Disney’s “It’s a Small World” turns 50

Everyone’s favorite Disney ride is turning 50 this year, and Mickey Mouse and friends are celebrating the anniversary of “It’s a Small World” by inviting fans to join in on a worldwide sing-along April 10. Crowds at Disneyland, Walt Disney World, Tokyo Disney Resort, Disneyland Paris and Hong Kong Disneyland will erupt in song on the ride’s anniversary, as will the internet, as Disney’s new SmallWorld50.com website allows fans to create their own “It’s a Small World” music videos and personalized Small World-style virtual dolls. Creating your own piece of “It’s a Small World” magic through the SmallWorld50.com site is for a good cause, too: For every video or doll submitted, Disney will donate $1 to UNICEF up to $100,000, in addition to a $150,000 donation the company is making to the children’s organization. It’s a fitting way to celebrate “It’s a Small World,” since the ride was originally a tribute to UNICEF and children around the world when it debuted at the 1964 New York World’s Fair. “’It’s a Small World’ has inspired hundreds of millions of people through its timeless theme,” said Tom Staggs, chairman, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “Every moment of every day there are Disney guests enjoying ‘it’s a small world’ somewhere around the globe.  The 50th anniversary of this attraction represents a celebration of the shared optimism, hope, and humanity of people throughout the world.” Learn more about Disney’s “It’s a Small World” birthday celebration by watching the video below, but be warned: the infectious Disney tune is likely to stay stuck in your head for a few hours. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qNqBEGfZops (All images courtesy of Disneyland)