Today in Disney History: Walt Disney is Grand Marshall of Rose Parade, 1966

[Disney4me]

This morning, the “Disneyland Diamond Celebration – Awaken Your Adventure” float appeared in the 2016 Rose Parade, the latest in a tradition that spans nearly eight decades. Disney’s relationship with the Tournament of Roses began in 1938 when characters from the newly premiered “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” were prominently featured in the parade. Also, the Rose Queen and her Court, along with the competing Rose Bowl football teams, have visited Disneyland Resort each year since 1960.

It was 50 years ago today that Walt Disney himself took part in the Rose Parade as Grand Marshall. On January 1, 1966, Walt rode the parade route with Mickey Mouse by his side. Decades later, Roy E. Disney, Walt’s nephew and the head of Disney Animation, would serve as Grand Marshall in 2000.

This year, in 2016, we are excited to continue this tradition as part of our Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration, commemorating 60 years of magic here at the Disneyland Resort.

Today in Disney History: Walt Disney is Grand Marshall of Rose Parade, 1966 by Erin Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog

View the full article