Today marks the 30th anniversary of the opening of Epcot (then called EPCOT Center) on October 1, 1982. It was a realization of Walt's final dream (or at least as close as Disney could get without Walt). The booklet below which celebrates in lavish style the "Dawn of a New Disney Era" was handed out to all Disney cast members. The dedication, which was actually read a few weeks later, was designed as a tribute to the man after whom the Walt Disney World Resort, the home of Epcot, was named:
To all who come to this place of joy, hope and friendship, welcome.
Epcot Center is inspired by Walt Disney's creative genius. Here, human achievements are celebrated through imagination, the wonders of enterprise, and concepts of a future that promises new and exciting benefits for all.
May EPCOT Center entertain, inform and inspire. And, above all, may it instill a new sense of belief and pride in man's ability to shape a world that offers hope to people everywhere."
E. Cardon Walker, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Walt Disney Productions, October 24, 1982
For an in-depth look at the creation of Epcot be sure and check out Micheal Crawford's extensive multi-part article on the
D23 website.
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