The Wonderful World of Disney: Disneyland 60 – A Magical Anniversary Celebration
On February 21, 2016, ABC aired a glittering celebration of Disneyland’s 60th anniversary with the television special, The Wonderful World of Disney: Disneyland 60. Hosted from the Hollywood & Highland Center by Dancing with the Stars alumni Derek Hough and Witney Carson, this televised event offered fans a heartfelt tribute to six decades of Disney magic.
The show opened with a nod to the classic Wonderful World of Disney TV opening, blending nostalgia with modern celebration. It quickly evolved into a grand spectacle, featuring a world premiere trailer of the live-action Pete’s Dragon and musical tributes that lit up the screen.
A Star-Studded Lineup of Performances
From Sleeping Beauty Castle to Disney California Adventure, performances were broadcast from Disneyland Resort and the Hollywood stage. Highlights included:
- Elton John performing “Circle of Life” in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle
- Idina Menzel singing “Let It Go” on Paradise Pier
- Pentatonix, The Sugarhill Gang, Kelsea Ballerini, and Fall Out Boy energizing the crowd
- Dick Van Dyke bringing joy with a Mary Poppins tribute
- Appearances by Whoopi Goldberg, Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman, and John Lasseter
- Harrison Ford presenting Star Wars in Concert with a special tribute
Even Kermit the Frog joined the fun with Tori Kelly, and Little Big Town delivered country harmonies that touched every Disney heart.
A Global Tribute to Disneyland’s Legacy
The event, which featured archival footage of the park’s 1955 opening, shared inspiring stories of Walt Disney’s dream. Julie Andrews offered a heartfelt introduction, welcoming the characters back home for the celebration.
The Wonderful World of Disney: Disneyland 60 wasn’t just a look back—it was a celebration of what Disneyland had become and continues to represent for millions of guests worldwide.
Stay tuned to SamsDisneyDiary for more retrospectives on Disney television specials, park anniversaries, and rare behind-the-scenes treasures.
For more Disney Anniversaries, be sure to check them out. Disneyland 10th. 25th with Dany Kaye. 30th. 35th. 40th. 50th. 50th-anniversary media event.
Walt Disney World Anniversary? Check out the 10th. 15th. 20th The Dream is Alive. 25th Party. 25th inside-out. Witching you Were here 25th. 25th Remembering the Magic.
