The Kiss Goodnight

The Kiss Goodnight is one of my favorite Disney experiences, and one that every Disney fan should experience at least once. It requires a bit of fortitude, both emotional and physical, but it’s more than worth it. The physical fortitude is a must, because it takes place roughly 30 minutes after park closing, and if you’re anything like us you’ve probably been in the park since rope drop in the morning. The emotional strength will help, because the Kiss Goodnight is how you know that your day at the Magic Kingdom is really and truly coming to a close. It always makes me just a little bit misty.

So what is it exactly? In a nutshell, it’s Disney’s way of telling Guests “goodnight.” Cinderella Castle lights up and even twinkles a bit (because of actual, real life magic I suspect). An instrumental version of “When You Wish Upon a Star” begins to swell throughout the park, an a voice announces:

“Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, on behalf of everyone here at the Magic Kingdom, we thank you for joining us today for a magic gathering of family, friends, fun, and fantasy. We hope your magical journey with us has created wonderful memories that will last a lifetime.

Walt Disney said that the Magic Kingdom is a world of imagination, hopes, and dreams. In this timeless land of enchantment, magic and make believe are reborn, and fairy tales come true. The Magic Kingdom is a place for the young and the young at heart. A special place where when you wish upon a star, your dreams can come true. Until we see you again, have a safe trip home. Thank you, and goodnight.”

Remember a few paragraphs ago when I said that it made me a little misty? That was a lie. This is a little closer to the truth:

Still, it’s a wonderful way to end the day at the Most Magical Place on Earth.