Who Is the Oldest Disney Princess?

For countless fans, the magic of Disney started with an iconic animated film that transported them to enchanting worlds where dreams come true. Walt Disney Pictures has created movies that captivate audiences of all ages, offering adventure, inspiration, and a touch of magic. From flying over London with Peter Pan to exploring the ocean with Ariel, Disney movies continue to be a portal into the worlds we all dream of.

For many, the fascination lies in the timeless Disney Princess franchise, where beloved characters like Cinderella, Belle, and Moana bring strength and beauty to the screen. This beloved group of characters has expanded over the years, transforming the idea of a princess and inspiring generations. If you’re a Disney Princess fan or have a little princess (or prince) in your life, let’s dive into the magical world of Disney royalty and discover the legacy of Disney Princesses at the parks, in stores, and on screens.

The Disney Princess Franchise: A Cultural Icon

Disney Princess films have grown into a monumental franchise, with a worldwide fan base that extends far beyond the screen. With each new film, Disney Princesses bring new merchandise, experiences, and memorable moments at Disney Parks and Resorts around the globe. Today, the Disney Princess franchise is as much a part of the parks as attractions themselves, from Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique makeovers to exclusive princess character meet-and-greets.

Decades ago, however, the Disney Princess franchise was more limited. The Disney+ documentary series The Imagineering Story highlights how, in the late 1980s, Imagineers and Cast Members noticed children arriving at the parks dressed in homemade princess costumes, yet very little princess-themed merchandise was available in the parks. This observation spurred Disney to launch more princess-focused offerings, paving the way for the thriving Disney Princess culture we see today.

The Beginnings: Disney’s First Princess, Snow White

The story of Disney Princesses begins with Walt Disney’s first full-length animated feature, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, released in 1937. Snow White is not only Disney’s first princess but also the foundation upon which the Disney Princess legacy was built. The movie was groundbreaking, and Snow White became the first of many princesses whose charm and grace would captivate audiences for decades to come.

In the years that followed, more iconic princesses graced the screen. In 1950, Cinderella brought elegance and kindness to the story of a young woman who finds her happily-ever-after, while Sleeping Beauty (1959) enchanted fans with the tale of Aurora, complete with fairies and a dragon-fighting prince. These films captured the classic fairy tale essence of Disney, with themes of love, kindness, and courage.

Disney Renaissance: Expanding the Princess Legacy

After a lull in the release of princess films, the Disney Renaissance of the late 1980s and 1990s brought a wave of new princesses who embodied independence and adventure. With the release of The Little Mermaid in 1989, fans were introduced to Ariel, a curious and brave mermaid who dreams of exploring life above the sea. Ariel’s story sparked a new era of Disney Princesses who were both strong and determined.

The 1990s continued to expand the princess roster with Belle from Beauty and the Beast (1991), a book-loving heroine who looked beyond appearances; Jasmine from Aladdin (1992), a bold and adventurous princess; Pocahontas from Pocahontas (1995), a powerful advocate for peace and understanding; and Mulan from Mulan (1998), who disguised herself to protect her family and country. These characters, known as the Renaissance princesses, shifted the narrative from waiting for a prince to finding one’s own path.

Modern Disney Princesses: Brave, Bold, and Independent

Disney has continued to introduce strong princesses into the 2000s and beyond, each bringing unique stories and cultural backgrounds. In The Princess and the Frog (2009), fans met Tiana, a hardworking and passionate chef from New Orleans. Tiana was the first Black Disney Princess and brought a new, modern approach to the franchise. The following year, Rapunzel enchanted audiences in Tangled (2010) with her creativity and courage.

The 2010s and 2020s continued this trend, with Merida in Brave (2012), a fierce Scottish princess who values her independence, and the royal sisters Anna and Elsa in Frozen (2013), who taught us about the power of family. In Moana (2016), Disney introduced its first Polynesian princess, Moana, who embarks on an epic journey to save her people and connect with her heritage. Most recently, Raya and the Last Dragon (2021) added Raya, a Southeast Asian princess who is both a warrior and a protector.

These princesses reflect evolving cultural values, each embodying resilience, self-discovery, and a spirit of adventure, making them relatable to fans of all ages.

The Ages of Disney Princesses: A Fun Fact

While the stories of Disney Princesses are timeless, fans often wonder about the age of each princess. Though unofficial, here’s a look at some estimated ages:

• Snow White – 14
• Cinderella – 19
• Aurora – 16
• Ariel – 16
• Belle – 17
• Jasmine – 15
• Pocahontas – 18
• Mulan – 16
• Tiana – 19
• Rapunzel – 18
• Merida – 16
• Anna – 18
• Elsa – 21

Knowing their ages adds context to each story and reminds fans of the youthful courage these characters display. From Snow White’s innocence to Mulan’s bravery, each princess offers something unique to her generation.

Disney Princesses at the Parks: Experiences and Attractions

Today, Disney Parks are a treasure trove of princess-themed experiences. Whether you’re a fan of classic princesses or newer additions, there are plenty of ways to celebrate your love for Disney royalty.

1. Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique: Located in several Disney Parks, this boutique offers magical makeovers, transforming young fans into their favorite princesses.
2. Princess Meet-and-Greets: Each Disney Park offers opportunities to meet princesses, including Anna and Elsa, Cinderella, and more. Be sure to check the My Disney Experience app for real-time information on character locations.
3. Themed Dining: Cinderella’s Royal Table in Magic Kingdom and Akershus Royal Banquet Hall in EPCOT provide dining experiences with princess interactions.
4. Attractions: Frozen Ever After in EPCOT and Under the Sea – Journey of The Little Mermaid in Magic Kingdom let guests step into their favorite princess stories.

Princess Merchandise: Bringing the Magic Home

Disney Princess merchandise is everywhere, from toys and costumes at Target and Walmart to specialty items in Disney stores. For the ultimate fans, Disney offers unique princess-inspired merchandise, including limited-edition dolls, apparel, and home decor. Shopping for princess items at Disney Parks is especially magical, with exclusive offerings only found on site.

The Future of Disney Princesses

As Disney continues to evolve, the legacy of Disney Princesses grows with each generation. New stories and characters are on the horizon, reflecting the diverse world we live in and inspiring fans to dream big. With each princess, Disney brings a new dimension to the values of bravery, kindness, and resilience, ensuring that the Disney Princess legacy will continue to capture hearts worldwide.

Disney Princesses have become more than just characters—they’re cultural icons who inspire us to be brave, pursue our dreams, and believe in magic. Whether you’re watching Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs or cheering on Moana, the magic of Disney Princesses reminds us that we all have the power to be heroes in our own stories.