Disney is moving forward with a major community restoration effort in Southern California, putting $5 million toward the creation of a brand-new park in Altadena, roughly 40 miles from Disneyland Resort. The project is part of a larger $15 million commitment The Walt Disney Company made earlier this year to support Los Angeles County in the aftermath of the devastating January wildfires. New details reveal how Walt Disney Imagineers are helping reimagine the space ahead of its planned public opening in 2026.
What the New Park Will Replace
The January wildfires were among the most destructive in California’s history, prompting a strong response from The Walt Disney Company. As part of its broader $15 million pledge toward recovery efforts, Disney allocated $5 million specifically for the redevelopment of Charles White Park and two other community parks in Altadena that were destroyed during the fires.
Walt Disney Imagineers have been collaborating closely with community leaders and Los Angeles County officials to redesign Charles White Park into a family-friendly gathering space. The effort carries personal significance for many on the team, as several Imagineers lost their homes in the 2025 wildfires and have since volunteered time to assist with recovery projects at all three impacted parks.
“Los Angeles has been home to The Walt Disney Company since its founding more than a century ago, which is why we felt a special responsibility to help this community rebuild in the aftermath of the devastating wildfires earlier this year,” said The Walt Disney Company CEO Bob Iger. “I’m incredibly proud of our Imagineers who are volunteering their time and talents to help reimagine cherished public spaces like Charles White Park. Their work is not only a testament to Disney’s creative spirit, but also to our deep commitment to our neighbors throughout this region. We hope this effort brings comfort, joy, and a sense of renewal to the Altadena community for years to come.”
A New Park Designed With Disney Touches
When Charles White Park reopens in 2026, families can expect an entirely reimagined outdoor space. The plans include new play areas inspired by Altadena’s iconic Deodar Cedar pinecones, along with a splash pad, swings, slides, boulders, and a revitalized community center. An outdoor amphitheater will also provide a dedicated space for public events and entertainment. Imagineers have incorporated elements of the original park that survived the wildfire, ensuring the new design reflects the space’s somber history.
Theme park journalist Scott Gustin (@ScottGustin) shared first-look concept art for Charles White Park on X (formerly Twitter):
Disney is directing $5 million toward the reopening of Altadena’s Charles White Park as part of its ongoing $15 million commitment to help LA recover after wildfires. The park will reopen next year with a new community center and an enhanced playground with Disney touches.
Disney is directing $5 million toward the reopening of Altadena’s Charles White Park as part of its ongoing $15 million commitment to help LA recover after wildfires. The park will reopen next year with a new community center and an enhanced playground with Disney touches. pic.twitter.com/fIn7qxUKHn
— Scott Gustin (@ScottGustin) November 17, 2025
Beyond Charles White Park, Disney is also contributing to the redevelopment of two other Altadena parks damaged in the fires. Additionally, the company will support the Christmas Tree Lane Lighting Ceremony and Winter Festival on December 6, 2025. Disney’s presence at the event will include “character appearances, festive moments, and meaningful volunteer opportunities to support families in need during the season.” The company will also donate 1,000 toys to the event’s annual holiday toy drive.
Since launching its wildfire recovery initiatives, Disney has hosted several “Disney Field Days” in areas including Palisades, Brentwood, and Altadena. These events brought Disney, Pixar, Lucasfilm, and Marvel-themed experiences to local students and families. In September and October, the company also loaned films to 60 family movie nights across Los Angeles County.
What would you add to this Disney-designed park in Altadena, California? Let Disney Dining know in the comments!
