Is Walt Disney World an Inclusive Place for LGBTQ+ Families?

When you plan a trip to the Walt Disney World Resort, one of the first things you think of is who will join you on the trip. For most, it’s your immediate and maybe extended family. But what if your family doesn’t fit the (hetero) norm? Will we feel safe and welcomed in the Most Magical Place on Earth, you might ask?

The answer I can share is a resounding “yes!” I’ve taken many trips with my husband and kids to Walt Disney World and am happy to share with you some of my experiences at the park, and a few tips, all filled with magic and love.

The first thing to keep in mind is that the Walt Disney Company as a whole has a track record of being an ally to the LGBTQ+ community, and many of its employees are proud members of that community, as well. As you explore the parks, it’s not uncommon to interact with cast members from all around the world and all walks of life, and that includes LGBTQ+ cast members, whether they’re scanning your tickets, performing around the parks, or part of the janitorial staff who help keep the parks clean and beautiful for you.

Disney also does an amazing job of celebrating the LGBTQ+ community, and does so in many ways, including creating unique Pride merchandise (Rainbow Disney) they offer around the parks in the springtime, and donates a share of the proceeds to LGBTQ+ charities and organizations.

We love to peruse the shops this time of year to find a new favourite tee or set of Mickey ears that celebrate not only our love of Disney, but also our pride in our community! On top of that, Disney celebrates all types of love throughout the year, offering wedding ceremonies and receptions for LGBTQ+ families in various locations around the resort.

The next thing to keep in mind is that the other guests are there to enjoy time with their families, too, and usually want to celebrate the magic with you. One time while my family and I were enjoying a lunch at Liberty Tree Tavern, a complete stranger walked up to us with a smile and told us how beautiful our family was 🥺. It was a small gesture, but something we remember to this day and made that day in the park that much more special.

Finally, one thing to keep in mind when considering a Walt Disney World Resort vacation if you’re an LGBTQ+ family is Gay Days at the resort, which typically take place in June each year. Though the event was postponed this year due to the pandemic, this annual event held at the resort (though not officially hosted by Walt Disney World), is an opportunity for LGBTQ+ Disney fans and their families to celebrate Pride together at the parks.

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