Disneyland is one of the most iconic locations in the world. If you’re a fan of Disney, you know that the Magic Kingdom is a bucket list place that everyone wants to visit at least once in there lives. Disney parks have opened around the world but they all started from one incredibly successful location in California that opened its doors in 1955. Walt Disney was the imagination behind this magical theme park that has changed the entertainment industry ever since its opening. On the opening day, Walt Disney offered something spectacular and magical for his customers and it has made a tradition for one man and his family every single year since that opening day 67 years ago.
Disneyland opened its doors after much anticipation in July of 1955. The park was unlike anything that had ever been built before.
There were over 6,000 people waiting in line to get into the park on opening day. Walt Disney himself was there along with all the famous Disney characters we all know and love.
Back in 1955, Scotsman Dave McPherson was a student at Long Beach State College. When Disneyland opened its doors to the public on July 18th, 1955, Dave was the first person to buy a ticket.
He says that he stood in line since 2am the day before in order to be the first customer to ever walk into Disneyland.
Disneyland allowed family members and a few celebrities in first but Dave was the first actual paying customer to walk into Disneyland.
He said that the day before he was watching the opening festivities on the television and was in awe. He knew then that he wanted to be there.
Dave got on his motorcycle and made the short journey to the park and started a line at the front at 2 am.
Since that day Dave has visited Disneyland every single year for 64 years now.
Because Dave was the first actual customer to enter Disneyland, he received a lifetime pass and he didn’t let that go to waste!
He brings his family and friend with him to share in the most magical place on earth.
Dave is truly a die-hard Disney fan and has something that many people would do anything to obtain. His gift from Walt Disney is truly a priceless gift.
He likes to attend the park with his friends Martha and Joe Ortiz. Funny coincidence, they were both standing in that same line on opening day however they didn’t meet Dave until a couple of decades later!
More info: This Day In Disney History
The construction of Disneyland cost over $17 million in 1955 and has easily become one of the wealthiest brands on the planet. Dave was luckily to see the park in the beginning as well as the changes along the way. He was able to meet Walt Disney himself that opening day which is something he will never forget. Dave still plans to attend Disneyland at least once a year as long as he can. I wonder how many lifetime passes have been given out over the last 60 years. I doubt very many at all.