There’s magic… and then there’s Disney magic. And for the fifth year in a row, A Disney Wish brought that one-of-a-kind wonder straight to families in the UK who needed it most.
Created through a heartfelt partnership between Disney and Make-A-Wish UK, A Disney Wish is more than an event; it’s a life-changing experience for children living with critical illnesses and their families. And in 2025, it returned bigger, brighter, and more magical than ever.
A Place Where Stories Come to Life
For 12 unforgettable days, nearly 200 families were welcomed to a countryside retreat, where they were immersed in the world of Disney, from meeting favorite characters like Spider-Man, Elsa, and Mickey Mouse, to joining themed adventures and performances inspired by beloved films. Every family stayed for three days of joy, play, and connection, with 32 characters, six shows, and 12 fully inclusive activities.
What makes this event so special is that it brings the magic to the children, right where they are, removing the challenges of travel and creating an environment where kids can just be kids.
Real Stories, Real Joy
The smiles said it all. Like when 3-year-old Maddie met Tiana, her favorite Disney Princess, and couldn’t stop twirling in delight. Or when Max, a Marvel superfan from Scotland living with spinal muscular atrophy, finally came face-to-face with Spider-Man, his joy was contagious. And 8-year-old twins Tiwalade and Tinuade, both living with sickle cell disease, got to escape the worries of everyday life and simply enjoy time together as a family.
These are more than sweet moments. They’re memories that stay with families forever.
“It Truly Is Disney Magic at Its Best”
Deborah Armstrong, Senior Vice President, Disney Advertising EMEA and Country Manager UK & Ireland, summed it up perfectly:
“Every year, it’s amazing that A Disney Wish creates magical, life-changing moments for kids and families, in a way that only Disney can through our beloved characters and stories. The event has such a positive impact, helping families make joyful new memories together at a time when they need it the most. It’s a very special privilege to bring this experience to the UK again this year and see its lasting impact on the families — it truly is Disney magic at its best.”
A Shared Mission to Bring Hope
Jason Suckley, Chief Executive at Make-A-Wish UK, reflected on the power of this partnership:
“At Make-A-Wish UK, we believe every child deserves to wish for more than a life defined by illness, and we’re thrilled to work, for a fifth year, with Disney to bring the magic to critically ill children right here in the UK.”
He added:
“Five years since the pandemic, the number of children eligible for a wish continues to rise, but the heartbreaking reality is that many children either can’t wait or can’t travel to make their wish come true. With Disney’s incredible support, we can create joy, happiness and magical memories through this life-changing wish for these children.”
Watch the Heartwarming Highlights
Disney and Make-A-Wish came together for a truly magical event, and now you can experience the joy for yourself. Watch the official highlight video filled with unforgettable moments, smiles, and dreams come true. Get ready to feel all the emotions!
Watch the video below:
Here’s to More Wishes
After five years, A Disney Wish grows, not just in size, but in heart. Each year, more families find comfort, happiness, and connection through the magic Disney brings to life.
While the costumes and characters are unforgettable, the moments of laughter, bonding, and hope make the biggest impact. Here’s to another year of dreams coming true—and to many more ahead.
