I will remember 05-05-05 as one of my best days at Disneyland because of the wonderful time had by spending the day with friends and fellow Disney fans. So, even with the massive crowd and early overflow of people in the Entry Plaza/Esplanade, it was satisfying "just being there" for the shared experience on a Disney geek day. ;)

What was different about this day though, was that after "rope drop" on Main Street, the crowd did not disperse into the different lands like usual. The massive crowd of wall-to-wall people (that also overflowed out of Main Street) simply attempted to inch closer to the castle or only move a few feet down Main Street before reaching the media tents/scaffoldings blockade. Hence, most people in both the Hub/Central Plaza and Main Street could not see much of anything.

The official kick-off ceremony in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle was appropriate, but as expected, staged as an event for media, VIPs and public relations. I had pessimistically expected obstructed views and PR-spin in advance, so there were was neither disappointment nor satisfaction about the ceremony itself.

Seeing the improved aesthetics (gold touches everywhere, golden vehicles, Hidden "Mickey 50 Ears", photo collages, and Sleeping Beauty Castle makeover) made the entire day a feast for the eyes--"Oh, look at that...and there...and over here." Adding to that are the very well done Disneyland: The First 50 Magical Years at the Opera House and the Art of Disneyland display at The Disney Gallery.

For Disney fans who think they "know" every ride, going on the new version of Jungle Cruise brought much excitement, satisfaction and plain ole fun with its changes--almost like riding it for the first time.

Also, be sure to ride Pirates of the Carribbean--one scene in particular has some improved effects that add some "boom" to the ride.

Capping off the day, of course, was Remember...Dreams Come True fireworks that is clearly and cleverly created with Disney fans in mind. Its "E-Ticket in the sky" description by Disney is 100 percent on target--and lives up to expectations. Sharing this fireworks experience for the first time with fellow Disney fans was extra special as we "geeked out" by applauding and reciting certain parts out loud instantaneously. Seeing the fireworks again on May 6th and 7th was still thrilling--but the May 5th crowd was unique.

Lastly, Block Party Bash at Disney's California Adventure is actually quite entertaining and massive. If you're a fan of parades, then you will enjoy this--but if you're usually not a parade fan, then it will at least be worth seeing if you like "Toy Story," "A Bug's Life," and "Monsters, Inc." I give a lot of credit to the Cast Members who dance, jump, do flips and move non-stop for most of the parade--they definitely keep the energy up and make the parade entertaining.

The only minor complaint, as others have mentioned, is the poor service at most food locations that day. But then again, having Plaza Inn, Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante and The Golden Horseshoe--THREE major food locations--closed on one of Disneyland's most popular days is going to cause congestion at all the remaining, in-park food options.

Thanks to all the Disney fans out there--especially people from the LoT--for making 05-05-05 a memorable day! :)