After months of scaffolding, drained moats, and careful restoration work, Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom has its classic look back. Disney has shared an official updated look at the castle, with the beloved blue, gray, cream, and gold color scheme now restored after years of the rose pink makeover that had divided fans since 2020. The painting itself is finished, with only moat refill and cleanup remaining before the project is officially wrapped.
A Quick History of the Pink Castle
A common misconception is that Cinderella Castle went pink for Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary in 2021. In fact, the “Royal Makeover” was announced in February 2020 to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the animated Cinderella film, and the pink paint was applied while the parks were closed during the COVID-19 shutdown. When the 50th Anniversary launched in October 2021, the pink was simply incorporated into the festivities. The 50th medallion was removed after the celebration ended in March 2023, but the pink remained. Until now.
The Restoration Project
Disney announced the return of the classic color scheme at the Destination D23 Expo in August 2025. Work officially kicked off in late January 2026, beginning with the draining of the moat to allow high-reach cranes to access the upper sections of the castle. Disney committed to retracting cranes by noon each day to preserve afternoon and evening guest photos.
By early March, the vast majority of the castle’s body had been repainted in the classic grey and cream tones. Crews then shifted to the rooftops in April, using a high-performance automotive paint for the hard-to-reach spires and turrets. Disney noted that stone surfaces were finished with a lower sheen to appear natural, while rooftops and gold accents were given a higher gloss for a decorative sparkle. The last section of rose pink paint was removed in late April, and the cranes were pulled from the moat shortly after.
What the Finished Castle Looks Like
The completed Cinderella Castle now shows the grey, cream, cerulean blue, and gold scheme that longtime Disney fans have wanted back for years. Disney shared official photos on social media with the caption “An updated look at the almost-complete Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom,” marking one of the most celebrated visual restorations in recent Walt Disney World history.
The normal entertainment schedule in front of the castle, including Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire, has fully resumed. For more Magic Kingdom news, check out our coverage of the reopening of Pete’s Silly Sideshow.
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