I’m sure most of you reading this watched the Disney Parks Christmas Celebration this morning on ABC. I know one topic we always discuss is how long something has been around. Well this blog should give you a little of the history of the parade.
The parade has aired annually since 1983, with the exception of 2000 when Disney aired a Christmas Eve “Tracking Santa” special instead. The parade has always featured Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Pluto, Donald and a cast of many more. Now most Disney fans know this, but the parade is taped in November or December. Until the early 1990’s though, the parade was actually live on Christmas day. Back then it was also broadcast on CBS, till 1996 when Disney purchased ABC.
The first parade in 1983 was called Walt Disney World’s Very Merry Christmas Parade. The hosts for that first parade were Joan Lunden and Mike Douglas. Moving forward, Alan Thicke would eventually replace Douglas as host and none other than Regis Philbin was seen as the on-street interviewer. Eventually, Regis took over as co-host with Joan. Kelly Ripa would replace Lunden and and join her TV show partner Regis.
Over the years other hosts have been brought in and out including, Ben Vereen, Jerry Van Dyke, Suzanne Somers and Ryan Seacrest, just to name a few. This year the host was Robin Roberts and featured some of the amazing Disney parade floats, some great performances and a few surprises. We hope you all enjoyed the parade, and have a great Christmas Day!
As co-owner and co-creator of The Main Street Mouse.Working in a technical support position for 18 years, it was time for a change.As the Webmaster and Project Planner, I spend most of my time researching everything from the latest Disney News, technology advances and of course keeping up on all the Marvel news that comes out.I never considered myself a writer but I’ve come to like blogging and sharing news with all.I feel blessed everyday that I get to spend my days working with my best friend and love of my life while we continue to grow and expand what started as a hobby all those years ago.
- Universal Kids Resort Unveils Immersive Themed Lands in TX - February 22, 2025
- Universal Orlando Unveils New Epic Universe Tickets/Packages - February 22, 2025
- Mardi Gras: Top Foods to Try at Universal Orlando Resort - February 21, 2025
Our Official Travel Partner of The Main Street Mouse is MEI-Travel & Mouse Fan Travel
Mouse Fan Travel® an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, has been planning and creating magical Disney vacations since 2005. Their mission is to provide premium service and expert advice to help you get the most for your vacation time and dollar. Their Disney Travel Agents operate with the highest degree of integrity and will handle your family vacation, reunion, honeymoon, corporate incentive trip or getaway, as if it were their own. They pride themselves on expertly representing and advocating for you – their client.
The next time you and your family are planning a Disney vacation, visit Mouse Fan Travel for your no obligation quote or to answer any Disney vacation questions you may have. Are you looking for a beach vacation, tour or cruise to destinations across the globe? Visit MEI-Travel for exceptional expertise with ZERO agency fees.