3:47pm ET
Ever since the park opened in 1971, Mickey and the gang have been riding in on the Walt Disney World Railroad to welcome guests as the park opens-- but now, that's all changing.
Instead of having rope drop at the front of the park, Disney will allow guests to enter the park and enjoy Main Street before the official opening. The new "opening moment" ceremony will take place on the castle stage featuring Mickey, Minnie and other character friends.
A royal herald will proclaim the kingdom's official opening and allow for the magic to begin. At that point, guests will be able to venture around the park in it's entirety.
The new opening ceremony begins on January 9th.