1986 Walt Disney World Christmas Day Parade: Snow White, EPCOT Skylaidescope & More

Hosts and Special Guests

Joan Lunden and Ben Vereen returned to host the 1986 Walt Disney World Christmas Day Parade, joined again by Regis Philbin. Broadcasting live from Magic Kingdom and EPCOT Center, the hosts brought festive updates and special segments from around the resort.

A Tribute to Snow White

This year’s broadcast featured Snow White as the parade’s official Grand Marshal, celebrating the rich history of Disney animation. As part of the tribute, viewers were treated to behind-the-scenes insights into making the original 1937 animated feature Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Animation legends Ken Anderson and Ward Kimble—two of Walt’s Nine Old Men—shared memories and artistic secrets behind the landmark film.

Walt Disney World’s 15th Anniversary

1986 also marked the 15th anniversary of Walt Disney World. Regis Philbin hosted a retrospective, highlighting Magic Kingdom milestones and the resort’s growth over its first decade and a half. Archival footage and nostalgic narration offered fans a look at the resort’s early years.

EPCOT’s Living Seas Pavilion

The broadcast also spotlighted EPCOT Center’s newly opened Living Seas Pavilion. Joan Lunden toured the innovative space, exploring the massive saltwater aquarium and ocean-themed exhibits, quickly becoming a guest favorite.

A Look Inside Captain EO

Ben Vereen provided another exciting segment, this time offering viewers an inside look at Captain EO. Though the film premiered in Disneyland in September, Walt Disney World’s version was still building anticipation for its 1986 debut. Behind-the-scenes footage gave fans a glimpse into the sci-fi musical’s production process.

Skylaidescope on World Showcase Lagoon

Regis introduced another EPCOT Center spectacle: Skylaidescope. This daytime lagoon show featured boats, kites, and colorful aerial battles—a fantasy-filled fight of Good vs. Evil—right on World Showcase Lagoon. The segment captured the spirit and ambition of EPCOT’s live entertainment of the era.

Classic Parade Entertainment

Of course, the 1986 parade still featured plenty of familiar favorites. Characters, floats, marching bands, and festive performances filled Main Street, U.S.A., bringing yuletide cheer and musical magic to the heart of Magic Kingdom.

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