If you will not be at Walt Disney World on October 1, then perhaps you would like to have a small, low key home celebration.
Here are some ideas for a fun evening, whether you are celebrating solo or with friends or family. This printable coupon book is designed for your home celebration and copies the look of the 1971 ticket books for Magic Kingdom. WDW_1971_Home_Celebration_Coupon_Book
Set the mood
As you are getting ready for dinner, light a citrus and vanilla candle or a bakery-scented candle. As you know, Walt Disney World uses aromas to invite guests into eateries and park areas.
Play your favorite Disney soundtrack or playlist. If you have any Disney plush characters or souvenirs, set those out! Wear your favorite Disney t-shirts.
The 1971 Nostalgia Menu
Create a menu around favorite foods that would have been served at Walt Disney World in 1971. For example, for your main dish, you could ladle clam chowder into sourdough bread bowls (like they served at Columbia Harbor House).
Alternatively, you could make the popular Monte Cristo sandwiches for dinner, or keep it simple with burgers and fries or fried chicken.
For dessert, swirl orange sherbet and vanilla ice cream in a cup to make a homemade version of the Citrus Swirl served at Sunshine Tree Terrace. I think Orange Bird would approve! If you don’t like that idea, purchase Mickey ice cream bars at Target.
Retro Entertainment & Activities
After dinner, get out your autograph books and photo albums and look at them together, reliving cherished Disney memories.
Then enjoy a Disney movie. In 1971, Bedknobs and Broomsticks was playing in movie theaters. You could watch it on Disney+ or your favorite Disney film. Don’t forget the popcorn!
Don’t feel like watching a whole movie? Watch YouTube videos of Magic Kingdom rides and attractions that were open in 1971, including Jungle Cruise, Haunted Mansion, it’s a small world and Country Bear Jamboree.
Vacation Planning
October 1st would be a good day to make Disney Planners if you have an upcoming trip. Read my article for inspiration. Print out and trim the pages to fit into mini photo albums so everyone has one for your next trip.
Whether you are at the parks or at home, I hope you have a fun time celebrating the 55th Anniversary of Walt Disney World!
