Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is the most recent example of how Disney continues to turbocharge investment in its theme parks, leveraging its most popular stories to create unforgettable, immersive experiences for guests and offer them more of what they love.

Set a year after the events of The Princess and the Frog, the attraction gives guests a glimpse of life after Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen’s happily ever after. Now successful business owners, they want to bring their community together for a special Mardi Gras celebration. And so, during the flume-drop water ride, guests will join Tiana and her jazz-loving alligator pal Louis in search of band members to play at their neighborhood soirée.

Guests can “dig a little deeper” in the queue, which is lined with newspaper clippings that chronicle everything from Tiana’s Palace being named Best New Business to the grand opening of the employee-owned Tiana’s Foods, which offers hot sauces, spices, and other food products. All the way, a radio broadcast plays jazz music written by GRAMMY® winner Terence Blanchard.

“We wanted to make sure people have a good time while they’re waiting to get on the ride,” Blanchard said. “But we also wanted to represent the city so that they get a bit of a history lesson just by listening to the music as they’re waiting to go through the adventure.”

One song features vocals by Chef Leah Chase, who actually inspired the Princess Tiana character. “Leah Chase was a dreamer and a doer—a working mom of four who followed her dream to own a restaurant,” said Carmen Smith, the executive creative producer of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. “She and her husband, Dooky, ran Dooky Chase in New Orleans, but it wasn’t just a restaurant; it was a gathering place that inspired so many… When Disney Animation visited New Orleans and sat down with Chef Chase, they knew that this American original was the perfect inspiration for Disney’s first African American princess.”

As guests move further through the queue, they will discover Princess Tiana—having combined her talents with those of the local community—revived an old salt mine and the surrounding land in order to grow an array of vegetables, herbs, and spices for her recipes.

“We’re really big on expanding Tiana’s story, and great storytelling is what Imagineering does best,” said Rebecca Clancy, Project Coordinator, Walt Disney Imagineering. “We were really excited to place it amid the backdrop of Tiana’s Foods, a new business that she’s created. In fact, you’ll even see parts of the queue that reference her entrepreneurial spirit.”

“Tiana is our inspiration because Tiana is everybody’s princess,” added Charita Carter, the executive creative producer behind Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. “Everyone can find an aspect of Tiana’s story in their own story… [because] Tiana is a dreamer and a doer.”

Several stars from the film reprise their roles in the attraction, including Disney Legend Anika Noni Rose as Princess Tiana, Jenifer Lewis as Mama Odie, and Michael-Leon Wooley as Louis. “It is an amazing thing to have a ride based on something you created,” Rose said. “For people to have felt that, ‘Oh, yes, we want this in perpetuity,’ it’s mind-blowing, really.”

While in the queue, guests will be immersed in the story, helping the characters find the “missing ingredient” for Tiana’s party preparations. They’ll interact with Louis and Mama Odie as they search for musicians and hear the stylings of amphibian musicians playing Afro-Cuban, Rara, and Zydeco music.

Not only will guests be delighted by the mesmerizing scenery throughout the attraction, but they will marvel at 48 new, innovative Audio-Animatronics figures of characters from the film alongside 19 new musical critters—including an otter named Timloléon, a rabbit named Gritty, a racoon named Apollo, a beaver named Byhalia, and a turtle named Rufus.

According to Ted Robledo, executive creative director of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, the critters showcase “the diverse and rich styles of New Orleans, playing their own renditions” of beloved Princess and the Frog songs such as “Almost There,” “Dig a Little Deeper,” “Down in New Orleans,” and “Gonna Take You There,” all while playing instruments made of natural materials found in the bayou. The critters also perform a song written just for the attraction, “Special Spice,” featuring the talents of Grammy winner PJ Morton, Blanchard, and Rose.

Hearing “Special Spice” performed in the attraction was “literally a dream come true,” Morton said. “It’s going to take some time for me to process this. Seeing it come full circle—because this was a two-, three-year process—and become real is totally surreal.”

“To have spent time with PJ Morton—who’s a brilliant, wonderful representation of New Orleans, a city that I love and that has been so very good to me—was beautiful,” Rose said. “It’s fun. It’s joyous. The song itself is a bop, if I may say so myself! And I think it’s going to permeate kids and adults. They will have fun with it, they will feel it, and they will leave with it—which is what you want for music. You want it to be something that moves people.”

Seeing state-of-the-art Audio-Animatronics figures perform those songs makes for an unforgettable experience. “The progress Imagineering has made is remarkable,” Clancy said. “If you look at Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln in 1964, you can see how far we’ve come. It’s been spectacular to see how that team has grown and innovated in that space.”

“It took a lot of love, passion, and compassion to bring Tiana’s story to life, and we’re so incredibly proud of what we’ve come up with,” she continued. “One of my favorite parts about the attractions we build is that they are re-rideable. If you latch onto something the first time, you’ll notice something new each time you experience Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.”

The post ‘Tiana’s Bayou Adventure’ Opens June 28 at Walt Disney World Resort: What You Need to Know appeared first on Disney Experiences.

The transformation of Country Bear Jamboree — one of the last attractions Walt Disney personally helped develop — was announced at Destination D23 in September 2023, and Disney Imagineers have been hard at work ever since to revitalize the attraction for guests.

“It was an honor to work on a show with such a legacy. It’s a show that means a lot to a lot of people, including myself,” said Jake Ellis, Principal Audio Media Designer, Walt Disney Imagineering. “One of the first memories I have at Walt Disney World was sitting on my mom’s lap in the back row at Grizzly Hall and watching the Country Bears perform.”

In approaching the refresh, Ellis went on, “We knew that we wanted to keep the ethos of the bears, but we also wanted to rethink the songs in a way that was more diverse and had multigenerational appeal. Where better to look than the Disney catalog for those songs?”

With that in mind, Disney Imagineers turned to a few country music stars, including Mac McAnally for “The Bare Necessities” from The Jungle Book, Emily Ann Roberts for “Try Everything” from Zootopia, and Allison Russel and Chris Thile for “A Whole New World” from Aladdin. The show will feature twangin’ interpretations of Disney songs in various genres of country music, including Americana, bluegrass, pop-country, rockabilly, and more.

Brett Swain, Director of Music Production, The Walt Disney Company, worked with each artist to reinterpret the songs. “He spun them up in this really fun way,” Ellis said. “I’m excited for my 3-year-old son and 4-year-old daughter to sit on my lap so I can introduce them to the Bears in their new form, and we’re excited for guests to experience the show.”

Roberts, who lends her vocals to Trixie St. Claire, shares his excitement.

“It’s so crazy seeing Trixie singing with my voice coming out,” Roberts said. “It’s something that I never, ever dreamed would be a reality in my life. And she just looks so cute! I could not be more thrilled with how everything turned out, and I’m so honored to be a part of it.”

Roberts’ rendition of “Try Everything” may sound different than the original recording, but its message remains the same. “Y’all can tell by the way I talk that I don’t sound anything like Shakira,” she said with a laugh. “When I was approached to record the song for Country Bear Musical Jamboree, I thought, ‘OK, we’re going to really have to put our East Tennessee into this.’ When I heard the new [country arrangement], it was so easy for me to get in the zone. I was so excited when I got into the studio and everybody told me to just sing it the way I would. I got to lean into my Appalachian and country music roots and just let her fly.”

“It’s been so neat being able to work with all these other incredible folks who are lending their voices and their talents to the Country Bear Musical Jamboree,” Roberts continued. “Everybody brings something different to the table, and that’s what makes it so cool. We have our own influences, and we’re all coming together to make something really special.”

The post How ‘Country Bear Musical Jamboree’ Is Adding a Country Twist to Classic Disney Songs appeared first on Disney Experiences.

“I really, really loved getting to experience this, and I especially love that Moana has found a special home at EPCOT,” Cravalho said. “As someone who works in clean oceans and ka wai ola, or living water, I really appreciate that this experience is also about advocacy and stewardship—and I enjoyed that I could [make water move] for a little bit. That was really cool.”

Located in World Nature at EPCOT, Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana invites guests at Walt Disney World Resort to explore the wonders of water along a lush, self-guided path. The beautifully landscaped walking trail is filled with surprises around every turn, so guests can engage with water in magical ways—just like the wayfinder Moana did with the ocean.

Cravalho didn’t know what to expect from Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana. “I knew Te Fiti would be around there somewhere,” Cravalho said of the island goddess whose heart was stolen by Maui in the original film. “Seeing her come up around the bend brought some tears to my eyes. To see her in real life and not only in animation—to be able to really see her glisten in the sun—that was a really special experience for me.”

According to Cravalho, getting to control the water like Moana was surreal.

“I voiced Moana; I didn’t play Moana,” she explained. “This felt different. To be able to make music while ‘playing’ harp strings made out of water, to manipulate the water and make it rise? That’s pretty powerful stuff.”

Cravalho—who lists pickles and turkey legs as her favorite Disney Parks snacks—added she is thrilled to see Moana’s story continue in films, theme park attractions, and beyond. “I’m so grateful for the people who have connected with Moana,” she said. “She’s for everyone who wants to grow, who wants to learn, who wants to journey beyond the reef.”

The post Auli’i Cravalho, the Voice of Moana, Makes Waves (Literally) at ‘Journey of Water’ appeared first on Disney Experiences.

The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson is an annual event held at a variety of locations across the world. It is designed to empower children with the skills and knowledge they need to swim safely and help prevent drowning – a top priority for the state of Florida.

“We are surrounded by water in Florida. It’s critical for children in our community to know how to swim,” Tajiana Ancora–Brown, director of external affairs at Walt Disney World, said. “We’re taking action to address that need by pairing skills-based learning with the fun of our water parks.”

This year, Disney World hosted the largest swim lesson site on the planet. For many participants, this was their first time learning about swim safety.

“Hosting a swim lesson of this size is no easy feat, but more than 60 of our incredible lifeguards came together to make it happen,” Grisell Carballido Lamadrid, general manager of Walt Disney World Water Parks, said. “It’s our hope that students leave with memories that will last a lifetime and knowledge that helps prevent incidents from ever taking place.”

The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson is just one of many ways Walt Disney World is giving back this summer. From unique community events like this, to Disney Grants and other donations, it’s shaping up to be the best summer ever.

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During a TV special on ABC titled Kodak Presents Disneyland ’59, Walt showed off six new and updated attractions as part of the first ever major expansion of Disneyland.

“Disneyland formally introduced the iconic E-Ticket attractions Submarine Voyage, Matterhorn Bobsleds, and the Disneyland-Alweg Monorail System,” Mike Buckhoff of the Walt Disney Archives, said. There was also “an all-new Skyway experience — which flew guests through the caverns of the Matterhorn’s Glacier Grotto — the reopening of the Motor Boat Cruise, and the Fantasyland Autopia.”

Never Finished

Walt Disney once remarked that “Disneyland will never be completed, as long as there is imagination left in the world.”

Seeking to ensure that all areas of the park were as robust as others, and that guests would regularly have something new to enjoy with each visit, Disneyland — and later all other Disney parks and resorts — would thrive on innovation.

However, innovation isn’t so simple, and ideas can push beyond the limits of what’s possible at the time.

Buckhoff states that Walt would “regularly envision changes and expansions for his new theme park, even as the turnstiles began revolving with the entry of the first guests to Disneyland in 1955.”

Forward Thinking Innovation

“Since the very beginning, Disneyland attractions and experiences have been at the forefront of innovation,” Buckhoff noted.

While traveling across the globe, Walt would often find new ideas to implement at his park.

“Ever the forward thinker, Walt drew inspiration from the innovative monorail systems of Europe which he adapted to fit his Tomorrowland ideals,” Buckhoff said. “And the Matterhorn mountain was based on the towering peak in Switzerland which he visited during the filming of 1959’s Third Man on the Mountain.”

But to translate his inspiration into attractions, Walt needed time to allow his engineers at WED Enterprises (later Walt Disney Imagineering) to create what he had envisioned.

By 1959, “advancements in technology and available storytelling methods were providing some of the necessary tools for the creative evolution that Walt intended and actively sought out,” according to Buckhoff.

Buckhoff added that Matterhorn Bobsleds “was no exception, as it was the first roller-coaster style thrill ride at Disneyland and was also the first to use tubular steel tracks and an electronic dispatch system which allowed more than one car to be on the track at one time.”

Of those new additions introduced in 1959, Buckhoff explained that the most influential may have been the Monorail.

It “would go on to serve as not only an enjoyable voyage,” ­­­­Buckhoff said, “but also an efficient means of transportation at other Disney sites, such as the Walt Disney World Resort and Tokyo Disney Resort.

For the Nation to See

“Well Walt… how do you feel?” Disney Legend Art Linkletter asked.

“Like an expectant father: nervous, but wonderful,” Walt Disney replied from in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle.

Those were the words that greeted viewers when they tuned in to ABC on June 15, 1959 to view the broadcast of Kodak Presents Disneyland ’59, “an event chock-full of lively entertainment, including an extravagant parade down Main Street, U.S.A.,” Buckhoff stated.

 “Walt Disney understood the rising importance of television in the 1950s,” Buckhoff added. He “quickly realized the medium could be an important asset to his theme park venture.”

Just as he had done with Dateline Disneyland, which showcased the opening of Disneyland on national television, “Disneyland ’59 afforded Walt Disney priceless publicity for the new adventures that awaited guests at the park,” Buckhoff declared.

The broadcast wouldn’t only live on television. “The Disney studio later released a 25-minute Technicolor featurette of the festivities in theatres entitled Gala Day at Disneyland.” Buckhoff explained.

Still Innovating

Six and a half decades later, Disneyland Resort is getting ready to welcome in yet another new era of growth.

The company is investing $1.9 billion in the resort over the next 10 years through DisneylandForward.

“Now, it’s time for the next chapter in the legacy of Disneyland,” said Ken Potrock, President of the Disneyland Resort. “We’re ready to build on decades of innovation, creativity, and storytelling to bring new, exciting experiences for our guests.”

And the growth doesn’t stop in Anaheim.

Disney Experiences has opened a bevy of new lands and attractions all over the world, and has announced plans to turbocharge growth in its Experiences segment with even more new and exciting developments in the years to come.

Much like Walt did with Disneyland ’59, the company continues to regularly imagine and implement new innovations at its parks and experiences across the globe.

The post 65 Years Later, ‘Disneyland ‘59’ Shows Company at ‘the Forefront of Innovation’ appeared first on Disney Experiences.

“Sometimes I have to pinch myself because it feels unreal,” Sarah said. “I get to work on the same attractions I experienced as a child.” 

Growing up in South Florida, Sarah was no stranger to Disney theme parks. She was a frequent visitor and created lifelong memories at Disney World with her mother, father and sister.

Those visits as a young child helped her discover a passion for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), and made her want to “make the rides go around.”

In 2018, Sarah enrolled at the University of Central Florida (UCF) to pursue a degree in Computer Science. A year into her studies she discovered a program that would change the course of her career: Disney Aspire.

Disney Aspire is an investment program that helps cast members achieve their occupational dreams through tuition assistance and academic support.

She always knew she wanted to work for The Walt Disney Company one day, but after learning the company could pay for her degree at UCF, she was more inspired than ever to apply right away.

Sarah first joined Disney as an Attractions cast member at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, working at Walt Disney Presents. A year later, she transferred to The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and cross-trained at Fantasmic!

During that time, she had the best of both worlds — working toward her degree on weekdays and creating magic as a cast member on weekends.

“The most rewarding part of my role was when someone would get off a ride smiling and clapping,” she explained. “My work made someone happy. You can’t do that anywhere else but Disney.”

Disney is known for its unique ability to make dreams a reality for both guests and cast members. After developing a love for the Disney Cast Life, Sarah wanted nothing more than to further her career with the company.

Thanks to Disney Aspire, she was able to do just that while also graduating debt free.

Upon completion of the Undergraduate Computer Science Program at UCF, Sarah began her Professional Internship with the Walt Disney World modeling, simulation and training tools team. Since then, her career has soared to new heights as a full-time cast member with that team.

“If it wasn’t for Aspire, I wouldn’t have even known about this role,” Sarah said, “It helped shine a light on what I was capable of and a career path.”

Sarah’s journey is a testament to the endless possibilities that the Disney Cast Life provides. Disney Aspire helped Sarah achieve her dreams, and it continues to provide opportunities for her fellow cast members.

Today, Sarah works on some of the very same attractions she created lifelong memories on as a child, helping to improve efficiency and ensure a positive Guest experience… and maybe even inspiring future Disney cast members.

To this day, she attributes her success to her early career days at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.  She continues to leverage that in-park experience to form a greater understanding of the mechanics behind her work on some of Disney’s most popular attractions.

Sarah explained that “everything I’m doing someone once said was not possible.” Yet, she proclaimed, “here we are, doing it today.”

For those looking to break into the field of STEM, embrace “blue sky” ideas and dream big, the possibilities at The Walt Disney Company are endless.

The post Disney Cast Member’s Journey from Intern to Full-Time Engineer appeared first on Disney Experiences.

“I am so proud of the richly immersive experiences we’ve created together, and I look forward to the bright future ahead of us here at Tokyo Disney Resort,” Bob Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company, said. “We’ve worked alongside Oriental Land Company for more than 40 years, and this new land exemplifies our companies’ shared commitment to excellence in everything we do.”

The new themed experience is expansive in terms of its scope and storytelling, so to help find the most magical details within the treasure trove of information, here’s what you need to know about Fantasy Springs:

Where is Fantasy Springs?

Fantasy Springs is the eighth themed port at Tokyo DisneySea Park.

When does Fantasy Springs open?

Fantasy Springs officially opens on June 6.

What is Fantasy Springs?

Fantasy Springs is an entryway for guests into the magical worlds of Disney Animation such as Rapunzel’s Forest from Tangled, Peter Pan’s Never Land from Peter Pan, and Frozen Kingdom from the blockbuster film, Frozen. The new port finds itself nestled between the park’s Lost River Delta and the Arabian Coast areas.

Fresh off the heels of Zootopia at Shanghai Disney Resort and World of Frozen at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort openings, this is the latest example of how only Disney can take these beloved stories and transform them into immersive experiences.

What attractions are in Fantasy Springs?

For starters, there’s Rapunzel’s Forest, which takes guests into the world of Tangled. That includes Rapunzel’s Lantern Festival, a romantic gondola tour that tells the story of Rapunzel exploring the kingdom of Corona and falling for thief Flynn Rider (a.k.a. Eugene Fitzherbert).

There is also a restaurant based on the famed watering hole The Snuggly Duckling, where many ruffians from Tangled continue to live out their dreams. This counter-service restaurant is tucked away beneath an overgrown tree and offers delectable food choices such as the Duckling’s Dream Cheeseburger.

Then second star to the right and straight on ‘til morning is Peter Pan’s Never Land.

Guests can come aboard Peter Pan’s Never Land Adventure, which allows them to soar alongside Peter Pan, Tinker Bell and the Lost Kids as they attempt to save John from the clutches of Captain Hook.

If you’re looking for a snack to go with your swashbuckling, head over to Lookout Cookout — a counter-service restaurant — which offers food and drink options including the Lost Kids’ Snack Box.

The Box comes with chicken tenders, seaweed fritters, banana and shrimp chips, and a Pixie Dust Soda (Kiwi) that comes with a star-shaped topping that dissolves into the drink, creating a silver sparkling effect inspired by Tinker Bell’s magical pixie dust. Also, there’s Popcorn Wagon’s roast beef flavored popcorn — available for the first time at Tokyo Disney Resort.

And finally: Frozen Kingdom.

The experience invites guests to enjoy the sights, tastes, and fun of Arendelle—the kingdom and home of Queens Anna and Elsa and other beloved characters from the hit film, Frozen.

Set out on a voyage via Anna and Elsa’s Frozen Journey, which takes guests into the heartwarming tale of the two sisters. The boat adventure includes popular songs from the original film, as well as memories of the excitement and love that Anna and Elsa share.

After the adventure, guests can dine at the Royal Banquet of Arendelle. At this counter-service restaurant, guests can eat delicious meals inspired by the film, including Arendelle’s Royal Set — a meal served to guests in a basket that has a variety of mouthwatering dishes from appetizers to dessert.

What is the Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Hotel?

If guests need a place to rest after immersing themselves in the worlds of those beloved Disney Animation films, they don’t have to go far to stay at Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Hotel.

The park-integrated Disney hotel is situated near Fantasy Springs, which allows guests to be surrounded by the world during their stay.

The hotel is made up of two buildings: Fantasy Chateau, a deluxe type, and Grand Chateau, a luxury type. Grand Chateau rooms offer the finest accommodation experience at Tokyo Disney Resort and are adorned with flora and fauna motifs of the themed port, and more.

The expansive Fantasy Springs at Tokyo DisneySea is just another example of The Walt Disney Company’s commitment to turbocharging its parks, resorts, and experiences using its incredible library of stories such as Tangled, Peter Pan and Frozen.

Massive lands such as Zootopia at Shanghai Disney Resort and World of Frozen at Hong Kong Disneyland resort — which opened last year — as well as the upcoming Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California and Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida are all state of the art investments in the future of Disney Experiences.

The post Fantasy Springs’ Magical Opening: What You Need to Know appeared first on Disney Experiences.

Donald, a workforce data solutions analyst, met Nika, an Adventureland cast member, three years ago. After making countless dreams come true for guests and saying “I do” on April 6, 2024, Donald and Nika set off to make their own dream honeymoon come true.

One wedding, three continents, and 24 days was all it took for Donald and Nika to visit every Disney Park around the world for the ultimate Disney experience. From complimentary admission to nearly every Disney Park, dining discounts, hotel discounts, merchandise discounts and fellow cast member magic, the couple credits their uniquely Disney cast member perks as one of the main catalysts that helped them to celebrate their nuptials in such a special way.

“It wouldn’t have happened without Disney. We are getting a honeymoon far beyond anything that we could have imagined,” shared Donald ahead of their travels.

The global journey began hours after the couple’s wedding, where the newlyweds kicked off their celebration at Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California. To make their day even more special, Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons stepped in to create some magical moments for the cast member pair. 

“The [Disney Fairytale Weddings] surprises were the absolute best kickoff for the adventure that was about begin right after the wedding,” shared Donald a few days after returning home from their trip.

The honeymoon park hopping began the very next morning right in Donald and Nika’s backyard. The two cast members set out on a mission to ride all the major Disneyland Resort attractions that are also found at other parks around the world. From Space Mountain to Jungle Cruise, Donald and Nika were determined to do it all.

“I’m so excited to ride all of the Jungle Cruise [attractions],” shared Nika before leaving on their honeymoon. “As a Jungle Cruise skipper, to be able to say that I’ve been on all the Jungle Cruise [attractions] around the world is so cool. And I get to lead one back in California!”

In appreciation of the couple’s dedication to making magic, Disney Ambassadors of Disneyland Resort Jada Young and Raul Aquino Rojas met with Nika and Donald on the first day of their honeymoon in Disneyland park. The Disney Ambassadors celebrated the couple with a hand-delivered note from Disneyland Resort President Ken Potrock, congratulating the couple on their big day and wished them safe travels ahead. 

From there, Donald and Nika set off for a jam-packed three weeks of travels, visiting Tokyo, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Paris and Orlando while soaking up every bit of Disney magic each experience had to offer.

From making Winnie the Pooh shaped dim sum in a Disney cooking class at Hong Kong Disneyland, to viewing the “Disney Electrical Sky Parade” with over 500 drones at Disneyland Paris, to experiencing the Behind the Seeds tour in the Living with the Land attraction at EPCOT at Walt Disney World Resort, Donald and Nika had the opportunity to make one-of-a-kind memories while truly getting to know cast members in all parts of the globe. The couple was also greeted with a personal note from Walt Disney World Resort President Jeff Vahle in Orlando, congratulating them on their special celebration. 

“Every time we saw a cast member, it’s like we met our friends in other places,” explained Donald. “Even if we don’t speak the same language, or we don’t work the same attractions, or even at the same park, everybody’s coming to Disney for the same thing. We’re all still cast members.”

To make Donald and Nika’s celebration extra special, the Disney Global Ambassador team united worldwide to show the couple each Disney Park through the eyes of a fellow cast member. With some Disney Ambassador magic, Donald and Nika experienced all that World of Frozen in Hong Kong has to offer, explored the Castle Club at the Disneyland Hotel in Paris, shared heartfelt conversations with all the Disney Ambassadors and so much more alongside their newest friends.  

“Meeting [Disney Ambassadors Serena and Shannon] in Orlando was really cool,” said Donald. “We had a heart-to-heart where we walked down [Main Street, U.S.A.] and talked about careers and the different things we experienced at each park. They’re both wonderful people and had [many] kind words for us.”

For this cast couple, their wedding and 24-days of theme park magic is just the start of how their lives will continue to grow with Disney.

“I think just by becoming a cast member, I realized all of the opportunities that were available to me. Being able to have this job that also allows me to explore my passions is something I can feel good about,” said Nika. “I really like baking so I asked, ‘How can I do that at Disney someday?’ because I know that I like working there and I know that I like the people. Then I was looking into the [Disney] Aspire program and going ‘Okay, if I wanted to go back to school, [Disney] Aspire is there.’”

With a camera roll full of memories and hearts filled with love, Donald and Nika shared that the magic Disney made for them on their honeymoon journey truly made it an extraordinary trip. They assure that this is just the start of continuing to make dreams come true as cast members and together as couple for a lifetime.

The post Disneyland Resort Cast Couple Embarks on Dream Honeymoon to Every Disney Park Around the World in 24 Days appeared first on Disney Experiences.

For decades, Disney’s Imagineers — the world-renowned team of innovators who imagine, design and build Disney theme parks, resorts, attractions and cruise ships worldwide — have created places that transport guests to magical realms inspired by beloved stories, where iconic characters come to life. 

On land & sea

Disney’s blend of imagination and technology makes it possible for fans to delve deeper into their favorite stories. This synergistic approach is on full display at Disney theme parks and on board Disney cruise ships, where everything — down to the tiniest detail — immerses guests in uniquely Disney ways. These popular destinations illustrate how the power of Disney storytelling speaks to guests of all ages.

By offering guests a variety of ways to experience their favorite stories, Disney Experiences can bring out the kid in all of us. Maybe that’s adventuring through Arendelle in World of Frozen, encountering a favorite Super Hero in Avengers Campus, enjoying blue milk in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge or playing with friends in Toy Story Land — wherever you go, there’s something fun for everyone.

“We’re making investment decisions that look decades ahead, with a view to create long-lasting appeal to generations of families,” said Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences.  “Just like our stories and characters, our new lands, ships, hotels and attractions will stand the test of time, generating excitement among our Guests and fans for years to come.”

Whether through fantastical lands, immersive attractions or gateways to galaxies far, far away, the spirit of boundless creativity courses through every detail of a Disney experience. Here are just a few examples.

Frozen

One of the most popular franchises of the past decade, Frozen has inspired Disney experiences around the globe, offering audiences new opportunities to connect with the characters and stories they love.  

• World of Frozen: Recently opened at Hong Kong Disneyland, this themed land is filled with enchanting landscapes, family-friendly rides and unforgettable characters from Arendelle. Stepping inside the world of Frozen, guests can explore iconic locations and interact with characters from the films. 
• Frozen Ever After: Featuring fan-favorite characters like Elsa, Anna and Olaf, Frozen Ever After at EPCOT was the first attraction to take guests on a singalong boat cruise through Arendelle. Disney’s state-of-the-art Audio-Animatronics® technology invites guests to enjoy their favorite songs and relive exciting movie moments firsthand. 
• For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration: This live stage show at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is hosted by the Royal Historians of Arendelle, delivering a musical retelling of Elsa’s adventures. A unique interactive experience, the show encourages guests to sing along and be a part of the production.
• Frozen at Disneyland Paris: A Frozen-themed land will soon come to Disneyland Paris, too, as part of a multi-year project that will bring attractions and activities inspired by the Frozen films to Disney fans across Europe. 

Toy Story

Beyond individual attractions and live shows, Disney Experiences has entirely themed lands devoted to the iconic Toy Story franchise. These lands build upon the original stories and continue to capture the hearts and imaginations of people of all ages from around the globe.

• Toy Story Land: These fully themed areas, found at Walt Disney World Resort, Shanghai Disney Resort, Hong Kong Disneyland and Disneyland Paris, are inspired by the entirety of Pixar’s Toy Story franchise. Upon entering Toy Story Land, guests shrink to the size of toys and explore Andy’s backyard. Between attractions like the Slinky Dog Dash coaster, Alien Swirling Saucers and Toy Story Mania!, guests can shop and eat at themed locations within this whimsical playground. They may even run into their favorite characters, like Woody or Buzz Lightyear.
• Toy Story Resort Hotels: Beloved Pixar stories and characters are also integrated into Toy Story-themed hotels at both Shanghai Disney Resort and Tokyo Disney Resort, as well as Pixar Place Hotel at Disneyland Resort. Another great way fans of all ages celebrate their love of Pixar is during the Pixar Day at Sea cruises offered by Disney Cruise Line.

Avengers

The Avengers films captivate audiences with rich storytelling, compelling characters, epic special effects and (perhaps most importantly) high-octane action. This makes them the perfect source of inspiration for gripping theme park experiences like these:

• Avengers Campus: Avengers Campus is an immersive land that invites guests to become a part of the story. In addition to thrilling attractions around every corner, guests can experience heroic encounters when they meet some of their favorite Super Heroes, like Capital America, Black Panther, Dr. Strange, Iron Man, Hawkeye, Black Widow and the Dora Milaje. Avengers Campus can currently be explored at both Disney California Adventure and Walt Disney Studios Park in Paris. And don’t forget the highly popular attractions in Hong Kong Disneyland, like Iron Man Experience and Ant Man and the Wasp: Nano Battle that have interconnected storylines. 
• WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure: This attraction at Avengers Campus in both California and Paris asks guests to join Spider-Man in his quest to capture rogue, rampaging Spider-Bots. Riders sling virtual webs to help Spidey save the day while vying for the high score.
• Hotel New York: The Art of Marvel: Located at Disneyland Paris is a one-of-a-kind resort hotel celebrating the multiverse. The hotel’s themed rooms, comic-inspired decor and interactive experiences surround guests in a world where Super Heroes are real.
• Disney Cruises: Disney Cruise Line offers a variety of themed adventures, such as the Worlds of Marvel dinner experience and Marvel Super Hero Academy on board the Disney Wish. Guests can also join a Marvel Day at Sea cruise in 2025 where more than 30 Super Heroes and Villains come together for thrilling activities and one-of-a-kind entertainment on board the Disney Dream.
• More Super Heroes: In the same universe, but not directly involved with the Avengers’ mission, you’ll find the Guardians of the Galaxy. Representing the grandiosity, action and fun of this ensemble is Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, a spectacularly innovative attraction in EPCOT. The reverse-launch omnicoaster ride system rotates to keep guests fully immersed in a thrilling, intergalactic chase.

Star Wars

Star Wars-inspired adventures are available in Disney theme parks and on board Disney cruise ships. From the original Star Wars trilogy to today’s popular Disney+ series, guests can experience the excitement of that galaxy far, far away for themselves. 

• Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge: Located at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Park, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is an expansive themed area that transports guests to the planet Batuu, where they can be a part of the Star Wars story. While exploring, guests can build custom droids and lightsabers and enjoy galactic cuisine, all with authentic Star Wars landmarks as a backdrop. 

• Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run places guests right in the heart of the galaxy’s action. Guests take flight aboard the Millennium Falcon as pilots, gunners or engineers, embarking on an interactive smuggling mission through space.
• Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, a massive, multi-system attraction that pits the Resistance against the fearsome First Order in an immersive, cinematic experience. 

• Star Wars on the Disney Wish: Aboard the Disney Wish cruise ship, guests are transported across the galaxy in Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge. During the day, guests can glimpse interstellar views of Coruscant, Tatooine and Batuu, while at night, adults can jump to lightspeed in an exclusive lounge with signature Star Wars-inspired beverages.
• Star Tours – The Adventures Continue: This 3D space adventure, found at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disneyland, Tokyo Disneyland and Disneyland Paris, takes guests on a thrilling journey to some of the Star Wars galaxy’s many exotic planets. 

… and there’s more! 

Though wondrous, these experiences offer only a taste of how Disney experiences engage guests with hands-on storytelling at Disney’s beloved theme parks. Guests at Disney theme parks — and not only those in the United States, but around the world, too — will also come face-to-face with characters, landmarks and attractions inspired by modern stories like Avatar, beloved classics like Cinderella, Pixar hits like Cars and plenty more.

Disney Products

The expansive world of Disney Consumer Products ensures fans always have the chance to reconnect with their favorite stories from wherever they are. Disney’s global line of products span several key realms:

• Toys and other retail products: Disney’s toys and other retail products, like clothing, offer fans an easy way to bring authentic Disney experiences home while showing love for their favorite stories.
• Publishing: Disney Publishing Worldwide puts Disney’s storytelling prowess to paper with novels, picture books and other works that appeal to Disney fans of all ages. Widely loved fantasy series like Percy Jackson and the Olympians — now a Disney+ series — have been published by Disney Hyperion, showcasing another way Disney Experiences welcomes fans into new worlds. 
• Video games: Disney’s video games, from action-packed sci-fi romps like STAR WARS Jedi: Survivor to vibrant fantasy adventure series like Kingdom Hearts, offer fans a chance to have a hand in how the story unfolds. Disney’s games see continual global success, with the top nine Disney Game titles exceeding $1 billion in sales throughout the year of 2023.

Disney breaks new gaming ground with Epic Games

Continuing the tradition of creating authentic, interactive experiences for fans of all ages, Disney recently announced a new partnership with Epic Games that will give way to a brand-new games and entertainment universe, bolstering the reach of Disney’s time-tested stories to gamers worldwide.

This new universe will not only give players the chance to play and interact with Disney content, but will offer them the opportunity to create their own wholly unique Disney-themed gaming experiences, too. The partnership will ultimately provide a wide range of opportunities for players to watch, shop and engage with content from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars and Avatar. 

This new initiative is part of Disney’s ongoing partnership with Epic Games, which has already delivered live events, content integrations and in-game challenges for millions of Fortnite players across the globe. 

Disney Experiences: Exploring worlds beyond the screen

Creativity and storytelling are the foundation for The Walt Disney Company. Disney Experiences invites fans, guests and consumers around the world to engage with that storytelling in entirely new ways. Whether at a theme park, while sailing the high seas or from the comfort of their homes, Disney fans can immerse themselves in the enchanting worlds of their favorite characters, making Disney part of their life story.

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A Journey Years in the Making 

In 2020, Disneyland Paris embarked on a three-year construction journey to create a solar canopy plant in its guest parking lot through a collaboration and co-investment with French company Urbasolar Group. As Europe’s premier tourist destination, the resort is continuously finding creative solutions to reduce its environmental footprint. 

Since its full operation began in December 2023, the plant is producing 36 GWh/year – which is equivalent to the energy consumption of a town of over 17,400 people! This contributes to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in the Val d’Europe territory by approximately 890 tons of CO2 per year. Made up of over 80,000 panels that cover 11,200 parking spots across 20 hectares (49.4 acres), guests and their vehicles can also enjoy protection from direct sunlight, rain or snow, all while contributing to a greener future. 

It takes so many people to make an achievement like this happen. We extend our gratitude to the numerous teams and cast who have worked to make Disneyland Paris a beacon of Walt’s vision that conservation is a responsibility shared by all. As Walt himself said, “Conservation isn’t just the business of a few people; it’s a matter that concerns all of us.” 

Celebrating Solar this Earth Day & Beyond 

As we celebrate Earth Day, we are excited to share how Disney is making strides to protect, restore and celebrate ourHOME. We also invite you to learn more about Disney’s ongoing efforts at thewaltdisneycompany.eu/world-in-balance/.

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