Hi there, Stefanie!
A warm welcome to planDisney and thank you for entrusting us with your question about how to honor the life of a loved one at the
Walt Disney World Resort. First and foremost, I'd like to extend a virtual warm hug to you - I'm very sorry to hear that your family has recently lost a loved one, Stefanie. The Walt Disney World Resort is an incredible place that allows Guests to feel close to their loved ones, even after they pass away, through shared experiences and special memories. I'm here to help you commemorate the life of your loved one during your upcoming visit to The Most Magical Place on Earth.
The bricks from "Disney's Walk Around the World" were
retired and removed in 2019 and, unfortunately, there is no current program offered, Stefanie. I remember being disappointed by this news and saddened that I would no longer be able to visit my family's brick at the Transportation and Ticket Center. While this specific program is no longer available, Guests are able to purchase custom-engraved
commemorative legacy pavers on shopDisney. I think that adding a commemorative brick to your home or garden would be a beautiful way to memorialize the life of your loved one!
Another idea is to make a tradition of doing the things your family member loved doing in the theme parks. Is there a special
attraction or entertainment offering that your loved one couldn't miss? Perhaps they had a favorite
dining location or
character experience that you could visit or partake in during your upcoming visit. Although I understand that it may be difficult to experience these things without your family member for the first time, I think it would be a special way to pay tribute to them and continue to include their memory in the traditions that you once enjoyed together.
Alternatively, you could create a living monument for your loved one by purchasing a plant during your visit. After Guests exit the
Living with the Land attraction at EPCOT, they'll pass by a small kiosk selling plant seedlings cultivated within the attraction. Also, during the
EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, several retail locations sell plants and Disney character-inspired miniature topiaries. I think these would make for a special souvenir to help you commemorate the passing of your loved one all while celebrating new life, growth, and adventures to come!
Stefanie, I hope that these suggestions help you to memorialize your loved one with a touch of Disney magic. I'm wishing you a memorable visit to the Walt Disney World Resort this summer! If you have any additional planning questions, please feel free to revisit us at planDisney anytime.
Magic awaits,
Lauren