Disneyland 70th anniversary brings new attractions, a tribute to Walt Disney, and a final song verse by Richard M. Sherman to mark the historic day.
On July 17, 2025, Disneyland Resort celebrated a monumental milestone—70 years since the park first opened its gates on July 17, 1955. What began as Walt Disney’s bold dream has become one of the most iconic and beloved destinations in the world, inspiring generations of families, fans, and dreamers.
The day kicked off with a special early morning celebration exclusively for Disneyland cast members. Held in Town Square inside Disneyland park, the event featured a patriotic flag-raising ceremony led by veteran cast members. It was a fitting tribute to the dedicated team members who have kept the magic alive for seven decades.
In a first-of-its-kind moment, Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and other Disney characters helped ring the opening bell of the New York Stock Exchange—live from Main Street, U.S.A. NYSE President Lynn Martin joined Disney CEO Bob Iger for this historic broadcast. A once-in-a-lifetime cast photo followed, capturing the energy and unity of the celebration.
As the park prepared to welcome guests, a special opening moment ceremony took place just outside the gates. Soon after, hundreds of Disneyland Resort cast members lined Main Street, U.S.A., applauding and greeting guests as they entered, adding a deeply personal touch to the occasion.
Disneyland 70th Anniversary: New Tribute & Attractions
The anniversary also brought new experiences for visitors. The all-new attraction “Walt Disney – A Magical Life” debuted inside the Main Street Opera House. This cinematic and Audio-Animatronic experience takes guests on an emotional journey through Walt Disney’s life, ending with a powerful recreation of Walt in his office—a testament to storytelling innovation.
Another emotional highlight of the day took place in Fantasyland, where a third and final verse of the beloved “it’s a small world” theme song made its debut. Written by the late Disney Legend Richard M. Sherman, this new addition marks his final musical contribution to Disney and adds a meaningful close to the iconic ride.
For the Disneyland 70th anniversary, these new additions serve as a powerful reminder of Walt’s enduring vision—and the timeless magic that continues to bring joy to millions worldwide. When it opened on July 17, 1955, Disneyland introduced the world to a new concept in family entertainment, and it continues to utilize creativity, technology, and innovation to bring storytelling to new heights. Open daily, year-round. For more information, please visit Disneyland.com. For more theme park-related news and information, visit MSM News.
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