The “Happiest Place on Earth” welcomed its one billionth guest on July 3, with Andres Robles, celebrating his 8th birthday, and his parents Alejandra and Jose of Arizona entering Disneyland Park in Anaheim, Ca.
Occurring during the theme park’s 70th year, Disneyland celebrated the “momentous occasion that few places in the world can claim” by hosting a brief ceremony on the Main Street U.S.A., train station platform for the unsuspecting family, alongside Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, and Donald and Daisy Duck.
The family helped unveil an updated sign that reads “Population 1,000,000,000,” before embarking on a VIP day at the park that included a guide, tour of Walt Disney’s private apartment, riding the newly opened ‘Soarin’ Across America’ attraction, and other special experiences.
70 years
Disneyland Resort welcome its first guests on July 17, 1955.
Based on Walt Disney’s idea of “a family park where parents and children could have fun – together,” the park was handcrafted by talented craftspeople and artisans as Disney pioneered what guests around the world now know as the modern-day theme park experience, filled with immersive theming, meticulous storytelling and family-friendly entertainment.
“Welcoming our one billionth guest is a remarkable milestone for Disneyland Resort and a testament to the generations of guests who have made this special place part of their lives,” said Jill Estorino, President, Disneyland Resort. “For more than 70 years, Walt’s original park has been a timeless symbol of Disney storytelling, where memories are made and shared, and we are honored to carry that legacy forward for guests today and for generations to come.”
Today, Disneyland Resort continues its legacy as an iconic brand and global industry leader in entertainment and theme park experiences. The resort has since grown from a single theme park in the city of Anaheim to include two Disney theme parks, three hotels and the Downtown Disney District and has served as the inspiration behind the creation of more Disney theme parks and experiences across the globe.
“Disneyland will never be completed,” Walt Disney once said. “It will continue to grow as long as there is imagination left in the world.”
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