From the snow-covered kingdom of Arendelle to the colorful world of Encanto, Disney has been capturing hearts and inspiring imaginations for generations.
With unforgettable characters, enchanting stories and a little pixie dust, the magic of Disney has a way of making children and adults believe that anything is possible.
Through Disney On Ice, those beloved stories leap from the screen onto the ice, bringing characters to life with dazzling costumes and breathtaking performances that have delighted families around the world.
While the spotlight usually shines on the ice, this time some of Disney's most recognizable stars traded the rink for a hospital playroom to deliver a special dose of happiness to young patients.
Ahead of the opening night of Disney On Ice presents Magic in the Stars at Bert Ogden Arena in Edinburg, South Texas Health System (STHS) Children's partnered with Feld Entertainment on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, to bring a taste of the Disney magic to pediatric patients and their families.
The hospital's third-floor pediatric playroom was transformed into a colorful Disney-themed celebration, where children enjoyed a special coloring party complete with activities, giveaways and an engaging conversation with three professional Disney On Ice skaters.
"We're used to seeing children's faces light up when we perform on the ice, but getting to spend time with them here at the hospital is just as special," said Mia Saunders, who portrays the Fairy Godmother in Disney On Ice's Magic in the Stars tour. "It's wonderful to see how much excitement a simple visit can bring, especially for kids who may not be able to come see the show."
The afternoon's biggest surprise came when Mickey Mouse himself made a grand entrance, giving young patients the opportunity to meet the iconic character, pose for photos and create special memories.
"I couldn't believe Mickey was actually here! I was so excited when he walked in," said Raelyssa Rodriguez, a 12-year-old pediatric patient at STHS Children's. "It was so much fun getting out of my room and doing something different."
For parents, the afternoon was just as memorable, offering a chance to see their children laughing, having fun and enjoying a little excitement.
"Being in the hospital isn't easy, so having something fun like this to take my daughter's mind off of everything she's going through means a lot," said Melissa Villarreal, mother of Raelyssa. "For a little while, she got to forget about being in the hospital, and seeing her laugh and enjoy herself is exactly what we both needed.
The celebration extended beyond the playroom as Mickey Mouse made bedside visits to young patients who couldn’t leave their rooms due to medical restrictions, ensuring they too had a chance to get in on the fun.
The visit was part of STHS Children's ongoing efforts to create positive experiences for hospitalized children, offering opportunities for fun, creativity and meaningful family moments while they receive medical care.
"Caring for children goes beyond treating their medical needs. It's also about making sure they feel comfortable, happy and supported throughout their stay," said Lance Ames, Chief Executive Officer, STHS Children's and STHS Edinburg. "Experiences like this give our young patients something to look forward to and remind them that they can still have fun while they're receiving care. We're grateful to Feld Entertainment for helping us make these special moments possible."
Disney On Ice presents Magic in the Stars features 56 Disney characters in a spectacular production filled with world-class figure skating, acrobatics, vibrant costumes and captivating special effects. Audiences can enjoy beloved stories from Frozen 2, Encanto, Moana 2, Wish, Raya and the Last Dragon and other Disney favorites.
The production will take the ice at Bert Ogden Arena from Thursday, October 29, through Sunday, November 1, 2026.
Families attending the show can also help make a meaningful difference for hospitalized children through a special fundraising partnership benefiting the STHS Children's Child Life Program. For every ticket purchased through a designated fundraising link, $2 will be donated to the program to help provide comfort, emotional support and therapeutic activities for young patients and their families.
For a complete list of showtimes and ticket information, visit the Bert Ogden Arena website. To purchase tickets benefiting the STHS Children's Child Life Program, visit the special fundraising link.
About South Texas Health System
South Texas Health System is a multi-facility healthcare system serving patients throughout the Rio Grande Valley. The system includes four acute care facility campuses with specialties in pediatrics, heart and vascular services, maternity and women’s health and trauma services. Inpatient and outpatient treatment for behavioral health needs and addictive disorders is also provided through the system's South Texas Health System Behavioral facility. South Texas Health System is affiliated with the South Texas Clinical Partners ACO, Prominence Health Plan and Cornerstone Regional Hospital. The system operates an advanced Level I Trauma Center at South Texas Health System McAllen, the first dedicated children’s facility and pediatric ER at South Texas Health System Children’s, the region’s only freestanding heart hospital and specialized cardiac ER at South Texas Health System Heart and seven freestanding emergency rooms located in and around Alamo, Edinburg, McAllen, Mission, Pharr and Weslaco. For more information about the system and its comprehensive services, please visit www.southtexashealthsystem.com.
About Feld Entertainment®
Feld Entertainment® is the worldwide leader in producing and presenting live touring family entertainment experiences that bring people together and uplift the human spirit. Properties include Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey®, Monster Jam®, Monster Energy Supercross, Disney On Ice, Marvel Universe LIVE!, and Jurassic World Live Tour. Across the brand portfolio, Feld Entertainment has entertained millions of families in more than 75 countries and on six continents. Visit feldentertainment.com for more information.
