Disney updates the iconic “It’s a Small World” song with new lyrics celebrating unity and love, marking Disneyland’s 70th anniversary.

Disney has revealed an exciting update for one of its most beloved attractions, “It’s a Small World,” ahead of Disneyland’s 70th anniversary.

The classic theme song, known worldwide for its cheerful, timeless message, is set to receive new lyrics that will soon be heard on the iconic boat ride at Disneyland in Anaheim, California.

This update comes months after the announcement of a new verse that was written by the legendary Richard Sherman, co-creator of the original song, before his passing in May 2024.

The song’s new addition is not only a tribute to Sherman’s enduring legacy but also serves as a meaningful reflection on love, unity, and our shared global humanity.

The new verse, first shared in Disney’s short film “The Last Verse” in November, introduces poignant and timely sentiments to the ride’s anthem.

It reads: “Mother Earth unites us in heart and mind, and the love we give makes us humankind. Through our vast wondrous land, when we stand hand-in-hand, it’s a small world after all.”

This lyrical update is set to premiere inside the ride in honor of Disneyland’s milestone anniversary, adding an emotional depth to the attraction that has resonated with generations of visitors.

The addition of this new verse represents the latest chapter in the legacy of “It’s a Small World,” which debuted at the 1964 New York World’s Fair before being relocated to Disneyland in 1966.

The attraction, which takes guests on a tranquil boat journey through various cultural representations from around the globe, has become one of the most recognized symbols of Disney’s commitment to promoting global unity and understanding.

The catchy, repetitive tune composed by the Sherman brothers, Richard and Robert, quickly became a global sensation and has remained an enduring symbol of joy and peace.

In addition to the updated lyrics, Disneyland is offering fans even more ways to celebrate the 70th anniversary with additional attractions and exhibits.

Starting this summer, the Main Street Cinema will host daily screenings of “The Last Verse,” allowing visitors to learn more about the creation of the new lyrics and their profound significance.

Alongside this, a special new exhibit at Disneyland will feature a Walt Disney audio-animatronic figure, a tribute to the park’s visionary founder.

This new addition will be part of the rotating schedule of shows at the Main Street Opera House, where it will alternate with the “Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln” show.

The story behind the creation of “It’s a Small World” is just as iconic as the ride itself. Richard and Robert Sherman, who co-wrote the song, had already made a mark on the world of film music with memorable works like Mary Poppins and The Jungle Book.

Their collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund for the 1964 World’s Fair helped to bring the ride to life, and the song’s upbeat message of peace and global understanding instantly struck a chord with visitors worldwide.

Its transition to Disneyland in 1966 was a huge success, cementing the attraction’s status as one of the park’s defining experiences.

In addition to the new song lyrics, this anniversary celebration will also honor the impact that the Sherman brothers’ music had on shaping Disney’s legacy.

As Disney CEO Bob Iger expressed in a press release, the new verse written by Richard Sherman before his death is a fitting tribute to the brothers’ contribution to Disney’s cultural impact.

Iger described the experience of hearing Sherman recite the final verse as “a moment I will carry with me forever,” highlighting how deeply Sherman’s work resonated with people around the world.

Since the opening of Disneyland, “It’s a Small World” has been an integral part of the park, with adaptations opening at other Disney parks worldwide, including in Walt Disney World in Florida, Tokyo Disneyland, Disneyland Paris, and Hong Kong Disneyland.

However, Shanghai Disneyland, which opened in 2016, remains the only Disney park without a version of the ride.

The global popularity of the ride is a testament to its universal message, which transcends cultural boundaries and appeals to people of all ages.

For visitors who want to experience the ride’s new song lyrics firsthand, Disneyland plans to roll out the updated version of “It’s a Small World” on July 17.

The ride’s updated lyrics are expected to evoke powerful emotions from both longtime fans and new visitors, adding a fresh layer of meaning to an already beloved experience.

As Disneyland celebrates its 70th anniversary, the introduction of this heartfelt update to “It’s a Small World” serves as a reminder of the park’s lasting influence on global culture.

It’s a celebration of Walt Disney’s vision for a world united by imagination, joy, and love, values that continue to define Disneyland and its attractions to this day.

Fans of all ages are encouraged to visit the park and experience the magic for themselves, whether through the new verse, the special screenings, or the exciting new additions to the park’s roster of attractions.

As Disneyland marks seven decades of enchanting visitors, “It’s a Small World” remains a cornerstone of its enduring legacy, promising to unite generations in song and spirit for many more years to come.