It’s hard to believe we are only 10 days away from kicking off “The World’s Most Magical Celebration” and Walt Disney World’s 50^th Anniversary! Just like you, I’ve been following along for every single announcement and am so excited to celebrate and commemorate this once-in-a-lifetime milestone with all of our guests.

From working at the Emporium on Main Street U.S.A. in Magic Kingdom Park to writing about our new product lines here on the Disney Parks Blog, my career at Disney has led me to a variety of roles centered around merchandise. Supporting our incredibly talented team of cast members who bring the products and experiences to life in our retail locations has become one of my favorite aspects of my role.

Now as we get ready to set the stage for this 18-month long celebration, I’m so excited to share more of what’s to come that will enhance your 50^th shopping experience within select merchandise locations. Recently we gave you a peek behind the magic of our Vault Collection (my favorite!) celebrating retro-themed treasures that are right out of The Walt Disney Archives.  Today, I’m thrilled to share that our very own Marketplace Co-Op at Disney Springs will receive a special overlay inspired by the Vault Collection that will take you back to 1971 the moment you walk through the doors.

Get ready to be transported back to the 1970s with a nostalgic museum-like display that invites shoppers to learn about original Walt Disney World Resort attractions and resorts. Guests will have a unique opportunity to experience and engage in photo opportunities with vintage props including carousel horses from the Prince Charming Regal Carrousel, replicas of the Orange Bird and the Tiki sculptures, as well as many more props and displays that tell stories from years past. (I’m already planning my Instagram photos!) I also love that in addition to the photo moments, the team has created engaging spaces where you can learn more about Walt Disney World Resort history, things like The Preview Center, original attractions, and even the opening year 1971 resorts.

Over at Magic Kingdom Park, you’ve probably already seen some of the EARidescent makeover at The Emporium, and soon the Main Street Cinema will receive a retro-inspired overlay themed to the Vault Collection. It will be filled with vintage photos, colors, and details including photo-worthy backdrops and props inspired by beloved attractions from Walt Disney World Resort history. The entire Merchandise Presentation Team has done such an incredible job taking elements from all of the Walt Disney World 50^th Anniversary Merchandise collections and creating innovative and imaginative spaces for you to experience while you’re shopping for all your must-haves.

Guests will encounter these one-of-a-kind retail displays that elevate the 50th anniversary shopping experience at select locations across Walt Disney World Resort this fall. I can’t wait to see these spaces come to life in person and better yet start my shopping!

Check back here on Disney Parks Blog and follow #DisneyWorld50 on social media for regular updates on all the exciting things coming as part of “The World’s Most Magical Celebration”! Tell us in the comments below if you have a special Walt Disney World souvenir you cherish most from your very first visit or your 50^th.