What to Expect as Disneyland Celebrates it’s 70th Anniversary on July 17th

Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary: What’s in Store for July 17th?

Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary Celebration has been underway since May 16 but the official anniversary date is July 17. While the parks have been decked out, new entertainment, food, and character outfits have debuted, there are certain offerings that won’t be available until July 17.

Related – Disneyland 70th Anniversary Celebration Collection Now Available Online

Walt Disney – A Magical Life

As you step into the theater at the Main Street Opera House, you’ll get to experience the incredible story of Walt Disney’s life. Through remastered footage and audio recordings, you’ll be taken on a cinematic journey that leads from Walt’s early endeavors to the bright lights of Los Angeles and beyond. And when the curtain rises, guests will be transported to Walt’s office. Through the magic of Audio-Animatronics storytelling that he helped pioneer, Walt will share some heartfelt stories and words of wisdom.

After its initial run, “Walt Disney – A Magical Life” will play in rotation with “Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln.”

A Tribute to the Sherman Brothers

Inside the famed Main Street Cinema, you’ll get to see the story and impact of the famous songwriting duo, the Sherman brothers.

Here you can watch a heartwarming three-and-a-half minute film called “The Last Verse,” which celebrates the timeless connection and hope behind the Sherman brothers’ iconic song, “It’s a Small World.” Created for the song’s 60th anniversary, this film unveils a new verse written by legendary composer Richard M. Sherman in his final Disney contribution.

Final Verse to “it’s a small world”

The third and final verse in the “it’s a small world” attraction at Disneyland will debut beginning July 17. In the spirit of the beloved song, viewers journey across the globe as the song is passed from person to person and generation to generation, culminating in the reveal of this heartfelt new verse:

“Mother earth unites us in heart and mind

And the love we give makes us humankind

Through our vast wondrous land

When we stand hand in hand

It’s a small world after all.” 

All-New Gallery Experience

As you enter the Opera House on Main Street, U.S.A., you’ll find an all-new gallery experience featuring the evolution of Walt Disney’s dream of Disneyland, which became the theme park that inspired generations and changed the entertainment world forever. On display will be images, art and artifacts – some never before seen – that show Disneyland before, during, and after Walt’s dream became a reality. Walt Disney Imagineering and the Walt Disney Archives have curated relics and memorabilia from the very early stages of Disneyland, as well as through the evolution of what Walt’s original park has become today.

As you journey further into the lobby of the Opera House, you’ll discover another special exhibit. Here you’ll encounter the story and history of Audio-Animatronics technology, from Walt’s day leading to the advancement of where we are today. You’ll learn about Walt’s inspiration and see firsthand the inner workings of this technology, and how far Audio-Animatronics figures have advanced through the years.

Additionally, Disney is honored to be collaborating with The Walt Disney Family Museum, which has selected more than 30 artifacts for these experiences in the lobby. Among the treasures on loan in the gallery will be original items from Walt’s private apartment above the Fire Station on Main Street. These items include an original rocking chair, lamp and table, all of which have never been publicly exhibited at Disneyland park before.

The Walt Disney Family Museum is also loaning some of Walt’s humanitarian accolades for guests to enjoy. You’ll be able to get a close look at items including Walt’s 1955 Emmy award for the “Walt Disney’s Disneyland” TV show, his Presidential Medal of Freedom awarded by President Johnson in 1964, and the Walt Disney Commemorative Medal presented to Lillian Disney by President Nixon in 1969.

Along with these new experiences, guests will also be able to enjoy the Celebrate Happy Cavalcade, Tapestry of Happiness, Paint the Night Parade, Wondrous Journeys, World of Color – Happiness, over 70 limited-time food options, special merchandise, and more!