The History of Disneyland Parades

 1955 PARADES 

THE OPENING DAY PARADE ~ The very first Disneyland parade was Sunday, July 17, 1955. This was a one-time event with special guests including emcee, Art Linkletter; actors, Ronald Reagan and Bob Cummings; The Mouseketeers; voice actor, Thurl Ravenscroft; California Governor, Goodwin J. Knight and Walt Disney himself. Also, featured in this parade were Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, Pluto, Chip and Dale, Dumbo, the Mouseketeers, Fess Parker as Davy Crockett, a float for Snow White and a pumpkin coach for Cinderella. Attendance soared to an unexpected 28,000 guests. 

DISNEYLAND MARCHING BAND AND CHARACTERS ~ Parades continued daily with the Disneyland Band marching down Main Street sometimes with the help of the Disney characters marching behind the band. Disneyland didn't originally have themed parades every day, but usually only for summers, holidays or special occasions. The extended 1955 parade presented short units for themed lands—for example, the Autopia cars from Tomorrowland, a stagecoach from Frontierland—but the focus was largely on film characters.

MICKEY MOUSE CLUB CIRCUS PARADE On Thursday, November 24, 1955, Disneyland offered their first themed parade in conjunction with the Mickey Mouse Club Circus. The parade ran twice a day before each circus performance. The parade began on Main Street’s Town Square and proceeds north toward the circus tents located at the end of Main Street [where the Matterhorn now stands]. On Thanksgiving Day, Santa, Walt Disney, Fess Parker and Mickey Mouse the parade as well. Mickey Mouse had been borrowed from the Ice Capades as no parl costume had been created yet.

THE DISNEYLAND CHRISTMAS PARADE ~ [also billed as the SANTA CLAUS PARADE] Walt Disney decided to establish a holiday tradition by having a Christmas parade at his new park. To completely design and prepare a Christmas Parade from scratch would have been an overwhelming task, so he borrowed elements from the already running Mickey Mouse Club Circus Parade. Held on a Sunday afternoon at 3:30 pm, Walt himself hosted this first Christmas parade. It did not feature traditional holiday themes except for Santa Claus. Disneyland’s first official Christmas Parade ran daily from Thanksgiving Day until New Years Day with various Disney characters dressed in holiday theme.

MICKEY'S RAINY DAY CAVALCADE~ On rainy days, this mini parade would drive characters up and down the parade route in the omnibus, fire engine and horseless carriages. Not all seasonal parades ran both daytime and evening, especially in the spring and fall when the park closed early.

1956 PARADES 

DISNEYLAND MARCHING BAND AND CHARACTERS continued daily throughout the year featuring the Disneyland Marching Band and many Disney characters.

DISNEYLAND EASTER PARADE ~ This first one-time parade on Sunday, April 1, 1956, it was modeled after an old-fashioned Easter Parade with NO Disney characters, but many vintage vehicles and dancers dressed in their Sunday finest.

MICKEY MOUSE CLUB CIRCUS PARADE ~ officially closed on Sunday, January 8, 1956, due to low attendance. It was believed that the 75-minute performance cut into guest’s time for exploring the rest of the park. Many castmembers agreed that the circus was a challenge to present and many times escaping animals caused anxiety for employees and guests alike.

MAIN STREET ANTIQUE AUTOMOBILE CLUB PARADE ran one time in the summer of 1956 and featured a parade of vintage cars and driven by owners dressed in period clothing. 

CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD PARADE~ Disneyland’s first Christmas Parade continued to run daily from Thanksgiving Day until New Year’s Day.

1957 PARADES

DISNEYLAND MARCHING BAND AND CHARACTERS continued to march most days throughout the year.

ANTIQUE AUTOMOBILE PARADE ~ This was a special onetime event held during special occasions. Featured a procession of antique automobiles driven by invited members of various local auto restoration clubs wearing authentic 1900 era costumes. This was held as one-time event, including a special Easter parade version.

CHRISTMAS IN MANY LANDS/ PARADE OF ALL NATIONS ~ This parade was Disneyland’s 1st THEMED Christmas Parade was held on Sunday, December 22, 1957. Walt Disney dedicated it to all peoples of the world. It was held for many years. The parades featured invited civic organizations representing cultures of other nations. They were often presented during Christmas but were often also combined with other special parades during other times of the year. It ran from Thanksgiving until New Year’s Day.

1958 PARADES

DISNEYLAND MARCHING BAND AND CHARACTERS continued to march most days throughout the year.

ZORRO DAYS PARADE ~ This one-time event parade was held as part of the occasional special promotional events featuring Guy Williams, star of TV show, ZORRO. The parade also featured other Disney stars, and a segment featuring Disney Characters.

COLUMBIA GRAND OPENING DAY PARADE ~ This was a special one-time parade held on Friday, July 18, 1958 to commemorate the opening of the Sailing Ship Columbia, and featured Circus performers and Disney Characters.

CHRISTMAS IN MANY LANDS/ PARADE OF ALL NATIONS ~ This parade was Disneyland’s 1st THEMED Christmas Parade was held on Sunday, December 22, 1957. Walt Disney dedicated it to all peoples of the world. It was held for many years. The parades featured invited civic organizations representing cultures of other nations. They were often presented during Christmas but were often also combined with other special parades during other times of the year. It ran from Thanksgiving until New Year’s Day. A portion of this parade was to later become THE CANDLELIGHT PROCESSIONAL. The popularity of the performance in the plaza led Disney management to enlarge the choral performance. This led to the First Candlelight Procession in December of 1958. This evening performance consisted of 16 choirs and the Dickens singers. It began with a procession down Main Street, USA to the plaza where the ceremony was performed with Dickens carolers up on a balcony on Sleeping Beauty Castle.

1959 PARADES

DISNEYLAND MARCHING BAND AND CHARACTERS ~ continued to march most days throughout the year.

DISNEYLAND ‘59 PARADE ~ Special one-time only parade was presented on Sunday, June 14, 1959 to commemorate the opening of the following new attractions: Matterhorn Bobsleds, Monorail, and Submarine Voyage. It included units from the Parade of Many Lands, and a special Disney section featuring floats representing many of Disneyland’s attractions and themed areas. The parade included cartoon characters and celebrities including Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck as well as Guy Williams as Zorro, Fred MacMurray, and the cast of Leave It to Beaver as well as many others.

DISNEYLAND RE-DEDICATION CELEBRATION PARADE ~ On Thursday, June 14, 1959, Disneyland celebrated a re-dedication of the park with a parade with Walt Disney as Grand Marshall. The highlight of the parade was Disney band leader, Tommy Walker leading a band playing “76 Trombones” and handing the baton to Meredith Wilson (who wrote the song).

ZORRO DAYS PARADE ~ Due to its popularity the previous year, this parade was held as part of the occasional special promotional events featuring Guy Williams, (TV’s Zorro). It was a one-time only event, only held on the special days when the Zorro events were held. The parade often featured other Disney stars, and a segment featuring Disney Characters.

CHRISTMAS IN MANY LANDS PARADE ~ continues through the holiday season. In 1959, the bleachers were filled with 2,574 singers making it the largest choir to perform in the Candlelight Ceremony at Disneyland. 

THE CANDLELIGHT PROCESSION AND LIVING CHRISTMAS TREE CEREMONY ~ is added to the Christmas season schedule and becomes a holiday favorite. 

RAINY DAY CAVALCADES –The covered Main Street motor vehicles including the horseless carriages and Omnibus are used to transport Disney Characters down the parade route during inclement weather. These mini parades are held when the weather will not permit use of the normally scheduled parade.

1960 PARADES

MICKEY AT THE MOVIES PARADE ~ In the spring, Disneyland unveils a new parade dedicated to Mickey Mouse. It continues through the Summer and into the Fall of 1960. This parade was held during the same period as Parade of Toys when it was not Christmas time, and used many of the same large-scale toy elements, but was a non-holiday themed. This parade also was the first appearance of the famous Big Bass Drum, which became of parade tradition for years to follow. This parade was also combined with other holiday events, such as Easter, and the Fourth of July.

DISNEYLAND EASTER PARADE ~ A one-time Easter themed parade on Easter Sunday, April 2, 1960.

CHRISTMAS PARADE OF TOYS ~ Sometimes called the March of the Toys and originally a part of the Mickey Mouse Circus [where toys marched around the center of the circus tent], this parade debuts on Friday, December 18, 1960. It runs three times daily until Sunday, January 1, 1961. The parade also featured toy floats of knights on horseback, trains, carolers, giant dolls, and horse-riding cavalry troops. Disney’s newest creation is a parade of giant animated wooden toys and performers costumed as toys.

CHRISTMAS IN MANY LANDS ~ This one-time a year parade was held for many years during the Christmas season. You will notice that the Christmas from Many Lands parade happened just once this year and was a one-day special event during the Christmas Festivities on Thursday, December 22, 1960. The one-time parades were special events featuring invited civic organizations representing cultures of other nations. This parade was often presented during Christmas but was also combined with other special parades during other times of the year. 

The 1960 CANDLELIGHT PROCESSIONAL ~ [seasonally] The Candlelight Ceremony became closer to what is known and loved today in 1960 when a stage was built on the front of the Main Street, USA Station. With this came the “living Christmas tree.” It originally was made up of the Western High School A’Capella Choir. This choir continued to make up the “living Christmas tree” until 1981 when its conductor retired. The following year, the Disney Employee Choir filled the tree. They have continued to do so ever since.

RAINY DAY CAVALCADES –The covered Main Street motor vehicles including the horseless carriages and Omnibus are used to transport Disney Characters down the parade route during inclement weather. These mini parades are held when the weather will not permit use of the normally scheduled parade.

1961 PARADES

MICKEY AT THE MOVIES PARADE ~ In the spring, Disneyland unveils a new parade dedicated to Mickey Mouse. It continues through the Summer and into the Fall of 1960. This parade was held during the same time period as Parade of Toys when it was not Christmas time, and used many of the same large-scale toy elements, but was a non-holiday themed. This parade also was the first appearance of the famous Big Bass Drum, which became of parade tradition for years to follow. This parade was also combined with other holiday events, such as Easter, and the Fourth of July.

THE 1961 CHRISTMAS CANDLELIGHT PROCESSIONAL ~ [runs seasonally] Dennis Morgan becomes the first celebrity to narrate the Christmas Story as he joins the multitude of choral singers.

CHRISTMAS PARADE OF TOYS ~ Originally, a part of the Mickey Mouse Circus [where toys marched around the center of the circus tent], this parade continued into 1961. It runs three times daily during the Christmas season. The parade also featured toy floats of knights on horseback, trains, carolers, giant dolls, and horse-riding cavalry troops. Disney’s newest creation is a parade of giant animated wooden toys and performers costumed as toys.

CHRISTMAS IN MANY LANDS ~ This one-time a year parade was held for many years during the Christmas season. You will notice that the Christmas from Many Lands parade happened just once this year and was a one-day special event during the Christmas Festivities. The one-time parades were special events featuring invited civic organizations representing cultures of other nations. This parade was often presented during Christmas but was also combined with other special parades during other times of the year. 

RAINY DAY CAVALCADES –The covered Main Street motor vehicles including the horseless carriages and Omnibus are used to transport Disney Characters down the parade route during inclement weather. These mini parades are held when the weather will not permit use of the normally scheduled parade.

1962 PARADES

MICKEY AT THE MOVIES PARADE ~ In the spring, Disneyland unveils a new parade dedicated to Mickey Mouse. It continues through the Summer and into the Fall of 1960. This parade was held during the same time period as Parade of Toys when it was not Christmas time, and used many of the same large-scale toy elements, but was a non-holiday themed. This parade also was the first appearance of the famous Big Bass Drum, which became of parade tradition for years to follow. This parade was also combined with other holiday events, such as Easter, and the Fourth of July.

DISNEYLAND EASTER PARADE ~ A one-time Easter themed parade on Easter Sunday, April 22, 1962

THE 1962 CHRISTMAS CANDLELIGHT PROCESSIONAL ~ [runs seasonally] Dennis Morgan and Gale Storm narrate the Christmas Story as he joins the multitude of choral singers.

CHRISTMAS PARADE OF TOYS ~ Originally, a part of the Mickey Mouse Circus [where toys marched around the center of the circus tent], this parade continued into 1961. It runs three times daily during the Christmas season. The parade also featured toy floats of knights on horseback, trains, carolers, giant dolls, and horse-riding cavalry troops. Disney’s newest creation is a parade of giant animated wooden toys and performers costumed as toys.

CHRISTMAS IN MANY LANDS ~ This one-time a year parade was held for many years during the Christmas season. You will notice that the Christmas from Many Lands parade happened just once this year and was a one-day special event during the Christmas Festivities. The one-time parades were special events featuring invited civic organizations representing cultures of other nations. This parade was often presented during Christmas but was also combined with other special parades during other times of the year. 

RAINY DAY CAVALCADES –The covered Main Street motor vehicles including the horseless carriages and Omnibus are used to transport Disney Characters down the parade route during inclement weather. These mini parades are held when the weather will not permit use of the normally scheduled parade.

1963 PARADES

MICKEY AT THE MOVIES PARADE ~ In the spring, Disneyland unveils a new parade dedicated to Mickey Mouse. It continues through the Summer and into the Fall of 1960. This parade was held during the same time period as Parade of Toys when it was not Christmas time, and used many of the same large-scale toy elements, but was a non-holiday themed. This parade also was the first appearance of the famous Big Bass Drum, which became of parade tradition for years to follow. This parade was also combined with other holiday events, such as Easter, and the Fourth of July.

THE 1963 CHRISTMAS CANDLELIGHT PROCESSIONAL ~ [runs seasonally] Dennis Morgan continues to narrate the Christmas Story as he joins the multitude of choral singers.

CHRISTMAS PARADE OF TOYS ~ Originally, a part of the Mickey Mouse Circus [where toys marched around the center of the circus tent], this parade continued into 1961. It runs three times daily during the Christmas season. The parade also featured toy floats of knights on horseback, trains, carolers, giant dolls, and horse-riding cavalry troops. Disney’s newest creation is a parade of giant animated wooden toys and performers costumed as toys.

CHRISTMAS IN MANY LANDS ~ This one-time a year parade was held for many years during the Christmas season. You will notice that the Christmas from Many Lands parade happened just once this year and was a one-day special event during the Christmas Festivities. The one-time parades were special events featuring invited civic organizations representing cultures of other nations. This parade was often presented during Christmas but was also combined with other special parades during other times of the year. 

RAINY DAY CAVALCADES –The covered Main Street motor vehicles including the horseless carriages and Omnibus are used to transport Disney Characters down the parade route during inclement weather. These mini parades are held when the weather will not permit use of the normally scheduled parade.

1964 PARADES

MICKEY AT THE MOVIES PARADE ~ In the spring, Disneyland unveils a new parade dedicated to Mickey Mouse. It continues through the Summer and into the Fall of 1960. This parade was held during the same time period as Parade of Toys when it was not Christmas time, and used many of the same large-scale toy elements, but was a non-holiday themed. This parade also was the first appearance of the famous Big Bass Drum, which became of parade tradition for years to follow. This parade was also combined with other holiday events, such as Easter, and the Fourth of July.

THE 1964 CHRISTMAS CANDLELIGHT PROCESSIONAL ~ [runs seasonally] Dennis Morgan continues to narrate the Christmas Story as he joins the multitude of choral singers.

CHRISTMAS PARADE OF TOYS ~ Originally, a part of the Mickey Mouse Circus [where toys marched around the center of the circus tent], this parade continued into 1961. It runs three times daily during the Christmas season. The parade also featured toy floats of knights on horseback, trains, carolers, giant dolls, and horse-riding cavalry troops. Disney’s newest creation is a parade of giant animated wooden toys and performers costumed as toys.

CHRISTMAS IN MANY LANDS ~ This one-time a year parade was held for many years during the Christmas season. You will notice that the Christmas from Many Lands parade happened just once this year and was a one-day special event during the Christmas Festivities. The one-time parades were special events featuring invited civic organizations representing cultures of other nations. This parade was often presented during Christmas but was also combined with other special parades during other times of the year. 

RAINY DAY CAVALCADES –The covered Main Street motor vehicles including the horseless carriages and Omnibus are used to transport Disney Characters down the parade route during inclement weather. These mini parades are held when the weather will not permit use of the normally scheduled parade.

1985 PARADES

AMERICAN GAZETTE PARADE ~ This patriotic parade featuring all live music, performed by many of Disneyland’s in-house musical groups. The parade was divided into sections representing different eras in American history, along with lavish costumes music starting from the 1900’s to the 1980’s. It ran occasionally between showings of the 30TH ANNIVERSARY PARADE in 1985.

DISNEYLAND 30TH ANNIVERSARY PARADE ~ To celebrate the 30th anniversary of Disneyland, this year long parade features a special anniversary flags, signs and banner attached to floats that had been used in the earlier character parades.

DISNEY FAMILY CAVALCADE ~ A special one-time parade event featuring Disneyland cast members to honor their service as part of the Disneyland 30th anniversary celebration.

MAIN STREET ELECTRICAL PARADE ~ In 1985, returns for a third run. The parade made over 3500 trips, to an estimated 75 million guests. Considered to be Disneyland’s most popular parade, the Main Street Electrical Parade is brought back in 1977 with a new opening fanfare that introduced “electro-synthe-magnetic musical sound”. The original floats included the Blue Fairy, Casey Junior Circus Train, Alice In Wonderland, Chinese Dragon, Dumbo’s Circus, Cinderella’s Ball, “it’s a small world”, and the American Finale. The vehicles feature 500,000 sparkling lights, and 500 miles of wiring. This parade usually ran during high attendance periods when the park was open late, excluding Christmas. Also added was a new dragon, Elliott, the dragon from the 1977 film Pete’s Dragon. 

THE 1985 CANDLELIGHT PROCESSIONAL ~ The Christmas Story is narrated by Kevin Dobson.

FANTASY ON PARADE ~ This was first staged during the Christmas season of 1965, and would continue as the holiday time parade until 1976. The first half of the parade featured floats representing different family classics in the Disney cannon, which were not holiday themed, and then ended with a special holiday segment. It was designed to be a “Moving Show on Parade” where various parade units would stop along the route and perform dances for the guests. It was a more elaborate evolution of the 1960-1964 Parade of Toys but did not include the Parade of Many Lands.

RAINY DAY CAVALCADES –The covered Main Street motor vehicles including the horseless carriages and Omnibus are used to transport Disney Characters down the parade route during inclement weather. These mini parades are held when the weather will not permit use of the normally scheduled parade.

The ANNUAL PASSPORT PROGRAM is now open to the general public to purchase the passes at $85. per year for adults and $65 per year for children with unlimited attractions 365 days per year.

1986 PARADES

CIRCUS FANTASY PARADE ~ Circus Fantasy Parade begins on Saturday, January 25, 1986. It was a seasonal special event, the first of several of this type of event, held to boost park attendance through the promotion of specially themed shows and live in park entertainment offerings staged throughout the park daily. This circus themed event included a lavish Circus parade, with live animals, circus performers, and Disney Characters. The event returned in 1987 and again in 1988.

TOTALLY MINNIE PARADE ~ 1986 is declared the “YEAR OF MINNIE”. This parade featuring Minnie Mouse in modern 80’s dress, and a pop 80’s soundtrack. The parade soundtrack was tied in with a Children’s album of the same name and included special shows and events throughout the park all year. 

THE 1986 CANDLELIGHT PROCESSIONAL ~ The Christmas Story is narrated by Craig T. Nelson and Elliot Gould.

MAIN STREET ELECTRICAL PARADE ~ Considered to be Disneyland’s most popular parade, the Main Street Electrical Parade is brought back in 1977 with a new opening fanfare that introduced “electro-synthe-magnetic musical sound”. The original floats included the Blue Fairy, Casey Junior Circus Train, Alice In Wonderland, Chinese Dragon, Dumbo’s Circus, Cinderella’s Ball, “it’s a small world”, and the American Finale. The vehicles feature 500,000 sparkling lights, and 500 miles of wiring. This parade usually ran during high attendance periods when the park was open late, excluding Christmas. Also added was a new dragon, Elliott, the dragon from the 1977 film Pete’s Dragon.

FANTASY ON PARADE ~ This was first staged during the Christmas season of 1965, and would continue as the holiday time parade until 1976. The first half of the parade featured floats representing different family classics in the Disney cannon, which were not holiday themed, and then ended with a special holiday segment. It was designed to be a “Moving Show on Parade” where various parade units would stop along the route and perform dances for the guests. It was a more elaborate evolution of the 1960-1964 Parade of Toys but did not include the Parade of Many Lands. 

RAINY DAY CAVALCADES –The covered Main Street motor vehicles including the horseless carriages and Omnibus are used to transport Disney Characters down the parade route during inclement weather. These mini parades are held when the weather will not permit use of the normally scheduled parade.

1987 PARADES

CIRCUS FANTASY PARADE ~ Circus Fantasy Parade begins on Saturday, January 25, 1986. It was a seasonal special event, the first of several of this type of event, held to boost park attendance through the promotion of specially themed shows and live in park entertainment offerings staged throughout the park daily. This circus themed event included a lavish Circus parade, with live animals, circus performers, and Disney Characters. The event returned in 1987 and again in 1988.

GREAT AMERICAN RACE ~ The 1987 Great American Race featuring vintage and antique automobiles took off from Anaheim on Tuesday, June 30, 1987. The 3,600 mile route went from Disneyland in Anaheim, California to Disney World in Orlando, Florida, 

SNOW WHITE GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY PARADE ~ This special 15-minute parade featuring characters from Snow White, is held in honor of the 50th anniversary of the film. The parade includes various Disney characters dressed in the era of Snow White, as well as dancers. The parade was set to pre-recorded music.

MAIN STREET USA PARADE ~ This parade was at Disneyland between 1985 and 1988. This was used when a daytime parade wasn’t planned for the season and used as a fill in. The parade was a basic parade. It featured the song “Walking Right Down the Middle of Main Street” and had characters dressed in turn of the century costumes. 

COME TO THE FAIR PARADE ~ This Fall parade was held during the Disneyland State Fair, the second of the park wide promotional events, this one held for two years, once in ‘87 and again in ’88. The parade was themed to the traditional small-town state fairs of the late 18th early 19th century, with themes such as livestock, produce and blue ribbon winning pies.

MAIN STREET ELECTRICAL PARADE ~ Considered to be Disneyland’s most popular parade, the Main Street Electrical Parade is brought back in 1977 with a new opening fanfare that introduced “electro-synthe-magnetic musical sound”. The original floats included the Blue Fairy, Casey Junior Circus Train, Alice In Wonderland, Chinese Dragon, Dumbo’s Circus, Cinderella’s Ball, “it’s a small world”, and the American Finale. The vehicles feature 500,000 sparkling lights, and 500 miles of wiring. This parade usually ran during high attendance periods when the park was open late, excluding Christmas. Also added was a new dragon, Elliott, the dragon from the 1977 film Pete’s Dragon.

THE 1987 CANDLELIGHT PROCESSIONAL ~ The Christmas Story is narrated by Howard Keel.

Very Merry Christmas Parade ~ In 1987, the Fantasy on Parade was permanently retired, and the replacement name from the previous 1977 holiday parade was reinstated. This new version was basically the same as Fantasy on Parade, but a slowly began year by year to change and improve. Each year more of the non-holiday elements based on Disney films were omitted and the Christmas sections were added. By the end of this parade’s run in 1993, the entire parade has become a holiday themed, with no movie segments remaining.

RAINY DAY CAVALCADES –The covered Main Street motor vehicles including the horseless carriages and Omnibus are used to transport Disney Characters down the parade route during inclement weather. These mini parades are held when the weather will not permit use of the normally scheduled parade.

1988 PARADES

CIRCUS FANTASY PARADE ~ Circus Fantasy Parade begins on Saturday, January 25, 1986. It was a seasonal special event, the first of several of this type of event, held to boost park attendance through the promotion of specially themed shows and live in park entertainment offerings staged throughout the park daily. This circus themed event included a lavish Circus parade, with live animals, circus performers, and Disney Characters. The event returned in 1988 and ended on March 18, 1988.

BLAST TO THE PAST PARADE ~ Blast to the Past was the third and final of the themed park promotions. It was a celebration of all things from the 1950’s and included scooters, Rock N Roll music and hula hoops. It began on Friday, March 19, 1988 and ran through May of 1988.

MAIN STREET HOP ~ This street show was held the first year’s Blast to the Past Parade between showings of the full-scale traditional parade. It was called a street party, and not a traditional parade. At several points along the parade route, a series of floats would park, and a dance routine/show would begin. This street party did not return for the 1989 season.

MICKEY’S 60TH BIRTHDAY PARADE ~ Parade for Mickey’s 60th Birthday featuring themes that are often reflected in Mickey’s classic cartoon, with stylized mice performers atop elaborate floats and campy costumes with mouse and Mickey Mouse related themes.

COME TO THE FAIR PARADE ~ This Fall parade was held during the Disneyland State Fair, the second of the park wide promotional events, this one held for two years, once in ‘87 and again in ’88. The parade was themed to the traditional small-town state fairs of the late 18th early 19th century, with themes such as livestock, produce and blue ribbon winning pies.

MAIN STREET ELECTRICAL PARADE ~ Considered to be Disneyland’s most popular parade, the Main Street Electrical Parade is brought back in 1977 with a new opening fanfare that introduced “electro-synthe-magnetic musical sound”. The original floats included the Blue Fairy, Casey Junior Circus Train, Alice In Wonderland, Chinese Dragon, Dumbo’s Circus, Cinderella’s Ball, “it’s a small world”, and the American Finale. The vehicles feature 500,000 sparkling lights, and 500 miles of wiring. This parade usually ran during high attendance periods when the park was open late, excluding Christmas. Also added was a new dragon, Elliott, the dragon from the 1977 film Pete’s Dragon.

THE 1988 CANDLELIGHT PROCESSIONAL ~ The Christmas Story is narrated by Joseph Campanella.

THE VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS PARADE ~ This 15 minute parade continues its run in 1988. The first half of this parade was nearly identical to the previously running Fantasy on Parade, which it replaced, but had a new recorded soundtrack and a longer and more elaborate Christmas section. Because of the release of the movie, Pete’s Dragon in 1977, Elliot was added in his first parade.

RAINY DAY CAVALCADES –The covered Main Street motor vehicles including the horseless carriages and Omnibus are used to transport Disney Characters down the parade route during inclement weather. These mini parades are held when the weather will not permit use of the normally scheduled parade.

1989 PARADES

MICKEY'S AMERICAN SPIRIT CELEBRATION ~ In February and March of 1989, this 15 minute parade featured Mickey Mouse in Revolutionary war attire along with scores of Disney characters carrying red, white and blue balloons. The Disneyland Marching Band provided live music.

BLAST TO THE PAST PARADE ~ Blast to the Past was the third and final of the themed park promotions. It was a celebration of all things from the 1950’s and included scooters, Rock N Roll music and hula hoops. The original 1988 parade was replaced in 1989 with an entirely different version. This may be in part due to copyright issues caused by the inclusion of many TV theme songs and actors dressed as classic TV characters. The 1989 version removed this TV segment, and new theme song was added.

HOORAY FOR DISNEY STARS PARADE ~ Starting in the Fall of 1989, this parade featured a section with Disney characters dressed in early Hollywood attire, with marquee styled floats. Followed by segments representing the syndicated cartoon series Disney was producing at the time, including Duck Tales, Gummi Bears, Tale Spin and Chip N Dale’s Rescue Rangers.

MAIN STREET ELECTRICAL PARADE ~ Considered to be Disneyland’s most popular parade, the Main Street Electrical Parade is brought back in 1977 with a new opening fanfare that introduced “electro-synthe-magnetic musical sound”. The original floats included the Blue Fairy, Casey Junior Circus Train, Alice In Wonderland, Chinese Dragon, Dumbo’s Circus, Cinderella’s Ball, “it’s a small world”, and the American Finale. The vehicles feature 500,000 sparkling lights, and 500 miles of wiring. This parade usually ran during high attendance periods when the park was open late, excluding Christmas. Also added was a new dragon, Elliott, the dragon from the 1977 film Pete’s Dragon.

THE 1989 CANDLELIGHT PROCESSIONAL ~ The Christmas Story is narrated by John Forsythe.

THE VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS PARADE ~ This 15 minute parade continues its run in 1989. The first half of this parade was nearly identical to the previously running Fantasy on Parade, which it replaced, but had a new recorded soundtrack and a longer and more elaborate Christmas section. Because of the release of the movie, Pete’s Dragon in 1977, Elliot was added in his first parade.

RAINY DAY CAVALCADES –The covered Main Street motor vehicles including the horseless carriages and Omnibus are used to transport Disney Characters down the parade route during inclement weather. These mini parades are held when the weather will not permit use of the normally scheduled parade.

1990 PARADES

PARTY GRAS PARADE ~ This parade was in celebration of the 35th anniversary of Disneyland. It premiered on Thursday, January 11, 1990. The Carnivale themed parade featured towering inflated floats. This parade also featured the combination of a traditional parade along with a street party, all blended into one. The parade would stop at three points and a dance party would be staged. This time audience members were invited into the street to participate and form Conga lines. It ended on Sunday, November 18, 1990. The parade floats were then taken to Walt Disney World and refurbished for their 20th Anniversary “Surprise” Celebration Parade.

MAIN STREET ELECTRICAL PARADE ~ Considered to be Disneyland’s most popular parade, the Main Street Electrical Parade is brought back in 1977 with a new opening fanfare that introduced “electro-synthe-magnetic musical sound”. The original floats included the Blue Fairy, Casey Junior Circus Train, Alice In Wonderland, Chinese Dragon, Dumbo’s Circus, Cinderella’s Ball, “it’s a small world”, and the American Finale. The vehicles feature 500,000 sparkling lights, and 500 miles of wiring. This parade usually ran during high attendance periods when the park was open late, excluding Christmas. Also added was a new dragon, Elliott, the dragon from the 1977 film Pete’s Dragon.

THE 1990 CANDLELIGHT PROCESSIONAL ~ The Christmas Story is narrated by James Earl Jones.

THE VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS PARADE ~ This 15 minute parade continues its run in 1990. The first half of this parade was nearly identical to the previously running Fantasy on Parade, which it replaced, but had a new recorded soundtrack and a longer and more elaborate Christmas section. Because of the release of the movie, Pete’s Dragon in 1977, Elliot was added in his first parade.

RAINY DAY CAVALCADES –The covered Main Street motor vehicles including the horseless carriages and Omnibus are used to transport Disney Characters down the parade route during inclement weather. These mini parades are held when the weather will not permit use of the normally scheduled parade.

1991 PARADES

DISNEY AFTERNOON CAVALCADE ~ This small parade was held in the Spring of 1991 in conjunction with the Disney Afternoon promotion being presented along the Small World mall. It featured the stars of the Disney Afternoon block of syndicated cartoon series which included Tales Spin, Gummy Bears, Darkwing Duck and Duck Tales. It only run in 1991.

CELEBRATION USA PARADE ~ This parade premiered on Wednesday, June 21, 1991. It was a campy take on what it meant to be a contemporary 1990’s American featuring scenes from different areas of the country. The main theme song was “Livin’ It Up in America”. It ended on Sunday, November 24, 1991.

THE 1991 CANDLELIGHT PROCESSIONAL ~ The Christmas Story is narrated by Robert Urich.

MAIN STREET ELECTRICAL PARADE ~ Considered to be Disneyland’s most popular parade, the Main Street Electrical Parade is brought back in 1977 with a new opening fanfare that introduced “electro-synthe-magnetic musical sound”. The original floats included the Blue Fairy, Casey Junior Circus Train, Alice In Wonderland, Chinese Dragon, Dumbo’s Circus, Cinderella’s Ball, “it’s a small world”, and the American Finale. The vehicles feature 500,000 sparkling lights, and 500 miles of wiring. This parade usually ran during high attendance periods when the park was open late, excluding Christmas. Also added was a new dragon, Elliott, the dragon from the 1977 film Pete’s Dragon.

THE VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS PARADE ~ This 15 minute parade continues its run in 1991. The first half of this parade was nearly identical to the previously running Fantasy on Parade, which it replaced, but had a new recorded soundtrack and a longer and more elaborate Christmas section. Because of the release of the movie, Pete’s Dragon in 1977, Elliot was added in his first parade.

RAINY DAY CAVALCADES –The covered Main Street motor vehicles including the horseless carriages and Omnibus are used to transport Disney Characters down the parade route during inclement weather. These mini parades are held when the weather will not permit use of the normally scheduled parade.

1992 PARADES

DISNEY AFTERNOON CAVALCADE ~ This small parade was held in the Spring of 1991 in conjunction with the Disney Afternoon promotion being presented along the Small World mall. It featured the stars of the Disney Afternoon block of syndicated cartoon series which included Tales Spin, Gummy Bears, Darkwing Duck and Duck Tales. It ends in the spring of 1992.

LIVIN' IN THE U.S.A. PARADE ~ A renamed version of Celebrate USA parade ran in the Spring of 1992. It was a campy take on what it meant to be a contemporary 1990’s American featuring scenes from different areas of the country. The main theme song was “Livin’ It Up in America”. It ended in June for the World According to Goofy Parade to start for the summer.

MAIN STREET ELECTRICAL PARADE ~ Considered to be Disneyland’s most popular parade, the Main Street Electrical Parade is brought back in 1977 with a new opening fanfare that introduced “electro-synthe-magnetic musical sound”. The original floats included the Blue Fairy, Casey Junior Circus Train, Alice In Wonderland, Chinese Dragon, Dumbo’s Circus, Cinderella’s Ball, “it’s a small world”, and the American Finale. The vehicles feature 500,000 sparkling lights, and 500 miles of wiring. This parade usually ran during high attendance periods when the park was open late, excluding Christmas. Also added was a new dragon, Elliott, the dragon from the 1977 film Pete’s Dragon.

THE WORLD ACCORDING TO GOOFY PARADE ~ This parade features a tribute to Goofy for his 50thbirthday. It begins on Tuesday, June 19, 1992 and ends on Sunday, November 15, 1992. It features Historical floats as if the world and all its historic events were run by ancestors of Goofy.

THE 1992 CANDLELIGHT PROCESSIONAL ~ The Christmas Story is narrated by George Kennedy.

THE VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS PARADE ~ This 15 minute parade continues its run in 1992. The first half of this parade was nearly identical to the previously running Fantasy on Parade, which it replaced, but had a new recorded soundtrack and a longer and more elaborate Christmas section. Because of the release of the movie, Pete’s Dragon in 1977, Elliot was added in his first parade.

RAINY DAY CAVALCADES –The covered Main Street motor vehicles including the horseless carriages and Omnibus are used to transport Disney Characters down the parade route during inclement weather. These mini parades are held when the weather will not permit use of the normally scheduled parade.

1993 PARADES

MICKEY’S TOONTOWN DEDICATION PARADE ~ This one-time Parade for the official Grand Opening Festivities of the newest land, TOON TOWN is held on Monday, January 25, 1993.

ALADDIN’S ROYAL CARAVAN PARADE ~ This parade begins on Friday, April 2, 1993 and is based on the animated film, Aladdin and focuses on Aladdin’s royal parade into Agraba. This was the first in a series of parades used to promote a theatrical release of a Disney Animation Feature.

MAIN STREET ELECTRICAL PARADE ~ Considered to be Disneyland’s most popular parade, the Main Street Electrical Parade is brought back in 1977 with a new opening fanfare that introduced “electro-synthe-magnetic musical sound”. The original floats included the Blue Fairy, Casey Junior Circus Train, Alice In Wonderland, Chinese Dragon, Dumbo’s Circus, Cinderella’s Ball, “it’s a small world”, and the American Finale. The vehicles feature 500,000 sparkling lights, and 500 miles of wiring. This parade usually ran during high attendance periods when the park was open late, excluding Christmas. Also added was a new dragon, Elliott, the dragon from the 1977 film Pete’s Dragon.

THE 1993 CANDLELIGHT PROCESSIONAL ~ The Christmas story is narrated by actor, Michael York.

THE VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS PARADE ~ The parade has now been lengthened to 40 minutes and continues its run in 1993. The parade now features all Christmas scenes with Disney characters, as well as Reindeer, Dancing Snowmen, skating snowflakes and Santa himself.

RAINY DAY CAVALCADES –The covered Main Street motor vehicles including the horseless carriages and Omnibus are used to transport Disney Characters down the parade route during inclement weather. These mini parades are held when the weather will not permit use of the normally scheduled parade.

1994 PARADES

ALADDIN’S ROYAL CARAVAN PARADE ~ This parade continues into 1994 and ends in June of 1994. It is based on the animated film, Aladdin and focuses on Aladdin’s royal parade into Agraba. This was the first in a series of parades used to promote a theatrical release of a Disney Animation Feature.

LION KING CELEBRATION PARADE ~ Based on the recent popular film this daytime only parade began on Friday, July 1, 1994. It featured characters from the Lion King. This parade was quite popular and played for three years. This is the first parade to include an Animatronic character of Simba on a moving float!

MAIN STREET ELECTRICAL PARADE ~ Considered to be Disneyland’s most popular parade, the Main Street Electrical Parade is brought back in 1977 with a new opening fanfare that introduced “electro-synthe-magnetic musical sound”. The original floats included the Blue Fairy, Casey Junior Circus Train, Alice In Wonderland, Chinese Dragon, Dumbo’s Circus, Cinderella’s Ball, “it’s a small world”, and the American Finale. The vehicles feature 500,000 sparkling lights, and 500 miles of wiring. This parade usually ran during high attendance periods when the park was open late, excluding Christmas. Also added was a new dragon, Elliott, the dragon from the 1977 film Pete’s Dragon.

THE 1994 CANDLELIGHT PROCESSIONAL ~ The Christmas story is narrated by Peter Graves.

THE VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS PARADE ~ The parade has now been lengthened to 40 minutes and continues its run in 1993. The parade now features all Christmas scenes with Disney characters, as well as Reindeer, Dancing Snowmen, skating snowflakes and Santa himself.

RAINY DAY CAVALCADES –The covered Main Street motor vehicles including the horseless carriages and Omnibus are used to transport Disney Characters down the parade route during inclement weather. These mini parades are held when the weather will not permit use of the normally scheduled parade.

2015 PARADES

MICKEY’S SOUNDSATIONAL PARADE ~ This parade continues through 2015, it features a series of segments, each themed to a different genre of music, as they tie into Disney’s classic films. Parade units included a Frozen pre-parade unit, Mickey Mouse striking up the band, Aladdin’s Magical Cymbal, Donald’s Fiesta Fantastico, the Royal Princess Romantic Melodies, Simba’s Beastly Beats, Tiana’s New Orleans Jazz Jubilee, Peter Pan’s Neverland Buccaneer Blast and Mary Poppin’s Spoonful of Rhythm. 

PAINT THE NIGHT PARADE ~ Formerly a Hong Kong Disney parade, the Disneyland version debuted on Friday, May 22, 2015, as part of the park's 60th anniversary Diamond Celebration. The parade is a successor to the long-running Main Street Electrical Parade, which had appeared at many Disney parks in several different incarnations since 1972. Paint the Night Parade had its last regular performance on Monday, September 5, 2016, but returned briefly for the 2016 holiday season. 

There is no HALLOWEEN PARADE listed in 2015.

THE 2015 CANDLELIGHT PROCESSIONAL ~ The Christmas Story is narrated by Geena Davis and Lana Parilla. 

A CHRISTMAS FANTASY PARADE – Starting in November of 1995, this seasonal parade is an all Holiday themed show. Like its predecessor, this parade included all new floats, and an original theme song. This parade has changed little since it was first presented.

RAINY DAY CAVALCADES –The covered Main Street motor vehicles including the horseless carriages and Omnibus are used to transport Disney Characters down the parade route during inclement weather. These mini parades are held when the weather will not permit use of the normally scheduled parade.

2016 PARADES

MICKEY’S SOUNDSATIONAL PARADE ~ This parade continues through 2016, it features a series of segments, each themed to a different genre of music, as they tie into Disney’s classic films. Parade units included a Frozen pre-parade unit, Mickey Mouse striking up the band, Aladdin’s Magical Cymbal, Donald’s Fiesta Fantastico, the Royal Princess Romantic Melodies, Simba’s Beastly Beats, Tiana’s New Orleans Jazz Jubilee, Peter Pan’s Neverland Buccaneer Blast and Mary Poppin’s Spoonful of Rhythm. 

PAINT THE NIGHT PARADE ~ The Disneyland version debuted on Friday, May 22, 2015, as part of the park's 60th anniversary Diamond Celebration. The parade is a successor to the long-running Main Street Electrical Parade, which had appeared at many Disney parks in several different incarnations since 1972. Paint the Night Parade had its last regular performance on Monday, September 5, 2016, but returned briefly for the 2016 holiday season. 

FRIGHTFULLY FUN PARADE ~ This parade is specially for the 17 nights of Halloween Season Private events only. This parade began on Friday, September 23, 2016.

THE 2016 CANDLELIGHT PROCESSIONAL ~ The Christmas Story is narrated by Gennifer Goodwin on Saturday, December 3 and Sunday, December 4, 2016,

A CHRISTMAS FANTASY PARADE – Started in November of 1995, this seasonal parade is an all Holiday themed show. Like its predecessor, this parade included all new floats, and an original theme song. This parade has changed little since it was first presented.

RAINY DAY CAVALCADES –The covered Main Street motor vehicles including the horseless carriages and Omnibus are used to transport Disney Characters down the parade route during inclement weather. These mini parades are held when the weather will not permit use of the normally scheduled parade.

2017 PARADES

MICKEY’S SOUNDSATIONAL PARADE ~ This parade continues through 2017, it features a series of segments, each themed to a different genre of music, as they tie into Disney’s classic films. Parade units included a Frozen pre-parade unit, Mickey Mouse striking up the band, Aladdin’s Magical Cymbal, Donald’s Fiesta Fantastico, the Royal Princess Romantic Melodies, Simba’s Beastly Beats, Tiana’s New Orleans Jazz Jubilee, Peter Pan’s Neverland Buccaneer Blast and Mary Poppin’s Spoonful of Rhythm. This parade went on hiatus on Sunday, November 5, 2017.

PAINT THE NIGHT PARADE ~ This parade closes on Sunday, January 8, 2017 to make way for the return of the Main Street Electrical Parade. 

MAIN STREET ELECTRICAL PARADE ~ The Main Street Electrical Parade returns to Disneyland on Friday, January 20, 2017 for a limited engagement. Disneyland restored the drum float to once again read "Main Street Electrical Parade" as well as "Disneyland Presents". The Tinker Bell's float, added in 2009, was moved back to the Peter Pan unit and was altered for the 2017 run, making Casey Junior the new leader of the parade. In February 2017, the pixie dust swooshes added to the floats in 2009 were removed, except on Tinker Bell's float, since Tinker Bell was no longer the parade's leader. The Main Street Electrical Parade had its final performance of its most recent run at Disneyland Park on Sunday, August 20, 2017. 

FRIGHTFULLY FUN PARADE ~ This parade is specially for the 17 nights of Halloween Season Private events only. This 2016 parade continues until 2018.

THE 2017 CANDLELIGHT PROCESSIONAL ~ The Christmas Story is narrated by Chris Hemsworth on Saturday, December 2, 2017 and Sunday, December 3, 2017.

A CHRISTMAS FANTASY PARADE – Starting in November of 1995, this seasonal parade is an all Holiday themed show. Like its predecessor, this parade included all new floats, and an original theme song. This parade has changed little since it was first presented.

RAINY DAY CAVALCADES –The covered Main Street motor vehicles including the horseless carriages and Omnibus are used to transport Disney Characters down the parade route during inclement weather. These mini parades are held when the weather will not permit use of the normally scheduled parade.

2018 PARADES

MICKEY’S SOUNDSATIONAL PARADE ~ This parade returned in early 2018. Designed by Jody Daily and Kevin Kidney, with a retro look inspired by the art of the late Mary Blair, this parade features a series of segments, each themed to a different genre of music, as they tie into Disney’s classic films. This parade went on hiatus on Sunday, July 17, 2019 to make way for the return of the Main Street Electrical Parade.

FRIGHTFULLY FUN HALLOWEEN PARADE ~ This parade is specially for the 17 nights of Halloween Season Private events only. This parade is closed on Wednesday, October 31, 2018 and will be moved to Disney California Adventure in 2019.

THE 2018 CANDLELIGHT PROCESSIONAL ~ The Christmas Story is narrated by actor, Chris Pratt on Saturday, December 1st and Sunday, December 2, 2018.

A CHRISTMAS FANTASY PARADE – Starting in November of 1995, this seasonal parade is an all Holiday themed show. Like its predecessor, this parade included all new floats, and an original theme song. This parade has changed little since it was first presented.

RAINY DAY CAVALCADES –The covered Main Street motor vehicles including the horseless carriages and Omnibus are used to transport Disney Characters down the parade route during inclement weather. These mini parades are held when the weather will not permit use of the normally scheduled parade.

2019 Parades

MICKEY’S SOUNDSATIONAL PARADE ~ This parade returned on Friday, January 25, 2019. Designed by Jody Daily and Kevin Kidney, with a retro look inspired by the art of the late Mary Blair, this parade features a series of segments, each themed to a different genre of music, as they tie into Disney’s classic films. This parade went on hiatus on Sunday, July 17, 2019 to make way Mickey’s 90thBirthday Celebration.

MAIN STREET ELECTRICAL PARADE ~ Considered to be Disneyland’s most popular parade, the Main Street Electrical Parade returns to Disneyland on Friday, August 2, 2019 for a limited engagement. Disneyland restored the drum float to once again read "Main Street Electrical Parade" as well as "Disneyland Presents". The Main Street Electrical Parade had its final performance of its most recent run at Disneyland Park on Monday, September 30, 2019. It performs twice nightly.

MICKEY AND FRIENDS BAND-TASTIC CAVALCADE ~ Starting on Thursday, July 18, 2019, this temporary cavalcade of Disney characters joins the Disneyland Marching Band. It ends on Thursday, August 1, 2019 to make room for the return of the Main Street Electrical Parade.

NO HALLOWEEN EVENTS at Disneyland in 2019 ~ All Halloween parades, shows and events were moved to Disney California Adventure in 2019.

THE 2019 CANDLELIGHT PROCESSIONAL ~ The Christmas Story narrator has yet to be announced.

A CHRISTMAS FANTASY PARADE – Originally starting in November of 1995, this seasonal parade is an all Holiday themed show. Like its predecessor, this parade included all new floats, and an original theme song. This parade has changed little since it was first presented. Current parade units include Anna, Elsa and Olaf bid you a warm winter welcome from their Frozen float, Mickey and Minnie work with Chip 'n Dale to organize letters to Santa, Woody and Buzz give a playful wave from a giant wooden building blocks, the Disney Princesses dance and curtsy at the Candlelight Ball. In the grand finale is Santa Claus himself.

RAINY DAY CAVALCADES –The covered Main Street motor vehicles including the horseless carriages and Omnibus are used to transport Disney Characters down the parade route during inclement weather. These mini parades are held when the weather will not permit use of the normally scheduled parade.