In October 1971, Roy O. Disney dedicated a new home to wonder and magic in the center of what had been thousands of acres of Florida swampland. He called it “a tribute to the philosophy and life of Walter Elias Disney,” and that tribute has been growing, expanding, and making dreams come true for forty years.
With the 40th anniversary of Walt Disney World resort in 2011, many Disney fans had hoped for some fanfare and celebratory events offered by the Disney company to offer the occasion. No such events have thus far transpired. Special 40th anniversary merchandise has appeared in the parks, but little public acknowledgement has been made of the milestone for the Florida project.
Disney has, however, begun offering quiet tributes to this special anniversary. The Art of Disney Parks website, which provides a calendar of special art and collectible related events at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland as well as Passholder events, announced a special “pre-celebration” release of art honoring Walt Disney World’s 40th anniversary. This special collection includes 5 new artworks dedicated to celebrating the joy and excitement of Walt Disney World, and of the Magic Kingdom (the “anniversary park”) in particular.
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