Cinderella Castle Repaint to Begin January 2026 at Disney World

Written by Joshua Posted December 21st, 2025

Walt Disney World Resort has announced that crews will begin repainting Cinderella Castle in early January 2026. The Magic Kingdom icon is returning to a more classic look, with a color palette of grays, creams, blues, and touches of gold. Imagineers announced the rollback of the 50th anniversary’s rose pinks and golds during Destination D23 last August.

Update (January 5, 2026): Disney has begun work on the castle. The following announcement can be found on the Disney World website and in the MDE app:

“Cinderella Castle is currently undergoing a magical transformation.”

Crews preparing to paint Cinderella Castle for Magic Kingdom's 50th Anniversary — Crews preparing to paint Cinderella Castle for the Cinderella film’s 70th anniversary

Unlike most theme park refurbishments, this is one project that’s not easily hidden behind scrims or construction walls. At 189 feet tall, Cinderella Castle will remain fully visible throughout the repainting process. Disney says it’s taking steps to minimize the impact on guests, especially those hoping for the perfect family photo. Work will be limited to morning hours, with cranes and lifts lowered by noon each day. The castle moat will be drained to accommodate the equipment.

Elsa, Olaf, and Anna in Mickey's Magical Friendship Faire — Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire

Let the Magic Begin, Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire, and Happily Ever After will continue to be available throughout the project, albeit with minor adjustments.

Because of the shortened daily work window, repainting Cinderella Castle is expected to take longer than normal. Disney hasn’t shared a timeline, but the work will likely stretch on for several months.