A dream is a wish your heart makes, and for one woman, she found out that sometimes those dreams can become reality. And that you’re never too old to spend your birthday at the happiest place on earth. That’s just what Magnolia Jackson learned on her birthday recently. It only took turning 106 to get her there.
Surrounded by loved ones and the iconic figures of Mickey and Minnie Mouse, she celebrated her extraordinary milestone at Walt Disney World Resort. The celebrations were nothing short of magical, with Mickey Mouse-shaped balloons, a dazzling cake adorned with Disney characters, and a silver tiara adorning Jackson’s head.
Magnolia Jackson, center, celebrates her 106th birthday at Disney World with her family and friends. Photo by Disney Parks
Jackson, Disney said in a press release, fell in love with all things Disney after she attended the Florida Classic college football game in Orlando last fall and saw Mickey Mouse perform on the field in his drum major outfit. The performance “fueled her desire to celebrate her birthday at Walt Disney World.”
Surrounded by cast members and cherished family, Jackson’s radiant smile spoke volumes, capturing the essence of the joyous occasion. “I have a very good feeling towards all these boys and girls,” Jackson said during the celebrations. Jackson expressed joyfully during the festivities. Her enthusiasm was infectious as she embraced the magic of the moment.
Jackson could be seen smiling as she said “Hello” to Minnie before being sung “Happy Birthday” by some of the cast members — who wore Mickey Mouse gloves and Minnie Mouse ears — and Mickey and Minnie. Jackson even joined in the singing at one point. Reflecting on the significance of the day, Shannon Smith-Conrad, Walt Disney World Resort ambassador, shared, “Watching her and her family come into the area and seeing Mickey and Minnie and all the love and support from our cast members and community.”
You just felt the love that she had in her heart and the excitement to be here.”
Indeed, it was a morning filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. As Jackson embarked on a tour of the Magic Kingdom, spent precious moments with Princess Tiana, and indulged her passion for gardening at the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, the celebration encapsulated the spirit of joy and wonder that defines Disney magic.
Magnolia celebrates her birthday with Mickey and Minnie. Photo by Disney Parks
“People come to Walt Disney World for birthdays, graduations, wedding anniversaries, so to be able to celebrate Miss Magnolia Jackson’s birthday with her family and friends and our cast members has truly been a magical morning indeed,” remarked Smith-Conrad, capturing the sentiment of the day.
In the end, it wasn’t just about the enchanting surroundings; it was about the simple yet profound moments of connection, laughter, and love that made Jackson’s 106th birthday truly unforgettable. After all, when you have all your dreams come true at the most magical place on Earth, everything seems just a bit more special. Watch the lovely celebrations for Magnolia Jackson, below.
