Did you know there’s a hidden gem inside Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park where guests can get up-close with animals, learn about conservation and watch expert veterinary care and science in action? Just a short ride away on the Wildlife Express Train, Rafiki’s Planet Watch is where guests can meet and learn from passionate and dedicated cast members like veterinarians, nutritionists, animal keepers, educators, scientists and more who are working to save animals and inspire action.
Conservation Station
In addition to getting a close-up view of reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates, live procedures take place at the Veterinary Treatment Room, where animals across Walt Disney World receive world-class care in a state-of-the-art facility. This hospital features a large window for guests to get a front row seat to see Disney’s veterinarians and veterinary technicians behind the magic.
At the Animal Nutrition Window, guests can watch and talk to Disney nutrition team cast members who prepare carefully curated diets for some of the 5,000 animals across Walt Disney World. And Disney’s Animal Nutrition Center delivers 10,000 pounds of food daily to the animals at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the nearby Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and The Seas with Nemo & Friends at EPCOT!
“The meals we make for the animals are all carefully balanced to make sure they have everything they need to stay healthy,” shares Adrienne, an animal nutrition coordinator.
Over at the Science Center — a real working lab — impactful research is conducted by scientists. Here Guests can learn about the innovative technology and practices that Disney is using to advance conservation and animal welfare.
And at The Animation Experience, a talented Disney artist gives a step-by-step tutorial on how to illustrate a wide variety of rotating characters, including Mickey, Bambi, Simba and more!
Affection Section
Show some affection to adorable animals at Affection Section — an expansive outdoor space where animal care experts are available to answer questions about a variety of unique, domesticated animals like Nigerian dwarf goats.
Wilderness Explorers
Wilderness Explorers is an interactive program where guests can complete engaging, nature-themed challenges to earn badges and become Wilderness Explorers themselves! There are over 25 badges to earn throughout Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and five of them can be found at Rafiki’s Planet Watch.
Limited-time Cool KID SUMMER Pollinator Activity
And Cool KID SUMMER is bringing limited-time summer magic to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, including Rafiki’s Planet Watch. Now through Sept. 1, kids can have fun exploring their creativity and learning important conservation lessons during a hands-on crafts activity all about pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Cast Members Inspiring the Next Generation of Conservationists
Visiting Rafiki’s Planet Watch allows guests to connect with the animals that make our planet so special. What makes the experience even more unique is the ability to ask our animal experts questions — whether it’s a scientist in the Science Center or an animal keeper caring for goats.
“We have a very unique opportunity to engage with people from a wide variety of backgrounds,” said Jonathan, an educator at Conservation Station. “It warms my heart to be able to make their day a little more magical. I get to learn what their favorite animals are and teach them what they can do to help protect them.” And Disney’s long legacy of protecting the magic of nature extends far beyond our theme parks. Over 30 years, the Disney Conservation Fund has directed more than $132 million to community conservation programs along with the expertise of our dedicated teams to support organizations working with communities to protect wildlife, inspire action, and promote environmental resilience. To learn more about Disney’s commitment to the environment through Disney Planet Possible, visit impact.disney.com.
This year marks a major milestone for Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (HKDL) as it celebrates its 20th anniversary with a yearlong party that features a spectacular lineup of new entertainment, community initiatives, and a bold vision for the future. Since opening its gates in 2005, HKDL has become a beloved destination for Disney fans across Asia and beyond.
“HKDL has become the tourism flagship for Hong Kong and the region now. We hope this milestone year will be filled with immersive entertainment, unforgettable moments, and boundless magic and surprises that only Hong Kong Disneyland can create,” Michael Moriarty, Managing Director of Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, said.
A Celebration Like Never Before
To commemorate two decades of storytelling and innovation, HKDL has launched its most ambitious entertainment slate to date.
“This party is a vibrant celebration like never before,” Moriarty noted. “Guests can get up close and interact with beloved Disney characters, both classic and new, as we bring everyone together for the festivities. Prepare to experience the full celebration with all your favorite Disney friends.”
At the heart of the celebration is a trio of new entertainment experiences designed to dazzle guests of all ages.
For the 15-minute concert-style show “Disney Friends Live: Party at the Castle!,” Paul Rivet, Executive Director, Entertainment, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, noted that guests can expect “vibrant pop music, fun interactive moments, and favorite Disney characters all in one magical performance.”
The show — which will “get everyone into the party spirit,” according to Rivet — includes three large LED screens displaying mesmerizing visuals and new scenic elements like fog jets and cold pyro to energize partygoers, in front of the castle decked out with giant balloons and banners, making for an epic backdrop.
Disney Princesses Aurora, Tiana, and Belle make a grand entrance in never-before-seen party attire, while live vocalists perform three original songs, including the 20th anniversary anthem, “The Most Magical Party of All.”
The celebration continues with “Friendtastic!”, the largest parade in HKDL’s history. “This dazzling 30-minute parade has been two years in the making,” Christie Evangelisto, Creative Director, Entertainment, Hong Kong Disneyland, noted. “The parade showcases 11 groups of Disney friends, each on brand-new floats. There will be several firsts in Hong Kong Disneyland’s parade history, including the very first Duffy and Friends-themed float and an Encanto-themed float.”
Over 100 performers, including more than 30 beloved Disney characters — some making their Hong Kong Disneyland debut — bring the parade to life. “Four original songs were created just for this parade,” Evangelisto added.
Rounding out the entertainment is “Momentous: Party in the Night Sky,” an enhanced nighttime spectacular that adds eight minutes of new story moments, breathtaking projections, and drone choreography.
“Mickey Mouse gathers friends from more than 20 beloved stories to bring decorations and music to ‘The Most Magical Party of All,’” Rivet, said.
A Legacy of Impact
Beyond entertainment, the 20th anniversary is a moment to reflect on HKDL’s community impact.
“As a flagship destination for Hong Kong tourism, HKDL has offered unique Disney storytelling and authentic experiences to locals and tourists for nearly two decades,” Moriarty said. “When people think of what to do in Hong Kong, ‘go to Disneyland’ is always one of the top recommendations.”
Michael Moriarty, Managing Director of Hong Kong Disneyland Resort
Throughout its 20 years of bringing Disney stories and characters to its guests in the region, HKDL has created tens of thousands of jobs on its way to becoming one of the largest entertainment employers in Hong Kong. And, over the past 19 years, Disney VoluntEARS have contributed nearly 123,000 hours to help children in hospitals and children with disabilities.
This year, as part of its anniversary celebration, HKDL will double its annual donation of 100,000 complimentary park tickets to community organizations serving those in need.
“HKDL has the most passionate fans,” Moriarty said. “As we reflect on our journey, we celebrate the spirit of togetherness that HKDL fosters, making our city a happier and more welcoming place.”
Looking Ahead
As HKDL celebrates its past, it is also looking boldly toward the future.
“Following the successful launch of World of Frozen in 2023, the current 20th anniversary, and our current expansion plans with more Super Hero-themed experiences, a Pixar entertainment offering, and more new guest offerings in development, HKDL has a solid pipeline for future growth,” Moriarty said.
Hong Kong Disneyland Resort is looking forward to a bright future ahead.
“We remain agile and committed to providing innovative experiences and exceptional service for our guests,” Moriarty said. “Those are a testament to the ideals that have guided us for the last 20 years.”
Not all of them can be found in our six parks or more than 25 resort hotels, though. From the Orlando International Airport to the Disney Central Reservations Center, let’s meet the cast members who make magic beyond the gates of Walt Disney World.
Meet Irene Wachira. Originally from Kenya, she had a dream to work at The Most Magical Place On Earth.
After completing a Disney International Program at Kilimanjaro Safaris in Animal Kingdom, she became an agent at Disney Central in Orlando, a Disney World reservation and call center.
Fun Fact: There is a second Disney Central in Tampa where even more cast members help guests plan their next Disney vacation.
“I’ve created a family here and built relationships with guests planning their next vacation,” Irene said.
“This can be someone’s first trip or their 100th trip,” she said. “I want to make their visit as magical and unique as it can be.”
Over at the Orlando International Airport, guests meet cast members like Holly Pettway. She’s a Merchandise Guest Experience Manager at the Magic of Disney store.
More than 30 years ago, she learned about the Disney College Program and has made Central Florida her home ever since.
“I feel fortunate to have worked for the same company for over half my life,” Holly said.
Holly has worked at multiple merchandise locations throughout Walt Disney World but says Magic of Disney holds a special place in her heart.
At the airport, she’s often the first — or last — Disney cast member guests see when they visit Central Florida. And working at Magic of Disney, she has the opportunity to match fans with the perfect piece of Disney merchandise, so that they can take a piece of the magic home with them.
While visiting Orlando, guests may meet cast members like Vini Matheus at Disney’s Character Warehouse. This Orlando Premium Outlet store lets guests take home the Disney magic they might have missed at the parks.
Vini’s journey began in 2022 at Disney’s Character Warehouse in South Florida.
“If it wasn’t for the leaders and mentors I had, I don’t think I would be where I am today,” Vini said.
Today, Vini trains new cast members while encouraging them to take advantage of opportunities that come their way — doing for them what previous mentors did for him.
Some people may not know that there are “backstage” Disney World offices and buildings across the state – like the Costuming Storage Warehouse. Here, cast members like Yoanis Mendez produce and provide all of the resort’s operational cast costumes, including our Disney Cruise Line cast who also call Florida home.
Starting in 2019, Yoanis helped entertainment cast shine while performing at the Theater of the Stars. She now helps cast feel show-ready at every location across Walt Disney World.
“I may be a small piece in the big puzzle that helps cast get the costumes they need, but I know that makes a big impact,” Yoanis said. “It’s amazing to go into the park and see the cast smiling while wearing costumes I helped produce or deliver.”
For the latest roles available at and around Walt Disney World, visit DisneyCareers.com. And to learn more about how Disney creates jobs in Florida, visit DisneyFlorida.com.
Guests who visit Walt Disney World have access to an entire city-sized network of free transportation, from buses and monorails to boats and aerial gondolas. There’s a lot of ground to cover and no shortage of ways Disney helps guests travel across its property — whether to one of Disney World’s four theme parks, two water parks, more than 25 hotels, Disney Springs, more than 525 eateries and more.
Disney World has a team of more than 3,500 transportation cast members, not including hundreds of engineers and maintenance cast working behind the scenes to ensure every vehicle in the fleet is ready to move the tens of thousands of guests who use Disney transportation every day.
“We’re one of the most-visited vacation destinations in the world, and we spend a lot of time thinking about how to get everyone where they need to go,” said Ketan Sardeshmukh, Director of Transportation Operations at Disney World. “We’re always looking at ways to move people safely and efficiently, while also creating the easiest, fastest and friendliest experience possible.”
Disney Monorails
The Walt Disney World Monorail System has transported hundreds of millions of guests since it first opened in October 1971, with an annual ridership of about 22 million.
A fan favorite for more than 50 years, Disney cast continue to find new ways to keep the experience fresh for guests. To celebrate the resort’s 50th anniversary, Disney engineers designed a feature that illuminates the beam underneath each train at night. This week, they’re adding another new feature, which allows the logo on each train to glow in the dark.
Disney Boats
Like the monorail, boats have been around since day one at Disney World. 36 different vessels carry guests around Seven Seas Lagoon to the Magic Kingdom, across Crescent Lake to Hollywood Studios or EPCOT, and through Village Lake to Disney Springs daily.
Each Disney World ferryboat can transport up to 600 passengers to and from Magic Kingdom per trip. They share the waterways with two other kinds of boats: motor cruisers and motor launches. The motor launches — often referred to as water taxis — have been in service since Disney World first opened in 1971.
Across Disney World’s property, there are two other areas of watercraft transportation: FriendShip Boats and the Sassagoula River Cruise.
FriendShip Boats sail between EPCOT, Hollywood Studios and several surrounding resorts. These boats were an opening-day attraction at EPCOT, starting their service on Oct. 1, 1982.
The Sassagoula River Cruise offers transportation between select resorts – like Port Orleans French Quarter – and Disney Springs. With 15 boats, the Sassagoula River Cruise has 13 more vessels than the New Orleans RTA, which transports passengers to and from the real French Quarter, according to the French Quarter Journal.
Disney Buses
Last year alone, Disney buses transported 73 million guests. According to the Federal Transit Administration NTD report, Disney World ranks third in the United States for bus riders per square mile of service, only behind New York City and San Francisco. In fact, Disney’s bus network outpaces many metropolitan areas around the country with more than 420 buses in the fleet.
Disney Skyliner
Disney Skyliner is the newest mode of complimentary transportation at Disney World. This 300-cabin aerial gondola system has made a big impact in the five years since it opened. The system connects EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and four resorts that accommodate nearly every family size and budget.
Disney’s respect for the U.S. Armed Forces dates back more than a century, beginning with founders Walt and Roy O. Disney, who served during and after World War I. Roy served in the U.S. Navy while Walt served with the Red Cross Ambulance Corps. Their spirit of patriotism carried through the years and later inspired the creation of a special art unit within The Walt Disney Studios during World War II. This group was dedicated to designing customized military unit insignia for the U.S. Armed Forces and their allies, along with supporting auxiliary and home front organizations.
Over the course of the war, Disney artists produced approximately 1,200 insignia — each one a symbol of pride and a reminder of home for those serving abroad.
“The legacy of supporting our military through this special art program is an important aspect of company history, something we’re honored to help preserve here in the Walt Disney Archives,” noted Kevin M. Kern, Regional Archives Manager for the department. “Each Disney-designed insignia has an interesting story to tell, and each story helps to shine a much-deserved spotlight on those who served our nation through their association with those historical images.”
Beloved Disney-designed characters were used for unit mascots, patches, and other memorabilia to inspire and boost morale among U.S. troops and our allies during the war. The lovable and hot-headed Donald Duck was the most requested character for unit insignia, with hundreds of designs created in support of the U.S. war effort and beyond.
Rocky the Bulldog’s Homecoming
One of those iconic unit insignia is what the U.S. Army now refers to as “Rocky the Bulldog,” a symbol created by Disney studio artists in 1965 for the 3rd Infantry Division of the U.S. Army.
For 60 years, Rocky, has been associated with the traditions of the 3rd Infantry Division based out of Fort Stewart, Georgia. The insignia alludes to the “Dogface” nickname given to Soldiers from this division, especially enlisted infantrymen that gained widespread use during World War II. Disney was overjoyed to welcome the 3rd Infantry Division band — which proudly displays “Rocky the Bulldog” as their insignia — to Walt Disney World Resort to celebrate the Army’s 250th birthday.
The U.S. Army 3rd Infantry Division band performing in Magic Kingdom park during the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday on June 14, 2025
“We are proud to have Rocky as our division mascot. Rocky represents the best of our troops, and we are overjoyed that we get to showcase our unit’s band and joyful patriotic music to all the guests at Magic Kingdom on the happy occasion of our U.S. Army’s 250th birthday celebration,” said Col. Shawn Bault, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division Artillery, U.S. Army.
Disney’s Ongoing Support and Admiration
Disney’s admiration for our nation’s heroes is part of the fabric of our company, reflecting a heritage of service and respect that began with our founders.
Our company’s respect and appreciation for those who serve, and their families continues today. Disney Salutes the military community throughout the year with support through the hiring, training and support for military veterans through the Heroes Work Here initiative, daily Flag Retreat Ceremonies at Magic Kingdom Park and Disneyland and specially priced Disney theme park tickets and resort hotel rates.
To learn more about Disney’s ongoing support for service members, veterans and their families, visit our Veterans topic page.
“Disney Jr. Let’s Play!,” a three-day event inspired by Disney Jr.’s beloved characters and stories, will bring the joy of play and imagination to preschoolers and their families at Disney California Adventure Park on FRIDAY, AUG. 8, and at Downtown Disney District on SATURDAY, AUG. 9, and SUNDAY, AUG. 10.
The celebration will kick off Friday, Aug. 8, at Disney California Adventure Park with the following fun interactive offerings:
“Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Block Party” featuring Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and other fan-favorite characters
Special “Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Live” stage shows
“Confection Purrfection with the SuperKitties” cupcake decorating
“Learn to Draw Disney Jr. Characters” at Animation Academy
Character greetings with Disney Jr. favorites
Throughout the weekend, guests will be able to participate in multiple limited-time photo opportunities, including a themed wall in Hollywood Land at Disney California Adventure highlighting series such as Bluey, Spidey and his Amazing Friends, Iron Man and his Awesome Friends, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse+, and SuperKitties, along with the regular Disney Jr. programming available at the park, such as the new “Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!” stage show.
The fun moves to Downtown Disney District on Saturday, Aug. 9, and Sunday, Aug. 10, with additional photo opportunities, “Disney Jr. Let’s Play!”-themed merchandise at World of Disney and a “Let’s Play!” Bubbles Experience presented by Disney Jr. at Downtown Disney LIVE! Stage and lawn.
Further details, including a full schedule of events, will be posted here leading up to the event.
The “Disney Jr. Let’s Play!” event is happening during the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration, and guests can also enjoy limited-time food and beverage, merchandise and exciting entertainment offerings, such as “World of Color Happiness!”
In addition to a little mischief, the visits were filled with magic as teachers at each of the schools received Walt Disney World park tickets. Disney World also announced a new $500,000 donation that will help fund local education programs.
“We’re thrilled that Disney is making such a considerable donation to our education foundation,” said Fred Heid, Superintendent of Polk County Public Schools. “It’s exciting for me as the superintendent to be able to afford new opportunities for our students.”
In addition to these visits from Stitch, Disney Imagination Campus invited teachers and administrators from each school district for an exclusive day of Disney fun where they’ll have the chance to take inspiration from the living laboratory at EPCOT and bring it back to their classrooms.
“This means the world,” said Adam Cody, a Deerwood Elementary School teacher. “It’s amazing to get the recognition from our district and Disney. There really are no words to describe how special it makes us feel.”
Coincidentally, Adam worked at Walt Disney World as a monorail pilot before heading to college to become a teacher. He’s taught in Osceola County Public Schools for 25 years now and this visit from Disney helped bookend his career as an educator as he officially retired at the end of this school year.
With these visits underway, the summer fun has just begun! Disney World will soon host The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson at Typhoon Lagoon, collect school supplies for Florida students during the resort’s Back-To-School Supply Drive and more.
Disney Cruise Line was awarded the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority’s 2024 Blue Circle Award, acknowledging Disney’s ongoing commitment to operating responsibly in the region.
Jessica Lyons, manager of port planning and operations at Disney Cruise Line, accepts award from Peter Xotta, president and CEO of the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, and Cathy McLay, chair of the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority’s board of directors.
Disney Cruise Line has received the Blue Circle Award for 12 years — every year that Disney has homeported the Disney Wonder at the port. The award celebrates Disney’s participation in the port’s voluntary EcoAction Program that encourages the use of innovative technologies to minimize the maritime industry’s environmental impact in the region.
In alignment with Disney’s environmental goals, Disney Cruise Line continues to introduce new initiatives that reduce emissions and minimize waste. For example, across its legacy ships — including the Disney Wonder — Disney Cruise Line has operationalized the use hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) as part of its strategy to reduce emissions. HVO is a renewable diesel made from sustainable sources like recycled cooking oils and waste animal fats.
The Disney Wonder also reduces emissions while calling on Vancouver by utilizing the port’s shore power technology. Shore power allows cruise ships to turn off their engines while docked and “plug in” to the port’s power source to run all onboard systems as normal. By connecting to shore power, the Disney Wonder saves fuel and reduces air emissions.
Learn more about The Walt Disney Company’s commitment to creating a better world at impact.disney.com.
Nearly 70 years after Disneyland launched the modern theme park industry, Disney continues to play a vital role in driving economic growth, job creation and small businesses across the United States.
Disney Parks & Resorts in Florida and California generated a historic nearly $67 billion in annual economic impact from coast to coast, standing as a cornerstone of America’s tourism economy and beyond, supporting more than 403,000 direct and indirect jobs in California, Florida and in all 50 states.
“Disney defines the themed entertainment business in America, and our presence is felt across the country,” said Josh D’Amaro, Chairman, Disney Experiences. “Our destinations create economies far beyond the gates of our parks, and when we invest in the groundbreaking experiences that only Disney can deliver, growth follows.”
For the last 20 years, Disney has conducted studies on how it impacts local economies where it does business, and a new report prepared by economists from Tourism Economics, a division of Oxford Economics, sheds light on the profound economic impact of the theme park that started it all.
Key findings show that Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, Calif. generated $16.1 billion in annual economic impact across Southern California and supports more than 102,000 jobs in the Southern California region (directly and indirectly).
“Disney is an iconic economic engine powering entire ecosystems of jobs, small businesses and public revenue. What began as a single destination has evolved into one of the most impressive examples of local and national economic growth — generating more than $16 billion in economic impact across Southern California alone in 2023.” said Adam Sacks, president of Tourism Economics, an Oxford Economics company.
The new report arrives as Disney moves forward with plans to ‘turbocharge’ the growth of Disney’s domestic theme parks with plans to increase capital expenditures in the U.S. to $30 billion.
Anaheim: From Rural to Roaring
When Walt Disney opened Disneyland in 1955, no one could have predicted the impact it would have on Anaheim, let alone the nation. Anaheim, a once rural community known more for its oranges than anything else, would go from a small, sleepy town to a major tourist destination in less than a decade.
“As we celebrate 70 incredible years in Southern California, we are deeply proud of the lasting impact Disneyland Resort has made — creating thousands of jobs, fueling the local economy and welcoming the world to this extraordinary region,” said Thomas Mazloum, president, Disneyland Resort. “And we’re just getting started — the decades ahead hold even greater promise, and we look forward to growing, evolving and contributing more to the community we call home.”
As Disneyland’s popularity increased, Anaheim grew up around it, featuring motels, restaurants and other tourism-driven businesses that still line the streets around the Disneyland Resort today.
Looking ahead, Disneyland Resort has committed to investing a minimum of $1.9 billion in new experiences which could generate up to $30 million in annual revenues for the city. This includes Disney’s investment of $30 million in affordable housing, $8 million for city parks and $45 million for street and sewer improvements.
With the new developments, guests can look forward to Disney doubling the size of Avenger’s Campus at Disney’s California Adventure park, and the creation of new attractions at Disneyland Resort based on Disney and Pixar’s Coco and Avatar.
Expanding Impact from Coast to Coast
Just a decade after Disneyland’s opening, in 1965, Disney officially announced the “Florida Project,” now known globally today as Walt Disney World Resort. Throughout its more than 50 years in operation, Walt Disney World has fueled Florida’s economy, tourism and small businesses.
Like its counterpart on the west coast, Disney World catalyzed the transformation of Central Florida into the global tourist destination it is today.
Key findings from previous research about the economic impact of Disney’s operations in Florida in fiscal year 2022 show that Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., along with Disney Signature Experiences, including Disney Vacation Club and Disney Cruise Line, generated $40.3 billion in annual economic impact across the state and supports more than 263,000 jobs in Florida (directly and indirectly).
Its impact will continue to grow as Disney moves forward with the largest-ever expansion of the Magic Kingdom, including a reimagined section of Frontierland inspired by the Pixar Animation Studios film Cars and a new land themed around Disney Villains from classic Walt Disney Animation Studios films.
Additionally, Disney’s Animal Kingdom continues to grow with a new Tropical Americas land featuring attractions based on Encanto from Walt Disney Animation Studios and Indiana Jones. At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the first-ever land based on Pixar Animation Studios’ Monsters, Inc. is coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Empowering Local Businesses
Disney’s operations in both Florida and California power a massive small business ecosystem across the country.
The company works with thousands of local businesses across all 50 states, which employ workers and provide a wide range of goods and services — from the paint used on Sleeping Beauty Castle to specialty popcorn served in the theme parks, towels and linens provided for guests across Disney Resort hotels and more.
One example is Advantage ColorGraphics, a regional commercial printing firm based in Anaheim, Calif. that helps bring Disneyland’s park maps to life. The company began as a small mailbox shop over 30 years ago, and has since grown into a world class service, working with global and local companies, including Disneyland Resort.
“The business that Disneyland provides ensures that we’re able to impact Anaheim and the local communities,” shared Tom Ling, founder, Advantage ColorGraphics.
Beyond working with domestic suppliers, Disney prioritizes providing education and training opportunities for entrepreneurs and collaborates with local businesses to develop innovative new experiences and products through programs like Disney Accelerator.
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.
Disney’s Commitment to the Community
Disney’s impact on American communities extends further, bringing comfort, optimism and joy, and inspiring hope, especially for children. Every year, the company continues Walt Disney’s commitment to bringing positive, meaningful and measurable impact to communities across the country, through financial contributions, collaborations with nonprofit organizations, in-kind donations and employee volunteering.
Since 1983, Disney employees and cast members have collectively contributed nearly 14 million hours to their communities worldwide through the Disney VoluntEARS program.
Additionally, Disney contributed more than $263 million in charitable giving (cash and in-kind) in fiscal year 2024, and most recently, committed $15 million for initial and immediate response and rebuilding efforts related to wildfires in the Los Angeles region.
As the world’s largest wish granter for Make-A-Wish®, Disney grants half of all wishes made in the U.S. in a typical year and has granted over 165,000 wishes globally since 1980. On average, a Disney wish is granted every hour of every day — and the company is honored that wish kids choose Disney for their most heartfelt wish.
Continuing Walt Disney’s Legacy of Entrepreneurship
Walt Disney’s dream of a place where families could immerse themselves in their favorite Disney stories caused a profound ripple effect, starting in Southern California, growing across the country to Florida, and around the world.
Disney embodied the quintessential American dreamer, characterized by modest beginnings, perseverance and ultimately significant success through calculated risks. As a symbol of American ingenuity, Disney’s creations embody the optimism and innovative spirit that are hallmarks of the nation’s identity.
The company’s impact extends beyond the realms of imagination; it also plays a vital role in supporting the U.S. economy and enhancing societal well-being. By producing captivating content and experiences, Disney not only creates happiness but also generates employment, stimulates tourism and contributes to charitable endeavors that enrich communities.
Did you know there’s a hidden gem inside Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park where guests can get up-close with animals, learn about conservation and watch expert veterinary care and science in action? Just a short ride away on the Wildlife Express Train, Rafiki’s Planet Watch is where guests can meet and learn from passionate and dedicated cast members like veterinarians, nutritionists, animal keepers, educators, scientists and more who are working to save animals and inspire action.
Conservation Station
In addition to getting a close-up view of reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates, live procedures take place at the Veterinary Treatment Room, where animals across Walt Disney World receive world-class care in a state-of-the-art facility. This hospital features a large window for guests to get a front row seat to see Disney’s veterinarians and veterinary technicians behind the magic.
At the Animal Nutrition Window, guests can watch and talk to Disney nutrition team cast members who prepare carefully curated diets for some of the 5,000 animals across Walt Disney World. And Disney’s Animal Nutrition Center delivers 10,000 pounds of food daily to the animals at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the nearby Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and The Seas with Nemo & Friends at EPCOT!
“The meals we make for the animals are all carefully balanced to make sure they have everything they need to stay healthy,” shares Adrienne, an animal nutrition coordinator.
Over at the Science Center — a real working lab — impactful research is conducted by scientists. Here Guests can learn about the innovative technology and practices that Disney is using to advance conservation and animal welfare.
And at The Animation Experience, a talented Disney artist gives a step-by-step tutorial on how to illustrate a wide variety of rotating characters, including Mickey, Bambi, Simba and more!
Affection Section
Show some affection to adorable animals at Affection Section — an expansive outdoor space where animal care experts are available to answer questions about a variety of unique, domesticated animals like Nigerian dwarf goats.
Wilderness Explorers
Wilderness Explorers is an interactive program where guests can complete engaging, nature-themed challenges to earn badges and become Wilderness Explorers themselves! There are over 25 badges to earn throughout Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and five of them can be found at Rafiki’s Planet Watch.
Limited-time Cool KID SUMMER Pollinator Activity
And Cool KID SUMMER is bringing limited-time summer magic to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, including Rafiki’s Planet Watch. Now through Sept. 1, kids can have fun exploring their creativity and learning important conservation lessons during a hands-on crafts activity all about pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Cast Members Inspiring the Next Generation of Conservationists
Visiting Rafiki’s Planet Watch allows guests to connect with the animals that make our planet so special. What makes the experience even more unique is the ability to ask our animal experts questions — whether it’s a scientist in the Science Center or an animal keeper caring for goats.
“We have a very unique opportunity to engage with people from a wide variety of backgrounds,” said Jonathan, an educator at Conservation Station. “It warms my heart to be able to make their day a little more magical. I get to learn what their favorite animals are and teach them what they can do to help protect them.” And Disney’s long legacy of protecting the magic of nature extends far beyond our theme parks. Over 30 years, the Disney Conservation Fund has directed more than $132 million to community conservation programs along with the expertise of our dedicated teams to support organizations working with communities to protect wildlife, inspire action, and promote environmental resilience. To learn more about Disney’s commitment to the environment through Disney Planet Possible, visit impact.disney.com.
This year marks a major milestone for Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (HKDL) as it celebrates its 20th anniversary with a yearlong party that features a spectacular lineup of new entertainment, community initiatives, and a bold vision for the future. Since opening its gates in 2005, HKDL has become a beloved destination for Disney fans across Asia and beyond.
“HKDL has become the tourism flagship for Hong Kong and the region now. We hope this milestone year will be filled with immersive entertainment, unforgettable moments, and boundless magic and surprises that only Hong Kong Disneyland can create,” Michael Moriarty, Managing Director of Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, said.
A Celebration Like Never Before
To commemorate two decades of storytelling and innovation, HKDL has launched its most ambitious entertainment slate to date.
“This party is a vibrant celebration like never before,” Moriarty noted. “Guests can get up close and interact with beloved Disney characters, both classic and new, as we bring everyone together for the festivities. Prepare to experience the full celebration with all your favorite Disney friends.”
At the heart of the celebration is a trio of new entertainment experiences designed to dazzle guests of all ages.
For the 15-minute concert-style show “Disney Friends Live: Party at the Castle!,” Paul Rivet, Executive Director, Entertainment, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, noted that guests can expect “vibrant pop music, fun interactive moments, and favorite Disney characters all in one magical performance.”
The show — which will “get everyone into the party spirit,” according to Rivet — includes three large LED screens displaying mesmerizing visuals and new scenic elements like fog jets and cold pyro to energize partygoers, in front of the castle decked out with giant balloons and banners, making for an epic backdrop.
Disney Princesses Aurora, Tiana, and Belle make a grand entrance in never-before-seen party attire, while live vocalists perform three original songs, including the 20th anniversary anthem, “The Most Magical Party of All.”
The celebration continues with “Friendtastic!”, the largest parade in HKDL’s history. “This dazzling 30-minute parade has been two years in the making,” Christie Evangelisto, Creative Director, Entertainment, Hong Kong Disneyland, noted. “The parade showcases 11 groups of Disney friends, each on brand-new floats. There will be several firsts in Hong Kong Disneyland’s parade history, including the very first Duffy and Friends-themed float and an Encanto-themed float.”
Over 100 performers, including more than 30 beloved Disney characters — some making their Hong Kong Disneyland debut — bring the parade to life. “Four original songs were created just for this parade,” Evangelisto added.
Rounding out the entertainment is “Momentous: Party in the Night Sky,” an enhanced nighttime spectacular that adds eight minutes of new story moments, breathtaking projections, and drone choreography.
“Mickey Mouse gathers friends from more than 20 beloved stories to bring decorations and music to ‘The Most Magical Party of All,’” Rivet, said.
A Legacy of Impact
Beyond entertainment, the 20th anniversary is a moment to reflect on HKDL’s community impact.
“As a flagship destination for Hong Kong tourism, HKDL has offered unique Disney storytelling and authentic experiences to locals and tourists for nearly two decades,” Moriarty said. “When people think of what to do in Hong Kong, ‘go to Disneyland’ is always one of the top recommendations.”
Michael Moriarty, Managing Director of Hong Kong Disneyland Resort
Throughout its 20 years of bringing Disney stories and characters to its guests in the region, HKDL has created tens of thousands of jobs on its way to becoming one of the largest entertainment employers in Hong Kong. And, over the past 19 years, Disney VoluntEARS have contributed nearly 123,000 hours to help children in hospitals and children with disabilities.
This year, as part of its anniversary celebration, HKDL will double its annual donation of 100,000 complimentary park tickets to community organizations serving those in need.
“HKDL has the most passionate fans,” Moriarty said. “As we reflect on our journey, we celebrate the spirit of togetherness that HKDL fosters, making our city a happier and more welcoming place.”
Looking Ahead
As HKDL celebrates its past, it is also looking boldly toward the future.
“Following the successful launch of World of Frozen in 2023, the current 20th anniversary, and our current expansion plans with more Super Hero-themed experiences, a Pixar entertainment offering, and more new guest offerings in development, HKDL has a solid pipeline for future growth,” Moriarty said.
Hong Kong Disneyland Resort is looking forward to a bright future ahead.
“We remain agile and committed to providing innovative experiences and exceptional service for our guests,” Moriarty said. “Those are a testament to the ideals that have guided us for the last 20 years.”
Not all of them can be found in our six parks or more than 25 resort hotels, though. From the Orlando International Airport to the Disney Central Reservations Center, let’s meet the cast members who make magic beyond the gates of Walt Disney World.
Meet Irene Wachira. Originally from Kenya, she had a dream to work at The Most Magical Place On Earth.
After completing a Disney International Program at Kilimanjaro Safaris in Animal Kingdom, she became an agent at Disney Central in Orlando, a Disney World reservation and call center.
Fun Fact: There is a second Disney Central in Tampa where even more cast members help guests plan their next Disney vacation.
“I’ve created a family here and built relationships with guests planning their next vacation,” Irene said.
“This can be someone’s first trip or their 100th trip,” she said. “I want to make their visit as magical and unique as it can be.”
Over at the Orlando International Airport, guests meet cast members like Holly Pettway. She’s a Merchandise Guest Experience Manager at the Magic of Disney store.
More than 30 years ago, she learned about the Disney College Program and has made Central Florida her home ever since.
“I feel fortunate to have worked for the same company for over half my life,” Holly said.
Holly has worked at multiple merchandise locations throughout Walt Disney World but says Magic of Disney holds a special place in her heart.
At the airport, she’s often the first — or last — Disney cast member guests see when they visit Central Florida. And working at Magic of Disney, she has the opportunity to match fans with the perfect piece of Disney merchandise, so that they can take a piece of the magic home with them.
While visiting Orlando, guests may meet cast members like Vini Matheus at Disney’s Character Warehouse. This Orlando Premium Outlet store lets guests take home the Disney magic they might have missed at the parks.
Vini’s journey began in 2022 at Disney’s Character Warehouse in South Florida.
“If it wasn’t for the leaders and mentors I had, I don’t think I would be where I am today,” Vini said.
Today, Vini trains new cast members while encouraging them to take advantage of opportunities that come their way — doing for them what previous mentors did for him.
Some people may not know that there are “backstage” Disney World offices and buildings across the state – like the Costuming Storage Warehouse. Here, cast members like Yoanis Mendez produce and provide all of the resort’s operational cast costumes, including our Disney Cruise Line cast who also call Florida home.
Starting in 2019, Yoanis helped entertainment cast shine while performing at the Theater of the Stars. She now helps cast feel show-ready at every location across Walt Disney World.
“I may be a small piece in the big puzzle that helps cast get the costumes they need, but I know that makes a big impact,” Yoanis said. “It’s amazing to go into the park and see the cast smiling while wearing costumes I helped produce or deliver.”
For the latest roles available at and around Walt Disney World, visit DisneyCareers.com. And to learn more about how Disney creates jobs in Florida, visit DisneyFlorida.com.
Guests who visit Walt Disney World have access to an entire city-sized network of free transportation, from buses and monorails to boats and aerial gondolas. There’s a lot of ground to cover and no shortage of ways Disney helps guests travel across its property — whether to one of Disney World’s four theme parks, two water parks, more than 25 hotels, Disney Springs, more than 525 eateries and more.
Disney World has a team of more than 3,500 transportation cast members, not including hundreds of engineers and maintenance cast working behind the scenes to ensure every vehicle in the fleet is ready to move the tens of thousands of guests who use Disney transportation every day.
“We’re one of the most-visited vacation destinations in the world, and we spend a lot of time thinking about how to get everyone where they need to go,” said Ketan Sardeshmukh, Director of Transportation Operations at Disney World. “We’re always looking at ways to move people safely and efficiently, while also creating the easiest, fastest and friendliest experience possible.”
Disney Monorails
The Walt Disney World Monorail System has transported hundreds of millions of guests since it first opened in October 1971, with an annual ridership of about 22 million.
A fan favorite for more than 50 years, Disney cast continue to find new ways to keep the experience fresh for guests. To celebrate the resort’s 50th anniversary, Disney engineers designed a feature that illuminates the beam underneath each train at night. This week, they’re adding another new feature, which allows the logo on each train to glow in the dark.
Disney Boats
Like the monorail, boats have been around since day one at Disney World. 36 different vessels carry guests around Seven Seas Lagoon to the Magic Kingdom, across Crescent Lake to Hollywood Studios or EPCOT, and through Village Lake to Disney Springs daily.
Each Disney World ferryboat can transport up to 600 passengers to and from Magic Kingdom per trip. They share the waterways with two other kinds of boats: motor cruisers and motor launches. The motor launches — often referred to as water taxis — have been in service since Disney World first opened in 1971.
Across Disney World’s property, there are two other areas of watercraft transportation: FriendShip Boats and the Sassagoula River Cruise.
FriendShip Boats sail between EPCOT, Hollywood Studios and several surrounding resorts. These boats were an opening-day attraction at EPCOT, starting their service on Oct. 1, 1982.
The Sassagoula River Cruise offers transportation between select resorts – like Port Orleans French Quarter – and Disney Springs. With 15 boats, the Sassagoula River Cruise has 13 more vessels than the New Orleans RTA, which transports passengers to and from the real French Quarter, according to the French Quarter Journal.
Disney Buses
Last year alone, Disney buses transported 73 million guests. According to the Federal Transit Administration NTD report, Disney World ranks third in the United States for bus riders per square mile of service, only behind New York City and San Francisco. In fact, Disney’s bus network outpaces many metropolitan areas around the country with more than 420 buses in the fleet.
Disney Skyliner
Disney Skyliner is the newest mode of complimentary transportation at Disney World. This 300-cabin aerial gondola system has made a big impact in the five years since it opened. The system connects EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and four resorts that accommodate nearly every family size and budget.
Disney’s respect for the U.S. Armed Forces dates back more than a century, beginning with founders Walt and Roy O. Disney, who served during and after World War I. Roy served in the U.S. Navy while Walt served with the Red Cross Ambulance Corps. Their spirit of patriotism carried through the years and later inspired the creation of a special art unit within The Walt Disney Studios during World War II. This group was dedicated to designing customized military unit insignia for the U.S. Armed Forces and their allies, along with supporting auxiliary and home front organizations.
Over the course of the war, Disney artists produced approximately 1,200 insignia — each one a symbol of pride and a reminder of home for those serving abroad.
“The legacy of supporting our military through this special art program is an important aspect of company history, something we’re honored to help preserve here in the Walt Disney Archives,” noted Kevin M. Kern, Regional Archives Manager for the department. “Each Disney-designed insignia has an interesting story to tell, and each story helps to shine a much-deserved spotlight on those who served our nation through their association with those historical images.”
Beloved Disney-designed characters were used for unit mascots, patches, and other memorabilia to inspire and boost morale among U.S. troops and our allies during the war. The lovable and hot-headed Donald Duck was the most requested character for unit insignia, with hundreds of designs created in support of the U.S. war effort and beyond.
Rocky the Bulldog’s Homecoming
One of those iconic unit insignia is what the U.S. Army now refers to as “Rocky the Bulldog,” a symbol created by Disney studio artists in 1965 for the 3rd Infantry Division of the U.S. Army.
For 60 years, Rocky, has been associated with the traditions of the 3rd Infantry Division based out of Fort Stewart, Georgia. The insignia alludes to the “Dogface” nickname given to Soldiers from this division, especially enlisted infantrymen that gained widespread use during World War II. Disney was overjoyed to welcome the 3rd Infantry Division band — which proudly displays “Rocky the Bulldog” as their insignia — to Walt Disney World Resort to celebrate the Army’s 250th birthday.
The U.S. Army 3rd Infantry Division band performing in Magic Kingdom park during the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday on June 14, 2025
“We are proud to have Rocky as our division mascot. Rocky represents the best of our troops, and we are overjoyed that we get to showcase our unit’s band and joyful patriotic music to all the guests at Magic Kingdom on the happy occasion of our U.S. Army’s 250th birthday celebration,” said Col. Shawn Bault, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division Artillery, U.S. Army.
Disney’s Ongoing Support and Admiration
Disney’s admiration for our nation’s heroes is part of the fabric of our company, reflecting a heritage of service and respect that began with our founders.
Our company’s respect and appreciation for those who serve, and their families continues today. Disney Salutes the military community throughout the year with support through the hiring, training and support for military veterans through the Heroes Work Here initiative, daily Flag Retreat Ceremonies at Magic Kingdom Park and Disneyland and specially priced Disney theme park tickets and resort hotel rates.
To learn more about Disney’s ongoing support for service members, veterans and their families, visit our Veterans topic page.
“Disney Jr. Let’s Play!,” a three-day event inspired by Disney Jr.’s beloved characters and stories, will bring the joy of play and imagination to preschoolers and their families at Disney California Adventure Park on FRIDAY, AUG. 8, and at Downtown Disney District on SATURDAY, AUG. 9, and SUNDAY, AUG. 10.
The celebration will kick off Friday, Aug. 8, at Disney California Adventure Park with the following fun interactive offerings:
“Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Block Party” featuring Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and other fan-favorite characters
Special “Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Live” stage shows
“Confection Purrfection with the SuperKitties” cupcake decorating
“Learn to Draw Disney Jr. Characters” at Animation Academy
Character greetings with Disney Jr. favorites
Throughout the weekend, guests will be able to participate in multiple limited-time photo opportunities, including a themed wall in Hollywood Land at Disney California Adventure highlighting series such as Bluey, Spidey and his Amazing Friends, Iron Man and his Awesome Friends, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse+, and SuperKitties, along with the regular Disney Jr. programming available at the park, such as the new “Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!” stage show.
The fun moves to Downtown Disney District on Saturday, Aug. 9, and Sunday, Aug. 10, with additional photo opportunities, “Disney Jr. Let’s Play!”-themed merchandise at World of Disney and a “Let’s Play!” Bubbles Experience presented by Disney Jr. at Downtown Disney LIVE! Stage and lawn.
Further details, including a full schedule of events, will be posted here leading up to the event.
The “Disney Jr. Let’s Play!” event is happening during the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration, and guests can also enjoy limited-time food and beverage, merchandise and exciting entertainment offerings, such as “World of Color Happiness!”
