Aulani Grand Opening

[LeenaLee]

Had the opportunity to be part of the Grand Opening Festivities at Aulani last night. We were pleasantly surprised to find out when we checked in that guests of the resort were invited!! Mickey and Minnie were part of the celebration of course as were some of the Disney Bigwigs. A beautiful performance honoring Hawaiian culture was put on by Keali'i Reichel, a well known Hawaiian performer along with Hawaiian dancers, some fireworks and of course some Disney Magic. After the performance, food and beverage stations and live music were set-up throughout the pool area so that party guests could meander throughout the property and enjoy the amazing setting. We received a special Aulani Grand Opening pin and a hand painted Vinylmation at the end of the event. What a treat for Aulani guests, nice touch Disney. This resort is absolutely beautiful and was designed to honor the Hawaiian culture with Disney touches throughout. I will post more later along with some pictures if I can figure out how to do it. Aloha!

 

[DisneyPups]

That sounds wonderful! Hope to visit at some point. If you end up posting pics, would you mind showing the pin and Vinylmation too?

 

[delaneyc52]

I just saw part of the celebration on ABC news! The resort is just so beautiful! Disney always does it right.

 

[mkymsehi]

Youtube videos from last night's 9/22/11 Grand Opening.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OCmzPtZXIIk

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XaeJXdg8LIA&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TrbTIdeBD8s&feature=related

 

[ChiSoxKeith]

Unfortunately our 1 week stay at Aulani had us checking out the day before the Grand Opening Ceremony - but we did get to see them rehearse several times (including the final dress rehearsals Tuesday night).

I can imagine how awesome it would have been with live music (they were using a tape track during rehearsals).

Aulani is so worth the extra points. Our stay there was divine. I'll try and work up a trip report later (we just got back - stayed at DLR on the way back to split up the air travel).