Hi guys! I’m back and when I say back, I mean back from the trip of a lifetime! You know there’s something truly special about Disney World, and this trip was no exception. From the moment we arrived, the energy was electric, the hospitality unmatched, and the memories waiting to be made. We spent four incredible days immersed in the magic of Disney, dressing in themed outfits, experiencing breathtaking shows, indulging in delicious food, and celebrating in ways that only Disney can provide.
But what made this trip even more meaningful was Celebrate Soulfully—an event dedicated to honoring African-American culture, Black History Month, and the rich contributions of Black artists, musicians, and storytellers. It was incredible to see Disney create a space to uplift, recognize, and embrace our culture in such a beautiful way. Now let me tell you all about it
I was sitting on the couch one afternoon scrolling through my phone and I decide to check my emails. Boom! I got the best email you could ever get an invitation from Walt Disney World. The invitation invited my family and I to come down to Florida and celebrate soulfully. I was over the moon excited what an amazing way to kick off the year and celebrate my culture. Before you know it the day had came and we were off.
Arrival Night: Settling Into Cars Land & Welcoming Magic
We arrived in the late evening, just in time to take in the beauty of our resort before settling into our Cars-themed room. Every detail was perfect—the lamps were shaped like cones, the mirror was designed as a Car Wash, and even the headboards had Cars-inspired designs. It felt like we had stepped right into Radiator Springs!
To top it off, Disney welcomed us with gift cards for shopping and dining, along with MagicBands and special Celebrate Soulfully lanyards, making it clear that this trip was going to be something truly special.
Day 1: Inside Out & Theme & Animal Kingdom Adventures
Our family tradition of themed outfits kicked off with Inside Out looks for Day 1! We started the day at Animal Kingdom, exploring the park and indulging in amazing food before heading over to one of the most exciting rides—Kilimanjaro Safaris. We saw so many animals up close, making it such a wild experience for the kids.
One of the highlights was the Festival of the Lion King show, where we got front-row seats! The acrobats, costumes, and live music were absolutely mesmerizing, and seeing a show that celebrates African culture and storytelling in such a grand way was incredible.
Afterward, we ventured into Pandora—The World of Avatar, where we rode both Avatar Flight of Passage and Na’vi River Journey—both were breathtaking!
That evening, we gathered for a welcome dinner with the entire Celebrate Soulfully group. There was great music, dancing, and food, and we even received custom airbrushed T-shirts that we wore proudly later in the event.
Day 2: Classic Mickey Theme & Magic Kingdom Magic
There’s something timeless about OG Mickey Mouse, so for Day 2, that was our theme! We had a 6 AM start, which meant we got to see Cinderella’s Castle before the park officially opened. The golden hour photos? Absolutely magical.
We met Tiana, had a special breakfast, and then had the best park experience—riding TRON: Lightcycle Run for the first time! Hands down, one of the best rides ever.
Shopping was also a big part of the day, especially for Aria, who picked out a character book and filled it with autographs from Cinderella’s stepsisters, Captain Jack Sparrow, and more.
That night, we had the amazing opportunity to see the brand-new Captain America movie, which felt even more special knowing how much Isaiah Bradley, the first Black Captain America, means to so many of us. Unfortunately, Riley was too little and antsy for the movie, so we headed back while DD took the older girls. They absolutely loved it!
Day 3: Freestyle Theme, Epcot Food Tour & Disney on Broadway
For our freestyle day, we all picked different Disney characters we love. This was an Epcot day, which meant eating our way around the world! And when I say we ate everything, I mean it—fish and chips, funnel cakes, Wagyu buns, and more. Every bite was worth it.
One of my favorite moments was watching a Disney on Broadway show featuring Alton Fitzgerald White (The Lion King) and Ashley Brown (Mary Poppins). Seeing Alton, a legendary Black performer who played Mufasa on Broadway for over a decade, take the stage was a full-circle moment. I’ve always wanted to see a Broadway show, so this was a dream come true.
As the night fell, we attended an exclusive dessert party at Epcot, where we had a private viewing of Luminous: The Symphony of Us. The fireworks, music, and atmosphere were pure magic—one of those moments you never forget.
Day 4: Valentine’s Day Minnie Mouse & Celebrate Soulfully Finale
Since it was Valentine’s Day, we dressed in Minnie Mouse-themed outfits and spent the entire day at Hollywood Studios, mostly in Toy Story Land! We had the best time riding Slinky Dog Dash and Alien Swirling Saucers, eating fun treats, and soaking in all the character interactions.
That night, we attended the Celebrate Soulfully farewell event, which felt like the perfect way to close out such an unforgettable trip. Disney hosted a cookout-style party under the stars, filled with barbecue, music, dancing, and so much joy. It truly felt like a family reunion, a celebration of our culture, and a space where we could just be ourselves, unapologetically Black and magical.
We all wore our custom airbrushed T-shirts, and as a special surprise, Disney gifted us Princess Tiana Mickey ears and a Disney backpack. Seeing so many Black creators, influencers, and families together, sharing laughs, dancing, and celebrating our heritage, was truly powerful.
Thank you Disney: Grateful for the Magic.
As we boarded our flight home, we couldn’t help but feel the Disney blues (you know that feeling when you leave and just want to go back ASAP?). But looking back, I’m just so grateful for this experience.
Disney World is truly the ultimate family destination, but this trip was extra special because of Celebrate Soulfully. It was a reminder of how important representation is, how beautiful our culture is, and how amazing it feels to be celebrated in such an intentional way.
The weather was perfect, the fellow influencers were so talented and kind, and every detail of this trip made it clear that Disney is committed to inclusivity, joy, and creating magical moments for all families.
Thank you, Disney, for an unforgettable adventure! I can’t wait to work with you again. Until next time, Mickey!
