Disney World Hosts Make-A-Wish families for World Princess Week Party

To celebrate World Princess Week, Walt Disney World hosted its largest wish-granting event ever with “Once Upon A Wish Party” — a special event dreamed up just for wish kids and their families.  

More than 50 wish kids from organizations such as Make-A-Wish visited Walt Disney World Resort for this first-of-its-kind event, which was brought to life by hundreds of Disney cast members and featured more than 30 princesses and characters, a tea party in Wonderland and a Royal Ball.

“Granting wishes is some of the most important work that we do at Disney,” said Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products. “We’re humbled that so many wish kids choose Disney.  It’s an honor, and we don’t take that responsibility lightly.”

Ahead of the Royal Ball, shopDisney delivered an extra dose of pixie dust and surprised families with Disney Princess dresses, Disney Princess character-themed Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse ear headbands, wands, tiaras and more. Disney Publishing also sprinkled in some magic by providing an array of Disney books.

During the ball, attendees enjoyed a special singing performance by 17-year-old Mikayla, from Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, who began her battle fighting cancer three years ago. Mikayla wished to perform at Disney and was surprised earlier this year on World Wish Day with the news that her wish would come true and would be recognized as the 150,000th Disney wish.

“As the No. 1 wish granter for our organization, Disney is helping deliver joy when it’s needed most,” Make-A-Wish America President and CEO Leslie Motter said. “Through their stories and characters, Disney is creating unforgettable wish-granting experiences (such as) Once Upon A Wish Party that allow families the space to create happy new memories together that I know will last a lifetime.”

To complete their Disney wish trips, families now are enjoying several days in the theme parks and a stay at Give Kids The World Village, an organization that plays an integral role in wish-granting efforts at Walt Disney World Resort.