Disney California Adventure’s Grand Reopening Nothing Short of Magical

I was lucky enough to be invited to attend California Adventure’s grand reopening this past weekend. If you’re planning a visit sometime in the future, you’re definitely in for a treat.

Hundreds of people filled up the esplanade area, lined up to get into DCA for a chance to see the opening ceremony. The lines zig-zagged for what seemed like forever! Before the ceremony began, I was lucky enough to be standing right next to the new “Storytellers” statue. Someone very special came over to pose for a photo with young Walt — John Lasseter! I was definitely at the right place at the right time.

The ceremony began with a performance by the new Red Car News Boys cast (they’re wonderful). Mickey joined them onstage to greet Walt Disney Company Chairman and CEO Bob Iger.

With the newsies looking on from the sides of the stage, Iger spoke about Walt’s journey to California and how that man with a dream created so much magic that exists today. After some chit chat with Mickey and being joined by other Disney characters, DCA was officially open.

Cars Land cast members led the official Cars Land rope drop. It was a gas hose! Guests were anxious to explore Radiator Springs and closely followed the cast members to the new land. The Fast Pass time for Radiator Springs Racers kept getting later and later as guests snatched up their FPs as quickly as they could. (Later in the day, the line would grow to be approximately seven hours long!)

While the park was crowded, opening day was so much fun. I want to take this little moment to give a few shout outs:

Erin Glover — thank you SO much for allowing me to attend as media. I had a blast. Everything was incredible. The entire time I was there I kept thinking, “Wow, I’m so lucky to be able to do this!” You’ve made this a truly magical experience for a young blogger! I look forward to keeping in touch with you and hopefully meeting you in person at the next event. You’re awesome.

Kevin A. Healy from DOSArtistry.com — thank you for playing photographer for me on opening day. There’s no way I could have gotten photos like yours. I just don’t have that kind of skill. You all can see Kevin’s photos in my other DCA post.

Shaun Brookhyser, Mike Pero, and Luke Meeker — you guys managed to make crazy busy opening day so much fun. Thanks for hanging with me and dealing with me all day long. I didn’t think such a busy, hectic day could be so amazing. Can’t wait to do it all again.

Be on the lookout for my other post with photos from Buena Vista Street and Cars Land!

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