Behind the Magic: Disneyland Resort is Transformed for Halloween by a New Park Decorator

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.

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.

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 for Halloween in Downtown Disney District.

A friendly ghost sculpture is on display in Downtown Disney District. 

Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort

Halloween Time and Plaza de la Familia have officially begun at Disneyland Resort! During the celebration, guests can dive into returning favorites and enjoy new offerings for all ages – from those seeking silly scares and frightful family fun to celebrations of time-honored traditions and beloved bonds to celebrate the season. 

To learn more about fall favorites at Disneyland Resort, visit the Disney Parks Blog.