Just like Walt Disney himself, we love the Yuletide season. And now that we’ve reached Halfway to the Holidays 2024, it’s the perfect time to unwrap a sleigh full of unbelievably unique and vintage Disney Parks holiday history photos from the archives (some we’ve never shared here before) guaranteed to get you in the spirit.
In 1955, Disneyland showcased its first holiday parade. Since then, holiday parades have been some of the most anticipated moments of the year!
The “Parade of Toys” at Disneyland as seen in the archival photo above debuted in 1960 and Walt Disney kicked things off as the Grand Marshal. Disney’s newest innovation for the holidays became a tradition and included the show-stopping wooden toy soldiers band for all to enjoy.
There were more than 3,000 costumed participants who marched, sang, and danced to popular, classic holiday songs.
In 1972, there was pure Christmas joy when Mickey Mouse borrowed Santa’s sleigh to bring season’s greetings to guests visiting Disneyland. The image above gives you a front row seat to the “Fantasy on Parade” entertainment offering, including reindeer!
One of the more unique holiday sights over the years happened on top of Matterhorn Mountain at Disneyland Resort as Santa Claus helped with a giant star on top of the attraction. The last photo of the star was captured in December 1978.
The 1976 Christmas Parade at Walt Disney World Resort featured Santa and a team of marching musical elves along with an appearance from Herbie the Love Bug.
The same parade featured Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse aboard a moving gazebo, drum and toy box-inspired floats, and more beloved characters like Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and other favorites.
In 1988, Mickey and Minnie were photographed trimming the Christmas tree and preparing presents at Walt Disney World Resort.
Also, in 1989, Chip ‘n’ Dale brought their merry mischief during the holidays at Walt Disney World Resort. As you can see, both showed off their best holiday outfits as they wished guests happy holidays in EPCOT.
Another fan-favorite image comes from the Country Bear Jamboree. The Country Bear Christmas Special premiered in November 1984 at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World with the bears singing such holiday classics as “Deck the Halls,” “Let It Snow,” and “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” as well as new original songs.
Max, Buff, and Melvin also joined in the holiday fun!
Are you ready for the Disney holidays? Expect more stories like this on the Disney Parks Blog as we gear up for the merriest time of year.