Hundreds of domestic workers wearing Minnie Mouse ear headbands flocked to Hong Kong Disneyland Resort on Sunday morning after receiving free tickets, with many helpers arriving at least an hour before the theme park opened.

The amusement park and the Li Ka Shing Foundation handed out 5,000 tickets to thank the helpers hailing from the Philippines, Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Thailand.

Crowds of ticket holders and their friends arrived at Disneyland at 9.15am, with many holding banners and taking pictures next to the park’s entrance sign and Mickey Mouse fountain before heading inside.

Indonesian domestic helper Novita Herdiana dressed up in an outfit inspired by her favourite character, Maleficent, for her visit. She said she had been a fan of Disney’s animations since her childhood, particularly their colourful villains.

“It’s like a dream come true. It’s a big moment [for me because it’s] my first time here in my nine years in Hong Kong,” the 36-year-old said.

She said she arrived about an hour before the 10.30am opening to queue up with her friends.

“I woke up early normally anyway because I look after an elderly man, so I took care of him this morning before I came,” she said. “I want to take a lot of pictures and videos, try different rides and watch the parade.”