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Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle Seen Being Hauled Out of Theme Park in Pieces

A nighttime view of a brightly illuminated castle adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. The castle's turrets are outlined with lights, and garlands with ornaments hang in the foreground. Two lit torches stand on either side of the entrance, capturing the magic of Christmas at Disneyland.
Credit: Disney

Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle holds a place of enchantment and wonder in the hearts of visitors to Disneyland. As one of the most recognizable symbols of the Walt Disney Company, this enchanting structure has captured the hearts and imaginations of millions of visitors from around the world.

With its regal spires, intricate detailing, and rich history, Sleeping Beauty Castle stands as a testament to the magic and fantasy that Disney Parks are known for.

The castle is inspired by the fairy tale of Sleeping Beauty, also known as Princess Aurora. Walt Disney himself was captivated by the story and saw it as the perfect inspiration for a fairy tale castle in his theme park. In fact, the castle was the centerpiece of Disneyland when it first opened its doors in 1955, and it continues to hold a special place in the hearts of Disney fans to this day.

Now, some fans were given the shock of their life when they saw pieces of the castle being hauled away.

Related: New City Awaits Iconic Cinderella Castle

Disneyland Chemical Spill

Credit: Disney

The Removal of Sleeping Beauty Castle Begins

Recently, as the holiday season came to a close, the park underwent a transformation. As Disney diligently removed the festive decorations that adorned the park, attention turned toward the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle.

In a captivating sight, various parts of the castle were seen being carefully hauled out of the theme park in separate pieces. This meticulous process was a vital step in the preservation and conservation of this beloved landmark as the seasons change.

The castle’s snow-capped tops, which added a touch of winter magic to the majestic structure, were carefully removed by Disney workers earlier this month. By dismantling the castle’s snow-capped tops, Disney continues its tradition of seasonal decor changes.

The castle becomes a dazzling spectacle during the holiday season, adorned with glittering lights and festive accents. However, as the calendar turns, the park transitions into a different chapter, embracing a new theme. Removing the snow-capped tops is a symbolic gesture in a way, signaling the end of the holiday season and the anticipation of new beginnings.

Holiday Castle Tops
byu/angelfan_named_angel inDisneyland

A Lengthy Overhaul

Turning Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park over from the holidays is a significant feat. Late at night after the Paks close, Disney Cast Members work to quickly remove all of the Christmas and holiday decorations overnight.

Removing the show and lights from Sleeping Beauty Castle is one of the hardest parts of this transformation. These parts of the Disney castle are diligently stored, awaiting the time when they will be brought back.

This meticulous process of dismantling and storing the castle’s snow-capped tops also showcases the incredible craftsmanship that goes into the creation of Disney’s immersive theme park experiences. The attention to detail in every element of the castle, from its spires to its turrets, reflects the artistry and expertise of Walt Disney Imagineering.

Disneyland Holiday

Credit: Disney

As the parts of Sleeping Beauty Castle were carefully transported away, it serves as a reminder of the ever-changing nature of the Disney parks. As Walt Disney once said, “Disneyland will never be completed. It will continue to grow as long as there is imagination left in the world.”

This ongoing evolution ensures that each visit to Disneyland is a unique and immersive experience filled with magic and discovery.

About Eva Miller

Eva was born and raised in the beautiful state of Oregon but has since relocated and lives in New York City. Since she was young, Eva has loved to perform in musicals, especially Disney ones! Through performing, Disney’s music became the soundtrack of her childhood. Today, Eva loves to write about all the exciting happenings for the Walt Disney Company. In her free time, Eva loves to travel, spend time in nature, and go to Broadway shows. Her favorite Disney movie is 'Lilo and Stitch,' and her favorite Park is Disney's Animal Kingdom.