1. The Bahamas

With so many of our cruises visiting The Bahamas, we consider it home! Disney Cruise Line worked closely with our community partners to understand their needs and ways we could support local schools and students. 

• In Nassau, DCL cast and crew members spent the day at the Ranfurly Homes for Children, a local non-profit foster care organization. The volunteers sprinkled some Disney magic around the children’s learning lab at the foster home, setting up new laptops and equipment, as well as decorating the space with Disney-themed decals and inspiring quotes for the kids to see each day, such as “Smile,” “Be Positive,” and a reminder from Walt Disney that, “All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them.” 

• In Eleuthera, the team visited local schools to deliver academic workbooks and reading books for students to use at home and in school year-round.  
• And, in Abaco, crew members who work on Castaway Cay spent their time off volunteering in the community. The team donated academic workbooks, reading books and computers, as well as other necessities, like sporting equipment, safety resources and kitchen appliances to a local school for the students to enjoy.   

2. Florida

While the Disney Wish was in port at Port Canaveral, Florida, cast and crew members came together to help provide food for students who rely on school meals each day. The team visited The Children’s Hunger Project in Brevard County and packaged 900 meals which were delivered to schools this month for students to eat during the holiday break.  

Heading south to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, earlier this year, Disney Cruise Line celebrated the opening of our new dedicated cruise terminal at Port Everglades and announced new community investments. As part of our first holiday season in our new port community, Disney Cruise Line sponsored the Boys & Girls Club’s Youth of the Year Holiday Program, which focuses on fostering a new generation of leaders, teaching important skills such as communication, goal setting and teamwork, to prepare students for their future careers. 

3. California & Texas

While the Disney Magic sailed out of San Diego, California, a group of crew members visited a local food pantry, Kitchens for Good, to help stock shelves with nutritious food and distribute meal packages to local families. And, this week, when the Disney Magic is in Galveston, Texas, crew members will sort and stock food items at the Galveston County Food Bank and assemble meal packages for local families.  

4. Papenburg, Germany 

If you’ve been following along with us as our newest ship, the Disney Treasure, takes shape, you may know that the ship is being built in Papenburg, Germany. Our Walt Disney Imagineering team spent this past weekend volunteering at the community’s Christmas Market. The team helped sell holiday cookies at the event with all proceeds benefitting a local charitable organization that supports children who are ill and their families. The team also read Disney stories to the children and taught them how to draw their favorite Disney characters. 

Disney Cruise Line has long been committed to creating lasting, positive impact in the port communities we call home year-round. Some of our most recent efforts include:  

• New community investments in South Florida.  
• Crew members delivering hundreds of meals and packages of school supplies to port communities. 
• DCL sponsoring a variety of the LJM Maritime Academy programs in The Bahamas. 
• Cast and crew members supporting the Eleuthera Junior Junkanoo competition. 
• Team of VoluntEARS participating in beach clean-ups in Brevard County and in The Bahamas.

To read about other ways our cast and crew members are making an impact in our port communities, visit the Disney Parks Blog.  

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We’ve seen the incredible all-new themed land World of Frozen at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, but ever wonder who brought this Frozen-themed land to life? For 17-year-old Make-A-Wish child Dominic from Singapore, this was his wish – to meet the Imagineers involved with the all-new World of Frozen. Last week, Dominic and 10 other children living with critical illnesses from across Asia joined us at World of Frozen to have their Frozen-related wishes granted. This first-of-its-kind wish-granting event was enough to melt any frozen heart!

Dominic’s Wish

Dominic’s journey began at the young age of 7 when he was diagnosed with severe hemophilia, a rare blood disorder with no known cure that causes spontaneous bleeding along with frequent injuries and pain. Despite numerous challenges, Dominic manages his condition with unwavering determination and continues to fight.

While undergoing treatment, Dominic watched the Disney+ show “The Imagineering Story” and became fascinated by how Imagineers blend robotics, architecture, engineering and more to push the boundaries of technology and art. Dominic has been interested in robotics from a young age, and knew his wish was to explore his passion at World of Frozen and see the inner workings of how the land came to life, meet the Imagineers, and get a behind-the-scenes look. So, our Imagineers worked together to dream up a unique, immersive, behind-the-scenes tour for Dominic and his family.

The Imagineer Impact

To help grant Dominic’s wish, Jo Phoa, Director of Creative Development of Walt Disney Imagineering Hong Kong, and Angus Chan, Principal Ride Control System Engineer at Walt Disney Imagineering Hong Kong designed a behind-the-scenes tour of the new attraction Frozen Ever After, which utilizes state-of-the-art Audio-Animatronics technology.

Jo, Angus and the team wanted to share stories that not only showcased the wonder of Disney, but also resonated with his dreams and aspirations. For them, it wasn’t just an opportunity to share the magic of Disney; it was a chance to inspire and be inspired – to connect and create memories that will last a lifetime.

“This is my very first time being part of a wish, and it’s been an incredibly heartwarming journey,” shared Phoa. “The moment I learned Dominic was from Singapore, I felt an instant connection. As someone who also hails from Singapore and has spent many years working at Hong Kong Disneyland, this experience feels like a beautiful full-circle moment.”

The Future of Wishes

It is because of Imagineers that Dominic and children across the globe can dream big. When asked if he’d like to become an Imagineer, Dominic’s answer was a resounding “Yes!”

Disney is honored to be the world’s largest wish granter for Make-A-Wish. We’ve worked together for over 40 years to grant more than 150,000 wishes. For children who wish for Imagineering experiences, every wish is unique, from Bella’s Wish to Meet an Imagineer to Ross’s “Behind the Attraction” Incredicoaster Wish, there are so many facets of Imagineering to explore.

“I was touched and humbled by this request, and I will forever cherish getting to play a small part in this magical experience,” shared Phoa.

A sincere thank you to the makers of World of Frozen, the Make-A-Wish team, and around the world who continue to help make wishes like these come true. It’s not just about the creativity or the technical aspects of our work; it’s about touching lives in a very real and personal way.

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Magic comes in all sizes, from simple acts of kindness to grand gestures of generosity and we are so grateful for the cast, Disney VoluntEARS and community organizations who help us make a difference. From making wishes come true for children to giving food to those in need to donating our resources, time and knowledge – giving is at the heart of what we do.

Take a look below for a snapshot of how giving comes to life through the magic of Disney.

Making Wishes Come True and Children’s Hospitals

Disney has worked with Make-A-Wish since 1980 to grant more than 150,000 wishes, and we are the largest wish granter in the world for Make-A-Wish. Historically, one out of every two wishes granted in the U.S. through Make-A-Wish has been a Disney wish.

We celebrate our incredible ongoing relationship with Make-A-Wish through one-of-a-kind experiences for wish kids and their families all around the world. From a window dedication ceremony at Disneyland Resort to honor Make-A-Wish kids; to our largest wish-granting event ever at Walt Disney World’s “Once Upon A Wish Party,” to a week of Hawaii wishes at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa; to a Frozen-themed celebration at Hong Kong Disneyland’s World of Frozen, we strive to deliver joy when it’s needed most to children facing critical illnesses.

We also bring the positive power of Disney stories and characters to children in hospitals and pediatric care locations around the world. Here are a few examples of how we support:

• Disneyland Resort has supported Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC) since the 1960s when Walt Disney served on their very first Board of Directors.  Disney has contributed more than $50 million in cash and in-kind support to CHOC, including hosting their annual CHOC Walk in the Park presented by Disneyland Resort. Additionally, Disney VoluntEARS provide extra magic to patients in the hospital with Disney characters and fun surprises in the annual Minnie Walk and Holiday Party.
• In September 2023, the first Mobile Movie Theater in mainland China officially launched at Shanghai Children’s Medical Center. Disney Fun Houses, a themed play space that includes therapeutic play activities, have been constructed or are being planned in fifty children’s hospitals across China.
• Disneyland Paris rings in the holidays by wrapping thousands of Disney gifts to distribute to children in more than 60 French hospitals as well as local charities. On Christmas Day, Disney characters visit children who are spending the holidays in the hospital, a meaningful tradition for our cast members and Disney VoluntEARS.

From Our Kitchens to Our Communities

At Disney we want our meals to make magic, which is why we send prepared, unserved food to local food banks in our communities. One of our most valued holiday traditions at Disney Experiences is providing Thanksgiving Day meals to those in our community who need it most.

Our commitment to giving stretches across the globe, on land as well as at sea. Our Disney Cruise Line shipboard and island crew members are dedicated to creating a lasting, positive impact in the port communities that our ships call home. One of the ways we do that is through teaming up with organizations in those communities to make a difference.

In a multi-year project, Disney Cruise Line worked with the Agricultural Development Organization Bahamas to build gardens across schools in Abaco and Eleuthera, donating nearly $100,000 to support the project. Walt Disney Imagineers joined the Agricultural Development Organization team and dozens of students to kick off the program at Preston Albury High School in Eleuthera, where Disney is creating its new island destination, Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. Through this effort, students across The Bahamas have the opportunity to learn first-hand how to grow their own fruits and vegetables.

In addition to donating meals to food banks, we collaborate with local organizations to provide free culinary training programs and materials to students to increase access to careers in the food industry. We strive to make a difference by supporting one of the most critical needs for children and families.

Disney VoluntEARS and Donations

Disney VoluntEARS and teams all around the world delight fans and families through things such as donations of toys and books, Disney VoluntEARS events and only-Disney experiences.

A central part of our company’s culture and at the heart of our community engagement efforts around the world, our Disney VoluntEARS, our cast members, are passionate and involved citizens in their local communities and around the world, contributing their time and talents to causes great and small.

Since 2000, Disney Publishing Worldwide has donated more than 90 million books to First Book, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free and affordable new books and educational resources to educators who serve children in need, to help inspire the next generation of. And for over 10 years, Disney Stores and shopDisney donate thousands of products to Good360 each year, to support under-resourced communities across the country.

Through Mickey’s Attic at the Disneyland Resort, surplus merchandise and retired company assets are given new life in Southern California through a collaboration with more than 200 nonprofits and schools. In 2023, more than 1.3 million pounds of toys, apparel, packaged food items, novelty items and more was diverted from landfills and repurposed to more than 65 different organizations.

Over the holidays, we give back to those who need it most through the Disney Ultimate Toy Drive supporting the Marine Toys for Tots program. Disney’s relationship with Toys for Tots began over 75 years ago when Walt and his animators personally designed the original Toys for Tots train logo that is still used today. Since 1947, Toys for Tots Marines and volunteers have distributed 652 million toys to over 291 million children!

GIVING IS WHO WE ARE

From supporting our communities around the world through wish granting, character visits and product and book donations, charitable giving, investing in youth and workforce development programs to support the next generation and so much more, giving is part of who we are at Disney.

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Small businesses are nimble and provide fresh perspectives, which helps Disney constantly evolve and expand the way business is conducted. Disney’s support of the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE) is just one of the many ways the company supports small businesses and benefits from an exchange of innovative new ideas. This support has a profound effect on the communities in which Disney operates, as shown in a new study released by Oxford Economics about the Walt Disney World Resort’s economic impact on Florida.

What is RICE? Supporting Small Business Growth

The Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE) is a nonprofit created to support Black entrepreneurs in overcoming the unique barriers they face in building thriving businesses. One of the RICE programs Disney supports is the Supply Chain Accelerator Program (SCAP). This initiative serves Black-owned small businesses, 66% of which are women-led, that are ready to take the next step in doing business with Fortune 500 companies.

Disney has renewed its commitment to SCAP for the third consecutive year and has expanded its support to sponsor the development of Digital RICE, a virtual platform that will broaden the nonprofit’s reach to benefit entrepreneurs across the country. These newest investments bring Disney’s total contribution to over $1 million to date, solidifying the company as the lead sponsor of both RICE initiatives.

Hands-on Learning: RICE Small Business Owners Visit Walt Disney World Resort

In addition to financial support, Disney provides a unique 3-day immersive learning experience where entrepreneurs receive tailored technical assistance and capacity building resources. With the help of Disney Institute and a little bit of magic, Disney shares knowledge and experience to help SCAP participants grow and scale their companies.

48 businesses visited Walt Disney World Resort this week to experience hands-on, experiential learning opportunities, emphasizing the development of skills and strategies essential for thriving in today’s dynamic business environment. During the sessions, Disney Institute shared insights and best practices in leadership excellence, employee engagement, quality service and business excellence used across Disney parks and resorts—many of which began with Walt Disney himself. Disney Institute regularly offers professional development for individuals and organizations to learn the Disney approach to customer experience.

“All of the workshops were amazing, but if I had to pick one, the Disney Institute was my absolute favorite. As an entrepreneur, we’re trying to build businesses like Disney. I want the women who I’m serving with Essence Tree to feel as special, as magical, and as seen and heard, as Disney makes their guests feel.” said Charmaine Gibbs-West, RICE stakeholder and Founder and CEO of Essence Tree. 

Participants had a full schedule of activities specifically catered to scaling their small businesses including a storytelling presentation called “Pitch with Pixie Dust,” a “Nemo Tank” workshop on pitching to investors and a session on quality service with a visit to EPCOT for exclusive viewings of the Candlelight Processional and “Luminous: The Symphony of Us” fireworks. The event culminated in a graduation ceremony where participants celebrated their program completion with special guest Mickey Mouse.  

Some of the most impactful sessions for both RICE stakeholders and Disney employees were the networking mixer and small business vendor panel. 

Making Connections: Networking with Top Disney Leaders

30 Disney cast members from various industries such as sourcing, construction, marketing and consumer products attended a networking mixer with RICE participants. The session proved to be an enriching exchange of ideas and the entrepreneurs were able to make vital connections and receive business advice.  

“The level of innovation and creativity of the people in the room was so motivating,” said Courtnee Collier, senior manager of public relations at Disney Experiences. “I was so impressed by their abilities to come up with ideas for businesses that I’d never even considered” 

“My favorite moment was seeing the number of moms and children, owning companies running companies and kind of passing on generational wealth and generational experience” shared Joni Wilson Ferguson, director of Disney Experiences Learning and Development. Joni was particularly inspired by Founder of Play Pits Chantel Powell, who needed a product specifically catered to her son, then started a company around it. 

A Touch of Inspiration: Disney Small Business Vendors Panel

The Walt Disney Company contracts 8,500 small businesses across the country, 2,500 in Florida alone, to supply products and services. RICE participants had the opportunity to hear from a few of the small business vendors who are currently working with Disney. The panelists included Michael D Young, president and CEO of ACY Constructors, and Dr. Lisa Williams, founder and CEO of World of Epi. 

“Disney is a company that knows about storytelling, masters storytelling, and has done it to the highest level. We want to make sure that our dolls fit into the Disney storytelling process” said Dr. Lisa, sharing that working with Disney taught her about the importance of efficiency and creativity, inspiring her to prioritize storytelling when it comes to her products. 

Michael imparted his own advice about succeeding as an entrepreneur and supplier, sharing “Maybe your business model will change, but it’s all about you knowing who you are, how you can navigate business challenges and continue to thrive and do what you feel like you’ve been called to do,” After the panel concluded, Michael added “it means everything to me to be able to come back and pour into others who look like me.”  

Since 2022, Disney has been working with RICE to help grow talent and develop the workforce of the future, especially within diverse communities. With the new investment in Digital RICE, Disney will unlock the nonprofit’s knowledge and expertise for entrepreneurs beyond just Atlanta, expanding access nationwide.  

To learn more about how Disney works with and supports small businesses, check out Michael’s story. 

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These were the words of 11-year-old Ross, a devoted roller coaster enthusiast and Make-A-Wish kid, whose dream of meeting Disney Imagineers and experiencing Disneyland’s coasters was fulfilled last week.

To prepare for this special wish, a select group of Disney Imagineers gathered to brainstorm a one-of-a-kind experience for Ross and his family. This would involve an Imagineering campus tour led by the Imagineers themselves, offering Ross a unique opportunity to witness the design process and everything that happens behind-the-scenes. Then, an entire day spent at Disneyland Resort where Ross could witness the thrill of the coasters in real time.

Disney and Make-A-Wish have worked together to make more than 150,000 wishes come true, and Imagineers are always eager to play a role in bringing a child’s wish to life. Just last year, wish granting returned to Walt Disney Imagineering, making Bella’s wish to meet an Imagineer a reality. Tours of Walt Disney Imagineering are rare. However, just like Bella, Ross was able to step into the hub of science and technology – the only think tank envisioned by Walt Disney himself.

“It’s a really amazing, special thing to have somebody choose to come here as their wish to see what Imagineers do and how we do it,” says Ric Turner, Principal Production Designer that has held the title of an Imagineer for 29 years.

Planning The “Practically Perfect” Make-A-Wish Trip

From the moment the Imagineering wish-granting team was told that Ross of Scarsdale, NY had a wish request to meet them and experience the coasters, Ric Turner, Mark Mesko, Tracey Noce, Steve Roach and others stepped up to the plate to brainstorm all the unique things they wanted to share with Ross for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Creative Director Tracey Noce shared, “You can tell by interacting with Ross that he is so excited and passionate about rollercoasters. He probably knows more about roller coasters than I do at this point, which is saying something.”

After finalizing details of the tour day and preparing for the special arrival, our passionate Imagineers were excitedly awaiting Ross and his family who would be traveling from across the nation for this momentous occasion.

Exploring the Creative Hub

During the Imagineering campus tour, Ross got the chance to explore multiple facets of the coaster building process from blue sky ideas all the way to riding them.

“We were able to allow Ross to see some behind-the-scenes looks at actual simulations of some of our current rollercoasters, and he got to see how we modeled these rollercoasters completely, before we ever designed the first piece,” explained Mark Mesko, ride engineering studio executive.

After the tour, Ross shared, “I learned that there’s so much more to rides than just the actual ride itself… there’s sounds, visuals, animatronics – there’s story that these rides can tell.”

From Sketch to Scream: Disney Edition

In the spirit of a truly special experience, the team wanted to make sure Ross could also experience the magic firsthand.

Despite never setting foot in Disneyland Resort, Ross had stated that his favorite roller coaster was the Incredicoaster in Disney California Adventure Park. And finally, the moment arrived for Ross to embrace the thrill after delving into the design and build process behind it – an experience that meant the world for a “Behind the Attraction” fan.

Tracey, the creative director of the Incredicoaster and a cancer survivor herself, expressed, “The idea that we get to show him things no one ever gets to see and then go ride the attraction with him, is such an awesomely gratifying experience for me as somebody that knows what it feels like to be a kid in treatment and that he’s going to have a good time and not have to think about any of that.”

Disney is honored to be the world’s largest wish granter for Make-A-Wish as we’ve worked together for over 40 years. And it’s not every day a child specifically wishes to have an Imagineering experience.

“An Imagineering wish is so special because we’re in the memory-making business,” Tracey added. “We create these places for people to enjoy – to make memories. And if you’re just a little part of that process and get to see the joy on somebody’s face, it’s such a special and wonderful thing.”

A heartfelt thank you to Ric Turner, Mark Mesko, Tracey Noce, Steve Roach and all the Imagineers involved, for not only making Ross’s wish come true but for inspiring a generation of dreamers who will carry the magic forward.

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The magic of Disney Cruise Line has officially arrived at Broward County’s Port Everglades in greater Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Disney Cruise Line, along with port and community leaders, celebrated the opening of the new dedicated cruise terminal in November. Port Everglades joins Port Canaveral as Disney Cruise Line’s second year-round homeport in Florida.

“The grand opening of our new dedicated terminal is an incredible milestone as we embark on the largest expansion in our cruise line’s history,” said Sharon Siskie, senior vice president and general manager of Disney Cruise Line. “Now our guests will have even more options to experience the magic of a Disney vacation at sea and can begin creating lifelong memories with their loved ones from the moment they arrive.”

Disney Cruise Line is committed to creating a lasting, positive impact in all of its port communities. In recognition of Disney’s arrival to Port Everglades, the cruise line announced new community investments in Junior Achievement South Florida and Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County. The donations will support a variety of initiatives, including programs that inspire career exploration, innovation and storytelling.

“Being a good steward in the port communities where Disney Cruise Line operates is so important to us. We’re proud to continue to invest in local youth programs that help empower and inspire the next generation of dreamers in Broward County,” Siskie said.

“Community partners, like Disney Cruise Line, play a pivotal role in empowering the youth of today, shaping their futures for tomorrow. This support is not just a financial contribution, it’s an investment in the next generation,” said Laurie Sallarulo, president and CEO of Junior Achievement of South Florida (JA).

Disney Cruise Line’s donation to Junior Achievement of South Florida will support the JA Career Bound and JA Pre-Apprenticeship programs, including a special marine service technician track that educates students about the maritime industry, marine basics and engine fundamentals.

Chris Gentile, Co-CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County, added, “The impact of Disney Cruise Line’s commitment reaches the very heart of our mission, which is to empower and uplift the youth of Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County.” Disney Cruise Line’s donation will help strengthen and support several of the organization’s initiatives, such as the Youth of the Year program.

Collaboration with these organizations will also provide Disney Cruise Line cast and crew, both on land and at sea, with the opportunity to volunteer as mentors and engage with local students through various educational programs.

The Disney Dream set sail from Disney Cruise Line’s new homeport in Fort Lauderdale on Nov. 20, followed by the Disney Magic on May 9, 2024.

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The series of community events kicked off on Dec. 7, 2023, in support of the Anaheim Independencia Family Resource Center. These special events include holiday-themed arts and crafts, exciting games, festive music, tasty food and fun for more than 500 children with the support of Disney VoluntEARS and volunteers from Northgate Market. In addition, 300 grocery vouchers will be gifted to local families at the three community events to provide relief during the holiday season.

“Disneyland Resort is honored to join with Northgate González Market in this important tradition as a way to give back to our Anaheim community during the holiday season,” said Cathi Killian, vice president of communications and public affairs at Disneyland Resort. “For nearly 70 years Anaheim has been our home and we remain committed to making positive contributions in the community that we share together.”

Miguel Gonzalez, co-president of Northgate Market also shared, “At Northgate González Market, we believe in giving back to our communities all year long, and it is our privilege to collaborate with Disneyland Resort to extend a helping hand to families in Anaheim, where our business first began. This event embodies the spirit of the season by providing nourishment and hope to families, reaffirming our commitment to making a positive impact in the communities we serve.”

Additional community events in the series with Disneyland Resort and Northgate González Market will take place on Dec. 21, 2023 in support of Anaheim Family YMCA and on Dec. 22, 2023 in support of Project S.A.Y. (Support Anaheim’s Youth).

Learn more about how Disneyland Resort is making a difference in the Anaheim community, visit Community Programs.

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The chefs are working toward the company goal of net zero emissions for direct operations by 2030. Imagine everything it takes to grow and harvest a vegetable or raise an animal before it is ready to be served. All the farming, processing, and transportation along the way is a large part of what is known as the value chain, and those activities release greenhouse gas emissions. By creating plant-based dishes and processes that reduce waste, chefs can help reduce emissions. 

Chef Kameron admits he was a bit skeptical on what he would gain from the experience, but realized he was selected for his desire to innovate, willingness to try new things and share his learnings with teammates. 

“I came into the fellowship with an open mind and the more I learned about sustainability in the food chain I realized that we have an opportunity to make a significant impact,” Chef Kameron said. “And, you know what? The food doesn’t have to be boring or the same old, same old. We’re Disney! We can innovate like we always do.” 

Plant-based items reduce environmental footprint 

For Halloween season, Goofy’s Kitchen at the Disneyland Hotel not only debuted a seasonal overlay for the first time, but Chef Kameron and his fellow chefs created an amazing 50% plant-based buffet. And for the current holiday season the magic continues with a holiday overlay and a variety of memorable plant-based items on the buffet to delight guests’ taste buds and create less greenhouse gas emissions. 

“Our Korean fried broccoli is one of our most popular items on the buffet and I’ve had many guests tell me that they would order this as a standalone dish,” Chef Kameron shared. “It’s a take on a tempura broccoli with a with a Korean glaze. It’s almost like candy on a plate, but healthy candy that is very tasty.” 

For the chefs, part of the Sustainable Culinary Fellowship program includes attending seminars and expos to educate them on best practices they can implement at the Disneyland Resort. During a trip to Napa, California for a seminar, a dinner inspired Chef Kameron to create a plant-based option for the carving station where guests might expect to only see meat options.  

“We do a vegan butter, cinnamon and brown sugar rub on top of these pineapple halves and bake and roast them until they’re caramelized,” Chef Kameron said. “All guests can enjoy the pineapple dish. It really accompanies your meats as well.” 

Culinary fellowship program delights guests and inspires chefs 

The fellowship program efforts are paying off and easily noticed with the guests’ enjoyment of the new menu items. 

“Oftentimes, you’ll see one or two pieces of protein on guests’ plate, but a whole heck of a lot of broccoli or the Japanese sweet potato hash and people going for seconds and thirds of the pineapple,” Chef Kameron shared. “The corn cake really goes like hotcakes. We run out of that every night and that was an ‘aha’ moment, for me where I realized this is working. The learnings that we have had this past year are coming into fruition, and it’s in full effect here at Goofy’s Kitchen.”  

Beyond what he learned during the fellowship, Chef Kameron is committed to sharing his knowledge with his team to see what they can accomplish by encouraging them to get creative in the kitchen with plant-based foods. 

“I’m proud seeing my teammates also be passionate about this effort,” he shared. “They’re taking the learnings and trying to go and make it their own, and that is the whole point of the program. It’s to share the knowledge and inspire others.”  

Through programs like this, we are working to reduce our environmental footprint, care for wildlife and their habitats and create stories that inspire action. We call our collective efforts Disney Planet Possible – tangible actions we’re taking to put possibility into practice and inspire optimism for a brighter, more sustainable future.  

Holidays at Goofy’s Kitchen runs through Jan. 1, 2024. Visit Disneyland.com for more details and to make dining reservations.  

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To help develop and prepare the workforce in Orange County, Disneyland Resort provides career readiness opportunities to Anaheim students and residents through its community workforce development initiative. The initiative is focused on empowering job-seekers to build the workforce of tomorrow through collaborations with school districts and nonprofit organizations that serve a diverse set of community needs.

In total, the Disneyland Resort community workforce development initiative has impacted more than 10,000 lives over the last six years. The resort recently awarded its annual workforce development grants, which have provided more than $6.5 million in financial support, in addition to countless volunteer hours by Disney VoluntEARS, to support the community workforce development initiative.

Read on to discover how the Disneyland Resort community workforce development initiative makes a difference with organizations, Disney VoluntEARS and participants.

Chasing Professional Dreams with Chrysalis

Through the ongoing support of Disneyland Resort, Chrysalis has been able to significantly impact the lives of individuals experiencing barriers to employment. With a mission to serve people navigating barriers to the workforce, Chrysalis established its Anaheim center in 2018 and has served more than 2,500 clients to-date – thanks in large part to a cumulative $1 million donation from Disneyland Resort. Since then, the resort has helped Chrysalis support jobseekers in a variety of ways including practicing job interviews, resume writing and educational training – all with the goal of uplifting vulnerable individuals to find pathways to stability, security and fulfillment.

“We have helped over 1,500 individuals find employment with outside employers or with one of Chrysalis’ employment social enterprise businesses,” said Mark Loranger, president & CEO of Chrysalis “In addition, we have partnered with the Disneyland Resort to create employment pathways for our clients and have seen many become cast members themselves! The resort’s support and collaboration serve as a testament to the shared vision of creating a positive impact on the community by fostering pathways to employment and economic stability.”

Aim Higher with AIME — Anaheim’s Innovative Mentoring Experience

Disneyland Resort cast member Kim McNamee has always had a passion for volunteering, giving back to the local community and making a difference alongside her peers. As an active Disney VoluntEAR, Kim has taken part in numerous projects throughout her time at the resort, but holds a special place in her heart for her participation in AIME — Anaheim’s Innovative Mentoring Experience.

This career mentorship program for Anaheim Union High School District (AUHSD) students offers them the opportunity to experience professional working environments over the course of a summer, including a behind-the-scenes look at the magic of Disneyland Resort. Kim has participated in AIME over the last two years, mentoring students at a pivotal point in their educational career — preceding their final year of high school. “This program hits them at a very critical age in their life,” Kim says. “There was such a strong connection built amongst themselves and with us as mentors.”

As a senior manager of Park Operations at Disneyland Resort, Kim felt honored to pass on her insights to students in the early stages of their professional career. Just as the students learned from Kim’s advice as a leader, she too learned from their intuitive instincts, immeasurable talent and persistent empathy. “Those students are so capable and have such bright futures,” Kim reflects. “I was surprised how big of an impact they made on us collectively.”

Building Relationships with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County and the Inland Empire

Through the workplace mentoring program at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County and the Inland Empire, Aileen Cardenas discovered how the power of a mentor could impact her life, both personally and professionally. During her sophomore year of high school, Aileen was paired with a mentor — Disneyland Resort cast member Ivy Goodman — who aided her aspirations to become a commendable communicator and a fearless leader. During her experience in the program, Aileen acquired skills both inside and outside of the classroom, everything from managing finances to building interpersonal relationships. Perhaps most importantly, she forged a bond with Ivy that inspired her to attend college and become a Disneyland Resort cast member herself.

Today, as a Merchandise cast member on Main Street, U.S.A., in Disneyland park, Aileen engages with hundreds of guests per day — suitable training for her future goal of becoming an elementary school teacher one day. Prior to Aileen’s role at the resort, it was Ivy who demonstrated admirable leadership skills, which guided Aileen’s own understanding of what it means to be a good mentor.

“Having an amazing role model like Ivy, it showed me what my students will expect of me,” Aileen says. “She is such a good person and a people-person; working here, you have to be. She taught me how to communicate with people and interact with people.” Just as Ivy makes magic for Aileen, Aileen passes on magic to guests everyday — all thanks to the insurmountable impact of their connection.

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The 2023 west coast service celebration was a private event held in Disney California Adventure park on Nov. 13, 2023. Over 2,000 honorees and their guest were able to enjoy the Festival of Holidays marketplaces among other food offerings, live entertainment, games and special photo opportunities. To cap the night, honorees were presented with a viewing of “Celebrate You!” a special nighttime spectacular. The service celebration invites cast members, crew members and Imagineers who are celebrating a milestone service anniversary with The Walt Disney Company. Milestone anniversaries are celebrated every five years beginning with the 10^th year of service.

This year’s celebration was dedicated to recognizing cast culture and showing appreciation to those who have fostered diversity, inclusivity and endless opportunity. Among this year’s honorees were two cast members who have dedicated their careers to serving their fellow cast and building cast culture at Disneyland Resort: Mike Miranda and Matthew Olson.

Celebrating his 40^th anniversary at Disneyland Resort, Mike began his career in 1981 in Fantasyland attractions where he hosted Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride and The Mad Tea Party before entering the management training program five years later. Most of Mike’s career had been dedicated to resort operations until he made the move to human resources in 2019 to Disney University. Mike now leads Disney University as senior manager of learning operations and delivery, directly influencing cast culture through the creation and facilitation of “Traditions”, onboarding and leadership training programs. “Forty years is a long time to work for a company, but I’ve had so many roles, which really is my favorite part of working at Disneyland Resort. The diversity of roles and situations that arise really provide me with excitement and energy to continue working here,” shared Mike.

As a 40-year honoree, this was Mike’s first time enjoying a special dinner at Carthay Circle, which led up to a special toast from Ken Potrock, president of Disneyland Resort. “All of us at the resort are so grateful for everything you have done during your decades of service to this company,” Ken began. “Walt said, ‘it takes people to make the dream a reality,’ and you all are truly the dream makers… our best days are still ahead of us and that’s because of all of you.”

Also referencing Walt Disney’s beloved quote, Mike agreed with Ken’s sentiment: “That is our foundation, but it’s a culture that needs to be nurtured,” Mike explained. “We all contribute to that single common goal of ‘creating happiness’, and I joined the Disney University because I wanted to give back to the resort… by creating the best first day experience we could possibly provide because our cast members are our greatest asset.”

Fellow honoree Matt Olson is celebrating 10 years with Disneyland Resort. After moving to California from Pennsylvania to pursue a career in dance, Matt achieved his dream and joined the resort as a performer in Mickey’s Soundsational Parade in 2013. Since his career began a decade ago, Matt has worked in scheduling and served as a parade performer lead until he was selected to be the parade operations specialist for the “Magic Happens” parade when it debuted in 2020. “My favorite part of working at the Disneyland Resort over the course of my career is realizing how many opportunities there are within the company. It truly is wonderful to be able to express where you want to grow and find those that will help you get there,” shared Matt.

Matt continues to pursue his passion by welcoming new cast members to the Disneyland Resort as a learning and development coordinator supporting Traditions at Disney University, where he works hand-in-hand with Mike to create and support cast culture from day one. “Cast culture at the Disneyland Resort means approaching everyone I meet with a sense of openness,” Matt shared. “The beautiful part of being a storytelling company is that everyone you meet here has a story. I feel like I contribute to our culture by helping cast find those connective threads that tie them together with their fellow cast members, leaders, and our guests so that everyone can have magical memories to take home.”

Taking time to consider what he looked forward to the most at his first-ever service celebration, Matt decided it was “taking the time to see our cast members in action having a great time, celebrating with each other and just recognizing how much work it takes to make this place run on the daily always gives me a sense of gratitude for what we do here.”

The diverse cast culture at Disneyland Resort shines through the stories and experiences of every single one of its cast members, which is why this year’s celebration was dedicated to shining light on diversity through the entertainment, music and food offerings available to honorees. It’s because of Disney’s cast culture and the unified passion of creating magic to embrace happiness that Disneyland Resort continues to be The Happiest Place on Earth. Join us in congratulating Mike, Matt and the thousands of cast members, crew members and Imagineers who have celebrated a service anniversary in 2023.

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Step 1: Choose the Subject

This year’s CANstruction theme is “ICANic Central Florida,” featuring works of non-perishable food art from several Florida-based companies to raise awareness and resources for Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. Disney engineers chose Orange Bird for Walt Disney World’s contribution as the perfect symbol for Disney’s longstanding history in the region. The character was created by Disney in 1970 as the mascot for the Central Florida Citrus Commission and has since become a popular Disney and Central Florida icon.

“It’s a beloved piece of Disney history and culture that represents the company’s roots in Central Florida, which is the spirit of why we come to this event,” said Jeremy Rumph, a Disney architect.

Step 2: Design the Model

The team used the popular Orange Bird sipper as the prototype for the sculpture. Then, using their architectural expertise, they built a digital 3D model on computer software. This helps them scale the model and determine how many cans they will need.

“We are using the software and tools we use daily for our architectural needs at Walt Disney World, but it’s obviously a different challenge when you’re working with oddly shaped food items instead of traditional materials,” said Jeremy.

Step 3: BUILD!

Now it’s time for the fun part. Over the span of eight hours, Disney VoluntEARS and their families put the sculpture together one can at a time, or in this year’s case, cup by cup.

Step 4: Donate!

After being displayed for a few days, the VoluntEARS deconstruct the sculpture and donate the non-perishable food to Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, an organization Disney has worked with for more than 30 years. Our cast members spend time personally volunteering with Second Harvest and many other organizations across the state through our Disney VoluntEARS program. So far this year, cast have spent more than 115,000 hours giving back to the place where we live, work, and play!

Congratulations to this group of engineering cast member VoluntEARS on yet another great work of art that benefits the Central Florida community!

To read more about ongoing efforts in the state, visit DisneyFlorida.com.

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With plenty of fun-filled moments ahead, you might be wondering: What’s the difference between the two destinations? Let’s explore what makes each resort unique so you can get the most out of your Disney vacation.

While it all started at Disneyland Resort in California where today guests can walk between its two theme parks, entertainment district and resorts, Walt Disney World Resort in Florida spans over 43 square miles of fun that’s connected by internal transportation systems.

Walt Disney World Resort

Located in the heart of Florida, this sprawling resort could keep you busy for weeks with four theme parks, two water parks, a wide array of hotel options, a vast shopping, dining and entertainment district – all accessible by bus, boat, monorail or skyliner to reach this one-of-a-kind lineup of attractions and experiences.

Whether you’re dreaming of meeting your favorite Disney characters, experiencing thrilling attractions, or savoring cuisine from around the globe, Walt Disney World Resort — with help from its dedicated cast members and the Imagineers who develop its innovative experiences — promises a captivating journey through the realm of Disney.

Theme parks

Walt Disney World Resort is home to four theme parks, each with its own charming style and delightful themes.

• Magic Kingdom Park: Magic Kingdom is packed with the potential for unforgettable Disney moments. From fireworks at Cinderella Castle to character meet-and-greets and thrilling roller coasters, Magic Kingdom specializes in making dreams come true at themed lands like Adventureland, Fantasyland and Tomorrowland.

• EPCOT: EPCOT offers a blend of technological innovation, exhilarating rides and experiences representing countries from around the world, inviting guests to discover all the magic of human possibility, from the bottom of the ocean to outer space.

• Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Disney’s Hollywood Studios lets guests step into their favorite stories to live their own adventures! First, stroll through old Hollywood and explore the glitz and glamor of show business before diving into popular themed areas such as Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land, giving guests an opportunity to interact with some of their favorite Disney characters.

• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park: Disney’s Animal Kingdom is home to hundreds of species of animals, in addition to a variety of rides and experiences. This park offers a unique Disney experience where guests can connect with the natural world and learn about the importance of conservation, reflecting Disney’s commitment to supporting wildlife in Florida and around the world.

Attractions & Experiences

Walt Disney World Resort features more than 150 attractions across its four theme parks, providing endless hours of fun and entertainment for guests who make the trip. From timeless attractions like Haunted Mansion to cutting-edge and captivating thrill rides, Walt Disney World Resort offers experiences the whole family can enjoy.

A few of Walt Disney World’s popular attractions include:

• TRON Lightcycle / Run presented by Entreprise: This exhilarating attraction at Magic Kingdom features a high-speed, outdoor roller coaster where riders board futuristic lightcycles and race through a neon digital world, inspired by Disney’s “Tron” films. The ride is known for its modern technology and unique design, transporting guests to a computerized adventure.

• Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance: Located in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance brings the drama of the Jedi to life by combining advanced ride technology, incredible storytelling and special effects that create an immersive journey through a galaxy far, far away.

• Avatar Flight of Passage: Disney’s dedication to innovation and creativity is on full display at Avatar Flight of Passage. Using 3D technology, this attraction invites guests to climb aboard one of Pandora’s winged banshees for a breathtaking aerial tour of the alien planet’s stunning landscape.

• Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind: This reverse-launch roller coaster takes guests on an outer space adventure with the Guardians of the Galaxy. With a blend of scenery, Audio-Animatronics and state-of-the-art engineering, EPCOT’s Cosmic Rewind offers an out-of-this-world experience that transports riders into the heart of the Marvel Universe.

Disney Resorts

Guests have no shortage of options when it comes to finding accommodations at Walt Disney World, with more than 25 resort hotels to choose from.

At a Disney Resort hotel, guests can be immersed in the magic while enjoying the same amazing details, storytelling and service known from the theme parks. Plus, guests receive special perks, such as more time in the theme parks, complimentary transportation and more.

Food and drink

From tasty snacks to world-class dining, Walt Disney World Resort invites guests to a wide range of food and drink options, serving up satisfying meals for every appetite.

Possibilities abound, with options throughout the resort including the following and many more:

• Be Our Guest: This Beauty and the Beast-themed restaurant offers a unique dining experience set in the Beast’s castle in Magic Kingdom’s Fantasyland. The eatery features French-inspired cuisine for both lunch and dinner.

• Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria: After a long day in the park, nothing hits the spot like a delicious slice of pizza. At Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria, located in EPCOT, diners are treated to wood-fired pies, authentic Italian ingredients and a wide selection of pastas and fresh salads.

• Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo: Here, guests munch on distinctive dishes influenced by cuisines all across the galaxy. The eatery, located in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, is housed within a working hangar bay inspired by Black Spire Outpost.

• Satu’li Canteen: At this fast-casual eatery in Pandora — The World of Avatar, health-conscious options with international inspiration are the name of the game.

• Steakhouse 71: This contemporary steakhouse offers a classic American menu with a modern twist. The restaurant provides a relaxed ambiance and a plentiful selection of steaks, seafood, and other dishes, providing a memorable dining experience for guests.

To support a stress-free guest experience, most of Walt Disney World eateries can accommodate food allergies and other dietary restrictions.

Disneyland Resort

On the other side of the country, in sunny Southern California, is Walt Disney’s original theme park. Disneyland Resort first opened in 1955, kicking off Disney’s tradition of creating magical lands for all to enjoy.

Disneyland Resort upholds a tradition of ceaseless innovation. Similar to Walt Disney World, Imagineers and cast members continue to harness their creativity and world-class guest service to create magical moments.

Theme parks

Located in Anaheim, California, Disneyland Resort features two distinct theme parks:

• Disneyland Park: Opened by Walt Disney himself, Disneyland park is an enchanted theme park that brings fairy tales to life through innovation and creativity. Themed areas like Adventureland, Fantasyland and Tomorrowland allow guests to step into their favorite Disney stories with character encounters and exciting attractions.

• Disney California Adventure Park: Also located at Disneyland Resort is Disney California Adventure park. This park celebrates the uniqueness and diversity of California’s history with themed lands that capture the essence of various settings throughout the state. Its themed areas, inspired by tales and epic adventures from Pixar and Super Heroes, take guests on a journey with every step.

Attractions & Experiences

So how many attractions are at Disneyland Resort? Like Disney World, the resort’s two theme parks offer dozens of attractions and experiences. Whether you’re looking for a high-stakes thrill ride or a leisurely escape into a world of imagination, these attractions allow any guest to experience Disney magic.

A few favorites include:

• WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure: Team up with the amazing Spider-Man on a high stakes mission to stop an army of Spider-Bots. This interactive attraction uses gesture-based technology and allows guests to sling webs themselves and save the day.

• Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run: Located in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run allows guests to step inside the legendary spacecraft and be a part of its crew. Guests can take on the roles of pilot, gunner or engineer to complete a daring mission through immersive gameplay and special effects.

• Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway: This laid back train ride quickly turns into a whimsical adventure through a cartoon world inspired by Mickey and Minnie Mouse. An ideal attraction for children and families, the Runaway Railway experience is filled with beloved Disney characters and captivating storylines that everyone can enjoy together.

• Indiana Jones Adventure: Venture into the Temple of the Forbidden Eye in this attraction inspired by the Indiana Jones franchise. Guests embark on a quest to discover the secret treasure of Mara, facing collapsing bridges, giant insects and rivers of lava along the way.

• Radiator Springs Racers: Capturing the magic of the Disney and Pixar classic “Cars,” this attraction takes guests on a tour of Radiator Springs, where they’ll meet up with fan favorites Lightning McQueen and Mater. The innovative ride system allows for either a leisurely drive or a fast-paced racing competition, making it an ideal attraction for guests of all ages.

Hotels

Altogether, there are three Hotels of the Disneyland Resort, each with its own theming, services and amenities:

• Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa: This resort features a rustic arts-and-crafts-style theme, blending seamlessly into the nearby Disney California Adventure park. In addition to being a relaxing place to spend the night, this hotel offers fine dining, themed pools and easy access to the theme parks. The hotel is also home to the full-service Tenaya Stone Spa, where guests can recharge in between their adventures.

• Disneyland Hotel: For guests looking to celebrate the spirit of Disneyland past and present, Disneyland Hotel features four towers — Adventure, Fantasy and Frontier — inspired by the resort’s three original lands. Guests who prefer the comforts of home can now stay in a villa within the new Discovery tower. Steps away from the Downtown Disney District, the Disneyland Hotel puts guests at the heart of the resort, with excellent dining and recreation options waiting for them after a long day at the park.

• Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel: Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel features amenities like a rooftop pool and waterslide, beach-inspired dining experiences and charming Disney touches. This property will officially transform into Pixar Place Hotel on Jan. 30, 2024, becoming the first fully Pixar-themed hotel in the United States.

Food and drink

Disneyland Resort is known for its world-famous rides and luxurious accommodations, but there’s no shortage of delicious food and drink, either.

Select picks include:

• Blue Bayou Restaurant: Set inside the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction, diners can enjoy the ambiance of a Louisiana bayou, complete with fireflies and the gentle sound of crickets, creating an atmospheric and memorable dining experience.

• Carthay Circle Restaurant: Located in Disney California Adventure, this restaurant reflects the themes of the surrounding park. A menu showcasing upscale California cuisine provides an excellent dining experience with the perfect blend of Disney storytelling.

• San Fransokyo Square dining: San Fransokyo Square offers diverse dining options, encompassing the fusion of Japanese and American cultures. From bustling food carts serving delicious street food to upscale sushi restaurants, guests can try a variety of flavors. Ramen shops and trendy cafes add to the culinary scene, creating a vibrant atmosphere for those exploring this unique and culturally rich dining destination.

As with Disney World, eateries at Disneyland Resort can readily accommodate many dietary restrictions with allergen-friendly, plant-based, vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Adventure awaits at Disney’s resorts

Whether you find yourself strolling down Main Street, U.S.A., under the shadow of Sleeping Beauty Castle or wandering through the alluring lands of Magic Kingdom, both Disneyland and Disney World hold unforgettable experiences in store.

No matter which resort you choose for your vacation, both offer the opportunity to make cherished memories and bask in the magic of Disney for the entirety of your stay.

The post What’s the Difference Between Disneyland and Disney World? appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

Disney’s dedication to military service members and veterans goes back more than a century. From the ambitions of a patriotic young Walt Disney to the establishment of life-changing programs and institutions, Disney’s steadfast support of veterans and the military community continues to evolve and have a meaningful impact on those who have bravely served our country.

Walt Disney and the First World War

When World War I was underway, Walt Disney felt a responsibility to contribute, but he was too young to join the military. However, the relatively new Red Cross was recruiting 17-year-olds for extra help on the battlefield, and Walt knew this was his chance to give back.

Determined to serve his country alongside his brother, Roy O. Disney, who was enlisted in the U.S. Navy during World War I, Walt was able to officially join the Red Cross and ventured overseas at the tail end of hostilities. When Germany ultimately surrendered in 1918, Red Cross Ambulance Corps drivers helped carry supplies, escort officers and help injured soldiers in a then post-war France.

Walt soon arrived in France and worked with the Red Cross Ambulance Corps, serving as a driver until 1919. Walt Disney’s experiences with the Red Cross during that time instilled in him a deep respect for military members and their sacrifices, laying the foundation for his lifelong dedication to supporting veterans.

World War II and The Walt Disney Studios

When World War II began, Walt Disney Studios had already captured the country’s imagination with iconic animated characters like Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck. Soon, those same characters would be recruited to join the war effort, so to speak.

Disney-themed military insignias

Throughout World War II, The Walt Disney Company made significant contributions to improve the morale of U.S. forces with specially designed insignias. As the war raged on, Disney created more than 1,200 of these insignias, which were proudly displayed on aircraft, medical units, uniforms and other military equipment.

One of the most popular designs was Donald Duck, a character whose toughness and grit embodied the attitude of service members. Donald eventually became the unofficial mascot of troops fighting for their country.

While the Allied forces were equipped with decorative insignias overseas, Walt Disney Studio characters also played a role in raising the spirits of those back home. The studio produced a number of cartoons that promoted nationwide patriotism and featured caricatures of opposing forces.

Disney, veterans and the post-war era

By the end of World War II, Disney had solidified his place as a beloved icon of American culture. He had more opportunities than ever to give back to those who had or were still serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.

Marine Toys for Tots

For more than 75 years, Disney has supported the Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program that brings holiday cheer to millions of families.

The tradition began in 1947 when Walt Disney and his team of studio animators produced the first Toys for Tots logo, which is still in use today. In the 75 years since, Marine Toys for Tots has upheld its legacy of bringing joy to those in need. U.S. Marines and volunteers have distributed 652 million toys to more than 291 million children. In 2022, Toys for Tots distributed more than 24 million toys to nearly 10 million children, a record-breaking year for the organization.

Disney’s Submarine Voyage

Opened to the public in 1959, Disney’s Submarine Voyage honored the U.S. Armed Forces with a fleet of submarines named after real-life U.S. Navy vessels. The attraction debuted with a dedication ceremony led by Navy Admiral Charles C. Kirkpatrick, and crowds gathered for a glimpse of what lay beneath the sea.

Guests at Disneyland have also enjoyed daily flag ceremonies since this iconic park first opened in 1955. The tradition continues today with a daily Flag Retreat Ceremony. This patriotic ceremony features the lowering of the flag, a color guard, and the singing of the national anthem. Veterans and military service members often participate in the event, which takes place at Disneyland’s Town Square every sunset. A special daily flag retreat has also been conducted at Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World every day since the park first opened in 1971. A veteran or service member is selected daily from the day’s visitors to be the official “Veteran of the Day” and participate in the nightly ceremony.

How Disney supports veteran employment

Disney supports veteran employment through various initiatives and programs, each dedicated to the betterment of military personnel and their families. From on-the-job training to employment for military spouses, Disney is committed to offering support along the post-military service journey to successful civilian careers.

Disney’s Heroes Work Here program

The Heroes Work Here program promotes the hiring of veterans at Disney. By assisting veterans with their transition to civilian life, Heroes Work Here recognizes the valuable expertise that military personnel bring to the workplace and helps them pursue careers within The Walt Disney Company.

To date, the initiative has helped 15,000 veterans find employment within The Walt Disney Company since its launch in 2012, underscoring Disney’s unwavering dedication to the military community. In addition to providing employment opportunities for U.S. military members, Heroes Work Here remains committed to facilitating the professional success of veterans and their families.

Launch of the Veterans Institute

Carving the path forward to expanding access to employment and career training for military members, veterans and their families, The Walt Disney Company launched the Veterans Institute in 2013 to inspire organizations by utilizing actionable insights from The Walt Disney Company’s Heroes Work Here initiative.

The Veterans Institute involves several coordinated events designed to educate organizations on how to improve their methods of outreach, recruitment and training of U.S. military veterans. These summits guide businesses to collaborate and share best practices for transitioning new employees out of military life. The Veterans Institute also plays a critical role in the hiring and training of military spouses.

Promoting diversity and inclusion through SALUTE BERG

In addition to facilitating military service members into civilian life and professional roles, The Walt Disney Company has established the Disney SALUTE Business Employee Resource Group (BERG) for veterans, as well as their friends and family.

The Disney SALUTE BERG places emphasis on social and peer support for those coming to Disney from the military community, providing a sense of belonging for veterans working at the company. The group also provides community service opportunities for its members, enabling them to do what veterans do best: offer service to their country and community.

DOD SkillBridge

Navigating career changes is often challenging, but transitioning out of military life can be a particularly daunting experience. That’s why The Walt Disney Company participates in training programs like the DoD SkillBridge by providing fellowships and career development opportunities for military service members during their last days on active duty.

SkillBridge offers military service members the chance to gain valuable civilian work experience at participating organizations who offer them internships where they can play a contributing role as they prepare to transition from military to civilian life. At Disney, these veterans are placed in fellowships that align with their existing professional experience. These opportunities also encourage participating service members to enhance their skill sets and broaden their career horizons.

Disney’s current veteran support initiatives

Disney’s support for veterans has never faltered. New and innovative programs designed to elevate the education and career opportunities for military personnel and their families continue to be developed today.

Shades of Green

Shades of Green is a U.S. Armed Forces Recreation Center, located on Walt Disney World Resort property. As part of Disney’s salute to service, the company leased the Department of Defense the land for 100 years so that military members and their families would be closest to the magic. It offers accommodations and amenities designed to provide an affordable vacation option with the promise of a Disney adventure.

In addition to easy access to Walt Disney World, Shades of Green features delicious dining options, wellness centers and kid-friendly activities. Guests can also receive exclusive military discounts on theme park tickets, expanding access for more military families to take part in the remarkable world of Disney.

Department of Defense Warrior Games

The Department of Defense Warrior Games is an action-packed celebration that invites wounded service members to showcase their resilience in a series of athletic competitions. Athletes in the DoD Warrior Games put their physicality to the test while cheering on their teammates in a series of adaptive sports events, such as wheelchair basketball, cycling and powerlifting.

Walt Disney World has had the honor of hosting the DoD Warrior Games at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in previous years. The resort will host again in June 2024, providing the ideal venue for the camaraderie and teamwork that the games represent.

Disney’s Military Salute Program

Disney’s Military Salute Program was established by The Walt Disney Company to offer and other exclusive benefits to eligible members of the U.S. military. This veteran discount is designed to show appreciation for the service and sacrifices of military personnel and their families by offering easier access to resorts like Walt Disney World and Disneyland.

Student Veterans of America

Disney was honored to donate $1 million to Student Veterans of America (SVA) in November 2023 as part of the company’s commitment to helping veterans find meaningful careers following their military service. With this donation, Disney became the founding sponsor of the upcoming SVA Career Center, a transformative initiative that will empower veterans with the tools and guidance they need to successfully transition into the civilian workforce and unlock their full potential like never before.

Disney has enjoyed an enduring relationship with Student Veterans of America dating back to 2012 following the launch of our Heroes Work Here initiative. This collaboration not only facilitates a smooth transition to civilian life for student veterans but also reflects a shared dedication of leveraging the unique skills of those who have served in the Armed Forces.

Donations to Fisher House and other nonprofit organizations

Another reflection of its steadfast support for military veterans, The Walt Disney Company has made substantial financial contributions to vital nonprofit organizations like Fisher House Foundation. Fisher House has established comfort homes in the United States and around the world where active service members, military veterans and their families can stay at no cost while loved ones receive medical treatment. Since 2012, Disney has donated more than $20 million to veteran-focused organizations.

Celebrating service for more than a century

Disney’s commitment to veterans and military families spans across a century, from its founder’s early experiences in the Red Cross to the company’s modern-day employment initiatives. The legacy of respect and gratitude continues to better the lives of veterans returning to civilian life and honors those who have made the ultimate sacrifice to keep our country safe.

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Storyliving by Disney is sharing some of the designs for the first homes being built in the Cotino community in Rancho Mirage, California, as part of the community’s pre-sales period launching today. Interested homebuyers can learn more about becoming Cotino community residents including specifics on home designs, floorplans and elevations along with details about how to make a pre-sales appointment on the Story of Cotino website.

The first-ever Storyliving by Disney community is currently underway, where the magic of Walt Disney Imagineering and a talented team of industry experts, including DMB Development, will bring the Disney legacy of placemaking and attention to detail to life like never before. Set against the stunning San Jacinto mountains, the beauty of the Coachella Valley has ignited the imaginations of many over the years, including Walt Disney himself.

Disney Connections: Walt and the Coachella Valley

The design of the Cotino community is inspired by everything Walt and Lillian Disney loved about the Coachella Valley – stunning landscape, rich history, friendly neighbors and energizing spirit.

“It seems fitting that Cotino, the first Storyliving by Disney community, would have a similar setting as the one that Walt loved so much,” said Walt Disney Archives Director Becky Cline. “Walt enjoyed the Palm Springs area as a creative, rejuvenating retreat, and our hope is that it will inspire future homeowners and guests just like it did him.”

Only at Cotino: Home Designs

The first homes will be built by award-winning builder Shea Homes with floorplans designed for this community. From spacious kitchens with walk-in pantries to large dining rooms perfect for family gatherings, the homes in Cotino will offer future residents flexibility to choose an option that works best for them. Open floorplans seamlessly connect indoor space to outdoor courtyards, wrap-around patios and covered terraces designed to truly immerse residents in the region’s natural beauty.

Homes will fall within four distinct design collections – Cotino Coachella Collection, Cotino Agrarian Collection, Cotino Oasis Collection and Cotino Aspiron Collection – representing the rich history and landscape of the Palm Springs area. Walt Disney Imagineering provided the architectural and aesthetic inspiration for each design collection including direction on color palettes, exterior elements and landscaping.

The initial sales launch in early 2024 will include a very limited inventory of Shea Homes. Additional home sites and builders will be introduced in phases through a thoughtful development approach as the community expands. In the future, there are plans for more than 1,900 residential units.

Getting Started: Find Your Cotino Community Home

Homebuyers interested in living in the Cotino community can begin the process by visiting the Story of Cotino website to learn more about the homes available in the initial release, including floorplans, elevations and anticipated pricing, and request a pre-sales appointment. Pre-sales appointments will be with Disney sales guides who will bring the Disney standard of customer service excellence to the homebuying journey. Requests for pre-sales appointments both virtually and in-person at the Cotino sales studio can be made by visiting the Story of Cotino website. Appointments are available now through Jan. 9, 2024 (subject to availability), prior to the start of home sales in early 2024. The on-site Cotino sales studio is open for in-person meetings by appointment only.

Home prices are set by the homebuilders. Purchase agreements will be between the buyer and the homebuilder.

Cotino is being brought to life in collaboration with DMB Development, which is highly regarded for its large-scale planned communities in the U.S.

Cotino is the first Storyliving by Disney community in the U.S. and other locations are under exploration. Each community will be uniquely designed with creative guidance from Walt Disney Imagineers who will take inspiration from the surrounding area’s history, community and landscape to create a one-of-a-kind place that inspires residents to write their next chapter.

For those interested in living in the Cotino community, pre-sales appointments are now available. More information, including additional details about the first available homes and next steps for scheduling a pre-sales appointment, can be found on the Story of Cotino website.

This content contains general information about future proposed community plans, which are subject to change or cancellation at any time without notice. Disney is not the developer, builder or seller of homes within Cotino community or other Storyliving by Disney communities. The parties developing and building homes are independently owned and operated. No guarantee is made that the community, the Club or any facilities or improvements therein will continue to be managed by Disney, use the name “Disney” or otherwise be associated with Disney.  This does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation to buy, real estate to residents of any state or jurisdiction where prohibited by law, or where prior registration is required, but has not yet been fulfilled.  Storyliving by Disney Realty is the exclusive listing agent for residential properties in Storyliving by Disney communities.  Equal Housing Opportunity. Broker participation welcome. See storylivingbydisney.com for full details. [Storyliving by Disney  Realty, DRE License No. 02194403]

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Constantly evolving, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge continues to surprise visitors with new attractions and inventive features developed by Disney’s Imagineers. By bringing memorable Star Wars characters to life and giving guests the chance to interact with them, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge bridges the gap between sci-fi and reality, transporting guests to a galaxy far, far away.

Recently, the team at Disney gave guests a special sneak peek at what exciting new additions may be coming next: interactive droids

Walking, Talking Droids at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

Droids have been an iconic and integral part of Star Wars since the debut of the franchise. From lovable companions to fierce imperial troops, these robots can be found all throughout the films and may soon appear at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.

Imagineers are working hard to make these friendly droids a part of the park experience, with the possibility for interactive droids to be a continued feature at Disneyland. Much like previous advancements in Disney entertainment technology, animation made the development of three small experimental droids possible. Artists animated keyframe movements that the new droids could read and mimic. These motions include dances, head tilts and even a red-eyed glare.

This rich tradition of pioneering attractions traces back to Disneyland’s roots — innovations in robotics have played a major role in establishing the park’s legacy, and these droids mark the next step forward in animatronic technology.

Digging in to the Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Droid Playtest

Test runs with the interactive droids are underway at Disneyland’s Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. In a sneak peek conducted by Walt Disney Imagineering and Disney Research, the new droids journeyed across the Batuu region of Star Wars: Galaxy’ Edge, greeting guests along the way.

The playtest droids featured the latest advancements in robotics and engineering. The aim of the visit was to explore how these charismatic characters would work within the park environment, with new obstacles, uneven terrain, and curious guests coming across their path.

Walking in single-file alongside a costumed cast member dressed as a Batuun droid handler, the three “BD units” — short for “buddy units” — scanned their surroundings with light-up eyes and eye-like antennae that reacted to actual sounds in real-time. Not only did this trio of droids move independently, they also interacted with guests, cast members and other animatronics throughout the park.

The droids’ visit was an exciting sneak peek into what’s possible for Disney’s future. Although the droids’ return has not yet been announced, their next visit will be as exciting for guests as their first.

Droids at Disney: Continuing a Tradition of Daring Developments

The arrival of droids at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge embodies the park’s commitment to unforgettable and immersive experiences for fans of all ages. By inviting guests to step inside the world of Star Wars and interact with their favorite characters first-hand, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge stands as a testament to the storytelling power and enduring magic of Disney theme parks.

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From pioneering animation techniques and theme park innovations to its digital transformation, Disney has been at the cutting edge of entertainment technology for nearly a century.

Early animation innovations

When The Walt Disney Company was Disney Brothers Cartoon Studio, animation technology was in its early years. Many of the techniques and tools needed to make cartoons possible had yet to be developed, with animators struggling to find ways of bringing their visions to life.

Rather than wait for this new technology to become available, Walt Disney, in his innovative style, ventured to build these capabilities in-house. The result was a great leap forward in filmmaking, ushering in new inventions that made full-length animated features possible.

Technicolor

During the 1930s, Walt Disney Cartoon Studio developed technicolor, a film process that allowed movies to be produced in vibrant, lifelike colors. This visual enhancement of animated films allowed artists to create worlds that radiated energy and jumped off the screen in a way audiences had never seen before.

For Disney, technicolor was a game-changer. In 1937, the studio used this new technology to release “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” which became the first full-length, color and animated feature. It marked a significant achievement in animation and cemented Disney’s reputation as a pioneer.

Rotoscoping

One of the biggest challenges in early animation was managing realistic motion and mannerisms for cartoon characters. Disney animators developed rotoscoping to achieve more fluid movement in their animated sequences. This technique involved tracing images over live-action footage to match movements frame by frame for a lifelike effect.

In “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” animators used rotoscoping to construct Snow White’s movements. This technology played a crucial role in elevating the realism and emotional depth of Disney’s characters, setting new standards for animated storytelling.

Xerography

Before animation could reach its full potential, Walt Disney Studios had to cut down on production costs. Hand-drawn animation cels may have been feasible for cartoon shorts, but full-length films required something a bit more inventive.

Xerography allowed Disney animators to photocopy hand-drawn images into cels using photocopying technology. This innovation significantly cut labor costs by eliminating time-consuming steps like manual inking. Adopting this new approach not only led to a more streamlined animation process but opened the door for more Disney animated classics like “The Jungle Book” and “One Hundred and One Dalmatians.”

Early theme park technology

When Disneyland opened in 1955, it introduced an array of new entertainment technologies that transformed the theme park industry. Aiming to build unique attractions that were as fun as they were inventive, Disneyland’s team of Imagineers laid the foundation for imaginative experiences that continue to captivate guests today.

Notable early theme park innovations included:

• Audio-Animatronics technology: Walt Disney and his team introduced Audio-Animatronics figures, a groundbreaking technology that brought lifelike, moving figures to the park. The Enchanted Tiki Room (1963) and Pirates of the Caribbean (1967) debuted early examples of these mechanical figures, creating immersive and interactive experiences for visitors.

• Monorail System: Disneyland’s monorail system, introduced in 1959, was one of the first daily operating monorails in the Western Hemisphere. This electric-powered transportation system offered futuristic, elevated rides around the park, providing a novel and efficient mode of transportation.

• Matterhorn Bobsleds: Matterhorn Bobsleds opened in 1959 as the world’s first tubular steel roller coaster. The new feature combined steel construction techniques and novel engineering. Enhancing this attraction delivered a thrilling and innovative experience for park visitors, setting the standard for modern roller coasters.

Digital transformation of Disney technology

Since digital technology first arrived on the scene, Disney has embraced it as the next tool to change the entertainment industry. Here’s a look at some of the ways computerized capabilities have transformed Disney technology.

Pixar and computer animation

The Disney-Pixar partnership began a new era in the world of filmmaking and continued the tradition of groundbreaking leaps forward in animation. “Toy Story,” released in 1995, was the first feature-length film to be animated with computer-generated imagery (CGI) and became an instant classic among audiences of all ages.

The success of “Toy Story” led to Disney’s acquisition of Pixar in 2006, with collaboration between the two organizations leading to some of the most beloved CGI animated films to date. “Up,” “Wall-E,” “Monsters Inc.” and “Cars” would all be released around this time, each finding a place as an instant classic in Disney’s lineup of animated films.

The technological advances displayed in early Pixar films greatly influenced the movie industry as a whole, with rival studios adopting similar digital animation technology as an integral component of their storytelling approach.

Digital technology and theme parks

The integration of digital technology at Disney didn’t stop at the film studio. Imagineers around the world once again transformed the world of entertainment by developing attractions that used these new tools to create one-of-a-kind experiences.

For example, Disney’s acquisition of Lucasfilm in 2012 brought the iconic Star Wars franchise into the fold and enabled Disney to leverage the storytelling potential of the franchise while integrating innovative technologies. As a result, experiences such as Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Disneyland and Walt Disney World have introduced cutting-edge advancements in Audio-Animatronics technology, interactive experiences and themed environments.

Imagineers have also developed an advanced form of robotics called Stuntronics, a groundbreaking technology that brings characters to life in an unforgettable way. While most Animatronics stay in one fixed position, Stuntronics have the unique ability to perform high-action acrobatic stunts like airborne flips and mid-air poses.

This technology is already dazzling theme park audiences through the addition of a Spider-Man Stuntronic at Disneyland’s Avengers Campus.

The future of Disney technology

After 100 years of guiding the entertainment industry from one generation to the next, The Walt Disney Company’s efforts continue to discover new and creative ways of reimagining entertainment. To this day, Disney’s technological advancements remain on the cutting edge, with Imagineers seeking out fresh, modern forms of delivering magical moments for theme park guests.

Virtual and augmented reality

Branching off the capabilities offered through digital technology, virtual and augmented reality offer a promising new arena for even more immersive experiences. Imagineers are already studying how this tech can be brought to its full potential when combined with Disney storytelling.

Virtual reality, or VR, in theme parks involves the use of headsets or goggles that completely cover the user’s field of vision, creating a computer-generated virtual world for them to interact with. Augmented reality, or AR, uses computer-generated images and information overlaid onto the real-world environment.

Disney: A magical legacy of innovation

The entertainment industry has seen rapid changes throughout the last century, and Disney technology has remained at the forefront. The company’s unyielding desire to discover and innovate continues to influence the industry and creates enduring memories for audiences all over the world.

The post Disney & Technology: A History of Standard-Setting Innovation appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

Last week, Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa hosted its largest wish-granting event ever, where 20 Make-A-Wish kids and their families were invited to visit the resort for a week filled with Hawaiian and Halloween adventures. Events on the itinerary included a Lū‘au, Halloween Dance Party, character meet and greets and more.

It’s no exaggeration to say that all 1,700 cast members in the Aulani ‘ohana had a hand in bringing this first-of-its-kind wish event to life. From planning the trip to ensuring a practically a perfect stay filled with authentically-Aulani experiences, our cast members create magic that makes every wish kid feel like a VIP. Keep reading to meet some of the cast members behind the magic!

Planning a “Practically Perfect” Make-A-Wish Trip: Mika, Arlene & Tim

From the very moment a wish to visit Aulani is made, our Guest Services team works with Make-A-Wish Hawaii to plan the perfect trip – including scheduling dates and booking medical travel accommodations.  

“I often ask the kids: why did you choose to visit Aulani on your Make-A-Wish trip?” shared Arlene Aquiat, an Aulani Guest Services Coordinator.

Their answers? “The pool, the beach, snorkeling and Mickey Mouse!”  

“We become friends with the Make-A-Wish families and those relationships last long after their stay. We even receive Christmas cards,” said Mika Kamanao, another Guest Services Coordinator whose coworkers lovingly gave her the nickname ‘Mika-Wish.’ “We also have families who return after the wish trip. Aulani holds a special place in their hearts as one of the last magical memories as a family.” 

Once our guests arrive at Aulani, it’s time to check in and see their rooms, and our Housekeeping team works hard to kick-start their vacation in the best way possible.  

“For me, I have a soft spot for wish kids and what they’re going through, as I have family members who had leukemia,” explained Tim Fountain, Housekeeping Manager. 

Tim and his team make sure to include the entire wish family in the experience. “The wish kid is the hero of the journey, but there’s a supporting cast there as well,” said Tim. That’s why the team leaves special surprises for the entire ‘ohana – activity booklets and crayons, unique towel animals and more – to welcome the whole family home.

Creating Connections During Disney’s Aulani Wish Week: Raffy

Aulani Wish Week was all about families creating connections with each other and their larger community. Raffy Jacinto on the Animals, Science and Environment (ASE) team helped the wish families make those connections and experience the magic of the islands with a snorkeling experience at Rainbow Reef during their stay.  

“Rainbow Reef was designed to be accessible and safe for guests, providing a snorkeling experience well-suited for beginners or those who may not be able to go into the ocean,” shared Raffy. “It’s the perfect opportunity for us to create a connection for our wish families with the ocean. That’s one of our goals here at Aulani, to connect guests to nature and the story of Hawai’i.” 

Aulani Cast Bring The Spirit Of Aloha: Genesis & Angela  

Our entertainment cast members bring the spirit of aloha and the magic of Disney together. 

“It may seem commonplace to have a character meet and greet at Disney, but it’s so much more than that,” shared Genesis Larson, Entertainment Lead & Trainer at Aulani Resort. “Who the characters are – their personalities, their stories – transcend time and place, and they are always relevant to what is going on in a wish child’s life. Their impact and magic cannot be understated and they’re spending time with a family, that impact is unforgettable.” 

One of the entertainment cast members, Angela Escontrias, has worked at Aulani Resort since it opened in 2011 and is well-loved around the property as an Aunty. Her world turned upside down in 2015 when her son, Mana, was diagnosed with a brain tumor.   

“Before surgery, Mana would have chronic seizures and headaches, but the ocean healed him and he did not have seizures when on the water,” explained Angela. When the opportunity came for his wish, Mana asked for a 4-man outrigger canoe and was given the chance to help build one. He was overjoyed on his wish day when he found out that the canoe he got to help build… was his. Angela was touched that so much of her Aulani family was there when Mana’s wish was granted, and she never forgot the experience.  

“When Mana got sick and I became a Make-A-Wish mom, it made my work with Make-A-Wish families even stronger,” Angela shared. “I was an entertainment lead at the time, so I would take wish families to meet their favorite characters. As a fellow wish parent, this bond would start with the wish families, especially the parents. Even though they looked at it like I was supporting their kid’s wish, it was helping me get through Mana’s situation.”  

For Angela, a wish is all about strength. “When a child is granted a wish, they want it to come true, so it’s an incentive for them to stay strong and healthy.” Angela explained. “If a child wants to go to Aulani, the wish is their reward. It also inspires them when they go home to not forget what they want to create, be or do.”   

Disney is honored to be the world’s largest wish granter for Make-A-Wish. We’ve worked together for over 40 years to grant more than 150,000 Disney wishes. Of these, 150 wishes every year are to visit Aulani for a unique Hawai‘i vacation experience with a touch of Disney magic.   

A warm mahalo (thank you) to Arlene, Mika, Tim, Genesis, Raffy, Angela and all our ‘ohana who make wishes come true.

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What are the six Disney Resorts?

Disney’s six resorts, located around the world, include:

• Disneyland Resort
• Walt Disney World Resort
• Tokyo Disney Resort
• Disneyland Paris
• Hong Kong Disneyland Resort
• Shanghai Disney Resort

Disney’s theme parks are located throughout these resorts. And while many are continents apart, they share a common mission of creating unforgettable moments that make the trip worthwhile.

Exploring The Walt Disney Company’s 12 theme parks

Let’s dive into Disney’s 12 theme parks and explore what makes each one special and what different adventures guests can expect when they visit.

Disneyland Park (Disneyland Resort, Anaheim, California, USA)

Disneyland park was the first of Walt Disney’s signature theme parks, opening in Anaheim, California in 1955 and featuring the now-iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle.

While visiting Disneyland park, guests can visit popular areas like Adventureland, where they can take a Jungle Cruise or go on exciting expeditions with Indiana Jones.

The park also encompasses fan-favorite attractions like Pirates of the Caribbean, an adventure through a life-sized Caribbean port, and Space Mountain, a thrilling roller coaster excursion through the dark depths of the cosmos.

Disney California Adventure Park (Disneyland Resort, Anaheim, California, USA)

Disney California Adventure park is another theme park located within Disneyland Resort, known for its thrilling rides and stunning attractions.

Take Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! for example. It’s a high-stakes drop tower ride situated within Avengers Campus, a land home to attractions, shops and spectacles inspired by Earth’s mightiest heroes.

The Incredicoaster, found in Pixar Pier, is another park favorite, delivering a super-speed adventure with the Parr family from Disney and Pixar’s “The Incredibles” via one of the world’s longest steel roller coasters.

Then there’s Cars Land, a themed area found only at Disney California Adventure. Based on the “Cars” film franchise, the area’s attractions, shops and restaurants feature evocative design elements inspired by America’s legendary Route 66.

Magic Kingdom Park (Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando, Florida, USA)

On the other side of the U.S.A. sits the legendary Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort. As the embodiment of the Disney experience, Magic Kingdom boasts a collection of imaginative attractions that are known all over the world.

The park is home to several beloved themed areas, from the future-first Tomorrowland to Main Street, U.S.A., which leads to the park’s enchanting Cinderella Castle, the park’s centerpiece.

Thrill seekers can explore outer space on the world-renowned Space Mountain before racing through the Grid in TRON Lightcycle / Run presented by Enterprise.

EPCOT (Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando, Florida, USA)

Flaunting futuristic innovation while celebrating world cultures, EPCOT offers a truly unique Disney experience. EPCOT opened in 1982 at Walt Disney World Resort to give guests a peek into the world of tomorrow without ever leaving Orlando.

While visiting EPCOT, guests are free to explore the four neighborhoods that make up the park. World Celebration, World Discovery, World Nature and World Showcase all offer a unique spin on the Disney experience.

World Showcase, for example, features 11 culturally distinct pavilions representing countries from around the globe, offering culinary delights, shopping and entertainment to provide an experience that’s as educational as it is immersive.

Spaceship Earth, the park’s iconic geodesic sphere, hosts a journey through human history while standing as the park’s most recognizable feature since its opening.

Journey of Water is another new addition to EPCOT. Celebrating the world of Moana, this lush environment lets guests explore an interactive water garden while learning about the importance of water’s relationship to the environment.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park (Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando, Florida, USA)

Disney’s Animal Kingdom invites guests to explore the natural world.

Located on the western edge of Walt Disney World, this park is home to hundreds of species of animals, drawing in guests eager to learn about the natural world and witness the wonder of wildlife.

The park places a heavy emphasis on the importance of conservation and eco-friendliness, too. Disney’s Animal Kingdom is home to a butterfly garden, for example, designed to benefit pollinators and help the natural world thrive.

The Tree of Life serves as the park’s centerpiece, standing 145 feet tall and featuring intricate carvings representing over 300 animals. Guests can also check out Pandora – The World of Avatar to discover the enchanting landscapes of James Cameron’s blockbuster films.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios (Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando, Florida, USA)

For movie fans seeking an exciting escape, Disney’s Hollywood Studios could be just the place. This theme park transports guests into the heart of classic Hollywood, paying homage to the glamor of the film industry’s golden age.

Hollywood Studios is also a must-visit for sci-fi enthusiasts. Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge offers captivating quests in outer space through attractions like Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance.

Courageous guests can also get a thrill from The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, which takes riders on a tour through the haunted Hollywood Tower Hotel. In addition to these rides, Hollywood Studios features themed dining options and plenty of storefronts where guests can snag souvenirs to commemorate their time at the park.

Tokyo Disneyland (Tokyo Disney Resort, Chiba, Japan)

Tokyo Disneyland distinguishes itself as an innovative and unforgettable vacation destination even as it echoes the popular attractions of other Disney parks, like Disneyland and Magic Kingdom.

Like most Disney parks, Tokyo Disneyland is separated into several themed lands, including World Bazaar — the park’s version of Main Street, U.S.A. — along with Adventureland, Westernland, Critter Country, Fantasyland, Toontown and Tomorrowland. True to form, Tokyo Disneyland also showcases its own prominent Cinderella Castle. Each area, in authentic Disney fashion, is packed with attractions sure to entice anyone searching for a touch of magic.

Tokyo DisneySea (Tokyo Disney Resort, Chiba, Japan)

Near Tokyo Disneyland sits Tokyo DisneySea, a unique Disney park themed to the myths and stories of the sea. This nautical-themed park is split into seven themed “ports,” all bringing their corner of the world to life with stunning architecture, extraordinary attractions and a wide selection of table service restaurants.

Mediterranean Harbor, near the park’s entrance, is styled after an Italian port, complete with gondolas, canals and Venice-style buildings. Mermaid Lagoon, meanwhile, provides a more fantastical experience, where guests can explore the depths alongside Ariel and her friends from The Little Mermaid.

Tokyo DisneySea’s popular attractions include — but certainly aren’t limited to — a musical boat ride at Sindbad’s Storybook Voyage and the thrilling underground excursion that is Journey to the Center of the Earth.

The park’s commitment to storytelling and immersion provides an adventure that’s captivating, educational and inspiring for guests of all ages.

Disneyland Park (Disneyland Paris, Marne-la-Vallée, France)

With a combination of Disney magic and European elegance, the Parisian version of Disneyland Park is a visually stunning theme park packed with magical attractions. The elaborate take on Sleeping Beauty Castle is a testament to the imaginative spirit of the park, as is Alice’s Curious Labyrinth, a walkable plaza featuring classic Disney scenes and characters.

Disneyland Paris is divided into several themed areas, including familiar favorites like Main Street, U.S.A. Popular attractions include Star Wars Hyperspace Mountain, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Peril, Big Thunder Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean.

Walt Disney Studios Park (Disneyland Paris, Marne-la-Vallée, France)

Like Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort, Walt Disney Studios Park at Disneyland Paris guides guests through the magical world of cinema. The park features an array of lands like Avengers Campus and Worlds of Pixar, each brimming with exciting themed attractions and the potential for unforgettable moments.

The park is also the first to feature Ratatouille: The Adventure, an attraction that allows guests to see the world through Remy’s eyes as they lend a helping hand in the kitchen before making a daring escape.

Hong Kong Disneyland (Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, Lantau Island, Hong Kong)

Located on the shores of the South China Sea, Hong Kong Disneyland delivers the wonder of Disney in an experience that’s familiar to Disney enthusiasts yet unique to the park.

The immersive experiences Disney is known for are central to Hong Kong Disneyland’s appeal. Mystic Point, for example, is a themed area that plunges guests into a mystifying journey. The area’s key attraction, Mystic Manor, takes guests on an otherworldly adventure. Other lands within the park include Grizzly Gulch, the park’s spin on Frontierland and familiar favorites like Tomorrowland.

From its architecture and design to its innovative attractions, the park creates an experience that celebrates creativity and honors Disney’s global fanbase.

Shanghai Disneyland (Shanghai Disneyland Resort Pudong, Shanghai, China)

Shanghai Disneyland is an eye-catching park with the famous Enchanted Storybook Castle as its centerpiece. It’s the largest of Disney’s signature castles, and its singular design blends Disney style with Chinese architecture.

On top of this unforgettable sight, Shanghai Disneyland’s attractions take an innovative approach to traditional storytelling — as is the Disney way. Groundbreaking rides like Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure, Tron Lightcycle Power Run and Peter Pan’s Flight bring popular Disney tales to life like never before.

One of the park’s standout areas is the Gardens of Imagination. In addition to a variety of rides and attractions, the Gardens of Imagination feature seven different Chinese-themed gardens for guests to explore and take in the scenery.

12 Disney Theme Parks, 12 Unique Adventures

What started as a family-friendly vacation destination in Anaheim, California, has grown into an internationally beloved lineup of cutting-edge theme parks. Whether you’re exploring the enchanted streets of Disneyland Paris or embarking on a galactic adventure in Tokyo Disneyland, these 12 theme parks all deliver the imaginative entertainment that Disney has brought to millions for decades on end.

The post How Many Disney Parks Are There? appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

“Over the next decade, we’re going to have more projects underway than at any point in our history,” he said. “Our sole purpose is to give you more and more of what you love about a Disney experience. And then surprise and delight you with things you never dreamed possible.”

Take a look at some of the new Disney attractions, rides, hotels, and experiences recently opened or coming to parks around the world.

Shanghai Disney Resort

Already filled with once-in-a-lifetime experiences that are authentically Disney and distinctly Chinese, Shanghai Disney Resort continues to raise the bar with new and exciting attractions, hotels and more.

Zootopia

As guests step inside Zootopia at Shanghai Disneyland, they will be fully immersed in the world of the Walt Disney Animation Studios film, “Zootopia.” Upon entering the newest attraction, Zootopia: Hot Pursuit, guests will have the opportunity to become rookie police officers assigned to search for the missing superstar, Gazelle, alongside fellow officers Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde. On their search, guests will travel through some of Zootopia’s iconic districts, including Tundra Town, Sahara Square, and the Rainforest District. This new themed land features live entertainment experiences and opportunities to interact with some of your favorite characters from the film.

This land is set to open in late 2023.

New Themed Hotel

Guests will soon be able to experience an all-new, themed hotel built off the shores of Wishing Star Lake. The hotel will feature Art Nouveau architectural elements, while staying true to the early 20th century styles found throughout Shanghai. Guests will have a fantastic view of the park while also being able to enjoy the outdoor recreation opportunities at Wishing Star Lake.

Although we’re keeping the theme under wraps for now, guests will find some familiar faces and unique Disney touches to make each trip memorable, fun and full of magic.

We’ve broken ground on construction for this addition, so check back soon for the latest updates!

Disneyland Paris

Disneyland Paris continues to expand, offering even more to see and do at the popular resort. Check out these great attractions and reimagined hotel options coming to Paris, France.

Avengers Campus

Avengers Campus at Disneyland Paris is the latest in popular super hero themed lands and attractions around the globe, including Hong Kong Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Park. Avengers Campus at Disneyland Paris features a new roller coaster, Avengers Assemble: Flight Force, the interactive Spider-Man W.E.B. Adventure, dining opportunities and tons of exciting adventures that fans of all ages will love.

Frozen-Themed Land

Disneyland Paris is also getting a new land devoted to bringing the world of Disney Animations’ “Frozen” to life. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of Arendelle and interact with Elsa, Anna and fan favorite characters.

Disneyland Hotel

Located right at the entrance of the park, Disneyland Hotel is one of the most elegant and convenient places to stay. Stay in rooms inspired by “The Little Mermaid,” “Frozen,” “Moana” and other beloved Disney films. Inside, guests will have the opportunity to dine with their favorite characters, relax by the Crystal Pool and access the park right from the hotel.

The Disneyland Hotel will open its doors to guests on January 25, 2024.

Hong Kong Disneyland

Hong Kong Disneyland is adding even more to its unique and diverse experience.

World of Frozen

Step into the kingdom of Arendelle and experience the world of “Frozen.” Inspired by Nordic culture, architecture, design and cuisine, guests will witness their favorite characters come to life through the latest Audio-Animatronics figures when visiting World of Frozen. Kids, and kids at heart, will experience the joy of riding Wandering Oaken’s Sliding Sleighs and Frozen Ever After.

The World of Frozen opens on November 20, 2023.

Momentous

Hong Kong is bringing nighttime magic to its park with “Momentous,” a spectacular experience transforming the Castle of Magical Dreams into a canvas to share favorite Disney stories. Experience moments from Disney Animation’s “Dumbo,” “Peter Pan,” “Frozen,” “Tangled” and many more, all while listening to new versions of classic Disney tunes guests know and love.

Guests can catch this show every night at Hong Kong Disneyland.

Tokyo Disney Resort

Tokyo Disney Resort was our first international theme park, opening its doors in 1983, and it just keeps getting better. Check out these great attractions and experiences coming to Tokyo Disney Resort.

Fantasy Springs

Experience the magic of Frozen Kingdom, Rapunzel’s Forest and Peter Pan’s Never Land in Fantasy Springs at Tokyo DisneySea. This beautiful addition expands the park and gives guests the chance to interact with their favorite characters in their own worlds. This new themed port will feature restaurants, a shop and several new family-friendly attractions. Guests will also be able to stay in Fantasy Springs at our newest in-park luxury hotel. The hotel will be behind the Bayside Station, so guests can easily access the monorail to travel throughout the park.

Fantasy Springs is expected to open in spring 2024.

Space Mountain

Space Mountain has been a favorite at Tokyo Disney Resort since 1983, but we’re creating an all-new Space Mountain experience that will delight thrill-seekers and roller coaster aficionados alike. The indoor roller coaster will include enhanced special effects and optimized performance.

Guests will be able to ride the all-new Space Mountain in 2027.

Walt Disney World Resort

One of the most popular and most visited theme parks in the world is the Walt Disney World Resort. Here, innovation never stops with several new attractions coming soon to this popular Florida destination.

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

Splash Mountain is getting a complete makeover with help from Princess Tiana. This “Princess and the Frog”-themed water attraction will be located in the Magic Kingdom and is the perfect way to tell the inspirational story of Tiana while taking a trip through the bayou, seeing some familiar faces, and singing favorite songs.

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is expected to open in late 2024.

Moana Journey of Water

The Journey of Water attraction is a self-guided, self-paced experience where guests can interact with water and learn about the water cycle in a fun and playful way. Watch for familiar faces like Pua and Hei Hei, high five the water just like Moana does in the movie and get splashed by a crashing wave if you want to cool down.

This attraction opens in October 2023 as part of EPCOT’s World Nature neighborhood, bringing us one step closer to the completion of EPCOT’s multi-year transformation.

Disneyland Resort

Wondering what’s new at Disneyland? There is always something new to experience at Walt Disney’s original park – Disneyland Resort. Guests can take in more attractions, shows, festivals than ever before. Here are a few of the new attractions you’ll find.

Adventureland Treehouse

The Adventureland Treehouse is inspired by the 1962 film “Swiss Family Robinson” and is in the center of Adventureland. Each room features unique touches and guests can explore the tree by climbing stairs all the way into the canopy.

The Adventureland Treehouse is set to open in late 2023.

The New Mickey’s Toontown

Mickey’s Toontown has long been a fun and relaxing place for families with young children to unwind, and the new Toontown is no exception. You’ll find new play areas where kids can meet new friends and plenty of grassy spaces for picnicking and relaxing.

The land opened in March 2023 and is ready for guests to enjoy!

Innovation at an International Level

With many new attractions and experiences hitting parks and resorts around the world, there is much more on the horizon for all 12 of Disney’s parks.

Leading the evolution of Disney’s guest experience, Josh D’Amaro spends a significant amount of his time in the parks himself. D’Amaro noted in a recent interview, “I spend a lot of time in the theme parks. If I’m not in a meeting, that’s my office.” He spoke about the importance of input from guests and cast members to help make decisions and “make sure the places that we run continue to be the most special places in the world.”

To learn more about the latest attractions and park expansion efforts across the globe, explore what’s new.

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Who are the Global Disney Ambassadors?

The Global Disney Ambassador team represents thousands of cast members at our parks, resorts and experiences all around the world. They lead and participate in events, share cast member stories, spread Disney magic within their communities and represent their resort as an official spokesperson. 

History & Heritage of the Global Disney Ambassador Program

The Global Disney Ambassador Program began during the Tencennial Celebration of Disneyland, commemorating the Park’s first successful decade of operation. 

1964 was a busy time for Walt Disney and The Walt Disney Company: work was underway to celebrate the Tenth Anniversary of Disneyland; Mary Poppins was in theaters; teams were busy planning “Project X”, later to be revealed as Walt Disney World Resort; and all on the heels of the 1964 New York World’s Fair, which Walt Disney Imagineering had just created four new attractions for. 

During this time, Walt received many requests for media interviews and to attend numerous events. Considering the Tenth Anniversary of Disneyland was close at hand, he wanted to do something special to help celebrate. Recognizing the talented Cast of Disneyland, the Disney Ambassador Program was born. 

Walt wanted to have a Disneyland Cast Member assist him with the many requests he received. The Ambassador’s duties would include making public appearances and speeches, escorting dignitaries and other VIP Guests visiting Disneyland, traveling the country and the world promoting the Disney ideals. 

Since then, the program has grown to represent Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort, Tokyo Disney Resort, Disneyland Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa and Shanghai Disney Resort.  

The First Disney Ambassador

The iconic legacy of the Global Disney Ambassador program began with Julie Reihm Casaletto, the first-ever Disney Ambassador. Julie began her Disney career as a tour guide at Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California. Two years later, the role of Disneyland Ambassador was created. Julie was chosen by Walt himself to serve as a representative of Disneyland, attending global events on behalf of Walt Disney. 

In 1971, Walt Disney World Resort selected its first Disney Ambassador, Debby Dane Browne. And from there, the program expanded to Tokyo Disney Resort, Disneyland Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland, Aulani – A Disney Resort & Spa and Shanghai Disney Resort. 

Meet the Global Disney Ambassadors Around the World

Since its inception in 1965, the Disney Ambassador program has grown to become a global force, with representatives all around the world. Meet your 2022-2023 Global Disney Ambassadors!

To stay connected, visit the Disney Cast Life page to follow the Global Disney Ambassadors on social media.

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Disney will celebrate Destination D23, a biennial fan event that will be held on September 8–10, 2023, at the Walt Disney World Resort.

Here, find everything you need to know about both the D23 Expo and Destination D23. But first, explore the most exciting announcements and park investments from the latest D23 Expo to learn what’s on the horizon.

D23 Expo 2022: A look back

The last D23 Expo took place at Walt Disney World in September 2022. The first D23 Expo since 2019 was full of announcements detailing all sorts of exciting plans. Here’s an overview of what was revealed.

Coming soon to Walt Disney World Resort

No D23 Expo is complete without discussion of Walt Disney World’s upcoming innovations and updates. At D23 Expo 2022, noteworthy announcements included:

• • TRON/Lightcycle Run: A high-octane steel coaster found in Magic Kingdom that ranks among Disney’s fastest. It opened to the public in spring 2023.
  • Tiana’s Bayou Adventure: A reimagining of Magic Kingdom’s Splash Mountain that brings The Princess and the Frog to life. It’s expected to open in late 2024.
  • Happily Ever After: A fan-favorite nighttime spectacular that returned to Magic Kingdom in 2023.
  • Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana: An educational, interactive experience that explores the water cycle in an immersive environment inspired by the 2016 film, Moana. It’s scheduled to open in late 2023.
  • World Celebration Neighborhood: The revitalized entrance area of EPCOT, which will feature lush gardens and serve as a crucial fixture for many of the park’s most exciting events. It’s expected to be complete in late 2023.

Coming soon to Disneyland Resort

There were a number of announcements from Disneyland at the D23 Expo 2022, too. They included:

• • San Fransokyo Square: A reimagining of the Pacific Wharf inspired by the action-packed Big Hero 6.
  • Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway: A rendition of the beloved Walt Disney World ride that can now be experienced in Mickey’s Toontown at Disneyland Resort. It opened in early 2023.
  • Pixar Place Hotel: A reimagining of Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel set to feature a Pixar theme and a water play area inspired by Finding Nemo. This transformation is currently underway, with completion expected in winter 2023.
  • Tiana’s Bayou Adventure: A reimagining of Disneyland’s Splash Mountain that once again dives into the fantastic world of The Princess and the Frog.

Film and TV announcements

A massive lineup of new films and TV series were announced during D23’s 2022 Expo. These titles spanned many of Disney’s most beloved studios, including Marvel, Lucasfilm, Pixar and 20th Century, encompassing both fresh entries to classic franchises like Daredevil: Born Again and new stories like Iwájú.

International parks and beyond

Beyond The Walt Disney Company’s U.S. resorts, the 2022 D23 Expo also explored updates happening around the world. These ranged from a brand-new Disney Cruise Lines ship that’s setting sail in 2024, the Disney Treasure, to three Frozen-themed areas currently under development at Hong Kong Disneyland, Tokyo DisneySea and Walt Disney Studios Park.

What is the D23 Expo?

The D23 Expo, held once every two years, is the ultimate celebration of all things Disney. It’s the ultimate Disney fan event uniting everything that makes Disney so magical — cutting-edge theme parks, innovative technologies and timeless stories with unforgettable characters.

Throughout the event, fans have a chance to connect with Disney on a deeper level through enticing exhibitions, presentations from Disney’s most prominent figures, previews of future attractions and much more.

Here’s a hint of all the Expo has to offer.

Themed exhibitions

The D23 Expo’s curated exhibitions immerse fans in the world of Disney while providing a rare look behind the scenes.

Past exhibits have included:

• • Theme park showcases: For the biggest fans of Disney theme parks, the D23 Expo offers a unique opportunity to get a first look at the inventive, immersive and imaginative experiences currently being produced.
  • Highlights from the archives: After a century of making history, Disney has built an impressive archive of rare memorabilia and original artwork that’s showcased at each D23 Expo.
  • Animation and Imagineering: The D23 Expo provides an inside look at Disney’s creative processes with exhibits highlighting its standard-setting animation and Imagineering innovations.
  • Interactive experiences: Previous D23 Expos have gone beyond simple observation, inviting guests to experience hands-on activities as well as virtual reality simulations.

Panel discussions and presentations from Disney’s biggest names

In addition to special access to previews of upcoming projects, D23 Expo attendees have the opportunity to sit in on panel discussions featuring the minds behind Disney’s most exciting work. Imagineers, filmmakers, animators and even Disney stars join the fun to field questions and provide insight into what makes the magic possible.

Fan cosplay

The D23 Expo shines a light on the inventiveness and creativity of Disney fans. Cosplayers from around the country are encouraged to show off their skills and bring their favorite characters to life at the event, painting a vibrant atmosphere of joy and excitement.

Community connection

The heart of the D23 Expo lies in its ability to unite Disney enthusiasts, providing them with a shared space to connect and learn more about what lies in the future. Attendees are invited to become part of a larger, magical community that thrives on imagination and storytelling.

What is Destination D23?

Destination D23 — a D23 Gold Member exclusive event — keeps the excitement high with a jam-packed itinerary.

This year’s event is particularly special. October 16, 2023 marks the 100 year anniversary of The Walt Disney Company, and Destination D23 will give Disney fans a chance to come together and celebrate a century of Disney magic.

What to expect at Destination D23 2023

The 2023 edition of Destination D23 will be held at Walt Disney World Resort from Friday, September 8, through Sunday, September 10. Here’s a quick look at what to expect from the event.

Parks Panel hosted by Josh D’Amaro

Josh D’Armaro, Chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, will take the mic to provide guests with a firsthand look at the exciting developments underway at Disney parks across the globe.

In addition to providing updates on last year’s announcements, Josh’s unique and entertaining presentation will highlight what makes the Disney experience magical and how Disney parks are committed to upholding that legacy.

Shopping experiences

Destination D23 attendees will get exclusive access to Disney and D23 merchandise only available for purchase at the event. The event’s shopping experiences will include:

• • Mickey’s of Glendale: This pop-up shop features a selection of Walt Disney Imagineering merchandise, in addition to Destination D23 items.
  • The Walt Disney Company Store: For the first time, guests at D23 will have access to The Walt Disney Company Store, where items typically only sold to employees will be available for guests to purchase.
  • Ink & Paint Marketplace: This marketplace features products and souvenirs from Disney, as well as exciting products from Disney partners.

60 Years of Disney’s Audio-Animatronics® Technology Exhibit

Together, The Walt Disney Archives and Walt Disney Imagineering, Destination D23 will feature an educational exhibit exploring the history of Disney’s Audio-Animatronics technology.

This exhibit showcases the evolution of this technology by presenting figural assets, photography and vintage documentation that take guests back in time to witness some of Walt Disney’s earliest development processes.

Disney+ Hallowstream Costume Bash

Closing out the festivities on Sunday, September 10th, the Hallowstream Costume Bash invites guests to dress in their spookiest costumes for the annual “skeleton dance” and welcome the Halloween season.

Celebrating the magic at Destination D23

After 100 years of Disney, fans have a lot to celebrate. Destination D23 gives fans a chance to do just that with captivating exhibits, exclusive looks at upcoming projects, and a vibrant community of like-minded enthusiasts.

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What Is Imagineering? Imagination and Engineering United

Founded in 1952 by Walt and his brother Roy to keep the development of Disneyland distinct from the movie studio business, Imagineering became the creative force behind some of the most memorable Disney experiences. Originally called Walt Disney, Inc., the organization became WED Enterprises after the initials of Walt’s name, Walter Elias Disney. In 1986, Walt Disney Imagineering became the official name, blending the words ‘imagination’ and ‘engineering.’

Within Walt Disney Imagineering are over a hundred disciplines that collaboratively bring to life extraordinary ideas through storytelling, design and engineering. Imagineers transformed an uninhabited island of Castaway Cay in the Bahamas into an environmentally responsible Caribbean destination and can even transport guests into outer space at sea. Imagineers have also created numerous guest-beloved classics like Jungle Cruise, and mysterious worlds like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Pandora: The World of Avatar in Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Florida.

Legendary Walt Disney Imagineers like Bob Gurr, Don Iwerks, John Hench, the Sherman Brothers, Harriet Burns and Mary Blair are forever remembered, but each Imagineer carries the legacy of experiential storytelling and pioneering innovation.

How Walt Disney Imagineers Have Cultivated A Culture Like No Other

Walt Disney Imagineering has been described as a world-class design firm, a premier development and storytelling studio, and a cutting-edge innovation lab. If you ask Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, it is all that and more. It is a global team of storytellers, artists, engineers, technologists and more who are dedicated to immersing guests in timeless stories. It is a team that helps families make memories of a lifetime and inspires beyond generations and geographies.

Imagineers challenge their own assumptions, ask questions that reject preconceptions, and consistently seek innovative approaches to make the seemingly impossible, possible. Can an inanimate character be expressive? Can a shared experience by millions of people be personal? Can we suspend physics for just a second?

Bringing together a diverse group of passionate individuals with a common goal of creating the best experiences is no easy task but is one that has been embraced by visionaries for over 70 years. Under Josh’s leadership, the team is encouraged to push boundaries, to think big and to embrace creativity… all with the greatest respect for Disney’s legacy.

Walt Disney Imagineering Brings Disney’s Innovations to Life

Imagineers have consistently done what was previously unthinkable, and have brought imagination to life. Their achievements are plenty: Developing the first Audio-Animatronics figures, obtaining and holding over 500 U.S. patents and creating the first daily operating monorail system in the Western world, to name a few.

This culture and history of daring creativity inspires Imagineers today, and any Imagineer will say the best is yet to come. In 2023, Imagineers work with innovative technologies like machine learning, augmented reality and advanced robotics to enhance storytelling and guest experience. And many more exciting experiences are in the works.

As the Imagineers work toward bringing more imagination to life, there will be even more future experiences to choose from and adventures to have. What if you could go to the World of Frozen in Hong Kong Disneyland, or Journey of Water in EPCOT at Walt Disney World Resort? How about Tiana’s Bayou Adventure or a land themed to Zootopia?.

Just as no single definition can capture the imagination and creativity of an Imagineer, no list of accomplishments would ever be complete. Alongside Josh, Imagineers wowed the crowd with a real lightsaber at SXSW, made audiences gasp watching a dynamic robot on roller skates, and tomorrow…

The world cannot wait for tomorrow.

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The Once Upon A Wish Party, the first-ever wish-granting event of its kind, created an unforgettable experience for Make-A-Wish families built on Disney’s signature storytelling magic.

First, let’s explore the profound impact the Make-A-Wish Foundation has had on families over the years — and, in turn, how Disney has nurtured the Foundation’s mission.

What is Make-A-Wish?

The Make-A-Wish Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating lasting, meaningful memories by granting wishes for children with critical illnesses. Founded in 1980, the foundation aims to bring joy into the lives of those who need it most and give families a moment of respite from the challenges they face.

Throughout the years, Make-A-Wish has partnered with companies and organizations across the country to help transform wishes into reality. The Walt Disney Company is proud to be among those partners that aim to create real-life magic day in and day out.

How Make-A-Wish and The Walt Disney Company work together to make magic happen

Disney’s long history with Make-A-Wish is a testament to the company’s passion for creating magical moments. In fact, Disney is the Make-A-Wish Foundation’s #1 wish granter. For more than 40 years, Disney Cast Members, Imagineers and employees have worked to bring more than 150,000 wishes to life while forging a partnership that continues to spread joy to those who need it most.

The perennial creativity of Disney makes the magic happen. Whether a wish is for a trip to a Disney theme park or a personalized meetup with beloved characters, Disney creates timeless memories. This ongoing collaboration continues to bring light into the lives of children facing difficult circumstances, uplifting their spirits with unforgettable experiences.

Among the Make-A-Wish Foundation’s many champions at Disney is Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products. After working with the foundation for many years, and recently joining the Make-a-Wish Board of Directors, Josh remains deeply involved in creating new ways to celebrate Make-A-Wish families.

One recent celebration, the Once Upon A Wish Party, was full of moving Make-A-Wish moments.

Disney’s Once Upon A Wish Party

Disney’s wish-granting efforts are ramping up again after being halted during the pandemic. And now, with many of the pandemic restrictions lifted, Disney’s World Princess Week delivered an excellent opportunity to bring Make-A-Wish families an experience they won’t forget.

A first-of-its-kind Make-A-Wish milestone, the Once Upon A Wish Party was one of the largest wish-granting events in the history of Disney’s partnership with the Foundation. The all-day affair was filled with magical moments. Fifty Make-A-Wish families traveled from all over the country to savor the spirit of Disney and share in all the fun.

The day’s delights included:

• • Welcome dining and tea party: A welcome dining experience and royal tea party launched the event on a high note, proclaiming every Make-A-Wish kid in attendance royalty for the day.
  • Royal Wardrobe: During the welcome breakfast, each child received their own Disney prince or princess costume complete with a crown donated by Disney Consumer Products, Games and Publishing (CPGP).
  • Character greetings: Make-A-Wish families immersed themselves in Disney’s timeless tales as they met familiar Disney Princesses and other cherished characters in the Dream Parlors.
  • Royal Ball: The Disney Royal Ball (the party’s main event) was an elegant affair with all the trappings of a classic Disney celebration: grand entrances, Disney princesses, dinner and dancing. Singer Mikayla Beatty, Disney’s 150,000th Make-A-Wish kid, even appeared for a special performance.

If it sounds like a Disney dream come true, have no doubt — it absolutely was. And the decades-long partnership promises to regale even more Make-A-Wish princes and princesses.

Disney and Make-A-Wish’s Enduring Commitment

This year’s Once Upon A Wish Party gave Make-A-Wish kids an experience unlike any other. The collaboration of Make-A-Wish and Disney offered a  glimpse into the profound influence that’s possible thanks to their decades-long partnership.

United in the shared purpose of bringing hope and inspiration to children in need, Disney and Make-A-Wish continue their mission to spread happiness, showing the potential that exists when compassion meets creativity.

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The 2024 DoD Warrior Games will take place from June 21 to June 30 at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, located within Walt Disney World Resort. With a long-standing history of honoring the U.S. military, The Walt Disney Company is thrilled to welcome the games back to Disney World after proudly hosting the event in 2022.

Disney’s admiration for military service dates back more than 100 years to founders Walt and Roy Disney’s own service to their country during World War I. This enduring tradition continues today as The Walt Disney Company is a leading proponent of hiring, training and supporting military veterans with the Heroes Work Here initiative, the Heroes Supply Here program and Disney’s Veterans Institute.

Find out more about what the DoD Warrior Games have to offer below.

What are the DOD Warrior Games?

Established in 2010, the Warrior Games provide a venue to showcase the exceptional physical skills and mental toughness of wounded, ill and injured active duty and veteran service members through adaptive sports competition. The event is designed to enhance recovery by engaging wounded warriors outside of their traditional therapy settings while highlighting the resilience embodied by military service members. The games are a joint effort between the Department of Defense and the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee.

The adaptive sports program is just one facet of the continuum of recovery and care that active-duty and veteran warriors receive from the DoD Warrior Care program.

Throughout the games, hundreds of elite athletes, including those from international and allied nations, compete in adaptive sporting events such as wheelchair basketball, cycling, sitting volleyball and others.

Beyond athletic excitement, however, the DoD Warrior Games also provide participants with a platform to inspire others with their stories of perseverance. With its unique combination of camaraderie and sportsmanship, the DoD Warrior Games allow the strength and unity found within the military community to shine bright.

Looking back: 2022 DoD Warrior Games at Walt Disney World

The 2022 DoD Warrior Games at Walt Disney World created lasting memories for guests and athletes alike, and these memories set the stage for the event’s thrilling return in 2024.

Hosted at the Resort’s ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, the 2022 games featured nine days of competition with nearly 300 participants from the U.S. military, as well as athletes from allied nations.

Prior to the Warrior Games commencing, participants and military families received a warm welcome in Magic Kingdom with a special parade hosted in their honor. Here, athletes each had a chance to carry the Warrior Games torch on the parade route, as families, guests and Disney Cast Members lined the streets to cheer them on. The special day culminated with an unforgettable evening party in the park presented by the Fisher House Foundation.

An opening ceremony, hosted by comedian Jon Stewart, kicked off the games the following day. The event included inspirational remarks from many, including country music star Darius Rucker, and Disney Parks, Experiences and Products chairman Josh D’Amaro.

Following the opening celebration, the games began with intense competition in wheelchair basketball, indoor rowing, cycling and more. The games’ closing ceremonies celebrated the spirit of resilience, camaraderie and healing followed by a memorable performance by music act American Authors.

Which adaptive sports are involved in the DoD Warrior Games?

The DoD Warrior Games feature a wide variety of adaptive sport competitions, which help improve the physical and mental wellness of wounded, ill and injured service members during their recovery. Here’s a look at the tournaments guests can expect while cheering on their favorite veteran athletes.

Archery

The Warrior Games archery tournament challenges athletes to harness their eagle-eye accuracy as they compete against one another in an 18-yard target-shooting competition using either a compound or recurve bow.

Cycling

Split into two main events, a road race and time trials, the Warrior Games cycling competition taps into the strength, endurance, and strategic thinking of participating athletes. Athletes are free to join one or both cycling competitions and are assigned a cycle type tailored to their needs.

Golf

This competition sees veteran athletes demonstrating their golf skills in a competition that’s both timeless and traditional. Teeing locations are adjusted based on the athlete to create a level playing field for all athletes regardless of their injury or illness.

Indoor rowing

Yet another test of both strength and endurance, the Warrior Games indoor rowing competition is split into two events: a one-minute sprint and a four-minute race. Veteran athletes can choose to compete in just one rowing event, or in both.

Powerlifting

This straightforward event manifests as a bench-press competition where athletes are granted three attempts to push their lifts to the limit. The competition is split into seven body weight categories, and male and female participants compete separately.

Precision air sports

With eyes on the prize, veteran athletes hone in on an electronic target using either an air rifle or an air pistol, depending on their event of choice. The competition features both standing and prone air rifle events, along with a single air pistol event.

Sitting volleyball

Sitting volleyball at the DoD Warrior Games offers a dynamic twist on the traditional sport. Athletes engage in intense rallies, spiking and serving while staying in a seated position. The popular event demands strategic positioning, quick reflexes, and effective teamwork to come out on top.

Swimming

The Warrior Games swimming competition features five different events: 50-meter and 100-meter freestyle races, 50-meter breaststroke and backstroke races, and a 200-meter relay featuring four-person teams.

Track and field

Track and field events at the DoD Warrior Games include a range of track-based competitions, like sprints and relays, as well as field events like shot put. These events provide an opportunity for competitors to show off their speed, strength, and agility.

Wheelchair basketball

Blending athleticism with team strategy, wheelchair basketball involves specially designed wheelchairs. Teams coordinate offense, show off their dribbling techniques, and offer a dynamic, fast-paced display of sportsmanship and teamwork. The sport challenges participants’ physical limits while building camaraderie between players.

Wheelchair rugby

Just like wheelchair basketball, the Warrior Games wheelchair rugby competition delivers the same high-octane play you’d expect from the traditional version of the sport. Throughout the tournament, teams go all-out as they seek to earn the competition’s bronze and gold medals.

The 2024 DoD Warrior Games, hosted by Walt Disney World

The DoD Warrior Games will return to the ESPN Wide World of Sports at Walt Disney World Resort from June 21 to June 30, 2024, granting guests the opportunity to witness several days of electrifying athletic excitement. Be on the lookout for more announcements regarding the event’s return from the U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command, or learn more about the DoD Warrior Games in the meantime.

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One of the initiatives our cast members and employees love is Disney Aspire, which allows them to expand their professional skills and grow their careers.

Disney Aspire at a glance

Disney Aspire is an educational investment program that provides hourly cast members and employees with resources they need to achieve their educational goals. It breaks down barriers to higher education, inspires career mobility and helps the company’s workforce prosper by offering 100% upfront tuition coverage for a network of schools and universities, along with added benefits, like reimbursement for books and fees.

What does the Disney Aspire program offer?

The Disney Aspire program offers various opportunities for hourly employees to continue their education and be better prepared for their futures. From tuition assistance to career mentoring, Disney Aspire is there to support employees and put their dreams within reach.

Tuition assistance

One of the toughest challenges students face is the high cost of tuition. Disney Aspire offers comprehensive tuition coverage to eligible hourly employees to help them remove this barrier.

This benefit allows them to pursue higher education without the burden of excessive student debt. The program covers tuition, required fees, and even required books for approved courses or programs.

In addition to undergraduate and master’s degree programs, Disney Aspire offers tuition coverage for high school completion, English language learning and college prep. Any fees or required book purchases that come from these educational pursuits are eligible for reimbursement through the program.

Educational options

Through Disney Aspire, employees can choose from a wide range of study. The program offers diverse educational programs, ranging from undergraduate and graduate degrees to trade programs and technical certificates.

In addition to traditional forms of higher education, the program provides access to courses, such as business, technology, healthcare, leadership, and more.

With so many educational options, the Disney Aspire program helps employees get the chance to pursue careers that line up with their specific interests and long-term career goals, regardless of their current field of work at Disney.

Career development

Getting started on a new career path can be intimidating, which is why Disney provides cast members and employees with the resources they need to begin the process with confidence.

In addition to financial assistance and career development resources, employees receive guidance on selecting educational programs that align with their career goals, helping them enhance their professional skills and explore new opportunities within the company.

Cast members and employees enrolled in Disney Aspire are encouraged to participate in development offerings such as resume writing and networking events. They also have career advisors to help them along the way.

How do you qualify for Disney Aspire?

The Disney Aspire program is available to Disney’s US-based, full- and part-time hourly cast members and employees. After 90 days of employment at Disney, individuals are eligible to enroll in the program.

More information about eligibility can be found on the Disney Aspire webpage, where cast members and employees can explore the various programs and degree paths available.

Disney Aspire vs. Disney College Program: What’s the difference?

The Disney College Program is a separate initiative that promotes education and opportunities for career-minded students working across The Walt Disney Company.

While Disney Aspire encourages current employees to continue their education, the Disney College program invites active college students to gain experience while working at the theme park. Like Disney Aspire, this initiative allows participants to broaden their horizons, continue their education and get valuable experience along the way.

While working at the park, participants in the college program learn to uphold Disney’s high standards for guest service, teamwork and innovation. With hands-on experience in a fast-paced working environment, students get a chance to develop skills essential to the broader workforce.

In addition to real-world work experience, participants in the Disney College program can earn credits towards their degree. While this program assists students already engaged in academic institutions, Disney Aspire is there to support current employees and engage them in broadening their career opportunities.

Disney Aspire: Empowering employees with real results

Since Disney Aspire debuted in 2018, over 3,800 current employees have completed the program, and 30% of the program’s graduates have enrolled in another program. Likewise, 3,100 students and graduates have been promoted internally.

Now, as of 2023, more than 15,000 students are currently enrolled — a significant portion of more than 90,000 eligible employees across the United States. With more than 50% of students in bachelor’s or master’s degree programs, Disney Aspire offers the most comprehensive educational investment program of its kind.

At Disney, it’s our job to turn dreams into reality. For our cast members and employees, the Disney Aspire program is one way we help make dreams come true – by covering college tuition, English language learning, high school diplomas and trade programs for thousands of employees.

To learn more about what Disney Aspire means to our Cast Members, check out Maria’s story.

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What is Disney100?

Disney 100 is a century-in-the-making celebration commemorating 100 years of The Walt Disney Company. This milestone will be met with fan-favorite characters, a dazzling atmosphere and exciting announcements of what’s to come in the resort’s future.

Disney100: New innovations at Walt Disney World

Immersive new events and rides await guests traveling to Walt Disney World to celebrate a century’s worth of magic. Let’s explore the latest and greatest.

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind

Staying true to the legacy of innovation highlighted throughout the Disney100 celebration, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is among the latest of Walt Disney World’s standard-setting attractions.

Now open at EPCOT, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind invites guests to rock out on an intergalactic chase through space and time. This thrilling attraction is the first ever reverse-launch coaster in a Disney park, and it’s one of the largest fully enclosed coasters in the world.

The Guardians of the Galaxy adventure begins with a tour of the Galaxarium, a planetarium-like exhibition, showcasing the similarities and differences between Xandar’s galaxy and our own.

Shortly after, guests are called into action to join the Guardians, setting off on an exciting space pursuit.

TRON Lightcycle / Run

Ranking among Disney’s fastest coasters worldwide, TRON Lightcycle / Run opened to the public at Walt Disney World in April 2023. The steel roller coaster fuses out-of-this-world design elements with high-octane excitement. Guests are whisked across the Grid on their very own Lightcycle as they vie for their team’s victory over ominous Programs in a harrowing race inspired by TRON, the influential sci-fi film franchise.

EPCOT Forever

Featuring state-of-the-art performance technology, this new nighttime spectacular blends lasers, lighting, special effects, and fireworks, along with music that represents the best of Disney’s history and its bright future.

This nightly extravaganza can be viewed from anywhere within EPCOT where the World Showcase Lagoon can be seen — it’s one of many exciting ways guests can relive memories while creating new ones.

As guests enjoy the show, Disney Imagineers are preparing a new nighttime display that will open later this year.

Excitement awaits: Upcoming attractions at Walt Disney World

Now, enjoy a sneak peak at the transformative developments — from cultural events to riveting new rides — coming to Walt Disney World in the near future.

World Celebration Neighborhood

Later in 2023, the World Celebration Neighborhood at EPCOT will be divided into several enchanted gardens and will host festivals throughout the year.

The CommuniCore Hall, a flexible exhibition and gallery space, will showcase art, live music, food, and more, and the CommuniCore Plaza will become an outdoor event center that delights guests with both intimate and large-scale concerts.

Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana

Opening later this summer, Island Goddess Te Fiti will invite guests into the Journey of Water, inspired by the fan-favorite Disney film Moana. With an interactive outdoor trail illustrating the story of water and its importance to the planet, guests will discover the playful personality of “living water” as they experience its journey from the sea to the sky and back in inventive ways.

The self-guided tour along the trail provides guests of all ages with a laid-back, fun and educational trek through a one-of-a-kind environment. Journey of Water represents a new age of immersive storytelling, giving guests a chance to learn, play and feel inspired.

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

Coming next year, guests will be able to experience Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in the Magic Kingdom, where The Princess and the Frog comes to life, providing magical moments for fans of the princess.

The attraction showcases the latest in Audio-Animatronics technology from Disney Imagineering, with its signature attention to detail, and draws guests right into the bayou story.

Disney100: Kick-starting a new century of magic and innovation

During its 100th anniversary and beyond, Disney Imagineers continue to pave the way in theme park innovation while providing guests with magical moments they’ll remember forever. And with 12 theme parks around the world at six resort destinations, we’re just getting started.

The post Disney100: Celebrating a Century of Transformation and Innovation appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

A Wish Comes True, Disney College Program to Disney Cruise Line

The one thing Eric’s grandfather loved more than Disney was his family and his grandson. Eric was introduced to Disney at a young age through his grandfather’s love for all things Disney. So, when Eric first got the opportunity to work for The Walt Disney Company through the Disney College Program, his grandfather was overjoyed. For Eric, it was “truly a dream come true to be able to combine [his] love for [his] grandfather and Disney” into his job; because now he was able to not only “work here, but then was able to bring [his grandfather] to the parks and experience it all in a new light.”

Today, as a Disney Cruise Line Cast Member, Eric creates unforgettable experiences for guests. He’s part of a dynamic environment bringing Disney’s magic to guests at sea aboard new cruise ships like the Disney Wish. Eric makes sure the ships are operating smoothly and effectively so guests can enjoy every experience Disney cruises have to offer like Broadway-quality shows, magical character interactions, and delicious cuisine at restaurants including Palo.

Unlocking Dreams with 100% Free Education at Disney

Eric’s grandfather was especially proud of Eric for choosing to continue his education through Disney’s Aspire program. The program provides hourly and shore-side cast members, like Eric, the opportunity to pursue higher education and professional development. After earning his degree, Eric became a Disney Aspire Advocate, with the goal of sharing news about the program with other Cast Members and prospective students. With the Disney Aspire program, Eric received his master’s degree in information communication technology from the University of Denver. Disney Aspire covered all tuition fees for Eric, so he did not have to worry about taking out loans or paying out of pocket. By taking courses online, Eric was able to balance his work schedule and spend more time with his family, including his grandfather.

Disney Cast Members Reach Their Goals & Grow Careers

From the Disney Vacation Club team to the Disney Cruise Line, Eric has held several roles at the company, each teaching him valuable skills.  Eric feels a deep connection with the company that he believes was instilled in him by his grandfather. Knowing that “Disney really wants to see their cast, crew and employees achieve their dreams and reach their goals,” assures Eric that Disney is the best place for him to work. And his grandfather’s legacy continues to be an ever-present source of pride in his daily work at Disney as Eric always “strives to provide the best possible experience for guests,” just like his grandfather would have wanted.

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The Business Behind the Disneyland Park Map

Based in Anaheim, California, Advantage ColorGraphics is a regional commercial printing firm born out of one entrepreneur’s vision to deliver the best to local clients. What began as a small mailbox shop 29 years ago, founded by Tom Ling, has become a world class service, working with global and local companies, including Disneyland Resort. Tom started the business from his kitchen table and remembers finding “a love for printing and mailing,” later deciding “that this was something [he] wanted to do for a lifetime in a career.” As a local business leader, he sees Advantage ColorGraphic’s role as one committed to philanthropy, integrity and cultural heritage at its core.

Disney’s Commitment to Diverse and Local Suppliers

To visitors of all ages, Disneyland is a magical land—a place to create happy memories and spend time with family and friends. And to the local community in Southern California, Disney’s work with suppliers also enables the community and economy to prosper and grow. For Tom and the Advantage ColorGraphics team, “the business that Disneyland provides ensures that we’re able to impact Anaheim and the local communities.” Regardless of the company’s success, Advantage ColorGraphics is committed to always being a “provider and giving back to the community” economically and philanthropically.

As Tom recalls, Advantage ColorGraphics initially engaged with Disney because the company wanted to make “an effort to reach out to small businesses to support.” The team was given the first opportunity to redesign the maps, providing a new look to delight guests. Tom “remembers the first time” he went to Disneyland with his family and his kids “made a beeline over to the park maps” saying “Dad printed this!” The Advantage ColorGraphics team truly invested in the creative process and brought “in different [design techniques] that they’ve never used before, including new icons and color schemes.” With these creations, they are not only part of Disney’s extraordinary group of suppliers, but also a forever part of the company’s history and memories that guests carry with them.

The Walt Disney Company is committed to working with diverse suppliers like Advantage ColorGraphics and furthering equity and inclusion in its business practices. One of these commitments includes pledging to increase Disney’s spending with diverse suppliers to $1 billion annually by the end of 2024. Additionally, to help grow and develop businesses and entrepreneurs, including those owned by women, minorities, LGBTQ individuals, and veterans, Disney has increased representation of these groups in its supply chain.

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Keeping it in the Family – A Disney Legacy

 As a kid, Maria considered Disney World her second home. EPCOT was an escape and -a place where she could learn about different cultures, like the Phoenicians who created the first alphabet. Other vivid memories include strolling with her family through the China Pavilion, enjoying croissants at Monsieur Paul in the France Pavilion, and marveling at Gallery of Arts and History in the Morocco Pavilion. But most important, she remembers how the parks brought her family together. Disney World was also special to her parents, who worked at Disney in the 1980s helping guests learn about the world while visiting the EPCOT Pavilions or on tours throughout the park. This love for learning later led Maria to Disney Aspire, a life-changing program offered to hourly cast members that helps them pursue their educational goals with 100% tuition covered. She followed her passion for learning and culture and obtained a degree in Educational Psychology.

Building a Disney Career

Disney continued to play a special role in Maria’s life after she chose to “follow in the footsteps of her parents,” and “make magic in a way my [parents] did many years ago. She joined the Disney family by way of the Disney College Program and later became a Delivery Coordinator with Disney Institute. But her desire for learning did not stop.  Not only did she become first person in her family to graduate from undergraduate, but Maria also received a graduate degree through Disney’s education program. When Disney launched the education program, it gave Maria an avenue to apply to school, and gain support and counseling from Disney Aspire advisors. As a first-generation college graduate, there could have been many challenges, including the cost of tuition, books and more. But Disney covered her costs, including books so she could focus on achieving her degree.

The Disney Aspire Program covers tuition costs upfront for a wide range of degree and certificate programs, from high school diplomas to master’s degrees. In addition, it provides various resources to help cast members succeed, including academic advising, career coaching and online learning tools. It wasn’t always easy balancing school, work, and family responsibilities, but Maria embraced the challenge and with the resources and encouragement provided through the Disney Aspire program, graduated with a 4.0 GPA and a Master of Science in Educational Psychology from Purdue Global University.

Empowering our Cast Members

Disney’s education benefits are about more than just helping Cast and employees further their careers. They’re about empowering them to grow, achieve dreams and create future opportunities. Maria is now part of a growing community of cast members who proudly serve as role models for first-generation students seeking a way to higher education. With Disney Aspire, Cast Members can achieve a debt-free education. Obtaining a master’s degree is truly a magical accomplishment that can help you achieve your career goals and Disney is committed to providing educational opportunities for its cast members.

Have questions about Disney Aspire? Find all the answers you need in our comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions section.

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Behind every new attraction, park opening, and resort addition is a team of Imagineers, cast members, and suppliers who might never interact with a guest, but consistently make the Disney experience possible. Walt Disney World Resort has more than 75,000 cast members in Florida, but its impact extends beyond the parks through support of local communities, non-profit organizations and businesses.

Since opening its gates in 1971, Walt Disney World has worked with business suppliers to fuel the local Floridian economy and deliver unique guest experiences. That commitment is evident in the company’s work with local businesses like Provisions Construction & Development, Inc.  Led by owner-president and CEO Michael Arrington, Provisions is a firm based in Orlando, Florida that does construction for Disney. But to Michael and the community, Provisions is so much more. It is also the legacy of Michael’s grandfather that has grown alongside Disney and made an impact in the Orlando community. For Michael, “Disney provides entrepreneurs in Central Florida an opportunity to showcase [their] abilities and talents,” while growing their business and ensuring economic sustainability across the region.

Building a Legacy One Project at a Time

Michael and Provisions have ‘humble beginnings,’ as he says. He grew up working alongside his grandfather in the industry. Originally from Jamaica, his grandfather strived to create an enduring legacy for his family in the construction industry —one that Michael has since carried on.  He assisted his grandfather with all aspects of the job, developing a deep appreciation for building and the joy of forging something new. Today, Michael carries the lessons his grandfather ingrained into him by always ‘trying to do great things’ and giving back to his family and the community.

Disney, Provisions, and a Shared Commitment to the Community

Provisions was founded on four principles: Passion for the craft, Determination to go beyond, Dedication to the community, and Humility to keep improving. These four principles inspire Michael, a graduate of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) to not only focus on the work but to also understand its impact.

Working with Walt Disney World has pushed Michael to explore new limits to grow Provisions but has also reinforced Michael’s belief in the importance of supporting the local community.  Provisions hires local staff and subcontractors, provides scholarships to help students complete their degrees and pursue careers in Central Florida, and even feeds families in need during the holidays. As Michael says, “Disney makes this impact possible for local families in the central Florida area

Disney’s Impact on Florida’s Diverse Entrepreneurs

As the country’s largest single-site employer, Walt Disney World provides more than 75,000 jobs to cast members in Florida. Disney is also Florida’s largest single taxpayer, totaling 1.1 billion dollars in state and local taxes. The company believes that using diverse suppliers provides access to the most innovative, highest quality, and cost-effective ideas. This is part of the Walt Disney Company’s strategy to develop a world-class Supplier Diversity process. Disney knows that through providing opportunities to diverse suppliers creates and showcases the value of economic impact. Disney is committed to investing in the communities we serve by spending at least $1 billion annually with diverse suppliers by 2024, which impacts the local economy and creates more career opportunities.

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In recognition of Military Spouse Appreciation Day on May 12, sometimes referred to as Military Spouse Day, we’re thrilled to shine a spotlight on not one but two of our outstanding cast members who are also military spouses. Military Spouse Day is celebrated annually on the Friday before Mother’s Day and acknowledges the significant contributions, support, and sacrifices of spouses of members of the U.S. Armed Forces.

Callie serves as an Engineering Services Manager at Magic Kingdom Park. As a military spouse, she was drawn to work for Disney because of the support Disney provides its employees of different backgrounds. Callie has enjoyed the support she’s received through various diverse groups within the company.

“Through working with Disney, I’ve related to a group for military spouses, veterans, active members, and women in engineering.”

Callie is the proud military spouse of David, who serves in the U.S. Navy Reserves. She learned about the challenges of military family life early in her relationship with her high school sweetheart, David, who joined the Navy right after graduating in 2011. Many military spouses endure lengthy separations from home and family due to extended deployments to areas around the world in support of the mission.

While challenging, Callie recalls how she supported her husband and his fellow Sailors during his deployment in 2012 by organizing a card signing event with friends from college.

“We made cards and put together care packages with all sorts of little trinkets to send to send to David’s fellow service members that weren’t receiving any care mail.” Callie emphasizes how important it was for her to not only take care of her spouse, but to make sure that other people around him were taken care of as well.

One piece of advice Callie would give to other military spouses or spouses of new reservists is to “understand that you can’t control every situation, but to trust the process.” Callie said, “Ultimately, every day that he stays with the military, there is a potential to be called and deployed anywhere in the world.”

Kristen is a communications specialist and works to deliver critical information internally to cast members at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California. Her family has a long history of serving in the armed forces, as her grandparents on both sides served in the U.S. Army; It was fitting that she married a U.S. Army Soldier.

Kristen met her husband, when he was a reservist for the U.S. Army and is incredibly proud of how he carries himself from being in the armed forces,

“He loved his time! His passion and commitment to those who served with him is just inspiring,” said Kristen

Even though her husband is no longer on active duty, he continues to serve the military community by helping veterans or dependents of military service members get the most out of their benefits for college and in everyday life. Kristen speaks proudly of her husband’s current endeavor, “It’s inspiring to see him go out every single day and make a difference.”

Honoring military service members and their families has been part of Disney’s rich history for 100 years. Join us in thanking Callie and her husband, David, a U.S. Navy reservist, and Kristen and her husband, U.S. Army Veteran, for their service.

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We do this by introducing new experiences and events that, in a relevant and authentic way, celebrate the world we live in and the vibrant individuality of our cast and the millions of people who visit us each year. Examples of this include Celebrate Soulfully – where we honor Black heritage, culture and music throughout the year, various Lunar New Year celebrations, Women’s History Month and Asian American Pacific Islander Month, Pride events and many more, all in recognition of different cultures and traditions.

We also do this by creating products that are inclusive — from costumes, swim wear and Mickey Ears that adapt to varying physical needs, to the Disney Pride Collection, we continuously look for ways to add new products that make the joy of our stories come to life for our guests.

This year, the Disney Pride Collection will offer new products, along with favorites like the Mickey Mouse & Minnie Mouse Pride Adult Spirit Jersey®. The collection has grown since it debuted in 2018 and we are grateful to work with members and allies of the LGBTQIA+ community to deliver products that are authentic and are available all year long.

In addition to creating these products and experiences, we also work year-round with nonprofit organizations that provide workforce development, mentorship, counseling, and critical resources for thousands of people in diverse communities. Last year for example, the Disney Pride Collection proceeds allowed many nonprofit organizations to grow and expand their community support.

Our community support is not only financial. Our VoluntEARS regularly give their time in the community, and most recently Lisa Becket, executive vice president of Global Marketing, joined the board of directors of Out & Equal in an effort to listen and learn from the community. We strive to create a culture of inclusion because we recognize that through authentic representation, the magic of Disney can truly come to life.

This is just the beginning – there’s more to do, and we’re committed to listening, learning and making more meaningful additions and improvements along the way.

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The power of granting a wish for these children can reach far beyond their trip to Walt Disney World, extending to families, communities, Disney cast members and Make-A-Wish Foundation volunteers. Disney teaming with the Make-A-Wish Foundation has made magic for many lives and lifetimes.

The Disney experience of granting wishes renews hope and uplifts spirits. It brings a child’s family, care team and community closer together, especially when they come together to make the wish come true. Disney is the largest wish granter in the world for Make-A-Wish, having made more than 150,000 wishes come true. In fact, Disneyland resort in California was part of the first wish that inspired the founding of Make-A-Wish in the 1980s. With that first wish, Disney launched a shared journey of bringing joy to children and families who need it most for years to come.

A Disney wish can mean so much more for the Disney cast members who help make them come true. For Jerome, General Manager of the Halcyon, Galactic starcruiser, a wish is the hope that Disney provides to children and families who might need a little extra magic in their lives. To Stephie, Pastry Sous Chef at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, near Disney Florida, a wish is the bridge that connects passions and dreams. And to Ali, a Walt Disney World Ambassador, wishes are miracles.

Granting Disney Wishes Since the 1980s

Since the 1980s, Disney has worked with Make-A-Wish, granting over 150,000 magical Disney wishes to children with critical illnesses. Disney has also donated millions of dollars to Make-A-Wish, joined Orlando’s Walk for Wishes, raised over $1.5 million by creating specialty 50th-anniversary Make-A-Wish license plates for Florida residents and encouraged cast members to volunteer with Make-A-Wish visits.

Make-A-Wish’s Galactic Adventure

Make-A-Wish and Disney have a significant meaning for Jerome and his family. Twenty years ago, Jerome’s younger cousin, Cory, wished to go to Walt Disney World Resort. He got his wish and the trip made lasting memories for Jerome’s family. Jerome later shared his memories with the first travelers of the Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser, also Make-A-Wish recipients.  Interacting with wish kids as a cast member provides Jerome with a “joy that can’t be explained,” as he sees “the sparkle” in the kids’ and families’ eyes.” To Jerome, Make-A-Wish is “Disney at its best,” making his job more meaningful.

The Legacy of a Wish

Bringing joy is part of Ali’s role as a Disney Ambassador. Ali represents Disney cast members and their work with Make-A-Wish nationwide. Ali says that “being able to work with the Make-A-Wish Foundation is truly something special.” She witnesses the magic at the Make-A-Wish Wishmaker’s Ball and in greeting Make-a-Wish children as they are “embarking on a galactic journey.” And joins in the magic with her fellow cast members and Disney Make-A-Wish alumni as Grand Marshals during the Festival of Fantasy Parade in honor of World Wish Day. Ali believes that seeing Disney “cast members grant wishes firsthand” is “something unique and something only Disney can do.”

Creating Tasty Wishes

Stephie, a Pastry Sous Chef, has been profoundly impacted by Make-A-Wish children. When a Make-A-Wish kid chose to fulfill their dream of being a Disney chef, Stephie was honored to help make it a reality. From teaching the Make-A-Wish child how to cook to making a special meal for their Disney visit, she feels “very blessed to have the opportunity to be involved in families’ lives and bring joy to someone.”

Wishes are at the core of Disney. And although the stories of Jerome, Stephie, and Ali might seem incredible, they are not uncommon. Thanks to our phenomenal cast members, Disney will continue to grant wishes because when you wish upon a star, your dreams come true. Learn more about Disney’s wish efforts at wish.org/disney.

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Disney horticulture manager Brian Dempsay utilized Disney Aspire program to earn his MBA and further his career. Now he leads a team and mentors the next generation of Disney Cast Members. 

The Disney Aspire program pays 100% of tuition up front. It allows eligible hourly full-time and part-time Cast Members the means to achieve their educational dreams. Learn more about Brian and how the Disney Aspire program is changing lives. 

Come meet Brian Dempsay and read more Disney Cast Life Stories on the Disney Parks Blog. 

Have questions about Disney Aspire? Find all the answers you need in our comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions section.

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Blanca realized that her dream was to work for Disney Cruise Line when she saw the Disney Magic while in Cozumel, Mexico. She pursued that dream and now, as a Concierge Manager, helps families create their own dreams and make lasting memories.  

Blanca’s dream as a child was to visit the world, and Disney Cruise Line is helping make that dream come true. She recently had the opportunity to welcome her family on board and saw the magic through their eyes. 

Want to see Bianca’s grandma dance with Donald? Read more about our cast by staying tuned to the Disney Cast Life blog. 

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Walt Disney Imagineering continues its decades-long support of FIRST Robotics, a community that brings students together and prepares them for the future through team-based robotics competitions and mentorships. For 2023, Imagineers are mentoring students from Team 589 in California, but are offering a lot more than technical expertise and guidance.

Imagineers play an important role in the teams they mentor, helping reinforce FIRST’s mission of inspiring young people to be science and technology leaders and innovators. By engaging them in exciting mentor-based programs that build science, engineering, and technology skills, FIRST aims to inspire innovation and foster well-rounded life capabilities including self-confidence, communication, and leadership.

As Chloe Schroeder, Junior at Crescenta Valley High School and Director of External Operations, Team 589 stated, “I’ve learned so many valuable skills, teamwork and communication and problem solving.”

FIRST Robotics is supported by Disney Future Storytellers. Through social investments and collaborations like these, Disney is empowering the next generation of storytellers and innovators to dream about their future, build their talents and skills, and become who they imagine they can be.

Come learn how Disney Future Storytellers is empowering young people and how Walt Disney Imagineering is constantly pushing boundaries to invent new things, solve new challenges and inspire others at the Disney Parks Blog.

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Most robotics projects focus on the output: What does this robot do? Is it reliable, is it precise, and can it achieve its goals? But at Disney, our focus is on the story: How does this robot make you feel? Is it emotive, is it relatable, and does it authentically reflect a character people know in its mannerisms, gait, or expressions?

This context changes everything. Take walking, for example—in robotics, it’s generally a priority to maximize the stability of a walking gait, since falling down doesn’t help you move crates or explore terrain. At Disney, however, a stable walking gait is less important than a gait that brings a character to life. Falling down can be wildly entertaining, as long as the falling happens in character!

About a year ago, our team came to a realization: we needed robots that didn’t mind taking the occasional tumble. If we’re going to be free to explore fun and evocative performances with our robots, failure had to be an option. And not only that—failure had to be expected, and built into the design. We called our new project “Indestructibles” and set out toward the goal implied by that name.

On March 10, 2023, we were able to show off our latest Indestructibles prototype at SXSW in Austin, Texas. We were nervous. We knew this little character had charmed us, but we couldn’t be sure her personality would come through on such a big stage with a brand-new audience. But from the moment she peeked her head out of her crate, the energy in the crowd let us know they were not only seeing her, but cheering for her. We were thrilled!

Getting to this point took a lot of exploration. At first, we were a little intimidated by the idea of making a robot that would bounce back from a fall. But after a few months of dropping ideas (and robots) on the floor, we found it was a fairly tractable problem. What’s more, we discovered it’s possible to make components out of ordinary materials that can survive large drops and big hits, especially at smaller scales where strength-to-weight ratios are in our favor. Protecting delicate electrical equipment was a bigger challenge, but reducing our points of failure and providing shock absorption in the right places kept us moving forward.

As excited as we were by the durability of our robot, we realized durability alone was not enough.

In conventional robotics, physics is the final judge of what works best. Sizing a strut and positioning the center of mass can be done carefully in a computer, and the result in hardware is likely to match the intention. When the goal is creating a character, human hearts and minds are the final judge, instead. People are much harder to simulate, and the full effect of a performance can only really be felt by being in the same room as the robot. So, the speed of our development was limited by how fast we could translate a new idea from concept to embodied performance.

That meant a new approach to both hardware and software. On the hardware side, we needed to be able to have a robot that could change and adapt in a matter of days rather than weeks, all while maintaining reliability. And on the software side, we needed elegant interfaces that could allow us to rapidly try out new motions—in search of emotions.

Mechanically, we adopted a modular design strategy built around a single size of actuator, keeping the scale small while using carbon fiber to minimize weight. We also made the decision to tolerate a certain amount of flexibility in the joints, sacrificing rigidity for motor protection and ease of construction. This made it easy to change the proportions of the robot to match different characters. Just as important, it made it easy to add and subtract degrees of freedom. “What if the robot was on roller skates?” became a question that could be answered quickly with a new pair of feet.

We also developed a simple, interactive software interface for the robot. We can move the robot by hand into keyframe poses, then blend those together smoothly to create motions already grounded in the physics of the robot. We kept the onboard code light, avoiding autonomy and restricting sensing to just motor positions, so we could rapidly adapt the software as we iterated on the hardware.

We also developed ways to pull key poses out of motion-capture data so we could directly integrate the human aspects of a physical performance. One early learning from this process was how holistic real human movement is. Every part of the body moves sympathetically with every other part, even if it’s subtle. Programming a robot directly, it can be easy to only move the joints producing the main action, and some life is lost as a result.

Moving from motion capture to the robot isn’t seamless—the robot has a different mass distribution than a person, and a much more limited set of joints. But the effort is worth it when you see our latest prototype wobbling around in a way that makes you feel like you’re looking at a character rather than a robot.

So what’s our biggest takeaway from the past year? There is a huge unexplored space of robotic locomotion that evokes human emotion. By shifting our emphasis toward the way we reach our goal—rather than just the end result—we’ve opened up what feels like a world of possibilities for dynamic and expressive robots.

Which is why we’re so excited about what lies ahead!

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When you ask Dr. Zak about his work and workplace, he will not talk about conference rooms or computer monitors. He will also not tell you about Expedition Everest or Pandora – the World of Avatar, even though he works at Disney. Instead, he will tell you about butterflies, bees, birds, and other animals.

You see, Dr. Zak is a Conservation Manager at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, where he leads the terrestrial conservation programs for pollinating plants, bees, birds, and butterflies. His background studying insects led him to explore research at Walt Disney World Resort, where he listens to a “symphony of insects” in his daily work as an ecologist and evolutionary biologist, focusing on conservation, ecosystems, and pollination.

Dr. Zak developed his passion for animals as a young boy in Utah, growing up in a family that encouraged him ‘to keep asking questions’ about the world around him. His father, a medical doctor, and mother, a registered nurse, inspired him to pursue a career in science, while his sister instilled an appreciation for travel and discovery. These core values have stayed with Dr. Zak.

From Utah to Florida with detours in Costa Rica, El Salvador and Kenya, Dr. Zak has studied conservation through a global lens. And now he is finally home.

The Animals of Disney

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is a unique and magical place that inspires guests to take action to help change our planet’s story – and have fun in the process. Disney cast members, like Dr. Zak, work to protect animals and their natural habitats, while educating the community about the importance of conserving wildlife. Walt Disney World Resort has several programs that focus on animal conservation, including habitat protection, grants, rescue and rehabilitation and community outreach initiatives, which Dr. Zak helps lead alongside a team of scientists.

He often recites a phrase loved by fellow biologists, “If you haven’t seen it, you can’t save it,” and Disney’s Animal Kingdom provides that unique educational and inspirational experience for its guests. The okapi, a critically endangered species from Central Africa that “most people have never seen,” are Dr. Zak’s favorite animals at Disney’s Animal Kingdom because of the Company’s significant commitment to protect and preserve the species and others like it.

Disney’s Conservation Legacy

The Walt Disney Company’s longstanding conservation commitment is what initially called Dr. Zak to work here. When Walt Disney acquired the land in Central Florida fifty years ago, he dedicated a third of the land to wildlife and conservation, “connecting all of Walt Disney World to the wilderness around it,” said Dr. Zak. Walt Disney’s legacy of has continued to grow over time -protecting more than 1,000 species- and it is something that Dr. Zak is immensely proud to be part of. Walt Disney’s commitment to nature also carried on into the films he produced. Of the twenty-three Academy Awards Walt Disney won, . Nature still inspires a lot of our stories and experiences at Disney, from movies like Moana to The Lion King. This legacy is why every day, Dr. Zak says he tries “to see how we can help be the best stewards of our environment here at Walt Disney World and across all of our Disney properties.”

Dr. Zak is not done traveling the world and studying animals and insects in every environment. His next great adventure is to “go to Indonesia, Congo, or tropical forest in Asia or Africa” and bring lessons of conservation from those travels back to Disney, because he believes conservation is about “a global community all working together” to protect the environment. That sentiment is what Disney Planet Possible is all about, tangible actions we are taking to ensure people, plants, and animals all have a healthy place to call home.

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Susan Finnigan is not only a Lead Product Manager for Disney Parks, but also a former Sergeant in the U.S. Marine Corps and has served both the country and the community in many ways.

Her affinity for volunteering began with the Toys for toys program while serving with the Marines, and now, she continues working in her community as part of the Disney SALUTE Veteran affinity group, helping to enhance the Disney experience for those who have served in, or have a strong connection to the military. 

Cast members and military veterans are an essential part of our Disney family and contribute in countless ways to supporting the company and the communities in which we live.  

Come meet Susan Finnigan and read more Disney Cast Life Stories on the Disney Parks Blog.

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Come Marvel in the super-heroism and unmatched style of She-Hulk, Scarlet Witch, Captain Marvel, Spider Gwen and more at the “Women of Marvel” exhibition has opened at Disney Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel at Disneyland Paris.  

This exhibition is in the Jack Kirby Legacy Gallery and showcases six female artists and celebrates Women’s History Month.  

Won’t be able to visit before April 20, 2023?  Take a deep dive into the heroic offering by visiting the Disney Park Blog.

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When Disney Cast Member Princeton Parker isn’t helping tell stories about Disney’s parks and experiences across television shows like American Idol or Dancing with the Stars, he can often be found onstage inspiring groups of local students about their futures. For Princeton, this commitment is equal parts rewarding and personal, as not long ago he was one of those students benefitting from Disney’s investments in future leaders.

As Los Angeles natives, the Parker family came to love the Disney brand through film and television—mediums that inspired Princeton to dream and engage with those around him. Early on, Princeton began making his impact through public speaking events and sermons, earning the affectionate nickname of “kid preacher.” This passion for storytelling grew, as he went on to become a licensed minister and deliver motivational speeches.

From Dreaming to Doing at Disney Parks

“Throughout my life, I’ve been committed to using words to create experiences that would help people see, believe, and pursue the best of themselves. That took me through my years in middle and high school, speaking around the country. And my last year of high school, I attended a program put on by Disney, where students could come to the parks and be immersed in pursuing their dreams and learn how [the company] could be the place to inspire them to make that happen,” Princeton recalled. After years of relating to his favorite Disney characters, this was a pivotal moment for Princeton to see himself reflected in Disney’s mission—to uplift and invest in communities through inspirational, yet relatable stories.

For the high school senior, hearing Disney Parks leaders share similar life experiences was transformational. The encouragement Princeton felt over that four-day experience stayed with him four years later as he began applying for a full-time job. “I didn’t know how or what [my career] would look like, but I knew that there was a space for me within Disney. From my first step on property at the Disneyland Resort, I was presented with opportunities to now pay forward the experience that was given to me—empowering [students] to understand how to prepare their careers can envision themselves [at] Disney,” said Princeton.

Throughout the past six years as a Disney Parks cast member, Princeton’s professional growth is evident in the various roles and industries he’s explored – from park operations to television content programming. His leaders encouraged him to try new career paths, while helping him hone his craft as a public speaker on some of Disney’s biggest stages. Some of these opportunities include representing the company on live television broadcasts, sharing all the ways guests can experience new lands like Avengers Campus, celebrating heritage during Black History Month, and more.

Making a Difference Throughout Anaheim and Beyond

“Whether I’m standing in a classroom, on stage, or helping craft a TV show feature, my hope is that people see someone who comes from a similar experience as theirs and know that there’s room for that experience to continue and blossom at Disney, because that is what changed everything for me,” Princeton shared. Today, his engagements include volunteering as a speaker with Disneyland Resort’s Workforce Development Initiative which provides mentorship, career training and donations to local Anaheim non-profits. He’s also an active member of United Way’s Speakers Bureau representing Disney’s investment in high school students preparing for college, apprenticeship programs or their first step into a full-time career.

“Disney is not just about telling stories, we’re about creating them. No matter your background or experience, there’s room to create your story here at Disney,” Princeton said. “My hope is when someone hears me or interacts with me, they are able to understand that whatever their career path, whatever their skill set, whatever their passion, whatever their identity, there’s room to create a story for ourselves and for the audiences that we serve here.”

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Presentation Reveals How Creativity and Innovation Spark Connection and Happiness

BURBANK, California – March 10, 2023 – Today at South by Southwest (SXSW) in Austin, Texas, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Chairman Josh D’Amaro showcased Disney’s long-time commitment to innovation by pulling back the curtain on ways Disney creates intentional environments envisioned and built for happiness.

D’Amaro’s presentation, “Creating Happiness: The Art & Science of Disney Parks Storytelling,” was delivered at the essential destination for global professionals. SXSW is best known for its conference and festivals celebrating the convergence of tech, film, music, education, and culture.

“Disney’s 100-year legacy is built on the intersection of creativity, innovation, and storytelling,” D’Amaro said. “We’re humbled by the fact that millions of people choose Disney as their vacation destination every year to escape into our beloved stories. To our guests around the world, I want to tell you that we’ve only just begun.”

Disney Imagineers, the team behind making “broomsticks walk and cars talk” took the stage to share some of the unique and ambitious ideas that bring Disney stories to life and spark happiness for millions worldwide. D’Amaro and Disney Imagineers shared insights about how creating immersive environments, sensory-provoking food and music, visual effects, interactions with favorite Disney characters and world-class service from Disney cast members are all designed to bring people together to create their own stories again and again.

The “Creating Happiness” presentation included the unveiling of a brand-new prototype robot. Pushing boundaries of what characters can do in Disney experiences, the new robot demonstrated its ability to make dynamic maneuvers, including falling down and getting back up, as well as a somersault. The dynamic robot incorporates motion-capture data to create performances that evoke emotion, giving Disney Imagineers a new way to bring out a characters’ personality.

The presentation also included a behind-the-scenes look at another blue-sky concept from Disney Imagineers that lets fans have a live conversation with pixie-sized Tinker Bell. It’s the latest in innovations from Disney Imagineers to bring Disney characters, both big and small, to life in new ways. The Hulk character who appeared at Disney California Adventure Park in 2022 was also on display for the audience. This unique, exoskeleton allows performers to operate large, non-human characters.

Delivering more hope, inspiration and happiness is at the center of Disney’s next 100 years, D’Amaro shared. “We want to invent the future once again – together – drawing on a range of voices and perspectives that will help us continue to create even more happiness around the world.”

About Disney Parks, Experiences and Products

Disney Parks, Experiences and Products brings the magic of The Walt Disney Company’s powerful brands and franchises — including Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, ESPN, Twentieth Century Studios and National Geographic — into the daily lives of families and fans around the world to create magical memories that last a lifetime.

When Walt Disney opened Disneyland in Anaheim, California, on July 17, 1955, he created a unique destination built around storytelling and immersive experiences, ushering in a new era of family entertainment. More than 60 years later, Disney has grown into one of the world’s leading providers of family travel and leisure experiences, with iconic businesses including six resort destinations with 12 theme parks and 53 resorts in the United States, Europe and Asia; a top-rated cruise line fleet of five ships with three more planned in the coming years; a luxurious family beach resort in Hawaii; a popular vacation ownership program; and two award-winning guided tour adventure businesses. Disney Imagineers are the creative force behind Disney theme parks, resort hotels and cruise ships globally.

Disney Consumer Products, Games and Publishing includes the world’s leading licensing business; one of the largest children’s publishing brands globally; one of the largest licensors of games across platforms worldwide; and consumer products at retail around the world.

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Walt Disney famously said, “You can design, create, and build the most wonderful place in the world. But it takes people to make that dream a reality.” The people he was referring to are the employees, known as Disney cast members, who come to work each day with the purpose of creating happiness for those around them. Cast members are the very heart of Disney, as they make ordinary days extraordinary with every smile, every wave and every memory in the making.

One such cast member is Atlanta native and Georgia State University graduate Ronke, who began her career at the Front Desk of Disney’s Wilderness Lodge while on the Disney College Program, a unique living and working environment with participants from all over the world. During this time, Ronke was able to gain uniquely Disney on-the-job learning experiences, all while preparing for her future and building transferable skills including networking, problem solving, teamwork, and effective communication.

As the college program neared completion, her leaders encouraged her to apply for a Management Internship, which enabled Ronke to gain the leadership experience that became the foundation of her career. Now, almost two decades later, she is a manager with Casting Services, helping make dreams come true for others by filling front-line roles all throughout Walt Disney World, just like the one she first held.

A Place to Learn & An Opportunity to Develop at Disney

Employee longevity is typically something of a bygone era, however, with the chance to move between departments and expand into exciting new career industries, Disney cast members like Ronke have limitless growth opportunities under one umbrella.

“I am a living, breathing example of the opportunities at Disney,” Ronke exclaimed. “From working in operations, becoming a level one sommelier, a beer cicerone, getting my master’s degree through the education reimbursement program, and holding various roles in the professional admin spaces, I’ve done a lot. Throughout my career at Disney, I have found that it has enabled me to grow professionally and build a family that I didn’t know I could have. It has given me experiences that I could not have even imagined. I have gone to places and done things and seen things that are really ‘only at Disney’ moments.

A Mission to Create Happiness for Other Cast Members

Reflecting on her experience and growth at Disney, Ronke is quick to mention those who have positively impacted her career. To pay it forward, she gives back to her fellow cast members as a co-leader of the Business Employee Resource Group PULSE, which promotes the advancement of equity, inclusion, and belonging for black cast members and as a member of the Black Talent Network, which is a dynamic program designed to support the exposure, sponsorship, and development of Black senior leaders.

As Ronke continues to grow and evolve in her career, she makes it her mission to help others along their journeys as well. “I have a favorite phrase, ‘pull as you climb,’” Ronke shared. “The heart of Disney really is our Cast. What I appreciate about this company is that we really do pour into others. We want to see other people around us grow. Our Cast Members are the Disney Difference.”

One of the ways that happiness is created for Disney cast members like Ronke is by helping them expand beyond the knowledge and skills they first had when they came to the company. For Ronke, the journey between Front Desk and Casting Services was filled with a wide array of experiences, from Catering to Food and Beverage and Outdoor Foods, as well as several Professional Administrative roles focused on improving the careers of others and bringing a sense of optimism to cast, leading her to where she is today.

“The opportunities at The Walt Disney Company are truly endless,” Ronke explained. “What drives me and what really fuels me is to help bring happiness to others, in return for the happiness that’s been brought to me.”

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In that spirit, we’re delighted to share that starting today on shopDisney and at select shopping destinations throughout Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort, you can experience an all-new picturesque work of art that brings together diverse cultures and Disney magic with the CreativeSoul Disney Princess inspired dolls collaboration! These breathtaking dolls pull inspiration from our beloved Disney Princess characters and the young girls featured in the concept art.

The dolls have natural hairstyles, highlighted by intricate dresses featuring beaded details and embellished African fabrics, accessories, and accents while paying tribute to Princess characters Tiana, Snow White, Rapunzel and Cinderella.

These exclusive dolls were designed with husband and wife duo Regis and Kahran Bethencourt, founders of CreativeSoul Photography; a Black-owned photography studio in Atlanta, Georgia which re-imagines what classic heroines could look like through a diverse lens. For over a decade, Regis and Kahran have carried on their mission of celebrating youth of color in artistic new ways while adding Afrocentric design elements to their visuals to showcase the beauty and strength of diversity. We had the pleasure of interviewing Regis and Kahran on their thoughts on the series:

Q: What was the inspiration behind this collection? Tell us about the creative process.

For this collection, we decided to re-imagine the traditional Disney Princess characters with Afrocentric elements and hairstyles, giving a fresh diverse take. The creative process involved creating mood boards for all the creative elements of the shoot, taking reference photos of the models, and as mentioned, incorporating Afrocentric elements such as unique, cultural influences in the designs.

Q: What was the best part about collaborating on this collection with Disney?

Being able to assist with all the details for the dolls. We were able to give input throughout the entire process – from hair textures to fabrics, and even accessories to make sure our vision was executed throughout the project.  

Q: Who is your favorite Disney Princess character and why?

Cinderella’s story resonates with us as it is relatable to many of the struggles and adversities that people may encounter in their lives. Despite the difficulties she faced, she maintained her kindness and inner strength which is what we aim to do in our daily lives.

Q: What is your favorite thing about your job?

We love working with and empowering young people, helping them see themselves in a positive light. We also enjoy how we’re able to tell unique stories through our creative process.  

From February 3 through 5, guests can meet Regis and Kahran during a signing at the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts (included in theme park admission) where the CreativeSoul Doll Collection will be for sale at the Art of Disney and the America Pavilion (while supplies last), along with a series of five images of the models which inspired the dolls and two books, all available for a limited time. During this time, guests can also view an exhibit in the America Pavilion which will showcase life-sized dresses and natural-styled wigs of the doll models.

Retailing at $59.99 and 11 inches in scale, these dolls are special-edition so be sure to head on over to shopDisney, Walt Disney World Resort, and Disneyland Resort and get your own doll soon – or collect them all! We can’t wait for you to experience the excitement and wonder of seeing these beautiful works of art in person.

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Before they debuted to guests, thousands of cast members, donning festive violet and platinum attire, enjoyed a special Disney Cast Life preview of the two new nighttime spectaculars that are part of the Disney100 Celebration at Disneyland Resort: “Wondrous Journeys,” a stunning projections and fireworks show at Disneyland park honoring more than 60 films from Walt Disney Animation Studios, and “World of Color – ONE” at Disney California Adventure park, which you could easily mistake for a Disney movie with its powerful life lesson. Pro tip? Don’t forget your tissues.

“It’s hugely gratifying seeing everyone having a good time,” said Cast Activities, Recognition & Events program manager Chelsey McConnell. “I’m so honored to be a part of this and to be among all my fellow cast members as we launch this celebration.”

Throughout the night, randomly selected attendees were surprised with cast-exclusive merchandise released especially for the Disney100 Celebration. The words “CAST MEMBER,” emblazoned across each item, took on added meaning for those reflecting on being a part of the milestone celebration.

“Years later, I will look back and be like, ‘Oh my gosh, I was there, and I got to be a part of that!’” said entertainment lead Brandon Dunbar.

Merchandise hostess Gretchen Schueller, flanked by friends she works with at the Emporium, agreed. “I mean, it’s the 100th anniversary – that’s a once-in-a-lifetime celebration. And to be one of the first to see this new show is epic!”

Cast members and guests alike will get the chance to experience more Disney100 Celebration magic all year long. Check out how cast members are living their #DisneyCastLife and celebrating this historic year on Facebook and Instagram!

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The new look fully embodies a “green” theme – not only is the shirt green, but the costume itself is environmentally friendly! The fabric is made up of recycled material, which even includes the Disney PhotoPass emblem stitched on the sleeve. At Disney, we are constantly pushing boundaries to solve great challenges. Josh, Costume Designer for Disney Live Entertainment, takes this mindset to heart when developing new costumes.

“Sustainability and environmental consciousness are major focuses of all design work for cast member costumes,” he said. “We’re always looking for new practices and technologies that go the extra mile towards reducing our environmental footprint.”

In addition to helping the environment, the costumes also help our photographers. The fabric is designed to control moisture and protect against the sun’s rays. It’s no secret the sun is bright here in Florida, so Josh and the team took extra steps to make sure cast members are protected.

“My favorite part about designing costumes for our cast is ensuring they are comfortable and safe,” Josh said. “We help them to be at their best so they can make magic for our guests.”

Disney PhotoPass photographers are at the heart of turning your most joyful vacation moments into treasured memories. Next time you get your photo taken, thank your photographer – and compliment them on the new costume!

For more updates on all things #DisneyCastLife and #DisneyPhotoPass, stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog!

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We recently had the opportunity to speak with two of the incredible experts on the team – who both began their career as educators and teachers – about what education means to them in their respective roles and how their passions for learning propelled them in their careers at Disney and more.

Dawn Kintigh is a senior content specialist who has been with the company for more than a decade and has held various roles within Disney Institute as an instructional designer, writer, editor and one of our lead content developers. Dawn said that meaningful work is important to her, and her team provides that. “Education is the foundation of my role. We create and deliver meaningful content to help businesses all over the world improve the lives of employees and those who lead them.”

Disney Institute offers ongoing professional development courses, learning events for private groups, and advisory services for entire organizations. Spanning a wide variety of industries and disciplines, the team has served thousands of clients and millions of professionals over the past 35 years in more than 45 countries.

Dawn says, “As a creator and editor of learning materials, it is all about our participants and the insights that we can share with them to improve their organizations, based on best practices we have learned over time through our subject-matter experts, processes, and research.”

Of the thousands of learning opportunities she has helped lead and produce, she loves being involved in Veteran’s Institute Summit, which was created to inspire business professionals and organizations to create their own military veteran hiring programs using insights from The Walt Disney Company’s Heroes Work Here initiative and working on Customer Experience Summits.

Christopher Fults, a Disney Institute facilitator who originally began his career teaching middle school English Language Arts in Tennessee, said that getting to work with professionals to highlight how Disney continues to deliver exceptional experiences is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and a dream come true. “We are incredibly intentional with the ‘how’ and ‘why’ behind our work. To see the ‘light bulb’ or ‘a-ha!’ moment in others is inspiring.”

So what does education mean to him? “It means meeting the participants where they are at and delivering content in a way that is impactful and useful for them. It is my goal to deliver a high-energy and engaging program for every participant,” he says.

When asked about what the key Disney differences are when it comes to teaching new clients or professionals about our work and best practices, he says “we learn from the past 100 years and use these lessons in our content. We are not asking nor suggesting that anyone copies us at Disney, rather, we hope that our examples of best practices help lead to incremental changes that they adapt and apply to enhance their operations over time.”

Together, both Dawn and Christopher say that their favorite part of their roles is working in a place that feels like a big family. Christopher said, “each member of the delivery team brings a new idea, approach, or insight into the program made up of their own experiences. It is truly a collaborative space where we are given the ability to tell stories and create connections with our participants in an authentic and impactful way like no one else does.”

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Castle – kākela. Dolphin – naiʻa. Mouse —ʻiole.

“This is where it comes alive,” Kuanoni murmurs. “This space represents so much progress in our effort to keep ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi going.”

Ōlelo Hawaiʻi – the Hawaiian language. Once illegal to use, now flourishing once again in its native land. For Kuanoni and other ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi speakers, the revival of the language is a development to be savored in light of its past.

February marks Mahina ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi, Hawaiian language month, and Aulani Resort is celebrating with a series of events and activations designed to increase awareness and appreciation for the language among guests and Disney Vacation Club Members, cast and the community.

There will be readings of Hawaiian stories, or moʻolelo, in the lobby, demonstrations of how native Hawaiians interpreted the various phases of the moon, and a community showing of the movie “Moana” in ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi, all geared toward spreading knowledge of the language and encouraging its use in everyday life.

Kuanoni, a bartender at The ʻŌlelo Room, speaks Hawaiian, just like every cast member who works there. A dedication to the language was instilled in him at an early age, and he has volunteered to spearhead Aulani Resort efforts to promote Mahina ‘Ōlelo Hawaiʻi.

“My personal journey with ōlelo Hawaiʻi started at home,” Kuanoni said. “My parents both spoke Hawaiian, and it was the primary language of our family. There wasnʻt a choice about whether to learn it or not – and I’m better for it. My entire world revolved around Hawaiian knowledge in some way. By day, I was going to an immersion charter school and working a loʻi (taro patch) with my dad. In the evenings I was dancing hula, and on Sunday I was attending church in ōlelo Hawaiʻi.”

But access to the Hawaiian language wasn’t always easy. When the Hawaiian monarchy was overthrown in 1893 by American forces, ōlelo Hawaiʻi was banned. No language other than English was allowed in schools and public places. By the 1960s, only an estimated 2,000 people spoke Hawaiian and the language was on the brink of extinction.

A resurgence of Hawaiian culture and traditions began in the 1960s and 1970s, and in 1978, the Hawai‘i Constitutional Convention restored Hawaiian as an official language.

Hawaiian immersion schools were established, allowing the restoration of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi in communities across the islands. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there were an estimated 18,000 Hawaiian speakers as of 2015. 21 of them are cast members at Aulani Resort.

Kuanoni believes the revival of the Hawaiian language has made it more important to celebrate things like Mahina Ōlelo Hawaiʻi.

“Personally, I feel that Mahina ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi celebrates and reaffirms that our language lives on today, and more importantly, it honors those kūpuna (elders) who have taken part in passing ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi to all of us despite the adversity they faced.”

For Kuanoni, it is especially gratifying to work in a location that celebrates the Hawaiian language and educates guests year-round, but he’s especially fond of Mahina Ōlelo Hawaiʻi and how it focuses attention on his beloved ʻōlelo.

“I’m excited to celebrate and to share this message within our company,” he said. “Our cast events are always my favorite because they create lasting change here at Aulani Resort that will continue to make an impact.”

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We had a chat with four cast members on the team who are actively involved in preparing for Lunar New Year 2023, who gave us an inside look into what it takes to pull off this transformation. Meet Keith Cheng, Horticulture Service Manager, Facility Services, Tiffany Yiu, Production Manager, Entertainment & Costuming, Mia Kwok, Senior Artist, Facility Services, and Fish Yue, Production Designer, Entertainment & Costuming.

When did the Lunar New Year preparations begin?

The team started planning the Lunar New Year project nine months ahead of time, shared Tiffany, thinking through everything from the design, production and application of decoration to the lighting and music for the park and hotels.

How did the team pull off this transformation in such a short time frame?

Facility Services worked hand-in-hand with Entertainment & Costuming to bring this seasonal makeover to life, shared Mia, who liaised with the relevant parties to ensure the installation progress went smoothly.

After dismantling Christmas décor around the resort, the Horticulture team removed all plants in the Town Square planter so that the Entertainment team could install the new Lunar New Year decorations, she explained. After ensuring everything was safely installed, the Horticulture team then installed new plants in the planter. Meanwhile, Entertainment’s technical team adjusted the lighting for the planter. All this hard work could only be carried out overnight once the park closed to guests!

What special decor is in store for Lunar New Year 2023?

There is a huge display in the Town Square planter every year. It is an iconic check-in point for every guest. Fish is responsible for designing this year’s Lunar New Year decor.

Lunar New Year marks the beginning of the calendar year based on the lunar calendar. Every year in the repeating zodiac cycle of 12 years is represented by an animal, each with its own reputed attributes. 2023 is the Year of the Rabbit – at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, it’s the year of StellaLou.

“I wanted to add water elements to represent wealth for the Lunar New Year,” Fish said. Blue coloring was infused and cloud patterns were added to represent the flow of water. To match StellaLou’s personality, Fish also added in some curves to invoke dancing — a favorite pastime of StellaLou’s!

Creating this décor is something Fish is proud of because “guests take photos with it and feel excited about the decorations. They feel connected with us,” she said. “Seeing their reactions made me feel a sense of pride and happiness.”

What makes the change in décor significant?

Cheerful and delightful flowers are symbolic of the Lunar New Year. You’ll notice Lunar New Year flower elements all around the park and hotels. Keith is the garden designer for this year’s Lunar New Year decor. He picked around 30 different species of plants and installed some 8,000 flowers for the seasonal event. As he used different flowering plants and colorful foliage, mixing and matching them, you will find the flowers also carry Lunar New Year messages.

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Picturing what’s possible is what we do every day at Disney, and the real magic begins when we put that possibility into practice. With the help of a machine that pulverizes glass into gravel and sand-like pieces, we’re not just imagining the possibilities for a world in balance, we’re working to make it a reality!

As part of a pilot program, we’re collecting glass placed in recycle bins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. This glass is then transferred into a bin connected to a glass pulverizer. With the flip of a switch, glass travels up a conveyor belt where it is then crushed by multiple small hammers before being sorted through a large mesh screen for bigger, gravel-sized pieces or a smaller mesh screen for finer, sand-like material. Within 30 seconds, a sauce jar or beverage bottle can turn into a beautiful, soft-sand mix!

This pulverizer can process up to 2,000 pounds of glass per hour. So, a full ton can go through this machine every hour and be converted into sand and gravel instead of being routed to a landfill.

This work is just one example of the ways The Walt Disney Company is aiming to lead the way in protecting the planet with our environmental goals by 2030 to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, conserve water, achieve zero waste to landfills, further reduce single-use plastics and emissions, and expand renewable energy efforts.

Here at Fort Wilderness, we use this material to fill in holes on gravel roads and our horseback riding trails. The pulverizer processes the glass in a way that removes any sharp edges, which makes it safe for animals to walk on. And, it actually creates less dust on the trails, which makes a better experience for everyone!

In the near future, this material could have many other uses across Walt Disney World, including roadbeds, golf course bunkers, filtration systems, sandbags and drainage improvements, to name a few. It may even be used in recreation areas and in non-structural concrete like sidewalks and tennis courts.

And one day, this glass mixture might even be used for coastal restoration work. It’s a lot of fun to see a simple item recycled into something so usable!

We’re always dreaming of the possibilities of tomorrow at Disney, and we apply that same approach when we think about the environment. While this is an early step, it’s exciting to picture what’s possible when we take action to change our planet’s story.

And we invite you to join us in building a brighter, more sustainable future. Whether you’re turning glass into sand or simply sorting your glass containers into a recycle bin, every simple action can help create a world in balance and make a happier, healthier planet possible for all. To learn more, visit DisneyPlanetPossible.com.

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First, our talented culinary team steps in to disassemble the giant gingerbread cookie structures.

“Each year, we remove all edible items and place them in food waste bins that are then sent for composting,” said Chef Kristine Farmer, a pastry chef at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.

The next step in the process involves an un-bee-lievable discovery cast members made about a decade ago that has since led to a sweet tradition during the annual gingerbread display recycling process.

Once cast members have cleared the displays of the gingerbread pieces, the wooden frames that hold the structures together are carefully taken apart and whisked away to our tree farm. That’s where our pollinator pals buzz in to help! Local bees feed off the frosting left on the frames as a sweet treat courtesy of our culinary teams — the perfect energy boost to fuel up on before they fly off to other pollinator pursuits that lead to honey making.

After these busy bees buzz off on their way, the wooden structures are hot washed clean to remove any remaining sugar and then put into storage to reuse during the next holiday season.

“Seeing how bees respond to the gingerbread displays is such a spectacular example of the impact an individual can have on the behavior of bees and wildlife,” said Dr. Zak Gezon, Conservation Manager for Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment. “You can even recreate something like this at home in a way that’s beneficial to native pollinators by creating your own pollinator garden using beautiful flowering plants.”

Feeling inspired? Learn how you can create your own pollinator garden at home by reading more on the Disney Parks Blog.

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During Black History Month in February, the Disney Parks Blog will celebrate Black stories and highlight special experiences at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort.

Today, I’m happy to share how you can honor Black heritage and culture at the Disneyland Resort during Black History Month and beyond! Throughout the year, you can enjoy Celebrate Soulfully experiences including, the “Tale of the Lion King” stage show, African-inspired cuisine at Troubadour Tavern and training sessions with the Dora Milaje. In February, the celebration expands with more, limited-time offerings you can discover across the resort.

‘Celebrate Gospel’ returns to Disneyland Park – Feb. 18 and 25

A resort tradition for more than a decade, “Celebrate Gospel” returns to the Fantasyland Theatre at Disneyland park on Feb. 18 and Feb. 25, from 2:30 – 7:00 p.m. PT! This powerful tribute to Gospel music showcases uplifting performances by award-winning Gospel music stars, recording artists and community choirs – each sharing their own distinctive style. If you’re at Disneyland park, you can stick around for the day’s lineup or drop by for a few songs!

Recording artist Jekalyn Carr takes the stage on Feb. 18, with special guest, singer-songwriter Melvin Crispell, III, and a cappella group Sacred Groove. On Feb. 25, “Celebrate Gospel” features GRAMMY® Award-winning singer and radio host Erica Campbell, with special guest DOE and powerhouse vocal ensemble The Singers of Soul. On both Saturdays, you can also admire the amazing talents of community choirs from across Southern California.

In addition to its African-inspired menu items available year-round, Troubadour Tavern will offer a special honey-glazed fried chicken bowl and red velvet Bundt cake during “Celebrate Gospel.”

Special Offerings During Black History Month

During the month of February, the Downtown Disney District will offer family crafts, live music and special offerings in honor of Black History Month. Kids and families can express their creativity with crafts inspired by Black heritage.

Lovepop will feature two cards designed in collaboration with talented artist Anthony Conley for Black History Month. Artists Ryan Riller and Larissa Marantz will be featured in artist showcases and signings from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. PT at Disneyana in Disneyland park on Feb. 25 and the WonderGround Gallery pop-up location in the Downtown Disney District on Feb. 26.

Each evening in February, you can dance and groove along to live musical performances highlighting genres such as R&B, Reggae, Funk, Motown, Jazz, Doo-Wop and Gospel. The Downtown Disney LIVE! stage will host live bands nightly, with scheduled acts including LALA Brass, Forward Motion Band, The Rhythm & Blues Brothas and others. On select weekend days, the festivities start in the afternoon with inspiring Gospel music performances by Sacred Groove and The Singers of Soul.

The Mood Indigo Group will fill the Great Hall of Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa with beautiful and energetic live Jazz each evening in February. At the Disneyland Hotel, overnight guests can paint an animation cel, with artwork of Princess Tiana from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “The Princess and the Frog.”

Restaurants at the Disneyland Resort will celebrate Black History Month with limited-time menu items that are sure to feed the soul. From Feb. 9 through March 5, Black-owned food truck Wings ‘N Waffles will serve up delicious sandwiches, plates and more near the building adjacent to Star Wars Trading Post in the Downtown Disney District. Soon, we’ll share the Foodie Guide to all the Celebrate Soulfully goodness!

Celebrate Soulfully Year-Round

All year long, you can discover culturally rich experiences and offerings across the Disneyland Resort that are inspired by Black history and culture.

A new video, produced in collaboration with National Geographic, will debut in the lobby of the Main Street Opera House at Disneyland park, outside of “Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln,” bringing to life the story of the historic relationship between Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln. Beginning Jan. 27, the video will be played between the busts and portraits of these two giants, recognizing their work together in the fight against slavery. The special presentation is narrated by Robin Roberts and features expert testimonials and the family of Douglass, an American advocate for freedom, justice and democracy.

For a limited time beginning in mid-February at Hollywood Land in Disney California Adventure park, you may encounter Moon Girl from the Disney Branded Television and Disney+ series “Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur,” which debuts on Feb. 10 on Disney Channel and Feb. 15 on Disney+. The series follows the adventures of 13-year-old super-genius Lunella Lafayette and her 10-ton T-Rex, Devil Dinosaur, whom she accidentally brings through a portal into present-day New York City. They team up to make a difference and protect Lunella’s Lower East Side neighborhood from danger.

At both theme parks, you can celebrate the stories of Black characters from favorite Disney films. Presented on select days at the Fantasyland Theatre in Disneyland park, the live stage production “Tale of the Lion King,” sweeps you away with the rhythm of the Pride Lands, with every aspect of the show drawing inspiration from the cultural roots of this timeless story. In New Orleans Square, Eudora’s Chic Boutique Featuring Tiana’s Gourmet Secrets offers home goods, apparel and more in a shop inspired by “The Princess and the Frog.” At Avengers Campus in Disney California Adventure park, Super Heroes such as Black Panther, the Dora Milaje and Captain America can often be found greeting and training with recruits.

Which Celebrate Soulfully experience or offering are you most excited for?

Check the latest entertainment details and schedules at Disneyland.com or the Disneyland mobile app. Entertainment, experiences, and offerings may be modified, limited in availability or unavailable, and are subject to restrictions, and change or cancellation without notice. Both Theme Park reservations and valid admission for the same Park on the same day are required for Park entry. Park reservations are limited, subject to availability and not guaranteed. Park admission and offerings are not guaranteed. Visit Disneyland.com/updates for important information to know before visiting the Disneyland Resort. 

*Message, data and roaming rates may apply for the use of the Disneyland app. Availability subject to handset limitations and features may vary by handset or service provider. Coverage and app stores not available everywhere. If you’re under 18, get your parents’ permission first.

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One of the most important ingredients to success is surrounding yourself with people who recognize and believe in your potential. For Daniela, an associate on the Global Operations team, she found a network of champions at Disney, made up of cast members from across the company, who helped her land her dream job and earn a college degree through the Disney Aspire education program.

Mentors Guide the Way to the Disney Aspire Program

While working at Disney Springs, Daniela had a chance meeting with the person who would become her first mentor within the company. “Toward the end of my shift, I met a cast member who specialized in Corporate Tax,” Daniela said. “We connected over our shared passion for business and my interest in exploring the field of Human Resources. I couldn’t believe it when she gave me her business card and asked to stay in touch.”

That connection proved to be invaluable to Daniela’s success in growing her career. Soon thereafter, she was introduced to colleagues in The Walt Disney Company’s Human Resources department who shared career advice, resume tips and helped strengthen her business acumen.

“My Disney family has been a tremendous support,” Daniela said. “People who hardly even knew me, believed in me and gave me a chance.” With guidance from these cast members, Daniela enrolled in the Disney Aspire program and earned a bachelor’s degree in Integrated Business from the University of Central Florida. “The program changed my life, because it opened doors of opportunity for me to grow both academically and professionally.”

Advanced schooling wasn’t something Daniela ever thought would be feasible for her and her family before coming to work for Disney and talking with these mentors.

“Growing up in an immigrant family, I didn’t think attending college was possible,” Daniela stated. “The financial burden was always subconsciously there. But when I came to work for Disney, that was no longer an issue. I could continue to grow and go to college without having to worry about the cost of tuition.”

Pursuing Higher Education & Supporting Fellow Cast Members

Daniela didn’t stop after earning her bachelor’s degree. She is currently pursuing her master’s degree in Human Resources also from the University of Central Florida, again through the education program. Like Daniela, eligible full-time and part-time hourly cast members can complete one degree at each level– from getting a certificate or GED to completing a master’s degree through Disney Aspire schools.

“I can continue to apply to professional roles, grow my skillset, learn and giving back to the company that is investing in me with my education,” Daniela remarked.

For Daniela, paying it forward is especially important. She enjoys sharing her story because she wants to motivate the next person looking to achieve their dreams, but not sure how. One of the most rewarding aspects of her current role on the Global HR Team is the ability to help her fellow cast members who are facing similar obstacles.

“I hope to inspire people with my story by helping them understand that I never imagined myself working in Human Resources for a large company like Disney. When people hear my story, I want them to see themselves and know that it’s not about where you come from, but rather how much motivation and determination you have to get to where you want to go.”

Have questions about Disney Aspire? Find all the answers you need in our comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions section.

The post From Disney Aspire to Dream Job: How Cast Members Chart New Careers appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

The spirit of comradery was high at Disney’s Animal Kingdom as our super sleuths answered 75 Disney trivia questions, deciphered clues and solved interactive puzzles all to set Goofy free from a crystal ball and uncover his fortune.

This event truly unlocks the inner child in all our cast members as they race to discover clues and solve the mystery with their friends. As fun as the event is, it’s also known to many as the most challenging cast member event, with many teams studying Disney history and completing practice puzzles leading up to the night.

Cast members Dani and Jimmy, along with their teammates Steve and Kelly, have been a team for nine years now and love working together. “It’s always a different theme, questions and puzzles change each year, and it keeps us on our toes,” Dani said. “Above all, it reminds me that working for Disney is unlike anything else.”

While they didn’t quite achieve their goal of making the podium this year, this group of friends still had a wacky, zany and wild time at Goofy’s Mystical Mystery Tour. “This is my favorite cast event of the year and getting to do it with some of my closest friends made the night even better,” Jimmy shared. “The four of us have been friends since we started as interns at Disney and competing with them is something I look forward to each year.”

To all the super sleuths who participated – congratulations! Your Disney knowledge and clue-solving skills made Goofy proud.

And if you’re still wondering, every Friday was Talent Roundup Day on the original “Mickey Mouse Club” and the rest of the lyrics from the “SpectroMagic” nighttime parade are “…glimmering, shimmering, carousel-ling…”

The post Disney Cast Compete in Walt Disney World’s Ultimate Trivia Event appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

Today, one of the 100 students selected for this year’s class got a magical surprise. In front of the entire student body at her New Jersey school, Mosope Aina, learned of her selection live on national TV. ABC’s Good Morning America segment featured Mickey Mouse, Disney executives and Grammy Award-winning singer Kelly Rowland. Then, Mosope and the other 99 Disney Dreamer names were displayed on a billboard in Times Square. That’s some BIG news in the Big Apple!

The students, along with a parent or guardian, will embark on an all-expense paid trip to Walt Disney World Resort, March 23-26, for the 16th annual event, aimed at broadening career awareness and creating exclusive opportunities for Black students and teens from underrepresented communities across America.

They will have the amazing opportunity to participate in immersive career workshops, networking sessions and mentorship events led by celebrities, Disney cast members and industry leaders to help the students reach their dreams.

Disney Dreamers Academy is an important part of our commitment to supporting diverse communities by encouraging the next generation to DREAM BIG and carry what they learn during the program with them so they can relentlessly pursue their dreams and make a difference in the lives of others.

Since 2008, Disney Dreamers Academy has inspired more than 1,500 students from across the country by fueling their dreams and showing them a world of possibilities as they prepare for their futures. In the years following, graduates have become storytellers, artists, engineers, innovators, journalists and more, and have transitioned into mentors to the Disney Dreamers who follow them.

We are so excited to welcome these 100 students to Walt Disney World and we can’t wait to see the trails that they will blaze with the tools and insights they gain from this amazing, life-changing program.

To learn more about the new class of Dreamers, visit DisneyDreamersAcademy.com. Regular updates about Disney Dreamers Academy are also available on social media at Facebook.com/DisneyDreamersAcademy, Twitter.com/DreamersAcademy and Instagram.com/DisneyDreamersAcademy.

The post Walt Disney World Celebrates Disney Dreamers Academy Class of 2023 with Surprise Good Morning America and Times Square Announcement appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

We were honored to welcome the Student Veterans of America (SVA) National Conference or “NatCon” back to Walt Disney World Resort for their milestone 15^th annual convention. The SVA NatCon is the largest gathering of student veterans anywhere in the world and has been held at the Most Magical Place on Earth a few times over the years.

Disney has been a proud supporter of SVA for 10 years as their work aligns with Disney’s own veteran-support programs, including the Heroes Work Here program and Veterans Institute Summit that helps veterans as they look for meaningful work following their military service.

This salute to military service has been an enduring Disney tradition since the founding of our company 100 years ago.

Photo credit: Student Veterans of America

Photo credit: Student Veterans of America

“As SVA celebrates its milestone 15th anniversary, we were thrilled to host our most important event of the year, the National Conference, again at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, a truly remarkable place ‘to NatCon,’” said National President and CEO Jared Lyon. “Disney’s ongoing support of student veterans empowers the next generation of American leadership while serving those who have served. We remain deeply grateful for our game-changing cooperation.”

Sharing the Journey from Student Veteran to Disney Cast Life

For Disney cast member and U.S. Army veteran, Gordon Campbell, this year’s NatCom was extra special. Gordon is an associate recruiter with Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, but he was also an active member of his SVA chapter at Defiance College in Ohio after his time in the military.  He was proud to attend this year’s conference as both a SVA alumni and a Disney cast member to share his perspective with fellow veterans looking for their next post-military careers.

Disney cast member Gordon Campbell chats with an attendee of the 2023 Student Veterans of America National Conference at Walt Disney World Resort

“I really enjoyed speaking with student veterans and offering them some advice and guidance,” said Gordon. “As a former SVA member, it was great to be able to give back to the community and organization that helped me so much as I began my civilian career after my service in the Army.”

In addition to having a spot on the conference show floor to meet attendees, we also hosted a panel discussion where cast members with military service had the opportunity to answer questions about their journey from the military to Disney and adapting to a new company culture.

Disney cast members Gardimy Fleurius, Laura Nugent, Tinisha Agromante and Kevin Preston participated in a panel about acclimating from military service to a corporate culture during the 2023 Student Veterans of America National Convention at Walt Disney World Resort. Gardimy, Laura and Kevin are all veterans and Tinisha is a military spouse.

Gardimy Fleurius, a Sr. Recruiter with Walt Disney World Resort and U.S. Army veteran, offered advice to the student veterans attending the panel about his experience adapting to a new corporate culture.

“Soft skills are very important as veterans transition from military to the civilian life.” said Gardimy. “Military members learned how to give direct orders in support of accomplishing their mission, whereas life inside a civilian organization often requires a softer approach. In addition, veterans should highlight their incredible skills at easily adapting to changing situations as skills such as those that come natural to them are valuable in post-military careers.”

Disney keynote remarks at the Student Veterans of America National Conference Military Ball on Jan.7 (Photo credit: Student Veterans of America)

Disney was also the official sponsor of the “Military Ball” gala Jan. 7 where we shared stories about Disney’s admiration for the U.S. Armed Forces throughout our company’s history dating back to our founders Walt and Roy’s Disney’s own contributions during the First World War. It was a fun evening that officially brought the successful conference to a memorable close.

We thank all these incredible veterans for their military service!

The post Disney Parks Welcomes the Student Veterans of America for Milestone 15th National Convention appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

“Avengers: Power the Night”

From January 28, 2023 through May 8, 2023, guests will be treated to an incredible drone show that will light up the night skies at Walt Disney Studios Park. This exclusive new show dedicated to fan-favorite Super Heroes combines music, lights, pyrotechnic effects and video projections onto the Tower of Terror.

And that’s not all – up to 500 drones (yes, 500!) will form a series of lighting sequences themed to the powers of heroic Super Heroes such as Captain America, Captain Marvel, Scarlet Witch and, for the first time at Disneyland Paris, Shang-Chi. Innovation is in our DNA, and we’re excited to embrace a breadth of technological elements to bring these stories to life in thrilling new ways.

But no show is complete without great music – and “Avengers: Power the Night” will not disappoint on the tunes! The show will feature a soundtrack composed of some of the most iconic scores that were reorchestrated with a symphony orchestra including more than 70 musicians at the famous Abbey Road Studios in London.

Disney Dreams®! Nighttime Spectacular

It’s back! Beginning April 12, 2023, Disney Dreams! will return and take guests on a magical and emotional journey following the “Disney D-Light” Drone show. Projections of some of the greatest Disney stories will illuminate Sleeping Beauty Castle, guided by Peter Pan’s shadow.

Not only will the story stay with you long after you watch it, but you’ll find yourself whistling the soundtrack on your way home. And how could it not with songs from fan-favorite movies such as Walt Disney Animation’s “Beauty and the Beast,” “The Lion King,” and more.

The projection mapping technology used creates illusions of rotating towers and swinging motions on the walls of the castle and, thanks to innovative LED technology that will deck the rooftops of the castle, Sleeping Beauty Castle will light up in sync with the show’s nostalgic soundtrack. Quel show fantastique!

“Pixar: We Belong Together”

As previously shared at the D23 Expo, a brand-new stage show is coming to Walt Disney Studios Park! “Pixar: We Belong Together” will take guests on a journey with their favorite Pixar Pals. Combining incredible technology, light effects, and iconic songs, the show will take guests on a journey to find out how friendship brings us all together. This is a can’t miss if you’re a Pixar fan!

Many more surprises await those who plan a visit during the resort’s 30^th anniversary grand finale, including a brand-new collection of exclusive merchandise, delicious food and beverages, the reopening of ‘it’s a small world’ and much more!

Stay up to date with all of Disneyland Paris’ exciting news on the Disney Parks Blog!

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Opportunity and support go hand in hand for two Disneyland Cast Members, Haley and Joshua, who embarked on the Disney Aspire education program and quickly discovered they weren’t alone. After signing up for their respective courses, the two friends learned they were both attending Wilmington University at the same time and could help each other navigate school and work.

Inspiration for Stepping into Disney Aspire

For Haley, working with Joshua on the Tomorrowland attractions team fostered a passion for mentoring and coaching, inspiring her to pursue a career in management. Looking for the next development opportunity, Haley researched Disney Aspire MBA offerings, which include a wide variety of specialties. She knew that a focus in Organizational Management would give her the skills needed to grow in her role as a leader.

“I always told myself if I went back to school, I would do it while I was working,” Haley stated. “I had tons of questions, but for each one, Disney Aspire had the answer. It was flexible with my schedule and the funding was complete, even down to books and tuition. Knowing that, I decided not to wait and jumped on the opportunity!”

Haley’s friend and mentor, Joshua, a Senior Business Technology Specialist found a different opportunity through Disney Aspire–a second chance at finishing his bachelor’s degree. With financial support from Disney, Joshua was able to realize a dream that once seemed unattainable. He credits his career success to the program and some extra encouragement from Haley.

“I met Haley back in 2015,” Joshua recalled. “I helped mentor her into the position she’s at now. We started pursuing Disney Aspire separately, but once we found out we were both going back to school we kept cheering each other on saying ‘we can do this,’ ‘we can achieve this.’”

Working fulltime and earning a degree, all while maintaining a personal life, had its ups and downs, but the reassurance that Haley and Joshua gave each other helped them make it through the program to all the way to graduation. “When I found out he was going for Disney Aspire I was so excited,” Haley exclaimed. “I told Joshua when we’re done with this, we’re going to graduation together. At graduation I remember Joshua saying that we did it, we made it, here we are. It made it so surreal being there in person.”

Joshua shared a similar sentiment and credits Haley for encouraging him to join her in person at the graduation ceremony. “When we realized we were graduating on the same day Haley suggested we attend,” Joshua said. “Having that entire journey together and then graduating together was the icing on the cake.”

Cast Member Life After the Disney Aspire Program

Since graduation, Haley has used the leadership skills and management expertise she gained through her studies to enhance her day-to-day performance, including in her new role as Stage Manager, Adventureland and Frontierland Attractions.

“The things I learned through the program helped me in so many ways,” Haley stated. “I’ve tailored how I lead, the way I make presentations, and the way I conduct myself with fellow Disney leaders.”

Joshua also furthered his career thanks to his new degree. He now helps to preserve the magic for Disneyland guests by making sure the technology in the parks and on their mobile devices is seamless in order to create a fun and innovative experience for all.

“Being able to graduate with honors gave me the ability to further advance my career at Disney,” Josh said. “I don’t think I would have the position I have now if it wasn’t for the education Disney provided me with through the Aspire program.”

Have questions about Disney Aspire? Find all the answers you need in our comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions section.

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Starting at Magic Kingdom in 1995, John’s first role was as a Conductor on the Walt Disney World Railroad. “It was this moment of serendipity,” John explains. “My grandma was so tickled that I was working on the railroad just like my grandfathers. They love to tell the story that when I was born, my grandfather was on the train and blew his whistle nonstop when he found out he was having a grandson.”

A young 17-year-old at the time, John was incredulous that he was being trusted with such an iconic piece of the park. “You can’t get more Disney than the steam train,” he says. He felt a deep connection with Walt, but also his grandfathers who had both since passed away.

Now, 28 years later, John has spent almost the entirety of his Disney career on Main Street, U.S.A. His full-circle journey has brought him to this very moment where he now oversees the operation of the Walt Disney World Railroad! The enormity of bringing these historical 100-year-old trains back to the Magic Kingdom isn’t lost on him. It’s an opportunity to introduce guests to the same feelings of whimsy and childlike wonder that made him fall in love with the park all those years ago.

“The first time cast members brought the Walter Elias train into Main Street Station, guests and cast gathered below to cheer and welcome the trains home,” John muses. “You can see the excitement on kid’s faces as they see the train coming around the corner for the first time and hear its whistle. It’s magical, and an honor to introduce the next generation to the beauty of steam trains, carrying on my family and Walt’s legacy.”

Just in time to join the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary Celebration, we invite you all aboard this historical opening day attraction to escape into the fantastical nostalgia of yesteryear.

Folks, the renowned Walt Disney World Railroad has officially returned, and John and his team would love to welcome you aboard!

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In fact, Walt Disney World is proud to celebrate 25 years of interpretation of our iconic “Candlelight Processional” as part of the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays presented by AdventHealth!

Since 1971, the “Candlelight Processional” has been a beloved offering of Walt Disney World. Debuting first at Magic Kingdom Park after many successful years at Disneyland Resort, the spectacular classical concert features both community and cast choirs, an orchestra, guest conductors, celebrity narrators and notably passionate Sign Language interpreters. As the offering grew in popularity both among cast members and show attendees, it was relocated to its current home in EPCOT, where it is enjoyed by thousands each year.

In 1997, the “Candlelight Processional” at Walt Disney World introduced its first live Sign Language interpretation of the show allowing guests who are Deaf and hard of hearing to enjoy and further resonate with the timeless stories told. Since then, over 2,000 shows have featured this inclusive offering.

“Celebrating 25 years of consistent Sign Language interpretation of this show is such an important milestone,” said Mark Jones, Walt Disney World Resort Manager of Accessibility. “Disney sets the standard for the entertainment industry, and by highlighting this offering among others at Walt Disney World, we give extensive exposure to the ASL community, and motivate for others to take similar steps.”

Head Candlelight interpreter and choreographer Angela Roth blends her knowledge of interpreting with her unique energetic style to enhance her craft of American Sign Language. As Angela signs, she incorporates her entire body, blocking her movements on stage, adopting the mannerisms of the characters speaking, as well as constantly utilizing facial expressions to allow guests who are Deaf and hard of hearing to fully conceptualize the entire narrative.

By working closely with the Deaf community, actors, and other interpreters, Angela takes performance signing to a new level using a technique called ‘eye-rhyme.’

“Eye-rhyme is where I put together the signs into a visual rhyme that to the Deaf eye creates a visual flow,” said Angela. “I use these eye-rhymes and sign to the pace of the music’s rhythm to create a similar effect to hearing the lyrics with the rhythm.”

Angela signs not only the words being said but also the music and the story itself. “My approach is not simply to sign the lyrics but to treat each piece as a visual poem incorporating elements from the Deaf community’s Deaf expressions. Deaf expressions originate from their own expressions and are unrelated to spoken languages. Instead, they draw their inspiration from visual metaphors that derive from ASL community and culture,” Angela said.

As a result, the piece becomes even more meaningful and connected to the guests. “We are not here to be human captions,” said Angela. “Like everyone at Disney, we are immersive storytellers and are responsible for ensuring every guest in attendance feels welcomed and sees themselves in the stories we tell.”

The post Disney Brings Language to Life through ASL Interpretation at EPCOT appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

Last week, we introduced you to wish alum Jenna, whose wish was granted in 2015, as she shared her inspiring story and her passion for helping others. Today, you’ll meet 10-year-old Colby and hear his inspiring and heartwarming story.

Before Colby joined us on stage to christen the Disney Wish, we visited his home in Massachusetts to share some very special news. Not only would he play an important role in the christening of a new Disney cruise ship, but he would also get to fulfill his wish to meet a Disney Imagineer — and then some!

Check out this video to get an inside look at Colby’s wish-granting experience with the Walt Disney Imagineering team behind the Disney Wish.

Since 1980, Disney and Make-A-Wish have helped grant life-changing wishes for more than 145,000 children with critical illnesses around the world. Historically, one out of every two wishes granted in the U.S. through Make-A-Wish has been a Disney wish, with many of these wishes involving visits to global Disney destinations and sailings with Disney Cruise Line. For children with critical illnesses, a wish can be transformative, bringing hope, strength and joy so they can forget about treatment and just be a kid.

Join us next week as we get to know Megan, our third Make-A-Wish ambassador, and hear about her experience having her own wish granted last summer.

The post The Power of a Disney Wish: Colby’s Story appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

A long-time initiative of the Ambassador program, these visits take small groups of cast members behind the curtain of our destination, through places very few people go, and in the company of expert magic-makers.

For our very first tour, we headed towards the entertainment teams of “Mickey’s Dazzling Christmas Parade”! Ever since its grand debut last year, the parade has been the talk of the town with its luminescent costumes, its shining floats – each one with its very own Christmas tree – and its enchanting music. It’s really all you could want for Christmas!

So, naturally, we took our cast members out to meet with the costume designers in their workshops, the set designer in our floats’ hangar, our decorators in their warehouse and the parade show director.

Sketches and prototypes in hand, they got to share the creative process they went through, the innovations they designed for this parade and some trade secrets that help shine a light in our guests’ heart.

To top it off, we gave our cast members the opportunity to watch the parade from the privatized floor of our Main Street Disneyland Railroad station. A little anticipated Christmas gift to thank them for their curiosity.

But “Disney Enchanted Christmas” isn’t just dazzling – it’s fulfilling too! Could you imagine the holidays without treats? So, for our second Discovering Magic Tour, we took cast members through the kitchens of the resort to cook ourselves some sweet surprises.

Our bakers and chefs taught our lucky cast how they bake fresh goods every day for guests, shared the festive recipes they use, and even let them have a go at assembling Red Nose Macarons before tasting them!

To accompany these delicious pastries, we then headed towards the Skyline Bar of Disney Hotel New York – the Art of Marvel for a little mixology session where they learned all about the festive drinks that can be enjoyed in the parks, Disney Village and Disney Hotels.

They were even given some special insights and tricks to create surprising mocktails that will make them the best hosts during this holiday season.

It was an absolute pleasure to take our cast on these Discovering Magic Tours and meet-up with the people behind our Holiday season surprises. The amount of talent, passion and commitment that goes into creating these memorable experiences is absolutely astonishing, and we were proud to see stars in the eyes of our cast members during these two exclusive visits.

If you want to see more of these tours, don’t hesitate to follow our Disneyland Paris Ambassador channel on Instagram! And stay tuned, as more magic will be discovered next year. In the meantime: Happy Holidays everyone!

The post Disneyland Paris Cast Members Go Behind the Curtain of Disney Enchanted Christmas appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

Nowadays, I’m an Associate Packaging Design Manager here at Disney. After getting my degree is graphic design, I interned with our merchandise design team. I can’t believe that was almost 10 years ago. Since then, I’ve designed all sorts of merchandise collections, including our holiday lines.

This year I had the opportunity to honor my family traditions by designing Disney’s Hanukkah merchandise collection, creating items that were suitable home decor and would complement a family’s menorah during the Hanukkah season. I was inspired largely by my mother and grandparents and focused on creating timeless holiday pieces — pieces that were hard for my mother and grandmother to find when I was growing up.

My favorite piece from the collection is the tray. It is perfect for serving latkes — a traditional Jewish food sometimes described as potato pancakes. My mom always made ours on the first night of Hanukkah. We’d anxiously wait for the sun to go down so we could eat them all.

I work for Disney because it strives to be a place where everyone is welcome, and where families like mine can see themselves in our stories and products. That’s why designing this collection was so important to me. I had the opportunity to infuse my background and experiences into my art and share that with thousands of people.

My hope is for Jewish families all over the world to see themselves and their traditions in this collection and to gift a special piece to someone they love, just like I did.

My mom’s table grew this year and now includes many of the pieces that I designed.

Sharing the final products with her was one of my proudest moments in my career. She was so excited, saying, “I can finally put together a full table for Hanukkah dinner this year, thanks to you.”

You can purchase pieces of the collection at a variety of our merchandise locations across Disney Parks and online at shopDisney.com.

The post Meet the Cast Member Behind Disney’s New Hanukkah Merchandise Collection appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

With the new year quickly approaching, it’s time to mark your calendar for the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts presented by AT&T. Returning Jan. 13 through Feb. 20, 2023, at Walt Disney World Resort, the festival is a global celebration of culinary, visual and performing arts.

I’m excited to share some fantastic news. This year’s festival will feature a lineup of new artists that will immerse you in beautiful artwork filled with color, expression and soul. Here’s a sample of some of the amazing new and returning talent coming to the festival:

Larissa Marantz is an illustrator, cartoonist and educator who strives to create visually alluring images and enjoys teaching students of various ages how to do the same. Yesenia Moises is an Afro-Latina children’s book illustrator and toy designer who proudly portrays people of diverse backgrounds playing leading roles in fantasy adventures.

The work of Ryan Riller, an animator and illustrator, is featured in Disney Junior’s “Whisker Haven Tales.”  Joe Ledbetter is known for his distinctive style in painting and vinyl toy design. He has created a spectacular cast of creatures used to anthropomorphize the human condition.

Visual art will come to life with prints, canvases and books by Kahran and Regis Bethencourt, the faces behind CreativeSoul Photography. The husband-and-wife team aims to empower children of color by highlighting their beauty and uniqueness. Going beyond snapshots, they create thought-provoking art showcasing kids across the African Diaspora.

In all, more than 100 Disney and visiting artists will participate in the festival including guest favorites Dylan Bonner, Fenway Fan, Jerrod Maruyama and Ashley Taylor. Guests can also experience the long-awaited return of House of Blues and Promenade Fine Arts (previously called Wyland Galleries).

Today, we’re also giving you a first look at some of the new Figment-inspired festival merchandise. Expressive, colorful and featuring a touch of magic, the assortment is perfect for the whole family. My favorite items include the Spirit Jersey, Figment Chalkboard Framed Mug, Figment Munchlings and Figment CORKCICLE Tumbler. Brought to life by an array of colors, this collection is the embodiment of embracing your creative side.

As we shared with you last month, the popular DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series returns, with three shows each evening headlined by Broadway stars performing beloved songs from more than 25 years of award-winning stage productions. Visit ArtfulEPCOT.com now for dining packages to pair with concert performances.

The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts is included with valid theme park admission and a park reservation for the same date. And remember, there’s still time to enjoy the Walt Disney World Resort 50th Anniversary  celebration now through Mar. 31, 2023.  Stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog for more news as we look ahead to the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts.

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I first began my journey at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort in 2004 as a vocalist for “The Golden Mickeys,” which eventually led to my current role as associate show director. Things have truly come full circle as over the years, I have gained experience working with and learning from cast members with different disabilities.

This year, for the 30^th anniversary of International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we worked with more than one thousand community members and organizations who share our mission. Together, we choreographed an inclusive cavalcade featuring talented performers with different disabilities and backgrounds.

As show director, my job is to fine-tune the performance. In this process, I have the joy of working alongside these talented individuals to add their own unique touch to the choreography, leveraging their strengths to enhance the experience for everyone.

If there’s one thing I learned while working on this project, it’s to enjoy the simple things and to be happy. That’s why we chose the song “Happily Ever After” for the cavalcade, as a way to spread a positive message about moving forward in the face of adversity and being adventurous while following your dreams.

Organizing a unique event on this large scale required collaboration across various teams, and I feel so lucky to work alongside equally passionate people with the same vision to make Disney inclusive for all. Our work toward inclusion doesn’t end here, and we will continue to create magic for everyone here at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort.

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Last November, more than two thousand cast members were invited to join three exceptional gala nights held in the honor of their 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 or 35 years of service, a tradition initiated by Walt Disney himself in 1965. Honorees and their loved ones were welcomed on the red carpet by the company’s senior executives and enjoyed an exclusive dinner show in a 30^th anniversary themed venue.

Beatrice Fletcher, Senior Receptionist, celebrating 30 years with the company, invited her son to the celebration. “[My son] was four years old when I started working at Disneyland Paris and tonight, he escorted me to celebrate my 30^th anniversary. It’s wonderful!”

As the night began, Mickey and his time machine took the invitees on a musical trip back in time through the resort’s most iconic moments thanks to a live band, which also maintained the energy high on the dance floor throughout the evening. Two photo booths were also specially created for the occasion to capture personalized souvenirs of these incredible evenings for all attendees.

The events were filled with excitement as Natacha Rafalski, President of Disneyland Paris, and Carmen Lleo Badal and Quentin Rodrigues, Disneyland Paris Ambassadors celebrated with the honorees.

“When a company puts so much effort to host their employees like this, it feels like a wonderful recognition of our work and dedication,” said Sophie Dero, Head of Marketing and Public Relations Belux Parks & Resorts. “This makes me want to sign on for another 15 years!”

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Early on the morning of November 22, 2022, a group of Magic Makers gathered in a special spot overlooking the construction site of World of Frozen at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort in celebration of a historic construction milestone.

Cast members, including Hong Kong Disneyland Resort managing director Michael Moriarty, leaders, Imagineers, Project team and the Test and Adjust team, came together for the first cast engagement activity of the themed land: the “Ice Magic Signing Moment.”

The group signed their names on pieces of Ice Magic, which were placed on Arendelle Castle, forever becoming a part of the themed land. Cast members were thrilled to become a part of the story of World of Frozen.

“I joined Park Operations in 2016 and moved to the World of Frozen Test and Adjust team this June, and today standing here having my name signed on the Ice Magic, I feel like I have grown up with this place,” said Fanchi Chan, Attraction Test and Adjust coordinator.

“Our team was very excited to join this iconic moment. It is truly memorable and meaningful for us to be part of a milestone of Hong Kong Disneyland Resort!”, Issac Lam, Attraction Test and Adjust coordinator, shared.

The Ice Magic pieces were inspired by the story of “Frozen,” where Elsa gains control of her magical abilities and uses Ice Magic to decorate areas throughout the land; some can be seen in the movies, while some are unique to the World of Frozen. Winter could not be more magical at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort this year. Now join us in watching the hours tick by until the next #FirstLookfromHKDL!

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It’s beginning to look a lot like the holiday season at Disneyland Resort thanks to Holiday Services Lead Martin Outzen and the Resort Enhancement team members who work year-round to prepare for the resort’s festive transformation.

Earlier this month, third shift cast members were invited to enjoy donuts and hot chocolate overnight while viewing the Christmas tree lighting in Town Square, an annual tradition since 1955. Cast eagerly awaited as Disneyland Park Vice President Kris Theiler and Disneyland Resort Senior Vice President Patrick Finnegan worked with Entertainment Technical Services and Resort Enhancement cast members to top the tree with a star.

But a few hours later, just as the sun began to rise, Martin stood on the empty sidewalks of Main Street, U.S.A., staring up at the 60-foot-tall Christmas tree.

“I’m so busy with install that I forget the joy that comes out of this, and that if people want the Christmas experience, Disneyland is where you can come to get it,” Martin said, his eyes welling up with tears. “I know how much the Christmas experience means to me when I go somewhere; It takes me out of my busy day, so I’m hoping that that’s what we did for others.”

Martin has spent seven years working with the Resort Enhancement team to design, manufacture, restore and install Disneyland Resort’s annual holiday-inspired decor. He and his team oversee everything from the vibrant purple and green garland in New Orleans Square to the shimmering hubcap Christmas tree in Cars Land.

“We like a design to stay around for about five years before we change it,” explained Martin. “While the design may not change, we have to refresh it every year and that’s why the team literally starts [working] at the beginning of the year. It keeps us very busy.”

Martin’s artistic abilities extend beyond holiday decor. Prior to joining the Resort Enhancement team, he worked as a writer in New York. Today, he channels that creative energy into writing original songs about Resort Enhancement, which he sings during their team meetings!

“[The tree] is the icon,” Martin shared. “It’s unusual to have a tree that’s 60 feet tall. It’s a beacon and you don’t see that just anywhere.”

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Looking back, this experience fostered empathy in me and helped mold me into a more caring person. I’m proud to say this annual childhood tradition also proved to be valuable training to take on the role of project lead for this year’s “Give a Toy Share the Love” Christmas Toy Donation drive at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort.

While Hong Kong Disneyland Resort always commits to donating presents to children from local nonprofits, we knew this campaign could elevate even further thanks to the magic of our cast members. For the first time ever, the campaign is a one-plus-one toy donation. For every present donated by a cast member, the resort donates another! It’s such a fantastic opportunity for our cast to get involved in creating more magic and spreading love to the local community this holiday season.

In addition to donating presents, our Disney VoluntEARS will also take part in a fun wrapping event to provide a festive sendoff for these tokens of love. I’m sure our Disney VoluntEARS will all agree that working together with others during the holiday season for such a meaningful cause really warms the heart. This event will not only bring our cast together, but also be a magical team effort for all to remember in the years to come.

Our target for this holiday season is to donate thousands of presents to 18 nonprofits in the local community, specifically serving children with serious illnesses and those with educational needs.

“Give a Toy Share the Love” reminds me of my childhood practice and brings me back to my roots of providing love and care to those in need — especially during the holiday season. I am proud to be able to be a part of such a meaningful cause as part of one global team — knowing that the spirit of giving exists around the world with our friends over at Disneyland Paris engaged in their own toy donation event to children in need just a few weeks ago. And if you happen to be in the U.S., you can also take part in the Disney Ultimate Toy Drive, which continues a 75-year tradition of helping the Marine Toys for Tots program deliver toys, hope and joy to children in need during the holiday season.

Be sure to check out the Disney Cast Life Blog to keep up with what cast at Hong Kong Disneyland, and around the world, are up to this holiday season!

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Today, Ken is a third shift bellperson working at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. He loves experiencing the joy Disney brings to guests of all ages. “Being the first and last person guests see on their vacation is a highlight for me. I love hearing the kids recap their stays with wonder and joy told through their stories.”

Ken has worked for The Walt Disney Company on both coasts of the United States. He served in the United States Army before starting his career at Disneyland, and then moved to Orlando to work at Walt Disney World. When the tragedy of 9/11 happened, Ken was motivated to go back and serve his country. He was part of the United States Air Force for 16 years, serving in the Middle East and Africa.

Because the Walt Disney Company was such an integral part of his character, he gifted Walt Disney World with a very special United States Flag that he flew during his deployment. Honoring both his time in the service and as a cast member, this flag now hangs backstage at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort where fellow cast members can admire Ken’s bravery and service every day.

Ken shared that “Disney’s American values are very special to me and something I hold close to my heart.”

Ken received the Legacy Award in August of 2022, which is the highest award given to cast members who exemplify all three pillars of dream, create, and inspire. Throughout his career in the military and with the Walt Disney Company, Ken has shown true passion and dedication in all he does.

“I always felt that Disney always supported and welcomed veterans which is why I continue to work here,” Ken told us. He hopes to inspire others to see themselves in the magic created every day at Walt Disney World Resort.

We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to all of the cast members who have served our country and now choose to bring joy and wonder to guests every day around Walt Disney World Resort.

The post U.S. Veteran Cast Member’s 30 Year Legacy at Disney appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

In partnership with Keep Brevard Beautiful, Disney Wish crew and shoreside cast members recently picked up trash along Cocoa Beach, near Disney Cruise Line’s homeport in Port Canaveral located on the east coast of Florida.

Sharon Siskie, Disney Cruise Line senior vice president and general manager, pitched in to help the cause, sharing with us that, “It’s great to be out here with our cast and crew members honoring our commitment to the environment. Sharon added that she was proud Disney Cruise Line was part of this worldwide effort to protect our oceans.

Disney Wish entertainment crew member, Katie, said she and her co-workers found everything from plastics and fishing line to soda cans and bottle caps. “Small pieces that, at a glance, you wouldn’t notice but definitely make a huge difference,” she shared. Working aboard the Disney Wish, she visits Port Canaveral often and was inspired to do her part. Katie told us, “It’s one of those places that we spend a lot of our time. It’s a second home, so we want to give back to the community.”

Bryan Bobbitt is the executive director of Keep Brevard Beautiful and has coordinated and attended countless beach cleanups. He shared with us that community partnerships are fundamental to educating the public and creating behavioral change. “Partnerships like this one with Disney Cruise Line are very important to us because we get all of these volunteers to come out and help make a difference in our communities,” Bobbitt shared.

Over in Eleuthera, where work has begun on Disney’s second island destination in The Bahamas, the Lighthouse Point development team came together to help make a difference. They worked alongside members of the community to pick up garbage on the shores of Bannerman Town Beach. Pachancia, an assistant conservation manager with Disney Cruise Line in The Bahamas, joined the cleanup there. She explained why this initiative is critical to the island. “We have a lot of keen species and native and migratory species that rely on our beaches for nesting sites or food, so it means a lot to me for Disney to be part of this and for me to be part of this initiative.” The team removed thousands of pounds of plastics, glass bottles, large ropes and fishing nets from the beach.

Events like these beach clean ups are just one of many ways Disney Cruise Line gives back to local port communities and helps protect the environment. On board, Disney Cruise Line is investing in new technologies that help increase the fleet’s fuel efficiency and minimize waste. The use of liquified natural gas, or LNG, and numerous advances in ship design, make the Disney Wish one of the most fuel and energy-efficient cruise ships on the water. “Today and into the future, we are committed to making a difference in the world around us,” said Siskie.

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In honor of Native American Heritage Month, we are spotlighting two of the Imagineers who passionately maintain this exhibit at EPCOT as they share how their work allows them to show up as allies of the Native American communities.

Senior Curator Deb Van Horn and Producer Jackie Herrera have developed a deep passion for the project since the exhibition opened in 2018. It has since become a priority for them to share Native American culture by bringing awareness to both historical and contemporary perspectives, providing a holistic view of how art and heritage have merged throughout history. By showcasing historic Native artifacts alongside contemporary American Indian works, the exhibit represents the breadth and depth of diversity in Native cultures, both past and present.

“Our goal is to feature historic pieces next to contemporary works to showcase the evolution of tradition,” said Deb. “We want our exhibit to make clear that Native artworks are not only of the past. Native communities are vibrant communities and we want to share their stories and artwork with our guests.”

Deb and Jackie work in collaboration with the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture (MIAC) in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI) in Washington, D.C. to build awareness and cultural knowledge of Native American and Indigenous cultures. They apply the learnings from these partnerships to bring new insights, inspire creativity and bring an authentic voice to the exhibit.

“We partner closely with MIAC or NMAI to find pieces for the gallery, and we also work directly with the artist and tribal organizations to ensure we are representing the cultures in a respectful and engaging way,” said Deb, “allowing us to bring only the most authentic stories for our guests to enjoy.”

Deb and Jackie’s passion for this work comes from their dedication to being allies to Native American and Indigenous communities.

“Being an ally to this community was the first step,” said Jackie. “Having listened to the community and being an active advocate for them through this exhibit has helped me grow as an ally and learn how to amplify their stories effectively.”

The exhibit provides a place of discovery and cultural exchange for our guests to celebrate the contributions of the diverse Native American and Alaska Native communities to U.S. history and culture.

“Walt Disney Imagineering Collections is proud to be able to bring Native and Indigenous stories to life for our guests and enable these communities to experience their stories first-hand inside the parks,” said Jackie. “As the exhibit grows, we here at Walt Disney World look forward to amplifying the stories of many different nations and showcasing innovation and change in American Indian Art.”

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While earning a degree had always been a lifelong dream for Fran, she never thought it would become a reality at the age of 78—especially after previously dropping out of college. However, with some help from Disney Aspire, a program Fran calls “the best thing that ever happened,” her lifelong dream came true.

Fran was born in Orange County, CA, in 1944 and joined Disney in 2015 after a successful 34-year career with the US Postal Service. When Disney Aspire was announced, Fran knew it was the extra bit of magic she needed to hold onto her dream yet again

“I never thought I’d get my diploma, until the Aspire program,” Fran said. “It really opened it all up for me, and it made me so happy. I wanted to try it; I wanted to get that piece of paper. I was really inspired to do it.”

Fran had the dream, but the path didn’t come without its challenges: she hadn’t been a student for a very long time and was worried she wouldn’t have the skills and abilities to succeed. However, through the extra support she received from Disney Aspire and her instructors, she successfully earned a B.A. in Liberal Studies from UMass Global—and finally got the piece of paper she’d been dreaming of.

“I’m so pleased Disney has offered me the opportunity. Who else would have offered me that?”

Fran even had the opportunity to put her unique story into her academics, writing a dissertation about her experience and the impact Disney has had on her putting her #DreamsWithinReach – a piece she calls “The Best Workplace in the World.”

Disney Aspire is the most comprehensive education investment program of its kind, offering 150+ programs at a network of educational institutions nationwide. As part of The Walt Disney Company’s commitment to supporting its employees and cast members, Disney Aspire puts #DreamsWithinReach by removing key barriers to enrollment and inspiring career mobility.

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Disneyland Resort cast member VoluntEARS recently traveled 56 miles to Camp Pendleton to support female military personnel who are transitioning to civilian life as part of the resort’s community workforce development initiative.

In partnership with the nonprofit Working Wardrobes, cast members from the SALUTE and Women’s Inclusion Network Business Employee Resource Groups (BERGs) assisted Marines and sailors with selecting suits, shoes and accessories before each woman took a professional headshot. As part of National Veterans and Military Families Month, the event also featured veteran panelists, including Labor Relations Senior Manager, Bri Foster, who spoke about her journey from serving in the military to becoming an industry professional.

For Jeanne Costello, area manager for Operational Costuming, this opportunity to help women find the right professional attire was right up her alley. “When you see the looks on women’s faces when they see themselves, it is as powerful an experience for those who are standing behind the mirror as those who are standing in front of it,” said Jeanne.

Santa Ana-based Working Wardrobes is a workforce and career readiness organization that provides services and soft skill training for veterans and their families and others in need.

“It’s all about those who are serving in our community; it’s not about us,” said Michael Barrett, director of Client Services at Working Wardrobes. “The team from Disney has made an impact, tenfold.”

As a retired U.S. Marine and Purple Heart recipient, Michael utilizes the leadership skills he learned during his 21 years of service in his work with Working Wardrobes.

“Militarily speaking, [Disney and Working Wardrobes] are in lockstep; we’re marching together in line, synced with the values and mission Disney brings to the table,” Michael said.

Disneyland Resort Senior Security Manager Kim Sims attended the event at the military base in Oceanside as a leader of SALUTE, a BERG committed to enhancing the Disney experience for those who have sacrificed in support of the military.  “Knowing that our company supports our military service members and families is huge,” said Kim. “Our cast members have such huge hearts and special talents and those need to be shared within and outside of our resort.”

Although the Disney VoluntEARS went to share their skills and experiences, they were able to gain insight and knowledge from the women they were helping as well. “You gain a different perspective when you put yourself in someone else’s shoes,” said Jeanne. “I’m not in the military so I was learning as much from them as they were from me.”

About Community Workforce Development Initiative:
The Disneyland Resort collaborates with nonprofit organizations and school districts that serve a diverse set of needs in the community for youth and jobseekers. The community workforce development initiative supports three pillars: mentorship, career skills development and community program support. The Disney VoluntEARS efforts at Camp Pendleton were part of the Disneyland Resort community workforce development initiative.

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While runDisney events are part of Ali’s wellness journey in recent years, this was Raevon’s first runDisney race weekend and second 5K ever. As we reflect on all the run-derful fun, here are some moments that continue “running” through our heads:

Cast Members Seizing Their Moment

Did you know hundreds of cast members bring these magical runDisney races to life? From all the event planning in preparation to handing out race bibs and cheering runners as they cross the finish line, cast from across our resort work together to make this experience uniquely Disney for both first-time and seasoned runners. This race was no different, and a huge thank you to all the cast members who made every mile magical this weekend.

Running the Course with Sanya Richards-Ross

After visiting the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, we had the great honor of meeting four-time Olympic gold medalist, Sanya Richards-Ross, who also ran her first 5K and runDisney race … just like Raevon! As a sprinter, Sanya shared her excitement about joining the runDisney community and trying something new in her wellness journey. Bonding instantly over their runDisney “newbie” status, Raevon and Sanya turned to Ali for advice and inspiration, which was “hydrate and have fun!”

And have fun, we did! Sanya ran alongside us throughout the entire course. She even stopped for a photo with some Disney characters and shared how special cast members made her feel during her first runDisney race – just another reason these races are extra special and popular with runners around the world.

Crossing the Finish Line Together 

There’s no greater feeling than crossing the finish line of a runDisney race, especially as a team. The moment Raevon received his medal, he knew three things:

1. He just ran 3.1 miles!
2. He completed the race with his fellow Disney Ambassador and with an Olympic Gold Medalist. Bucket list item = complete!
3. It was time for a well-deserved nap.

Cast members and guests who participate in runDisney events are immediately welcome into a community of passionate Disney fans who are always looking forward to the next race, and this is no exception for us. Can Ali persuade Raevon to take on a 10K? Stay tuned to @wdw.ambassador on Instagram to find out.

For now, we look forward to participating in our next 5K – the Disney Be Well Cast, Friends and Family 5K on Dec. 4 at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. We’ll see you on the course!

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Like so many Native and Indigenous people, my story is unique. Growing up in a Korean American household, I struggled to feel accepted. I never knew about my Native roots until later in life. I met my grandma’s family for the first time at her funeral, and that’s when I learned of her Native heritage. After meeting that side of my family, I made the scary but exciting decision to connect with this newly found culture. I visited the reservation in Vancouver Island for the first time 14 years ago, where I learned about my grandmother’s lineage. I continued learning about the proud history of my heritage by visiting museums, landmarks and talking to people in the community. I felt nervous at first because I wasn’t sure if my family would accept me, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. I was welcomed with open arms. I am now a registered Native in Canada where my reservation is, and I continue to learn from my family every day.

One part of my Native culture I’m excited to learn more about is food. My earliest memories are of helping my mother cook Korean food. Food to me is more than just sustenance but a feeling, an experience, a memory. It’s how I share my heritage with my children. During one of my visits to the reservation, I went on fishing boats to experience the harvesting process and the vast amounts of seafood provided by the land. My tribe always pays respect for the land and what it has to offer when it comes to food. Sharing is an important thing, and all catches are shared amongst the community. Catching salmon fresh from the waters off my ancestral lands gave me a whole new respect for the craft. One of my cousins on the reservation is also a chef, and I’ve learned so much about Indigenous food techniques from her too.

I am a chef at Disney California Adventure park, where I oversee Food and Beverage locations in Cars Land, Hollywood Land, Buena Vista Street and Avengers Campus. I’ve worked at Disney for three years, but I have over 25 years of culinary experience. My family and I are avid Disney fans and love the food festivals. I thought, what better place to have the freedom to work across multiple different cuisines? From that moment, it became my goal to create my own menu items inspired by my culture and journey at a Disneyland Resort food festival. I’m proud to say I’ve achieved this goal and have created menu items during both the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival and Lunar New Year celebration. Passing down traditions from both my Korean and Native sides is very important to me.

I’m grateful to Disney for providing a community of support and learning through the Native Americans & Allies Together with Vision employee resource group, NAATV. Within this group, I’ve had the opportunity to hear stories about people just like me and learn even more about myself. It has helped me realize that I am indeed a part of this community. I am also a Disney Aspire alumni, and I think it’s special that Disney encourages us to get an education regardless of age. The program made it easy to focus on work, family and school, while pushing me to achieve my goals. Because of my background, diversity and inclusion have always been interests, and my courses helped me learn how to apply these concepts in my role here at Disney.

To me, food is a love language. As a chef, being able to share my experience, passion and hard work through food is the ultimate reward. Heritage and culture are so important to me and being able to represent that at Disney is my way of giving back.

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In all these roles, I have been able to witness and participate in mentorship, and learn just how important mentorship is to one’s personal and professional development – whether in a structured setting or in everyday practice.

It all started a few years ago, when I began mentoring military spouses as they faced the challenges that come with having a family member or spouse deployed. This experience was very impactful for me because I was able relate to my mentees as a military spouse myself. I listened to them and was able to bring my own personal stories of when my husband was deployed in the Persian Gulf War to the discussion.

This experience prepared me for the opportunity to help design our best practices of hiring, training and supporting veterans and military spouses as part of Disney’s Heroes Work Here program and to lead the partnership and sponsorship efforts for Veterans Institute Summit at ESPN Wide World of Sports earlier this year. At the event, I had the pleasure of meeting many active-duty military, veterans, military spouses and caregivers. I learned a lot about the challenges and opportunities that our service families face today, including the complexities of career transitions from military to civilian. It was the most impactful moment in my 20 years with Disney and is one of the reasons why I am so proud to celebrate National Veterans and Military Families Month this month.

Over the years I’ve felt moved to take my passion and experience for mentorship and channel it into a connection with my fellow Hispanic cast members. So, when we moved to Orlando, I became involved with HOLA local networking events and later, joined the leadership team.

In the years ahead, I look forward to supporting the professional and personal development of Hispanic and Latin American cast members in the workplace. I hope to give a voice and actively support the Hispanic Community that is growing larger and more influential each year.

One way I am achieving this mission is by supporting the re-launch of our mentorship program, Mano a Mano / Together Hand in Hand. The program was created by the HOLA BERG in 2009 with the mission to offer participants a supportive and culturally diverse environment that champions the professional development of cast members but is now open to cast members of all diverse backgrounds.

As a participating mentor in the program, I strive to inspire my mentees as my mentors have inspired me while heightening the focus on Hispanic representation.

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The passion was electric from beginning to finale, with the show receiving a very enthusiastic standing ovation. “Fantasmic!,” the legendary journey through Mickey’s imagination, returned with the dazzling lights, dancing waters, and triumphant pyro-filled mountaintop finale we all adore, and also welcomed an all-new scene featuring heroes Pocahontas, Mulan, Elsa, Aladdin, and Moana—each greeted with an eruption of applause for their on-stage debut.

It’s clear “Fantasmic!” holds special memories for many of us, and the cast at Disney’s Hollywood Studios were beaming with pride as they welcomed the show home for the first time since the park’s reopening, “The energy is fantastic… you can tell everyone missed it,” shared Laura, a food and beverage guest experience manager. “The cast working the show tonight are thrilled, we’re all thrilled. I’ve just never felt so many cast so excited in one place!”

“It’s really a dream come true! I’m so happy, and I feel so lucky,” shared Melissa, a cast member at PizzeRizzo. “I pour my heart and soul into my work, and I feel like I get it back with special moments like these.” We’re all dreaming a fantastic dream after this timeless mix of nostalgia, new character moments, and Disney Cast Life magic. So get ready for showtime: “Fantasmic!” officially reopens Nov. 3 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios after another night of thrilling Disney Cast Life previews for Walt Disney World Resort cast members!

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For 75 years, Disney has supported Toys for Tots to help bring toys to children in need. In fact, our relationship dates to the program’s beginnings, when Walt Disney and his studio artists personally designed the original Toys for Tots train logo we still see and use today.

The Disney Ultimate Toy Drive takes place from now through Dec. 24, 2022, and you can donate a toy to Toys for Tots at shopDisney.com. Or, if you’d prefer to gift in person, there are plenty of donation opportunities through Dec. 12, 2022. Bring a brand-new, unopened, unwrapped toy to the following destinations:

• At Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort, collection bins will be located at the World of Disney store, Star Wars Trading Post, and Hotels of the Disneyland Resort.
  • Guests and cast members can also participate from Dec. 10, 2022, through Dec. 11, 2022, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. PST, when U.S. Marines will be on hand near the Downtown Disney LIVE! stage to accept donations.
• At Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort, collection bins are located at the World of Disney store, Marketplace Co-Op, Star Wars Galactic Outpost, and the Disney Springs Welcome Center.
  • Walt Disney World Resort cast members will also be joining the fun, collecting toys in backstage locations across the resort all season long and participating in Disney VoluntEARS opportunities at local Toys for Tots warehouses for children and families in Orange, Osceola, and Seminole counties.
• At most Disney Outlet locations and Disney stores, including the Disney store in Times Square, New York, you can also donate new, unopened, and unwrapped toys!
  • On select Saturdays and Sundays from Nov. 5, 2022, through Dec. 11, 2022, Marine representatives will be making visits to help with the toy collection. Call your local Disney Outlet or store location for more details.
    • To find a participating store, visit shopdisney.com/store-locator

Throughout the holiday season, Disney will also support Toys for Tots in several ways, including by airing a public service announcement on our television networks and streaming platforms – such as ABC, Disney Channel, Disney Junior, Disney XD, Freeform, FX, Hulu, and National Geographic – to encourage viewers to participate in the Disney Ultimate Toy Drive. Content from across the company’s networks, including ESPN’s “GetUp!,” will feature Disney Ultimate Toy Drive integrations to highlight the season of giving and the importance of supporting communities in need. Disney Movie Club will also be joining in by donating over 2,000 toys to a local Toys for Tots chapter in Wisconsin. Additional activations will be announced throughout the campaign.

Now, to get you in the gift-giving spirit, let’s watch Disney’s animated global holiday short. Today, Disney launched the heartfelt, final installation of its trilogy series “From Our Family to Yours” – an animated short that celebrates the joy of giving, featuring a song sung by Jessica Darrow, also known as Luisa Madrigal in Disney’s “Encanto.” Get your tissues ready and hit play below:

Join us as we continue this tradition of delivering joy with the Disney Ultimate Toy Drive and give back this holiday season. You can learn more at Disney.com/toydrive.

Happy Holidays!

The post Celebrate the Season of Giving with the Disney Ultimate Toy Drive appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

In addition to giving back through our Disney VoluntEARS program, Perry was recently elected Chair-Elect for the Board of Directors at Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida — an organization we’ve teamed up with for more than 30 years and recently donated an additional $100,000 to help close the gap of unmet needs in our community. We also worked closely with the organization after Hurricane Ian to assess critical needs and help assemble disaster relief meal kits for impacted families across the state of Florida.

“Central Florida has been Walt Disney World’s home for more than 50 years now and taking care of our neighbors is as important as the magic we create inside our castle walls,” Perry said. “Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida does an amazing job ensuring local families have the food they need, and I’m so proud of the long relationship this organization has shared with us.”

Earlier this fall, Perry joined cast members for a panel discussion on making an impact along side other Disney and nonprofit leaders. Cast had the chance to share their own volunteer goals with Perry, including conquering the 50 for 50 Disney VoluntEARS Challenge — an exclusive cast challenge honoring those who volunteer 50 hours and attend 50 Disney VoluntEARS events during the 50th Anniversary celebration. To date, more than 1,000 cast members have completed the challenge.

Perry then joined Disney VoluntEARS at the Second Harvest warehouse where they sorted through donated food items and compiled more than 22,000 meals to help local families facing food insecurity, together.

“Disney VoluntEARS always go above and beyond while giving back to the community, but Perry brought an energy that really encouraged us all to go the extra mile to assemble as many boxes of food as we could,” Disney VoluntEAR Jen said. “You could clearly tell how important this organization is to Perry — he had the biggest smile on his face the entire time.”

My heart is so full knowing that cast members all across Walt Disney World Resort care so much about leaving a positive impact in our community. In fact, since the start of The World’s Most Magical Celebration, Disney VoluntEARS have dedicated more than 158,000 hours of their time making a difference in Central Florida and Disney has granted a total of $5.5 million to local nonprofits that support causes important to those within the community that we call home.

To my fellow Disney VoluntEARS: thank you! I’ll see you real soon at one of the many Disney VoluntEAR opportunities on the horizon.

The post Disney Leader Empowers Cast to Give Back to Community appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

This event brings thousands of local LGBTQIA+ members and allies together each year to celebrate the contributions, cultures and experiences of the community while also raising money for incredible organizations making a real difference in Central Florida.

“Participating in Orlando’s Come Out With Pride parade is our opportunity as cast members to come together and show Disney’s commitment to the LGBTQIA+ community,” said Michael Teplansky, Disney PRIDE employee resource group leader. “Disney is a place where all are welcome, and it was amazing celebrating the joining of my fellow cast members, family and allies who represent a rich diversity of backgrounds.”

I was so proud walking alongside Michael and fellow cast in “The Most Colorful Parade” as we celebrated love and diversity, shared our aspirations for the future and encouraged each other to live openly and with PRIDE. The memories we made together will forever hold a special place in my heart.”

As a Walt Disney World Ambassador, I see our cast members creating magic for guests every day. This weekend, each of you created magic FOR ME and so many of our neighbors by sharing your PRIDE. Thank you for continuing to spread that love and acceptance I’ve felt since my first visit to everyone around you—both inside and outside our castle walls.

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In fact, most Walt Disney World Resort guests have never heard of it either. “What is that, a zebra horse?” guests often ask her. “That’s crazy looking,” others add.

Given the reclusive nature of the okapi and the remote rainforests it hails from, it’s not surprising it’s so mysterious.

Okapis are born for stealth. Immediately after birth, natural instincts kick in and they “tuck” away in the undergrowth of the forest to avoid predators. Their unique coats – including their striped legs that often get them confused with zebras, though they’re actually the only living relative of giraffes – help them blend into their surroundings. Okapis in the forest find each other through scent glands in their feet. To avoid their scent being found by other okapis, calves don’t defecate for the first month after birth. Everything about these impressive animals prepares them for being amazing at avoiding detection – by predators and people.

In fact, okapis long were believed to be nothing more than a myth … the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s version of Bigfoot or the Loch Ness Monster. It wasn’t until 1901 when they were actually seen for the first time by Western scientists.

This mystery spoke to Mori, and she knew she wanted to work with them. Three years after her encyclopedia discovery, at 16 years old, she saw her first okapi at the Bronx Zoo in New York. “It was the most beautiful animal I’d ever seen,” Mori beamed when asked about the experience. “I was in shock and awe that it was actually in front of me, and ever since then I’ve been obsessed.”

Now a 30-year cast member, Mori works with a variety of animals ranging from birds to African hoof stock including zebras, giraffes and waterbuck on Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment team. And while she has many highlights over her career, including opening Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park in 1998, her favorite is working alongside the animal of her youth – the okapi.

Earning an okapi’s trust is no small feat. Like other animals at Disney, okapis are trained to participate in their own care, but this can prove to be challenging due to their naturally reclusive nature. “You start working with them, and all of a sudden there’s a bond,” Mori shares. “It’s just amazing to see that transition.”

Mori has cared for eight-year-old Olivia since birth, and now Olivia is a first-time mom with a calf of her own. Although Mori had the day off when Olivia gave birth, it was a moment she wouldn’t miss for the world. “I had the night team Zoom me so I could watch,” she remembers. “So, I literally watched Beni’s birth at 2 o’clock in the morning on my iPhone.”

Mori will even speak Spanish to the okapis. “We have the Inclusion Key at Disney,” she jokes. “I speak Spanish to all of them. I wouldn’t say they’re bilingual, but they know my voice and often associate it with food.” And while the okapis can’t quite use their black tongues to roll their Rs just yet, their tongue color is thought to prevent sunburns during their long browsing periods throughout the day and is used like a finger to pull leaves from branches.

Mori’s one word to describe okapis is “majestic.” And working with this majestic – and endangered – species is a childhood dream come true. However, it’s a dream she hopes will be around for future generations to enjoy, as well.

As we recognize World Okapi Day, Mori’s ask is simple. “Learn more about them and consider donating to projects like Okapi Conservation Project to help protect okapis and the forests around them.”

The post Celebrating Disney Animal Keeper’s Childhood Dream on World Okapi Day appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

Spending their days side by side on the fourth floor helping guests navigate their Disney Cruise Line vacations – Lizeth as a guest services manager and Erika as a port adventures manager – they share more than language. With over 70 potential nationalities on board, crew members have a special connection through culture and traditions. Their heritage sails with them as they travel the world.

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We recently hosted an exclusive Disney Cast Life wellness event in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge with Ashley Eckstein, voice of Ahsoka Tano from Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Star Wars Rebels. As a mental health advocate and host of the Star Wars Mindful Matters series, Ashley led hundreds of cast members through important mindfulness techniques, including meditation and deep breathing exercises – some of which paid homage to Luke Skywalker’s training with Master Yoda.

“Mental health is just as important as physical health, which is why I’m so happy to be sharing these important exercises through the lens of Star Wars with cast members,” Ashley said. “In the films, Yoda taught Luke how to feel the Force, using techniques very similar to how we’re grounding ourselves with our surroundings today, connecting to the energy around us.”

Ashley also spent personal time with attendees, recounting stories of her own wellness journey throughout her Star Wars career and even shared how she discovered the inspiration behind her fashion and lifestyle brand, Her Universe.

“I wanted to give female Star Wars fans an opportunity to express their passion for the brand while helping change the perception that science fiction and fantasy is just for men,” Ashley shared about the Her Universe product line. “I also hope to inspire girls to create big dreams because if you can dream it, you can do it – something I’ve believed since my childhood visiting Walt Disney World and still today.”

However, we cannot reach our dreams without taking care of ourselves along the way. Here at Disney, we encourage all our cast members to stay on top of their health and wellness goals with special offerings like the Be Well, Be You cast wellness reward program or exclusive resources including a free Headspace Plus membership.

One thing Ashley wanted cast to take away from the morning? Be kind.

“I always ask myself what Ahsoka would do. Kindness can sometimes be perceived as weakness, but Ahsoka taught me that kindness is one of my greatest strengths.”

If you’re interested in also taking part in a lesson, the Star Wars Mindful Matters video series is available at starwarskids.com. You can also catch up with Ahsoka Tano, voiced by Ashley Eckstein, in the new Disney+ original series Star Wars: Tales of the Jedi debuting Oct. 26.

The post Ashley Eckstein Leads Hundreds of Cast in Star Wars Mindful Matters appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

We are pleased to share that at Disneyland Resort, the Disney100 anniversary celebration will officially kick off Jan. 27, 2023, with special limited-time offerings taking place throughout the resort all year long.

Disneyland Resort cast members will be among the first to experience the new offerings with special #DisneyCastLife opportunities at the start of the celebration.

When the Disney100 celebration kicks off at Disneyland Resort, here’s just some of what you can expect, with many more details to come:

Beginning Jan. 27, the Happiest Place on Earth will receive new platinum-infused décor throughout the resort, new sparkling looks for Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and their pals, special food and beverage offerings, merchandise and more.

At Disneyland park, Walt Disney’s original Sleeping Beauty Castle will be dressed in style for the anniversary. Celebrating wonder, the castle will be adorned with elegant platinum banners and bunting, accented by a magnificent cabochon featuring the three Good Fairies who illuminate it with their shimmering pixie dust. Two majestic water fountains will grace either side of the moat, while a beautiful wishing star will sparkle from the tower above.

Disneyland Resort guests will be dazzled by two all-new nighttime spectaculars.

“World of Color – One” at Disney California Adventure park will celebrate the storytelling legacy started by Walt Disney a century ago. It will tell a new story of how a single action, like a drop of water, creates a ripple that can grow into a wave of change. It brings some of the most courageous, loving and inspiring characters to life in new ways. The show will also feature a new original song, “Start a Wave.”

And at Disneyland park, Walt’s original magic kingdom will become a magnificent canvas with “Wondrous Journeys,” a new nighttime spectacular that will ignite the wonder in all of us. It will feature nods to every Walt Disney Animation Studios film to date, taking us on a journey filled with artistry, music, storytelling and heart. It will continue to build upon the park’s state-of-the-art projection effects, turning Main Street, U.S.A., Sleeping Beauty Castle, the façade of “it’s a small world” and the Rivers of America into an artist’s canvas that brings characters to life all around you. On select nights, “Wondrous Journeys” will go even bigger with the addition of sparkling fireworks in the sky above Disneyland. This spectacular will also feature an incredible new song, “It’s Wondrous.”

While Mickey’s Toontown is slated to reopen for guests in spring 2023, we are pleased to announce that the new Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway attraction will open early as we kick off the Disney100 anniversary celebration on Jan. 27!

In time for spring, the “Magic Happens” parade will have its long-awaited return to Disneyland park. “Magic Happens” celebrates the awe-inspiring moments of magic that are at the heart of so many Disney stories. This parade reminds us we don’t need wings to fly, shooting stars were made to wish upon, and magic doesn’t stop at midnight.

Plus, even more special entertainment moments are slated to pop up across the resort.

Additional news and details for the Disney100 celebration at Disneyland Resort will be shared ahead of the debut on Jan. 27, 2023.

As you begin to plan your trip to visit Disneyland Resort for the Disney100 anniversary, please know that theme park reservation availability for Disneyland park and Disney California Adventure park is currently paused for dates beyond Jan. 8, 2023, and will resume for guests in the coming weeks.

As always, stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog for updates! We cannot wait for you to join us here at Disneyland Resort, “where wonder comes to life.”

Entertainment, experiences, and offerings may be modified, limited in availability or unavailable, and are subject to restrictions, and change or cancellation without notice. Both valid Theme Park reservation and admission for the same Park on the same day are required for Park entry. Park reservations are limited, subject to availability and not guaranteed. Park admission and offerings are not guaranteed. Visit Disneyland.com/updates for important information to know before visiting the Disneyland Resort.

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This representation inspired Rodolfo to start a career with Disney with the Disney College Program in 2014 as a merchandise cast member at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Upon completing his degree in 2016, he returned to Disney to continue his professional journey with the Technology & Digital organization to work on audiovisuals and digital signage.

As we celebrate Hispanic and Latin American Heritage Month, Rodolfo’s team supports, encourages and celebrates his voice as one to be heard.

“I always feel that my voice matters,” Rodolfo said.

Throughout his career, seeing other cultures represented in our parks and resorts has allowed Rodolfo to feel included in all we do as a part of The Walt Disney Company.

Learn more about Rodolfo and his Disney career:

The post Behind the Nametag: Representation in Disney Parks Inspires Career in Disney Tech appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

In honor of World Maritime Day that was celebrated on Sept. 29, we meet Catalina to understand the unique role she plays on one of the most fuel and energy-efficient cruise ships on the water.

The magic starts with our crew! Ready to join them on one of our five ships or at Disney Castaway Cay? Visit DCLjobs.com to apply!

The post Protecting the World’s Oceans and Leading by Example with Disney Environmental Officer appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

With a spotlight on cast stories, the booth highlighted how programs such as Disney on the Yard, Disney Aspire, our business employee resource groups, and even celebrations including The Walt Disney Legacy Award and service celebrations impacted their career journeys while showcasing the unique perks and resources you can only find at Disney.

The booth became a popular place to snap a few selfies and say hello to company leaders and our global Disney Ambassadors, including Natacha Ralfaski, President of Disneyland Paris, who stopped by to look around and take a few pictures. The 2022 global Disney Ambassador team not only took photos with cast and fans, but also hosted an impromptu jam session with Brittney Mendoza, singer and Disney employee, and Aulani Ambassador Kanoa Kawai taking lead on his ukulele. The session concluded with a group sing along to “it’s a small world” that ended with applause from those watching in the booth.

One of the most unique attributes of the booth is how it came to life with cast members and employees working the various sections. The booth gave them an opportunity to showcase how these exclusive Disney programs have impacted their career journey and personal life.

“It was an honor representing cast members in the [Life at Disney] booth and highlight the company’s enduring admiration for veterans and military families,” said Cappy Surette, Senior Manager of Executive Communications and Public Affairs and co-chair for SALUTE. “It was a value that resonated with so many Disney fans who stopped by the SALUTE table to eagerly sign cards for deployed military servicemembers. While there, many lingered to share stories of their connection to the Armed Forces or appreciation to Disney for taking care of the troops. It was a special way to connect with Disney’s greatest fans on another level.”

While cast shared their stories and experiences at the booth, another group created new memories and friends. We invited one cast member from each site across the globe for an opportunity that could only happen working at the happiest place on earth: attend D23 Expo. These cast members were part of a unique Cast Life experience and met our current and original Disney Ambassadors and experienced panels of their choosing, including A Boundless Future: Disney Parks, Experiences and Products as well as Disney Parks Through the Decades: A Disney Ambassador Perspective.

“Being invited to the D23 Expo was an amazing experience,” said Sam Quick from Disneyland Paris. “Getting to meet cast members from around the world and share our stories was so much fun, and I’ve definitely made friends that I’ll keep forever!”

“Our group of invited cast members are all amazing. It was great to hear stories from each as we hung out together throughout the long weekend,” shared Joe Vecciarelli from Walt Disney World. “We are planning to keep in touch, and I know we will be meeting again as we all visit their parks in the future.”

D23 Expo wouldn’t be complete without everyone coming together. On Saturday, the Disney Ambassadors welcomed more than 100 Disney Parks, Experiences and Products employees from around the world to the #DisneyCastLife Meetup right outside D23 Expo. Some of the very first Disney Ambassadors and executives even joined in on the fun!

The weekend brought a ton of announcements about The Walt Disney Company including new experiences coming to our parks and resorts. Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, announced that Disneyland Resort will begin the Disney 100 Years of Wonder celebrations with two new nighttime spectaculars. Stay tuned for more D100 moments starting in 2023 and be sure to follow our Disney Ambassador accounts to catch up on the D23 Expo events and stay up to date on more #DisneyCastLife stories:

@DisneylandAmbassador | @WDW.Ambassador | @DLPAmbassador | @HKDLAmbassador | @AulaniAmbassador

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Students between the ages of 13-19 come to Orlando from around the country to participate in the Disney Dreamers Academy and return home after the event ready to bring their dreams to life. Disney Dreamers are activists, philanthropists, business owners, change-makers and more. Over the years, many of them have even returned to Disney as cast members…including April!

Meet April, a Disney Dreamers Academy alum turned professional intern with the Technology and Digital organization! April participated in the Disney Dreamers Academy in 2019 during her senior year of high school.

Growing up, April always enjoyed math and science classes and had considered pursuing a career in technology. When she attended the Disney Dreamers Academy in 2019, her interest in working in tech at Disney was piqued after hearing D’Yanna Craighead, Senior Manager of Technology for Disney Cruise Line, give a deep dive presentation on Disney Tech. She ended up meeting D’Yanna and a few other Disney technologists after the presentation and stayed in touch ever since.

“It was really cool to see another Black woman in a position I could see myself in. Seeing her working in tech and being a leader, and seeing all the projects she was working on at Disney – it was inspiring to me, and I wanted to keep in touch with her,” said April.

Now, April’s back at Walt Disney World, still a Dreamer, but also a professional intern focused on software engineering. In her internship, she’s currently focused on building an internal tool to use for testing functionality for technology and digital products, like MagicBand+ and the My Disney Experience app. Once complete, this tool will make the testing process faster, smoother and more efficient as our technologists continue to test and adjust new products.

“I like working in tech because I’ve always been a problem solver, so I like working on a problem where something needs to be fixed or could be made more efficient. You also need to be very detail-oriented, because the smallest mistake can throw off an entire program. And I like being able to use my creativity. I’m not very artistic, but it takes creativity to think outside the box and solve technology problems,” said April.

In addition to her technology work, April has also returned to the Disney Dreamers Academy as an alum to inspire the next generation of Dreamers. She even participated in the technology deep dive – the very session that inspired her to become a technologist at Disney!

“It was so cool to be in the deep dive and take on more of a mentor role. When I first went through the Disney Dreamers Academy, I kind of felt like I didn’t deserve to be there. I was intimidated seeing where everyone was in their journeys, and I felt like I was behind. But I’ve learned there’s no such thing as being behind in life – everyone is on their own path and should take their own time,” April explained.

In May 2023, April will add “College Graduate” to her list of titles, and there’s no telling what she’ll accomplish after. However, it’s safe to say she will continue inspiring young people around the country to follow their dreams, as well as providing an example for the next generation of women in technology. Go, April, go!

The post Disney Dreamers Academy Alum Makes Her Mark in Technology appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

Excitement was palpable for the historic moment of having three of the earliest Disney Ambassadors on stage altogether for the first time ever. First Disney Ambassador and Disney Legend Julie Reihm Casaletto, 1966 Disney Ambassador Connie Swanson Lane, and first Walt Disney World Ambassador Debby Dane Browne joined a panel of their peers to give Disney fans insight to the Disney Ambassador program and their experiences in the unique role. “I can’t even begin to tell you how honored I am to be sitting between these amazing two ladies. They are my idols and I don’t know why it took over half a century to meet both of them but here we are and I’m so blessed to be here,” Debby playfully shared as the presentation began.

2017-2018 Disney Ambassador Mikey Trujillo of the Disneyland Resort hosted the conversation which started with never before heard stories of Walt Disney. Julie recounted a fond memory while training for the newly created position in 1964.

“At this point I want you to consider this is yours,” Julie recalls Walt sharing one day in his office after a tour of the Disney Studios.

“I don’t think you really mean that.”

“No, I said what I meant,” Walt emphasized. “This is yours. Go through any door you want to; talk to any person you want to about what they’re doing and what they’re making. For all of us. You can do that.”

Julie shared her shock then and is still surprised even to this day. The all-access, open-door policy is something that has continued through the years with the program. Mikey shared the same advice was given to him when he was selected in 2017; to share with cast members the opened doors and information he unlocked.

One of the most profound moments of the afternoon was Julie recalling a touching moment with Walt Disney’s daughter Diane. “We’re so happy you’re doing what you’re doing for our dad…he now comes home in time for dinner.” The simple thank you moment reveals how the Disney Ambassador program had an effect beyond the scope of the role, into Walt’s personal life. A theme we still see present today with cast and Disney fans alike affected by those serving in the role.

After Julie’s year had come to end, the program would continue with Connie Swanson Lane selected to the Disney Ambassador role. Like Julie, Connie would also have the unique opportunity to work with Walt and have his guidance, advice and mentorship. “Keep your elbows out of the mashed potatoes,” Walt playfully shared one day of training. “What Walt meant by that was to be aware of your surroundings,” Connie continued. “Be aware of the opportunities and have your radar up and know how you can best handle the situation.”

Connie paved the way for what the Disney Ambassador program would be today, continuing the legacy of Walt Disney. While each Disney Ambassador journey was unique there were similarities among panelists. With resort expansions to both Orlando and Paris, preview centers played an important role for Debby Dane Browne and Claire Jenkins, 1999 Disney Ambassador for Disneyland Paris. Debby was one of 14 young ladies selected out of more than 500 applicants to work at the Walt Disney World preview center before going on to be the first Disney Ambassador of the Florida resort. While Claire did not work at the Euro Disneyland preview center, her visit as a young girl was instrumental in her pursuit of a career with Disney.

“What struck me the most were the cast members, Claire shared on her preview center visit. “They were smiling and all very kind and welcoming. I had never seen this before. Nametags with the first names and flags for as many languages they could speak…I wanted to be a part of this. I wanted to speak as many languages as them.”

Over the course of the afternoon, the parallels of the program over the years to today were vividly apparent. Local community engagement, volunteerism and the highlighting of cast members and their roles are all as relevant today as they have been over the past 57 years. But while much of the activities of the program have remained consistent there have been some big changes.

Following the events of September 11, 2001, the program found another calling. With travel grounded and uncertainty in the world Steven Miller, 2001-2002 Disney Ambassador of Walt Disney World, shared of the needed shifted focus on cast with the Disney Ambassador program. “It really allowed us to build deeper relationships with the cast.” Steven and his Disney Ambassador peers were asked to extend their term by a year, marking the first time a Disney Ambassador team was extended, making more time for the newly coined “thank you visits” to help boost cast morale through a difficult season.

In the 2000s Jonathan Rabeute, 2013-2014 Disney Ambassador, and Giona Prevete, 2019-2021 Disney Ambassador of Disneyland Paris, shared how technology has helped the program accomplish its same objectives in new ways. “We all know our Disney fans want to know the people who create the magic every day. So the Facebook page was a real asset to use to shine the light on the cast members,” Jonathan shared of the new communication channel launched in 2013. Under Giona, the expansion of social media continued with the addition of Instagram which proved a valuable tool to connect with cast members during the park closures of 2020 with the objective to serve cast members. “We, as Ambassadors serve as disco balls,” Jonathan emphasized. “We have to find the best way to reflect the light on 15 thousand cast members at Disneyland Paris and all around the world.

”Following the panel presentation, the 2022 global Disney Ambassador team took the stage to share more on the program today and to recognize Rhonda Wood as the Environmentally Champion of the Year for her work in rethinking what is possible with our Disney parks trees. To conclude the event, Mikey once again took to the stage to offer a thank you to all Disney Ambassadors who have blazed the trail and to thank those who are “the backbone and those who mentor and guide us, our Disney Ambassador leaders.”

But as the applause ended the real magic was only beginning as Disney fans and cast waited for their chance to say hello to the Disney Ambassadors present. Disney fan Julie Reames, dressed in a faithful tour guide costume recreation, had the opportunity to meet Julie, a true dream come true. “Growing up with a fascination towards Disney history, I would watch footage of Julie Reihm and Walt Disney in the ‘Disneyland 10th Anniversary’ special as if I was there with them. Meeting Julie, in-person, in my 1965 tour guide costume and talking with her was an unforgettable moment of pure magic.”

Among those in the audience were other Disney Ambassadors who attended the event supporting their peers highlighting something Steven had shared earlier on the Disney Ambassador program and those that serve in the role, “This is a family.”

For more #DisneyCastLife stories, check the Cast Life Blog every day and follow the Disney Ambassador teams on Instagram.

@DisneylandAmbassador | @WDW.Ambassador | @DLPAmbassador | @HKDLAmbassador | @AulaniAmbassador

The post A Historic Disney Ambassador Family Reunion at D23 Expo appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

Assistant housekeeping manager, Aline Minuti, knows her team’s services often go beyond what people may expect when they think of housekeeping.

“We host the guest, we inform the guest, we entertain the guest,” Aline said.

Whether it’s a towel animal, thoughtful recommendations or a magically transformed stateroom after an exciting day of exploring – the housekeeping crew takes extra care to make sure each stateroom is a welcomed sight at any moment of the day.

The housekeeping crew members not only make magic every day in our guests’ rooms, but they also sprinkle pixie dust throughout the ship. Ever wondered who keeps the pool decks, hallways, décor, curtains and glass so shining, shimmering, splendid?

“I don’t feel like we do this anywhere else,” Aline said. “When I tell people I work for Disney Cruise Line, they already assume I’m great at what I do, and I think we are. We are really great at what we do.”

The post How Disney Cruise Line Housekeepers Make You Feel at Home appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

When Lenny and his wife were struggling to realize their dream of having a child, they discovered Disney has programs to support parents both mentally and financially. They explored in-vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments, and ultimately the process was successful. Going through one of the most difficult times of their lives, Disney was there with the support and help they needed.

In March 2021, baby Amelia was born. Lenny loves to bring her to the parks and share the same experiences he had as a child with his daughter.

“You expect a paycheck, you expect a career, but at the end of the day, you don’t expect some of that magic being born,” said Lenny.

The post Behind the Nametag: Disney Cast Member Thankful for Disney’s Support appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

How did this happen? A team of dedicated engineers, architects and Disney VoluntEARS came together for one night to assemble the structure, dubbed “CANda PANDA Make a Difference?”, from thousands of cans and baby food to spread hunger awareness as part of Canstruction Orange County. All edible materials used, such as olive cans, baby food and bags of rice, will be donated to Orange County Food Bank at the end of September.

Community Action Partnership of Orange County (CAP OC) started the annual event 15 years ago, bringing together local architectural and engineering firms in the fight to end hunger. Disneyland Resort has contributed a new design nearly every year and even received the “Best Original Design” and “Most Cans” awards. This year was especially meaningful for the architecture, facilities and engineering cast members because it was the first time back since the pandemic with a brand-new design showcasing more cans than ever before, totaling over 8,000!

Getting Mei standing takes physics, innovation and a bit of pixie dust as the team spent months of preparation beforehand to get it just right. Victoria Shingleton, architect for the Disneyland Resort, became involved in Canstruction when she was an intern five years ago and grew such a passion for it that she is now the co-captain of this year’s team. She enjoys the fun challenge of designing as well as creating the title for this year’s structure, and being able to contribute to something that leaves a greater impact.

“I put so much time into Canstruction because there is a great need for food in the community. I care about the execution of the structure and creating something great for everyone to enjoy,” said Victoria. “As architects and engineers, we get to contribute to the environment at the Disneyland Resort, but this is a cool opportunity to interact with the community and contribute to something that is out in larger Orange County. It’s very exciting to see ‘Mei’ up in the mall after all these months!”

The cast members on this team have a unique opportunity to transfer their talents and abilities from their work environment to a passion project that “feeds” a great cause. “It’s always neat when you can take your professional life into volunteer activities somehow,” said Kyle Landis, engineer at the Disneyland Resort and co-leader of the Canstruction team. “I found a way to contribute in the logistics, the hardware, the transporting…and seeing how that all ties into the creative aspect. It’s really cool to take friends and family down to the mall and show them what we did. Watching other families and kids walk by and recognize one of their favorite Disney characters built 10 feet tall is really cool!”

This year’s project was the first for some newer team members like Carly Schwulst, a mechanical engineering intern who has volunteered at local food banks since high school. “I feel like it’s helping us as interns get to know everyone in the company and within our team,” said Carly. “I have a very close connection with food banks, and it’s been a part of my life for a while, so just being here is an amazing opportunity. It means a lot for the community.”

No matter what role each person plays, the team showed how fun it CAN be to make a difference, as well as an awkwardly adorable red panda. “CANda PANDA Make a Difference” will be on display at South Coast Plaza through Sept. 25.

The post Disneyland Resort Cast Members Team Up to Fight Hunger with Disney and Pixar’s ‘Turning Red’ appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

When Disney Housekeeping Guest Experience Manager, Maniala enrolled in college through Disney Aspire a few years ago, she could hardly have guessed the journey. From not speaking English as a Haitian immigrant in 1998, to meeting with company executives who couldn’t wait to ask the secret to her success.

A Walt Disney World cast member for 20 years, mother of three busy kids and now college graduate, Maniala found herself chatting with former Disney CEO Bob Iger at an event celebrating a new Walt Disney World study space for Aspire program participants. She also met George Kalogridis, President, Segment Development & Enrichment, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, at another cast member event. Both were impressed by all she had accomplished and wondered how she managed it while working full time and taking care of her family.

“I told them what I tell everyone – the secret is that when you set your mind to something, it will come through,” Maniala said. “That and you must rely on all the tools available: the advisors that will check in on you, the tutors who help you improve, and your fellow cast members who know more about technology than you do.”

Maniala recalls the ready source of tech support she had in Disney College Program participants, who helped her submit homework assignments online and make the most of her virtual classroom experiences. As a veteran cast member, she was used to being the one providing direction and guidance for these youngest team members – she couldn’t help but chuckle at the role reversal.

“They would sit down at my computer with me and in about 15 minutes the homework [I’d completed] was submitted. Soon, I felt like a pro,” she said. “I was finishing assignments week by week, then months and semesters went by, and before I knew it, I was ready for graduation.”

Maniala earned a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management in 2021, traveling to Bellevue University in Nebraska for a graduation ceremony with her family proudly in attendance. Now, she is working toward a master’s degree in human resources and is set to graduate in 2023.

With her passion and talent for housekeeping, knack for assessing the right roles for her team members, and her fluency in several languages – Maniala is considering a new challenge in human resources at Walt Disney World.

“I’m the kind of person who likes to try new things. I’ve worked at nearly every resort at Walt Disney World and different theme park locations,” she said. “I always wanted to go back to school, so when I saw the information about Aspire, I didn’t hesitate. I knew this was my chance.”

Whether she continues her successful role in housekeeping or makes the move to human resources, Maniala is certain of one thing – her role must always center on her love of connecting with people in meaningful ways. In the meantime, she tells all her fellow cast members to check out Aspire.

“I want to be successful, of course, but the main reason I’m doing this is to inspire and motivate people like me,” she said. “People might look at me and see one thing, a housekeeper, but through my accomplishments they will understand how much I’m capable of – helping others, being a role model and bringing the magic every day.”

Have questions about Disney Aspire? Find all the answers you need in our comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions section.

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From tiny mugo pine trees that bring scale to the miniature villages dotting Storybook Land Canal; to the towering redwoods that bring the majesty of northern California to Grizzly River Rapids, these trees play a significant role in the park’s landscape, whether as a historical tribute or as a land’s key narrative element.

And for our guests and cast members, these trees often hold emotional meaning – proposals, happy family memories, and so much more happen under the shade of Disneyland Resort’s trees.

When one of the trees at Disneyland Resort completes its circle of life, they are typically converted into mulch to help future plants grow. There are few options to salvage the tree … until Rhonda and her team had a bright idea to give them a second life!

“I’ve been here for 25 years, I started off as a gardener and a climber pruning trees, and getting rid of trees never gets easy,” Rhonda said.

At D23, we announced that Rhonda’s vision was coming to life. Disney is teaming up with urban forestry innovators Daniels Wood Land to salvage end-of-life trees and transform them into one-of-a-kind, keepsake Disney products. End-of-life trees need to be removed for safety reasons, but this is an innovative way to give the trees – which often hold sentimental value for guests and cast members – a second life, while also supporting Disney’s sustainability efforts by upcycling a natural material into unique consumer products.

“These are living elements that have been in the park for generations, and I’m grateful to have the opportunity to create a program that can give those trees a new path,” she adds.

To further extend the magic, we’re making a $25,000 donation to the nonprofit TreePeople to help them plant and care for trees in mountains and urban neighborhoods throughout Southern California. We’ve worked with this amazing organization for nearly 25 years and are excited to help them continue their important efforts.

We gave away the first 1,000 pieces of unique wooden medallions made from salvaged wood to fans at D23. Do you want a little bit of the magic? You can find these products on sale now at select Disneyland Resort galleries.

The post You Won’t Believe How Disneyland Resort Recycles End-of-Life Trees appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

Debby was selected as the first Walt Disney World Ambassador in October 1970 after serving as one of 14 Walt Disney World Preview Center cast members. She spent three months in Southern California learning about the magic of Disneyland while the “vacation kingdom of the world” was under construction in Florida.

“No matter how I dreamed Disneyland to be – it was so much better – more enchanting and exciting,’” wrote Debby in a journal entry from 1970 that I discovered in our Ambassador Program archives.

“I had only known Disneyland from watching Walt Disney on television in black and white,” recalled Debby. “When I first stepped into the park with my manager Frank, I couldn’t believe my eyes – the place was alive with vibrant colors. I could feel the magic and Walt’s presence everywhere!”

As we made our way down Main Street, U.S.A., Debby shared that Sleeping Beauty Castle was used for her official Ambassador portrait because Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom Park in Florida was not built at the time. I found the contact sheet which showed how the portrait was cropped to complete the illusion.

We paused at the Partners Statue so Debby could take in the sights and smells while sounds from the Disneyland Band floated in the air. Happiness filled her eyes.

“At Disneyland, you don’t have a favorite place – you have many,” remembered Debby. “One of mine is at the side of the Castle where a waterfall with Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs are found.”

In 1970, she was joined by then 1971 Disneyland Ambassador Marva Dickson for photos in Snow White Grotto. During our visit to the wishing well, we were surprised by Pinocchio who joined our trip down memory lane.

We had no shortage of magical interactions with guests and cast members during our stroll. Debby stopped to speak with everyone she met; I can easily see why she was selected as the first Disney World Ambassador.

I asked Debby what makes Disneyland so special.

“Disneyland cast members make the park the magical place it is,” exclaimed Debby. “They helped train me while at the Preview Center in Florida, and I learned so much from them while training for the Ambassador role in California. They continue making Walt Disney’s dream a reality every day. I can’t thank them enough for what they do.”

Today, I’m serving as leader for the Walt Disney World Ambassador Program, something I never thought would be a part of my career journey when I took a photo with Debby in October 2002. Thank you to Debby for being an inspiration to me and many cast members for more than 50 years.

The post First Walt Disney World Ambassador Returns to Disneyland 52 Years Later appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

The devilishly delightful fun included interactive treat trails, the “Frightfully Fun Parade,” attractions and many other offerings guests will experience select nights through Oct. 31. (Tickets are sold out, but there is still more to enjoy during Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort.)

Entertainment host Megan Djanbatian eagerly anticipated the parade, which only runs during Oogie Boogie Bash. “It’s always amazing, and there are some really fun [characters coming] this year. I’m pretty excited for that.”

Cast were also first to encounter the new villains who’ve descended into the treat trails, including Madam Mim from “The Sword in the Stone,” Ernesto de la Cruz from “Coco” and Mother Gothel from “Tangled.” They also enjoyed new photo opportunities with Bruno from “Encanto,” plus Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck and Clarabelle Cow dressed as the Sanderson Sisters from “Hocus Pocus.”

Meanwhile, there were only treats and no tricks at the Oogie Boogie Bash Dessert Party, where over 100 cast members were surprised with a preview of this tasty offering. Cast enjoyed Halloween-themed desserts and drinks while watching the parade from the Sonoma Terrace.

“I feel very lucky and excited to experience this,” said reservation sales agent Cheryl Harding, who was experiencing Oogie Boogie Bash for the first time alongside her sister, ticket sales and services agent Karen Shenett. Both said attending cast-exclusive events together is special for them because they get to spend time together and experience unique events.

“I really like that [the “Frightfully Fun Parade”] is unique and scary in its own way,” said retail stage manager Shelby Otwell. “[It has] unique characters that you don’t get to see all the time, like Dr. Facilier and all the villains at the end.”

The eerie presence of the Headless Horseman riding before the parade sent screams of delight through the crowd. Cast cheered on all their favorite floats, including the chilling gravediggers who scraped their shovels across the pavement in time to Haunted Mansion-inspired music.

Sufficiently spellbound by the end of the preview, cast members certainly had a scary good time!

The post What’s This? Disneyland Cast Members Get an Oogie Boogie Bash SnEEK Peek appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

At 13 years old, Marisa and her dad were visiting Disneyland Resort when she began to feel symptoms often associated with a heart attack. She was rushed to CHOC and later diagnosed with a rare form of atrial tachycardia, a condition that caused her heart rate to exceed 200 beats per minute.

Marisa spent most of her teen years in and out of the hospital, undergoing multiple heart surgeries. In August, she celebrated nine years since her last surgery, and for Marisa, there was no better place to celebrate than at the Disneyland Resort.

CHOC Adventure in the Park, held this year at Disney California Adventure park, started as the CHOC Walk 30 years ago and has raised nearly $40 million for the organization. Marisa’s friends and family went above and beyond helping her reach the $200 fundraising requirement to participate, donating more than $1,200 in her honor.

Through tear-filled eyes, Marisa recalled the moment she realized the support she had from those around her. “I woke up one day and [saw] a cast member … donated some money. I just saw her the next day and broke down in tears because that meant she believed in me, my story and the impact that CHOC and Disney can have on other people,” Marisa said. “Even one of my leads here donated, so that said to me: we believe in you, we believe in your passion and we want to support you.”

Marisa expressed gratitude for the opportunity to give back to a place that means so much to her, recalling how seeing Mickey Mouse in the hall at CHOC gave her a true childlike feeling in less-than-ideal circumstances. “CHOC and Disney are really good at making you feel like a kid,” Marisa said.

Looking back at her journey, Marisa said Disney’s philanthropic efforts and connection to CHOC inspired her to become a cast member. “I get that opportunity to make people smile, and it’s those moments that really keep people going.”

While many participants look forward to the event’s fun-filled exclusive opportunities, Marisa most enjoyed meeting other families and hearing about what they have conquered despite the battles they faced along the way. ”One of my life mottoes is everyone has a story, so be kind to everyone,” Marisa said.

Marisa spent the evening with her sister, who played a vital role in her story by always being by her side, helping nurse her back to health. The selfless, compassionate love for her sister continued all the way through adulthood and inspired Marisa’s sister to become a nurse practitioner.

“Be proud of wearing that nametag because Disney means a lot to a lot of different people,” Marisa said. “It’s a name known around the world and for me, Disney is home, it’s my safe place and it’s a company that supported my journey as a heart patient.”

The post A Heart-Filled Adventure with a Disneyland Resort Cast Member appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

This training program helps guide decision-making when it comes to improving accessibility at the theme park by identifying ways to update services and offerings. “Barrier-free” is a term used to identify projects and programs designed with disabilities in mind.

To date, 100 cast members have completed the Barrier-Free Training Ambassador Program, with a second phase of the program at on-site hotels in the works.

Candy Tsang, a park operations host at Hong Kong Disneyland for over 15 years, who has a disability, recognizes the value of the Barrier-Free Training Program and encourages fellow cast members to participate. “This program offers an unprecedented educational opportunity for cast members to step into the shoes of another. It encourages empathy, respect and thoughtfulness in the workplace and beyond,” Candy said.

“As magic knows no boundaries, the Barrier-Free Ambassador Training Program allows cast members to break the boundaries, and to better understand and respect others,” said Michael Moriarty, managing director of Hong Kong Disneyland.

Stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog to keep up with everything happening at Hong Kong Disneyland, and be sure to follow the Hong Kong Disneyland Ambassadors on Instagram.

The post Breaking Accessibility Barriers with Cast Members at Hong Kong Disneyland appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

Last week, Walt Disney World donated $100,000 to Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida – an organization we’ve teamed up with for more than 30 years. This most recent donation joins the $500,000 granted to the organization in honor of the 50th Anniversary celebration, helping to close the community’s gap of unmet needs through the organization’s powerful hunger relief network.

As part of our longstanding relationship with Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, Disney remains focused on investing in future culinary storytellers within the Second Harvest Culinary Training Program. The program provides students with the necessary culinary and life skills to pursue a sustainable career, at no charge. Students from this program were in attendance as the $100,000 donation was announced and Disney also recently donated non-slip shoes to every student in the program, helping them take their first steps into their culinary future.

On the west coast, Disneyland Resort announced a donation of $5,000 to the Community Action Partnership Orange County (CAP OC) to support their OC Food Bank program during the beloved cast event, Minnie’s Moonlit Madness. It then came as a complete surprise to the clue-sleuthing crowd to find out from Disneyland Resort President Ken Potrock that we were also presenting OC Food Bank with an additional $100,000 check!

But that’s not all. To share the love, Disneyland Resort donated an additional $100,000 to Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County just this week. We’ve supported the organization for nearly a decade through donations from resort hotels and banquets, as well as VoluntEARing several times per year at their Harvest Solutions Farm in Irvine, CA, and their food bank.

Each year, Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort support local food banks through donations of time and resources. Disney VoluntEARS help collect, sort and distribute the food, leaving a positive impact on food insecurity issues in their local communities. Since March 2020, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products donated nearly $20 million worth of food to hunger-relief organizations supporting communities globally – that’s the equivalent of more than 2.1 million meals*.

Disney has a long legacy of donating food to communities in need. Earlier this year, we made a contribution to Feeding America to support efforts to source more produce and increase the number of nutritious meals provided to children and families who need it most. Distributed across 30 Feeding America member food banks across the U.S., this grant will serve approximately 500,000 kids and provide over 3,000,000 pounds of produce.

The post Disney Surprises Local Community Food Banks in Orlando, Anaheim with $300K in Donations appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

Our Walt Disney World Ambassador, Ali Manion, recently had the chance to join in on the fun by meeting some of our newest cast members from around the globe and hearing more about their journeys to World Showcase, including those who have been eagerly waiting to return to the program since our park reopening.

Disney cast members, crew members, Imagineers and programs participants represent a special community of people dedicated to bringing happiness and joy to the world. And as you can see, these beloved magic-makers are overjoyed to be experiencing their Disney Cast Life!

From their initial arrival day at Flamingo Crossings Village — the new, state-of-the-art housing complex for Disney Programs participants — to their first week of on-the-job training at EPCOT, these special cast members are getting acquainted with their new roles and having a blast doing it!

For some participants, this is their very first Disney Program and they are eager to help create distinctly-Disney magic for guests from all over the world. Others have experienced the magic of a Disney International Program before and were longing to return to discover more and create even more memories.

“I’m most excited to relive the experience again,” said Marco Cerri, a returning participant from Milan. “I loved sharing my knowledge about my culture and the beauty of my country with guests and learning how to inspire others.”

In addition to interacting with guests from around the world, participants get to meet other cast members and Disney Programs participants and create long-lasting friendships.

“It’s so wonderful to be back and reconnect with all the people I used to work with and I’m so excited to meet all the new people on my journey,” said Melanie Bernert, a returning Cultural Representative from Schongau, a small town in Germany.

Whether you’re a returning participant or experiencing your very first Disney program, we’re so happy to have you here and we can’t wait to see how far you’ll go! And if you find yourself traveling around the World (Showcase) anytime soon, be sure to say hello to any Cultural Representatives you meet along your way.

Are you ready to create lifelong memories and connect with people from across the globe by participating on a Disney International Program? Learn more and apply at disneyprograms.com.

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This royal week is being launched by someone who knows a thing or two about being a princess. Global superstar and Grammy Award-winning recording artist Brandy visited Disneyland Resort for a special performance in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle of “Starting Now,” the theme song of Ultimate Princess Celebration! Having starred in the title role in The Wonderful World of Disney, Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “Cinderella,” Brandy is the perfect artist to breathe the heart and soul into World Princess Week through her beautiful performance of “Starting Now.” Don’t miss the video coming to the Disney Parks Blog and Disney Parks social channels this Monday, Aug. 22!

From giveaways to limited-time offerings, here are some of the many ways you can join in the celebration for World Princess Week across Disney Parks!

Walt Disney World Resort

Staying at one of the resorts at Walt Disney World during World Princess Week? Be sure to attend one of the Movies Under the Stars for princess movie screenings all week at select resorts. Head over to Disney Springs for a princess-themed DJ dance party on Sunday, Aug. 21 and Saturday, Aug. 27 to show off your royal moves. If you’re looking to bring out your inner princess, stop by the American Adventure pavilion in EPCOT for a Tiana and Naveen-inspired paper crown giveaway. And you can’t forget about indulging in one of the many food and beverage offerings throughout the resort themed to your favorite royal friends.

Disneyland Resort

If you are a Magic Key holder, be sure to stop by Stage 17 at Disney California Adventure park* for a photo opportunity and magical extras, available just for you! After you’ve enjoyed some delicious princess or queen-inspired treats, why not take in some live art? Join Disney Artist and Historian Stacia Martin at WonderGround Gallery in Downtown Disney District on Aug. 21 from 12-4 p.m., to see her draw Disney Princess characters. Guests staying at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort on Aug. 22, are invited to Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa to see her in action again. For guests staying at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa club level, there will be a special opportunity to watch and chat with Stacia in the Veranda!

*Valid Magic Key pass and Park reservation required for park entry. Subject to change or cancellation without notice. Photo opportunity subject to Disney PhotoPass terms and expiration policy. Limit one per Magic Key holder. Magic Key holder must be present.

Disneyland Paris

Say “bonjour” to all the ways Disneyland Paris is celebrating World Princess Week! Check out The Royal Promenade, a cavalcade of princesses and queens set to the song “Starting Now.” Head behind Sleeping Beauty Castle for Aurora Welcome Greetings, a magical happening with Princess Aurora and dancers. Four exclusive Magic Shots from Disney PhotoPass are available during the week, and you can collect free princess collectible cards throughout the park before you head home for the night.

Unable to visit one of the parks this week? No problem! There are still plenty of opportunities to participate in World Princess Week. Dress up as your favorite Disney Princess or play princess with your little ones. Browse through this activity book for numerous princess activities fun for the whole family. Or grab some popcorn and gather around the TV for a Disney+ movie night watching one of the many princess movies available on the streaming service. Posting some royal content on social media during the week? Be sure to join the conversation by using #WorldPrincessWeek.

Stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog all next week for exciting princess news and content coming your way!

The post World Princess Week Returns to Disney Parks Next Week appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

Their Heroes Welcome began Thursday, as athletes from the five U.S. military teams, Team Canada and Team Ukraine were celebrated as honorary grand marshals in a parade down Main Street U.S.A., at Magic Kingdom Park

Each athlete took a turn carrying the Warrior Games Torch as their family members, guests and Disney cast members cheered them on. Speaking of cast members, members from the Disney SALUTE and Enabled Business Employee Resource Groups walked alongside the athletes in support, showing just how excited the Disney team is for the Games!

Later that afternoon, five U.S. Warrior Games athletes were each presented with the American Flag in an extra-special Flag Retreat ceremony in Town Square. A long-standing tradition at both Magic Kingdom Park and Disneyland Park, the flag retreat is one way Disney shows our commitment to all active-duty military and veterans every day.

It was a moving ceremony and the perfect way to show our gratitude for all these brave men and women have done for their country.

And this is just the beginning! Hundreds of elite athletes from across the United States Armed Forces and allied nations will be competing at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in sports including wheelchair basketball, sitting volleyball and indoor rowing.

Competition events, which are free and open to the public, will take place daily at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, through Aug. 28. Find more details on these events and the Closing Ceremonies at DoDWarriorGames.com. And stay turned to the Disney Parks Blog for more highlights throughout the event.

The post Disney Celebrates Heroes: Kicking Off the 2022 Warrior Games appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

“My heart is so full knowing that I work alongside such caring cast members in a place that has invested in our future storytellers for more than 50 years now,” Tajiana Ancora-Brown, Director of External Affairs at Walt Disney World Resort, said. “It’s exciting to see the difference they’ve made and will make as we continue to invest in and empower local schools, students and teachers.”

This year’s Back-to-School Drive had a personal impact on many of our cast members – like Maureen, who was previously an elementary school teacher and principal before putting on the special Disney nametag. As a leader of the merchandise team at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Maureen is now on the other side of school supply shopping, helping young guests and students pick out their perfect pixie dusted item to include in their selection.

“The best part about being a cast member is the privilege to help others,” Maureen said. “When you think about it, it’s very similar to teaching. It’s always a joy to assist our guests – especially our young guests – when they share they are school supply-shopping at our resort. I love chatting with them and hearing how excited they are for the upcoming school year.”

Other cast members supported the drive and found joy in hands-on helping through our Disney VoluntEARS program – like Lauren Fremont, an ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex cast member and local middle school teacher. One event Lauren participated in was A Gift For Teaching’s Great Big Backpack Build, helping pack 2,000 backpacks with essential school supplies and contributing to A Gift For Teaching’s overall total of 15,000 backpacks filled. In total, our Disney VoluntEARS spent more than 2,000 hours supporting Back-to-School initiatives this year.

“That feeling you get when you give back to the community just makes it for me, and it’s the same [feeling] when helping guests – whether pointing them in the right direction or helping them with something they didn’t know to make their day a little bit better,” Lauren said. “It’s also similar with education because it’s all about making a difference for my students and helping them through any issue they might be having.”

Maureen and Lauren are just two of the thousands of cast members and Disney VoluntEARS across Walt Disney World Resort who cherish the amazing memories they’ve made inside a classroom and aim to make a difference in the lives of students and teachers in the place we all call home.

“To make a positive impact in our community, it’s important to invest in our teachers,” said Jane Thompson, President of A Gift For Teaching. “We can’t thank Disney enough for its ongoing investment and commitment to education and volunteerism across Central Florida.” 

Read more about other ways cast members are supporting local education efforts at every level on the Disney Parks Blog.

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Holmes couldn’t crack it. Nancy Drew couldn’t solve it. Columbo wouldn’t dare take the case. Where could Minnie Mouse turn? Who could help her end the madness? (Insert dramatic music here.)

Late into the night and into the morning at Disney California Adventure park, Minnie and her Clue Crew enlisted the help of 400 teams of cast members and their friends to help solve “The Mystery of the Missing Snacks” in the return of the beloved cast event, Minnie’s Moonlit Madness. Tethered by the bonds of friendship (and a rope), 1,600 super sleuths solved puzzles, decoded riddles and tested their Disney trivia knowledge in hopes of saving Oswald’s 95^th birthday bash.

Each year, Minnie’s Moonlit Madness selects a local nonprofit to receive the event proceeds. This year, the OC Food Bank was on hand to receive a $5,000 donation, but Disneyland Resort President Ken Potrock had an extra magical moment in store. “On behalf of our cast members, the Disneyland Resort and our Disney VoluntEARS, I am very excited to present the OC Food Bank with an additional check in the amount of $100,000,” Ken shared onstage with Detective Minnie by his side.

It was a meaningful night for those in attendance as they celebrated the return of another cast member favorite. “My team and I definitely walked away with a lot of memories that we get to cherish. I think my personal favorite was getting our last clue in with only a minute left of the game,” said Lifeguard Coy Zindell. “I definitely am excited to participate in Minnie’s Moonlit Madness again next year and I know that my team is as well.”

This night of madness was made possible by the incredible Cast Activities team and their Clue Crew, whose members spend months developing, testing and adjusting the scavenger hunt.  “I love that being a part of this event allows me to create experiences and memories that are magical for (cast members),” said Clue Crew member Craig Kawamoto of the Walt Disney Travel Company. “There is nothing like seeing close to 2,000 energetic participants so excited to take part in something you put your heart into.”

With Mickey Bars in hand, cast members and their friends bid a goodnight with another successful Minnie’s Moonlit Madness in the books!

The post A Little Bit of Madness, A Whole Lot of FUN at Disneyland Resort! appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

Though it’s not easy to recover from a career disappointment, new opportunities are often waiting around the corner. Just ask Jennifer, who evolved from a cast member in Adventures of the Little Mermaid to an administrative professional, to now a leader focusing on the learning and development of fellow Cast Members… and all while being a full-time mom of two. 

Years ago, while working toward a career in mental health counseling, Jennifer hit a roadblock when she was unable to secure an internship. Being a counselor had been her dream since childhood, so the setback seemed devastating. But after hearing about Disney Aspire, The Walt Disney Company’s education investment and career development program for hourly employees, she realized that the setback was a detour rather than a dead end. 

“Aspire gives cast members a second chance,” said Jennifer. “I’ve had my heart broken, but I came to understand that was just one chapter in my story … certainly not the end!” 

Taking advantage of the second chance Aspire granted her, Jennifer earned a master’s degree in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from Bellevue University in May 2021. A Disney Cast Member for seven years and first-generation graduate, she transitioned to a new role helping lead classes and leadership training for cast members at Disney University.  

As an Aspire alumni, Jennifer mentors fellow cast members considering the program, volunteering her time and sharing her experience about the process, challenges and resources available. In consulting with prospective and current students, she collects ideas and questions for Aspire leaders, which helps the team continually update and improve the experience for cast members. 

“One of the most remarkable things about the Aspire program for me was how much support is available, from the Aspire team, the Guild coordinators, the universities and fellow cast members,” she said. “I’ve had Zoom sessions with other folks in Aspire where we share what we’re working on, which leads to someone offering to be interviewed for a research project or help someone else study. It’s amazing the way we’re all helping to build this success together.” 

With the new paths and interests Aspire has opened to her, Jennifer is glad she endured the heartbreak that led to this second chance. 

“I absolutely love what I’m doing now. There’s never a day when I don’t want to come to work, because this is work that I love,” said Jennifer. “That’s what Aspire can do for you – give you the chance to find your passion.” 

The post A Second Chance at Career Success – Finding Passion through Disney Aspire appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

Switching careers after 21-years in the military can be scary, but with the right support, it can also be the start of an incredible journey. Ariel, a Strategic Sourcing Specialist at Disneyland Resort, found that joining Disney was made easier thanks to special programs designed to help veterans transition into civilian life.  

“Transitioning out of the military is challenging,” Ariel admitted. “It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, so I had to put all those insecurities aside and get to a point where that challenge became the beginning of my journey and my family’s journey.” 

 To help veterans find their new beginnings, The Walt Disney Company partners with the Department of Defense SkillBridge program to offer the Military Fellowship Program, providing fellowships across a wide range of Disney roles to active-duty military members at the end of their military service. The program matches civilian opportunities to veterans’ job training and work experience, giving servicemembers the opportunity to gain valuable civilian work experience through specific industry training, apprenticeships, and internships.  

“The Military Fellowship Program helped me transition out of the military by allowing me to come to the Disneyland Resort and truly integrate into a team,” Ariel remarked. “Having an understanding of how the team works, how they communicate, and the day-to-day functions of the role that I could be potentially applying for was instrumental in alleviating a lot of the doubt and insecurities of doing something completely different.” 

Support from fellow Cast Members with similar backgrounds also helped Ariel thrive in his new environment. Business Employee Resource Groups (BERGs) throughout The Walt Disney Company bring Cast Members who identify as members of certain groups, as well as allies, together in a safe space to lift one another up and grow.  

One such BERG is SALUTE, which is committed to enhancing the Disney experience for those who have served in, or have a strong connection to the military. SALUTE strives to cultivate a place for veterans, friends, and family of veterans to support camaraderie, encourage professional development, and foster community service. 

“I had multiple mentors,” Ariel said. “What they helped me do is understand that this is not beyond my ability and that doubt can be overcome,” Ariel said. “I hope that my story can inspire others to believe in their dreams.”  

Ariel serves as Co-Chair of the SALUTE BERG to inspire others and to express gratitude to those who played an important role during his transition. 

“To this day I call my mentor at minimum once a week to seek counsel,” Ariel admits. “He’s been a true friend along my journey and as I’ve grown into a leader and transitioned into this next chapter.”  

Resources, such as the Military Fellowship Program, and BERGs, like SALUTE, help veterans feel a sense of belonging and purpose at Disney. With a focus on diversity, equity and inclusion, Cast Members like Ariel able to thrive and grow while sharing their unique skillsets and backgrounds. It is a community within a community with a special purpose.  

“I love the sense of community here and the opportunity to have an impact,” Ariel remarked. “Disney encouraged me to build a support network for veterans at the park. It felt like home.”  

By making the transition to mentor himself, Ariel continues to pay it forward by helping others at similar turning points in their careers.  

 “The Walt Disney Company does a great job of letting veterans know that they have a home here, bringing veterans into the family and help them continue to give back to the community and build long-lasting relationships,” Ariel stated. “My motto has always been, make it happen. Disney encourages me to do that and create magic.”  

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This summer, members of Girls Inc. of Orange County committed to a mentorship program with Disneyland Resort leaders from various work areas. Girls Inc., an organization serving girls from kindergarten to 18 years old, aims to inspire all girls to be strong, smart and bold. Over the course of their mentorship program, the five participants participated in informational interviews, shadowing, networking, tours and a final presentation to the group that captured all of their learnings and takeaways for the future.

Their five cast member mentors guided them through these immersive activities, investing in their personal and professional growth along the way. We caught up with two of the mentorship pairings to learn about their experiences.

April & Theresa

How would you describe your experience in one word?

Theresa: Fantastic.
April: Thrilling.

How would you describe your relationship with your mentor/mentee?

Theresa: It’s just been delightful. We bonded immediately over things like our love for Disney and family.
April: She’s truly my new best friend and third parent. We clicked so easily that even though this program was temporary, she will surely be my mentor for life now.

What is one thing you have taught your mentee?

Theresa: I’ve taught April that there are no limits. That although the world is naturally going to impose limits on her, she should not impose any limits on herself, get bogged down by red tape that is seemingly in her way and lose sight of her biggest desires.

What is one thing your mentor has taught you?

April: To go for everything that I want to go for in life. To stick to my dreams and not let anything stop me from listening to my heart.

Karen & Catherine

How would you describe your experience in one word?

Catherine: Empowering.
Karen: Eventful.

How would you describe your relationship with your mentor/mentee?

Catherine: We were able to connect well because she is looking to become a mechanical engineer and I am currently an industrial and systems engineer. It’s been great to see her grow so much in her confidence and knowledge during this program.
Karen: It’s a very long-lasting [relationship]. We had a spark that made it easy to connect, bonding over our passion for women’s rights to take up space in a field that is mainly full of men.

In your opinion, what is one of the best habits of a great mentor?

Catherine: Transparency. It’s so important to create an honest relationship and have in-depth, meaningful conversations that really make an impact.

In your opinion, what is one of the best qualities of a great mentee?

Karen: Being open-minded and ready to jump on new opportunities.

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Product design manager Donna Kozatek has had a hand in creating much of your favorite Disney merchandise, including products from the Frightfully Fringe and “Lilo & Stitch” lines. “Disney storytelling has always been my inspiration and I love that I can translate those stories into tangible memories for our guests.”

Donna’s team works specifically with Mickey Mouse and classic film characters. They are currently designing drinkware featuring Peter Pan, Baloo, Bambi and many others. “Even though Mickey & Friends are the most popular, we love featuring characters from our classic movies. Guests have their personal favorites, and we try to showcase as many stories and characters as possible.”

In discussing her design process, Donna explained that she always strives to tell a story with each product. “If the art has a vintage or retro vibe, I will create items that reflect that same style. I also like to mix and match designs on the items. We have so much great art, I want to showcase it all!”

Most recently, Donna and her team took on the “Lilo & Stitch” line. In garnering inspiration for the products, Donna looked to the art from the talented Disney Creative Group. “I loved the blues used for Stitch and the simplicity of the art,” said Donna. “This allowed me to explore new materials and applications as in the laser etched wood items.” When she’s not working on your new favorite products, you might find Donna relaxing with her oversized Stitch pillow enjoying a beverage in a Stitch-inspired mug!

Although it was a bit out of her comfort zone, (“How do you combine Mickey with Dancing Skeletons?”) Donna also had a lot of fun working on the Frightfully Fringe line. “I explored items that could be used for entertaining and that could also be used year-round. My favorite piece is the sculpted graveyard scene. It’s a cone incense holder where the smoke will filter through the headstones creating a misty, spooky scene!”

Of the many lines Donna has lent her design abilities to, her favorite to work on was the Dwell Well Kitchen collection featuring Winnie the Pooh and Friends. She had the opportunity to create a style that could incorporate the colorful group of characters into any home space by using a mix of sculpted ceramics and wood. “It was fun to work with these materials and create products to use in the kitchen. My favorite is the glass ‘Hunny’ jar with the dipper!”

Not only has Donna been with the company for over 25 years, but she started her Disney journey with a role in costuming through the Disney College Program! She graduated college with a degree in Surface Pattern Design and immediately accepted an internship with Disney Creative Group. She was awed by the breadth of creative license she was given, and by all the possibilities for career growth. “I never thought about what goes into creating and developing a mug or photo frame. When I started, my meetings would have lengthy discussions on which characters to use on which product. I had to pinch myself thinking this is what I get to do for a living! I get to be a part of the process that creates tangible memories for our guests. A year later I had a full-time position, and I never looked back!”

As for her advice to those seeking roles in the design industry, Donna offered, “Do not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. There are so many opportunities for designers, and you may find a path that you didn’t know existed.”

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I am Robert Burger and have been with Disney for 22 years, but for the first time, I’m sharing my Enabled story during Disability Pride Month. I am currently an area manager for the Disney California Adventure park’s Engineering Services East Team. In my career, I’ve worked on several large projects including the Shanghai Disney Resort, the retheming of Pixar Pier and Incredicoaster and the launch of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.

I was a part of all these projects after I was diagnosed with RRMS.

RRMS is when you experience MS symptoms in incidental attacks where, upon treatment, you can return to normal function or 95% of your previous condition. After my first two episodes, I had no lingering effects, but since my third episode, I still have numbness and tingling in my hands and fingers. This requires me to adjust simple everyday things. I experience fatigue and some balance issues, and my symptoms heighten in the heat.

Driving home after my third episode, I considered all the potential outcomes. I thought about how this would affect my performance at work, my ability to progress in my career and how I would be able to provide for my family. I was raised to not talk about feelings, emotions or complain about pain, so initially, I didn’t seek out a support system.

While I did have struggles dealing with my “hidden disability,” I pushed through. Although The Walt Disney Company has many ways of supporting cast with disabilities, my inner voice told me to keep it inside. I considered the impacts to my career or how I might be treated or excluded, and I wanted to ensure I would always be held accountable, so I hid my disability. I didn’t even use my car’s handicap placard for years because I felt that I looked “normal” and didn’t truly understand that word.

It is important for me to share my story so that others with disabilities do not live with the same reservations I did. So that allies can better understand that others may be struggling in silence, not ready to speak on their own behalf.

At work, I found a community through the Disneyland Resort ENABLED BERG (Business Employee Resource Group), which promotes respect, equality and appreciation of people with disabilities through community, awareness, education and inclusion.

I cope with my hidden disability through minor life adjustments. I plan my day to conserve energy before fatigue sets in. I found low-impact exercises, such as e-biking and scuba diving, and I don’t feel any symptoms underwater, so it provides a great feeling of wellness. I overcame not feeling “handicapped enough” and now use my handicap plates to help conserve energy. I even coach varsity and travel ice hockey from the bench, using assistant coaches to perform on-ice practice, and our team made it to the state and national championships this year.

I found that with the right mindset and adjustments to your life, anything is possible. I am proud to share my story this Disability Pride Month to give a voice to the many people who have “hidden disabilities” like me. Because at the end of the day, we all want to be our best self, walk with our heads held high and feel supported in our professional careers.

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“Mickey and Minnie’s visit was a real breath of fresh air during a particularly difficult and emotionally charged period in the unit,” explained Dr. Jérémie Suard, a nurse anesthetist in the pediatric intensive care unit at La Timone. “It was good for the children, the families and the staff.

Disneyland Paris teams have been visiting La Timone regularly since 1997 and since 1991, more than 40,000 children have been visited by our beloved characters and Disney VoluntEARS in hospitals in France and neighboring countries. Delivering joy, happiness and wishes to children in need is one of our major philanthropic commitments at Disneyland Paris and across the company. 

Learn more about our commitment to delivering joy and comfort through the power of stories at impact.disney.com.

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While the missions of the U.S. Army and The Walt Disney Company are different, cast member Dan, manager of supplier diversity, has found striking similarities in their values and culture. For Dan, these include teamwork, a “can do” mindset and leaders who dig in and pursue common goals alongside their teams.

“My philosophy in starting this second career was to find an employer I was as proud to represent as when I put on the Army uniform, with values and ethics that aligned with my 30 years of military service,” Dan said. “I was also searching for a role that enabled me to be more present for my family in the years to come. Disney offered all of that.”

After serving in the Army for 30 years, Dan became the first participant in the Disney Military Fellowship Program when it began in 2017. Following his fellowship in strategic sourcing, he accepted a role with the company supporting its global sourcing strategy.

“Right away, I was able to jump in and get a sense of this company and the wide variety of roles needed to make it work,” he said. “And as far as benefits, it was like peeling back layers of an onion when you began adding up all that’s available. Disney takes care of its cast the way the military does.”

Today, Dan plays a key role in helping Disney achieve its goal of increasing its spending with diverse suppliers to $1 billion annually by 2024, including building relationships with vendors that promote sustainability. He also leads Disney’s Heroes Supply Here program, which began in 2015 to promote the company’s spending with veteran-owned businesses, including enterprises run by service-disabled veterans.

Dan has served in leadership roles with SALUTE, a Business Employee Resource Group (BERG) at Walt Disney World dedicated to networking, fellowship, community service and professional development for cast members who are veterans.

“SALUTE gives veteran cast members an instant connection to building friendships, networking and navigating the resources available,” Dan said. “We’re here to help each other, as teammates and team builders. Veterans fit in easily and succeed here because we’ve risen through the ranks of military service with that mentality that we’re all in it together.”

Many veterans become cast members through Heroes Work Here, Disney’s company-wide initiative to hire, train and support veterans. Reflecting Disney’s longstanding respect and appreciation for the U.S. Armed Services, the program recognizes the leadership and sense of purpose service members bring to Disney roles.

This strategy provides a wellspring of talent for critical, hard-to-fill roles such as cyber security and contributes to the company’s diversity and strength.

“A lot of the qualities that draw people to the military, and that service members hone through their service, can be found at Disney,” Dan said. “It might sound cliché, but veterans are looking for a new family and they can find it in fellow cast members.”

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A few weeks ago, we shared news on several of the confirmed speakers. And today, we’re thrilled to share the news about additional speakers joining the already impressive roster. We’re pleased to announce the following speakers will be appearing at the Summit:

• Staff Sergeant (ret.) David Bellavia – Medal of Honor Recipient
• Tish Stropes – Vice President of Strategic Initiatives; Fisher House Foundation
• Eric Eversole – Vice President, U.S. Chamber of Commerce; President, Hiring Our Heroes, U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation
• Cheryl Mason- Chairman of the Board of Veterans’ Appeals; U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
• Allie Braswell – Senior Vice President, Culture, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion; VyStar Credit Union
• Carlandra “CT” Moss – Racial Equity & Inclusion Director; Blue Star Families
• Lieutenant Colonel Ismael Ortizrivera – Employment Director; U.S. Army, Soldier for Life

The 2022 Veterans Institute Summit will be webcast live from ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex on Aug. 19 and 20 and there is still time to reserve a space. We appreciate the support from event sponsors Wounded Warrior Project, Amazon Global Military Affairs, The Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company, USAA, Optum Serve, Enterprise Holdings, Inc., and JPMorgan Chase & Co., who all share a passion for helping set veterans and military spouses up for success following their service to our country. To learn more about this event and register to attend, please visit our Veterans Institute Summit website.

Disney knows how important it is to help military servicemembers, veterans and military spouses find meaningful work following their service to our country and is honored to host this event to join forces with many organizations who share this same goal.

In this spirit, we’re also excited to participate in an upcoming Virtual Career Fair Town Hall hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s “Hiring our Heroes” program on Aug. 10. This event will be presented by Disney Institute and produced by ABC Owned Television Stations.

During this Town Hall, military program leaders from a variety of successful companies will share their best tips and tricks for members of the military community transitioning into a civilian career. This insightful segment aims to prepare viewers for the Hiring Our Heroes – Virtual Career Fair taking place on Aug. 31.

The Aug. 10 Town Hall will be streamed on the ABC Owned Television Stations websites nationwide at 1 p.m. ET. To learn more and register for the Aug. 31 Virtual Career Fair as either an employer or a job seeker, visit this link.

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As a naturalist at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort, a Disney Vacation Club Resort, Barbie has the unique role of educating guests about the area’s plant and animal life. Through wildlife kayak excursions, nature treks to seek out animal tracks and more, Barbie helps guests discover the ecological wonders that surround the resort.

Over the years, she’s made incredible memories in her naturalist role, and Tour de Turtles stands out as one of her favorites. Tour de Turtles is an annual event created by The Sea Turtle Conservancy conservation organization that follows the migration of sea turtles. By fitting satellite transmitter devices on turtles after they have nested on the beach, scientists are able to track turtles’ movements through the ocean, collect data about their habitats and identify patterns that could hold the key to their survival. Disney has collaborated with The Sea Turtle Conservancy for 15 years to study sea turtles and host this annual event at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort.

This year’s Tour de Turtles event takes place today, July 30, and Disney is sponsoring sea turtles Neytiri and Ronal, both names inspired by the upcoming premiere of the film “Avatar: The Way of Water,” in theaters December 16, 2022.

Barbie said seeing the turtles go out into the ocean is something you never forget. “Our guests come from all over to see the turtles and learn about them,” Barbie said. “It really is something special, and I’m proud to be a part of it!”

Barbie’s love of the beach and for Florida wildlife began when she visited from her home state of Tennessee. “I turned 19, and the ocean was calling me,” Barbie said. “I came down to visit my family, and I knew Vero Beach was for me.”

Barbie has worked at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort for over 20 years and has been the resort’s naturalist for more than 10 of those years. She started her career as a culinary cast member, but when she heard about the naturalist role, she was hooked. “I met with the naturalist at the resort, and I just had to know everything about the role,” she said. “I’m so passionate about sea life, so I knew this was the job for me. That’s one of the best parts of working for Disney – the possibilities are endless, and there’s so much you can do!”

Barbie’s favorite part of her role is creating special memories with guests and seeing their faces light up when they learn something new. “Having the chance to do what I love and teach guests about the wildlife around us is so special,” she said. “Not only are guests having a great vacation, but they’re learning something about our amazing wildlife!”

So, if you’re ever vacationing at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort, make sure to say hi to Barbie! You might learn something new (and maybe see a sea turtle or two!).

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Today is National Intern Day and we’re thrilled to honor those who help drive our business forward, offering their fresh perspectives and insights to a variety of roles and disciplines across the company. We had the pleasure of speaking with the Marketing Strategy Professional Intern for Disney Institute and National Geographic Live, Cammy Park, to learn what makes her role and experience so special as she builds upon the skills she learned studying advertising with a minor in hospitality management at Florida State University over the next several months!

“My favorite things about working for the company are the connections I’m able to foster over the next several months, the career advancement opportunities available to me, and support from my leaders and colleagues. From day one, I have felt like I am part of the team and not like an outsider looking in – I’ve never had all of that before in one place. Everyone has been supportive of my professional development and has been helpful with any questions I throw their way.”

As part of the job, Cammy gets the unique ability to wear any one of four name tags on a daily basis. “Whether it’s Nat Geo, Disney Institute, our 50^th Anniversary Celebration or Disney Parks, it’s fun to have the rare chance to celebrate so many iconic brands at work, depending on where I’m at for the day.”

Her most memorable experience so far has been attending Disney Institute’s in-person professional development course, Disney’s Approach to Quality Service, and meeting graduation Mickey. “I didn’t know what to expect because I’m so new to my career, but I went in with an open mind and learned so much. Quality service isn’t just about giving something spectacular to guests or a coworker in your life, but it’s about knowing the intentionality behind everything that we do. Seeing how organizations can apply our insights to their own lines of work was inspiring and made the lightbulbs in my head go off.”

When she is not diving into data to help the businesses focus on reorienting and enhancing their marketing strategies or learning more about National Geographic Explorers that take to America’s highways and share their awe-inspiring stories, Cammy gets to enjoy park hopping and fun cast events. “It’s so nice to be able to experience a park after work or on the weekends. Even though I work for the company it doesn’t ruin the magic for me, it enhances it.”

“I’m a lifelong learner and that is what I aspire to be. Working in my role allowed me to start my career within a company I have such a strong affinity for as a consumer and enables me to research and dive into quite a few areas.”

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From bedazzled beaks to hand-painted feathers, cast members duckorated their rubber ducks according to various categories; including “Most like Donald Duck,” “Most Disney Themed,” “Favorite Attraction,” “Superhero” and “Least Sea-Worthy.”

From artistic twists on the Haunted Mansion to a duck swimming in a mobile order bread bowl, cast members spent the morning running from table to table, snapping photos of the dapper ducks’ creative designs. Awards were given for each appearance-based category as well as for the ducks who placed first, second and last place in the beak-to-beak race around the canal before the theme park opened.

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“It’s in the wrist,” Alexander Santiago shares. I watched as he skillfully built a DOLE Whip Flight at Swirls on the Water at Disney Springs. Alexander is a master of the craft, his favorite part of the role is “the art of making all the offerings,” he goes on to share. “I get really excited when we get new items…it just comes naturally.

But while the art is exciting, it’s the heart of the experience that guests come for. “Some people are just trying to get away from life, some people come here to forget their life problems – when you get to help someone out and make them feel better, that’s the best part of any day.”

Mina Carrizales shares a similar sentiment. “The guests always put a smile on my face…they come for the DOLE Whip! Walking up in the merch fully decked out from head to toe!”

At any point in the day, Mina could be doing a variety of tasks, from getting product to refilling machines, checking on stock and even getting to be the cast member creating their favorite frozen treat. “It takes a lot of teamwork, and everyone does their part,” she says of her fellow cast at Swirls on the Water, “this team makes work not even feel like a job.”

Leading the fearless team this afternoon is Sarah Nehring, today’s Coordinator. “The teamwork that goes into our location is really awesome,” Sarah says. Every day she leads the cast with a focus on how everyone is doing. “I love working with our cast. I go around and make sure to ask everyone ‘How are you feeling today?’ or ‘How can I help you out?’”

Across the country at The Tropical Hideaway in Disneyland park, Meech Long, a self-proclaimed “Master DOLE Whipper” shares her secret for the perfect DOLE Whip. “It’s the little kiss. You have to kiss it on the top when making it.” Meech demonstrates the “kiss” and I can see what she means. The way the DOLE Whip falls perfectly into place at the top as you gently finish the frozen goodness as the last bit comes out to the top of the machine. “That’s the perfect little whip,” she says.

“It’s really fun,” Meech says of working in the “coolest” place in Adventureland. “I get to experience a lot of families coming in and enjoying their time. Older to younger, just seeing them have that Disney magical experience.”

Every journey no matter how delicious it may be must come to an end. As I look back, I’ve truly learned there is no one right way to make the perfect DOLE Whip. Yes, everyone has their own take and technique all resulting in success. However, the one consistent theme I could find from East to West with each cast member I spoke to is that the perfect DOLE Whip has a lot of heart from the first swirl to the kiss at the top.

For more #DisneyCastLife stories, check the Cast Life Blog every day and follow the Disney Ambassador teams on Instagram.

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We’re proud to be one of the many organizations that participate as a host company in the Corporate Fellowship Program which provides participants 12-weeks of civilian work experience to help make their transition a smooth one following their service to their country.

We recently had the honor of hosting the current cohort of sixty servicemembers, thirty of whom attended virtually, who are all participating fellows in this program with a diverse set of companies across Central Florida for a day of comradery, networking and sharing on tips for success in the post-military job hunt.

Their visit to Walt Disney World Resort began at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, where they got the blood flowing by soaring with the banshees on the Avatar Flight of Passage attraction located in Pandora – The World of Avatar.

After a morning in the park, the group enjoyed a backstage tour of some of our facilities and ended their day with lunch, presentations and round table discussions with Disney cast members who are military veterans themselves and part of our “Disney SALUTE” veteran affinity group. It was a privilege to answer their questions, share stories and provide advice on the job hunt having been on similar journeys in the past.

“We greatly appreciated the hospitality,” said Aleksandra Johnston, Deputy Director (East) for the Corporate Fellowship Program at Hiring our Heroes. “Working alongside companies like Disney gives our servicemembers a chance to network and gain hands-on experience so they can begin their new careers after their military service. Veterans and their families bring incredible value and expertise to companies, and we are happy to lead programs that connect the two together.”

U.S. Army veteran Dan Grundvig, Manager of Supplier Sustainability, organized the day’s events and was excited to connect transitioning military servicemembers with veterans now working at Disney who understand what they are feeling at this stage in their transition.

“It was a great honor hosting this group of incredible men and women,” said Dan. “Programs like Military Fellowships give our servicemembers the necessary tools for them to successfully transition into a new line of work while also celebrating their incredible contributions to our nation.”

To learn more about programs like the Hiring our Heroes from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation go to hiringourheroes.org.

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Ten students participated in a six-week program that culminated in a final project, in which they developed a hypothetical after-hours event at Disney California Adventure park.

Jimmy Che, rising senior from Savanna High School was interested in exploring the inner workings of a business such as the Disneyland Resort, and after seeing it firsthand, was surprised to learn of its complexities. He was paired with Director of Workforce Management Arland Van Horn as his mentor. During their mentoring experience, Jimmy learned how critical proper staffing is to an operation and how workforce management collaborates with other departments to address labor needs. Jimmy felt empowered by these new insights to pursue this type of work as a potential career. “There’s a lot of work behind the stage to make sure this large machine is oiled up and running,” Jimmy reflects. “It’s interesting learning about the functions of the department in the workplace.

As a mentor with a background in education, Arland enjoyed being able to support students like Jimmy in a meaningful and tangible way.

“I believe that being engaged with the community as a leader at the Disneyland Resort is so important,” Arland expresses. “I still have mentors that I trust to help me grow and expand my way of thinking and leading within the organization. Whether you’re mentoring someone else, or being mentored, it’s so valuable for own growth and development.”

Sarah Li, rising senior from Oxford Academy, had a particular interest in computer science but was open to learning something new. She was paired with Character Operations Manager Caroline Wilcox, who brought an energetic perspective to their dynamic that helped Sarah to understand different career opportunities.

Sarah reflected on her tremendous growth through the program as it has shown her the breadth of possibilities and to not feel pressured to choose a certain path.

“I’ve definitely grown a lot more confident in this program,” Sarah recounts. “Normally I don’t talk to as many adults that are in working positions other than my teachers, and it’s been interesting to talk to these leaders to see where they started, and how they got to where they are now… It has been nice to hear that I don’t have to figure it all out right now.”

Caroline encouraged Sarah to focus on her strengths that will help her make those important decisions later on.

“What I see in Sarah is curiosity,” Caroline shares. “She’s looking forward to learning what else is out there. With the group, she’s not afraid to be one of the first people to raise her hand and that confidence in her is great to see.”

While the experience was mostly virtual, the students had the opportunity to shadow duty managers at the Disneyland Resort to see how the operation runs from a cast member perspective. For both Jimmy and Sarah, this was one of their favorite aspects of the program, as they applied what they learned to their final project.

“I learned a lot about the importance of atmosphere,” Jimmy reflected on the attention to immersive details around the resort. “There are a lot of things you can change and modify to fit a certain mold of an event.”

Overall, the AIME program was inspiring for both mentors and mentees as both groups learned from each other.

“The future is pretty bright,” Arland shared. “If these students are representative of future leaders in business and the community, then we’ve got some pretty good ones coming.”

With new leadership skills in their arsenal, the students have much to “AIME” for in their careers and beyond.

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If you aren’t familiar with Disney Aspire, it’s Disney’s education investment and career development program that offers 100% paid tuition up front for hourly full-time and part-time employees and cast members across a network of schools, and it now includes these two new additions. In California alone, more than 29,500 of our employees are eligible to enroll.

Cal State Fullerton’s motto is “Titan — One who stands for greatness of achievement.” It’s fitting because I’ve seen firsthand how our Disney Aspire students and graduates are achieving their dreams and changing their lives through this program. More than 13,000 employees are currently enrolled and 2,600 have already graduated. And about 13% of our graduates have already been promoted internally.

Fullerton College is the oldest community college in the state of California, and one of the most successful in the nation. It’s also the number one feeder of transfer students to Cal State Fullerton. In short: I have no doubt we will all be achieving greatness together.

It personally took me seven years to graduate. It was no easy feat — I was working two jobs at the time and worried about getting behind. But with the encouragement of my professors, I did it. I truly feel as if I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for my time at CSUF. Being a Titan is just part of who I am — it’s made me a more confident professional, unafraid to take risks and seek out opportunities. And it all came full circle when I was lucky enough to be named a School of Communications Distinguished Alumna back in 2017.

I encourage any eligible employee or cast member in California to explore what these two incredible institutions may be able to offer you and your future. Take it from me. The education I received changed my life — and I have a feeling it may do the same for you, too.

Just visit aspire.disney.com today to get started.

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Over the span of the pandemic, Disney donated more than 1 million cloth face masks to MedShare, a humanitarian aid organization, for distribution to children and families in underserved and vulnerable communities across the U.S., including California and Florida.

Distributed by MedShare to more than 150 schools, safety-net clinics and communities in 20 states, the cloth face masks featured a wide range of fan favorite characters, including Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, Anna and Elsa, Woody and Buzz Lightyear, The Avengers, and Star Wars characters.

In addition to the face masks, Disney also donated $1 million and 216,400 rain ponchos to MedShare during the pandemic. The idea was inspired by nurses across the country in early 2020 who inventively found that rain ponchos can be an excellent way to protect their clothing and prolong the use of PPE, while also freeing up gowns when needed.

“Disney’s donations made a tremendous impact in the communities we serve,” said Charles Redding, CEO and president of MedShare. “Their contribution of one million Disney cloth face masks were provided to families in underserved communities and organizations, while their monetary donation supported the medical community’s ongoing efforts to provide lifesaving care to those who need it most.”

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The long-awaited opening of Avengers Campus, in correlation with the 30^th Anniversary celebrations, has action-packed adventures with surprise live-action stunts, heroic encounters with Marvel Super Heroes and two epic attractions. On top of these offerings, recruits can refuel like a Super Hero with all-new dining experiences and look the part with their heroic merchandise.

To help welcome the very first recruits, Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, and President and Managing Director Disney Parks International Jill Estorino, joined cast members alongside the Disneyland Paris Ambassadors and Natacha Rafalski, President of Disneyland Paris, with an assembly line down Walt Disney Studios Park.

“It was such a beautiful and magical day! So intense in emotions!” shared Yodin Luboya, campus personnel.

The atmosphere was filled with excitement, smiles and cheers from both cast and guests alike as everyone filled in to see the new Campus. To commemorate the event, special buttons were distributed along with an exclusive Mission Files document for the Campus’ first recruits.

“It was great to join all of my colleagues to live this moment together and welcome our first recruits!” expressed Carlos Alarcón Álvarez, campus personnel.

More surprises awaited in backstage areas for Disneyland Paris cast members — decorations set up in cast buildings and a special dessert was offered to all cast. While enjoying these delicious desserts, they snapped selfies in a brand-new cast selfie spot where they could help fight the Spider-Bots escaping from the SPIDER-MAN W.E.B. ADVENTURE attraction!

As the day continued, everyone was invited to join in on the action — teaming up with the Avengers and their allies throughout the land; slinging webs like Spider-Man on SPIDER-MAN W.E.B. ADVENTURE; flying into space with Iron Man and Captain Marvel on AVENGERS ASSEMBLE: FLIGHT FORCE; and suiting up and refueling in true Super Hero fashion.

Recruits encountered Spider-Man, Iron Man or Captain Marvel in a new dedicated building specially designed for Avengers Campus in Disneyland Paris, the Hero Training Center. For the first time in a Disney Park, a dynamic “freeze frame” video sequence, created by Disney PhotoPass with 27 cameras all around the action, captured these meetings with Captain Marvel or Iron Man and turned them into unforgettable moments. These special encounters are available for booking through the Disneyland Paris mobile app.

New recruits of all ages also had the chance to train with Black Panther’s loyal protectors, the Dora Milaje, and learn from the warriors of Wakanda on what it’s like to be a member of this elite royal guard. From there, they went onto saving the world in fun fashion, showing off their best dance moves during an interactive dance-off with Star-Lord and Gamora from the Guardians of the Galaxy and capturing moments with more heroes at The Gateway Portal.

Avengers Campus is now open with cast members and personnel ready to welcome new recruits as they embark on exciting new adventures in Disneyland Paris! To prepare for this action-packed adventure, be sure to follow the @DLPAmbassador on social and take a deep dive into the attractions, food and beverage, entertainment, and merchandise offerings previously shared on the Disney Parks Blog!

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At the Tanabata exclusive Welcome Greeting that took place right after opening, I joined the cast dressed in colorful yukata (casual summer kimono) and welcomed our guests to the park. In Japan, we like to dress up in yukata for fireworks shows and festivals that take place in the summertime. Even some of our guests come to our parks dressed in yukata so that they can engage with the Tanabata events.

A few of our guests and cast even secretly told me what their wishes were. I hope they all come true…

As darkness fell on the day and the stars shined so brightly in the sky, cast members waved flashlights and bid farewell to our guests. Tanabata is not the only event that takes place at Tokyo Disney Resort—there are many, many more events for guests to enjoy throughout the year! But on this day, and only on this day, we celebrate Tanabata. Wouldn’t you like to gaze up at the Milky Way and make a wish on this super romantic day?

For more #DisneyCastLife stories, check the Cast Life Blog every day and follow the Disney Ambassador teams on Instagram.

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Kingsley Chan is one of the technologists bringing excitement to life every day! In his role as a senior software engineer on the technology development team at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, he recently celebrated being with the company for a year and a half. During this time, his technical expertise has influenced the customer journey by improving the software for MyDisney Account—a hub used for multiple services such as making a park reservation, scheduling a character meet and greet and accessing the Hong Kong Disneyland eStore.

“Working at a multinational company like Disney has given me exposure to new opportunities and the chance to work on projects in multiple areas of the company—such as within the park and resorts—instead of having to focus on a single business,” said Kingsley.

Outside of his work on the technology team, Kingsley enjoys spending time at the park with his wife and five-year-old son, who was overjoyed recently to discover that he is now tall enough to ride the Big Grizzly Mountain Runaway Mine Cars at Grizzly Gulch.

With each park visit, Kingsley gets to see his work in action as he books a park reservation for himself and his family. While they are at the park, he likes to talk with cast members and ensure any new updates to the MyDisney Account improved their work experience and fit their overall needs, as well as the guests’ needs.

“I’m quite happy to see the impact of our work. Hearing from others about their experience is great because it provides us with an opportunity to improve,” he said.

This mindset extends to his entire team as they continue to push boundaries and create best-in-class solutions to hard challenges. Recently, his leaders implemented knowledge-sharing discussions for the team, so they can go into detail about how to improve and align their techniques.

“The cast member morale is different from other companies,” Kingsley said. He shared that his leaders have continued to help him grow and develop his career by asking him to work directly with the lines of business to understand their technology needs and find solutions for them.

When asked if he had any advice for aspiring cast members, Kingsley shared that it’s important to try to speak up to your manager or in a team meeting when you have an idea. Even if a suggestion isn’t implemented, it may help others to think of an alternate idea to improve the workflow.

As for his own career ambitions, he looks forward to the upcoming launch of a few new projects and continuing to discover the endless possibilities working for a global company brings.

Are you interested in learning more about Technology & Digital roles at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort? Discover where your career can take you at HKDLcareers.com and apply today.

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Yesterday, in Port Canaveral, Fla., we hosted a truly unforgettable celebration filled with spectacular musical performances; special guests; your favorite friends from Disney, Marvel, Star Wars and Pixar stories; and the stars of our show … our Disney Wish godchildren.

During the ceremony, three Make-A-Wish ambassadors—Colby, 10; Megan, 16; and Jenna, 13—played a historic role, representing past, present and future Make-A-Wish children and reciting a time-honored blessing of the ship, which symbolically bestows good fortune on the vessel and all who sail aboard it.

Tony Award-winning entertainer Anika Noni Rose, the Disney Legend known for voicing Tiana in Disney’s “The Princess and the Frog,” joined in the fun for a stirring performance of the beloved Disney Parks ballad “Wishes.”

Cue the fireworks … literally!

This incredible event culminated with the ceremonial breaking of a champagne bottle against the ship’s hull, and a symphony of pyrotechnics, special effects, music and a rousing fanfare.

If you didn’t have the opportunity to tune-in live for the Disney Wish christening, be sure to check out the video below!

The Disney Wish is filled, bow to stern, with all-new storytelling, one-of-a-kind entertainment and innovative “firsts” that we can’t wait for all of you to experience.

From the first Disney attraction at sea, family dining adventures themed to “Frozen” and Marvel, and an immersive tour of the Star Wars galaxy … to original Broadway-style stage productions, imaginative clubs for kids of all ages and an expanded collection of experiences exclusively for adults … there truly is something for every member of the family on the Disney Wish.

We hope to see you onboard real soon!

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Bringing this new experience to life is possible thanks to the outstanding talents who have been working hard to make it come true, and we recently surprised them with a special celebration to say “I love you 3000”!

Campus Personnel, cast members and Imagineers who have played a role in the opening of this new recruitment center were invited for an informal get together at another location, unaware of what was about to happen. After some drinks, snacks and entertainment, our special guests headed to Avengers Campus where the President of Disneyland Paris, Natacha Rafalski, and Walt Disney Imagineering Paris Site Leader David Wilson awaited them for some heartfelt words of recognition.

And if that wasn’t enough, many of our favorite Avengers assembled to give the evening a surprise epic finale! Our cast members are our greatest strength and it was only natural their contribution to the success of this new adventure was celebrated in a special way. A moment none of us will soon forget!

Opening as part of our 30^th Anniversary celebration, Avengers Campus is the next key milestone in the multi-year transformation plan of Walt Disney Studios Park and represents the resort’s next level of exceptional guest experiences.

Want to stay updated on all the exciting things that are happening at Disneyland Paris? Be sure to follow @DLPAmbassador, @NatachaRafalski and @DisneylandParis for all the latest and check out our new GIPHY stickers for social media by searching #AvengersCampusParis!

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Moss, an avid fisherman and boater himself, stressed the need for kids to learn how to swim. “I just love being a part of something like this, and most of all helping the kids really understand the importance of safety on the water,” said Moss.

The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson is an annual event at various locations worldwide that strives to serve as a platform to help local aquatic facilities engage with their surrounding youth communities. With hundreds of students from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida and Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida taking part in the event at Typhoon Lagoon, it was the largest lesson site in Florida.

Upon arrival to the watery tropical paradise of Typhoon Lagoon, the participating students were welcomed by beach-ready Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse. Following their swim lessons, the students were then invited to get “Wild About Safety” with our Disney VoluntEARS, while hanging out with a Disney favorite– Stitch and listening to energetic music by the surf pools.

This year’s event was made even more special as a few of our Disney Resort hotels joined in the fun, hosting lessons with students from ELEVATE Orlando. With a bit of distinctly Disney magic, our hope is to inspire this next generation of change makers through developmental opportunities just like this one and help make a lasting impact and difference in the lives of children and families across Central Florida.

Following the lesson, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida and ELEVATE Orlando got to spend the rest of the day soaking up the sun at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon. And what better way to put their fresh new swimming skills to work than by experiencing all of the magic and watery attractions found in this tropical paradise?

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The Disneyland Paris Pride event brought together guests, cast members and local associations for an unforgettable night with live performances – MIKA, Bilal Hassani and Becky Hill! – plus Disney’s Colorful Pride Parade, Disney character appearances and attraction access. While the entire evening was memorable, the parade was a standout moment as everyone gathered to celebrate the differences that make each of us unique.

Louise, a financial analyst and member of the Disney PRIDE BERG – a business employee resource group at Disneyland Paris made up of cast from various resort roles – shared that she was proud to be there for such a magical moment surrounded by inspiring colleagues.

“I’m so happy to be part of this company,” Louise said. “Disneyland Paris Pride was simply incredible, with so many emotions and above all, happiness!”

Prior to the evening’s festivities, cast members were invited to Disneyland Paris Pride: The Cast Event for a day of inspiring conversations as Disney teams from around the world joined together to share their experiences and visions for the future. This is just one of many ways throughout the year that the Disney PRIDE BERG comes together to recognize and support the LGBTQIA+ community all year long.

As one of the lucky cast members who got to experience it in person at the resort for the first time, I can tell you it was a day to remember.

The magic of Pride Month at Disneyland Paris is that it isn’t contained in a single event – it’s the prevailing spirit of the resort as a place where everyone is welcome. These celebrations are just as important as the everyday actions that happen here all year round, as we work together to identify opportunities to recognize and elevate diverse perspectives across the LGBTQIA+ community.

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“Technology in the park is tricky because you don’t want anybody to notice it,” says Andy, a 32-year Disney veteran. “Everyone can go about their day and do all the things they want to do, and be enabled by the technology.”

Andy’s dream of being on a theme park opening team came true when Hong Kong Disneyland opened in 2004. He spent nearly a year spearheading the installation of ticketing and FASTPASS systems at the park, and eventually decided to stay permanently. His small team focuses on creating an inclusive work environment full of Disney culture.

“Everybody in technology knows each other on a personal level,” Andy says. “That’s one of the reasons I wanted to stay at Hong Kong Disneyland. I felt like I had more influence here, and I was making a bigger difference.”

Andy and his team recently created the technology behind the Royal Food and Drink Fair, Hong Kong Disneyland’s special dining event, developing “e-Tokens” which could be pre-purchased and exchanged for food and beverage items by scanning a convenient QR code. These helped guests bypass lines and spend more time enjoying yummy treats and new entertainment.

“We ask how we can support our cast and guests and make things as seamless as possible for them,” says Andy, whose team is keeping the excitement and momentum from that project going as they continue developing new experiences. “[We] have a lot of room to grow. … There are a lot of things we want to include in our mobile app, and we have so many different ideas. So, it’s exciting to think about what the future holds for us.”

Andy is also passionate about shaping the future through creating a culture of inclusion. He helps make a difference as chairperson of Hong Kong Disneyland’s Inclusion Advisory Council, created following the launch of the Inclusion Key, consisting of a resort-wide group of cast members spearheading continuing diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. The council helped bring to life the resort’s recent Inclusion Spotlight, a two-day cast event that offered a variety of learning opportunities and interactive experiences.

“One of the booths we had at the event was focused around cultural diversity,” Andy explains. “We had the different cultures of Hong Kong Disneyland represented so cast members could learn about native dresses, languages, foods and other aspects. And it was really exciting to see the cast members so passionate about sharing their culture, and everyone so engaged and willing to learn.”

Andy believes being true to yourself is one the most important aspects of diversity, and he’s thrilled to continue helping every cast member’s voice be heard and represented across Hong Kong Disneyland.

“We’re 100 percent focused on integrating diversity and inclusion into our projects. With so many new services being provided, we want to make sure everyone feels included. We want to make them feel as welcome as we possibly can.”

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One such program is Disney Aspire, the company’s education and career investment program for US-based hourly part-time and full-time employees and cast members designed to put their career dreams within reach. And for cast member Rosie Helldorfer, that meant pursuing a master’s degree in mental health counseling.

Much like the inspiration behind our Global Well-Being Week, Rosie was inspired to enroll in Disney Aspire through her desire to help people live their best and healthiest lives. She’s seen firsthand how therapy can transform people and hopes to raise awareness of the importance of mental health while helping others find their voice again.

“I have always felt a pull towards the counseling field, and this is the first step in making that dream a reality,” Rosie said. “Everything I am learning is directly related to the work I will do as a future licensed mental health counselor.”

Rosie joined Disney in the fall of 2019 as a Disney College Program participant and is currently a PhotoPass photographer, capturing magical memories and moments for guests visiting EPCOT at Walt Disney World Resort. Rosie first heard about Disney Aspire from a co-worker and leaped at the opportunity.

Today, she’s a proud Disney Aspire participant, more confident than ever in pursuing her dream career and knows exactly what it will take to get there. “I’ve learned a lot about hard work,” she says. “Balancing work and school is no easy feat, but I’ve learned how to better prioritize the things that are most important to me.”

To learn more about Disney Aspire, visit aspire.disney.com.

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A Disneyland tradition dating back to 1971, the Disneyland All-American College Band (AACB), presented by Yamaha, is comprised of 21 outstanding musicians from colleges and universities across the country. They spend 11 weeks as cast members, performing in Disneyland Park under the leadership and guidance of outstanding Disney music clinicians including jazz trumpeter Wayne Bergeron, saxophonist Sal Lozano and many others.

Due to a pause during the pandemic, the last band performed during the summer of 2019, meaning this year’s band, which debuted in the park June 21, is the 50^th to march in-time down Main Street, U.S.A.

“It’s pretty surreal that it kind of worked out that way,” said band member Jit Chatterjee when asked how it felt to be part of the 50^th band. “I’m just so happy to be part of the 50th and I’m so grateful to be working for Disney.” Jit is the band’s snare drummer and an audio engineering and jazz drumming major at William Paterson University in New Jersey.

Like Jit, many of the band members have waited years for the chance to perform at the Disneyland Resort. Emma Nixon, a recent graduate of the University of Idaho with a degree in French horn performance and music education, was one of 350 musicians who auditioned back in February of 2020, weeks before the pandemic closures.

“I went to New Orleans for a jazz educators festival that was happening and I knew [that AACB was] doing auditions there,” said Emma. “Then I got a call about three weeks before we got here [in May 2022] and they were like, ‘We need a new horn player. Can you show up?’ and I said ‘Absolutely.’”

This year’s band represents musicians from 13 universities across 10 states, and students range in age from 21 to early 30s.

Connor Frederick, a doctoral student working on his musical arts degree from the University of Miami, first picked up a trombone at age 10 under the guidance of his parents, both band directors. Connor’s sister, an AACB alumna from 2018, inspired Connor to audition.

“She didn’t stop talking about the band for years. It was a really life-changing experience for her,” said Connor. “It’s really cool to know that both me and my sister have gotten the chance to go through this awesome program. … I feel like I have a lot to live up to. It’s a good kind of pressure.”

Connor isn’t the only band member with familial ties. Emma’s mom was a trumpeter in the 1989 band. “Now, we’ve both gotten to have the same experience with different people with the same music in the same place,” said Emma. “It’s so fun. My mom and I are even going to get matching Disney tattoos.”

The band is known for its crisp quarter notes and perfectly crafted crescendos, but members also spend a great deal of time learning choreography meant to bring classic Disney soundtracks to life.

“You’re not just on the stage playing what’s on the page. It’s the showmanship. It’s the storytelling,” said Jit. “It’s what I really love that Disney does. … Our sets, every move that
[Show Director Linda Simmons] creates and every note has a reason and it all comes together. The overall piece of work has a wonderful story.”

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From yoga in front of Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World Resort to the Halawai lawn of Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, cast members are enjoying ways to tap into both their balance, power, and Zen.

Since 2015, countries around the globe have observed this day and the benefits provided by the ancient Indian tradition of yoga, including how the practice embodies a holistic approach to health and wellbeing.

From improving heart health and reducing stress to increasing your energy – yoga has benefits for everyone, and those benefits are aligned with The Walt Disney Company’s continued focus on encouraging mental, emotional, and physical wellness for its employees and cast.

Check out the exclusive cast-only events below, where cast members around the world celebrated International Yoga Day!

Walt Disney World Resort

Cast members set the stage for International Yoga Day as they watched the sun rise over Cinderella Castle in Magic Kingdom Park, while stretching down Main Street USA. Over 1,700 cast members participated, and they had the chance to take home their very own yoga block.

Disneyland Resort

More than 1,000 Disneyland Resort cast members kicked-off their morning with yoga in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle. Finding a moment to slow down, breathe and balance with their new yoga block provided as a give-away for this event.

Aulani Resort

Cast members at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaii participated in International Yoga Day with a morning session that took place on the Halawai Lawn.

Disneyland Paris

The 30^th anniversary celebration continued for Disneyland Paris cast members as they gathered for yoga in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle.

Shanghai Disney Resort

Cast members at Shanghai Disney Resort enjoyed a virtual yoga session to stay focused on balance and health while areas of the park remain closed.

Hong Kong Disneyland Resort

Cast members at the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort were invited to get on the mat and move their body as they tuned into a virtual yoga session, live from the Castle of Magical Dreams.

Tokyo Disney Resort

Tokyo Disney Resort cast members started off their morning finding peace and balance with yoga at Cinderella’s Castle.

Disney’s Vero Beach Resort

Cast members at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort had fun in the sun with a yoga session taking place at the Westside Soccer Field.

These yoga events shine a light on the many unique experiences we create for our cast members and are a part of a broader commitment to emphasizing the importance of the health and wellness of our community. Be sure to follow the Disney Parks, Experiences and Products team on social media: Instagram: @DisneyParksBlog, Twitter: @DisneyParks, and Facebook: @DisneyParksBlog.

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Throughout the week, Disney cast from around the U.S. congregated over dominoes tournaments, rap cypher, and community gatherings to celebrate Juneteenth. But, before we get into ‘Red Drink’ and celebration, it’s essential to reflect on the history of one of the most defining moments in American history.

Juneteenth is a holiday observed annually on June 19, celebrating the emancipation of enslaved people in the U.S. Celebrated since the 1800s, Juneteenth — now officially a federal holiday — is a time to reflect on our shared American history and the continuous work to achieve social justice. On this day in 1865 — a full two and a half years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation — union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to take control of the state and ensure that all enslaved people were freed. Celebrations broke out among the newly freed people, and Juneteenth was born. Slavery in America was formally abolished with the adoption of the 13th Amendment in December of the same year.

Call it Black Independence Day, Emancipation Day, Freedom Day, Jubilee Day, or Juneteenth. Regardless of the name, the heart of this holiday remained the same across our cast – an unapologetic celebration of black liberation and black joy!

Reflecting on our history, I headed to the Lincoln Theater, featuring a new installation honoring slavery abolitionist leader Frederick Douglass, to catch up with PULSE, Disneyland Resort’s Black Business Employee Resource Group (BERG), where we explored Juneteenth’s significance in American history.

“When guests see Frederick Douglass at Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln, I want them to keep in mind that sometimes events taught in history don’t always tell the full story,” said Lindell Skinner, Senior Manager, Downtown Disney Business Relations. “In President Abraham Lincoln’s work to free enslaved people, Frederick Douglass pressured President Lincoln along the way. So, as people walk through the exhibit this Juneteenth and beyond, my hope is that guests take the time to understand that and reflect, leading them to learn more, research, read, and understand the history themselves.”

Lindell also shared how he honors Black Independence Day. “It’s a time for fellowship … to get together with people in your community and family. It’s a time to enjoy good food and good music.”

Speaking of fellowship, good food, and good music, BERGs from across the company came together to host a week of events celebrating black culture, untold stories, and black joy.

Last week, Walt Disney World and ESPN Pulse hosted a Juneteenth & Black Music Month Soul Food Cypher where cast put their lyricist skills to the test for an uplifting and interactive experience in celebration of Black Music Month and Juneteenth! Led by Alexander “Cost One” Acosta, founder of Atlanta-based Soul Food Cyphers, cast learned about the positive aspects of rap music through education and community outreach.

June is also Black Music Month. The team wanted to highlight the creatives behind our cultures most significant contributions to the musical landscape. Hip hop influences span our diaspora, from the Caribbean to Africa. The elements of lyrical flow and dancing can be traced all the way back to almost 80+ years ago,” said Alysia Haygood, Walt Disney World Program Manager.  “My favorite part of the event was definitely the freestyle at the end. One of the Soul Food Cypher artists used words that were submitted through the zoom chat to create a one-of-a-kind freestyle rap on the spot!”

At Disneyland Resort’s Disneyland Hotel, cast became family at the PULSE Family Reunion, fellowshipping over a dominoes and spades tournament, music, food, and an all-around good time!

The cast celebrations didn’t end there! At the Disney VoluntEARS: Outdoor Afro: Reflections on Freedom, cast reflected on the question: “What does freedom mean to me in America?” The BERGs also hosted a Juneteenth Virtual Dance Party and Black Joy and Culture – Celebrations through Musical Storytelling.

On Saturday, with a ‘Red Drink’ in hand, a traditional Juneteenth beverage representing the sacrifice and bloodshed of those enslaved, I joined my fellow cast at the annual Long Beach Juneteenth Celebration featuring Disneyland Resort as a Jubilee Sponsor. The event started with a soulful rendition of the Black National Anthem, followed by a Black Greek step show, spoken word, stand-up comedy, and a closing performance by R&B artist Marsha Ambrosius.

At the Disney Parks, guests had the opportunity to immerse themselves in Black culture through events honoring Juneteenth and Black Music Month, including Disney Springs’ Art Walk: A Canvas of Expression.

Juneteenth brought together cast from across the U.S. in the spirit of resilience, resistance, and perseverance. As the fight for equality continues, we remember our history, recognize our accomplishments, and celebrate Black joy!

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Over the last month, our magical cast of Hong Kong Disneyland celebrated the launch of “Momentous” with special experiences just for them. Prior to the show’s debut, they participated in different events along the way, from exclusive reveals to a special preview of the nighttime spectacular itself.

In May, cast members joined Hong Kong Disneyland’s Magic Post Playgroup, a group of passionate cast that share positive news throughout social media as brand advocates, and were invited to the Creative Reveal. During the event, the creative concept and behind-the-scenes stories about “Momentous” were shared, much to the excitement of our cast members.

Leading up to the show’s debut, a series of teaser activities were kicked off backstage to build cast’s knowledge and excitement. Resources and learning materials about the nighttime spectacular were shared, including videos, dialogue comics, and even giant billboards in their office space. With just weeks to go, our cast grew more and more excited about the debut of “The Most Magical Show on Earth.”

What better way to give our cast the ultimate “Momentous” experience than letting them see the show before anyone else? One hundred cast members were invited to the premiere of “Momentous,” and a very special party just for cast members and their families was held before the show’s release, an event that showed appreciation for their dedication and commitment to the resort.

Alex Clifton, Executive Director of Entertainment & Costuming at Hong Kong Disneyland, said the show “brings a signature event to our park at night, right at the center of our park with the Castle of Magical Dreams as the background.” He continued, “As a father and husband, I feel so proud and special to bring my boys and wife to enjoy the dress rehearsal of ‘Momentous’ together!”

Cast member Joey echoed a similar sentiment after attending the cast party: “I’m glad to be able to bring a super Disney fan, who is also a former cast member, to join this biggest cast party in years,” she said. “He’s been waiting for this spectacular for a long time and we both love the show — truly magical!”

This exclusive party included special entertainment activities, dining and shopping offers, and of course a preview of “Momentous” as the finale. Michael Moriarty, managing director of Hong Kong Disneyland, together with other senior leaders of the resort, were in attendance to celebrate with the cast.

And that wasn’t all! We invited cast members around the world to celebrate this “Momentous” occasion, as we launched a virtual screening for our fellow cast to join and watch a special sneak preview of the entire show before guests.

“What an incredible show!” said Alice, a cast member from Anaheim who was able to watch the nighttime spectacular from home.

Paula, another cast member from California, was thankful for the opportunity to watch along with her fellow cast on the other side of the globe. “Such a beautiful and moving show – I hope to get to visit Hong Kong Disneyland one day to see it in person! I really love how the message of the theme song touches so many aspects of our life’s journey – especially over the past few years.”

It was truly a celebration like no other. Just like the show, we journeyed together through so many different events and experiences, all to come together and celebrate as one cast. “Momentous” has helped remind us to “live the moment and love the memory” through all of life’s experiences as we continue to make more memories, not only for our guests, but for all of us cast members.

Here’s to the most amazing, magical and MOMENTOUS future!

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For Father’s Day, we’re celebrating dads and father figures everywhere, including one very special Disney dad – cast member Kevin Mortensen, a U.S. Navy veteran who protects the magic every day on the security team at Walt Disney World. Kevin is also lucky enough to make magic and work with his daughter Tyler, who serves as a guest relations hostess at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

“Being able to work with my dad at Walt Disney World is surreal to me because it means that our dreams are coming true,” shares Tyler. “This is something we both have wanted for as long as I can remember. It’s nice having a bit of home here with me in my second home.”

Kevin shared how their family’s memories of coming to Walt Disney World influenced his decision to explore the Disney Careers website. As a veteran, he found many of the skills and discipline he learned in the military are transferable to his role at Walt Disney World. Watching his daughter fulfill her lifelong dream of working as a cast member makes his job even more special.

“She’s been a fan of Disney and has wanted to work for the company ever since she was very little,” said Kevin. “To see her progress and get the opportunity through the Disney College Program while continuing to move forward in her career has been the coolest thing for me.”

Tyler wants her dad to know how proud she is of him for never giving up on his dreams. “The best advice my dad has given to me is to stay true to myself and follow myself,” she said. “And that a positive attitude can get me farther in life than I give myself credit for, so just being a good person and treating everyone with respect is what I carry with me every day.”

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The young guests were able to enjoy the day at Disneyland Paris and see first-hand the 30^th anniversary festivities. It was a welcome day of magic and escape and an exciting collaboration between Disneyland Paris and Pièces Jaunes.

For over 29 years, Disneyland Paris has partnered with Pièces Jaunes, which is part of the French “Fondation des Hôpitaux,” and whose mission is to improve the conditions of all hospitalized children and teenagers. Every year, Disneyland Paris and Pièces Jaunes team up to collect and donate coins thrown into park fountains.

These children were able to travel to the park, but when this wasn’t an option, Disney VoluntEARS brought the magic to them. Disney VoluntEARS visit hospitals all over France and neighboring countries to bring meet and greets with Disney characters to children dealing with serious illness and their families — anything to bring a smile to their faces! Disneyland Paris VoluntEARS are proud to have visited over 40,000 hospitalized children since 1991, volunteering an average of 8,000 hours every year.

Disney VoluntEAR Emily shared that “it is always a pleasure to share these unique moments with families and to help them discover the park. Proud to have been able to participate in this day, children and parents were amazed by the shows and attractions.” Learn more about Disney VoluntEARS here and check back often for more stories on the Disney Parks Blog!

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For many of us, leftovers offer a break from cooking another dinner. But for local food pantries and regional food banks, and families experiencing food insecurity throughout Southern California, leftovers from Disney mean so much more.

To Ralph , Chef De Cuisine at Disneyland Resort, leftovers are a way to give back to folks in need and a source of pride in his team’s community support.

“For our Disney kitchens to support this effort and help feed our neighbors, it means so much to us,” said Ralph, a Disney cast member for more than 26 years, “When you hear about neighbors struggling with things like homelessness and food insecurity, it really hits home. If we have a little left over from a restaurant here, a little excess product from a banquet there – the food can really add up. You realize that every little bit helps.”

From little bits of fresh produce and vegetables to large amounts of meats such as full turkeys, excess food items are separated and packaged at the end of the day by Ralph’s team and food service cast members in kitchens throughout Disneyland Resort. The combined items are frozen, refrigerated or collected to safely store for collection by partner pantries and food banks.

“Since we began the donation program [nearly 10 years ago], we’ve come up with a pretty efficient system so everything is weighed, labeled and stored correctly,” said Ralph. “We treat all the protein, produce and other donations with the same care and safety we use for serving our guests.”

“These leftovers added up to more than 90,000 meals to the Orange County community in 2021 alone. During the temporary closure of Disney theme parks and hotels due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Disney donated more than $17.1 million worth of food from March 2020 through the end of FY21 to hunger-relief organizations supporting communities globally – the equivalent of more than 2.1 million meals.”

A longtime supporter of Disney’s food donation program, Ralph had the opportunity to visit Second Harvest as part of a chef teambuilding activity. With his decades of food service experience at Disney, Ralph has served countless resort and banquet guests. But this experience in serving his neighbors made a unique impression.

“We were all so impressed by their operation and inspired by the way they’re filling the need,” said Ralph. “Food service work is strenuous and at the end of the day, you can feel kind of beat – like you just want to get home. But we all really want to ensure this stuff is getting to families and people who need it. Knowing that is so rewarding.”

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Of course, I wasn’t alone. An unforgettable event like this takes a whole ‘world’ to support and our cast members showed up in force.

It’s no secret that Disney cast members rise to the occasion for their community and their guests. Thousands of shifts were filled by Disney VoluntEARS who donated their time to come together to make these Games possible. Whether they prepared swag bags prior to the events, joined the welcoming Shine Squad, cheered on athletes during their events or helped with award ceremonies, our VoluntEARS made memories- for themselves and others- to cherish for a lifetime.

In fact, all of our cast members stepped up to the plate in our resorts, theme parks and across Walt Disney World to bring magic to athletes, families and fans.

Inspiring. Life changing. Fun! The energy of the USA Games could be felt at every venue, and like many of my fellow cast members, I will never forget this experience! It truly is magical when cast members can come together and ‘shine as one’ #DisneyCastLife.

I can’t begin to express how proud I am to work alongside you!

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As Pride Month approached, both chefs jumped in to create unique dishes that reflect their true selves. “I always felt that it’s important to have everyone around us know that it is okay to be you and that there is so much support at Disney to create a space where everyone feels like they belong,” Gina shared.

In addition to working together to create these special menu items, both chefs took inspiration from their cultures and heritages to bring these dishes to life.

At Contempo Café located in Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Gina made a childhood favorite with a twist – a lemongrass chicken bánh mi – a traditional dish from Vietnam which was inspired by one of her mother’s recipes. Served on top of a baguette with a crisp and airy texture, the lemongrass chicken is roasted to perfection and topped with pickled carrots and daikon, jalapeños, cilantro, and a creamy sriracha aïoli spread with cucumber ribbons and edible flowers.

Celebrating her Greek heritage at Sunshine Seasons in EPCOT, Dee shared a traditional Greek salad – chopped romaine, chickpeas, blistered tomatoes, olives, cucumbers, ladolemono dressing, and whipped feta. Pictured with the salad is a cookbook with traditional Greek recipes, which takes Dee back to cooking with her grandmother, mother and aunts who taught her the passion and history behind Greek cuisine.

“Cooking is such a huge part of our lives and sharing our heritages together as partners is a huge tribute to who we are as chefs,” Dee said. “Celebrating this month and being able to share our story makes me feel like we’ve come a long way to encourage inclusiveness in our world.”

Both Gina and Dee love to share their pride by being their true and authentic selves and surrounding themselves with a loving circle of friends, family and coworkers. “I’m proud to work for a company that celebrates our differences, promotes inclusivity and encourages chefs to create dishes that celebrate their cultures,” Dee said.

Be sure to follow along on the Disney Parks Blog throughout Pride Month and all year long as we share more stories from and about our cast members!

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Since 1955, Disneyland Resort has welcomed guests to experience fully immersive stories and imagine the possibilities within them. That same commitment continues into the community, as the resort has been focused on empowering underserved youth, finding hope in the future and emboldening leaders to build the workforce of tomorrow.

To accomplish this important mission, Disneyland Resort continues to invest in a workforce development initiative, partnering with multifaceted nonprofit organizations that serve a diverse set of needs in the community for youth and job-seekers. In addition to financial support, Disney VoluntEARS build meaningful relationships with these nonprofits by sharing their time and expertise. Over the last four years, Disneyland Resort has donated $4 million to expand the services these organizations offer so they can create even more opportunities for their clients.

These efforts are part of Disney’s broader commitment to developing the next generation of storytellers and innovators. “For decades, we have been a proud community partner, working with local nonprofits to make a difference and address critical needs,” said Disneyland Resort President Ken Potrock. “The resort’s commitment to investing in workforce development brings our renowned career skill training and leadership development directly to our area youth. We are excited for what the future holds for this initiative and its participants.”

This community workforce development initiative supports three pillars: mentorship, career skills development and community program support.

• Mentorship: Cast members, through the Disney VoluntEARS program, have the opportunity to mentor youth one-on-one through school and community initiatives.
• Career Skills Development: Disney VoluntEARS lend their time and business expertise to lead career sessions with topics such as resume writing, interview skills, business etiquette, engineering, guest service and speaker sessions.
• Community Program Support: Disneyland Resort offers grants to organizations that specialize in helping students and adults enter or re-enter the workforce.

Here are stories from three organizations that exemplify the far-reaching impact that is possible when working together.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County & the Inland Empire

“The number one intervention to success in a young person’s life is a positive role model,” shares Sloane Keane, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County & the Inland Empire as she reflects on the impact of student career coaching and development programs. In 2017, the organization began connecting high school students with Disneyland Resort cast members to be “Bigs” or mentors, in order to build positive relationships and showcase the different possibilities they could have for their future careers.

“What has been really special is the amount of magic that is infused within the curriculum,” Sloane said. “It was very eye-opening for our Anaheim students to see what types of careers they would have exposure to underneath the Disney umbrella.”

Continuing this momentum, Sloane is excited about the launch of a second phase of the program, which helps students after high school make the connection between academic achievement and meaningful employment. With funding from Disneyland Resort, and in collaboration with Cypress College, students who are about to graduate are paired with Disneyland Resort mentors during a semester for one-on-one support and coaching for the next step in their journey.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Anaheim-Cypress

On the subject of mentors, the power of positive influence is strong throughout Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Anaheim-Cypress as they develop programs to enhance career-building skills in youth starting as young as 11 years old. From academic tutoring to health classes and music enrichment, Boys & Girls Clubs aim to develop youth holistically, and their programs evolve to meet the needs of their students, including recently opened STEM labs. With support from Disneyland Resort, Boys & Girls Clubs have launched “Geared Up!” in which students can learn skills such as business etiquette, resume writing and interviewing from Disney VoluntEAR facilitators.

“What we really appreciate is that Disney identifies itself as not only a business partner in the community but a real asset for making life better for those who live in the community and surrounding area,” said CEO Anne Hertz on how both organizations have continued to change lives together.

One student landed her first job using the knowledge and skills that she learned from Disney facilitators and was even connected to a Disney Imagineer for mentorship. “So, when we say ‘life-changing,’ we’re really not kidding!” shares Erika Gary, chief operating officer.

Anne hopes those who participate in the programs “are going to self-identify as being more than capable of achieving their goals.” With Disney’s continued support, she is looking forward to opening more sites this year in order to reach even more kids and families in need.

Chrysalis

The third pillar of the workforce development initiative supports nonprofits like Chrysalis that help adults who may be facing obstacles to successfully re-enter the workforce. Disneyland Resort was one of the first supporters in Orange County and provided Chrysalis the resources to expand and open a center right down the street in Anaheim.

“Disneyland Resort opened up the world for us from a community standpoint,” said CEO Mark Loranger, noting that support from the Disneyland Resort has made a difference between poverty and self-sufficiency for over 1,000 clients since opening. “When Disney says ‘this is a partner that we trust, that we invest in, someone that we have our cast members volunteering at’… that is a huge endorsement, and it gave us that jumpstart and credibility—I couldn’t have asked for a better partner.”

Disney VoluntEARS like Kim Sims, senior security manager at Disneyland Resort, offer their time and talents to help clients build resumes, practice interview skills and learn business etiquette. Some clients have even become cast members at the Disneyland Resort.

Over the next several months, we will be sharing the life-changing accomplishments of these organizations through the eyes of our cast members who dedicate their time and talents to developing future leaders of the workforce.

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“I’ve always been very interested and passionate about Disney’s creative process,” Bella shared. “They’re at the forefront of a lot of technology that’s being created right now, but a lot of people don’t realize that.”

Over the pandemic, Bella, who was born in Walt’s home state of Missouri and has a heart condition, watched “The Imagineering Story” on Disney+. She was inspired by the eclectic group of creative people whose imagination and technical know-how are combined to make dreams come true. And in classic Imagineering style – her wish trip was so much more than she could have imagined.

Tours of Walt Disney Imagineering are rare. A creative force, a historical treasure, a dream factory and a hub of science and technology, Walt Disney Imagineering is a place of legend. It’s the only think tank created by Walt Disney himself. Bella was invited to step in and meet the people who make the magic and take a peek at how they make dreams come true.

“My favorite part of the experience has been watching Bella smile. All the wonderful Imagineers have been so generous and kind with their information and stories,” shared wish mom Shelley.

Bella’s wish journey may be complete … but her Disney dream continues on. The week after her wish was granted, she received her first nametag and is now “earning her ears” here as a Disney intern. Imagineers represent more than 140 disciplines, from artists to architects, engineers, show producers, planners and project managers – so maybe someday, Bella will join them!

Disney and Make-A-Wish have worked together to make more than 145,000 wishes come true, including the very first official wish, which took place at Disneyland Resort.  And while these past few years have been challenging for everyone – wish granters included – we are so excited that wish-granting at Walt Disney Imagineering has returned.

This creative wish continues the recent, powerful momentum of returning offerings across Disney parks and resorts. During the past two years, we’ve taken a very gradual, intentional approach to health and safety protocols. Recent trends and guidance have provided opportunities for us to bring back some of our most beloved magic, such as wish granting. While not all wishes can be granted immediately, we are continuing to gradually ramp up our wish-granting efforts over the course of the coming months.

Congratulations to Bella and to all the Imagineers for building the perfect wish for Bella! And stay tuned for even more magical Make-A-Wish stories on the Disney Parks Blog.

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Hosted by Disneyland Paris Ambassadors and featuring Natacha Rafalski, President of Disneyland Paris, and David Wilson, Vice President and Site Leader Walt Disney Imagineering, the show featured panels on the experiences, products, retail and dining offerings that await guests in Disneyland Paris starting July 20.

Among the highlights, cast witnessed a live Spider-Bot walking on stage while the merchandise team unveiled an Avengers Campus cast member exclusive collection! Avengers Campus Personnel showcased the costumes during an epic runway moment and cast caught a glimpse of delicious food and drinks offerings, and a peek at the two attractions that will take our guests on exciting new adventures!

Robin, a coordinator of the event, shared “we wanted to recreate the ambiance and atmosphere of the movie conventions to share with our cast members all the exciting stuff coming to Avengers Campus in Disneyland Paris!”

The talents of cast members were also highlighted as many of them came in impressive Marvel-inspired outfits and took to the stage for an epic photo.

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As we collectively begin to celebrate Pride Month, I’ve been reflecting on what it means to be a member of the LGBTQIA+ community and a cast member. When people ask what it’s like to work at Disney, one thing I share is how it truly is a relationship-based company.

Because of this, I have created some of the most meaningful connections of my life here. Many people I met in my first full-time role have become my “chosen family,” a very real and very important part of life for many within the LGBTQIA+ community.

Fast forward 15 years and I have found yet another amazing place to create connections – Disney’s Business Employee Resource Groups (BERGs for short). BERGs are groups formed around a shared identity, interest or pursuit and they bring together employees not only to create amazing human connections, but also to hear authentic voices, gather insights, provide career development, and participate in making a difference in the community. Disney currently has BERGs that represent more than 10 dimensions including Asian/Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander, Black/African American, Disabilities, Hispanic/Latinx, Jewish, LGBTQIA+, Multicultural, Native American/Indigenous, Veterans/Military and Women – and they are always growing.

Recently, Disney LGBTQIA+ BERGs have been instrumental in partnering with the company to prepare for Pride Month by providing insight, authenticity, and thoughtful representation of the LGBTQIA+ community, connecting to the business in creating new experiences for guests. A great example of this partnership between the company and the BERG is the announcement last month that all profits from the Disney Pride Collection sales through June 30, 2022, will be donated to organizations that support LGBTQIA+ youth and families.

BERG members have also shared insights as teams developed more PRIDE Month food and beverage offerings, Disney PhotoPass and digital offerings, special touches at the resorts, and more. The BERGs were instrumental in helping to ensure authentic representation, especially around the use of the progressive pride flag colors in topiaries and photo walls that will be on display all month long as a beautiful way to show support and love to all. (More news to come on these, so keep a lookout to the Disney Parks Blog for more info.)

These enhancements in our parks to celebrate Pride Month are important to demonstrate the importance of showing people that they belong, that they matter, and that Disney is a safe space to visit. Ensuring that members of the LGBTQIA+ community are part of those decisions and discussions is critical to ensuring that the offerings are authentic and thoughtful.

And the work will not end here. Last year, the BERGs were a driving force behind the addition of the Inclusion Key. The introduction of the Inclusion Key and accompanying changes to the Disney Look have been game changers in creating an environment in which everyone feels welcome.

Looking ahead, Pride will not just be celebrated during the month of June but will continue to be celebrated all year-round at Disney.

So, stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog to celebrate our collective progress, to see our commitment to the LGBTQIA+ community 365 days a year, and to read stories highlighting our cast and their connections to each other and to Disney!

The post Connecting with Pride: How Disney’s LGBTQIA+ Business Employee Resource Groups Helped Shape Pride Month appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

“I’ve been trying to get involved with special events my entire Disney career … so, for the past 10 years,” Teddo shared. “I was so grateful for the opportunity to interview for the role, and truly feel that the new doors that are opening for me as a recent graduate are incredible.”

Although Teddo did not initially intend to pursue further higher education upon completion of an associate degree in 2015, he decided to go back to school the year before the Disney Aspire program began. After facing high out-of-state tuition fees at institutions around the country, he was grateful for the 2018 launch of Disney Aspire, which pays full tuition up-front and reimburses fees for eligible hourly cast. He received his degree from Southern New Hampshire University last Nov., making him the first person in his family to obtain a bachelor’s degree.

“The academic program itself made me feel super nervous, as I’d never done online classes before,” he said. “But the Guild, [Disney] Aspire and Southern New Hampshire teams were really dedicated to making sure that I was on track and doing the best that I could.”

Teddo finds being a first-generation graduate an immense honor and, along with a new body of work through a varied portfolio and new role, he now has a triumph he can take with him throughout his career.

“I never in my entire life thought I would have a bachelor’s and be a first-gen graduate,” Teddo shared. “Because of Aspire, I’m able to hold my head up a little bit higher than I ever have before.”

Disney Aspire is the most comprehensive education investment program of its kind, offering 125+ programs at a network of educational institutions nationwide. As part of The Walt Disney Company’s commitment to supporting its employees and cast members, Disney Aspire puts #DreamsWithinReach by removing key barriers to enrollment and inspiring career mobility. 

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C.R.O.W.’s origins began at Disneyland park in 1963, where some cast members decided to race canoes around the Rivers of America for fun. The activity quickly became a beloved tradition that has expanded to Disney Parks around the world!

Here at Walt Disney World Resort, our cast members are celebrating their 47^th year of C.R.O.W. – with 74 teams of rowers.

They gathered near the Rivers of America as early as 6 a.m. each morning to participate in this year’s races with the fun theme of “C.R.O.W.BACK” – honoring Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary. With races returning during such a momentous year, cast member teams (with fun names ranging from “20,000 Oars Under the Sea” to the “Grand FlOARidians”) made sure to bring their ‘A’ games. On Tuesday, eighteen qualifying finalists competed – with the five fastest teams selected as winners. Did you know most finalists complete their laps in five to six minutes? Now that’s a fast trip around Tom Sawyer’s Island!

“Being a part of C.R.O.W., is something I will never forget,” explained Ellen Sawin, senior marketing strategy manager and a member of the winning Beauties & the Beast team.

For many rowers like Ellen, C.R.O.W. is a bonding experience, where cast members of all different roles gather together and cheer each other on. Teams wear matching shirts, prepare food and snacks for each other and have the opportunity to create new memories with each row.

“I’ve had the opportunity to meet cast members from all over Walt Disney World, and we all share in the excitement of this historic event each year,” said Mike Cooper, a risk management manager who has participated in C.R.O.W. for over 20 years. “I hope to continue to introduce new cast members to “the river” – as long as they’re willing to get up early!”

As we look back on Walt Disney World’s 50-year history, our cast members – and traditions like C.R.O.W. – are a huge part of the story.

As we like to say on the river, Paddles Up until next year!

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Patrickson first joined Disney in 2013 as an attractions host at EPCOT, working at Mission: SPACE. Since then, Patrickson has always wanted to be one of the engineers helping to build and maintain the park’s beloved attractions. So, when Disney Aspire became available to all cast members, Patrickson saw it as an opportunity to focus more on his career path and complete a degree, all while gaining the necessary skills to pursue his dreams.

“The experiences I received through Disney Aspire have helped my personal development and professional growth tremendously. It’s positively impacted my current role by expanding my skills and thinking ahead, and has prepared and allowed me to handle more responsibilities.”

Patrickson graduated from Valencia College in 2021 with a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical & Computer Engineering. He had the opportunity to do a Professional Internship with the modeling, simulation and training tools team, which had a major impact on his early career and enabled him to further develop and learn new skills while exploring the industry. Ultimately, these experiences opened the door for Patrickson to advance within the company as a full-time Associate Electrical Engineer as part of the Facility Operations & Services (FOS) Early Career Rotational program.

“I am currently working with very talented professional engineers, and I have been able to learn how this industry works and gain some valuable skills that will help my career.”

As a member of the Early Career Rotational program, Patrickson gets to continue learning by exploring different departments within FOS. His current role is Sustaining Engineering at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, where he’s focused on attraction reliability.

One of Patrickson’s favorite quotes from Disney and Pixar’s “Brave” is “our fate lives within us. You only have to be brave enough to see it.”  His journey is proof that once you put your mind to achieving your dreams, anything is possible. His advice for others looking to pursue a degree through Disney Aspire? Just go for it.

“Believe in yourself and know why you want to accomplish it. This is a great way to start your career goals since Disney Aspire opens the door to better careers and is a great way to make your dream a reality; just remember that success doesn’t come overnight. It takes time.”

What are you waiting for? Disney Aspire might be the support you need to give you the courage to be brave enough to chase your dreams. Learn more today!

Disney Aspire is the most comprehensive education investment program of its kind, offering 125+ programs at a network of educational institutions nationwide. As part of The Walt Disney Company’s commitment to supporting its employees and cast members, Disney Aspire puts #DreamsWithinReach by removing key barriers to enrollment and inspiring career mobility. For more information about Disney Aspire, including the program’s recently added HBCU(s), or to sign up, eligible Disney employees and cast members can visit aspire.disney.com.

Have questions about Disney Aspire? Find all the answers you need in our comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions section.

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Chef Carolyn showcased her skills and talents that brought her onto Food Network’s Spring Baking Championship – and even showed us how to make our famous Kona Coffee Cheesecake available at dinner at Makahiki Restaurant here at the resort!

Watch as I bake alongside Chef Carolyn and learn more about her story and experience on the show… and enjoy our special “taste test” with some fan favorite Disney treats! We are very lucky and blessed to have Chef Carolyn in our Aulani ‘ohana, and it was an amazing opportunity to watch her baking talents up close.

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As a Filipino-American cast member at the Disneyland Resort, Brittney Sia says it’s her goal to redefine what she sees as career stereotypes and expectations for Filipino-American women.

“It’s one of two things: you are expected to go into business or be a nurse,” Brittney said.

Brittney is out to shatter those stereotypes as one of the newest participants in a Disney program called Code: Rosie, a unique development program that aims to increase the representation of women in technology.

Before beginning the Code: Rosie program, Brittney had been a Guest Service Assistant at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. As part of her participation in the program, she has taken a new role as an entry-level product manager with Disney Media Entertainment and Distribution (DMED). After the six-week program, Brittney and the other participants will have the opportunity to be placed in a permanent Product Manager role within DMED Technology. “That’s what I love about this company — it offers a lot of opportunities, whether it’s continuing your education with Disney Aspire, Code: Rosie or simply learning a new role,” Brittney said.

Through the Code: Rosie program, Brittney is gaining hands-on experience in product management and technology. She is currently tasked to make improvements to the official Star Wars website. “Each lesson of the day, I am applying directly to my current project,” Brittney said.

Brittney is passionate about defining her professional identity while celebrating her cultural heritage — and encourages her fellow cast members to do the same. “Don’t be afraid to stand up for yourself and share your unique identity or have conversations and educate others,” she said.  She is well on her way to redefining the cultural stereotypes of Filipino-American women and other diverse cultures. “We are not tied down to one type of career or talent. We can do it all and I think that is something that should be encouraged within every culture,” she said.

Looking to the future in her new role as part of the Code: Rosie program, she is excited to build an even bigger community of cast who identify as AANHPI. To Brittney, the most rewarding part about being Filipino-American and being a part of the AANHPI community is having a group of friends to always fall back on.

“There is a saying in Filipino culture—isang bagsak—which directly translates to “one clap or one fall,” it symbolizes unity in a community where we all fall and rise together,” Brittney said.

Continue to visit the Disney Parks Blog as we celebrate AANHPI heritage during the month of May.

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Hailing originally from Michigan, Sandi and Michael Wallace honeymooned at Walt Disney World in 1990, not knowing this is where they would build roots and a family. In 1994, Sandi began to work on temporary assignments for recruitment at Walt Disney World. The family had moved to Florida, hoping Michael could find a teaching role. As fate, and a little pixie dust, would have it, Michael found a teaching role he enjoyed… but not where most would expect. He joined the Disney family as an Educational Host in 1995, where he used his background in education and biology to share information with guests.

During their time, both Sandi and Michael have held several roles at Walt Disney World. Between recruitment, education, public affairs, and safety, they are living proof of the endless opportunities in a Disney career. “The beauty of Disney is you can spend an entire career here where each role experience just builds upon the other. This place is 50 years old and people stay because you don’t have to live in that typical straight-line career path. You can keep having different experiences and learning new things,” Sandi said.

While by day, Michael serves as an Operations & Safety Systems Analyst, he is a regular Media Rep during press events. From assisting with the grand opening of Disney’s Animal Kingdom and the 25^th anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort, to helping the Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser make headway, Michael can’t say enough good things about the variety of roles he gets to play here. “I love talking about my experiences with the company, because there’s always something you’ll find in common with someone else or things people c­­an relate to. It’s just so rewarding! People have such positive connotations with the work we do – it’s that “I get to do this!” feeling,” Michael said.

While Parker Wallace grew up enjoying Disney entertainment in band and musical theatre classes, he says his earliest and most fond memories are those he made with his parents at different Disney Parks & Resorts. His favorite park? Disney’s Animal Kingdom. His favorite memory? His 9^th birthday when he visited all four Walt Disney World theme parks in one day. “Parts of my childhood I thought I’d be an Imagineer or Disney creative—I went through many phases of what I wanted to be when I grew up. But by the first year or two of college, I realized I couldn’t picture myself having a career anywhere else… Disney is where my passion was,” Parker said.

So, Parker did just that. He joined his parents Sandi and Michael as a cast member in the summer of 2017. After completing a Professional Internship and spending his summers as a seasonal Merchandise Host at World of Disney at Disney Springs, Parker became a full-time Pricing Analyst in 2021.

Parker shared so many reasons why he loves being a cast member, but one that stands out is his experience during the cast preview of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2019. He decided to take a mentor of his, who is also a big Star Wars fan. “To experience something that impactful, and to be able to share it with someone who would otherwise not get to see it, was incredible. I, and my mentor, still have the memorabilia from that day!” Parker said.

Once Parker officially became a cast member, the Wallace’s first goal was taking part in the #DisneyCastLife experience as a family. “There’s some definite perks to being a cast member, including behind-the-scenes opportunities and cast celebrations. Backstage tours, overnight Resort stays, firework cruises and celebrations to celebrate career milestones, you name it. There’s always something to look forward to. Disney provides opportunities to their employees that other companies do not and it’s quite special.” Michael said.

From joining the cast volleyball leagues, to singing in Candlelight Processional as a unit, the Wallace’s dreams have become reality! “Last holiday season, we not only all performed in the cast choir together, but also got to attend rehearsals together thanks to the fact that I am a tenor!” Sandi said.

With a combined 50 years of service, the Wallace family is thrilled to be a part of the World’s Most Magical Celebration, the 50^th anniversary of Walt Disney World. “Disney World and I are almost the same age… in fact, my first “visit” to the preview center was in my mom’s tummy the year before the Resort opened. To be here during the 50^th anniversary feels like it’s all coming full circle. I just think we are so blessed to work for a company that means so much to the entire world,” Sandi said.

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Throughout the month of June, Disneyland Resort will invite you to continue to experience Celebrate Soulfully as we highlight Black Music Month with daily live entertainment, plus specialty offerings including food, art and more available throughout the resort.

Here’s a sneak peek of some of the excitement to come for Celebrate Soulfully this summer:

“Tale of the Lion King” Debuts May 28 at Disneyland Park

Beginning May 28, 2022, Disneyland park will welcome “Tale of the Lion King” to its new home at the Fantasyland Theatre where this original, story-theatre adaptation of Disney’s “The Lion King” will be staged in an all-new presentation (as depicted in this artist rendering). At the heart of the production is a traveling troupe known as The Storytellers of the Pride Lands who weave the tale of how a cub becomes a king through dialogue, song, dance and percussion. From the scenic and costume designs to the new original musical arrangements and choreography, every aspect of “Tale of the Lion King” honors and is inspired by the cultural roots of this timeless story.

Also on May 28, Troubadour Tavern will return with new menu items inspired by the show.

Celebrate Soulfully at Disney California Adventure Park with Live Entertainment

Beginning June 1 and running through July 4, you’ll get to enjoy Celebrate Soulfully at Disney California Adventure park with daily live music celebrating Black music genres from Doo-Wop to Motown. Feel the nostalgia of Carthay Circle and enjoy Philly Phonics, an a cappella vocal group, performing snazzy, jazzy, tunes from the 1920s through today. Five & Dime will also stylishly sing and swing 1920s and ‘30s tunes with brass and sass!

In the evening, head to the Hollywood Backlot to enjoy the summer vibes of this special block party, featuring live musical acts seven nights a week.

“The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure” Exhibit and More Coming to the Downtown Disney District

We’re thrilled to share that “The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure,” a touring exhibit that illustrates the legacy and dynamic history of jazz, will be heading to the Downtown Disney District from June 1 to July 4!

In the “Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure,” Joe Gardner – musician, mentor, and star of Disney and Pixar’s original animated film, “Soul” – takes guests on a musical tour across America, showcasing the rich history of jazz along the way.

As a tribute to a musical art form that was originated by African Americans, the exhibit illustrates the many different cultures and creators who influenced this evolving genre. Walt Disney Imagineering partnered with cultural institutions and subject matter experts to bring this story to life.

We are delighted to bring “The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure” out here to the west coast! Complimentary to all resort guests, the exhibit will be located in the building adjacent to Star Wars Trading Post.

And while you’re in the Downtown Disney District this June, you’ll be able to keep the summer vibes going with live nightly music that is sure to stir your soul, with genres including jazz, R&B, funk, Motown and Doo-Wop. There will also be a DJ performing at the Downtown Disney LIVE! stage on Saturday and Sunday afternoons, playing a variety of upbeat genres.

There will be even more ways to feed every part of your soul as we continue to “celebrate soulfully” this summer at the Disneyland Resort – making it a great time to visit! We look forward to sharing additional details soon.

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World Celebration will offer a beautiful hub divided into several different gardens, with a central planter based on the five-ring EPCOT logo. Filled with ample seating and shade, you’ll be invited to connect with one another and the nature around you in this lush new area. Each of these gardens will have their own identities, and they’ll change along with the festivals throughout the year.

At night, the gardens will take on a whole new life, as you can see here. They’re designed to be enjoyed in the round, where lighting immerses you in the nighttime experience that will evolve through the seasons.

This all surrounds CommuniCore Hall and CommuniCore Plaza, a multi-use facility and outdoor event space, respectively, that bring the park’s international festivals to the center of EPCOT. CommuniCore Plaza will have the flexibility to host intimate musical performances that extend out into the nearby gardens, as you can see in the rendering above, as well as large-scale concerts.

CommuniCore Hall will be a flexible exhibition and gallery space, offering a wide variety of experiences that highlight art, live music, food – complete with a demonstration kitchen – and more. In addition, adjacent to CommuniCore Hall will be a new Mickey & Friends location where you can meet some of your favorite Disney pals.

This new facility, which you can see in the upper-right side of this rendering, is inspired by the original EPCOT aesthetic apparent throughout the park’s transformation, including the timeless triangular geometry most prominently featured in Spaceship Earth. Even the CommuniCore name reaches back to the origins of EPCOT while also emphasizing the park’s central idea of community.

We’ll have much more to share on the transformation of EPCOT here on the Disney Parks Blog as the center of the park continues to develop, so be sure to keep checking back to learn more. And also head over to Instagram where Imagineer Zach Riddley @thezachriddley provides more insight into the work Walt Disney Imagineering is doing at this park we love.

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Since its founding in 1888, National Geographic Society has pushed the boundaries of exploration, investing in bold people with transformative ideas, providing more than 15,000 grants for work around the world. The Society welcomes Explorers from all around the world with projects that celebrate and protect our world. Whether their focus is science, exploration, education, or storytelling, each Explorer has a unique cause.

The day began at The Walt Disney Studios Park with a master class led by three National Geographic Explorers – environmental photographer and climate change activist, Nicolas Villaume; storyteller with a focus on protecting penguins, Mélanie Wenger; and scientist and Atlantic puffin researcher, Annette Fayet.

At Disney Village, guests were able to view The Greatest Landscapes, presented by National Geographic Society. This brand-new exhibition transports guests to the wonders of the world — from underwater vantages, to the expansive countryside, to the most dominating mountain peaks, and everywhere in between. Organized to showcase the phenomenon of changing seasons, the images convey the rebirth of spring, the energy of summer, the vibrant colors of fall and the stillness of winter. This exhibition will be available throughout the summer.

When night fell, the Disneyland Paris castle was illuminated with the one-night-only show, “A Wonderful World”. The show featured astonishing landscapes and animal shots that celebrate wildlife and the beauty of our planet. Together with the National Geographic Planet Possible initiative, Disneyland Paris inspires us to celebrate nature and encourage preservation.

Complementing the amazing programming and extending our celebrations beyond April 22 as part of Disneyland Paris’s 30th Anniversary, guests were also invited to view the stunning and spectacular film concert show “Symphony for Our World – Special Edition,” a National Geographic Live original production. The film concerts invite audiences on a stirring musical journey to experience iconic National Geographic footage accompanied by the emotional performance of a live symphony orchestra.

“Symphony for Our World” is presented every afternoon at Studio Theater in Walt Disney Studios Park and delights park guests over the next several months. The show combines National Geographic’s iconic wildlife cinematography with an original score by Emmy-and BAFTA-nominated Bleeding Fingers Music, to create a planetary tour like no other. Let the music wash over you as you visit nature’s beauty in five elements: Earth, Water, Air, Fire, and Ice.

ntil next Earth Day, let’s use the next 365 days for environmental action to build a more sustainable future. To get some inspiration on how to take care of our planet, you can learn more about the tangible actions we’re taking to put possibility into practice and inspire optimism for a brighter future at the Disney Planet Possible website.

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For this latest collaboration – Alaska’s seventh painted plane for the Disneyland Resort – no Jedi mind tricks were needed for a Star Wars livery to enter Alaska’s fleet. The aircraft’s official name is “Star Wars Transport to the Disneyland Resort” with a tail number of N538AS. After the big reveal and celebration at the gate in the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, the plane made its inaugural flight today and ultimate arrival at John Wayne Airport in Orange County.

The unique design of the Star Wars-inspired plane is a collaboration among teams at Alaska, Disneyland Resort and Lucasfilm. Familiar spacecraft span each side of the plane with hand painted, detailed imagery: the Millennium Falcon and four TIE fighters. Designers at Disneyland Resort focused on the incredibly identifiable, widely recognized Millennium Falcon for the spotlight, in addition to the well-traveled spaceship being the focal point at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, a 14-acre land in Disneyland park.

The Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Disneyland Resort logos are featured in the center of the fuselage. For a lighthearted touch, cute porgs look back at passengers from both winglets and greet guests at the boarding door.

To bring the imagery to life, the plane’s exterior required 228 gallons of paint applied during 540 work hours over 27 days. For the painting, 23 base colors were used with numerous custom colors mixed onsite for the detailed airbrushing of the Millennium Falcon and the TIE fighters.

“Star Wars Transport to Disneyland Resort” is scheduled to fly in the Alaska fleet and throughout Alaska’s network. You can also spot “Friendship and Beyond at Disneyland Resort” at airports and in the skies with a whimsical tribute to Pixar Pier at Disney California Adventure park – our last Disneyland Resort-themed aircraft that began service in October 2019.

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The program’s return kicked off at the first-ever Disney Junior Fun Fest, welcoming the very first guests on official wish visits in the parks in over two years: Noah, Levi, Kemuel and their families.

“Seeing the wish kids back here in the park with their blue shirts and big smiles means everything,” shared Kim Chips, Manager of Disneyland Resort Corporate Citizenship. “We’ve been fulfilling wishes in collaboration with Make-A-Wish and dozens of other wish granting organizations for over 40 years, and it’s such a special moment when they walk into the park for the first time and our cast members bring that magical experience to life for them.”

While not all wishes can be granted immediately, Disneyland Resort and Make-A-Wish anticipate gradually ramping up wish granting efforts in the future.

Wish kids Noah, Levi and Kemuel all shared the same wish: to visit the ‘Happiest Place on Earth’. Their fun-filled weekend kicked off as guests of honor in the Disney Junior Fun Fest parade, where they rode in style across Disney California Adventure park in a customized Make-A-Wish omnibus, accompanied by an array of beloved Disney characters including the Sensational Six, Chip ‘n’ Dale, Doc McStuffins, Vampirina and Fancy Nancy.

Following the parade, Noah, Levi, Kemuel and their families were guests of honor at the Disney Junior Fun Fest presentation, hosted by Disneyland Resort Ambassador Mark Everett King Jr. which culminated in a warm welcome of the three wish families.

“The past two years have been very challenging for everyone, wish granters included,” Mark said. “While we have discovered some fun, interesting, and innovative ways to continue to grant wishes, nothing compares to the experience of [seeing wish families] living [their] wish inside of a Disney Park… which is why, on this World Wish Day, we are so excited to welcome three inspiring wish families here to our parks.”

The fun didn’t stop there! After singing and dancing along to some live entertainment, the three families quickly scoped out the rest of their weekend at the resort and began enjoying food, attractions, Disney Junior Fun Fest activities and more with the help of some wonderful cast members.

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Join us as we dive into our beautiful, blue world.

For some marine species, like sea turtles, life begins on land and then migrates to the sea. For this reason, Disney Conservation Team Wildlife’s 19-year strong sea turtle field conservation program at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort prioritizes the protection and monitoring of sea turtle nests on the beaches surrounding the resort – one of the most important turtle-nesting habitats in the western hemisphere. The team recently recorded our millionth hatchling to successfully hatch and make its initial trek to the ocean.

The Disney Conservation Fund also supports long-term efforts to protect and restore sea turtle habitats, so that sea turtle hatchlings have the opportunity to grow up and lay their own eggs on Florida’s nesting beaches. Our collaboration with the Archie Carr Center for Sea Turtle Research at the University of Florida has resulted in 2.1 million pounds of debris removed from sea turtle habitats on beaches and at sea. Sea turtles are true sentinels of the ocean, and protecting them will help many other marine species.

Disney veterinarians and animal care specialists have rehabilitated and released more than 300 sick and injured sea turtles to date, and are even caring for some of these turtles at The Seas with Nemo & Friends at EPCOT as I penned this post.

In addition to sea turtles, the Disney Conservation Fund has supported field conservation programs for marine species in or near 50 countries around the world. In China, the China Blue Sustainability Institute has developed the first artificial intelligence community science reporting tool for the conservation of the imperiled Chinese white dolphin. Marine Megafauna Foundation’s Florida Manta Project has discovered a previously unknown population of manta rays on Florida’s east coast, and is collaborating with boaters and anglers to reduce vessel strikes and harmful fishing interactions with these gentle giants. And in the Cayman Islands,

Coral Restoration Foundation is working to restore coral reefs on an ecologically significant scale, using innovative science and technology to create a brighter future for these important ecosystems that support 25 percent of marine life in the sea.

Sharks and rays are also getting some much-needed conservation support through an incredible new initiative, Minorities in Shark Sciences (MISS). Carlee Jackson, a New College of Florida research associate working with Disney Conservation, co-founded MISS two years ago to create a more equitable pathway into marine science. MISS aims to ensure that everyone, no matter their background, can play a role in protecting our oceans. Further, they believe that diversity in scientists creates diversity in thought, leading to innovation within marine science.

The oceans inspire in us a sense of awe, wonder and sometimes fear. They cover 71% of the surface of our planet, but are the least explored. It’s clear that our actions have a significant impact on the world’s oceans, which is why we are so proud of our cast members and Disney VoluntEARS who dedicate their time and talent to protect our seas and the creatures who live there.

Together, we can work toward a future where our ocean, its inhabitants and communities around the globe who rely on it can exist in harmony and balance. And no matter where you live, you can be a steward for oceans and waterways! Here are a few ways you can take action:

1. Choose sustainably sourced seafood when dining at a restaurant or shopping in your local grocery store. The Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch guide is an excellent resource to get started.
2. Pick up litter in your local community – remember, all waterways lead to the ocean.
3. Reduce your use of disposable (or single-use) plastics by choosing reusable alternatives like bags and bottles.

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The addition of North Carolina A&T brings a variety of new online Bachelor’s and Master’s programs into the Disney Aspire network, ranging from economics to information technology.

“We are committed to bettering the futures of our students, and Disney shares in that mission through Disney Aspire,” said Harold L. Martin, Sr., Chancellor of North Carolina A&T. “We Aggies are a family, and we know that tight-knit community feel also exists at Disney. This couldn’t be a more natural-fitting partnership.”

North Carolina A&T has been hailed as one of the top HBCUs in the country by U.S. News & World Report, and providing access to this HBCU through Disney Aspire is an important step forward in continuing to strengthen the Company’s focus on the retention and development of Black employees. Conversations about academic partnerships through Disney Aspire with additional HBCUs are also underway.

“At The Walt Disney Company, we continue to make important strides as we deepen our relationship with HBCUs through the development of internships, mentoring programs, scholarships, and collaborative partnerships,” said Latondra Newton, chief diversity officer for The Walt Disney Company. “It is an honor to add North Carolina A&T to our Disney Aspire program, which helps employees advance their careers. This is also a monumental Aggie pride milestone for many of our employees who are North Carolina A&T alumni.”

In partnership with Guild Education, Disney Aspire enables more than 80,000 hourly part-time and full-time employees and cast members across the United States to return to school as a working adult, with more than 12,000 employees currently enrolled. The program offers extensive post-graduate support to help employees’ career aspirations come true, whether at Disney or beyond.

Disney Aspire removes barriers to education and contributes to the Company’s strong pipeline of talent by:

• Covering 100% of tuition upfront, as well as reimbursements for required books and fees
• Offering an enhanced program and degree catalog that aligns with predicted future of work trends
• Providing individual student success coaching from start to finish through Guild Education
• Also enabling graduates to prepare for career growth through the Disney Aspire Alumni Association and other extensive post-graduate support

Have questions about Disney Aspire? Find all the answers you need in our comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions section.

About Disney Aspire:

Disney Aspire is an educational investment and career development program for eligible hourly Full-Time and Part-Time cast members and employees of The Walt Disney Company — opening up opportunities for them through education and continuing to invest in them after graduation to truly help them get to where they want to go, whether at Disney or beyond. Administered in partnership with Guild Education, Disney Aspire offers convenience, flexibility, and the tools they need to succeed as adult learners. Learn more at Aspire.Disney.com.

About North Carolina A&T:

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University is the nation’s largest historically Black university, as well as its top ranked (Money magazine, Best Colleges; Washington Monthly College Guide and Rankings). It is a land-grant, doctoral university, classified as “high research” by the Carnegie Foundation and a constituent member of the University of North Carolina System. A&T is known for its leadership in producing graduates in engineering, agriculture and other STEM fields. The university was founded in 1891 and is located in Greensboro, North Carolina.

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LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (Feb. 25, 2022) – When “Star Wars: A New Hope” blasted into theaters 45 years ago, the film created a monumental cultural event, setting the imaginations of generations to come ablaze with tales of heroism, villainy, adventure, mysticism and romance. What is it like to travel to a galaxy far, far away? What is it like to fly on a starship? To make friends with an alien? To wield a lightsaber? To engage in a space battle?

What is it really like to see, feel and live Star Wars?

The answers to these questions and many more will be answered March 1, 2022, when Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser debuts at Walt Disney World Resort. This first-of-its-kind immersive adventure is a vacation experience going beyond anything Disney has created before. Guests become the heroes of their own Star Wars stories during a two-night adventure aboard the Halcyon starcruiser, a vessel known for its impeccable service and exotic destinations. Passengers relax in well-appointed cabins, enjoy exquisite dining and out-of-this-world entertainment, experience Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in new ways, and explore the ship in search of hidden secrets and new opportunities.

Throughout the voyage, guests’ choices determine their personal stories as they interact with characters, crew and other passengers, becoming part of the action and the broader Star Wars saga. They may be asked to keep a secret, deliver a covert message, take part in a high-stakes heist, defend the ship, hide an ally … the possibilities are seemingly endless. Decisions guests make affect how these tales unfold, intertwining with those of other passengers and well-known characters such as Chewbacca and Rey as momentum builds on an action-packed adventure that may determine the fate of the galaxy.

From Walt Disney World Resort to a Galaxy Far, Far Away

Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser debuts during “The World’s Most Magical Celebration” honoring the 50^th Anniversary of Walt Disney World, adding to the abundance of new experiences across the resort during this historic milestone.

• The adventure begins when guests arrive at the Galactic Starcruiser Terminal near Disney’s Hollywood Studios and check in for their two-night experience.
• Guests enter a Launch Pod to begin their Star Wars Through viewports, they see their world fall away as they jump to hyperspace and draw closer to the magnificent Halcyon starcruiser.
• When the Launch Pod docks and the airlock opens, guests step into the ship’s main deck Atrium to begin their journey through a galaxy far, far away.

An Experience Going Beyond Anything Disney Has Created Before

Star Wars infuses every moment onboard the Halcyon starcruiser, where each detail of the experience is meticulously crafted to create a compelling, complete, all-consuming story.

• The immersive experience features thrilling onboard activities, such as:
  • Learning the ancient ways of the lightsaber and facing off against a training remote, where guests may discover their own connection with the Force just as Luke Skywalker once did.
  • Visiting the starcruiser’s Bridge to learn about its systems and how to operate them, including weapons and shields – skills that may come in handy during a journey through this adventure-filled galaxy.
  • Playing holo-sabacc in the ship’s Sublight Lounge, where guests can try their luck against other passengers in this game of skill, strategy and chance.
• Passenger cabins feature a viewport out to space that continuously changes throughout the journey. Other special touches include sleeping berths reminiscent of those seen on other famous Star Wars ships such as the Millennium Falcon.
• The Halcyon starcruiser design draws inspiration directly from the Star Wars universe, including Dryden Vos’ First Light yacht and Leia Organa’s Tantive IV starship … with a bit of Imperial-era aesthetic mixed in.
• Guests can explore the starcruiser and perhaps discover hidden spaces perfect for uncovering secrets or holding clandestine meetings.

Dynamic, Interactive Storytelling Unfolds in Real Time

A visit on the Halcyon starcruiser invites guests into a two-night, interactive story that interweaves with crew members, other passengers, droids and familiar Star Wars characters such as Rey, Chewbacca and Kylo Ren. As they choose alliances and chart their own courses, guests may encounter, among others, the starcruiser’s strong and charismatic captain, a plucky mechanic, or a charming scoundrel with an ulterior motive, among others.

• Characters may engage with guests throughout the voyage, everything from simply asking about their homeworlds to inviting them to protect valuable information or take part in a mission.
• Passengers can deepen their engagement with characters and storylines by using the Play Disney Parks mobile app on their smart devices.* Through the Star Wars: Datapad inside the app, guests can access a plethora of functions:
  • Events – Updates guest itineraries continuously, evolving with new invitations and secret meetings as guests interact with different characters and complete various missions
  • Comms – Receive and send information relating to missions and adventures, which could impact how stories unfold during the voyage
  • Map – Provides the layout of both the starcruiser and Black Spire Outpost on Batuu; passengers use these maps for navigation as they go on missions during their adventure
  • Tools –Become active when a particular job calls for them, especially while on a planetside excursion in Black Spire Outpost
  • Profile –Shows passengers’ affiliations as they continue through the story
• Guests can choose to interact with D3-O9, the ship’s Logistics Droid, via vidscreen and have real-time conversations about their adventures while onboard the ship. When D3-O9 is activated by pressing the Droid Link button, recordings of sounds detected within the cabin, including voices, will be created to improve personalized interactions. At this time, D3-O9 will be only available for a limited test period.**

Dining Is Part of the Show in Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser

Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser boasts a robust and imaginative dining program developed especially for this vacation experience. Passengers aboard the Halcyon starcruiser discover menus full of familiar tastes but unexpected colors and textures, deepening the immersion of their galactic voyage.

• Guests find refreshment each day in an enticing supper club known as the Crown of Corellia Dining Room. This dynamic and welcoming hall offers breakfast and lunch buffets during the day, and then comes alive each night of the voyage with a lavish multi-course, table-service menu of both otherworldly and familiar origins.
• The first night’s dinner features a live performance from Gaya, the Twi’lek musical superstar who captivates her audience as she moves throughout the room singing her biggest hits. The Crown of Corellia transforms with lighting and movement as Gaya is joined by a musician named Ouannii for accompaniment in a show that inspires the entire room to get up and dance. (Passengers may find listening to Gaya’s performance brings insight into more of the goings-on around the ship, as well.)
• The second night offers the “Taste Around the Galaxy” dinner experience, where each course hails from a different planet. Highlights include:
  • Smoking cheeses and bread reminiscent of molten planet Mustafar
  • Blue shrimp from the dense jungles of Felucia
  • Beef and seafood native to the Wookiee homeworld of Kashyyyk
• The Sublight Lounge, located just off the ship’s Atrium, offers a stylish locale for passengers to socialize and enjoy casual refreshments, including an assortment of ales, wines and signature cocktails from across the galaxy, along with light snacks.

Merchandise Enhances Immersive Play Onboard the Starcruiser

An extensive merchandise collection for Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser enhances this role-play vacation experience, inviting guests to further immerse themselves in a galaxy far, far away. The Chandrila Collection boutique offers a wide assortment of apparel and accessories guests can purchase and wear during their voyage.

• Passengers can dress the part with robes, tunics and other authentic fashion apparel evoking Star Wars characters such as Padme Amidala, Leia Organa and Alderaanian officials, among others.
• Headwear helps guests transform into an alien species, with Twi’lek “lekku” head tails or the striped, horned montrals of a Togruta.
• Premium garments and accessories featuring the ship’s logo are also available.

Other merchandise options include a remote-control SK droid, a light-up model of the Halcyon starcruiser, and the Legacy Lightsaber Training Hilt and Legacy Reflective Shield, as well as commemorative Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser items.

New Stories Come to Life in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Storylines from Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser continue to play out when guests travel to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge on the second day of their voyage.

• Passengers board a special transport shuttle for their planetside excursion to Batuu, traveling to Docking Bay 3 in Black Spire Outpost (located near the First Order TIE echelon ship at Docking Bay 9).
• Starcruiser passengers can participate in new missions throughout the land based on characters they’ve met onboard the starcruiser.
• Actions guests take while on Batuu may then have ramifications when they return to the Halcyon starcruiser, helping determine how their stories play out.
• As part of their secret missions, Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser guests receive one-time entry to the land’s two signature attractions – Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. Lunch at Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo (or other select locations) is included.
• Guests on a starcruiser voyage can also request reservations at Oga’s Cantina, Savi’s Workshop – Handbuilt Lightsabers, and Droid Depot. (Food, beverages and merchandise at these locations are not included in a Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser vacation.)

Fun Facts – Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser

• The artwork hanging on the Mezzanine level in the Atrium is named “The Unified Galaxy,” an artistic representation depicting the Core Worlds all the way out to the edges of Wild Space. The piece was commissioned by Leia Organa and presented as a gift to the Halcyon starcruiser crew when she and her husband, Han Solo, honeymooned onboard the vessel following the battle of Endor.
• The Hyperspace Compass on display in the Atrium honors the legacy of the instrument’s original owner, Chandrila Star Line founder Shug Drabor.
• A display case at the entrance to the Sublight Lounge holds a bottle of Chandrilan champagne from the same vintage as the year of the ship’s maiden voyage 275 years ago. The bottle did not break during the ship’s christening, so it was preserved as a symbol of good fortune.
• The Crown of Corellia Dining Room is named for Corellia, the planet known galaxy-wide for the shipyards that created not only the Halcyon starcruiser, but also the famed Millennium Falcon.
• Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser was developed at the same time as Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and the two experiences were designed to integrate from the outset.

For more on Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser, visit WDWNews.com or www.starwarsgalacticstarcruiser.com.

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• In honor of its 50th magical year, ‘Main Street Electrical Parade’ returns to Disneyland Park April 22 with new grand finale
• Also returning April 22: ‘World of Color’ at Disney California Adventure Park and ‘Disneyland Forever’ fireworks spectacular at Disneyland Park
• May 28: ‘Fantasmic!’ enchants the night once again at Disneyland Park

ANAHEIM, Calif. (Feb 22, 2022) – Disneyland Resort proudly presents the homecoming of four beloved nighttime spectaculars and a new grand finale to the “Main Street Electrical Parade” for its 50th anniversary. On April 22, 2022, the “Main Street Electrical Parade” and “Disneyland Forever” fireworks spectacular will ignite the night at Disneyland Park, and “World of Color” will return to Disney California Adventure Park. “Fantasmic!” is preparing for its return to Disneyland on May 28, 2022.

Since Disneyland Resort reopened in April 2021, guests have been able to rediscover the wonders and magic of returning entertainment – such as Jambalaya Jazz in New Orleans Square at Disneyland and “Disney Junior Dance Party!” at Disney California Adventure. New experiences have been introduced, too, like the Raya encounter in Redwood Creek Challenge Trail and Celebrate Soulfully entertainment throughout the month of February. Each of these offerings highlights the incredible momentum at the Disneyland Resort as part of its phased reopening.

Cherished spectaculars return April 22

A guest favorite since its debut in 1972, “Main Street Electrical Parade” features cherished floats such as the classic train and drum unit and Elliot the Dragon. With an electronic musical score based on “Baroque Hoedown” by Jean-Jacques Perrey and Gershon Kingsley, this parade was the first to play unique musical arrangements synchronized to each float unit. The lineup of floats has changed over the years, and Disney parks around the world have presented evolving versions of this iconic parade.

To honor the milestone 50th anniversary of “Main Street Electrical Parade,” Disney Live Entertainment will introduce a magnificent grand finale that celebrates the theme of togetherness in an all-new float. This universal theme is reflected in the creative concept of the grand finale sequence, drawing inspiration from the original design of classic “Main Street Electrical Parade” floats and Mary Blair’s iconic art style on “it’s a small world.” The seven-segment float stretches 118 feet in length and brings to life more than a dozen Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios films, making it one of the longest and grandest sequences in the parade’s history. These stories will be interpreted in thousands of sparkling lights and electro-synthe-magnetic musical sound, with unique representations of beloved characters as animated dolls.

Guests along each side of the parade route will see different stylized scenes from classic and contemporary favorite stories such as “Encanto,” “The Jungle Book,” “Raya and the Last Dragon,” “Aladdin,” “Coco,” “Mulan,” “Brave,” “The Princess and the Frog” and more. The finale also pays tribute to the parade’s heritage with the return of the Blue Fairy character from “Pinocchio” and a unique, 19-foot-tall representation of Sleeping Beauty Castle.

“World of Color” at Disney California Adventure brings animation to life with powerful fountains that create an immense screen of water. Combining music, fire, fog and laser effects with memorable animated sequences, “World of Color” floods the senses and immerses audiences in some favorite Disney and Pixar stories, including scenes like WALL-E and Eve zipping through the cosmos, Pocahontas exploring just around the riverbend and Jack Sparrow battling on the sea. The mega-scale spectacular is presented on a massive “stage” of water, color and light that is bigger than a football field and encompasses all of Paradise Bay. Plus, the powerful fountains can send water to heights ranging from 30 feet to 200 feet – higher than the top of Pixar Pal-A-Round!

The inspiration for the show came from Walt Disney himself, and “World of Color” is tied together by a soaring musical score that includes familiar Disney melodies and a contemporary version of the 1960s television theme for “Walt Disney’s Wonderful World of Color,” originally composed by Richard B. and Robert M. Sherman, the Oscar®-winning composers of “it’s a small world,” “The Tiki Tiki Tiki Room” and many other iconic songs for Disney.

“Disneyland Forever” fireworks spectacular is a street-to-sky celebration filled with sparkling pyrotechnics and immersive projections that envelop guests in a breathtaking journey with surprising special effects. Main Street, U.S.A., and a few other spots in Disneyland become a magical canvas, transporting guests from an Anaheim orange grove into the worlds of timeless Disney and Pixar stories. “Disneyland Forever” also features two original songs: the theme “Live the Magic” and the inspiring closing song “Kiss Goodnight,” written by Disney Legend Richard B. Sherman.

“Main Street Electrical Parade” and “Disneyland Forever” will be available for a limited time at Disneyland. From April 22 to late spring, “Disneyland Forever” will perform Fridays through Sundays, and the “Mickey’s Mix Magic” projections-only show is scheduled Mondays through Thursdays. “Disneyland Forever” fireworks will then run nightly in the summer. “World of Color” will return to its regular schedule upon reopening.

“Fantasmic!” lights the night beginning May 28

Celebrating its 30th anniversary at Disneyland in 2022, “Fantasmic!” is Disney’s longest-running nighttime show. “Fantasmic!” is an emotional extravaganza of colorful Disney-animated film images, choreographed to an exciting musical score and highlighted by the 45-foot-tall, fire-breathing Maleficent dragon. The waters of the Rivers of America come alive as Mickey Mouse dreams he is the Sorcerer’s Apprentice and faces some of Disney’s most dastardly villains, using the power of his imagination to save the day. Along the way, fantastic events and images as seen in Disney films like “Fantasia,” “The Jungle Book,” “Pirates of the Caribbean” and more come to life with live performers, character appearances, enhanced special effects and pyrotechnics.

“Fantasmic!” will return to its regular schedule beginning May 28.

It continues to be an incredibly exciting time at the Disneyland Resort with the return of these nighttime spectaculars and an entertaining slate of other fan-favorite offerings.

Guests may view the latest entertainment details and schedules at Disneyland.com and the Disneyland mobile app.

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Storyliving by Disney will feature distinctively designed spaces, unique amenities and world-renowned service

First community to be developed in Rancho Mirage, Calif.; additional U.S. locations under exploration

All will cater to those looking to write next chapter of their lives with Disney

BURBANK, Calif. (Feb. 16, 2022) – As more and more fans look for new ways to make Disney a bigger part of their lives, the company today announced plans to introduce Storyliving by Disney, vibrant new neighborhoods that are infused with the company’s special brand of magic. These master-planned communities are intended to inspire residents to foster new friendships, pursue their interests and write the next exciting chapter in their lives—all while enjoying the attention to detail, unique amenities and special touches that are Disney hallmarks.

The first Storyliving by Disney community will be built in Rancho Mirage, in California’s Coachella Valley—a location where Walt Disney himself owned a home and would spend leisure time with his family. Additional locations in the U.S. are under exploration for future development.

“For nearly 100 years, Disney has shared stories that have touched the hearts and minds of people all around the world,” said Josh D’Amaro, chairman, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products. “As we prepare to enter our second century, we are developing new and exciting ways to bring the magic of Disney to people wherever they are, expanding storytelling to storyliving. We can’t wait to welcome residents to these beautiful and unique Disney communities where they can live their lives to the fullest.”

At each location, including some neighborhoods for residents ages 55+, Disney Cast Members trained in the company’s legendary guest service will operate the community association. Through a club membership, Disney will also provide access to curated experiences, such as wellness programming; entertainment ranging from live performances to cooking classes; philanthropic endeavors; seminars and much more.

Disney Imagineers will play a key role in developing the creative concept for the communities, working in conjunction with respected developers and homebuilders.

“Disney Imagineers are exploring the richness of each local region to inspire the theme of Storyliving by Disney communities,” said Michael Hundgen, executive producer, Walt Disney Imagineering. “Distinctively designed indoor and outdoor spaces will offer residents new opportunities to explore, engage and create the next incredible chapter of their story.”

Announcing Cotino, a Storyliving by Disney community

Where better to plant the first stake in the ground for a Storyliving by Disney community than an area that once felt the footsteps of Walt Disney himself. Cotino, a Storyliving by Disney community, will be built in the heart of the Greater Palm Springs area. The brilliant mountain-ringed valley was once a rejuvenating retreat for Walt and Lillian Disney. Architecture and amenities of this Storyliving by Disney community will reflect the history and present-day inspiration of the rich valley culture.

Cotino is being developed in collaboration with DMB Development, which is highly regarded for its development of large-scale planned communities in the U.S. According to Brent Herrington, the company’s CEO, “Cotino represents the creativity and operational excellence of Disney combined with the extensive community development expertise of DMB Development. We are delighted to collaborate with Disney in this groundbreaking new concept.”

Cotino will welcome homeowners of all ages and will include at least one section expressly for 55+ residents. Home buyers will have a range of home types to choose from, including estates, single family homes and condominiums.

Per the Specific Plan approval for the development, the community is expected to surround an approximately 24-acre grand oasis featuring clear turquoise waters with Crystal Lagoons® technology, enabling crystalline lagoons of any size to be built sustainably, with low water consumption and using a minimum amount of additives and energy. A voluntary club membership will offer access to a waterfront clubhouse, a club-only beach area and recreational water activities, as well as Disney programming, entertainment and activities throughout the year.​

Cotino also has Specific Plan approval for a vibrant mixed-use district featuring a range of shopping, dining and entertainment, a beachfront hotel, and a professionally managed beach park with recreational water activities that can be accessed by the public through the purchase of a day pass.
To receive news and updates or to access additional information, visit www.storylivingbydisney.com.

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This material contains general information about future proposed community plans which are subject to change or cancellation at any time without notice.  Club membership, programming, and access and use of future proposed amenities and offerings, will require the payment of dues and/or fees and be subject to additional terms and conditions, which will be set by the owner of the club. Availability of club membership and operation of club facilities are not guaranteed. Disney is not the developer of Cotino, a Storyliving by Disney community or the builder or seller of homes within Storyliving by Disney communities. The parties developing, and building homes in, Storyliving by Disney communities are independently owned and operated. This does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation to buy, real estate to residents of any state or jurisdiction where prohibited by law, or where prior registration is required, but has not yet been fulfilled.  Equal Housing Opportunity. Broker participation welcome.  See storylivingbydisney.com for full details.  [Page Pierce, DRE License No. 02161670]

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MVP Cooper Kupp, Aaron Donald and Matthew Stafford to Celebrate Dazzling Super Bowl Performance with Magical Trip to Disneyland Resort on Monday Following Los Angeles Rams’ Super Bowl LVI Victory

• Continuing a long-running Super Bowl tradition, MVP Cooper Kupp, Aaron Donald and Matthew Stafford appeared in Disney’s iconic ‘I’m Going to Disneyland!’ commercial airing nationwide after the Los Angeles Rams’ Super Bowl win Sunday
• The three Super Bowl stars set to celebrate the big win with a fun-filled day at Disneyland Resort

ANAHEIM, Calif, (Feb. 13, 2022) – When the final whistle blew to seal the Los Angeles Rams’ remarkable Super Bowl LVI victory Sunday night, the jubilant MVP Cooper Kupp, Aaron Donald and Matthew Stafford turned to the TV cameras and, with the help of their families, shouted those famous words that every NFL player dreams of saying – “We’re all going to Disneyland!’’

That line is the centerpiece of Disney’s famous Super Bowl commercial, which annually features star players from the game in a nationally televised TV spot currently airing on social media sites and major TV networks nationwide. This is the first time three Super Bowl players have appeared in the commercial.

This year’s “what’s next” commercial also features several Make-A-Wish® kids who made a wish to attend the game and cheer on the Rams, including Kupp, Donald and Stafford. Since 1980, Disney and Make-A-Wish have granted more than 145,000 life-changing wishes globally for kids with critical illnesses.

The iconic commercial is just the beginning for the three players, who are making the short trip from Super Bowl LVI at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Ca., to Anaheim where they will continue the Rams’ Super Bowl celebration with a fun-filled day at the Disneyland Resort. Kupp, Donald and Stafford are expected to experience some of the theme parks’ exciting attractions, interact with beloved Disney characters and generally have the most magical time of their lives.

Guests at Disneyland Park may see the celebratory cavalcade down Main Street, U.S.A., in Disneyland Park featuring the three players at 1:30 p.m. PT. Fans may also look for a livestream of the cavalcade LIVE on @DisneyParks TikTok and @DisneyParks Instagram at 1:30 p.m. PT.

It will be a fitting celebration after Kupp, Donald and Stafford stepped into Hollywood’s biggest spotlight – at least for one spectacular night – in leading the Rams to a 23-20 Super Bowl victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. They dazzled the capacity crowd at SoFi Stadium and millions of TV viewers worldwide with their performances.

Leading the Rams to victory, Kupp scored on a one-yard touchdown pass from Stafford with 1:25 left in the game to cap a dramatic scoring drive, finishing with eight catches for 92 yards and two touchdowns. Donald had four tackles and two sacks, including a sack of Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow on fourth-and-one in the last minute that sealed the victory. Stafford threw for three touchdowns and completed 26 of 40 passes for 283 yards.

Kupp, Donald and Stafford join some of the most revered names in the NFL who have appeared in Disney’s popular Super Bowl commercial, a tradition that has become woven into the fabric of the game since 1987 when New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms first appeared in the commercial following his team’s Super Bowl victory. Donald is only the third defensive player from a Super Bowl game to be in the commercial.

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• Guests can delight in culinary demonstrations and family-friendly entertainment, including an interactive experience inspired by the all-new Disney Junior series ‘Alice’s Wonderland Bakery’
• Soarin’ Over California returns to Disney California Adventure for a limited time, beginning March 4

ANAHEIM, Calif. (Feb 10, 2022) – Disneyland Resort invites friends and family to come together for the return of the fan-favorite Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival, March 4 through April 26, 2022. Through food, art and entertainment, the limited-time event in Disney California Adventure Park highlights the diverse foods and flavors of the Golden State, with a distinct Disney twist.

Many of California’s cultures and regions are featured in the festival’s smorgasbord of specialty dishes and experiences. A lineup of visiting and Disney chefs – representing a range of communities – will share their personal stories and cooking tips in culinary demonstrations, tasting seminars and signature events.

Flavorful food and beverages inspired by the Golden State

A dozen Festival Marketplaces peppered throughout Disney California Adventure will serve irresistible small plates and beverages inspired by California-grown ingredients like avocados, citrus, strawberries, peppers and artisanal cheeses. New and returning highlights in this year’s menu include the carbonara-garlic mac and cheese with peppered bacon, s’mores cold brew cocktail, caramel-peanut milk chocolate Mickey macaron and more. Plant-based, allergy-friendly, gluten-friendly and kid-friendly dishes are available to please a variety of palates.

Many dining locations and outdoor carts at Disney California Adventure – including Pym Tasting Lab and Terran Treats in Avengers Campus – will offer festival-inspired fare.

Guests 21 and over will have the opportunity to discover wines, spirits and craft beers curated from across the Golden State. Beer aficionados can “hop” over to the Paradise Beer Garden, located near Paradise Garden Grill, for refreshing craft beers by the glass. Cocktails at Sonoma Terrace hosted by CORKCICLE will feature signature cocktails, savory snacks and more in a lively lounge atmosphere.

For the best value on their tasty “tour” of California, guests may choose to purchase the popular Sip and Savor Pass,* which includes eight entitlement tabs redeemable for select food and nonalcoholic beverages at Festival Marketplaces and tasting-size portions at participating dining locations.

Black-owned Crowns & Hops Brewery, Brown Estate Winery, McBride Sisters Winery and Shadow Ridge Distillery are among the diverse businesses represented at the festival. Additionally, women-owned bakeries Kayla’s Macarons and Flour Shop by Amirah Kassem will offer sweet treats at special carts in Disney California Adventure.

Exciting entertainment, programs and signature experiences

The Hollywood Backlot in Hollywood Land will be home to an appetizing assortment of entertainment and presentations. Disney Junior’s new animated series “Alice’s Wonderland Bakery” is the inspiration behind a limited-time festival experience for junior chefs at the Hollywood Backlot Stage. During “Alice’s Wonderland Bakery Unbirthday Party,” live host Rolly Pin and two animated characters from the series, Alice and Princess Rosa, invite guests ages 3 through 11 to express their creativity through hands-on cupcake decorating – with a special visit from Minnie Mouse, who arrives to admire their talents. Space is limited for this experience, and participant sign-ups begin 45 minutes before each show time.

Guests may also encounter Chef Goofy or dance along with Chip ‘n’ Dale as the Jammin’ Chefs serve up tasty new rhythms using pots and pans.

On Saturdays and Sundays at the Hollywood Backlot Stage, guests of all ages can watch culinary demonstrations from a diverse mix of Disney and visiting chefs, who will prepare their favorite dishes while sharing insider cooking tips. Notable presenters this year include Disneyland Resort Executive Chef Chris Maggetti, Disneyland Resort Pastry Sous Chef Gracie Gomez, Chef Jet Tila, Chef Shachi Mehra, Chef Kevin Bludso and many others. Fridays through Sundays at the Paradise Beer Garden, guests can enjoy chats with visiting breweries.

The Disney magic extends throughout Disney California Adventure with live musical performances, art displays, family-friendly entertainment and craft stations for kids.

Guests may choose to enhance their festival experience by booking signature events designed to expand their palate and culinary knowledge. This year’s signature events are:

• Wine, Beer and Mixology Education & Tasting Seminars at Sonoma Terrace, taught by expert sommeliers, brew masters and mixologists
• Carthay Circle Winemaker Receptions, during which guests will join celebrated winemakers and industry experts in savoring a rare selection of wines and hors d’oeuvres

Signature events and beverage seminars require a separate fee.** Guests may check for the latest details and schedules and also book signature events at Disneyland.com/FoodandWine.***

More foodie fun at the Disneyland Resort

Guests will find a new line of festival merchandise, and Disney Gift Cards, garnished with a new design for the 2022 festival, are also available. Artists including Jerrod Maruyama, Noah, Ashley Taylor and others will have special signing opportunities at Off the Page in Disney California Adventure or WonderGround Gallery at Downtown Disney District.

Downtown Disney District and the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort will join the gastronomic festivities, with select restaurants offering special menu items and events for a limited time.

Adding to this bountiful celebration, Soarin’ Over California is returning to Disney California Adventure for a limited time beginning March 4. This epic, aerial adventure takes guests gliding over the Golden State’s natural and man-made wonders, from the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to the crashing waves of Malibu. Its immersive, 80-foot projection dome simulates the graceful motion of flight and teases the senses with iconic scents found throughout California.

During the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival, Southern California residents may visit the Disneyland Resort for as little as $67 per day with the purchase of a three-day, one-park per day weekday ticket, which can be redeemed on weekdays through May 26, 2022, subject to park reservation availability.**** In addition, the Disneyland Resort has special hotel offers, making this an ideal time to visit Disney California Adventure.*****

Guests may find more information at Disneyland.com/offers.

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LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (Feb. 9, 2022) — Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons will offer even more ways to celebrate a Disney wedding in 2022, including new venues, offerings and fashions. The brand is an industry leader in bringing fairy tales to life through weddings, honeymoons, vow renewals and anniversaries at Disney locations around the globe, while providing couples with a personalized experience through products, services and locations that only Disney can provide.

“At Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons, we love celebrating incredible love stories and important milestones,” said Korri McFann, marketing director for Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons. “We’re excited to kick off 2022 by introducing all-new opportunities that couples can take advantage of during once-in-a-lifetime moments like the Walt Disney World Resort 50^thAnniversary celebration, the Disneyland Paris 30^th Anniversary, and the launch of the newest Disney Cruise Line ship.”

Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary Introduces New Event Venue, Décor and Entertainment Options

The Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary kicked off Oct. 1, 2021, with new attractions and entertainment as part of the 18-month-long celebration. Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons today revealed its newest wedding venue to debut during the celebration – Place de Remy, inside the newly expanded France Pavilion at EPCOT. The new venue evokes the feeling of France, inspired by the whimsy of the park’s newest attraction, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, and includes the attraction marquee and the pavilion’s central fountain at its heart. Place du Remy is the newest of more than 50 wedding venues across the Walt Disney World Resort, from theme parks to resorts to a dedicated wedding pavilion.

Complementing the new venue, Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons offers other new and distinct ways for couples to bring the magic of the Walt Disney World Resort 50^th Anniversary celebration to their events. Four new décor concepts are now available, modeled after the “EARidescent” glow of each of the four Walt Disney World Resort theme parks. Special food and beverages exclusive to The World’s Most Magical Celebration can also be incorporated into a Disney’s Fairy Tale Wedding during the 18-month-long festivities. Couples can also take wedding portraits in front of the Beacons of Magic at all four theme parks or celebrate with dessert parties and receptions during new nighttime spectaculars at Magic Kingdom Park and EPCOT.

A Stunning New Coach Debuts During Disneyland Paris 30th Anniversary

One of the most magical destinations for a Disney wedding is Disneyland Paris, and, in honor of the resort’s 30th anniversary this year, Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons debuts a stunning new coach – the Disney Fairy Tale Carriage. The hand-crafted coach features 13,000 Swarovski crystals and more than 2,000 golden leaves. It is one of several enhancements – including live music, distinctly Disney entertainment, personalized menus and wedding cakes, and unique floral and décor – offered at this fabulous destination that’s just minutes from downtown Paris.

Set Sail with Weddings Aboard the Disney Wish

When the newest Disney Cruise Line ship, the Disney Wish, makes her maiden voyage July 14, 2022, it will include a new Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons venue – the Grand Hall. Inspired by a fairytale castle and the ship’s design motif of enchantment, the Grand Hall will feature a magnificent staircase, shimmering wishing star chandelier and elegant royal blue and gold color palette. Today, Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons and Disney Cruise Line shared new images of how weddings aboard the Disney Wish will come to life.

2022 Disney Fairy Tale Weddings Bridal Collection Debuts

In 2020, Disney and Allure Bridals launched a sophisticated bridal line offering modern brides stunning, on-trend wedding gowns that capture the style and spirit of Disney Princesses. Today, Allure Bridals unveiled 25 all-new dresses that make up the 2022 Disney Fairy Tale Weddings Collection and 2022 Disney Fairy Tale Weddings Platinum Collection. Jasmine and Snow White-inspired gowns pay homage to the respective anniversaries of both beloved animated classic films. This year, Disney’s Aladdin celebrates its 30^thAnniversary, while Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, the very first Disney animated feature film, celebrates its 85^th Anniversary.

The gowns created in celebration of these anniversaries were inspired by Jasmine and Snow White’s individual personalities and senses of style. The Jasmine Platinum gown sparkles with almost 14,000 beads and crystals — mesmerizing elegance softened by the floating silhouette of bishop sleeves. The design team modernized Jasmine’s look by incorporating a beaded appliqué to the shoulder and a cuff for the adventurous, modern bride.

Worthy of a modern fairytale, the Snow White gown glitters with more than 2,000 beads throughout and showcases an intricate train detail of floral appliqués, creating a dramatic finish. Designed with the classic and timeless bride in mind, this gown features a more traditional silhouette, including cap sleeves, a satin ballgown skirt, and soft floral details.

The 2022 collections will also include dresses inspired by Ariel, Cinderella, Jasmine, Snow White, Tiana, Aurora, Pocahontas and Rapunzel. All gowns are available in sizes 0 to 30, starting at $1,799.

One-of-a-Kind Gown for One Lucky Bride to Be

In honor of the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary celebration, Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings and Allure Bridals today revealed a one-of-a-kind gown as part of this year’s collection. The limited-edition gown features a gorgeous bridal silhouette with 15,000 shimmering beads, 3,000 sparkling crystals, 167 total yards of fabric, and 129 yards of horsehair trim. One lucky bride will have the chance to win the gown for their special day through The World’s Most Magical Wedding Dress Contest. “Good Morning America” and Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons invite anyone who is or knows someone who is engaged and dreaming of the perfect dress to submit an essay (200 words) about why they deserve the spectacular dress. For more information, visit GoodMorningAmerica.com.

 Virtual Fashion Show Available for Viewing Feb. 9, 2022 

The full collections of dresses will be revealed during a virtual fashion show from Magic Kingdom Park that will be streamed on Disney Parks YouTube Feb. 9, 2022, at 10 a.m. ET. Shortly after, the 2022 Disney Fairy Tale Weddings Collections will be available at select bridal boutiques across the United States, Puerto Rico, Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland.

Original Disney+ Television Series Showcases Unique Disney Weddings Around the Globe

Offering everything from princess-inspired dresses and distinctly Disney wedding accessories to unique wedding venues and an original Disney+ television series, Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons is synonymous with making wedding and honeymoon dreams a reality for couples around the globe at Disney locations including:

• Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaii
• Disney Cruise Line ships, from Disney’s Private Island, Castaway Cay, to backdrops across the globe
• Disneyland Paris & Hong Kong Disneyland Resort
• Disneyland Resort in California
• Walt Disney World Resort in Florida

Guests can tune in to see how Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings come to life in the original television series “Disney Fairy Tale Weddings” streaming now on Disney+. The multi-episode series follows couples behind-the-scenes as they celebrate some of life’s most romantic milestone moments.

For all the latest Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons updates, including current health and safety measures, visit www.disneyweddings.com.

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Celebrate Soulfully is one of the ways Disney Parks is reimagining tomorrow.

Music: Live Performances Energize Select Disney Locations with R&B, Gospel and More

Celebrate Soulfully puts the spotlight on Black talent while inviting family and friends to enjoy experiences that feed the soul.

• “Celebrate Gospel” brings together award-winning Gospel Music stars Kierra Sheard on Feb. 19, and then Jonathan McReynolds and Mali Music on Feb. 26, for a powerful event at Disneyland Park in Anaheim, CA. Gospel singers and community choirs are also part of the show on both Saturdays, beginning at 3 p.m. on the Fantasyland Theater stage.
• Throughout February, Downtown Disney District will celebrate with nightly outdoor concerts covering genres such as R&B, reggae, funk and jazz, plus Saturday afternoon Gospel performances. Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa offers nightly jazz.
• Live performances of Motown favorites, jazz, R&B and pop hits return to Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort throughout February.
• The Tam Tam Drummers of Harambe will bring rhythms of the Congo to Mombasa Marketplace in Africa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park at Walt Disney World Resort.
• Also at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, is A Celebration of Festival of the Lion King, a Broadway-style show filled with pageantry puppetry and classic songs from Disney’s The Lion King.

Food: Black Culture Inspires New Culinary Creations

Guests can discover celebratory eats inspired by Black stories and new dishes brought to life by Black chefs at select locations throughout Walt Disney World Resort. And across Walt Disney World Resort, “Cooking with Soul” featured menu items will spotlight soul food dishes and the talented chefs who create them. Highlights of these, plus creole cuisine at Disneyland Resort, include:

• Brunch and happy hour menus at Disney Springs dining destinations at Walt Disney World Resort will include Wine Bar George, House of Blues, City Works Eatery & Pour House, STK and Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’.
• Treats inspired by Disney and Pixar’s “Soul” and Walt Disney Animation Studio’s “The Princess and the Frog” at Amorette’s Patisserie and The Ganachery at Disney Springs.
• Dishes that pay tribute to African recipes and historic Black chefs can be found throughout Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park at Walt Disney World.

• Menu items at Refreshment Outpost in EPCOT at Walt Disney World Resort, draw inspiration from the flavors of Eastern Africa.

• Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen at Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort celebrates creole cuisine, including the popular NOLA BBQ Shrimp & Grits.

Art: Locations Across Disney Parks Showcase Works by Black Creatives

Guests can be immersed in art and exhibits that celebrate the work of Black artists and visionaries at locations across Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. Here are some examples at Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort and Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort.

• Since its inaugural debut last year, “The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure” exhibit in The American Adventure at EPCOT has showcased the rich and dynamic evolution of jazz. The exhibit has traveled to museums across the country and expanded to include histories from Kansas City and Harlem.
• After being unveiled at Disney Springs last year, murals inspired by Disney and Pixar’s “Soul,” created by emerging Black artists Bee Harris, Bianca Pastel, Arrington Porter and Cory Van Lew, will make their debut at Downtown Disney District.
• In anticipation of “The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder” series on Disney+, art displays inspired by Penny Proud and her family will appear at both Downtown Disney District and Disney Springs. Plus, guests can learn more about Bruce Smith, the show’s creator and executive producer.
• A live chalk-art installation will come to life each week as chalk muralist Marcella Swett reveals new murals at Downtown Disney District.
• At Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, guests can meet talented African artisans at Mombasa Marketplace and even take some of their unique craftworks home.

As Celebrate Soulfully festivities continue throughout the month of February and beyond, guests can learn more about these experiences on DisneyParks.com/Blog and Disney Parks social channels via Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok.

The post Celebrate Soulfully Returns to Walt Disney World Resort as it Debuts at Disneyland Resort This February appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

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If you’ve ever been to a Disney park, sailed on a Disney cruise ship or stayed in a Disney hotel, then you know that our cast members are the key to our magic. Known for lending their diverse talents, bringing our stories to life and creating special moments for guests around the world, they are the magic makers and the keepers of the legacy of our founder, Walt Disney.

We’ve been excited and grateful to welcome them back as our parks and resorts have reopened. Many more will don an iconic nametag for the first time as we hire thousands of additional roles – from housekeeping and culinary positions to product designers and technologists – to support our incredible comeback.

Disney is wonderful as a first job or a long career…for exploring new paths with endless possibilities. I guess it’s no surprise that many of our longtime cast members are celebrating twenty, thirty, and even fifty years of service with us in 2022. I can’t wait to honor them for all that they have done and imagine what they’ll continue to do for many years to come.
Are you looking for your next chapter? Here are just some of the reasons why you should explore the opportunities with Disney Parks in the U.S.

1. We care for our cast with a leading employment package.

Just as our cast members care for our guests, our company cares for our cast members. It starts with competitive wages, cast member benefits and extensive resources for our employees to care for themselves and their loved ones. To name just a few:

• • We pay 75% of the cost of health premiums and offer a selection of high-quality healthcare plans for eligible Cast, starting as low as $7 a week for individuals in Southern CA.

• • Eligible cast members have access to additional benefits for every life stage, such as fertility and adoption services, parental leave options, and additional family support resources (e.g. legal assistance, caregiving, and financial wellness among others).

• • Eligible cast members have access to onsite and/or community-based, low-cost and backup childcare options.

We listen to our cast and evaluate adding new benefits and options for their emotional, physical, and financial wellness. To learn more about these offerings, visit the Disney Parks, Experiences and Products website.

2. Disney is a great place to learn and grow.

We believe in our cast and support them as they pursue their passions, expand their skillsets and grow their careers. From internships and entry-level positions to kickstart a great career, to creative, technical, and leadership roles, we offer cast members the opportunity to find the path that is right for them. And with the groundbreaking Disney Aspire education program, eligible hourly U.S.-based employees can pursue education and degree opportunities across a network of schools, with 100% of tuition covered upfront by Disney. We’ve celebrated with our cast members as they have expanded their language skills, worked towards promotions, learned a new trade and even grown beyond their Disney careers, pursuing new opportunities in the communities we call home.

Learn more about how Disney programs like Aspire help pave the way to greater opportunity.

3. Together, we support our communities and give back to our neighbors.

Our cast members, crew members, employees and Imagineers also help us make magic for the communities we call home, contributing thousands of hours of volunteer service each year to causes they care about. We work together to be a force for good in our communities, creating hope and inspiration and helping to address some of the challenges that impact the places where we live and work, like food insecurity and workforce development.

4. There’s special magic just for cast members.

Cast members across Disney Parks, Experiences and Products are invited to participate in uniquely Disney activities as they build a sense of community and create lifelong friendships with their fellow cast members. From yoga in the parks to team events like annual canoe races and trivia challenges, we bring cast members together to meet new friends, share interests and have fun together. Cast members also enjoy exclusive sneak peeks for brand-new experiences and opportunities to share the magic with their friends and family.

Find out more about how we make magic for cast members.

These are just a few of the ways we care for our cast and partner with them to do good for our communities. We’re always looking for new talent to be a part of the magic! If you’re looking for your next opportunity – and are interested in joining Disney as a cast member, crew member, employee or Imagineer – I hope you’ll visit Disney Careers and imagine the possibilities.

Tami Garcia

Senior Vice President, Human Resources and Diversity and Inclusion at Disney Parks, Experiences and Products

The post From Tami Garcia, DPEP SVP of HR and Diversity & Inclusion: The Key to Our Magic appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (Jan. 17, 2022) – Disney Dreamers Academy, an educational mentorship program created and hosted by Walt Disney World Resort, plans to return with a reimagined approach, March 3-6, marking its 15th year of broadening career awareness and creating exclusive opportunities for Black students and teens from underrepresented communities across America.

This year, the impactful program will introduce the Disney Dreamers to an array of new immersions designed to continue to foster the dreams of young leaders beyond imagination, including career-building workshops, networking sessions, mentorship connections and introductions to future professional opportunities at The Walt Disney Company and beyond.

For its 15th year, Disney Dreamers Academy is supporting students in even more ways. In a new initiative, Disney Dreamers Academy, in partnership with ESPN’s The Undefeated and GRAMMY-nominated rap artist Cordae, is awarding college scholarships to 11 students from underrepresented communities attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

The Disney Dreamers program is an important part of Disney’s commitment to supporting diverse communities, such as Black America, by encouraging the next generation to think big and to carry what they learn back with them, so they can relentlessly pursue their dreams and make a difference in the lives of others.

“We are excited and honored to celebrate 15 years of Disney Dreamers Academy with this year’s class,” said Tracey D. Powell, Walt Disney World Resort Vice President and Disney Dreamers Academy executive champion. “We’ve embraced this opportunity to amplify the event, and we’re thrilled to introduce new experiences, new career programs and new mentors.”

Since 2008, Disney Dreamers Academy has inspired more than 1,300 students from across the country by fueling their dreams and showing them a world of possibilities as they prepare for their futures. In the years following, graduates have gone on to become doctors, nurses, engineers, pilots, journalists and more, and have transitioned into mentors to the Disney Dreamers who follow them, including event speaker Princeton Parker (Class of 2011), who is now a Disney cast member.

Each year the Disney Dreamers are selected from thousands of applicants who answer essay questions about their personal stories and dreams for the future. The students and a parent or guardian are given an all-expenses paid trip to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida for the event.

These Disney Dreamers engage in a wide variety of experiences at Walt Disney World while working side-by-side with and hearing inspirational stories from community and business leaders, Disney cast members, celebrities and other special guests.

During the four-day event, the 100 students selected for the annual program participate in sessions teaching valuable life tools such as leadership skills, effective communication techniques and networking strategies.  They also experience in-depth career workshops in a variety of disciplines aligned with the students’ dreams. These workshops introduce the Disney Dreamers to diverse career paths within business, entertainment and sciences, including career opportunities within The Walt Disney Company.

Past celebrity participants have included stars from the big screen and television, noted sports figures, popular musicians as well as personalities and cast members from across the Disney family including “Good Morning America,’’ ESPN, Disney Channel and the TV series “black-ish” and “grown-ish.”

For more information, visit DisneyDreamersAcademy.com. Regular updates about Disney Dreamers Academy are also available on social media at Facebook.com/DisneyDreamersAcademy, Twitter.com/DreamersAcademyand Instagram.com/disneydreamersacademy.

About Disney Dreamers Academy:

Established by Walt Disney World in 2008, Disney Dreamers Academy’s mission is to inspire young leaders to dream beyond imagination by providing life-long access to personalized support for the Disney Dreamer, their caregivers and community through insightful content and uplifting experts, mentors and sponsors. Each year, 100 high school students are awarded a trip to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida to experience the immersive and transformational program.

View on WDWNews.com.

The post Landmark 15th Year of Disney Dreamers Academy Program Awaits 2022 Class of Talented High School Students appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

Throughout the festival’s 39 days, chefs showcase dishes inspired by art movements, visual masterpieces come to life and Broadway stars sing beloved showtunes in a celebration of performance art that’s sure to captivate festivalgoers as only Disney can.

As an added brushstroke to an artful scene, the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts happens during the 18-month long Walt Disney World Resort 50th Anniversary celebration, giving you opportunity to be artful during The World’s Most Magical Celebration.

Among festival highlights:

• A guest favorite, the DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series, presents three shows each evening of the festival. Broadway stars perform cherished songs from more than 25 years of award-winning stage productions. Visit www.ArtfulEPCOT.com for dining packages to pair with concert performances.
• Savor & sip around the world at 15 Food Studios that serve up creative international and domestic food and beverages to delight every palate. From Morocco to Canada and America, all-new dishes artfully created and presented feature on every menu. Food Studios newcomers are Deco Delights (Dulce Chocolate Mousse) and The Craftsman’s Courtyard (P.E.I. mussels roasted on cast iron). New plant-based offerings include Carrots Three Ways: berbere-spiced and grilled, pickled carrots and carrot ginger puree.
• Lace up your sneakers and prepare your appetite for the Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine, a fun food stroll highlighting five sweet and savory offerings listed in the Festival Passport. Collect all five passport stamps and qualify for a delectable Artist Palette Cookie.
• Dazzling art takes center stage at the festival. Must-see masterpieces by more than 100 Disney and visiting artists will be found throughout EPCOT. Catch a glimpse of artists at work with a peek inside the Disney Artist Gallery or the WonderGround Gallery. At ground level, works of chalk artists will be on display along the bridge to Showcase Plaza. The Showcase Plaza stage comes alive with musical acts, a spectacle of thrilling strength with Art Defying Gravity and Visual Art in Performance, led by an artist who paints favorite Disney Characters in a matter of minutes.
• Fun for all ages. Kids can create their own chalk art masterpieces at Kid’s Chalk Art while families can leave their creative mark on a larger-than-life mural at Expression Section: A Paint by Numbers Mural. At Animation Academy, learn from an animation artist how to draw a Disney Character. Walt Disney World Resort attraction illustrations by Disney Imagineers from around the world will be on view at Drawing on Inspiration: Celebrating 50 Years of Magic.
• Across World Showcase, guests can step into some of the most iconic artwork from around the world at unique Artful Photo Ops For an added charge, Figment’s Brush with the Mastersinvites guests on a scavenger hunt around World Showcase. The lovable purple dragon hides in famous works of art. Return your completed map of Figment sightings to redeem an artful surprise!
• Figment also lends an artistic touch to the exclusive festival merchandise collection which includes and accessories, distinctive gifts, and much more.

To experience EPCOT International Festival of the Arts, guests need both a valid park admission and a park reservation for EPCOT on the same date.

View on WDWNews.com.

The post EPCOT International Festival of the Arts Celebrates Visual, Culinary and Performing Arts Jan. 14 – Feb. 21, 2022 appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

• • This limited-time, multicultural celebration commemorates Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean traditions with a touch of Disney magic
  • New float for ‘Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession’ features Asian drummers plus red and gold lanterns that glow in after-sunset performances
  • Guests will enjoy culinary delights, beautiful décor, celebratory merchandise and live musical entertainment
  • Raya, the hero from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ film ‘Raya and the Last Dragon,’ makes her first appearance at Disneyland Resort

ANAHEIM, Calif. (Jan. 10, 2022) – Disneyland Resort rings in the Year of the Tiger with a roar at the Lunar New Year celebration in Disney California Adventure Park, Jan. 21 through Feb. 13, 2022. The limited-time event is a joyous tribute to Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean cultures with a touch of Disney magic, featuring Asian-inspired food and drinks, beautiful décor, celebratory merchandise and exciting entertainment – including the return of “Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession,” live entertainment and Disney Characters donning festive attire.

Lunar New Year celebrates the celestial journey of the sun and the moon on their voyage towards another year. During this special festival, guests can create memories with family and friends while sharing wishes for good health, luck and prosperity throughout the year ahead.

Highlights of the Lunar New Year celebration at Disney California Adventure include:

• All-new float for “Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession”: For the Year of the Tiger, Tigger joins this dynamic, festive parade honoring family and the beautiful traditions of Chinese heritage. This year’s procession also introduces a gorgeous new float for Mulan and Mushu to arrive upon, accompanied by traditional Chinese drummers performing powerful rhythms. Decorated in red and gold to symbolize good fortune and happiness, the float features bright bunches of red firecrackers that hang together with golden tassels, and delicate red and gold lanterns come aglow for after-sunset performances. During the procession, Mulan and Mushu are surrounded by performers bringing cultural artistry and dance to life. Guests of all ages will delight in this honorable celebration.
• Special appearances by Disney Characters: At the Paradise Gardens Gazebo, guests may spot Tigger, Mulan and Mushu, Mickey and Minnie, and the Three Little Pigs – all dressed in festive attire. Under the forest canopy in Redwood Creek Challenge Trail, guests can encounter the heroic Raya, from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ film “Raya and the Last Dragon,” as she makes her debut at the Disneyland Resort.
• Four festive Lunar New Year Marketplaces offer a tantalizing array of Asian-inspired dishes, prepared with a Disney twist. Guests will be thrilled to sample new and returning favorites, such as the char-siu BBQ pork bao, spicy pork Dandan noodles, Impossible Lion’s Head meatballs and many others. For the best value on their epicurean adventure, guests may purchase the popular Sip and Savor pass*, which provides six coupons, redeemable for select food and nonalcoholic beverages at participating Lunar New Year Marketplace kiosks and dining locations:
  – Longevity Noodle Co.
  – Lucky 8 Lantern
  – Prosperity Bao & Buns
  – Red Dragon Spice Traders
  – Festival Food and Beverage Cart
  – Paradise Garden Grill
  – Lucky Fortune Cookery
  – Cappuccino Cart
• A limited-time, multicultural menu at the Paradise Garden Grill invites guests to dine on delectable dishes inspired by traditional Asian fare, including:
  – Pork Banh Mi; grilled pork belly with pickled daikon, carrots, cucumber, jalapeño, cilantro and seasoned mayonnaise on a crispy baguette
  – Plant-based spicy Kung Pao tofu with zucchini, yellow squash, broccoli, red peppers, peanuts and fried rice, garnished with garlic chips
  – Tiger milk tea (nonalcoholic) with brown sugar boba
• Special Lunar New Year merchandise will be available for purchase while supplies last, including a commemorative Spirit Jersey and tumbler.
• The Paradise Garden Bandstand will present daily live performances that feature enchanting traditional musical instruments, along with Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese folk dancers. Returning this year, San Francisco-based musical group Melody of China will perform a fusion of Chinese folk, classical and contemporary instrumentals. The daily Entertainment Schedule on Disneyland.com provides details on upcoming performances.
• At the Lucky Wishes Wall, guests of all ages can stroll beneath strings of ornamental lanterns and share wishes that roar with the spirit of confidence. All are invited to add their own special messages of hope, health and happiness for the Year of the Tiger.
• Guests are invited to try complimentary arts and crafts, such as a dragon’s pearl coloring craft and Chinese calligraphy with local artisans.
• Educational art walls provide guests with information about the festival, including fun details such as “What Year Are You?” and the unique story of Lunar New Year in each culture.
• Colorful Lunar New Year décor symbolizes good luck, fortune and happiness in bold red and brilliant gold.
  For more details, guests can visit Disneyland.com/LunarNewYear.**

At the Downtown Disney District, guests will discover a new Lunar New Year mural created by Disney Live Entertainment Associate Art Director Elizabeth Lisa Kang. To capture the energy of this holiday, Kang was inspired by scenes from traditional “minwha,” or “painting of the people,” which portray the customs and spirit of everyday life in Korea.

More springtime fun at the Disneyland Resort

Aspiring Super Heroes can discover action-packed escapades at Avengers Campus, which continues to be a popular destination at Disney California Adventure. Guests can sling webs like Spider-Man on the high-tech attraction, WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure; taste-test inventive food and drinks; or encounter Super Heroes such as Black Panther, Iron Man, Black Window, Captain America and others.

For a limited time, Southern California residents may visit the Disneyland Resort for as little as $67 per day with the purchase of a three-day, one-park per day weekday ticket.***

Specially priced tickets are available now with redemption on weekdays through May 26, 2022:

• 3-day, 1 park per day weekday ticket for $199
• 3-day Park Hopper weekday ticket for $259
• 3-day, 1 park per day weekday ticket with Disney Genie+ service for $259
• 3-day, Park Hopper weekday ticket with Disney Genie+ service for $319

To enter a park, both a theme park reservation and valid ticket for the same park on the same date are required. Park reservations are subject to availability.

In addition, the Disneyland Resort has special hotel offers with up to 25% off select stays during the Lunar New Year celebration, making this an ideal time for guests to visit Disney California Adventure.****

Guests may find more information and theme park updates at Disneyland.com.

View on DisneylandNews.com.

The post Disneyland Resort Celebrates the Year of the Tiger with the Return of Lunar New Year at Disney California Adventure Park, Jan. 21 to Feb. 13, 2022 appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

Magic comes in all sizes, from simple acts of kindness to grand gestures of generosity. Today, I’m proud to share a few of our favorite magical moments of giving from the year.

From Our Kitchens to Our Communities

In 2021, Disney teams around the world sought ways to address food insecurity in their communities. In fact, we reached the milestone of donating more than $14.6 million worth of food to hunger-relief organizations globally since March 2020 – the equivalent of more than 2.1 million meals! Here are some of our favorite food donation stories from the year:

• Walt Disney World Resort donated $500,000 to Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida – which was among the $3 million the resort granted in honor of its 50^th anniversary to important causes in the community.
• Disneyland Resort provided more than 90,000 meals to the Orange County community in 2021.
• On a sweet note, this past March, Disney Signature Experiences gave more than 350,000 pieces of Ghirardelli chocolate to Eastern Florida State College, Health First Foundation, and Brevard Sharing Center.
• Disneyland Paris has donated nearly 400 tons of food during the year – everything from fresh fruits and vegetables, to baked treats and sweets, to personal pizzas.
• Hong Kong Disneyland joined with Foodlink Foundation to launch Disney Meal Box Express. Since June 2021, the program has provided an estimated 12,000 healthy, freshly cooked meal boxes to those most impacted by the pandemic across four Hong Kong districts. The donations are prepared every Thursday by more than 200 Disney VoluntEARS and the Food & Beverage team.

Sharing Stories, Spreading Joy

We also worked to delight fans and families through donations of books, toys and more.

• • In 2021 alone, Consumer Products, Games and Publishing donated over 4.8 million books to First Book and other nonprofits to inspire the next generation of storytellers – including fan favorites such as “Star Wars: The High Republic: A Test of Courage,” the action-packed “Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky,” and the family-friendly, wildly entertaining “Weird But True” series. In addition to igniting a lifelong love of reading and storytelling, educators report that First Book resources can help students develop confidence in their own abilities and promote cross-cultural awareness.
  • After gifting one million face coverings and donating $1 million Medshare last year, we also distributed over 170,000 shopDisney holiday-themed face masks to schools and other learning institutions.
  • We continued a 70-year tradition of support for Toys for Tots with the launch of the 2021 Disney Ultimate Toy Drive, starting with a $500,000 donation to Toys for Tots. Between Disney toy contributions and toy collections across the US, together we’ve collected more than 135,000 toys for families and children in need.

Celebrating Magic Makers

While the last year and a half have been challenging for many, people across the country have stepped up to help others in remarkable ways. We worked to shine a light on the people whose good deeds spark everyday magic, at Disney and beyond.

• We searched the nation to find 50 amazing Disney Magic Makers and reward them with a trip to Walt Disney World Resort in celebration of its 50th anniversary and a one-year subscription to Disney+. These incredible Disney Magic Makers showed us that we all have the power to make a difference:the friendship of two women in Ohio sparked a vaccine revolution for elderly and at-risk members of their community; local heroes in Utah, Illinois and California showed that the good deeds of one person can affect an entire community; an elementary school principal inspired a fundraising campaign that raised enough for 5 students to receive full academic scholarships to their local HBCU; a high schooler in Ohio and a college student in Rhode Island proved that you can bring awareness to the causes you care about at any age; and in celebration of the inaugural World Princess Week, we discovered women from all corners of the nation whose acts of service embody the temperament of a Disney hero.
• Cast members at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa have kept the aloha spirit alive for the Oahu community, and we recognized Nate Rhodes as the first-ever cast member Magic Maker for helping the Boys and Girls Club Hale Pono Clubhouse in ‘Ewa Beach, Hawai’i. Nate gathered fellow Aulani cast members to volunteer and help the club offer daily meal distribution for club member families as well as programming and educational resources. When Nate noticed the club’s landscaping needed maintenance, he helped get lawn equipment donated and volunteered to trim and mow the grass.
• Disneyland Paris cast members have also stepped up to meet community needs, such as Cyril and Olivier, who 3D-printed more than 500 face shields for medical staff at local hospitals and clinics and school teachers in the community.
• Over the past two years, Shanghai Disney Resort has distributed thousands of park tickets to healthcare workers and first responders and hosted several special appreciation events to showcase their contributions during the pandemic, including special fireworks shows with “thank you” projected onto the park’s Enchanted Storybook Castle in Chinese, English and other languages.

As we reflect on a year of giving back and celebrate the donation of more than $52 million in food, products, and supplies since March 2020, we’d like to share a heartfelt thank you with all those who helped us make a difference in 2021, and who brought hope and inspiration to their communities in ways big and small. To all the guests, community partners, and cast members who gave their time and talents to support others in 2021 – cheers to you!

We can’t wait to share more magic with our communities next year. From all of us at Disney, happy holidays!

The post Celebrating A Year of Giving Back with Disney appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

Known for its immersive storytelling, thrilling water attractions and family fun, Typhoon Lagoon brings the fabled tale of a rogue storm and its ensuing tidal wave that wreaked havoc on a formerly pristine waterside paradise to life. From topsy-turvy architecture and storm-strewn nautical gear to the stranded shrimping ship, Miss Tilly, impaled upon the summit of Mount Mayday, each detail brings the legend to life for guests in different ways.

The Return of Favorite Typhoon Lagoon Attractions

Popular attractions and features will delight guests, including exhilarating slides, flumes and wet and “water-ful’’ play spaces for every member of the family. Among the favorites:

• Typhoon Lagoon Surf Pool, America’s largest outdoor wave pool where guests can “hang 10’’ while bodying surfing on the perfect wave every time.
• Miss Adventure Falls, a fast-paced family raft attraction created, as the story goes, when Captain Mary Oceaneer – a seafaring treasure hunter – got her haul caught years ago in a rogue typhoon, scattering her treasure across this tropical paradise.
• Crush ‘n’ Gusher, a thrilling water coaster featuring three 400-foot-long tube slides named for the various fruits they once transported.
• Castaway Creek, a scenic lazy river encircling the entire water park, offering gentle passage past shady grottoes, gushing waterfalls, overhead rope bridges and lush rainforest landscapes.
• Humunga Kowabunga, offering a choice of three adrenaline-filled body slides set against the steep inclines of Mount Mayday.

Surf Programs Restart

The Typhoon Lagoon Surf Pool uses state-of-the-art technology to create the perfectly controlled wave each time, including right, left or center peaks.

• Learn to Surf – Ideal for all skill levels, surf lessons offer guests the chance to learn to surf during group lessons with a certified surf instructor.
• Private Surf Bookings – Guests can host their own private surfing event for up to 25 individuals during select times. Private Surf is returns Jan. 7; bookings are now available.

New Frozen Dessert Bar Menu

Guests will encounter a selection of mouth-watering new DOLE Whip menu offerings at the shipwreck-inspired eatery, Snack Shack. In addition to two Moana-inspired DOLE Whip character cones, guests can tantalize their taste buds by building their own tropical flavor combination with their choice of mango, lime, raspberry or pineapple DOLE Whip.

Adults can complement their custom DOLE Whip creation by mixing in tequila, coconut rum or dark rum. The Snack Shack at Typhoon Tilly’s will also serve the Habanero Lime Galley Shack Swirl, a new signature cocktail balancing spicy habanero, sweet mango and tangy lime flavors.

Celebratory Anniversary Menu Items

To mark the 50^th anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort, Typhoon Lagoon will add several new menu items and features as part of “The World’s Most Magical Celebration,” such as:

• Walt’s Chili Nachos(Snack Shack) – A new twist on a classic favorite, this playful interpretation of Walt Disney’s beloved chili recipe features house-fried tortillas, cheese, guacamole, shredded lettuce, tomato, onion, sour cream and jalapeño.
• EARidescent Ice Dream Cone (Happy Landings) – This birthday cake-flavored soft-serve swirl in a white chocolate-dipped cone honors the celebration with EARidescent sprinkles.
• Walt Disney World Popcorn Bucket (Main Change) – Available throughout the celebration, this popcorn bucket features whimsical illustrations of iconic Walt Disney World landmarks along with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in their 50^th celebration fashions.
• 50th Anniversary Refillable Mug – The new 50^thanniversary Refillable Mug will be available at all dining locations and features celebratory Disney Water Parks-inspired artwork that pays tribute to “The World’s Most Magical Celebration.”

For more information about Walt Disney World Resort Water Parks and “The World’s Most Magical Celebration,” visit WDWNews.com.

View on WDWNews.com.

The post Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park Reopening Jan. 2, 2022, During Walt Disney World Resort 50th Anniversary Celebration appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

“As we expand our fleet of ships and introduce innovative new cruise experiences, we couldn’t be more pleased to bring the magic of Disney to Port Everglades,” said Mazloum. “With a dedicated, specially designed cruise terminal for our guests, we look forward to creating magical memories starting the moment they arrive at this exciting new homeport.”

Adding Port Everglades as a second homeport gives Disney a dedicated terminal in a market with direct highway access and one of the nation’s fastest growing airports, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). Disney’s original homeport is Port Canaveral, located in Central Florida.

“We are diversifying our cruise portfolio and will have three major cruise companies sailing from Port Everglades, which will strengthen visitor numbers in support of our hospitality and tourism industry in Broward County,” said Port Everglades Chief Executive and Port Director Jonathan Daniels. “I extend a special thanks to our County Administrator Bertha Henry and our County Commissioners for their faith and trust. All we need is a little pixie dust to transform Terminal 4 and Disney is ready to sail.”

“Disney is a big name that will bring big business to Broward County,” said Broward County Mayor Michael Udine. “We welcome everyone under the sun, and Disney Cruise Line is an excellent fit for our inclusive, family friendly destination.

About Port Everglades

Port Everglades offers everything under the sun from Caribbean cruises to world voyages to fast ferry getaways — all from the vacation paradise of Greater Fort Lauderdale. Port Everglades’ enviable location in the heart of South Florida and the neighboring Caribbean, makes it one of the three busiest cruise ports in the world, typically hosting nearly 4 million passengers annually. Guests enjoy the Port’s proximity to three international airports including and rapidly growing Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) less than two miles away. For pre- and post-cruise stays, Port Everglades is a short drive to sweeping beachfronts, a vibrant art scene, world-class restaurants, craft breweries, entertainment, shopping, casinos, and family-friendly activities — including the area’s namesake, the Florida Everglades. View details on the latest cruise offerings at porteverglades.net or by emailing PortEverglades@broward.org.

About Disney Cruise Line

Since its launch in 1998, Disney Cruise Line has established itself as a leader in the cruise industry, providing a setting where families can reconnect, adults can recharge and children can experience all Disney has to offer. Today, Disney Cruise Line continues to expand its blueprint for family cruising with a fleet of four ships – the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy—and three more ships planned. The first ship, the Disney Wish, is scheduled for its maiden voyage in summer 2022. Guests can sail out of ports around the world on exciting itineraries to the Caribbean, Bahamas, Alaska and Europe, among others. The homeport for Disney Cruise Line remains Port Canaveral, Florida, where it has its own specially designed terminal.

The post Disney Cruise Line Brings Its Magic to Broward County as it Selects Port Everglades for Second Year-Round Homeport appeared first on Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.

Disney Parks was proudly recognized among the “Brands that Act Like Creators.” What made these brands stand out is their ability to embrace a creator mindset to generate unprecedented engagement.

Disney Parks was lauded for bringing the “Happiest Place on Earth” to TikTok through fun retrospectives, exciting news, and “taking the community on behind-the-scenes tours with cast members.” Check out just one example of these cast-led virtual tours with Disney Legend Bob Gurr during Walt Disney World’s 50^thanniversary:

@disneyparksBob Gurr was hired by Walt Disney himself. How cool?!? ? #DisneyWorld50 #DisneyCastLife #Disney #DisneyParks #DisneyWorld #Monorail #Legend

♬ original sound – Disney Parks

Read the full article here.

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The Eleuthera Grant Programme, sponsored by Disney Cruise Line, received more than 125 applications. Grant recipients in South and Central Eleuthera received up to $5,000 in funding each, along with training opportunities designed to further empower local businesses and entrepreneurs. The courses covered more than 15 topics including pricing models, developing marketing plans, understanding financial statements, and writing an executive summary.

“These grants are about so much more than just financial assistance,” said Kim Prunty, vice president of public affairs for Disney Cruise Line. “This program is about supporting Eleutherans and helping them grow their businesses for the long-term economic empowerment of their families and community.”

The Eleuthera Grant Programme is a part of Disney’s overall commitment to helping local business owners and entrepreneurs maximize their involvement in projects underway in Eleuthera, including Lighthouse Point.

Disney Cruise Line has also partnered with the Access Accelerator and the Eleuthera Chamber of Commerce to establish the Eleuthera Business Hub, committing more than $1 million over three years to fund the establishment of the Eleuthera Business Hub and provide business development advisory services and other programming to prepare startups and small businesses for participation in development projects on Eleuthera. Now, the Eleuthera Grant Programme is directly investing much needed funding into Eleuthera’s small business sector.

Samantha L Rolle, Director of External Operations at the Access Accelerator, expressed the organization’s appreciation for Disney Cruise Line and looks forward to seeing the impact of this partnership on small businesses on Eleuthera.

Rolle said, “Disney Cruise Line has provided the Access Accelerator with assistance that will undoubtedly foster growth and improve the small business sector on Eleuthera. We appreciate the funding that will allow many small businesses to operate at a higher level. More so, as partners, Disney Cruise Line has made sure that their assistance goes beyond financing but contributes to consistent education, training and accessibility to necessary tools for business owners on Eleuthera.”

She continued, “The impact of Disney’s partnership with the Access Accelerator is going to be major in many ways for the Eleuthera small business sector and we are excited to have this partnership.”

Forty-three businesses successfully completed the training programme, received a certificate of completion from Access Accelerator and advanced as a programme finalist. At the end of the adjudication process, 30 businesses received approval for grant funding (23 existing businesses and seven start-ups). The businesses span across eight industries, including fishing, landscaping, e-commerce and delivery services. The $150,000 will impact 39 employees. The adjudication committee of this initiative consisted of members from the Access Accelerator, Eleuthera Chamber of Commerce, Bahamas Agriculture Industrial Corporation and Kiwanis Club.

Below is the complete list of grant recipients:

• • Breandra Whylly, B.V.B. Painting
  • Brian Major Sheridan, Rock Sound Beverage
  • Cargil Munroe, Munroe Welding and Repair Services
  • Carla Symonette-Whylly Sharnette, Beef’s Seafood and Daiquiri Hut
  • Caroline Carey, E.B’s Deli and Takeaway
  • Curry-Scott Edmilderia Deanndra, Mia’s Lettering & Designs
  • Davinia Cartwright-Vanhorn Cressenda, Da Melting Pot
  • DeAndrea Outten Paige, Wigged By Dreyuh
  • Eric Wallace Alexander, Glass Window Studios
  • Frances Friend Patricia, Fran’s Yum Yums trading as Frances Friend
  • Gabrielle Goodman- Dorsett Alicia, A & A Auto Imports
  • Grace Sweeting-Rolle, McGiver’s Enterprise
  • Gwendolyn Patram L.M, Gwen’s Backyard Edibles
  • Insworth Wallace Antonio, The Only Rock Solid Construction
  • Johnnecia Pinder Shardae, Shardae- The Accessory Plug
  • Kevano Bullard, Nessa’s Kitchen
  • Marcus McPhee Anthony, Direct Couriers
  • Maquella Culmer, Kait and Kaliey’s Eatery
  • Marilyn Symonette M, Forever Beautiful Body Store
  • Nakesha Rolle Margaritta, Eunique Services
  • NORA CHE SMITH C, ROCKY HILL FARM
  • Philip Bodie Alexander, Xtreme Game Xpress
  • Savio Symonette Stephen Dudley, Big Boy’s Trucking
  • Scott Jason Nathaniel, Jay’s   Lawn and Order Landscaping
  • Sean Symonette Stephen, 3S holdings
  • Sherrelle Knowles Claudette, D & S Fancy Wieners
  • Sianna Rolle Alexus, Sisi’s Boutique
  • Thelma Walker, Relentless Sponges
  • Tillia Leary Shonell, Tilly’s Cosmetics
  • Yasmine Saunders-Michel Marcia, Alysha’s Snack Depot

  The Access Accelerator is the product of a tripartite arrangement between the Government, through the Ministry of Finance, University of The Bahamas (UB) and the Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation (BCCEC). The Centre works to guide the development, funding, growth, and evolution of Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (“MSMEs”) in The Bahamas.

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Daniel had already worked in fine dining restaurant kitchens when he hired into the Disneyland Resort as an order cook at Storytellers Café in 2016. He worked in various departments at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa before joining the culinary team at Napa Rose. After briefly leaving the company to help a friend open a restaurant, he heard in 2018 about the launch of Disney Aspire, which pays full tuition up front and reimburses fees for eligible hourly cast.

“When I heard about the program, I rushed right back to Disney,” he shared. “I attended one of the job fairs, came back and went straight back into Napa Rose — starting the Aspire program three months later. I’d always wanted to go back to college.”

Daniel’s current pursuit of a bachelor’s degree in human resources management through Wilmington University, one of more than 10 in-network schools, is already helping him in his career journey. Soon after returning to the resort, he transferred to Carthay Circle Restaurant, where he worked until the pandemic closed the parks. When he returned to the resort last May, Daniel was even more focused on finding a leadership position.

“I reached out to Golden Vine Winery, who were looking for leads, and talked to the chefs. I let them know about my aspirations to be a park chef, and they let me know about ideal next steps for me to take,” Daniel said. During his first month there as a lead order cook, a chef position opened, and he was on his way. He recently moved into a role as a chef in Pixar Pier, serving various locations including Paradise Garden Grill, Bayside Brews and more. He credits the knowledge he’s gained on the job and in his classes with the advancement in his career.

“An HR class that I took had a lot to do with interviews and resumes, and that helped me a lot through the interview process,” he said. “One of the chefs actually came to me and told me that my insights and answers made him rethink about the position, how people do things in relation to the Five Keys and how they can better put those into their roles.”

Along with his dreams of culinary management, Daniel hopes to use his degree to connect with Human Resources leaders at the resort while also advocating for the Food and Beverage department. In fact, he recently joined Thrive, a new mentorship program for members of our Business Employee Resource Groups (BERGs), pairing with a mentor in Human Resources at the resort.

Daniel hopes that the work he’s put in to earning his degree and advancing his career inspires his three children — and his fellow cast members. “The one thing I tell everyone is to just talk to the people behind the [Aspire] program and ask them about the possibilities for them; the options are almost limitless.”

View on the Disney Parks Blog.

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LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (Nov. 20, 2021) – Today at Destination D23, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Chairman Josh D’Amaro shared a look at new ways Disney is connecting fans to the stories they love most through innovative projects coming to life around the world. From joining the Guardians of the Galaxy for an intergalactic adventure at EPCOT and suiting up at Avengers Campus in Paris, to stunning stage spectaculars coming to the newest Disney Cruise Line ship, exciting new experiences await fans in 2022 and beyond.

“Since the beginning, people have felt a powerful connection to the Disney brand,” said Josh D’Amaro. “As we build original, state-of-the-art experiences that further expand our favorite stories and even tell brand new ones, we look forward to a future filled with connections, endless possibilities and magic for Disney fans everywhere.”

Attendees were some of the first to see up-close demonstrations of the latest cutting-edge technology from Walt Disney Imagineering, including a new lightsaber from a galaxy far, far away and a full-body exoskeleton system that will bring characters of all sizes to life in the future at Disney Parks. D’Amaro also showed off the new MagicBand+ and the new “Hey Disney!” voice assistant, both coming to Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort, with unique guest experiences at each location.

Live music filled the auditorium with a performance of “Poor Unfortunate Souls” inspired by the newly-imagined theatrical interpretation of “The Little Mermaid” coming to the newest Disney Cruise Line ship, the Disney Wish. The audience also heard first that Walt Disney World Resort will welcome Make-A-Wish children and their families as some of the very first guests to experience Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser when it launches next year.

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind Set to Open Summer 2022

As part of the transformation of EPCOT, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind will open to guests in summer 2022 as part of the Walt Disney World Resort 50^th Anniversary celebration. Debuting in the newly renamed World Discovery neighborhood of EPCOT, this family-thrill coaster attraction will match the scale and adventure of the “Guardians of the Galaxy” films, inviting guests on an intergalactic chase through time and space.It will feature the first reverse launch on a Disney coaster and will be one of the longest fully enclosed coasters in the world.

The attraction will also feature Academy Award®-nominated actress Glenn Close reprising her role as Nova Prime, the Xandarian leader and commander of the Nova Corps. Guests will enter the new Wonders of Xandar pavilion via the Galaxarium and proceed through the Xandar Gallery, where they will learn more about the Xandarian people as well as the similarities that connect Earth and Xandar.

30^th Anniversary Celebration of Disneyland Paris Begins March 6, with Avengers Campus Coming Summer 2022

After 30 years connecting guests to their favorite Disney stories, Disneyland Paris has become the top tourist destination in Europe and is entering a new era in which every guest is encouraged to dream bigger, laugh louder and smile wider with two major milestones in 2022. The 30^th Anniversary Celebration will kick off March 6featuring dazzling shows, entertainment, décor along Main Street, U.S.A. and new costumes for Disney pals, making the resort shine brighter than ever.

As the celebration continues, Avengers Campus will welcome guests in summer 2022. Here, Earth’s Mightiest Heroes will assemble for the next chapter of the Global Avengers initiative and offer incredible new experiences for Super Hero fans, right on the heels of the opening of Disney’s Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel earlier this year.

Disney Wish – Two Dazzling New Stage Shows

When the newest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, the Disney Wish, sets sail for the first time this summer, families will discover a celebration of enchanting storytelling that brings to life Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Warsadventures like never before. A hallmark of the Disney Cruise Line experience is the unparalleled live entertainment that delights guests on every voyage. The Disney Wish will premiere two new shows in the Walt Disney Theatre — “Disney The Little Mermaid” and “Disney Seas the Adventure.” “Disney The Little Mermaid” reimagines the Walt Disney Animation Studios classic with a modern and innovative take on a young girl learning the power of her voice. The show will feature dazzling special effects, innovative theatrical design, artistic choreography and a reimagined script and score that will surprise and delight guests of all ages. “Seas the Adventure” follows Goofy as he discovers his own inner captain with the help of Captain Minnie and an all-star cast of Disney and Pixar characters.

“The Society of Explorers and Adventurers” Book Series

The first book in an all-new middle grade adventure series, “Shinji Takahashi and the Mark of the Coatl” by international best-selling author Julie Kagawa will be available wherever books are sold in April 2022 from Disney Publishing Worldwide. The series will explore the interconnected stories of the Society of Explorers and Adventurers lore behind beloved Disney Parks characters, attractions, and more across Disney theme parks, resorts and cruise ships.

MagicBand+ and “Hey, Disney!” Come to the Disneyland Resort

The enhanced MagicBand+ wearable technology and “Hey, Disney!” voice assistant, recently announced for Walt Disney World Resort, will come to Disneyland Resort in 2022. This will mark the first time MagicBand+ will be available at Disneyland Resort, and it will have its own unique features to better enhance the guest experience with hands-free convenience and unlock moments of magic unique to Disneyland Resort guests. The “Hey, Disney!” voice assistant will work alongside Alexa and also will begin rolling out to Amazon Echo devices in guest rooms across the hotels of the Disneyland Resort.

Disney Brings New Magic to the Disneyland Hotel

D’Amaro shared exciting details about the proposed new tower coming to the Disneyland Hotel complex. Disney Imagineers are hard at work infusing the resort with the elements that bring Disney storytelling to life, all inspired by characters and stories from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ classic films. There will be a newly-designed pool and recreation area, along with a variety of room types and the ability to explore the magic steps away at the Disneyland Resort.

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The announcement was made at the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Expo, where recipients of IAAPA’s acclaimed Brass Ring Awards also are being celebrated. IAAPA announced three Brass Ring Awards for Disney, recognizing industry innovation and excellence.

“Our brilliant creative teams continue to elevate the standards of themed entertainment in amazing new and relevant ways,” said Josh D’Amaro, chairman, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products. “With breakthrough achievements and the finest talent, it’s no surprise that Walt Disney Imagineering and our consumer products business continue to be leaders in our industry.”

The innovative Stuntronics technology will receive a Thea Award for Outstanding Technical Innovation. Disney Imagineers designed an advanced robotics figure that makes its own, real-time decisions when to tuck, somersault and slow down while soaring 85 feet in the air. The result is Spider-Man in Avengers Campus, flying above with gravity-defying feats never before seen in a Disney park.

Two incredibly accomplished and influential Imagineers also will be honored with Thea Awards. Retired Imagineer Doris Hardoon will receive the Buzz Price Thea Award, recognizing a lifetime of distinguished achievements. Doris was featured earlier this year on the Disney Parks Blog.

As a designer and art producer, Doris began her career with Disney Parks in 1979. She was well-known for her visionary perspectives and creative candor that helped bring some of the World Showcase pavilions at EPCOT to life, and she later worked on Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park (1998). Doris also was a key leader in projects like the opening of Tokyo Disneyland (1983) and Disneyland Paris (1992). Her international work continued through Shanghai Disney Resort (2016), where she developed culturally relevant details for the resort.

Recognizing her focus on relevant, authentic and culturally accurate storytelling across Walt Disney Imagineering, Carmen Smith will receive the Thea Catalyst Award, presented to an individual who has recently made an important impact benefitting the themed entertainment industry. With Carmen’s newly expanded purview as senior vice president for Creative Development, Product/Content & Inclusive Strategies for Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, her positive influence and impact connecting with guests around the world will continue to grow.

Carmen also is working to diversify external partnerships and collaborations, and she ensures thoughtful representation and engagement throughout the creative development process. Carmen was recently spotlighted on the Disney Parks Blog, including her leadership in several current projects.

Disney Live Entertainment is the recipient of Brass Ring Awards for Live Entertainment Excellence. “Magic Happens” Parade received a Brass Ring Award for Best Atmosphere Street Show Performance, and Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party was awarded for Most Creative Halloween Haunt, Show or Experience. As to Games & Retail Excellence, the Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure Remy Feature Plush was recognized with a Brass Ring Award for Best Plush Item.

“We never lose sight of the global audience we create experiences for, and we are grateful to TEA and IAAPA for being such a force in our industry and their recognition of our Imagineering teams,” said Bob Weis, president, Walt Disney Imagineering Creative and New Experience Development, who received the Buzz Price Thea Award himself last year. “I am so proud of everyone who was recognized this year, especially Doris Hardoon and Carmen Smith, to whom I extend a special congratulations.”

View on the Disney Parks Blog.

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U.S. News & World Report has named Disney Cruise Line the “Best Cruise Line for Families” and the “Best Cruise Line in the Caribbean.” We’re honored that U.S. News & World Report has recognized us with these two awards for eight consecutive years, and are so proud of the amazing cast and crew members who make awards like this possible.

Well known for its consumer advice, analysis and ratings, U.S. News & World Report bases its cruise line rankings on a number of factors including ship quality, reputation among travelers, itinerary offerings and results from health assessments conducted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A full list of rankings is available at U.S. News & World Report. 

Whether you’re after a Bahamian cruise from Port Canaveral or a trip to the Mexican Riviera out of San Diego, Disney Cruise Line offers magical vacation experiences around the world. Learn more about booking your next Disney cruise at DisneyCruise.com.

View on the DisneyParksBlog.

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Starting Oct. 26, 2021, and into the following year, the exhibit will come to three museums across the country: The New Orleans Jazz Museum in New Orleans, the American Jazz Museum in Kansas City, and the National Jazz Museum in Harlem. Walt Disney Imagineering partnered with these local museums to recreate an EPCOT experience for visitors and residents to enjoy in their hometown – illustrating the legacy each region impressed upon jazz’s dynamic history and evolving culture.

Musician and co-composer of Disney and Pixar’s “Soul,” Jon Batiste, hopes the takeaway from this exhibit is one that makes people want to sing, dance, and feel the transcendence that jazz evokes. Similar to the joy and deeply rooted nostalgia Walt Disney created in his theme parks, “jazz really has the ability to do that and add to that vision in a way that’s tremendous,” Batiste remarks.

Watch as John Dennis, executive creative director at Walt Disney Imagineering, and Jon Batiste dive into the history of jazz and its ability to bring us together.

Each installment of the “The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure” experience will feature a unique collection of artifacts curated by local museums. Visitors will also find two maquettes of characters Joe Gardner and Dorothea Williams, and are also invited to make the experience virtual by snapping a photo with Joe and the band, and by testing their knowledge of jazz and interacting with the exhibit by using the Play Disney Parks mobile app.

The first destination of this musical tour begins in a region commonly considered to be the “birthplace of jazz.” At the New Orleans Jazz Museum in New Orleans, the exhibit will open to visitors on Oct. 26.

The exhibit will arrive at the American Jazz Museum in Kansas City, Missouri on Dec. 10, showcasing the region’s lasting influence on the genre, and the prolific musicians who pumped creativity into the arteries of America’s heartland.

In Feb. 2022, “The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure” will come to the National Jazz Museum in New York City – home to the Harlem Renaissance – where celebrated icons like Duke Ellington once performed.

If you happen to be in one of these marvelous cities, we welcome you to embark on this musical journey with us!

View on the Disney Parks Blog.

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Yas began his Disney journey in 2006 and has worked in various roles around the world in digital services, marketing and more. After leading digital design teams creating mobile apps and websites for Disney Parks projects in the U.S, Yas returned to Japan in 2017 to lead digital experiences with the unique needs of guests at Tokyo Disney Resort in mind, in close collaboration with Oriental Land Company (OLC).* One of his first projects was designing the Tokyo Disney Resort mobile app, a brand-new offering for the resort at the time.

“We started a digital transformation connecting two cultures, two languages and often multiple time zones,” he said of his early days back at the resort. “My job was not to bring the app as it is to Tokyo, but to focus on the unique needs of our guests at Tokyo Disney Resort.”

To make these digital experiences intuitive and seamless for local guests, Yas and OLC teams focus on empathy-driven design, which he believes meshes well with Japanese culture, which places a high value on consideration for others, and Disney’s legendary guest service. The team start by asking questions about how to make guests’ experiences even more special through technology. Together, Yas and the team of designers and technologists he works with explore how and where guests will find value using the mobile app to plan and navigate their visit, whether purchasing tickets, booking dining reservations or finding the next magical moment to experience at the resort.

“Empathy is the first step of the design thinking framework. It helps to put the focus on guests,” Yas said, noting how digital tools can add convenience and flexibility, allowing guests to enjoy more time with their friends and family. “It starts with knowing your guests.”

Prioritizing empathy and inclusion in the design process of digital tools also encourages collaboration across several teams, he said, by bringing diverse perspectives together. Working alongside different partners across the resort and the globe helps the team develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for the diversity of our guests and reflect that in the digital experiences we offer. “Regardless of guests’ needs or origin, our job is always to walk in their shoes first. We all bring very, very valuable learnings and experiences together. That helps to formulate a clear image of our guests and their goals.”

In April, we introduced a new key of Inclusion, as part of a reimagined 5 Keys, the blueprint our cast members use as they interact with guests, collaborate together and imagine new products and experiences. For Yas, the Inclusion Key also has a very personal meaning. “I love the Inclusion Key. I have a son who is on the autism spectrum, and I see our guests around the globe, who all have their own personal relationships to our brands. To me, Inclusion includes neurodiversity. It includes understanding different guests’ Disney memories and the diverse experiences that they have in different regions.”

Ultimately, Yas says he’s excited about the future of technology and how thinking inclusively can create powerful collaboration and great experiences for our guests. “It’s worth celebrating how much technology has become a user-oriented industry in the last decade,” he said. “Diversity enriches our perspectives. The more diverse we become, the more inclusive products we can provide to our guests with various needs and backgrounds around the globe.”

For more stories about our cast members, follow along on our Disney Parks, Experiences and Products social handles; Instagram: @DisneyParksBlog, Twitter: @DisneyParksNews, @DisneyParks, and Facebook: @DisneyParksBlog.

* Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea are owned and operated by Oriental Land Co, Ltd.

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Earlier today, Conde Nast Traveler released the results of its 2021 Reader’s Choice Awards and we’re honored to share with you that their readers have once again ranked Disney Cruise Line as the #1 Top Large Cruise Line in the World for the tenth straight year. These awards are a true reflection of our crew members and their unwavering commitment to deliver one-of-a-kind experiences to our guests every day, and we could not be prouder.

Conde Nast Traveler shared with us that this year’s results highlight the travel experiences their readers longed for most when they could not travel and what they decided to do first once they could. More than 800,000 Condé Nast Traveler readers submitted tens of thousands of ratings and comments, sharing their recent travel experiences with their favorite cruise lines, hotels, resorts, airlines and more.

Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards is one of the longest running and most prestigious honors in the travel industry. This year’s full list of winners can be found here.

View on the Disney Parks Blog.

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“Many of the things that seem impossible now will become realities tomorrow. … We’ll always be introducing and testing and demonstrating new materials and new systems.” – Walt Disney

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (Sept. 30, 2021) – Innovation is essential to The Walt Disney Company story, dating back to its inception nearly a century ago. This week, the company unveiled two new technological achievements destined to carry its theme park and resort guests’ imaginations into the future – the MagicBand+ wearable and the “Hey Disney!” voice assistant. Both cutting-edge innovations will debut in 2022 at Walt Disney World Resort as part of the vacation destination’s 50^th anniversary celebration.

These innovations continue to build upon the Disney “theme park metaverse,” where technology is part of the magic – seamlessly integrating the physical, digital and virtual worlds to help guests navigate Disney properties and platforms. Here, guests immerse themselves in Disney stories, connect with characters they love and share unforgettable experiences with the world, creating new magic in ways only dreamed of before.

MagicBand+ Unlocks New Interactive Experiences at Walt Disney World Resort

In 2013, Walt Disney World Resort introduced the MagicBand, a revolutionary way to make the guest experience in its theme parks and resorts more convenient and hands-free, including park and guest room entry, retail and dining, Disney PhotoPass and more. The next-generation MagicBand+ will retain those popular features and add new functionality to unlock experiential moments of magic throughout the Walt Disney World theme parks and resorts.

After a guest enters a theme park, MagicBand+ will come alive at various times with color-changing lights, haptic vibrations and gesture recognition, enhancing the environment’s immersive storytelling. The wearable will allow guests to engage with favorite Disney moments in new ways and discover new interactive experiences, including:

• Play like a bounty hunter in a galaxy far, far away and find virtual bounties throughout Black Spire Outpost in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
• Interact with the “Disney Fab 50 Character Collection,” the golden sculptures spread throughout the Walt Disney World theme parks.
• Experience nighttime spectaculars in a new way as they see their bands light up and complement the magic in the skies, including the new “Harmonious” at EPCOT and “Disney Enchantment” at Magic Kingdom Park.

More details about MagicBand+ and its capabilities will be revealed in the future. The wearable will be available for purchase beginning next year. MagicBand+ will be available at a discounted, pre-arrival price for Disney Resort hotel guests, as well as new and renewing Walt Disney World Annual Passholders. Current MagicBands will continue to be available, as well, along with the complimentary Disney MagicMobile service that extends MagicBand features, such as park entry, to smart devices.

‘Hey Disney!’ Adds Magic to Amazon Alexa and Echo

The history of The Walt Disney Company is full of successful corporate collaborations, producing innovative experiences everywhere from World’s Fairs to Tomorrowlands to the pavilions of EPCOT and beyond. Now Disney is creating its own custom voice assistant using Alexa technology for supported Amazon Echo devices. Called “Hey Disney!”, this voice assistant will work alongside Alexa to respond to vocal prompts, bringing Disney characters and stories to life in magical new ways to make guest stays more convenient, engaging and enjoyable.

“Hey Disney!” will begin rolling out in Disney Resort hotel guest rooms across Walt Disney World in 2022 as part of the vacation destination’s 18-month 50^th anniversary celebration. Access will be offered as an optional, complimentary feature during guest stays. “Hey Disney!” will make the services Alexa users know and love – weather forecasts, timers, alarms, etc. – magical with the help of popular characters such as Mickey Mouse, Olaf, C-3PO and many more.

“Hey Disney!” also features an all-new character, the Disney Magical Companion, who will help guests discover more than a thousand magical interactions, such as hearing special greetings and jokes from authentic Disney character voices, asking trivia questions and exploring audio environments inspired by Disney films and destinations. Disney Resort guests will be able to learn helpful information about their vacation (“Hey Disney! When does the next bus to EPCOT depart?”), order room amenities (“Hey Disney! Can we have some extra towels?”) and more.

“Hey Disney!” will be available for purchase for supported Amazon Echo devices via the Amazon Alexa Skills store, inviting Disney fans to make every day at home more magical. In addition, Amazon is announcing the availability of two new exclusive Mickey-inspired stands for the Echo Show 5; these durable OtterBox Den Series stands feature the iconic Mickey ears in playful designs inspired by either Mickey’s 50^th anniversary celebration outfit (which will be found in Disney Resort hotel rooms) or his classic red shorts.

For more on the Walt Disney World Resort 50^th anniversary celebration beginning Oct. 1, 2021, visit WDWNews.com.

View on WDWNews.com.

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LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. (Sept. 30, 2021) – The inaugural voyage of Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser at Walt Disney World Resort will depart March 1, 2022. General bookings for this first-of-its-kind immersive adventure in a galaxy far, far away open Oct. 28, 2021. Some Disney and Star Wars fans, including Disney Vacation Club members, Disney Passholders and Disney Visa Cardmembers, will receive special booking opportunities ahead of the general booking date.

Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser is a vacation experience going beyond anything Disney has created before, inviting guests to become the heroes of their own stories during a two-night adventure where they see, feel and live Star Wars. They will travel the galaxy in style aboard the glamorous Halcyon starcruiser, known for its impeccable service and exotic destinations. They will stay in well-appointed cabins, experience exquisite dining and out-of-this-world entertainment, visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and much more.

Throughout the voyage, guests’ choices will determine their personal adventures as they interact with characters, crew and other passengers they meet and become part of the action and the broader Star Wars saga. Decisions guests make will affect how their individual stories unfold as they seize control of their destinies – and potentially impact the fate of the galaxy.

From Walt Disney World Resort to a Galaxy Far, Far Away