Disneyland has played host to countless events, parties, celebrations, and grand ceremonies since the 50’s. But perhaps its weirdest event was a contest – a competition for decorated Volkswagen Beetles in celebration of The Love Bug. On March 23, 1969, 101 decorated Beetles drove down Main Street and were judged based on different themed categories. I haven’t found any explanations of how the contestants were chosen, but it seems like they were all locals to the Los Angeles and Orange County area.
Source: Disney Parks Blog
The cars competed in four categories: most psychedelic, most toylike, most comical, and best personality. The grand prize was a 1969 Volkswagen Beetle, presented by the stars of the film, Dean Jones and Michele Lee. Studio City residents Morton and Barbara Allen won the Beetle, with consolation prizes of portable color tvs, Kodak Super-8 cameras, and Polaroid cameras going to runners up. Love Bug Day never returned to the park, leaving the event as a strange memory in the minds of visitors!
Source: Jalen Moran
Is there a video of the Love Bug Parade down Main Street in Disneyland on the competition day?
This is the only video I’ve been able to find!