Disney News

Every day, as the flag is lowered on Main Street, U.S.A. in Magic Kingdom Park, we take time to salute the heroes who stand up for our country.   World War II veteran and retired U.S. Army Col. William “Bill” Connelly became the latest service member to be honored through this beloved tradition, adding to the magic of his 100th birthday celebration at Walt Disney World Resort.  “It really is an honor,” said Bill. “You make a guy feel good—that’s the best way I can describe it—all of you.”  During World War II, Bill served our country in the 115th Regiment of the 29th Infantry Division of the U.S. Army. He was drafted as an 18-year-old, and with help from the Army, he finished high school, went to college and ROTC (Reserve Officers’ Training Corps), earned his bachelor’s degree and was later commissioned as an Army officer.   He was involved in both the European and Pacific theaters, including the D-Day landing at Omaha Beach, Normandy, France. A soldier for 27 years, he spent most of his career working with the Counterintelligence Corps and was awarded the Bronze Star for Meritorious Service in a Combat Zone.  Photo from Bill’s time in the U.S. Army. Courtesy of William Connelly. Photo from Bill’s time in the U.S. Army. Courtesy of William Connelly. Photo from Bill’s time in the U.S. Army. Courtesy of William Connelly. Photo from Bill’s time in the U.S. Army. Courtesy of William Connelly. Photo from Bill’s time in the U.S. Army. Courtesy of William Connelly. Photo from Bill’s time in the U.S. Army. Courtesy of William Connelly. The daily flag retreat ceremony is always a special moment, but it’s even more meaningful when we can celebrate the bravery and sacrifices of heroes from the “greatest generation,” like Bill.  Saluting Cast Member Military Families  His son-in-law—Geoffrey Grike, senior systems engineer, Disney Experiences—is a Disney cast member who was thrilled his company would be celebrating the selfless service of this American hero timed to his 100th birthday at the daily Flag Retreat ceremony.  “What an amazing flag retreat ceremony at Magic Kingdom honoring my father-in-law, Col. William A. Connelly—a loving husband of 63 years, a father of three daughters, grandfather of six, great-grandfather of six, a World War II veteran, and now a centenarian,” reflected Geoffrey. “So many family memories have already been made here, and today’s new memory will certainly never be forgotten.”   At the ceremony, Bill shared his legacy with three generations of family members. This was a full-circle moment for the Connelly family, who have been enjoying family vacations at Walt Disney World Resort for more than 50 years.  Left: Bill with his family in the Magic Kingdom in 2006. Photo courtesy of William Connelly. Right: Bill with his family in the Magic Kingdom, after being honored with a flag retreat ceremony on Jan. 10, 2025. Left: Bill with his family in the Magic Kingdom in 2006. Photo courtesy of William Connelly. Right: Bill with his family in the Magic Kingdom, after being honored with a flag retreat ceremony on Jan. 10, 2025. Left: Bill with his family in the Magic Kingdom in 2006. Photo courtesy of William Connelly. Right: Bill with his family in the Magic Kingdom, after being honored with a flag retreat ceremony on Jan. 10, 2025. “We first visited Disney in 1973 and have been back nearly every year since, to enjoy the parks and golf courses. This was always a vacation that the whole family looked forward to,” Bill added.  As the sun set over Magic Kingdom, the patriotic chords of the national anthem sung by Dapper Dans swept through the crowd. The color guard and members of the Disney SALUTE veteran employee resource group stood proudly around the flagpole. Members of Magic Kingdom’s security team then handed the flag to Bill, as he was cheered on by guests and cast members.  After the flag was lowered, cast members and guests lined up to shake hands with Bill and thank him for his service.   “I couldn’t imagine all those people shaking hands with me, thanking me for something I should’ve done,” he reflected humbly. “I shouldn’t be honored for my service—it was my privilege to do it.”  The emotional and heartwarming procession is an enduring homage to liberty and the incredible people who protect our nation through service.  Creating Happiness for Our Nation’s Heroes  Respect for military service members, veterans and their families is engrained in Disney’s history. This legacy began with our founders Walt and Roy O. Disney, who both served their country during World War I.  For nearly 70 years—since Disneyland Park opened in 1955 and Magic Kingdom Park opened in 1971—we have saluted our country’s heroes with daily flag ceremonies. Each day, a veteran or service member is selected from the day’s visitors at Magic Kingdom to be the official “U.S. Armed Forces Representative of the Day” and participate in the sunset ceremony.  We have honored many veterans who served in World War II through flag retreat ceremonies from coast to coast, including 101-year-old U.S. Army Staff Sgt. “Papa Jake” Larson and 101-year-old Specialist S, 3rd Class for the U.S. Navy, Dorothy “Pat” Rudd.   Another former honoree is Bill’s best friend and fellow U.S. Army veteran, Tony Gallego, who joined the celebration and helped the Connelly family cheer him on. Tony was previously honored at a Magic Kingdom flag retreat ceremony in 2024, while celebrating his 100th birthday.  Bill poses in a Main Street vehicle with his best friend and fellow World War II veteran Tony Gallego. Bill poses in a Main Street vehicle with his best friend and fellow World War II veteran Tony Gallego. Bill poses in a Main Street vehicle with his best friend and fellow World War II veteran Tony Gallego. Disney also offers a special discount on theme park tickets for Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort for eligible U.S. military service members and veterans. These are some of the many ways in which we

For 50 years, Space Mountain has been a cornerstone of Magic Kingdom park. A place where conquering your first roller coaster is celebrated and lifelong memories are made every single day. For many families, this iconic attraction became a rite of passage—a tradition of parents introducing their children to the thrilling magic of Disney for the first time. I’ll never forget my first ride on Space Mountain because it was my first roller coaster! From standing in line with my mom to clutching the safety bar with a mix of nerves and excitement, it’s a memory I nostalgically look back on when I walk through Tomorrowland. Fifteen years later, I brought my nephew for his very first roller coaster ride. As we stepped off, with a beaming smile, he asked, “Can we go again?” In that moment, I was humbled by the magic of how these firsts transcend generations. This sweet, full-circle moment perfectly captured one of the things I love most about being a cast member — watching guests create core memories out of distinctly Disney moments. And I’m not alone. As a concierge cast member with over 30 years at Disney, Chris recalls riding Space Mountain as if it were yesterday. During a 1977 family trip to Magic Kingdom, his mom’s hilarious screams on the ride became a cherished family joke. The next day, inspired by the magic, Chris asked his dad to take him to Casting where he landed his first summer job. Over the decades, Chris has worked in nearly 20 roles, including significant time in broadcast and marketing – a career as exciting as the coaster! “You could say Space Mountain took me on the ride of my life,” Chris reflected. Michael and Katelyn, operations coordinators at Disney World, have their own special connection to the iconic ride. Their love story launched at Space Mountain where as cast members there, they worked at the attraction, started dating, got married, and recently celebrated the first birthday of their daughter Stella — whose name was inspired by the nickname cast members affectionately gave Space Mountain. “We love that we get to watch Stella grow up at Disney,” said Katelyn. “We actually take a photo of her at the height requirement stick every time we visit. It’ll be fun to look back at those knowing one day she’ll be tall enough to ride with mom and dad!” Space Mountain’s 50th anniversary is a celebration of more than just a ride; it’s a celebration of family, tradition, and the moments we cherish. Where fun and nostalgia come together, creating memories that span generations — not just for the past 50 years, but for the next 50. Lifelong fans and first-time riders alike, we invite you to share your own Space Mountain memories and join us in celebrating this galactic milestone! The post Space Mountain Celebrates 50 Years — From First Coasters to Forever Memories appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. ​

The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts is a time to celebrate visual, performing, and culinary arts. This year, at the start of the festival, we will get to see the art of costume design with the debut of new Voices of Liberty costumes!  This new look for the beloved a cappella group will be featured year-round–except during the holidays, of course–and the costumes are the product of talent, time and careful design. To get a closer look at the artistry and effort behind these creations, I sat down with the talented costume design and production team at Disney Live Entertainment responsible for these new looks. Let’s take a peek into their creative process and what it takes to bring these costumes to life!  Designing for such an iconic ensemble is no small feat and our team was up for the challenge! “We wanted to create a cohesive look that celebrated the grandness of the rotunda in which they perform and the impact of their musical presentation through incorporating a visual aesthetic of music itself,” explained Josh, Costume Designer with Disney Live Entertainment. When it came to the color palette, he found inspiration from a vintage American flag. This allowed him to create unique looks for each performer while still coordinating with the whole group, illustrating the way in which individual voices come together as one.  One of the most important aspects of costume design is ensuring the garments are visually stunning yet functional for the performers who will wear them daily while singing. The design features a streamlined, architectural energy, so it was essential to select fabrics that could be tailored well while providing the crisp construction needed. Aubry, the Costumer for this project, sourced a sustainable fabric made from 50% or more recycled materials. “The fabric could also be custom dyed to match the exact colors chosen by our designer, allowing us to achieve the intended vision as closely as possible.”  Collaboration is key in a project like this – not just within the Costuming team, but also in partnership with the Voices of Liberty cast.  “When we fit our performers for costumes, we make sure they demonstrate movements they might need to make during the show, which can vary person to person,” Aubry explained. “For example, our vocal captains use a wide range of arm movement while conducting, so comfort and mobility in the back and shoulders is of extra importance.”  When asked about the final product, our Costuming team couldn’t contain their excitement. For them, the most memorable part of the process is how it brough everyone together. A highlight for both Josh and Aubry was when the Voices of Liberty visited the costume shop to perform a special thank you for the entire Creative Costuming team who worked on the project, including stitchers, drapers, cutters, and more, all while wearing the new costumes they worked so hard to create. The new Voices of Liberty costumes are more than just clothes; they are an example of the artistry of costuming. From the thoughtful design choices to the detailed production processes, the Creative Costuming team created something that both the performers and our guests will enjoy and appreciate for years to come. The post Behind the Seams: Crafting New Voices of Liberty Costumes  appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. ​

For the first time ever, we’re giving you a weekly behind-the-scenes glimpse at baby Bakso and his mom Sohni as they get ready for his big day on Maharajah Jungle Trek. Starting today, and every week, tune in to the Disney Parks YouTube and Disney Parks Blog to see what mom and baby are up to and get filled in on what’s been happening in between Tiger Tuesdays. Who doesn’t want to see a tiger cub grow and learn and experience all his firsts?    EPISODE 1 Already proving to be an inquisitive and active cub, Bakso’s curious and playful personality is starting to shine through. Over the next few weeks, you’ll be able to watch him reach important milestones that might include taking his first swim lesson or eating solid food for the first time.    Our animal care experts are taking such great care of Bakso and mom and they’re making sure he’s ready to explore the world around him in the coming weeks. We can’t wait to tune into Tiger Tuesday TV weekly to see baby Bakso updates. Catch his next big adventure and maybe catch some cute cuddle time between baby and mom Sohni!  EPISODE 2 Time For Baby’s First Check Up! Guess who had his first neonatal exam with our veterinarians? Baby boy Bakso!His veterinarians are very happy with his weight, sharp baby teeth, bright amber eyes and his quick reflexes. Animal keepers provided mom Sohni with her some of her favorite enrichment – a bone, while Bakso was away from her supervising eyes just for a little while so the vets could do their exam. His first introduction to our veterinary team was a success, and they’re thrilled with the growth milestones he’s met so far. This initial neonatal exam is essential to ensuring the health and ongoing wellbeing of Bakso. During the exam, the team was able to evaluate his overall physical health, including a look into his big, beautiful eyes. Baby Bakso is almost 8 weeks old and weighs just over 10 lbs. We can’t wait to see what he does next! EPISODE 3 We can’t get enough of Bakso!  He continues to be very active and curious as he explores his backstage home, not far from his very patient mom, Sohni, who has been watching from their long hallway. We are giving you another view of the backstage area that Bakso has been exploring – think of it as a playroom of sorts.   This week he has been trying something new— his first introduction to scent enrichment with lemongrass, which he loved smelling, scratching and at times, laying in. This new experience is so important for his growth as its opening his senses to the world, all while keeping him happy and healthy. Next week, Bakso hits another milestone — as he officially turns 3 months old! Be sure to check back next week to see what other adorable moments are ahead in his journey.   EPISODE 4 EPISODE 5 “Meatball” ate a meatball!  Happy Tiger Tuesday! Did you know that Bakso’s name was inspired by the Indonesian word for meatball? This week, our little cub, ate solid food for the very first time – and it was a meatball! Like all big cats, Sumatran tigers are carnivores and our Animal Nutrition Center does an incredible job at ensuring all animal diets are delicious, packed full of proper nutrients and ethically sourced. This is especially important for a baby cub during his growing years and as he prepares for the “big cat habitat.”   Eating solid foods is a critical milestone in Bakso’s development. This is important because it will determine that soon, keepers will begin weaning him from nursing and providing him with the necessary enrichment to mimic hunting behavior. Over the next few weeks, he will begin munching more on solid foods and nursing less, taking him one step closer to joining Sohni on Maharajah Jungle Trek!  EPISODE 6 Little Bakso continues to grow more independent by the day.   While still under the watchful eye of his mom, Sohni, Bakso recently explored a new area—the outside yard of their backstage habitat. Though his time there was brief, it was a pivotal moment in his development. Before joining his mom in the main habitat next year, Bakso will need to further hone his climbing and exploring skills, and this new space is the perfect environment for that.   Think of it as “pre-school” for cubs—where he can practice jumping from logs, rolling in tall grasses, and even improving his pounce (and yes, he’s getting pretty good at it!). In the coming weeks, our dedicated keepers will also be introducing new challenges, including swimming, to continue nurturing Bakso’s growth.   As the holiday season approaches, we’ll be taking a brief pause from Tiger TV Tuesdays until the new year. But rest assured, we’ll have plenty of exciting updates to share when we return on January 7.  EPISODE 7 It’s been a couple of weeks since we last peeked backstage into Bakso and Sohni’s world, and in that time, Bakso has grown a little bit more independent. While he still enjoys plenty of cuddle time with his mom, Sohni, he’s eating a lot more and becoming increasingly more comfortable exploring his backstage habitat on his own. We’re starting to see him venture and play in more spaces that at one time could have been a bit intimidating, but even as he grows more curious and confident, we see him always returning to the reassuring presence of mom. Just over three months old, Bakso is entering an important phase in his development. His exploration is important for building his tiger skills, both physically and socially. Sohni continues to play a key role in his growth, providing the nurturing presence he needs while also allowing him the space to discover the world around him. It’s clear that he is sharpening those tiger instincts, from crouching to practicing his pounces—though often, his target is still his mom, including her tail! His keepers said his favorite

Fifty years ago this week, Space Mountain blasted off into the next great frontier at Walt Disney World Resort, forever changing the world. Creating an experiential phenomenon never before seen, this iconic attraction’s popularity would grow to boast a mountain range of experiences found around the world from Walt Disney World Resort to Disneyland Resort, Tokyo Disney Resort, and beyond.    As we celebrate this milestone anniversary, we’re exploring how Space Mountain didn’t just peak at perfection in 1975 but continued to evolve globally for generations.  In five, four, three, two, one…  From One Frontier to the Next  To get to the bottom of the story, we have to start at the first mountain in a Disney park, which believe it or not, wasn’t Space Mountain! It all began in 1958 when Walt Disney first spotted the Matterhorn mountain in Switzerland. Inspired by its breathtaking landscape and lore, the often-recalled story goes, Walt sent a postcard of the famous peak back to Disney Imagineers with the words “BUILD THIS” on the back.   Imagineers went to work developing what would become the world’s first-ever tubular steel track thrill ride for Disneyland. When Matterhorn Bobsleds debuted at Disneyland in 1959, the steel track allowed for sharp turns and weaving in and out of craggy caverns — it was unlike anything guests had ever experienced.   Walt wasn’t ready to stop at just one mountain though and knew there was another frontier out there just waiting to be explored. With aspirations of building an attraction at Disneyland similar to Matterhorn Bobsleds, it was off to space! That’s when the idea for a daring interstellar voyage came along. In order to develop Disney’s first-ever fully enclosed coaster an eye-catching exterior was needed. This sort of task required a special talent and Disney Legend John Hench was the perfect Imagineer for the job.   What eventually came to be one of the most iconic exteriors at Disney parks around the world required developing a new sort of architecture. Hench came up with the design of a conical dome with exterior steel beams which represented the dispersing of energy by lifting a car to a certain height and letting it run out by gravity — it was both practical and visually appealing.   The hoped-for experience would not only feature four tracks blasting in and out, around the attraction, but it would also be bigger and more advanced than its predecessor. There was only one problem: the technology needed to execute this concept wasn’t advanced enough to build it just yet.  Imagineers knew computers would catch up and they eventually did! Following the opening of Walt Disney World in 1971, they went to work bringing to life their most elaborate attraction yet, but this time in Florida as part of a significant expansion at the newly-opened resort.  When Space Mountain opened in Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World on January 15, 1975, nobody could have imagined the impact this one “mountain” would have on the world. For the first time ever at a Disney park, guests would blast off into space on a coaster-like attraction, dipping and careening past shooting stars. Now fifty years later, Space Mountain remains a must-do on any visit to Walt Disney World and for some, it could be their first time experiencing a coaster-type attraction once they’re finally tall enough!    Bringing Space Mountain to Disneyland Resort   Imagineers hadn’t stopped thinking about bringing Space Mountain to Disneyland Park and following the success of the attraction at the Magic Kingdom, it was finally time to make Walt’s vision come to life in Anaheim!  On May 27, 1977, Space Mountain opened with a grand dedication at Disneyland Resort, including a few of its own unique touches. Rather than two tracks, similar to the Magic Kingdom version of the attraction, they developed a single track with bigger trains, ensuring just as many guests could experience the West Coast version.  Space Mountain Goes International   From Florida to California, Space Mountain was a HIT! And why stop there when you could expand abroad? During the development of the first Disney park outside of the United States, Imagineers knew their “greatest hits” needed to make an international debut and, of course, Space Mountain was in the lineup.  Photo Credit: Frank P. Stanek Collection Photo Credit: Frank P. Stanek Collection Photo Credit: Frank P. Stanek Collection On April 15, 1983, this iconic American experience made its journey all the way to Tokyo Disneyland Park in the form of a nearly identical version to the one in Anaheim — it became a fan-favorite with Japanese guests too!  With three Space Mountain attractions under their belts, Disney Imagineers knew they wanted to do something different for Disneyland Paris, and the attraction was pushed to the park’s “phase two” of development — nearly three years after its opening in 1992. However, one iconic feature needed to remain: the conical exterior. It’s what makes Space Mountain…well…Space Mountain!  For this version, the usual Tomorrowland setting would instead be Disneyland Paris’ Discoveryland, a place dedicated to great visionaries throughout history. Inspired by Jules Verne’s classic tale From the Earth to the Moon, Space Mountain: de la Terre à la Lune in Paris would shoot guests to the moon by cannon. Once again, Imagineers found themselves inventing new technology to bring this otherworldly concept to life.  Developing the world’s first-ever catapult launch system, Disney Imagineers rocketed guests from an incline straight into darkness. This high-caliber attraction was twice as fast, went upside down, and even featured the first onboard audio system synced to attraction music. In fact, the attraction’s composer had to ride the attraction again…and again…and again just to get the music perfectly in sync.   And who doesn’t love to listen to the sweet sounds of Space Mountain playing right into your ears as you zoom through the stars? The immersive feature was also added to the attraction in Anaheim and, eventually, to Hong Kong Disneyland Park with the park’s opening on September 12, 2005.  Space Mountain Continues