Magic Kingdom

After 50 Years, Disney World Lights a Spark on Space Mountain

Walt Disney World Resort recently celebrated a major milestone for Space Mountain, one of its most iconic attractions. The beloved indoor roller coaster, nestled in Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom Park, marked 50 years of intergalactic adventures with a dazzling display that thrilled fans and Disney cast members alike.

Space Mountain: A Galactic Legacy

Space Mountain officially opened on January 15, 1975, quickly becoming a cornerstone of the Disney Parks experience. As Disney’s first indoor roller coaster, it wowed guests with its innovative design and thrilling space-themed journey.

A boat sails across Seven Seas Lagoon with Space Mountain in the background
Credit: Don Henry, Flickr

Since its debut, versions of Space Mountain have launched into orbit at Disneyland Park, Tokyo Disneyland, Disneyland Paris, and Hong Kong Disneyland, making it a global phenomenon. Shanghai Disneyland remains the only Disney “castle” park without a Space Mountain attraction, though it boasts the high-tech TRON Lightcycle Power Run coaster, which recently made its way to Walt Disney World Resort.

Despite its age, Space Mountain at Magic Kingdom Park remains a guest favorite, consistently drawing high wait times and retaining its status as a must-do attraction.

Golden Fireworks and a Celestial Celebration

Guests riding Space Mountain, one of the most popular Walt Disney World Resort rides.
Credit: Disney

To honor five decades of adventure, Walt Disney World Resort held a spectacular golden fireworks display above Space Mountain. The event featured Disney cast members alongside Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Pluto, Goofy, and Donald Duck, all dressed in futuristic, intergalactic costumes.

Theme park journalist Scott Gustin shared a video of the celebration on X (formerly known as Twitter):

Walt Disney World shared video of a golden fireworks celebration moment for the 50th anniversary of Space Mountain. The ride opened on Jan. 15, 1975.

In the video, two Disney cast members joined Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Pluto, Donald Duck, and Goofy to celebrate the 50-year-old roller coaster.

“We are over the moon to be here with Mickey and the gang underneath the shimmering spires of Space Mountain as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Tomorrowland’s most out-of-this-world attraction,” one cast member said.

Space mountain fast pass ticket
Credit: Disney

The celebration ended with the Fab Five and their friends counting down until golden fireworks lit up the night sky, shooting out of the Tomorrowland roller coaster’s iconic spired roof. Stunning aerial footage of the attraction made it appear as shiny and impressive as it did on opening day.

How many times have you been on Magic Kingdom Park’s Space Mountain since it opened in 1975? Share your count with How to Disney in the comments! 

Jess Colopy

Jess Colopy is a Disney College Program alum and kid-at-heart. When she’s not furiously typing in a coffee shop, you can find her on the hunt for the newest Stitch pin.

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