Check Out These Unforgettable Make-a-Wish-Granting Moments from 2023
The Walt Disney Company celebrated its 100 anniversary in new and exciting ways this past year. The celebratory vibe and desire to make magic extended to the company’s wish-granting activities and desire to make a difference in people’s lives.
The company found exciting new ways in their work with Make-a-Wish to positively impact the families and people around the world. From granting their 150,000th Disney wish to creating new special events- 2023 was an exciting year!
It takes an average of 200 people to grant these wishes and their hard work and dedication led to some amazing experiences.
Josh D’amaro and Disney Parks Blog shared their favorite wish-granting moments of 2023. Take a look!
World Wish Day: Windows on Main Street, U.S.A.
The Disneyland Resort celebrated World Wish Day by unveiling three new windows on Main Street, U.S.A. This is the first time in park history where Disney dedicated a window to a non-profit organization.
The center window honors past, present, and future wish kids of the world. The side windows honor Chris Greicius, whose wish inspired the creation of Make-A-Wish, and Frank “Bopsy” Salazar, the first official wish.
A Royal Ball: Once Upon A Wish Party at Walt Disney World Resort
During World Princess Week, 50 wish kids received the ultimate royal treatment. These children and their families received a magical Disney day complete with a royal ball.
Granting Our 150,000th Disney Wish
The royal ball was the perfect setting for Disney to grant its 150,000th wish. Seventeen-year-old Mikayla – the 150,000th Make-A-Wish kid – was chosen to perform at the party as part of her dream to perform at Disney.
In addition, Mikayla received professional voice coaching, recorded a professional song, dressed in a stunning gown, and partnered with a Disney Live Entertainment casting director.
Wish Weekends at Disneyland Paris
Wish Weekends at Disneyland Paris hosted numerous kids and families throughout 2023, and to celebrate World Wish Day in April, 80 Make-A-Wish kids from around the world spent the special day together and took part in a special parade.
Halloween in Hawaii: Wish Week at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa
Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa also partnered with Make-A-Wish Hawaii and welcomed 20 wish kids and their families to a special Halloween event!
The week included delicious food, character meet and greets, traditional Hawaii activities, and more.
For the First Time in Forever: Visiting World of Frozen at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort
The Hong Kong Disneyland team invited 11 wish kids and their families from Hong Kong to experience World of Frozen!
The special event included Frozen-themed activities fun and a behind-the-scenes tour led by Disney Imagineers.
First Ever “Wishing Star Charity Concert” at Shanghai Disney Resort
Photo: Disney
To celebrate 100 wishes granted at Shanghai Disney Resort, the Shanghai International Youth Orchestra and Make-A-Wish Shanghai hosted a magical concert complete with singers, dancers, and Disney friends!
Pulling Back the Curtain: Meeting Imagineers, Riding Coasters
Make-a-Wish helped grant a few one-of-a kind wishes this year, too. Eleven-year-old Ross got the chance to meet with Disney Imagineers and learn how they design attractions! And the best part? He rode the amazing Disneyland roller coasters.
Be sure to check out Disney Parks Blog for more inspiring Disney and Cast Member stories.
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Feature Photo and Article Source: Disney Parks Blog
