Big top tent refurbishments about to begin in Storybook Circus at Magic Kingdom

Aug 02, 2021 in "Storybook Circus"

Storybook Circus big top tent refurbishment - August 2 2021
Posted: Monday August 2, 2021 10:00am ET by WDWMAGIC Staff

Storybook Circus at the Magic Kingdom is set to undergo a much-needed major refurbishment this month as high-reach lift booms move into position around the big top tents.


Paint crews are applying a coating which appears to be restoring some of the faded color.


Two lifts are in position around Big Top Souvenirs and Pete's Silly Sideshow.


The entire are beyond Casey Jr., including the starting and rest area, is blocked off with planters.


The tents have faded badly in the intense Florida sun, and both Big Top Souvenirs and Pete's Silly Sideshow have remained closed since the Magic Kingdom reopened in summer 2020.

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Splashin' RyanAug 12, 2021

Looks better already!

ImperfectPixieAug 02, 2021

Having lived in a teepee made of the same canvas used for large tents, my guess would be waterproofing. (Indoor fires achieve that in a teepee, but I can't imagine Disney is willing to have that in Dumbo's Circus tents on the regular. ;) )

MrPromeyAug 02, 2021

It's a sign that they're not planning to tear the location down. I'm sure it'll reopen but I wouldn't take this particular development to specfically mean they're planning to, soon. Instead, it seems like they're taking advantage of the closure to do work that might be harder to do with the location actively in use by guests. That said, as it's retail, I'm sure Disney is as eager to open it as you are to have it open, when they can staff for it.

homerdanceAug 02, 2021

It this a pretty good sign that they are finally re-opening BigTop?

Splashin' RyanAug 02, 2021

Looks like they're either cleaning the tents or applying a sealant on the tents first. I wonder if they will paint them eventually. It almost seems like replacing the material might be easier but I'm sure far more costly. I know the material isn't like actual tent material, these are laid over top a rigid frame but who knows.

dreday3Aug 02, 2021

That should look nice!

AshaNeOmahAug 02, 2021

Our family really likes the Big Top Tent. It's a place we often stop in MK to cool off and get a slushie. I'm excited about it reopening.