Ever since its inaugural year, it seemed natural to celebrate the festivities of the holidays at Disneyland, and so on this day in 1955, which was Thanksgiving, Disneyland showcased its first holiday parade. The parade also started another tradition, announcing that the circus is in town, because this day also was the premiere of the short-lived Mickey Mouse Club Circus in Disneyland. The procession was led by Walt Disney and Fess Parker—donning his Davy Crockett garb—and also featured high school marching bands and various traditional holiday elements, such as the “wise men” and live animals, including camels, a llama, and even an ostrich. Today Christmas parades continue making spirits bright during the holiday season at Disney parks around the world.
