Walt Disney World 25th Anniversary TV Special (1997)
In 1997, The Wonderful World of Disney aired a prime-time television celebration for Walt Disney World’s 25th anniversary. Titled “Walt Disney World’s 25th Anniversary Party,” the hour-long special aired on February 28, 1997, hosted by Melissa Joan Hart and Will Friedle. It was colorful, musical, nostalgic—and oh yeah—there was a giant pink birthday cake where Cinderella Castle used to be.
All-Star Guests and Musical Performances
The celebration featured an impressive lineup of stars and musical acts, including:
- Donna Summer performing “Last Dance” in front of a glowing Cinderella Castle
- Gloria Estefan delivered a medley of hits like “Dr. Beat,” “Conga,” “Rhythm is Gonna Get You,” and “Get On Your Feet”.
- Village People hyping the crowd with “YMCA” during a lively Main Street USA party
- Estefan later closed the show with “Remember the Magic,” a theme song for the celebration
Celebrity Segments and Behind-the-Scenes Magic
The event wasn’t just music—it was a heartfelt tribute to the past, present, and future of the resort:
- Drew Carey gave viewers a behind-the-scenes tour, exploring backstage areas and Disney control rooms
- Rosie O’Donnell offered a look into the creation of The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, spotlighting Imagineers who built the attraction.
- Jeff Daniels narrated a touching segment focused on Walt Disney himself and the creation of Main Street, U.S.A.
- The special also featured a rededication ceremony on Main Street, celebrating the resort’s history.
A Castle Cake to Remember
The iconic image from the 25th anniversary remains one of the most talked-about transformations in Disney Parks history: Cinderella Castle turned into a 185-foot-tall pink birthday cake. Complete with icing, gumdrops, and lollipops; it symbolized the spirit of Disney’s big anniversary—whimsical, bold, and unforgettable.
For more Disney Anniversary, check out. Disneyland 10th. 25th with Dany Kaye. 30th. 35th. 40th. 50th. 50th-anniversary media event. 60th featuring Elton John.
Walt Disney World Anniversary? Check out 10th. 15th. 20th The Dream is Alive. 25th Party. inside-out 25th , 25th Witching you Were here Remembering the Magic, 25th Anniversary Resort TV Magic. 25th Anniversary Planning VHS.
