Yesterday, A Christmas Fantasy Parade celebrated its 30th anniversary. For three decades, this parade has delighted guests at the Disneyland Resort as it made its way up and down the parade route during the holiday season. This season is no different. Well before the parade began, fans began to line up so that they could get a good spot to watch the parade.

This parade has changed quite a bit through the years. Characters have come and gone, and floats have come and gone. However, the “spirit of the season” hasn’t changed through the years. Today, just as it did in 1995, this parade is full of holiday spirit that culminates with the arrival of Santa Claus. It has that catchy, merry music that lights up the coolest evening. It is something that brings people together as they celebrate the Christmas season.

Perhaps the greatest gift of A Christmas Fantasy Parade is that it brings people together. With plenty of Disney and Pixar characters, Santa Claus, and even live musicians (gotta love those toy soldiers!), there are many ways to connect with fans as they celebrate the holidays. It also just has a feel-good quality that reminds people that the spirit of the season is about love and kindness. When I think about the holiday season, those are the things that make me happy… well, and gingerbread men too (the kind you eat, although the ones in the parade are also adorable).

While there was no official celebration for the actual 30th anniversary of A Christmas Fantasy Parade, those who knew that November 23rd was a special day celebrated it in their hearts. I’m thankful for this parade and the joy it brings. It is one that I always look forward to seeing each year.

What are you thankful for? Join A Month of Thanksgiving by sharing what you are grateful for in the comments!