Walt Disney’s dream comes true

July 17, 1955: Disneyland opened its doors to 30,000 special guests one day before it welcomed the public.

“Once-upon-a-time-land -- that magical land of fantasy and faraway places in the minds of little children -- became a dream come true yesterday,” The Times said.

Art Linkletter emceed the opening parade, which was broadcast by ABC as part of a 90-minute show.

Actress Irene Dunne christened the riverboat Mark Twain.

“All who come to this happy place -- welcome,” Walt Disney said in a speech dedicating the $17,500,000 park, The Times reported. “Here age relives fond memories of the past ... and here youth may savor the challenge and promise of the future.”