LEWISTON, ID — Downtown Lewiston is embracing Disney magic this week with a community celebration marking “A Century of Love,” an event honoring the enduring legacy of Walt Disney and Lewiston native Lillian Bounds Disney.
At the heart of the festivities is a Hidden Mickey scavenger hunt, which runs from Tuesday, July 8, through Saturday, July 12. Families can begin the hunt by picking up a card at Sylvan’s Furniture and then search for Mickey Mouse shapes hidden inside 20 participating downtown businesses. Each time a Mickey is found, participants must quietly alert a staff member to get their card stamped. Once all 20 have been found—or fewer for children under 12, based on their age—prizes can be collected back at Sylvan’s.
Friday evening, July 11, brings a vintage flair to downtown with Dapper Days, encouraging visitors to dress in 1920s attire. A costume contest for adults will be held at Brackenbury Square at 7:00 p.m., followed by a live performance of Disney-inspired music. As the sun sets, families can head to Pioneer Park for an outdoor showing of Moana 2, scheduled to begin around 9:30 p.m.
The celebration continues Saturday with a full day of themed activities. The morning kicks off with a children’s parade at 10:00 a.m., starting at 5th Street and moving to 8th Street—no registration required. Shortly after, Brackenbury Square will host a community program featuring a performance of Frozen by local theater students, a proclamation from the mayor, and costume contests for kids dressed as Disney characters.
Local historian Garry Bush will offer a special presentation at the Lewiston Public Library at noon, highlighting the story of Lillian Bounds Disney, who grew up in Lewiston before becoming the wife of Walt Disney and playing a key role in the early days of the Disney company.
Throughout Saturday, visitors can enjoy a range of kid-friendly activities and displays, including face painting, bounce houses, giveaways, themed merchandise, and appearances by Disney princesses. Several salons will also offer sparkly hair and makeup sessions for kids under the name “Bibbity, Bobbity, Boop.”
The event is a collaboration between local businesses and community groups, aiming to celebrate imagination, history, and local pride with a Disney twist.
