Fashion is a form of history we wear! Join us for this two-week intensive class as you learn how to design memorable and original costumes from the past, present, and future. From body shape to color scheme and cloth, every visible element of an outfit can give a viewer insight into its wearer. As...
Before he created his first animated short films, Walt Disney worked for the Kansas City Film Ad Company, where he produced stop-motion animation commercials using paper cut-outs. Since that era, stop-motion animation has developed physically and technologically, bringing grander sets and more...
Who hasn’t doodled a creepy little creature in the margins of their homework? Or sketched an alien visitor from another planet? Perhaps a drawing of a mischievous monster that lives under the bed? In this class, you will illustrate unique depictions of creatures that live in the corners of our minds...
In this two-week class, be prepared to reimagine ideas and designs as you learn what it takes to be an animator. Using animation principles with unconventional items, various traditional and experimental methods and practices will be explored. After multiple animation tests, students will use their...
In this fun and hands-on session, learn how to make your drawings truly come to life and put your creativity in the spotlight! Join us in our Art Studio where you can enjoy evening cocktails and follow along as our Education staff teaches you step-by-step how to paint whimsical flowers.
Originally constructed in 1897 as an Army barracks, the iconic building transformed into The Walt Disney Family Museum more than a century later and today houses some of the most interesting and fun museum exhibitions in the US. Explore the life story of the man behind the brand—Walt Disney.
On March 18, 1967, the beloved attraction Pirates of the Caribbean opened at Disneyland. “Arrr you ready to sail on into our theater to celebrate this anniversary with a special month-long screening of Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl? If so… then “Yo ho!” (Runtime: 143 minutes...
Overture The year is 1935. America is mid-way through the Great Depression. The Dust Bowl is devastating the prairies. A war-weary world, whether aware or not, is a few short years from one of its greatest crises. Mickey Mouse, a black-and-white cartoon icon, is about to face the music, in more ways than one.
In this workshop, students will practice their observation skills by drawing from reference and breaking down basic shapes of animals. From here, students will utilize their perceptions to push their designs, while exploring how to stylize and apply emotions to their illustrations. By the end of the...
Join us for an exclusive conversation with Japanese American artist Willie Ito about his inspiring decades-long career in animation. After Ito and his family were taken from their home in San Francisco and interned at a camp in Utah for Japanese Americans during WWII, he overcame incredible...
“Gawrsh!” It’s time to pack up our bags and hit the road for A Goofy Movie’s (1995) 30th anniversary. Spend the day with us in this Studio Series, as we soar through the evolution of Goofy’s character design and a behind-the-scenes look of the beloved film centered around this iconic character...
In conjunction with our current special exhibition, Directing at Disney, we are excited to present an in-depth conversation with Academy Award®, BAFTA®, and Golden Globe®-winning director Brenda Chapman. After beginning her career as a story artist at Walt Disney Animation Studios in 1987 and...
Prepare yourself, traveler, as we go back to a time when magic existed. From fairytale classics such Walt Disney’s The Sword in the Stone (1963) to Disney and Pixar’s Onward (2020), enchanted tools such as wands and staffs have become a staple in fable lore. This Studio Series workshop will whisk...
The museum cafe is now open on museum operating days from 11am–3pm with limited grab-and-go snacks and beverages available.
Food and drink are only permitted in the cafe area. Outside food is not allowed in the museum, but can be consumed on the porch; outside beverages can be consumed in the cafe area.
Spotlight Talks are 5-10 minute talks led by a museum staff member that take place in the museum galleries on weekends. Topics, times, and locations vary by day and are subject to availability. Check in with a Gallery Associate on the day of your visit for more information.
The mission of The Walt Disney Family Museum Animation Academy is to provide comprehensive training in art, animation, and storytelling. Inspired by Walt Disney’s brilliance in fostering creative talent, the museum is committed to supporting the next generation of creative talent, with a focus on reaching marginalized individuals and communities. Our intention is to expand the reach of the program, encouraging creative and diverse voices to shape the future of the animation and film industry.
There will be no strings holding us down at this Studio Series! The story of Pinocchio and his journey from puppet to real live boy has touched hearts of people of all ages. Join us as we celebrate the 85th anniversary of Walt Disney’s Pinocchio (1940). As we discuss the history of the iconic figure...
Learn from animators, Imagineers, and other speakers about Walt Disney's life, career, and legacy.
Members have unlimited access to recordings of Happily Ever After Hours episodes through a special members-only portal.
Questions about our virtual talks? Visit our Virtual Programs FAQ here.
In this fun and hands-on session, learn how to make your drawings truly come to life and put your creativity in the spotlight! Join us in our Art Studio where you can enjoy evening cocktails and follow along as our Education staff teaches you step-by-step how to sketch loving cartoon gestures.
In conjunction with our current special exhibition, Directing at Disney, the sons of Disney Legend and influential Disney Animation director Wolfgang “Woolie” Reitherman will be joining us for an exclusive talk about their father’s work, legacy, and lasting impact, along with their own involvement...