There are many different types of dreams that come true for cast members at the Disneyland Resort. For some, this means getting to have a magical moment with a favorite Disney characters. For others, it is getting to experience cast member exclusive opportunities. For one cast member named Nick, the dream that came true revolved around Halloween Time decorations that were placed in Downtown Disney District.
Recently, Disney shared Nick’s story. Nick grew up seeing Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse statues along the tram route coming in from the Mickey and Friends parking structure at the Disneyland Resort. This year, he was a part of the team that brought these statues back and placed them near World of Disney where guests coming to and from the parks to the parking structures can see. Read Nick’s story here:
A spell has been cast over Disneyland Resort as eerie magic fills the air for Halloween Time! Behind the spooktacular decorations and festive displays is a dedicated team of cast members known as the Resort Enhancement team. Among them is Nick Stauf, one of the team’s many dedicated cast members, who brings a love for the holidays to life. This Halloween season marks Nick’s debut in transforming The Happiest Place on Earth into a frightfully fun wonderland – a childhood dream come true.
Nick began his career journey at Disneyland Resort in 2013, creating happiness in various roles for over 11 years, including time spent in attractions at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Haunted Mansion. Now, as a decorator for Halloween Time, he is thrilled to bring his creative spirit to the Downtown Disney District. “I could not be happier working on this team,” he shares.
Resort Enhancement cast member, Nick Stauf, cheerfully poses with pumpkins on display in Downtown Disney District.
Halloween is Nick’s favorite time of year, especially at Disneyland Resort, where the colorful decor fills him with joy. His passion for decor was first ignited by one of his favorite attractions, Haunted Mansion Holiday, which inspired him to begin crafting his own holiday decor as a personal hobby.
A childhood dream brought to life
As a child, Nick was captivated by the exceptional attention to detail in the seasonal decor placed throughout the resort each year. Since then, it has been his dream to join the Resort Enhancement team and add his unique touch to the holiday transformations. This year, Nick was able to fulfill this dream by helping to redesign a special archway where the Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse statues are placed in the Downtown Disney District.
Donald Duck smiles as he celebrates the Halloween season in Downtown Disney District.
Nick is most excited about the return of the fan-favorite Halloween sculptures of Mickey Mouse and his friends, displayed throughout the Downtown Disney District. “When I saw these sculptures as a kid, I loved the magical feeling of knowing that it was Halloween Time,” Nick shared. “We haven’t seen these sculptures in nearly 10 years, so I’m thrilled to reintroduce them to our guests.”
From pumpkins to lighting and foliage – Nick and the Resort Enhancement team have brought Halloween Time to life for Disneyland Resort guests this festive season.
Throughout his storied career with Disneyland Resort, Nick has brought magic in many ways and looks forward to more dreams coming true at the Happiest Place on Earth!
A friendly ghost sculpture is on display in Downtown Disney District.