How crowded is July 17th going to be?

[dvcnut]

As luck would have it, my family and I booked a trip to Disneyland without realizing that part of our trip was going to fall on July 17 (the actual day of the 60th anniversary). At first we were thrilled, but when I read up on how it was for July 17, 2005 (the 50th anniversary)...it sounded like people waited in line starting the afternoon beforehand. It took some people several hours to get into the park that morning.

That does not sound magical to me. Especially considering that the 17th is a Friday.

Did anyone on these boards experience the 50th anniversary first hand? How mobbed do you think that it will be this year?

We may end up swapping out the days that we were going to spend in San Diego with Disneyland and vice versa.

 

[Californian Elitist]

It will most likely be very crowded.

 

[Sordicampos]

I think it will be magical in a different way. Very crowded, but a wonderful atmosphere. If I could be there that day, I wouldn't hesitate. However, I would be prepared knowing I would not go on many rides, because there will be people galore! However, people will be celebrating a very special day! If you go, join them and have fun!

 

[Sage of Time]

It's gonna be packed.

It's gonna be packed full of Disneyland fans.

It'll be an interesting vibe.

 

[lego606]

As luck would have it, my family and I booked a trip to Disneyland without realizing that part of our trip was going to fall on July 17 (the actual day of the 60th anniversary). At first we were thrilled, but when I read up on how it was for July 17, 2005 (the 50th anniversary)...it sounded like people waited in line starting the afternoon beforehand. It took some people several hours to get into the park that morning.

That does not sound magical to me. Especially considering that the 17th is a Friday.

Did anyone on these boards experience the 50th anniversary first hand? How mobbed do you think that it will be this year?

We may end up swapping out the days that we were going to spend in San Diego with Disneyland and vice versa.

They blocked out Cast Member self-admissions, something they usually only do on Dec 31st and July 4th. So... super crazy wacko insane busy

 

[GiveMeTheMusic]

I was there for the 50th. It actually wasn't insanely crowded. The bulk of the crowd waited overnight in DCA (a really fun experience) and the lines for day of merch were the only formidable ones in the park. The crowd was there for the big ceremony and the merch. Once that was over, the park was really nice and not very crowded.

It remains to be seen if overnight camping will be permitted this time and how they will handle it. I suspect it will be more crowded this time as Disneyland's popularity has increased substantially since 2005.

 

[Californian Elitist]

AP are also blocked.

I'd actually reckon it won't be as bad as everyone is thinking because of the two major blocks.

Disney has been advertising the anniversary. Lots of fans who aren't annual passholders will show up on July 17th. I know some friends and family who are planning on being there on July 17th. We can't just consider annual passholders only.

 

[Mukta]

I experienced the 50th first hand. I got to the parking structure around 4 am. I was the first car in and the CMs took my picture.

It was a day filled with special guest stars, celebrations, stage presentations, memorabilia, free ears, free cupcakes and just general joy. it was one of the best days I have ever spent there.

I have taken that day off of work this year to be there in case they do anything special.