There are a few short months every year when Magic Kingdom feels… well, wonderfully normal.
That might sound like an odd thing to celebrate, especially since Disney’s holiday decorations are some of the best in the business. But if you’re someone (like me!!) who loves seeing Main Street, U.S.A. exactly as it was designed, this is one of the best times of the year to visit.
Our very own Corey stopped by Magic Kingdom today and found that all of the Fourth of July and patriotic bunting has officially been removed from the train station and the buildings lining Main Street, U.S.A. The flags are still flying high, of course, but the red, white, and blue swags that have dressed up the park over the last several weeks are gone.
Looking at these photos, I couldn’t help but smile. There’s something about seeing the Magic Kingdom train station standing on its own that never, ever gets old. Without seasonal decorations drawing your eye, all of those Victorian details that I love so much, colorful storefronts, ornate trim, and beautiful architecture become the stars again. You notice things you don’t always pay attention to when the park is dressed for a holiday. And honestly? I think it’s gorgeous.
Don’t get me wrong. I absolutely love Magic Kingdom during Halloween and Christmas. Walking under the giant Mickey pumpkin wreaths or seeing Main Street glowing with Christmas garland is one of my favorite parts of visiting Walt Disney World. Disney knows how to decorate better than just about anyone. But those decorations also change the personality of the park.
When they’re gone, Main Street, U.S.A. feels timeless. It feels like the version Walt Disney dreamed up. The turn-of-the-century architecture gets a chance to shine, Casey’s Corner looks picture-perfect, Town Square Theater becomes even more elegant, and Cinderella Castle somehow feels just a little more dramatic at the end of the street.
It’s a reminder that the park doesn’t need holiday decorations to be beautiful. They’re the icing on the cake, not the cake itself. The catch? This quiet little window won’t last long.
Believe it or not, we’re now only about a month away from Halloween décor beginning to appear around Magic Kingdom. It seems impossible that we’re already talking about pumpkins when summer is still in full swing, but that’s the rhythm of Walt Disney World these days. Before you know it, Mickey pumpkin wreaths will be hanging from every lamp post and Main Street will once again have a completely different look.
If you’ve ever wanted to experience Magic Kingdom in its most classic form, now is the time.
Sometimes it’s nice to pause between the seasons and simply appreciate the park for what it is. No bunting. No pumpkins. No garland. Just Main Street, U.S.A., looking every bit as magical today as it did on opening day.
