On Monday, Disneyland Park’s Main Street, U.S.A., was filled with heroes from across California, as dozens of first responders participated in a special tribute event at Disneyland Resort. The “Heroes Salute Cavalcade” was organized by Disneyland Resort to honor firefighters, police officers, and emergency responders who helped with the devastating wildfires that ravaged the state in January.
The cavalcade was a one-time parade that featured first responders alongside beloved Disney and Pixar characters, including Merida from Brave (2012), Miguel from Coco (2017), Princess Jasmine and the Genie from Aladdin (1992), Peter Pan, Goofy, Pluto, Chip and Dale, and, of course, Mickey and Minnie Mouse. Several Disneyland Resort firefighters joined the procession, paying tribute to their fellow California first responders. Guests and members of the media were also given complimentary buttons celebrating the heroic efforts of the LA wildfire responders.
Joshua Fillinger, an LAPD police officer who helped evacuate families during the Palisades Fire, expressed his appreciation for the recognition.
“I can’t even tell you how much it meant to me and my family to get that email,” Fillinger told KTLA. “Disney just put in all this effort to take care of my partner and me, and it makes me want to work harder and dedicate myself more to doing what’s right for people and trying to make a difference.” His emotional reaction highlighted the deep gratitude shared by many responders at the event.
Larry Chu, a three-year veteran who helped battle the wildfires, also spoke with KTLA.
“It’s pretty cool that Disney is able to recognize not just those of us here, but all the firefighters, police officers, EMTs, and so forth, who responded to those events,” Chu said. “It’s a super cool gesture to feel honored to be here. It’s also very humbling and a little bit awkward during the cavalcade because we’re not into all the recognition and parades and stuff.”
As part of the ongoing recognition of first responders, Disneyland Resort is offering a special gift to those who helped fight the January wildfires: a free one-day Park Hopper ticket. Available through August 7, 2025, these “Heroes Tickets” are being offered to California firefighters, Los Angeles-based law enforcement, emergency medical technicians, and other mutual aid departments who were instrumental in combating the wildfires. In April, Disney contacted qualifying agencies to offer these complimentary Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park tickets.
Did Disneyland Resort do enough to celebrate the California firefighters? Share your opinion with Disney Fanatic in the comments!
