Destination D23 took over the Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort bringing fans in attendance some some big surprise announcements affecting the future of Walt Disney World. Perhaps the biggest news is an update to Carousel of Progress to add a Walt Disney animatronic but fans were also ecstatic to learn that Cinderella Castle would be repainted to a color scheme that was more similar to its original white blue and gold palette. Disney also confirmed red overlay and soundtrack update for TRON Lightcycle / Run in celebration of the upcoming TRON: ARES.
Here’s everything we learned from Destination D23 2025.
Cinderella Castle New Color Palette
Since debuting in 1971, Cinderella Castle has undergone several significant updates to enhance its magical appeal, including its current color palette, which was revealed during the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary Celebration. Just announced during Destination D23, the iconic centerpiece of Magic Kingdom Park is set to undergo another enchanting update, transforming its appearance with vibrant new colors and renewed charm.
Walt Disney Imagineers have studied the various overlays and tonal compositions used over the years and have created a new color palette inspired by the Castle’s original and classic appearance. The updated colors will include shades of gray, cream, blue, and hints of gold to enhance its architecture.
For over 50 years, the colors on the 189-foot landmark have been carefully chosen to reflect Florida’s sunshine, blending rich blues, warm hues and radiant golds. The finishes have been thoughtfully selected to ensure they remain vibrant and deep over time.
Additional details will be announced as the design and painting process details are finalized.
Walt Disney Audio-Animatronic at Carousel of Progress
The beloved attraction, created by Walt Disney himself, Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress, is getting an exciting update! A new Audio-Animatronics figure of Walt Disney will welcome Magic Kingdom guests and introduce the show in a newly created scene. More details will be shared as the carousel continues to spin, showing a new generation of enchanted time-travelers that a great big, beautiful tomorrow is just a dream away.
Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress, which debuted at the 1964 New York World’s Fair, quickly gained worldwide popularity with millions of visitors. The iconic attraction has since logged more performances than any other show in American theater history and has operated at Magic Kingdom as a tribute to the original since 1975.
Tron: Ares Overlay
Attention Users: Get ready to experience the Grid in a whole new light! TRON Lightcycle / Run presented by Enterprise at Magic Kingdom Park will feature an exciting new overlay inspired by the upcoming Walt Disney Studios film, “Tron: Ares.” The update features the addition of striking red colors from the latest “Tron” sequel, releasing in theaters on Oct. 10, along with a custom soundtrack composed by the industrial rock band Nine Inch Nails.
For a limited time, starting Sept. 15, guests entering the digital frontier will be transported into a “Tron: Ares”-themed version of the high-speed, adrenaline-filled ride that transforms reality into a video game world as riders weave through twisting tunnels of bright red and orange light trails, set to the pulsating sounds of Nine Inch Nails.
See it for Yourself
Destination D23 takes place at Walt Disney World from August 29-31, 2025. As a perk of membership, D23 Gold Members are able to stream select panels as they happen at the D23 Gold Theater.
