On July 17, 1955, Disneyland welcomed visitors for the first time. Since that momentous occasion, it has brought joy to people across the globe for 70 years.

“This tradition and history began with Walt Disney in 1955. He transformed 160 acres of orange groves into what is now this wonderful park, which later evolved into the resort we know today. Now, we have two parks, three hotels, and the Downtown Disney District, with plenty to explore. We are thrilled about the new experiences that await our guests,” said Disneyland Ambassador Raul Aquino Rojas.

To start the 70th anniversary celebration, Disneyland sent San Francisco the biggest invitation ever – a 75-foot-tall hot air balloon.

“We’re spreading a touch of magic here in San Francisco,” Rojas added. “We have the ‘Celebrate Happiness’ balloon, which we’ve been bringing to different states and cities all over the country.”

Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy were on location to be part of this memorable event.

“People are always so quiet and just in awe, speechless of seeing the balloon up in the air. Just a great way to spread that magic and joy to everyone,” Rojas said.

Disneyland has planned the biggest party yet with plenty of special experiences.

“Decorations all down Main Street are just a sight to behold. We have 70 new food items and it’s so great, for me. My personal favorites are going to be all the desserts,” Rojas said.

And then, there’s the incredible entertainment.

“We have the return of ‘Paint the Night’ parade. We have the ‘Wonderous Journeys’ that tells 100 years of storytelling from the Walt Disney Company,” Rojas said. “In Disney California Adventure Park, we have the return of ‘Better Together,’ a Pixar Pal Celebration; a parade with all your favorite Disney Pixar characters.”

“We have a brand-new ‘World of Color’ show, ‘World of Color: Happiness’. It is all about what does happy mean to you. And it’s hosted by Joy and her friends from ‘Inside Out’,” said Disneyland Senior Manager of Events Megan Roth. “So really a great journey and story told through fountains and lights, and of course, music.”

Disneyland’s 70th Celebration is set to be the most unforgettable birthday party ever.

“Walt Disney created this park where all families can come together and spend time together, whether you’re an adult, a grandparent, or if you’re just a child, be kids again,” Rojas said.

The Disneyland Celebration runs through summer 2026.

For more information about the celebration, visit Disneyland’s website.

The Walt Disney Company is the parent company of this ABC station.