Walt Disney World is renowned for its immersive experiences and meet & greets that allow us fans to connect with favorite characters from across the Disney universe. While the current lineup is impressive, there are several beloved characters who have yet to make a significant appearance in the parks. Let’s explore some of the dream character meet & greets that would add an extra layer of fun to our park visits.
1. C-3PO and R2-D2
These ARE the droids we’re looking for! Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge has been open for 5 years now, and frankly, I’m shocked this meet and greet doesn’t exist. The galaxy’s most beloved droids, C-3PO and R2-D2, are a natural fit for character encounter at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. These two have made appearances at Star Wars Weekends (miss you), and pop up at Disneyland special events now and then. They deserve a year-round home at Disney’s Hollywood Studios! Will this agony ever end?
2. Indiana Jones
*Cue the John Williams music* Indiana Jones, the legendary archaeologist and adventurer, has captivated audiences for decades. Imagine meeting Indy in person at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, or perhaps over at Disney’s Animal Kingdom one day in the future within the new Tropical Americas. Better yet, how about an interactive treasure hunt à la Agent P World Showcase Adventure to amp up the character interaction?
3. Mei Lee / Red Panda
Ever since Mei turned up at Disney California Adventure’s Pixar Fest, we’re longing to see Turning Red infused into the Orlando parks. What better way than Mei Lee as Red Panda meeting and greeting in EPCOT‘s Canada pavilion? A colorful setting inspired by Mei’s vibrant world in Toronto would make a great backdrop.
4. Ernesto de la Cruz
Marigolds, music, and the power of family. The beautiful world of Coco would be a welcome addition in any capacity to EPCOT’s Mexico pavilion, but how cool would an Ernesto de la Cruz meet and greet be? Just imagine the [macabre] charismatic interaction you’d have. We’ve seen him featured at DCA’s Oogie Boogie Bash, and more recently performing at D23. Perhaps we could give sombrero-wearing Donald a break and tap in Ernesto? Bonus points if some of his Alebrije chihuahuas are nearby…
5. Hitchhiking Ghosts
The Hitchhiking Ghosts from the Haunted Mansion are iconic figures from Disney’s silly-spooky side. A meet and greet featuring these mischievous ghosts would be a fantastic year-round character addition to Magic Kingdom’s Liberty Square. Imagine entering an indoor ominous atmospheric setting, with special effects and eerie Haunted Mansion music. Heck, I’ll take a photo op right outside the mansion! Or Constance the Bride… or Hatbox Ghost… any of the 999 of ’em! I digress.
Important to note: the Hitchhiking Ghosts are currently making appearances atop Frontierland rooftops during this year’s Mickey’s Not-So Scary Halloween Party; hopefully this is a step in the meet & greet direction!
Disney World’s current character offerings are pretty good, but these dream meet and greets would certainly add an extra layer of excitement. Hopefully we see these beloved characters as part of future in-park encounters. Until then, let’s keep dreaming! Who am I missing? Who would you like to see at the parks?
Theme Park Correspondent for The DIS | Chloé loves kitschy dark rides, roller coasters, a good background area music loop, hot Butterbeer, and all things Halloween. You’ll mostly find her wandering around Orlando’s biggest theme parks snapping pics and sharing tips… or probably talking about The Great Movie Ride.
