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Cinderella Castle Moat Drained as Classic Repaint Advances at Walt Disney World

Pumps plus temporary dams now give workers ground access to the lower walls for a months-long restoration.

Overview

  • Drainage began Wednesday, February 4, with dual pumps on the Tomorrowland and Liberty Square sides and cofferdams isolating sections of the waterway.
  • With the moat lowered, crews and vehicles have reached the castle’s base, and new gray paint is replacing the recent pink on the northeast corner, rear ramparts, and trim.
  • On-site photos show dirt, debris, and lost guest items collected along the exposed concrete banks of the moat.
  • Entertainment has been temporarily adjusted: Happily Ever After is modified, Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire runs afternoons only without pyrotechnics, and Let the Magic Begin is audio-only.
  • Disney announced the restoration in summer 2025, returning the icon to grays, creams, blues, and touches of gold after the 2020/2021 anniversary color scheme.