Disneyland Celebrates 57th Birthday Today
Tuesday has arrived with The Happiest Place on Earth's 57th birthday.
It was this date in 1955 that Disneyland opened in Anaheim, Calif. on 60 acres of orange groves. Starting with just 20 attractions, the wonderland has since turned into a major tourist destination in Orange County with something for everyone.
On the special day Tuesday, Disneyland will honor their 57th anniversary with a short ceremony at 2:30 p.m. in Town Square, the circular plaza in front of the Main Street Train Station.
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It was at 2:30 p.m. on July 17, 1955- one day before the public opening- that Disneyland and its 20 attractions opened their gates to its first special 11,000 guests. Over 28,000 fans rushed in though, many used fake tickets or snuck in by using ladders. The event was televised and nearly 90 million people watched.
The theme park is owned and operated by the Walt Disney Parks and Resorts division of The Walt Disney Company. Disneyland was the only theme park to be designed and built under the direct supervision of Walt Disney.
Disney, a film producer, director, and animator, came up with the concept of Disneyland for his daughters after they had visited several theme parks in the 1930s and '40s.
Today, rides include Soarin' Over California, Radiator Springs Racers, and The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, among many more. Also, games, restaurants, and the opportunity to meet your favorite Disney characters continues to attract millions of visitors each year.
Disneyland is the second-most attended theme park in the world, with only its cousin, the Magic Kingdom in Florida, leading ahead.
On Twitter Tuesday, Disney fans are paying tribute to the Happiest Place on Earth.
"On this day in 1955 Disneyland opened! What's your favorite idea of a 'perfect vacation,'" asked Pennsylvania's radio station Kiss FM.
Jonathan joked, "Happy 57th Birthday to @DisneyLand. You can keep ordering off the senior menu at Denny's. I love keeping Walt's vision alive.
Similarly, Jenny posted, "Happy 57th birthday Disneyland! You're still looking great for your age!"
"Happy birthday to the place that has brought me happy memories: Disneyland," wrote Jessica. "I'll be seeing you later today!"
