From the moment Steamboat Willie stepped behind the wheel of arguably one of the most famous boats in animation history, audiences were captured by the funny storyline and playful tunes that came from one of the first ever fully synchronised sound cartoons.
Since then, Disney has made children and adults alike cry with laughter, embrace their true selves and has even taught us a few important life lessons along the way.
Still creating memorable moments and inspiring generations, Disney has firmly placed itself in the hearts and minds of wannabe Jedis and aspiring princesses, all under-pinned by a belief that a little imagination can take you a long way.
Now, Mickey Mouse and his friends welcome you back to experience the magic once more, as The Walt Disney Company extends its 100th anniversary celebrations by showcasing the largest exhibition the Walt Disney Archives has ever created.
'Laughter is timeless, imagination has no age, and dreams are forever'
In response to overwhelming demand since first opening in October 2023, Disney100: The Exhibition at the London ExCeL Centre, is now welcoming visitors through its doors once again to help celebrate the history of your favourite characters.
Not only does the exhibition contain awe-inspiring memorabilia and never-before-seen works of art, but this time around, Disney-lovers can enjoy a special screening of the new short film - Once Upon A Studio - as the most-loved characters of all time gather for a joyful, entertaining, and emotional reunion.
With green screen photo opportunities placing you in everything from castles to the Millennium Falcon, and a refreshed VIP goodie bag also available, it's time to channel your inner Aladdin and discover a whole new world.
Offering a once in a lifetime glimpse into how Olaf is brought to life, superheroes get their powers and why fairy dust can make you fly, the 20,000-square-foot exhibition displays an extensive collection of over 250 rare artefacts, artworks, costumes, props, and enchanting memorabilia through ten imaginatively themed interactive galleries.
Whether you're interested in what makes Dumbo's ears so big or why Captain America's shield is so special, the accompanying storyboarding lets you discover more about the characters you thought you knew everything about.
Kicking off the re-launch of Disney100: The Exhibition in style, influencers and famous faces were invited along to give their take on how the magic is brought to life.
After being asked what her favourite part of the exhibition was, TV personality Ferne McCann said: "I absolutely love the teacup, love the glass slipper, loved the turning of the book. I also loved the immersive Minnie and Mickey - when you move, they move. So cool!
"I would 100% recommend it to all of my friends, in fact, I'm going to come back and bring my daughters."
Ferne soon took to Instagram to shout about the nostalgia-trip the exhibition had given her, stating that the whole experience was "literally like you had stepped into a world of Disney."
Ferne said it made a cute date night for her and her partner and they enjoyed how much of an interactive experience it was.
She said: "It was really nostalgic for me seeing so many films that I loved and watched when I was a child, but also some of the Disney films I love now, to this day, like Turning Red and seeing the Mary Poppins horse.
"I loved Olaf. I've got two daughters, so there's so many cool films that I love watching with them."
Among other well-known personalities attending the re-launch event was social media influencer Milli Jo Mcloughlin. She said: "Is Disney100: The Exhibition worth it?... 100%.
"It's a once in a lifetime thing that you just have to go to."
It took four years to plan and assemble the artefacts for Disney100: The Exhibition and it really does have something for everyone, as you are encouraged to capture cherished moments, with a series of extraordinary backdrops and photo opportunities from the likes of life-sized ‘Incredibles Family’ and storytelling alongside original artwork from a range of Disney classics.
Speaking about how the jaw-dropping exhibition can take anyone back to their childhood, professional DJ and music producer, Cuppy said: "I would absolutely recommend this exhibition. I think it will create a new found love in Disney and also I think you'll learn things that you didn't know.
"It's for all ages, for everyone, whether you've watched everything or you've watched nothing. It's just a little piece of magic that we all need."
You're never too old to be young
Disney100: The Exhibition is running until the end of April 2024, and you can visit your favourite magical moments every day of the week.
With the Easter Bunny soon making a return, now is the perfect time to take the whole family on a trip down memory lane.
For big kids who want to sprinkle a little magic into their week and families that are looking to enjoy the exhibition in a more peaceful setting, attending Disney100: The Exhibition on a weekday is not only cheaper than going on the busier weekends, but is a sure-fire way to banish those midweek blues.
Allowing you to take full advantage of having children that aren't yet in school, those under the age of five can enjoy the exhibition for free, as remember - "Ohana means family. Family means nobody gets left behind. Or forgotten."
If you're too eager to wait to see the magic come to life, Disney100: The Exhibition is also thrilled to introduce an updated VIP premium ticket option, offering you the chance to queue jump.
With this ticket you'll not only get a branded tote bag featuring exclusive Disney goodies such as a plush toy and collectible Disney pin, but you can treasure the special day with brand new green screen digital photographs with backdrops including family favourites; The Little Mermaid (1989) and Disney Pixar’s UP (2009).
Making the experience even better, there's no need for a flying carpet to get you to the exhibition, as travelling to and from London's ExCeL Centre couldn't be any easier thanks to amazing accessibility and the Elizabeth Line getting you there with step-free access in only 12 minutes from Central London.
If arriving like Lightning McQueen is more your style, you can find over 1,800 parking spaces across the Orange car park, located under the venue.
On your way out of this once in a lifetime experience, don't forget to visit the official Disney gift shop featuring an array of exclusive and unique merchandise where you can purchase a keepsake to remember this special visit.