Walt Disney Day – December 5, 2022, history, significance
Walt Disney Day falls on the first Monday of December each year, on December 5 this year, and it’s an occasion that no one can or should ignore. We all grew up watching cartoons and movies by Disney, and they are an essential part of our childhood. Also, the theme parks such as Walt Disney World and Disneyland are a rage worldwide! Hundreds of lucky people have been there and have hundreds of memories linked to the magical lands. Feeling nostalgic already? If yes, now is the perfect time to relive the fun days once again by celebrating Walt Disney Day.
HISTORY OF WALT DISNEY DAY
The famous Walt Disney (Walter Elias Disney) was born on December 5, 1901 in Chicago. However, the talented Disney we know did not emerge until 1919, when he began his career as an illustrator. In 1928, Disney created Mickey Mouse, a character he sketched while on a bus. Can you imagine one of the most famous characters in the world being created like that? Today, the cartoon character is the centerpiece of the entire Disney brand.
However, things weren’t always so easy for Disney. In 1923, his first business venture called Laugh-O-Gram Studios went bankrupt. At the time, he had only $20 to start over, so Disney decided to head to Hollywood, where he created a few cartoon characters with his brother. Unfortunately, he wasn’t able to attain legal copyright for them. Then Mickey Mouse and other memorable characters such as Minnie Mouse, Pluto, Goofy, and Donald Duck arrived. From thereon, there was no turning back.
After a few years, Disney began developing feature-length cartoons such as Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Pinocchio, Fantasia, Dumbo, Bambi, Cinderella, and Mary Poppins. Disney made these animated creations during the 1940s to1960s. Due to the success of these cartoons, it was not a surprise when Disney won 22 Oscars for his role as an American animator, film producer, and voice actor.
But as we know, Disney didn’t stop there. He also opened theme parks in 1955. The Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, was under construction when Disney passed away. In 2018, the theme parks had already hosted over 157,3 million guests from across the world.
WALT DISNEY DAY TIMELINE
1928
Creating History
Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks create Mickey Mouse.
1937
Making Impressions
Disney’s first logo debuts.
1940
No Lies
Pinocchio, a feature-length cartoon, is created.
1966
Goodbyes
Walt Disney passes away from lung cancer.
HOW TO CELEBRATE WALT DISNEY DAY
Watch Mickey Mouse
One of the best ways to celebrate Walt Disney Day is to watch some episodes of one of Disney’s most famous cartoons.
Visit Walt Disney World or Disneyland
Disney’s theme parks are magical lands where you can spend hours! And yes, your age doesn’t matter.
Share your memories
Most people have several fond memories of growing up with Disney or visiting the amusement parks. Use this opportunity to share your pictures on social media.
5 FUN FACTS ABOUT DISNEY CHARACTERS
Minnie and Mickey’s birthday
Minnie and Mickey Mouse were “born” on November 18, 1928.
Minnie’s full name
Her name is Minerva Mouse.
Disney’s first character
Oswald the Lucky Rabbit was created in 1927.
Youngest Disney female
Snow White is the youngest at only 14 years old.
Disney princess based on a real person
Pocahontas actually existed and was born in the 1500s.
WHY WE LOVE WALT DISNEY DAY
It’s nostalgic
Many people from different generations, cultures, and ages have viewed cartoons by Walt Disney, whether Mickey Mouse or Cinderella. The day is a blast from the past!
It celebrates great achievements
Disney’s theme parks and cartoons are recognized universally, bring in many tourists, and have created jobs across America.
It’s a fun occasion
Like everything created by Disney revolves around fun and adventure, Walt Disney Day is a fun celebration to chill out and make the most of the day.
