This Day in Disney History- June 16
Welcome back to our continuing journey through the history of the Walt Disney Company. Today we are looking at the events on this day in Disney history- June 16.
June 16th was a massive day in Disney history, with two attraction openings in Disneyland, the release of an animated classic, and the debut of a brand new Disney Park. So, let’s get started!
Mickey’s Steam Roller Debuts (1934)
On this day in 1934, the Mickey Mouse short Mickey’s Steam Roller was released.
In the cartoon, Mickey’s nephews steal his steamroller for a very destructive joyride.
Lady and the Tramp Premiers (1995)
On this day in 1955, Disney’s Lady and the Tramp had its world premiere in Chicago.
The first Disney cartoon filmed in CinemaScope, the film told a love story about a stray hound and a pampered pooch.
Tom Sawyer Island Opens (1956)
On this day in 1956, Tom Sawyer Island opened in Disneyland.
Based on the work of Mark Twain, Tom Sawyer Island was an artificial island that guests could explore.
The Storybook Land Canal Boats Open (1956)
Also on this day in 1956, the Storybook Land Canal Boats opened.
Originally known as Canal Boats of the World, the leisurely boat ride took guests past fantastical vignettes.
Holidayland Opens (1957)
On this day in 1957, Holidayland opened along the western edge of Disneyland.
The new area featured a playground, horseshoes, a baseball field, a volleyball court, and “the world’s largest candy-striped circus tent”.
Disney Acquires Winnie-The-Pooh (1961)
On this day in 1961, Walt Disney purchased the rights to the Winnie-The-Pooh from Daphne Milne, widow of the late author A.A. Milne.
Disney would debut Winnie the Pooh and the Honey Tree in 1966.
Magic Journeys Opens In Disneyland (1984)
On this day in 1984, Magic Journeys opened in Disneyland’s Tomorrowland.
The attraction, which looked at the world through the eyes of a child, had originally debuted in EPCOT Center in 1982.
DisneyQuest Chicago Opens (1999)
On this day in 1999, DisneyQuest opened in Chicago, Illinois.
The interactive Disney experience would close in September 2001.
Lilo & Stitch Debuts (2002)
On this day in 2002, Lilo & Stitch debuted at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood.
Among the stars in attendance were David Ogden Stieres, Kevin McDonald and Wynonna Judd.
Around the World in 80 Days Released (2004)
On this day in 2004, Around the World in 80 Days was released in theaters.
Based on the Jules Verne novel of the same name, the film starred Jackie Chan and Steve Coogan.
Wendy Wu: Homecoming Warrior Airs (2006)
On this day in 2006, Wendy Wu: Homecoming Warrior debuted on the Disney Channel.
In the movie, Chinese monks believe that Wendy (Brenda Song) is the reincarnation of a powerful female warrior.
Disneyland Innovations Dream Home Opens (2008)
On this day in 2008, the Disneyland Innoventions Dream Home opened.
Part exhibit, part hands-on experience, the new Dream Home showcased cutting-edge technology from Microsoft and other industry leaders.
Shanghai Disneyland Opens (2016)
On this day in 2016, Shanghai Disneyland opened.
Disney’s newest park opened with six lands- Mickey Avenue, Gardens of Imagination, Fantasyland, Adventure Isle, Tomorrowland and Treasure Cove.
The resort also featured two themed hotels; Shanghai Disneyland Hotel and Toy Story Hotel and Disneytown- a shopping, dining, and entertainment complex.
Cars 3 Released
On this day in 2017, Cars 3 was released in theaters.
In the film, Lightning McQueen finds himself being pushed out of racing by younger blazing-fast cars.
That concludes this day in Disney history- June 16. So, be sure to come back tomorrow to see what happens next!
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