Did you know that back in December 2004, Michael Jackson opened up his private arcade for the mass to visit, on the occasion of Christmas. According to reports, hundreds of children and adults attended the party and spent their time on rides, games, food, and more. Moreover, Michael had opened up the gates to Neverland Ranch for free!
He had a huge and impressive collection of classic games in his arcade at Neverland Ranch. As we all know, Michael also loved helping children, and often open the gates of his home for the sick and underprivileged children.
Michael Jackson had an exciting collection of video games, including Dance Dance Revolution, Super Mario Brothers, Dig Dug, Galaxy Force Version II, Donkey Kong, Manx Super Bike, Ms. Pac-Man, The Simpsons, Star Wars Racer, and Mortal Kombat.
Apparently, the Christmas party of 2004 was the last time the public was allowed into the property. Years later, in 2009, he had contacted an auction company to give his massive collection away. However, Michael changed his mind at the last moment and stopped the auction from happening.
But thanks to the cataloguing of Julien’s auctions, we got images from that special Christmas Party:
And even Michael made a rare appearance!
December 17, 2004: A high-spirited Michael Jackson greeted about 200 children and adults who were visiting his Neverland Valley Ranch on Friday. Spokeswoman Raymone Bain said Jackson chose to make the unusual personal appearance as a surprise for the last group of children touring Neverland before the Christmas holiday. Two elephants, a camel, a baby llama and flamingoes were on hand yesterday. The estate provided lunch, candy canes, popcorn and a Santa Claus… The movie that was playing in the theater that day was “The Polar Express”. Friday’s visitors, from six organizations and ranging in age from about 3 to teenage years, were bused to Neverland and then rode a train up from the parking lot. Bain said charitable and civic groups bring children to Neverland at least three times a month to play on the amusement park rides, see its zoo and watch movies. “Mr Jackson is not here all the time,” Ms Bain said. “There are events here daily. He wanted to surprise the kids. He has given his whole life to children and charities.”
