Disney Classics Enter Public Domain: Here’s What You Can Now Use Legally!

Published on 1/2/25 by Craig Smith

The Skeleton Dance disney As of January 1, 2025, several early Disney creations have entered the public domain, allowing unrestricted use by the public. Notably, this includes a selection of Mickey Mouse cartoons from 1929, such as “The Barn Dance,” “The Barnyard Battle,” and “Jungle Rhythm.” Additionally, “The Skeleton Dance,” the inaugural short in Disney’s Silly Symphony series, is now public domain.

This transition permits artists, filmmakers, and creators to freely incorporate these works into new projects without seeking permission or paying licensing fees. However, while the original animations are no longer under copyright, Disney’s trademark protections for characters like Mickey Mouse remain in effect. This means that although the 1929 depictions can be used, any utilization must avoid suggesting endorsement or affiliation with Disney.

The entry of these works into the public domain opens avenues for creative reinterpretations and adaptations, much like the recent horror reimagining of “Steamboat Willie” following its public domain status in 2024. As more early 20th-century creations become available, the public gains increased opportunities to engage with and reinvent classic cultural artifacts.