Magic Carpet

A Show of Grad-itude

Disney's Grad Nite is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for students—and a great musical experience.

by Mac Randall

Celebrating high school graduations has been a part of the Disney tradition for as long as there have been Disney Parks. In 2011, Disneyland will celebrate the 50th anniversary of Disneyland Grad Nite—the annual late-night affair when graduating seniors from across the country get to hang out in the park, hit the dance floor, take in the rides and generally have a blast. At Walt Disney World, Disney Grad Nite, which also features performances by rising musical artists, has been ongoing since 1972. But even long-held traditions tend to change over time, and as the Disney team plans for next year's event, there are lots of exciting new developments in the works.

"Grad Nite 2011 is sure to be one of the best celebrations we've hosted," says Krista Brunet, Youth Event Management Director for Walt Disney World Youth Programs. "We are going to customize the event based on feedback from the grads. We'll post questions on our Facebook page and ask the seniors to vote on things like the music for their fireworks show, dance zone themes and more. We're excited to offer this—it will truly be their Disney Grad Nite."

One thing that won't be changing is the quality of the concerts. Recent Disney Grad Nite performers at Walt Disney World include such pop icons as Paramore, Katy Perry, Ne-Yo, the Fray and Fall Out Boy. Not just great entertainment, it's also a great opportunity for students to see young professional musicians at work.

Any school is welcome at Disney Grad Nite as long as there are 10 or more graduates per group, with one chaperone for every 10 students. Students can prepare by visiting the Disney Facebook page for updates about concerts, dance zones and other activities. Chaperones should check out the Chaperone Handbook, which includes all the information they'll need about the event, including attire guidelines and special chaperone-only privileges like FastPass. The Handbook is available online, along with reservation and ticket order forms, at www.disneyparksgradnite.com.

"Disney Grad Nite is something that spans multiple generations now," Brunet says. "We have several repeat schools—some of them have been with us since the first year in 1961. I think what keeps them coming back is the tradition and uniqueness of the event. It's not your typical Disney Park."

Fast Facts

Who: High school groups, with at least 10 graduating seniors per group

Where: Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, Fla. and Disneyland Resort, Anaheim, Calif.

When: Spring 2011