A Look Back at Disneyland Opening Special, July 17, 1955: 69 Magical Years

Today marks a significant milestone in the world of magic and wonder. Sixty-nine years ago, on July 17, 1955, Disneyland opened its gates for the very first time. This grand event was not just witnessed by those present in Anaheim, California, but also by millions of viewers across the nation, thanks to a live television special called Dateline: Disneyland.

Hosted by the charismatic Art Linkletter, the special featured the dynamic assistance of Bob Cummings and none other than future President of the United States, Ronald Reagan. The program was a star-studded affair with various guests and, most importantly, several appearances by Walt Disney himself. Walt’s presence was felt deeply as he dedicated the various lands within Disneyland, bringing his vision to life in front of an enchanted audience.

A particularly memorable moment from that day was when Ronald Reagan introduced Walt Disney for his dedication speech with the words, “And now, Walt Disney will step forward to read the dedication of Disneyland.” This dedication, a piece of history many of us can recite, resonated with hope, joy, and the promise of endless possibilities.

To truly appreciate the magic of that moment, we invite you to watch the entire broadcast. Relive the excitement, the grandeur, and the timeless dedication speech that has echoed through the years, inspiring countless dreams and adventures.

Happy 69th anniversary, Disneyland! Here’s to many more years of creating magic and joy for generations to come.