Disney Enchantment at the Magic Kingdom has officially been retired forever, with the limited-time 50th anniversary show lighting up the night sky one last time on April 2, 2023. The show was largely panned by guests, and while there may be some who miss it, most are excited for the return of a much more popular show on April 3, 2023: Happily Ever After.
However, this won’t exactly be the same show most guests remember, as some interesting changes have been made to help keep Happily Ever After fresh for its triumphant return to the Magic Kingdom.
What’s the same in the updated Happily Ever After?
Though rumors initially suggested that Disney could be adding new characters or segments to the show to commemorate the “100 Years of Wonder” celebration, it looks like these whispers did not come to pass. The new version of Happily Ever After is beat-for-beat the exact same show that premiered in 2017. This includes not only the projections, but the music as well, which remains unchanged. However, there are some additions beyond what you see in front of the castle that guests can check out when this show returns.
1. Brand new projections will extend Happily Ever After down Main Street USA
Though Disney Enchantment was a deeply flawed show, one thing that did garner some praise from guests was the projections that extended beyond Cinderella Castle and down Main Street USA. And it looks like Disney has responded to this feedback by extending the projections for Happily Ever as well, in the same way.
Buildings will transform before guests’ eyes with stained glass windows during the Hunchback of Notre Dame section or will be covered with leafy greens during the Brave segment. No characters appear, but the enhanced projections certainly add to the ambiance of the show.
Though the projections won’t be as involved (or distracting) as those used in Disney Enchantment, they will help the show feel bigger and better for its return, and ensure that even guests who aren’t able to get a good spot right in front of the castle are still able to enjoy the show.
2. MagicBand+ compatibility has been added to Happily Ever After
Though the MagicBand+ isn’t exactly taking off the way the original MagicBand did, Disney is still programming plenty of extras around their new wearable. And as you might expect, this includes the returning Happily Ever After nighttime spectacular, which will activate these devices, which will now glow, buzz, and change color along with the show. Of course, the Magic Band+ isn’t required to enjoy the show, but it is a nice little perk for those who have already purchased the device.
3. Upcharges and guaranteed seating are available, but make your reservations early
As the return of Happily Ever After is bound to be quite the event, those who want to see the show with a guaranteed viewing area have a number of options for dessert parties, including the following:
- Magic Kingdom Fireworks Dessert Pre-Party: Guests attending this upcharge can stop by Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant to enjoy a dessert buffet, a variety of cheeses, and both non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages. Then, before the show begins, Cast Members will escort guests of this party to a reserved standing viewing location in one of the plaza gardens for Happily Ever After. Admission is $99 per adult (ages 10 and up); $59 per child (ages 3 to 9), tax included.
- Magic Kingdom Seats & Sweets Fireworks Dessert Party: Similar to the pre-party guests attending this event can enjoy 50th anniversary-themed desserts, a variety of cheeses, and both non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages. However, when the show starts, they can stay at Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant and watch Happily Ever After from there. Admission is $114 per adult (ages 10 and up); $69 per child (ages 3 to 9), tax included.
- Disney Enchantment After-Party: Finally, the after-party includes the same treats, drinks and reserved seating, but after Happily Ever After instead of before at the Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant. Admission is $99 per adult (ages 10 and up); $59 per child (ages 3 to 9), tax included .
Several dates are already sold out for these experiences, so if you are planning to attend one of them make sure to check the official Walt Disney World website to make advance reservations as soon as possible to secure your spot. Currently, Happily Ever After is scheduled to perform once nightly at 9:00 pm through late May. Then, the schedule will shift slightly and the show will begin at 9:20 pm.
However, as we approach the summer travel months, we may see twice-nightly performances of the show, especially since it has been so popular. Times guides and the most-up-to-date information is always available via the Disney World app, so make sure you check it in advance of your visit to avoid any timing mishaps.
Ferrytale Fireworks Cruise is unavailable from now through mid-July
One option that long-time dessert party fans may notice is missing from this list is the Ferrytale Fireworks Dessert Cruise. According to Disney’s official website, this party had its last sailing on March 30, and is now under refurbishment until at least July 5. This is definitely a curious choice as this upcharge allowed for a great view of the fireworks and would have been a great option for those looking to check out Happily Ever After’s return from a unique angle.
However, it does look as though Disney will be bringing the Ferrytale Fireworks Cruise back at some point, so guests looking to check it out will just need to be patient while changes are being made to this experience. Keep an eye on the official upcharge experience page for more on when it will return.
Though Disney Enchantment certainly was a show that happened at the Magic Kingdom for a little over a year, most fans are happy to see it gone, and are cheering the return of the fan-favorite Happily Ever After. What’s your take on this returning show? Are you happy to see Disney bring it back, or would you have rathered something new replace Disney Enchantment?
