If you’ve followed Disney Over 50 for a while, you probably know how much I love Give Kids the World. They have helped over 200,000 Wish Kids and their families to have the vacation of a lifetime, without cost to the family. It’s a week without some of the stresses of critical illness that is experienced at home. Kids can be kids at Give Kids the World. While the focus is on the Wish Child, the families aren’t forgotten. Each person who arrives at the Village is made to feel special.
Give Kids the World is a nonprofit, and relies on donations and special events to provide the magic that it is known for. The holidays are a great time to help out this worthy cause, as well as experience some of the magic for yourself! On October 20, I was invited to Give Kids the World Village to learn more about the 2025 holiday events.
The annual Gingerbread Run will take place on Saturday, November 8. This 5K will start at 6:00 that evening. If you register, you’ll see the Village under the lights! If you don’t run, that isn’t a problem. Walk, skip, dance…or just show up. If you can’t make it, there is a Virtual Run that you can sign up for. Learn more information on the Gingerbread Run and register here.
One of the things that Give Kids the World loves to promote is that the families can have ice cream for breakfast. On November 6 and 7, it gets even better. You can sign up for Ice Cream for Breakfast With Santa! He’ll be there with the Mrs., making it a great place to get some holiday photos. You’ll also be able to enjoy some of the attractions at Give Kids the World Village, play minigolf, and enjoy a dance party. It costs only $20 for kids and $25 for adults. What better way is there to start the day and the holiday season than with ice cream sundaes! Learn more information and buy your tickets here.
If you’ll be in Central Florida on December 20 or 21, consider purchasing tickets for Holiday Nights at Give Kids the World. You’ll see the lights, enjoy live music from CFCArts, experience some of the attractions, and more. This is the perfect way to get the whole family into the Christmas spirit, knowing that you’re helping children. Learn more about Holiday Lights and buy your tickets here.
Looking for another way to help out this holiday season? Adopt a tree! You can sponsor one on the annual Tree Trail or along the Avenue of Angels. This is a great opportunity for businesses, clubs, groups, and families to give back. You can decorate the tree yourself, or have it decorated for you. Learn how to adopt a tree here.
Not only is the holiday season bright at Give Kids the World Village, your participation helps to brighten the holidays (and other days) for families facing unthinkable challenges. Thank you for your support. And thanks to Give Kids the World for inviting me out! The holidays are indeed filled with hope.
