An 8-year-old Arizona boy celebrating his birthday at Disneyland got the surprise of a lifetime Friday when he was named the California theme park’s honorary 1 billionth guest.
Andres Robles and his family, who traveled from Arizona, were greeted by Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse during a ceremony on the Main Street USA train station platform, where they helped unveil an updated sign that says “Population 1,000,000,000.”
The family received a VIP tour that included a visit to Walt Disney’s private apartment, a peek at the newly opened Soarin’ Across America attraction and other exclusive experiences.
Robles became Disneyland’s honorary 1 billionth guest more than 70 years after the park first opened its gates July 17, 1955.
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“Welcoming our one billionth guest is a remarkable milestone for Disneyland Resort and a testament to the generations of guests who have made this special place part of their lives,” Disneyland Resort President Jill Estorino said in a statement.
“For more than 70 years, Walt’s original park has been a timeless symbol of Disney storytelling, where memories are made and shared, and we are honored to carry that legacy forward for guests today and for generations to come.”
The milestone comes as Disneyland Resort continues celebrating its 70th anniversary and on the eve of America’s 250th anniversary.
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Disneyland says it continues to carry forward Walt Disney’s vision of creating a place where parents and children could enjoy time together.
Located in Anaheim, California, Disneyland Resort has grown from a single theme park into a destination featuring Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park, three hotels and the Downtown Disney District.
The resort has also inspired the creation of Disney theme parks around the world.
Walt Disney once said, “Disneyland will never be completed. It will continue to grow as long as there is imagination left in the world.”
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