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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UCF chapter.

October 1, 1971. On this day 44 years ago, the doors of the Magic Kingdom opened and the world was changed forever. We had no idea that all these years later we’d still be walking up and down Main Street USA, sporting sequined Mickey ears and throwing up sorority gang signs in front of Cinderella’s castle. Thanks Mickey, for 44 magical years.  In honor of the park’s anniversary, here is actual proof that Disney is the happiest place on earth.

Mickey Mouse shaped foods. Ice cream, cupcakes, pretzels—literally anything you can imagine. They all have the signature Mickey shape. Okay drooling….

 

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The Rides. The lines are long for a reason. It’s totally worth the sometimes hour and a half wait to ride Splash Mountain, because hey it’s Disney World, and even standing in a queue of thousands of people is a good time.

 

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Parades, shows & fireworks. Who doesn’t love a good firework display, especially when Tinker Bell floats through the sky? Can you say #magical? Not gonna lie, it’s a tear jerking experience watching the sky light up to “When You Wish Upon a Star”.

 

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The #DILFSofDisneyWorld. This is a thing. It’s a thing with it’s own Instagram account. So many cute dads tolerating their overly eager children in 100 degree heat. 

 

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Everyone’s a kid. Whether you’re a child or a full grown adult, no one is going to look twice when you’re sandwiched between Mickey and Minnie for a photo op. Disney has the power to bring out everyone’s inner 5-year-old.

 

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We can all be princesses. It’s acceptable to refer to yourself as a princess whilst enjoying the day at the Magic Kingdom. Cinderella’s a princess and so am I, alright?

 

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The characters. I remember those little autograph books I used to have as a kid. Getting an autograph from one of the characters was basically life changing, and honestly not much has changed. You can’t help but fan-girl just a little bit when you run into Chip & Dale.

 

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How lucky are we to have this park in our own backyard?! Happy Birthday to the Magic Kingdom! 

UCF Contributor