by Guest Blogger Rick Schneider

Millions of guests pass through the gates of the Magic Kingdom every year, but only 365 families a year get chosen to open the park. Many arrive early enough to enjoy the opening ceremony and watch with envy as that one family gets to be the official “First Family.” They get to open the park with the help of Mickey and many of his friends. I have been one of the envious millions since my first trip to the MK more than 35 years ago. After dozens of trips to the MK, my family and I were bestowed the honor of being the “First Family” and opened the MK on September, 16, 2010.

It was an early opening Extra Magic Hour and we arrived by bus at about 7:15 am. I was with my wife and our 8-year-old son. Our 15-year-old son couldn’t miss more time from school (or JV football) and chose not to come. While waiting around I had a friendly conversation with a cast member. I mentioned it was my wife’s birthday and how it would be great if I could surprise her with being the First Family. The conversation ended and two minutes later two cast members tapped me on the shoulder and asked if we wanted to be the First Family and open up the park.

We obviously said yes and we were escorted to a bench near the tunnel under the Train Station. There we were met by Barbara who took us into the park and onto Main Street. We boarded an antique fire engine and slowly drove down Main Street with our son cranking the old fashioned siren.

It was a strange feeling to be almost alone on Main Street in the middle of the MK. There were a few maintenance people putting the final touches on the park for its opening. One worker was nice enough to take my camera and take some photos of us as we drove toward the Castle. At the hub we made a right and headed for Mickey’s Toontown Fair. On the way we passed the Tomorrowland Speedway where we saw many cast members enjoy a quick ride around the track. Barbara told us the cast members have a ball racing against each other while testing the cars.

We finally reached Mickey’s Country House where we were greeted by the head mouse himself along with Daisy Duck, Snow White, Stitch, Mary Poppins and her co-star Bert. Needless to say, many photos were taken.

Snow White then escorted our son to the train that was awaiting us at the Toontown Station.

It was several minutes before we left the station. During that time Snow White and our son became great friends. Mickey sat in the row behind us and continually offered high-fives, pats on the shoulder or claps of approval as Snow White and our son spoke of the 7 Dwarfs, favorite rides, even sports. She was incredible as she made him feel more comfortable and at ease.

Once we pulled into the music filled station we were met by the Mayor who welcomed us and guided us to the front rail, overlooking the anxious crowd below. We joined in the backwards countdown and set off streamers and party favors as we reached zero. We waved to the crowd and were escorted off the platform by Mickey Mouse.

At the bottom of the ramp we were met by a Disney photographer who took pictures of us with Mickey and handed me a Disney Photopass card. I commented to my wife that I wish we knew someone in the crowd who could have taken our photo. Silly me…This is The Magic Kingdom. A dozen photos of us were on the the photo card and we got to pick one for a free 8×10.

That was our magical morning as First Family of the Magic Kingdom. It took about 30 minutes, felt like 30 seconds but will be remembered forever. So now you know what happens to that lucky family. Maybe it will be you. Only 365 families chosen. You never know…

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