Disney just kicked off one of its most meaningful celebrations of the year, and it’s all about making wishes come true!
The Walt Disney Company has officially launched its second annual “Disney Week of Wishes,” a company-wide celebration honoring its long-standing partnership with Make-A-Wish, and the life-changing impact those wishes have on children and families around the world.
This special week shines a spotlight on Disney’s role as the largest wish-granter globally, with the company helping grant a wish every single hour of every day.
Disney’s partnership with Make-A-Wish dates back more than four decades, and in that time, the company has helped grant over 175,000 wishes worldwide.
From theme park vacations and Disney Cruise Line sailings to behind-the-scenes studio visits and once-in-a-lifetime entertainment experiences, Disney has played a major role in turning dreams into reality for children facing critical illnesses.
In fact, visiting a Disney park continues to be one of the most requested wishes, highlighting just how deeply Disney stories resonate with families during some of their most difficult moments.
Running from April 27 through May 1, 2026, this year’s Disney Week of Wishes will highlight nearly 200 unique wish experiences across the company.
Some of the standout moments include:
- A first-of-its-kind Avengers-themed experience at Disneyland Resort, where Make-A-Wish kids step into the role of recruits alongside Marvel stars
- Opportunities for wish kids to perform on Broadway in Disney’s Aladdin
- Special experiences like announcing NFL draft picks on ESPN
- Invitations to major entertainment events, including premieres like The Mandalorian and Grogu
Each moment is designed to create unforgettable memories that go far beyond a typical vacation.
To kick off the celebration, Disney debuted a new original video titled “Drawn to You,” inspired by real wish stories.
The short explores how a wish begins (from a child’s imagination through art and storytelling) and how Disney helps bring that dream to life.
One of the featured stories includes a 16-year-old wish recipient whose dream of becoming a Disney animator came true through a hands-on experience at Walt Disney Animation Studios, working alongside renowned animator Eric Goldberg.
As part of this year’s celebration, Make-A-Wish will also recognize former Disney CEO Bob Iger with the inaugural WishMaker Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring his role in expanding Disney’s impact over the years.
During his leadership, more than 110,000 Disney wishes were granted — further cementing Disney’s role as a cornerstone partner of the organization.
At its core, Disney Week of Wishes is about more than just moments—it’s about the emotional impact behind them.
For many families, these experiences provide joy, hope, and lasting memories during incredibly challenging times, reinforcing Disney’s mission of storytelling and connection on a global scale.
If there’s ever a reminder of the real-world impact behind Disney magic, this is it! Follow along throughout the week as Disney shares more wish stories, unforgettable moments, and the incredible ways imagination continues to change lives.
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