Celebrating Seventy Years of Disneyland: Reflecting on the Past, Honoring Walt Disney's Original Concept, and Examining Its Global Impact
Disneyland Celebrates Its 70th Anniversary with Exciting Expansions and Immersive Experiences
Disneyland, the original and beloved theme park that sparked the creation of numerous global parks, is celebrating its 70th anniversary in style. The theme for the celebration is "Celebrate Happy!", and the park is filled with joyous festivities, special treats, and exciting new additions.
First opened on July 17, 1955, on over 160 acres of orange groves in Anaheim, California, Disneyland has remained the crown jewel of Disney Parks. The park's original five themed lands — Main Street, U.S.A., Adventureland, Frontierland, Fantasyland, and Tomorrowland — have been meticulously preserved, while also receiving enhancements through DisneylandForward.
Main Street, U.S.A. is adorned with anniversary décor, golden medallions, and throwback signage from the 1950s, transporting visitors back in time. A new show, "Walt Disney: A Magical Life", is now playing in the Main Street Opera House, featuring a lifelike audio-animatronic Walt Disney and archival storytelling.
In honour of the late Richard Sherman, a new verse has been added to "It's a Small World", focusing on unity and environmental awareness.
Looking ahead, Disneyland has plans for future expansions in its eighth decade (post-2025). Key projects announced for Disneyland Resort and Disney California Adventure include:
- The Avengers Campus Expansion, which will double in size with multiple new attractions added.
- A new boat ride based on the movie "Coco" will debut in Disney California Adventure.
- Avatar Land, a new land themed around the "Avatar" franchise, is planned in California.
- A new transportation hub, including a new parking structure, pedestrian bridge, and transit hub on the east side of Disneyland property, to enhance guest access and flow.
- "Walt Disney: A Magical Life", featuring animatronic Walt Disney, opened in July 2025; the "Paint the Night" nighttime parade returned for the 70th anniversary in May 2025.
Disneyland's success has turned the Disney brand into a lifestyle, influencing everything from merchandise to media, cruise ships, hotels, and shopping centers. The park's influence can be seen in the careers of many creative professionals, from theme park designers to filmmakers.
The 70th anniversary of Disneyland is celebrated on July 17, 2025. Special treats like birthday cupcakes, churros, and retro-themed menu items are being offered at select dining locations. Anniversary-exclusive collectibles and apparel are available throughout the resort.
The 70th Anniversary Celebration at Disneyland began on May 16, 2025, and will run into 2026. Entertainment highlights during the celebration include World of Color: Happiness! and Wondrous Journeys. PhotoPass "Magic Shots" now include vintage overlays and surprise appearances from classic characters, adding an extra touch of magic to the festivities.
Disneyland remains committed to investing in sustainability, inclusion, and technology to ensure future generations can enjoy a park that reflects today's values while honoring Walt Disney's legacy. The future of Disneyland is bright, and its 70th anniversary is just the beginning of a new era of magic and wonder.
- The 70th anniversary celebration at Disneyland includes specialty entertainment, such as the newly opened show "Walt Disney: A Magical Life" in the Main Street Opera House.
- In the realm of education and self-development, the park offers insights into Walt Disney's life and accomplishments through this show.
- The celebration also encompasses the music scene, as a new verse about unity and environmental awareness has been added to "It's a Small World," a popular Disneyland attraction.
- Alongside entertainment, sports enthusiasts can look forward to future expansions like the Avengers Campus Expansion, which will feature multiple sports-themed attractions.
