
With the launch of Disney+ in Singapore, we can't decide who's more excited – us or the kids! Here, one cool aunt dishes out five great reasons why no-one's ever too old to love Disney...
ICYMI: a few years back, a mum’s obscenity-laced tirade on Twitter went viral (you can read her expletive post here). In her post, she was enraged at a group of millennials who had frustrated her at Disney World, and even called for Disney to “ban childless millennials”. This sparked a fierce debate: are millennials or childless adults too old to enjoy Disneyland? It even inspired a New York Post writer to author an op-ed. Not only did the author agree with the post, but he also argued that, “millennials going to Disneyland is weird”. This fuelled further discussions online between the two camps, mostly defending the right for all people to enjoy the park – regardless if they have kids or not.
And sure, that makes sense. After all, Disney tends to target kids, families and the like, right? But as a millennial and resident cool aunt to several nieces and nephews (or so I’d like to think), it’s only natural I side with the rest of my posse. There’s certainly nothing wrong with liking all things Disney as an adult (you can bet I’ll be watching Raya and the Last Dragon at least twice in cinemas this month)!
Not convinced and still think you’re “too old” to enjoy Disney? Here are some reasons to change your mind so you can live your life as a proud Disney-lovin’ adult like me!
WHY IT’S OK TO LOVE DISNEY AS AN ADULT
1. You’ll get to rediscover your inner child again
As adults, it’s easy to feel bogged down by responsibilities. Well, here’s a great way to relax and reconnect with your inner child: escapism (by watching your favourite Disney movies)! Better yet, book a quick getaway to Disneyland (post-Corona, of course!) and enjoy all its rides, attractions and sweet treats. The best part? Use the single-rider queue at your favourite attraction so you can ride the attraction over and over again without the wait…
2. You’ll get to watch kids fall in love with your favourite Disney flicks and characters
Watching the kids in your family fall in love with the same characters, stories and animations you adored when you were a child is extremely adorable. Sure, it might get a tad annoying after they’ve watched The Lion King on a loop, but seeing their little faces light up in glee when they meet your favourite characters for the first time is heartwarming and possibly, the cutest thing ever. A tick in the box for me!
3. You’ll have a chance to take a (mental health) break
Let’s be honest: it’s hard to be an adult! You’ve got a million and one items on your never-ending list, and I’m sure your role as a parent is a lot harder (kudos to you). Whether it’s providing for your family at work, taking care of the munchkin at home or even just running errands… it can get wearisome at times. May I suggest: pop on a lighthearted, funny Disney film (I’d recommend The Princess Diaries), or watch a new one you (and the little ones) haven’t seen! Plus, it’s a great way to escape the concrete metropolitan jungle for a whimsical adventure that’s oozing good vibes. Just what you need when you feel burnt out (a glass of wine might help, too!).
4, You’ll get to visit swanky cool bars, restaurants and other adult-oriented offerings in and around Disneyland
Yup, you read that right! Disney’s theme parks and hotels have numerous bars that will tipple your fancy. Worried about who’s going to take care of the kids while you gallivant? Disneyland’s got you covered! The park has dedicated childcare for parents who want to spend quality time together – giving you and your other half an opportunity to enjoy Disneyland’s bars, restaurants, rides and attractions for a couple of hours.
Are you a fan of Beauty and the Beast? If so, you’ll want to add the The Enchanted Rose bar and lounge at the luxurious Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa to your bucket list. Its interior draws inspiration from the classic Disney film with its French furnishings and baroque design. Plus, you can’t miss the gorgeous golden chandelier – the perfect setting for date night!

When you’re done tucking the kids in bed at Disneyland Hotel after a long day in the park, you should totally pop by Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar for a jungle cruise-themed adventure (I can attest to its awesomeness)! Order a tiki (or two) and feast your senses on the animatronics that surround the bar. It’s a unique tiki experience like no other, even if you don’t drink!
Psst, I’ll let you in on a little secret: if you love beer, ales and cocktails, you should definitely visit the alcohol-only carts or sit-down restaurants at the Magic Kingdom and Epcot in Disney World for a refreshing drink during a hot day!
5. And lastly… you’ll learn invaluable life lessons
I’ve learnt so much from watching Disney films as a kid, like the importance of family and being unapologetically me from classics like Mulan, Pocahontas and Toy Story, as well as from newer Disney movies like Tangled and Frozen. Disney films are a great way to initiate conversations with your kid on values through lighthearted animations, and they’ll challenge them to follow their inner voices. And, if they ever find themselves going through a tough time, films like Finding Nemo, Ratatouille and The Little Mermaid can teach them the importance of perseverance, too.
And, as Dory says, “When life gets you down, you know what you gotta do? Just keep swimming!”