2005 Walt Disney World Christmas Day Parade: 50 Years of Disney Parks, Soarin’, Everest & Global Magic

A Celebration 50 Years in the Making

There were big changes at The Walt Disney Company in 2005. To begin, the appointment of Bob Iger as CEO marked a new era. Bob kicks off the 2005 Disney Christmas Parade, honoring 50 years of Disney Park magic around the globe. This year’s theme is part of the Happiest Celebration on Earth, a worldwide event uniting Disney Parks from Anaheim to Tokyo.

Regis Philbin and Kelly Ripa return as hosts from the Magic Kingdom. Additionally, they’re joined by coverage from every Disney resort globally. From Disneyland, Ryan Seacrest gives us a look at all the 50th Anniversary activities in California. These include the new Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue! at Disney California Adventure.

New Attractions and Park Highlights

Kyle Petty checks out Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show at Disney MGM Studios, a high-speed thrill inspired by Disneyland Paris. Raven-Symoné explores the wild side at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, introducing viewers to the highly anticipated Expedition Everest, set to open in 2006.

Meanwhile, at Epcot, the spotlight is on Soarin’. Newly imported from Disney California Adventure, it offers guests a breathtaking hang-glider tour over California’s landscapes. In another highlight, Tiger Woods joins the 2005 Disney Christmas Parade by spending time with kids from the Tiger Woods Youth Foundation, taking them through park highlights and rides.

Star Power and Musical Performances

This year’s musical guests bring serious star power. Notably, performers include:

• Diana Krall, delivering smooth seasonal jazz
• MercyMe, with a heartfelt Christmas ballad
• The Brian Setzer Orchestra, bringing a rockabilly holiday vibe
• Lonestar, adding country charm to the stage
• Paulina Rubio, with a festive Latin pop performance
• Vanessa Williams, delivering elegance and grace
• John O’Hurley, adding classic Disney cheer
• Fantasia, performing her signature R&B style
• Aly & AJ, representing the Disney Channel generation
• And of course, the Cheetah Girls, who ignite the celebration with pop energy

A Truly Global Christmas

The 2005 Disney Christmas Parade is not just about what’s happening at Walt Disney World. Instead, it’s about showcasing a global celebration of Disney magic. Viewers are treated to glimpses of holiday traditions and decorations from Disney Parks around the world. As a result, the parade reinforces the unity and wonder shared by Disney fans everywhere.

With Everest, Soarin’, and the 50th Anniversary in full swing, the 2005 parade feels both nostalgic and forward-looking. Altogether, it’s packed with musical moments and magical milestones. Without a doubt, this year’s special lives up to the name—the Happiest Celebration on Earth.

Looking for more nostalgia? Try the Walt Disney World Christmas Day Parades, Happy Easter Parades. 4th of July Spectaculars and the Disney Family Albums.