This Day in Disney History- June 15
Welcome back to our continuing journey through Disney’s past. Today we are looking at the events on this day in Disney history- June 15.
June 15th was a major day for Disney, with the release of an animated classic, the opening of two new Disneyland lands, and the debut of a Pixar sequel. So, let’s get started!
Don Defore’s Silver Banjo Barbeque Opens (1957)
On this day in 1957, Don Defore’s Silver Banjo Barbeque restaurant opened in Disneyland’s Frontierland.
The restaurant was operated by actor Don Defore and his brother Verne, and named after a silver banjo their father had given them.
Disneyland’s Club 33 Opens (1967)
On this day in 1967, Club 33 opened in New Orleans Square at Disneyland.
The private club was built at 33 Royal Street in New Orleans Square. The club is comprised of two dining rooms and several adjoining areas which hold a wide array of magnificent antiques and original works of art.
The Arribas Brothers Shop Opens in Disneyland (1967)
Also on this day in 1967, The Arribas Brothers shop opened in Disneyland’s Fantasyland.
After a successful stay at Disneyland, the Arribas Brothers would open shop in Walt Disney World in 1971.
Roller Coaster Rabbit Released (1990)
On this day in 1990, the Disney short Roller Coaster Rabbit was released.
The Roger Rabbit cartoon saw Roger struggling to keep Baby Herman safe in an amusement park.
Studio Pizzeria Opens (1991)
On this day in 1991, the Studio Pizzeria opened in the Disney-MGM Studios.
The Lion King Premiers (1994)
On this day in 1994, The Lion King premiered in select U.S. cities
Loosely based on Hamlet, and featuring songs by Elton John and Tim Rice, The Lion King would go on to become the highest-grossing animated film of all time.
Hercules Premieres (1997)
On this day in 1997, Disney’s Hercules premiered at the New Amsterdam Theatre in New York City.
The film based on the legendary Greek hero Heracles, would be released in theaters 12 days later.
Atlantis: The Lost Empire Released (2001)
On this day in 2001, Atlantis: The Lost Empire was released.
The film told the story of a young linguist who believes he is in possession of a sacred book that will guide him to the lost city of Atlantis.
SHOCKWAVE Debuts (2002)
On this day in 2002, SHOCKWAVE debuted at Epcot.
The new musical show was similar to the Tony Award-winning Broadway hit BLAST.
Zeke and Luther Premieres (2009)
On this day in 2009, Zeke and Luther premiered on Disney XD.
The sitcom told the story of two best friends who are on a quest to become world-famous skateboarders.
Cars Land and Buena Vista Street Open (2012)
On this day in 2012, Cars Land and Buena Vista Street Officially opened at Disney California Adventure.
The finale of Disneyland’s $1 billion renovation of the park, Cars Land introduced 12 acres of new attractions. Rides opening on this day included Luigi’s Flying Tires, Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree, and Radiator Springs Racers.
Buena Vista Street on the other hand was formally known as Sunshine Plaza and features a layout and style similar to Main Street USA.
Let it Shine Debuts (2012)
Also on this day in 2012, Let it Shine debuted on the Disney Channel.
The film told the story of a shy rapper and musician who writes romantic hip-hop verses, only for them to be delivered to the girl of his dreams by his best friend.
Shanghai Disneyland Grand Opening Ceremony Held (2016)
On this day in 2016, Disney live-streamed the grand opening of Shanghai Disneyland grand opening show.
Disney CEO Bob Iger offered remarks to nearly 3,000 distinguished guests and celebrities before the show kicked off.
Incredibles 2 Released (2018)
On this day in 2018, the Incredibles 2 was released to theaters.
A sequel to the 2004 Pixar film The Incredibles, the film followed the story of the Parr family as they try to restore the public trust in superheroes.
That concludes this day in Disney history- June 15. So, be sure to come back tomorrow to see what happens next!
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