Joan Lunden and Ben Vereen hosted the 1985 Walt Disney World Christmas Day Parade, with Regis Philbin returning to share holiday greetings from around Walt Disney World. The festive broadcast mixed live parade footage with behind-the-scenes peeks at upcoming Disney attractions.
1985 Walt Disney World Christmas Day Parade Hosted by Joan Lunden and Ben Vereen with Regis Philben
EPCOT Center’s Living Seas Pavilion
As part of EPCOT Center’s ongoing growth, the new Living Seas Pavilion made its debut in this year’s special. Viewers got a preview of the massive saltwater aquarium and futuristic marine exhibits just before the pavilion’s official opening in early 1986.
1985 Walt Disney World Christmas Day Parade Hosted by Joan Lunden and Ben Vereen with Regis Philbin take an inside look at the New Living Seas.
A Sneak Peek at Captain EO
Ben Vereen took viewers behind the scenes at the Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, California. During his tour, he visited the animation building and backlot before stopping inside a studio where Captain EO was being produced. Although the Michael Jackson-led 3D film wouldn’t debut until March 1986, this early preview offered fans a rare look at the making of a Disney sci-fi spectacular.
1985 Walt Disney World Christmas Day Parade a special look at Captain EO
Disneyland’s 30th Anniversary and Skyfest
Kevin Dobson, from Disneyland in California, joined the celebration to showcase Skyfest, an unforgettable event marking the park’s 30th anniversary. Over one million balloons filled the sky over Southern California in a visual tribute to Walt Disney’s imagination and legacy.
1985 Walt Disney World Christmas Day Parade with Kevin Dobson at Disneyland
A Global Holiday Celebration
In addition to EPCOT and Disneyland highlights, Regis Philbin continued his role as the holiday ambassador, sharing festive traditions and greetings from around the world as part of Disney’s ongoing commitment to international holiday spirit.
1985 Walt Disney World Christmas Day Parade Hosted by Joan Lunden and Ben Vereen with Regis Philben
Continuing the Tradition
The 1985 broadcast continued the Disney Christmas Parade legacy by blending classic parade entertainment with sneak peeks at future attractions. It was a perfect mix of nostalgia, innovation, and holiday joy.
