The Walt Disney Company’s Imagineers — the creative minds behind some of the world’s most iconic experiences — are applying their visionary talents to help rebuild and reimagine public spaces that were lost in this year’s devastating wildfires across Los Angeles.
As part of its ongoing $15 million commitment to help LA recover from the disaster, Disney is directing $5 million to support the reopening of Altadena’s Charles White Park, which was destroyed in the January blaze. The revitalized park will feature a new community center and an enhanced playground infused with Disney magic to bring joy to families in the area for its anticipated reopening in 2026.
Since early this year, the Imagineers have been working closely with County staff to help reimagine the park in several ways, including site planning, landscape architecture, and playground design. Some Imagineers tragically lost their own homes in the fires, making their contributions to the community’s recovery even more meaningful. In addition to Charles White Park, Imagineers are supporting recovery efforts at two additional severely damaged Altadena parks.
“Los Angeles has been home to The Walt Disney Company since its founding more than a century ago, which is why we felt a special responsibility to help this community rebuild in the aftermath of the devastating wildfires earlier this year,” said Bob Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company. “I’m incredibly proud of our Imagineers who are volunteering their time and talents to help reimagine cherished public spaces like Charles White Park. Their work is not only a testament to Disney’s creative spirit, but also to our deep commitment to our neighbors throughout this region. We hope this effort brings comfort, joy, and a sense of renewal to the Altadena community for years to come.”
The park enhancements will include play areas inspired by Altadena’s iconic Deodar Cedar pinecones, a whimsical splash pad, bridges, boulders, slides and swings that will create opportunities for imaginative play for kids of all ages. A new amphitheater will serve as a gathering place for performances and community events. Portions of the park that survived the fire will be carefully preserved, creating a meaningful blend of history and renewal.
“Knowing that Disney’s Imagineers will pour their time, talent, and compassion into Altadena’s recovery is truly inspiring,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger. “Their work on Charles White Park and other community spaces is more than restoration. It is a gift of hope, joy, and healing for families who have endured so much this year.”
This initiative reflects Disney’s enduring, multi-year commitment to helping restore Los Angeles — a city the company has proudly called home for over 100 years. Disney’s response began immediately after the fires and included initial and immediate response and rebuilding efforts as teams across the company mobilized to provide urgent support. Employees organized donation drives, assembled hundreds of comfort kits and care packages, and honored local first responders with complimentary tickets to Disneyland Resort.
“Charles White Park continues to be an integral part of the Altadena community,” said Emily Dow, Studio Executive, Architecture and Design for Disney Imagineering. “Disney is honored to partner with Los Angeles County to help restore and reimagine this special place, ensuring families can gather, play, and make memories for generations to come.”
“I want to express my appreciation to the Los Angeles County Department of Parks & Recreation and Disney for their tremendous efforts in making this transformative moment possible,” said Ian White, son of Charles White. “Having a place and space for gathering with friends and neighbors to exchange ideas and share reflections is incredibly meaningful, as our community has been spread across the Los Angeles County area due to the devastating and tragic Eaton Fire. What this building will represent in terms of programming possibilities and community engagement is monumental to the spirit of the park and Charles White’s life’s work.”
Disney is also supporting one of Altadena’s most cherished traditions: The Christmas Tree Lane Lighting Ceremony and Winter Festival on December 6. First organized in 1920, this event is one of the oldest large-scale outdoor Christmas light displays in the world. The company will bring some signature Disney Magic to the lighting event, including character appearances, festive moments, and meaningful volunteer opportunities to support families in need during the season. Disney also will help support the community’s annual toy drive with a donation of more than 1,000 toys that evening.
In addition, Disney has been bringing joy to local students in Pacific Palisades, Brentwood and Altadena through “Disney Field Days.” These highly immersive experiences featured themed activities from Disney Animation Studios, Pixar, Marvel Studios, and Lucasfilm, offering hands-on activities, interactive games, and visits from classic Disney characters. Disney also provided its films for 60 family movie nights across locations in LA county during September and October.
Learn more about Disney’s support for Los Angeles following the wildfires here.