Why August 20 Is a ‘Very Important Date’ for This Disney Park

It’s hard not to get chills when your eyes meet Cinderella Castle from Main Street, U.S.A.

Maybe it’s nostalgia, but the rush of emotions (and possibly tears) could come from a dreamier place. In almost every Disney film featuring a graceful princess, she begins her journey as someone living an ordinary life—typically overcoming turmoil.

Whether it’s Cinderella’s evil stepsisters, Sleeping Beauty’s spell, or Belle’s discontented demeanor, our favorite heroines had humble beginnings in common. But with a stroke of magic and a little help from friends, they became glamorous icons with the power to spread their kindness to others. Maybe that’s what we see in Disney princesses—we see ourselves.

Related: Disney Celebrates Ariel Replacement With Mermaid-Themed Bonuses For Guests

In honor of Disney royalty, World Princess Week is coming to Walt Disney World. Starting on a very important date—August 20—a celebration of ​​Disney Princesses, real-life princesses, and the princess-like powers in us all, the event will run through August 26.

While Disney has yet to release specifics about World Princess Week, there’s one confirmed addition this year: a royal ball!

Once Upon a Wish Party

In partnership with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, the “Once Upon a Wish Party” will be a celebration fit for queens and kings. Disney Parks Blog shared more about the plans:

This party will be a full day affair filled with enchanting surprises, inspiration and adventures fit for a hero or heroine. 

High tea, sweet treats, and character meet-and-greets are on the agenda for this once-in-a-lifetime affair. Just a few months before the royal ball commences, Disney began inviting honorary Guests the only way they knew how.

Starting with Ventura Elementary School in Florida, the Make-A-Wish team surprised their first Guest, 7-year-old Scarlett. A fighter who overcame multiple surgeries—the first one at just 18 months old—Scarlett is a Disney princess enthusiast who received a hand-delivered invitation from Minnie Mouse in front of 100 classmates.

Scarlett is the first of many honorary princesses to join the Royal Court. According to Leslie Motter, Make-A-Wish America President and CEO:

Disney is the largest wish granter in the world, and over our more than 40-year relationship, we’ve granted some pretty incredible wishes together. Whatever Disney does, they go all out. I can’t wait to see the new happy memories Scarlett and our other attending wish families will be able to make at what is sure to be an unforgettable event.

With more sweet surprises to come for the little ones who embody princess powers, Disney Fanatic will continue to share updates as we head to World Princess Week.