The day we’ve been counting down to all year is finally here! Our 2026 Bert’s Big Adventure families officially kicked off the 23rd annual journey to Walt Disney World with a grand arrival at the beautiful Hilton Atlanta Airport hotel, and yes, the red carpet was rolled out in style! The energy? Absolutely electric.
After their magical welcome, families jumped right into the excitement, picking up as if no time had passed since Family Orientation. The room buzzed with excitement as DJ Jobe spun everyone’s favorite Disney hits, and the magic truly came to life thanks to Holland Muscio of Balloonacy, who once again donated her incredible talents to transform the space. Our friends at Q99.7 Atlanta brought the fun with interactive games that kept the kids smiling from ear to ear. At one point, Jameson stacked the Jenga tower so high it was taller than he was, and the crowd went wild!
Then suddenly, a delicious parade rolled in from Zaxbys, serving up chicken tenders, sandwiches, Zalads, and more – eyes widened as everyone happily dove into the feast. After dinner, a sundae celebration courtesy of Häagen-Dazs topped off the night, complete with sprinkles, gummy bears, crushed Oreos, and clouds of whipped cream!
As laughter filled the room and families shared their excitement about heading to Disney, the amazing characters from the Georgia Garrison: 501st Legion and Southern Belle Character Company spent the evening right in the middle of the magic, playing and interacting with everyone.
From Moana, Elsa and Anna, Princess Jasmine, and Cinderella to Thor, Black Panther, R2-D2, Darth Vader, and so many more; it was a night packed with unforgettable character moments. Forrest was completely starstruck meeting Star-Lord in person, and suddenly he was wearing his helmet, such an honor!
We were also thrilled to have Peppa from Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta’s Canine’s for Kids there, making every one of our kiddos feel so welcomed and paws-itively happy!
As the night continued with magic, Bert and Kristin made a few major announcements…
SURPRISE! Each family received a beautiful Vera Bradley belt bag filled with trip essentials, thanks to our incredible friends at Gas South. Inside? $100 in emergency funds from the generous hearts at Georgia Amusement & Music Operators Association and Skill Master Pro.
We’re also beyond grateful to Magic Moments by Hailey for creating custom character-themed Mickey ears for each child, and to Pratt Industries for building a gigantic Disney-themed backdrop that made the perfect photo moment for our families. Sweet Brooke got a pair of ears that matched her all time favorite Star Wars character, Baby Yoda!
We are so grateful to each and every person who has given their time and love to these incredible families! Especially our talented photographers and videographers that never miss a smile or magic moment. Let’s give a round of applause to Amanda W. Coker, Cassandra Young Photography, Monarch Studio, and Sarah Esther Photography. Thank you to Aslyn Baringer Productions and Salt Run Creative for capturing these magical moments on video!
A heartfelt thank you to the Hilton Atlanta Airport hotel for once again providing a beautiful, luxurious space at a deeply discounted rate, ensuring every Bert’s Big Adventure family can relax and rest easy before heading to Disney. They truly help set the tone for this once-in-a-lifetime journey – THANK YOU!
As we embark on this once-in-a-lifetime journey, we invite our supporters to join us in creating the magic. With The Little Give, a little kindness truly goes a long way. Just $5 can turn into dozens of little moments for a precious child who needs them most. At Bert’s Big Adventure, these little moments create joy, connection, and unforgettable experiences for children and for the families who love them.
Now through February 28th, every dollar donated will be matched dollar-for-dollar by Zaxbys, that’s double the magic, double the joy, and double the love!
