We’ve spent weeks celebrating Disneyland’s 70th anniversary, but the Happiest Place on Earth’s official birthday is Thursday, July 17. Disney insiders are confident it will draw the biggest crowds of the year—and with good reason. “Walt Disney – A Magical Life” debuts that day, which marks 70 years since the park first opened to visitors.
“I’m expecting large crowds on July 17 for ‘Walt Disney – A Magical Life,’” shared Nexstar reporter Scott Gustin on X. “While Disney hasn’t announced anything official, don’t be surprised if they use a virtual queue to help manage crowds. The Main Street Opera House doesn’t have much room for a standby line.”
Welcoming guests to the Main Street Opera House, where “Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln” was previously shown, this new experience will take you through the history of the park and its patriarch. During the show, the Walt Disney Imagineering is also eager to debut the first-ever “audio-animatronics” figure of Walt Disney. The robotic technology was originally introduced in 1964 with a version of President Abraham Lincoln, which later inspired “Great Moments.”
“The past, present and future are coming together, giving visitors the chance to imagine what it would be like to stop by Walt’s office,” the Disney Parks Blog shared in a preview of the attraction back in August 2024. “Who knows what he might be dreaming up inside? Only time will tell with Walt.”
Disney previously revealed that after the initial run of “A Magical Life,” it will share the Opera House with “Great Moments.” Fans (myself included) are excited for the return of “Great Moments,” which has been closed for refurbishment since April 2024.
For more insights on the best and worst times to visit Disneyland, review our insider-backed list here.