The Grand Opening of Walt Disney World TV Special--with Ads as aired on NBC October 29, 1971

This was taped on October 23 1971, and I was in the band. Played baratone, and am very proud to have been a part of something wonderful. I will be there this year, 2021 on Oct. 23 to walk the route again. Can't wait. Gives me chills.

I was in the chorus on the balcony in front of the castle that day. We were mostly local high school kids that auditioned at our schools to get in. They gave each of us books of tickets. Back then tickets were A thru to E for the better rides. I had enough tickets to come back with my parents and siblings. It was an amazing experience!

This is one special that really needs to be on disney plus. I can't believe tomorrow is the 50th anniversary for this wonderful place! ❤❤❤

My mother and sister were driving back from Jacksonville to Clearwater. Disney World posted a soft GRAND OPENING sign. They turned off the interstate to enter on the very FIRST DAY of Walter Disney's dream come true. When they finally returned home, I hadn't expected such a joy of two telling us of Fantasyland. My mother was so touched in tears. A very tough business woman met her child. My sister and I were back in the car the next day to Disney World. What a joy to walk into Mr. Disney's vision and see his pal, Mickey Mouse, keeping all in good care just as Mr. Disney would want LEFT behind for all. Thank you for your dreams, Mr. Disney. 💖🧚🏼‍♀️

It's a shame that Walt Disney didn't get to see the opening of this park. However during that opening ceremony, I'm sure he was smiling down from heaven saying, "My dream came true."

Julie is fabulous, she is a national treasure 💗💕🌟

3:50 you can see how sad Julie got for a moment, talking about Walt Disney’s Final Dream and knowing that he never got to see it.

I’m sorry, but there’s no better way to open this special other than Julie Andrews singing When You Wish Upon a Star. You could open with fireworks over the castle and it still couldn’t compare to her timbre and phrasing. She’s absolutely spellbinding!!

Magic Kingdoms design around the lake with the monorail loop is what makes it so special. No place like it in the world and doubt there ever will be. So glad Walt bought the amount of land he did!

Bob Hopes words about this being just the beginning sure was true!

I love Julie Andrew’s. Such an amazing actress

When You Wish Upon A Star starts playing and onions automatically appear. It doesnt matter whos singing it. The song is that awesome. Also while shes singing they roll the clips of the CLASSIC Disney animated movies :D

Makes me tear up all these wonderful actors are just about all gone now. There was a sweetness to these days that is gone now too. I was in middle school when they opened and remember it so well. The excitement was wonderful!!

HAPPY 50th ANNIVERSARY WALT DISNEY WORLD!

I can't believe in 1971 Julie Andrews was my age. She looked AWSOME, and still does.

I was also there that day - playing one of the trombones. The band stretched from the RR station to the castle ! We had never heard a sound like that. I still cry every time I hear “ Wish upon a star”

This aired on my birthday 1971! On Oct 29 2021 I plan to be in MK celebrating our 50th birthday! Wearing my big button saying I'm celebrating my 50th and taking a selfie in front of the 🏰!

My mom is a Disney travel agent so we usually take a lot of trips to Disney, super excited because we have 4 months until we go to our 5th trip!

...from the park dedication speech... “Walt Disney World is tribute to the philosophy and life of Walter Elias Disney … and to the talents, the dedication, and the loyalty of the entire Disney organization that made Walt Disney’s dream come true. May Walt Disney World bring Joy and Inspiration and New Knowledge to all who come to this happy place … a Magic Kingdom where the young at heart of all ages can laugh and play and learn – together.” – Roy O. Disney

"What are you trying to say , Margaret?" "...divorce...lawyer..."