Duffy and ShellieMay have arrived at Disneyland for the park’s 70th anniversary celebration.
Duffy and ShellieMay at Disneyland
In an Instagram and TikTok video, Disney Parks shared a first look at the bears’ 70th anniversary outfits, which were first teased via concept art. Like Mickey & Friends, their outfits are a mix of vibrant colors. Duffy’s outfit is more blue, and ShellieMay’s dress is more purple. Duffy’s hat and shirt are a spin on his usual sailor-style look, while ShellieMay’s dress incorporates a tutu.
The pair will appear only in The Celebrate Happy Cavalcade, not for any meet and greets. The cavalcade, which also features Mickey & Friends, will travel along the regular Disneyland parade route twice daily beginning on May 16.
Duffy originated as the Disney Bear, which was created for the 2002 opening of Once Upon a Toy at Walt Disney World. When the bear wasn’t as popular as Disney hoped, the company gave him to the Oriental Land Company, owners of Tokyo Disney Resort. OLC introduced him as Duffy at Tokyo DisneySea in 2005. He proved incredibly successful, spawning a franchise of several characters, including ShellieMay. Tokyo DisneySea is currently celebrating 20 years of Duffy & Friends.
The cavalcade marks Duffy’s first major appearance at Disneyland Resort in over 10 years. He previously appeared for a meet and greet in Disney California Adventure.
The Disneyland 70th Celebration officially begins on May 16 and runs through the summer of 2025.
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