This fall, Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, teamed up with Make-A-Wish Hawaii to host the first-ever Aulani Wish Week—an unforgettable celebration filled with aloha, Halloween fun, and the joy of dreams coming true. From spooky dance parties to heartfelt musical moments, the event welcomed 20 wish kids and their families to the Hawaiian islands for a week of relaxation and joy.
Bringing Disney Magic to Hawaii’s Keiki
Since 1980, Disney has granted over 150,000 wishes through its partnership with Make-A-Wish. Aulani Resort typically welcomes around 150 wish families each year. But Aulani Wish Week took it further—a week-long celebration filled with authentic Hawaiian experiences and support from caring cast members.
“Our goal is to help families create memories,” said Joe Medwetz, Aulani’s senior sales and services director and Make-A-Wish Hawaii board member. “We love seeing the joy on the children’s faces when their dreams come true at Aulani.”
A Week of Unforgettable Moments
The week’s festivities featured a dinner party hosted by Stitch and Angel, a Halloween Dance Party, and a special night at KA WA‘A Lū‘au—complete with Hawaiian food, storytelling, and cultural performances.
Among the kids was 11-year-old Elijah. While battling bone cancer, Elijah found comfort in music. Aulani’s ukulele melodies, part of Hawaii’s rich culture, created the perfect setting for his wish.
The event ended with wish families gathered at sunset, watching their dreams unfold at the Lū‘au. It was a magical conclusion to a week full of care and joy.
More Wishes on the Horizon
Following the success of this event, more magical moments are already being planned. Hong Kong Disneyland Resort will host a Make-A-Wish celebration in December, continuing Disney’s global mission to bring joy to children.
Mahalo to the cast members, VoluntEARS, and Make-A-Wish Hawaii for turning dreams into reality during Aulani Wish Week.
