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HomeParks and Resorts1988 Walt Disney World Easter Parade: Mickey’s Birthday & Epcot Expansions

1988 Walt Disney World Easter Parade: Mickey’s Birthday & Epcot Expansions

The 1988 Walt Disney World Easter Parade celebrated milestones, including Mickey Mouse’s 60th birthday and exciting new additions to Magic Kingdom and EPCOT. Hosted by Joan Lunden and Alan Thicke, with Regis Philbin reporting from the field, this year’s parade showcased Disney’s biggest new experiences.

1988 Walt Disney World Easter Day Parade Hosts Joan Lunden and Alan Thicke
1988 Walt Disney World Easter Day Parade Hosts Joan Lunden and Alan Thicke

Mickey’s Birthdayland Debuts at Magic Kingdom

To celebrate Mickey Mouse’s 60th birthday, Magic Kingdom introduced Mickey’s Birthdayland, a brand-new land featuring: A petting zoo with adorable animals, Live character shows starring Mickey and friends, and A surprise party for Mickey himself

1988 Walt Disney World Easter Day Parade
1988 Walt Disney World Easter Day Parade

This limited-time celebration brought interactive experiences and character meet-and-greets that made Mickey’s milestone unforgettable.

Norway Pavilion & Viking Adventure at EPCOT

EPCOT prepared to welcome the Norway Pavilion, bringing Scandinavian culture to World Showcase. Regis Philbin took viewers on a sneak peek of the hair-raising Viking ride, which later became Maelstrom.

1988 Walt Disney World Easter Day Parade Hosts Regis Philbin visits the latest World Showcase Pavilion Norway
1988 Happy Easter Parade Hosts Regis Philbin visits the latest World Showcase Pavilion Norway

Disney-MGM Studios: Behind the Scenes

Construction was in full swing for Disney-MGM Studios, set to open in 1989. Regis provided an exclusive behind-the-scenes look, giving fans a first glimpse at what would soon become a Hollywood-inspired theme park.

1988 Walt Disney World Easter Day Parade Hosts Regis Philbin visits the New Disney MGM Studios
1988 Happy Easter Parade Hosts Regis Philbin visits the New Disney MGM Studios

Illuminations Lights Up EPCOT

EPCOT also introduced a brand-new nighttime spectacular, Illuminations. This fireworks and laser light show added a breathtaking finale to a day at World Showcase.

1988 Walt Disney World Easter Day Parade All New Illuminations
1988 Happy Easter Parade All New Illuminations

Mickey & Minnie’s Music Video & Grand Floridian Debut

Mickey and Minnie debuted their Disney music video, adding to the birthday fun! Meanwhile, the Grand Floridian Beach Resort prepared for a summer 1988 opening, offering luxury accommodations in Victorian-style elegance.

Watch the Full 1988 Parade

Relive the 1988 Walt Disney World Easter Parade and experience this historic Disney celebration!

Direct Links to More Walt Disney World Parades

Walt Disney World Christmas Day Parade, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020

Happy Easter Parade 1985, 1986, 19871989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999

Walt Disney World 4th of July Spectulactors 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992

Did you know:  Epcot was the center of the Walt Disney World Millenium Celebration in 2000

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