This Day in Disney History: December 11
Welcome back to our journey through the history of the Walt Disney Company. Today we are looking at the events on this day in Disney history- December 11.
December 11th featured the release of two classic Disney movies, the opening of a new hotel and finally, the debut of a holiday special! Let’s get into it!
The Muppet Christmas Carol is Released (1992)
On this day in 1992, The Muppet Christmas Carol was released.
The first Muppet feature film to be distributed by Disney, The Muppet Christmas Carol was based on the Charles Dickens novel A Christmas Carol.
The film was the first Muppet feature film to be released following the death of Jim Henson.
Disneyland Pacific Hotel Opens (1995)
On this day in 1995, the Disneyland Pacific Hotel opened.
Originally known as the Emerald of Anaheim, the hotel was initially built by the Japan-based Tokyu Group. Disney purchased the hotel in 1995 and renamed it.
In 2000, the hotel would once again be renamed, this time to the Paradise Pier Hotel.
Princess and the Frog Released (2009)
On this day in 2009, The Princess and the Frog was released.
The Princess and the Frog tells the story of a hardworking waitress named Tiana who dreams of opening her own restaurant. When she kisses a prince who has been turned into a frog, she becomes a frog herself.
The movie was loosely based on the 2002 novel The Frog Princess by E.D. Baker. The film marked Disney’s return to hand drawn animation, and was eventually a massive success. It became Disney animation’s most successful film since Tarzan and was nominated for three Oscars.
Monsieur Paul Opens (2012)
On this day in 2012, Monsieur Paul opened in Epcot.
The France pavilion’s newest signature restaurant replaced Bistro de Paris. That establishment had operated since 1984.
High School Musical: The Musical: Holiday Special Debuts (2020)
Finally, on this day in 2020, High School Musical: The Musical” Holiday Special debuted on Disney+.
Starring Olivia Rodrigo and Josua Bassett, the holiday special featured performances of the cast’s favorite holiday songs.
That’s all for this day in Disney history- December 11. Be sure to come back tomorrow to see what happens when we continue!