For over 60 years, the magic of Walt Disney’s imagination has found its way into the hearts and homes of many across the globe. Whether his fairy tale classics gave a young boy courage to find adventure, a little girl turn her dreams into realities or even giving a single mom hope to wishing on stars, Disney has found a way to sprinkle a little pixie dust on those young and old.
On Sunday, Feb. 21, Disneyland celebrated their 60th anniversary through ABC’s television special. Disney’s message came through television screens sharing Walt’s home in the comfort of their own. With appearances from Pentatonix, Jessie J, Fall Out Boy, Little Big Town, Idina Menzel and even Sir Elton John, Disneyland displayed magic in every aspect of the word.
“Disney has this ability to make you believe that your dreams can come true,” Cortney Hanson, junior education major and Disney fanatic, said. “It can bring out your inner child no matter how old you are.”
Both the Disneyland and Walt Disney World Parks have given families who are young at heart the ability to learn, laugh and play together.
Brooke Fertig, former Cabrini student and present cast member in Walt Disney World feels that Disney has been influential on many.
“Disney is a place where everyone can come together despite possible differences and enjoy magic for the first time in their lives,” Fertig said. “It is a place where you can experience the impossible and love out everything you can possibly imagine.”
“It can bring out your inner child no matter how old you are.” So true!!! It’s such a great break from the outside world and place to let your inner child run wild!!! And the extra stuff added to Disneyland for the 60th anniversary is amazing!!! The Dazzling decorations, the new shows – the Paint the Night parade and the incredible Disneyland Forever fireworks show. They are all fantastic! But I think my favorite addition is the special 60th Anniversary photo opportunities found throughout the Resort. My favorite thus far has been a giant diorama by the Matterhorn that lets you look like you’re climbing the mountain. Look for three different dioramas in each Disneyland Resort park. Cast members can also be found throughout the park with hand held diamond photo frames ready to help you create a spontaneous photo. – John Glass (author, 100 Things You Don’t Want to Miss at Disneyland 2016; facebook.com/100Disneyland )