Die-hard fans even camped out overnight to ensure their spot in line. Some said they came out at 7 p.m. Tuesday to be first to run through the gates at 6 a.m. The park will remain open until 6 a.m. March 1. Disney California Adventure Park is not part of the 24-hour event.
The first 2,000 people in line received special commemorative buttons and Mickey Mouse ear hats.
Chef Moses from the Blue Bayou showed off some special dishes for the occasion, a habanero shrimp entrée with stuffed mushrooms and bananas Foster French toast.
A Disneyland official said the park is marking the special day with two Soundsational Parades as well as a Fantasmic! show at 1 a.m. Thursday.
The Leap Year special, which is the first of its kind, was announced on the New Year's Eve broadcast with Dick Clark.
The Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, is also participating in the special 24-hour event.
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