Bob Iger Joins Cast Members to Mark Disneyland's 70th Anniversary at Special Ceremony

Disneyland marked its 70th anniversary today, July 17, by celebrating the cast members who have shaped the guest experience since 1955. The milestone was recognized with a private early morning event inside Disneyland park.

Disneyland Resort Celebrates 70 Years

Disneyland Resort Celebrates 70 Years

“It was on this day in 1955 that Walt Disney opened the gates of Disneyland for the first time and introduced the world to this very special place,” Iger said. “70 years later, Disneyland remains one of Walt’s greatest achievements – a place where generations of people from all over the world have stepped through these gates and entered a world of joy and imagination.”

After addressing cast members and taking part in a large commemorative photo, Iger helped open the park to the day’s guests, greeting them alongside Disneyland Resort employees along Main Street.

Disneyland Resort Celebrates 70 Years

What’s New for the 70th

The celebration extended into the day with new offerings and one-day-only giveaways for guests visiting on July 17. Those in the park today could pick up a commemorative anniversary button and guide map (while supplies lasted), and watch a special 70th anniversary cavalcade in the afternoon.

New permanent experiences also launched today:

• “Walt Disney – A Magical Life”, a new attraction using historical audio and a first-ever Audio-Animatronics figure of Walt Disney.
• Main Street Cinema updates, showcasing additional restored footage and new display,
• A refreshed finale scene at “it’s a small world”, including a new verse written by the late Richard Sherman shortly before his passing.