Disneyland 70th Anniversary Experiences Revealed, Walt Disney Audio-Animatronic Show Delayed

Disneyland has revealed some of the exciting experiences that will be arriving in time with its 70th anniversary on July 17, 2025, and it will now feature the debut of the Walt Disney Audio-Animatronic show that was originally scheduled to begin in May.

As revealed on Disney Park Blog, these offerings will "not only feature the history and heritage of Disneyland, but also share optimism and excitement for the future of The Happiest Place on Earth."

Walt Disney - A Magical Life is the show that will feature the first-ever Walt Disney Audio-Animatronic and it will be one of the biggest draws for these 70th anniversary celebrations.

"As you step into the theater, you'll get to experience the incredible story of Walt Disney's life," the Disney Parks Blog writes. "Through remastered footage and audio recordings, you’ll be taken on a cinematic journey that leads from Walt’s early endeavors to the bright lights of Los Angeles and beyond. And when the curtain rises, guests will be transported to Walt’s office. Through the magic of Audio-Animatronics storytelling that he helped pioneer, Walt will share some heartfelt stories and words of wisdom."

Alongside honoring Walt Disney, Disneyland is also preparing a tribute to the Sherman Brothers that will take place inside the Main Street Cinema. Inside the theater will be a three-and-a-half minute film called "The Last Verse" which will celebrate "the timeless connection and hope behind the Sherman Brothers' iconic song, 'it's a small world.'"

It will also focus on the new verse Richard M. Sherman wrote for the song for its 60th anniversary, and viewers will get to see how the song and attraction has impacted the world. Furthermore, this third and final verse will become part of the 'it's a small world' attraction at Disneyland on July 17.

At Main Street, U.S.A.'s Opera House, guests will be able to see a new gallery experience that will showcase the evolution of Walt Disney's dream of Disneyland. There will be images, art, and artifacts that will tell the story of the beginnings of developing Disneyland, its opening, and beyond. And yes, there will be never-before-seen items.

Further into the lobby of the Opera House, guests will get to learn about the history of Audio-Animatronics technology and see how they have advanced through the years.

Lastly, Disney is collaborating with The Walt Disney Family Museum and will feature more than 30 artifacts for guests to check out in the lobby. These include original items from Walt's private apartment above the Fire Station on Main Street like a rocking chair, lamp, table, and more. They'll also get to get a closer look at Walt's 1955 Emmy award for the 'Walt Disney's Disneyland' TV show, his Presidential Medal, and much more.

There is a ton to look forward to for Disneyland's 70th anniversary, and the party will begin on May 16, 2025. You can read more about what to expect right here.

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Adam Bankhurst is a writer for IGN. You can follow him on X/Twitter @AdamBankhurst and on TikTok.