Celebrating a Century of Magic: Disney100: The Exhibition Extended in Kansas City

From 2024 Winter Edition of OnTrack

October 16, 2024, marked a momentous occasion as The Walt Disney Company celebrated its 101st anniversary. In a special event at Union Station, officials revealed some thrilling developments regarding Disney100: The Exhibition, which is proudly presented in Kansas City by Bank of America. Originally set to conclude on November 30, the exhibition has been extended through January 5, 2025, in response to an overwhelming demand, especially during the holiday season.  

Becky Cline, Director of the Walt Disney Archives, shared that after its run in Kansas City, the exhibition will make its way to Europe, offering a final opportunity for attendees to experience this incredible showcase before it leaves the city.  

“We knew we had something special with Disney100: The Exhibition from all the connections that Walt himself had with Kansas City and our region,” said George Guastello, president and CEO of Union Station. “So far, we’ve welcomed guests from all 50 states and 11 countries, and the takeaway is the same: they come to relive the magic and memories of their past. They grew up with Disney shows and characters in their homes. They were swept away by Disney movies in theatres. And many visited Disney theme parks as some of their most special moments. Walt made history during his time in Kansas City and like him, we feel that it’s our obligation to keep moving forward and pave new paths. With exhibitions like Disney100: The Exhibition, we know we’re doing just that by connecting generations and encouraging people to pursue their dreams with passion.” 

The exhibition’s extension—thru Jan 5th—means that visitors, especially those traveling to Kansas City for the festive season, can immerse themselves in the magic that has defined Disney over the past century.  

Already, over 115,000 tickets have been sold, positioning Disney100: The Exhibition to become one of Union Station’s most attended exhibitions yet. The Exhibition has also received one of the highest guest satisfaction ratings in the history of the station. 

“We at The Walt Disney Company are pleased to announce the extension of the exhibition here in Kansas City,” said Becky Cline, Director, Walt Disney Archives. “It’s truly special to see Walt’s story, both personally and professionally, presented in a place that was so impactful in his early career. We hope everyone will have the opportunity to experience the magic of 100 years of Disney that has spanned generations and touched the hearts of fans around the world. For people here in the Kansas City region, that magic is, understandably, especially personal.”  

Adding a personal touch to the day’s festivities was Roy Patrick Disney, grandson of Roy O. Disney and great-nephew of Walt Disney, who reflected on the enduring ties his family has with Kansas City. His presence served as a stark reminder of the historical significance of the event as he walked through the storied halls once graced by his relatives. 

In addition to the impressive ticket sales, another 30 Disney-themed events and programs have attracted thousands of attendees, featuring influential figures from the Disney universe. Presenters as part of Disney100: The Exhibition Speaker Series have included luminaries such as Disney Legend Bill Farmer, the official voice of Goofy, Bret Iwan, the official voice of Mickey Mouse, and more. Topics have ranged from the history of Walt’s time in Kansas City to costume and design and even Walt Disney’s favorite foods. 

As Union Station gears up for the holiday season—an annual draw for over 250,000 visitors—this extension of Disney100: The Exhibition is a perfect gift for families.  

“Union Station is where Kansas City comes to celebrate,” noted Ray Kowalik, Board Chairman of Union Station. “Families from across the region gather here to reminisce and forge new memories together. With the holidays approaching, extending Disney100: The Exhibition could not have come at a better time. We invite guests of all ages, both new and returning, to experience the magic of Disney’s century-long journey right here in Kansas City.”