With new entertainment at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and the debut of a new nighttime parade at Magic Kingdom, this summer has been one for the record books across Walt Disney World, especially as incredible cast members across the resort have continued to play an important role day in and day out.
During Cool Kid Summer, cast members created unforgettable moments, from leading little ones in engaging dance parties to helping kids in hands-on activities that let creativity and imagination flow. Read on to discover how dynamic cast members have delivered magical moments and engaged with guests in meaningful ways during their Disney World vacation.
Create Adventurous Moments with Cast Members at Animal Kingdom
At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Cool Kid Summer welcomed a new, limited-time Wilderness Explorers badge that invited guests of all ages to explore nature and rediscover the magic of what makes life wonderful. As little ones have searched for tigers, okapi, and more throughout the park this summer, they’ve also had the chance to participate in some fun, educational activities with the assistance of Wilderness Explorer cast members, including Teresa, an educator at Animal Kingdom.
Teresa, Educator at Animal KingdomWhen kids are so excited about learning new things, it brings me back to my inner child. To me, that’s what this is all about!
But the adventure doesn’t stop there! Families can roam all around the park to find engaging crafts that teach kids about pollinators, interactive sing-alongs with Dino Institute Interns and that one-of-a-kind Disney magic we all cherish.
Play Games with Cast Members at GoofyCore at EPCOT
Since Cool Kid Summer kicked off earlier this year, young families have been having a fantastic time at GoofyCore in EPCOT. With DJ-led dance parties and favorite games with silly twists, it has been almost impossible not to get up and groove with Goofy, his Goof Troop, and world-class cast members who keep the family-friendly vibes going. Fran, a Convention Guide who has worked at Disney for 18 years, is one of those cast members who has loved the opportunity to be a part of it all:
Fran, Convention Guide at Walt Disney WorldIt’s really fun to watch kids be kids. They play all kinds of games—even invent their own games—and have such a good time doing it. And we get to sing and dance right along with them!
There are so many exciting places for kids to explore across EPCOT, but GoofyCore has become a central location where families can come together to share special, playful moments (and enjoy some nice air conditioning!). This fun-filled area has been a great way for kids to take playtime to the next level while cast members make sure every moment matters for guests of all ages.
Cast Members Introduce Guests to Characters at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the limited-time “Get Animated” experience features groovy performances, games, crafts, and beloved characters from both new and timeless stories. At this energetic location, young guests have been able to connect with familiar Disney faces and engaging cast members like Angel, who has welcomed guests traveling from each corner of the globe.
Angel, Cast Member at Walt Disney WorldDisney is all about telling stories that really connect with people. Seeing families’ eyes light up when they see their favorite characters who mean so much to them has really meant a lot to me. These happy memories of dancing and playing games together are going to stay with them for a long time – just like my first Disney trip did.
Looking for even more characters? Guests can find tips and appearance times with the help of friendly cast members like Angel and the My Disney Experience app.
Step Right Up to Summer Fun at Magic Kingdom
From special character interactions to sweet summertime dance parties and plenty of family fun zones, Magic Kingdom is the perfect place to make incredible memories this summer. With plenty of exciting things to experience across Disney World during Cool Kid Summer from now through September 1, there’s no wonder that the summer of 2025 has also sparked feelings of nostalgia in so many of us, as we recall some of our own fondest memories at Disney.
Abby, Merchandise Cast Member at Magic KingdomIt reminds me of when I was younger and all the magic that cast members have made for me over the years. Making that magic for others now has been really meaningful.
Recognize Your Excellent Experiences During Cool Kid Summer
Whether your kid-friendly vacation has taken you to the inviting Disney Resort hotels or splashy adventures at the Disney World water parks, cast members across Walt Disney World have consistently gone the extra mile to create once-in-a-lifetime experiences for guests this summer and beyond. Check out some of the cast shoutouts above that we’ve received from guests visiting this summer!
The Disney World experience is truly unlike any other, especially with so many great cast members looking to make your stay at the resort even better.
To discover even more personal cast stories at Disney World and beyond, make sure to follow along on the Disney Parks Blog for all the latest cast content. We’ll see you at the final days of Cool Kid Summer, before we officially turn the page and head toward all things Halloween at Disney World in the coming weeks!
