This article was originally published on Parentinfluence.com

When you hear the phrase “the happiest place on Earth,” what do you immediately think of? If you said Disney, then you’re spot on! Hundreds of thousands of people from around the world travel to visit Disneyland and Disney World every year, and for good reason. Although there are twelve Disney parks across the globe, there’s something special about the original two parks in California and Florida. It’s amazing how Disney parks can transport visitors to a completely different, magical world. A lot of hard work goes on behind the scenes to make Disney parks such magical places. From cast member name tags to the Hidden Mickeys around the park, there are a ton of tiny details that all come together to make the unique “Disney” experience we know and love. Former employees are dishing on some of Disney’s closest-held secrets that make Disneyland the happiest place on Earth.

Life is a Stage

Whenever you visit a Disney park, you feel like you are being transported to a completely different world. There are so many tiny details that add to the magic, including what Disney employees call themselves. They’re more than just plain old employees! Everyone who works at Disneyland or Disney World is referred to as a “cast member.”

The thinking behind this is that the Disney parks are all a stage, and every employee is part of the cast making the magic happen. From the custodians to the people performing as Disney characters, they are all called cast members and everyone has a role to play. Leave it to Disney to add their own special touch to such a tiny detail.