From USAtoday.com
“The Little Mermaid” commended “bright young women.” “The Incredibles” lauded superheroes who refuse to “leave the saving of the world to the men.” “Frozen” reminded us that a woman doesn’t need a love interest to be a compelling hero.
Walt Disney World in Florida has major plans to celebrate those iconic characters and more Friday for International Women’s Day.
And the festivities aren’t just limited to the Orlando theme park: parks across the world, as well as the many divisions of the Walt Disney Company, are celebrating with guests and employees alike.
Captain Marvel, for instance, will greet guests at the Disneyland Resort tomorrow ahead of the premiere of her new movie, starring Brie Larson. And employees have already been attending female-driven speaker sessions and networking events.
“These worldwide events are part of our efforts to put a culture of inclusion at the heart of our workplace — and to us, inclusivity means that every cast member feels like they belong, their voices are heard and their efforts are valued,” Stephanie Corzett, Media Relations Director for Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, wrote in an email to USA TODAY. “Here at Disney, we’re proud to say that these are values we’re dedicated to, not just today, but every day at our parks and resorts around the world.”
For those spending March 8 at the happiest place on earth, here are the festivities — and food! — scheduled to appear in each park:
Magic Kingdom
A dance party, set to feature Judy Hopps from “Zootopia,” Joy from “Inside Out” and other popular female characters, will take place in Tomorrowland.
Snack-wise, strawberry shortcake “shooters” with Disney’s “International Women’s Day” logo on top will be available at the Cheshire Cafe in Fantasyland and Westward Ho in Frontierland.
Epcot
A performance at The American Adventure will “celebrate women with special performances of empowering songs.”
And there are plenty of special treats all around the park: Fountain View will offer a cake with purple Minnie Mouse ears and a bow on top, the Norway Beer Cart is selling a purple slush, and the Biergarten Restaurant in the Germany pavilion will have International Women’s Day cookies.
Animal Kingdom
Animal Kindom offers two different dance parties to get into the celebratory mood: the Hakuna Matata Time Dance Party on Discovery Island and the Dino-riffic Dance Party in Dinoland, U.S.A. at night.
International Women’s Day cookies will also be available from outdoor vendors around the park. Creature Comforts on Discovery Island and Restaurantosaurus in Dinoland, U.S.A. will offer special cupcakes. Tiffins Restaurant and the Nomad Lounge will offer special drinks.
Hollywood Studios
“Star Wars” fans can meet Rey (plus Chewbacca) ahead of the “Star Wars”: Galaxy’s Edge section opening Aug. 29. In Pixar Place, guests can also check out a parade of the women of “Toy Story’s” Green Army Patrol and a showcase of female superheroes from the “Incredibles” franchise in “An Incredible Celebration.”
Disney-goers can further celebrate Elastigirl with a pretzel mask in her honor at Neighborhood Bakery.
Disney Springs
Disney Springs, the shopping and dining area with free admission, will also be offering a handful of themed treats. Swing by the Ganachery for International Women’s Day dark chocolate ganache squares or a chocolate piñata. Pink macaron lollipops will be available at Amorette’s Patisserie.
