Nothing is more exciting than the day a senior graduates. Family and friends attend the an elaborate ceremony at school providing well wishes to those who were able to earn a diploma, but to top it off, the event is frequently punctuated by the soiree thrown annually by the Disney Corporation providing those in attendance with a six and a half hour party unlike any other found on earth. In 2010 graduates can expect to see a gala unlike any held previously as, according to Disney officials, it is expected to be “the most elaborate celebration in the park’s history.” Not only will the park only be open to celebrants and their chaperons and filled with the usual non-stop fun and adventure, but Disney grad nite is also expected to be a unique celebration that will be remembered for a lifetime with celebrity performances and entertainment of a caliber never seen before.
One of the greatest advantages of this event is the chance to interact with other graduating seniors from around the U. S. This provides them with the opportunity to see that they are an integral part of a larger world and paves new pathways for social networking rarely in any other venue. No longer tied to the social clicks of a structured school, they come to understand that there are many chances to build new friendships with those from other parts of the country; friendships that can last a lifetime if they choose.
Many are familiar with Disneyland’s action-packed attractions, major performances, unique features, and open concept, but this year’s grads will also be transported into a new world with special features and activities designed solely for the enjoyment of graduating seniors. These will not only include some of the most popular entertainers available today, but will also feature a special fireworks display targeted for these special guests. Additionally, for the first year ever, school’s have the opportunity to participate in a pre-grad nite Blast Off party during the two hours prior to the opening of the main park. During this special event not only will grads be treated to a special celebration of their success at Paradise Pier in Disney’s California Adventure Park, but will also have access to the greatest attractions there as well.
The Blast Off party is expected to really pump up the action for the main event not only with music and dance, but with access to some of the most harrowing attractions that portion of the part has to offer. Whether one wants to ride California Screamin’ with its 360 degree spin, go vertical on the Maliboomer, or plunge as a terrifying pace on the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, action and adventure awaits and this is all before the big party starts. A short walk across the quad and one is able to step up the pace on Splash Mountain, Space Mountain, or even on the Indiana Jones Adventure ride. For others the many multi-themed dance parties held throughout the night will ensure that no one walks away feeling less than satisfied.
The Disney Company maintains high expectations for visitors and Grad Nite is no exception. Attendees are only allowed on the premises by way of school buses and all groups must be accompanied by chaperons. Although these adults are rarely seen, they do wander the park and are on assignment on rotating shifts at the First Aid Center as well as at the Chaperon Lounge where anyone who makes trouble will be retained until the end of the event. This is the last things party goers want is to spend the most important night of their lives sitting on a concrete step, but there is a zero tolerance policy for inappropriate behavior, alcohol, drugs, or any other number of things which are outlined in the brochure sent to each school participating and the Disney staff will not hesitate to ensure that rabble-rousers do not ruin the party for others.
For seniors planning to attend this event, the party begins the minute the gates are opened at 10:30 pm with a dance and strobe light show hosted by KIIS-FM (one of several stations in the park) in front of Sleeping Beauty’s Castle followed by a fireworks display at 11:30pm. And, from there, it is a non-stop thrill ride until grads are loaded back on their buses at 6:30 a. M. Disneyland is not only decorated in themed regalia, but lighting along the parade route, around the pirate’s lake, and elsewhere in the park is timed to the top 40 hits of last year which are blasted on speakers throughout the park. This not only provides a blinding festival light show as grads enter the park, but directs them to key events as well.
For those unsure as to whether to go to this once-in-a-lifetime event or not the answer is, if you don’t go it will be something you will regret for a lifetime. Few dates are left available so the sooner the school signs up, the better the chances of attending. For schools who have not done so yet, seniors need to take the initiative and fund this trip as well as the cost of tickets in order to ensure they are not left regretting a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that will never come again. The disney grad nite has become a rite of passage for many seniors. It tells the world they are here and are ready to make a difference, but first, Let’s Party!
Looking to find the most comprehensive information on Disney grad nite?
Recent Comments