Magic Kingdom Shuts Down for One Night So 4,500 Veteran Employees Can Be Their Guest
Some companies certainly know how to take care of their employees. Disney just so happens to be one of those companies.
Take it from a former Cast Member, this business loves to take care of its people. Plenty of perks come with the job including discounts, free admission and complimentary passes for family and friends.
Like any job, there are bound to be complaints. Even working for Mickey Mouse himself isn’t a perfect gig by any means.
Still, we have to give Walt Disney World credit for setting aside one very special night just so its Cast Members could have the park to themselves.
According to the Orlando Sentinel, the Magic Kingdom shut down at 4:30 p.m. sharp on Nov. 5 in honor of those who help make the magic happen every day.
“Closing the parks early is kind of amazing,” Vice President of Human Resources, Dar Stewart, told the Sentinel. “It’s really about celebrating our cast. They’re the heart of everything we do.”
About 4,500 veteran Cast Members were reportedly invited to the exclusive cast-only night. They were also able to bring a guest each.
A red carpet was rolled out for the affair so longtime employees could really feel a true sense of the royal treatment. Some even dressed up for the occasion.
“I feel like I am the guest,” Ervin Bracy told the Sentinel. “The role has changed.” Bracy — better known as E.B. — is 65 and has worked for the company since 1973.
Many Cast Members took to social media during the event, sharing their photos and memories from the years spent as part of the Disney family.
Brad Ashley, who has worked for the company for 30 years, shared his excitement on Facebook. “This is what you call snow on the red carpet down Main Street USA at Disney’s Magic Kingdom, in Florida!” he wrote.
Steven Miller, who says he started as an intern in 1998, showed up to the event wearing a bow tie and a huge grin. “20 years… where has the time gone?” he wrote.
Of course, 2018 does not mark the first year Disney has gone all-out to show appreciation for its veteran employees.
In fact, Walt Disney World has been hosting “Celebrate You”-type service events since 1965. Everyone was able to enjoy the rides and photo opportunities apart from the crowds.
Wow! What a way to say “thank you” to the men and women who know how to serve guests with a smile. Way to go, Disney!
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