during the Finding Nemo section, the powerful conclusion of the “Hero’s Welcome” sequence, and several key moments throughout the grand finale.

The long-awaited transformation of Cinderella Castle is officially underway as of January 28, 2026. This restoration marks the end of the “rose gold” era, as Disney moves away from the pink and royal blue scheme introduced for the 50th Anniversary in 2021. Instead, the park’s icon is being restored to its timeless, classic palette of traditional grays, creams, and light blues, accented by radiant gold spires.

Work is already visible on the castle’s upper spires, with fresh gray paint appearing earlier this week as crews began the transition. To accommodate the extensive project—which involves high-reach cranes and specialized crews—Magic Kingdom has adjusted its daily entertainment schedule:

• “Let the Magic Begin” Welcome Show: This morning ceremony is currently running in a modified format, featuring the classic fanfare and music but excluding characters and pyrotechnics for the time being.
• “Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire”: Performance times for this castle stage show have been shifted to later in the afternoon (typically starting at 1:00 PM) to allow painting crews to work undisturbed during the morning hours.
• A Photo-Friendly Project: Disney plans to lower and remove cranes from view by noon each day, ensuring guests can still capture those iconic, unobstructed castle photos throughout the afternoon.

The project is expected to continue through most of the year, with the full classic reveal slated for later in 2026.

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