Walt Disney World opened to guests on October 1st, 1971, with some news outlets predicting over 300,000 visitors on day one.
In an attempt to limit crowds and not repeat the opening day chaos of Disneyland in California, official dedications and other media events were held off until later in the month. The crowd on opening day was closer to 10,000, providing an opportunity to address any potential issues that would undoubtedly come up during the first day, and they did.
The televised Grand Opening of Walt Disney World aired on NBC on October 29, 1971. The special was an edited recording of the three-day grand opening celebration held on October 23, 24, and 25th. Celebrities including Bob Hope, Julie Andrews, Rock Hudson, Jonathan Winters, Annette Funicello, and Fred MacMurray were on hand to participate in the official opening festivities.
While filming took place on October 23rd, most of the official activities took place on the 24th and 25th. October 24th included the official opening of the Contemporary and Polynesian Village Resorts, the two original resorts. The Electrical Water Pageant and the Fantasy in the Sky Spectacular debuted that evening. October 25th was the Park’s actual Dedication Day, with the Admiral Joe Fowler Riverboat, Peter Pan’s Flight, and 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea also opening that day.
Some of the musical highlights. Glenn Campbell performs “Today is Mine,” and Julie Andrews sings “When You Wish Upon a Stor” and “Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah.” Bob Hope rides in on a monorail to help dedicate the Contemporary Resort before heading to the Polynesian for the inaugural luau. We get a sneak peek at 3 Walt Disney World Exclusive attractions” The Hall of Presidents, Country Bear Jamboree, and The Mickey Mouse Review. Buddy Hackett drives Herbie the Love Bug and the Grand Prix Raceway while Julie Andrews singles “It’s a Small World.” The final number is the Grand Opening Parade, with Meredith Wilson leading a 1,000-piece marching band through Main Street, USA.
Walt Disney World Anniversary? Check out the Opening Day Celebration, 10th, 15th, 20th The Dream is Alive, 25th Party, 25th inside-out, 25th Witching you Were here, 25th Remembering the Magi, 25th Anniversary Resort TV Magic, 25th Anniversary Planning VHS
