Disney Graduation Night is an anticipated event that every senior looks forward to on the typically hosted on the weeks leading up to their graduation. Throughout the districts, multiple seniors from schools across California gather at Disneyland, Los Angeles, to celebrate one last night together while appreciating the hard work they have done to get this far.
This year, seniors will be meeting at the gym at midnight on Wednesday, May 20. The plan is to board the buses early Thursday morning in order to make the most of Disney Graduation Night.
According to bus numbers, students will be organized and then inspected before boarding in order to prevent any illegal items from being brought on board.
Although the late night departure sounds exhausting, many seniors agree in unison in that the excitement makes it worth it.
“Honestly, going to Disneyland for an entire day while staying awake sounds overstimulating, but it’s with friends, so I guess that makes it worth it,” senior Amber Nguyen said.
“I definitely can’t wait to be in the bus with my friends, it will definitely make the ride a little more tolerable on the way there,” says Nguyen.
Students are encouraged to bring water, snacks, pillows, blankets, and a change of clothes for the long trip. Vice Principal Jason Cain recommends students to rest and get as much sleep as they can as they travel overnight, as the day will be long and intense.
After a couple of hours, there will be one planned stop before reaching the Grapevine at a local mall for food and bathroom breaks for an hour.
Keep in mind, at Disneyland, students are expected to go through a separate security entrance designated specifically for Disney Grad Night participants.
According to Vice Principal Jason Cain’s email, security checks will be strict and extensive.
Food and disposable water bottles must remain factory sealed, reusable bottles must be empty, and medications must follow Disneyland’s policies with a separate form that needs to be filled out for the school.
Over-the-counter medicine must remain sealed, while prescription medications must have labeled containers.
Cain has also warned students about behavior expectations throughout the trip on the designated ACESS period in regards to Disney Graduation Information Night.
Students who are caught violating park rules or are found with alcohol, nicotine, or other prohibited items may be escorted “Disney Jail,” and will be required to be picked up by their parent.
Isabella Cruz says, “I think it’s crazy that parents have to drive a few hours out of their way to pick up their child if a student is caught, but I understand the policies. I just think that it’s crazy, you know?”
“I’m just most excited to just hang out with my friends at such a special place,” Cruz said.
“After graduation, everyone is going their own different way, so this feels like one of our last big moments.”
Still, Vice Principal Jason Cain encouraged students to make the trip memorable in a positive way.
“Please remember that there will be other high school students participating in this event and the staff ‘Cast Members’ will be overly cautious with student behaviors,” Cain said in his email to seniors.
“We all must be on our best behavior.”
