It’s hard to believe already 1 year has gone by since its opening and we are already witnessing Shanghai Disneyland’s First Anniversary. There was some initial doubt about how Shanghai Disneyland would adapt into China, but it’s been an overwhelming success and had a historic first year, welcoming over 11 Million guests already!
To celebrate Shanghai Disneyland’s first anniversary they put on quite a show! A nighttime celebration in front of Storybook Castle topped everything off, and resounded well with the people of China. There was a Chinese version of “When You Wish Upon a Star,” as well as a montage of photos and videos all highlighting the past year in the park.
“Shanghai Disney Resort’s first anniversary is cause for great celebration for everyone involved in bringing this spectacular dream to life,” said Bob Iger, chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney Company. “We’re grateful to the people of China for making this unique destination a tremendous success — more than 11 million guests have already visited, and we look forward to welcoming many more in the years to come.”
Even though Shanghai Disneyland has been a tremendous success with the Chinese people, it’s estimated that about two thirds of those 11 million guests were not Chinese. That means that it’s bringing a lot of business to the Chinese economy, and there’s still room for more growth in the future. In fact, Shanghai Disneyland is already planning their first expansion, Toy Story Land, which will have 3 new attractions and should be ready to go in 2018. That coincides with the probable opening date of Toy Story Land in Hollywood Studios, which already has started installing the track for the Slinky Dog Coaster.
Besides being well received by the masses, Shanghai Disneyland has also earned top honors from all across the theme park industry, like the Themed Entertainment Association, International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, Visual Effects Society and China Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions.
Shanghai Disneyland is a gem, and unique among the other Disney theme parks worldwide, and only looks to improve on its success in the near future. I would probably wait till 2018 when the Toy Story Land expansion finishes because I’m guessing for any foreign visitor it’s not a trip you will have the opportunity to take every year. So wait for Toy Story, but be sure to put it on your list!
Your Thoughts:
I want to know what you think about Shanghai Disneyland’s First Anniversary. Have you been to Shanghai Disneyland yet? Are you planning to go in the future? Let us know in the comments section below!
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My name is Ziggy and I love Disney, everything Disney! I grew up on Disney and it has and continues to be a huge part of my life. I started young when my parents took me to Disney World when I was 18 months old. Little did they know that would be the first of an uncountable number of trips we would take. I have so many amazing memories going to Disney with my family and friends and it has been interwoven into my DNA.