If you’ve ever had the chance to observe our Disney theme parks, you’ll notice how opportunities for learning are woven into every form of entertainment. In fact, Walt Disney’s vision for creating Epcot was founded upon how every attraction was designed to both educate and entertain.
For example, The World Showcase immerses Guests into the culture and heritage of 11 different countries through immersive attractions and inspired food and beverage. Spaceship Earth is an intricate attraction that dives into the history of mankind and how messages are globally distributed today. And, Innoventions in Future World invites Guests to explore science and technology through interactive games and exhibits.
At Disney, we share a similar “funducational” (fun + educational) philosophy when it comes to developing learning opportunities for meeting and event attendees. By providing an outlet for learning in a fun and inspiring way, your attendees are more likely to retain what they learned for future reflection and application.
Attendees should be able to interact with the content that they're learning about through a multifaceted experience. From interactive games to engaging improvisational actors, to behind-the-scenes tours, there are opportunities for every attendee to participate and make the most of their meeting experience. Here are a few examples of how Disney can provide a fun and educational experience at your next meeting or event:
A Walk on the Wild Side
The Conservation Station at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is the perfect venue for hosting an environment-focused meeting or event. This wildlife conservation center is home to animal encounters, interactive exhibits, and a veterinary facility, which can highlight any meeting’s message on protecting the environment or caring for animals.
Meeting attendees can even get up-close and personal with nature through behind-the-scenes animal encounters and animal specialist demonstrations. This added enhancement can help attendees learn about wildlife and Disney’s efforts to promote conservation awareness.
A Feast of Fun
At Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and Disney’s Contemporary Resort, meeting attendees can dine in the Show Kitchen or at the Chef’s Table as part of an interactive dining experience.
Not only will attendees be treated to a spectacular meal from Disney’s award-winning culinary team, but they will also meet the chef, learn about the kitchen and ingredients used to prepare the meal, and watch a culinary demonstration. This dining experience is perfect for any organization in the nutrition, culinary, or hospitality industries.
An Array of Art
Meeting attendees can learn about the art of Disney by adding features inspired by the Disney animated classic films. Utilizing projection mapping technology, concept art can be displayed throughout the venue to enhance its overall décor and demonstrate the advancements of art fused with technology.
Character sketch artists can add a touch of fun and Disney magic by drawing beloved Disney characters right before attendees’ eyes. Disney Animators, Imagineers, or Artists can also serve as guest speakers to teach meeting attendees about their craft. Organizations in the graphic design, film, or art industries may benefit from adding these special enhancements to their meeting’s overall message.
These are only a few examples of the many custom features Disney can implement to highlight your organization’s core message and enhance the meeting agenda through both fun and learning. As Walt Disney once said, “I would rather entertain and hope that people learned something than educate people and hope they were entertained.”
-Amy Pfeiffer, Director of Convention Sales & Services, Walt Disney World Resort
Tell us – Which “funducational” experience would you incorporate into your meeting or event? Let us know on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, or Instagram using #DisneyMeetingsAndEventsBlog.
We're eager to help you create the perfect meeting or private event for any size group, theme and objective. To speak with a Disney Meetings & Events representative about our pricing and options available at our Disney Parks & Resorts destinations in Florida, California, Hawaii or at our international destinations, please contact us or submit a request for proposal or sign up to stay in touch and continue learning more about Disney meetings and events.