January 31, 2016 – The Shop Seashore Sweets Closes
On January 31, 2016, the candy shop Seashore Sweets, located on Disney’s BoardWalk at Walt Disney World, closed. The shop was fashioned like an Atlantic shore-style candy shop, and featured bulk candy, alongside hand-scooped ice cream. The store was also known for showcasing special pieces from the Miss America Pageant. The area was soon replaced by the AbracadaBar, a specialty lounge.
January 30, 1995 – The Lion King Soundtrack Wins at American Music Awards
“And can you feel the love tonight? It is where we are, it’s enough for this wide-eyed wanderer that we got this far.”
On January 30, 1995, the 22nd American Music Awards (AMAs) were held, and were broadcast by ABC. The soundtrack for the animated feature film The Lion King was the winner for Favorite Pop/Rock Album, beating out nominees Mariah Carey (for Music Box) and Counting Crows (for August and Everything After.) It was the only nomination and win for the album at the AMAs, but was amongst its many accolades, including a Grammy Award for Best Musical Album for Children.
January 29, 2011 – The Disney Dream Makes First Visit to Castaway Cay
“Disney Dream visits Castaway Cay for fun in the sun during ship’s maiden voyage.”
On January 29, 2011, the Disney Dream’s maiden voyage made its way to Castaway Cay, the Disney-owned island in the Bahamas. The area was bought in 1996, and was created to serve as a stop-over point for Disney Cruise Line ships. During the visit, guests were able to lounge on the beach, or stop at the newest addition to the island: Pelican Plunge, a 2,400-square-foot platform that contains two water slides.
January 28, 1980 – Oriental Land Company Granted Loans to Build Disney Park
On January 28, 1980, it was announced that the Oriental Land Company was granted several loans to build the first international Disney park in Tokyo, Japan. The Industrial Bank of Japan was the main lender, along with nearly 30 other Japanese banks. Although the size of the loans were not released, it was estimated that the overall cost of the park was $300 million. The plans were approved by the Chiba Prefecture ten months later, and the groundbreaking then took place on December 3, 1980.
January 27, 2017 – Planet Hollywood Reopens in Disney Springs
“Enter a realm where innovative cuisine, live entertainment and rare Hollywood memorabilia create a dazzling scene.”
On January 27, 2017, the Hollywood-themed restaurant Planet Hollywood reopened in Disney Springs. Originally opening in Walt Disney World’s Pleasure Island on December 18, 1994, it was structured to resemble an observatory. The renovated flagship store features four stories, along with a stargazing observatory and an outdoor terrace. A new menu was created by celebrity chef Guy Fieri, featuring decadent desserts and over-the-top burgers.
January 26, 1993 – Mickey’s Toontown Holds Opening Dedication Ceremony
“Now we’re happy that you found your way to Mickey’s Toontown, today!”
On January 26, 1993, the opening dedication for Mickey’s Toontown was held at Disneyland. Many celebrities were on hand to help celebrate the new section of the park, including Robin Williams, Danny DeVito, and George Lucas. Actor Harry Anderson served as Toontown’s honorary mayor, standing alongside Michael Eisner as they dedicated the new area.
January 25, 2003 – Cinderellabration: Lights of Romance Show Begins in Tokyo Disneyland
“昔々あるところに、シンデレラという心優しい女の子がいました。”
On January 25, 2003, the nighttime show Cinderellabration: Lights of Romance began performing in Tokyo Disneyland. The show was created as part of Tokyo Disneyland’s 20th Anniversary Celebrations, and told the story of how Cinderella was finally crowned as a princess. Many characters made an appearance within the show, including Snow White, Aurora, Belle, and of course, Mickey and Minnie Mouse. After the 20th anniversary celebrations ended, the show became a winter show, starting in 2003, as part of an overall Cinderellabration event that was held until 2008. A daytime version of the show premiered at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Park on March 17, 2005.
January 24, 1993 – The Attraction Acorn Ball Crawl Opens in Disneyland’s Toontown
On January 24, 1993, the attraction Acorn Ball Crawl opened in Disneyland’s Toontown area. Located in Chip & Dale’s Treehouse, the attraction was essentially a giant ball pit filled with yellow and red rubber balls. The attraction was short lived, however, as it closed and was removed in early 1998.
January 23, 1992 – Bonnet Creek Golf Club Opens
On January 23, 1992, the Bonnet Creek Golf Club Opened in Walt Disney World. The club was designed by Pete Dye, and included at the time the Eagle Pines and Osprey Ridge courses. On February 1, 2005, the club was renamed Eagle Pines & Osprey Ridge Golf Club, to represent the two courses that make up the club. The club has been considered one of the top 100 golf courses in the state of Florida. In March 2007, Disney sold the golf club to Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts.
January 22, 2006 – A Blue Carpet Premiere is Held for Monster’s Inc. Mike and Sulley to the Rescue!
“This delightful new adventure continues our tradition of creating memorable, immersive storytelling attractions.” – Chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, Jay Rasulo
On January 22, 2006, a special ceremony was held to celebrate the grand opening of the new Disneyland attraction Monster’s Inc. Mike and Sulley to the Rescue!. Called a “blue carpet” premiere (in honor of Sulley’s blue fur), several celebrities were on hand to experience the new attraction, including Disney Channel star Ashley Tisdale, actress Lisa Kudrow, and actor Patrick Warburton. Located in Disney’s California Adventure, the attraction was meant to provide more family-friendly entertainment, alongside other Pixar-themed attractions and entertainment.
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