A Disney wish is granted every hour of every day, and this week was extra special because nearly 50 princess wishes were granted all at once at Walt Disney World during a storybook event filled with magic around every corner. This includes the wish of one young royal from West Virginia who specifically wished to attend our second-ever “Once Upon A Wish Party.”
Four-year-old Lila has Cystic Fibrosis, a medical condition she shares with her big sister, Emma. Emma attended the inaugural Once Upon A Wish Party in 2023 as part of her Make-A-Wish trip. The family had so much fun making new, happy memories together that when it came time for Lila to make her wish, she knew exactly what she wanted to do.
“This means everything,” said Lila’s dad. “With this experience that Make-A-Wish and Disney allows us, it puts us at ease and gives us a moment to relax and enjoy.”
The Ultimate Disney Princess Experience
At Once Upon A Wish Party, which is one of our company’s largest wish-granting events, Lila and other Make-A-Wish kids went on a two-day adventure where they became just like the Disney heroines who inspired them during their medical journeys.
They were fitted for Disney Princess dresses, designed their own crowns, met with more than 55 iconic characters and were crowned Disney royalty. Lila’s favorite part? The Royal Ball.
“My favorite part is the happiness on their faces … nothing beats that.” said Lila’s mom. “The kids have been through a lot, and I know in the future they’ll have more to go through. Every moment they’ve spent here is pure joy. You look at them and you see the sparkle in their eyes.”
Disney Cast Bring Once Upon A Wish Party to Life
This year’s event, including all the fairytale shows and experiences, was dreamed up and put on by hundreds of WishMakers across the entire company. It was Disney magic at its best!
“One of the most important things we get to do as Disney cast members is make magic for wish kids and their families,” said Jeff Vahle, President of Walt Disney World. “It’s an honor to be the world’s largest wish-granter.”
How Disney and Make-A-Wish Create Happiness
Disney has been working alongside Make-A-Wish for 45 years now to create happiness for children with critical illnesses through largescale events like this and individual wishes, too. In fact, Disney has granted more than 165,000 wishes … and counting!
“I’m continually inspired by Disney’s ability to find new and creative ways to deliver life-changing impact for wish kids,” said Leslie Motter, President and CEO, Make-A-Wish America. “It’s clear from the level of detail and customization that hundreds of Disney WishMakers poured their hearts into the Once Upon A Wish Party. That level of care is what creates a truly unforgettable experience that will serve as a source of hope, joy and inspiration for everyone involved.”
More Wishes Coming True During Disney’s Week of Wishes
Once Upon A Wish party is just the start! You may have heard that we’re celebrating an entire Disney Week of Wishes. Be sure to stay tuned to the blog for even more wish stories across Disney Experiences and around the world.
