2010 Walt Disney World Christmas Day Parade: Mariah Carey, Star Tours, Disney Dream, Alani & More

New Hosts and Galactic Arrivals

With a shake-up in format, the 2010 Disney Christmas Parade welcomed Ryan Seacrest to Walt Disney World and moved Nick Cannon to Disneyland. They were joined by co-hosts Maria Menounos and Samantha Brown, who brought a fresh perspective to the festivities.

One of the standout moments featured Darth Vader and the 501st Legion of Stormtroopers making their dramatic parade debut. Their appearance hyped the upcoming Star Tours: The Adventures Continue, reminding viewers that a galaxy far, far away was closer than ever.

Disney Dream Cruise Preview

Samantha Brown offered an early look at the Disney Dream, Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship. Though still under construction, the vessel was already turning heads with its planned AquaDuck water coaster and immersive onboard experiences.

Later in the broadcast, Brown previewed Disney Aulani, a Hawaiian resort rooted in local culture and storytelling. Opening for reservations in spring 2011, it blended Disney charm with the warmth of the islands.

A Bear and a Debut

Making his first appearance in the parade, Duffy the Disney Bear joined Mickey Mouse and captured hearts as he stepped into the spotlight as a new Disney character for U.S. audiences.

Musical Performances Across the Parks

The 2010 musical lineup spanned pop, holiday classics, and Broadway-style ballads:

• Big Bad Voodoo Daddy jazzed things up with “Christmas Is Starting Now” alongside Dancing with the Stars dancers.

• Mariah Carey performed her chart-topper “Oh Santa” and later returned for “All I Want for Christmas Is You.”

• Debby Ryan sang “Deck the Halls” from Main Street USA.

• Selena Gomez brought holiday cheer from Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle with “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town.”

• Amber Riley delivered “A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes” from the Main Street Confectionery rooftop.
• Jackie Evancho gave a powerful choir-backed performance from Cinderella Castle.

• Sean Kingston added a modern twist with “This Christmas.”
• Darius Rucker performed “Candy Cane Christmas.”
• Lee DeWyze offered a heartfelt “Little Drummer Boy.”
• Disney Channel Rocks closed Town Square with “It’s On” from Camp Rock.

• National Cheerleaders and Dance Alliance filled Main Street with nationwide talent from 36 states.

The Magic Marches On

From galactic premiers to cruise ship dreams and show-stopping performances, the 2010 Disney Christmas Parade continued to evolve while maintaining tradition. It marked the growing scale of Disney’s global magic, blending innovation, nostalgia, and holiday spirit into one unforgettable broadcast.

 

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