10 secrets about Disney World you never knew

As parkgoers get ready to celebrate the 50th anniversary on October 1, here are some of the most interesting secrets and facts about the beloved resort!

On This Day: Epcot opened at Walt Disney World in 1982

Walt described Epcot as “the most exciting and by far the most important part of our Florida project — in fact the heart of everything we will be doing in Disney World."

Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World opened 50 years ago today

Disney said that the first phase included the Magic Kingdom park, Disney’s Contemporary Resort, and Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.

What attractions were open when Magic Kingdom debuted in 1971?

Several attractions at Magic Kingdom were open on October 1st, 1971. Many of them are still operating to this day. Here's information about each one.

Woman recalls what it was like on Magic Kingdom's opening day in 1971

Lake Mary resident Susan Kroll was actually at Disney's Magic Kingdom on opening day, October 1st, 1971. She shares her story with FOX 35.

'Disney Enchantment' and 'Harmonious' fireworks shows thrill crowds

Walt Disney World Resort offered previews of two new firework shows ahead of the 50th-anniversary festivities set to begin on Friday.

'The best place in the world': Original Disney World employee recalls park's early days

Carol Brady was one of the first people hired when the park opened 50 years ago on October 1, 1971, and was even among the cast members and staff on the cover of ‘Life’ magazine that year.

Disney World cast members who worked in 1971 look down memory lane

Tony, Pam and Forrest have one big thing in common: They were Cast Members on day one of Walt Disney World's grand opening back on Oct. 1, 1971. A half-century later, they still have pixie dust in their lives.

'It's Disney World': Florida family recalls selling land to Walt Disney

FOX 35 spoke to the Demetree family, who were the original owners of a piece of wetlands that Walt Disney purchased for his Florida project.

Busch Gardens announces in-park Chick-fil-A to open Thursday

The food choices at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay are getting an upgrade Thursday. Chick-fil-A is set to open its first Florida theme park location for thrill-seekers looking to satisfy their craving for chicken and waffle fries in between rides. 

6-year-old girl died after theme park ride operators failed to buckle her in: report

The ride operators apparently did not notice that the 6-year-old girl was sitting on top of her seatbelts instead of being properly strapped in. The belts had reportedly been buckled during a previous ride when the seat was empty and were not unbuckled when the little girl sat on top of them and ultimately fell to her death.

Disney World workers to march against company vaccine mandate

"We understand that COVID-19 is a very real health concern that we all have to take seriously," said event organizer Nick Caturano, "but many cast members have a legitimate basis for refusing vaccination." 

'True gentleman': 4-year-old tips his hat to Disney princesses during parade

On a recent trip to Walt Disney World, 4-year-old Bernardo was seen tipping his hat to every Disney princess passing by at a Magic Kingdom parade. His mom says her son is "Disney's true prince."

Adventure Island water park to stay open year-round with heated pools

When the temperatures dip in Tampa, guests will still be able to enjoy the lazy river, water slides and pools – all thanks to new heaters that the park says will keep water temperatures comfortable any time of year.

Disney World annual passes are back on sale: Cost, benefits and more

The theme park resort halted the sale of new annual passes during the pandemic, but announced last month that they would be available for purchase once again starting Sept. 8 – which some changes.

Walt Disney World announces date that annual passes will go on sale

On the Walt Disney World website, the theme park company announced when Walt Disney World annual passes will go back on sale.