Special events planned for Walt Disney World’s 40th Anniversary

Walt Disney World will be celebrating their 40th year on Oct. 1, 2011 at the Magic Kingdom with a character parade and sing-along in the morning, 40th branded merchandise and artist signings all day, and a special edition of the Wishes fireworks at night.

The celebration will start just before 10 a.m. as Mickey, Minnie and a character cavalcade of their friends go on parade from the Main Street Train Station to Cinderella Castle where they will be joined by Walt Disney World President Meg Crofton. Guests are invited to gather in front of the castle as memories of opening day are shared and a sing-along is held with the Dapper Dans barbershop quartet.

Not only will a one-day-only 40th Anniversary T-shirt be available for sale but artists in various media will be signing their limited edition artwork and merchandise. Here’s a list:

Diamond Horseshoe

Costa Alavezos 9-11 a.m.
Brent Reese 9-11 a.m.
Greg McCullough 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., 4-5 p.m.
Noah 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., 4-5 p.m.
Dave Avanzino 1-3 p.m., 4-5 p.m.
Jody Daily & Kevin Kidney 1-3 p.m., 4-5 p.m.

Uptown Jewelers

Jim Shore 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Robert Olszewski 12-2 p.m., 4-5 p.m.
Gene Gonda 1-3 p.m.

In addition to the special merchandise on sale at Mickey’s Gift Station, Island Supply, News Stand, Sir Mickey’s, Uptown jewelers and Diamond Horseshoe, there will be 40th anniversary cupcakes on sale in the Main Street Bakery.

The celebration ends with a special fireworks celebration during the 9 p.m. Wishes show.

The Magic Kingdom will be open from 9 a.m. to midnight on Oct. 1, 2011.