We all love a kiss goodnight before we go to bed, but did you know that Magic Kingdom Park gives a “Kiss Goodnight” after the park closes? I had heard about this little piece of Disney magic and finally witnessed it for myself last summer, and it is a memory I will cherish forever.
In July, I took a week-long trip to Walt Disney World Resort with just my three children, and as tradition would hold, we spent our last day at Magic Kingdom Park. After watching the Happily Ever After fireworks show we meandered around the hub and Main Street, U.S.A. for about a half hour. While standing outside of the Plaza Ice Cream Parlor, we turned to watch the lighting on Cinderella Castle change to blue and begin to sparkle as “Wish Upon A Star” was played. Then a narrator said:
“Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, on behalf of everyone here at the Magic Kingdom, we thank you for joining us today for a magic gathering of family, friends, fun, and fantasy. We hope your magical journey with us has created wonderful memories that will last a lifetime.
Walt Disney said that the Magic Kingdom is a world of imagination, hopes, and dreams. In this timeless land of enchantment, magic and make believe are reborn, and fairy tales come true. The Magic Kingdom is a place for the young and the young at heart. A special place where when you wish upon a star, your dreams can come true. Until we see you again, have a safe trip home. Thank you, and goodnight.”
Without giving too much away about this special experience, there is a little light show on the castle during the narration that you don’t want to miss. I can’t tell you how many Guests don’t even realize that this is happening, as we watched so many people hurrying to exit the park during the “Kiss Goodnight”. I too was one of these Guests who use to shop or walk out of the park after the fireworks, but not anymore!
What made my “Kiss Goodnight” last year so memorable was, right after the show, I turned and looked at my two daughters (18 and 16 at the time), and they were crying. They told me that they didn’t want to leave and that this was the most magical vacation they have ever had. We just stood there crying and hugging each other. Even writing this brings tears to my eyes as I remember the feeling of love and memories that a “Kiss Goodnight” at Magic Kingdom gave me last summer.
So, no matter how tired you are after a long day in Magic Kingdom, I encourage you to stay a half hour after the park closes and witness this short 2-1/2 minute show – you won’t be disappointed. It is truly a magical way to end a vacation.
Have you witnessed a “Kiss Goodnight”?
Note: The show may not happen every night and during Special Event evenings and is subject to change.
Photos from the author’s personal collection.
To learn more about Vanessa and read her recent posts for the WDW Radio Blog, visit her author page by clicking the link on her name at the top of this post.
