It's been months since I posted but I wanted to share some thoughts, for those interested.
There's been some comments about the Park not doing much to celebrate Walt's birthday. I would love to see a big, all out event, and I do believe they were considered. Sometimes the corporate handcuffs prevent Park castmembers from doing what they would like; sometimes its budget; sometimes its just logistics. I know for a fact that some of the somewhat derogitorilly termed "suits" care very much about recognizing this event. There will in fact be a recognition event at the Park that day, prior to the meet being suggested here, but I don't know why it hasnt been announced so I wont say more.
Still, I plan to have a wonderful day, and thought I would share some suggestions with you for your own enjoyment. (If in fact the "Walk in Walt's footsteps tour" only departs around 10-10:30, which I think is the usual schedule, I would suggest you opt to skip it that day however, so as not to be tied up during the following two hour period :-) )
First and foremost - relax and have fun. That's what Walt wanted for us all - to be in a magical place like no other!
Secondly, be sure to visit the "Walt spots" - the Opera House with his office, stop by the Fire Station and gaze up, stop at the Baby Station and see his picture; relax for a moment at the Gallery and view the wonderful lands from the balcony, where he had planned to have family apartments. Take a trip on the Mark Twain, where he and Lillian celebrated their anniversary before Park opening. Ride only the rides built during his life. Take the train around the park, and say hello to someone you dont know. Offer to take a picture for one of the many visiting families for whome this may be their first or only trip. Give the marching band a great big round of applause! Sing along with friends on Main Street USA. Give away a pin to a child so they can trade for something to take home and treasure and remember their day.
More than anything, say something nice to a castmember to let them know you appreciate them carrying on Walt's tradition.
For souvenir hunters - get a profile cut and dated; get an engraved marker from Arribas for the event, personalized; or buy one of the items being released that day, of which there should be several (assuming production timelines were met) and which will be sold throughout the upcoming months for the most part. There are all sorts of things you can do that are unique and personal for your own special celebration. This can be OUR tribute to Walt and all he accomplished - it doesnt have to be something manufactured for us. I think that makes it even more special.
I hope those who do gather at 2 have a great time; true, the Park may not have done what we all would love to see, but it's still there, with the smiles and magic and wonder and creativity that was one man's dream, brought to life by legions of imaginative people who do care very much. By focusing on all that is there, rather than that which is not, Walt would be very happy I think to just know that his Park is still making people happy. See you there, hopefully with a smile!
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