Disneyland’s 70th anniversary is creeping closer and closer and with it comes more news of what’s to come! Disney released more information today on what is coming to the park for the celebration. All of the news was focused on Main Street, U.S.A. Unlike previous announcements (which have had a date of May 18th), these changes will take effect on the actual park anniversary – July 17th. In this post, we’ll share the Main Street news and add our own commentary at the end. Here’s the info, via the Disney Parks Blog.
As we gear up for the incredible milestone that is the 70th anniversary celebration at Disneyland Resort, we are pleased to share exciting news about all-new experiences coming to Main Street, U.S.A, and beyond, all of which will debut for guests beginning on July 17, 2025, the 70th anniversary of Disneyland park. Each of these new offerings will not only feature the history and heritage of Disneyland, but also share optimism and excitement for the future of The Happiest Place on Earth.
A Tribute to the Sherman Brothers, Coming to the Main Street Cinema
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. 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.”
Additionally, we are honored to share that we will be premiering this third and final verse in the “it’s a small world” attraction at Disneyland, beginning July 17.
New Experiences at the Main Street Opera House
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, we are 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.
With so much to enjoy prior to experiencing “Walt Disney – A Magical Life,” this attraction will now open alongside these new Main Street Opera House exhibits on July 17.
As you step into the theater, 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.”
The exit lobby will preview projects and moments of how Disneyland will continue to move forward, as well as showcase how it has done so for decades.
Imagineers are hard at work creating these experiences that will mark an incredible moment in 70 years of Disneyland history. We can’t wait to share all of this with you, when these offerings debut together at Disneyland on July 17.
Commentary
Honestly, there isn’t much commentary to add outside of this all being fantastic! I’m eager to experience each and every thing that the news mentions. While none of these are huge announcements that the average fan will be booking a trip for, or even notice while walking through the park, these additions seemed to be aimed at the Disneyland local and superfan. Being in that demographic, I wholeheartedly approve.
In almost any fandom, followers love it when a team/show/company take a moment to look back at themselves. Sports leagues have hall of fames, Comic-Cons do retrospectives, museums showcase the classics prominently. Humans generally love celebrating history, especially when that history is joyful. Having Main Street be an embodiment of that for Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary is a no-brainer that everyone will enjoy.
Seeing the resort team up with San Francisco’s Walt Disney Family Museum is a nice touch. We couldn’t recommend that museum highly enough for any Disney fan out there. Seeing different historic pieces from Walt’s, and the company’s, history will be exciting and add some context to what Disneyland is.
Finally, I’m thrilled about the Sherman Brothers news. Adding another verse to Small World that hadn’t been released yet is a beautiful tribute to their legacy. Showing off more of the people that made Disneyland successful is fantastic and will be a cool use for the Main Street Cinema. I’m hoping that video sticks around long past the 70th anniversary.
All in all, this 70th anniversary news keeps getting better and we can’t wait to experience it!
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