Mickey and Minnie Statues in Front of Cinderella's Castle During Fireworks
  • On Sep 24, 2024
    Ryan from MA Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    I am looking to do something extra special for my sister for our upcoming trip to Disney World. She recently lost her husband unexpectedly at a young age, and I want to do something to make this trip extra magical for her. Any ideas?

    Hi Ryan,

    As difficult as this question is, we are grateful that you trusted us enough to ask! I have a dear friend who traveled to the Walt Disney World® Resort after losing her husband. So I deeply believe that such a trip can be good in the healing process. 

    First, I suggest that you stay at a Disney Resorts Collection resort and choose carefully. There are several that my family considers quite lovely - Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, Disney's Contemporary Resort (Garden Wing rooms), and Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa have rooms with gorgeous water views. Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside, Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, or the Cabins at Disney's Ft. Wilderness Resort are also quite lovely and relaxing.  Each of these resorts has beautiful outdoor areas that you all could enjoy.

    Next, the fireworks shows are spectacular. Both Happily Ever After at Magic Kingdom and Luminous The Symphony of Us at EPCOT have beautiful music that remind us of those we have loved and inspire us to cherish the beauty of now. If my family is on a limited budget, we simply find a good viewing spot an hour before the shows and eat a snack while we wait. If, however, your budget will allow, at Magic Kingdom, there are several dessert parties that will give you fireworks viewing - Magic Kingdom Fireworks Dessert Parties: Seats & Sweets, Magic Kingdom Fireworks Dessert Parties: Pre-Party, and Magic Kingdom Fireworks Dessert Parties: Post Party. At EPCOT, there are a few special viewing areas at dining locations - Spice Road Table Fireworks Dining Package and Rose & Crown Fireworks Dining Package.

    Finally, you knew your sister's husband and you know your sister best. Take a look at the possibilities with the Enchanting Extras Collection. There might be an experience that captures his memory in ways I may not realize. Disney's Port Orleans - Riverside, for example has a Horse Drawn Excursion - Carriage Ride that might be perfect. While each of these experiences are lovely, I will say that Luminous The Symphony of Us speaks powerfully to loss. Having lost my dad a few years ago, this show touches my heart in so many ways each time I see it.

    Ryan, if your sister appreciates merchandise, you could consider a bracelet or shirt in her husband's memory. Take look at the apparel and accessories options at Disney Springs. With your arrival date approaching soon, I am so glad you are planning. The Princess and the Frog is one of my favorite Disney stories. Sending a wish to the Evening Star in the spirit of Tiana, trusting that you will find a memorable experience or gift for your sister. And, of course, hug her to infinity.

    Magic and memories,
    Donyell

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Meet the Panelist: Donyell, North Carolina

Hello from North Carolina! I am a mom of twin girls, wife, and university professor who has been inspired by the creativity of Disney for a lifetime. Since my first Disney visit when I was 12-years-old, I have been drawn to the adventures crafted by Disney Imagineers. Planning Disney vacations helps connect me to families who will find in Disney the kind of joy my family has experienced over the years. Allow me to help you map your own Disney journey so that you, too can create the memories of a lifetime! Learn More About Donyell

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