Disneyland News

Disneyland's 50th anniversary - a retrospective

It's been two years since Disneyland kicked off its 50th anniversary celebration on May 5, 2005, with a heartwarming ceremony, a celebrity-studded event, and new attractions and shows.

Honorary 50th anniversary ambassador Julie Andrews was on hand, as were LeAnn Rimes (who sang "Remember When," the celebration's anthem), Christina Aguilera (who sang "When You Wish Upon A Star"), Michael Eisner, Bob Iger, and Art Linkletter, who hosted the television show covering Disneyland's opening day on July 17, 1955.

Disneyland also debuted several new exciting attractions that year. There was the interactive Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters ride, the fun Walt Disney's Parade of Dreams, and the heartwarming and emotional Remember: Dreams Come True fireworks spectacular.

Across the Esplanade, the upbeat Block Party Bash premiered, inviting guests to party along with the characters from the popular Pixar films.

Later that summer, Space Mountain returned from a long refurbishment with new special effects and soundtrack.

Disneyland's 50th Anniversary revived interest in Walt Disney's original theme park and brought many to relive their memories in the 18th month celebration.

For more information, see our coverage of Disneyland's 50th Anniversary Celebration kick-off

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