This Day in Disney History: December 19
Welcome back to our trip through the history of the Walt Disney Company. Today we are looking at the events on this day in Disney history- December 19.
December 19th featured the debut of classic Disney character, the beginning of a holiday tradition and the opening of a highly anticipated sequel. Let’s get into it!
A Symposium on Popular Song Released (1962)
On this day in 1962, the Disney cartoon A Symposium on Popular Songs was released.
The short would mark the film debut of Ludwig Von Drake, a self proclaimed “expert on everything”.
A Symposium on Popular Songs was directed by Bill Justice and written by X. Atencio. It was also notable for featuring songs written by the Sherman Brothers.
Search of Castaways Premiers (1962)
Also on this day in 1962, Search of the Castaways was released.
Based on the Jules Verne novel Captain Grant’s Children, the film starred Hayley Mills, Maurice Chevalier, and George Sanders.
Country Bear Christmas Special Opens (1984)
On this day in 1984, the Country Bear Christmas Special debuted at Walt Disney World.
A special holiday version of the Country Bear Jamboree, the new show featured various Christmas songs including, Rudolph the Red-Nose Reindeer, Deck the Halls and also Blue Christmas.
Tomorrowland Indy Speedway Opens
On this day in 1999 the Tomorrowland Speedway was renamed the Tomorrowland Indy Speedway.
The name change to the Magic Kingdom’s version of the Autopia came about as the result of a partnership between Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Disney.
At this time, iconic items from the Indianapolis Speedway were added to the attraction including the Yard of Bricks, Gasoline Alley, and the Scoring Pylon.
Splitsville Opens (2012)
On this day in 2012, Splitsville opened in Downtown Disney‘s West Side.
The new upscale bowling alley and restaurant took over the former location of the Virgin Megastore
Mary Poppins Returns Released (2018)
Finally, on this day in 2018, Mary Poppins Returns opened in theaters.
A sequel to the 1964 classic film, Mary Poppins Returns features the magical nanny return to help the Banks siblings and their children cope during a hard time.
Mary Poppins Returns starred Emily Blunt, Maryl Streep, Colin Firth and Lin-Manuel Miranda.
That’s all for this day in Disney history- December 19. So, be sure to check back tomorrow to see what happens next!