Disney Film Festival | DISNEY THIS DAY

Disney Film Festival | DISNEY THIS DAY | October 16, 1988

October 16, 2026

On this day in 1988, a two-week Disney Film Festival began in the Soviet Union with a gala premiere in Moscow. Mickey Mouse’s first official visit started the day before with a red-carpet airport welcome from Misha, the bear mascot of the 1980 Moscow Olympics. Celebrating Mickey’s 60th birthday, the festival coincided with the era of “glasnost,” a period of increasing openness in the USSR. The goodwill tour also visited Leningrad and Tallinn, giving the first legal screenings of ‘Snow White,’ ‘Fantasia,’ ‘Bambi,’ and ‘101 Dalmatians,’ complete with live translation by Soviet actors.

Subscribe to Daps Magic’s Daily Newsletter

Comments

0 Comments

Mr. Daps

Mr. Daps is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Daps Magic, a premier Disney news community established in 2004. With over 20 years of experience as a journalist and media creator, he has become a trusted voice in the Disney fandom, appearing as an expert on KTLA, NPR, and the Orange County Register. Known for his signature trilby and bow tie, Mr. Daps provides optimistic, informed coverage of the Disney Parks, Pixar, and Marvel. He is the weekly host of Geeks Corner and a proud Her Universe Brand Ambassador. Follow his adventures on Twitter, Instagram, and Threads, or join the conversation live on the Daps Magic YouTube channel. If you see him at Disneyland, be sure to say hi!